[BACKSIM] LtCmdr Salkath - Fit To Be Tied

[Salkath]

((Elysium Mezzanine, Deck 5 - USS Artemis))

He watched Solas plan his next move, appreciating how well the young man was utilizing both a logical approach alongside a measure of passionate instinct. Salkath did not always enjoy playing with non-Vulcans; they often thought that 'winging it' was an acceptable strategy in Kal-toh. It very rarely was. However, a measured balance of logic and gut feeling? That may very well be a winning strategy.

Kel: Kal-toh.

And with that placement, Solas managed to achieve that perfect rounded shape that signified victory. Salkath sat back, satisfied that it had been a fair and challenging match, and took a sip of his tepid tea. He motioned to the server for a fresh cup.

Salkath: Your skill in the game is notable. No need for modesty, you bested me fair and square. Very acceptable game, Ensign.

Kel: I got lucky. You made a mistake, I caught it.

Indeed Salkath had. He would savor the opportunity to prove that mistakes were few and far between for him, though perhaps his strategies would need to be slightly modified for such a worthy opponent.  

Salkath: I am still off-duty for a few more hours, and plan to remain here for a while longer. Would you consider a rematch?

Indeed, the senior Vulcan planned to people-watch some more regardless of whether Solas remained or not. It was social-adjacent enough for his relaxation needs, a fact that he found mildly surprising.

Kel: Best two out of three sir?

The commander nodded and the two of them began to reset the board. Once the preparation was completed, Salkath motioned to the board.

Salkath: To the victor goes the spoils. Your first move, Ensign.

This was not only courtesy, it was a tenet of the game. In some matches of skill, there were advantages to playing first. Kal-toh was not one of those matches. It was nearly always easier to respond to an opening move than to play one. Solas made a move that was not particularly disadvantageous for him, but neither was it advantageous.

Kel: It's a shame shore leave is coming to an end, sir. I feel like I was finally starting to relax.

Salkath: I could not concur more. I have been reminded more than once by my family that I have not made time for them since Frontier Day. No amount of convincing of my responsibilities on the ship since then has been adequate. Have you found that to be the same?

Certainly, Salkath could not be the only officer of the fleet guilty of duty trumping personal concerns. Most families might forgive that, considering the extenuating circumstances. Vulcan families, however, are especially adept at twisting logic to meet their needs.

Kel: response

The server delivered his fresh tea, and Salkath nodded a distracted thanks, keeping his attention on Solas and the game. His last move had been fortuitous, placing him in a commanding position. Now he waited for his opponent to recover.

Salkath: We consciously chose a career in Starfleet, knowing beforehand both the inherent risks and the demands it would place. I have no regrets, even if my family does.

He left the statement hanging, not exactly asking Solas whether he felt the same or not, but allowing the young man to respond should he choose.

Kel: response

An opportunity presented himself, and it would be untoward not to take it. Extending the match just for the sake of it, for fun or for amicable companionship, would be only human. Which neither of them were. Salkath placed his t'an gingerly, and the board rearranged itself perfectly.

Salkath: Kal-toh. The fates looked favorably on me this round. It would appear a tie-breaker is indeed required.

It was a quick round, purely by happenstance rather than any particular skill or lack thereof by either player. Matches could last minutes or hours, and this was true for experts and novices alike.

Kel: response

((OOC: With the mission started, we could either wrap this up or continue backsimming, your choice! :D  Either way, this has been fun, thank you!))

TAG/TBC?

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Lieutenant Commander Salkath

Engineer, USS Artemis-A

A239111MT0