((Poolside, Risa))
Syrex: That sounds really nice.
Imril: And our Captain… Twice now, I’ve seen her de-escalate ugly situations that I couldn’t even imagine a peaceful way out of. I don't know how she does it. But it was amazing both times. An explorer, and a peace-maker.
Syrex: Well, someone doesn’t get to be a flag officer without being good at their job. Or by being straight-up evil and controlled by worms. But she seems more competent than wiggly in the head.
Imril: A healer, too. I shouldn't forget to mention that she was a doctor before she switched to Command. And your Captain?
Syrex: Captain Niac, legend has it that his beard is a separate consciousness, but we love him either way.
Imril: That’s something else Starfleet excels at. Producing legendary officers.
Alyndra’s face positively creased. Looking up at the stars reminded her of her home, the Ronin, and also reminded her that her family was out there fighting the good fight while she was on holiday… What was she doing? Why was she relaxing? People kept saying she’d earned it, but… had she? If anything, losing an eye is a sign of incompetence rather than bravery in the field.
The cool breeze of the tropical winds, the blur of the trees, and the distant sounds of waves crashing. It all suddenly made her feel extremely uncomfortable.
Syrex: How do you like Risa, Ensign?
As Alyndra addressed the ensign, they appeared almost distracted.
Imril: To hear some folks talk, the only thing for tourists to do here is chase each other around with horga’hns. I’m glad I didn’t listen to them. The people here share so much of their culture, their stories, their history. And It’s wonderful.
Following the ensigns gaze, she could see what they meant. As a doctor, each and every day was always about people. She’d long ago lost count of the numerous species that had fallen under her care. But seeing everyone here, relaxing and playing together, regardless of where they were born or their anatomy… She smiled. This is what it was all for.
Syrex: Yes, it’s beautiful. My people have been a little reclusive historically. I’m glad we were eventually able to trust in the Federation. To miss all of this, well.. it would be cruel.
Imril: I was on my way to see a display of cave art not long ago. Huge paintings which utilize the full surface of the stalactites and stalagmites and the cavern walls, the scenes change depending on where you stand, telling a full story if you walk certain paths. Before that, I saw someone walking along the beach reciting an epic poem. A small crowd was following him. I was told he’s been at it for days. Not part of any itinerary or tour package. He just feels like doing it for whoever wanted to listen. Later tonight, at the regatta, there’s going to be a performance of Risan sailing songs from the earliest days of charting the surrounding islands. Then there’s the nightly feast, this specific night’s reason for the feast, a ritual line-dance, a demonstration of some variant of springball that they’ve cooked up… I beamed down with no real idea of what I was going to do a few hours ago, and already I have days worth of ideas.
Alyndra smiled. It was lovely to see this young officer taking advantage of the cultural side of Risa. Being from what many considered a paradise planet herself; she’d seen the appeal of the heat and sea breeze. She wasn’t personally one for the horga’hns herself, at least not until she’d done what she needed.
Syrex: That’s lovely to hear.
Imril: And the sunny weather’s nice too. How is Risa treating you?
Syrex: Risa… Risa’s perfectly fine.
Imril: Response
Alyndra sighed, turning to lay fully on her side. Fully addressing the ensign.
Syrex: The thing is, Imril. I’ve never had a holiday before. I’ve not real idea how to relax, not really. I’ve always been working towards the next big thing. Now I’m at a stable time in my life, I can see the future so clearly. I have a reputation, Starfleet and otherwise. What else should I be working towards?
Imril: Response
Syrex: Well, that’s a nice thought, isn’t it? Idling has never suited me well.
Imril: Response
TAG/TBC
Lieutenant JG Dr Alyndra Syrex MD
Medical Officer
USS Ronin (NCC-34523)
R240107AS3