((Writer’s Room, Deck 8, USS Octavia E Butler))
Herrick: oO Don’t think bad thoughts, don’t think bad thoughts Oo It’s fine, don’t worry about it.
oOBad thoughts?Oo The very idea brought a mischievous glint to her eyes, a secret smile dancing on her face. And the urge to laugh was so overwhelming, it threatened to erupt at any moment.
Stendhal: This place is intense! All these brainy vibes, I wouldn't be surprised if they fueled their minds with something stronger than coffee. Like alcoholic beverages. Feels more like a library than a hangout, you know?
Herrick: (nodding) I think the crew has almost subconsciously divided the room into “zones” if you well. In these back corners, you have the introverts like me that are just reading up or finding Zen with ourselves.
Following his cue, she turned her attention to the viewports, and the vista of the planet unfolded before her like a celestial masterpiece.
Herrick: Over there, you’ve got a fair number of ‘date-worthy’ spots.
She found herself intrigued by the thought of Eli and Lhandon, especially considering she'd just met the latter.
Herrick: (pointing to the bar) There you’ve got your ‘regulars’, who I’ve noticed are mostly senior officers. And then the space in between just seems to be gangs having fun. It’s a nice and well thought out space. Is this your first time here?
She strained her memory, trying to recall.
Stendhal: "If I'm not mistaken, this is only my third time here, including today. It's really fascinating, isn't it? I hadn't considered these intriguing aspects of this place before." She glanced around, and Josh's description was spot on. There were couples unabashedly paired off in the dating area, some senior officers in the regulars' zone, and then, of course, there were the two of them tucked away in the introvert's corner.
Herrick: I’ve only been here a few times since we’ve departed. ::chuckling:: Usually right after they dump a load of PADDs on me. How’s the morale of the crew since we left Cheydalanga?
Stendhal: Being on a brand new ship is exciting! I guess Ten Forward is a new hangout for most of us.
Morale seems pretty good overall.
Herrick: (nodding) The commodore left a fine crew for the new Captain; she did well. It’s my first time undergoing a command change and I’m glad it was less disruptive than I was expecting. Also, I think in a large part to you. You seem to have quite the flair for escalating situations.
Stendhal: (nodding too) I haven't met the Commodore yet, in fact, I've only met the CO once and he seemed very competent. I'd say we're in good hands.
Excuse me, but what do you mean by 'escalating situations'?
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Herrick: ?
Stendhal: Yes, I'd love to have a drink. I'll have a non-alcoholic one too. What was it called? Almond milk? No, it was a drink with the flavor of bitter almonds, vanilla, and orange blossoms. Orzata! My grandfather used to make it for me on Earth when I was a child. It's wonderful with ice.
Herrick: ?
Stendhal: Do you often have bad thoughts?" ::Karen said with a slight smirk, was she pushing him off the cliff!?:: Sorry, just kidding!
Herrick: ?
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