Ensign S’jenes - The Search for Counsel
James hassell
((Holodeck 2 – Masquerade Ball, USS Constitution-B))
The low thrum of orchestral music mingled with laughter and the soft chime of glasses being raised. The simulated starlight overhead shimmered across the room, catching in the folds of flowing gowns and the gleam of half-masks. S’Jenes moved with his usual measured pace through the crowd—calm, deliberate, yet taking in every detail around him. Though shore leave was meant for relaxation, he found a certain peace in observation; even here, amid the color and chaos, there was a rhythm to social interaction that fascinated him.
Ahead, he spotted two familiar faces—or, at least, one he recognized immediately beneath a tastefully understated mask. Ensign Jori Mec was speaking with a woman S’Jenes had yet to meet but deduced, based on her uniform insignia and composed manner, was likely Counselor Ba’el. Adjusting the collar of his dress uniform, he approached with quiet confidence, the faintest trace of a polite smile curving his lips.
S’Jenes: ::inclining his head to both:: Good evening, Ensign Mec. Counselor.
Mec: response
He paused a moment, the hum of the ballroom fading slightly in his mind as he recalled a previous conversation.
S’Jenes: (to Mec) a flicker of amusement in his tone:: You may rest assured, I have not forgotten the macaroni and cheese I promised you. The replicated variety aboard the Constitution remains... suboptimal. I intend to prepare something more authentic once the galley schedule permits.
Mec: response
S’Jenes: (to Ba’el) I do not believe we have been properly introduced. I am Ensign S’Jenes of the Science Department. It is agreeable to make your acquaintance.
Ba’el: response
S’Jenes inclined his head slightly, glancing between the two officers as the orchestra transitioned into a slower melody. The warm lighting reflected softly across the metallic trim of his mask, and he considered his words with deliberate care.
S’Jenes: If I may ask for your counsel—both of you. I have observed that this crew seems... exceptionally close. Friendships here appear to blend easily with duty. For someone of Vulcan disposition, accustomed to restraint, how might one appropriately engage in such camaraderie without creating discomfort or misunderstanding?
Ba’el/Mec: response