Ensign Valek - Tea Time

0 views
Skip to first unread message

Richard Bailey

unread,
Feb 24, 2026, 9:58:18 AM (2 days ago) Feb 24
to sb118-...@googlegroups.com
((Turbolift, USS Gorkon))

The four officers continued their conversation in the turbolift as it finally halted and quietly locked in place. The doors swished open as the four exited into the corridor and continued walking toward the Brew Continuum.

Kovar: I see.  Thank you all for enlightening me.  ::He raised an eyebrow.:: Perhaps it is time to embark on yet another culinary adventure.  Ah, it seems that we are nearing our destination.

Valek: ::He nodded toward Kovar:: Indeed, Ensign.

The conversation quieted down as the four made their way down the corridor. Valek was intrigued but also ready to get started in his duties. He still needed to get to his assigned quarters and get his belongings stowed. Valek wasn't much for excessive decoration, but he did like to have his things in order. He was also anticipating getting to his room and set aside time for meditation before his duties started. As they approached their destination, Valek noticed an open Arch with a logo and a catchphrase label on it, "Life happens, coffee helps." An intriguing statement indeed.

They entered the establishment and Valek noticed the decorum. It was a small cafe style space with wood floors and Brick bulkheads. It had simulated sunlight streams that brightened the space, obviously to create an outdoor look. He also noticed several memorabilia decorations as well.

Tahna: Welcome to the Brew Continuum, Ensigns.

Kovar: Indeed, Commander. The aesthetic composition is orderly and proportional. The environment promotes cognitive clarity. It is quite satisfactory. I anticipate that the quality of the beverages will reflect a similar standard of excellence. Wouldn’t you agree, Ensign Valek?

Valek: I concur Ensign. The quality of this establishment is acceptable.

((Brew Continuum, USS Gorkon))

The group followed the Commander and Admiral, and found a table for them to sit. As she sat down she brought up a holographic menu. Valek remained quiet and sat in one of the chair's next to the Commander. The Admiral and Ensign Kovar sat opposite.

Tahna: I do think I’ll try the zhar-kur tei.

Reynolds: ::She grinned.:: Just be careful, it might turn your tongue numb.

He wondered if that last retort from the Admiral was a joke, or if she was sincere. Her facial expression indicated the latter.

Valek: Indeed Commander, I will also indulge the same.

As the tea was being ordered via the holo-menu, Kovar and the Admiral were still reviewing the menu items. Valek wasn't hungry, so he would just stick with a cup of tea before heading off to his room for some much needed meditation and possible workout.

Tahna: Have you found any teas from other cultures you enjoy?

Kovar: As for myself, I have. Jumja tea, as an example, is quite commendable. However, I have become much more partial to the beverages that many cultures would categorize as coffee. In my experience, it has been quite beneficial, especially when studying or working long hours.

Reynolds: I'm rather partial to aesollh. It's a Romulan spiced tea, although it's hard to find any that's not replicated.

Valek: I am rather traditional, but I have determined a preference for the green teas originating from the Asian regions of Earth. It is much lighter in flavor than Vulcan teas of course, but it is agreeable to my palette.

Tahna: Response

Kovar: I was curious.  How long have you all served upon the Gorkon? From what I understand, it is a recently commissioned starship.  Well, as far as starships are concerned.

Reynolds: Since it was commissioned, so around eleven years. ::Saying it out loud made her feel old. Her children had been children then.:: Time flies.

Valek could agree with her statement. Time did go by quite quickly. Valek, being a much older cadet than most, knew this.

Valek: Time does pass more rapidly than one initially perceives Admiral.

Tahna: Response

Kovar: Understood.  I am grateful to have been assigned such a storied vessel and crew.  Additionally, your efforts to welcome Ensign Valek and I are much appreciated.

Reynolds: You're a part of our crew now. ::She smiled slightly.:: It comes with the territory.

Valek: I agree with Ensign Kovar. I am prepared to integrate with the crew and perform my assigned responsibilities as required.

Tahna: Response

The server arrived with the officers' orders. Each taking in the aroma of their beverages and taking sips as the conversation continued. Valek took a sip of his tea and the warm liquid warmed his body. It would help him get into a strong mental state for meditation.  

Kovar: I am anticipating familiarizing myself with the Gorkon’s systems with great interest.  From what I understand, the Chief Engineer and engineering team have exacting standards.  At what point will Ensign Valek and I be expected to report to our direct superiors?

Reynolds: On your first duty shift. ::She lifted the cup to her lips and took a sip.:: Operations has put an orientation schedule together for you both; security check-in and clearances, health assessment, first duty shifts, and the like. It should be in your induction package.

Valek: ::placing his cup of tea down:: Understood Admiral. I am prepared to initiate the process as ordered.

Tahna / Kovar : Response

Reynolds: I don't think we'll be much longer at Deluvia. Everyone's rested, and we'll get back to the stars soon.

Valek: ::Nodding:: I anticipate that the forthcoming assignments will prove ::short pause:: instructive.

Tahna / Kovar : Response


***
Ensign Valek
Security/Tactical Officer
USS Gorkon | NCC-82293
G240302V12
Reply all
Reply to author
Forward
0 new messages