Commander Evan Delano: “Another Dance Partner”

[Cameron O.]

(( “The Den” Lounge ))

 

:: Evan was basically oblivious to the minor crisis involving the voles and the near loss of Admiral Washington. By the time he understood that a real situation had arisen, it had already been resolved. And, honestly, that was probably a good thing. The Caitian herb wine he’d been enjoying most of the evening was more potent than Evan had anticipated, and while he was far from what he would consider drunk, he probably wouldn’t have been in the best condition to be making command decisions. ::

 

:: So, as the festivities resumed, and people began trickling back into The Den to once again enjoy them, Evan allowed himself to relax and enjoy the music. At some point, Mei returned, greeting him with a firm squeeze and a contented sigh. ::

 

Mei’konda: Well, that could have been worse.

 

Delano: I take it we’re going to live to see another day?

 

Mei’konda: Mhm.  Disaaster averted.  I believe the Admiral is just getting everything back together.  He’s fine.

 

Delano: Glad to hear it. I’ve only met Washington a few times, but it would be a shame to lose him to something as mundane as a transporter malfunction - extenuating circumstances aside.

 

:: Mei stiffened at the approach of another officer. The Veritas helmsman. Evan hadn’t really had a chance to get to know the man yet, though he knew he was in a relationship with Dr. MacKenzie. ::

 

Xerix: Pardon me Captain Meikonda..., Commander Delano?

 

Mei’konda: Hello, Ensign.  It’s good to see you again.

 

Delano: I trust you’re unscathed by the recent dramatics?

 

:: Evan started to feel vaguely uncomfortable as he realized Xerix was somewhat… focused on him. He wasn’t sure how to react. ::

 

Xerix: I was wondering if you would...join me to dance?

 

:: Evan exchanged a look with Mei’konda, who seemed a bit amused at the idea. ::

 

Delano: As long as you’re fine with it, Mei.

 

Mei’konda: Please.  Enjoy yourselves. I’ll just haave a drink. And Evan, try not to step on his toes.

 

:: The half-vulcan offered an amused smile. ::  

 

Delano: No promises, but I’ll do my best. :: Turning to Xerix and offering his hand. :: Shall we, Ensign?

 

:: Evan had to fight down a few strong emotions: embarassment at being singled out and being watched by some of the other officers, and a bit of flattery. And, at least a little attraction. A fairly upbeat jazz number had started to play and Evan tried to remember the proper positioning for a very basic dance. ::

 

 

Xerix: Now Sir, as your Helm Officer, I’m very tempted to lead, but given your height and rank, I will let you make that decision.

 

:: The first officer set a hand on the helmsman’s shoulder. ::

 

Delano: By all means, lead on. I’ve never been much of a dancer.

 

Xerix: ::With a broad grin:: Very Good, Commander.

 

:: In a moment, they were moving along to the music, with Evan only stumbling once or twice as they found a rhythm that worked. Even if Evan didn’t know what he was doing, Ghant seemed to know his way around the dance floor, leaving the commander to simply rely on instinct. Oddly, Evan found himself leaning into the kind of clear-minded headspace he often relied on when practicing martial arts katas. He never would have expected to find that in this context. ::

 

Xerix: It occurs to me how very privileged we are, sir. Recent events have reminded me that life is finite, and we should enjoy what we have, and protect it.

 

Delano: Wise sentiments for one so young, Mr. Xerix.

 

Xerix: Response

 

:: The music was shifting to a faster pace, and Evan had to concentrate a little more to keep up with it. It was a moment before he spoke again. ::

 

Delano: Is that what drove you to Starfleet?

 

Xerix: Response

 

Delano: When I was your age, I just wanted to see the universe. Experience things no one ever had before.

 

Xerix: Response

 

Delano: As you said, life - or at least the life we have - is limited. It seems natural to want to see and do as much as we can in that time.

 

Xerix: Response

 

Delano: It’s only recently that I came to understand that protecting those experiences for future generations is just as important.

 

(( TBC ))

===

Commander Evan Delano

First Officer

USS Veritas

T239007ED0