((Raskor II – Beach))
Alok stood beside the Commander, the rhythmic sound of the surf acting as a natural heat sink for his thoughts. For the first time in a long while, his internal baseline felt perfectly stable. He watched the deep red Raskorian sand shift under Foster's feet, noting the Commander's relaxed posture.
Foster: It’s been a while since the crew has had a beach party. Years? Last I can remember was maybe four or five years ago down on the beach in Little Risa.
Munshi: ::Gesturing toward the bonfires beginning to crackle in the distance:: A beach party inside a starbase? I’d love to see the drainage and salt-air filtration schematics for that sector—I imagine the maintenance team has some very colorful stories about the corrosion. But out here? The architecture is much more forgiving. It’s a good choice, Commander. After the chaos of the last few weeks, a bit of 'unregulated' sunshine is probably the most efficient medicine the crew could ask for.
Wyn couldn’t help but grin. That was a most logical and yet heartfelt way of putting things.
Foster: As a former medical officer I would have to wholeheartedly agree. Sun, surf and some good food, all in moderation of course, is just what the doctor ordered.
Munshi: ::Offering a genuine, albeit small, laugh:: A prudent suggestion, sir. I believe the 'caloric intake' variable is the only one I should be monitoring right now. My mother always said that even the most dedicated engineers need to put down the wrench when there’s a good buffet involved. I’d hate to prove her wrong on such a beautiful evening.
Wyn tipped an antennae towards Alok in a gesture of agreement.
Foster: I think your mother is a wise woman. And I have heard that Raskor puts on an impressive gastronomic spread that should not be missed!
Munshi: How was your shore leave sir? I hope it was more eventful than mine.
Foster: Eventful? Yes to some degree. In all the events that were social and restful. I got to go out with friends and enjoy a long run and a nice night on the snow beach of the Laikan district.
Munshi: ::Wincing slightly at the thought of more ice after his recent 'unauthorized' experiences:: A snow beach? I believe I’ll stick to the current thermal variables, sir. My uniform has already reached its quota for extreme environments this week. Though that actually does sound like a nice way to spend your time on shore leave. ::Checking the surrounding area, his gaze briefly catching a group of familiar faces by the shoreline:: I think I saw Ensign Tori there. I hope his suit is as waterproof as it looks.
Wyn looked over, antennae twitching in curiosity.
Foster: Looks pretty intriguing. Did he mention going diving?
Munshi: ::Watching Tori’s bright blue suit stand out against the red sand:: He hasn't mentioned it yet, but given the frequency at which he finds trouble, I wouldn't bet against it. I’m just hoping I won't have to troubleshoot any waterlogged tricorders before the ceremony ends. Engineering logic suggests that fine-clothed Ensigns and deep water are a high-risk combination.
He chuckled.
Foster: Well, as your first officer I imagine it’s still, and perhaps always, my job to make sure everyone stays safe.
Even when the drinks came out for the toasting.
Munshi: ::Offering a dry smirk:: A noble mission, sir. Although I suspect that on a beach this size, 'everyone staying safe' is a variable with a very wide margin for error. I'll do my part by staying strictly on the dry side of the dunes for now.
Foster: Should we go join the crowd, grab some food?
Munshi: Sure, sir. I’ve been analyzing the scent profile from the grill for the last five minutes, and I think its about time. Lead the way.
Foster: I don’t so much have a favorite dish as I have a burning desire to try everything.
Munshi: ::Matching Foster's stride as they moved toward the tables:: A 'burning desire to try everything' is a bold logistical strategy, sir. I’ll try to keep pace, but if I start falling behind, just assume I’ve found a single variable—like those grilled skewers—that I’ve decided to optimize for the rest of the night.
===========EOT==============
Ensign
Alok Munshi
Engineering Officer
StarBase 118 Ops
A240204AM1