Ensign Meris: Is That an Olive Branch or Are You Just Happy to See Me
Meris/Brian
((Deck 3, CSO's Office))
Meris was aware that their apology had not erased their wrongdoing, but it had opened a fragile door toward something better. Sitting in DeVeau’s office, surrounded by living things, they felt the tension ease as the focus shifted from judgment to understanding. Being asked about something as simple and personal as a favorite color unsettled them in a quiet way, revealing how much they longed for reassurance and growth rather than certainty. It reframed the encounter, turning discipline into a chance for connection and signaling that reconciliation, like life itself, could take root in unexpected ways.
DeVeau: Yes...yes this one isn’t quite that shade, but perhaps it’s close enough?
With that, she turned and carried the plant over to the pilot.
Meris stood to accept the plant from the Chief Science Officer, holding it carefully as if it might object to being moved again so soon.
DeVeau: I’m afraid African violets don’t contain the necessary genes to produce a true teal, but I find this a lovely colour, and hope it will be a satisfactory alternative.
Meris: It does have lovely petals. Is it your intent to gift me this plant?
The specimen they held sported medium green foliage and burst with deep, royal blue blossoms that filled the entire center of the pot. Alora held it out toward Meris as an offering. Meris was surprised, as it was not the CSO who needed to apologize.
oO Perhaps she means it as an olive branch of forgiveness? Oo
DeVeau: Yes, that is, if you wish it. I don’t ever force anyone to take them, but if you would like it, then I’d like you to have it.
Meris: Thank you, Commander. That really is most kind of you. ::hesitantly:: It appears to be a most robust plant. I will endeavor to keep it healthy.
Meris immediately wondered if the plant had heard that promise and was already judging them.
DeVeau: I’ll give you some help on that.
Meris: Oh?
The pilot quirked an eyebrow as Alora made her way back around and sat at her desk. With the unpleasant conversation behind them, she presented a much more relaxed and jovial picture. Leaning toward her console, she brought it back to life, tapped upon it, then, when finished, leaned back in her chair.
DeVeau: There. I’ve sent you instructions, easy to follow, as well as replicator patterns for soil and pots. It only needs to be repotted once, maybe twice a year if it grows a lot. It’s not a difficult plant to grow, and I'm here if you ever need advice.
Meris: ::still standing:: I will keep that in mind. Thank you for the plant.
DeVeau: I find them quite beautiful, and they don’t have a scent. While I don’t find aromas to be off putting, some people do, and thus, it makes a great house plant for that, and a variety of other reasons.
The pilot tried to listen and give proper attention to the senior officer but, in truth, Alora had given them far too much to think about all at once. What were they supposed to do with a plant? It was fortunate the CSO had sent instructions. It would likely be rude to let the plant die. After all, it had been a gift from a superior officer. The plant, meanwhile, remained silent and unhelpful.
Meris: Thank you again for the plant... and the discussion. I will try to be more ::they struggled for the right word:: conscious of my actions in the future.
DeVeau: I have to admit, I don’t have any J’Naii flora. Are there any specimens you particularly like?
Standing in front of Commander DeVeau’s desk, African violet held at arm’s length in front of them, Meris tried to recall the plants of their youth. J’naii was noted by outsiders for its flora but, since plants were often seen as being of low value, they were rarely cultivated within or around one’s home. Still, there were notable exceptions.
Meris: As a child, I had a falla bush outside my window. It was quite fragrant and beautiful during its bloom. Unfortunately, they only bloom once per year. My parent, Zereth, often complained that they were more trouble than they were worth.
DeVeau: Response.
Meris: Did you have anything further you wished to discuss, Commander?
DeVeau: Response.
Meris: Then, if you’ll excuse me, I believe I should get your plant... I mean, my plant, back to my quarters and find it a good home. Thank you again... for everything.
The pilot bowed their head and, still standing, turned with the plant held carefully at arm’s length and walked it out the door like a bomb squad technician moving a questionable package.
oO Whatever am I going to do with this thing? Oo
((Tags/End Scene for Meris))
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Ensign Meris
Helmsperson
USS Thor
A240207M14