The Christmas Ball -Joint Post-Sim wide

Posted on Sat Dec 29th, 2018 @ 1:37am by Commodore Phoenix Lalor-Richardson & Lieutenant Commander Jaeih t'Noramei-McKinley & Lieutenant JG Nerinath zh'Rhilror [Lalor] & Avalon [ADMIN NPC] & Miran Lalor [Lalor] HRH & Cadet Junior Grade Triston Montgomery [Lalor] & Captain Gary Taylor & Commander Liselle Qwyyn & Lieutenant Commander Aurelia Taylor & Lieutenant Commander Matias Grronkil & Commander Sthilg & Consul Toran - Son of Thopok House of Thopak & Commander Arrianna Salannis an Vantar & Lieutenant Ian Murphy & Lieutenant Wynter & Lieutenant Eira Cortez & Ensign Kara Hoffman & Lieutenant Commander Turak & Lieutenant JG Gallia Norris & Petty Officer 1st Class Kaywin-Li Fray & Lieutenant Commander Savar cha'Salik hei-Surak Talek-sen-deen [Taylor] & Senior Chief Petty Officer Fernando De La Rosa [Taylor]

Mission: Season 2 Episode 3.A: Christmas cheer
Location: DECK 2 to DECK 5 Aboretum
Timeline: 24th December 2395
8741 words - 17.5 OF Standard Post Measure

The theme this year, was Winter Wonderland Masque. And Phoenix had chosen, probably unwisely, to decorate the entire 4 levels of the Arboretum, in that theme. Snow, white, glittering fairy lights, and on level 3, a large stage was set up with a dance floor before it, all under glittering fairy lights and hanging crystal chandeliers. The Dance floor looked like Ice, and around it, chairs and tables were set for quiet conversation. A band would be set up on the stage, and the music would be pipped through the rest of the area at a softer volume.

Pathways were lined with snow, snow carpeted the grass areas. The pond on Level 2 was frozen and smoothed and an ice skate booth was set up for those who wished to go ice skating. And on level 1, there was a hill just great for sledding, with the sleds already waiting. All around there were booths that handed out hot chocolate, Mulled wine, and Christmas foods and treats. And on each deck, which were all linked by numerous spiral staircases, all decorated in white tinsel and fairy lights, were bars which served holiday appropriate drinks.

There would be, a formal part of the evening, and Phoenix was preparing that as she walked through the Stage and Dance floor. She was already dressed. She wore a long sleeved silver gown that fell to the floor in a slim line of silver sparkles. She wore matching heals and her hair, was for once, done up in an elegant hairstyle reminiscent of her past. From her ears dangled fragile silver spirals and across her upper face was fitted a silver mask with feather motif and blue accents. She was, of course, early as always, and had to get the formal part set up before others arrived. She had requested and Avalon, and the other worker bees that were around had delivered. A slim lectern was set off to the side of the stage, and beside it was an ancient looking plinth. On top of that plinth was a dark blue pottery bowl that would hold, what was in Phoenix’ hands. She gently placed in there a sliver box. It was about the size of a shoe box and she had decorated it in silver glitter paint. And she had sealed it, Erisian Style with a dark red wax seal with her house Sigel on it. The twin birds around a dragon’s head gleamed in the soft light.

The entire ship was invited, officers, enlisted, families, children all. And Phoenix had made sure that all would find something to do and enjoy the evening. The Human myth of Santa Claus would also be arriving, at 22h for the children, bearing gifts of course. Her sister Miran had sniffed at that. Erisians didn’t celebrate Christmas. But she was more than willing to dress up and have fun.

Phoenix had noted her sister’s outfit before she had left their quarters with quiet approval. The dark red color of the dress, that stopped just short of the 14 year olds knees suited her sister and the red and gold mask she would add to it would show off her long hair, which Phoenix had help curl hours before. And she had loaned her sister, a pair of earrings from their family collection. Miran would wear flats, as she hated heals. And unlike her sister, could not run in them.

Giving the area a final glance, Phoenix checked the time. 19h - perfect, time to open the gates. “Avalon”

“Yes Captain.”

“Open all entrances to the Arboretum please. Let’s get this party started. And don’t forget to make sure the signs show the timeline of events for this evening.”

The AI didn’t reply, but Phoenix noted that off a little way, a holographic image appeared. On it read:

19h – Party begins, doors open
19h – Pond is open for Skating – Level 2 (Deck 3)
19h – Sled Hill Open – Level 1 (deck 2)
19h30 – Bars open, and food trucks commence operation (all levels)
20h30 – Dancing Begins, Main dance floor, Level 3 (deck 4)
20h30 – Buffet opens on Level 2 (deck 3) – this goes until 0330
22h – Santa Arrives, for the Children - Level 4 (deck 5)
Midnight – Surprise at the Main Stage – Level 3(deck 4)
0h30 – Fireworks display – All levels
04h – Doors close – Go home, get sleep.

Holographic waiters and greeters appeared at the doors and throughout the area to give directions and hand out the program of events to people as they came through, printed on nice paper.

Nodding with satisfaction, Phoenix turned and headed off into the room, she would merge with the crew and mingle.

Lia stood with her pure white Japanese half mask over her eyes, her Kimono was ice blue with a deep red Obi. Her white socks and traditional wooden Gata completed her outfit, for once she actually carried a proper Japanese fan painted with a picture of Mount Fuji on it. She was for now alone, neither Liselle nor Gary had arrived yet. Picking up a plate with Dango on it, she nibbled as she meandered around deck three.

Anje entered the room next, wearing a hot pink and silver dress, slit at an angle from left knee to her right ankle, her mask silver and cat like with yellow accents. She stepped up to the other woman, "The food any good?"

Somewhat taken aback, Lia glanced at the other woman. "If you like Dango, then its ok. I've not tried anything else, um have we met?"

"Of course we haven't", Estelle said as she walked in behind Anje, wearing a cute little Andorian dress covering precious little, but beneath that an opaque and well-insulating suit in Andorian skin-tone blue. Her hair was white, her skin dyed blue and her masque also sported a pair of antennae. "That is the idea of arriving in costume with our faces covered, is it not?"

Liorga, her bald head covered with a long black wig as it would've given her away as quickly as an uncovered face, stood alongside Estelle, wearing a vampire style mask with a matching Gothic dress, laughing a bit at her date's joke, if nothing else Estelle was always funny.

Anje was instantly made uncomfortable by the question, apparently trying to make conversation was a mistake, "Of course not. Excuse me." She said, quickly beating a hasty retreat towards the exit.

Estelle reacted quickly, she didn't want a repeat performance of Anje's awkwardness she'd heard about from that Halloween party, which Estelle had avoided because she didn't like Halloween. She'd come to the Yuletide festival because an excuse to celebrate winter, her favourite season, was too good to miss. Snatching Anje's wrist and pulling her back, she said, "You're not planning on going anywhere, are you?" She released the wrist only to put an arm around the much shorter woman's shoulders. "Come on, let's pretend it's the 2260s." Estelle's dress was certainly short enough.

"I hope you know her." Liorga whispered to Estelle, fearing a case of mistaken identity due to the masks could lead to some real drama.

"I, um, I really should go." Anje protested, though knowing now that the voice behind the mask was Estelle's also knew it wasn't going to be much use.

"Without tasting the delightful ice bore cocktail in garlic sauce that I made for this occasion?" Estelle asked, looking at Liorga. "She can't do that, can she?"

"She could, I suppose." Liorga answered, "But why miss that?"

"Look, I appreciate what you're trying to do, but, really, I need to go." Anje said sadly, "Coming here was a huge mistake and I'd rather be in my quarters."

Sami, dressed as the old Tampa Bay Rays Mascot 'Raymond', entered with Anya on her arm, smiling and sweetly satisfied, "So, you ready, beautiful?" She asked, scanning the room for people they knew, not that she'd recognize any of them.

====

Toran and Jera arrived at the same time. The Klingon was looking over the whole scene giving his daughter a nod. He didn't want to hover over her, he was sure she would be fine. He made his way on into the room, his outfit being a dark black and rustic brown affair with a good deal of fur at the neck and a large cloak, the mask being an almost full metal mask, looking to be brass or bronze, complete with a set of pronounced antlers. The whole outfit was giving off an unmistakable look of a stag of some sort. He took his time to walk around and take in the arboretum.

Suddenly the doors opened and a human peacock walked in. Not really it was only Fernando. He was dressed as what else? Don Juan. He had a flowing cape of blue and purple and his outfit was a nice mix of shades of brown with a white ruffled shirt with hints of blue in it. A hat of the period was perched atop his head with multi colored feathers sticking out of it. His mask looked like a peacock with it's subtle shades of blue, green and purple. He was quite the sight.

It didn't take Liorga long to figure out that it was de la Rosa coming through the door; who else would dress like Don Juan? She turned to Anje and poked her ribs, "See, now you can't leave, your boyfriend just got here."

The open bottom of Anje's mask showed her face turning a bright, bright red, this night couldn't possibly get any worse, could it?

Matias was invited, of course. He couldn't fathom this strange custom, this complex holiday. It was about several things. Killing a tree, decorating it, then singing to it about a horned creature with a glowing red nose. Then there was a baby born in a stable. A miser who was changed to a benevolent soul. He had it!

when he came in, he was dressed like a mythical creature called the Grinch. His mask was green as well as his costume. The one who stole Christmas then brought it back after he was transformed.

Orin walked into the Arboretum not sure what to expect. He was new to the ship and had yet to interact with much of the crew, and being invited to a masquerade seemed like an interesting way to jump in with both feet. What he wasn't expecting, was to walk into a winter landscape on a starship, and as such the linen toga and sandals he had chosen were looking to be a poor decision on his part. He readjusted the Greek inspired theater mask, a lightweight facsimile of Zeus he had chosen over the classic Venetian style masquerade masks, and stepped toward where the bar would soon open. He was going to need a drink or two before any mingling could begin...

Ken Waters entered in a simple tuxedo. It wasn't a particularly creative outfit, but he loved the dapper feeling of the fancy garments, and he so rarely had the occasion to wear one. He snapped the cuffs of his shirt sleeves, one at a time, and then adjusted the simple black mask across his nose. "The Masked Tuxedo has arrived," he announced to himself.

Liselle Qwyyn came into the room not long after. She had been rather uncertain on how to dress appropriately for a masquerade and had relied entirely on the computer's suggestion for a well suited costume. She wore glittering white stockings and a small white leotard that sparkled as though it were formed of perfect crystalline snowflakes. Her white and blue mascara sparkled with equal enthusiasm as her clothing, and her mask was made to resemble the hard yet beautiful features of a snow queen from some long forgotten piece of fiction.

Noticing the man near the bar area, she made her way over to him. Looking Orin up and down, her red lips split into a smile of recognition at his clothing. "Vulcan, right?" she asked, guessing his attire wrong. "Third chapter monastery?"

Orin quickly turned toward the voice addressing him, startled out of his own mind. "Greek actually." His voice boomed, before he remembered one of the main functions of Greek theater masks and lowered his quieted his voice to a reasonable level. "Sorry, these things were made for open air theaters. They amplify sound, much like a megaphone." He was glad the mask hid most of his face, so no one could see the shade of crimson he was currently turning. "Though the time of philosophy and logic would share a loose equivalency to many Vulcan belief systems including their polytheistic religion and..." Orin trailed off, knowing he was rambling. "Snedronningen?" He asked, gesturing to her costume.

Qwyyn looked down at herself and the costume she had allowed the computer to dress her in. "Oh, I - I don't know," she stammered, hoping desperately that the computer hadn't tricked her into making a fool of herself. "The computer suggested it. Do you recognize it?"

"Not so much recognize, as reminds me of an old Earth fairy tale." He answered. "Snedronningen, is Danish for The Snow Queen. A wonderful tale of two children, magic and the struggle of good and evil and human nature." He turned toward the bar. "Scotch, neat, at least 12 years." He turned back toward the woman and took a deep swallow of the drink that had been handed to him. "Sorry, I happen to like old stories like that. I'm the ship's new xenoarchaeologist, Orin Sempton."

=====

Lia noticed her question seem to upset the woman who asked it, so in her own ham-fisted way attempted to mend the fence. "Hey Twinkle, no need to bale out. Stay and get to know some people, we don't bite. Honest". She held out her hand to Anje, "Life is for living, and in this job you really get to live".

"Umm, okay, yeah." Anje replied, still wanting to go back to her quarters and watch an old holo or something, ~I have to stop going to these things. They're always a disaster and I can never escape....~

The other woman still seemed nervous, "Twinkle, I know how you feel right now. You want to get the hell out of here and go back to where you feel safe, probably your quarters. Right?" Lia moved a little closer, "You see Twinkle, I've been there. And don't worry about screwing things up, the more you worry the more your likely to screw things up. Again I know, I've done it". Lia now placed her hand on the other woman's arm, "That only works for so long you know, very soon even that won't work. The only way to beat this, is meet it head on. You got friends, and you have other people who are willing to help. If you want them to, but you gotta make the first move". She removed her mask, "See, I'm just one of many. I don't bite and I do understand, I'll help if you want. Oh just so you know, my name is Lia. I'm the Chief Security and Tactical Officer, come see me sometime". She hoped her little talk would help, but having been there herself. She knew how hard it was to break the cycle, "Ok Twinkle, go enjoy this shindig with your friends". Lia replaced her mask and picked up another plate of Dango, and with a wave of her hand she left 'Twinkle' to her own thoughts.

~Was she flirting with me?~ Anje wondered, ~Nah, a woman like that would never be interested in me. Unless she thinks I'm better looking than I am under this mask.... I love this thing.~ She walked back to the Dango woman, now revealed as Lia, and softly whispered, "Thanks."

The doors to the Arboretum hissed opened again and in walked a new character, It was Old Man Winter! Actually it was Gary done up as the character. He had decided to chuck the Green Knight idea and instead honor the theme of the party that of a winter wonder land. He had on a wig of flowing white hair along with a full beard of long white hair. A shirt of white with black pants. Shiny black boots along with a heavy coat of pure white fur completed the outfit. His skin had even been painted to give him a pale complexion to signify cold even his lips had been painted blue. Blue contacts covered his normal gray colored eyes. He carried a staff in his right hand that appeared to be made out of a old tree with a globe atop it that flashed lightning bolts with every step he took. A crown of icicles sat atop his head. A mask made to resemble snow flakes covered his face.

Lia had spotted Gary, his costume did nothing to hide him. Coming from behind she spoke softly, "If your feeling cold, old man. I know somewhere you could go and get warm, just follow the Geisha". She then kissed him and offered him a Dango from her plate, "That blue lipstick, just isn't your shade". She then started to giggle, and then she giggled some more.

Gary turned to face Lia. He activated his voice modulator to give his voice a low rumbling quality. Even as a smile graced his features. "Be careful how you speak fair maiden. Don't let my appearance deceive you." He took a Dango from her plate, "I know your womanly wiles. Even now you try to seduce me with food." He finished as he kissed her back and popped the Dango in his mouth. "As for me wanting to get warm. Lead on."

Jera had split off from her father, she knew they didn't have to stick together. And in fact she suspected that staying near him would be rather boring, not because of Toran himself, more because... well Ambassador, also no one on the ship would really mistake the almost two meter tall Klingon for anyone else, so his costume was a bit of a failure. She on the other hand was more or less disguised, a white dress and mask that had a distinct bird theme to it. On top of the issue that basically no one that would be attending had really met her. And she was interested in the event itself, but at the same time more interested in the Dessert table.

Miran had slipped into the room, dressed as she had been when her sister had left the room, the dark wine red dress with low heals, her long brown hair down her back loose, with the red and gild flame like mask, made her look a lot like her sister's name sake. She spotted another young person wandering around, and after a moment of consideration, moved toward wards her. "Hi, nice dress" she said with honest appreciation.

Jera turned while trying to quickly finish stuffing a slightly oversize portion of cake in he mouth and swallowing. "Thank you very much.. red suits you. And I don't know If I would have been brave enough for even those heels." She took a second to get a lit of frosting off the corner of her mouth. "I'm Jera... wait are we suppose to tell people our names? Umm. I mean I'm a pigeon.. Or are they doves when there white?"

"I am Miran. Names are fine. Its not meant to be a secret. Some will make up fake names, others will tell their true names. Its just fun and games." Miran smiled. "And no matter what you are, you look wonderful. You must be new to the ship?"

She gave a nod. "Yes, got here about a week ago with 'the ambassador.'" She motioned with her head to the Toran who was over near the observation withdow, the brown fur and alters sticking out rather well on the oversized Klingon. "How about you? I mean I'm assuming your not a crew member?"

"No, my sister is. I have been here nearly 3 years now."

"Three years? This is my first time on a starship. Well I mean living on a Starship... It's not bad, a little.. Inorganic though."

"Oh it has its high points." Miran said with a smile. "And we have a 4 level arboretum as you can see."

Jera gave a nod. "Ya, and the festival is pretty nice, all we ever did in the winter back home was a harvest festival. Which... well mostly involved harvesting... And Klingon winter festivals are dangerous. I think I like this one better."

Miran smiled at that. "Yes the only danger is from the ice skating. Would you like to join me and some others over there?" she nodded towards the ice rink.

She gave a small laugh that had just the slightest hint of a snort at the end, which she clearly caught and tried to cover up a bit. "I'll join you, but I think I'll pass on actually getting out on the ice. I only became broken bone free a week or two ago."

"Well thats ok. There are plenty of places to sit and enjoy watching people fall over" Miran grinned. "Come on."

Jera followed along, She was glad she had when pretty light on the costume for tonight the dove mask more of less just covering her eyes, and her dress more or less just being a standard white evening gown with feathers and wings. If he had worn something like her father she would have trouble moving... And she had to admit the ice looked fun, but she also knew that her coordination was not good enough to actually pull that off right now.

Finally turning to speak to Miran "So what do you know about this holiday? I tried to read up on it a bit, but... It was honestly really confusing, seams like one Earth Culture took another holiday and added on, and then another and another." She shruged. "I don't mean to say that my home world's holidays don't get contrived. We have a holiday to celebrate fish..." It suddenly occurred to her that didn't actually know what race Miran was, and she wasn't going to ask, that would be more then awkward. But she also didn't want to assume anything.

Miran grinned. "Actually my sister and I never celebrated Christmas before coming here. Our people do not celebrate it at all. We have a seasonal celebration but nothing fancy. Birthdays are big for us"

She listened and gave a nod making a note to herself that she was most likely not human? But who knew, earth was pretty diverse for holidays as far as she could tell. "Birthdays? Hmm. Well Bajorans only really pay attention to birthdays at some ages. But there nice overall." She leaned on a handrail looking out at the staking. "I really need to work on balance at some point, looks like fun."

Miran laughed softly. "It is, on my homeworld we skate a lot in winter when the lakes freeze. No Safeties there."

============

Anje, having returned to Liorga and Estelle's side, motioned to something on the other side of the room, "That looks like a sled hill..." She said, grinning, "We have got to try that."

Having just left his shift, Turak had hurriedly gone to his quarters and changed into his costume. He had on a black tuxedo with gold cufflinks, a red bowtie, and a glossy black mask that covered half his face, including his nose. Once he entered the main event, he looked around and decided to talk to the nearest person. He walked up to Anje, Liorga, and Estelle and said, "Good evening all, I hope I haven't missed too much of the festivities. How's the food, I'm starving."

"Try my ice bore cocktail", Estelle said. "Then tell me." She had supplied it earlier, and of course she had tasted it before taking it here, but she hadn't had a chance to try anything else. "We were going to have some fun in the snow to work up an appetite first. I, for one, really love snow." And thanks to the blue skin suit she was wearing underneath the skimpy dress, she didn't have to worry about wardrobe malfunctions, this time.

Turak responded, "Yes, I rather enjoy snow. I enjoyed going to the Lake Tahoe area when I was in the Academy and going skiing with my wife, Sarah. What were you planning on doing in the snow?"

"There was the suggestion of the sled hill", Estelle said. "You see, why don't you go ride the sleds and I'm going to throw snowballs at you, and whoever makes it down the hill without getting hit wins?" Estelle wasn't good with any of the Andorian martial arts that people around her practised when she was growing up, but throwing snowballs she could do easily, and accurately.

With a smile, Turak said, "I'll take that challenge! Shall we be on our way?"

Arrianna entered the Arboretum in what was known as a Alindari Party dress. It was intricate, it accentuated her splendidly and showed off her form. She selected a more modest version of what she'd usually wear on New Alindar. But it caught everyone's eyes as she walked past.

OOC: https://proxy.duckduckgo.com/iu/?u=http://www.qqtdd.com/img37/qwpkymeejwsjcydnokwl.jpg&f=1

Slipping into the lower level, Chrysanthe, wore a black dress that stopped above her knees at the front but the back fell to the ground in a riot of fabric, designed to look like feathers. Her mask was black and smooth across her forehead. She wore, black knee high boots. Striding in, she carried in her left hand, a blackthorn staff. Her blond hair was curled up around an onyx head band. The Black Queen. She enjoyed dressing up. She moved between the guests with a smile on her lips.
Her eyes fell on a tall man dressed in what would be called Arthurian clothing.

Carlos had spent hours looking for his costume and had finally settled on a costume king Arthur. He had, after much effort managed to walk with the long sword by his side and he was looking around, the plain silver mask on his face.

Chrys came up to him and casually linked her arm through his. "Hello Handsome. Bored?"

He stared at the blond in head to toe black. "Hmm maybe."

Her ruby red lips parted. "Well then, lets go see what fun we can find, King Arthur."

"And what may I call you Milady?"

"Oh I am sure you can remember my name. I am Kore."

Together they moved into the crowd.

And then, it was Ian's turn to make his entrance, in a costume born out of the nightmares of Earth children. Dressed in sooty red robes with goats' fur leggings and gloves and a hideous feral mask that was part-human and part goat. It was topped with several curved rams' horns and adorned with gnarled, yellowed teeth. Small coils in the nostrils emitted gouts of steam and the lenses that hid his eyes glowed a menacing red. He walked with a birch staff ending in several thin branches, and occasionally whirled it like a baton. Krampus had come to the Elysium, and he began to wander around, while occasionally consulting a PADD labeled "Naughty List."

Walking in not long behind 'Krampus', Kaylee looked around at the multitude of costumes and outfits. she was wearing a full phantom of the opera costume, complete with wig, sword and mask, customised for the female form of course. walking forward to stand beside the creature, the Phantom looked over at him, "Your list must be extensive aboard this ship creature of the night"

"You would think so." Ian said, the mask moving to mimic the movements of his facial muscles, his voice distorted to be menacing in a wholly unholy sort of way. "And yet, when a good thrashing needs to be applied to the supposedly 'naughty' they all start whining about safe words. Where's the fun in that?" Not that Ian was the sort to actually deliver those thrashings. He was fifty shades of vanilla. "What about you, oh ghost? Are you nice...Or naughty?"

Kaylee smiled, “well that would depend on your point of view. I taught a young girl to become a magnificent opera star, however I did kill people who got in her way” she said as she turned to face Ian and reaching up to place a hand on the ‘cheek’ of his mask “in the end, I shall leave such judgements to you dear creature. That is what I hear you are good at” she said in a slightly seductive voice before walking off into the croud.

"Naughty..." Ian concluded, turning to mingle. "But not in the fun way. No spanking for you." Steam shot from his mask's nostrils and Krampus's eyes glowed a baleful red. "Yet."

Gallia, Tayalas in her arms, walked in finally, assuming Kara was close behind; That woman takes forever to get ready, she thought with a laugh. Looking in a nearby water feature she checked her and Tay's costumes again: she wore a traditional Harlequin's outfit, her red hair covered by a jester's hat, with a black and white mask, while Tayalas was dressed as a snowflake, a soft mask of glittery white on her face, "Hope we recognize somebody, Tay." She whispered, to which Tayalas replied with her standard coo, it was her go-to.

Kara arrived just a few moments after Gallia and Tayalas did. Her costume changed how she looked entirely. She wore a stunning blue feathered outfit. Her eyes covered with glittery blue make-up which were formed into triangles which sparkled in the light. On her shoulders the blue feathers were horizontally pointed to give the impression of wings and she wore glittered blue tights and gleaming blue polished boots. The mask over her head had 2 birds eyes and a small bird's beak, covered with beautiful blue feathers which swayed as she moved. She came to a stop behind Gallia, placing one hand onto her shoulder. "What a wonderful evening isn't it my dearest? Tayalas and you both look wonderful! Shall we perhaps find something to do?" Kara had come as Ariel from William Shakespeare's "The tempest". An ancient Earth stage play, that was quite famous around the world at one time a few centuries ago.

"Well, the great bird of the galaxy has joined us at last, Tay." Gallia laughed, leaning under Kara's mask to kiss her gently, "Lead the way, love."

Kara smiles after they kiss. She moves her arm around Gallia's shoulder in a protective caring way, and begins to walk with her and Tayalas. "I think we should skate on the ice." She says as they walk through the crowded and festive aboretum. "Tayalas would love it, so will you." Her usual fiestiness has been replaced by lover like grace and serenity.

"Sounds like a plan." Gallia agreed, looking around and saying, "Everything in here is so beautiful...."

Savar entered next. He had been hesitant to attend the gala but finally relented as it would afford him the opportunity to observe humans more closely. He was dressed in slacks, shirt, a vest and bowtie and inverness cape about his shoulders, A deerstalker cap sat atop his head and a pipe was clenched between his teeth. A black mask covered the upper half of his face. He had come as the character closely associated with reasoning, observation and above all else logic. He was dressed as Sherlock Holmes. He wandered to the bar and ordered a fruit drink. His eyes fell on Qwyyn and her costume. He nodded in approval. Attempting to start a conversation, he asked "Just who might you be my cold blooded friend?"

Qwyyn looked down at her costume, as though she herself needed to study her clothes before making a guess. "The computer tells me this is the costume of the Snow Queen," she explained uncertainly. "Honestly, I'm not sure who she was or what she did. Gods, I hope it's not something offensive!"

"No, not all." Savar answered honestly. It is most appropriate for the Snow Queen. In addition It is very becoming if I may be so bold." He finished feeling awkward, "Um, would you like to figure skate or dance?" Giving her the option to choose.

Qwyyn's brow raised at the compliment, a gesture thankfully subdued by her mask. "I'm not familiar with having a figure skate? What is it exactly?"

Skates are laced to our feet with a sharp blade on the underside of the skate. We then skate on ice. It is called figure skating because many like to make figures with their skates but it is not required." He assured her.

"Blades...on feet?" Liselle repeated. Suspicion filled her eyes, and she folded her arms across her chest. "And this is something that just any old person can do?"

"As I understand you wear what are called skates. You place your feet in them. The blades are on the underside." He looked at her, "Forgive me Commander but you are by no means old and yes you can do it a child can do it. If you would rather not we can dance instead."

====

Phoenix looked through the crowd as she moved about. She spotted Ken easily and moved to his side, linking her arm through his. "Hello there kind sir."

He leaned in to her, burying his nose in her hair for a breath. "The name's The Masked Tuxedo," he said. He slid his hands down her arms and clasped her fingers. "Any chance I might get a dance or two out of you?"

Phoenix smiled and brushed her lips across his. "Of course, I have saved them for you."

He felt electricity in his every nerve ending at her touch. Where she not the Captain, he'd have taken her by the hands and insisted they leave now. Instead, he somehow managed to keep his hormones in check -- for the moment at least. His eyes darted over her shoulder and at those people who gawked at them. "I think the news might be out that we're back together."

"Do you care?" Phoenix asked softly concern crossed her face.

His eyes searched her face. "Phoenix, no, of course not. I didn't mean that. I just -- I don't want to put you in an uncomfortable position with the crew."

"I don't care about that. It will be fine."

====

Jaeih had taken a long while figuring out her costume. She had finally chosen a dark green dress which was chopped off at the knees, and her brown hair was tucked into a bun at the nape of her neck. She wore dark green soft boots and on her back, gossamer wings. A wreath of flowers and branches was around her head and she wore vines tied up her legs and arms.

She entered on Deck 3 and was carefully walking through the crowd looking for Wynter.

Wynter stood alone dressed all in black, some would simply call him the man in black, but others might recognise the sword at his side, and perhaps recognize him as the Dread Pirate Roberts. He waited patiently and cordially greeted others until he noticed Jaeih from a distance and approached her slowly. "Milady." he said as he bowed low.

Jaeih smiled and dropped a curtsey. "Milord. Nice costume" she said impishly. "Did you want a wish from the wood nymph?"

=======

Eira Cortez was the next one to walk in to the arboretum on the second level. She was wearing a long flowing Jack Frost blue dress that had silver crystals and beadwork in the shape of small snowflakes cascading down from the bust to about halfway with a matching crystal worked thin silver half mask covering her eyes. Her white hair was set simple with waves and pinned to one side with a blue jewelled clip, and her makeup was a mixture of silver and blue.

She gripped the bag a little tighter and took a deep breath, remembering what Nate had said: if you want to make some new friends, you need to be sociable. Oh gods how she wished he was there to be her date tonight, but no, he was posted on some star base. Smoothing her dress down, Eira looked around and moved to the side a bit out of people’s way - she realized she didn’t know a single person here.

Ensign Nerinath Sh'rilror entered behind the woman dressed in the blue dress. She herself was dressed in what one of her Starfleet classmates had given her two years before. A slim sheath of navy blue, which flared out at her knees. Silver heals on her feet and her long white hair was unbound around her shoulders. Across her face, was a simple dark blue mask. She paused right behind the woman and frowned. "Oh excuse me?" she said softly. "Are you ok?"

Matias leaned against a table, rum and coke in hand, looking over the crowd. So far, nobody noticed that the Grinch was there, as he was dressed up as. Maybe he should steal Christmas as his namesake did. But no, that would be too extreme.

Eira looked around at the voice from behind, eyes wide in a stare, "Oh hi! Sorry, I didn't hear you come up behind me." She frowned and added while looking around, "I just realised I dont know a single person here and I feel like more of an outcast than before, but that's all good!" A nervous laugh to break the awkwardness: nailed it. "I like your dress: lovely and elegant." Eira attempted a smile

The Andorian inclined her head and said "Thank you. Your outfit is amazing. Did it take long to do?"

Eira paused for a moment and thought about it, "When I heard about the ball, I phoned this guy I'd met quite a while back who made the most amazing dresses and got him to send me one that he thought would look amazing." She beamed a smile and added, "Plus he also added in the mask for free. So unfortunately I cant take the credit for making it. I'm indebted to him for saving me though."

"Well, he did a good job." Neri replied. "He has an artists eye."

=/\= Midnight =/\=


At the stroke of Midnight, Phoenix stepped onto the stage and up to the lectern. She looked out at the gathered crew and smiled. “Thank you all for coming. Tonight, I have something special to do. Commander Taylor, Commander Qwyyn, can you join me here please”

From the out of the way corner that he and Lia had managed to find, Gary rose, "Duty calls." he whispered and kissed her lightly on the lips and made his way to the stage to stand beside Phoenix.

Shaking away the sparkles that had fallen from her dress to stick to the palms of her hands, Qwyyn followed Gary to the captain's side.

Once her executive officer and second officer had joined her on stage, she turned back to the crew and their families.

“Now, would the following people please join us as well” She looked down at the list of names.

“Petty Officer 2nd Class Anya Neeze”

"Huh?!" Anya wondered. The woman dressed as a Viking warrior - yes, there were plenty of female Vikings - stepped up, wondering what was going on.

“Petty Officer 1st Class Liorga”

I wonder what this is about, Liorga thought, though she didn't voice it, merely shrugging to Estelle, "Hope she's not going to ask me to sing...."

“Petty Officer 2nd Class Fernando De La Rosa”

Hearing his name announced Fernando's stomach got knotted up and he felt sick. He wondered what he had done to be called out. It was only after hearing other names also be called that his fear began to lessen. Whatever it was couldn't be so bad could it? Especially not with all the other names being announced right?

“Chief Petty Officer Railli Feyth”

The Bajoran woman's brow furrowed with uncertainty. Qwyyn ushered her forward, and cautiously Feyth approached.

“Senior Chief Petty Officer Ken Waters”

Using his own summons to his advantage, he took his Feyth's hand and helped lead her up to stand with the other officers.

“Ensign River Waters”

River rose from his chair and joined Feyth at her other side to walk to meet the command staff. Fortunately, she did not shoo him away. At least not yet.

“Lieutenant Anje Brett”

~If I hadn't heard so many other names called I'd think this was for a firing squad.~ Anje thought as she walked to the front, more nervous than she'd ever been, though she had decided she rather liked the new nickname Cdr. Holmes had given her, ~I can get used to being called Twinkle..~

“Ensign Gallia Norris”

"What's all this then?" Gallia wondered aloud as she went to the Command staff's location, moving smartly.

“Lieutenant Jaeih t'Noramei-McKinley”

Frowing, Jaeih moved up to the stage and took up position.

“Lieutenant JG Kara Hoffman”

Kara had a feeling of what was to come, she whispered quietly to Gallia as they both moved up. "Seems it's time for a Christmas treat." She smiled to Gallia and took her hand, to stand next to her lover as they all began to filter into a line, up in front of everyone.

“Lieutenant Arrianna Salannis an Vantar”

Arri had spent a good part of the night not even noticing several crewmember's stares. Personal confidence was a hallmark of her people.

She wondered why she was suddenly called forth. and walked up.

“Lieutenant Estelle Hertz MD”

The surgeon stepped up and joined Liorga, as she had been called up earlier. She put her arm around her girlfriend.

Liorga smiled as Estelle embraced her, whatever this was, as long as they were together nothing could be bad. Still hope she doesn't ask me to sing, she thought, laughing to herself.

Once they were all assembled, Phoenix continued. “After discussion with officers in good standing and their senior department heads, it is my pleasure to announce that these officers have been granted the following promotions. Commanders Taylor and Qwyyn, would you do the honors?” she waved to the pile of boxes. Each was carefully labeled.

“Lieutenant JG Kara Hoffman was promoted to her current rank a short time ago, and we congratulate her here and now, for all of you to do so.” Phoenix began. She waved Kara forward.

Kara smiled and stood forwards. She bowed her head and nodded to the Captain. "Thank you Captain and thank you all." With a big grin, she stood back in line, attempting to contain her excitement. Knowing all of these promotions were happening, she could barely stifle herself from shouting, cheering and clapping for everyone, who had worked so hard to get here.

Phoenix smiled and looked down at her list.

“Petty Officer 2nd Class Anya Neeze, you are hereby promoted to Petty Officer 1st Class”

"Thank you, Captain." Turning to Fernando, she said, "And to think it only took getting shot in the rear."

Gary chuckled at Anya's quip to Fernando. "Congratulations Anya, well done. Try not to get shot anymore." He quipped himself as he shook her hand.

“Petty Officer 1st Class Liorga, you are hereby promoted to Chief Petty Officer”

Liorga was stunned, having never thought she would make it back this far after her demotion. New love, career moving forward again, yes, I do believe in miracles, she decided. She stepped up to Commander Qwynn, humbly smiling, "Thank you all for the chance." Her mind drifted to an old movie she'd watched with Gallia, about a prize fighter from Philadelphia, his crusty trainer telling him, 'Second chances are a freak thing, they don't come along very often...'

Estelle kissed Liorga on the cheek. "Good job, Chief." She gave Liorga a sideways hug, so Qwynn could still do her thing.

"You've made us all very proud," Qwyyn said warmly as she attached the new rank to her collar. "Congratulations. You've earned this."

“Petty Officer 2nd Class Fernando De La Rosa, you are hereby promoted to Petty Officer 1st Class”

Fernando's mouth dropped open only to quickly close and a bright, happy smile appeared on his face. He looked at Taylor, still not quite believing what was happening. "Congratulations Petty Officer De La Rosa, you earned this, well done." Gary told him as he shook his hand. "Keep up the good work Fernando."

“Chief Petty Officer Railli Feyth, You are hereby promoted to Senior Chief Petty Officer”

Feyth looked to Qwyyn for confirmation, as though the announcement might be some kind of trick. When Qwyyn nodded, her smile wide, Feyth threw herself into her arms. "I can't believe this! Thank you!"

“Senior Chief Petty Officer Ken Waters, You are hereby promoted to Master Chief Petty Officer”

Even though he knew that a promotion announcement was coming at this point, he still couldn't help but grin foolishly. He extended a hand to Qwyyn. "Thank you, sir. A fresh start?"

Qwyyn shook his hand. "A fresh start," she agreed.

“Ensign River Waters, You are hereby promoted to Lieutenant Junior Grade”

Even River could not help his beaming smile. His whole career had been aboard the Elysium. Never in his wildest dreams did he think he would have made it so far in such a large crew. "Thank you, sir," he said proudly.

“Lieutenant Anje Brett, You are hereby promoted to Lieutenant Commander”

~WHAT?!!?~ Anje couldn't believe her ears, she wanted to panic, but this was the best news she couldn't have seen coming if she had the mental powers of a Q. She stepped forward and smiled, saying softly, "Thank you" as she couldn't really manage much else, her excitement simply too great.

Gary smiled warmly at her, "Congratulations Anje, you've made quite the impression in your time here. Keep up the excellent work." He finished as he first shook her hand then handed her the box containing her new rank insignia.

“Ensign Gallia Norris, You are hereby promoted to Lieutenant Junior Grade”

Gallia broke into a wide smile, though she addressed her first words not to the command staff, but to her child, "Well, how do ya like that, Tay? Both your mums gettin' promoted so close to the same time."

She stepped forward to receive her new pip from Cdr. Qwynn, "It's most appreciated, Sir." She smiled, looking over to Kara then down at Tayalas, "Third best thing's happened in my life so far."

Qwyyn raised an amused brow at that. "Oh? And what would the other two be?"

"Well, there's the dark haired one over there." Gallia smiled, motioning towards Kara with her head, then looking down, "And, of course, the little blue one right here."

With an understanding smile, Liselle inclined her head. "You've got your priorities straight, Lieutenant."

“Lieutenant Jaeih t'Noramei-McKinley, You are hereby promoted to Lieutenant Commander”

Jaeih jumped a bit but stepped forward to meet the Commander. She couldn't help but smile as she did so.

Gary met her smile with one of his own. "Congratulations Jaeih." He started "A promotion well earned and deserved. Keep it up." He finished as he shook her hand warmly, as well as handing her the box with her new pip.

“Lieutenant Estelle Hertz MD, You are hereby promoted to Lieutenant Commander”

"Ooh, shiny", Estelle smiled. "Thank you." There wasn't space on her Andorian costume for the rank insignia, but she could put them on come morning.

"Congratulations," Qwynn said warmly, and she handed the box to her.

“Lieutenant Arrianna Salannis an Vantar, You are hereby promoted to Lieutenant Commander”

Arri was stunned. She was now two ranks away from captain. She wondered how it had only been five to six years since she was just a cadet. Now she was a Commander. "Thank you."

Gary smiled at her and her economy of words. "You deserve and earned this Arri." He assured her, "Congratulations and keep up the outstanding work and nothing is beyond your reach." He finished as he handed her the small wooden box containing her new rank insignia.

“Ladies and Gentlemen of the USS Elysium, I give you, the newly promoted of the USS ELYSIUM.” Phoenix called out to the crowd.

While the others applauded and cheered, Gallia made her way to Liorga and Estelle, motioning Kara to come along with her to congratulate her best friend and the person who was not only a dear friend but made her look good on the job, "Hey, congratulations, you two." She smiled, squeezing Estelle's hand, "Love you."

Anje found Fernando, smiling, "Well, well, would you look at you? Moving up in the world." Anje smiled and kissed his cheek, "Always knew you were more than a pretty face."

Fernando beamed at his friend and Anje was his friend and that was more important than being his lover. As friends especially good ones were harder to find and keep. "Me? Look at you Lieutenant Commander! Your getting into rarified air. I am so proud and happy for you Anje. Well done." He finished by returning her kiss by kissing her on the cheek.

Liorga still couldn't believe it was real, expecting to sit up on the couch in Estelle's place, having fallen asleep will the sexy surgeon spent hours readying herself, the whole thing having been a dream. She stood alongside Estelle, across from Gallia, "Congratulations, baby." She smiled, "You definitely deserved it."

"Looks like we've got goodness all around", Estelle smiled. "I wonder if any of us gets a better access level? The higher the level, the easier to pull pranks, you know?"

"Hey, we jus' got these." Gallia laughed, "Let's not lose 'em too fast."

"Right?" Liorga agreed, laughing though she knew how serious the subject actually was, "They're super hard to get back, you know?"

"True, have to make it worthwhile", Estelle nodded. "Something worth telling around a campfire, at the very least."

"Though preferably not in the chow hall at the stockade." Gallia joked, not seeing Liorga's face twist ever so briefly into a look of utter discomfort.

"Right?" Liorga said, forcing herself to laugh, though the memories of those seven days she'd spent in the brig while they decided what to do with her would never go away...

Gallia looked around for Feyth, when she saw her motioning the other young mother over, "Feyth, come join us, will ya?"

Sami wandered over to Anya, taking her date's hand, "Congratulations." She smiled, leaning up to gently kiss Anya's cheek, vowing to never reveal how much courage it took for her to do that.

Lia listened as the names were read off, she looked as the Command Staff took their places. *That used to be me*, she thought. She applauded with everyone else, it was the polite thing to do. Lia looked up as Estella was called forwards, *Good on you Doc* she thought. She turned and picked up her fruit juice, *Think I'll call it a night*.

Orin placed his glass of scotch on a table and clapped, even managing a half smile for those who had been promoted. His hand went to where the pips at his neck would normally be, before he realized the toga wasn't his standard uniform and lab coat. The cheer quickly went out of him and he raised his glass. May you never feel the sting of a demotion, or the stigma attached. He thought before downing what was left. Quietly, he made his way to the bar for another, making every attempt to avoid people.


_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Elsewhere on the ship business was going on as usual as the night shift manned the bridge making sure nothing would happen. The ships gorn chief medical MD sat in the captains chair having volunteered to take the shift. He'd never liked this time of the year. It brought up to many bad memories. All the take of gift giving was painful given the only gift he wanted he could never receive. He still missed them both and he would give anything to hold them in his arms again. His milky white eyes blinked a tear out of his eyes as he looked back at the screen. He still had a job to do before he could join them and he wasn't going to let them down.