Christmas Celebration Pt. 2

Posted on Wed Jan 1st, 2020 @ 7:45am by Lieutenant JG Gallia Norris & Commodore Phoenix Lalor-Richardson & Captain Gary Taylor & Commander Liselle Qwyyn & Lieutenant Commander Aurelia Taylor & Lieutenant Colonel Azhul Naxea & Commander Arrianna Salannis an Vantar & Ensign Kara Hoffman & Lieutenant Commander S'hib & Lieutenant Carter Smith & Ensign Olivia (Carter) Voight & Lieutenant Commander Alicia Kelea-Salik & Lieutenant Casper Thornhill & Ensign Lunara Hol & Lieutenant Commander Savar cha'Salik hei-Surak Talek-sen-deen [Taylor] & Legate Imik S'Niohun [Lia Taylor] & Lieutenant JG Nerinath zh'Rhilror [Lalor] & Lieutenant JG T'Kek [Naxea] & Chief Warrant Officer Man'darr [Naxea] & Senior Chief Petty Officer Fernando De La Rosa [Taylor] & Private 1st Class Durak & Cadet Sophomore Grade Triston Montgomery [Lalor] & Avalon [ADMIN NPC] & Miran Lalor [Lalor] HRH & Elisha Pryce-Randal [ADMIN NPC] Ms
Edited on on Mon May 11th, 2020 @ 2:27pm

Mission: 2396 - A Christmas Time
Location: Deck 2- 6
6812 words - 13.6 OF Standard Post Measure

Liselle entered the room in her traditional gaudy Christmas sweater. It had been hand knitted for her back during her academy days, the traditional Irish design no longer gleaming in its original snow-white glamour of its former glory days. The fit was baggy on her, hanging loosely over her frame, the sleeves too long for her arms. But Gods she loved it. Her enthusiastic smile shone brighter than the sweater ever had.

Ken Waters immediately went to her side upon seeing her enter. "Commander! I've been looking everywhere for you!"

Qwyyn blinked. "Is something wrong?"

"No, no. Nothing. It's just -- have you talked to Penelope at all? About...ummmm...anything relating to, well, me and her?"

With a raised brow Liselle answered him uncertainly. "I don't think so?"

"Nevermind," he reassured her with a brief clasp of her arm. "It's nothing. I'll see you around. And, hey, nice sweater."

From accross the room Feyth Railli held a simple wrapped box in her hands. She stepped up on her tip-toes looking about the room for any sign of Gallia. Prophets, would that woman just show up already before she lost her nerve?

Gallia entered next, the seemingly ever present Maddy in tow, laughing and shaking her head, "Ah dinnae how those two always manage it, but ever' time we got an event te go te, Tay somehow runes her first outfit. First time Tay got sick, twas vomit on ma beautiful bride te be. This time, grape juice."

"Well, grape juice is better than puke." Maddy stated her opinion directly, a skill she'd learned from Gunny.

"Mebbe, lest ye're tryin' te get it outta yer clothes." Gallia countered, "Bloody near the 25th cent-ry an we still no have a easy method te remove grape juice stains."

"It's crazy." Maddy agreed, "You'd think by now we would."

"Well, if ye have an idea, chime in, girl." Gallia laughed.

"Hey, you're the engineer, honey." Maddy giggled and pointed ahead, "Isn't that your friend Feyth?"

"Oh, ye mean the woman who thinks Ah'm a shite mum who capes a darty house? That one?" Gallia replied, the hurt of that day still fresh, "The one who thinks Ah fade ma baby boogs? Aye, tha's her, but shay an' I are no friends nay more."

"Gallia, I think you're taking this way too personally, I don't think she meant that the way it came out." Maddy said, deciding then it was time to shut up and take some action, another of Gunny's gem life lessons, "Chief! Over here!"

"Ah, far the lova God, Maddy, wah in fook would ye do that?" Gallia cringed, thinking about wrapping Maddy's hair around her throat and strangling her with it, "Ah, damn it, shay's comin' now..."

Even as she approached, Feyth felt herself begin to shake with nerves. Still, somehow, she managed not to bolt for the nearest exit before she made her way into Gallia's space. "Hi," she said meekly. "Can we talk?"

"Gah some mar choice wards far me, do ye?" Gallia replied softly, she wanted desperately to be angry and hateful, but all that came out was sadness, "Tha's fine, insult me all ye want, but ye leave mah baby alone..."

"Gallia, she's not here to fight." Maddy interjected, "Just shut up and listen for a minute, damn it!" She paused for a second, realizing how exactly like Gunny she had just sounded.

"Foine, what's on yer mind, Senior Chief?" Gallia sighed, madder than hell at Maddy, though she knew if he was in earshot Rhodes was prouder than hell of her.

The pair moved away from the larger crowds for the barest amount of privacy, before Feyth turned to Gallia. "I know we don't know each other well, but there is something I'd like to tell you about me," she began quietly. "I have this ability. It's something I've been able to do for a very, very long time." Feyth looked to either side, before sharing her secret. "It's an uncanny knack for putting my foot in my mouth. And not just a little bit. Lately, I've been able to get everything up to my knee down my throat."

===

Next to walk in was a large man, standing close to 7 feet tall dressed in a red sweater that seemed to have been ironed onto his muscular torso and black pants. Warrant Officer Man'darr was a new arrival with the Marine Detachment and figured a party like this made a good way to get to know some more of the crew as well as his new CO. He shivered slightly at the cool air. As a Capellan, he preferred warmer climates to cold ones.

Lia, Gary along with Imik now arrived in the Arboretum. The two girls flanked Gary, and they made quite a sight as they entered. Lia now spoke to Imik, "This is the Christmas party, now shall we all get a drink?" Imik nodded, "That would indeed be a nice idea". The girls now looked to Gary and Lia made their request, "I'll have a Sake, my fellow Geisha and friend will have a Vanilla Milkshake. And you may have what ever you wish, oh and Gary if there are any of the Captains crackers around. Let me know and I'll liberate them for us, now where shall we all sit?"

Gary nodded, "One Sake, one vanilla milkshake and be on the look out for crackers." Gary repeated as he looked around for a table they all could sit at. "Look Lia, there's a table." He nodded in the direction of the empty table. "You and Imik go sit there and I'll be right back with the drinks."

Tapping Imik's shoulder, Lia pointed towards the table. The two now made their way over, more than a few eye's followed them. Lia sat down and tapped the seat next to her, "Imik sit here, and just watch". Imik looked at Lia, "What am I looking for?" Lia giggled to herself then replied, "I meant watch the other crew members, notice how they greet each other. And how they introduce themselves to the new guy's, its that interaction you need to learn". Imik nodded and sat down next to Lia, she watched intently and saw the interaction Lia talked about. "It is almost a ritual in the way they act and react, I thank you for showing this to me". Lia lent over and kissed Imik on the cheek, "Your welcome Imik, and no doubt you'll be making new friends in no time".

Once inside, Carter grabbed a drink from a passing waiter. He looked at Hol, "You want anything, lieutenant?"

Lunara raised a hand and shook her head. "Maybe not yet, it's still pretty early. And call me Lunara, we're off duty."

Carter downed his drink in one gulp, then grabbed another. "Okay, Lunara." He looked around. "You should know that I'm not much of a party person...I'm just here for the drinks."

Lunara raised an eyebrow as she watched him. She hadn't seen someone drink like that in awhile. "Well, I can't fault you there, but maybe take it a bit more slowly, hm?"

"I don't do things slow, Lunara." He grabbed another drink from a waiter.

"For God's sake, this is your third in less than a minute! You're going to hurt yourself!" She shook her head. "Didn't anyone ever teach you how to drink properly at the Academy? Come on, let's take a seat. It'll start hitting you soon." She moved over to an empty table and looked back to make sure he was following her. Come to think of it, he didn't look too great at the promotions ceremony either.

Carter followed her, or at least tried to follow her. When a waiter walked past him, Carter reached for another drink, but caused the waiter to lose control of his tray, and he dropped it, spilling the drinks. Carter started to apologize, but the waiter said, "It was my fault, sir."
Carter started walking to the table Lunara had found. But he once bumped into a wall, almost falling, then he bumped into a female crewman, and when he reached out to help her up, he didn't grab her arm, like he thought he was doing, but grabbed her right breast instead. Of course the lady screamed. Once he realized what he did, he stuttered an apology, but ran out of the room. He returned to his quarters, convinced that security was going to be coming for him.

Lunara looked bewildered at the entire chain of events, only coming back to her senses after the chain of events. "I'm... sorry about my friend," was all she managed to stammer out before bolting after him. "Carter! Hold up!" The last thing anyone needed right now was a drunk guy who could barely stand running around the ship.

The two girls sat and waited for someone to talk to them, even their consort had forsaken them and disappeared. Lia now stood up and headed for the bar, "Come on Imik, looks like we're on our own". Imik and Lia stood at the bar and again waited, "When you have the time, I would like a Sake and a Vanilla milkshake". Lia was now somewhat put out, first Morris at the promotion party. Now the rest of the ship at the Christmas party, Lia was starting to feel ignored and isolated. Lia looked around for Gary, even he was no where to be seen.

All good plans go astray and so it was with Gary. He hand gone to the bar to get Lia's Sake and Imik her vanilla milkshake but the line was looooong and the service was less than swift as the bartenders were overworked. By the time he got their drinks and returned to the table they were gone. "What the heck?" He muttered as he took a seat and waited for them to return. They couldn't be gone too long could they?

Lia and Imik made their way back to table to find Gary sat there, "Hello stranger, I'd thought you'd gone and found yourself another party to join". Lia sat down opposite Gary, letting Imik take the seat next to him. Placing her drink on the table she looked around, "I'm not having fun this year, things are strained". She glanced at Imik, "I hope your having a good time Imik?" The small Ojnas nodded as she sipped her drink, "I am enjoying myself at this time, so many people so much noise". Lia smiled and turned to Gary, "Is it just me, or does this seem like organised chaos in here?"

Gary nodded, "Hello yourself. This is the only party I want to join. Sorry for taking so long. The line was long and the service slow." He answered. He smiled at Imik, "I'm glad your having a good time Imik. That is a good observation. It is organized chaos or close to it." He reached out and patted Lia's hand. "I'm here, just relax and talk to Imik and myself and enjoy your Sake."

At that moment Anje bounced over like she had a warp nacelle up her butt, nearly falling several times; six inch heels might have been too much for the little Russian. She slid in near Lia and the others, "I am so glad I found you!" She said, smiling though her ankles were screaming for mercy at the moment. She pulled a small box out of her clutch and handed it to Lia, "For you! I found them on sale the other night, got a pair for each of us." She turned now to her de facto assistant, "Imik, hi! You look so cute!"

As Anje landed, Lia jumped slightly. "Oh, Anje. What...." She picked up the small box, "I.....I haven't got you anything, sorry". She felt bad for not getting Anje a present, this girl had stood by her all these months. "We could have had three Geisha's if you had wanted Anje, I have a few Kimono's that would look great on you". She reached over and gave her friend a hug, and hoped it would stay that way.

Imik looked at her department Chief and smiled, "Lia assisted me in what Christmas was about, and then she dressed me in this apparel. It is very practical, but heavy". She now noticed the small box Anje had given Lia, "It would seem you have a gift Lia, this was something you said might happen to others".

Gary chuckled at Anje's obvious excitement. "Imik is right Lia, you have a gift and it's impolite not to open it." He smiled at Anje, "Those heels are bigger than you Anje." He joked warmly.

"Oh, everything is bigger than me, shush." Anje laughed, "And these heels... they're killing me." She sighed as she slid them off, "As for the Geisha triple threat, sure, we will so do that one day. Imik, I don't know what you know about Japanese women, but amongst them I'm not all that short, kind of nice actually." She hoped Lia would like the matching bracelets she'd got for them, they'd been expensive even on sale, but Lia was worth it.

Sliding the bracelet on, Lia now looked at Anje. "It's beautiful, I'm just sorry I didn't get you anything. But if you want, I have a new Kimono complete with all the accoutrements. Your more than welcome to have it if you wish, I haven't even open it". She lent over and kissed Anje, "I'm glad I know you, Merry Christmas Anje".

"You didn't have to give me anything, it was all to see you happy." Anje smiled, "Seeing you smiling again, enjoying yourself again, that was my present."

Gary reached out and took Anje's hand in his and squeezed it gently. "That was a very thoughtful and considerate gesture on your part Anje. Thank you for being such a wonderful friend to Lia." He said honestly.

"We've got each other, makes being here easier." Anje shrugged, she really didn't know where she'd done anything special.

Listening to Anje, Lia realised that she had a true friend. She passed over her second glass of Sake, "Hey, wanna a re-run?"

"For sure." Anje smiled, though she planned on running this one in second gear, tops.

Bringing up a bottle of Sake, Lia giggled. "With the queue and the waiting, I thought I'd better make sure of our supply". She raised her glass, "Kanpai!!"

----
Once again, This was one of Arrianna's more favorite holidays. She selected a light cyan dress similar to dress worn in some animated movie. It was designed to appear like it was worn by a snow queen. Only she preffered this variant strapless. She smiled wondering how this latest addition to her wardrobe would be recieved.

Though Arrianna thought she may decommission several outfits from her massive wardrobe. Maybe let Mirian have her pick of some of her older outfits. 'That would be a fine Christmas gift for her.' She suddenly thought.

"Hey Arri." the subject of her thoughts chirped up from her side. Miran stood there, dressed in a gold sheath dress and her brown hair curling down her back. "What are you up to?"

Arrianna smiled. "Just pondering your christmas gift, Mirian." She noted. "Meet me at the Officer's Storage hold after the party tonight. I think you may like this." The Alindari noted and then smirked. "So, have you been a good girl.... all.. year.. long?" Arri held back a chuckle.

Miran smiled. "Yes." She said honestly.

-----

Phoenix moved between the groups smiling and exchanging nods as she searched for someone in the crowd.

From over her shoulder, Ken whispered to her. "You look like you're on red alert."

Smiling she turned and slid her arms around him. "Hello handsome" She said with a warm smile.

The sparkle in her eyes melted him. Still, he made a silly show of looking over each of his shoulders. Finally, he settled on pointing a finger at his own chest. "Oh? You were talking to me?"

She laughed and pulled him towards the dance floor. "Come dance with me." she said

----

Alicia arrived at Savar's quarters wearing a long red dress, with glittery Christmas snowflakes printed on it. It had a plunge neckline that she hoped Savar would like. Her hair was left long now that she'd grown it again and she was wearing Christmas earrings and a necklace to make the look complete. She pressed the door chime and waited for Savar to answer.

Hearing the chime and knowing it would be Alicia, Savar opened the door for her to enter. He nodded in approval at her dress, her Christmas earrings and hair style. "Beautiful Alicia, or rather stunning." He said honestly. He had on black shoes, black slacks, a teal blue turtleneck sweater and a black jacket.

"Thank you Savar" Alicia blushed, as she always did when she received a compliment. You're looking very handsome this evening yourself. She didn't need to speak verbally, since they bonded she could talk to him telepathically with ease. She grinned and went back to verbal communication. "Shall we go? I want to show everyone how much you mean to me!"

Savar smiled at the compliment he felt at ease allowing his emotions to show to Alicia. *Thank you Alicia. your compliment pleases me a great deal.* He sent back to her. Then nodding his head, "Yes we should as it would be rather difficult to fit the entire crew in to my quarters." He joked.

Arriving at the Christmas party a few minutes later Alicia looked at Savar as they walked in together, she was holding onto his arm. "I don't know whose more nervous, me or you!"

Savar patted her hand. "I feel I am correct to say our nervousness is equal Alicia."

Alicia smiled as she looked at Savar. She didn’t want anyone to overhear her plus it was quite noisy with people talking and music playing so she reverted back to speaking telepathically. *Are you holding up okay? Is our bond working to strengthen your emotional control?*

*I am fine Alicia. Our bond is stable and functioning normally. I shall reverse the question. How are you as you put it holding up?* he sent back to her as they made their way farther into the room.

*I'm okay. It's pretty strange sharing my inner most thoughts and feelings so deeply with you, but I'm getting used to it. I like the fact that I'm no longer alone.* She smiled as she looked at him, intertwining her fingers with his.

* Sharing one's thoughts and feelings takes time Alicia.* Savar replied mentally to her. * You are doing quite well and you will never be alone again.*

Alicia's smile practically shone. *I like the sound of that Imzadi.*

*I thought you might Alicia.* As he smiled at her term for him.

Alicia looked around seeing some empty tables she made for a quiet corner where she and Savar could sit in relative peace and quiet. *Do you know what Imzadi means? In Betazoid it's a term used for one's beloved.* she grinned as she looked at him. *So Imzadi, let us enjoy this evening together.*

Savar followed her to the table, pulled out a chair for Alicia to sit down. "I am familiar with the term Alicia." He said with an exaggerated sigh and yes. let us enjoy this evening together."

Alicia's smile faded a little. *I'm sorry Savar, I didn't mean to suggest you didn't know what the term meant. Forgive me.*

Savar's whole expression changed instantly, not that anyone looking could tell but Alicia would see it. *I am sorry Alicia, I was teasing. I see I am not very good at it. It is I who ask your forgiveness.*

"No, not at all" She gently took his hand across the table. *I misunderstood, I'm still learning your mannerisms after all. It's going to take time to get used to that's all.* Her smile returned. *I want to enjoy our time together while we're able to show how we feel for each other amongst our shipmates.*

He nodded and squeezed her hand. *And I yours as well.* He replied. As for your suggestion. It is most excellent Alicia. Most excellent.*

Alicia nodded and smiled, reverting back to speech from telepathy. "So...do you dance?"

"I believe you will find me quite adept at dancing Alicia." He said emotionlessly but his eyes twinkled with delight.

"Then I can't wait to find out!" Alicia grinned. "The dancefloor should be opening up pretty soon, I intend to find out how good a dancer you are!"

He nodded. "Then you will be quite impressed. I believe the term is dazzled."

"Oh really?" Alicia grinned. "I can't wait to see!!"

"So you shall Alicia. I am assuming you can dance as well?"

"Well I'm no Ginger Rogers but I can hold my own on the dance floor." Alicia grinned. "We'll make an interesting partnership I think."

"I have no doubt we will Alicia." Savar quipped.

"I can't wait to find out just how good you really are!" Alicia grinned as she moved her seat around by Savar and rested her head against his arm.

"Patience Alicia, you will see soon enough." he turned his head to look at her. "I believe you will be impressed."

"Oh you have already impressed me Imzadi, you never fail to impress me." Alicia grinned a wry grin.

"I hope that I always impress you Alicia." Savar answered honestly.

"You're concerned." Alicia offered an understanding and reassuring squeeze of his hand. "You don't need to impress me Savar, I'm bonded with you. I know all there is to know about you and there's nothing that will scare me away."

Savar nodded, "Thank you Alicia. However I have no desire to either scare you away or lose you, not after just finding you."

"I'm glad" Alicia smiled. "I'm not going anywhere and that's a promise!"

Nodding Savar replied. "I shall hold you to it Alicia." His eyes glinting with happiness.

Alicia smiled warmly. Others might not notice it but she felt Savar's happiness and saw the twinkle in his eyes. She saw something new every time she looked at him and it intrigued her how much more there might be to learn.

Savar studied Alicia, her happiness, her warmth and joy. She was an amazing woman and Vulcan or not he was extremely fortunate no make that lucky to have met, started a relationship and most importantly fallen in love with her.

Jessica began looking for Milla. "I wonder if she likes actually flying." She chuckled.

Milla had just managed to get into the arboretum, having changed dresses four times before settling on the green suede mini her mom had given her the year prior. She searched the room for a minute before finding Jessica, "Hey, sexy, looking for me?" She cooed, placing a bow on top of her head, "Look, gotcha a present."

Jess smiled. "There you are, and what's this?" Jess examined the bow. "Is this the only thing I'm getting for Christmas? I promise I've been a good girl, I haven't sent flight cadets with smart mouths and wise-ass remarks to clean the head this week." She grinned.

"You've been the very best good girl." Milla smirked,"Which is why what's under the bow is your present. Oh," she said as if suddenly remebering, "and this." She presented the lovely pilot a box wrapped in gold paper, "I hope you like it."

"And what may this be?" Jessica smiled and shook the present before opening it.

"A portrait, a Milla original." She smiled, hoping Jessica would find the likeness flattering, "Maybe you throw that bad boy onto your wall."

Jess smiled before handing her a iso-chip. "Merry Christmas, Cadet."

"Now what could be on here?" Milla wondered aloud, "You sending me dirty pictures, Flygurl?"

"The training program for your airplane." Jess noted as she handed Milla a metal key. "You see, when my daddy smuggled me off Betazed, he purchased a house nearby a old RAF airstrip. We found old airframes for a Spitfire and a Mustang. And I've been restoring them off and on. The Spitfire is mine, so you get the Mustang." Jess noted. "I managed to get it working the last time I was on earth, but I need to check you off on it."

"Oh, my God, that is the greatest gift possible..." Milla gasped, tearing up a little, this was huge, Jessica was obviously really into her, the whole thing was thrilling, almost too good to be true. She leaned up and kissed Jessica deeply, "Thank you, the only thing more beautiful than this gift is the woman who gave it to me."

Jess kissed her. "I've been obsessing over you since I ran into you, to be honest. And I kinda decided I'm done flying solo in life." She noted. "Yeah, I'm going to teach you to fly, so we can fly together. There's just a few things to know about me Milla. There is no way in hell I'm going to help you through the academy. Adversity makes one strong. And in Starfleet, we're run into the most insane situations imaginable. I want you to be prepared and strong enough for all the weird out there, and believe me. Every day we're running into everything from Q's and their antics to Romulans on the other side of the quadrant." Jess noted. "I like strong.

"I'm Russian, all a Russian needs to face any adversity is the tundra in our blood and a reason." Milla smiled, "And you are definitely the best reason I can imagine. More than that, I'm a Zhukov, we've got hundreds of years of history of never backing down. So you just keep obsessing over me and don't worry, we're gonna fly together for a very long time."

"Next thing. I live, breathe, fight, and I will die for this Federation. There's a reason my call-sign is Valkyrie, because I fight like Grunhilda herself." Jess smiled.

"That's awesome." Milla replied, tucking herself under the taller woman's arm, she really wasn't much bigger than her sister, "Just don't you go running off to Valhalla just yet, kinda want to keep you around for a while." ~Anje's going to flip.~ She thought, already hearing her sister in her head telling her this was a bad idea, ~Screw it, she doesn't listen to me, why should I listen to her?~

Man'darr made his way to the bar, serving human drinks called Egg Nog as well as hot chocolate and hot cider.

"Give me some cider," Man'darr ordered. The bartender nodded and served a mug of warm cider. Grabbing the warm drink, he turned around and watched people begin to enjoy themselves. He felt out of place--he'd rather be on a holodeck killing holograms--at least until he could kill something real. Several women caught his eye as he watched them mingle with others.

Mark had entered shortly after the doors opened and nodded to himself at the sight. Christmas to him was just like any other day it didnt old any special meaning since his father had left. His mother had tired to make it special but had given up after a few years.

Wearing black dress pants and a white button up dress shirt he kept things fairly normal. Seeing all the snow around he smirked to himself. Olivia always like to throw snowballs at him and would go out of her way to make sure it happened; chuckling to himself, 'not this time my friend. I am gonna be the hunter.' He started to recce the entrances trying to pick the one she might enter from.

Olivia had decided on her green party dress to wear to the Christmas party that was taking place. It came down to just above her knees and had lace over her shoulders. She had done a few curls in her hair for the occasion and placed the sides up slightly with a couple of small clips with beads on them. Heading down the corridor, Olivia wondered what if anything that Casper would try and pull on her this time, for normally she got him first on a few things. Reaching the appointed location, Olivia walked into the party and started looking around at how things were set up. While looking around, Olivia spotted Casper near one of the other entrances. Smiling a bit, Olivia reached down, scooping up some snow, Olivia started making a snowball as she walked towards Casper. Upon reaching Casper’s location, Olivia softly laughed as she reached up, pulling on the back of Casper’s dress shirt collar and placing the snowball down his back.

Mark jumped up and forward at the snow down his back. Turning he glared at who it was but his glare quickly vanished when he saw it was Olivia, "How? Where? There is no way," he said a little peeved. He thought he had it all planned out. She was supposed to come in through the door in front of him and he would be there to ambush her with his snowballs.

Olivia couldn't help but laugh a little at Mark's expression when he turned around and saw that it was her getting him with a snowball instead of someone else. "You should have been paying better attention to some of the other entrances," Olivia replied. "Besides you should remember I've always been good at sneaking up on you without warning at times."

"I have told you before and I will tell you again you should have gone into the intelligence field," he muttered un tucking the back of his shirt to allow the snow she put there to drop out, "Where are we going to start first?"

Olivia laughed a bit more as she stepped closer to Mark, leaned up on her tip toes and kissed his cheek lightly. "You know that if I had done that, then I wouldn't be able to patch you up when you'd get into trouble," Olivia replied. "I haven't checked everything out yet to decide on what to do yet. Is there something that interest you?"

"That was one time, and it wasn't my fault! If Justin had listen to me and followed what I had said I wouldn't have gotten hurt," Mark replied defensively it was still a sour note for Mark. He had shown up to Olivia's Cadet Quarters one night because one of his class mates did not want to follow direction and Mark didn't want to go to the Academy Sick Bay because the activity that they were engage in wasn't an "official" Starfleet Academy function. Luckly Olivia room mate had been out for the night as well. Flashing back to the present time Mark looked at Olivia with a slight smirk, "We could go skating or sledding. Choice is yours."

"You sure about that?," Olivia asked. "If memory serves, you got hurt while we were stationed on Bajor and I had to patch you up then as well." Olivia smiled as she looked up at Mark and thought for a moment. Grabbing Mark's hand, Olivia lead him towards the sledding area. "I haven't been sledding since we went while at the Academy. I want one of the two person sled's for us to use in going down the hill and have your arms wrapped around me from behind like the last time we went sledding."

"Your going to go sledding in that," he chuckled stepping back to look at her, "Are you sure?"

"I'm sure," Olivia replied. "Besides I'm sure they have some blankets on hand to wrap up with on the sleds."

"We shall see," he replied as they moved off towards the sled rides.

A few minutes later, with her arm on S'hib, Naxea spotted Gallia with some other people and a little blue Andorian girl by her side. "Gallia looks like she's seen better days," Naxea said, noticing the stressed look her friend was giving off. "Should we go and say hi?"

"I suppose I should let you escape and enjoy the rest of the party..." S'hib replied, putting on an over the top sad face as they drew closer to the group, wondering how they'd react to seeing him.

"Not right now," Naxea replied. "I want to see their reactions and at least say hi to Gallia and Tayalas."

"Well good thing about all this snow, Tay hasn't heard my hooves yet..." S'hib smirked, looking back down at Naxea still in his arm.

Tayalas, just delivered by Charlie, hadn't heard her precious Sib, but her little antennae picked him up, she turned and pointed, excitedly calling out, "SIB!"

S’hibs eye lit up as he saw Tay excited to see him, the protective maternal instincts of his people taking over as he gently let go of Naxea’s arm and knelt down, the bells on his harness shaking furiously as he did so. “Hello Tay,” He neighed, somehow moving his large frame to her size.

"Sib!" The little blue tot grinned, then pointed, "See-a!"

S’hib extended his fluffy white arms out, beckoning the little girl over. “You want to go for another ride Tay?” He smiled, glancing up at Gallia for approval.

"Go 'head, Tay." Gallia nodded, "Take yeself a ride with Mr. S'hib. Girl doesnae get too many reindeer rides, ye know."

"Sib!" Tayalas grinned, reaching out for him.

"Come' ere you." S'hib snorted, picking up the little Andorian girl and placing her on his left shoulder, clutching her legs with his oversized equine hands. "Hold on Tay." He said, nudging his head against her gently.

Getting her grip she looked to her mother and waved, "Mama, Sib! See-a, Mama!" Mama and See-a could hang out while she went with Sib, she hoped she was never too big for these rides; felt so bad for them, they didn't get to enjoy this.

Once her little blue hands were wrapped around his mane S'hib stood up, slowly and carefully until she was towering above every adult in sight. "Now, Tayalas..." S'hib said looking directly at Gallia, his puffy white chest juxtaposed against Tayalas blue skin. "What do you say we let your mothers have some time alone." He finished, a small smirk forming on the corner of his lip.

"Sana." Tayalas nodded, Mama could play with her friends while Tay played with hers.

"Have you been behaving?" S'hib snorted, slowly trotting off with his hooves crunching on the snow. "Because you know you only get presents if you've been good~" S'hib continued, eyeing up Gary and the small ensemble of women he seemed to have rounded up.

"Good." Tayalas nodded, she most assuredly had been, she actually spent a lot of time making sure her mamas were being good and safe.

Seated where he was Gary saw Tay and S'hib. "Ah, that's my cue. If you'll excuse me for a few minutes, it's time for Santa to appear and spread some holiday cheer. Especially to a precious little blueberry." He kissed Lia and nodded to Anje and Imik. "If your really good ladies. you can come sit on Santa's lap and tell him what you would like for Christmas." He said with a laugh.

Lia looked up at Gary, "I've already sent Santa my list, so I'll just sit here and watch Tay melt your heart".

Looking confused Imik turned to Gary, "Santa? I do not remember any mention of this person, and why would I sit on his lap?"

Gary smiled broadly. "Why?" He repeated, "Because Santa has the power no the ability to make dreams come true if you believe hard enough." He explained to Imik. "Just watch Tayalas if you don't believe me."

She looked at the small child and smiled, "The beauty of innocence, it shines in a younglings eye's".

"She's too cute." Anje smiled, "Really need to spend more time with her, let Gallia and Kara get out more often."

Gary watched as S'hib rode Tayalas around. "Excuse me ladies, time for me to disappear for a few minutes." As he rose and made his way through the crowd and out of sight (back stage) where he could change into Santa, complete with beard and extra padding to sell the image. He even had a sack full of toys, given to him by the parents of the children that would be here, with their names on it. A few minutes and he reappeared to the crowd, shouting out "Ho, Ho, Ho!" the sack hefted over his shoulder.

"Tay, look!" S'hib said with an exaggerated gasp, pointing his free arm at Gary for Tayalas to look. "Shall we go say hello?" He asked softly, nudging his head against the Lil blueberry on his shoulder.

"Sib, Sana." The Blueberry gushed, pointing towards the man of the hour, "Sana..." Nobody could mistake her desire there, it was time to see Sana.

Kara came in, just in time, to bear witness to Santa clause. She smiled widely, and moved over to Gallia and Tay. "Sorry about that, dearest" She started. "Even during Christmas, engineering still need to be handled. I hope I've not missed much?" She asked.

"No much, love, Mr. S'hib's givin' our sprog a reindeer ride." Gallia replied, "Too bluddy cute is what."

Gary saw S'hib and Tayalas moving toward him. "Ho, Ho, Ho!!!" He exclaimed even louder, his face split into a huge smile at seeing Tayalas. He loved the little girl as if she were his. He moved to a chair that had been placed for Santa to sit and receive children, placing the sack beside him to await his first visitor.

S’hib trotted slowly over towards Santa, the many bells on his harness singing away as he knelt down. “Tayalas tells me she has been very good this year.” S’hib snorted, amused at how ridiculous the two looked in their overly festive get up. “You wouldn't happen to have something for her would you Santa?” He added, gently lifting her off his shoulder and towards Gary, careful not to get his antlers in the way.

"Ho, Ho, Ho!" Gary intoned as he took Tayalas from S'hib. "I'm sure I do especially for such a good girl as Tayalas. Thank you for bringing her to me." Gary told S'hib as he placed Tayalas on his lap. "Now Tayalas. I heard you were a good girl. Is that right? Were you good?"

"Good." Tayalas smiled, laying her head against Sana's chest, her antennae picking up his heartbeat.

S'hib watched Tay's eyes, wider than ever, staring up at Gary. It was a wonderful moment, one he was sure hed not forget anytime soon.

Gary smiled at the child. "My darling Tayalas, were you good for your mama?" then he bent forward and whispered in Tayalas's ear. "Has mama been good this year too?"

"Me good. Mamas good, See-a, Sib, Sami good." Tayalas replied, "Fammy good, safe." That was the important part for her, once she understood the concept of danger and safety nothing meant more to her than knowing her family was safe.

Gary smiled and hugged the little girl again. "That's right Tay. They have all been good and safe and you my precious one know it and for being such a good girl I have just the thing for you." He said reaching into his sack. it was something not even Gallia knew and he hope she liked it as well. He fumbled around and pulled out a huge stuffed yellow duck with a goofy smile and the name "Stell" stitched on the front. But the best part was yet to come for when Tay squeezed it would talk in Estelle's voice. He had painstakingly pulled bits of the departed Estelle Hartz's voice from conversations he had with her and edited them into one greeting for Tay and Gallia.

"Stelle!!" Tayalas cooed happily, squeezing the duck and hearing Auntie Stelle's voice come out of it, "Mama, mama, Stelle!"

Gallia could here her best friend's voice coming from the duck and it brought tears to her eyes, but she put a smile on her face for her child, "Tha's jus' beautiful, Tay, ye be sure te thank Santa for that lovely gift."

"'Anks, Sana." Tayalas smiled, kissing the kind man on his cheek, "Luboo."

Seeing Tayalas's happiness was all the thanks Gary needed. The kiss on the cheek was just icing on the cake. "I love you too Tay. Now and forever." He whispered to the child as she played with her duck.

Naxea could only smile at the little girl's happiness.

OFF

 

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