Posted by Lieutenant Kaia (Chief Engineer) in Off Duty - Ship’s Lounge - Tag Anyone

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Ben looked around the lounge, leaning sideways on to the bar as he waited for a drink. It was more subdued than most of the bars in London, but part of him enjoyed the quiet atmosphere that allowed for conversation.

“One gin and tonic, with a slice of grapefruit.” Stated the bartender as she placed the drink next to Ben.

“Thanks!” He replied, taking a long sip of the refreshingly cold liquid, allowing the bubbles to play across his palate, before swallowing. Yes, he needed that.

It was then he spotted the Padds stacked neatly on the bar, and the woman sat next to them. He paused a moment, wondering whether to say hello, but she seemed engrossed with her work, and the frown made Ben wonder whether she would take kindly to the interruption. He decided to leave her be, taking another sip of his drink as he continued to survey the room.

Lt Hudson
CMO

A somewhat familiar figure to Hudson entered the Lounge - or at least a distinctive one, Kaia. She’d had quite the list of medical requirements. A little over 3 feet and resembling a bipedal cat, she wore loose legwear and a top that appeared to be made from a single, wrapped piece of fabric that draped over one shoulder, leaving the other bare. The legwear was a pale blue and the top a vibrant teal, contrasting well with her tan and grey fur. She looked quite relaxed as she quite literally climbed up onto a bar stool that was set against the wall - a barstool that was tall enough in comparison to most of them that it was pretty uncomfortable for an average-heighted person to sit on, but seemed perfectly sized for the diminutive alien officer.

“Afternoon, Sair! Hello, Chief Hudson.”

The Kobliad looked up and her frown disappeared, replaced by a smile. “Hello, Kaia.”

She waved cheerily at Sair, gave Ben a respectful but cheery smile, and idly reached up to touch her right ear, where two small golden earrings hung. One had well-healed skin around it, while the other seemed fresh, the flesh slightly red and swollen. “Could I get a glass of something sweet? Uh, I mean, alcoholic. Cider or something?”

The bartender gave Kaia an odd look, but smiled and started to pour a mango cider for the officer. “That’s not your usual. Not sure I’ve ever served you alcohol. What’s the occasion?”

“Oh! I got promoted, so I’m celebrating…”

Kaia, CE

Songz set the PADD on the bartop and turned to face Kaia and Hudson. “A promotion? Congratulations! that’s really exciting. New rank, new role, or both?”

~Sair Songz, CNS

Kaia tapped her fingers on the bar surface for a few moments, then answered. “Both,” she spoke. “Captain made me a Lieutenant and I’m the new Chief Engineer. It’s a lot. I’m happy, but also overwhelmed by the reality of it.”

Kaia, CE

“Oh congratulations.” Ben said, returning Sair’s smile. “Although that now means you’ll have to come along to the Department Head meetings we have with the Captain and XO.” he said with a grin before taking a sip of his gin and tonic.

“I take it you’re also going to move quarters, or are you staying where you are?” he asked.

Lt Hudson
CMO