“I realize this is an unusual assignment for you Captain Talisse, but you are the one who is available at the moment.” He looked at the unhappy face of the woman across the desk. Perhaps unhappy wasn’t the right word…she looked angry. “It will be temporary, you have my word.” Admiral Soliz promised. “As soon as we find a replacement who is familiar with larger ships like the Chimera, you will be free to return to your usual duties.”

His final words had the desired effect. The muscles in Talisse’s face relaxed a bit. “I will hold you to that, Admiral. Being Re’man, I have no desire to spend the next few years surrounded by a thousand people every day.” Soliz nodded. Re’mans were a solitary species for the most part, which made them ideal for assignments patrolling the outer edges of Federations space, or observing and monitoring the peoples and life forms of planets approaching warp capability.

Soliz stood and ambled over to the window. He hoped it would look natural, like he was curious about what was happening outside and not like he was trying to put distance between him and the woman. That was the truth though. The Admiral wasn’t taking any chances on her reaction to the next news—he wanted to be out of arms reach.

“Ahem…one more bit of information, Captain.”

Aurra, who thought the worst of their conversation already over with, stood to leave but turned back. “Yes, Sir?”

“There is a party tonight in the Grand Ball room. I am ordering you to attend it to meet your new crew and to show respect to other dignitaries who will be there.” As Aurra hissed her displeasure, the Admiral felt the hairs on the back of his neck rise.

“I don’t ‘do’ gatherings, Sir.” Everyone who knew anything about Re’mars understood that.

Soliz squared his shoulders. “Well, you will do this one. It’s important, Captain. Everything you need has been left in your room for you. The gala officially begins at 2000 hours. I’ll see you then and give you the final details of your assignment.”

Their eyes locked and neither wanted to back down, but Aurra was well versed in military politics. She blinked and gave him a nod. “Alright, Admiral. I’ll be there. Thank you for…taking care of everything.” In truth, she wouldn’t have had the patience or inclination to spend time choosing clothing and adornments for the function.

With a slight bow, Talisse turned and exited the Admiral’s office.

• • • • (Later that evening)

The party was in full swing when a very different looking Aurra Talisse walked in on the arm of a very attractive man.

OOC: Okay everyone, think about a splendid ball, music, drinks, dancing and conversation.

D…
aCO Talisse