Posted by Lieutenant Kitiuas “Kit” Thenis (Science Officer) in Collaboratively making things better, lunch with the XO [Open]

Posted by Lieutenant Todd Nyman (Chief Counselor) in Collaboratively making things better, lunch with the XO [Open]

Posted by Lieutenant Kitiuas “Kit” Thenis (Science Officer) in Collaboratively making things better, lunch with the XO [Open]
Posted by… suppressed (20) by the Post Ghost! 👻
Sometimes life aboard a Starship could make even the most mentally robust develop a mild case of cabin fever, especially on a ship which often meant operating alone and without contact from loved ones. Oliver was lucky, he had the one person he loved on the ship, though that did come with its risks. In an attempt to better understand the crew, he offered the opportunity for individuals to pitch ideas for a moral boosting session, a one-to-one with the XO to express their concerns or praise other crew members or simply have an opportunity to get to know their command staff. The leviathan was a family, community ship in the sense that they all had each other’s back and he wanted to bolster that with his uniqueness.

He had his own office but Oliver felt that it was too formal, so he had requested the use of a section in the mess hall which had been turned into a sort of private dining booth, he’d asked the onboard catering team (A small but efficient one) to provide some culinary treats to which they so generously provided a display that was rather impressive with the food selection catering to a spectrum of tastes with inventive offerings. Vulcan Spice Puffs offered a healthy, spicy blend of lentil like seed and vulcan vegetables, Klingon Gagh kebabs bringing a daring touch with grilled Gagh-shaped pasta. Bajoran Spring Rolls fused fresh produce with a vibrant twist, and Cardassian Kanar-infused Cheese Platter appealing to those seeking bold flavors. The Betazoid Fruit Medley looked to satisfy those with sweet cravings, and Ferengi Dabo Wheel Pastries providing a playful mix of sweet and savoury fillings. To cool things down, Andorian bright blue Ice Cream Cones showcased creamy delights in vibrant, edible cones. For a universal and more Human touch, Earth-style Mini Sliders offered a classic choice with various fillings, ensuring a diverse and delightful culinary experience for the informal gathering.

Oliver with a plate of his selection already, waited to see if he’d be eating alone.

• Loughty, XO

Lieutenant Thenis made her way to the mess hall, she was starving and most definitely was sick of replicated food post her long voyage on the USS Archaeutatus back to the Leviathan. As she entered the mess hall she was surprised to see Commander Loughty, the ship’s executive officer sitting by himself at a table with an array of food laid out. Curious she made her way over, “Hello sir. Did I miss a memo about a party?” she inquired, with a smile.

Lieutenant Thenis, Science

Oliver smiled at the Lieutenant, he had not yet had the pleasure of meeting her in person but after her quick thinking and decisive action on the latest mission he had decided to look up her colourful biography. Standing in front of him it was clear to him that she was an Orion with Velvety Bordeaux hair, the A-Typical emerald green skin tone though unusually azul colour eyes. She was currently sporting tied-up hair in a braid, which Oliver could confidently say was a Unity braid given that he had tied enough of them for his daughter. It was a display of interwoven strands, a blend of colours and textures that symbolized a captivating combination of strength and elegance.

“Good Afternoon Lieutenant, and I must have missed out on the ship-wide communique, besides its not so much a party but a gathering and an opportunity to meet me, tell me your thoughts, problems and suggestions. Would you care to join me, the ship’s catering team be it small has done an amazing job and I don’t think I can eat all this myself.” He indicated for her to take a seat of her choosing if she so desired.

• Loughty, XO

Kit smiled, “It would be a pleasure sir.” She took a seat and glanced over buffet of food. She reached out and took a Klingon Gagh kebab and some of the Cardassian Kanar-infused cheese. “So, I understand you are the new executive officer. How do you find the Levi so far?”

Lieutenant Kitiuas Thenis, Science

Oliver settled back into his seat, looking at his own plate of Cardassian Kanar-infused cheeses, Vulcan vegetable pastries, and Bajoran spring rolls that he had placed on his plate. Savouring a mouthful of the rich Kanar Cheese, he responded to her question with a thoughtful expression. “That’s correct, I’ve recently arrived with my daughter Hazel.”

Pausing momentarily to consider the second part of her inquiry, he continued, “It’s certainly different. I anticipated the ship to exude a more rigid atmosphere, but the Captain employs unorthodox leadership skills for someone in such a precedented position. However, don’t get me wrong; I believe she steers the ship exactly as it should be. I appreciate the family ethos that has been adopted here.” Taking a leisurely sip of his drink, Oliver shifted the conversation. “You, on the other hand, have returned from a special assignment.” His statement hung in the air, both a statement and an invitation for her to share more about the assignment or her return.

Commander Oliver Loughty
Executive Officer
USS Leviathan

Kit took a bite of her Klingon Gagh kebab and chewed it slowly. She knew this question would be asked, and the Admiralty had made it perfectly clear that she was not to discuss her special assignment, the phrase they used was something along being thrown into the nearest black hole. “This kebab is delicious. Unfortunately I am unable to discuss my assignment, the Admiralty mentioned something about black holes if I did. Suffice it to say it involves my specialty as a cryptozoologist and a hominologist. I tend to be one of the best in my field, I know my ‘monsters’ very well.” she said with a smile. “Probably said to much already.” she laughingly said.

Lieutenant Kitiuas Thenis, Science

Oliver found himself in an environment shrouded in secrecy, far from his usual straightforward approach. However, adapting to such working structures became essential on the Leviathan and within the ARU. “Well, say no more, Kitiuas,” he said, offering her a polite smile. “What’s excellent is that you’re back here on the Leviathan to deal with the monsters we have. So, tell me about yourself? Personnel files only provide so much information, and for me to be a good XO, I need to know the people I’m working with.” He casually picked up another item from his plate, this time a spring roll. Its aroma was enticing, but the spice added an extra kick to the taste.

Commander Oliver Loughty
Executive Officer
USS Leviathan

Kit thought for a moment before replying “Well I was raised on the Serengeti Space station. The male biological DNA provider to my genetic makeup is currently an inmate at the Tantalus Penal Colony, and may he rot there and die. My mother is the owner and chief chef of Enigma Bistro on Serengeti station.” Here she paused and picked up another item from the buffet. “I have a half-sister, Kasso, who is studying to become a chef and then join Starfleet in the Diplomatic and Cultural Affairs service. My best friend, Ananka, who also happens to be a Ferengi female, is a Starfleet medical officer on the USS Winchester.” She took a sip of her drink and proceeded “As for the rest you most likely know; I carry two Ph.D., three Master degrees, a Bachelors of Science, and two Associate of Applied Science degrees. What else would you like to know?” she said in a pleasant, soft and sultry voice.

Lieutenant Kitiuas Thenis, Science

Oliver felt a sense of curiosity and fascination as Kitiuas shared her unique and colorful history. Her openness painted a vivid picture, leaving little to the imagination. In the spirit of building connections, he decided to encourage further dialogue.

“Well, that leaves little to the imagination. Your journey is certainly intriguing. Anything specific you’d like to know about my own adventures, or perhaps any shared interests we might have?” Oliver inquired, fostering an atmosphere of mutual understanding and camaraderie.

Commander Oliver Loughty
Executive Officer
USS Leviathan

Kit took another bite of the squirming Klingon Gagh kebab, chewed it and then took a sip of her drink before responding “Well I have heard you have some musical talent, myself I play the Orion Mandolin and Terran Drums, much to the annoyance of my mother. I am also a decent cook, not at my mother or sisters level, but above average. As for exercise I usually do a routine of Tatharoc and Dancefighting.” She watched to see what the commander thought.

Lieutenant Kitiuas Thenis, Science
USS Leviathan

“News travels fast,” he chuckled. That made two people, the captain and now the lieutenant, who had brought him up on his musical talents. He listened as she explained her own hobbies and talents, and slowly interest became apparent, making the conversation easier and more engaging.

“Wow, it seems you’re a woman of many talents. While not a chef myself, I do enjoy the art of mixology, both non-alcoholic and alcoholic,” he explained. “Growing up, I always had an affinity with the water and enjoy most water sports, though windsurfing has given me some nasty scars that perhaps indicate it isn’t for me. I also enjoy picking up a brush and painting; I find it helps temper my bad moods, though I’m not very good at it. And, as you’ve rightly mentioned, I enjoy playing the ukulele and singing.”

“I’d be interested in seeing some dancefighting, perhaps even trying myself I have only ever heard about it in passing comments” he added.

Commander Oliver Loughty
Executive Officer
USS Leviathan

“Maybe you could both do a performance for the crew,”

Lieutenant Nyman chimed in, popping over the edge of the booth seating. He had been listening in to the conversation from the next booth over, defiantly in human form, if you were to ask. The topic had finally peaked his interest enough to say something. As the former, unofficial moral officer on Deep Space 12, he was always interested in helping out with providing the crew a boost in spirits.

“The Observation Lounge would be a great fit for that, you know? In fact, there happens to be a musical performance scheduled there in a few days.”

He of course already knew that this was likely the Commander’s own performance, but this was Nyman’s way of expressing excitement about it without putting Ollie on the spot.

(OOC: I hope you don’t mind me jumping in I needed something a bit lighter… - Ava)

|Lt. Nyman,
Chief Counselor|

The Commander, engrossed in his conversation with Lieutenant Thenis, was taken aback when Counsellor Nyman’s unexpected remark interrupted his focus. As he turned his attention towards Nyman, Oliver couldn’t help but appreciate Lieutenant Thenis’s intriguing personality—an air of careful confidence that sparked initial thoughts within him. He acknowledged Nyman with a welcoming smile, and amidst the exchange, a subtle contemplation emerged, suggesting a potential interest in getting to know Lieutenant Thenis more.

Reflecting on the suggestion, he mused, “Well, there’s a thought. The rapid dissemination of news on this ship never ceases to amaze me. Perhaps we have an in-built communication network for the latest updates.” He chuckled, adding, “As it stands, I’m already in the line up thanks to our Captain.”

Commander Oliver Loughty
Executive Officer
USS Leviathan

Kit was relieved by the interuption, she just did not have the heart to tell him Orion Dancefighting was solely the providence of female Orions. “That would be a lovely idea, which do you think would best accompany a ukulele; the Orion Mandolin or Terran Drums?’ she inquired of both Commander Loughty and Lieutenant Nyman.

Lieutenant Kitiuas Thenis, Science
USS Leviathan

“Well, I’m not a musical expert…” Nyman said, slipping around the side of the booth. He seemed slightly distracted by the Andorian ice cream, but hesitated, and instead played if off as if he were reaching for a spring roll.

“I’d think, traditionally, drums are a common accompaniment.” he finished his thought before taking a bite of the roll.

|Lt. Nyman,
Chief Counselor|

Not realizing he needed to be an Orion female to partake in a battledance, Oliver stayed engaged in the conversation. “I haven’t heard Orion Mandela, so I can’t say much about it,” he admitted. “But Terran Drums are often used, and when it comes to music, we shouldn’t forget about the power of vocals. They can bring out emotions and cultural flavours. Maybe a mix of Terran and Orion vocal styles could create something interesting.” Oliver’s simple explanation conveyed his interest in blending different musical elements.

Commander Oliver Loughty
Executive Officer
USS Leviathan

Kitiuas laughed “My singing abilities leave a little to be desired I due however, play a mean drum as well as the Orion Mandolin. I have heard the ukulele just once, on a cadet junior cadet leave to Hawaii. Interesting sound.” Kit then reached over and grabbed a scoop of Andorian blue ice cream.

Lieutenant Kitiuas Thenis, Science
USS Leviathan

Oliver replicated Kit’s gestures, securing a selection of Betazoid fruits in a bowl. “Seems like we’re getting a musical ensemble going. Counsellor, any hidden musical talents up your sleeve? Care to share?”

Commander Oliver Loughty
Executive Officer
USS Leviathan

“Yes, you must share your musical talents, only fair since you snooped out ours.” replied Kit as she took a bite from her ice cream.

Lieutenant Kitiuas Thenis, Science
USS Leviathan

Nyman laughed, “Talent? Not unless you count singing to yourself in the sonic showers as evidence of talent.”

Though he knew, somewhere deep in his personnel file, were his college transcripts. Evidence of participating in the school’s award winning musical theater program. Nyman had done well enough, had gotten a few lead roles and was a considered a fantastic understudy. But being such a ‘talented performer’ drew more attention than he was comfortable with. So the counselor decided simply not to share that about himself.

“I’m pretty clueless when it comes to playing instruments, I’d probably not even know which way is up on an Orion Mandolin.” he continued.

|Lt. Nyman,
Chief Counselor|

Kit smiled a devilish smile “Counselor, my woman’s sense of intuition is flashing. I believe you may be telling us a white lie. You do realize I have degrees in Computer Software Enginering as well as Information Science. Add the fact that I am often accessing the Levi’s computer system, so much in fact, it thinks of me as a friend. I could easily find out if you have any musical talent.” she said in a lighthearted and joking manner.

Lieutenant Kitiuas Thenis, Science
USS Leviathan

“Now, why would I try to hide something like that?” he replied with a grin, before finishing off his Bajoran spring roll. Before she tried to bring it up again, he tried to change the topic,

“So you’ve been to Hawaii before? How’d you like it?”

|Lt. Nyman,
Chief Counselor|

Kit smiled “I’m an Orion female, how do you think I liked it?” she replied coyly. “Hawaii is very beautiful and it was a nice reprieve from my studies at the Academy.”

Lieutenant Kitiuas Thenis, Science
USS Leviathan

“It always seemed like an interesting little place,” Nyman replied.

He tilted his head slightly, seeming to take a good look at Kit for the first time. She had a very unique look compared to other humanoids. The green skin was an obvious trademark. But then there her mahogany hair and blue eyes, which he wondered if those traits were as rare for Orions as they were for humans. He didn’t know Orion biology too well. To him, she didn’t look old enough to have gone to school that long.

“You probably spent a lot of time studying too, software engineering and computer science. Any particular reason the field stood out to you?”

|Lt. Nyman,
Chief Counselor|