Thirty minutes had passed.

Having changed into his off-duty attire—a deep blue Andorian tunic with subtle silver embroidery, charcoal-grey trousers, and polished black boots—Thalos gave himself one final glance in the mirror.

Satisfied, he left his quarters.

The journey was a short one. Elyss’ quarters were only a little further along Deck Three, around the corner from his own. Normally, he would have made the walk without a second thought.

Tonight was different.

His antennae shifted subtly as he rounded the corner, betraying the anticipation he otherwise kept carefully concealed. It was an unfamiliar feeling, one he found himself neither resisting nor fully understanding.

Stopping outside her quarters, he took a slow, steady breath before pressing the door chime.

The soft tone echoed through the corridor.

He folded his hands comfortably behind his back and waited, a small, genuine smile already forming.

“Good evening, Elyss,” he called once he heard movement from within.

“I hope I’m not keeping you waiting.”

His smile grew just a fraction.

“I’ve been looking forward to this.”

He remained where he was, patiently awaiting her answer, content to let the evening begin at whatever pace she chose.

Lieutenant Thalos ch’Ravik
Chief Of Security
USS Merrimack