Albatross
Demanding my Due
Posted by Noril Zoi (Captain) in Demanding my Due
Posted by Vashkilu (Infiltrator) in Demanding my Due
Posted by Noril Zoi (Captain) in Demanding my Due
Posted by… suppressed (20) by the Post Ghost! 👻(snip)
She was quite good at sensing emotions and interpreting their source. She grinned cheekily. She focused her thoughts clearly, but the transmission was like an old radio with static. For her first attempt it was quite good. Your suite of rooms. As for trust, do not mistake hospitality for trust. I will be loyal and follow orders until you give me reason not to. I will do my best to earn your trust, and I will give you the opportunity to do the same if you wish.She led them through the large mansion to the last floor before the top. There was wealth, but it wasn’t ostentatious. Fine craftsmanship was everywhere. She stopped at double doors and produced a key, from who knows where, and opened the double doors.
It will happen if you are to succeed on our ship. That one was definitively Sisnil. A crew like ours cannot run without trust.
She bowed her head in respect and acceptance, respect and understanding rolling off of her.
They swung inward to a large living area. There were multiple doors throughout. Bathrooms, bedrooms, studies, a large balcaony that over looked a grand garden. This suite is intended for the first born married son of the Master. My father has only one child, and I am not a boy. I thought you would prefer to be together. If you would rather seperate suites I will arrange it. She turned toward the hall and pointed halfway down. My rooms. Or I will stay with you if you prefer. However if you wish to make a midnight visit, prearrange it. My rooms are exceptionally well protected, and I do not take well to surprises. If surprising me is your thing, I will accommodate if I have notice.
Vashkilu, Infiltrator
Sisnil and Noril glanced at each other. We are always together, so thank you. But we would rather know what you prefer? Sisnil asked her. Noril was looking at her with one of his intense looks.
~ N, Captain
They were so incredibly considerate it was adorable. The quieter one, though, seemed eager for her answer. Not that the other wasn’t curious, but it was slightly different. Vashkilu held out her arms and shrugged as she stepped further into the room. She turned in the middle. There was pride and fierce regret. These should have been her rooms. She should have ruled at her father’s side. She had bought her freedom many times. If she had not been half Deltan she would have purchased her independence 3-fold by now. It is a novelty to meet my new masters before I am taken away. I am not opposed to staying with either of you, or both. She grinned. But you do not trust me.
You will earn your place on my ship, Sisnil said. You won’t be free in the Syndicate’s eyes, but in ours, you are the same as we are.
She smiled and shrugged. I know. I will earn my place and I will serve you well.
In a swirl of fabric strips she spun and lowered herself to the oppulantly cushioned floor. You have worked with my father many times, but you do not know his essence, and we have never met. I am happily willing to be scrutinized, tested, or anything else so that you are confident in taking me. Anything you want to know, I will tell you, BUT I will not betray my father. I am half Deltan, but I carry the Orion genes that make me unable to protect against other telepathy. Even so, I believe you are capable of determining if I speak truth or lies.
Vashkilu, Infiltrator
Words will not earn my trust. Besides, I already know all I need to from the minds of the Orions around us. They have no mental defenses. They read so easily, I almost can’t prevent myself from doing it. Sisnil said.
I did not mean to imply they would. My apology for any offense, she thought honestly. He would be tough to please.
Noril nodded. We can tell truth from lies as easily as you can manipulate emotions with your Deltan blood. But like my brother said, we’re not interested in that. He smiled. If you are comfortable staying with us, we have no problem with that. Sisnil and I have a dual defense system. If either one of us sense something, we alert the other instantly. You are one girl. You are not a threat to us.
~ N, Captain
Vashkilu laughed. Which caused a coughing fit and pain. She waved them off. Those egos! Delightful! I will need to make sure to pack my weapons. You will need a body guard. She was outright teasing them, flirting even.
Sisnil gripped her gently and patted her back. Be careful. I’m sure your father wouldn’t like us causing you to hurt.
She touched his hand briefly in thanks and then waved him off, amused over her father. He would not blame them. He knew how stubborn she was.
Noril smiled. Pack your weapons, yes. He shared a humorous glance with Sisnil. A bodyguard? Perhaps we will test your abilities when you’re healed.
She gave him a haughty look, but it was tempered by a long appreciative glance of them both. I don’t need my voice for that. Test away. Unless you want me to sing, she winked at Noril.
I don’t know, Noril said, Can you sing? He looked at her with an intense, questioning stare.
Vash smiled softly, her chin raising slightly. I have a lovely voice. I play five instruments as well.
Then I can’t wait for you to heal so we may hear it, Noril said.
I will pleased to sing for you, Noril. Until then I can play if you wish.
Curiosity filled her. Not interested? Do you not want to know how I can serve you and your crew? Why my father is giving me to you? I do not believe that information will give me your trust, but you are not curious at all?
Vashkilu, Infiltrator
Noril shrugged. Your father’s mind already told us you and he made some sort of deal, that you want to come. To be free of your father’s shadow. Your abilities are for us to see.
~ N, Captain
She shook her head. That is what he thinks because that is what he would do. She waved around the large room. It is beautiful. Years of working, my father put into it. He dotes on me, spoils me, but he has only foresight for his business. The doctor is right. I have very little value outside of what I take for myself. I will not marry well, I will never buy my independence, I will never own myself. When he dies, I will be auctioned if his second does not wish to keep me. I must make my wealth so I can buy and bribe a safe retirement for myself before he dies.
I have known this since I was old enough to help carry napkins to dinner guests. I have worked hard over and over, so that I will not fall to a cruel and sadistic master later. There is no life for me here.
Vashkilu, Infiltrator
Then that is what we offer you. A chance to earn money, learn new skills. Make a life for yourself. Plan your retirement, Sisnil said.
~ N, Captain
I will take it, she thought fiercely. I will serve you well. I will learn anything you teach me. I will be of benefit to your ship. It wasn’t boasting, it was determination. Vash would do those things because she would not allow herself to fail. Yours is not the first ship I will have served aboard.
Vashkilu, Infiltrator
No? Good. Sisnil grinned slightly. Relax, Vash. I have faith in you. He said.
~ N, Captain
Vash bowed her head slightly. It will not be misplaced. You have my word, Sisnil. Or do you prefer Captain? Though in public, while here I will be expected to call you both Master, much to your distaste. She gestured around the room. Now, what can I do for you? You are the honored sons of Mezerc, you may have anything and everything you wish, large or small.
Vashkilu, Infiltrator
I’m not picky. Both brothers looked uncomfortable. They were not used to such accommodations. Uh… Nothing? Noril said, shifting and looking at her. What are we supposed to want?
~ N, Captain
She smiled, but her mind raced over their reactions. They had grown up hard, didn’t have much, and now that they had success they still didn’t. They didn’t go overboard or indulge. She liked them more for that. Anything. Food, drink, a hot bath, clean clothes, playing cards, music, companionship, peace and quiet, a bed, entertainment, for me to leave and stop bugging you. The last was said with a wink to both.
Vashkilu, Infiltrator
A hot bath and clean clothes, I guess, Noril said. And the playing cards, added Sinsil. Doesn’t take a voice to see if you can play poker.
~ N, Captain
She started to laugh, and caught herself. She stood in a graceful and alluring way. It wasn’t conscious, but trained into her. She moved over to a comm panel and pulled up the visual comms. She paused and turned to look at them both. Then she turned back and her hands moved rapidly before the screen went blank again. She moved past them and into one of the bedrooms. They heard the faint sound of water running before she repapered and moved into another bedroom and water could again be heard. She paused when she came out, Would you like oils added to the water?
Vashkilu, Infiltrator
Again the two shared a confused look. What oils does one put in bath water?
~ N, Captain
Her brows went up and she considered them a moment. Oils can be used for many many reasons. For the two of you, I would suggest Becriadamom oil. It is good for helping tense muscles relax. No hidden properties or side effects, unless you have allergies to pollen. It can cause a headache.
Vashkilu, Infiltrator
Eh, it’s worth trying, Sisnil decided. He wouldn’t admit to allergies, even minor ones, though pollen only bothered him sometimes anyway. Noril grinned at her. I am sure you can tell this is not the sort of treatment we are accustomed to.
~ N, Captain
Vash returned his grin with a warmth of something else in her eyes. Then I will make sure you get such treatment often. She left the room and returned with a bottle. She pulled the stopper and offered it to both of them. It had an almost menthol aroma, but not quite as strong. Becriadamom oil. If you like it, I will add this to the water.
Vashkilu, Infiltrator
Our ship doesn’t have hot baths and fancy oils, Noril told her, though there was a flash of color to his face that amused Sisnil. Each of them sniffed it. The scent was sharp, but not too strong. We are willing to try it. They said. Each one went into one of the prepared rooms, waiting for Vash.
Oils can still be useful if applied topically. Bths are not practical on a ship. Though I have heard some Federation ships actually have them, she wrinkled her nose as if she thought that very silly. She followed Sisnil and poured a minimal amount into the tub. If you wish more I will leave the bottle. When they arrive I will place the fresh clothes on the bed. Warmed towels are there, she pointed to a small cupboard accessible from the tub. If you need anything, call out, I will come. Then she silently left the room.
Sisnil was picturing a sensual massage… It actually made him blush, too. Thanks, he said. After she left, he undressed and sat into the tub slowly. The water and oil immediately worked to relax his tense and tight muscles. Noril could instantly feel his relief.
She felt his embarrassment, but couldn’t tell the exact source. Given the ‘tone’ of his embarrassment she could guess though. “You are quite welcome, Sisnil.*
Noril stood at the edge of the tub, not yet undressed, and tested the water with a hand. I don’t think we’ve had a bath like this since we were very small.
~ N, Captain
They are a luxury. Though I tire of them. Vash sounded weary and frustrated at the thought. As if the baths were not a luxury for her.
She took a bottle off a shelf and held it out for him to inspect. It was the same as before. I left the other bottle with your brother incase he wanted more.
He took it and looked at the bottle for a moment and then set it down. Thanks.
After he approved she knelt and added the oil to the bath. The hot water warmed the oil quickly and the scent filled the room. She looked up at him as she stood. I will place the clean clothes you requested on the bed. There are warm towels in the cupboard. Is there anything else you need?
Vashkilu, Infiltrator
Noril pulled his shirt off and dropped his bottoms but left his undergarments on while she was still in the room. Their rough life was evident by the state of his body. No longer malnourished, his body still carried the signs he once had been. Scars of many kinds lined his body. He wasn’t muscular but lean and fit. Some of the marks didn’t appear to be from violence, but illness, a product of inadequate healthcare.
Vash openly admired the view. The world was harsh and he had obviously seen it. Vash was pampered and she knew it. That didn’t mean her life had not been hard, but not like his.
Noril didn’t seem to mind. He wasn’t particularly shy when it came to peoples’ bodies, including his own. He smiled. I’m glad you’re enjoying yourself, he commented, a tone to the words that conveyed a certain amount of flirtiness.
Vash wasn’t shy either. Oh I am enjoying myself very much. She appraised him with added interest at the added flirtatiousness in his demenor.
Noril turned and smiled at her. No, but, really, thanks. Your telepathy is excellent by the way, for someone unpracticed.
~ N, Captain
The young Orion woman bowed her head and smiled. Thank you, but I am sure you and your brother are doing most of the work. My Deltan abilities do not work that way. My teacher did tell me that concentration is key to everything. It was giving her a slight ache but it didn’t deter her from continuing.
Vashkilu, Infiltrator
I know. Your people are touch telepaths, no? Would it make it easier to touch me? Noril asked questioningly. He nodded, Concentration is all. Sisnil and I have practiced Vulcan meditation. It improves concentration. With our inate abilities and our trained skills, there is little Betazoids are capable of that we cannot do. He undressed fully and lowered himself into the tub. Feel free to stay or go. I like your company. And for the record, I am communing with you alone. Sisnil is enjoying himself in solitude.
~ N, Captain
We don’t really have telepathy. My tutor told me that two Deltans that are exceptionally close can read each other’s emotions so clearly that a telepathic connection can be made. She leaned back against the counter and grinned. Ah, so you don’t share everything? She stood and walked to the edge of the tub. She held out her hand. We are very touch sensitive. Me more so. My skills require physical connection unless I am very emotionally connected with someone. My.mixed blood. I am willing to experiment.
Vashkilu, Infiltrator
Not everything, no. Noril shrugged, We’re twins and close, but we’re still brothers. Some things need to be separate. He reached his hand out and took hers. There was still a little hesitation, but she could tell he was sorry when the connection was made.
~ N, Captain
The feelings came through more clearly, but Vash was used to that. Do not be sorry, Noril. I am aware of the reputation Orion Women carry. As well as the Deltan ones. Though I don’t encounter that one often. It is very much dismissed here, she thought waving a hand that encompassed her society. Very few Orion women can control their pheromones. You are not affected so you must use an inhibitor? I do not use a suppressant here at home, but I can bring both when I join you. For myself and for any of your crew that wish to be immune.
We always use an inhibitor if we know we’ll be around Orion women. Noril replied. Something happened once, many years ago that we do not wish to repeat.
Vash nodded, I understand. If you have female crew, you should warn them to do the same around make Orions. Females affect males and females in different ways. The males as well, bit they are not as potent on other males.
As for my Deltan abilities, if at any time you wish it, I can demonstrate so you are aware of what I can and cannot do.
Vashkilu, Infiltrator
Noril smiled. I would like that. He looked at her a moment, You can control yours, can’t you? He asked, guessing based on her emotions and the way she’d phrased it as she conveyed it.
~ N, Captain
Not everything I can do is pleasant, but for demonstration purpose I will be very careful, she warned about her Deltan gifts.
She studied him, I can see having secrets and privacy will be difficult around you. Yes, I can. No one, not even my father, knows that. I have kept that ability secret. My pheromone levels are considered too low to not be worth bothering with. Our bloodline does not carry the ability to control it. I assume it is because of my mixed blood. Deltans can control their effect. How interesting, it really was much easier while holding his hand. Something to ponder later.
She wasn’t thrilled he had picked up on her secret. Not because of trust, but self preservation. Having tricks up her sleeve had kept her alive in Orion culture. If he outted her, then she would deal with it. Serrala’ only agreed to take me in to her Courtesan Training Center because she owed my father a favor and she likes him. She thought the allure of a half Deltan might bring him extra profit. If she helped him, he might take more notice of her.
Vashkilu, Infiltrator