<div dir="auto"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">Mission: Murder on the Exeter Express</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">Day: 1</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">Stardate: 2445.12.01</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">(USS Exeter - Holodeck - Ensign Rylee Page & Ensign Zot - 1934)</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">Walking into the holodeck, Rylee instantly felt at peace. The programme that Zot had created for her was running and the soft breeze with the hint of ozone on the air was intoxicating. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">Carrying a small picnic hamper in one hand and a blanket in the other, she was dressed in a light summery dress and took a seat on a bench near the holodeck entrance.</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">She smiled as she waited. Their relationship had grown, they had grown close and she found herself growing to really enjoy their time together.</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">Zot Entered the holodeck wearing a traditional Eunepian body suit. He looked over at the bench and saw Rylee sitting there.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">" Hello Ens...I mean Rylee" Zot corrected himself. She had asked him to stop referring to her by her full name and rank.</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">Smiling at him, Rylee nodded, "see, not that hard to do is it?"</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">He reached his hand toward the basket in a manner which suggested an offer to carry it and with his other hand offered it to her to help her up. " I have just read a few interesting compiles of text on male and female relations. Most cultures view females as fragile or precious. I however am perplexed because you are physically stronger than I am and although I am a male among my species, you and I are so different that I am finding trouble on how to treat you in the manner in which you deserve." </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">"Deserve? I don't deserve anything. Just be yourself. "</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">" Although a traditional physical relationship between us is impossible I do feel compelled that we alert Ensign Sleeford of the recent escalation of our situation. " He said as he led her to a spot near the water.</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">"Oh…. You do?" She replied, as she began unfolding the blanket. ~is he really that serious?~</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">He helped her rest the blanket on the ground. " I am technically a superior to you, yet we have not been sexual. We can not copulate. Therefore our relationship is the equivalent of good friends who care a great deal for each other." </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">Blushing a little,  she sat down on the blanket and began unpacking the basket,</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">"Is that all I am to you?" She asked, teasing.</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">"No, you are much more than that to me. I have a fondness for you I have never had towards any other sentient being. Your existence in my life has brought me comfort,  trust and a sense of the unknown." He said as he sat down on the ground.</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">"Physical things… sometimes we rush into that. So us not… being physical with each other is not a problem. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">For me, I need that connection with someone. Not physical but here." She replied, touching his forehead gently,</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">"And here." She moved her hand to near his heart.</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">Zot knew too what she was referring to. His metaphorical heart. He had two anatomical hearts, one on each side of his chest. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">"Is this really something we need to tell Ensign Sleeford about?"</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">He grabbed her hand that was on his chest. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">" Deceptive or secretive ways are not the practice of my people. We understand their usefulness, however I will not conceal this bond we share. I am assistant chief of operations by circumstance not because of desire. If I have to step down I will. Most federation cultures have a stigma about those in close relationships serving in a capacity that involves their personal and professional relationships. We Eunepians however do not share this stigma. We view closeness to individuals as a strength. " </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">Rylee looked away for a moment, then looked at him, "I would not let you do that. Not for me. If it needs it, I will transfer departments."</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">" Correct me if I am wrong, but isn't the Captain the uncle of his first officer? Also the Second and Third officer of this vessel are romantically involved." Zot remarked. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">Smiling widely, she nodded, "that is true."</span></p><br><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">"It seems the Exeter crew is more Eunepian than they know." Zot said as he opened the basket .</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">She watched him for a moment and then pulled out a small bowl and a spoon. "Forgive me if I got this wrong but I think I remembered rightly."</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">Handing him the tub, she smiled softly, "Vanilla pudding for the gentleman."</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">He took the container. " Yes, it's one of the flavors I can taste. " He said as he opened it . " I am surprised you remembered. "</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">"I have a good memory. Well, for some things."</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">He took the spoon and scooped a bite of the pudding into his mouth. " Perfect."</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">"I remember the first time we came here. After that really hard physical therapy session. We stood here, you were holding my arm to keep me steady and we didn't say anything. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">I was so frustrated with myself and I just couldn't help it. I teared up. I wanted to lash out so much and do you remember what you told me?"</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">" Yes I do. I told you that lashing out was only you allowing your impairment to overtake you and that I wouldn't allow that to happen and I remarked that since I don't sleep I would stay here with you all night until you alright….I also told you that I prefer your smile over your tears, your success over your failures. But no matter what I wasn't leaving you alone." Zot said remembering the events of that day in vivid detail. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">Smiling, she took his hand and looked at him, "that was the first moment I realized that there was something between us. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">Something that transcended physicality and was something I wanted to explore. So, if Sleeford says that one of us has to move, it's going to be me."</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">" That will not be necessary…" He was cut off by her.</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">"No arguments. You are one of the first of your race to be here and I won't let you give up your position. Not for me."</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">" I won't argue. But ambition for the benefit of an individual is not our way. We seek ambition for the benefit of all." Zot responded. " I have no ambition to lead others. " </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">"I've heard many joined trill talk about how difficult it can be when they get into relationships with others because of previous issues. Me, it's simple. I am who I am. You see that and that is something worth exploring. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">So, let's enjoy this moment."</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">Zot tilted his head and looked at her. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">" Moment...This moment is yet a string of connected moments that I have shared with you. Some cultures have described some moments as being an eternity. If that is the case I find myself most fortunate. "</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">"Fortunate? How so?" She asked as she rested her head on his shoulder. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">" Because If a moment can be an eternity, a forever, then I have several eternities with you. That I am thankful for Rylee…and pudding." He said, taking another bite.</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">Smiling, a thought entered her mind and, as quickly as it had entered,  she dismissed it. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">"I'm thankful for you. I don't think I would have persevered as much with the therapy had you not been there. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">I would have given up a long time ago, accepted my fate and been cashiered out of the fleet."</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">Zot listened as she talked. As always giving her his undivided attention.</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">"But then, I wouldn't be sat here with you and pudding." She replied, dipped her finger into the pudding and dabbed some in his nose.</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">He flinched slightly. " Was that attempt to get me to smell the pudding ? If so I have no sense of smell." He smiled as he wiped the pudding off with his hand.</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">"You missed a spot. " she replied and, gently, wiped it with a napkin. Looking into his eyes, she smiled and kissed his cheek softly.</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">He was caught off guard by her impulsive habit of kissing him.</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">"Sorry, was that too forward?"</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">" No, I find it fascinating. It is something we don't do where I'm from. " He said and pulled her towards him and kissed her back. An intense feeling of happiness came over him, but it was immediately followed by an immense guilt. He pulled away from her. " I'm sorry " </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">“What for?”</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">" There is much you don't know about." He said and looked down at the woven fabric of the blanket they sat on. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">Sighing, Rylee poured herself a drink and looked at him, “Well, if this is serious enough for you to want to tell Ensign Sleeford, you had better spill.”</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">" My people have a biological imperative to return home during " Our Time" as we call it."</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">“Oh…. your time as in… death?”</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap"> He raised his hand and shook his head.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">" No, not death…Life. We are driven to return to the place of our birth and sire offspring. "</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">“Oh…. i see. And when does that…”</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">He shrugged his shoulders. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">" It happens well into maturity. We have a clause in our terms of service to Starfleet that if the urge that we call Sovim comes that we are to be medically released to return home."</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">Zot paused.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">" I am sorry if I ruined your time" He said with saddened tone. She wanted to enjoy a moment yet he felt like he robbed her of that.</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">“It’s fine. We have so much to learn about each other. When it comes to that time… do you have to go? What happens if you don’t?”</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">Zot hesitated to tell her, but felt that she deserved to know. " I would have to go. If I don't I would become ...out of favor with my family structure."</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">“Oh, i would never stop you. Never. If it means that you have to go home for a while but you come back, then that’s fine.”</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">"I am sorry that this complication will arise." Zot said as he held her hand.</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">“Look, you know how i feel about you. I don’t pretend to understand a lot about your customs but i am willing to learn. To me, it’s like… if i had to take a symbiont. I would be the same person that you care for just with some added memories. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">If you can deal with that, i can deal with you going home to sow your wild oats.”</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">He tilted his head. " Sow wild oats? I am not a farmer and My world doesn't have oats. " </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">Smiling, Rylee leant her head on his shoulder, “It’s a terran phrase. Means ….. Well if you need to go procreate, do it. Just come back.”</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">He closed his eyes. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">" Physical Affection is not something practiced among my people. I can refuse to go home" He said, knowing right and well refusal to adhere to his biological predisposition would be extremely detrimental to him. </span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">"But...why? Why would you do that?"</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">" Right now home is here and here is good." He said.</span></p><br><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">(Reply no-one) </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:"times new roman";color:rgb(29,34,40);background-color:rgb(255,255,255);font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre-wrap">(Posted by Jackie and rob)</span></p></div>