Tropicana

Posted on Saturday, 14 November 2020 - 6:11pm by Lieutenant Alex Kingsley & Commander Soral

Mission: Operation: Ouroboros
Location: Jupiter Station
Timeline: 2393

Tropical paradise was perhaps not a phrase anyone would ever attribute to Jupiter Station. More renowned for research than recreation, they had nevertheless used some of the most advanced technology to create a little bubble of paradise. Every minute detail had been considered from the feel of the individual grains of sand, the hot humid air, the gentle breeze as the waves lapped up to shore, to the warm and inviting crystal clear waters which lay beyond the small stretch of beach.

For the next week this was home. And as ever, Soral had ensured they were spoiled. The beachfront cabin was luxuriously decorated, had its own pool, sun loungers, hot tub and twenty four seven room service as well as activities they could enjoy. For now though, it was just a case of unwinding.

A playful bark caught her attention and she smiled, watching as Soval and Bones played on the sand while Severine was attempting to build a towering sandcastle. It was already reaching impressive heights - until Bones ran into it head first. For a moment the puppy was completely submerged in sand before jumping free, a shake sending sand everywhere before he ran back to Soval. Severine simply began creating a new castle from scratch, without a hint of anger or frustration.

Both of them looked... happy.

“Soral never does anything by half, does he?” Laura smiled as she set down pitchers of ice cold water and juice, along with some snacks. “My room is incredible! Everything is unpacked. Where is Soral?”

“He said he needed to pick up some gifts for the kids, he isn’t back yet,” Alex replied as she poured drinks for everyone.

“Maybe he didn’t appreciate he would have swimsuit Alex,” Laura teased as she called on the children who looked disappointed. “Hydration is very important. You too Bones...”

For their four legged friend Laura set down a bowl.

“What would you two like to do today?” Alex asked.

Severine and Soval, with Bones, trailing came and got some cool drinks. Severine spoke up for her and her brother. "Perhaps reading?"

Soval rolled his eyes. Intellectual pursuits were never his cup of tea. "Battle simulations." He said.

Just before anyone else could speak Soral came breezed in. He had some packages in hand. While nothing seemed...outwardly wrong there was a tension in him. He set the packages down by the door.

"Hello Father!" Severine said with more enthusiasm then would befit a Vulcan.

Alex had been considering how they could possibly combine both when she heard Severine. She half turned, frowning as she watched him set down several packages. She said nothing, yet her concern was clear. Even since announcing this ‘vacation’ he had rarely sat down.

“Children, come and help me with the snacks, Bones will be hungry too,” Laura said as she ushered the two children towards the kitchen. “Maybe they have cookies!”

“Soral, are you alright?” Alex asked as she had taken his arm and guided him towards the bedroom.

Soral said nothing until they were well in the room with the door closed. "News from Vulcan."

“What’s happened?”

He sighed. "There have been broadcasts from Earth...by...Terra Prime. Anti-Romulan protests on Earth, all over."

“What?!” Alex shook her head, “I don’t understand... why? I don’t think I’ve even heard of Terra Prime... but the Romulans on Earth are refugees! It’s insane... are you okay?”

"They are an Earth for Eartherners group. They have been active since the days of Captain Archer."

“Soral,” standing on her tip toes, Alex cupped his face in her hands, “people like that are so full of hate. And anger. They don’t represent everyone and certainly not me. No matter what, I am always at your side. You, Soval, Severine... we are family. Nothing changes that.”

He returned her embrace. "I know. It is difficult with the children. Some shuttles have been stopped as well. I have ordered extra security to take Laura and the children back to Vulcan when their visit is over but there are the greater consequences to worry about."

“You think these people would hurt them?” Alex asked, seeming sickened at the very idea.

"Severine looks Vulcan and can pass as one but Soval is Romulan in every way...I believe it is a possibility." He cupped her face. "I will keep our family safe, I promise you this."

“I believe you,” she promised. “You said other consequences?”

"A long time ago, during the time of Captain Kirk there was a referendum called on Vulcan to ask if it should separate from the Federation...similar issues are brewing. Vulcans are asking how long will it be until Vulcans are given the same treatment as Romulans."

“I...” she didn’t have words. “This... is crazy.”

He sighed and allowed himself a small smile. "It is nothing we will solve today my wife. This is our vacation." He pulled her into his arms and kissed her as if nothing was wrong. When he pulled back he rested his forehead on hers. "Let us join our family and plan our day."

"About that..." Alex began, a hint of amusement in her voice, "Severine suggested reading, while Soval wants to run battle simulations. I'm not entirely sure where the middle ground will be there. But I have faith you will find it."

"My wife it's quite logical of course. We shall go out on the beech and Severine can read and I will teach Soval Vulcan martial arts."

"Be gentle," she cautioned him. "For him, and your own good. You still need to relax. Besides, what will I do while you are teaching martial arts?"

"Anything you wish mistress of my heart," he said using the Vulcan endearment. "Although I may suggest the blue bikini. I am fond of that bit of clothing, it has stimulating effects." He raised an eyebrow.

"Is that so?" she teased, seeming to give it consideration. "I would hate to distract you from teaching."

He placed his arm around her. "Shall we join the others?"

"We should," Alex nodded, "just in case they've buried my mother in the sand..."

He looked horrified for a moment. "Why would they do that?"

“One of those crazy Earth traditions,” she grinned.


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