Star Trek: Starbase 777

When she arrived back at her quarters she immediately began preparations. First thing first, she looked down at her PADD where she had her Feng Shui notes and began to move things around. She moved her sofa around so it could face her monitor with the coffee table in front. Behind the sofa she arranged her alter to the Founders, complete with some Bajoran prayer candles and incense courtesy of the crazy Cardassian boy. She had a few (fake) trees that also helped to make the space look more alive. She had a long table as well with a long row of potted Rippleberry plants. After all, the real things were tastier than the replicated ones. For her next order of business she moved on to preparing the food. For the appetiser, she took a note out of Eshen's book and arrange for one of those French cheese boards. It didn't require any cooking on her part and she could find the necessary items at the store. She had saved up quite a bit of her allowence which enabled her to prepare a rather nice spread. Brie, Gouda, camerbert, swiss, her little board had quite a selection. She topped it off with some freshly cut fruits, no meat though of course. The main course. Well that was special. She had prepared a wonderful green salad with fish and Yamok sauce as dressing (again, another suggestion from the Cardassian boy). The fish was straight from the Gamma Quadrant, definitely a rare item. She even smoked it herself although it was a bit burnt. For drinks she prepared some Kava wine, fermented liquer made from Kava nuts. Maybe a bit strange, but it was a Vorta specialty. And lastly for dessert. Well, she went all out on her Rippleberry pie and Q'lava tea. She really hoped Eshen liked her selection of foods. The Q'lava plant was typically poisonous however she made sure to replicate that one so no poison, just yummy leaf juice.

Eshen arrived promptly in the outfit I've already described, like, two times now, so the roleplayer doesn't have to describe it any more. In fact, they don't even have to describe the food for once! He rang at her door and was presumably let in, and once he entered, gasped at the extravagance of it all. The interior design was organised and pleasing to the eye, her little altar to the Founders oddly beautiful; the smell of the incense was a bit overwhelming for his Klingon nose, but still nice, and the candles helped offset the unnatural glare of the artificial lights. The first thing he went to investigate was the Rippleberry plants - he'd never seen one in real life before. Perhaps he'd grow one in his own room! Unfortunately, he had no interest in the Imposter Trees. Her cheese board, though simple, was well-organised and pleasing to the eye, and worked well with the fruit. He recognised the smell of Yamok sauce anywhere (he'd become thoroughly acquainted since Nalas moved in), and he recognised Rippleberry pie by sight, and there was a slightly burnt but smoky and savoury smell, the endearing stench of some kind of fermented drink, and something herbal and humid. Fish, wine and tea. Did she know fish was meat, or did she do this just for him? "Aella, you really went all out! The incense is a little strong, but your charcuterie board is well-curated and that fish smells divine. But what drink is it? Something alcoholic?" (edited)

She was dressed in her Vorta commander uniform, as always when she addressed her gods. Ugly patterned skirt with a terrible collared shirt, everything clashed but it was what the Founders expected. She had her hair tied up in a short ponytail, her glasses shiny as well. She looked as lovely as a Vorta could look. She watched as Eshen scanned the room, trying to discern what his opinion was. Her eyes widened and a smile stretched across her face when Eshen praised her set up. Receiving praise from the King of Aesthetics™️ was quite the honour. She followed the Feng Shui master to the t, everything was exactly in the right spot for optimal luck. She was really going to need it tonight. "Anything for you, Zhimata!!" Aella put her hands on Eshen's shoulders and looked into his eyes. She was a Vorta in love, very very in love. "It's Kava wine, very rare and delicious. I had it delivered all the way from the Gamma Quadrant! And the fish, is also a speciality. I read about the ancient Vorta diet and it's apparently okay for us to eat!"

As she put her hands on his shoulders, Eshen put a palm on her cheek, leaned down and kissed her softly, then replied, "Good to know for the future. You certainly spared no expense. And for little old me? Okay, I won't pretend I'm humble and don't like to be showered with nice things for a second, but I'm still beyond flattered. And what is the tea? I'd better drink it before it gets cold - should we sit?"

A blush formed on her face when she was kissed, it was still a weird sensation for her. The solids had a strange way of showing affection, but it wasn't unpleasant. "Zhimata, you deserve everything," She chuckled and skipped over to the table, pouring them some tea. "It's q'lava tea. Normally it's poisonous, but this is replicated so it's safe," She explained as she took her seat and pressed a few buttons on her PADD. "Founder Kronos will be calling soon!"

Poisonous? Note to self: never serve this to Romulans. Or possibly do? Maybe they'd find the irony of a food having poison removed instead of added kind of fun. Better not risk it, though - Eshen generally preferred to keep his head on. "I await him eagerly," Eshen replied as he sat down at the table and sipped his tea. It did have kind of a poison-like sharpness to it that dried his mouth out a little, like when you drink too much cranberry juice, but hopefully that was the taste and he wasn't getting murdered by his T'hy'la. "I'm sure you'll do well. I hyped you up last time and I'll do it again this time. Your blush is cute, by the way."

She watched Eshen's reaction closely as he sipped the tea, hoping it really wasn't poisoned. The Starfleet replicators wouldn't replicate poison, at least that's what she was told. When Eshen didn't keel over right then and there she smiled, no poison. She grabbed a plate and began to pile on some crackers and cheese. Right as she was stacking cheese is when she heard Eshen compliment her. She nearly dropped her food when she turned her head. "Zhimata! I--You're too nice to me," She laughed nervously as she continued to pile on the cheese. The monitor began to flicker and an image soon appeared. It was Founder Kronos, just as he was the last time they saw him. He appeared to be on a Dominion ship, dressed in one of the most hideous yellow jumpsuits. He had the same oddly familiar Bajoran face as before.

"Hello? Aella 5. I see you are with... Eshen K'Tann again."

Eshen did a Vulcan salute, ignoring the odd feeling of familiarity he felt in his gut. Maybe he was just mistaking a Bajoran (well, a Founder that looked like one) for another Bajoran. How spacist of him. "A pleasure to see you again, Kronos." He'd been okay with being called by that the last time they called, right? This roleplayer forgets. He put his tea down and started assembling his own cracker and cheese tower as he waited from Kronos to continue. Wait, was she okay with cheese now? He's pretty sure he told her it was made from the fat bovine milk when she ate over his.

Aella was just about to start eating when the screen lit up and she saw one of her gods. She immediately stood up, her knees hit the table and caused it to shake, spilling a bit of her tea. She didn't seem to care, she was in Vorta commander mode. Her hands were to her side with her head up and eyes forward. "Good evening Founder Kronos," She said in a clear and confident tone. It wasn't visible on screen, but her eyes were shaking a little straining to see the screen properly through the static.

Kronos put out his hand and nodded, gesturing for Aella to sit down. She did so and he gave the Vulcan salute. The customs of solids were baffling, but this was also a diplomatic affair so it was only proper. Two Jem'hadar walked behind Kronos and stared at both Aella and Eshen, clearly there to intimidate them or at least show dominance. "I see you are stiill close with Aella. We have her results from her performance review, but for some reason we don't have a report from you," Kronos looked at Eshen and then at Aella.

"T-That's because I brought him here. To tell you himself. What he thinks of my progress," Aella gently nudged Eshen, a worried look across her face.

Eshen's eyes briefly flicked to the Jem'Hadar. Hot. Probably not at all what the Founders were going for here, but Eshen had no fear response to intimidation - quite the opposite, really. He stood up when Aella nudged him, his posture straight and his smile confident. "She's been doing brilliantly. Putting the effort in to learn about other cultures, be considerate of others - no big G in a while. She's been socialising with an array of people among the station, which I would mark as an A on getting her Experience, and her Eloquence has improved greatly - no more big Gs, apologising and making amends when she makes mistakes, of which there are fewer day by day; she understands Solid mannerisms, even jokes and metaphors at times, and has overcome her predisposition against understanding aesthetics by the power of knowledge and willpower, as you can see from this room." Eshen gestured to his surroundings. "Lastly, her Enthusiasm is boundless. With the help of others, she has been trying a range of foods despite the risk that she might not like them, because she knows it is a staple of most Solid societies, and understands the political and personal benefits of cultural exchange. She has been trying different clothes and hobbies, swimming, opera -" He looked over to Aella in case she wanted help contribute to the list and strengthen her case - "Her curiosity and passion for self-discovery is admirable. I said last time that I believe anyone is capable of transcending their limitations and I stand by that. I believe you also said she had only made two choices - but from my perspective, each day of her life she makes the choice to be better than she was yesterday, and so she flourishes despite her circumstances, like a beautiful but hardy desert flower. That is my performance review. Any questions?" (edited)

Aella wasn't telepathic, but she could tell when Eshen liked what he saw and she had a feeling he was eyeing Kronos' Jem'hadar. Not a surprise really, she remembered when she invited him to her holodeck programme and he expressed (not so subtly) that he was pleased with her choice in holograms. As Eshen began to speak, Aella listened with stars in her eyes. The confidence and eloquence in his delivery was unmatched by anything she had ever heard in her 5 lives. Overcome her predisposition against understanding ethics, that was some high praise for a Vorta commander. She smiled knowing that her Zhimata had faith in her newly acquired aesthetics skill. She took a sip of her tea and continued to listen. No more big G's, well it was a hard thing to avoid, but she was getting better. In fact, she couldn't remember the last time she told Nalas his race was irrelevant-- wait maybe it was last week. Anyway, her relationship with Nalas had improved significantly. "Zhimata is telling the truth. I decorated this room on my own!" Aella clapped her hands and stepped to the side so Kronos could see the decorations and alter she had prepared. Kronos nodded and listened closely as Eshen continued. By the time Eshen was done with his monologue, Aella was in tears. It was the sweetest and most genuine review she had ever received. Poor Aella was sobbing with joy as she threw her arms around Eshen. "ZHIMATA!!!"

Kronos looked at the two and gave an approving nod. He stayed silent and just watched them. He had nothing to add, but wanted to see how Eshen and Aella interacted. That was the real test, he wanted to see just how much Aella and Eshen trusted each other.

Oh no. She was crying. Last time she did that, he cried too. No! He would not cry in a diplomatic meeting! But then again, it was a 'meeting the parents' scenario too, wasn't it? Eshen managed to keep himself together - he was still a Vulcan, after all - but his eyes were suspiciously shiny as he hugged Aella, lifting her up a little, with probably the sunniest, most genuine smile he'd ever had on his face, one that could make yellow grass green again and stop trees going bare in winter. He even blurted out, "Waiyau!" without thinking.

It was almost as if she had completely forgotten Kronos was watching. She hugged Eshen with all her might. Well, she wasn't very strong, but Eshen would definietly feel her affections through her embrace. In the process of hugging Eshen she ended up bumping the table again and spilling the rest of her tea from her cup-- oops! She didn't care though and just continued to hug Eshen.

Kronos cleared his throat loudly to remind the two they were techically still in a performance review. He was pleased to see Aella and Eshen were getting along, but did not expect them to embrace for so long. It wa almost becoming uncomfrotable. "Aella Five. Eshen K'Tann."

Eshen didn't let Aella go, but pushed her away a little and coughed awkwardly, the tips of his ears a little green. "Er, sorry about that." Although Kronos did watch that for way longer than was necessary. Secret voyeur? He tucked his hair behind his ear and gave Kronos a smile as if to ask if he enjoyed the show (right in front of Aella's salad? Yes, he could simp AND be gay at the same time, he was that powerful), but didn't actually say that, since now was not the time. One day he'd get his Founder date... One day. "Was there anything else?" (edited)

When she noticed that Kronos had enough of their lovey-dovey hugging time, she separated from Eshen and sat back down. She picked up her cup to drink more tea only to realise it had all spilled onto the saucer below her cup. She wanted to clean it up, but at the same time she was scared Kronos would notice.

"It is alright," Kronos blinked a couple times out of pure shock. Not at Aella's actions, but at the boldness of Eshen's. Was this solid really trying to flirt with him? He took a deep breath and began to fiddle with his earring, a habit he had gained when he was living the solid life. He did not notice Aella had spileld her tea as his eyes were fixated on Eshen the whole time. "No further questions. Do you have any questions for us before we give the review?" He asked, speaking for all the Founders when he said us.

Of course he was trying to flirt with him. Last time he'd actually tried not to flirt with the Founders and, Kronos said he would be amenable to 'learning more about solid courtship', then Aella had joked that he'd probably try to date Kronos too, so the jig was very much up on that front. Of course, he wasn't doing it overtly; he still had tact. It was more like... Gauging interest. For future reference. "I have a lot of questions." Last time he said he'd wait 'til Kronos' visit, but that wasn't happening, so better to get them out now. He thought back to his first meeting with Aella by the lakes, where he'd inquired about the Founders, and she the red colouration of a passing butterfly, which led to their first date in which he'd given her the red butterfly pin that was in this very room. It was the same reason he sent her a red heart in messages while Nalas got green. Small things like that were important to him. Anyway, what were the questions he'd asked back then?

11:35

"If you can turn into anything, do you consider manipulation of your body an art form, a canvas upon which you can paint, marble you carve? How has people knowing you as myths shaped the way you interact with myths and legends, knowing they could be as real as are? And what is it like, to mind meld with others on such a massive scale? Do you consider yourself a community or elements of a whole, like cells? I know you talk to one another in there, but do you sing, too? Do you love?" The way Eshen asked these questions was as open and genuine as his smile. He was not repulsed or fearful of the Founders or the Great Link, like many were - just inquisitive. Perhaps even admiring them a little. Not to the point where he venerated them like Gods - he was no Vorta, blind to their flaws (like the war crimes). He was just someone who loved people deeply, as individuals or as groups, a state of being which Changelings fluctuated between often. The last question he'd asked, of course, was especially relevant. (edited)

She was curious what Eshen would ask and listened intently. She pushed her plate to the side so she could lean on her elbows. She was not surprised at any of the questions eshen asked, in fact, she had expected them and was curious what her gods would reply. She didn't even know all the answers.

Now that was a lot of questions, Kronos thought. After Eshen was done asking them all, he looked back at his Jem'hadar soldiers and gestured for them to step out of the room. They nodded and left, leaving Kronos alone, looking at his Vorta and her Zhimata. "Well, Eshen K'Tann, this is the first time we have gotten such direct questions from a solid," He smiled as he straightened his posture and looked striaght at Eshen. "First. I am sorry to say, we do not view ourselves nor the Dominion as art. Perhaps some indivuals may feel that way, but as a whole we do not," He paused, trying to think of the second question. "Second. Myths. Well, we do not particularly know about the culture of solids aside from those within the Dominion. And in the Dominion, we are their culture. Through our Alliance we hope to learn more about the beliefs and cultures of the solids so perhaps we will have a better answer for you later. To 'mind meld' with the Great Link is a feeling unknown to solids. It is the merging of not just minds, but spirits. We feel every emotion, every thought," It was difficult to explain such a concept and Kronos showed this by furrowing his brows and looking down at his console. "We are both elements of a whole and a community. We do talk to one another and yes, some of us choose to sing. And love.... Even when I was a solid, I was married."

'Some individuals may feel that way, but as a whole we do not'? Even that was an interesting answer it itself; it meant individual members of the Great Link didn't immediately absorb the opinions of others when they became elements of a whole, unlike, say, a Borg hivemind, where you had no individual thought or agency at all. Plus, as Kronos was clear evidence of, you could leave the Link when you wanted. "Being in the link sounds like an interesting experience. Melding minds and souls - we Vulcans have a similar concept, Katra, that we share with one another if we mind meld deeply enough. Alas, a solid could never hope to experience such a thing on your scale." Unless he somehow managed to mind meld with the whole bowl of Changeling soup. Scandalous. If Eshen were some other diplomat, you might take his words as shallow flattery. But though Eshen could lie well, he preferred not to rely on deception - rarer lies were more effective and easier to keep track of. Instead, he simply looked for what nice thoughts he already had and brought them to the surface. Everyone had something good about them, after all. Of course, it wasn't hard on this occasion since he was already intrigued by the Great Link and even more so now that he was involved with Aella. He was especially pleased that his efforts had been met with a smile and dismissal of the Jem'Hadar - if he hoped to obtain Kronos' blessing, as it were, opening that bridge of honesty was surely a good sign. Wait, could they even lie in the Great Link? A question for another time. "I'm delighted to hear that you do sing, genuinely. In some ways, then, you are already art; an orchestra of voices." Eshen paused. His next question was more personal, though, to be fair, Kronos did bring up the matter of his marriage, so perhaps they were testing the personal waters a little. "I'm sorry if this is overstepping, but... Did you marry for love?"

"Yes, I supposed a Vulcan 'mind meld' would be the closest a Solid could get to the Great Link, but the link is much more than just merging mutliple minds," Kronos wished to tell Eshen more, however it was something that words in any language could not describe. He glanced over at Aella who was listening with her frilly little ears, staring at Eshen as he spoke. She must have been seriously in love, Kronos was surprised that one of their own had developed such strong feelings.

Aella giggled a little when Eshen spoke about mind melds. Oh would it be quite the diplomatic adventure mind melding with her gods? It was a strange thought, however she would not be opposed if the Founders would agree. In fact, it would be a wonderful thing to witness! Aella stretched her arms forward to grab some more crackers and fruit to munch on, this was a fascinating discussion.

"I supposed you could say that," Kronos really had no opinions on art. Of course he took part in it when he was a solid, but as a Founder, he did not have any opinions. Much like the Vorta, the Founders were not concerned with art. They had spent most of their existance trying to build a galactic empire. "You are not overstepping. And yes I did marry for love," Kronos answered without hesitation, speaking honestly and genuinely. He was not shy or nervous, he answered with confidence. "It is not unusual for Changelings to take romantic partners when living amongst solids."

In a shocking turn of events, Eshen was so engrossed in this conversation he'd completely forgotten about the charcuterie board. Kronos seemed very open about this. Good to know for building future rapport. "I see... And with other Changelings? Does love bloom in the Great Link?" If Changelings were capable of love even among such a fluctuating sense of identity, perhaps he was, too. "Ah, but I'm sorry. Perhaps I shouldn't take up too much more of your time with my curiosity. You need to get to your review some time before the meeting is up, after all."

Aella couldn't help but laugh out loud when Eshen asked about Changeling/Changeling relations. Love between the great link, now that was something. She looked back at Kronos to see how he would react.

"Of course. But the love we feel for each other is a little different than that with solids," Kronos explained, also smiling as he spoke. This Eshen guy was very engaging, he looked forward to the day they could finally meet. "It is no problem at all Eshen. In fact, I enjoyed answering your questions you have about us. Perhaps one day when we can visit your Starbase we can speak more in person on a more formal basis-- and informal, if that is what you wish," Kronos added the second part last minute when he remmebered Eshen had offered him a 'date' of some sort.

Aella put her hand on Eshen's arm and gave him an approving nod before she went back to munching her snacks.

"And the review. Well, Aella Five... You are doing a wonderful job, we see your review from Ughaz'uda and Sauk Tral, they were impressed as well," Kronos looked at Aella and then at Eshen. "And a last question for you, Eshen. Do you think Aella's presence has made life better for you and the Federation?"

Ah, so it was his turn to answer personal questions. He nodded firmly and immediately. "Absolutely. As a member of the Federation, I feel establishing amicable relations with the Dominion via an individual proxy is undoubtedly the way forward when it comes to future diplomacy and maintaining peace. Aella will build bridges between our two civilisations... And I will be on the other side of them. As for me..." Eshen paused, then tore one of his gloves off with his teeth, sat down, then held Aella's hand, speaking confidently despite his growing blush. "I can't imagine my life without her." (edited)

Aella held Eshen's hand proudly and smiled at Kronos, hoping he would accept his answer. Kronos was hard to read, but he was also her god. She would never question the words of her gods, even if they weren't what she wanted to hear. She stared at Kronos expectantly, tears beginning to form in the corners of her eyes again.

"I see," Kronos took a deep breath and looked between Eshen and Aella. He could see no signs of deceipt or distrust between them, it was clear this was a genuine relationship. "Then she may remain on the station and continue working to improve herself. Although--" Kronos paused. "We will need her from time to time, perhaps we can add parts of her genome to a new Vorta," Aella leaped up as soon as she heard those words, excited beyond belief.

"YES! I would be honoured Founder Kronos! I would love to offer my DNA as templates for more-- Maybe Aella-like Vorta," Aella exclaimed. Kronos simply laughed and nodded, it was good things were turning out well. "Maybe we can have more Vorta who also decide to take on alien Zhimata.. and Waiyau," Aella looked at Eshen, her face a wonderful shade of red.

Eshen glanced over at Aella and laughed slightly. Green and red. They were quite a pair. "So there'll be more Aella clones? Or Aella... Hybrids? Interesting. Otherwise, that's fantastic news! I'm so glad you get to stay." Eshen briefly contemplated offering his own DNA, but that would be kind of a big decision to make, and would have all sorts of weird implications considering he was very much Federation, not Dominion. Plus as a Vulkling, be had no idea what kind of a mess was going on in his blood. That said, he'd turned out just fine except for a few defunct organs and volatile emotions.

"Templates for creating new Vorta. No, we will be continuing the Aella line," Kronos said with a smile. "But we hope Aella Five stays for a long time," He stood up and walked infront of his console so he was standing directly in front of the monitor. "Thank you so much Eshen K'Tann. Once we have an available time to visit, we will make sure to notify Aella who will notify you."

"WAIYAU, WE DID IT!" The call was still on, but Aella couldn't contain her emotions. She immediately jumped on Eshen, hugging him and wrapping her limbs around him like a koala. She was a happy girl, very silly.

"Goodbye, Kro - Ack - T'hy'la, the call's not -" Eshen wrapped his arms around her and hugged her tightly, though he was careful to moderate his strength. Thank god Kronos wasn't a Vulcan or all this PDA might make him physically faint like that one time with Nalas. His PADD on the table pinged, but he couldn't get to it like this! "We did, my dear, we did."

Kronos smiled at the two of them and the call ended.

"WE DID!!!" Aella was so happy, she didn't even notice Eshen's PADD had pinged. "Zhimata, I'm going to be staying here for a long time. Oh, I still wanna try working out and-- I want to fight. I heard some people do martial arts? I wanna learn!"

"I can certainly teach you if you want to learn to fight like a Klingon! Hold on." Eshen adjusted things so he held her whole koala body up with one hand, then picked up his PADD with the other, though he had to tap on it with his nose. "Ah, the nebula mission. I'm sorry, Zhimata, as much as I want this moment to last longer, I must be off to do Starfleet things."

"I wanna learn--" Aella said before Eshen shifted their position so he could look at his PADD. She blinked twice when she heard the news and then tilted her head. "So... so you're leaving. Zhimata," Aella frowned but hopped down so Eshen could move freely again. "Be safe, okay? I'll miss you," She sounded like a wife who's husband was going to war, but honestly she felt like that sometimes!

Funnily enough, this was actually the second time this had happened while he was with Aella. Eshen untangled himself from her and stuffed himself with as much fancy cheese as he could before he left with a kiss (just as he'd arrived) and 'I'll miss you too, Zhimata'.

After what felt like forever with endless tests and studying, Aella was eager to get out of her quarters and explore the station. The away team was also back, meaning there were more people to bully-- befriend! She put on her cutest sundress with some sneakers and headed out!

[D] After getting back to her quarters she decided to work on resuming her Feng Shui studies. Eshen had recently given her some more rules of aesthetic and she was eager to start designing more outfits to wear. That's when... The comm system suddenly began to play a strange song. Aella didn't recognise it, she was a Vorta. It had a very interesting musical pattern, very different from Klingon Opera, but it wasn't unpleasant. She sat and waited until she got a comms from a certain Bajoran scientist. Oh did he sound scared? She noticed the panic in his voice as he spoke through the comms. Aella was a busy woman and a lady never answered a call on the first ring. She purposefully didn't reply immediately, letting him buzz her comm badge a few more times before finally answering. Their conversation was brief in #lt-k′tann﹢lt-jg-za′ari , but humorous. She debated just going silent to fuck with him, but she continued to reply until their conversation naturally ended.

Tapping away at her console, Aella was in the middle of her monthly meeting with the Founders when she got a notification from the Federation News Service! "Oh, Founder, they are going a Mentor Programme on the station. It's open to civilians," She said as she read over the message and then looked up at her monitor. Founder Kronos was sitting on board a Vanguard ship with two Jem'hadar soldiers behind him.

"Will you apply? It would help you connect with the crew more," The Founder said, watching the excited Vorta on the other end of the call.

Aella nodded and began to click away at her console to apply. She really hoped she'd get a cool mentor. "I requested command. Well, it will be interesting to see what Starfleet officers have to teach a Vorta commander," She laughed as she thought about how the poor sod who was chosen as her mentor would react to having to watch over a Vorta. With one more click she sent in her application. "Applied! Now Founder about your potential visit to the station..." [D] The two conversed for another hour, talking about Dominion things and Aella's progress on the station. Her monthly meetings were going well, things had been pretty good for this young Vorta.

[PADD]

Hey Aella, would you tell me if there were secret Changeling agents on the station? - Eshen ❤️

(edited)

[PADD]

You would be the first to know if the Founders were visiting. Wait, is there one on the station? One of The Hundred™️ ? Please come by at once! - Aella

[PADD]

I'll be right over! Missed you a lot! <3 - Eshen

[PADD]

I miss you too, Zhimata - Aella

Eshen knocked on the door.

She was awaiting Eshen's arrive and immediately leapt up to opened the door. "ZHIMATA!!" She pulled Eshen inside and the door closed. She had been so busy with her Vorta duties that she had less time to roam around the station. "I missed you so much!" Aella said. Today her fit was just her Vorta commander uniform since she was talking to the Founders. It was a mustard yellow body suit with a frilly purple skirt and the ugliest red collar. Sadly she didn't have much say in her outfit, it was whatever the Founders gave to her.

Eshen pulled Aella into a hug and a kiss that was only gentle because he was holding his eagerness at seeing her again back. "I missed you so much too, Zhimata!" Even her whack fashion sense. Eshen was still wearing the fit from earlier. Crop top, bomber jacket, skinny jeans, heeled boots, not-Bajoran earrings, general purple and gold theme. "What's been happening lately? How've you been? Tried any new interesting new foods?"

She was smiling so bright when they kissed. It was nice being held by Eshen, he was tall, strong arms, gentle voice. She never really considered an ideal type, but if she had to choose one it would be Eshen. "The Founders want to visit-- And oh I signed up for that mentor programme! And I had dinner with Nalas a couple nights ago. Oh, Zhimata he's so jumpy, it's fun to tease him," Aella giggled, a mischievous grin across her face.

Eshen laughed a little in return, his hand still cupping Aella's cheek from when he kissed her. "Don't tease him too much. I like his ego intact. The Founders always want to visit, it seems, my dear Zhimata, but I'm skeptical if they'll actually do it this time. I signed up to a similar mentor program too - I have no idea who my mentor will be but I hope they're fun. Maybe Mona? She's really cool."

"He deserves it, I call him stinky Ratman Nalas, he secret loves it," Aella said, not pretending she didn't bully Nalas on a daily basis. But now it was less out of actual distaste and more friendly banter. Well, at least on her end. Nalas may have thought otherwise, but that was irrelevant this wasn't about him. She looked into Eshen's eyes, beautiful as always. Her glasses were falling off her face a little from when they kissed. "The station captain needs to approve it first," She sighed, knowing that getting that eccentric Captain to agree to have a Changeling on board was definitely going to be tough. "Yeah, I hope we get good mentors," She was excited that she was finally able to participate in 'Starfleet stuff'. "And what was this about secret Founders on board? Did you meet one of the hundred?"

Eshen let go of her and began to pace. Conspiracy mode. "There's this guy. Alizati. He acts like a nice Vulcan but he doesn't. He's stoic in almost every way except for these occasional... Tics. Blinking too much, forgetting to breath, eyes shaking. He did the Vulcan Eyebrow Raise in a hawaiian shirt. A hawaiian shirt, Aella!" Eshen declared, as though it were a dramatic revelation. "And he called me attractive within a minute of meeting me, and himself. I mean, he was right in both counts, but complimenting both yourself and another person is what I would do! But he's a full-blooded Vulcan, raised on Vulcan, follower of Surak. Vulcans like that don't just - just - flirt out of nowhere! We might as well have been holding hands under the light of the desert stars!"

Aella took a step back and let Eshen explain his theories. Unlike other races, Vorta were not inherently suspicious of others. That is because it was usually them who did all the sneaking, they were hardly concerned about others. Plus, Aella knew she was scarier than half the people on the station. She had a million lives to live, she feared no man, no death. She knew Eshen was talking about something serious, but she laughed when he mentioned the hawaiin shirt. She did not know what a hawaiin shirt was but the other's body language and tone gave her a hint. This Vulcan looked ridiculous, right? "As much as I'd like to believe that you met one of the hundred, I don't think so Zhimata," Aella frowned and put her hands on her hips. Insulting to some, but it was a thoughtful pose for her. "I mean, maybe he was just so smitten by you?" She didn't see that guy's actions as weird, even for a Vulcan. They were all solids. "Is he a civilian? I thought you Starfleet people had access to full profiles of every officer in your little database?" Aella wished she had access to all that knowledge. Sure, the database accessible to civilians had the names of the senior officers and some basic profiles, but a lot of Starfleet details were still hidden. She walked over to her little coffee table and began to pick some berries off the Rippleberry plants she had sitting there. Gifts from Nalas. She offered Eshen some berries from her hand.

"Thanks, Waiyau." Eshen took the berries and ate them delicately between sentences. "You don't understand - Vulcans don't get smitten. That's not an emotional capacity we usually have. I'm... An exception, but I'm a hybrid. I guess maybe I should check the files, but it feels invasive to do that to a Vulcan who's obviously got something to hide." What, so instead you're gonna analyse everything he says and does? Said his internal voice. That's insane.

"Uhh, Waiyau," Aella said as she popped a couple berries in her mouth and ate them slowly. Despite having tried so many foods, she always found herself coming back to Rippleberries. She did a little running leap onto her couch, a type of running Riker-style sit. "Just check the database. The information is there. Maybe he's like-- maybe it's a cultural thing?" Aella theorised. She did not see a problem with snooping around at all, in fact if she had access to the Starfleet database she would have relayed all the information to the Founders by now. “Or just ask him," She shrugged, mind games and conspiracy theory crafting were clearly not part of the Vorta genome.

"If there's a culture on Vulcan where they wear hawaiian shirts, I'll wear the standard uniform everywhere for a week," Eshen deadpanned, sitting next to Aella and offering her a hand to hold. It was gloved, but if Alizati could see him right now... Scandalous! "Asking him would be... How do you even phrase that question? 'You act weird, why?' it's not Eloquent at all." That was one of the three Es in Rule #3. But then there was also Rule #7: Respect social boundaries, but break them when possible, to increase interpersonal intimacy. In other words, in order to get to know this guy he'd have to ask that question at some point. But why would he want to get to know the guy? Just because he was hot and they seemed to both like art and aesthetics and he didn't have many Vulcan friends? Wait. Those were totally logical reasons to want to know someone. Plus he was Allan's boss. PLUS when had Eshen ever not wanted to know someone? He knew damn near everyone on the station except this guy. Ugh. The paranoia. The mind games. It's like. How he imagines Renakir interacts with Romulans all the time.

"Maybe he just wanted to be comfy?" Aella took Eshen's hand gladly. She didn't mind that he wore gloves either, they did hold hands no glove though-- extra scandalous. "I think this would all be solved if you just clicked away at that starfleet database of yours. I'd let you use my PADD but I don't have those codes," She sighed, was she secretly trying to get Eshen to let her take a peak at the Starfleet database? She didn't see what was making her Zhimata so upset when he could literally just look it up or ask. The customs of solids still eluded her. With a flick of her hand she pushed her long hair from her face and leaned back on the sofa, perfectly relaxed beside Eshen.

Eshen sighed and leaned his shoulder against hers. Perhaps she didn't fully get it. He could ask Renakir, who might get it a little more, but he was also a little afraid of that Romulan Paranoia rubbing off on him. In fact, considering he thought some guy he met once was a Tal-Shiar agent, it already had. Maybe Nalas? He needed to give him those Bajoran lilies he bought the other day. Speaking of, he withdrew a small pot of purple, slightly bioluminescent roses from a bag he'd definitely been carrying the whole time. "Oh, Aella! I saw this in books and blooms the other day, and it reminded me of your eyes."

The silence between them was a bit concerning, especially when all Eshen gave in response was a sigh. She wished she could help him, but the Vorta and Dominion in general had a much different way of dealing with interpersonal relationships. Perhaps there was something else she could do to reassure her Zhimata that everything was alright? She sat up and look at Eshen when he began to rummage through his bag, curious what he could be looking for. When her eyes saw it-- she gasped in awe. "Oh Zhimata! It does match my eyes! It's.. I think it's beautiful, right?" She grasped the rose delicately with her fingers. She didn't want to risk damaging the nice flower. It did indeed match her eyes although beauty, she couldn't really tell.

[PADD] @Alizati┊Aella┊Nalas┊Renakir (Aella)

I wish to see you in my office at your earliest convenience today. We have something to discuss.

-Lt. Samantha Voxellus, Chief Security 777

Despite the beeping light on her console to show she had a message, she was too busy looking at Eshen to check it.

"You're correct! It is beautiful, much like you." Eshen ignored the beeping also. If it was important, Aella would check it. "I thought it would look nice in your room somewhere. You did organise it so well. Maybe with your rippleberries? And it's an apology for leaving so suddenly last time. Duty calls."

"Oh yes, maybe!" Aella said, suddenly trying to remember all the Feng Shui rules she had researched. The colour and nature of the item determined where it would go, but Eshen was right-- next to her Rippleberries was probably right. "You're so sweet, Zhimata. I really love it," She got up and went to put it next to her Rippleberry plants. "Oh, Founder Kronos asked about you today. He was still interested in that date," She said as she bounced back over to the sofa and hugged Eshen, still ignoring the message.

"You're welcome, T'hy'la. Was he really?" Eshen asked, gently pulling Aella onto his lap so he could really envelop her smaller frame in a hug. "I mean, by all means, he can come down to the station and have me - it. If it gets approved, that is." Little did he know his roleplayer had already stifled his attempts at Changeling seduction by making the Station Commander suspicious of the Dominion.

"He was!" Aella said, excited that her Zhimata and one of her gods was getting along. Honestly Eshen was the only one she could think of who would actually be cool with a Founder. Even with the peace treaty, the war was still fresh in everyone's minds. She let herself be picked up by her much taller and bigger mate and hugged Eshen back. She never knew snuggling would be so nice. No other Aella-- or Kelron, had ever had a Zhimata this kind. "Oh-- Zhimata I have a message," She said when she noticed the blinking light. "Computer, read message," She said, not going to bother having to click through manually. The computer read the security chief's message and Aella listened. She seemed unbothered by it, despite the contents actually being very serious.

Eshen held her there a moment longer. Then he untangled himself from her. "Duty calls," Eshen sighed, "But for you this time. You should probably attend to that." And he should probably attend to Nalas, if he had the time. He had some Bajoran Lilies to give him.

"But I wanna stay with you Zhimata." Aella pouted, giving Eshen her signature Vorta sad look. She stared into his eyes, admiring how gentle he looked. It was something she had never thought of; finding a mate- a Zhimata. She wondered if the Founders would teach other Vorta about her and Eshen. Perhaps their romance would pave the way for Vorta romance? "But.... The Founders would be upset if they knew I was ignoring Starfleet orders. Unlike Ratman Nalas, if I disobey orders it looks bad on the whole Dominion, not just myself," She said, not paying any care she literally called Nalas Ratman. (edited)

Sometimes he was annoyed at the Founders for not giving Aella the ability to appreciate her own beauty, and now was one of those times. Violet eyes, long, black, cascading hair, and even her frilly Vorta ears... Oh well. If she couldn't appreciate it, he would. "Those're the pitfalls of diplomacy, I'm afraid." Then he pulled her in by her hideous collar and kissed her again, with enough passion that he hoped she could feel all the appreciation she lacked. "Take that with you as you go. And stop calling my boyfriend Ratman."

The kiss was certainly a surprise! Eshen had kissed her like that before, but that didn't mean she was used to being loved so passionately. Her face flushed a light peach colour and she quickly scrambled off the couch so Eshen could get up. "But he's Cardassian and they stinky-- but I'll be nicer. I guess I gotta go see the security chief," She sighed, not looking forward to it at all.

Eshen stood up. "Aella, I simply can't risk getting to used to it, then slipping one day and accidentally calling him that. Good luck with your... Whatever she wants you for." He walked halfway out the door, then turned back and said, "Opera soon?"

"I call him that and he's ok with it, he's a funny boy," Aella smiled. "Yes! Opera again soon, Zhimata!" Aella said as she walked over to her little Rippleberry plant and picked up the watering can beside the pot to water it. She wasn't sure how long she'd be gone so it was better to feed her plant children.

"Opera soon, Zhimata-T'hy'la-Waiyau!" Eshen exclaimed as he left.

She waved goodbye and proceeded to water her plants. After that was done she grabbed her PADD and headed out the door.

Back at her quarters she plopped down at her table and began writing a maintenance request to ops to clean up the water stains from her rug and check on her replicator.

[PADD]

Hey, Zhimata! I have news! Do you want to go to Surak Snacks with me and I can tell you? - Eshen

[PADD]

WAIYAU! Surak Snacks? That's that new restaurant right? Okay I'll be there! - Aella 5, glory to the Founders

As excited as ever, Aella got dressed and headed out of her quarters.

After returning from her rather exciting trip on earth, Aella was eager to speak with her gods about her adventures! Unfortunately the Founders were busy blobs of goo and thus Aella channeled all of her excitement into her report. Oh how many things she saw, she went around the world twice even! Of course she did not forgot to drop by her friends' places, Austin and Maggie, but she also did lots of solo sightseeing. As much as she wished she could have brought along her Zhimata, she was glad she went alone. She was able to see things and discover new places for herself. There was something to be said about stumbling into unknown territory alone. Thankfully earth was a pretty safe planet and for every spacist she met there were more than a few kind hearted people who wanted to help her. Today Aella was dressed in pajamas because she was just lounging around the house. She had a pair of very pink rabbit slippers and a long matching pink rabbit night gown. Her hair was down as well in a turn of events, long black locks curling at the ends. Vorta hair grew fast and her hair was already down to her hips. She was hard at work typing up her report on her little work station. The Founders were definitely going to love hearing her adventures!

White turtleneck and trousers, indigo peacoat, and gold ear-cuffs to match his eyes was what Eshen was wearing today, as well as his metal rose and jade gem mismatched earrings. His formal shoes were black and shiny as the gold bracelets over the wrists of his long indigo gloves, and his beret was indigo, too. It looked vaguely like he'd just been on a date with Nalas, which he probably had. He ding-donged the doorbell, holding a box of rippleberry macarons. He'd made apple ones for Nalas earlier, his favourite flavour.

Aella was so engrossed in her report that if it wasn't for her highly sensitive ears she would have never known someone was at the door. She sprang up from her set and shuffled over to the door. "Zhimata!" She said as the sliding doors whooshed open and she saw Eshen standing there looking like a runway model. He almost looked like one of those guys she saw in the Louvre, the ones who always had things to say about each piece of art like they owned it. "You look... Like you are about to tell me the meaning of the blue sky in A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte by Georges Seurat," Aella said, being awfully specific but Vorta had great memories. "I like it, please come in!" She shuffled to the side so her boyfriend could come in. Her quarters were just as she left them, perfectly Feng Shui'd, making sure that each item of specific colours and material were in the right spots. She had a couple of new trinkets-- A print of The Great Wave of Kanagawa now decorated the space behind her sofa and she had a tiny replica of the David right next to her work console.

"That's because I am, my dear! If you'll let me braid your hair while I do it," Eshen said, walking in, standing behind Aella and, with consent, braiding her long hair as he talked. "You see, the secret to deciphering that painting is actually another painting that Georges did, Bathers at Asniers, which is one that depicts the working class at the other side of the river. Unlike the La Grande Jatte, the working people are not standing stiffly under parasols, not interacting with one another meaningfully; they're lying down, relaxing, no parasols, as they aren't trying to maintain the paleness of the upper class, and one of them is even bathing in the water. In that one, the blue of the water and sky are prominent, and there are no trees to shade them from the sun, and so the scene seems more open and cheerful than the one of the upper class. Of course, there is one man lounging in La Grande, but he, too, is coded as a worker through his dress and posture, in contrast to the darkly-clothed gentleman and lady behind him. In short, both paintings depict a summer afternoon in the lives of both the working and upper class, but that the blue sky is minimal in La Grande and the shade a prominent feature of the foreground suggest that they upper class are unable to truly enjoy the environment they are in because they are trapped in an eternal performance of bourgeois etiquette." And voila! A fishtail braid.

"But of course," Aella agreed to allow Eshen to braid her hair. Somehow listening to her boyfriend explain the meaning of terran art was a bit like asmr. Eshen seemed to know the perfect volume at which to speak at and paired with his very informed analysis of the painting it was the perfect combination. "And that's exactly what one of those guys would say too," She reached a hand back to feel her neatly braided hair. She felt like a queen, getting pampered by a strong and handsome man, chatting about art. "Was earth really like that before replicators? I had heard about it, but I never really knew that's how life was like. To have set classes seems... Why that just sounds like some sort of weird indentured servitude or just straight up slavery, don't you think?" Aella said, it seems like late-stage capitalism was pretty horrifying for a Vorta to hear.

That was terribly ironic for a Vorta genetically engineered to serve Changelings and the Dominion, not even getting into the Jem'Hadar, but he didn't say anything. "Yup. Eventually a tiny section of the population of the world had all the wealth, and they did stupid things with that wealth, and that was one of the reasons world war three happened. Big mistake, but they learned from it." Eshen picked up the box of macarons from where he'd put them down to braid Aella's hair and handed them to her. "Macarons! I made some on holiday for some friends and then thought I should bring some home, too. I wasn't sure if Nalas was still giving you those pills, though, so they're rippleberry."

"That sounds awful. I would not want to live on earth during that time. I know people say we have no freedom in the Dominion, but we all enjoy serving the Founders. I would not enjoy serving the.... Bougie... Bougie... That word," Aella said, struggling with the Standard words. She was attempting, but the language was literal worlds apart from Vortawa. Aella took the box of macarons when Eshen handed them to her and opened it. Oh they looked so cute! Somehow they reminded her of France. "Rippleberry!? Zhimata!" Aella gasped when she picked one up and popped it into her mouth. The fruity sweetness of the rippleberries mixed with the wonderful cream texture filling was divine. She expected nothing less from the wonderful Eshen. "These are good! Yeah, silly Nalas gave me some pills so I can taste everything-- except chocolate. No idea why," She shrugged and ate another macaron.

"Boo-jzwa-zee, my dear. Although, don't worry about it - I love French, but it's also kind of insane. Half the letters in every word are silent." Eshen looked at the painting and the statue of David and the general Feng Shui-ness. "I know Vorta aren't supposed to have taste in many senses of the word, but I really enjoy yours, you know? Even if you sort of have to manually learn things. It looks like you had fun on Earth." He'd been a little worried about her going there all on her own, but Earth was a peaceful planet with very good public transportation, and she was very much an adult, so she would hardly be a lone, lost Vorta.

"Boo jwa... I think I'll leave the fancy words to you, Zhimata," Aella giggled and turned to look at Eshen. Her light purple eyes stared at Eshen's golden ones. As she listened to Eshen's praise her eyes seemed to sparkle with each word. "Thank you, I am only following your rules of aesthetics," She was honest, she couldn't take all the credit. "Earth was fun, I missed you though. It was hard to get around and... I met a Cardassian boy there, he kinda looked like Founder Kronos! How funny!"

"Perhaps it was him, sneaking his own visit in." He flopped onto the sofa, lounging like the emperor to her empress. "I'm glad you went to visit my home planet - someday I'd like to take you to where I grew up! There are a lot of very clear lakes to swim in. Very cold, though." He liked swimming in them, but could never do it for too long because his body was built for the heat, not the cold.

"Hehe I wish! The Cardassian boy was named.... Ky.... Kyros? Funny blue hair and a cute smile, I told him he looked like the Founders and he got very nervous. I forgot the Dominion did the big G," Aella sighed and walked over to the side of the sofa and looked down at her Zhimata. "I want to swim in the lakes! If it's cold I'll just wear... warm clothes," Aella totally forgot the word for wet suit, but she was willing to explore anywhere Eshen wanted to. Earth was fun on her own, but she looked forward to seeing the sights with her beloved. "I was gonna lay here, Waiyau!" She teased, a slight blush crossing over her cheeks as she leaned down and fluttered her eyelashes in a very pleading expression.

Eshen lay down lengthways on the sofa, facing the ceiling. "Just use me as a mattress, T'hy'la. I come with pillows!" He patted his chest. "You could visit Grandma's cottage with me, too. She'll like you, she likes everyone. She'll bake you a rippleberry crumble or something. I learned to bake from her." Well, human food, anyway. His Sa'mekh did teach him how to make Kreyla and such, and his SoS taught him how to make blood pie.

And lay down she did! Carefully she sprawled her body out on top of Eshen, starfish style. Kinda strange, but she had her head on his chest. His heart was beating so fast, was it always like this? In her attempt to try and get comfortable she ended up losing her slippers and her night gown quickly bunched up around her knees. "I would like that. Rippleberry crumble? I wonder what that would taste like, " Aella said, closing her eyes so she could focus on the sounds of Eshen breathing and his heart beat.* "I met a few other people on earth too... Lieutenant Austin Whidbey, Maggie... They were nice. Did you know Whidbey kills the pinchy red crustaceans and eats them? Oh, barbaric! Killing innocent animals to eat them, that sounds almost as bad as the Jem'hadar scorched earth policy when we glassed Cardassia Prime."

"What would it taste like? Rippleberry, presumably. Oh! I should make a rippleberry and apple crumble for you and Nalas!" He had to find out Allan's favourite flavour, too. And Sauk, Adill, and Renakir. Crumbles for all! Wait, what's that about killing animals? Oh dear. "Waiyou... Darling... I have very bad news for you about what we do in Klingon culture." Then, with one arm around her body and the other caressing her head, careful not to disturb her new braid too much, he proceeded to explain Klingon sustainable hunting practices and the cultural importance of the Targ, a sort of 'fat Qo'nos swine', and how that was most certainly not as bad as The Big G.

"Oh of course it would! Well I look forward to it," Aella said with a smile before opened her eyes to look at Eshen as he spoke. This was a serious matter, but for some reason having her Zhimata's strong arms around her and his soft voice in her frilly little ears made it more comfortable. She snuggled close and tried not to look too horrified when Eshen told her about the hunting practices. They had fat meaty animals too? Well in a way on the Vorta homeworld, the Vorta were the prey. "Oh... oh-- well at least the Jem'hadar never ate their enemies," Aella said, still not entirely graspihow sustainable hunting was so different from the big G.

It was odd - his heart beat fast, but his three lungs breathed slow, but collectively, but they still sounded nice together. "No, but the Jem'Hadar don't need to eat animals to live. Klingons are obligate carnivores. Regardless, animals and people are quite different beasts." Also, genocide was, by definition, not what one would exactly call 'sustainable'. Not that it was okay to kill people sustainably, either.

"I... I am not sure I understand, but I dislike both. I don't want to eat animals and no genocide for me. Actually, that was all my precious clones, very different from me. I'm the good one," Aella said proudly, gently flipping her long braid over her shoulder before returning to resting her head against Eshen's chest. "And what did you do for shore leave? You went to visit the Romulans? Tell me alllll those stories," Aella said, her eyes fluttering shut once more.

"I understand that you don't want to. However, it is a large part of my culture, and therefore a part of me, so... Actually, it makes me feel a little bad when you call it barbaric, or compare it to, you know, war crimes." Honest communication? In his relationship? It's more likely than you'd think. Next up: telling Nalas he hasn't been to therapy for months. "I'm not sure how much I can tell you, honestly. It was a lot of legal stuff and a minor dispute with a friend... Unless you want to hear of my salacious escapades."

"I don't mean it like that Zhimata!" Aella frowned, not quite sure what else to say. She didn't mean to offend Eshen. "I just don't really understand umm.. warrior cultures. We did some bad stuff in the Dominion but it was very different from umm.. ritualistic killing. I'm sorry, I think I'll understand with time. I liked the opera we saw though," Maybe that was a start?? Aella wasn't entirely sure. "Oh? Hmmm salacious escapades sounds interesting," She looked at Eshen curiously. "Don't tell me you seduced Romulans?! I have always liked those guys, they're very similar to the Vorta in many ways!"

"It's not ritualistic, necessarily; the killing is for eating. Like I said, we're obligate carnivores. I actually tried a vegetarian diet for a while because my Sa'mekh wanted me to, and I didn't die, but I was... Not healthy." Eshen shook his head and rubbed Aella's back. "I'll explain more another time, though, I'm kind of just in the mood to relax right now. And tell you about the Romulans. I don't know how much detail you want - actually, do you... Sorry if this is a foolish question, but you know how it works, right?" Do they give sex ed lessons in the Dominion? Did Founder Kronos teach her about the bird and the bees?

"I understand some species are carnivorous. The Jem'hadar enjoy meat, although as a Vorta I think such things would be against my very nature, something not even the Founders could programme," What was this? Admitting that the Founders were not supreme overlords capable of anything? Development. "Yes yes, tell me about the Romulans. I haven't really spoken to many Romulans on the station, they look... Focused. Like Vulcans. As former Federation advisories I definitely want to get acquainted with some of them," She said before she realised.. "Oh no... I remember the Remans too, The Dominion was.... Ruthless towards them, that is not good," Although it was difficult for Aella to feel genuine remorse for the Dominion's actions (in her mind still justified because she served the Founders), she understood perhaps a Vorta speaking to a Romulan or a Reman would be.... Difficult. "How... What works? If you are talking about physical intimacy, we do have that in the Dominion amongst the Vorta... And sometimes Jem'hadar," She giglged as she mentioned it. "It's not surprising to me at all, don't worry."

"Well, I can certainly give you some tips on how to deal with Romulans, but that's not quite what I meant. Although, technically, the people I slept with, one was part Vulcan and the other Reman. The latter was seven feet tall! He could pick you up like a little mouse." Not that Kianarix was swole, exactly, but that Vulcanoid strength. "That is not good indeed, but it is a start that you acknowledge that." His next question felt a bit awkward to ask while she was lying on top of him, so he sat them both up, but held her hand with his, fingers interwoven. "So you know how it works, but have you ever... Er... Done it yourself? And would you ever be interested in, um, doing it with me?" Eshen said, blushing a little and looking away. His behaviour here was quite different from with Nalas, but with him they had a more standard relationship and he'd broached the subject before. He had yet to do that with Aella, and it was extra embarrassing to ask while they were holding hands even if he did initiate that himself.

Eshen really had a lot of connections, Aella thought. She didn't have a problem with her Zhimata being with other people, such things were also acceptable in the Dominion. Although, in the Dominion, interpersonal relationships were always second place to the love they felt for the Founders. The sudden change in position caused Aella to lose her grip on Eshen, but thankfully the other was holding her hand and keeping her from falling off the sofa. "Oh umm," The question was unexpected, she didn't think her Zhimata would ever ask to such a thing. It was not uncommon in the Dominion, in fact there had been a lot of cases of Vorta and Jem'hadar engaging in such acts. Even one of the most celebrated Vorta, Weyoun, had lovers. "Well," She turned her head away, trying to hide her blush. "I'm.. I mean, You know,, I was Kelron before I was Aella and.. Nothing has changed physically since then," She explained, a little shy about the subject. "If that is alright I would certainly agree to doing such things with you, Waiyau."

"Waiyau, dear," Eshen said, chuckling and squeezing Aella's hand, "Whatever makes you think I would mind that? You know I wouldn't. But if it's too much for you, I don't mind pacing myself, or not ever doing it. I only ask because you're astoundingly beautiful and quite tempting as such, and because it's a fun thing for two people to do together - like Klingon Opera - and, of course, because it's one of the ways I most like to express my affection for those I love."

Her light purple eyes appeared as if there were a layer of glass in front of them as tears began to stick to her long eyelashes. Eshen.. Didn't mind? "No no, Waiyau. I would like to be with you in that way. I just... I supposed I have always been self conscious about filling a certain role and image," Despite not having 'gender roles' or even a strong concept of gender in the Dominion, Aella was quite self conscious about her femininity and gender expression. Perhaps it was because she disliked being Kelron so much? Or maybe she was scared of fitting in? "I don't want you to be disappointed if I don't look a certain way..."

Eshen got down on one knee in front of her like he was going to propose or something, but he just wanted to be able to hold her hand and reach forward to cup her face with his palm in case he needed to brush any tears away. "Aella, I could never be disappointed in how you look. Look at me - at the way I'm looking at you right now." His gaze was warm, open, like he was allowing her to see right through him and all she would see was love. "Do you think anything like that would change this look? Can you trust in me and my love for you enough to know that it wouldn't? I love all of you, Aella."

She watched carefully as Eshen got down on one knee, still holding her hand. She felt the warmth from his hand as he touched her face, Klingons and Vulcans were both warmer than Vorta, she thought. "Zhimata," Her voice was but a faint whisper, as she looked back at Eshen with a mixture of awe and affection. She couldn't keep eye contact for more than a few seconds as tears began to flow down her cheeks, causing her to close her eyes. "I-I believe you. I love you too," Her voice was soft and a little strained as she tried to keep herself from full on sobbing from all of the emotion welling up inside of her. A Vorta in love and crying, this was certainly a first. "Waiyau," Aella let go of Eshen's hand so she could throw her arms around his shoulders and fall into his arms.

Eshen wrapped his strong arms around her and held her against him. He was soft, warm and broad - a perfect person to hug. He muttered assurances and sweet nothings, the specifics of which did not matter as much as the tone in which he said them, soft, warm and low. She was getting his coat wet, but he didn't mind holding her until she'd let it all out. "It's okay, Zhimata, I'm here." Then as soon as he thought she was done crying, he pushed her away only slightly so he could lean forward and kiss her tenderly, then pull away again. "We don't need to mind meld for you to feel my enthusiasm, see? I can promise you, Aella, I'll always kiss you like I mean it, now and forever."

They were two polar opposites when it came to body type. Aella was short and thin and Eshen was broad and strong. The perfect hugging combination, she thought. Perhaps it was because she was a Vorta commander, but she had always liked the idea of being held by strong men who would literally fight her enemies for her. She was unaware of any other Vorta that had a similar fantasy though. "I-I can feel it, I love you Zhimata," Aella said when she felt she had cried out all her tears. She opened her eyes to see her Zhimata looking straight back at her. "I wish we could meld like the Great Link," Her voice was soft, her sincerity strong as ever.

Eshen sighed. They'd actually brought up this topic before. "I wish we could. But it's probably best not. I have chronic pain, and I'd much rather make you feel sensations quite the opposite of that." He leaned forward and then kissed her on the cheek, then the neck. "Tell me something, actually. If we did do such things, would you write to the Founders about it, or would it be between us?"

Despite all of the emotions that ran through her body like electricity, Aella's heart rate and breathing were surprisingly calm. The Vorta were genetically modified to keep steady body functions at all times, it was a sort of defense mechanism. High blood pressure or hyperventilation were extremely disadvantageous for a race of scheming and composed diplomats. "Chronic pain?" Aella remembered Eshen had mentioned it, but it seemed she had forgotten. "I understand, you know I wouldn't mind though if you ever wanted to share that part of yourself," Actually Aella had no idea if a mind melt with a Vorta would work. No one had ever seen the inside of a Vorta, she didn't even know if she had a centralised mind to meld with. As Eshen leaned forward and laid kisses on her cheek and neck, her eyes fluttered shut. It felt as if there were little fairies dancing along her skin each time her or Eshen moved. "I won't tell them a thing," A soft smile crept across her face as she looked at Eshen with half lidded eyes.

Eshen: Eshen, on the other hand, was not so calm internally; his heart was beating so fast it was more like a hum. He shook his head, muttered something about that not being what he wanted to share, and kissed her over and over all over, 'til he got sick of just doing that, broke away, and said, "You know, oddly enough I wouldn't mind if you did all that much - hell, maybe it would get Kronos over here faster - but I do quite like the idea of it being just us." He stood up and held out a hand to help her up, too. "Do you want to know quite a non-barbaric Klingon word? Par'Mach'kai. It means... My beloved, basically. Klingons may be militaristic, but we are passionate, too. tlhIngan tIq luchenmoHtaHvIS, qul lulo' Qunpu' 'ej baS lulo'. With fire and steel did the gods forge the Klingon heart." And the union of the first two Klingons was what killed their gods. It struck him that Klingons had the exact opposite kind of a relationship with their gods as Vorta did with theirs. An interesting thought for another time. "Come to the bedroom with me and I'll tell and show you a lot more passionate things?" He asked. Then, assuming she said yes, he led her to the bedroom, where they did very passionate things indeed. (edited)

Yellag’vin stood in parade rest, his head held high. A slight tang of something sharp and heart race inducing pulled at his chest. It had been over a decade and a half since he’d been assigned to a new Vorta but he still remembered the feeling from all those years ago. Unlike many of his brothers, Yellag’vin didn’t detest the Vorta as a whole. Of course he didn’t. A Vorta was just a person like anyone else… except when they were a jerk. Then they were a dangerous person. One with power over Yellag’vin. A person to be careful around. He tried to tell himself that in all likelihood, the anxiety was unwarranted. Yellag’vin clenched his jaw and rang the door.

Aella was in her quarters working on a floral arrangement for her beloved Zhimata when she heard a chime at the door. Who could be there? She wasn't expecting any company nor had she been doing anything too nefarious as of late. Well, hopefully whoever was at the door wasn't here to deliver bad news, there was a hidden fear in her that the Founders were displeased with her work on the station. Despite being on top of her reports there was always that looming fear of not being good enough. Dressed in casual clothes today, Aella was wearing a long black night gown with lacing around the bottom and top area. It was long, coming down past her knees and for shoes she had some lovely white cloud slippers on! Her long black hair was down and she wore her round dark rimmed glasses that sat nicely on her face and balanced on her frilly little ears. The petite Vorta made her way over to the door and pressed the button to open it. As soon as she saw who was on the other side her eyes widened and she covered her mouth with her hand. What!? "May I... Help you?" She clasped her hands together, her mouth forming a grimace as she tilted her head.

Yellag’vin took in the woman who stood before him. He blinked twice, as if to clear away a mirage. Puzzlement replaced his worry. Her frilly black outfit was not the Dominion regulation attire he was used to. The round lenses perched on her nose did not seem to be a tactical device. Even if they were one, he wondered why she would equip them in her quarters. Then there was the fact that she’d gotten straight to the point without much of the gracious air he was used to. All of this was unheard of! Even Rizaan usually… no. Yellag’vin snapped close the thought, shelving it away before the aching in his chest returned. Yellag’vin inclined his head and said, “I am your bodyguard.” A heartbeat past before he realized he hadn’t introduced himself. “Yellag’vin. My name. I was first of my unit and have lived many years. Your superiors believe I will serve you well.”

Aella felt a pit at the bottom of her throat when the other said the word 'bodyguard'. Her mind began to shuffle through the memories of her previous communications with the Founders. She clearly remembered them telling her she would be on the station alone so that she could better observe the nuances and life styles of the solids. She didn't respond immediately, in fact, she let the silence drag on for nearly a minute before opening her mouth to speak. "Yellag'vin," She repeated his name, turning her head ever so slightly. A hint of skepticism present in her voice, as if she thought this was all a joke. A bodyguard, for her? She had been on the station for nearly half a year and only now were they sending her a bodyguard. Aella's look of puzzlement changed to one of frustration as she pushed her glasses up on her nose. "I am Aella 5. I do not remember the Founders telling me anything about a bodyguard," She crossed her arms, her eyes narrow as she focused on the other's expression.

When the silence stretched between them, that gnawing feeling in his chest had returned. His eyes widened at her words. “You spoke with the Founders?” Perhaps he was in a bit over his head with this assignment. Absently, he picked at the scales on the palm of his hand. “In any case, I recognize you have been made uncomfortable by my abrupt appearance. I apologize. I do not question the orders given to me but I was under the impression that you requested Jem’Hadar security when you took this position.”

Light purple eyes stared at the Jem'hadar standing before her as she tried to piece together where the miscommunication had happened. Here she was, standing in her night gown, in the middle of arranging flowers and now this lone Jem'hadar was at her door. She took a deep breath and began to fidget with the ends of her hair before giving a response. "Yeah, um, no, I want to talk, it's umm," Aella paused, not knowing exactly what to say. She noticed a couple people walking past the room, she could hear their whispers loud and clear with her sensitive hearing. "Yellag'vin, come inside," With a sudden motion she grabbed the Jem'hadar's wrist (not very tightly, she was pretty weak) and gently pulled in hopes he would step into the room. Inside Aella's room the decorations were surprisingly elaborate. She had vases filled with flowers and a couple of small plants along the shelves. She also had personal photos; one with her and a tall Klingon-Vulcan man at what appeared to be an opera house, another of her and a Bajoran boy in front of a statue of the late Legate Damar. The room had an oddly cozy feeling, definitely not the space of a normal Vorta. On the coffee table between two soft chairs was a potted plant; Rippleberries! Growing happily in their little patch of soil.

Yellag’vin allowed himself to be pulled into the room. He was disused to touch and even the small action seemed to linger. Foolish as it was, he hadn’t felt a friendly hand since… no. As the door swooshed close behind them, the surveyed his surroundings. Aella’s room was the near opposite of his own. The security of a closed door calmed his nerves a bit. He took in the pictures and comfy setting with interest. Upon the small growing plants eyes lingered longest. He took a half-step toward the berry bush before stopping himself. He huffed a quick sigh and straighten his posture. He must have been tired to forget himself so thoroughly. Yellag’vin turned to Aella, addressing her, “You wanted to continue our discussion?”

Once the doors were closed, Aella put her hands back down by her sides and stepped away from Yellag'vin to give him space. Oh how things had changed in just over half a year, Aella thought as she looked up at the taller man. Now that they were in her well-lit quarters, she could get a good look at the man who was going to be her 'bodyguard' now. "You're short," Was the first words out of her mouth, her tone soft despite the very matter-factly way of speaking. She was still struggling to find out why the Founders had sent her a bodyguard. Wait, he said she had requested him when she took this posting. Did she? She closed her eyes as she scrolled through the plethora of memories. She remembered the near death holodeck adventure, the lovely candlelit dinner, trading insults back and forth with various station occupants-- wait. She rememberd now. "But you will do. I rememberd I did request a guard, but why did it take you so long to get here?" She took a few steps closer to Yellag'vin, now that she remembered her request she was no longer skeptical or uneasy, but more... Curious about him. She looked at the Jem'hadar with pouty expression, clearly teasing him.

”I am glad you approve. I believe my trip from the wormhole to Space Station 777 was of an average length,” He paused, noticing her expression. Oh. Trying to mirror her levity, not that it really came across with his monotone voice, Yellag’vin continue, “But it can take quite some time for things to sort themselves out in the Dominion. Paperwork. You understand.” Sensing finally that the tense air had abated, Yellag’vin strolled casually around the room. He examined the items more closely this time, taking not of their position and quality. “Your quarters are… full of plants.” (edited)

Aella shook her head and sighed. "Of average length. This station is in the beta quadrant, but you would think we were in another galaxy with how long it took," Hyperbole but she was clearly just frustrated. First she was told that she was going to be on the station alone and now-- half a year later this guy shows up at her door. "Paperwork," She scoffed at the word, tossing her hair over her shoulder and walking over to the coffee table. She picked up the Rippleberry plant and walked back to the Jem'hadar with a smile on face. Mischievous smile? It was hard to tell with Vorta who never seemed to be genuine in words or expression. "Yes. So I have a lot to tell you, Yellag'vin. First, have a Rippleberry, I promise it's not poison," She said as he pluged a berry from the plant and ate it. Not really much of a show of good intentions as Vorta were immune to most poisons. Aella had a charming demeanour about her. A melodic tone mixed with soft features and large round eyes. Despite the cool femininity about her, her voice was rather deep.

He took the berry, letting it roll lazily across his palm as he inspected it. Yellag’vin had no real reason to either trust nor distrust Aella. The rippleberry rested against his lifeline. A show of trust he decided, and tossed the berry into his mouth. When the berry burst between his teeth he thought for not the first time that he’d never grow used to chewing. At least the flavor wasn’t bad, tangy yet still sweet. He nodded approvingly. “You raised that well.” “Tell me what you will.” He returned his gaze to Aella, waiting for whatever lengthy discussion she had in mind. He was quite used to those at this point. The researchers always favored them. Perhaps she already had a mission for him. His head felt heavy at the thought. A sharp pounding made itself apparent at the base of his skull. He hoped it didn’t show.

If there was on talent the Vorta had, it was reading the air and whomever they were speaking to. She could sense his hesitancy, there was no reason to trust a Vorta about anything, even if they were technically now coworkers. When Aella began her life outside of the Dominion, she had a hard time grappling with the new power dynamic between her and others. She was accustomed to being pampered and treated like royalty, partially because of her power over the White, but also because she had demanded it from all her soldiers. There was a little twinkle in her eye as she looked at Yellag'vin, a part of her was happy to have a subordinate again, 'the order of things' as they called it. "Thank you, well. I have been working with a... Hmm what would I call him? Cardassian in Bajoran skin? His name is Nalas and he's been working on a cure to help the Vorta taste. Now I can enjoy all the delicious foods other solids eat. Well, except chocolate. We can't get that taste right," Aella explained as she placed the plant back on the coffee table. "And I have glasses to help me see, quite a nice invention," She pointed to her thick rimmed glasses. "Also. I have been exploring relationships here. I have a Zhimata-- Waiyau? The terran word would be boyfriend. He's half Vulcan half Klingon," Aella explained gesturing to the pictures she had on her shelf. "You must be very surprised at this, maybe we'll even get Vorta and Jem'hadar joining Starfleet one day."

”I see. I am glad your associates here have been good to you,” He said simply. This wasn’t where he’d expected Aella to lead the conversation although he shouldn’t have been surprised. The researchers had also often strayed off onto wild tangents Yellag’vin would have never expected. They weren’t soldiers, he had to remind himself. Small talk was supposed to be a positive bonding experience, apparently. He’d never understand. Yellag’vin strolled over to the photograph of Aella and her partner. They seemed happy. A good match, the thought. “Surprised? Hm. I know vorta can feel love.” Despite his nonchalant words, he was a but surprised. These ideas were all rather radical. Even more so than anything Rizaan had whispered to him on those lonely late nights. When it was just the pair of them curled-up under the stars. Even those words had been unfathomable yet here Aella stood, a testament to everything they’d wanted to believed.

Sweet Aella batted her eyelashes after the other said the word 'love'. How cute, but the two of them knew the true nature of the Vorta. She clasped her hands together and looked into Yellag'vin's eyes. He had indeed lived many years, she could see that reflected in his eyes. How old was he exactly? Aella made a mental note to ask the Founders about his file. "So Yellag'vin. Tell me about you. How old are you? What about your last Vorta? What were they like? If you were the first why are you here with me now? Or was your Vorta discontinued?" She spoke casually and relaxed despite the weight of her questions. It was odd to have a Jem'hadar first serving a completely different Vorta, but not unheard of especially with the growing changes in the Dominion. Without the White, there was no reason for the Jem'hadar to be tied to the Vorta and the true feelings of both races towards each other began to come out.

Yellag’vin crossed his arms. The hold was so tight, his sepia knuckles seemed a ghostly white. He’d relayed this story to many superiors, why not another? Still, He detested the telling. It always seemed to burn his tongue on its way out of this throat. He would start with the easy part. “I have been lucky and skilled enough to not be killed in 23 years. For many of those years, I was assigned to a group of combat researchers. I followed one of them into battle.” *The next bit would be harder to choke out. He could only avoid it so long. He cleared his throat, though the aching in his chest persisted. His voice’s usual certain and solid tone was nowhere to be found in his words, * “He was very passionate about his work and rarely careful with his life. He spoke well. He was - different. Yes, his line was discontinued.”

Whilst Aella of six months ago may have wanted to tease Yellag'vin or feign some sort of pity just to mess with him, the Vorta's reaction to the man's story was... Sympathetic. The scheming and mischievous façade seemed to disappear as the other spoke. "Twenty three years," Aella pulled her hair over to one side and took a deep breath. So he really was an honoured elder. That was quite a long time to live for a Jem'hadar. Although Aella's oldest first had lived longer. It was strange how short a Jem'hadar's life span was in contrast to the immortality of the Vorta. Almost immortality. "I'm sorry to hear you lost your Vorta," She spoke genuinely although she did not look directly at Yellag'vin. "Different. How so?" Her eyes returned to meet Yellag'vin's as she tilted her head a little. One thing she liked about this Jem'hadar was he wasn't as towering as the others only being a couple inches taller than her. It was true she liked tall men, but there was something to be said about being able to speak with someone without straining her neck.

Yellag’vin opened his mouth to answer, but no words came. How could they? Even to himself, he could barely explain what ‘different' meant beyond memories of soft words and his own racing heart. His jaw snapped shut. His eyes drifted toward the door. “Unless you are ordering me to explain, I would prefer not to.” Remembering the rippleberry’s bright color against his dull gray palm, Yellag’vin continued, * “Perhaps I have taken enough of your time. Unless there is more you need, I can stand watch over your door while you rest. If that is what you wish.” *Part of him expected a furious response and maybe part of him was testing for it. Jem’Hadar didn’t ask to end conversations, even in the careful way he had. Yellag’vin was old enough and weary enough to not care.

There was a part of her that wanted to order him to tell her everything. That was her right as his new Vorta. But if she did that, she would be throwing away all of the progress she had made since this point. If there was one thing dating Eshen taught her, it was the importance of mutual consent. Whilst Vara'toran Aella, or maybe Kelron, her predecessor, would have reveled in the feeling of power over others, she had since discovered the importance of loyalty earned organically. There was no White, nothing for her to hold over the Jem'hadar's head, in fact, he could easily kill her at this very instant. Oh, dangerous men, she kinda liked that, but she kept her thoughts to herself and nodded slowly. "I understand, it's alright, Yellag'vin," Aella said, almost at a whisper level. "Maybe this is strange, but, I would like you to explore your independence and individuality on this station," With the change of subject, she straightened her posture and put her hands to her side. "I have learned a lot living not as a member of the Dominion, but as an individual. Just Aella. And I would like you to experience the same, just Yellag'vin. I know the Founders sent you here as my body guard, but... You have your life too. We shouldn't be tied to each other, explore and make connections. It will help you acclimate to your new life here," She spoke lightly, not authoritatively as Vorta usually did with their soldiers. It was as if she were speaking to a friend.

Yellag’vin’s body relaxed, his shoulders dropped from a tension he hadn’t noticed they’d been holding. This little kindness was a greater surprise than anything he’d learned earlier in their conversation. Aella was different too. Not in the same way as Rizaan but, nevertheless, different. He nodded thoughtfully at her words. Just Yellag’vin? He was a soldier, despite the discomfort he’d always felt at the way he was bound to the role, it was all he’d ever known. He had been Yellag’vin the Seventh through First, but never just Yellag’vin. “I will try. Although I am not sure if I know what it means to just be Yellag’vin.” Honoring this request was the least he could do.

Aella noticed the little things, the way the other's shoulders dropped, the way his posture seemed to relax when she spoke. For many galactic powers, independence and self sufficiency was a given. Even in strict societies like the Romulans or Cardassians, there was still some sort of agency amongst individuals. But for the Dominion, such agency was literally genetically engineered out of them. They were all loyal to the Founders, like one's hair colour or species, it was something that they were all born with. "Well, when I first started I explored hobbies," Aella gestured for Yellag'vin to follow her to her desk where she was working on the floral arrangement. Inside a beautiful glass vase was a collection of white lilies and and red tullips. "Is there anything you have always wanted to try? Anything, at all," It was a broad question but seeing as Yellag'vin clearly had some sort of relationship with his Vorta, there was a possibility he deviated from regular Jem'hadar in other ways. "I like decorations and fashion, and making gifts for my friends, it's been difficult learning, but I find it relaxing."

Yellag’vin followed. He took mental note of the unusual flowers and their star like pattern. The colors and shapes complimented each other well. “I also enjoy giving my creations to others. When the researchers needed models of their designs on the field, they commissioned me to draw them out. I enjoyed it.” He shuffled and looked away. Before he consciously decided, the words flowed out of Yellag’vin “As for something new, there was one time when we cleared a burning village. In one of the houses was a large blanket on the wall with a design like a family.” He shook his head, trying to remember “No. A woman. She was in many places doing different things. In one section she was a soldier, bloody but proud. In another, she stood behind a group of children, guiding them. It has been hard to forget. Someday I would like to try that, I think.”

It seemed Aella's theory was right and Yellag'vin already had the perfect foundation to individuality. In fact, he was much better suited for life on a Federation Starbase than she was when she first came. "I would like to see your drawings some day," She said as she picked up some flower petals that had fallen onto the table and held them out for the other to see. "If you would care to show me, that is," She added, making sure to respect his agency as her Zhimata had taught her. She wanted to make it clear she was not here to order him around or make him do menial tasks for her. Those days were long gone. "That sounds like a great goal, I think you could definitely try it," She spoke with a smile, a genuine smile this time. "I speak with the Founders every month. It used to be every week, but they wanted me to focus on my individuality so we agreed for the meetings to be monthly. If you can, I would like you to join us next month," Aella gave her request in a calm and airy tone, not an order at all. "I have no orders from the Founders for you and we are not in battle. Make a nice life for yourself here, and if you need anything you can ask me. I want to support you too, Yellag'vin."

He nodded. “I will show you my work before I dispose of it.” He looked from the petals to Aella’s eyes, meeting them for the first time. Her eyes, like her voice, were less harsh than he’d expected. She was not weak, but perhaps her time working on becoming an individual had softened her somehow. Yellag’vin jolted at the mention of the Founders. “You want me to speak with the Founders?” He gestured to himself, trying to make clear how ordinary he believed he was. He was still too thrown by her request to even register the outlandish idea of making a life for himself.

"Dispose? Why not keep it? It's important, right?" Aella's lips formed into a frown at the Jem'hadar's words. Once they made eye contact she noticed the dark blackness of the other's eyes. He looked different from other soldiers, perhaps it was because he was now an honoured elder. Even Aella had few encounters with Jem'hadar past ten years of age. The other's sudden disbelief made Aella giggle as she placed the flower petals back on the table and folded her hands over her chest. "Yes, you," She took the tiniest step forward, now they were only a few centimeters away. "Because we are-- I believe the word in Standard would be 'colleagues'?" Superior and subordinate implied a power imbalance, but if she wanted Yellag'vin to explore life on his own they needed to be equals. She didn't want him to feel any obligation to her. "I will inform you later when we plan the next meeting. I am sure the Founders would love to meet you, but you are not obligated to join us."

”Perhaps I could hold on to a few of my pieces,” He conceded. The Dominion’s resources had been precious and he’d always been careful not to waste even the most insignificant of them. But here, on this Federation Star Base? He supposed there was no harm in it. He was still baffled at the idea of meeting the Founders but Aella seemed to think it was a good idea and he trusted her judgment. He trusted her. Already? They’d only had one conversation yet the idea notion stood before him, resolute. “Very well. I will join your next meeting.” Not that he knew if he could really handle meeting, even virtually, the people he’d both revered and feared since he was created.

"You can decorate your quarters with your work-- oh speaking of. Your quarters are in the lower habitat ring I assume? If you ever need decoration ideas, I can be your consultant," She let out a light chuckle after she spoke. To think that here they were, Vorta and Jem'hadar, but she was offering to help him decorate his quarters and inviting him to speak with the Founders. The universe was funny sometimes. She was pleased that Yellag'vin would attend her next meeting, but she had a feeling the Jem'hadar was probably nervous about the idea. Most Jem'hadar had never even seen a Founder, much less get the opportunity to speak with one. "And one more thing. This is a flower called lily of the valley. On earth, it represents purity, youth, and sincerity," Aella picked up a flower from the desk, the stem covered in downturned white bulbs. "You can have this for your first housewarming gift," She handed it to him. "You'd need to replicate a vase though, but I hope it will be enough to show my good will," Her voice was sincere, genuinely sincere.

Pursuing his art was one thing, but now Aella was talking about decorating? This individuality thing would take some getting used to. Still, the idea of having a room that was his was alien. But he would try. He nodded to her words. Yellag’vin took the flower cautiously as if something made breakable. He held it between both of his hands, staring at it. A lot of different emotions tormented his insides but as always the deep empty aching won out. His throat felt raw, he swallowed. His voice faulted on the first word but it was less noticeable than when he was actually speaking of Rivaan, “Thank you.”

Yellag'vin was charming, Aella thought. Although she had always had eyes for strong men who could protect her-- and carry her. Maybe if they got closer she could ask if he could carry her. She tucked a piece of hair behind her ear and looked away from the man, a little shy as she realised she was literally still in her night gown. Scandalous. "You are dismissed. Have a nice evening-- or morning. I am not sure what time you're on," Aella hadn't been to the Gamma quadrant in half a year so it was difficult to remember what time they were on. Her meetings with the Founders also did not have set schedules as it always depended on their availability.

He bowed his head. “Thank you. Rest well, Aella.” It was the first time saying her name aloud, testing it out. There was very little need to use names under the dominion but here, as an individual, he suspected he would be able to use them a lot. “You may call upon me whenever you need me.”

After a little sleep, Aella got up and got dressed, all according to Eshen's rules of aesthetics. She also did her make up all pretty today too. With that all done she walked out of her quarters!

Aella was in her quarters writing her report to the Founders for that month. Not much had happened recently, although she was partially glad that 'body guard' the Founders had sent for her ended up being reassigned. It was a little awkward having some random Jem'Hadar hovering over her. Well, they only met once, but it was enough for her to realise she did not want anyone to 'protect' her. She was fine on her own. But today she had to ask for help because she was attempting to replicate 'soy milk' as per recommendation from Nalas. It was obvious that Aella was not familiar with replicators because she had ordered 'Just soy milk, nothing else' but apparently the replicator interpreted that as just soy milk. No glass or container. So with her floor covered in milk, Aella had sent in an emergency request to OPS to help fix her replicator.

She arrived soon after, pressing on the door bell as she waited patiently. She was still distracted by her "nightmare" or "illusion" from the mission. She just had a lot on her mind, the Tal Shiar, the Romulans, and the past.

Aella, with her wet socks, made her way to the door to open it. Thankfully the spilled milk wasn't too bad. It only soaked the carpet around her replicator and apparently her socks and bottom hem of her long skirt. Aella was dressed casually as always, long purple skirt with a white frilly blouse with buttons down the front. Her black hair was tied up in a ponytail, best to show off her Vorta ears and of course she had on her thick rimmed round glasses so she could see. "Oh, jolan tru!" She did not expect a Romulan repair person, but here they were! She smiled politely at the OPS officer and stepped aside so the person could come into the room. "Thank you for coming on such short notice, I'm so sorry, I.. I guess saying 'just soy milk' was not the proper way to order well-- just soy milk. I wanted it with the glass!"

“Ah, I see…” luckily the Romulan had come equipped with boots, which helped her as she entered the room. “Seems like a case of some outdated software, no big deal.”

"Oh really? I thought it was just because I was stupid and was oddly specific about only soy milk," Aella chuckled nervously as she twirled a long piece of hair around her fingers, stepping aside so that the Romulan would be able to get to the replicator. She spoke in a lighthearted tone, not at all nervous. In fact she seemed to find this all a bit humorous. "Who knew replicators could produce liquids with no container, seems like you need to add some sort of fail safe," Aella swayed her head slowly side to side, just watching the nice repair lady do whatever she needed to do.

She nodded, but seemed to be half-aware of what she was actually doing. She simply tapped a few buttons on the small padd by the door, then quickly started up the old Starfleet vacuum.

Aella leaned on her console as she watched the woman work. She didn't really interact with Starfleet personnel except for her boyfriend and her... Colleague? What was Nalas to her? Maybe just a friend, but they did see each other for professional reasons as much as just hangouts. "Thank you so much for coming down to help me, I'm Aella by the way, Dominion Liaison, but I think you probably saw that on my request," Aella crossed her arms and looked at the other, speaking in a rather flirtatious manner. It was just how she spoke to people, it was the Vorta way.

“I figured, not a lot of people have 5 as their last name.” The vacuum soon was sucking all the milk out of the room, and rather quietly too.

Aella giggled when the Romulan mentioned the format of her name. Before she could say anything else the vacuum had started, causing her to cover her frilly little ears. The vacuum was honestly not very loud, but with her sensitive Vorta hearing any other sounds were quickly drowned by the noise. It was even more sensitive than Vulcanoid hearing , which was certainly quite a feat. Aella, not sure what to do about the noise, quickly rushed over to her shelf and grabbed her virtual sensor display she had sitting around from her old Dominion days. She had to remove her glasses to put it on, but once she did at least the loud noises stopped. "That's better. The vacuum sure is loud," The Vorta said as she was busy trying to rearrange her hair that was quickly tangle once she put the device on.

“A little, though I heard old Human ones used to be louder.” Am’el herself didn’t appear to be affected much, but she did talk a bit louder. “How long have you been here?”

The Vorta headset was quite clunky on her and she did not like the feel of it. It reminded her of her whole life, how she could barely get around the station without it. Glasses were superior, but they didn't cancel out noise. This is why she liked Surak Snacks; because it was quiet, but not dead quiet. "Did they? I wouldn't know," Because Aella had only been to earth twice and it was... A mixed bag, but she was glad she didn't encounter any old vacuums. "About eight months, quite a while," Aella said with a soft smile a bit of pride in her voice too. It was an accomplishment for a Vorta to live amongst Federation citizens for so long. "And what about you? I didn't catch your name."

“Am’el Linn’uen.” she muttered in such a way that left the last vowels of her name hang in the air, as if her sentence was incomplete, before fading into an awkward tension that lingered for a few moments. She shook her head slightly, going back to the conversation. “Well, I’ve only been here for a few months, so I’m rather new. How are you finding life on the station?”

Aella merely smiled when she heard the other's name. Polite, always friendly, that was the Vorta way. Am'el also seemed young, too young to remember the Dominion War but to be honest the Dominion didn't care about the Romulans. They just wanted to conquer everything in their path. Not that Aella agreed with that line of thinking, her world conquering days were over! "It's very nice, people are.. Mostly friendly. I'm dating the very kind diplomat, Lieutenant Eshen K'Tann," Of course the first words out of Aella's pretty little mouth were about her boyfriend. Although she couldn't really give genuine compliments about looks, she could talk up people's personalities and skills. She couldn't see 'beauty', but she knew an attractive man when she met one. "And how about you? I didn't know there were Romulans in Starfleet, I guess you and I are kinda in the same boat, both from former Federation enemies."

“Hmm. That’s nice.” she nodded, moving about the room with the manual roomba. “I…. How do I say it? Escaped? I just ran here, and lucky enough to work in Starfleet.”

Aella watched as Am'el worked, actually in awe with the efficiency in which all of this was being done. Starfleet OPS was really something she thought with a calm smile. They were the unsung heroes of the station it seemed, doing all these little things, and interacting with civilians like her! Well, Aella didn't really consider herself a civilian, maybe on the base but in the Dominion she still held military rank. "Escaped? Oh you must tell me the story," Despite Am'el being here on official business work, by the friendly tone in Aella's voice made it sound more like they were getting ready for a girl's night. Aella loved girl's nights, by the way. She was catty and loved to gossip about people. "And I have some snacks, non replicated of course, if you'd like?" Aella offered, just trying to be polite to the nice Romulan.

“It’s… somewhat personal.” but in truth, she just felt numb about it now. It wasn’t pleasant, but not violently so. “They nearly killed me, and so I left.”

"They?" Aella raised an eyebrow, not entirely sure who this 'they' was. Even though Am'el didn't say anything about snacks, Aella went to get snacks! She wasn't hungry, Vorta didn't get hungry like other solids, but she did have a good supply of snacks that her boyfriend (and Nalas) had given her. "I won't pry, but I am curious to know who this they was and why they wanted to kill you," Aella said as she grabbed a box from her shelf that had lovely mooncakes that Nalas made! He had given her a nice sampling of (Vorta friendly) mooncakes during the mani-pedi party. "Come, Am'el try some mooncake, you can take a little break," Aella clearly did not care that Am'el was technically on duty. Starfleet was really chill and it wasn't like anyone was dying so a little snack break couldn't hurt.

“I mean- If you insist.” she stopped the vacuum and slowly walked over, making sure not to hit any wet things.

Aella set the mooncakes down on the table and cut them into quarters. "We have three flavours." Aella said as she gestured to the first mooncake. "This one is Rippleberry, and then this one is osol, and lastly this one is just normal custard," She pointed to each of the three desserts before picking up a piece of the Rippleberry one and eating it. It was pretty good, very sweet and the paste was cooked nicely into the sweet pastry. "Oh I forgot, there is sugar in them, but not the osol one, Nalas made sure it was Vulcanoid friendly," Because Nalas was also giving out these mooncakes to his Vulcanoid friends! Off screen Nalas even gifted the mooncakes to the resident Mr. Sunshine OPS officer.

“Hmm. I’ll take the osol one then. May I have a seat..?” she motioned, gesturing to where she wanted to rest. She was a bit hesitant in her speech, as it was in her nature to be suspicious of out-of-the-blue kindness. Tsk tsk, Romulans, am I right?

"Sure," Aella gestured to the open seat across from her at the table. Am'el was completely in the right to be paranoid, accepting food from a Vorta was possibly more dangerous than a fellow Romulan. With Vorta immune to most poisons even if one were to share the same meal there would be no way to tell if something was poisoned. "It's not poisoned," The flirty and lighthearted tone she used was not very convincing, but the Vorta took a small piece of the osol flavoured mooncake and popped it into her mouth. She chewed it slowly to savour the taste and swallowed. "See, perfectly safe and very yummy," Again, very strange coming from a Vorta given that the species was known to also lack a sense of taste. Metaphorically and literally.

“You are immune to poison, so that isn’t very reassuring.” she chuckled a bit, plopping a piece jnto her mouth. “What made you come to the Federation?”

Aella laughed, but watched as the Romulan ate the mooncake anyway. She was telling the truth, it was not poison at all. Nalas would never! He may have been scatterbrained, but he wasn't a killer. Anyway, Aella took a piece of the custard moon cake and nibbled it slowly. Custard had an interesting texture, very sweet. Nalas had made sure all of the mooncakes were vegan friendly so no milk or meat. "I was assigned here but the Founders," Aella explained. "I had always wanted to explore though, hmm I guess you could say I was curious about what you solids were up to," Aella spoke as if she wasn't also a solid. "You know the Dominion is also very diverse, we have species from all over the Gamma Quadrant," She explained with a proud twinkle in her eye. Sure they were all forcefully annexed but after all the conflicts, some of them had actually chosen to stay united under the Dominion. "Have you ever been to the Gamma Quadrant? It's quite nice."

“Not really, most of my life I never really travelled. Maybe I should. What is there anyways?” she perked.

Aella tilted her head, surprised that the Romulan hadn't really travelled. Well, she was an ensign so that meant she didn't have many previous postings, right? The Starfleet command structure was a bit confusing, especially when the Vorta pretty much battle royale'd their way to the top. Aella grabbed her little knife and cut the custard mooncake into even smaller pieces. The pastry was much too sweet to eat to much at once. "It's nice. The Dominion is a lot smaller than pre-war era, but we have a lot of worlds. For example we have the Karemma homeworld, very fun but I wouldn't go there alone," The frilly eared Vorta explained as her delicate fingers worked to chop the other piece of mooncake into smaller bits. Mooncakes were denser than she expected, just how many calories was this all? "The Karemma have an item called Karemma fleece, it's a favourite amongst some Vorta because of the soft texture. It costs a lot though-- wait you Starfleet officers don't use money do you?"

"Starfleet doesn't, but I have a little saved up." she continued to monch on the cakes, usually in medium-ish sizes. In typical Romulan fashion, she had only told the Vorta a half truth. "You know, just in case."

"Oh I see," Aella nodded when Am'el spoke about money. Perhaps she had forgotten when she asked Eshen about it. It was easy to forget Starfleet didn't use money since she was a civilian and thus hung around the shops a lot and she didn't actually need to eat as much as other solids. The mooncakes were pretty filling so she pushed the box closer to Am'el so she could eat the remaining osol mooncake if she wished. "Just in case? You aren't thinking of getting up and leaving any time soon do you? We are right next to Mol'Rihan, you must miss your people," Aella raised an eyebrow at that. What was she encouraging? Or was she just speculating? Who knew what a Vorta was planning. Or maybe Aella was just trying to stir the pot, definitely stir the pot, that was literally what she was created to do.

"A little, but I don't think I'll be returning to Romulan space for now." some part of her wondered though, what would have happened if she ended up in the Republic and not Starfleet? It was a question worth wondering about. Did she even want to go back? Was it too late to go back? Would the Tal Shiar find out about her actions?

Aella tried stirring the pot and the pot seemed thoroughly stirred it seemed. She twirled a thin piece of hair around her finger and leaned forward on the table. Did she get Am'el thinking about home? Just how much information could she get out of this poor officer who was just coming to fix her replicator. "Oh, why is that? I thought Romulans cared a lot about what was it... Hmm national pride?" Aella hummed softly, very interested in why Am'el had given that answer. She scooted her chair out and stood up again, walking back to her replicator that was not leaking anymore, but it was still a little wet.

"Much of that pride was misplaced. And as the humans say, pride comes before the fall." she was familiar with how Vorta's liked to speak, as they were perhaps the best smooth talkers in the entire galaxy, she was a little skeptical about the Vorta, but decided she most likely was not a large threat. So she decided to lead the Vorta on, as being vague was something she was good at.

"Well said, I have to agree," Aella replied, thinking about how the Dominion was in that position not too long ago. Even she still held some of the older beliefs when she came to the station. She didn't think the Dominion was all powerful anymore, not when they lost the War and to the Hur'Q in recent years. She wasn't going to pry for too much more information, at least not now anway. "Am'el, is the replicator alright? I see you cleaned up all the milk, but the screen is still off," Standing on the floor with her milk-soaked socks was not very comfortable so she took them off and looked at Am'el. If the replicator was working she would just toss her socks into it to recycle them.

"It is, but you know how LCARS updates." Lately, LCARS downloads on the station had been slow, but it was an issue that hopefully, would be fixed soon.

"Oh I guess I'll wait," This never happened in the Dominion! Well, Dominion starships and even bases didn't exactly have many amenities to boast about. There was no promenade or fancy replicators in quarters, they didn't even get comfy beds since Jem'hadar did not need to sleep before the reforms with the White. Aella walked back over to the table and grabbed another piece of mooncake, this time the Rippleberry flavour. "Anyway, thanks for helping me. You can take the rest of the osol flavour, I don't really like that one," Aella wasn't sure if Am'el had requested mooncakes from Nalas, but it was the least she could give to the kind officer.

“No worries, it’s what Starfleet does right?” she smiled a little, continuing to eat the mooncakes.

"Yes , you have been very accomodating and kind towards us civilians," Aella shot Am'el her charming Vorta smile. Pearly white teeth contrasted with her naturally pink lips. She stood up again to go see if the replicator display was functional again. Thankfully it was! Now she could replicate that soy milk that Nalas had recommended her. "I will make sure to put in a good review for you," She told Am'el as if there was a way for civilians to rate experiences with Starfleet officers. Well, at the very least she would tell her boyfriend who may pass it on to whoever was in charge of OPS. "Also enjoy the mooncakes!"

After what was definitely a few weeks of hard and focused work, Aella had free time again! The Founders were pretty happy with her work and in particular Founder Kronos told Aella she should maybe try opening a blog or something. Not just as an example for other Vorta, but also to show everyone across the galaxy how much independence a Vorta could have! She'd never disobey a god so Aella wore her most stylish outfit (clothes chosen by Eshen so matching wasn't an issue) and headed out the door!