Star Trek: Starbase 777 - buffet-tables

The buffet tables have a variety of finger foods, like tiny sandwiches and cookies. There is, of course, tea available, as well as plenty of other non-alcoholic drinks.

The princess-on-crack, as Noid called her in the past, indeed, had never had crack in her life - still, she didn't conduct herself as she usually behaved, she was much calmer, and more aware of her behaviors and how they affected others. She gave a polite smile and a nod to anyone she noticed, before she approached the buffet tables. Ooooh! Melody saw so many of the sugary cookies there, and the tiny sandwiches, she noticed herself getting excited evident by the energy that filled her body again - and then remembered, oh yeah, calm today. Melody used napkins to pick up the food she wanted and place them on a plate from the nearby stack. To start off she kept things real simple, just a few little cookies. Nothing too fancy yet. Operative word yet. Still, it was nice to be calm, it was nice to be just hanging out, seeing others around having fun. Maybe she'd see someone she recognized!

Still very uncomfortable in his formal wear, Vara'l strode into the buffet tables area and almost walked straight into another person. Once he'd politely apologised, gotten over the initial 'okay thats a lot of people in a social situation' hesitation and looked about it a bit, he'd then smiled and started over toward Melody. He then waved once close enough and maintained the smile as he greeted her. "Hello Melody, saw you and wanted to pop over to say hi, how are you doing?" Clad in a warm blue suit paired with black trousers and slightly greyed leather boots decorated with embroidered vines and the House Hara symbol. One accompanied by the indicator he was guardian to a member of House Cora on the back of his left shoulder, it may also be noted that Vara'l did actually do his hair up a bit nicer than usual before he headed to the event. This done with Elohae's help. His hair, instead of his usual very simple ponytail, having been worked through some simple metal vine work decorations and placed into a slightly bit less rough and ready pony tail. While he had elected to make the effort to get dressed up for this, it might be apparent to someone who happened to know him a bit that he looked... uncomfortable about how fancy in his eyes he presently looked.

Melody did keep her eyes sharp, even though she ate through one of the cookies on her plate. So she did see this Romulan xB man approaching her, one who she didn't recognize at first, but as soon as he used her name, Melody started to put the pieces together in her mind. "Good day, sir! Lieutenant Commander tr'Hara, is it? I don't think we've formally met in person until now! It's a privilege to finally make your acquaintance!" As she gave him a slight curtsy out of respect for who she assumed was Alyssa's boss. Alyssa had talked of her commanding officer being a Romulan xB just in passing, and they had communicated over the chatroom before with Vara'l, so Melody was able to identify that this was the man from the chatroom. "Well, sir, I'm doing pretty good! This party is putting me in a good mood, I'm eager to see where it goes from here. Alyssa's also taken good care of me, I can't thank her enough for that. She's changed a lot since I met her, for the better. How about yourself, sir? How are you?" And throughout the whole interaction, Melody stayed calm and collected.

Four followed after Vara'l. They had the same instinct when so many others came in. Four did also feel more comfortable around others like them. They noticed the other Borg implants, and wondered if they felt similarly to themselves. So, Four came close behind and stood at at attention. They waited for a good moment to speak, and that typically came from when they were spoken to. Four also noted the other Romulans houses. They were different from their own, and they didn't know much of other houses. So, they didn't call attention to themselves as to save any potential conflict. Their golden eyes had no light behind them. Their face was expressionless and calm. Many felt the dread of a machine in skin when looking toward them. As if no soul was within. Four wore a sort of monk style suit. With multiple woven layers and hand wraps that went from their forearms to their hands. The chest area of the having multiple lines of interwoven fabric. As well as a leather worked belt that held everything together, and dangling down from the cross pattern was a set of tassels. Their pants and boots being pressed or shined respectively. The traditional Khellian symbol emblazoned on the enter of the chest piece as they fully stepped into the room. Their posture was straight and strict. Their shoulders held back, their chin up, and their hair kept in it's usual swoop, however with some green and gold beads laced into the hair.

Melody saw this other new person approaching, and also turned to curtsy towards them with a polite, princess-like smile. The rhinestones on her corset shone in the bright sunlight as she did so. "Hello friend," Melody said, once again, keeping herself composed. "Thank you for joining us!" Melody noticed the Borg implants on the face of this new person. "Are you Lieutenant Commander tr'Hara's child?" Before she realized-- "oh wait--- I didn't mean---"

"It is indeed, I..don't think we have either though I'm not entirely sure.." He frowned a bit thoughtfully before he affected a bow of his own to her. "On the assumption we've not met previously, its a pleasure to make your acquaintance also, Melody." He said then before, when she started to speak again and indicated she was in a good mood and such, he smiled more. He was very pleased to hear that, it was nice to know that someone who was near and dear to the heart of someone he'd talked to more than once was doing well. "I'm happy to hear that and well, I'm doing well, less paperwork to deal with now a new CTO has arrived." The Romulan responded as he continued to smile and moved slightly to retrieve a plate as his stomach softly informed him he'd not eaten since breakfast before he'd started his shift earlier in the day. "It's made for a bit less stress, though I've yet to meet my new boss." When Melody then proceeded to speak again and Vara'l twitched in realization he'd been followed all the way to the tables, Vara'l glanced to the new person. Then, when Melody said what they said, he turned back and smiled a bit. "It's okay, they're not my child, my eldest's currently with the Romulan Republic Navy on deployment.." He then looked to the other Romulan. "Jolan Tru, its good to meet you, I'm Lieutenant Commander Vara'l tr'Hara the ACTO." The Romulan decided against querying why they'd silently followed him the whole way.

Four stood silently as they noticed Melody speak to them. They called us...friend. Have we met previously? Four wondered if their memory banks had been corrupted by the McAfee virus incident. Four bowed deeply at the curtsy from Melody. Before they mechanically stood straight back up. They tilted their head and wondered for a moment. "Our parentage is irrelevant, and while we may have an answer, apparently it was given by an untrustworthy source. Until a certain percentage of accuracy can be attained, then it is deemed false." Four said with their rough and almost metallic voice. Four then turned to Vara'l. Their face did not change. No emotion could be seen and no muscles were tensed. Their eyes barely even open as they were raised about half way to reveal their golden irises. "Jolan Tru, Lieutenant Commander Vara'l tr'Hara the ACTO. We are Lieutenant Junior-Grade Four of Ten. We recently arrived on the station through the exchange officer program holding the position of Squadron Pilot." They salute as their arm quickly gets into position. Waiting for an at ease or some other form of dismissal. (edited)

Melody found herself tensing up. She didn't want to make a bad impression in front of Vara'l nor her new acquaintance Four, so she had to be very careful about how she spoke around them, so she could make a good impression. Melody didn't really know a ton about the Borg, only a bit of the knowledge that Alyssa had previously told her. Regardless, Melody continued to approach this interaction with the utmost respect and courtesy. "Ah, excuse me, sir, I shouldn't have assumed," Melody replied. "I hope your eldest is doing alright. I am praying for him and his safety." Before she looked over at Four. "Four of Ten! That's a nice name. It's very good to meet you as well! I'm Princess-- well, not really a princess, but right now I like to pretend I'm a princess -- Melody Marshall, the singing baker. You're a tactical officer under Lieutenant Commander tr'Hara? And you're a squadron pilot?" Melody was focusing on multiple things during the interaction, like how she needed to conduct herself appropriately. This was rare for her. Seeing her this calm and this composed was rare.* "Well, I'm glad you joined us here, Four of Ten! I hope you're liking the station and your division so far! I've only heard good things from my girlfriend about Lieutenant Commander tr'Hara here." *She said with a kind smile pointed at Vara'l.

"Its alright and well, last message I got from him he indicated he was doing alright." The Romulan informed them then before he huffed softly. "..Though they did say they'd accepted a combat posting." He then smiled slightly. "I appreciate your kind words, Ms Marshal as I'm sure my Eldest will be.." He then looked to Four of Ten as he listened to what they had to say. "Its good to meet you Lieutenant Four of Ten, to clarify, my rank is Lieutenant Commander, I hold the position of Assistant Chief Tactical officer on this station." Vara'l returned the smile from Melody with one of his own then as he noticed Four of Tens posture he turned to them and returned his salute as he said. "Lieutenant, you may stand at ease." He paused then before he added.. "I'm currently off duty by the way, Lieutenant, you don't need to assume at attention in conversation with me."

Four bowed to Melody as they listened to their words. They nodded and waited for the right moment to respond. "We are a Tactical Officer and under the purview of Lieutenant Commander tr'Hara's command, as well as a Fighter Pilot, yes. We have registered your name, Melody. We shall not forget it. We find this station to be as we expected. We have scanned the schematics and have found evidence of the existence of the purported positive aspects of this station." Four didn't have much emotion tied to their time here, or rather anything. But, that was as ringing of an endorsement as you were probably going to get. Four nodded as they heard the clarification. They then registered the request. They quietly thought to themselves about how best to respond. Vara'l seemed a bit hesitant. They didn't seem to wish to embody perfection. Four adjusted their response as their eyepiece zoomed in and out. A physical reminder of the linked computer systems that all ran in sync. "Thank you for your clarification, sir. We have noted the adjusted name within our databanks and will communicate with your proper title moving forward." Upon hearing both of the statements, Four lowered their arm. Although, when they heard that they don't need to assume at attention, Four looked confused. Almost baffled. Their posture didn't change as well. "We are as well, Lieutenant Commander, however, we will stand at attention when available for comfortability as well as in case of a misinterpretation of social conventions. Unless we are ordered to do otherwise, sir. It is only appropriate to pay due respect to superiors, especially those with whom we share ties." Four said as diplomatically as possible. They were proud of their time as a Borg. They found it comforting, and in many cases tried their best to implement life around them as though it were when they were a Borg. It has helped them slowly acclimate to the different environments they go to. Even if some find it odd. (edited)

"Happy to be of assistance." The Romulan responded then as he watched Four of Ten with interest. When they then proceeded to speak to him. Spoke in a manner he remembered so very clearly, he'd once spoken like that himself back when he'd just been freed from the collective. Back in a past he somewhat disliked these days. "Very well, Lieutenant." He responded calmly then before he added. "I can understand taking that approach to it, I certainly did so myself when I was first acclimating to returning to being a member of a collective of individuals" He continued then as he maintained a calm tone and idly adjusted his position so food could be reached if any of the trio ended up wanting food. "Rather than ah, a drone within a collective consciousness." His jaw worked a bit at that, while part of him was and remained..Borg he was still more than the drone he'd used to be. His personality had solidified further, he was neither 3 of 10 or Vara'l tr'Hara of IRW Arrenhe of the Imperial navy. He was him, the Vara'l who'd survived all of that. "Leading on from what you've said about the station already, if you don't mind my asking, how are you finding the Tactical division so far, are you adapting well to the new environment?" He inquired then simply as he moved and acquired a plate and some food for himself then.

Four nodded at the statement of assistance. They kept their stance at attention and their eyes fixated on Vara'l. Almost confused of their demeanor. They felt...almost sad for them. But Four knew many didn't wish to become what Four had always been. Even if Four has still never understood. "We found that it has been useful in fostering our survival, sir. As well as not be offensive to others who have strong opinions about rank, Lieutenant Commander." Four couldn't help but think about their upbringing as a Borg. They didn't need food or drink, but the wide and seemingly eager smile from Melody and their commanding officer taking food finally won them over. They slowly reach out and take a plate. They added a singular pastry onto the plate. Wanting to use their extraction tubules when it felt right, as to not make either of them uncomfortable. It was one of the protocols set by their matriarch when they learned about social encounters. As typically Four felt as though it were irrelevant if anyone were to be put off by them. "We have been adapting, yes sir. We have downloaded the stations schematic, practiced with phaser weaponry, and have gotten a sense for our new duties. Along with of course meeting others in our division. It has been nothing unlike our previous postings as of yet. Besides everyone making bright facial expressions most of the time, or some noises of...from what we understand, joy. In any case, we have adapted as we had projected, Lieutenant Commander." Four then when either of them take a bite. Slowly allow for their extraction tubules to insert into the pastry. Taking in the nutrients before the pastry slowly withered into nothing. Then they waited for a response. Four wondered how best to approach the subject of their potentially shared past. But they required more data, so they waited. (edited)

"That's entirely fair, I can't speak to the new CTO's opinion on the matter but." He paused a moment before he continued. "I'm fine with deferring to the preferences other others in the conversation unless there's an element of a conversation that happens to involve work related subjects." He trailed off for a moment there as he grabbed a bit more food for himself and then started to take a bit of something, a pastry he'd alighted upon that looked interesting and happened to be quite different to what he'd encountered previously. When they then assured him they'd been adapting and proceeded on to speak as they did, a thought struck him, one that resulted partly due to his observations of how the Lieutenant had acted so far. This person had been Borg for far longer than he'd happened to have been. Hell, with how they acted, he reckoned they seemed remarkably like someone who'd been assimilated quite young. "It's good to hear that you've been adapting to the stations layout and such, Lieutenant." He started before he then moved on to address what they'd proceeded to say about facial expressions. "As to the emotions and such thing, the emotional aspects of individuality can make for an.. interesting additional thing to consider when moving from one posting and integrating with a new collective of individuals, its good to here your adaptation is proceeding as you projected." He then paused a moment. "If that changes or anything comes to mind as to ways I may be able to assist you as you integrate and adapt, please feel free to send me a message." Vara'ls silver eyes fixed briefly on the other's action as they proceeded to take nutrients from the pastry in a manner that had certainly not been expected. When he'd still relied wholly on regeneration, he'd just regenerated and not touched food. He didn't otherwise comment on it as his gaze instead returned to fix on the others eyes as he continued to eat. "

"We shall continue to adhere to protocol and standard issued orders until such time we have been countermanded, Lieutenant Commander. If you wish for us to adhere to personal preference we would be able to accommodate you, sir. All we need is an order. We prefer explicit instructions to minimize possibilities of failure." Four then tapped behind their ear as they connect to one of their sensory nodes. "Personal Log, initiate Star Date chronometer protocol, social protocols may need addendums to certain dispositions. Begin allocating processing power towards determination of at least six different social templates. End log." Four then lets go of the node behind their ear. Settling back into attention. "We will make sure to speak with you if we ever feel that we are falling behind our projections. We will add you to the list of those knowledgeable regarding integration and adaptation, sir. Unless of course you do not wish to be on our personal list. We would then remember this conversation and would set an appropriate time to meet and communicate with you regarding topics that you have offered your guidance on." Four's extraction tubules slowly retracted as they put down their plate. It felt strange taking in nutrients they didn't need, but perhaps they could be put to use for overclocking their processors to generate social protocols. The surplus energy quickly gets flowed to their computational processors and Four takes a breath. Four's eyes fully focus on Vara'ls. "You...have a son?" Four asked. Attempting to make some light conversation with the only other data they had that wouldn't be uncomfortable.

"I understand that." The Romulan responded then as he watched the Liberated Borg, listened to them and considered what they said, how they said it. Considered everything they said. Idly noted as he considered these things that he'd just been treated to more proof this person had been brought up Borg. Everything they said resonated with that part of him, of this personality that had instantiated itself after his liberation, covered the holes that the Borg had left in his memory. He remained not entirely sure how he happened to feel about that. "Given the situation, you're welcome to continue to treat this like a professional setting with me if you'd like, though as I'm not here on duty I most likely wont be giving any orders." He paused for a moment then as he indulged in another bite of food. When the other then said what they said about their adaptation and the like, Vara'l then nodded once. He then smiled slightly at their query. "As the offer was made in my capacity as the ACTO, it'd be better if contact was undertaken on a professional basis at present." He'd responded then before he'd taken another bite of his food. Then..she asked him about his son, Vara'l watched her a moment and..considered things in the split second before he then proceeded to speak. "Yes, I have two sons, one biological and one adopted." He responded. "Tha'ron tr'Hara my eldest and Telim tr'Cora, my youngest son who I adopted, my Eldest is presently on deployment with the Republic fleet."

"We have logged your understanding, Lieutenant Commander." Four said simply as they continued to stand idly. Four noticed some similar mannerisms from Vara'l, but they were buried. Deep down as if they were consciously hidden. Four tried their best to not stare too intently. However it became rather apparent that Four didn't blink and they weren't looking away from Vara'l anytime soon. "Acknowledged, we shall continue under professional parameters. We will continue to update our social parameters. With time there perhaps can be an outline for social and interpersonal encounters that can potentially mimic effectively for ease of mind. In any case where we are unsure, we can always fallback on our matriarch's primary protocols." Four says calmly before nodding at the clarification. "Acknowledged, we will make sure to ask when we are on a professional basis with you, Lieutenant Commander. We shall use this as a baseline due to our current circumstances being professional." Four then saw a split second of consideration. They logged this. Before they listened to what their CO said. "We have considered adoption ourselves due to it being in line with both traditions that are prominent in our lives. As well, we do not have the capacity to carry or bear children. When this exchange program is done, and if your eldest son is still on deployment with the Republic fleet, we may encounter him. We will remember the name, and make sure if when we return to the Republic fleet that if we are together, we wouldn't mind passing anything along. Or perhaps doing favors for you, sir." Four had been taught by the Khellians to always offer support or connections. Apparently they could be used later, for what Four didn't know. They weren't very good at it, but these social engagements seemed like the right time to at least try and improve. "In any case, we are open and at your service, sir."

"Understood." Vara'l responded as he returned stare with stare/a watchful gaze of his own. Silver eyes impassive, a mask for whatever emotions were harboured behind them. Those emotions muted by steel hard control forged through his time in the collective and everything he'd been subjected to before and after that. Everything remember of that time before that at least. "That is a good approach to it, I'm informed that Matriarch Khellian's is both quite a good officer and a very formidable Matriarch." When they then said about asking him when they were on a professional basis with him, Vara'l nodded once. "As you wish, though I'd put forward that it is this specific circumstance, namely the conversation in which we're both engaged which is professional." He observed then before the conversation shifted a bit more toward children again and he listened once more. "Adoption is a fine thing, I adopted Telim after a period as just as his guardian and then as a godparent and foster following his mothers falling ill and her eventual death.." He paused a bit as emotion briefly gasped into being as it broke past the icy cap he maintained over that unpleasant well of emotion that normally raged impotently against the cap he maintained over it before the cap was restored. Before his face returned to its mask like state, grief pushed down, surpressed. "I.. appreciate your kind offer Lieutenant, I cant speak as to what his posting may well be by that time, I wouldn't want to presume upon your time like that though I thank you all the same." The Romulan then affected another small smile at the offer of Favours. "On the favours front, I'd have to respectfully decline also, given my position it'd not be appropriate for me to accept said offer." He paused a moment then added with a soft smile. "Both offers, in the spirit in which they were offered, are appreciated though."

Four nodded and continued to return the stare. It was oddly comforting for them. To have a similar person to bounce off of. To feel as though they weren't alone, and to see that the collective still was around. The many different members, both who were disconnected or not, were thriving. Four then heard the comment about their matriarch. They nodded. "They are. Matriarch Khellian saved our life and has taught us much. They are indispensable, and we owe them more than we can ever give. What we can offer, will hopefully be worthy." Four recognizes the distinction, and nods. "Acknowledged, adjusting parameters to include distinction between conversations and settings. As the two can seemingly be different styles of address depending on engagement and point of interaction." Four notices the emotion that appears on their superior officer's face. They nod softly. Death is irrelevant, or...it was. Four understood the grief that flickered there. However, they didn't show it. That was for the four, and them only. "We understand. We will endeavor to adopt when it is practical and we are in stable condition as well as working order. We accept your thanks, and will continue to hold the offer open. In case any of the predicating negatives end. We also acknowledge your appreciation, and it is noted." Four then turned their head and noticed their Matriarch enter the room. They stood silently and took a deep breath. A look of almost reverence entered their eyes. They turned back and looked to their Lieutenant Commander and Melody. Staying silent for the time being as they processed all the information they were receiving. Four knew that they had to eventually speak with their Matriarch. They were rather unsure about a recent message they received, and Rilek was always enlightening in the short time they spoke with Four. At least in Four's view.

Rilek strolled into the buffet tables area, taking long strides as she appeared to almost be floating past the others enjoying their meals. Her yellow eyes caught sight of another member of their house -- Four. The liberated Borg Khellian they had assisted back on Mol'Rihan. They gripped the sides of their dress to lift it as they walked since they were wearing flat shoes, the dress would drag on the ground if they didn't it up. Being a white dress, it was easily dirtied. Rilek approached Four who was speaking with the ACTO, Vara'l tr'Hara. Rilek was briefly acquainted with the man, but overall didn't consider their relationship to be much more than coworkers or perhaps friendly acquaintances. "Jolan tru, Four, Vara'l and.." Rilek looked towards the singing baker, not quite sure what her name was. She knew her face because she always heard or saw the civilian singing in her shop, but nothing more than that. "The baker from the commercial ring. I apology, your name escapes me at this moment," Rilek said, bowing her head slightly. "It is good to see you making friends here," Rilek addressed Four, delightfully surprised to see their fellow Khellian seemed to be taking to the new posting on the station with ease. It was hard to make friends at a new posting, at least for Rilek they felt that way.

Four turned and noticed Rilek walking over to them. They adjusted their beads in their hair, along with checking all of their clothes. Their own yellow eyes turning to meet Rilek's. Four knelt down once Rilek introduced themselves. They lowered their head and responded, "Jolan tru, Matriarch, we are honored to be within your presence once again, and are able to be at your service whenever asked." Four was always so seemingly eager to please or serve. To seek out purpose from a superior. It made sense due to their experiences, but it could get exhausting at times for those under their unrelenting focus. Four then stood up quickly as if they had done nothing out of the ordinary. They quietly listened to the next sentence, and seemed confused. Melody had also stated they were friends before even meeting them. Perhaps others held a different definition for friendship than Four did, or held a difference in requirements to attain such a title. "We are unaware that we were making friends. However, we will continue to follow social protocols three and five. As well as update their addendums and base settings regularly for optimal results. If you wish for us to gain friendships, we will endeavor to attempt to do so." Four then wondered for a moment and attempted to continue to conversation as they had been taught. "Matriarch, may we posit a query about betrothal? We have recently been made aware of the term and its purported link to Romulan culture but we have no knowledge of the term." (edited)

Rilek blinked quickly for a few seconds and then remembered this was just what They Did™️. Being respected as the matriarch was certainly appreciated, but they were in Federation space and on the starbase, they were just another officer. Right when Rilek was about to kneel down with Four, they stood up. "Please, Four, I would like to be seen as your equal whilst we are here on the base," They instructed, clicking their fingerguards as they flicked some hair from their face. There was a reason Rilek went by the name 'Rilek Khellian', opting to use a nahi alias/lit. false name and drop their surname prefix; it was to focus on their duties as a Starfleet officer. Their dreams of serving as senator in the Republic were still in their mind and they knew that to become a senator, one needed to have a respectable career. Sure, there were younger senators with little to no experience, but Rilek knew as a Khellian, she'd need to have proven herself as the Khellians did not have the best historical reputation. "You do not need my permission to make friends and.." Rilek paused for a moment and glanced at Vara'l and the baker. "I would like to avoid any talk about politics here, if that would be alright," Rilek said, her face not revealing her inner discomfort at the idea of a betrothal or any sort of arranged marriage. The Khellians, like many other houses, did have a history of practicing arranged marriages. Rilek had particularly bad luck with her betrothed, hence the discomfort. "This is a banquet so.. Would you like to eat anything, Four? Or drink? I was thinking of seeing if they had jumbo mollusks," Rilek said, pointing a long finger towards the banquet tables to the side filled with food.

Four nodded and changed their social protocols regarding the matriarch. Switching from one to four and using addendums seven and thirteen. Four nods and returns their silent and expressionless gaze towards Rilek. "Of course, we have adjusted parameters to facilitate the current social climate that we wish to foster. If there are any further addendums you wish to present and be logged, we will be ready and able to do so." Four then stood idly. Adjusting their protocols ever so slightly so that they would be able to converse correctly and within the bounds set. They had no intentions of being improper, however the turn around time could take a moment. Four wasn't the most social and while adaptable wasn't one to change. At least on most of their base programming and early experiences. Four then tilted their head. "Yes, we agree, however we have no need for such processes. Optimal cooperation and efficiency typically arises far earlier and after multiple encounters of a non-commiserating nature." Four then hears that betrothal is a political term. "Of course, we were unaware it was political. We shall refrain from such topics." Four then looked over to the banquet and shook their head. Although they pointed towards the seafood section of the table. "We do not require food nor drink. We recently regenerated before the party, so we are perfectly fulfilled in terms of energy production and stores." Four didn't really answer the question, but it wasn't on purpose. They seemed to not be able to understand the difference between doing something for pleasure or doing something for necessity. Though, in Four's mind, pleasure was already a foreign and unknown concept.

Rilek nodded in response to Four's acknowledgment. They shouldn't have been surprised the other was taking this as some order, it wasn't but she didn't think Four knew the difference. Anyway, it would make things less awkward to not be bowed to and addressed like a royalty or something. Rilek was serving Starfleet to prove to her family that Khellians could leave tradition behind and adapt to a more modern environment. "I appreciate it, Four. And i do think you should explore your individuality. You are a member of our house, but you are also your own person," Rilek reminded them with a very subtle smile. Rilek, believe it or not, was a Surak follower. They were only an eighth Vulcan, but they took it seriously as it was something that affected their brain. They had a Vulcan brain, but a Romulan body, essentially. Rilek let go of her dress and smoother out some of the wrinkles. "I am going to find some mollusks, I will be back," Rilek told Four before going off to do just that. It only took a couple minutes before Rilek was back with the group with some simple sugar biscuits and a glass of iced rose tea. "Back. Anyway, how are you finding the station so far, Four? It is very beautiful," Rilek said and then sipped her tea.

Four returns the nod. They were slowly beginning to understand the difference of how Rilek wished to be treated and how the other Khellians wished to be treated. Four had been taught to be far more subservient with their interactions initially with D'nal at the Borg Reclamation Project. They still kept most of those data sets as the primaries, or at least supplementals for certain family members. Almost all of them had entirely been overwritten for Rilek. When they heard that they should explore their individuality, and they were their own person, Four tensed. They didn't truly believe in such ideals, and they didn't wish to. They clung to their past, and saw that type of exploration as an erasure of their self. So, Four came up with some form of vague jargon. Hoping to make some long term excuse. "We will begin to set up extraneous data collection protocols to potentially discover and grow our understanding in the purview of individuality and self identity." Four didn't notice the smile, and watched as Rilek went off to get some mollusks. They silently wondered to themselves if it would be smart to disobey their matriarch. She seemed almost all knowing at times. However, they did state on the station they were equals. Perhaps protocol adherence needed to be adjusted by setting for a wider selection of people besides superior officers. Four decided to contemplate such measures among the other synaptic relays. They needed to run plenty of programs in order to even begin to make a decision outside their created bounds. Four noticed Rilek come back and they nod. "We typically find the station through our internal processors. We downloaded an entire schematic into our databanks to better facilitate quick response times and ease of traversal. It is currently in a labeled folder called, 'Federation Starbase 777: Full Structural Schematic'." Four replied. (edited)

Rilek knew that integration into society was the hardest part of liberated borg. Moreso than the numerous surgeries needed to remove implants. They were an extremely patient person and didn't mind Four's awkwardness when it came to socialisation. They only hoped that Four would be able to learn and adapt to Starfleet culture and blossom into their own person. At the response to their question, Rilek almost laughed. Instead though, she shook her head and lowered her glass. "I meant more, what are your impressions of the people and lifestyle on the station?" They said, being more specific with their question. Rilek couldn't help but see her younger self in Four. The former drone shared a lot of similarities to junior officer Rilek. They were unwaveringly loyal to their job and who they deemed their 'people'. It was admirable, but Rilek did wish they could relax. Rilek also struggled to 'take it easy', so they understood why Four was the way they were. After all, in a way, they were both raised by D'Nal who was... extremely strict. "You can pause a little between words, I do not demand answers immediately," They reminded Four, hoping that the former drone could see this interaction as a casual chat and not some sort of official dialogue between Khellians.

Four continued to listen and to the questions as they began to formulate answers. Four wondered how they truly felt about this odd Starbase. They hadn't been here long. Merely just enough time to drop off their things. Then go about their duties. Four finally came up with some answer. Although they truly felt as though this posting hasn't been all too different from previous ones, Borg postings aside. "We have found that many interactions with other members of the Starbase are quite different to our accustomed data sets. It is a rather odd phenomena. We also have had no change in lifestyle as of arrival. There does seem to be a wider selection of varied interest activity for those that wish to engage in such things. However, we have not found the time to entertain such things besides this gathering. Which has fallen under efficiency building with fellow officers." Four hears that they can pause between words. They tilt their head slightly and nod. Although don't seem to understand. Once the answer was determined should they not immediately respond? Four began to wonder if this was another social convention. "We understand. We just have formulated our answers quickly. Do you wish for a response lag time? We can log it within your addendum files to better facilitate conversations with you." Four calmly stated as they stood ready to receive any further answer or further query from the others around them.

Vara'l inclined his head in understanding of Fours words. "We-I've not had much more than a few passing encounters with them." He paused a moment then before he then continued. "But they have seemed and from what you've said sound like they are quite the respectable and deeply moral person." He observed before, when they recognized the distinction he'd outlined and made the other observation, he nodded once more. "Aye, they can." The Romulan smiled a bit when the other proceeded to say what they said about adoption. Smiled a quite honest and sincere smile at all they said. "I can certainly respect that.. and well, thank you for that and your understanding of my current stance in that matter and why its currently the stance I hold." He responded appreciatively before, when the Khellian Matriarch entered the room, he stepped away a bit and preformed a proper bow for when one encountered another Houses Matriarch in a situation like this one. "Jolan Tru." He'd proceeded to say then in greeting. "I'll leave you both to converse in a bit more privacy." He'd then said before he'd departed and left them to their conversation after greetings had been exchanged. Vara'l then moved off a bit then as he went and filled his plate some and started to eat more, addressed his hunger and appetite that he'd fostered over the course of the conversation. (edited)

"There are a lot of activities available so I hope that you will explore some new hobbies," Rilek said right before biting into one of the biscuits and chewing slowly. Her eyes widened slightly when Four proposed adding in a lag to their programming, promptin Rilek to put the biscuit down and take a deep breath. Four was like this on Mol'Rihan too, however Rilek had hoped that the former drone would have broadened their horizons a bit more in the time they had been apart. She shook her head and responded, "I am not saying that as an order. I am speaking as... a friend," Rilek felt odd saying that word, to one of her family members no less. Rilek had grown up in a very traditionalist way where family was strictly family. There was no such thing as friendships or true alliances within the Khellian house. Everyone was secretly scheming or plotting, whether it was to annex other houses or to have the upper hand with their rivals in the family. But Rilek was serious. She wanted Four to be her friend, not just a relative or someone who was nice to her because they had to be to fulfill some sort of fillial piety role. "Please, Four," Rilek began to say before the ACTO spoke up to greet her. "Jolan tru, Vara'l," Rilek looked towards him and was about to tell him he didn't have to leave, but by the time she had opened her mouth, the tactical officer had already existed the conversation and seemed to be making his way to the food tables. "Well, he will be back," Rilek grabbed her biscuit again and ate it slowly. She had put her drink down on the table at this point and was just munching away at the crumbly biscuit. "Anyway, Four, your choice of outfit today is good. What was your inspiration? I especially like the leather and tassles, very on style for this party."

Vara'l filled up his plate a bit and once a bit more time had passed and the conversation seemed to be a bit less private Vara'l sidled back over toward Mels and the two Khellians. As he did so, he smiled a tad at Melody again and settled in somewhere close to eat more food. Eat more food and wait for a opening to engage in further conversation again if he was so minded to, whenever a opening arrived.

"We have cataloged all of the activities on the station as they pertain to entertainment and potential comiseration opportunities between fellow officers." Four noticed that Rilek had stopped eating. They tilted their head as their eyepiece focused into the biscuit. Perhaps it had some sort of mold? It did not seem like it. Besides, Melody's apparent skills with baking and the nutritional value of their pastry which was added and processed was quite good. It's improbable to assume there is anything wrong with the biscuit. Four then turned and noticed the shake of her head. They nod. Although, they heard the word friend again. These things were always so odd. Four knew that connection was irrelevant unless it was in terms of efficiencies or performance. Even if they still had connections with their synaptic relays. However, they always had thought of such actions in terms of continued fostering of the collective. Even if...deep down they knew that wasn't it. "Acknowledged, we understand that it is not an order. We only wished to offer a more beneficial experience to the conversational exchange due to the statement given forth prior. We shall continue to adjust certain protocols to allow for a more comfortable engagement. If you have any further addendums, we are always open to log them." Four bowed towards Vara'l as he stepped away. They then nod in response to Rilek's statement. "It does stand to reason." Four then heard the statement and the question. They look down at their outfit with an expressionless look before again doing their typical nod of acknowledgement. Even if it was a bit overexaggerated. "We compiled an outfit after analyzing a vast swath of traditional Romulan plays renditioning mythological events. Specifically, the costumes themselves. We chose the most seemingly significant parts of each piece and attempted to seamlessly combine them. This is informative. We shall save our previous protocols for future engagements due to their success." (edited)

Whoever planned this tea party clearly had had people's interests down pat - the spread at the buffet tables was huge and honestly, Maran had half the mind to sample from all of it. Like, wow, okay, that's a ton of dishes that looked so incredibly good even his mouth began to water. Nonetheless, though, he filled his plate and waddled over to his head of department and his party. No, seriously, these boots were tight.* "The food here is excellent." *He commented, biting into a little piece of pink-colored cake that tasted exactly like... peaches. Go figure with this guy's tastes in food, huh? (edited)

Vara'l smiled a bit at Four and the Matriarch, bowed to both again then looked to Maran'agar and smiled some more. "It is indeed, its quite something though I'd love to find some hot source for one or two of the things, to add to it further." The Romulan responded before he then glanced to Melody and said. "If I may ask, Ms Marshal, am I right in remembering that Alyssa..and yourself, said you're a baker?"

Just like a Disney princess, at least from the outside, Melody was so adept to daydreaming and entering a state in which she just existed and focused on whatever. In reality, she hyperfixated on the food and her mind naturally focused on whatever she found interesting. It wasn't bad, of course, hyperfixations weren't bad unless they were unhealthy and/or harmful to herself or others. But that did mean when Vara'l addressed her again, Melody didn't expect it, and she nearly jumped out of her skin, her poofy dress poofed out a bit as she came back to reality. She didn't make an audible noise as her body jolted but it was evident that she had the shit scared out of her. After a moment, though, she spoke again. "Sorry, sir, and everyone else here who I was talking to, I was distracted. Oopsie!-- Er, I mean..." Noticing she was slipping back into her old, informal way of speaking. "Please excuse my behavior, sir and everyone else, I lost focus unintentionally." Before she remembered what Vara'l was trying to say to her. "Yes, sir, I'm a baker! And most recently, in case you haven't seen, a candy bar maker as well, but I specialize in baking. Cakes, cookies, scones, pastries, the like." She tried not to talk too much, as she noticed she'd get into rambling sessions, and didn't want to overwhelm Vara'l or anyone else. Then she noticed Maran! "Oh! Hello, friend! I didn't happen to see you there!" (edited)

A usually utterly impassive face only briefly disrupted by occasional smiles was, when Melody jolted like that and apologised split by a warmer smile than he usually managed. A smile that at least in some ways managed to convey understanding as he responded to them. "Its totally alright, I can understand that I ask as I've been thinking about popping in to what I believe is your bakery, looking for a congratularatory cake for Telim." He paused a tad then before his smile proceeded to grow a bit. "..I also ask as I'm not entirely sure what this small cake is." He chuckled sheepishly as he proceeded to then indicate a very small variant of a eclair. He'd then turned to Maran. "You've tried the pink coloured small cake thing?" He asked then. "May I..ask as to how you found it, was debating trying one myself."

Melody assumed her semi-regal posture as she listened to Vara'l again, nodding occasionally. Well, this didn't seem too difficult! "Well, sir, it seems like you've been thinking about popping into the right place! I can certainly make a congratulatory cake for Telim, no problem! I can make it whatever shape or size you're looking for, even outside of cylinder or rectangular cakes, custom shapes are always an option too!" Before Vara'l held up the eclair, and Melody noticed what it was immediately. "Oh! That is an eclair." Before she had the urge to infodump, but decided to condense it as much as she could. "It's a pastry that originated on Earth in the country of France. It's made of choux dough and usually filled with a custard or other creme. I have a bunch of those at my bakery!"

"Brilliant." He smiled then at what she initially informed him of. "Then I'll certainly pop in later on this week and order that cake." He responded before, when she informed him about what a Eclair was, he looked at it and scrutinised it closely. "That does sound rather interesting, I do wonder why they'd be so..small." He experimentally indulged in a bite of it. "Hm, it seems quite nice, I may have to buy one when I pop in to your bakery."

Melody continued to conduct herself calmly, as she listened to Vara'l's plans for stopping into the bakery. Nice! A new customer! And one who happened to be Alyssa's boss! "That's very kind of you, sir, thank you," Melody replied calmly. "I'll be ready for whenever you happen to stop by." Before Vara'l proceeded to comment on the size of eclairs. "This is one of the smaller types of eclairs, actually," Melody commented, pointing to the eclair. "This one I believe is a lunch eclair, only about... it looks like 6 centimeters long, yes, that's a lunch eclair. There are bigger eclair types, like eclair individuels, which are usually 13 centimeters long, and then giant eclairs which are 16 centimeters long. I usually make eclair individuels at my bakery!" (edited)

"You're entirely welcome." He responded with a smile then before he added. "It'll be sometime this week, whenever I've some time free from work." He then listened intently as the baker explained about eclairs and then.. looked at the éclair in a new light. "That is quite something, different size options of éclair, these are quire morish though food wise.." The Romulan then looked to Four and Matriarch Khellian and bowed to both of them. "Jolan tru once more, Lieutenant Commander, Lieutenant." He said as he bowed a bit.

Four nodded softly as they turned and looked to see Vara'l. They bowed deeply and responded. "Jolan Tru, Lieutenant Commander." Four rose from their bowed position. They gave a simple nod as their attention was shifted back to Rilek. They swiveled on their heels and stayed tense the entire time. However, they did begin to keep their sensory nodes open. Running auditory splicing protocols and listening programs to keep an eye out for anyone who may wish to speak with them.

Silver eyes observed the Lieutenant for a moment with a calculating air and if anything a look that probably betrayed a brief question as it hovered at the edge of being voiced. Hovered their for a moment before, as he glanced to the Matriarch, he obviously decided that such matters happened to be outside of the designated purview of someone who wasn't the member of the same house as another in a formal situation. At least when the Matriarch of the others house happened to also be present and involved in the conversation. No..instead of voicing the question, Vara'l looked back to Melody "Considering how good the eclairs here were and all thats been discussed, I hope you don't mind my saying I'll be mentioning your bakery in passing to a friend of mine as well.." He proceeded to say before he elaborated on who his friend was. "Elohae, the new art shop's owner, has been looking for some new pastries to try out and it rather sounds like you are the person to vist and talk to." Vara'l, once he commented this, glanced back to Four for a moment as he considered them. Considered the similarities between them now and how he'd happened to have been once, especially back when he was unfortunate enough to be handed over post liberation to the Free State Navy. There were some similarities there, though the differences he spotted if anything continued to suggest to him some things about the length of time the other had been assimilated for. Not that he wanted to ask them that..he felt uncomfortable enough about such things as it was, it wouldn't have paid to have subjected someone else to having to talk about such things. "My apologies to anyone who tries to talk to me for the next brief moment, I'm just going to quickly adjust my auditory inputs a tad, the ambient event noise is getting noticeable."

Maran had been standing off to the side cleaning his plate the entire time - everything on it was nearly perfect, really, especially the little cakes. Delicious. "Do you do peach cream eclairs?" He asked Melody, somewhat awkwardly. "If so I'd like to come and have some."

Melody nodded politely to Vara'l, having just heard that he was going to refer a friend to her bakery! And she didn't have to be her overly energetic self! All she had to do was just be calm...? That was it? She was enough! She didn't have to be energetic and people still loved and cared about her. That brought a genuine smile to Melody's face. "Thank you, sir, that---that really does mean a lot," Melody replied, her voice also ringing with a genuine timbre. It was then that Maran addressed Melody, and she briefly held up her finger to allow Vara'l to adjust his hearing aid. Only when he was fully and completely ready once more did Melody put her finger down and speak, as to not disturb Vara'l's hearing aid. "I don't normally make peach cream eclairs but I don't see why I can't make a few special custom peach cream eclairs for you," Melody replied calmly. "I'd just need a little extra time to make those since it's a custom recipe, but I can certainly do that for you!" (edited)

Rilek was not one for lots of socialisation, despite their position as matriarch. There was still a part of them that felt paranoia and anxiety about being watched or being critiqued for their bahaviours. D'Nal would give young Rilek lectures about how to act, who to talk to, how to walk, there was not a single aspect of Rilek's young life that wasn't dictated by their manipulative father or overbearing mothers. Ironically, Eviess was the most tolerable of their three parents, which was saying something considering she disowned Rilek's cousin's for 'being ugly'. Eviess wasn't exactly Mol'Rihan's next top model. "I know socialising is hard, so if you need any tips you can always ask me. As a colleague and as an equal as we are off duty now, Four," Rilek said, making sure to emphasise that they were equals there. Rilek was of higher rank, but that only mattered at work and they were not at work. "I think you did a good job on the outfit, i like seeing your unique style," Rilek encouraged Four. Just then, the Jem'Hadar Rilek had met those couple months ago appeared. Maran'agar was his name if she remembered. She listened to the others talk about the dessert selection as she continued to eat her biscuit and sip her drink. "mmm, still a peach lover, I see, Maran," Rilek looked towards Maran and chuckled softly. "It is good you're sticking to your brand."

Four never saw the critique, statements, or manipulations as anything other than data. Their time in the collective goes without saying, but it was Four's time within the Borg Reclamation Project that was most impactful for their life after being 'liberated'. They were torn from their Queen, and their collective. They didn't know what to do. Yet, a guiding hand soon found its way to Four within that dark time. One that promised family, companionship, knowledge, and of course, order. Order to a chaotic and silent mind. D'nal was the one who offered it. He had heard of the odd Romulan Borg whose DNA matched a decades old sample of a lost Tal'Shiar agent and his curiosity wasn't dissapointed. Four immediately fell to the straight forward manipulations. Intaking them without impunity. They learned to be totally obedient through constant updates of databases. Four found it comforting, but the ramifications were evident to this day. Some, more than others. As no one can be too sure of what lingering protocols could be hidden within their code, or what grand designs had never come to fruition. Four turns and nods at Rilek's statement. "Acknowledged, we do have one query to posit. How does one interact with another being effectively while not being proficient in conversational analysis? Is it more prudent to engage in many engagements garnering multiple failures with a chance of better data with a higher prevalence of social repercussions, or would long distance observations and data analysis be more effective? However, this comes at the cost of potentially worse data, longer processing times, but less chance of social repercussions by our calculations."

07:03

Four then heard the term equals again. They weren't. Not at least in Four's mind. One of their earliest memories outside of the collective was reestablishing hierarchy. They were at the bottom, and Khellian house was graciously reintroducing them back into the fold. It was odd that the structure was so malleable. However, they are not one to question their Queen openly. "We made sure to run countless variations of the protocols we designed before replicating the finished product. While we are unsure this outfit is unique due to its origins, we are currently unable to procure an alternative adjective that better suits the outfit." Four then stood idly once again. Finding their processors being overloaded and they turned to the food table. Searching for the most nutrient dense food to extract energy from.

"You're entirely welcome." Some of the unrelated ambient noise tuned out and his hearing therefore restored as his audio implants re-initialized and resumed their function, Vara'l smiled at the conversation he saw between Maran'agar and Melody. * "I suspect that Peach Eclairs would sell quite well to others as well, I know a gew people who are quite fond of Peaches..though I myself have never actually tried one." *He trailed off for a moment then as he listened to the conversions around him, considered what he heard of what Four said and everything else. As he glanced over to Four, Vara'l quirked a eyebrow again. * "Lieutenant Four of Ten, by any chance would some socialisation practise holoprograms be of any use to you?" *He inquired then. "I've a few from when I was first liberated that my first doctor worked up for me, I found..they made for tool for practising interaction with others close up with less of a risk of social repercussions if thats a concern."

"... I do not think I can inform you about that," Rilek said honestly, drinking the last of her tea. "I think this may be something beyond me, perhaps something to work on with a mental health professional, or something that Commander Vara'l just said," She advised, thinking that a counsellor would probably be familiar with liberated borg and integration. She was thankful that Vara'l had offered up a suggestion, seeing as he was also a liberated borg Romulan so he'd have the most insight out of the three of them.There was a slight pang of guilt sitting at the bottom of Rilek's throat at Four's words. She had been one of the other's first experiences with their people post-libertion. Herself and D'Nal, not exactly the best people to be guiding a lost Khellian through the politics of Romulan life. "I can see your efforts reflected in the execution of the outfit. Meaning.. You look very nice, Four. Definitely someone proud and honourable to be bearing the Khellian emblem," Rilek was not really one for 'house pride', but she knew Four was seeking that validation and wanted to make sure they knew they were doing a good job. She noticed Four just standing idly and then glancing around. "Is everything alright, Four?"

Four tilted their head. Mental health professionals typically only administered aid for those suffering with conditions of the mind that could hamper their ability to function. Four's entire existence was function. There were no other conflicting elements, so there was no necessity. Four was considering speaking with Commander Vara'l until the word liberated left his mouth. They stopped in their tracks. Their eyes hardening as Four took a breath responding to Vara'l. Their voice felt more monotone than before. The slightest hint of an edge to it had emerged. "We are unsure if any holoprograms would be of use to us due to not having analyzed the specificities of those programs prior to the question, sir. We are willing to analyze them and report our findings back to you, Lieutenant Commander. We have calculated a near eighty percent chance of requiring addendums or other changes to protocol due to verbal social encounters at present. Potentially using other forms of simulations could be beneficial for lowering such percentages and achieving optimal efficiency."

16:44

Four then heard Rilek and listened as their audio processors distinguished her voice from among the others. They stood idly in front of the food table before turning to respond. "It is informative that the protocols and other variational work can be seen through the work. All the more reason to continue the preservation and continued improvement of the base programs. We seek to be worthy to bear such an important sigil. It is an honor and a privilege to do so." They now waited to see if the adjustments continued to yield positive results, and if not, why weren't they? Four then turned to look back at the food, taking out their eyepiece and attaching it to their occipital node before scanning for the most nutritional treat. "Yes, we seek additional supplementary glucose intake. It is best to stay in a surplus state of energy in case of an emergency." Four then found some grapes, dates, and almonds. Their wrist then flicked up as their extraction tubules in took more energy. Once Four was satisfied they stopped, most of the food left behind was either gone or withered. Four cleaned up the withered husks of the former nutritional holders, and then turned back to fully engage in the conversation again.

Vara'ls head inclined ever so slightly to one side then. Silvery grey eyes almost steel like for a moment as they focused in on the Lieutenant, the change in their demeanour noticed. Okay, they were a maturation chamber Borg, his mind observed partly, as another part of his mind idly dissected the situation and conversation for any information that might be identified as particularly useful for him in his function as the ACTO. "I know they assisted in improving my function within social situations, I cannot speak to if that effect might be replicated with other Borg, though the doctor claimed it could." He paused. "Should the simulations be potentially useful to you in this matter, the offer is open and we can send you the programs." He paused a moment. "It is outside my position's authority to make a order of anything related to that, I'm off duty but." The xB's jaw worked slightly before he continued on to say. "Should you wish to conduct such analysis of the simulations, we'd be willing to pass along the contact details for the doctor in question." That then elaborated on. "It may assist in the further improvement of their simulations." After a moments pause, Vara'l then apologised. "I realize how I phrased something in my past sentences has caused offence, I apologise for that, four." He paused a moment. "The Honourable Matriarchs suggestion is also viable, there are some who's function does entail the provision of what you're seeking in the way of additional data and skills related to social interactions between individuals." He paused a moment then. "That and the integration of a former member of the collective into a collective of individuals like this one." (edited)

Four turned and looks towards Vara'l. Their attention then focused upon hearing the new audio stimulation. Their cold eyes settled and they processed the incoming words. They stood still and calculated a response. "There is only one way to be for certain, Lieutenant Commander. While we have no knowledge of the doctor in question, unless there is reason to suspect they are untrustworthy or uneducated, which does not seem to be the case, then there is no reason to doubt them." Four paused along with Vara'l. They waited for a moment as they listened. Once another set of calculations were performed, they responded. Like if they were on the other end of a long distance communication. "We shall determine the usefulness of the programs once analyzed. We would be open to receiving such programs, and shall produce a stronger statement of interest if required to meet the bar for potential requisition." Four then winced slightly. They weren't a fan of doctors. All the poking and prodding. The seemingly endless questions lobbed at them. It all felt like it was meant to lead to a cure Four didn't want. They could handle their health just fine, and have done so for long enough. "That sounds prudent. We are available now and in the future to receive such details through a variety of means. Whichever process facilitates eas of use shall be accommodated by ourselves, Lieutenant Commander." Four then heard the apology. The stood still. A look of recognition cross their face. They quietly respond. "We...shall make addendums to our cortex matrices and neuro nodes to create better safeguards against outbursts of an unprofessional nature. There is no need to apologize, sir." Emotions are irrelevant. Emotions are dangerous. Four then got themselves back on track. "We shall do research regarding being attended to by a mental health professional. However, our neuro-processors aren't in any state of disrepair, nor are we experiencing any unexplained surges in problem areas."

His mind having by this point also called up a number of other alternative explanations to why the Lieutenant had acted how they had, ones which Vara'l mentally sorted in order of likelihood and filed away, Vara'l listened to them. Listened and watched carefully. "Indeed, from what I saw of them there is no reason currently extant to suspect them to be untrustworthy, at least from what I saw of them and they are educated." The Romulan responded simply. The wince that followed what he said wasn't initially commented about as he instead proceeded to say. "I'll send the simulations to you for analysis, no stronger statement of interest is required." He then paused and said. "That is one aspect of it, I suggested it also in part as I've found it efficient to have a set of information sources to utilize and from information available such a approach may be effective if adjusted to fit your intended end result." He paused then when they responded as they did to his apology. "We deem a apology necessary, negative emotional responses of that sort weren't at all what I intended to cause with what I said, without my initial lack of tact something you don't seem..comfortable with wouldn't have been caused." When Four then said what they said about mental health professionals, Vara'l took a moment as he considered and analysed their words. "They're one of a number of potential sources of information regarding integration into a culture of individuals and a number of other related factors, Twelve of Twenty did raise a interesting point in passing." He paused a moment. "They said that what sources of information are appropriate and useful to what individual former collective member is dependant on what's wanted." Vara'l frowned a moment then. "My recollection of that isn't entirely complete unfortunately, may have got that slightly incorrect."

Four stood still. They weren't entirely sure what to think. How they were supposed to act. This was far more conversational than they anticipated. Back in the Free State they were hardly spoken too, and in the Republic Academy it was really being talked at. Especially, since Four took as many fighter pilot classes as they could. Staying in their fighter alone was a good respite for themselves throughout their academic career. "That is helpful to ascertaining next steps, and we can list confirmation of such second hand information as within acceptable margins of truthfulness due to a trustworthy first hand source." Four nodded and bowed their head slightly. "We will be ready to receive them." Four then also paused before they responded. "We will have to attempt to adjust intended fields once we have synthesized the data. It should not take too long." Four then heard their apology. They didn't wish to argue, so they just accepted it. "Acknowledged, we accept the apology and return one to you. It seems only logical to clear both sides of the social stumble." Four then listened to the entirety of what Vara'l said about mental health professionals. They silently nodded once it was all over. Four didn't know what they wanted, nor did they believe that they wanted anything. Four gave a noncommittal answer, due to not having any true answer. "We suppose then if communications with a mental health professional are established, such ideals can be explored if both parties involved wish to."

Teno walked up to the table happily, his wings bouncing on his back, with a smile on his face. He started at one end of the table, picked up a plate, and then began depositing all of the little sandwiches and cheeses and fruits in a neat stack, organized by what he thought would make good flavor combinations or wouldn't be weird if they touched. When he got a little ways down one of the tables he noticed some folks chatting and smiled at them, making a little wiggle motion with his shoulders. "Hi!" He said happily in Vara'l, Rilek, and Four's direction. He didn't want to butt into their conversation but he didn't want to be rude either!

Rilek chuckled when she saw how Four 'ate' the food. She nodded in acknowledgement of Four's desire to pursue better understanding of social interactions. Rilek wasn't entirely what sort of mental health therapy or integration counselling Four got from the Republic, but she hoped that staying on the Starbase with many other liberated Borg may help them better adjust. They seemed to be interacting well with Vara'l, which was good consider he was their superior officer. "I think everyone can benefit from mental health services. Just like one may see a general physician or opthamologist on a regular basis, it is good to have someone to talk to. The brain is an important organ," Rilek advised, hoping that Four would listen to their words and seriously consider talking to someone on the station or at least connect with a counsellor in the Republic. They were thankful that Vara'l seemed to have said essentially the same thing they did. "Oh, jolan tru," Rilek turned around when they heard someone approaching. A Bajoran officer with a sequinned tunic and floral pattern on his clothes. How beautiful, she thought. Rilek easily towered over the scientist. Her broad shoulders made her look taller too. "Nice outfit, I love the sequins. Is it hand made?" She asked, referring to Teno's tunic.

Vara’l pulled out his PADD and with a swift series of tapped commands, queued up the holodeck simulations and proceeded to send them off to Lieutenant Four of Ten under the subject ‘Holodeck programs, as mentioned in our conversation.’ Once the PADD indicated they’d been sent, Vara’l nodded once.. “Programs sent.” *when they then spoke as they did, offered an apology for an apology,Vara’l decided to accept that, not push it too much further. “I accept your logic in this, your apology is also accepted.” “Indeed.” came his response when the other said what they said in response to his comment about mental health professionals and his re-telling of what Twelve had said to him. These words followed by a moments pause as he turned and listened to Rilek for a moment.”I agree, honoured matriarch Khellian, though I would also put forward respectfully that one should also remember to approach it remembering that one size doesn’t fit all, to use the Terran turn of phrase.” He then looked to Teno. “Jolan Tru, That is quite the nice outfit, hello.”

Four heard the response from Vara'l and nodded. "Acknowledged, Holodeck programs as mentioned in our conversation has been received and categorized. We will begin analyzation at a more convenient time for our processors." Four then bowed and was grateful that Vara'l accepted their apology. "Acknowledged, social repercussion navigated and resolved. The end point has been logged and marked for further study." Four heard the statement from Rilek and bowed. Their eyes slowly fixated on them before responding. "The brain is indeed an important organ. We luckily are sure there is no brain damage. Our cognitive functions are fully operational and there does not seem to be anything hampering our effectiveness. However, potentially seeing one on a six month interim basis for brain evaluations could be useful for optimal brain functionality." Four nodded and made sure to note to remember the Terran turn of phrase. There seemed to be many Terran colloquialisms. Most likely due to their fantastical ideology. They then turn to see a newcomer in an intricate outfit. Four bowed initially. "Jolan Tru, your choice of clothing is in line with the theme." They then got back to standing as their eyes quietly surveyed their company. They started to wonder if it may be best to head back to their quarters. Four's social battery had quickly begun to wane and they were about to potentially call it a night. (edited)

With all her food and drink finished, Rilek quickly scurried off to place the empty silverware in the replicator to be recycled. She then returned back to the group. "If you need anything, you can always ask me, Four. I am here to look after my family. I also have my duties as a Starfleet officer to look after my colleagues," Rilek reassured Four, not smiling but their words were supposed to be warm. Rilek struggled the most with compassion, which was not a good thing for a matriarch. It was because their upbringing greatly lacked that and so it was hard for them to express warm words to others. They were trying though! Rilek's words were warm, but their tone and facial expression remained stoic and neutral. They cared, but it was just hard to express that. "Now I wonder if I should have worn something more... extravagant," Rilek looked down at her strawberry dress, which was pretty, but not as grand as some other people's outfits. "There are not many styles that look good with my shoulders..." Rilek fluffed up the shoulders of her dress and then smoothed out the long sleeves.

Four looked over to Rilek as they went to recycle their silverware. Once she had returned Four tilted their head at what Rilek said. Four couldn't help but feel their body unconsciously stir. The words were registered, and they were compassionate. Four didn't understand tone, nor did they understand facial expressions. However, they understood the earnestness in Rilek's words. They felt the impact of each one. Four nodded softy. Their face shifting slightly as a look of near comfort could be seen etched over their features. "We have logged and registered this offer. Thank you, we will cherish any assistance you may wish to give." Four's voice was still, their expression stern and their eyes wide and empty. Yet, there was that momentary flash. So quick many who hadn't known Four before tonight wouldn't notice. But it was there, and it was felt. Four made sure to never forget it. Four then heard the comments that Rilek made about their outfit. Four scanned the outfit and became confused. They shook their head and responded to them. "Rilek, the outfit is proportional and quite symmetrical. We do not understand the reasoning behind why you believe the dress is not extravagant. The outfit is in line with the theme and your shoulders are quite complimentary of it. The composition is like many others here. Of course we have limited knowledge in our memory about this subject, but with that limited insight we see nothing wrong with the outfit." Four wished to attempt to support Rilek in the way Rilek had supported them. Even if they didn't truly know how. Even if maybe it wouldn't help. It was something. It wouldn't be right to not try when Rilek had done so with themselves. (edited)