Training and Recreation

Posted on Wed Jan 11th, 2023 @ 12:18am by Crewman Melly & Captain Ryan Walsh & High Commissioner Jasmine Haynes
Edited on on Fri Jan 13th, 2023 @ 5:28am

13,884 words; about a 69 minute read

Mission: Short Treks
Location: USS Fearless
Timeline: 2431-03-10, 0630

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Location: Jasmine's Office

Jasmine was not sure if she was making the right call. In her mind it seemed like a good idea. Forcing everyone to have a sleep over. At the moment the only one who knew was her. She did not like the idea Melly was sleeping on the floor. She wanted to see what was so appealing about it.

That sleepover would have to wait, at the moment she needed to take Melly to the holodeck, to get some training in being at a yeoman. Jasmine left Melly's quarters a short time ago and headed to her office. She wanted to check her calendar before she had breakfast. Jasmine Is hoping that Melly will be ready to go soon.

Jasmine wanted to catch up with Ryan and have breakfast. He already left for breakfast. When Jasmine arrived at her office, she walked over to her desk and opened her computer monitor. "Computer show me my schedule for today." Can't think about making sure she didn't have any mean surprises. If you wanted to spend most of the day training Melly.

To her relief, her schedule was wide open which was very unusual. She transferred all the information to your data bad and then prepared to take it with her. Jasmine then started heading towards a mess hall, spent a few minutes eating and just when she had finished she noticed Melly showing up.
---

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Location: Melly's Quarters

Melly had waited for the Captain and Jasmine to leave before she wiggled out of her uniform and 'showered'. Four years in the academy, as many as starfleet, and even six months in Tantalus Penal Colony did not change her view.

She hated sonic or vibro showers. But no chance to go to the holodeck for a real one. At least no one was watching her, she had no female guard standing two meters away with a phaser on stun. Putting those memories away she quickly got clean before turning off the device and getting a new uniform.

As she dressed in front of the mirror she thought back to the Captain's recommendation. With a deep breath she walked to a small bag she had of her few possessions and stared at it long and hard. Pulling out a small soft pink barrette with a butterfly on it she considered for a few moments and walked back to the mirror pinning it in her hair.

Looking for a few long moments in the mirror a memory went through her eidetic memory. "Wear this, it makes you an even prettier child." The voice rang as clear as when it was said. The barrette has been cleaned since she last saw it, no longer with blood from her attempted murder she committed. But if a superior said she would be prettier she did not fight and hoped Ms Jasmine would think the same.

"Food", she thought. "Nutri-goop in the corner is normal but I think Ms Jasmine would want something different..."

Melly resigned herself to having to go to the galley so off she went. Skipping a bit through the corridors to the odd looks of occasional officers she looked to the panel, "Computer, please direct me to the galley."
---
The computer complied and a line went across the wall so after about ten minutes she entered the galley proper. This was not a good thing as she froze seeing the large number of people but she shook her head and continued. She would be good. She had to be good. She WANTED to be good.

Walking up to the mess chiefs counter she stood on tiptoes to get a good look at the Boilian man before asking, "Something.. simple please. High Commissioner Jasmine Ma'am asked me to try something other then Nutri-Goop."

He helped her order a glass of orange juice, some hash browns, and grits with butter was placed on a tray and into her welcome hands where she thanked the man happily. Having someone offer a suggestion at the replicator was a great help to her. Looking around she then spotted Ms Jasmine and moved to a table close but not at her table. Close enough that if Jasmine wanted she could inspect her food. She did not wish to violate policy by a lowly crewman sitting with a superior.

Sitting, she dug in, finding the food surprisingly delicious.

"how do you expect to conduct business from sitting at that table when I'm at this table?" Jasmine acid referred to Nelly, thinking to her family she had tried something other than goop. She cannot get a full look at the plate but she had enough to realize that it was real food. Jasmine's cause for a moment that she continued on. "I suppose today I can come over there but I would appreciate it if he came upset with me. Otherwise how else am I going to get my morning news and information?" Jasmine asked thinking to herself no one should ever have to sit alone, especially her yeoman.

Melly gulped, in her attempt to not overstep bounds she did not realize she wouldn't be in this case. Rising she carefully lifted her tray and moved to the seat in front of the High Commissioner and sat. The meal of grits and butter, hash browns, and orange juice was clearly visible as Melly looked up to her boss. "I was unsure procedure, I did not know if I was allowed to sit with you by regulation."

Her small stature seemed more pronounced in the mess hall chair but she did not let it bother her. With a smile up to the nice Lady she whispered, "I did as told and got something non nutri-goop, I did not know what so I asked the mess officer or does he prefer chef? But this food is very good."

She sat patiently nibbling a bit of hash brown and awaiting her orders, her hair pulled back slightly on the left side by the pretty barrette.

"He is a pretty good chef, so you eat and I'll talk." Jasmine suggested to Melly. "I hope you can multitask." Jasmine suggested as she gave her a data pad.

"This was my schedule two nights ago. As you can see, it fills up. Your job is to make sure it does, but also have the ability to move appointments around. I have a feeling that admirals will fear you and yet suck to you, to try to get earlier appointment times." Jasmine told Melly.

Melly took the data pad with one hand as she ate with the other. Her mind went over and memorized the various names and denoted the rank or position depending on which was more appropriate to the individual's purpose. Noting the various times she and lengths she looked up.

---
"Ma'am do you have a preferred start and end time for your daily work, so that I can slot in accordingly. Or would the listed times here set the average. Also would you have at this time any individuals who would automatically take precedence over the existing to aid in rescheduling efforts. Also would you have any individuals you would like either blacklisted or otherwise delegated to the back of the queue?", She asked before taking a spoonful of grits and brightening when she popped it into her mouth.

Once she swallowed she whispered, "Also Ma'am if You prefer I can avoid adornments like my barrette. I was told it made me.." She stopped, choosing not to say what was told to her, and after a moment more, "Would you prefer no adornments?"

"You a lot of questions, which which I do not mind. Please give me an opportunity to answer them." Jasmine said as she looked over to Melly. Jasmine almost broke out with a small grin, but she was able to keep it within. She loved how fast Millie was adapting to her style. "I wish I had the opportunity to pick and choose what time I start my day in my day, a lot of that has to do with the decision of the president. Typically my day evolves Around his. Handle the scheduling as you see fit. Unless I dictate otherwise. Have anyone on my blacklist but if I do trust me you will know and yes we should set up something as you just suggested." Jasmine said all in one breath, that was a lot but she wanted to try to make sure that she answered all the questions that was given to her.

Jasmine then thought about the next part of what she asked. "Have some creative Liberty, experiment with a different type of adornment." Jasmine said, then went on. "I like your barrette, have you ever thought of a French braid?" Jasmine ass thinking that she would look good in one.

Melly nodded, making mental notes, "Yes Ma'am I shall adapt the schedule as needed. I will also keep separate side lists mentally during meetings of people who seem antagonistic toward you. That way I can be sure to 'round them off at the pass' as Admiral Kirk said when he visited my homeworld. Also once I meet the President, not meet but be around him..", she trailed off remembering she is to not assume. "Once I have been around him and his schedule I will begin adjusting scheduling as needed. Do you have meetings today that I need to begin preparing for?", she said studying the data pad further.

"French braid?", she thought for a moment. "I don't know what that is but I will definitely ask the computer. The barrette was a gift from Admir..." She paused and did a about face mentally.

"I shall hurry breakfast so I would not hold you up from your tasks today... our tasks? your tasks? I do not wish to overstep Ma'am."

Jasmine was amused by her comment. "You are my task for the day." She didn't mean to make that sound belittling or mocking, she just knew that she would have to train her up and get her ready to face the admiralty plus other political dignitaries.

Melly nodded and began eating in earnest now. She was swift and efficient not leaving a single crumble before she drank her orange juice a bit slower then she ate her food. She finished the dishes and rose, taking them to the area for the replicator to deconstruct them down into base material.

Once she was done she returned to the chair and studied the data pad further while waiting for Jasmine to be finished. 'Trying' to form small talk she occasionally looked over before asking, "You have been so patient with me Ma'am, I know I am a handful, are there any questions you have about me that I can answer to help make things easier?"

"I never said no such thing. Come on, did I really just say that that was not proper English? I apologize." Jasmine said if you're trying to figure out why she would use a broken sentence like that to try to explain that he had made no judgments about her yeoman.

Melly was shocked and lowered her head slightly, "It's just... I have been told by so many I can be a handful. I'm obedient, I promise, but I have been told that I can be a hassle due to my quirks.. my faults.. and my other problems. But You have been so kind and patient..."

She then looked up with a small tear rolling down her cheek, "I just wanted to say I know I can be a problem, but You are so patient.. You haven't yelled at me? You haven't hit me? Instead you have been understanding and patient. That means so much to me.. thank You."

Jasmine wanted to reach out and hug her, but that wasn't her style. Instead she just looked and simply said. "You're welcome, I understand that your basic human rights were taken away from you for that I cannot truly apologize enough. But you'll never have to worry about that with me and you're right I don't raise my voice. I have found it most effective if you do not raise your voice, it forces the one fighting to either walk away or to come to the table and start talking at a more normal pace." Jasmine pointed out to her yeoman.

Melly wanted to get up and hug the woman till her arms hurt but that would not help the situation. Instead she nodded understanding what Jasmine meant before placing down the datapad. "Shall we get to work once you are done eating Ma'am?"

Melly seemed happier, more relaxed, her hand reached up to adjust the butterfly barrette in her hair before resting her hands in her lap and trying to look 'Professional'.

Professional maybe not, but she was adorable trying.

"I was actually waiting on you." Jasmine said in a calm and collected tone. She did not want Melly to feel like she was being rushed.

Melly stood smoothing down her uniform and pushed in her chair. Now that she was standing beside the table she almost could be looking Jasmine in the face due to her height. Picking up the data pad she smiled and giggled, "Let's go Ma'am time is wasting."

"Follow me to the holodeck." Jasmine said, it was time to begin her training. Jasmine appreciated the fact that Melly didn't want to waste time. She had the same approach to work life. There will be plenty of downtime so it's best to utilize the time that they have. She was better to get introduced to a lifestyle that was not super easy, she still believed that she wasn't doing her a favor by making her yeoman, but this was an opportunity for her.

Following close behind Jasmine, never to her side but a few steps behind. Far enough if Jasmine stopped Melly would not barrel into her, but close enough that she would not be lost in a crowd. As they walked Melly continued work on the data pad. She would now that she had the gist and a series of existing names she would begin looking at the format style hoping to emulate and possibly improve the schedule if possible. She wanted to impress and data management was a skill of hers. Eidetic memory was just a bonus.

The holodeck was a good idea, she thought, although other than training simulations in the academy her only time spent in the holodeck was for baths. She enjoyed the warm water and the sonic showers... felt odd. But she would not mention this to Jasmine. Work time now and she meant to do her best.

"I want you to remember a few things, as my yeoman you might be expected to give me a cup of coffee in the morning. I like two Irish creamers in my coffee and I like my coffee hot. And do not say that I drink fluff but that'll get me off on a wrong start with you." Jasmine said as I started to walk down the corridors heading towards the holodeck. She paused for a moment and continued on. "I typically like to start my morning at 0700 hours which means easily by 0600 hours I'm having breakfast you are not required to join me but if you want to you can but by 0830 hours I like to be in my office after doing a workout after breakfast typically my workouts are about 30 minutes, I just do a quick cardio session in the morning. I then get ready for the day. I find exercising first thing in the morning helps energize my body." Jasmine pointed out to her yeoman so she got used to her morning routine.

Melly made mental notes as she walked, a look aghast on her face, "I would never insult your choices of drink Ma'am. It is not my place to." She noted the times and made a mental note to set an alarm for three minutes before then so she can be up and moving.

"I will if you allow me to join you for breakfast. That way I can brief you on the coming day. If allowed of course. As for exercise? I had mandatory every other day at the penal colony. I am fine with joining you there too. ", Melly said, trying to not talk too loud but keep up with the woman and speak clearly.

"You may join me for breakfast and for exercising, but the choice is yours for both. I just want to make that clear." Jasmine said as they approached the holodeck, it didn't take too long to arrive and as soon as they did Jasmine started putting on a program. "I will observe your performance from here when you're ready to step through."

Melly stopped at the door and took a deep breath. Beads of sweat formed on her brow as she thought. This was not a test she could shoot with a peregrines phasers or scuffle and fight through. She was visibly scared, if she didn't do it perfectly would she be thrown away? Given back to the penal colony? Or if she embarrassed Jasmine in the test would she become angry? The worst words in her vocabulary right now are 'i'm disappointed.'

Would she get a second chance? Or would she be corrected and helped to learn? She was paleing but the worst thought crossed her mind. If she did bad enough, would Jasmine send her to the Admiral? Jasmine was so nice in Melly's view but also she didn't know her well yet.

Being brave she steadied herself and stepped forward into the holodeck.

The holodeck had recreated Jasmine's office on Starfleet One, and in that office there was a small little desk off to the right hand side, there had been a nameplate added that said crewman Melly. The program started with her just at the entrance to the doorway, but she was facing towards the door instead of against the door. The door switched open almost instantly. "Child, where is the yeoman?" Hey rude Tellarite man just yelled out.

Jasmine observed from a hidden wall that was out of Melly. She was curious to see how she would be able to handle a Tellarite.

Melly entered looking at the Tellarite and moved immediately to the replicator and said, "Mommy, cup of coffee, two irish creamers, hot. Also a separate plate of raw carrots." Taking the cup on the saucer as it materialized in one hand and the vegetables in the other she walked over placing it on Jasmines desk before looking to the Tellerite. Remembering the Tellerites begin interactions with a complaint and love arguments she looked him over, "Your uninformed, You shouldn't be so if you weren't then maybe you would know that I am the Yeoman. "

Moving to the Tellerite she held up the bowl, "May I offer you some raw carrots while you are here?"

"you're a mere child you even called her mommy. Silence little kid, the big kids are working and you're wasting my time." The Tellarite man said. Demented and full of pride was the egotistical Tellarite man. He hoped that response would draw out her mother.

Jasmine watched on and she waited to see how Melly was going to respond, so far the niceties did not seem to be working, she wondered if Melly would change her tactic.

Placing the bowl down Melly stood toe to toe with the Ambassador staring him straight in the belly button. A mildest twitch in her brow betrayed how she felt about mocking do to her days in the academy but rather then react with violence she decided to use the Tellerites love of arguments this time with a bit more stronger of a tone to express her mood hoping the Tellerite would react better, "I am sorry that you are un informed of my culture. My species the Only calls replicators 'Mommys'. Now you are entitled to view me as a waste of your time but if you do view me that way then I can reschedule this appointment with Ms Jasmine Ma'am to a better time, maybe during your mud bath Sir. But you can insult me all day long, but I find the sting of your insults light, so do try harder."

Straightening her shoulders she made a strong stern face, "Because I find that you have the insulting skill of a Pog (Tellarite slang for a runt or child), maybe that's why you call me a child. An even playing field?"

The Tellarite ambassador gave out a large and loud belly type laugh, the man just suddenly vanished. Then a new man took his place but it wasn't a Tellarite. He glanced down at Melly, all he could see was his little girl. He put his hands on her shoulder, "Little one have you seen high counselor Haynes?" The man asked in a warm and open-hearted smile. His tone was more open and welcoming, he was a polar opposite of the Tellarite.
---
Melly smiled as the Tellerite disappeared, having hopefully done well. Feeling the nice man's hand she relaxed as she looked up into the gentleman's dark eyes and felt calm. Tilting her head with a smile, "High Counselor Haynes is out, but I'm her Yeoman. May I offer you some tea as you wait or would you like to leave a message Sir?"

She relaxed and kept her mind neutral, not letting her mind think of playing and having fun rather than anything work related. She did not wish to accidently slip and give away secrets.

"Splendid idea, I could use a good Risan berry tea." The Betazed man said with a grin He went on to ask. "A Yeoman you say. Starfleet is starting to recruit pretty young." Is a slightly middle-aged man with black hair and streaks of silver said to her. His deep black eyes looked at her with a big grin on his face, he had a warm since sensible personality to him.

Melly smiled and skipped over to the replicator and said "Mommy, please make a Risan Berry Tea." The tea materialized in a cup on a saucer and the girl picked it up offering it up to the man.

"I'm an Only, so I am about 270 standard years. But my race ages slowly so I will be 8 for hundreds of years. May I ask how I may help you Sir?", she asked with a happy smile holding up the saucer.

The man just grinned as he took the cup. He took a small sip, thinking it wasn't bad for a replicated version of his favorite tea. But nothing beats the artisticity of the real thing. He wanted to be nice and nonetheless to her. "Your mommy makes a pretty decent cup." His tone was calm, as he started to process what she said she was 270 years old. Was she teasing or was she being sincere? He wasn't sure he just took another small sip. He heard human children had a tendency of exaggerating. He wondered if this is what this little girl was doing.

"I suppose being 8 years old it might feel like it will be hundreds of years before you at age again." The Betazed man said, trying not to sound too patronizing.

Melly decided it best to not fight as picking battles was better in such cases. Smiling when complimented on the tea she giggled, "Mommy knows all the best recipes. If you would like to sit I can contact Ms Haynes and see what is delaying her?"

Listening to the man she giggled, "Yes it feels so like a lifetime between years. There are so many kind and wonderful memories but also so many bad ones. I do hope you have had a wonderful life sweet Sir?"

"Life is often what you make it out to be." The Betazed man said, as he started to fade away. The next holographic creation was about to start.

Jasmine so far was moderately impressed with how she handled the first two holograms. She was curious to see how she handled the third one.

The doors opened, and an angry klingon walked through the door. He nearly ran Melly over, as he growled. "Little girl, where is the mistress of this office?" The Klingon demanded to know, in a very aggressive tone.

Melly did not back away or show weakness as the Klingon approached. Looking up at the man she gave a firm and unfearful response. "My Mistress is out on vital business. I will entertain you unless you have no time to stay then I shall take a message for her."

She had experience with Klingons from the Immersion Simulation Chancellor Gowron had donated to starfleet. She knew not to show weakness and to be firm and strong.

The Klingon growled as he looked down at little Melly. She was a petite little twig, he could snap in two. "You have the tone of a warrior, your body appears to be frail, little one." The Klingon said, with a boastful tone. He admired the level of respect she had been showing. She was not afraid; despite the fact he was a lot stronger than her.
---
"I was a warrior but now I serve my Mistress. I was the heroine of Altirin-2 and Mishikal. My peregrine bomber honored many bird of prey raiders and Gorn cruisers with their shape painted as kill marks. Do tell me Warrior of your battles... of your wars... So I can sing of your deeds and show you the praise you deserve.", Melly kept her eyes locked to the large intimidating man. This was a side of her that Jasmine had not yet seen. The warriors pride that was beaten down and ground to dust.

Sadly she was trembling without realizing but she kept her stance strong and her eyes to the man.

"The Klingon heart beats strong within you." The Klingon said, as he started to fade, the program changed. Next thing she knew, she was standing face to face with Jasmine. She just stared at Melly for a moment. She was contemplating what to say.

Melly smiled and gave a salute to the Klingon before he faded and then gulped. Was this a test? Was the test over? Was this a hologram or a real? It would not change her answers but a hundred little questions ran around in her mind.

She stood at attention and pointed to the desk where she made the coffee first thing, "Your coffee is ready Ma'am"

Jasmine picked up the coffee and took a small sip. She slowly started to walk around to the desk. "I need you to reschedule my 1400 today and I'd like my 1730 to be placed in my 1400 in which I leave a vacancy of 1730. Do we have anybody who's on a waiting list?" Jasmine called out in a calm and collected tone. She looked over to Melly to see if she needed more time. To make the modifications and to look up the information that she requested a date of head appeared right in front of Melly's hand.

Melly held the data pad and began to key in numbers. "1400 is a low priority meeting with starfleet academy to send a message to cadets but that is still months away. It can easily be rescheduled."

She keyed in a message and sent it to the academy representative with her sincerest apologies but made sure they knew it would be rescheduled soon and that if a list of topics can be given then a preliminary message can begin being formed.

She then moved the academy message to the waiting list and sat in her small chair typing away.

"1730 is being moved to 1400 as requested, a Bolian ambassador wishes to discuss raiders in their sovereign space. I will send him a message of the time change.", Melly said, working along.

"As for waiting list, it seems there is a Ferengi wanting to speak to you to put in a good word to the president, there is of course the academy representative, and finally a diplomatic group from Caitia wish to come see you for reasons not listed. I can contact them and inquire to there reasons if you like?", She said sitting but looking up to your larger desk.

"That will not be necessary. I want to schedule the diplomatic group for 15 minutes at 1600 hours and tell the Ferengi representative he gets 15 minutes at 1615 hours. That's the best I can do." Jasmine called out. Jasmine could see that she was inputting the update. "My 1545 is with the Tellarite Prime Minister, correct?" Jasmine asked. She would prefer to push out that meeting. Two polar opposite diplomatic style meetings could be a little tiring.

Melly shook her head, "The Tellarite meeting according to notes has been shifted four times. So we really need to see him or it would cause an incident if we were to keep dodging him. He is likely already going to be more argumentative than a Tellarite normally is. I will be sure to have some raw vegetables waiting for him."

She keyed in a few notes, "The Ferengi has been notified and the Caitan's have also. I will monitor the Ferengi while here, I am rather familiar with their Rules of Acquisition so the individual will likely want to bribe you."

"The Tellarite was shifted four times to teach him boundaries. Arguing is a byproduct of his cultural influences. The real issue is, he is not willing to bend on the Tolan Pact Trade Deal, he told me that he was not willing to negotiate, hence the constant reshuffle. When he is ready to compromise, we can meet. Yes, I know he will give me hell for it, but it's part of the political game you see." Jasmine said, hoping that her young yeoman learned how to tread the waters of diplomacy.

"Yes Ma'am I shall shift him and clear that spot up as well as mark him down to be shifted again should you feel he is not bending. I will screen his calls and include in my daily work log his reactions.", Melly said softly.

Clearing that spot she smiled and looked up to her boss, "Your 15 minutes is clear today Ma'am"

The scene flashed again, and Jasmine had disappeared. When the program re launched, an older man in a Starfleet uniform was facing her. The real Jasmine wondered how we should handle dealing with the admiralty. She had been doing well so far, but this should be the real test for Melly.

Melly rose, her back straightening as she lowered her eyes not yet looking the Admiral in the face to see if she recognized him, "Admiral on the deck!"

The Admiral stepped out of the shadow, prior to this all you could see was his red uniform and extra shiny pips. Admiral Doth looked down to Melly. "You must be the new Yeoman, let's hope you last longer than the last one." Doth said, trying to contain the laughter in his voice. Jasmine sure loved to chew through Yeoman's. Her title as the ice queen was well earned.

Melly stood at attention and motioned with her hand to a chair before Jasmine's desk. "I will serve her faithfully until she wishes for another. As for my previous fellow Yeoman... I cannot speak for them. I am strong but I am also obedient. Maybe that will be enough."

"May I get you refreshment while you speak to Ms Haynes Admiral?", she said with the sweetest of smiles.

"Are you even old enough to pour a Saurian Brandy?" Nothing asked, in a mocking tone. He was slightly teasing. He believed by the end of the week, she would be packing her bags and crying about how vicious the ice queen was.

Melly smiled and walked to a cabinet, her hands reaching up to take down a bottle and a glass. Pouring about two of her tiny fingers width she walked back and held the glass up for the Admiral.

"Old enough to pour and to drink you under the table Admiral.", she smiled sweetly again to Him. She showed respect to the Admiral but visibly didn't fear him

The Admiral gave a big barrel laugh, as he looked over to Melly. "I doubt that little one." His arrogance would be his undoing. He just assumed based upon her looks that she was a young child.

Melly held her ground with the glass offered up to the Admiral. She had not had Saurian Brandy in some time so she was unsure of her own skills still but she would not back down. To show weakness would be a spot that Jasmine's opponents could exploit. So she will do her best.

"I would of course have to ask Ms Hayne's before I drink you under the table Admiral. To drink on duty without permission is against regulations.", Melly looked over to Jasmine.

"Getting Mommy's permission?" The Admiral said, in a teasing voice. He was just trying to get under her skin. He saw the moment, and he decided to take it.

Melly makes a face and places the cup on the table within the older man's reach. She then looked up at the man and placed both hands on her hips before standing on tip toes to glare up at the man.

"She is not my Mommy, she is too good a Mommy for a convicted Admiral stabber like me.", she smirked before placing her hands behind her head swaying side to side a bit to show her mild impatience with him. She would not take abuse toward Jasmine but she knew she had to follow procedure.

She looked up at him, "Trust me, you will be the one saying Mommy after the drinking contest young man." She smirked giving the man a reminder she is his elder.

Melly crossed her arms, "Taunt me or not Admiral, I won't do anything to bring shame to Ms Hayne's so no drinking you under the table without authorization. That's the only thing keeping you from having to return to Starfleet Command and tell your peers you were beaten in a drinking contest by a little girl who barely comes up to your navel."

"What are you, El-Aurien?" The Admiral asked, a little confused. Who was this child to attempt to match him? He knew he was at a disadvantage and he was going to fix that. He needed more information about her. He would pry it out of her, if he had too.
---
Melly made a bit of a face, "No Sir, I am not a El-Aurien. I am a Only from planet Miri. I am as of recently Two Hundred and Seventy years old. You might remember me from the FNN almost a year..." Her confidence cracked as she thought back to that time. How dare she earlier make a joke about that! She had done a bad thing and now she was almost proud of it when standing up to an Admiral? How dare she, she thought. There will be punishments, but she would have to spread them out. Unlike the guards, Jasmine would likely not enjoy seeing her hating and punishing herself. She looked up to the Admiral and gulped hard, her body language showing she was keeping it together... but barely. Looking up she took a deep breath and her form shook a bit as she almost choked out the words, "I was on there for being a bad girl."

Then the scene instantly changed back to the holodeck, and Jasmine appeared almost out of thin air. She looked disappointed in her eyes. "Was that necessary?" She asked, in her mind she was referring to the bad girl comment.

Melly's resolve, her strength, everything broke like a bag of glass. She saw the disappointment in Jasmine's face and she knew she failed. See you aren't worth it, her inner voice told her. You shouldn't have left the penal colony. She looked up to her then lowered her head in total defeat.

Melly dropped to her knees and hid her face in her hands as tears streaked threw her fingers. She had failed in her only chance and she knew it. She almost had it.. but she slipped at the end.

After sobbing for about a minute Melly balled up her left fist and started hitting the side of her head hard over and over saying, "Bad. Stupid. Dumb."

"Get up, Crewman Melly." Jasmine called out in a stern and almost completely heartless tone. She was not going to allow a 200+ year old woman to cry like a 5 year old. She had more dignity and class than this. Her tone might have been stern, but her demeanor was calm and relaxed. Which could be perceived as confusing.

The tone snapped Melly out of her low moment and she stopped striking herself and placed her hands on the floor to help brace herself as she rose. She then smoothed out her uniform and placed her hands straight at her sides as she tilted her head up in attention as her back remained rigid. She was still crying, tears streaking her cheeks but she did not sob out loud. She responded softly, "Yes Ma'am. I am sorry Ma'am. I..." She took a deep breath, "I was holding it together. I was being strong, but I started questioning and hating myself for saying an Admiral stabber. I didn't call myself bad for it when I did and almost sounded..."

She stopped a moment drooping her head but raising her chin back to be good, "I almost sounded proud.. which is bad, which should never be prideful of.. when it finally set it shortly after..."

She had to fight to keep her hands down but she whispered as more tears welled, "I broke.. I am sorry. I will understand if you send me back.."

"Send you back?" Jasmine asked, with a confused look on her face. "Where am I supposed to send you back too?" She asked with a puzzled look on her face. They were stuck together. Melly was going to learn how to adapt. Jasmine was going to have to learn how to be the calm and patient mother like figure that Melly needed.

Melly's face was blank. "But.. I.. You.. But.."

After a few moments her mind rebooted, "I failed.. so I thought you were sending me back to the penal colony because I was a failure.."

Looking up to Jasmine with confusion Melly whispered, "But I failed? What does this mean from here? Can I try again? I promise to be a good girl, I swear I will be a good girl." Melly pleaded while keeping her arms straight down in attention but visibly fighting lifting them.

"Who said you failed the test?" Jasmine asked, as she noticed that Melly appeared to be a little antsy. She wondered why that was. She wondered if she was somehow intimidating her. Jasmine stood there, waiting to see what Melly would do, and how she would respond.

"You stopped the program and asked was that necessary? You looked annoyed? You seemed mad at me for breaking down? How could I not have failed?", Melly said as her standing at attention broke and her small hands went up to wipe her still falling tears.

"I just want to be a good girl... but I felt I failed.. I felt I wasn't good enough. I tried and I will keep trying, I want to be a good girl. I want to make you happy. Please Mo.. Ma'am.", she corrected herself quickly and tried to move to a proper stance of attention.

"I simply asked a question, yes my reflection was one of disappointment. It does not mean that the test is done." Jasmine said in a calm and collected tone. She almost sounded robotic in nature. Melly had a lot to learn, and very little time to learn it. "I hope you don't buckle like this in front of the admiralty or the delegates. And I am still waiting for a response to my question." Jasmine said, while maintaining her composure as it were.

"I will not buckle. I got worked up with the Admiral.. I had at one point mentioned about my past and being on FNN. I seemed proud sounding which my brain then reminded me I was bad, that's why I said I was a bad girl. Because I am one. But I will be a good girl. I promise not to say that again.", she said in one breath as she composed herself.

Looking up to Jasmine she clasped her hands behind her back, "I apologize for the tears. I shall do my best to reign them in from here on, tears are for my quarters, not for the office."

The scene suddenly flashed, and Melly found herself inside the office of Jasmine Haynes. Jasmine suddenly vanished, and inside walked a very intimidating Romulan Ambassador. He was wearing a traditional robe, it was black and green, and in the center of the robe was a symbol made of metals, they symbolized the Romulan Star Empire. "You are weak, how are you supposed to represent the ideals of the Federation for your master!" The Romulan Ambassador asked in a snarky like tone. He had very little respect for a child of the Federation. They were soft and weak, and had no place in the halls of the Federation Chambers.

Melly was taken aback, a hologram? Well to be expected she guesses, but still it threw her for a loop but she was still being tested. She needed to make a good impression.

"Jolan tru Ambassador.", Melly said despite the Ambassador's words. She gave the traditional Romulan greeting as she walked to the replicator. "May I get you anything while you wait for High Commissioner Hayne's?".

She was thinking a moment, trying to find her words but smiled up to the large man. "Yes. I am weak. You could lift me and toss me with one hand. However I represent the ideals of my Mistress and Star Fleet because weak or not, I serve obediently and will do what it takes to make sure everyone is happy and their needs met."

"So", she smiled. "Would you like anything Ambassador?"

"So you admit to the fact you are weak, it explains why tears have stained your blouse. The Federation must be getting desperate to allow children into its ranks." The Ambassador said with disdain in his voice. He was not amused at the sight of the little girl in his presence. Where were the grown ups he wondered.

Melly looked up, trying to not seem rude, she whispered. "I am Two Hundred and Seventy One years old Sir. I may seem like a child but I am not." She stood up straight but in no way showed aggression, "Yes. I have been crying. I cried tears because I thought I had failed in my duty. Instead you are my duty and I shall despite anything you say I will do my best to make you as comfortable until my Lady returns. Now would you like anything?"

"The Federation chooses to insult me, by sending me a failure to serve me. How dare the Federation treat the Romulan Star Empire like this." The Ambassador called out, he knew his empire was a shadow of its former glory, but several corps worlds were still trying to keep the old banner alive despite the reunification process that was now under way. He deepened with anger and rage. The Federation was not taking him seriously. And there would be hell to pay, if he had his say in it. Ultimately it was up to the Praetor.

With a sigh Melly turned and walked over to the man. Looking up to him she shook her head and gave his legs an affectionate hug before letting go. "You are angry and nothing I can say or do will change that. This is not my Ladys fault but my own. So if you are angry I will accept whatever punishment for my own failures. I simply ask that you do not hold my failings against Ms Haynes. Whatever is needed to fix this, if you feel so strongly that punishment must be dealt for a perceived insult.. then deal it to me."

She stood before him and looked up at the man waiting.

"How dare you...." The Romulan Ambassador started to say, as the program faded away. He started to wave his hand up to strike her, as he grabbed her drenched blouse. Then suddenly the arch to the holodeck doors opened up. Jasmine walked through the doors from the outside. "I typically do not like repeating myself, but was that necessary?" Jasmine asked, again with a disappointed look on her face. She knew that Melly would need time to adapt, but she suspected Melly to get past the Romulan obstacle.

When she felt the grip of her blouse she braced for the hit. In her mind the voice reminded her, if you hit you deserve it. But everything faded away. Staying tense as she heard Jasmine unsure if this was a hologram or not so she aired on the side of caution.

"The man was angry, his rambling seemed to be that of one who lost all power. We could have given him Earth and he would still be angry. So he was going to take it out on someone. As your yeoman Ma'am.. it's my job to make sure he takes it out on me, NOT you." Melly made sure the one word was stressed.

As she turned to look at Jasmine she was not crying, was not shaking, she was firm and ready for whatever happened. For a strike from the man, for chewing out from her.

"My job is your safety and assistance. Better me than you...", she looked down as her adrenaline began to crash a bit.

"No it's not, Melly. Your job is to assist. Not die. Not get hurt. You're not part of the presidential security detail. Several officers just outside those doors are eager to lay down their lives to protect me. It's not your job. Your job is to serve the chief of staff to the president. Your job is to remain neutral while doing your job. " Jasmine said, as she felt the nurturing side of her coming out. She needed Melly to see how sincere she was. They had a long way to go, in a short amount of time.

Melly's cheeks burned a bit in embarrassment as she realized she was going about this wrong. She was thinking she would serve and protect Jasmine but it was more serve and not protect. She would still do her best to keep the lady safe but she now understood. She was good at serving and being good. I guess not having to protect is one less thing to worry about, her inner voice told her.

"Yes Ma'am, I apologize for not properly understanding my role, I shall adapt and improve. I did not in my limited experience see a proper way to handle the Romulan Ambassador. May I ask you to explain how to handle such a situation so I can learn?", Melly said standing in attention.

"What do you know about the Romulan people as a whole? They are a very complex society." Jasmine started to say she wanted to see how much information she needed to share. The scene starts to fade away.

---

Location: Jasmine's Quarters

Jasmine was not sure what to make of the deal she made earlier. She recalled back to the earlier comment she made about having a sleepover. She recalled what she said earlier and what she was thinking.

"We all shall sleep on the floor, until such time as well all have merited sleeping in a bed. I believe this is fair, for all parties concerned?" Jasmine asked. Hoping this would pull some favor with Melly. She wanted her to see, she was not alone. Her misery was there misery.

She hoped this was a good idea, as she thought about it for a moment. Ryan and Melly had yet to arrive in her quarters on the USS Fearless. She was getting everything ready for their arrival. Jasmine had replicated extra pillows. She had every intention of sleeping on the floor to make Melly feel comfortable.

Melly had quickly used the sonic shower to wash away the perspirations and worry the training gave her. She was still scared that she had messed up but Jasmine seemed like a very nice lady. Hopefully she will be a good enough Yeoman for her.

Once washed and in a new uniform she grabbed a long night dress that went to her ankles and her stuffed peregrine bomber. Noting this was what she needed she folded the dress and placed it in the 'medical supplies' bag she had been using since the penal colony. Sure of her choices she walked from her quarters and turned slightly to knock on Jasmine's door.

"May I enter Ma'am?", Melly said meekly.

Jasmine walked up to the door, she heard the intercom go off. It was Melly. Jasmine was Mildly surprised that she was on time. Especially after being late earlier this morning. "Enter." Jasmine called out in a calm tone. "We're still waiting on Captain Walsh to arrive." Jasmine said, wondering what was taking Ryan so long.
As the door opened, Melly carefully walked in a medical symboled satchel pouch over her shoulder and what appeared to be a stuffed starfighter under her other arm. Looking at Ms Jasmine she scanned her eyes around the room and focused on the pillows.

"Ms Jasmine, I beg you, You and the Captain need not sleep on the floor do to me.."

"I must experience for myself the desire to sleep on the floor, Melly. I cannot ask somebody who works under me to do something that I'm not willing to do ergo we're going to have a good old-fashioned campout on my floor." Jasmine called out a sterile tone. She needed Melly to see that she was serious about this.

Deep down Jasmine was wondering what was keeping Ryan, this wasn't like him to be this late, maybe something was going on in the bridge that had him delayed for a few minutes.

Ryan stopped outside the door and took a deep breath. He had been busy, put out a fire or two and released all the air out, letting himself refresh. Pressing the buzzer, he entered after he heard Jasmine give consent. “Sorry I am a little late.”

Melly stepped aside and placed down her medical bag with her nightdress in it and her stuffed peregrine bomber as she stood in attention.

"Captain on deck!", she said in a gentle voice.

A little late thought to herself, she was mildly annoyed by this. The annoyance faded when she stared into his eyes. He had a way of making her feel safe and less stressed. Jasmine was a little stressed. She wanted tonight to go smoothly. She waited to hear Ryan respond to Melly's command.

Melly remained in perfect attention, her back straight as her eyes remained forward.

“Captain Walsh, reporting.” Ryan continued, immediately at attention. He saw a flicker of something in Jasmine’s eyes either irritation or something but it cleared immediately. “At your service, Ma’am.”

"Are you going to ignore Crewman Melly's call of action?" Jasmine asked, waiting for him to break this Starfleet protocol of theirs. Jasmine remembered the protocol and she would have been in starfleet and she would have also snapped to the position of attention. However she was a political figure now and she was not required to do so only when the president came in but he wasn't here right now.

Melly remained stiff in attention, her small form starting to wobble slightly but she did her best to fight it and remain as stiff and unmoving as she could despite her discomfort.

Ryan was already at attention but he made himself even more so. “Captain Walsh reporting, High Commissioner Haynes.” He repeated himself for the second time, wondering what he had done wrong.

"Looks like we have a standoff, I'll let you two figure this out." Jasmine said mildly amused but keeping it to herself, this is very comical in her mind.

Melly stood until she could no more then the wobbling got too much as she eeeped falling on her rear to an odd crinkle sound then she took a second to breathe and then slowly rose to attention.

“At ease Yeoman.” Ryan said to Melly. He felt like a first year cadet having forgotten to release her. Shaking his head he apologized for that. “Sorry about that, you did a great job at holding on there.”

Melly smiled and relaxed with an extreme look of relief as her shoulders dipped a bit. "My apologies Sir. I just didn't want to be bad."

Jasmine continues to grin, this is still amusing to her. She wondered how long this was going to go on for before they could finally get on with the activity she planned for the night. For the moment though she would let Melly and Ryan have their moment.

Melly looked up to Jasmine, "May I go change Ma'am? If allowed?" She reached down and picked up her medical bag and stuffed peregrine bomber.

"I don't think you both understand the point of tonight." Jasmine started to say, and then she took a moment to catch a quick breath before going on. "This is a sleepover not a formal event so please no more reporting to the position of attention no more talk of ranks just three people enjoying the night within Starfleet parameters." Jasmine called out hoping that both can pick up the hint.

“I thought there was a meeting first.” Ryan immediately relaxed. “I’m good now.” It was obvious that there had been a miscommunication on his part.

Taking the idea of less formality, Melly dipped her head and scooted off to the refresher. A few minutes later she returned in a soft pink and white cotton nightgown that came to her ankles with bows all over, the medical bag over her shoulder, and her peregrine bomber under her arm. Walking to the two she lowered and sat on the floor looking up to both with a smile.

The medical bag had piqued Jasmine's curiosity. "What's in the bag?" Jasmine asked, hoping Melly would say.

Melly lowered her head. Despite the former counselor working with her about not being ashamed she sighed and looked up then back down again looking obviously ashamed. She then offered the satchel to Jasmine quietly.

Ryan looked from one to the other. He was interested in what was in there. Obviously Melly thought Jasmine wouldn’t be happy.

Melly felt ashamed and worried she would be laughed at or mocked. She knew Jasmine was nice and Ryan seemed so as well but she was afraid and worried.

Jasmine handed the bag back towards her."this is not an inspection I was just simply curious. You don't have to tell me what's in this bag nor do you have to show me when I ask for it. Does that make sense?" Jasmine asked, wondering how long it would take Melly to break all of her old prison habits?

Ryan watched, a little amused at Jasmine's response. He wanted to know what was in there but he sure wasn’t going to ask. He thought she had handled it perfectly.

Melly held the bag close to her and looked up to Jasmine but then back down then back up toward Ryan. With a timid whisper, "I have night terrors... wearing the things in the bag helps if they happen so I do..."

She paused pressing her face in the stuffed Peregrine Bomber to hide for a moment, "So I am not bad and wet Ma'ams floor. I thought it was better safe than sorry".

She tapped her hip, a crinkle sound being heard. "I am sorry."

"That was a lot of information, I would have just said the bags needed for medical needs or I would have said none of your business. But I do appreciate you being honest with me." Jasmine said, trying to be sympathetic in her own way.

"I am not allowed secrets. Secrets are for bad girl's the Admiral taught me.", she hunkered down more trying to hide as she hugged her stuffy and looked to Jasmine hoping to not be upset.

"Well he was wrong, and when I have an opportunity to talk to him I will let him know that." Jasmine said doing the best to keep her voice at a moderate tone. Deep down she was a little annoyed that an admiral would have the audacity to say that to Melly. The animal needed to go down; he didn't deserve to belong in Starfleet.

Melly tensed hearing her say the Admiral was wrong but did not speak, visibly troubled. She knew he was wrong, he was bad, but why could she not say it. Why instead did she feel she was bad, she was wrong? Trying to clear her mind she looked to the Captain and the High Commissioner.

"May I ask what is planned for tonight?", Melly said timidly.

“We all have things in our life we hold on to.” Ryan spoke quietly. “Yours are just a little more noticeable.” He looked at Jasmine. “I would like a few minutes with the Admiral myself.”

"I.. I am sorry for causing your anger to him. I hope none of you ever meet him because I would not want trouble for you two. Everything was my fault, I wasn't a good girl...", Melly's eyes half closed as she clutched the stuffed bomber tightly, her mind going to a frequently said statement when she felt bad. That everything is her fault. "I promise to be a good girl for you both."

"Going one step forward and two steps back is not going to work for Melly." Jasmine said in a sterile tone but hoping that her words would actually sink in. She wanted Melly to see this wasn't her fault.

"You cannot be responsible for everybody's actions, to think you can is foolish. How are you supposed to live up to that expectation, when everybody is so diverse and unique in their own perspectives?" Jasmine asked, hoping the concept of her message would not slip by Melly's ability to analyze and process everything that she had been saying.

Melly looked up to Jasmine and a soft smile crossed her face, a rarity of late but happening more and more around Jasmine. Moving over she gave the 'older' woman a big big hug and smiled brightly up to her and whispered.

"Thank you Ma'am, that actually puts everything in perspective. I cannot promise my mind will always sync to that but it gives me a basis to work from. I thank you ever so much.", Melly said then looked to Ryan then back to Jasmine.

"Should I hug him if I hug you? I do not wish him to feel left out?", Melly said with almost a giggle.

Jasmine still struggled with the fact that Melly liked to hug, she wondered why that was. For all intents and purposes Melly didn't know Jasmine from the next person, so why would she be so eager to hug her boss? That was a question in Jasmine's mind and one that she could not resolve. She heard the question asked about Ryan but she was not his keeper. But she knew she had to say something in response to the question being asked. "I believe that would be cold fraternization since he's a captain and you're a crewman." Jasmine pointed out to Melly hoping she understood.

Melly looked to Captain Ryan and froze hoping she did not overstep toward him.

“Hugs would be inappropriate.” Ryan replied with a nod. “But knowing you wish to us good enough for me.”

Melly lowers her head but nods, "Yes Sir. The Counselor in the penal colony who helped me a lot.. before the less helpful second Counselor gave me a lot of hugs. But she did it to help me. They made me feel safe and happy. The Admiral... he liked hugs too. I liked them less. But I will put this to memory and not hug you Captain. Does Ms Jasmine want me to keep my hands to myself also?"

Jasmine was puzzled for a moment. She didn't want to say anything that could potentially hurt Melly's feelings, but at the same time they needed to establish boundaries.

She stood there for a moment contemplating whether she should make that exception, but then it was a difficult decision because when she looked at Melly she noticed a little girl even though she was over 270 years old.

"Perhaps we can build up the hugs." Jasmine suggested to Melly. This way they could both become comfortable with the idea, she knows that since melly's race lived a lot longer lifespan she probably still was a child at heart and a child in mentally despite her being very talented and gifted for her young age.

Melly smiled and nodded and nodded and nodded even more as she instead hugged her stuffed Peregrine Bomber. She was happy with this situation, she could work up to them and that would make her feel like she accomplished a goal and did well.

"Yes Ma'am I am happy with this decision of yours and will respect your wishes and work hard!", she said with an eager and happy smile.

She then looked to both, "So what is the plan for tonight?"

Ryan stood, waiting to hear Jasmine’s reply to the question. It was pretty clear cut they were having a sleepover.

Jasmine paused for a moment, what was the plan she pondered in her mind. She wanted to be spontaneous, her only plan was getting them here. Now they were here, and they were right. They needed a plan.

"Beyond camping in front of my fireplace over there, I have no idea." Jasmine said, just being honest with the both of them.

Melly smiled, "I do not mind. I haven't been in front of a fireplace in some time. I miss the feel of the warmth. I know this one isn't an actual wood burning but I can close my eyes, pretend and smile."

She looked to both as she did just that, hugging her stuffed bomber rocking it she closed her eyes and smiled happily.

“Smores?” Ryan said with a smile. “It would be a nice treat for all of us.”

Melly tilted her head, "What is a... s more?". The girl seemed genuinely confused by this but seemed eager to learn.

“It is a campfire treat.” Ryan explained with a smile. “Something that is rare to enjoy serving on a starship but I do have some chocolate stowed away in my quarters.”

"How do you plan on recreating smores, this is not a real fireplace." Jasmine pointed out to him. She was curious how he was going to recreate the experience. He was the captain, but she seriously hoped he was not going to start a fire in her quarters.

Smiling Melly cuddled her bomber close and looked to Captain Ryan then to Ms Jasmine. The interaction was calming and she was learning new things. Her face continued to brighten as she looked to the Captain wondering too about the fire.

"We could make it with the replicator then pretend with the fireplace?", she suggested.

“Which is just what I was going to say.” Ryan spoke up. “Add a little bit of real chocolate, your fake fireplace and we are good to go.”

"Sounds like a plan." Jasmine said, as she grabbed a few pillows, and then a couple of blankets. She plopped down in front of the couch, which was close to the fireplace. "I found my place."

Melly looked about and saw a coffee table and took a single pillow and wiggled under the table with ease curling up with her knees pulled in close. She seemed to feel safe there but was unsure if she would be allowed to stay there.

Ryan took a position to the right of Jasmine against the couch as well but enough distance that she wouldn’t feel like he was making assumptions. He watched Melly and wasn’t surprised at her choice.

"Seriously, do I smell?" Jasmine asked, she was trying to be humorous, but it may not have been noticeable, since her tone was pretty dry. Jasmine looked to see what Melly was going to do. Was she going to push away too?

Melly peeked up timidly, "No Ma'am, You smell very nicely. I just... well.. I wanted to give You and the Captain space so I felt it best to.."

She paused for a few moments, "hide."

"Space, we are all in my quarters scattered around my living room." Jasmine pointed out to Melly, as she glared down at Ryan. She waited to see who scooted in first.

Melly looked to the Captain, then to Ma'am, then to the Captain, then to her stuffed Bomber, then back to Ma'am and timidly and slowly slipped from under the table and moved to curl up on the floor close to Jasmine's feet.

"Better Ma'am?", she asked, her eyes full of timidness.

Ryan grinned at her irritation and moved closer to her. “A smart man doesn’t assume things in this situation. I am very happy to move close to you.” He looked over at Melly. “We are in this together. There will be no hiding, little one.”

Melly gave a weak smile to Captain Ryan and curled up close to Jasmine's feet and peeks up at both of them before cuddling her stuffy close and just watching.

"Much better, now onto the important question. What does one do on a campout, besides pig down on smores?" Jasmine asked, looking for suggestions.

Melly shook her head, "I do not know of a campout, but before Admiral Kirk came and cured my people we used to huddle around the fire for warmth or have hugs for warmth. While we ate cold food from cans the older kids would tell stories. Maybe we could each tell a story?"

"Not a bad idea with stories, sadly though I am no good with those. However, What about a movie?" Jasmine thought they told a lot of good stories.

“When I was a kid we watched movies on a viewer.” Ryan said with a grin. “An old relic. We’d eat popcorn, sometimes we’d sing songs.” He grimaced. “Count me out on that one.”

"I will leave that up to your expertise then, Ryan. Do you want to choose the movie?" Jasmine asked, hoping he would say yes. "I will get the popcorn and reese's pieces." Jasmine suggested.

Melly listened closely but knew none of these things. The time period planet Miri was in did not have movies and so many of these things that they spoke of getting were alien to her, literally. But she listened and remained close to Jasmine's feet curled up quietly.

“I’ll go for something funny.” Ryan replied with a nod. “Light and entertaining.”

"What comedy, that could be light and entertaining." Jasmine, she did not want Melly to be completely bored watching a romantic movie, or a coming to life movie. This was supposed to be a fun night, a night hopefully no one will ever forget.

“What about a movie like the Pacifier?” Ryan asked her. “Or do you think a movie like Lethal Weapon or Die Hard would be better?”

Melly was lost, the two officers could be speaking Breen for all she knew as some of these words made no sense out of context. "A Pacifier is what a baby has? I try to avoid lethal weapons like what I did to the Admiral?"

She was totally lost.

To break the ice she tilted her head and giggled up at the two as she stayed curled near Ms Jasmine's feet, "You two are so nice, You're a wonderful couple... i've had a couple boyfriends but you two are just… feet like a good pair."

"I'm not that nice, I have been called the ice queen before. Now what they said please don't take offense to what i'm about to ask you. Why are you curled up by my feet?" Jasmine asked, wondering what she was doing.

Melly looked up genuinely confused and without missing a beat she said softly, "The Admiral had me do this and said it made me a good girl. I thought... you wanted me to be a good girl Ma'am?"

She tensed motionless hoping she wasn't in trouble.

"No, I would prefer it if you did not. The admiral was wrong, and will be talked too." Jasmine said, as she made a mental note of this encounter. She was not mad at Melly, she was mad at Admiral Norith. The more interaction she had with Melly the more apparent it became that the admiral had desensitized her and programmed her to think this was acceptable.

Sitting quietly a moment Melly then quickly scooted a half a meter distance so she was close but not too far either. Holding her stuffed Peregrine Fighter she nodded to her boss. "Yes Ma'am. I will put this to memory. I hope I did not offend. I do hope... You don't speak to him. I don't want him to do anything bad to you."

Melly looked at Jasmine with genuine concern in her eyes but then sighed, "So movie... that's like a training film?"

"I was thinking of comedy." Jasmine said, observing that Melly pulled away a little. Which made her feel more at ease at the moment. Admiral Norith had a lot of explaining to do. From her perspective it appeared to be a lot of grooming going on.

“I will bring several comedies and we can make a choice.” Ryan said with a smile.

Melly smiled at Captain Ryan, she was not sure but she wanted to participate. "Yes Sir, I will defer to Ms Jasmine so since I know so little of this."

"This should be a group decision. Not my decision, rank and title do matter tonight." Jasmine pointed out, hoping that would make her feel more comfortable making a decision. A typical yeoman would defer, but that was not the point of tonight.

Melly hunkered a bit but then spoke up a bit more confidently hearing Jasmine, "A funny 'movie' sounds good. I do not like overly scary things. I've been in too many scary things. So I will vote when the choices are here Ma'am."

“I’ll bring the movies.” Ryan replied. “I believe we should let the first one be Melly's choice and it we watch another one of us can choose.”

"How do you expect her to choose, if she has never seen a movie before?" Jasmine asked, seeing a flaw in his logic. She thought Ryan should choose first, to introduce her to comedy.

Melly smiled and waited patiently letting out a small giggle listening to the Captain and her boss. "I will watch anything I choose. And I will like it I promise."

"That's the point though, I don't want you to like something because we do, choose for yourself." Jasmine said, wondering if Melly understood what it meant to make your own choice.

Melly lowered her head a bit, she had been in the penal colony six months, before that several months in the brig, before that despite having her 'freedom' so much of her time was dictated by the Admiral's whim, his training was ingrained. She looked up to Jasmine a bit lost but nodded softly, "I.. will do my best. I am used to obeying, not being allowed the.. choice."

“The pacifier will be first.” Ryan said, thinking Jasmine's logic was sound. “Then we can go from there if you two can stay awake.” He said with a grin.

"No objections from me, can we watch a trailer first?" Jasmine asked, wanting to know more about the movie they were about to watch.

“Of course you can.” Ryan nodded. “I will send you a couple different ones. It

 

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