Ready Room

“It was good work getting it done under such difficult circumstances, Matt.  I look forward to reading your full report.”

“It was a team effort, sir,” said Kirby.

“Nonetheless, good job.  A lot of eyes were on this one.”  The Admiral nodded and the channel closed.

Kirby leaned back in his chair and sighed.  He was glad this mission was over.  He hoped in the future he wouldn’t be dealing with any more Royals.

Mess Hall

“The wedding was amazing!” said Parker.  “The ceremony, the music, the procession, awesome!  The princess’ dress was incredible.  This was the most romantic thing I’ve seen.  I wish my mother could have been there.”  Parker smiled.

“Take a deep breath, Renee,” said Iziraa.  “We don’t need a medical emergency at dinner.”  She chuckled.

“I understand why a different prince and princess were chosen,” said Parker ignoring Iziraa.  “But what a PR mess it was.”  She looked at Haia.  “What do you think?’

Ohtani shrugged.  “I’m not impressed with people that think they’re above everyone else.”

Iziraa scoffed and Parker chuckled.

“What?” said Ohtani.

“Before our next mission, we need to have a girls night,” said Parker.  “We need to take Haia someplace exotic in the holodeck.”

Ohtani wrinkled her nose.  “I need to get back to my lab.”

“Maybe we’ll go to Risa!” said Parker as Haia walked away.

“No thanks,” said Ohtani with a wave.

“Speaking of getting back, I need to go, too,” said Parker.  “See you later.”

When Iziraa and Weaver were alone at the table, Iziraa studied Weaver for a moment.  “All right, what’s going on?”

“What do you mean?” said Weaver.

“You haven’t said three words and you have a look on your face like something is bothering you,” said Iziraa.

“Oh.”

“Well?”  Iziraa’s antennae leaned slightly forward.

Weaver thought for a moment.  “I’m just upset at Princess Yari.”

“Why?”

“Yari did something that could have kept her world out of the Federation.  It was a selfish act.”

“So not wanting to get married to someone you’re ordered to marry is selfish?”  Iziraa’s antennae flattened against her head.

Weaver realized Iziraa was in a similar situation.  “I make no apologies, Iz.”

Iziraa studied the Doctor again.  “I think there’s more you’re not telling me.”

Weaver shrugged.

“I’m your friend.  Tell me what’s bothering you?” said Iziraa.

Weaver stared at her plate.  “There was a wedding, Lenal gets to join the Federation, and we go back to our regular duties.”  She looked at Iziraa.  “Can we just leave it at that?”

“Fine, but I’m here if you need to talk,” said Iziraa.

“I know, but you’re making more of this than there is.”

“Okay.”  Iziraa nodded, not believing her.  “I need to get back to the bridge.  See you later.”

Sitting alone at the table, Weaver sighed.  She wondered if she should have let Yari tell her what happened.  Shrugging her shoulders, she got up.  Time to get back to work.