Star Trek: Theurgy

[ Hirek tr’Aimne | Corridor | D. 09 | V. 02 | USS Theurgy ] Attn: @Juzzie

He'd climbed trees and dove off cliffs. His trousers were often torn. He would dance at official parties but rarely with the music. And under his tunics, he'd had hidden trinkets and samples from his adventures. He would sing lewd songs of the sailors, often late to his indoctrination lessons, all penitence feigned. In fact, always late for everything he'd felt was in the way of what he truly cared for, but never for a meal. Hirek had never a very good Romulan. Quick-witted, sharp-tongued, duplicitous for sure, but how did you catch a wave? How did you make one like Hirek stay and truly listen? How did you solve a problem like Hirek tr’Aimne?

Existing somewhere between gentle and wild, a riddle and an answer, a cloud and a rock, Hirek tr’Aimne was an incorrigible charismatic. Unpredictable, seemingly as dependable as a moonbeam on a cloudy night, Hirek could drive a veruul from its nest. Be they Romulan or alien, Hirek could leave any confused, their mouths propped open for words they’d left unused so long as he stood before them. He could listen and not hear, speak and mean nothing, giving off the aura of a brainless sex fiend. And he could be a darling or a devil in the blink of an eye, a headache or an angel, depending on which side of the Tal Shiar you were.

And it was because of the Tal Shiar that he now prowled the corridors of a Federation starship, surrounded by supposed renegades of Starfleet in a fight against chaos itself. Only for his desire to see the end of the unprotested rule of the Tal Shiar, to protect his family from any further incursions against them, had Hirek defected. Only for them and the future of a free Romulus was he willing to undergo yet another evaluation. He’d already made it through one—his lips quirked upward at the memory of certain elements of THAT conversation—along with a few other necessary yet irritating conversations with the captain and the ship’s head of Intelligence. And now, he was to report to one of the counselors to receive his psychological evaluation. These humans were supremely naive or uninformed if they believed he’d be honest about most anything in the coming conversation.

Smoothing a hand down the front of his pressed turquoise tunic, Hirek chuckled to himself. He at least had nothing better to do than amuse himself with meaningless conversations, as infuriating as they could be. At least he no longer had to pretend to be a supporter of Romulan idiocy back on Qo’Nos. At least here, he could focus on the real problems and be proactive in solving them. He wasn’t “Romulan” enough to enjoy the pontification without action. And he craved action of any kind at this point.

He stopped outside the office he’d been directed to, but didn’t bother waiting for the counselor inside to give verbal permission before he advanced into the room. It took milliseconds to note the location of said counselor. He was young and of a comparable shape and coloring to Hirek, attractive, though in a reserved fashion if the way he held himself upon seeing Hirek was indicative of his temperament. With a predatory smile, Hirek continued his silent advance forward until he had the counselor wedged between the heat of Hirek’s body and the cool press of the bulkhead behind him.

“I hear you’re the one who intends to get intimate with my mind,” Hirek licked his lips, being slow about looking down the length of the counselor’s body before resetting his gaze on the man’s blue eyes, “plumbing to the depths of my soul to assess if I’m a detriment or an asset to this crew.” Hirek tilted his head to the side, offering the counselor a slow half smile. His accent carried the sing-song lilt of his island home, his voice naturally a deeper timbre when near-whispered. “How would you like to get started? Am I to lie down? Or would you prefer us to remain as we are?”

[Lt. Rhys Williams | Counselling Offices| Deck 09 | USS Theurgy ] attn: @Ellen Fitz

Rhys studied the notes on his next appointment with curiosity and no small amount of worry. All the computers had provided him with were very terse comments from various Federation officials. It was all very vague, and Rhys detected an occasional hint of disapproval in some of the lines.

When people saw Rhys they tended to make certain judgements and draw certain conclusions. Some fair some not so fair. He was shy, quiet, had no self-confidence whatsoever. He was unambitious, kind to a fault, emotionally fragile and socially awkward. However, he was not stupid far from it. He could read between the lines of a personnel profile like that. It screamed at him that large parts of it were classified. It also warned him that this Hirek fellow could sometimes be difficult.

He wondered why Hirek had been assigned to him in particular. Then he remembered Stellan…., the guilt rose up like bile in him for a moment and he had to force it back down. Stellan’s own maverick streak would have been perfect for this guy, or maybe Com. Hathev she was unflappable. Rhys then remembered she was still injured. Maybe he was just the only person available.

Rhys had been stood and been pacing the room. His stomach felt like it was filled with helium and trying to escape via his throat. This was how Hirek found him when he burst him. Rhys had not even had a chance to acknowledge the door chimes when a very handsome Romulan of middle years burst in. Rhys opened his mouth again to say something but soon found himself being walked backwards. Rhys felt the coldness of the bulkhead against his back. This was followed by the warmth of the man in front of him.

Rhys was taller by about two inches but he felt about two feet tall when confronted with the deeply masculine presence in front of him. Hirek made no attempt to disguise that he was looking up and down Rhys body. Rhys’ face went bright red his bright blue eyes wide opened in shock. As Hirek spoke Rhys was clearly breathing heavily. Hirek’s voice while deep had a sing-song rhythm that reminded him of the accent of his home of Wales on earth. Rhys’ accent was a little breathier and he had grown up speaking Welsh as his first language, so his accent was a little stronger than many of his compatriots.

As Hirek spoke there was an unmistakeable flirtatiousness. There was something else to, but Rhys was too far on the backfoot to think about it. Rhys ought to have been angry. He ought to have shoved this guy away and given him a tongue lashing for this frankly intimidating behaviour. However, Rhys didn’t really feel angry, he mostly felt deeply uncomfortable. Not least because his body had chosen to betray him. Rhys raise his hands to the man’s chest to give a timid push in the hopes of persuading Hirek to get out of his personal space before he noticed anything.

Rhys gulped, “Wh-What are you doing?” He had intended to say this firmly. Instead, he just sounded scared. Rhys could not make eye contact with the guy. He looked at the floor, off to the side, at reflections of him in shiny surfaces, his body, but never directly at him. Rhys despite being tall and well built, had a boyish, youthful face and he looked supremely vulnerable.

[Hirek tr’Aimne | Counselling Officers |  D. 09 | V. 02 |  USS Theurgy ] Attn: @Juzzie

Watching the man squirm in front of him and feeling the soft press of his hands against Hirek’s chest confirmed to Hirek that in this situation, Hirek was the dominant one in this room. Though this Starfleet officer had been ordered to assess Hirek’s mental state, that did not mean he intended to lord this assessment over Hirek or abuse his orders by abusing Hirek's status as a non-crewmember or Romulan. No, in his intentionally bold maneuvering, Hirek had determined the prey nature of his handsome companion and firmly established his predatory one.

Raising a hand to trace his fingertips lightly over the back of one of the man’s hands as it rested against the turquoise fabric of his tunic, Hirek leaned his face closer to whisper, “I am assessing you just as you are to assess me. Turnabout is only fair game, is it not?”

Before the man fell into a faint altogether or called security down upon Hirek’s head, both equally likely scenarios, Hirek removed himself from his personal space. Giving one last full-body glimpse, Hirek tipped his head in a feigned formal greeting. He put a hand over his chest as he bowed forward, eyes remaining firmly upon the counselor’s face.

“Hirek tr’Aimne. Defector and bioengineer specialist. May I know my mind-probers name?” He broke eye contact just long enough to note a couch, the desk, and a few chairs. Returning his gaze to the counselor, Hirek raised a single eyebrow, “And I repeat my earlier question. For this assessment, do you want me,” Hirek intentionally paused, licked his lips, then continued, “seated or lying down?”

[Lt. Rhys Williams | Counselling Offices| Deck 09 | USS Theurgy] attn: @Ellen Fitz

Rhys flinched a little as he unexpected found Hirek’s hands caressing the back of his. The flinch became a slight almost imperceptible shiver. The comment about Hirek assessing Rhys just as Rhys was assessing Hirek, crept into his hears like a gentleman thief into the slightly crumbling estate of Rhys’ mind. The voice was smooth and calibrated to both subdue Rhys and arouse him a little.

Rhys wanted to fill the moment of silence wanted to say something, but he could not say the words. Hirek slowly moved out of Rhys’ personal space. The other man had looked up and down Rhys’ body that made Rhys shift uncomfortably. There was a slight bow with a hand over his chest while the Romualn’s eyes focused deep on Rhys’ for a moment. Hirek went to take a seat. Rhys let out a breath he had no idea he had been holding.

As Hirek spoke and Rhys calmed down Rhys’ logical brain began to slowly fire back into life a gain picking up on phrases. ‘Mind-Prober’ was especially prominent. Whether this man was saying it for humorous effect or not Rhys wasn’t sure, but the choice of the word seemed to indicate a hostility. If not to Rhys directly then to the process.

Rhys was unsure how to respond and did not keep that from being obvious on his face. Rhys wasn’t stupid, timid, emotionally fragile but not stupid. He had a sense of what was happening. This had been an attempt to put him on the backfoot, to put Hirek in charge of this situation. It was not uncommon to encounter resentment towards Counsellors and Counselling especially if you were forced here. Rhys had seen everything from sullen and sulky to barely contained anger, to joking attempts at deflection. Rhys worked hard at trying to make his sessions seem friendly and inviting and make them feel they had as much control as possible of the sessions.

This was new. A routine assessment had started out with a blatant and not very subtle attempt to intimidate him. Most Starfleet officers and personnel were used to these and responded to them with mild irritation and a ‘let’s just get this over with attitude’, as they would for a physical or data processing. Rhys had not interacted with many Romulans but those he had had never encountered one who had been so forward. So, he was pretty sure that this was not some unusual cultural norm that was going over his head. No, this guy was attempting to push his buttons in some way. He wanted a reaction. Unfortunately, he had gotten one. Rhys wanted to stand up for himself. On a level he knew Hirek should not treat him like that, but on another he had no idea how to make his point. Worst still was that nasty voice telling him that he deserved to let people walk all over him.

Rhys took a few short, ragged breaths, he wondered again what Stellan would do in this situation. A much stronger personality than he was. Rhys tried to let some of that confidence and self-assurance that was so clear in Sellan’s speech come into his own. It was half hearted at best.

“I am Lt. Rhys Williams.” He said softly in a breathy sing-song Welsh accent. He swallowed giving himself a little bit of time before saying more. “For this assessment, I would like you to be comfortable. If you would feel happiest sat, lying down, standing, doing a handstand whatever its up to you.” He added the last bit with a weak smile. He’d often put int a little joke to make people feel more at ease, but he was not feeling at ease himself.

He took another breath and tried to articulate something to Hirek. There was anger certainly, but that was overridden by his usual feelings of insecurity. “Can I firstly ask, why you felt the need to approach me like that?” He said trying to keep his voice calm and level. “I think my body language was making it pretty clear that I was finding it uncomfortable.” His voice was soft and nervous, and the words were not the ones he wanted to use. He had wanted to ask him ‘what the fuck do you think you are doing?!’ However, Rhys could never speak like that.

[Hirek tr’Aimne | Counselling Officers |  D. 09 | V. 02 |  USS Theurgy ] Attn: @Juzzie

The man was more skittish than the sand quail of the Uluma islands, known for leaping into a frenzy at the sudden appearance of their shadow. A portion of Hirek’s heart softened as he watched the counselor struggle with how to respond to Hirek’s aggression. What had happened to him to cause him to be so…flighty?

“Well, Lieutenant Rhys Williams,” Hirek smiled; it seemed their accents were not so different from one another despite their different origins, “I would feel happiest without forced assessments. However, as that is not an option for the likes of a Romulan defector, I will content myself with sitting here across from you. And, so you may continue to unravel from the knot I made of you, I promise I won’t invade your personal space again unless invited.” Hirek gave a playful wink at the last statement, almost as if he presumed Rhys would invite him back soon enough.

Rhys’ question had Hirek smiling, though in a sad almost comforting way, the expression a mother might give her child who does not yet know there are worse things than the monsters under the bed.

“I wanted to determine what sort of man you were and whether you would you use your position over me and in this assessment to make my life a living hell while aboard this vessel. Now, while I understand you still could do that as a repercussion for my advances, at the same time, given how you handled the encounter and how you are handling yourself now, I don’t think that’s going to happen. As a Romulan, we feed off of body cues and instinctively press the advantage when we sense a weakness. Some of us are more aware of the process than others, and some of us get more pleasure out of the advantage press than others. You will never meet a Romulan who does not like to be ahead of the game in the superior state. I have only ever worked with Starfleet Intelligence as an operative. This is my first time surrounded by Starfleet officers and my first time onboard a Federation starship. There is more unknown to me than is known. Something else you may learn of Romulans is that they are both covert in tactics but confident to a fault. I tested the waters, so to speak, and now I await the consequences.”

Hirek tipped his head up and down, letting another gaze gently move over the counselor’s body, “If you need help in learning how to mask your body language for future endeavors with Romulans, I would be happy to give advice. As I know, we will be encountered many more in the coming days, and you’ll only get yourself killed if you allow yourself to be read so easily.” Giving a heartfelt sigh, Hirek settled further into his chair. “Now, dear counselor, am I sane? Am I insane? You can ask me whatever questions you like, and I guarantee I’ll answer them, but potentially not with whole truths. That would go against everything Romulan within me. But I promise to answer what truth is pertinent to running and safety of this ship.”

[Lt. Rhys Williams | Counselling Offices| Deck 09 | USS Theurgy] attn: @Ellen Fitz

Hirek triggered something in Rhys, something he did not much like. When the handsome Romulan suggested he would not enter Rhys’ space again without consent and followed that up with a wink Rhys blushed. It was bright clear and obvious. It was like an arrow was pointing to his face saying, ‘ATTENTION I AM REALLY ATTRACTED TO YOU AND I FEEL CONFUSED ABOUT IT’. The voice had an authority to it that put Rhys in a head space he did not fully understand. It also was bringing out his natural, and to Rhys, annoying submissiveness. His tendency to be a follower and his inability to be in charge of his surroundings. Rhys held his rank by skill not but an ability to command authority. In fact Rhys hated being in charge of almost any situation. It was mostly a case of not trusting his own judgement especially if it would impact on someone else. 

Rhys had once been good at least in professional settings at hiding his feelings. Now they tended to be raw, open, and clear for all to see. This was especially true if he was upset or was being flirted with. His calm mask had gradually been eroded over his time in Starfleet.

Hirek stated his reasoning for pushing Rhys’ boundaries. The young man’s professional mind was finally able to switch on again as there seemed to be no pushing from Hirek towards him again for the moment. There was a degree of irritation that anyone could think Rhys of all people would use his power over them. Rhys had to remind himself that concern’s the Romulan was expressing seemed more general the specific. Rhys was not naive enough to believe that no one would ever act in such a way, but he there were better ways of finding out.

What followed was a brief lesson in Romulan psychology, that with the addition of a few needlessly long words could easily have been taking place in a lecture hall at Starfleet Academy. Soon the flirtatiousness returned, and Rhys felt his heartbeat quicken and blood flow in unwelcome directions. He almost became angry at his own body for making things so obvious. The only other reaction out of Rhys was a very uncharacteristic eye roll when Hirek had asked if he was sane or insane. For a moment his irritation at such phraseology being used overriding his usual demeanour.

Once Hirek had stopped speaking, Rhys took a moment and sat in a chair opposite the older man. It was the kind of chair Rhys liked in his sessions. Soft, squashy, and comfortable. The only draw back was it could be tough to get out of it, at least with any dignity. Rhys placed the PADD on his lap and regarded Hirek carefully.

Regarding Hirek’s offer Rhys spoke in non-committal tones. “I am sure there are many things you could teach me.” He showed no outward sign of being aware of the suggestive way such a sentence could be interpreted. Rhys bit his lower lip as he thought of the best way to put his words into the air. “You know this kind of check is normally a box ticking exercise.” Rhys was trying to be a bit more confident but if he looked at Hirek he avoided the Romulan’s eyes. “Bureaucratic nonsense, Starfleet Officers are regularly assessed their Psych profiles gone into over and over. This is normally a formality.”

He sighed, his hands fidgeted nervously the fingers practically winding themselves in knots. “Obviously for you its different. The circumstances of you joining the crew I gather were… unusual. Unusual seems to be common aboard the Theurgy at the moment.” Rhys found his mouth dry but continued to push through. “I am not an intelligence officer. I don’t have the skills or knowledge to assess you, to see if you pose that kind of threat to us.” There was a shrug of his shoulders.

“There is no way I am the ideal person to assess you either, I don’t have the personality or skill.” This statement contained no false modesty. This was Rhys’ own interpretation of his suitability for this task. Rhys had to some extent decided to lay his cards on the table as he could see Hirek was good at reading him. “Stellan would be much better for this job than I.” The way he spoke the name indicated a degree of reverence and that he was talking to himself a little. “Well, I just have to do what I can.” He gave a nervous cough.

“You are not insane. So far, I think you are manipulative and deeply calculating but I don’t think you are cruel. The move to put me on the backfoot feels more defensive than aggressive.” Rhys drummed his hands on the PADD then for the first time looked at Hirek’s eyes. “I am telling you this because I want to be straight forward with you, certainly more than I expect you to be with me.” Rhys did not know if trust was possible between them, but he felt that pushing in that direction was the best chance of this being at least constructive and not combative.

“I’ve sat on that couch numerous times myself. I know what it feels like to be there because someone has ordered you to be. So I have no intention of using this process to hurt anyone.” Rhys smiled it was small shy smile.  It probably sounded painfully niave to a someone who appeared to be so jaded, but Rhys wanted to establish beyond doubt that he was in no way a threat, though it was probably Hirek already had come to that conclusion.

[Hirek tr’Aimne | Counselling Officers |  D. 09 | V. 02 |  USS Theurgy ] Attn: @Juzzie

Hirek’s eyebrow rose at the unintentional innuendo but he, surprisingly, chose to demurely remain silent instead of pouncing on the opportunity to further goad the counselor. The lieutenant’s reassurance that this was a routine assessment and nothing so invasive as something Intelligence may have arranged, Hirek gave a polite nod as he inwardly felt a portion of the coiled knot of unease unravel. He’d been far more annoyed at the prospect of being assessed and held to Federation standards of decorum and “sanity” by this stranger than he’d admitted to either the captain or Fisher. Whilst he’d been politely compliant outwardly, he’d been gearing up for a fight. A needless one, it now seemed.

Eyes darting past the counselor, he noted the growing familiar sight of a replicator. The captain had had one in her office as well and had used it to order beverages for them both at their initial “debriefing.” Instead of further encroaching on Rhys’ territory, having already made his point and wanting to show the other man he could behave despite initial impressions, Hirek pointed to the machine.

“Do these formalities come with a beverage? I find myself parched,” he couldn’t help it this time and allowed the mischievous smile to pull at his lips after licking them, “and our filling the intermittent silence of this meeting with the clinking of our cups can come as some comfort.”

Watching the nervous ticks of the counselor had an eyebrow rising yet again for Hirek. His confession to lack of expertise or ability was more intriguing than alarming. Rhys mentioned a name that meant nothing to Hirek and found himself lacking in comparison to whoever this enigmatic “Stellan” may have been, leading Hirek to another building opinion. Rhys Williams needed to let go. Or he needed to seize hold. Something needed to “give” for this man if he was ever going to take control of a situation, be it one like this or anything else. Shifting in his seat as he listened to Rhys’ first assessment of Hirek’s actions, that they’d been acts of aggressive defense, Hirek continued to study the lieutenant’s body language, listening to the vocal inflections and pauses, and found himself wondering what it was that had made this powerfully built man act as if he were the size of a ground-dwelling rodent.

Hirek did not attempt to interrupt the man or hurry him along. Instead, with expression pulled back into one of neutral cordiality, he waited until Rhys came to a natural end of his introductory statements and the baton for words was passed back to Hirek. He moved his tongue against the back of his teeth as if tasting his words before he spoke them.

“You will read in my growing file that I defected to your ship by way of shooting one of your colleagues. Or rather, she shot herself and me in a fashion that made it appear as if the phaser she’d been using overloaded, and we were both sent to a watery grave. This would be why my initial ‘welcome’ to the ship was with restraints, and my first evening was spent in your brig. So unusual is a very polite way of putting it.” Hirek folded his hands together and hooked them over his knee, drawing one leg over the other. “Manipulating circumstances to ensure the protection of my family back home. Calculating the conditions to be ripe for a defection. Yes, I will accept these monikers without shame, as should all Romulans. Though, having been already introduced to one of your Romulan colleagues, I can already assure you that I am not a very ‘good’ Romulan, so I would hate for you to hold me up as a shining example of all that represents my people.”

Again rolling his tongue against the inside of his cheeks, not having spoken Federation standard in quite some time and finding the excessive use of the language an interesting venture for his muscles, Hirek paused. He didn’t have to address the man’s self-doubt or comparisons yet, considering how he’d started this formality, Hirek felt the need to.

“I have no basis for comparison between you and this Stellan, and being Romulan, I know better than to presume skill based on first impressions. From where I sit, you are likely far more capable and calculating yourself than you verbally give yourself credit for.” Nodding toward the PADD, where he assumed his file had already been uploaded, Hirek let his smile morph into one of genuine quality without effort for flirtation or beguilement. “Now, what sort of questions do these formalities require?”

[Lt. Rhys Williams | Counselling Offices| Deck 09 | USS Theurgy]  attn: @Ellen Fitz

During their meeting Rhys had been so discombobulated by Hirek’s approach and by trying to form his words into coherent sentences he had completely forgotten to offer the older man something. It took Hirek reminding him to make the offer. Feeling more than a little mortified Rhys was apologetic. “Oh, I am so sorry. Here I am going on so much, what would you like.” Rhys said struggling a little to get out of the squashy chair and move to the replicator. 

Rhys at this point wished he could order a nice glass of Gin to steady his nerves, but he was on duty. “English Breakfast Tea, hot.” Tea was the next best thing. It had almost the status of a panacea across the British Isles. If something wrong, tea was offered. If something went well tea was offered. If there was a gap in a conversation you had no idea how to fill, tea was offered.

Rhys could not avoid noticing the way the handsome Romulan licked his lips and the pleasing way he smiled. The young Welshman found himself biting his own lip an unconscious marker that indicated attraction. He yet again was not even really aware that he was doing it.

Hirek went into greater detail about how he had ended up on board. Rhys had read this of course but the casual way Hirek described it was a little unnerving, especially to a person who tended to worry about hurting others to point of trying to make himself as in offensive and insignificant as possible.  He accepted being called manipulative. Rhys simply nodded at Hirek’s choice to laude manipulation as a character trait.  “The term manipulative has a negative connotation, and it can be a destructive trait for those around you, but it can also be an essential part of someone’s psychological defence mechanism.” He wanted to make it clear that while he had been freaked out initially by Hirek’s behaviour that his descriptors were intended to be value neutral.

Hirek smiled again as he asked Rhys about the sorts of questions he had to ask. The smile seemed to Rhys to be a little more a smile of amusement. There was a part of himself that he tried to supress that hoped more flirtation would come, just a little less direct than Hirek’s initially appearance. Rhys however supressed that unprofessional thought as much as he could.

“We’ve addressed many of them already.” Said Rhys nodding towards the PADD. “What I think would be most useful to discuss would be, do you foresee any difficulties integrating into the crew.” It was clear when the metaphorical spot light was on Hirek rather than Rhys the young man was much more comfortable.

[Hirek tr’Aimne | Counselling Offices |  D. 09 | V. 02 |  USS Theurgy ] Attn: @Juzzie

“Whatever you are having will be sufficient for me,” Hirek called after the counselor. He enjoyed the view of the man’s momentary retreat to the replicator as well as the continued signs that the manner in which he spoke, the obvious attention he paid the counselor, were just enough to throw the sandy-haired man off his norm and get at his nerves. “It will allow me insight into your taste.” He was again intentional with his word choice, understanding the difference between the singular and plural form of the word and how one carried a certain level of innuendo whereas the other did not.

The counselor’s effort to “support” Hirek brought a smile to the Romulan’s face, “I believe connotation for words varies from culture to culture, dear counselor. What you call manipulative, I may call strategically influential, and we can walk away from this session feeling as if we’ve spoken to a wall without any filtration of understanding.” He accepted the tea when it was offered, holding it up for a sniff. “Strong, subtle, malty.” Hirek pulled in a tentative sip, letting the amber liquid roll over his tongue a few times for a full flavor profile before he swallowed. “Bitter aftertaste but hints of nutty undertones. I will venture a guess that this is a very traditional beverage for your place of origin and is something that one grows into drinking as they age, reflecting a growing sense of maturity and independence?”

After taking another long sip, Hirek held the tea saucer between his fingers and leveled a sardonically amused smile at Rhys, “Difficulties integrating? You were listening when I so casually mentioned I shot your colleague. I have already been given verbal threats and what I believe are called ‘death glares’ by those who were on the planet’s surface during the defection. Your captain was cordial enough when we met, and your head of Intelligence made it clear that given my long-standing history with his department, he had no doubts about my loyalty to seeing the end of the Tal Shiar or my willingness to work with ‘integrity’ for as long as necessary with the crew, but we both know that just because those in charge who have greater insight on circumstances show less reservation for integration that does not mean the trickle-down effect will be successful. I foresee arguments, though I will not seek to start any. I foresee the potential for physical altercations, though again, I will not seek to instigate them. I foresee continued distrust and doubt lingering in the minds and gazes of everyone I meet who does not have the full picture. And I predict that only an isolated group of individuals, assuredly the minority, will ever look upon me with the closest equivalent to warmth and affection they can offer one such as myself.” Hirek saluted the counselor with his teacup before drinking down the last of the tea in one gulp. The clink of the empty cup against saucer sounded before he spoke again, “I am old enough, lieutenant, and I have lived enough, albeit without as much exposure to alien cultures, to be fairly accurate in my predictions and find them acceptable. Some things must be accepted in the short term to achieve success in the long term, and if I wish to end the tyranny of the Tal Shiar on my home planet and ensure my family’s safety for generations to come, then I must accept the present circumstances with as much charming aplomb as I was gifted by my genetic lineage.”

Hirek leaned forward to set the saucer on Rhys’ desk, tipping his chin towards the man’s body, “Now I must ask, do you foresee any more intimate integration between the two of us, or shall I count you among those who view my presence with a bitter distaste and distrust?”

[Lt. Rhys Williams | Counselling Offices| Deck 09 | USS Theurgy] attn: @Ellen Fitz


Rhys felt predatory eyes on him as the Romulan requested to have what he was having. Its like everything Hirek did was calculate to confuse Rhys or to put him on edge. Maybe Rhys was just too sensitive, that was a distinct possibility. There was something dangerous and alluring in the way Hirek looked at him, like he was mouse in the path of a cat and the cat was trying to decide whether to eat him or just play with him. The reference to taste certainly accentuated that feeling.

As he approached Hirek again to hand him his cup of tea, the older man in Rhys’ view continued to defend himself against the use of the word manipulative. He wondered whether this mean Hirek had not quite believed Rhys when the counsellor said he was not placing a value judgement on the word. That would seem to match up with his character so far. Hirek seemed to treat the tea like a wine connoisseur giving it a sniff an, a delicate sip. Rhys knew he was just being cautious as anyone one would with a new drink of foodstuff, but the sight amused him, and a little smile appeared on his face for the first time in the interview. He also resisted the urge to laugh a little. He remembered how his own family had drunk tea, in large well-loved and chipped mugs taking huge gulps while it was still scalding hot. His mother had joked about the Williams family being born with asbestos throats.

Hirek then took a moment to describe the flavour and what place he felt tea might hold in his culture. Again Rhys was faintly amused. Regarding Hirek’s comment about maturity and independence, Rhys simply replied, “That’s an interesting thought, in its own way.” He said with a wry smile. “It’s a panacea. Had a hard day at work? Tea. Feeling a bit off in the morning? Tea. Something’s gone well? Tea. A close family member died? Tea.” He had remembered when his mother died. He had sat in silence not saying anything while hot steaming cups of tea were pushed into his hands. He had drunk them without thinking. He tried not to get to misty eyed, Hirek was perceptive, and Rhys had no desire to begin discussing his woes with a man he wasn’t sure he entirely trusted or felt comfortable with yet.


Hirek answered his question about integration. Hirek seemed amused at the question. Rhys chuckled and shrugged, “I told you the questions are very formulaic. Wait till I get to the bit about narcotics.” This was a good rapport building exercise. It was good that the hoops they had to jump through were so standard it gave counsellor and interviewee something to bond over. Other Counsellors like to adapt the questions, Rhys didn’t because there was something a bit more disarming about a counsellor who agreed that the questions were terrible and superfluous but was apologetically asking them.

Nothing Hirek said about his integration with the crew surprised him. Rhys did wonder though how even someone as independent minded as this guy clearly would cope with having to exist alongside a cold and unaccepting crew. He doubted Hirek would ever admit it if it came to bother him but Rhys was sympathetic. It was going to be trying and any individual no matter how solitary eventually would need companionship. His arrogance and self-assurance would certainly help him though. “I hear what you say, but if it does get… overwhelming, I am here to help.”

However, Hirek was soon back to flirting. At the mention of intimacy Rhys of course returned to his bright red hue. He smiled it was a shy, little nervous smile. It was clear he was delighted at the implication that there was something about him Hirek liked or found compelling. It was also reasonably clear that even though Rhys was by all accounts conventionally attractive, the fact that someone might think that of him came as a surprise. He stumbled over his words a little as he tried to speak back. He had to take a moment to calm down before speaking. “I think you would think me a fool if I gave you my complete trust if for nothing else than this is the first time I’ve met you.” He allowed his eyes to drift a little more obviously over Hirek’s body. “I certainly don’t view your presence with disgust.” His eyes returned to his hands that were clasped together on his desk as if he felt he shouldn’t have looked at Hirek like that.

[Hirek tr’Aimne | Counselling Offices |  D. 09 | V. 02 |  USS Theurgy ] Attn: @Juzzie

“There are similar panaceas on Romulus. Some are teas, others are foods, and still, others are more physically inclined.” Hirek enjoyed the reaction he got from Rhys as he licked his lips and was slow about scratching at the side of his neck, eyes firmly locked on the Welsh man’s face.

It was fascinating to Hirek how this man was so open with his emotional expressions where the average Romulan child already knew how to express their delight at a gift and completely disguise the fact that they abhorred it. Rhys easily shifted from one emotive state to the next as well, further lending himself to a status of curiosity to Hirek. In direct response to either something Hirek said or his own mental commentary, Rhy would exude nervous anxiety, then amusement, and then concern, and all in the span of seconds. How very un-Romulan of him. And how very intriguing.

“Narcotics?” Hirek chuckled as he fell back against the chair again, letting his legs sprawl open for a moment as he exaggerated a relaxed state. “The best inducer of the ‘high’ feeling drugs may bring is sex. The second best is sailing.” Offering a wink in Rhys’ direction, Hirek sat up straighter and immediately waved away any concern Rhys may have had towards Hirek’s future status. “Unless you’re willing to help me relieve the stress via sailing or sex, I think I’ll be able to work my way through it without issue.”

Watching and listening to Rhys stumble over his words and not quite knowing how to respond to direct flirtation was more than a little entertaining to the Romulan. He knew many would find his entertainment marginally sadistic. But he wasn’t bothered by what they thought. Not especially when the reddening of Rhys’ cheeks had Hirek wondering if the blush extended down his neck and across his chest as well. And would his chest be hairless as most Vulcanoid’s were, or would he display hair where Hirek had none?

Hirek grinned, “It pleases me that I don’t disgust you. Though there are many other things you might do that would please me more. But,” he clapped his hands together suddenly, “if I’m not mistaken, this meeting is supposed to be about me and not you. So, dear Rhys, what else do you need to ask me for us to move through this formulaic meeting?”

[Lt. Rhys Williams | Counselling Offices| Deck 09 | USS Theurgy] attn: @Ellen Fitz

Despite Hirek’s unerring ability to put him off balance Rhys felt that gradually a rapport was being developed between the two of them. He was not naive enough to believe Hirek trusted him yet, nor did he fully trust the Romulan but an understanding seemed to be slowly forming. To Rhys there was nothing better than that feeling on some level that he was beginning to ‘get’ another person. Of course, Hirek continued to not so subtly flirt with Rhys, and despite Rhys’ obvious blushing and embarrassment he was clearly pleased. It was nice to be though of as worth flirting with, especially for someone still trying to find his feet and confidence.

When Hirek said that he preferred sex and sailing when responding to Rhys’ comment about narcotics Rhys sighed dramatically. He raised his eyebrows is a comical ‘really?!’ kind of way, but it was clearly more out of amusement than actual frustration or anger. He still blushed but the fact that he could joke back in such a way demonstrated he was relaxing a little. He pointedly avoided commenting on the sex part for now and simply said. “I love sailing or anything to do with messing about in water to be honest.” He smiled softly at the older man. “If it would help, we could take a trip in the holodeck sometime.” Rhys was delighted at the prospect of sharing a hobby with someone on board, it helped that Hirek was attractive. He also genuinely hoped that if negativity on board did get too much that it would help the man opposite.


Hirek’s hint that Rhys could do other things that might please him more, caused the young Welshman to open shut his mouth a few times. However, before he could formulate a response Hirek had clapped his hands together and was pressing on with the discussion. “Oh... um… yes well…” Rhys cleared his throat before continuing. “Have you been diagnosed with any mental health disorders that we should be aware of, and if so are you on any medication for them?” Rhys doubted he would get a clear answer on this one but he was now just reading the form on his PADD. All the time he was trying not to imagine what ‘pleasing’ Hirek would look like.

[Hirek tr’Aimne | Counselling Offices |  D. 09 | V. 02 |  USS Theurgy ] Attn: @Juzzie

“Holodeck.” Hirek tasted the word and paused, going back over the crash course orientation he’d received. “Ah, yes, the escape room. I’ve never experienced anything of that nature before, but I find it fascinating. Noting of that nature existed aboard the vessels I served on but that shouldn’t surprise you, considering the generalized data available to Starfleet regarding Romulan vessels and our military.” He shrugged, “I only served when required or drafted, much preferring my lectures at the college or my self-imposed exile at home.”

Hirek stood and followed Rhys’ footsteps to the replicator. As he was still getting acquainted with how the ship’s systems worked in response to queries, Hirek merely replicated Rhys’ earlier order in order to refill his teacup. Pivoting on his feet, Hirek placed the steaming saucer on the desk, then shifted closer to Rhys just long enough to seize his cup and saucer with a cheeky grin.

“Did you grow up along the sea as well? Or were you relegated to large lakes?” Hirek called the question over his shoulder as he went about refilling Rhys’ tea. “What sort of vessels did you sail with? What was the basic make-up?” Standing next to Rhys’ knees, he asked the last question as the counselor sat behind the desk. Hirek’s smile was playful as he bent closer and, with exaggeratedly slow movements, placed the tea within reach of the man. The Romulan fairly danced back around the desk and dropped back into his chair without bothering to see how his proximity had influenced Rhys.

They shifted back into the required questions for a time and Hirek smiled. “I believe most human counselors would label the average Romulan as paranoid xenophobics with an irrational arrogance.” He saluted Rhys with his teacup before taking a sip and sighing. “I’ve always been a quick learner and a keen observer, making me the perfect informant, apparently. But that aside, I’ve not been aboard your ship for very long and I’ve already noted and defined the responses of my fellow crewmembers. That and taking some time to read through what your records have to say about my people has been entertaining, to say the least. I'll admit many assumptions are not without warrant, but there are many generalizations. But I recognize I am saying that as a failure of a Romulan, even by my own people’s standards. An ambassador of the minority, so to say, of the other factions that still do exist on Romulus, though in persecution or in secret.” Lifting his cup, Hirek stared at the amber liquid a moment before smiling and returning his gaze to the counselor, “If you count tea, ale, and a sardonic sense of humor as medication, then I am well-medicated. Otherwise, there is nothing of note to share. How about you?” Hirek raised an eyebrow as he took a sip, then purposefully clinked the glass together before adding, “Your shyness and reserve, is that a mental health disorder or were you mistreated in your past? Or is it learned behavior from your clan?”

[Lt. Rhys Williams | Counselling Offices| Deck 09 | USS Theurgy] attn: @Ellen Fitz

As Hirek seemed to roll the word ‘holodeck’ around on his tongue it suddenly occurred to Rhys, that it was easy to assume what was common and normal in the Federation was common everywhere. He wondered what diversions they had aboard Romulan ships that were not present on Federation ones. He had never thought of Romulans as a particularly fun-loving people anyway, but it was hard to get a good impression a group that did its best to resist being analysed.

Hirek had approached and grinned a grin that made Rhys feel slightly weak at the knees. It was certainly a good job the young Counsellor was sitting down. Hirek was learning how he could affect Rhys very quickly, that was obvious to Rhys even as he was powerless to stop it. He had taken Rhys’ cup from his unresisting hands and was busy refilling it. The older man then, very unfairly as Rhys was concerned, asked him more questions. How on earth he was expected to answer when he was in this position he had no idea, but he would do his best.

“I er…. I was born on a tiny Island called Angelsey.” Said Rhys trying to collect himself around the powerful presence of the Romulan. I lived right on the Menai Straight. Mum and Dad renovated an old Yacht. We went on trips in it since I was tiny.” He said for a moment getting a faraway look as he could almost taste salt and smell fresh air. “Not far mainly along the mainland or sometimes over to Ireland.” He blushed as he realised these locations would likely mean nothing to his guest. “Apologies.” He said softly.

Hirek soon moved back to his place, there was a grace to his movements. Rhys again felt slightly embarrassed that he was staring at the other man’s body.  Hirek then began to describe an average Romulan’s mental state. Paranoid certainly seemed to fit Hirek, but then again if Rhys had lived in Romulan society he might well have become paranoid himself. It was survival as much as anything. Hirek was very clear to point out that he felt he was different from most Romulans an aberration. Rhys couldn’t really comment as Hirek was the first Romulan he had had any kind of substantive conversation with. He was intrigued by the idea, however. Indeed, Hirek seemed proud of his differences, something which endeared him to the young Welshman.

Then Hirek asked a very personal question. This one however did not unbalance him in the way some might have expected it would. Rhys did indeed have his issues it was obvious there was no point in hiding it. It was also useful. Sometimes patients were reluctant to share as they felt that he wouldn’t be able to understand what they were going through. He could then demonstrate that he absolutely could understand. It was another rapport maker. Once Rhys had been sensitive about it, that feeling was receding now. He had explained it so many times.


He took a breath and spoke calmly in a level voice. “I have Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Sometimes I have these delusional thoughts that I can cause bad things to happen just by thinking about them.” He shrugged “I am aware that this is impossible, but the delusions feel real enough.” He paused swallowing some tea. “Anyway, this leads to ritualistic behaviour in an attempt to distract the mind from these thoughts. Some people clean excessively, some people are constantly counting in their heads, it can manifest in any number of ways.” The way he spoke was as if he was reading a clinical textbook off the inside of his eyelids. He deliberately avoided going into detail about his own behaviours or any causes. Though it was possible to notice, that when he was not speaking Rhys' fingers tended to twist and grip each other in various patterns, or other times he would tap out a Rythm on the floor with his right leg.  “I’ve also had a couple of nervous breakdowns on duty. It's one of the reasons I became a counsellor, I wanted to help people and prevent them feeling the way I had felt.” He wasn’t sure how Hirek would take any of this, would he perceive him as weak?

[Hirek tr’Aimne | Counselling Offices |  D. 09 | V. 02 |  USS Theurgy ] Attn: @Juzzie

Hirek smiled at the shared experiences, “An islander meets an islander; what a fantastical delight this is proving to be. Though I don’t really know what a yacht looks like, do you have pictures?” His eyes darted over the shelving in the office, then returned to rest on Rhys’ face, “I’m curious if the shipbuilding is so dramatically different between our cultures.”

Hirek was slow about drinking his tea while Rhys answered his question. He’d never heard the term before, but he’d met more than a few individuals who exhibited the habits Rhys spoke of. In a way, nearly every Romulan could be diagnosed with this “disorder,” as many of these were mere habits for the average Romulan. He said as much to Rhys, his comment made with an amused smirk. But then he fell silent again as Rhys continued, sharing about more recent events, though in a vague manner. It was not lost on Hirek, how Rhys’ voice and demeanor had changed when it came time for him to share about his diagnosis or his breakdowns while on duty. And far from dissuading him from asking for more information due to the obvious discomfort sharing brought Rhys, Hirek was more intrigued.

“I suppose the closest thing to a breakdown I have had, in case that is a future question you’re to ask, happened soon after they executed my uncle for crimes against the Senate. When I discovered he’d been executed because of betrayal, I swore revenge, and that was when I first connected to Starfleet Intelligence. My ‘breakdown’ drove me to connect with a presumed enemy of the Empire. Another ‘breakdown’ could be what drove me to Qo’Nos as a plant within the Tal Shiar cell there because it would only be desperation that would fuel such a decision on my part.” Hirek’s eyes remained on the last dregs of his second cup of tea when he asked a follow-up question of the handsome Welshman, “What brought about your breakdowns? You do not strike me as the type of man to break under routine pressure.” He tipped the cup against his lips and watched Rhys while he finished off the last of his tea.

[Lt. Rhys Williams | Counselling Offices| Deck 09 | USS Theurgy] attn: @Ellen Fitz

Rhys smiled when Hirek took interest in his sailing and asked if he had an picture. There was a shelf behind his desk, in front of a viewport. Rhys nodded towards it. “There is over there.” On the shelf were two pictures and an array of small models. Some were of sea faring vessels others included Federation starships of various vintages. He stood and moved towards them, clearly indicating that Hirek could do so to if he wished. In one of the picture’s was a long wite vessel, it was antiquated and had an indication that at one point it had been driven by steam. On it was marked in curly lettering ‘Arawn’. The picture on the other side of the shelf was one of a young woman in an older style gold Starfleet uniform. Next to her was a young boy with a wide if slightly awkward grin, it was clearly Rhys. “The ship is quite old it was built originally in 1885 I believe. My parents spent a lot of their free time working on it and I helped where I could.” He looked wistfully from picture to picture.

Hirek returned to the subject of mental health and his belief that most Romulans had OCD. Rhys again wasn’t sure how accurate that was, but he had nothing else to go off than what Hirek had said. If that was the case, it was concerning to Rhys that an entire people could suffer from a trauma like that. Hirek seemed interested in Rhys’ thoughts about mental health. He talked at length about his journey out of the Romulan Empire and how much of it could be seen as a breakdown.

Rhys was sure that he probably should have been more suspicious of Hirek’s probing questions about his mental health. However Rhys considered it part of his growth to be more open about what he had felt. He had been ashamed of what had happened on one level and on another Stellan and Hathev had shown him better ways of thinking about it. It wasn’t always easy.

Rhys sighed and looked back at Hirek and sighed, he gave a small sad shrug. “Its almost never one incident. Its like a table being overloaded who can really say what the responsible thing was when it finally collapsed?” He toyed with the model of an Excelsior class ship. “My mother was killed when I was young at Wolf-359. We had been in some petty argument before she left and in a fit of childish peake I told her I wished her dead.” He shook his head, “I guess that’s where it all started. Then I joined up, and my first ship I was on was destroyed I suspect by the parasites.” He chuckled softly without humour. “That’s when I had the first breakdown. I was unable to function. It did produce a bright side, I was so impressed by the help I received I wanted to learn to do the same. So I became a counsellor.” He grinned a slight hint of pride this time, as he waved his hands over his body indicating his now blue trimmed uniform.

“Just as I felt like my career was going well, my ship was attacked by the Borg in the Azure Nebula. I ended up on the Cayuga where I found out the Federation had been taken over by a parasite, and then…” He swallowed at the most recent memory. “A patient of mine murdered a member of the crew…” He shook his head. “Que mental break number two. I’ve only recently been cleared for duty.” He looked Hirek directly in the eye and repeated a question that the Romulan had asked earlier. “What’s the verdict am I crazy?” He laughed.

[Hirek tr’Aimne | Counselling Offices |  D. 09 | V. 02 |  USS Theurgy ] Attn: @Juzzie

Hirek enjoyed the view of Rhys standing and moving away but didn’t dawdle before joining him closer to the viewport. The office's lighting was different here, most subtle in a fashion, and it cast Rhys’ features more dramatically. Hirek waited until Rhys moved away from the picture before he stepped closer, picking it up to inspect it. His eyes were first on the vessel, years of life spent on the water, directing his focus onto the Terran ship. Then, as Rhys shared more details of the picture, Hirek pulled his focus away from the ship and noted the child and the woman.

“She is beautiful.” Hirek pointed to the woman, then directed his fingertip over the boy. “And this looks like a boy full of mischief and wonderment.”

Hirek replaced the picture as Rhys shifted the conversation back to his own battle with breakdowns. The longer Rhys spoke, the more Hirek found himself intrigued. Angling his body to lean against the shelves facing Rhys, he loosely crossed his arms over his chest to further signal to the Welshman that he wasn’t about to molest him amidst this vulnerable sharing. Hirek also refrained from giving the man a lecherous grin when Rhys’ hands hovered in the air over his body, very much drawing Hirek’s attention to the muscled form that was hidden from view because of the uniform. There would be time enough for that.

“Capitalizing on opportunities that arise from ashes is quite Romulan of you, Rhys.” Hirek finally spoke, his eyes moving over the details of Rhys’ uniform, a smile tugging at one side of his mouth. “While I do not know all the nuances of a typical Terran family,” he broke eye contact with Rhys long enough to nod toward the photo, “based on that visual evidence, I do not believe your mother would have believed your parting words. Quite unlike my last words to my wife before she went back on duty when I told her, as I always did after we finished fighting and fucking, that if this was the last time, I saw her, I would be grateful for her absence. I know she did not think of me in her last moments before her ship exploded. And I do not miss her. Again, quite unlike yourself. That you regret and feel her absence is further proof, at least to me, that there was far more kindness and genuine affection shared between you than ever existed between my wife and I.”

Hirek uncrossed his arms just long enough to reach up and tug at his ear, an amused smile softening his features.

“If that had been a Romulan ship, I doubt anyone would have felt you were at fault for the murder. In fact, they may have awarded you some badge or medal because likely the murder was connected to intrigue, and one less person involved with intrigue the better. Regardless, unless you as the counselor, had been encouraging the murderer to carry out that act, again, it does not seem plausible or reasonable to presume that you had anything to do with their choices.” Hirek shrugged, crossing his arms again and shaking his head at Rhys’ question, “The verdict is you’re alive. All survival efforts require ingenuity and resilience, and depending on the cultural framework, we can construe those efforts as crazy or sane.”

Hirek pushed off the shelf and moved a step closer. He would abide by what he’d promised Rhys earlier. He would not touch the man nor invade his space further without invitation. But that didn’t mean he couldn’t SAY something.

“For example,” he stopped in his approach and once more leaned against the shelf, gaze languidly moving over Rhys’ form, “my earlier intimidation tactics, sane or crazy?” He smirked with a half-shrug. “The coping mechanism of seeking pleasure and companionship during times of stress, which I’m assuming is just as true a factor with humans as it is with Romulans, sane or crazy?” His arms recrossed over his chest as he continued, “My desire to comb my fingers through your hair right now, tugging your head back, and pressing a soft kiss to your throat right over that bobbing evidence of all the times you gulp as you fidget in discomfort, sane or crazy?” Hirek gestured with one hand toward Rhys’ shoulders, “My curiosity to see the muscles of your shoulders shift and ripple under your skin as you hold yourself above me, sane or crazy?” Hirek curled his arm back and remained as still as a predator waiting to pounce. “My interest in knowing how you taste as I run my tongue across your lips, how you smell as I dip my head to press a kiss beneath your ear, how you feel as I wrap my arms around you, sane or crazy?”

Hirek raised an eyebrow as he fell silent, waiting for Rhys’ response. Would it be an invitation to find out? Or would it be a request that he leave?

[Lt. Rhys Williams | Counselling Offices| Deck 09 | USS Theurgy] attn: @Ellen Fitz

As Rhys showed the pictures and models to Hirek the Romulan commented that ‘she was beautiful’. For a moment Rhys thought he meant the boat but then it was clear he was talking about the picture of his mother. She had been that was true, he had remembered her as a kind presence in his early life, one who was strong and dedicated. The only tension had been that she was gone for so long the burden of being the son of a Starfleet officer. Hirek also commented on Rhys’ appearance as young boy. The older man saw him as a boy full of ‘mischief’ Rhys just nodded, it wasn’t really true he had been a bit of a goody two shoes really, but he did not want to shatter Hirek’s illusion.

Hirek then attempted to compare his relationship to his wife to Rhys’ relationship with his mother. They seemed very different relationships. He claimed not miss her or regret her death, yet he on some level clearly understood Rhys’ feelings on the matter. Rhys was left wondering if there was someone Hirek had lost that he regrated the loss of. Rhys just knew he missed his mother like a fibre gone from his heart.

Then Hirek addressed Rhys’ former patient. Hirek was kind about this in some respects saying all the right things. Not for the first time the young Welshman was forced to wonder who was counselling who. He also wondered if this kindness was a tactic to. Unsurprisingly Hirek was hard to read, and Rhys was not arrogant enough to believe that this brief meeting had given him a window to his soul.

It did not take Hirek long to return to his unsettling unnerving flirting. The more he spoke the redder his face got, which was not the only physical affect that he had on the young man. Rhys also found himself unconsciously biting his lip as his mind lingered on the alluring images conjured by Hirek’s skilful tongue. He almost started to sweat coldly as the thought arose unbidden ‘Is this all that this man’s tongue can do?’ When the older man stopped speaking, he seemed to Rhys to be waiting there was a tension in his body. It would be deeply unprofessional to say what was swirling in Rhys’ head, but he was going to he felt unable to stop himself.

“A mixture of the two, but something being crazy doesn’t always mean its bad.” Rhys said his voice barely above a whisper as he found himself moving closer to Hirek’s space. Rhys cocked his head a little to one side, “You want to do all that?” It felt like a stupid comment, after all the man had painted a picture in vivid terms. They were no so close they were almost touching. The new voice that had emerged since Stellan’s accident was pressing him to override his shyness and professional sensibilities. He wanted to be pounced by this guy a terrifying thought to realise. “You do seem… to have  a lot of frustration in there.” He smiled shyly, and latched on to HIrek’s comment about coping mechanisms. “I did offer to help you with the stress of integration didn’t I?” He blushed fiercely. Rhys was taller than Hirek, but despite that Rhys almost appeared to be looking up at him like he was much smaller. His blue eyes bright and wide like a small animal caught in bright lights.

[Hirek tr’Aimne | Counselling Offices |  D. 09 | V. 02 |  USS Theurgy ] Attn: @Juzzie

Hirek’s mind was already undressing the man squirming in front of him, his mouth already filled with the imagined taste of Rhys’ skin as he pressed open-mouthed kisses to Rhys’ chest. Inhaling his scent on a deep breath, Hirek was content to watch Rhys and not move to touch him. He’d earlier made a promise not to invade the man’s personal space again unless invited, and with that was the unspoken addition of touch. He would not touch Rhys unless Rhys asked for it. Hirek inwardly smirked, his mind darting to the imagined sound of Rhys begging for it on his knees.

Hirek’s curiosity on how Rhys would respond to his shameless feigned queries was not left in suspense for long. He gave a single nod of agreement to Rhys’ first comment, then another nod accompanied by a languidly lecherous smile at the whispered question of his wanting to do everything he’d said to Rhys. Rhys’ movement forward into Hirek’s space was not unnoticed by the Romulan. Yet, Hirek remained still, the only movement that of his chest as he breathed and his eyes as he drank in the details of Rhys’ emotions as they displayed themselves in full array across the man’s handsome features.

Considering the responding flirtation Rhys leveled at Hirek, fierce blush included, it seemed his refraining from movement and comment had worked in Hirek’s favor. Instead of having to chase the Welshman across the room tossing not-so-subtle innuendos at his feet to trip over, the Welshman was now awakening to his own desires, and so far, it seemed Hirek was in direct line of sight for that desire.

“It is true,” Hirek kept his voice soft, intentionally whispering in the hope that Rhys would shift even closer, tempting them both even further. “I have not shared physical pleasure with anyone in months.” His smile softened as he cocked his head to the side and stared up at Rhys, his body still placidly leaning against the shelves. “I am curious what sort of help you now have in mind.”

Hirek finally moved, one arm unhooking from across his chest. His hand moved purposefully in the air between them, angled as if he would touch Rhys, but at the last moment, reaching up and running a single finger from the tip of his own ear down to tug at the lobe. Having demonstrated in that moment to Rhys that he would not violate his earlier promise, even amid this building desire, Hirek dropped his hand to his side. Would the shy counselor grow emboldened in the face of Hirek’s restraint, or would he shy away, doubting himself? Hirek hoped for the former, but prepared himself for the latter.

[Lt. Rhys Williams | Counselling Offices| Deck 09 | USS Theurgy] attn@: @Ellen Fitz

Was he really going to do this? The thought echoed in the recesses of his mind. Followed by the question ‘What is the ‘this’ I am wondering about doing?’ The voices in his head were all there. The vicious nasty one that told him he was ugly and worthless all the time, though that one had been getting noticeably quieter. A second that wedeled, cowered and warned about professionalism. Then there was the new voice, it spoke in bold confident tones about how professionalism could go to hell and if he wanted to do something he should do it.

It was obvious to Rhys that the older Romulan was mentally undressing him at a minimum. It was also obvious to Rhys that he wanted to surrender to this guy and let him do what he wanted. Hirek was still and waiting for him. Rhys had expected the other man to pounce as soon as the young Welshman made it clear that he was giving himself over to Hirek. He leaned languidly against the shelves Rhys unable to keep his eyes drifting along his body.

Hirek made no attempt to touch him and merely stayed where he was, using tantalising words and body posture. Rhys was able to see that he wanted to determine how far Rhys would go, if he would initiate something. Had Rhys been more naive he might have assumed that Hirek was genuinely respecting his boundaries for moral reasons. Rhys was not so naive to completely buy that. He suspected the other man was thrilled by the idea of Rhys throwing himself at Hirek.

Rhys took a moment to think, it was only the span of a few seconds, but it seemed to him that he was taking hours to come to a decision. Rhys stepped forward so now they were so close. His hands slowly pressed onto Hirek’s chest, not this time to push him away but just to touch him. He knew he should have made some sultry flirtatious remark, about being willing to do ‘anything’ to help. However, he was so nervous he doubted he could form the words. His heart was beating quick and the hands on Hirek’s chest tremble just a little.  Rhys leant down slowly till their lips came together. It started soft gentle and chaste, but the longer they were in contact the more pressure was applied, the more devilish the kiss became.

[Hirek tr’Aimne | Counselling Offices |  D. 09 | V. 02 |  USS Theurgy ] Attn: @Juzzie

Hirek’s patience was rewarded. Though he was careful not to show any signs of celebration. That would likely not be interpreted as positively as Hirek would intend. Instead, Hirek slowly leaned against Rhys’ hands, careful not to move too fast for fear of startling him. When Hirek felt warm breath fan across his skin then firm lips press against his, Hirek’s eyes drifted closed of their own accord. He tipped his head to the side and gently, ever so gently, increased the pressure of the kiss. Hirek felt Rhys shift through their sparse touch, not immune to the kiss any more than Hirek was. Hirek pulled Rhys’ lower lip between his teeth. He felt Rhys’ heartbeat speed up when Hirek uncrossed his arms and wrapped a warm hand around the back of Rhys’ neck. He used this simple anchoring touch to pull Rhys closer, molding the Welshman to his own body. Hirek relaxed. Having Rhy pressed against him, chest-to-chest, hip-to-hip, released a tension he'd been holding almost from the moment he met the counselor. No, it was from long before. A damned tension that had been building for months on end, building into a semi-restrained beast that stared petulantly at Hirek from his subconscious, whining to be let off the chain. Not yet.

As the kiss increased in intensity, Hirek lifted his hand away from Rhys’ neck just enough to trace his fingertips across the sensitive skin at Rhys’ hairline. As Rhys responded to the tantalizing touch, Hirek opened his mouth slightly, just enough to run his tongue along Rhys’ bottom lip. Moving his other free hand forward, Hirek placed it on Rhys’ hip. Hirek pivoted forward until he had Rhys’ back pressed against the bookshelves in a mirrored version of their first meeting. Hirek liked the feeling of trapping the shy man between his warm body and the hardness of the books and based on the counselor’s response, it seemed that Rhys wasn’t as opposed this time around.

Hirek wondered what he could do to incite a stronger response, inwardly smirking as he nipped at Rhys’ lower lip, then sucked away any potential sting. Hirek took this opportunity to slip his tongue between Rhys’ lips, finally tasting him. There was the tea, of course, but then there was the unique taste that was Rhys, a taste Hirek would delight to have more of. He pressed more firmly against Rhys, his heart rate increasing as Hirek gave himself over to the temptations he’d been resisting for so long. He alternated between caressing his tongue with Rhys and leaving little nips along his lips, mimicking with his mouth what he very much wanted to do elsewhere and with far less clothing between them.

One hand still cupped around the back of his head, Hirek tugged at Rhys’ hair as he angled his head to the side more, deepening the kiss to a level he knew they'd both appreciate. He rewarded Rhys’ participation in this lust-filled interlude by smoothing the hand that had been on the counselor’s waist over the rounded side of his hip and down further until Hirek could cup a firm hold on Rhys’ bum, pulling him up against Hirek in one firm move. While Hirek would’ve been perfectly content to keep kissing Rhys senseless as he also ventured closer to the edge one does not back away from easily, he also wanted to allow the counselor to “escape,” so to speak, in case Hirek had taken the initially shy kiss offered by the Welshman and escalated it far beyond Rhys’ comfort zone. Hirek was many dastardly things, but he’d never taken advantage of someone sexually.

Softening the kiss to a gentle whisper of lips against lips, Hirek pulled back and stared at the thoroughly kissed counselor’s expression with a wry smile. "That was…surprising." His gaze focused on Rhys’ lips, but eventually traveled back to his eyes. “And very welcome.” He kept one hand on Rhys’ bum, very reluctant to let go now that he had a good grip on it. The other hand, however, Hirek pulled away from the back of Rhys’ neck, taking to tracing light touches along the Welshman’s jawline, then up and over the hyper-sensitive skin of Rhys’ lips. “Would you like me to stop, Rhys?”

[Lt. Rhys Williams | Counselling Offices| Deck 09 | USS Theurgy] attn: @Ellen Fitz

Rhys was surprised, not only at himself but at Hirek’s initial restraint. Taking his time as they kissed and not pushing anything too much yet. Though as the Romulan pulled at Rhys’ lower lip, the young Welshman was unable to prevent a loud gasp escaping his throat. The more that Hirek pulled them together the more obvious it was that Rhys was enjoying the exchange. Rhys found his own hands at the older man’s hips and slowly moved them up and down his sides. There was something that was just right about being this close to another person’s body feeling their warmth, their sent in Rhys’ nostrils.

It was amazing what could be felt about a partner just by touch alone. Hirek was tense, there was a powerful body that was doing its best to restrain itself. Doubtless Hirek was worried about going too hard too fast with Rhys and scaring him off. Rhys was grateful of that even if he was doing that for selfish reasons. 

Next Rhys felt the Romulan’ gently brush his fingertips across the skin of his hairline. Any tension in Rhys’ body immediately evaporated and his mouth opened wider unwittingly. Rhys felt a tongue against his lip. Soon he was pressed back against the bookshelf pinned by Hirek’s mass. Previously he had objected even been scared, but this time the strange charisma of this Romulan was working on him. He was very much under his spell at this point, it also helped that along with the shyness was a clear and obvious submissive streak in Rhys. He wasn’t in charge or really in control of this situation and while that was frightening on one level, he had no desire to change this.

As the younger man was pinned to the bookshelf, this seemed to precipitate a more assertive action from Hirek. Rhys responded as best he could in kind. As he felt his bottom lip bitten then sucked the soft gasp that Hirek had gotten earlier gave way to a low needy moan that surprised its own creator. Rhys’ own hands slid over Hirek’s back before his right ended up on the side of the older man’s face as they kissed. He made a little surprised noise as his backside was grasped and in response Rhys’ hips pressed further into Hirek’ his arousal obvious and prominent.

Soon however Hirek stopped his onslaught of sensory attacks. Rhys met Hirek’s eyes his cheeks a vivid burning red, as Hirek asked a very unfair question. Rhys knew he shouldn’t continue this that this was deeply unprofessional and a breach of ethics. However, he was at a point where another part of him was doing the thinking.  So, he shook his head. “No…” he said breathlessly.

[Hirek tr’Aimne | Counselling Offices |  D. 09 | V. 02 |  USS Theurgy ] Attn: @Juzzie

Hirek’s cock twitched at the sounds Rhys made, his lips pulling back into a smile even as he kissed the counselor senselessly. He felt the heavy length of Rhys’ erection against his belly, adding to the moment's pleasure. It had been difficult to pull back, to offer Rhys the out. His fingertips traced along Rhys’ collarbone as he awaited the man’s answer. But at Rhys’ breathless answer, Hirek immediately responded.

Moving his hand from Rhys’ rear back up to the man’s hip, Hirek kept a strong grip. His other hand wove back to Rhys’ neck, fingers curling into the softness of his hair. Though the beast inside him demanded he rush into this, after all, Rhys had given him permission in a fashion, Hirek didn’t want to rush this. If they went as far as his beast desired, there would be consequences. Rhys’ rational side may catch up and drive a wedge between them, or the counselor would use this interlude for further self-beratement—there was no way Hirek could stop that. But there would be consequences even if he stopped altogether. Regardless, if Hirek rushed through the pleasure that was the process, then there was no telling when he’d get the opportunity to ravish the man again. And to rush through a coveted dessert was no way to end a delightful meal.

Though his grip was strong on Rhys’ hip, when Hirek leaned forward, he was gentle in brushing the tip of his nose against the junction of Rhys’ neck and shoulder, audibly breathing in the Welshman’s scent. He placed his lips over the rapid pulse he found, tongue darting out to taste. Lingering a moment longer, his hand on Rhys’ hip edged down to massage into the side of Rhys’ thigh. After another heartbeat, Hirek traced his lips up Rhys’ neck to his ear. The bite he left on Rhys’ earlobe was as light as his kisses.

“What do you want, Rhys?” Hirek pressed his hips against the counselor, allowing the man to feel the length of his arousal through the tunic as Hirek whispered the question. “Or,” Hirek removed his hand from Rhys neck and snaked it around Rhys’ waist while, with the other, he traced ghost-light touches up Rhys’ side before firmly, boldly, moving the hand between them and taking hold of Rhys’ inner thigh, not quite touching Rhys’ mirrored erection, but close enough to brush along its edge. “I suppose the better question would be, where do you want me?”

Awaiting further direction, Hirek contented himself by pressing another kiss against Rhys’ neck, directly below his ear, and nuzzling his face against the Welshman’s neck. Even if Rhys’ rational mind finally clicked with what was happening and pushed Hirek away, Hirek was immensely happier now than when he’d come in the door. He had not been lying or exaggerating when he’d confessed to not having lain with someone in months. It was closer to a year, to be precise. Though this had not exactly been his intention with his earlier intimidation tactics or his shameless flirting, at least not this quickly, Hirek was certainly delighted to be where he was, on the cusp of something that could prove both diverting and pleasurable.

[Lt. Rhys Williams | Counselling Offices| Deck 09 | USS Theurgy] attn: @Ellen Fitz

Hirek’s touch felt expert, a little like Rhys was an instrument being touched and caressed in exactly the right way to create the right sounds that he wanted. Rhys’ brief breathless answer to his question seemed to delight the older Romulan if his touch was anything to go by. The younger man shivered as he felt fingertips caress the sensitive skin of his neck and into his fair hair. Now that Rhys was pinned and had agreed to sharing this moment with him, Hirek seemed to take his time. Rhys enjoyed that, he liked the feeling of being explored and enjoyed by someone else.


As Hirek homed in on Rhys’ neck, a soft needy mewling sound came out of Rhys that had he been in his right mind he might have been embarrassed about. His head was leaned to one side exposing more of his neck to Hirek’s attentions. There was a slight jump as Hirek’s hand moved along his thigh, but Rhys made no attempt to move or push him away.

Rhys could feel Hirek’s own arousal pressing into him as he spoke, and he felt a measure of delight that he had caused that in some way. There was no greater aphrodisiac than being desirable to someone. Hirek was asking him questions again, which was so unfair, expecting Rhys to think rationally under these conditions.

“… You….” He said his words barely above a whisper. “Anywhere.” He said trying to answer the question as best he could. His heartbeat like a canon was constantly firing shells from inside him, his breathing was deep and his head felt light. He raised his voice a little and addressed the computer of the vessel. “Please could you secure the door to the office?” There was an acknowledging sound from a wall console. As Hirek nuzzled his neck, Rhys found himself saying a foolish thing. “I mean if you still are interested in…. releasing some stress.” His face was pink, and his hand dropped from Hirek’s side to grip the Romulan’s backside mirroring what he had done before.

[Hirek tr’Aimne | Counselling Offices |  D. 09 | V. 02 |  USS Theurgy ] Attn: @Juzzie

Rhys’ words, the flush of his face, the submission to this moment and HIM, worked to unlock Hirek’s hunger. His cock was hard; the head tingling unbearably, hot and swollen, a drop forming at the tip. Hirek intentionally shifted half a step out of Rhys’ touch, letting the cool air of the room fall between them. His smile remained voracious, his hands coming up between them and splaying open on Rhys’ chest.

“Is that not what a counselor offers?” His touch was gentle, and firm, moving in slow designs down Rhys’ torso as he spoke. “Release?”

Hirek paused a moment as his hands reached Rhys’ waist, still rational enough to weigh the consequences of his actions and then determining that he’d given Rhys enough opportunities to kick him out and end this. On a breath, Hirek moved with the swift silence of a predator. Gripping Rhys’ waist, Hirek easily lifted the taller man. He crushed his mouth against Rhys’, pivoting on his feet and moving back to the desk. Responsiveness entered his body in the flex of Rhys’ rhythm with Hirek’s. He gave no heed to what destruction or disarray depositing the Welshman on its surface might bring. Instead, with a plop, Hirek had Rhys’ ass on his own desk and stepped between the counselor’s legs, hands keeping their grip on the man’s hips. Hirek alternated between demanding and waiting for more, his kisses deep.

After a moment, Hirek swam up to the surface of consciousness and withdrew from the kiss. He slid his right hand up Rhys’ torso to once more cup the man’s face, holding captive Rhys’ gaze, while his left hand shifted forward and down, moving to cup Rhys intimately. Hirek curled his fingers along the underside of Rhys’ testicles until he arrived at the base of Rhys’ penis. Hirek watched Rhys’ expression as he trailed his fingers along its length, noting with interest the texture still felt through the layers of clothing between them. He stroked the counselor slowly, right to the tip, then, with a smile, moved this hand to cup the back of Rhys’ waist, hauling his body forward, closer to the edge of the desk. Hirek leaned forward, his body against Rhys’ chest, and once more, Hirek’s mouth found his.

“If you want more,” Hirek whispered between kisses, “you’re going to have to tell me PRECISELY what you want.” He knew Rhys was submissive by nature, and he gloried in the challenge such a task would bring, his stomach clenching in anticipation at what Rhys why say or do in response to his demand.

[Lt. Rhys Williams | Counselling Offices| Deck 09 | USS Theurgy] attn: @Ellen Fitz

There was something so predatory about the man opposite. Just the look in his eyes gave Rhys the impression of barely restrained power.  Despite that his touch remained, gentle and considerate feeling. He wondered when and if the damn would break, well more than wondered really, he felt embarrassed to admit he wanted it to.

Soon however, Hirek did something that surprised Rhys and ensured that he was like iron between his legs. He lifted Rhys onto the desk, seemingly with little or no effort. He knew that Vulcans were stronger than the average human, he had never really thought about Romulans in that way. However, given their relation he supposed they must be to. PADDs of important documents and Rhys’ teacup went skittering across the floor. As he was plopped on to his desk and kissed by the more experienced man, Rhys let out a soft needy sound that he was not aware of making.

It was not long before he found bluey-hazel eyes staring deep into his own bright blue ones as Hirek’s hand explored below his waist. He gasped softly at his touch, astounded by how good it felt even through layers of clothing. As he was stroked Rhys closed his eyes his head tipping back a little. When Hirek caressed the tip there was a jump and a shudder from the young Welshman. Soon though he found himself crushed tightly against Hirek. As he was kissed with a firmness that made his head swim, his legs wrapped around the other man’s waist instinctively pulling him closer.

Then Hirek in his cruelly insisted that Rhys had to tell him exactly what he wanted. Rhys wasn’t even sure he could form full sentences at the moment. He looked pleadingly at the other man for a moment but when he saw no help was coming from there he tried to respond. “I want…. um……. Uh…ahhh….” His eyes scrunched up as he tried to focus his thoughts into words. His hands moved as if trying to draw the words out from deep inside himself. He was tempted to just say ‘you’ again, but he doubted that that would be precise enough for him. He knew what he wanted really, but the words in his head made him cringe and there was a fear that Hirek would think less of him for saying it. He knew this was irrational he doubted Hirek would care what he had to say, but such was anxiety. “I… er…..” His hands drifted down to the older man’s backside which he squeezed firmly. “I er…. want you to fuck me.” He said quietly almost inaudibly finally being able to look Hirek in the eyes.

[Hirek tr’Aimne | Counselling Offices |  D. 09 | V. 02 |  USS Theurgy ] Attn: @Juzzie

Only age and experience kept Hirek from ripping Rhys’ clothing off and fucking him without further seductive preparation. Age and experience had taught him well the process was sometimes almost more delightful than the actual act. Rhys was young, though Hirek had no notion of his experience—even a demure man could have a lot of sexual experience—and it seemed to Hirek that IF he did decide to forego further foreplay, the man would be perfectly happy for that. However, Hirek was just as calculating with pleasure as he was with his work and basically all areas of his life. He certainly wasn’t about to satiate Rhys’ desires in one fell swoop in rapid order. No, there would be time enough for the climax. Later.

Of course, this internal determination didn’t dissuade his own pleasure or keep him from grunting out his pleasure when Rhys kissed him back or squeezed his ass. Quite the contrary. Hirek made sure Rhys could hear the groans and moans of pleasure, knowing instinctively that sound was just as important as touching in intimacy. Especially for someone as shy as Rhys, the man would likely grow bolder the more he heard and saw confirming evidence that he was desired.

Rhys’ eventual confession of his desires had Hirek grinning, leaning in for another kiss. He placed his hands on Rhys’ knees and pushed at the man’s legs until he was able to extricate himself from the locked position. The only way any type of fucking would take place was if they were without more than a few layers of clothing. Hirek kept his gaze firmly on Rhys as he kicked off his shoes and toed them aside while his fingers deftly untied the knot of his tunic near his neck—allowing the outer flap to roll open—then the interior knot near his waist—finally falling open to reveal his toned torso.

“Unless you want me to rip the clothing off,” Hirek’s lips curled into a mischievous smile as he rolled his shoulders and shucked off the tunic completely, tossing it to the side, “I’d suggest you divest yourself of any articles you would prefer to keep in one piece.”

He gave Rhys a wink just as he hooked his thumbs into his trouser waistline and pulled them off, underwear and all. In less than a minute from Rhys’ submission to fucking, Hirek stood naked before the Welshman, shamelessly aroused. Seized with an idea and ever curious how Rhys would respond, Hirek stepped further back until he felt Rhys’ chair at the back of his legs. He sat down, legs splayed open, hands resting palm down on the armrests. If he’d been clothed, Hirek might’ve looked like a king sitting on his throne awaiting his courtiers. Sitting naked as he was, Hirek was no less noble but assuredly a different context that would be brought to mind for anyone who saw him.

Raising a single eyebrow, Hirek continued to watch Rhys with the controlled stillness of a bird of prey waiting to swoop in, “And how would you like to be fucked, Rhys?”

[Lt. Rhys Williams | Counselling Offices| Deck 09 | USS Theurgy] attn: @Ellen Fitz

There was a part of Rhys that was wondering what had come over him. Rhys was not a go with the flow kind of guy at least when it came to sex and relationships. For most of his life he had done poorly in terms of his sex life. He didn’t really party, he was a stay at home quietly and read a book kind of guy. Confidence was a powerful aphrodisiac, it was working on him now after all, but what about a man with little or none himself. If you weren’t confident, it could make you come across as awkward and weird it also meant you were less likely to just try. Admiring people from a polite distance was what he did.

So, he was baffled by what had been happening to him recently. A loud, brash, and confident voice was starting to appear in his head and push him to do things he wouldn’t normally do. “Why not? Just do it.” Seemed to be its catch phrases.

Hirek’s clear enjoyment of Rhys’ touch was received with incredulous delight by the younger man. Rhys had had sex before and wasn’t awful at it at least no previous partner had been impolite enough to say that, but it still surprised him when anyone enjoyed him.

Hirek grinned in a way that nearly made Rhys melt as he forced himself to admit what he wanted. His heartbeat quickened and there was a feeling of both embarrassment and delight that what he wanted may soon happen. Reluctantly he released the older man from the grip of his legs around his hips, and felt his mouth go dry at the sight of his toned chest. Rhys had had a sense from the way the man moved and the way his uniform moved that he had a nice body, but he had no idea how nice it would be.

As Hirek revealed more of himself with a wink, Rhys hovered on the edge of his desk with his mouth open. He was sure he must have looked like a very stupid fish. It was not just Hirek’s toros that Rhys thought was nice. Shyly and with a reluctance of a person not comfortable in their own skin, Rhys began to remove his uniform. He flung off his shoes like Hirek had done almost smashing something valuable in the process. Rhys gradually unzipped his uniform. Not in the way Hirek had done, but in a way reminiscent of turtle cautiously sticking its head of its shell. Next came the light blue under shirt, revealing Rhys’ chest and upper body. His blush on his cheeks clearly travelled down his neck and to the top part of his chest. Then came his trousers and underwear, which he removed separately unlike Hirek who had taken them down together. I would never have occurred to Rhys that his slow deliberate and shy way of removing his clothes could be teasing to the other many.

He stood before the Romulan naked and feeling deeply vulnerable. Now came in some ways to him the hard part. Hirek had asked him a question. Rhys’ wasn’t sure he could answer it, he felt to embarrassed to shy to give voice to any thoughts that might be in his head. The confident voice in his head then said. ‘Don’t speak then.’ He bit his lip and moved up to Hirek with no clear thought of what he would do. Soon he found himself kneeling in front of the other man. His bright blue eyes focused upwards as he placed a soft teasing kiss on the tip of Hirek’s manhood. Slowly his tongue emerged from between his lips and slid slowly along the shaft from base back to tip. He looked up at Hirek’s face again, gave a shy little smile and a shrug, that seemed to say. ‘I dunno I am going to do this till I think of something.’ His mouth opened and he took Hirek, into the warm space.

[Hirek tr’Aimne | Counselling Offices |  D. 09 | V. 02 |  USS Theurgy ] Attn: @Juzzie

Hirek understood that all physical intimacy carried with it a demand for and expectation of reciprocity. A rational individual would enter to a physical encounter only with the promise of receiving equal or greater pleasure to that which they may give. Oral sex, when it became a variable in the physical encounter, brought with it another layer of euphoric sensations and realities.

There was the psychological arousal that came from seeing one’s partner on their knees taking your most intimate part into their mouth. It brought on a feeling of being tended to, almost worshipped, as the entirety of one’s focus was on giving pleasure to the point of near climax, if not to the climax itself. Of drinking in the essence of the partner, taking in a part of them that bears evidence of contented satisfaction.

There was the element of trust required as well, since they could very well bite down and ruin more than just the pleasure of the moment, and that brooding threat also brought a certain erotic thrill. Especially when there was the perfect combination of pressure, warmth, and wetness. Or the variety between suction, tongue strokes, throat action, tempo, testicle touches, and prostate stimulation. There was so much more that could be done with the mouth and fingers than with the anus or vagina, though Hirek adored all experiences alike. But from the first wet lick to the last sucking pop, the ecstasy from the wet tightness of oral sex was one of Hirek’s favorite variables in the game of physical pleasure.

He did not mask the euphoric moan that Rhys’ tongue drew from his throat as he laved attention to Hirek’s cock. Gripping the armrest tightly with white knuckles, head falling back to rest on the chair, Hirek held himself back from fucking Rhys’ mouth with upward thrusts as he held a firm grip on the back of Rhys’ head. In his mind, Hirek could imagine the whimpered sounds Rhys might make if he did such a thing and this sent another thrill of pleasure through his body. Hirek didn’t close his eyes, as the building pleasure shivering up his spine bid him do. No, he kept the heavy-lidded gaze on Rhys, watching intently as the counselor sucked his cock in and out of his mouth.

The Welshman had been an unintentional tease with the slow strip, his clumsy awkwardness both endearing and alluring. Something about the mixture of confident bashfulness, unabashed desire and timidity worked as an opiate on Hirek’s senses. He had never considered himself a paragon of virtue, but even for him, the pace from first meeting to fucking was faster than average with Rhys. Not the fastest, but up there.

Hirek took in a deep breath through his nose, nostrils flaring, then let it out through his parted lips. He’d give Rhys a few more minutes of this sense of control, building his confidence, before he edged them closer to a line Hirek was curious if Rhys would be interested in crossing so soon in the game they were unexpectedly playing.

“You have a talented tongue, Rhys.” Hirek purred out the compliment with a strained smile. His hands continued to grip the armrests, his heart pounding as the sensations of Rhys’ mouth and tongue varied, keeping him ever on edge. “And the sight of my cock in your beautiful mouth is one of the best things I’ve seen in years.” He dared to let go of one armrest, fingers giving a subtle quiver as he moved them through the air. With his fingers, Hirek traced along the hairline of Rhys’ forehead, leaning forward in the chair so he could draw the same fingers over Rhys’ cheeks, then lightly hook under the edge of his jawline. “You are a beautiful man, Rhys. Even when you aren’t sucking my cock.”

Hirek dropped his hand away to retake the armrest, his torso falling back against the chair as Rhys elicited another sigh of pleasure from Hirek’s lips. He hoped Rhys wasn’t intended on sucking him off and being done with this encounter just when it was beginning. Not only for the selfish reason of wanting to draw it out because it had been too damn long, but because Hirek wanted to explore Rhys’ body in return, genuinely enjoying the giving of pleasure at the same ratio as he enjoyed getting it.

“If you want something from me, Rhys,” Hirek’s voice was strained on a murmured growl, “you’re going to have to be explicitly clear about what you want. Either by word or by action.”

[Lt. Rhys Williams | Counselling Offices| Deck 09 | USS Theurgy]

It was likely clear to Hirek now as it was to those who had ever been with Rhys that what really mattered to Rhys was how his partner felt. The Euphoric moan produced by the older man was met with an obvious shiver in Rhys of delight. Rhys was no the kind of person who worried about whether what he did was reciprocated, it just did not matter to him to the same extent. In many ways it was emblematic of Rhys’ overall personality. Rhys did his best to meet Hirek’s gaze as he pleasured him, he knew people often really liked that.

Despite what Rhys had been doing, a simple compliment purred out by the Romulan was enough to pinken Rhys’ cheeks again. Being complimented was some how much more embarrassing to Rhys than anything else. Rhys had released him from his mouth when Hirek had started speaking and especially when he had caressed along his hairline and jawline.

Soon Hirek was leaning back in the chair again looking almost like the ruler of a decadent Kingdom awaiting service. He made it clear that Rhys would have to either state what he wanted or take it. The idea was to antithetical to Rhys’ personality. A part of him always wondered why he found it so hard just to say what he wanted. However, the voice was back, the one that spoke in his head with such un-Rhys like confidence and self-assurance. ‘Because you don’t think you deserve good things. Its not a puzzle Rhys.’ Rhys swallowed hard, his skin felt so sensitive to the touch and his mind was a jumbled mess. ‘You do. You deserve to feel as good as anyone else. He is offering it, he is handsome, take it.’ It felt to Rhys like he had hesitated for a long time, but really it had been a handful of seconds.

Rhys looked up at Hirek form his kneeling position. Took a few deep breaths and stood up. He swung a leg over the other man’s lap. He lowered himself on to Hirek’s lap feeling the Romulan’s hardness against his cheek. “I… I want you… to fuck me like this.” There was an obvious tremor in his voice and a slight sheen of cold sweat on his body telegraphing a fear that had come from who knows where.  Rhys wasn’t a virgin, but in nearly every sexual encounter he had ever had this fear was always there waiting to take over. He hoped his movement and words would be enough for Hirek to accept it as explicitly clear enough.

[Hirek tr’Aimne | Counselling Offices |  D. 09 | V. 02 |  USS Theurgy ] Attn: @Juzzie

Hirek’s hands easily settled on Rhys’ hips as the counselor straddled him in the seat. He couldn’t help but smirk at the chosen position. Likely in the days to come, Rhys wouldn’t be able to sit in this chair without thinking of Hirek naked or the shared pleasure they were about to enjoy. This reality fueled Hirek’s desire as Rhys settled himself in Hirek’s lap, the firmness of Rhys’ erection pressing against Hirek’s belly even as his own erection settled between Rhys’ ass cheeks. The tremored whisper of what he wanted Hirek to do, alerted the Romulan that the man in his lap was well outside his comfort zone when it came to foreplay. Hirek would reward this personal best accordingly.

“Very well, Rhys.” Smoothing a hand up the length of Rhys’ back, Hirek cupped the back of Rhys' head, bringing his lips closer for another kiss. “Your command is my pleasure.”

As his tongue delved in and out of Rhys’ mouth, mimicking the actions Rhys so desperately wanted from Hirek elsewhere, Hirek tickled his other hand over the top of Rhys’ thigh and traced his fingers along the sensitive skin of Rhys’ belly. Only after he felt a reaction from Rhys did Hirek move his fingers further, finally gripping Rhys’ penis in a firm clasp and giving a single, full-length stroke. If he was lucky enough, in the coming days, he might be able to take the Welshman’s cock into his own body, but for today, he would be satisfied to taste it.

His hand still giving slow, firm strokes on Rhys’ cock, Hirek pulled back from the kiss. Eyes holding fast with the heavy-lidded gaze the Welshman returned, Hirek let go of the back of Rhys neck and brought two fingers up to his mouth. He was slow about licking them, then taking them deep into his own mouth. Once they were fully lubricated, Hirek moved his hand back around Rhys’ body and tapped the tips of his non-lubricated fingers down Rhys’ back. Hirek loosened his grip on Rhys’ cock as his lubricated fingers began tracing gentle touches along the firm rim of Rhys’ sphincter. Switching the grip on Rhys’ cock to equally light, gentle touches drawn along the sides of his erection, Hirek demonstrated skills in both dexterity and multi-tasking as his fingers moving over Rhys’ ass dipped lower to brush over the counselor’s sensitive perineum.

Hirek leaned up, pressing his lips against Rhys’ again, drawing the Welshman closer through touch and intention. As his tongue breached the barrier of Rhys’ lips once more, Hirek pressed a single digit up into Rhys’ ass. He tentatively moved the finger in and out, switching between insertion and rim play. Rhys had undoubtedly had more sex more recently than Hirek, but for the Romulan, it wasn’t just about getting Rhys ready for penetration. It was about enjoying the reactions his preparatory actions brought to the counselor. There was little doubt that the Welshman was enjoying his touches.

Rumbling low a growl of approval, Hirek inserted two fingers and repeated the process of stretching and stroking. The head of his cock felt heavy, the heat radiating from his body almost unbearable. As much as he was enjoying the process, Hirek also had a point at which he needed to release, and he was edging very close to that point.

Pausing in the kiss, Hirek moved his fingers away from Rhys’ ass and cupped the same hand just below his chin, spitting into the palm, and reached around to rub the spittle along his cock. His fingers continued to trace soft touches along Rhys’ cock, occasionally darting out to tickle along the soft skin of his inner thigh or the junction of his leg and belly.

“If you want me inside you,” Hirek whispered against Rhys’ lips, “put me there.”

[Lt. Rhys Williams | Counselling Offices| Deck 09 | USS Theurgy] attn: @Ellen Fitz

It was a strange mixture of emotions that Rhys felt as he looked at Hirek. The little smirk and the arrogance in the smile bother made Rhys feel aroused and uncomfortable at the same time. There was certainly something predatory about everything the Romulan did. However, any time Rhys started to delve into his thoughts the other man would kiss him or touch him in such a way that he stopped thinking in that moment.

Rhys’ heart was beating to hard that he was almost worried that Hirek could detect that sound somehow. Again, it was an ambivalent feeling. The heart beating so hard could be excitement or it could be anxiety. Both feelings felt appropriate for putting himself in such a vulnerable position with the olderman.

As Hirek stroked Rhys’ member, the Welshman let out a soft quiet moan and found his hips moving unconsciously in concern with Hirek’s hand. It felt good to finally have his hand on the soft skin. Somehow though his other hand’s motions and movements attracted most of Rhys attention. Feeling the fingers moving towards his ass, caused Rhys to shiver clearly and obviously on top of Hirek his body moving against Hirek’s erection unconsciously. AS the fingers brushed over the sensitive area Rhys made a sound he hadn’t intended to make. It was upsettingly needy more akin to a whine than a moan of pleasure. His cheeks darkened.

Rhys returned Hirek’s kisses attempting to duel back with his own tongue’s movements, but Hirek was defiantly the one in charge of this encounter of that he was in doubt. As the fingers were pressed inside him, Rhys moaned into the other man’s mouth the noise muffled and uncertain. His hands slid over Hirek’s shoulders as he played with the area.

Hirek whispered against his soft lips what Rhys knew had to come next. Rhys bit his lip and took Hirek’s manhood in his hand gently away from Hirek. He stroked the older man for a few moments before sitting up more on his knees to position himself more over the length of muscle. Rhys was holding his breath as the head slowly pushed past the entrance and popped inside him. He shuddered a little and let out the breath he had been holding. Rhys’ kept his eyes on Hirek’s as he slowly slid down the saft. There was pain and pleasure in equal measure and a long low moan escaped his lips as Rhys took as much of Hirek inside himself as he could comfortably manage.

[Hirek tr’Aimne | Counselling Offices |  D. 09 | V. 02 |  USS Theurgy ] Attn: @Juzzie

Hirek’s head fell back against the back of the chair. His neck muscles tightened as the groans of pleasure came from the depths of his belly. It had been too damn long. The taut ring of Rhys’ ass popped over the head of his cock, then slid down the length of it, gripping him, engulfing him. Hirek’s hands anchored on the firm flesh of Rhys’ waist as the Welshman lowered himself further, only stopping when his ass was firmly settled on Hirek’s groin. Pulsing heat wrapped around his cock. The cylinder of pressure at the base of it flexed as Rhys grew accustomed to Hirek’s length and girth. Opening his eyes, Hirek brought his head off the back of the chair, his grip on Rhys’ waist loosening. The counselor would have bruises, and for that, Hirek was marginally apologetic. But, again, it had been too damn long.

“Rhys,” Hirek reached between them and wrapped his fingers around the Welshman’s cock, running a firm stroke up and down the hot member, “It has been a very long time for me. I will need you to dictate the pace otherwise…” Hirek’s grip on Rhys’ cock tightened as he shifted his hips beneath Rhy, causing his cock to shift up and forward inside the man subtly.

Coiling his fingers against the back of Rhys’ neck, Hirek brought the man down for another kiss. Despite the building pressure in his balls, the physiological plea for release, Hirek kept the kiss slow. Deep strokes of his tongue in and out of Rhys’ mouth, tasting him, testing him. The hand on Rhys’ cock was equally relentless with pressure yet also seemingly unhurried. Though he wanted to ram his cock hard and fast inside Rhys, and bring himself to a much-delayed release, Hirek was still cognizant enough to realize there was no guarantee this sort of interlude would happen again. Enjoy it from start to finish. Don’t get caught up on the finish.

[Lt. Rhys Williams | Counselling Offices| Deck 09 | USS Theurgy] attn: @Ellen Fitz

There was pleasure not just of the feeling of Hirek entering him. Pleasure also came from being able to see his face. The strange pride that came with making the other person feel good. That was as much an aphrodisiac to Rhys as anything else they might do. Hirek had told him that it had been a long time, and Rhys believed it, he could see it in the way he reacted in the intensity in his eyes. The way his hands gripped Rhys’ hips firmly in a way that would likely cause some discomfort but that could be good to. Like the discomfort after a long run or work out.

Hirek then gripped Rhys’ saft as he warned him abut dictating the pace. Rhys’ head fell forward for a moment on to his muscular shoulder as he gasped some kind of noise that he hoped would be taken as acknowledgement. Words were difficult at the moment.

Soon he was being kissed and in just the way he liked. Slow, explorative, teasing the kind of kiss that made his skin feel tingly and made him want to sink into the chest. Bracing his hands on Hirek’s chest and arching his back a little, he lifted his hips slowly before slowly setting them down again. He didn’t need to move much for it to feel good for either of them, it was intense no matter what. One key enjoyment Rhys took from all of this was how like a spring Hirek felt. Hirek was taking things slow and allowing Rhys to do the same, but the tension was apparent to Rhys. The desire to explode out into a mad frenzy of rutting was there. So, within the pleasure was the anticipation and wonder, would it happen and if so when. 

[Hirek tr’Aimne | Counselling Offices |  D. 09 | V. 02 |  USS Theurgy ] Attn: @Juzzie

With Rhys’ head on his shoulder, the Welshman’s torso angled forward, Hirek could shift up, pressing his lips to the bare skin of the counselor’s neck. As he relished the feeling of the tight “o” of Rhys’ ass sliding up and down his length, Hirek opened his mouth over the taut cord of muscle connecting Rhys’ neck and shoulder. His bite was not as fierce as what would be considered the norm for Romulans, but he could not account for what it would be considered among humans. Hirek’s tongue darted out to lave away any sting his teeth may have left.

“Yes,” Hirek growled, his breath hot on Rhys’ skin as he held the counselor tightly against him.

River fishing along the cliffs of Uluma required courage, sometimes audacity, and amazing balancing acts. The up-and-down weight of Rhys on his body, the sliding heat of his erection inside Rhys, the attention Rhys’ tongue gave his own as the Welshman kissed him. The sensations were building, the tingling in his balls increasing, the weight in his gut growing. As his penis rubbed over the bundle of nerves inside Rhys, Hirek felt as if he were once more on the edge of a waterfall on Uluma. Veering close to the edge, staring over the edge in fact, the white water beckoning him below, yet balancing just shy of falling over. Here, with Rhys in his arms, the Welshman grinding over him, panting out his pleasure against Hirek’s skin, Hirek was in that same balancing act. Seeking out his own pleasure but not wanting to fall over the edge too quickly and neglecting Rhys’ pleasure in the process.

Using his grip on Rhys’ hips, Hirek subtly adjusted the both of them, probing at different depths and changing up the rhythm as he pursued the via media of fucking Rhys Williams. The grunts, sometimes growls, rumbling from his throat were uninhibited as Hirek relished in finally expressing a part of himself that had haunted his every step for so long, and yet he’d had to deny and ignore. This base part of himself, the rawness of his sexuality, had been closely monitored and controlled for so long. Holding Rhys, savoring the pleasurable heat as it built between them—this tension just shy of releasing—Hirek felt as if he were greeting an old friend after an extended journey. Finally, coming home.

“Rhys,” Hirek let go of the counselor’s hip with one hand and used it to take hold of the back of Rhys’ neck. His other had resumed its firm touch moving up and down Rhys’ member. He knew his next challenge would likely confuse the counselor, but it seemed this whole encounter served to challenge and satiate them both in dramatically different ways. Perhaps it would lead to another session…preferably also without clothing. “I cum only when you tell me to.”

His heart pounding in his chest, still on the brink of falling over the edge, Hirek was determined to keep true to this statement. The process was as pleasurable as the ending point and often far more memorable.

[Lt. Rhys Williams | Counselling Offices| Deck 09 | USS Theurgy] attn: @Ellen Fitz

Rhys not for the first nor the last time wondered what was happening with him. There was a very serious part of himself deep down, admonishing himself for his lack of professional standards in doing this. In there was also fear about what would happen. In some ways he had long been walking a knife edge with his career. If anyone found out…

Of course he also wondered given the Theurgy’s position and its inability to easily restock its crew what could his superiors really do? If removed him who would replace him, the number of people on board having issues was growing not getting smaller. All these voices were there but they were being pushed down by the overwhelming feelings of lust and pleasure.

There was something so pleasing about being filled in this way. Being pressed against another body like this. This was all coupled with the fact that Hirek was good at this. He had bitten and kissed where Rhys’ neck met his shoulder. This immediately got a very un-Rhys like growl to escape the young man’s lips. His hardness twitched against Hirek’s stomach.  It was a sensitive area that Rhys had always enjoyed being interacted with. The bite was hard, probably harder than Rhys would normally have liked, but he was too lost in the feelings of pleasure to care and the pain only served to accent the pleasure.

 Rhys slid up and down Hirek’s shaft showing no signs of slowing. However, Hirek started to take greater control of the pace. Gripping Rhy’s hips and pushing up harder. Rhys whimpered in delight not just at the Romulan’s rutting the sounds he himself was making. When Hirek’ took Rhys in his hand Rhys felt like he might explode at that moment. When he heard the strained voice, he knew he could not be far away.

Ordinarily being put in charge of a sexual situation would have horrified and bewildered Rhys. It might have caused that familiar twisting in his stomach and cause him to back out of the whole encounter. Rhys hated directing anything he was a follower and quite a submissive one by nature. However, by this point Rhys was so desperate to feel Hirek cum inside him that that feeling was gone from his mind.

Rhys kissed Hirek with an intensity that felt deeply un-Rhys. It was also followed by Rhys nibbling, biting and sucking on Hirek’s bottom lip. Rhys gripped onto Hirek tightly, as he felt a familiar pressure boiling up right from the very middle of his being. Rhys broke the kiss and placed his lips by Hirek’s ear. “Cum for me please.” He said his voice strained and needy, as he whispered into the pointed ear of his partner in this ancient dance.

[Hirek tr’Aimne | Counselling Offices |  D. 09 | V. 02 |  USS Theurgy ] Attn: @Juzzie

The Welshman pressed Hirek firmly against the chair, sucking Hirek’s soul into his body through the intensity of the fiery kiss the counselor bestowed. His balls ached for release, the pressure in his abdomen pleasurably painful as he continued to ram his length into the welcome warmth of Rhys’ ass. When Hirek’s lungs began to question the sanity of prolonging the kiss, Rhys pulled back just enough to lavish a series of invigorating bites along Hirek’s lips before giving the command in a breathy whisper near Hirek’s ear.

Hirek cared nothing for privacy or who might hear. As if to punctuate Rhys’ whisper with an exclamation point of enthusiasm, Hirek roared out his pleasure as hot cum jetted from his cock and filled Rhys completely. His hips didn’t stop their relentless drive up into Rhys until the last drop was pushed from his balls.

His body still quaking with the after-effects of cumming so thoroughly, and with a partner, after a bloody damn long time, Hirek gave Rhys no warning or time before he pulled his length from Rhys’ dripping arse. His hand was already wrapped around Rhys’ cock, giving firm strokes. Keeping the grip, Hirek snaked his other arm around Rhys’ waist and with a mere grunt for the effort, Hirek stood up, pivoted, then lowered Rhys into the chair. Hirek had his tongue moving over the tip of Rhys’ erection within seconds of the position change, next tracing his lips over Rhys’ stiffness before slowly taking the tip into the wet heat of his mouth completely.

Hirek was shivering with delight as he knelt between Rhys’ legs, his penis growing flaccid, as he first ran the flat of his tongue down the underside of Rhys’ cock before brushing the softness of his lips down the entirety of the length of it. He occupied his hands by alternating between tickling the skin of the Welshman’s inner thighs and tracing his fingers over the sensitive skin of Rhys’ heavy balls. Using only his mouth to lick up and down his cock, Hirek sucked Rhys’ cocked deeper until the tip touched the back of his throat. Hirek bobbed his head, slowly at first, then, looking up the length of the porcelain-like skin of Rhys’ torso, Hirek increased his tempo. Moving one hand to wrap around the base of Rhys’ shaft to move up and down with his lips, Hirek shifted the other hand to cup the counselor’s testicles.

He would give no further orders and take none in return at this point. Hirek was highly attuned to the noises and movements of the man sprawled before him, and he responded in turn. Every time his actions elicited a moan, he’d repeat the gesture. A gasp, and he’d pause before doing something similar. A body quiver, and Hirek was merciless with keeping up the pace or the attention. Rhys’ pleasure was his own at this point and he intended to “repay” the counselor for his earlier “kindness,” and with interest.

[Lt. Rhys Williams | Counselling Offices| Deck 09 | USS Theurgy] attn: @Ellen Fitz

The marked differences between them had become apparent during their session together. Even the sounds they made in pleasure could not be more different. Rhys was soft, gentle his voice calling out barely expressed moans and groans. Hirek was loud, primal, animalistic and Rhys was treated to this sound as the older man orgasmed. Rhys held on tight for dear life like Hirek was a raft being buffeted on white water rapids.

This was not the only surprise that the Romulan had in store for Rhys. The young Welshman had expected Hirek to take a moment to recover his energies, to take some deep breaths before proceeding or perhaps leaving. Instead, with a speed and power that shocked Rhys, he soon found himself on the seat with a hand around his manhood. This was quickly followed by the other man’s tongue.

Rhys gave a gasp of shock followed quickly by a grunt of pleasure as Hirek applied his experience and knowledge to Rhys’ throbbing problem. Idly the though of entered Rhys’ head of how long Romulans lived for anyway. It was deeply bizarre what thoughts could enter his mind even in a time such as this.

Rhys was a gentle lover both by instinct and temperament, but even he found himself tugging hard at Hirek’s short hair. Or digging his fingers into the padding of the chair. Rhys was utterly unable to speak any words at this point. It felt almost as difficult to breathe, the sounds he did make felt like they were forced out of his lips in a desperate attempt to relieve some pressure. It did not take long for the pressure to build up inside Rhys to an irresistible level. His body moved and writhed under Hirek’s attentions, before  a tenseness emerged in his body. His whole body stiffened, before he let out a long low moan as he came.

[Hirek tr’Aimne | Counselling Offices |  D. 09 | V. 02 |  USS Theurgy ] Attn: @Juzzie

Hirek could feel the tension in Rhys’ body build, the man’s fingers tugging in his hair and the animalistic sounds of desire echoing deep in his chest. Then…snap. A long, low moan filled the room as the sporadic movements of the counselor’s testicles rolling in the supporting touch of Hirek’s hand coiled up and Rhys’ orgasm hit him. HARD. Hirek felt the intense heat of Rhys’ cum as it pumped up the length of his dick, pulsing into the waiting wet heat of Hirek’s mouth. The hand gripping Rhys’ member stayed firm as Hirek continued to suck gently and stroke, milking the Welshman for every drop of the milk-white saltiness of his cum his body had to offer.

The throbbing heat of Rhys’ cock continued even as Hirek swallowed the viscous evidence of Rhys’ pleasure. Hands smoothing a type of comfort over the tops of Rhys’ thighs, he left lingering kisses against the head, licked a last few lines down the edges of the length, then placed a solitary kiss on the man’s lower abdomen, just above the tuft of curls framing his cock. Hirek leaned back to look up at the remains of the Welshman, more than a little pleased with himself that he’d brought the counselor to peak so thoroughly.

Hirek said nothing as he stood and moved to the replicator, quickly ordering two glasses of water. He paused a moment longer, curious if his second set of instructions would work. Amazingly, the moist towel appeared just as easily as the water glasses. He returned to Rhys’ side feeling yet more accomplished. A neutral smile was touching his lips as Hirek handed both the glass of water and the towel to the Welshman, shifting back out of the man’s personal space to sip at his own drink. He didn’t know if the counselor would prefer privacy to clean up, and seriously doubted he’d want Hirek’s help. As he tipped the glass up with eyes averted, Hirek noted he could still smell the musky scent of Rhys’ cock. His smile turned lecherous, but he remained silent for the time it took for him to finish the water and set the glass aside.

His eyes moving over the various piles of clothing they’d discarded, Hirek couldn’t help but smile again. He hadn’t felt this comfortable in his own skin in months, and it was all thanks to the counselor he had this renewed sense of balance. Hirek was still silent, though his features sported an easy smile as he moved about the room, retrieving what they’d lost. Under his breath, Hirek hummed the melody of one of the sailor's tunes from back on the Uluma Islands. A song of sea creatures seducing the sailors to their deaths in the morning, only for the sailors to prevail and eat the creatures at dusk. He had the piles separated between Starfleet and Romulan, with Rhys’ pile placed on the desk closest to the chair before Hirek returned his gaze to the counselor.

“Your hair is soft,” Hirek gestured to the counselor’s messy hair, “and the sight of your undulating muscles as you moved in my arms was one of the most beautiful things I’ve seen in a very long time,” he wasn’t sure if Rhys would recall the earlier portion of their conversation before they’d fallen into the physicality of this encounter, but Hirek certainly did and he wanted to share his discoveries with the counselor. “You taste,” Hirek licked his lips again, then smiled, “salty, almost metallic, but in a luxurious manner. And you smell of spices and sweat, with a unique musk that I can only attribute to your unique pheromones.”

Hirek glanced down the length of himself, fully comfortable being nude, but when he brought his gaze back to Rhys, he quirked an eyebrow up, remembering from their earlier conversations that this man seemed to be far less comfortable with the shamelessness that Hirek believed moved hand-in-hand with sex, “Would you like me to dress now?” He looked over his shoulder briefly before turning his gaze back to Rhys, his tone of voice when he spoke again still soft, neutral. “Leave?”

Lt. Rhys Williams | Counselling Offices| Deck 09 | USS Theurgy] attn: @Ellen Fitz

Rhys’ brilliant blue eyes now seemed glazed. They were open but, on some level, he wasn’t really looking through them. His chest rose and fell quickly as his body began to recover from its recent exertions. He heard Hirek rise and move and order some water glasses and a towel from the replicator, but he sounded far away submerged in a ringing that was in his ears. It felt as if all the blood that had headed south was now marching merrily back north. Rhys wasn’t certain he would be able to stand stably if he got up.  He found a glass of water and the towel pushed into his hands. Rhys very much on autopilot took a few gulps of water and robotically cleaned himself up.

The thing that started to bring him back to reality was the tune Hirek was humming. He did not recognise the melody, but it had a distinct rhythm, and given the Romulan’s penchant for sailing Rhys guessed rightly that it was a nautical tune of some kind. Hirek moved around the room, busying himself with tidying clothes a small smile on his face.

There was a change that was for sure. The flirtatiousness was still there and the outward confidence and ease that Rhys envied. However, the tension was gone. The first time Hirek had walked in, he had attempted to put Rhys on the backfoot. Intimidating him. Intimidation which at the same time had turned the younger man on in a way he absolutely did not understand as well as frightening him. Once Hirek had seen Rhys was no threat and was in fact the sort of person who was only going to challenge him in the weakest and most half hearted of ways, the Romulan had softened his approach. There had still been some kind of tension, that now seemed gone. He seemed relaxed, maybe it was just the sex, but Rhys wasn’t so sure.

Hirek passed Rhys compliments, his hair, his body even his taste and smell. Rhys did not feel these compliments were feigned, Hirek meant them in one way or another.

There was also a change in Rhys. His eyes unashamedly followed and admired the older man’s body. His cheeks coloured of course when Hirek focused his attention on him, but the majority of the discomfort was gone. In fact, Hirek’s compliments elicited more of a uncomfortable reaction from Rhys than their combined nudity. It seemed a hurdle had been crossed. Whatever mental barrier had existed before was now down whether temporarily or permanently even Rhys didn’t know. 

When Hirek asked if he should dress and leave. Rhys rose out of his chair and hugged Hirek. His head was lowered so his face pressed into the other man’s chest and shoulder. “Those are unfair questions.” He said softly, his face burning against Hirek’s cooling skin. “I don’t want you to. But you may have to.” It occurred to Rhys that all though Hirek had been his last appointment of the day, they had been in his office a long time and Rhys did not want to arouse suspicions. What he had just done was a major breach of ethics and even in Theurgy’s current position could cost him his job.

[Hirek tr’Aimne | Counselling Offices |  D. 09 | V. 02 |  USS Theurgy ] Attn: @Juzzie

Of all the responses expected, THIS was not one Hirek had considered. Feeling Rhys wrap himself around Hirek, tucking his face down to rest against his chest in an intimate embrace, Hirek’s hands splayed open, arms rising halfway up his body. The stiffening of his body was instinctual. As was the rise in heart rate, as Hirek rapidly moved through potential motives for this type of touch from the counselor.

“What are you doing?” her voice was cold, drastically contrasting to her normally fiery nature, her body an icy pillar in response to his touch.

Hirek’s arms felt heavy as he fought the temptation to drop them and end the impulsive embrace. Swallowing the lump of emotion in his throat, Hirek replied, “I am embracing my wife.”

“You are making a fool of yourself.” Her laughter had been sharp but shallow and though she made no attempt to push him away, Hirek felt the sting of rejection clearly. “Your touch dirties me, Hirek, and your persistent attempts to court me beyond rationality shames the clan.” Hirek finally let go and stepped back, just in time to receive her verbal barb to his face. “You are much a disappointment. To your parents and now to your wife.”

Llaiir left him then, looping her arm around the waist of her much younger lover who’d been waiting at the entrance to their home, tossing a disdainful smile at him before they disappeared from view. Of all the women he could’ve been given to in marriage, why had it been the one woman who only found pleasure in ridiculing him, rejecting him, and seeking to inflict pain on him in any and everywhere possible?

Rhys’ voice was muffled as he spoke, his face still pressed against Hirek’s skin, making Hirek tilt his head sideways to catch all the words. With slow movements, as if he were an automaton controlled by an unseen master, Hirek finally placed his hands on the Welshman’s back.

Her fingers dug painfully into the flesh of his shoulders as his mother ripped him away from her body and forcefully held him at arm’s length. Hirek’s face was still damp from tears, his nose runny. Looking up at his mother, Hirek saw the disappointment clearly in the sternness of her gaze and felt it in the grip she maintained on his shoulders. When Hirek raised his arms and pushed forward as if to resume the embrace, his mother kept steady, her head giving a quick shake.

“You must learn to control yourself, Hirek.” Though whispered so the marketplace passersby couldn’t overhear, his mother’s words carried a power that Hirek felt clanging in his chest. “Do not display such weakness in public ever again.”

His eyes were bright as he felt tears renew in the wells of his eyes. “But-“

She leaned close and shook him firmly, “Never, Hirek. And you will not cry in public. Not now. Not ever.” Abruptly letting go and standing to her full height, Hirek’s small frame jostled back a step as he watched his mother smooth her hand down the front of her tunic as if to wipe away any evidence of his earlier tears. “Intimate emotions like tears, intimate gestures like embraces, are reserved for the home only, Hirek.” Her eyes darted around, sighing quickly when she seemed satisfied with whatever she was looking for. “We will speak on this further when we arrive now. Now,” she held out her hand, grabbing his small one in her own and giving it a firm squeeze, “let’s finish our errands.”

Hirek let her tug him alongside her, his eyes downcast and shoulders slumped. He’d only wanted comfort from his mother and yet found it forbidden to seek such things in public. Would it ever be acceptable to share such simple things with someone?

He took a steadying breath before smoothing his hands up and down Rhys’ back. The touch itself was not unpleasant, even if it brought back painful memories and even if it knocked on the vault door, behind which Hirek kept all his yearnings and dreams locked away. The real ones. The ones he’d never voiced aloud, not even in the dead of night in his room alone. There was danger in giving voice to such things, and Hirek was not in a place where he could offer anyone anything more than danger or pain. In truth, he’d never been in such a place. If it wasn’t the Tal Shiar going after his family with old grudges, it was his clandestine work with King against them, and now it was this whole ordeal with the Infested…

Hirek’s lips pulled back into a pained smile, eyes briefly falling shut as he memorized what it felt like to embrace another being, believing such an event would be rare indeed for the likes of him. Clearing his throat, Hirek replied to the counselor, “In my experience, all of life is unfair, not only the questions we ask one another.” He squeezed the taller man in his arms, letting his fingers playfully tickle Rhys’ ribs, “Your welcome aboard the ship has been most enlightening and unexpected, dear counselor.”

Hirek shifted his body subtly, slow in breaking the embrace, yet preferring he end it before Rhys followed in the footsteps of others before him and pushed Hirek away first. Reaching up, Hirek smoothed some of Rhys’ unruly bits of hair, an amused smile tugging at his lips.

“I would find great pleasure in sharing a meal with you in the future or a drink.” Hirek dropped his hand back to his side and gave a half-shrug. “As you are aware, my social calendar is far from booked.”

Lt. Rhys Williams | Counselling Offices| Deck 09 | USS Theurgy] attn: @Ellen Fitz

Almost as soon as he had done it Rhys began to worry that embracing Hirek had been a mistake. He had stiffened as soon as Rhys had moved in for the hug. Rhys almost felt he could feel and increase in the other man’s heartbeat beneath the skin. However, Hirek did not push him away. Rhys felt as if some internal battle was going on behind those eyes.  It was an occasion that again made him wish he was a Betazoid and that he could simply walk in and see what was happening. Though in truth he always felt that that was an unethical thing to do.

Rhys knew little about Romulans. Was the tension cultural or personal or perhaps both? He couldn’t be sure. Soon however he felt Hirek’s hands on his back. This made the whole thing more confusing, had Rhys simply been misreading Hirek and he was fine with this but just a bit surprised Rhys had done it.

Eventually he felt Hirek take a deep breath before he began to touch him a little more, stroking the young Welshman’s back. Hirek smiled and spoke it wasn’t a warm smile it was uncomfortable for the Romulan to give it. However, it became hard to think when Rhys’ ribs were tickled. This caused Rhys the jump and he tried to resist making a noise. Another person discovering how sensitive he was and how easy it was to do something like that to him. It was embarrassing. Still what Hirek had said felt good to here, that his welcome had been appreciated. Rhys certainly had hoped that was the case or the whole thing would have been deeply embarrassing. To have broken his professional standards and discovered that Hirek hadn’t enjoyed having sex with him.

Hirek then smoothed and played with some of Rhys’ hair, which caused the young man to close his eyes and stand in place leaning in to Hirek’s touch as if he was a puppy receiving pets. When Hirek suggested that sharing a meal or a drink would be agreeable to him, Rhys responded almost without thinking. “Yes please!” His face coloured about at his over eagerness. Rhys smiled softly. “Well that's best way to make friends and allies is to get that social calendar booked.” He said cheerfully. It looked like Hirek had plans already to intergrate himself with the crew. “I don’t have much to do outside of work at the moment either.” He said answering honestly. 

[Hirek tr’Aimne | Counselling Offices |  D. 09 | V. 02 |  USS Theurgy ] Attn: @Juzzie

Hirek couldn’t help but smile at how Rhys shamelessly responded to the casual touch of his hand against the Welshman’s head. “Have you always been so keen on touch, or did it develop over time?” Hirek was tempted to reach out and touch Rhys again to test his growing hypothesis further that the counselor was likely addicted to touch. However, not quite knowing what Rhys wanted or expected now that they’d bypassed protocol—Hirek wasn’t even Starfleet, and he knew they’d just violated many rules, not that he was bothered by it—he continued, “As you may be aware, Romulans are discouraged from a young age to engage in physical affection in public. What is done in private is no one’s business is the general rule of thumb, but public arenas prove a dangerous place to display such vulnerabilities. You never know when the object of your affection may be used against you or turn against you. So best to keep such yearnings and preferences hidden.”

Hirek didn’t comment further on the subject;. However, Rhys was the counselor assigned to his case—so far at least—he didn’t think it was pertinent information to share that he, like Rhys, thoroughly enjoyed affection and from a young age had often yearned to share it more openly. The taller man’s enthusiasm for sharing a meal distracted them both away from the potentially deep topic, and Hirek smiled. He leaned back on his heels and let his eyes travel the length and breadth of the counselor.

“Are you wanting to tempt others to eat you, dear counselor, or are you wanting to leave such delicacies to a select few?” Hirek’s smile turned mischievous, once more reaching out and ruffling the fine, sandy-colored hair on Rhys’ head. “As for the social calendar, the captain spoke of a morale department that I could volunteer with if I want to expand my social circles. I haven’t checked in yet, considering I barely finished with the doctor,” Hirek’s smile was warm at the memory of Elro, “before I came to find you,” the warm nature of the smile continued, accompanied by a light touch of his fingertips against Rhys’ cheek, “but I intend upon finding the office and giving them my details. Are you available to join me now for that meal, or at least point me in the right direction to find the morale office?” Hirek glanced over his shoulder at the door to Rhys’ office. “I do not wish to overstay my welcome.”

For some, creating a sense of urgency usually cultivated more interaction. However, depending on one’s sense of duty or obligation, sometimes it had to be postponed or ignored altogether. Hirek figured he was about to discover more about Rhys’ character, which was a fine addition to knowing as much as he did about the noises Rhys made when fucking and the color of his skin when aroused. While Hirek had far more experience in the nuances of surface-level pleasure-seeking relationships, he was not foolish enough to claim he had absolutely no interest in cultivating other sorts of relationships. It seemed, at least so far, that with Rhys, there could be potential for both pleasure and something else, and that intrigued Hirek immensely.

Lt. Rhys Williams | Counselling Offices| Deck 09 | USS Theurgy] attn: @Ellen Fitz

Hirek again asked a question that made Rhys wonder which of them had really been trained to be a counsellor. He though about his relationship with touch through out his life. There had definitely been some changes. He wondered how much to share with Hirek. “It’s only been recently that I’ve become more open to touch.” It was an answer that the counsellor in Rhys would have found interesting coming from one of his patients. It was clear avoidance. The truth was that there was a small feeling of embarrassment attached to the answer and a sense that giving a full answer might require too much emotional and verbal effort.

He remembered how the death of his mother had led to a death of another relationship. The one he had had with father had been appalling there after. His father had displayed naked contempt for him. That coupled with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder had created a young many who had yearned for physical contact and affection just as strongly as he was afraid of it.


Rhys felt Hirek’s eyes on him again. His cheeks pinkened, there was a curious mix of discomfort about being so obviously admired and delight as well. The ambivalence was always hard to reconcile. Then of course Hirek made the comment about eating him, and Rhys raised the uniform he was holding to his face so only his eyes were showing hiding a little. Again, he didn’t really answer the question after all they didn’t know each other to well. “I don’t think I am so tempting.” He simply said his voice momentarily muffled by the material of his uniform.

Rhys felt happy that Hirek was aiming to expand his social circle by getting involved in the morale efforts on board. It would surely endear him to the crew. Though he was obviously doing this for less than beneficent reasons, Rhys knew that the more he interacted the more there was a chance the crew’s ways would rub off on him to. Rhys did not say this as he hated to imagine what sexual connotations Hirek would take with the term ‘rub off’. He shivered a little and smiled at the fingertip touches to his cheek.

Finally, Hirek asked if Rhys was available at the present time. In truth he was, Hirek was his last appointment, but worryingly for Rhys there was the sense that he would find it hard to tell the handsome older man no to anything. “I am happy to spend more time with you. You were my last appointment of the day anyway.” He said smiling shyly, as he busied himself dressing and hiding his slightly blushing face.

[Hirek tr’Aimne | Counselling Offices |  D. 09 | V. 02 |  USS Theurgy ] Attn: @Juzzie

Hirek laughed at Rhys’ response to his compliment. It was a genuine laugh, and the sound was almost foreign even to Hirek’s ears. He’d been embedded with the Tal’Shiar operatives on Qo’Nos long enough he’d almost forgotten what a genuine emotion felt like, let alone sounded like. Yet, in less than an hour spent with Rhys, he’d been sexually satiated and brought to feel a genuine sense of enjoyment without fear of repercussions for expressing it. Hirek was no longer the naïve romantic he’d been when he’d thought it possible to love his arranged marriage wife—the selfish bitch that she was—so he was not about to equate this sense of comfort and confidence with something more than it was. Rhys did not seem the type to even want a relationship of a more profound caliber than mere physical affection with someone like Hirek; if Hirek’s assumption on this part were wrong, that would be intriguing and not unwelcome. Yet, for his brief time among the non-Romulans of the ship, Hirek had a feeling he’d be just as likely to find “true love” among this crew as he was among his own people.

While Rhys dressed, Hirek mimicked the motions, his low timbre voice mixing with the sound of clothes rustling, “Doctor Kobol showed me to my quarters earlier today, so I know there is a replicator there, and I presume in your quarters as well, if you would prefer something more private.” Hirek finished dressing before the counselor, having marginally fewer buckles and zippers to deal with. He was curious if Rhys would prefer to keep a low profile while being seen in proximity to Hirek, hence his offer for a quarter's meal. “But I have yet to see any of the eating areas of the ship, though I’ve been told there are many. Do you have a preference?”

As he waited for Rhys to answer, Hirek reached out and smoothed a hand over Rhys’ head. One particularly stubborn lock of hair stood up, but after a few more smooth overs, it surrendered.

Lt. Rhys Williams | Counselling Offices| Deck 09 | USS Theurgy] attn: @Ellen Fitz

 Rhys noted that in some ways Hirek’s demeanour had changed a little. There was still the wry amusement, and he was still reasonably guarded but there was a little more openness. At least as far as Rhys could read it from the more genuine sounding laughter and the affectionate touches. As they dressed together Rhys heard the other man’s voice and held back a shiver that was threatening to overwhelm him. He also tried to avoid giving Hirek sideways glances as he dressed. He was not successful.

Rhys had mostly been calmed almost slightly blissed out since their sex session had ended. However, at the mention of ‘Quarters’ and ‘Private’. His face had pinkened again. This time he knew it was definitely his own fault, he was doing it to himself. He had a strong sense that Hirek was not thinking of anything more than spending more time with him. However, Rhys’ own mind betrayed him envisaging more sexual adventures with this man. It caused Rhys to pause half dressed as he tried to formulate a response and get his own mind out of the gutter.

It occurred to Rhys, based on what Hirek had said before, that Hirek might have suggested privacy in case Rhys was embarrassed of scared of being seen with him. Rhys wasn’t sure if this was the case, or if Hirek too had his mind in the gutter, or if it was an innocent suggestion. Rhys certainly did not want to give the Romulan the impression that he in any way would not want to be seen with Hirek because he was a Romulan. If there was any embarrassment it was more to do with breaching Starfleet ethics codes.

His thought process was slightly short circuited by Hirek’s smoothing down of his hair. An innocent gesture that felt incredibly intimate to Rhys and made his heartbeat faster. Rhys finished pulling on his uniform and smoothing it over before replying. “The Below Decks lounge is a popular area for that kind of thing. I might be busy at this time as a lot of people come off duty though?” He paused his eyes looking up at the ceiling in thought. “I’m happy for you to come to my quarters… unless you’d prefer somewhere livelier.” He said the little self-depreciating joke indicating that his quarters were likely to be less than entertaining.

[Hirek tr’Aimne | Counselling Offices |  D. 09 | V. 02 |  USS Theurgy ] Attn: @Juzzie

Having given Hirek the option of the two, the Romulan was satisfied with the fact that Rhys seemed more uncertain of himself than he was of Hirek’s presence at his side. Not that it would’ve offended Hirek either way. But being welcomed or liked was pleasant regardless of the circumstances and any Romulan who professed otherwise was a Tal’Shiar brainwashed ingrate.

“How about you introduce me to your preferred location for ending the day on a positive note?” Hirek crossed his arms over his chest and gave a quick sniff of the air, his smile growing when he could easily detect the lingering scents of their intimacy, “While it seems you’ve ended the day on a high note already, let us presume you had a harder,” he paused and cleared his throat playfully at the intended innuendo, “or rougher,” he again cleared his throat as Hirek dropped his arms back to his side and shifted away from Rhys, “or more difficult ending than what’s thus far transpired.”

Assuming that Rhys would follow close behind, Hirek led the way to the door to Rhys’ office but didn’t make a move to unseal the door and move back into the corridor. Once he was at the door, Hirek glanced over his shoulder and quirked an eyebrow at the Welshman.

“I am still learning Starfleet ‘down time’ hobbies and recreational activities and an introduction to what YOU enjoy would be much appreciated.”

Lt. Rhys Williams | Counselling Offices| Deck 09 | USS Theurgy] attn: @Ellen Fitz

Rhys was intrigued by Hirek’s flirtatious behaviour. He wished that he could have had the kind of self-assurance that required. Rhys never really flirted in the way Hirek did if at all. Rhys felt on some level that someone like Hirek could get away with saying the things he said, whereas if Rhys said them, they would come across as perhaps cheesy or forced. Not that Hirek’s style of flirting was particularly subtle. He had all the tact in that way of a sledgehammer. Which was another thing Rhys liked about the Romulan. Subtle flirting tended to fly over Rhys’ head or make him worry that he was reading flirting into something the other person was saying. There was none of that with Hirek, he was up front obvious and enjoying himself.

Rhys followed Hirek to the door, like an uncertain puppy. In fact, there was a lot about Rhys that often-put people in mind of a traumatised puppy. He regarded this view of himself, as he did with most things, with a significant strain of embarrassment. Rhys opened the door and moved awkwardly past Hirek into the corridor beyond. “I am probably not the best to learn about down time hobbies from. Well not social ones anyway.”

Rhys began the walk to his corridor. His submissive behaviour seemed to extend beyond his romantic or sexual relationships. As he walked, he tended to look at the floor or his feet. When speaking he would look at Hirek but once he finished his eyes would drift down again. He didn’t seem to be in a negative mood either. This seemed to be a natural behaviour for him. When Hirek spoke, he would look at him but rarely met his eyes. “Let’s go to my quarters. When I have had an um… hard day...” He said his cheeks colouring remembering the Romulan’s clear implications. “… I tend to play about with my guitar, maybe do some reading. Make some model ships.” All of these hobbies were said with caution as if he were saying things, he fully expected Hirek to roll his eyes at.

[Lt. Rhys Williams | Rhys Williams' Quarters | Deck 13 | Vector 01| USS Theurgy]

The journey to Rhys’ quates did not take long. Once ushered inside the older man would see very conventional looking room. Everything was neat, painfully neat if it were not for the various personal items in the room it would be easy to assume these quarters had not been assigned to anyone yet. There were models of space craft of various cultures and vintages, and naval vessels. One or two actual physical books nestled between the models. Two small pictures one, a picture of Rhys and his parents in a less formal setting than the one in his office and a picture of him graduating from Starfleet Academy. Lastly in a corner on a stand was an old but very well cared for acoustic guitar. On its body was carved and painted a little Red Dragon of Wales. 

[Hirek tr’Aimne | Rhys Williams' Quarters | Deck 13 |  USS Theurgy ] Attn: @Juzzie

Rhys’ response to hobbies not surprising to the Romulan. Nothing about the counselor screamed “attention getter,” and that the man seemed to prefer solitary or more subdued activities in his off time merely supported Hirek’s developing opinion of the nature of the man. Moving through the corridor alongside the taller man, Hirek couldn’t help but feel curious if the crewmates they passed could sense—literally or figuratively—the intimate nature of their “counseling session” only moments ago. Hirek smiled, wrapping his arms around his torso and clasping his hands behind his back, effectively resisting the temptation to reach out and touch Rhys.

“I also enjoy many solitary activities. Back on the island, it was usually just me and, on occasion, a cousin or servant who joined me in the lab, where I prepared new blends and mixtures for the ales and teas our home is known for. My work in the gardens was equally favorable to having a companion or being alone. And sea fishing or diving for mollusks, while recommended to do with a partner or a crew, could also be conducted alone. Zhal Makh, a type of Romulan martial art, if you were not already aware, is traditionally done alone as a form of meditation, so I suppose that is the first true solo activity I enjoy. Many of my other hobbies, cooking, sailing, even my interest in zoology, can be done with or without others.” Hirek waited until they were in the turbolift before he shifted closer to Rhys and purred his question, “What does that say about me, counselor? If you were to make an analysis in your official capacity, what does it say about a man who deeply enjoys the pleasure of others’ company but also is just as satisfied with being alone with his own thoughts and desires?”

The room Rhys later introduced Hirek to was much a reflection of the man he’d so far come to know: organized and nautical in tone as found in the few personal items quickly seen. Hirek glanced at Rhys for further permission before making a beeline for one of the naval vessel models. He understood now what Rhys had been referring to when the Welshman mentioned making “model ships.” His lips pulled back into an appreciative smile as he noted the intricate work necessary for building this and the other vessels decorating the various nooks of the room.

“I would venture a guess that you enjoy working with your hands, counselor,” Hirek spoke while he gently replaced the first vessel before picking up another, turning it before his eyes as he continued, “that you enjoy the puzzle and the art building something like this brings. Keeps your mind focused, body too,” Hirek set down the piece and returned his gaze to Rhys, “puts you into a place of control without risk.”

Before he allowed Rhys to backpedal into disquiet, Hirek moved to the guitar and again sought out Rhys’ eyes for further permission before he picked up the instrument and gave the strings a tentative tug. The resulting mellow sound delighted him, and Hirek was quick to shamelessly hold the instrument out for Rhys, silently demanding a song with his actions.

“My mother plays a stringed instrument somewhat similar to this one and always hoped I would learn to play. Never had time for it, but always loved listening to her sing and play.” He pushed the instrument against Rhys’ chest, eyes warm with nostalgic delight and present contentment. “What is one of your favorite tunes of late?”

[Lt. Rhys Williams | Counselling Offices| Deck 09 | USS Theurgy] attn: @Ellen Fitz

Hirek shared his preferences for solitary activities. It was something they shared though Rhys suspected for different reasons. Rhys certainly was not opposed to socialising with others, he really liked being around other people. The problem was social anxiety. His tendency to fixate and panic about what others were thinking of him mean that he avoided more social activities despite often craving them. It did seem to be changing though, he was getting better.

Hirek mentioned a martial art that sounded quite like Tai Chi to Rhys, cooking, sailing, and zoology. Rhys’ ears did perk up at the mention of tea. He was rather fond of the stuff and now was wondering what Romulan Tea might be like as opposed to Human tea.

Of course, with Hirek it never took him long to return to a style of speaking clearly designed to tease and arouse his young companion. He had asked him to analyse what he’s hobbies said about him. In truth nothing very much. All his hobbies in one way or another did not strike Rhys as so unusual, except maybe zoology.  Trying not to shiver at the purring voice Rhys simply shrugged. “I think everything you have described is very mentally healthy. Being social if and when you desire, and the rest of time engaging in activities you find fun or stimulating. Very healthy.” He said smiling a little.

Once they were in Rhys’ quarters he noted that Hirek seemed intrigued by the models he had made. So intrigued he was using them to speculate about and analyse Rhys. The Welshman now that he was in a situation where he felt less intimidated by Hirek was more vague and coy about his feelings. It may have been he also felt more comfortable in this place than his office. “I thought I was the counsellor here. You aren’t out for my job, are you?” teased Rhys a small smirk turning up the corners of his mouth.

Hirek then seemed to zone in on the guitar. That didn’t surprise Rhys people often did. On the rare occasions people entered this room they often asked him about. Some like Hirek even asked him to play something. He was always a little shy about playing for someone else, but as he had been expecting the question he felt a least a little more relax. Taking the guitar in his hands, he took a moment to look around. Spotting where he had left his plectrum, he picked up the bright orange bit of plastic before making himself comfortable on the sofa. He strummed a few times to make sure it was still in tune. A couple of the strings were a bit off, so he began to gently adjust the tunning pegs. “There is a song called ‘Strangers’ by a musical group called The Kinks. From Earth in the 1960’s. Its been rattling around in my head for a while.”

Satisfied the guitar was in tune. He Began to strum the opening cords. He avoided looking at Hirek mostly so he wouldn’t feel as nervous. He looked anywhere in the room except directly at the Romulan. The song had a warm cheerful quality but the lyrics were a little unsettling. He had a soft Baritone voice, that was pleasant even though he was clearly untrained.

“Where are you going I don't mind
I've killed my world and I've killed my time
So where do I go what do I see
I see many people coming after me
So where are you going to I don't mind
If I live too long I'm afraid I'll die
So I will follow you wherever you go
If your offered hand is still open to me
Strangers on this road we are on
We are not two we are one

So you've been where I've just come
From the land that brings losers on
So we will share this road we walk
And mind our mouths and beware our talk
'Till peace we find tell you what I'll do
All the things I own I will share with you
If I feel tomorrow like I feel today
We'll take what we want and give the rest away

Strangers on this road we are on
We are not two we are one

Holy man and holy priest
This love of life makes me weak at my knees
And when we get there make your play
'Cos soon I feel you're gonna carry us away
In a promised lie you made us believe
For many men there is so much grief
And my mind is proud but it aches with rage
And if I live too long I'm afraid I'll die

Strangers on this road we are on
We are not two we are one
Strangers on this road we are on
We are not two we are one”

As he brought the song to an end, he looked at Hirek with faint embarrassment. He wasn’t really sure what to say next. So, he simply said in a voice dripping with a feeling of awkwardness. “I like that song.” He looked Hirek with the desperate eyes of someone begging him to say something to make him feel less awkward.


(OOC: The song Rhys plays is this https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MR52MIJuZJY )

[Hirek tr’Aimne | Rhys Williams' Quarters | Deck 13 |  USS Theurgy ] Attn: @Juzzie

Instead of sitting on the sofa next to Rhys, as likely the counselor expected him to do, Hirek positioned himself cross-legged on the floor in front of the counselor. He knew he could’ve dragged one of the chairs at the table closer, but he presumed the movement would distract Rhys as he tuned the instrument and readied himself to perform. From the manner in which Rhys moved and spoke now, handling the instrument with confidence and speaking with ease, Hirek felt he’d made the right decision and nodded in response to Rhys’ description of the song. The names meant nothing to him, same with the date, as he didn’t know how the Terran’s calculated their years compared to Romulans or the standard stardates that dictated the ship’s comings and goings now.

The tune was catchy, and by the time Rhys finished, Hirek had gotten to the point of predicting which chord would be played next. The rhyme was also easy to determine and follow. The lyrics were curious, a mixture of confidence and vulnerability interwoven with what seemed to be social commentary for the time the song was written. Hirek’s gaze was on Rhys’ fingers, tracking how he changed cords, and he had to quickly move his gaze over the length of the guitar and up to the man’s face when Rhys spoke of liking the song. Gone was the confidence and ease just moments before the song, and in its place was the residual self-consciousness the Welshman had exhibited from the moment they’d met.

“You sing very well, Rhys. And I do not say that because I wish for more physical intimacy with you, though that is quite welcome." Hirek's smile turned playful before he jutted his chin toward the guitar and continued. "I’m not sure I understand all the lyrics, but I believe I gathered the general intention behind them, that of both wanting and fearing intimacy with an awareness of one’s mortality?” He tipped his head to the side, studying first the instrument and then the man, “It is intriguing, matching the playful musical nature with the deeper nuances of the song. Why do you like it?”

Hirek leaned back on his hands, stretching his legs out in front of his body, feet touching the bottom of the couch. He’d made himself quite at home in Rhys’ quarters, having taken the man at his word when he’d told Hirek he’d be welcome here. As he listened to Rhys’ explanation, Hirek glanced over his shoulder toward Rhys’ replicator before sending his host a Cheshire smile. If singing with Hirek as the sole audience made Rhys uncomfortable, then he could potentially chase that discomfort away by sharing in return.

He waited until Rhys drew to a close with his explanation before he spoke, “If you concoct some sort of drink and give me a few moments to recall it, I will share a song with you as well.” He pointed to the guitar and shook his head, “Though it will be without an instrument. The tune can vary in quality and pace in speed but always keeps the ebb and flow of volume like a wave, namely because fishermen from my islands made it. Even the lyrics are changeable, but none of this should be surprising when you realize the song originates with a culture known for secrecy and layers upon layers of reality and falsehood interchangeably mixed.”

Sitting up straight and re-crossing his legs, Hirek used his hands as he spoke, “In brief, the song is an emotional proposition from one to another. It never mentions the word ‘love,’ as it refers to deeper emotions that cannot have strict names. The emotions we feel in our deepest parts but rarely give utterance to.” He nodded to Rhys’ guitar before continuing, “Like your song, it encourages life lived fully within the hour, noting that we are like freed slaves within that hour together.” He shrugged, realizing there were many cultural nuances to the song that may be difficult for someone to understand who came from a culture where emotions could be freely expressed without repercussions. “It outlines the parameters of an affair with the expectation that it will be tempestuous in the now, to the point that either hatred or an intensifying passion could develop in the future. There is also the promise that the affair will leave its mark if accepted, but that is said in a positive light. And there is no demand for longevity nor loyalty, just sincerity. Which, for a Romulan, is quite a difficult thing to share.”

Waiting for Rhys to settle, Hirek cleared his throat and closed his eyes. Recalling the voices of the fishermen from whom he’d first learned the song, Hirek moved into it without flourish. As he’d explained earlier, the tempo quickened and slowed at different times, mimicking the movement of the fishermen’s oars as they powered through the sea, yet the power remained the same. The tenor quality of his voice carried with it the resolute hope yet resignation intended for the song. Hirek used a strong falsetto for both the higher-pitched notes and the lowest-pitched ones, with his four-octave range allowing for the variety necessary to carry the song as it was meant to be sung. The song reflected a sea-faring people, hardy yet vulnerable, carrying a sense of longing but also the resilience to survive if rejected. Though Rhys would not know the lyrics in detail since Hirek sang it in the local Uluman dialect, he hoped the counselor could sense the meaning as he'd outlined earlier.

As the song died out on an almost ethereal falsetto note, Hirek opened his eyes and offered Rhys a half smile. He allowed a heartbeat of silence to pass before he offered further explanation. “One of the fishermen who taught me the song told me it had been handed down for generations from the first to arrive on the islands. Legends say they were led there by benevolent creatures of the sea who could take on the form of land walkers. The song was from one of the fishermen who’d come to…well, I suppose you might say care for one of the creatures.” He gave a half-shrug, “Are there any legends like that from your home?”

Rhys Williams | Counselling Offices| Deck 09 | USS Theurgy] attn: @Ellen Fitz

In a way it had surprised Rhys a little that Hirek had not sat next to him. He had imagined that the Romulan’s flirtatious and teasing presence would have been there as a distraction. However, Hirek took a more appropriate place to enjoy the music. Rhys found himself slightly surprised that he was disappointed about this. Clearly there was something wrong with him because part of him would not have minded if Hirek was hovering around him teasing him and making him uncomfortable. However, another part was also very pleased that he sat and listened attentively.

The fact that Hirek approved made Rhys smile shyly. He was especially delighted that Hirek seemed to get the meaning of the song quickly. It was no small feat considering it came from a cultural context he was unaware of, a place and time and even a language he was unaware of. “Yes exactly.” He said the excitement at sharing something of his with Hirek. “I believe the writer once described it as being about ‘uncertainty and how we find companions on the road to fearlessness’.”

Rhys noted that companion was stretched out sitting on the floor. He felt a little bad and wanted to offer the man a seat, but the Romulan seemed to be making himself comfortable where he was. Hirek then requested a drink and suggested he perform his own song. Rhys was excited and eager and got up to move to the replicator as Hirek explained the variables of the piece. Instinctively Rhys felt he had to replicate Cider, an alcoholic drink made with apples. It was the kind of drink he associated with tales around a fire in a cozy space. Though he doubted the synthahol version would be as good as the real thing, it would probably be adequate.
 
As Rhys returned with the golden beverages, he heard Hirek describe the song in interesting terms. It sounded to him like a folk song or sea shanty. They were often very changeable and people from different regions who knew a song would often play it any number of different ways depending on where they were. He watched with wide eyed amazement as Hirek straightened up and began to sing.

It was hard to imagine what the music would have sounded like with just Hirek’s voice. He had a nice voice, and the song sounded pleasant to Rhys’ ears but it was unsettling at the same time. It was in a dialect that Rhys obviously did not understand, but Hirek’ face and movements contributed to making the meaning clear. Eventually the song died on Hirek’s lips. As the older man opened his eyes, he would have seen Rhys sitting his hands in his lap and his own eyes closed. They slowly opened when he realised Hirek had stopped, and he smiled. “I liked that.” Rhys said in a whisper. He blushed a little realising that he was whispering because he had no idea why. His ears ran and buzzed as if missing the sounds he had been so intently listening to.

Rhys chuckled at the fisherman’s explanation. “Oh definitely, though often in Earth Mythology the creatures are either tragic or evil. It’s rare to get good ones.” It seemed sailors on there two worlds were not so different delighting in tails both real and fantastic. “I know one, about a creature called the Loreley. A Beautiful woman, falsely accused of bewitching men and causing their deaths is sentenced to be exiled. She is sent down the great River Rhine in Germany. She requests to look upon the river again for one last time and climbs up a tall rock. She believes she sees her lover and falls to death into the river. There after tales of a sailors crashing into the rocks being distracted by a beautiful woman’s voice and appearance emerged.”

Rhys grinned and picked up his guitar again, struck a few notes and began to play. The nervousness was still there but there was an over riding excitement. So much the normally polite Rhys did not ask Hirek if he wanted to hear the song. The tune was very different, it felt more raucous the kind of thing sailors might sing while getting drunk on land. Rhys sang it with a surprisingly cherry mischievousness. Despite that the lyrics were dark in comparison to the tune.

“Merrily we sailed along
Though the waves were plenty strong
Down the twisting river Rhine
Following a song...
Legend's faded storyline
Tried to warn us all
Oh, they called her Loreley
Careful or you'll fall...

Oh, the stories we were told
Quite a vision to behold
Mysteries of the seas in her eyes of gold...

Laying on the silver stone, such a lonely sight
Barnacles become a throne, my poor Loreley...

And the winds would cry, and many men would die
And all the waves would bow down to the Loreley...
And the winds would cry, and many men would die
And all the waves would bow down to the Loreley...

You would not believe your eyes, how a voice could hypnotize
Promises are only lies from Loreley

In a shade of mossy green, seashell in her hand
She was born the river queen, ne'er to grace the land...

And the winds would cry, and many men would die
And all the waves would bow down to the Loreley...
And the winds would cry, and many men would die
And all the waves would bow down to the Loreley...

Oh, the song of Loreley
Charms the moon right from the sky...
She will get inside your mind, lovely Loreley...
When she cries "Be with me until the end of time"

You know you will ever be with your Loreley...
And the winds would cry, and many men would die
And all the waves would bow down to the Loreley...”

He finished the tune with a slightly overly exuberant flourish on the guitar and a shy but very broad grin on his face.

[Hirek tr’Aimne | Rhys Williams' Quarters | Deck 13  |  USS Theurgy ] Attn: @Juzzie

Hirek bowed his head in polite response to Rhys’ compliment. He knew the counselor was being sincere with his praise but also knew that if he called more attention to it or teased Rhys about the praise, it would start another bout of awkwardness from Rhys. As much as he enjoyed flustering the Welshman, he was also enjoying this more casual and confident side, and the music serving as a medium for sharing aspects of personality and preferences was working as Hirek presumed it would. No need to jeopardize that with ill-timed humor.

Sipping at the amber-colored beverage Rhys had handed him, Hirek listened with a pleased smile as Rhys described a Terran creature called the loreley. The drink was alcoholic but not so much that it would impact Hirek’s sensibilities; one didn’t get to his level of expertise in concocting new blends of Romulan ale with a low tolerance for alcohol content. It was a pleasantly tangy drink, lightly fizzy and thoroughly refreshing. The drink was well-suited given the tone of the music Rhys now played and the general nautical theme they’d both kept to with their songs so far. Closing his eyes, it was easy for Hirek to picture Rhys dressed in swimming attire, barefoot and bare-chested, sitting on a boat bench in the back of a sailing vessel, singing this song as the boat rocked up and down in time with the beat and the tides.

Instead of immediately turning his mind to similar songs in tone or temp from the Uluma Islands, Hirek remained attentive to the song and the timbre of Rhys’ voice as he conveyed the dark narrative oddly constructed in an almost playful manner. He saluted the Welshman with his half-empty glass when Rhys came to a flourished end and returned grin for grin with Hirek. Pausing to take another sip of the tangy drink, Hirek gestured toward the guitar.

“I suppose it is the nature of all sentient beings to create myths to explain the mysteries and dangers of nature. While some are less likely to still celebrate or acknowledge those myths with any pride,” Hirek rolled his eyes and let out a feigned sigh of annoyance, “much like my distant cousins, the Vulcans, and the tyrannical Tal’Shiar of my own homeworld may do, it seems you come from a group of humans much like the people of my islands. While we don’t believe in the superstitions that dictated the comings and goings of life in the ancient times, we respect how those superstitions informed our culture and brought us to where we are now.”

Hirek tipped his head back and gulped down the rest of the drink in one large swallow, a smirk tugging at his lips when a few droplets leaked from the corner of his mouth and trailed down the edge of his mouth. Setting aside the glass, Hirek again pointed toward the guitar with one hand while he swiped the back of his other over the wayward droplets.

“If I may, I believe the back of your guitar could work for a song that comes to mind now. It is not so very different in certain aspects from your loreley song. It is sung from the perspective of the surviving lover.” Waiting for the guitar and then repositioning himself to sing, Hirek continued, “We have a type of…fish that is as difficult to catch as it is breathtakingly beautiful to behold. Imagine hundreds of colors shimmering with the crystalline brilliance of stars captured in fish scales. Their fins extend out from their body, which allows them to glide through the air above the water’s surface, and given how large they can grow, when seen from above, they can be mistaken for ornately decorated flitters piloted across the seas. While beautiful, they are also extremely dangerous, and we have lost many sailors to their venomously fanged jaws. One bite will paralyze a grown Romulan for days and kill a Romulan child. What’s worse, even a graze from their venom-filled fangs can cause hallucinations at best and temporary blindness at worse.” Hirek’s lips turned upward in a salacious smile before he added, “But in small quantities, when added to drinks, it can increase pleasure and prolong arousal.”

Hirek realized then that he’d spent more time describing the real creature and not enough time giving the story necessary for the song's context. Unsurprising considering his love for both zoology and botany, but still, he doubted Rhys was interested in a lesson in Romulan flora and fauna at this moment.

“The legend goes that the first of these fish were the cursed children of one of the primordial gods that created Romulus and all life within it. Having offended one of the more powerful gods with vain claims and pride without evidence and competency to support these claims, this god was cursed to have shapeshifting offspring. As he was one of the sea gods, his children naturally could take on the various shapes of the sea creatures. The first fish of this kind was likewise a vainglorious man who spent his time on land seducing men and women alike and making exuberant claims about his prowess and abilities. A beautiful young woman who recently arrived from one of the continents caught his attention namely because she refused to respond to his conquest efforts. Not accustomed to being denied, this shapeshifting god made it his personal mission to overwhelm this woman and claim her heart as he had with hundreds of men and women before her. Unbeknownst to him, the woman did indeed fall in love with him but had a mission of her own: to claim his heart and tame his nature. Through a series of events, the two grew to love one another with as sincere a love as such individuals could but the morning after they consummated their passion for one another, the man returned to the sea, and she was left with only a few shimmering scales and a bitter heart. She did not realize that the moment his soul committed to her with genuine affection, he lost his shapeshifting abilities and retreated to the sea out of necessity for survival. He would return to her every year with the seasonal tides and try to fly out of the sea to meet her and explain what had happened, but he was so transformed, and her heart had grown so bitter nothing could be done for it.”

Finishing with the story behind the song, Hirek closed his eyes and took a few steadying breaths before he began to tap out a steady rhythm, much like a heartbeat, on the back of Rhys’ guitar. As he added a melodic, ethereal hum, he added additional percussive taps in a series of elaborate flourishes, building the tempo through the echoing percussive tempo from the guitar until finally, he shifted out of the hum and began to sing the lyrics. Assuredly the tone was more aggressive and bitter, but with a remorseful sadness mixed in, and the beat was slower than Rhys’ but still held an apparent nautical theme. Once the song ended, Hirek leaned forward to place the guitar on the sofa next to Rhys before the Welshman could prompt him for it.

Still on his knees, chest parallel to Rhys’ knees, Hirek looked up at Rhys with a casual smile as he let go of the guitar and leaned his weight on his hands braced on the sofa cushion next to Rhys, “When I first heard this song as a child, I didn’t understand many aspects of it. But after my marriage, I very much grew to understand how love can later burn into hate and rage.” Hirek didn’t elaborate further, leaving it to Rhys if the counselor wanted to ask further or leave things at that. “What about you?”

Rhys Williams | Counselling Offices| Deck 09 | USS Theurgy] attn: @Ellen Fitz

Hirek showed a clear interest in myths that Rhys found intriguing. The Welshman had always been far more interested in the historical side of things. However, he saw how myths could be useful in demonstrating how previous generations had seen things. Rhys nodded “Sometimes the people who created them knew they were myths but felt the truth was less interesting.” He said with a smile.

Hirek then asked for the guitar and Rhys happily passed it over. The Romulan then explained the legend he was about to demonstrate in music. Hirek then turned it over and began to tap out a rhythm.

Once he had done the older man explained the meaning he had taken from the song. If anything that was more interesting than the song itself to Rhys. However soon the conversation turned back on him. Rhys didn’t want to pry into Hirek’s marriage he wasn’t sure if that was a comfortable topic or not. Probably for himself as much as for Hirek. “I suppose I can understand it, though from an alternate perspective. My relationship with my father declined sharply once my mother had died.” Rhys was reluctant to say anymore, and so slid on to the floor next to Hirek. He had begun to feel weird sitting on the couch when Hirek was on the floor. Of course, this brought them closer together. Something he was sure Hirek would enjoy. Rhys absentmindedly put his hand on Hirek’s leg. “Its rare that I get angry.” He said by way of filling the silence. “I am not good at it. I can’t hold onto the feeling for any length of time.” He joked.

[Hirek tr’Aimne | Rhys Williams' Quarters | Deck 13  |  USS Theurgy ] Attn: @Juzzie

Hirek had not minded Rhys remaining on the couch with him on the floor, but he did welcome the change when Rhys moved to sit beside him. Hirek didn’t mask the appreciative smile when Rhys placed a warm hand on his leg, but he didn’t comment. So far, it seemed that whenever he drew attention to something Rhys did, the man would become awkward about it and retreat. Having been able to make out enough of the man beside him to realize that Rhys was not a threat, and neither was he someone Hirek was interested in playing games with, Hirek did not feel the need to continue pressing the man into a corner, eliciting fight or flight. No, being able to share in simple camaraderie, even physical affection, that was not laced with layered intent was a very welcome change from the complexities Hirek had navigated among the Tal’Shiar on Qo’Nos and even among his own kind on Romulus.

“My relationship with my parents has always been cordial, perhaps even warm by Romulan standards,” Hirek wasn’t about to go into the details of what he next added, “When it was determined that I would be their only offspring, they approached parenting with both patience and open minds. Which is quite a feat considering the stereotypical Romulan parenting standards.”

Reaching down, Hirek mimicked Rhys’ touch; only he let his fingers lightly trace aimless circles over Rhys’ thigh. He could not describe how…freeing it was to do such a simple thing. He was touching Rhys without worrying about an Internal Security operative lurking in the shadows, ready to report them for future twisted use, turning the innocence of the moment into black fodder that could destroy either of them. He likewise didn’t have to waste thought wondering if Rhys was waiting for the right moment to trick Hirek into revealing something vulnerable about himself, looking for gaps in his armor to exploit. If Hirek could share this open affection with everyone on this ship, he almost feared growing too attached to that reality. Once he became accustomed to this sort of openness in body and words, Hirek could accidentally condemn himself and his kin once he returned to Romulus. He would have to be careful not to get too accustomed to this, relish it for what it was when it was, but never hope for its continuance. There was danger in hope.

“I can…empathize.” Hirek chose his words intentionally, shooting Rhys a cheeky half-smile before continuing. “I do not rile easily and do not hold on to any particular emotion for very long. Except, of course, my absolute hatred for the Tal’Shiar and my unwavering dedication to seeing them eradicated from my home.” Leaning his head back against the couch cushions, Hirek angled his head to stare at Rhys, reaching out with his other hand to gently run a finger along Rhys’ jawline. “What does make you angry?”

{Rhys Williams | Counselling Offices| Deck 09 | USS Theurgy] attn: @Ellen Fitz

Both Rhys and Hirek now seemed relaxed in each other’s company. Their earlier difficulties and sexual tension had retreated to the background. They were sharing feelings about both their upbringings something he was certain Hirek would not have done before hand. Rhys could only imagine the life the older man had lived, considering the tension that had been apparent in his every move and action. To live like that under the gaze of the Tal Shiar must have been exhausting and would have taught him to wear so many masks. 

Rhys wondered if he would have coped in a similar situation. Maybe not as he was now, but if he had been raised as a Romulan he would probably have developed similar psychological defence mechanisms.

He felt Hirek’s hand go to his own thigh, and rather than feeling embarrassed by it he sighed and closed his eyes happily. Rhys was a tactile person, he loved touch and to be touched. He felt himself harden a little, but was just enjoying the sensation.

He then felt the Romulan touch his jaw to attract his attention again, as he asked him what made him angry. “I am not sure I can give a non-generic answer.” He said chuckling. “Cruelty, and unkindness I suppose. Though a lot of my anger tends to come inward.” He opened his eyes slowly and slid his own hand over Hirek’s arm and to his chest. “What makes you happy?” He said wanting to take the conversation in a cheerful direction.

[Hirek tr’Aimne | Rhys Williams' Quarters | Deck 13  |  USS Theurgy ] Attn: @Juzzie

“Then we are of a like mind then, at least with a disgust towards cruelty. The lack of kindness pales compared to injustice for me, however.”

Hirek shifted his body lower, allowing the back of his head to lay on the couch cushions while Rhys slid his hand down his arm and strayed the touch onto Hirek’s chest. Hirek allowed a pensive furrow between his brows as he thought on Rhys’ question, wanting to give the man a truthful answer, if not a full one. Manipulative though he could be, and had been with Rhys in their brief acquaintance, he’d never lied and didn’t intend to start.

“I’m sure it is much the same as with most,” he lazily held up a hand to count down his fingers as he began his list, “accomplishing a goal or finding an elusive solution to a problem, triumphing over those who would seek to do me or my family harm, creating something new like a new ale blend that becomes a new favorite, participating in the traditional festivals of my home and sharing in the bounty,” Hirek’s hand on Rhys’ thigh momentarily squeezed. His smile turned mischievous when he rolled his head to look at the Welshman more directly, “giving pleasure and receiving it in all its various forms.” Hirek’s gaze grew shadowed before he added, “Though much of those cannot be had in their full or pure form so long as the Tal’Shiar are left unchecked, and my world continues to bear the generational scars of their tyranny.”

Hirek let a moment pass before he sat up, leaned forward, and pressed a soft, unhurried kiss against Rhys’ lips. He made no further move to touch the man, nor did he try to deepen the brief kiss. As he leaned against the couch again, Hirek’s smile held an enigmatic quality.

“Every action is questioned; all words are potential weapons. Truths become daggers and lies armor.” Sighing, Hirek turned his head to look to the ceiling again, his smile remaining loose on his lips. “Vigilance and constant suspicion influencing every interaction.” He mirthlessly chuckled. “My home offered some reprieve of that, but then, that is why the Tal’Shiar would like nothing more than to eradicate the islands from existence.”

As if mentioning the Tal'Shiar was the ice bucket reminder he needed, Hirek inwardly cursed himself for allowing as much affection to pass between them as he had. Though externally, he was slower about withdrawing, letting his hand trace along Rhys' thighs as he shifted his weight to the side, pushed onto his knees, and then hoisted himself up to stand on his feet, internally, he was running like a madman cursing all the while. It'd been so terribly long since he'd had reciprocal physicality that extended beyond mere coitus, and his soul was lapping at it eagerly.  He couldn't afford to let down his guard like this, not even if it was what his body and soul yearned for.

There was no telling what was in store for him on this ship, or among these strangers, and not only did he not want to become a liability for them but, more so even, he didn't want them to become a liability for him and his mission to destroy the Tal'Shiar and free Romulus of their tyranny. It was with these thoughts whirling in his mind that Hirek smiled down at Rhys and gave an exaggerated stretch.

"I believe I have taken up enough of your time, though I appreciate your hospitality and our earlier...explorations of one another." He shifted his body toward the door. He wasn't about to run away without a proper farewell. He didn't want to be too obvious, but he felt it was time to leave. Any longer, and it'd be tempting to sing more songs or exchange more affection, and neither of those was conducive to keeping his guard up. "You may prefer to decompress from your duties in a more solitary fashion."

{Rhys Williams | Counselling Offices| Deck 09 | USS Theurgy] attn: @Ellen Fitz

Rhys had sat and listened to the older man speak. There was a lot he revealed in those moments together. It seemed to the young Welshman that at various times Hirek forgot himself and his previous reserve. He gave straight forward answers about his wants and desires from the basics about drinking, sex, problem serving to the broader desires for his people. It occurred to Rhys that Hirek had come to realise it in himself. While the Romulan remained friendly, and jovial the drawbridge had gone up. His demeanour radically changed.

It had begun with his mention of Tal Shiar and Rhys wondered if the upcoming trials and tribulations were the reason for that. As he moved towards the door and Hirek thanked him for their time together, Rhys felt it. Dread. At first a feeling like looking over a cliff edge his stomach seeming to drop, then the sensation of hot pressure behind his eyes and cold air over his skin.

The thought echoing in his head was. “Again, alone again.” Then the inevitable came, the polite almost casual suggestion that he decompress on his own. He knew it was absurd, he knew that he barely knew and probably ought not to trust this guy. He knew that this was the result of something in Hirek rather than something in himself, but that didn’t change the pain of that feeling. It was as if the Romulan had stamped his forehead with the word ‘rejected’.

There was anger to. Many people struggled to imagine Rhys getting angry but that was because it was nearly always directed inwards. It flooded him drenching the Valleys of his mind it fuelled the part of him that hated himself and inspired its exquisite tortures. Some of it was directed at Hirek but that subsided quickly and wormed back into his mind. Rhys simply remained where he had been left looking up at Hirek like the most pathetic kicked puppy in the world.

“I suppose you are right.” He said his voice keeping unnaturally steady. “Well... Welcome aboard.” He said with a formal stiffness and a smile that did not reach his eyes.

He waited for Hirek to leave. He began to count softly to himself. Once he had reached the appropriate number his fist collided with a bulkhead. His hand made a sickening crunch and physical pain blunted the anger a little. “So pathetic.” He growled.


-FIN-