It was quiet on the flight deck, with everybody but Pytor and Chiako either asleep or working on projects. After checking the navicomp for the umpteenth time, Pytor sighed then turned to the center seat and watched Chiako's right forefinger tap on the armrest, before saying, "You know, I wouldn't mind missing out on this one."
Chiako raised an eyebrow, "Oh?"
Without missing a beat, the navigator replied, "Yeah, I hear scout ships are disposable starships."
"Really?"
"Of course. Besides my sources say they aren't very well cared for, by the crew I mean, and they stink." Pytor rested his finger against the side of his nose.
Not being one to let an opportunity slip by, Chiako grinned, "Kind of like your room." Pytor pantomimed a dagger slicing into his heart, and then chuckled.
Unknown to the two men, Jarius had stepped onto the flight deck and was standing at the science console. With a keen ear, he listened to Pytor's complaint, and then smiled at Chiako's rebuttal. "Touché Chiako." He said, drawing the men's attention.
With all the speed and accuracy of a long time team, both automatically drew their phasers and pointed them at Jarius. Upon recognizing the commander, both put the weapons away and greeted him.
"Don't worry Pytor, you won't be going." He went on to explain, "Only four of us are going: Captain Dana, Myself, Martin, and Chiako."
"Why?" Pytor wanted to know.
"According to Romulan procedures, only the second officer, chief engineer, helmsman, and security chief take the ship out for a trial run."
The navigator turned to Chiako, "Have fun," he said and pinched his nose. Chiako's only response was a slight bow of his head.
"Oh by the way, Pytor, unlike the Klingon scouts, Romulans keep their ships as clean as the day they came from the factory." Jarius clarified. "So the only bad smell in this sector will be the odious scent from your dirty laundry."
This time is was Chiako who chuckled.
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