Flashback - two days before Alex had to report to Admiral Morrow on Starbase I
Alex decided to have a drink at MAO's - quite a popular adult bar famous for fantastic drinks and even more fantastic parties. MAO's quickly became Alex's favourite club. What is more, he always enjoyed the dancing shows. No, he did not dance himself, he just enjoyed watching the professional female dancers.
You ever had a Saurian Brandy with Andorian ice cherries, doc?
The barkeeper grinned at Alex and showed him a bottle. Alex grinned, too.
Not yet, my friend. Do you think I should give it a go?
A man with your taste? Oh, absolutely! Look, the first one's on me because you are one of my favourite customers. Just don't forget me once you're Admiral, he?
Never!
The barkeeper, an older Caithian with a heart of gold, mixed, poured and presented the drink.
Enjoy and cheers! Drink it quickly and then bite on the cherries. A feeling you will never ever forget.
Alex tried it, drank and bit and... all of a sudden saw one million stars in front of his eyes.
Geez... this was... special!
The Caithian grinned again, this time a bit broader.
Told you you'd love it. Another one?
You bet!
Moments later Alex realized a young woman entering the bar. She was alone and seemed to be quite determined where to go. Has he ever seen her in here yet? Alex could not remember. The woman was wearing and elegant outfit: high-heels, a tight black skirt and a top showing more skin than covering it.
I can see your eyes moving away from the drink to the young lady, doc.
Yeah, you realise everything, don't you? Does she come here often? I've never seen her before.
Sometimes. Sometimes with other cadets, sometimes alone. She's Starfleet like you.
Oh... how interesting!
Alex finished his brandy.
Do you know her favourite drink?
Is it dark in the night?
Depends where you are.
Both laughed.
Perhaps I should go and say hello.
Yeah, perhaps you should do that. I'll bring you something to oil your throat.
So Alex stood up, left the bartable and walked towards the place where this pretty young lady was sitting. She was sitting there looking around before realising him.
Excuse me... would you mind me joining you talking about Starfleet regulation 45B/5 and... may I buy you a drink?