Cultured. (Orville x Reader)

Chapter Three.

The Orville. 

***

Y/N was led to her new quarters, a two-room apartment with floor-to-ceiling windows offering a panoramic view of the space. The walls were a sterile white, the furnishings were basic and functional. It starkly contrasted the vibrant, chaotic world she had left behind.

Determined to create a space that felt like home, Y/N began to experiment with the ship's synthesizers. She spent hours inputting images, colors, and textures, drawing inspiration from the sun-drenched cottages of the French Riviera and the rich cultures she had studied.

The first room, her study, was transformed into a library. Bookshelves materialized along the walls, filled with countless volumes downloaded from the ship's database, as well as her own. A large, comfortable armchair was placed in front of a floor-to-ceiling window, offering a perfect spot to lose herself in a good book. The walls were painted a warmer shade of white, reminiscent warm days on Xelaya. She added additional touches of warmth with terracotta-colored rugs and woven baskets filled with plants synthesized to mimic the appearance of olive trees.

The second room, her bedroom, was equally her own. The walls were painted a gentle lavender, and the bed was draped in soft, white linens. A small, round table with a delicate lamp stood in one corner, and a chaise lounge invited relaxation. To create a sense of intimacy, she added a faux fireplace, complete with crackling sounds and a warm glow. She imagined curling up there on cold nights, a book in hand, the gentle hum of the ship providing a soothing background.

As she finished decorating, Y/N felt a sense of accomplishment. Her apartment was now a reflection of her spirit, a place where she could retreat from the bustling energy of the ship. It was a small victory, but it was a significant one.

Exhausted but satisfied, Y/N collapsed onto her bed. The ship was quiet now, the crew asleep. She closed her eyes, the soft lavender glow of the room creating a sense of peace. As she drifted off to sleep, she thought about the adventures that lay ahead. 

***

The soft glow of the morning sun filtered through the blinds, casting long, dancing shadows across Y/N's apartment. She stretched, the stiffness of sleep melting away. The ship was alive with the soft hum of machinery, the rhythmic pulse of a colossal organism exploring the cosmos. It was so different from the quiet stillness she had known on Krill, but now as she awoke, their was no background fear of her identity being discovered -- simply the knowledge that she was somewhere new. 

She slipped into a large white sweater and a pair of flowing blue pants, the comfort of the soft fabric a welcome contrast to the clinical environment of the ship -- something that she, an academic, would struggle to get used to. A quick glance at the mirror revealed pale skin that was slowly acclimating to the ship's lighting, and she smiled at the subtle improvements.

The dining hall was a bustling hub of activity, filled with the chatter of crew members and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. Y/N grabbed a tray and began to assemble her breakfast, opting for a bowl of fruit and a cup of black tea. As she carried her tray to a quiet table, her gaze swept across the room, landing on the familiar figure of Talla Keiyali.

The Chief of Security was seated alone, her intense gaze scanning the room. Y/N hesitated for a moment, then gathered her courage and approached her table.

"May I?" she asked, indicating the empty seat across from Talla.

Talla looked up, her expression shifting from focused to surprised, then softened into a welcoming smile. "Of course."

As they ate, a comfortable silence settled between them. Y/N took a sip of her tea, the warmth spreading through her body.

"You're from Earth, aren't you?" Talla asked, breaking the silence. Her voice was low and husky.

"Half," Y/N replied, "The other half is Xeleyan... like you."

Talla nodded, her eyes filled with curiosity. "And what brought you to the Orville?"

Y/N hesitated for a moment, considering how much to share. "It was determined my expertise would be helpful as the Orville contacts new cultures and continues to navigate planetary disputes," she replied vaguely. "And you?"

Talla leaned forward, her elbows resting on the table. "I've always been drawn to the unknown. Protecting others, exploring new worlds – it's in my blood."

There was a spark between them, a mutual understanding of the thrill of discovery and the challenges that came with it. Y/N felt a connection to Talla, a sense of camaraderie that transcended their different backgrounds.

"So, you're Xeleyan, too?" Y/N spoke, picking back up the conversation. "It's rare to meet another Xeleyan outside your home planet, especially in such a high-ranking position."

Talla nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. "It's a demanding life, but a fulfilling one. The Xeleyan in me gives me an edge in security work... plus, I think I have a lot in common with the human staff."

Y/N leaned forward, her interest piqued. "That's fascinating. My work has focused on cultural anthropology, specifically the interplay between different societies. I've spent years studying everything from Krill religious practices to Moclan gender roles."

Talla raised an eyebrow. "Moclan gender roles? That's a complex subject."

Y/N laughed. "Indeed. It requires a delicate touch. But it's also incredibly rewarding. Understanding a culture from the inside out, seeing the world through their eyes, it's a privilege."

Talla seemed genuinely interested. "You must have a unique perspective, then. Most people see cultures as either superior or inferior."

"That's a common misconception," Y/N replied. "Every culture has its strengths and weaknesses. It's about finding common ground, building bridges, rather than walls."

When they were done, Talla stood up, a determined look in her eyes. "I think we need to continue this conversation. Perhaps over a cup of coffee?"

"I... I would like that," Y/N smiled.