Lyssa Campbell

Ensign on the USS Voyager. Transporter Chief. History buff.

[warpcorewarrior]

Private Message

@lyssacampbell 

Hey Lyssa. I’m so sorry I haven’t been able to spar with you the last couple of weeks. If you’re up for it, I’m ready to get back at it. 

Actually, I really feel like kicking some Cardassian asses on the holodeck. Maybe we could even celebrate our battle victory with a drink afterwords. What do you say? 

B’Elanna

[lyssacampbell-blog]

Yes. Yes. 1000x yes. Here’s hoping it helps me get out of this funk clear my head.

[juniortjenkins]

Private Message

@lyssacampbell​

Lyss! Check it. Tomorrow after shift the sim is ours. I hope you’re ready for an adventure!

Ps. You don’t get nauseous easily, do you? Cause if so I can stop by sickbay to get you something for that…

[lyssacampbell-blog]

TJ - I have a iron stomach. Can’t wait to see if this sim lives up to the hype. I already looked up how to do a barrel roll.

[lyssacampbell-blog]

Catching up

Okay, so. What’s up?

What do you mean?

You’ve been here twenty minutes, taken approximately eighty-seven sips of that wine and haven’t said a word.

Nothing really.  It’s just been a typical Voyager day.

I didn’t just mean today, Lyssa. I mean how are you? I know we’re not the closest of friends but I’m not blind. Something’s going on.

TJ, please believe me when I say *nothing* is going on. We get up.  We go to our duty stations. We fly on the same course. We go to bed. That’s all we’re doing.

Oooh… I see.

Yea. It’s fine. There’s no drama. No secrets. Just one very clean transporter pad.

You’re bored shitless.

Yes, but it’s... Well it’s just me.  I mean I’m just not… It’s just a me problem TJ.

We’ll come back to the fact that you think a ‘me’ problem isn’t a real problem in a minute. What about off duty? Are you finding ways to keep busy? I heard you were sparring with B’Elanna, how’s that going?

She’s been busy with work stuff lately, so we haven’t sparred in a week or so.  Plus she’s all happily married.  I have to give her some time with Tom.

Have you been hanging out with anyone else? Going to the movies? The singles mixer? Anything?

No. I’ve just been keeping my head down, staying out of trouble, and keeping my mouth shut.

Look. I’m no counsellor. And it’s not my place to pry. But I care about you, Lyssa. And quite frankly I’m worried about you. Holing up in your quarters sixteen hours a day while you work the other eight isn’t always a great sign. So if there’s anything I can do to help…

Can you magic us about 50 new decks and a few hundred new people? Sorry. Gods. Sorry that was out of line.

It wasn’t out of line. Believe me I get tired of the same people, the same surroundings too. It’s been a long time.

I guess. Isn’t this is how humans were supposed to work though? Humans - communal mammals who form tribal bonds creating small tight knit communities. Shouldn’t this be enough?

I don’t know about tribal bonds, you’d have to talk to Chakotay about that. All I know is, lonely is lonely. Bored is bored. You’re allowed to feel however you feel. But if it becomes a problem, if it makes you anxious or depressed? Then this tribe is here for you.

Gods TJ that’s the problem. I don’t want this tribe to be here for me. I live for chaos and the unexpected and the previously unimagined. When I was a teen and I got bored I’d lie to both my parents, say that I was staying with the other one and bribe as many transporter clerks as I needed until I could get someplace new. One night I ended up climbing trees in the Amazon rainforest until I found the perfect spot to watch the moon set and the sun rise over some small winding river I couldn’t name. I snuck out during Sunday dinner with the family to lose all sense of time; of myself in the wretched excesses of carnival in Venice. Left my warm bed on a whim one morning to explore the lake region in northern Canada in winter and nearly lost 3 toes to frostbite. Joining Starfleet was supposed to help me scratch this itch safely. To make things better not worse. To keep me from getting myself killed.

And now, instead of just exploring the unknown, we’re also on an impossibly long journey. Where the excitement is life-or-death and the wonder of it all are these little gas stations along the way instead of the reason we’re here. And there’s no one to bribe, no shuttle you can call for to take you away.

Mmhmmm. It’s decidedly less than ideal.  

You never found another way to scratch that itch of yours?

It really wasn’t a problem before. Well OK it was but not like this. When my wanderlust goes unsatisfied for long enough I... well it’s not pretty.  Not pretty to the extent that my parents decided it was better for me to go wandering around wherever I pleased then try to keep me at home.

Dang, that bad, huh?

It was. When I didn’t get my adrenaline fix by exploring, I found ways to manufacture it at home. I started drama. I stirred the pot. I sniffed out unsettled relationships like you’d search for a leaking gas main and then I’d light a match for the thrill of watching the relationship explode. I hated that it hurt people, but I couldn’t stop myself from doing it. It was like picking at a scab. Even when I was the one being hurt I just couldn’t stop.

So what changed? Cause obviously you’re here now, you must have found some way to deal.

Lots of things. I traveled with Dad. Mum and Dad both agreed that the higher my grades were, the more freedom they would give me to roam. So I applied myself to getting the highest marks and explored and voila! I stopped being a menace to polite society. The Academy was a god send. Exciting drills, dangerous simulations, challenging classes, an ever changing milloux of people, and remarkable number of people looking for help with this or that ill-conceived prank. I had found the perfect career for my mental health.

Have you found any way to cope with this on Voyager? I can’t believe you’re not clawing at the walls.

I do, but only very briefly. After a day or two climbing the walls, I just stop. Like a ship becalmed at sea. It’s not all that bad TJ. I don’t spend all day crying or sleep all the time. I just disconnect for a bit; withdraw; go through a period of not caring.

We all do that, I suppose. I’m more concerned for the long term effects on your mental health.

TJ as far as I’m concerned the depression or the malaise or whatever you want to call it is a good sign. I don’t exactly enjoy these periods of...vast fuzzy white inconsequence, but reaching them means that I haven’t a.) broken regulations to go on an adventure or b.) gotten my adrenaline high through relationship drama. Unless we’re really lucky or really unlucky, you and I and the other 140 or so people on this ship are spending the next 80 years of our lives together. And I don’t want to spend a minute of that time in the brig or as a social pariah.

I don’t think you’re at risk of that as much as just going quietly nuts. Have you used the holodecks at all? Does that help?

Not really. I inevitably remember that I’m on the holodeck and cave to the urge to turn the safeties off. And when I can’t do that the fun’s gone; the illusion’s broken. When we’ve had some excitement, parkouring around crowded spaces on the holodeck gets the job done. But things have been so quiet recently TJ.

Hm… If I were to suggest a way for you to advance your career and get one of the biggest thrills of your life, would you try it?

You and I both know that I can’t say no to a proposal phrased like that.

Perfect! Give me a day to finagle a schedule or two and we’ll start. In the meanwhile, pass that bottle and tell me about the Amazon. I’ve never been...

[lyssacampbell-blog]

Hi, where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Right here. I’ll be right here. 

[juniortjenkins]

Private Message

@lyssacampbell

Lyss! I tried to catch you after shift but you ran off the bridge like it was on fire. In fact, if I didn’t know better I’d say you were avoiding me and everyone else entirely. Thought maybe we could grab dinner? Or hang out off hours? Catch up a bit. Whaddya say?

[lyssacampbell-blog]

@juniortjenkins

Hey TJ, 

Sorry about that I was absolutely trying to avoid everyone distracted. 

You’ve got to start re-engaging. It’s been too long already. Buck up Campbell. Just see if you can get her to invite you over for drinks. Or meet somewhere incredibly private that is not your quarters. 

Maybe we could grab a drink tomorrow? Caffeinated or alcoholic perhaps? 

[lyssacampbell-blog]

Personal Log

Yes, yes, yes. Okay computer. I know I’m supposed to record at least one log a week. This is my personal log. We continue to fly through space toward earth. Spoiler alert: Most of space is empty.

I work my shifts. I spar. I sleep. Sometimes I read. I try to avoid the onboard drama. I memorize new shades of the color green.

I remember that this malaise is depression. That it will pass. That I will reengage. That my imagination isn’t limited by ship that contains it.

I don’t feel any of that yet, but I remember it.

[warpcorewarrior]

Private Message

@lyssacampbell 

Hey Lyssa, how are you? I just wanted to check in and make sure everything’s going okay after the data stream. 

Are we still on for that Klingon workout later? The new one where we practice blade techniques. Against dummies of course, not each other. I hope you have your bat’leth and mek’leth ready. 

B’Elanna

[lyssacampbell-blog]

@warpcorewarrior

B’Elanna, 

I’m 110% ready for blades. Bring on the dummies. The stream went fine; not much new to report there.  Did you get any news? 

Lyssa

[lyssacampbell-blog]

Pathfinder Message

To: Frederick Campbell

From: Lyssa Campbell

My dearest brother,

Happy Birthday. I know it’s still what 10 days early, but I’d hate to be accused of being belated. Tell Mom to give you my present when you get this.

Thank you for sending along those pictures of food.  I got your message in the mess hall and somehow this “chef’s surprise” just isn’t as satisfy as it was 10 mins ago.

Sometimes I forget that Marcel hasn’t always been part of our family. How in the galaxy did we get by before he became our crazy uncle, doting grandfather, and pastry wielding patriarch? It’d be really nice to message Mom and I’m not touching her pacifist concerns with a 10 foot pole. How did she take to being parented again?

Is the gadfly from regional council still buzzing around your humble summer fete?

This last month was… eventful. I was asked to make a wedding dress for B’Elanna and then I asked to cover the overnight bridge shift the night before the wedding for the best man. Which was fine… until we got trapped in a random temporal phenomena. Depending on who you ask it lasted either a couple days or a few seconds. It was *quite* the to do. I’m sending along a picture of the wedding dress for you to share around.

We’re back on track on the long road home now. No worse for the wear.

[lyssacampbell-blog]

Personal Log

Tom and B’Elanna’s wedding reception was wonderful. One of the good things that came from our time bubble adventures was that it gave us time to pick out shoes for her to wear and get the hem finished with plenty of time to spare. She looked... stunning.  Radiant and happy and all of those good things. 

I had a good time at the reception, which surprised no one. I enjoy a good party. It was so nice to see everyone all dressed up.  I hope Farley isn’t mad that I complemented her on her suit about 100 times. It was nice to see TJ, Kes, Seven and Susan wearing dresses I helped them choose.  Now if I could only get Ayala on my clientele list. I managed to keep out of sick bay, but the next morning was pretty rough. 

I had trouble sleeping a lot the last week or so. While I was staring at the ceiling last night I realized that things are really changing on board. Several couples have moved in together in the past few months. I’m sure there will be more marriages, but there will also be more children. 

Whenever I thought about whether or not I wanted to have children, I always told myself “Wait til Frederick has some and see how much you enjoy being with them. You’ll know whether you want kids of your own when you spend time with your nieces or nephews.”  It hit me really hard when I realized that it’s B’Elanna’s children or Dalby’s children that I will spend time with. Embarrass with stories about what they were like as an infant.

Thinking about it really messes me up. My family was always the rock-solid foundation I returned to after my adventures. The safe spot I went to when I hurt. I don’t think I’ve ever missed them as much as I do now. It’s like it finally hit me how much of their lives I’m likely to miss. How distant they are.

I’ve been focusing on winding down and recharging but none of my usual tricks are helping. I’m feeling so trapped, but lonely, but I really want to be alone.

I really hate homesickness.

[sweartrek]

I don’t believe it

[musician-in-space]

I never said this!  Who made this? @voyagerscaptain and @firstofficerchakotay-flute, I’ll try to run a trace on the original poster. 

[lyssacampbell-blog]

Wasn’t me. But I really wish I’d thought of it.

[warpcorewarrior]

Private Message

@lyssacampbell

Lyssa, I managed to get Tom’s hands off of me long enough to say thank you for making my wedding dress. I loved it! Tom loved it! It was the perfect combination of elegant and simple with a little bit of Klingon thrown in. 

You’re the best, B’Elanna 

[lyssacampbell-blog]

@warpcorewarrior, 

You’re very welcome B’Elanna.  I am so glad you could wear exactly what you wanted to your wedding. I really enjoyed making it with and for you. 

Now, tell Tom to get his hand back where they belong (on you) and go enjoy your honeymoon!

Lyssa

[lyssacampbell-blog]

Private Message

@kes-flowersandthings, 

Kes, 

Before things got derailed by those bubbles you and I were talking about your dress for the wedding.  Are you still planning to attend?  Do you still need a dress? 

You were looking for something A-line and light colored right? 

Anyhow - I’d love to work with you if you’re still interested. Let me know

-Lyssa

[kes-flowersandthings]

Hello Lyssa,

Yes, I’m definitely still interested in a dress for Tom and B'Elanna’s wedding. I feel much better but still a little sore from the elogium so, I’ll definitely be attending. You’re right that was looking for something light in colour and shape. I’m so happy you remembered! Thanks again.

Kes

[lyssacampbell-blog]

Kes, 

Let’s see… maybe something floral like this?

Or this, which would go well with your eyes…

Maybe something with a lace overlay?

Or play with texture more than pattern.  

Let me know what you think! 

[kes-flowersandthings]

Lyssa,

If you weren’t in Starfleet, you could make a career out of this! All of your recommendations are so lovely, it’s nearly impossible to choose. However, I adore that pink dress with the lace overlay. It’s such a gorgeous colour, and the fabric looks perfect.

Kes

[lyssacampbell-blog]

Kes, 

I’m pretty sure Starfleet was the best possible choice for me. Seriously, seriously a good choice. Why don’t you bring the dress by and we’ll tailor the fit a bit?  Make sure you’re comfortable in it for the whole night. Maybe lunchtime tomorrow? 

[lyssacampbell-blog]

Private Message

@kes-flowersandthings, 

Kes, 

Before things got derailed by those bubbles you and I were talking about your dress for the wedding.  Are you still planning to attend?  Do you still need a dress? 

You were looking for something A-line and light colored right? 

Anyhow - I’d love to work with you if you’re still interested. Let me know

-Lyssa

[kes-flowersandthings]

Hello Lyssa,

Yes, I’m definitely still interested in a dress for Tom and B'Elanna’s wedding. I feel much better but still a little sore from the elogium so, I’ll definitely be attending. You’re right that was looking for something light in colour and shape. I’m so happy you remembered! Thanks again.

Kes

[lyssacampbell-blog]

Kes, 

Let’s see... maybe something floral like this?

Or this, which would go well with your eyes...

Maybe something with a lace overlay?

Or play with texture more than pattern.  

Let me know what you think! 

[lyssacampbell-blog]

Private Message

@kes-flowersandthings, 

Kes, 

Before things got derailed by those bubbles you and I were talking about your dress for the wedding.  Are you still planning to attend?  Do you still need a dress? 

You were looking for something A-line and light colored right? 

Anyhow - I’d love to work with you if you’re still interested. Let me know

-Lyssa

[susan-nicoletti-voyager-blog]

What was the most frustrating for you during the bubble drama?

The fact I was locked with Mendez, the most boring crewman of this ship. Anytime I tried to lighten the mood, he just blinked in confusion… But then he at least did everything I told him to do so we were able to collect a lot of data, maybe some were even useful, right, @lyssacampbell?And of course I was worried about others - we didn’t know if @borg-girl didn’t need to regenerate and it also was not a good time for @sevenofninetertiaryadjunctofunim to be alone. But we managed.

[lyssacampbell-blog]

The data was good Susan, but getting messages from you was one of the best parts. It was such a relief to hear that you were still OK!

[warpcorewarrior]

Is that what I think it is?

Oh gods B’Elanna… no more… I’m totally gassed. 

I thought you had so much energy to get rid of? But alright Lyssa, you win. Let’s call it for today. 

If you insist. I’m going to sit here on this nice comfy floor for a moment. 

Haha, okay. You know, your front kick is getting scary. I feel sorry for the bag. 

Lyssa, bane of the punching bag. These things happen when you have a good teacher. 

Thanks, but it takes a good student, too. 

Oh really? Know where we could find one? In all seriousness, those pots didn’t know what hit them, did they? 

Pots? What pot- Oh! You little p’tak! 

Me? Never. 

Wow, I’m gross. Pass me my towel, would you? 

Here ya go. B’Elanna… is that what I think it is?

What? 

Checking to see if your wedding band fits in your gym bag or did it need a change of scenery? 

Oh. Um, yeah, that’s my wedding band. I suppose I could put it back on now. 

And I’m the p’tak? You did the deed? Already? Ha! Of course you did. 

Sorry. I planned to tell you today, I swear! 

Congratulations, B’Elanna. 

Thank you. We haven’t really told anyone yet. It’s not a secret, since we’re wearing our wedding bands, but we haven’t announced it, either. 

So give me the details! When did you find time to corner the Captain? 

Um, well. We didn’t. We just told Captain Janeway this morning. 

Okay… Last time I checked, holodeck characters can’t perform valid weddings so I’m missing something here. 

It’s actually acceptable in Klingon culture for two people to take a marriage oath without anyone else present. It’s binding and legal and nothing more has to be done. Well, almost nothing. 

Here. Take a drink and give me all the details. I want to hear all of them. 

Okay. Well, it was the night after we got out of those damn bubbles. We were lying in bed - or actually, on the floor - Tom said something to me about how he wished we could get married “right now,” and I suddenly realized we’d already done the first part of the marriage, uh, ceremony. So I told him about the oath, explained that it was legal and that we could do it alone. And he agreed. 

The first part ended on the floor eh? If that’s how the ceremony starts, why did you bother to finish? 

Because we wanted to be married. 

Fair point. So first mind blowing sex, then an oath and then… 

More sex. Wait, how did you know that the sex was “mind blowing”? 

Because I’m looking at you. And it ended on the floor. You only put up with rug burn from the  horrible Starfleet issue carpet for a really good reason. 

Yes, I suppose that’s true. Although the rug burn is sort of minor on the injury list… Is it getting hot in here? 

And here I was thinking that the bruise on your shoulder came from your stay in airponics. Should I replicate you an ice pack? 

Oh Lyssa, you have no idea. We have a contraband dermal regenerator in our quarters. Tom actually gets the worst of it, most of the time. 

Dermal regenerator? Well that paints a vivid picture. 

Does it? I’m guessing you’ve never been with a Klingon? 

Correct. I heard the stories and rumors around the academy of course, but I tried not to pay them too much mind. I confess I’m curious to know how much of it was real. 

I’m sure it’s not all real. You know how people like to exaggerate, especially when it comes to things in the bedroom. But I don’t really know what was said. People don’t usually gossip about having sex with a Klingon in front of another Klingon. 

True. Very true. So the wedding went sex, oath, sex? 

Well, uh, yeah. When you put it that way it sounds so unromantic. The oath required fire - candles, but still - and bat’leths. And the first sex had to be specific, not just a regular romp in the sheets. 

Last time I checked sex was pretty romantic B’Elanna. 

I think that can depend on those involved and how they feel about certain, um, desires. Lucky for me, I found a man who enjoys the Klingon aspects of sex. 

You found a man who enjoys being with you cause you’re you. Here, help me up and I’ll buy you lunch. 

I won’t say no to that, I’m starving! Now, tell me how everything went down on the bridge during the Kerr loop crisis. 

[juniortjenkins]

Private Message

To: @ensignalang, @lyssacampbell

Hey Supergirls! Or is that Super-ensigns? Whatever. You both rested up? Good. Tonight after shift, a round of Voyager’s finest is on me. And by ‘Voyager’s finest’ I mean this sweet Laethean Tequila I brought back (it’s almost as good as the Laetheans themselves). I owe you two a lot for what you did for me and for Voyager during that little crisis. Hopefully the drink is a good start at repayment. Oh, and don’t think of not showing or I’ll make it an order ;-)

[lyssacampbell-blog]

@juniortjenkins, 

You had me at supergirls, but you know I can’t resist a good stiff drink. I’ll bring quality drinking snacks. 

Lyssa