The hum of the USS Arsenal's engines filled the ship as it cruised through the star-speckled blackness of space. Onboard, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement; the crew was preparing for an away mission to the icy surface of Tacoin VII, an M-Class planet with peaceful, ethereal beings called the Vrinqul.

In the Medbay of the ship, Dr. T'lirri was hard at work doing last-minute checks on the members of the crew who would be transported down via a shuttle due to transporter interference from the planet. With Captain Vevva down with a Terrian Flu bug, Dr. T'lirri and Commander S'Nira had been tasked with ensuring this Second-Contact mission went off without a hitch.

As the Vulcan CMO worked, the sound of the Medbay doors opening caught her attention and she raised her head to gaze at the newcomer. A small, 13-year-old Vulcan child entered the room, her eyes looking around for someone in particular. This young Vulcan was named Starka and she was the ever-loyal CMO's little sister, who was visiting the Arsenal for a few days as they made their way slowly to New Vulcan to drop her off with her older brother U'Vrak. As Starka's eyes met T'lirri's, there was a flash of something in her eyes.

"Starka, how are you finding the ship so far?" Dr. T'lirri asked as she finished with the last ensign and sent them on their way, throwing her used gloves into a trash can next to her.

"It's fascinating, T'lirri. I've never seen anything like it." Starka replied, her dark Vulcan eyes sparkling with subdued enthusiasm. "But… what is snow? I keep hearing the crew talk about it while preparing for the away mission. It seems to bring them excitement."

T'lirri paused, considering her sister's question. "Snow is a form of water that freezes in the atmosphere. It falls to the ground in flakes, creating a white blanket. It can be both beautiful and cold as I have experienced it before with the Captain back during our Academy days. Would you like to see it?"

A look seemed to cross Starka's face as something lit up in her eyes. "Affirmative, big sister. I want to see it now."

Just then, the door slid open, revealing Commander S'Nira in all her glory. She strode in, her confidence radiating warmth. "What's this about snow?" She asked, her ears twitching with curiosity. "I'm assuming you're talking about the planet below."

"T'lirri was just explaining what snow is," Starka said, her hand fidgeting behind her back in a way to hide her barely restrained excitement. "Can I see it? Please?"

S'Nira exchanged a glance with T'lirri, sensing the longing in the young Vulcan's voice. "Dr. T'lirri, Captain Vevva is not feeling well, but the planet is declared safe for exploration. Perhaps we can allow Starka to experience snow?"

T'lirri raised an eyebrow, an expression of rare emotion crossing her features. "Commander, are you suggesting we take her to the surface?"

"Why not?" S'Nira replied, her tone light. "As long as she's bundled up and under my supervision, I see no harm in it. Plus, it might be a good break for you, T'lirri. Nurse Harper and the others can take care of the ship while you make sure Hayvna is okay."

There was no missing the faint green blush that appeared on the Vulcan's ears at the mention of the Captain. "Very well," T'lirri conceded, her lips curving into a subtle smile. "Starka, would you like to join Commander S'Nira and the away team?"

"Absolutely," Starka replied with a slightly higher pitched sound to her voice, her excitement leaking through. "I promise to obey you."

S'Nira chuckled softly. "Then let's prepare, shall we? I'll make sure you have the proper attire. We wouldn't want you to freeze or we'll have an upset Captain and scary Vulcan doctor on our paws!"

The two made their way through the corridors of the USS Arsenal, Starka trying to absorb everything she saw. When they reached S'Nira's quarters, the Commander motioned for Starka to enter. The room was spacious and decorated with a mix of Caitian and Starfleet decor along with odd trinkets and photos on the wall. S'Nira walked over to a wardrobe and opened it, revealing an array of warm clothing.

"Now, let's see what we have here," S'Nira said, rummaging through the clothes. "You'll need a fluffy coat to keep you warm. I believe I have just the right size for you."

Starka watched, fascinated, as S'Nira pulled out one of two bright blue coats that had her name written on them. "This looks… interesting," She said, cautiously touching the fabric.

S'Nira chuckled softly. "It may look strange, but it's designed to keep you warm. You'll want to be cozy when you feel the cold air on your skin for the first time."

Starka nodded, her curiosity piqued. "What does cold feel like? Is it like the chill of a Vulcan night?"

S'Nira shook her head, a playful glint in her eyes. "It is much more intense than that. You might feel the cold bite your cheeks, and the snow will feel soft and fluffy under your feet. It's a unique sensation."

Starka's eyes sparkled with anticipation. "I cannot wait to experience it."

S'Nira helped Starka into the coat, adjusting it to fit snugly around her. "Now, you'll need these too," She said, pulling out a pair of insulated boots. "They'll keep your feet warm and dry."

Once Starka was dressed, S'Nira handed her a pair of mittens and a warm hat. "Don't forget these. We want to make sure you're fully protected from the cold."

Starka donned the accessories, her excitement palpable. "I feel… different. It is strange to wear so many layers."

"You'll get used to it," S'Nira assured her. "Once you step outside and see the snow, I think you'll forget all about it."

With everything in place, S'Nira led Starka out of her quarters and down to the hanger deck where the rest of the away team awaited next to the shuttle. "Ready?"

"Affirmative," Starka replied as S'Nira helped her step up into the shuttle and sit down next to Lieutenant Finley Macario, who was the Chief Science Officer. He gave the younger Vulcan a small nod and she gave him one in return.

Commander S'Nira, Lieutenant Yifre Grodame, and two security ensigns took their spots in the shuttle with Lieutenant Athryriass Sh'rhaothrir, or Arisa as everyone called her, at the controls. The Andorian Helmsman turned around to her passengers and flashed them a classic smirk. "Are you ready? Here we go!"

"Please don't crash us." Macario brought up as he gave the Andorian a look, to which Commander S'Nira sighed heavily.

"You two are impossible."

Arisa barked out a laugh as they were given clearance for takeoff. Starka was a bit amused by the banter she heard between them, but soon became distracted by the sight of the planet below. She was about to experience something completely new, and her heart raced with anticipation. The world of snow awaited her, and she could hardly contain her eagerness.