Posted by Civilian Urg’tohn, Son of the House of Duroc (Klingon Warrior) in Oed Museum- A Diplomatic Gala- The Vren Arrival (OPEN TO ALL)

Posted by Civilian Griget Kek (Vren Ambassador) in Oed Museum- A Diplomatic Gala- The Vren Arrival (OPEN TO ALL)

Posted by Civilian Kenzo B’tren-Hyrushi (Governor) in Oed Museum- A Diplomatic Gala- The Vren Arrival (OPEN TO ALL)
Posted by… suppressed (8) by the Post Ghost! 👻

(snip)

All the guests would enter into the Oed Museum through multiple doors at the front into a large open tiled space in the middle, and were directly across from a matching flank of doors at the back that led to outdoor gathering spaces. The two left and right were exhibit areas (North and South Wings) with various rooms surrounding a larger exhibit space. There were a second and third floor with more exhibit spaces and a kids learning centre, but the middle space was open on the main floor, and this openness was copied in each central exhibit in the wings. This central main floor space was where the gala was being held and round tables were staggered through the space, leaving lots of space for people to move about and mingle. Light filtered through from the skylights high above them. Event staff had prepped a podium area where speeches and what not would happen (flanked by the Oed Five and Federation flags) and to the corner were buffet tables with a small set of them set perpendicular for the Vren’s specific food.

(snip)

___ An Hour Later ____________
(snip)

“Director.” Hyrushi said in acknowledgement. “I hope all is in order and rhe children are excited for tonight’s performance.”

“Good evening, Director Enger,” Eela said with a warm smile. “The children look great and I’ve very excited to see their presentation. I’ve heard the practices went very well.”

~Eela Dasca, Lt. Gov.

Karina bowed slightly, “Thank you. They have worked hard. They are very nervous, but Kita,” the small elementary aged child, “has enough confidence for them all. Her antics are helping to dispel the tension.” She bowed slightly again. “I will return to them, but they are ready.”

Enger, DOE

“Very well.” Hyrushi said. “Please extend my most sincere ‘Break a leg’ to them.” and he half-smiled.

“I will. Thank you, Governor.” Karina returned the slight smile, “We will see you all soon.” She left to return to the students and pass along the encouragement.

Enger, DOE

Ana approached the entry and was waved in as an aide to the Governor. She wore a scarlet suit with a black shirt, all well fitted. She sought out the Governor and found him with the Lieutenant Governor and the DOE. She walked over but kept her presence less prominent than the others. She was the Chief of Staff, not anyone fit to draw attention to herself.

-Chief of Staff

Hyrusho looked at her and nodded once. “Ms. Caputo, good evening. Are we ready to make history?” he asked softly.

Erin had been born for this. Regardless of everything else she enjoyed doing in her private life, or the scientific passion she pursued on her professional career, Erin Hazen had always been the life of the party. That didn’t necessarily mean behaving like a drunk sorority girl (which she had… in more than one occasion), but rather that she absolutely enjoyed the elegance and glamour that came with grandiose events, and she loved to play the part. Tonight was no exception.

Zerbo finally arrived. He was wearing a three piece tux and had his latniun bear handled cane with him for support. The can was a regular cane with no hidden weapons in it but it did have a panic button on it to alert his own bodyguards of trouble. Fixing his bowtie from the previous security inspection he was almost out of breath when he finally arrived to the museum. Stopping to regain his breath and composure, he finally made it to the Governor and bowed. “Greetings Governor. Splendid night and a very splendid looking official party. I do not think I have ever exercised so much in my life as I have when I became a member of your cabinet. But it is needed and necessary. May I trouble one of your Aids to get me some water before I continue please?”

“Of course, Minister. And I do hope you enjoy the gala.” Hyrushi motioned for a server who brought a decanter of water and a glass. They handed the glass to the Finance Minister and then moved away.

Gavin Cooper’s inclusion tonight was only possible due to his marriage to OED’s Head of Terraforming, and that was just fine with him. As a retired member of Starfleet, he was eligible to wear his Starfleet Commander’s Mess Dress on formal occasions. However, he was perfectly happy to be in the striking black tuxedo he sported this evening… never one to even think of taking attention from his stunning bride, a woman that only got more beautiful ever day of his life. The only service connection was the wear of his miniature aviator wings on his left lapel.

From the moment she had received the invitation, Erin had taken every single second of free time preparing the logistics of the evening up until the moment her and Gavin’s slider stopped at the museum’s door. She had been even more overjoyed when she found out that Alex had also been invited, and that by extension, her sister would be attending it as well. Still, when she had approached Molly with an offer to help her out, she had quickly been shut down… but that would be a story for another time.

Through the window of the slider, Erin could see the building coming into view… the lights, the cameras, the gold carpet… everything was stunning! When the vehicle came to a stop and the door was opened, her eyes were finally able to take in the full scale of the event.

Gavin stepped out into the waiting cameras and lights first, knowing the protocol for red (or in this case, gold) carpets well… as a performer in his own right and as the husband of one of the Federation’s most admired individuals. Stepping out, Cooper smiled warmly before shifting to the side and holding out his hand to help Erin from the slider. As soon as her feet hit the carpet, the flashbulbs sparkled like a million diamonds around the couple.

The lights let the emerald satin of her gown shine even more than Erin had imagined, and the sleeveless and strapless bodice made the cool night air a very welcoming feeling. With her long red hair was put up in an elegant knot, Erin felt as glamorous as she’d ever be. Her eyes scanned the attendees for any familiar faces, before smiling at Gavin as she joined him. With her hand lightly on his arm, the couple walked up the stairs leading to the venue.

Erin Hazen-Cooper, Director of Terraforming

He knew in his heart of hearts that he would never, ever tire of being on this woman’s arm. Erin had gone from a dream to his whole world and he was happy he got to share these adventures with her.

Gavin Cooper, Senior Helmsman - Holloway Starlines

General Calvin Harris, Commandant General of OED’s Colonial Customs & Defence Authority, was both the uniformed head of the planetary military and the closest thing OED had to a Secretary of Defence. The former Starfleet Marine officer had worked very hard to build tradition and heraldry into the structure and uniforms of the agency. The uniform he wore this evening was a strong example of that effort.

The dark blue uniform tunic was styled similarly to old Earth’s US Marine Corps Evening Dress Uniform, with a high leatherneck collar trimmed in red and the tunic’s trim down the chest with gold buttons. The collar and the buttons sporting the CCDA crest. His chest was covered with the honors of Starfleet, the Federation, and OED in full-sized medals, badges, and wings. A pair of thick, gold bullion aiguillettes hung from his right shoulder. Gold bullion shoulder knots were on both shoulders and the cuffs each featured four embroidered silver stars, bordered in a gold bullion trim. Beneath the tunic, which flared out toward the bottom, was a white vest with small gold buttons. Matching dark blue slacks rounded out the formal uniform with 2” gold stripes down each leg. The formal officer’s sword finished out the ensemble. It made for a dramatic first impression for anyone who had never seen the uniform, which… outside the CCDA’s officer corps… before tonight, no one had.

The invitation had been unexpected, for Molly, at least, but it hadn’t been exactly surprising. After all, Calvin was the Head of the CCDA, and her own position with Holloway Heavy Industries, one of the largest companies in OED, made her attendance of the gala nothing but natural. What also hadn’t been surprising was her sister’s immediate offer to help with logistics. In other words, Erin believed that Molly was a complete inept at social gatherings and she wanted to make sure that she didn’t make a fool of herself. She wasn’t wrong, but enough had changed in the past few years that she wasn’t right either. Molly had refused the offer almost instantly, intent on having this be the first time where she’d do everything with only Calvin’s input. After all, she had to start somewhere.

And Molly didn’t feel like she had done too bad. Unlike Erin, she had taken a more modest approach, deciding to wear an light green gown with a long flowing skirt and a bodice that wrapped elegantly around her figure. However, it was the complexity and beauty of the lace appliqués covering it that made it a stunning piece. Her fiery red hair was braided into an elegant low bun completed with a hair comb with green and white flowers matching the patterns on the dress. In the end, she had barely recognized herself in the mirror when she had finished.

As Molly emerged from their room, Calvin stood in the entry absolutely dumbstruck. “Wow… Molly…” The former Marine stuttered as he blushed, Boomer excitedly running around his master’s legs. “I…” He began breathlessly. “… I don’t even know what to say… You look absolutely stunning!” Without another word, he walked over to the bottom of the stairs and kissed Molly’s hand. “You look like a princess, Molly… you really do…”

It was Molly’s turn to blush. “Oh shush.” She waived a hand dismissively, but the drunk smile on her lips and the bright pink on her cheeks remained. “I mean… I have to look the part when my partner looks as good as you.” She winked playfully, but Cal would know it was a diversion from the fact that she’d deeply meant her words. Nervously, her hand made its way gently to his arm.

At that moment, the Executive Ground Vehicle rolled up outside. Looking into Molly’s eye, Calvin looked briefly punch drunk. “I… I think that’s our ride love. Shall we?”

As the couple walked to the EGV, the Astro Control Service Commander in Dress Whites and the aiguillette of an adjutant snapped smartly to attention and after a sharp salute, opened the door for the couple. As soon as the couple was in the vehicle, they shot off for the gala.

From over a mile away, Calvin could see the lights. He could also see the Intercepters floating protectively at around 2,500 feet above the event. As they closed on the event, Cal smiled at the bristling security. Then they made the final turn and the flashbulbs dazzled the couple before they even reached the gold carpet.

Despite appearances, Molly was terribly nervous, and Calvin would know it better than anyone else, especially as from the moment they stepped foot inside the vehicle that would take them to the gala, her fingers had intertwined with Cal’s and had squeezed them tightly. It was even worse when she saw the press apparatus outside of the building.

When the uniformed officer stepped out and headed to open the passenger door, a cheer went up from the gathered crowd. A moment later, the door snapped open and the flashbulbs blazed as Calvin stepped out and turned to help Molly from the EGV. In spite of all the lights and cameras, when Calvin turned back to face Molly… he had never looked more in love. There might have been hundreds of press and media from across the Federation there, but in that moment, Molly was the only being in time or space before his eyes. “I wish you could see the vision I see when I look at you…” Harris said as Molly stepped out and he offered his arm. “… you make me feel like the luckiest man to have ever lived.”

Harris, CCDA

Molly smiled, stepping out of the car and taking the offered arm. She could see it in his eyes how much she meant to him, and she could only hope that he could see it in hers how much he meant to her. For a moment their gazes lingered before they stepped away from the slider and started climbing the stairs. “Nah… I’m far luckier than you in that regard. After all, I have you.” She squeezed Cal’s arm softly, trying not to think about how close she had been from that not being true.

As her eyes scanned the people around them, she spotted Gavin and Erin further ahead. Happy to see more familiar faces, Molly took a deep breath she accompanied Cal up the stairs, and the pair waited behind the small crowd gathering around the Governor, just inside the main doors.

Molly Holloway, CEO Holloway Heavy Industries

Jal’na was used to such events. She often represented Sacred Heart and her department. Tonight was important for the colony - the home she had built for herself. Everyone would be watching her that night. She was attending in a new role tonight. One that felt much heavier - The Lady of House Duroc. Despite their acceptance, she knew they all watched to see how she would do. Perhaps it was just her own expectations of herself.

Her green, black trimmed dress had long laced cuffs to her elbows, a high close neck that drew attention to the medallion Urg had placed on her. Across her shoulders sat a decorative piece, imitating armor pauldrons, that ended in a green, black, and blue insignia that identified her as Lady Duroc. A thin blue metal belt, a testament to the skill of the house smiths, framed her waste. The skirt moved and billowed impressively. Her mother had teased her for her primping, but had declared that Jal’na would bring honor and distinction to her house.

As the slider passed the last checkpoint, Jal’na shook her head at the scene out the window. She never understood why the media and the people were so concerned with what people wore and who arrived with whom when much more important events were happening.

Jal’na, Lady Duroc

Urg’tohn, Son of Kavaar’ton the Builder and Lord of House Duroc sat beside his wife. His bulk almost filled the passenger compartment of a normal slider on a regular day. This evening, the pair was in a sleek and armored Klingon-built slider emblazoned with rhe House Duroc insignia; and it was still a tight fit. Urg was wearing a full suit of Klingon Noble armor: each piece a deep black with fine green lines of crystal running through it. Unlike most armors, this was made of a stone mined from House Duroc lands and crafted by their masons into an armor unlike any other. Chest and back, shoulders, forearms, and legs were covered in the material… adding even more imposing mass to the already massive Klingon. Between the stone was fine blue-tinted chainmail over leather. He shifted slightly and growled. “Remind me to tell the armorer this needs a cooling system. I swear to all the gods, first things I do when we get inside is find the punch bowl and pour it down my pants.”

It was difficult to tell if he was joking.

Hyrushi, Governor

Urg, Lord Duroc

Jal’na had no experience with the wearing of armor. Though she was sure if given the chance, she could make quick work of removing it. “Do you know what the embassy grounds are missing? A secluded outdoor bathing pool. The pond simply won’t do with the vlk in there.”

The massive armored slider drew attention even before it silently came to a stop. Their guards appeared outside the door just as silently and looking just as dangerous. There was a pause and then the door opened allowing her massive husband to at least get out of the cramped space.

Jal’na, Lady Duroc

Lord Duroc stood tall and imposing, looking at the press and onlookers. A few in the crowd he knew; some friends… some acquaintances… some plants put there by his order. He reached down and offered his hand to Jal’na, who drew cheers and many more flashes of vid cams than Urg himself. This was her first real appearance as Lady Duroc, and the media started shouting questions.

Jal’na was not expecting cheers as she took Urg’s hand and exited the slider. She recognized a few faces among the crowd from acquaintances and the media faces of course and one member of their house, though she knew there were others.

“Who designed your dress?”
“How did you meet him?”
“Was this an arranged marriage?”
“Did he win you in combat?”
“Is Lord Duroc really as mean as they say?”

The only question she might have been inclined to answer was about the dress. Their artisans had done a magnificent job, and she had no qualms praising their work. The other questions threatened to pull a snarl from deep in her throat.

Urg took a deep breath and simply ushered Jal’na inside, ignoring the questions in favor of getting out of view.

Urg, Lord Duroc

Urg’s movement prevented that, and she moved in step beside him. Which was no easy feat considering he towered over her.

Jal’na, Lady Duroc

Sharah was neither looking forward to nor dreading the gala. She and Helaky had been at the museum that morning. They had made sure there were ample emergency medical supplies on hand. Of course security for the event had examined every last item. That was more than okay with her.

Now she stood in front of the mirror as she put the last of the pins in place that would keep her medusa-like curls somewhat tamed. The Star Cross pinned to her uniform taunted her as it reflected the light. Please let me be worthy of it, she prayed silently.

Her uniform was pressed and immaculate. Black trousers over black dress boots. Her white dress tunic was crisp with beautiful pops of medical blue piping. She felt proud to wear the uniform. Her Lt. Cmdr. pips combadge reflected the polish she’d given them. Maybe she would send Eilah a holo.

Yavia was excited. A chance to be on the arms of the loves of her life and dressed up. The evening would be wonderful, she was sure. She wore a delicate headdress of gold filigree and tiny blue gems and iridescent feathers. Her dress was delightful. She had gone to great lengths to make sure it went with the dark navy of TK’s CCDA dress uniform and the white, black, and medical blue trim of Sharah’s dress uniform. Yavia’s silver blue grey dress was a halter sheath that hugged and shivered deliciously over her form. The halter had a high neck that framed around her bald head and smoothed into a v-neck that was almost too low. The skirt fell to her feet in a gentle pool, with a slit all the way to her thigh.

The whole look was brought together with sandals that mimicked the delicateness of her headdress. She stood in the living room waiting for the other two to join her.

Tenkiller, dressed in the new CCDA Formal Dress Uniform with his long black hair tied back and hanging in a single perfect braid down his back and carrying the white uniform cover with a black brim and gold band around it, climbed the stairs and looked at Yavia and grinned. He carried the officer’s sword in his hand. “You lookin’ ta steal all the attention away from the dignitaries? ‘Cause that’ll do it, for sure.”

Yavia smiled, “Well I had to at least look like I belong with the two of you. No one will much notice me with the two of you standing side-by-side.”

Yavia was a stunning vision at the top of the stairs. She looked incredibly put together and complemented Charles’ uniform perfectly. Sharah was dazzled by them. He was the personification of a mythic hero, and the way Yavia was staring at him proved he had some magical power. Sharah grinned laughing softly.

She was not disappointed. They were enough to make anyone want to be a damsel in distress. Sharah might love TK in his cowboy hat, but Yavia absolutely did not care that Sharah laughed at the way her heart raced over TK in that uniform. “Everyone is going to wish they were me tonight. Maybe I should bring my bat to protect you both from unwanted suitors.”

Yavia, Sacred Heart, Head of Special Cases

Sharah felt very unprepared. The events on the Centurion still weighed heavily on her. She feared what people would expect of her. Especially if things went poorly. Watching them she was reminded of how lucky she was to be near them, even for a little while.

She had thought she was over that insecurity, but she had only been fooling herself.

The storms were already chaotic. Sharah wished she didn’t have to go. She wished more that she could use her head band, but the potential risk wasn’t worth it. She still had a duty to do.

As they neared the gala, Sharah withdrew as much as was possible into herself. Not only was it visually and auditorily chaotic, it was emphatically disastrous. Fear, anger, hope, curiosity, ambition, alertness, boredom, apprehension, giddiness, protectiveness, stress, worry, nervousness all warred to take hold of her.

The slider came to a stop. It was time to manage, despite it all. There was no other option.

Fayth, Star Fleet Chief Medical Officer

Charles looked at her and then past her to Yavia. “Hands. Hands, hun.” he said as the door opened and he stepped out, turning to grasp Sharah’s hand and help her out of the slider. He knew, for whatever reason, the touch of he and Yavia eased the onslaught of emotional and psychic energy Sharah received.

Tenkiller, CCDA

Sharah took his hand with a grateful look and stepped into the flashing lights and onslaught of questions. She felt Yavia step out immediately behind her. Sharah reached for her hand.

Yavia nodded and slid quickly out of the car behind Sharah. Yavia couldn’t quite explain it either, she only knew ot worked. She would stay attached to Sharah all night if need be. She took Sharah’s other hand and then posed rather dramatically, drawing the attention off of Sharah and TK for a moment. The enticing Deltan was worth several pictures. She laughed and with a wink waved away the questions shouted their way.

Yavia, SHN

The intensity of the storm was immediately held at bay as they took her hands. Sharah couldn’t explain it either. She tried to describe it, but that didn’t explain how or why it worked. They couldn’t stay attached to her all evening, but she wouldn’t refuse their help. Even if she had been inclined to do so, Charles and Yavia wouldn’t put up with that anyway. That thought brought a dazzling smile to her face as they made their way toward the entrance and inside.

Fayth, SFCMO

Dressed in an impeccable dress uniform with his service medals, Jonathan had been working for the last bit seeing to last minute details. But the dashing Commanding Officer and former pilot arrived in plenty of time and more or less when he had wanted to. He had entered through one of the security entrances rather than the front with the media so he could check on final other detail and confirm it was handled with the person he now sought out.

Approaching from behind, McBride weaved through the gathering crowd and greeted some of the Starfleet officers he came across before he stepped up to the Governor and Captain Dasca. “Good evening, Governor. Captain,” he said with a formal bow of his head.

“Captain McBride,” Eela greeted with a warm smile. “I trust everything is good to go?”

He leaned in towards Eela and spoke low into her ear. “Because we’re nothing if not efficient,” he told her with a grin as he stepped back.

Captain McBride, Starfleet CO

She smirked. “Just the way I like it. I’m glad. Thank you for all your hard work. Please extend my gratitude to the rest of the crew on duty.”

Eela leaned towards Kenzo and spoke solely to him. “Everything above ground is calm and secure. No further airspace incidents.”

~Eela Dasca, Lt. Gov

Alston made his way through the crowd coming down the gold carpet, doing his best to not draw the attention of the cameras. Most people would only know him as a visiting trader, which would make them wonder why he had been invited to the event. It was still useful to maintain that cover, so there was also no bypassing the line and using a different entrance.

Having made it through the gauntlet of the media, he adjusted his bow tie, and tried not to let the smirk show too much on his face. White shirt, black tux, black bow tie, all he was missing was a small side arm. But that would have never made it through security. Walking past the receiving line he nodded towards the Governor and Lt Governor before slipping inside the museum.

• Mace

At the main entrance, Erin guided Gavin through the crowd, and when an opening presented itself, she walked to the man who was effectively ‘her boss’.

“Governor Hyrushi, nice to see you tonight!” She said politely as a greeting. “I don’t think you’ve met my husband Gavin.” Erin gently pulled her partner forward.

The Governor inclined his head. “Director. A pleasure. And no, I have not had the opportunity.” He held a hand out to Gavin and said “I am very pleased to meet you. Your wife is an excellent addition to the colony. Her work is most impressive.”

Gavin shook the proffered hand with all the smoothness of a veteran Diplomatic Corps officer. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Governor. And yes, Erin is truly talented in her field and I’ve always admired her accomplishments.” His eyes found Erin’s for the briefest of moments, glowing with pride before returning his attention to the Governor. “I’m certain you’re very busy and we don’t want to tie you up any further. Have a wonderful evening sir.”

Gavin Cooper

Closely behind them, Molly and Calvin followed on open path left by Erin and Gavin. Holloway’s gaze silently following the man wearing black tuxedo and bow tie who had just gone by them and into the museum. Yet, her thoughts didn’t linger as a sudden hold of her arm brought her back to the present just as her sister’s voice reached her ears.

“And of course, you already know my sister, Molly and her fiancé, Calvin.” Erin told Hyrushi.

“Yes, we are acquainted.” Molly said with a polite smile, nodding at the Governor. “How are you tonight, Sir?.”

Erin Hazen-Cooper, Director of Terraforming
Molly Holloway, CEO Holloway Heavy Industries

Finance Minister Zerbo

“I am well, Ms. Holloway.” Hyrushi said with an incline of his head to her. “I am glad you could make tonight’s festivities. It should be one for the history books.” He looked at Harris and said “General. Nice to see you. I must say I am liking the new CCDA dress uniform. Well done.”

Hyrushi, Governor

Harris gave the Governor a nod and smiled with a soft Oklahoma twang. “Of course Boss. I went with a bit of an old Earth hybrid… a little bit U.S. Marine Corps, a little British Royal Navy, and just a dash of Annapolis Midshipmen dress. I think it turned out quite well…” He looked at Molly with a wink. “… and the ladies love it!”

“I hope the evening turns out really well Kenzo…” Harris continued warmly. “… you all have worked so hard for this and I’m so happy to have had a little part in it. Have a great night.” With that, Calvin snaked his arm to the small of Molly’s back and led her into the party.

Harris, CCDA

Standing next to Kenzo, Eela just gave them all a nod of her head as they left. It felt slightly like a snub and another time Eela might take a moment to figure out if there was something behind it, or if she had done something to rub people the wrong way, but that was four people (two whom she had previously met) that didn’t even acknowledge her presence. As it stood though, she had no time to think it over, as other things held her attention just now.

The elegant figure of Ambassador Mathis cut through the crowd quietly. She had greeted several people as she had made her rounds of the venue and took in the atmosphere that was building as more and more people arrived. She even spied a baby, which she figured must be the Lieutenant Governor’s granddaughter. It made her smile as she made her way to the front of the museum and quietly joined Kenzo and Eela precisely when she meant to. Calm and centred, she exuded ease mixed with anticipation.

It was time. A plain clothes Oed Police officer approached the Governor. “Sir. They have arrived.” was all he said and Hyrushi nodded in understanding. With a look at Eela and a deep breath, he looked at the doors and then stepped through.

As he exited, the media vids hovering in the air swiveled and focused on him and the Lieutenant Governor. Hyrushi moved to the bottom of the stairs and stopped, hands clasped behind his back, as a large convoy of ground vehicles pulled up to the walkway. In the center was a large, high backed vehicle. Hyrushi took a steadying breath, so small only those that knew him well would notice, and he gave a rare smile as the doors opened.

Hyrushi, Governor

Two large, bipedal, frog-like figures emerged. They stood over seven feet in height; and their skin were mottled patterns of yellow, blue, and black. They each wore a form fitting, black suit that covered their entire body and came up half way over their head. They carried long staves of a dark red metal. Their eyes moved without their heads turning and they seemed to look everywhere all at once. The media vids whirred and clicked, but no flashes of light were seen… one of the rules for the media being present. No one spoke for a moment.... silence was king as another figure emerged. This one was slightly shorter than the other two, and their skin was colored bright red and bright blue, with symmetrical black markings of lines and hash-marks on either side of their face. Their eyes were deep red with black pupils, and those eyes fixed on Hyrushi and Dasca, and their wide mouth opened in what may have been a smile.

“Greetings and sssalutaionss, Governor and Lieutenant Governers. On behalf of the Vren, I bid you peace and long healths, and extend our deepest appreciation for allowing us to meet you in such a fashion.” They raised their four-fingered hand and held it up to Hyrushi and Dasca, palm facing them. “We seek only peace, understanding, and a mutually beneficial existence with the citizens and residents of Oed V.”

Griget Kek, Vren Ambassador

Hyrushi mirrored the gesture from Kek, and then said “The citizens and residents of Oed V welcome our Vren neighbors. Today we seek to allay the past, celebrate the present, and build a better future for all of us. Past actions made us enemies and kept us at odds. But times change. Individuals grow and evolve… as do the societies they create. If we as individuals cannot grow past previous transgressions, then we are doomed to repeat them. The injuries of the past are not forgotten, nor should they be. Our peoples are defined by our histories. But those injuries are no longer a wall… but a bridge. Painful as our shared past has been, it is still a shared past. We are not strangers. We are two societies with a shared history. But now it falls to us to build something meaningful on that past. To learn from it… so that we will not only endeavor to keep that history in the past where it belongs… but so that we can build a brighter future for all of us. And the first step to that is for us to say ‘Welcome. Welcome to Oed V.’”

Onlookers clapped and the applause rose slowly until there were even cheers.

Hyrushi, Governor

As agreed, this was their moment and so Mathis simply leant support through her presence. Her turn to speak would come later.

The wide sweeping steps of the Oed V museum were cleared, and the large landing at the top was also cleared. All the important people were lined up at the bottom of the stairs and the media was stuffed in wherever they could fit around the security. The children, with encouragement from Karina and their parents, took deep breaths and exited the museum through the main doors. They moved about separately, taking up space wherever they seemed to want. One was reading, another sketching, one practicing a form of martial arts, another taking pictures, and etc. Each child was from a different culture. When they were all in place, one last student, Romulan, appeared through the doors. Kita was much younger, in elementary, carrying two stuffed toys with her. She moved about the other students asking them to play with her. All the other students spoke in their native languages, making it quite confusing. Some refused, some welcomed her, some suggested a different activity, but the little girl didn’t understand them. Some responses made her confused, some angry, some made her sniffle, and one frightened her. She sat at the bottom of the steps looking sad and dejected and wondered sadly why no one wanted to play with her.

The doors to the museum opened once more and one last student, a human, rushed down the stairs. “Wait!” he said and knelt in front of the younger one and helped them stand. “Don’t be sad. They didn’t turn you away. You see we’re all different, but they are saying the same thing - Hello. This is how I say hello.” He reached out and took the girl’s hand and shook it firmly, “It is a pleasure to meet you.” The pair turned to watch the other students as they each demonstrated how they say hello.

Terma pressed her hands to her chest, and bowed her head “I am Hallian. Welcome.”

Neltus took a step forward, “I am El-Aurian,” and he turned his head to the side as if listening closer and tugged the earlobe. “I am listening.” El-Aurians are a race of listeners and the gesture indicates they are giving the speaker their full attention.

Kames stepped forward, “I am Betazoid,” He placed his two hands over heart and then raised to the forehead then extended outward “My heart and mind are open to you”

The Vulcan hand salute was quite iconic and known to every child in the Federation. “I am Vulcan. Live long and prosper” Lenvas’ even toned voice flowed across the crowd.

Ghampeq, a member of House Duroc, had chosen to participate. Jal’na was very proud of him for this. “I am Klingon.” He slammed his fist to his chest “nuq’neH? (What do you want?)” It is only asked when being approached, not when approaching.

Fnap, his large lobes accented by a very fancy headdress, pressed his wrists together, fingers curled and palms flexed outward with a bow of the head.. “Greetings Ambassador and colleagues. I am Ferengi.”

Payen, his bald Deltan head and perfectly symmetrical features eye-catching even at his young age, smiled as he stepped forward. Hands open, palms facing outward, held slightly away from the body, “I am Deltan. I welcome you in peace.”

With a smile and facing Ambassador Kek directly, Geebig Rerje, a Bajoran freshman, stepped forward. “I am Bajoran. Peldor joi.”

“I am Cardassian,” Vedi spoke up as he stepped forward. “Lorhoc çadav-ra edek. (I honor you.)” Very formal greeting used for high officials.

“I am Andorian. We do not speak a formal greeting, but we show our respect through our gestures.” The girl executed a small bow. The Andorian bow is made from the shoulders rather than the waist or the neck.

Tog Crittar was a stocky, smushed nosed Tellarite with a lot of attitude and well liked. With his non-dominant hand placed over his abdomen, dominant hand open and loose at the side, his gaze traveled down and up the Vren, “I am Tellarite, and I invite you to state your opinion,” and a grunt followed. Tellarites love to debate which is often seen as arguing. To not state a point of view or opinion is considered closed minded. They welcome others to engage in the discussion.

M’Nirr, a Catian male, and one of the oldest of the students, stepped forward with quivering ears and whiskers, full of excitement and anticipation, “Grrreetings. I am Catian.”

The young Romulan girl turned back to the human boy and smiled. “Oh! I am Romulan. We say hello like this,” she folded her hands in front of her and bowed very slightly forward from the waist, “Jolan tru,” (May your day be filled with peace.) The children then all turned to face toward the assembled dignitaries, bowed low and then stood straight, and spoke the traditional Vren greeting together, “Ku rok.”

Oed Children

The Ambassador and the guards stood stock still while the children performed. When they finished, and their voices lifted the Vren’s own words towards them, Kek stepped forward, his eyes focused on the children. The guards stepped forward, but Kek stopped them. He moved forward slowly, stopping in front of the stairs and then kneeling down in front of Kita. His red and black eyes swiveled and focused on her, and he held up his hand to her as he had done to the Governor and Lieutenant Governor. “Ku rok, little one.” he croaked. It was loud, but it was not overly so. Kek then stood up and looked at the children. “You… all of you… have done your peoples proud today. You are a good creche. You will do amazings things.” He bowed and then returned to his position.

Kek, Vren Ambassador

Kita looked up at Kek wide eyed. When he raised his hands she dropped the two stuffed animals she was holding to mimic him with childlike wonder on her face. The children hadn’t expected to be addressed directly and had no idea the proper way to say ‘thank you’ so they settled on bowing in return.

Standing proudly with Hyrushi and Mathis, Eela smiled at the presentation and also Kek’s comments. Her instincts about the Ambassador seemed to be right and she was gld that despite all the uncertainty and potential for things to go wrong that she was leaning heavily on those instincts. They could only serve her well this evening.

~Eela Dasca, Lt. Gov.

It was so hard to know how the Vren would react, but much as they discussed in their many meetings about the presentation, having the children here felt natural given what the Vren themselves were facing and would be asking for. While everyone was focused on Kek’s reaction, she herself was taking in the rest of the Vren contingent. Kek they knew well enough at this point, but the rest were unknown variables and ones they would all need to deal with, especially herself. In particular, she was looking to see who might be supportive or less enthused about Ambassador Kek’s engagement with the presentation. All these small deatil could be vital in the days to come.

~Ambassador Mathis

The children quietly turned to head back inside. Kita bent to pick up her toys that she had dropped. “Oh!” James, the human boy with her looked down at her, but she had already dashed off, toward Kek. “Kita, come here,” he hissed.

As she moved towards the Ambassador, the two guards stepped up and the staves they carried crossed with a loud CLANG right in front of the child. A low growl issued form one, but Kek set a hand on their shoulder. “It is a child. And we are guests.” The guard blinked once and then stood back, uncrossing the staff from their partner’s. Kek knelt again and said “Yes, little one? What is it?”

Kita paid no mind. She scuttled up to Kek oblivious of the reactions around her. “Excuse me. Ambassador Kek?” She held up one of the toys. “This is for you. We’re friends now.”

Kita

The ambassador reached out slowly and took the stuffed animal from the little girl. It was a stuffed Terran giraffe. Kek looked at it in wonder for a moment and then said “I do not know what this is, but it is mosts definitely my new favorite. Thank you.”

Kita grinned up at him. “You are very welcome. They have real ones at the zoo you can see. Bye!” She waved, turned and scampered back towards the other children. James took her hand and led her inside. Everyone letting out a deeply held breath.

The broad mouth spread in a definite grin, and he stood up and looked at the rest of the delegations and officials. “Apparently she and I are now friends, so this must go well.” and he croaked-chuckled which elicited a dry chuckle from Hyrushi.

Kek, Vren Ambassador

None of this was scripted (except likely for their speeches), but this naturally felt like her cue. Jeannette stepped forward towards Kek. “And we have many more potential friends who are eager to meet you and the rest of your contingent. Shall we all venture inside and share a meal together?” They might not be sharing their food, but feasting together (in their own ways) was the whole point of this evening. To share, to observe each other’s customs, and find common ground.

~Ambassador Mathis

Kek bowed and said “Ambassador, it would be our sincerely pleasure. Thank you.” The two guards flanked Kek and they Vren walked towards the Ambassador, Governor, and Lieutenant Governor. He looked at Dasca and said “Captain Dasca. A pleasure. We thank yous for this opportunity.” He looked at Hyrushi. “Governor. At last. We are on the brink of history.”

Kek, Vren Ambassador

Eela pressed her hand to her chest and gave a deep respectful bow of her head, in the same style as the Haliian child had a few moments ago.

“Indeed we are, Ambassador.” Hyrushi said. He gestured to the doors, and the delegates made their way up the stairs and through the doors to the inside of Museum.

Hyruahi, Governor

Tannenn wore her dress uniform, it was in perfect condition, she loathed it beyond measure. She made sure her hair was up in a duty correct yet still fashionable bun. She saw a few others she had met recently but wasn’t certain they were not here with dates. She was not going to be an accidental third wheel if she could avoid it. As Tannenn glanced around the room again, You should really learn to enjoy the uniform.
Moondance is going to sound so good when I get home. Keen sent her the equivalent to a raspberry and Tannenn laughed out loud before she could stop herself. Damn you Old Worm!

Keen, CFSO

Karina led the children back I to the room where they had been waiting. There was water and juice for them. “You all did very well. I’m proud of you. Now, hurry so we can find your seats.” Karina made sure they all left the room with their parents before finding her own seat.

Enger, DOE

The children that participated were required to have family in attendance as well. Ghampeq, by their standards was an adult in his own right, and a proud member of House Duroc and did not need a parental escort. By other species’ standards he was still not of age, but was not required to attend school any longer. He continued because he found the value in the education. Another reason Jal’na liked him. He was also an orphan. Therefore, it was Jal’na who appeared at the doorway where the students had gathered. Jal’na set a hand on his shoulder. “You have shown great wisdom and leadership today. You have brought honor to your House and your home. Come.” Ghampeq stood a little taller and took up a position as her guard, but followed her to the table where they were to sit with Urg and unknown other guests.

Jal’na, Lady Duroc

As they entered, Eela was calm and radiant. There was a tangible energy to the open space and she had her mind mostly locked away, filtering as best she could while still remaining open enough to not be surprised. A delicate balance, as always. But the one thing she was, was openly proud. Proud of this opportunity, proud of Oed and its people, proud to a leader here and once again engaged in diplomatic work. Her life on Oed truly was an amalgamation of everything she had done in her life thus far, each piece becoming vital in this moment.

They had a table set aside for the three of them, plus Dashiel Jones. Ambassador Kek and an aide and a guard were sitting with them, but the rest of the Vren contingent would be at tables wth others, and everyone else (Starfleet and civilian) were all mixed up as well. This was, after all, a chance for them to all get to learn about each other. Moving together as a group, Dasca moved along gracefully in her gown. She could feel Caridee’s familiar presence on the edge of her awareness, and knowing where her daughter was sitting, she cast a very subtle smile in her direction. Eela found her chair and waited a moment for the two Ambassadors to sit first before she followed suit. It was a very subtle courtesy and not really a protocol, but there were a set of unwritten rules Eela had observed as a diplomat and showing respect in small ways where it was due was important to her. That and they needed to set the tone for the evening.

~Eela Dasca, Lt. Gov.

The truly massive form of Lord Duroc parted the crowd like a icebreaker ship going through frozen seas. He approached the Governor and Lieutenant Governor… and the Vren Ambassador… and stepped directly in front of them. He eyed the Vren guards for a split second before focusing his deep red eyes on the Ambassador. “Ambassador. I am Urg’tohn, Lord of Klingon House Duroc. I spoke with you when my ship escorted yours from the border to Oed space. On behalf of the Klingon Empire, we welcome you to Oed V.” He looked at Hyrushi and then smiled slightly and leaned in close to him. “And yes, that actually is official; not just me speaking for those pompous targ droppings on the Council.”

Hyrushi actually smiled slightly and nodded. “Much thanks to the Council for their support of this initiative, Lord Duroc.” he said very softly, but with a glance at Eela. He then looked at the Kek and said “I was unaware you had met Lord Duroc already. A more adamant friend to the colony we have not. His is a welcome presence.”

Hyrushi, Governor

Kek bowed and said “Lord Duroc, yes. We appreciate your attention and ensuring our safes arrivals. Your ship is most… impressive.” One of Kek’s guards leaned in and croaked something softly to him and the Ambassador seemed to perk up slightly. “Oh yes! Our ship’s Captain was hoping to speak with you. Your ship peaked his interest to no end. He is here, just coming in.” and he turned slightly as another group of six Vren entered. The one at the front was larger than the rest, and unlike the rest of the Vren contingent their skin was a solid bright blue. As they approached, the bright blue Vren walked up to Urg. He was even slightly taller than the Klingon, but exuded an air of authority. “I am Captain K’grl. I remember your face from the escort. You are Lord Duroc?”

Kek, Vren Ambassador

Urg nodded and said “I am. Come, Captain. We can speak of important matters while the politicians pretend to be productive.” That elicited something like a loud scream from the Vren Captain, and it took a moment for the non-Vren to realize what it was… a laugh. The two figures moved away and Urg looked back at Hyrushi and Dasca and gave them a nod.

Urg, Lord Duroc

The children’s presentation had been, to her mind, a stroke of genius. It really was an incredible and warm welcome from the colony to the Vren delegation. Astrid watched from the side. She was a part of the leadership OED V and therefore stayed in the place assigned to her for the presentation.

She knew many of the leadership by face though perhaps not in a personal fashion. They were all dressed in finery of some kind or other, showing the importance of the occasion, or simply the strong desire to dress in fancy garb. Astrid enjoyed watching every bit of it.

This many people she didn’t know surrounding made her feel a bit uncomfortable. She shook away the feeling that anything bad would happen. This was a very locked down event and she had her own security to comfort her. Still she rolled her shoulders as a strange ache settled on her spine. Her dark eyes scanned the crowd, not sure what she was looking for, if anything at all.

Finally her eyes fell on The Lady of Duroc as Lord Duroc moved away with a Vren, she smiled. Urg had been a dear friend to her. Her lessons had continued as he demanded. She had to let out a little laugh at that thought though. So rarely was Astrid used to being ordered around, friendly demand or not, that she had to laugh at it. With one last look around, she moved to stand beside the Lady.

“I believe it is a great honor to finally meet you Lady Duroc. I am Astrid Rousseau, Head of Judiciary here on OEDV.”

Astrid Roussuea, HotJ