Posted by Civilian Kenzo B’tren-Hyrushi (Governor) in I Don’t Mean to Interrupt Such a Busy Person… (Tag Hyrushi)

Posted by Civilian Caitlyn Dillon (Director, The House Sanctuary) in I Don’t Mean to Interrupt Such a Busy Person… (Tag Hyrushi)

Posted by Civilian Kenzo B’tren-Hyrushi (Governor) in I Don’t Mean to Interrupt Such a Busy Person… (Tag Hyrushi)
Posted by… suppressed (41) by the Post Ghost! 👻

Dear Ms. Dillon,

On behalf of Governor B’Tren-Hyrushi’s office, we would like to thank you for your inquiry. The Governor would be most interested in speaking with you regarding the proposed project; but due to current obligations has no time for a conference call. If you would be willing to meet directly with the Governor and Lieutenant Governor upon your arrival on Oed V; we would like to discuss the project in person. Please contact our office a week before your arrival, and we will make the necessary arraignments. We wish you a safe journey and a warm welcome upon your arrival to your new home.

Sincerely,

Dorma Fen, Aid to Governor Kenzo B’Tren-Hyrushi

It had been roughly just over a month since Caitlyn had finished her initial contacts on Oed. The one from the Governor’s office had been quite awhile ago, but others had been scheduled out or a series of back and forth correspondence. Now the Beck was a week out and per the instructions, Caitlyn contacted the governor’s office through his aide once again.

Dear Ms. Fen,

Per your instructions, I am contacting you again, as we have arrived at Oed. Should she mention that they were still awaiting clearance through customs or would that be taken as a plea for special treatment? Best not to mention it. Surely the governor’s office would and could be aware of any incoming ships.

I know the governor’s schedule is quite busy, so I am contacted you as requested to schedule a meeting.

Thank you for your time,
Caitlyn Dillon

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

Dorma read the message and thought to herself about what Hyrushi had going on. She also pulled the file for one Caitlyn Dillon that she requested from the Federation when the initial request was made. She had reviewed it before, but now she attached it to the correspondence and meeting request. She marked it ‘Priority Request’ and forwarded it directly to Hyrushi.

Dorm Fen, Governor’s Aid

A few hours later, Hyrushi sent Dorma a message. “Schedule this for her arrival on Oed. I think we need to make this happen sooner rather than later.” he said.

Hyrushi, Governor

Dorma smiled slightly. She knew he was gong to be interested in the project. She composed a comm and sent it to Ms. Dillon.

Director Dillon,

The Governor is keen to learn more about your proposed initiative within the colony. He requests that you meet with him in his office in the Government Tower at 1600 hours on the day of your arrival. If that meets with your approval, please confirm. If you need to reschedule, please let our office know as soon as you can. We look forward to seeing you.

Dorma Fen, Aid to the Governor

Dorma Fen, Governor’s Aid

Ms. Fen,

I will be there at 1600. Thank you for your assistance.

Caitlyn Dillon

The day arrived, and Caitlyn was beyond nervous. She had planned to go alone, because the others would be settling their children to their new life. But she hadn’t taken into account not being able to navigate an unknown location, with such a huge populace. Just getting through customs had set all of them on edge with their anxiety. They had made it through. However the lands were far away from the city. Ashran agreed to go with her, but Caitlyn had protested because of Susie. “No Ms. Caitlyn. It’s okay, I like it. Mr Capall is here and Marissa and Aiden. I’ll be okay. Thavan will keep you safe.” The little girl had tugged her down and kissed her cheek and then run off with her friends.

She held onto Ashran’s arm as he led her up the steps. He described everything he saw for her. They approached the desk. “My name is Caitlyn Dillon. My companion is Ashran Th’rialnek. I have a 1600 appointment with Governor Hyrushi.” They presented their IDs to the guard.

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

Flanking either side of the desk, which was set in the middle of the lobby, were four security checkpoints; two per side. A line of individuals of all kinds and variations of species walked up and either did a scan and then walked through the checkpoint; or they spoke with one of the pair of guards at each entry way to gain entry. The exit was through a similar setup on the far sides of the massive lobby. “Thank you.” the officer said. “You will go through Security and all the way back to the express lift at the far right. That will take you to the Governor’s office.”

The lift ride was actually pleasant, as the transparent fronted lift sped up the exterior of the structure and gave a wonderful view of the city center, for Ashran, where the tower was located. The doors opened on the top floor of the government tower. A desk sat off to the left of the entrance opposite a large seating area with sofas and overstuffed chairs. A human woman, obviously Asian looked up from her desk interface and said “Miss Dillon, I presume. I am Dorma Fen, the Governor’s assistant. Please… be seated. He will be with you in a moment.”

Dorm Fen, Governor’s Aide

The woman looked in Fen’s direction but her gaze was off slightly. Her hand was wrapped around the Andorian’s upper arm as they walked. “Yes, Ms. Fen, I’m Cai… Ms Dillon. This is Ashran Th’rialnek. Thank you.”

Ashran spoke quietly to her, his head bent close as he told her about the objects and their location around her as he led her towards a chair. She set her hands firmly on the arms and sat with Ashran across from her.

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

A few moments later the large wooden doors swung open outwards and a lone figure exited the office beyond. Kenzo B’tren-Hyrushi, the governor of Oed V, stepped through the doors and he looked at Miss Fen, who inclined her head and the made an odd gesture with her hand. Hyrushi nodded and walked over and stood directly in front of Dillon and Th’rialnek; taking to ensure his footfalls were heard. “Ms Dillon. Master Th’rialnek. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance. I am Kenzo B’tren-Hyrushi, Governor of Oed V. Please, do come in.” Hyrushi bent over and set his hand on Caitlyn’s. “I am happy to guide as is needed.”

Hyrushi, Governor

Caitlyn’s head came up at the sound of the large doors. Caitlyn was stunned by the contact. It was still difficult after all this time, but she would not flinch and hide, even if that was her instinct. The offer left her momentarily unsure if she should accept or not.

Ashran stood and bowed politely, “It is our pleasure as well, Governor. Caitlyn, I can wait here for you.”

She took a breath and stood, Ashran’s voice bringing her back to the present. “Thank you, Governor Hyrushi. Your assistance is appreciated.” Her slightly indirect gaze moved toward Ashran. “Yes, that’s fine Ashran. I know you need to see about enrolling Susie. Perhaps Ms. Fen would be willing to direct you, and then you can come back?”

There was brotherly affection and pride from the man. “Alright. I am just a comm away if you finish before.”

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

Hyrushi held her hand as she stood and then moved her hand to his arm. The feel of his clothes was soft and smooth, probably silk. “Ms. Fen, please assist Master Th’rialnek with anything he needs.” and he guided Caitlyn into the office. As the doors closed behind them, Hyrushi described the room and where things were. There was a warmth to the room… a tactile effect of the large windows. He led her up to the desk and helped her take a seat. He then moved and sat behind the desk. “Now then, Ms. Dillon. How can I be of service to you and your people?” His voice was flat, emotionless, but polite and professional. But there was… something… underneath it that was hard to place.

Hyrushi, Governor

Ashran watched as they disappeared behind the door. His antenna waved slightly, then with a polite and genuine smile he accepted Ms Fen’s assistance and went about his own errands.

The feel of his suit was rich and pleasant under her finger tips. She recognized it as silk, or something similar, but it had been many years since she had felt something so fine. Gavin had always wanted such expensive things.

The closing of the door seemed significant to her, but not for any reason she could identify. The room was comfortable and she recognized the feel of sunlight through windows. Even with ones that were designed to prevent heat seeping through, Caitlyn could still feel it. She thanked him as he helped her to the chair. “Thank you, Governor B’tren-Hyrushi. Most people are not so aware of how much a description of my surrounds help. I appreciate the courtesy.” She brushed her hair back from her face. It was a nervous gesture she had since she was a child. She was unaware of how it drew attention to the scaring around her eyes and temples.

She took a moment for a breath. She was acutely aware of being alone in a room with a stranger. She told herself it was business and she had met and worked with many strangers in her previous life. Anxiety only controlled her if she let it. “As I mentioned in my initial letter, my companions and I are members of a group that we simply call ‘The House’. It is a Sanctuary for those who need to escape unsafe situations. Mostly domestic abuse, but not exclusively. We were originally established by members of the McKenzie-Edman clan, about 15 years ago. When they decided to move here a few of us wanted to come as well, and continue the work.”

“We are not looking for assistance of any kind. When I reached out to the social services department about the legalities of doing such here on Oed, it was stronglt suggested I should reach out to your office.”

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

Hyrushi could sense her anxiety, and made a mental note of it. “Well, I believe that was sound advice. Before we proceed, can you tell me how you see your organization fitting into our community? We already have programs in place to assist those in need of such services, so would yours work with them? Would you be a separate organization with no ties to any others? And how does your organization differ from those in place already?” His questions were direct, but not hostile. And through all the questions there was woven a thread of empathy. Not that he felt sorry for her; but more like he was supportive of her goals. And still there was the ‘something else’… but whatever it was was so delicate as to be almost ethereal.

Hyrushi, Governor

Caitlyn had expected that question, and his willingness to listen gave her some hope for success. He was calm and polite, not at all like some government officials she had met. She was still nervous, but because this mattered so much to her. “We do work with other organizations. Situations like the ones we help with always have better outcomes when we can provide as much assistanceas possible. Unfortunately, there never seems to be enough places for all the people who need help. Some organizations are better equipped to help people in specific types of circumstances. So it is very important to be professionally connected to other shelters and support agencies, so people can get the best help that can be provided,” she paused to order her thoughts. “The best way to put it, is The House specializes in cases where the victims need the equivalency of witness protection. When they come to us, their cases are not usually so established for them to get it, or they, for a variety of reasons, do not trust officials. They are afraid to go to the police or through official channels for help. We act as a go between, to help them establish that trust and keep them safe until a plan can be put in place.”

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

Hyrushi was quiet for a moment and then said “I am still somewhat confused. Do you provide protective services for those in your care? Or is it something else?”

Hyrushi, Governor

Caitlyn reminded herself to go slowly. She had helped with The House for years. The people she worked with already knew what they did. This was totally different. “Our first priority is to provide a safe and secure place for them to live. We have, or we will have, a large house with private rooms and common shared areas. The facility has security. Ashran, Master Th’rialnek, heads up our security. Our next priority is to provide through other organizations or volunteers, physical and mental health care. After that we help them find the resources they need to get their life back on track.” It was hard to tell if she was explaining in a way that he understood her explanation. He was very quiet and she had no visual clues. “Those things are common in all such organizations. What we provide specifically is a safe, quiet, secret location for them to recover until circumstances are safe for them to return to their lives or start a new one. We allow them to go into hiding.”

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

There was another pause and then Hyrushi said “And how do you reconcile the need for ‘hiding’ with the necessity of engagement with law enforcement and the Colonial requirement of mandatory reporting? Any and all busineses or organizations on Oed V are legally obligated to report any sign of neglect or abuse.” His tone was not aggressive, not did it sound in any way hostile. More than anything, he sounded intrigued.

Hyrushi, Governor

“95% of the people that come to us arrive by way of the hospital, police, or social services. They have been hurt and seen at the ER or finally had enough and filed a report with the police, or seek assistance from more publicly known shelters. So reports have been made. Perhaps not charges pressed, but the record is there.” Caitlyn took a breath slowly. She shifted in her seat slightly. She was reliving something far beyond the room for a split second.

“The other 5% come to us by back channels. It is a fine line to walk, Sir. Sometimes they are too afraid to make a statement. We encourage them to do so. We have a doctor and a therapist on retainer that we call in. Ashran knows how to take detailed statements and we record everything. They are told we are required to report it. Sometimes… well sometimes they give us fake names, they run away if we press too hard too quickly. We have lost people because they could not cope with the reality of having the truth known.” It weighed heavily on them all.

“These situations are why we network with official channels. Although our location is secret to prevent undue traffic in and out and putting people at risk, we have established routes and methods to get them to the police or medical care. I have already reached out to Commissioner Karlson and Doctors Helaky and Fayth at the recommendation of your Social Services office. We draw the line in the sand, as it were, where we keep our location secret and ensure safe and secure transport and communication so that reports can be made and the situations can be resolved. The line is very blurred often though. On Earth we had a specific liason officer with the police that worked directly with us. They had extensive experience in working with such cases and had a well known reputation for being honest and unable to be corrupted. Commissioner Karlsin has suggested a similar connection.”

“I do not hesitate to tell you that it can be difficult, Governor. We always do as the law requires, but circumstances of arrival can adjust the order of things. Sometimes ensuring their safety means from themselves and rash dangerous desions made in a moment of panic that could cause equal harm. This is why we have a doctor and therapist that work directly with us.”

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

Another pause. “But your location here isn’t a secret. It doesn’t even exist yet. So may I inquire as to how you intend to keep it a secret? And if it is to be kept, how will individuals know to seek help from you?” She could hear him adjust in his chair as he leaned forward. “I do hope I am not coming across as willfully obtuse or defensive, Ms. Dillon.” He allowed the barest hint of sincerity to flow from him to her. “I am just… wary. I hope that makes sense. I take the safety and security of all on this planet very seriously. So when someone from off-world comes into our community and begins telling me how they ‘are going to do things’, it cause me a small amount of apprehension.” He took a breath and slowly leaned back, allowing his calm to extend to her. “I do not know how versed you are in Federation politics; bit our community is in state of… well… let us call it ‘heightened sensitivity’… to outside organizations.”

Hyrushi, Governor

She wasn’t going about this very well. Or maybe that was her nervousness. Mayhap she should have had Ashran stay. “No, you are not. It is your responsibility to ask. I am sorry, I don’t mean it to sound that way. I wasn’t there when the House was first established. I am basing my explanations on what we have done, but I understand it may not work the same here.” She brushed her hair past her ear again. “Of course it is not a total secret. Think of it like a safe house the police would use. The officers protecting the witness and then their captain know the location. The lawyers might know they are protected, but not where. In our case the police commissioner or his designee, a similar person within the hospital, and social services would know of us and our contact information. We would freely share resources with other organizations that we could help or get help from. We haven’t, before, advertised publicly. Word of mouth does quite a bit for shelter organizations. I had thought that a more public business office, seperate from the actual facility would be useful.”

Hyrushi said “That may actually serve your purposes better. I think it would allow for the faster formation trust if you had a forward, public facing presence at the beginning.”

“Comissiiner Karlson offered to help us look for a location. When I meet with him, I will ask him about some recommendations.”

Caitlyn folded her hands in her lap, feeling calmer than she expected to be. “Those of us who came simply wish to pay forward the graces that were given to us. We are only currently aware of what the media has shared about Oed V. We know how inaccurate that can be. We don’t want to make waves, Governor. If our idea is not a good fit for Oed, we are open to suggestions will revise. Or we can find established groups to volunteer with if that is a better solution. Oed V is not Earth, and the people here will not necessarily have the same needs for assistance.” Sincerity flowed from her. She just genuinely wanted to help others. She was not opposed to criticism, suggestions, or a hard no. This was a new place that she really knew nothing about, except what was available through public resources. Which seemed to be skewed lately. “This is why I wanted to reach out early before we had set upon a specific plan.”

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

Hyrushi sighed and said “Unfortunately, anywhere many beings gather together, there will probably always be a need for the services you provide.” He was quiet a moment and then said “I do believe that you and your organization can be of benefit to the people of Oed V, Ms. Dillon. And I want to make sure that you are up and running as quickly as possible. But before you start taking in those in need, I think you should have a definitive plan that has been reviewed and approved by both the Oed Police and the Court. I will also put you in contact with the office of the Colonial Director of Social Services. Their support will be key to your success.” There was a pause and then Hyrushi said “I would also, personally, like to know more about your organization and history. I was about to go for a late lunch, and in a rare moment for me, I have no meetings or matters to attend to. Would you care to accompany me? And ‘No’ is, of course, a perfectly acceptable answer. I know you have just arrived and have many things to attend to.”

Hyrushi, Governor

His words brought a spike of hope from her for those they could help and a small sense of self-accomplishment. She wasn’t floundering as much as she thought. “We are no where near ready to take anyone in, but the longer these meetings are put off, the more people go without help.” Her uneasiness of going out in an unknown place with a stranger was overshadowed by the chance to share more about their organization and to get to know the person that was responsible for all the people on this colony.

She hesitated only a moment before agreeing. “I will be honored to accept, Governor. I need to let Mr. Th’rialnek know.” She pulled out a comm, her eyes staring straight ahead as her fingers smoothed over the controls, feeling for the dot patterns as she typed out a message. A moment later a computerized voice was heard softly, from an ear bud, as it read the reply to her. Her gaze shifted slightly, “Thank you. He said there are many things he needs to arrange and he will come meet me after.”

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

“Very well.” Hyrushi said. “I will make sure my assistant gives him the location of the restaurant. Do you have any allergies? I can comm ahead and they can make the appropriate preparations.” he added as he stood. “If you wish your companion to come, they are most welcome as well.” He moved around the desk and stood near her. “I am going to take your hand and put it on my arm to guide you of the office, if that is alright.”

Hyrushi, Governor

“Ashran has several needs to settle for his daughter. He is grateful for the extra time.” Her head turned, following the soft sound of his foot steps. Caitlyn nodded, “Thank you for the kindness,” even as she reminded herself to not flinch. She didn’t however, and was grateful for the warning that he couldn’t possibly know she needed, and not because she was blind. She stood smoothly, his suit was warm as she settled her hand around his arm. “I have no food allergies.” It wasn’t until she heard the doors open, she wondered if she should allow him to escort her. She knew what the media was like with a ‘good’ story.

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

As they stepped through the doors, Hyrushi said “Ms. Fen, I am going to lunch. Ms. Dillon will be accompanying me. Please inform The Grotto there will two.”

“Yes, sir.” said the same voice from when Caitlyn had entered the Governor’s office. “Enjoy your lunch, Governor. Ms. Dillon, it was a pleasure. Have a nice day.” and Dorma tapped the comms to let the restaurant know to set another place at the table.

Her head turned in her direction, “Thank you, Ms Fen for all of your assistance. It was a pleasure to meet you.” Tone and rhythm of speech were such rich clues when one could not see body language. Ms Fen’s gave nothing away as to what she thought about the afternoon’s passing. It was slightly disconcerting, but it was a trait Caitlyn was sure was valuable in her position.

He led Caitlyn to the lift and, as the doors slid closed, he said “We are in my private lift. This will take us to the sub-basement secured parking garage. There we will get into a slider and go straight west for approximately five kilometers. The restaurant we are going to is called ‘The Grotto’ if you wish to let your friends know where you are.”

Hyrushi, Governor

Dorma Fen, Governor’s Aid

As soon as the doors closed, she released his arm politely. Her communicator appeared in her hand and then disappeared after a few moments of quick typing. “Thank you, I will.” She wondered, but did not ask, if he had worked with victims of abuse before. He was very serene and unassuming. He was an overwhelming personality but seemed to know just what was too much. It could just be exposure to politics.

It had been awhile since she had needed to make small talk with a stranger. “May I ask, what drew you to Oed V, Governor? There is quite a bit about the colony is the current media, and it is all contradictory. I’m sure you have a unique personal perspective.”

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

There was the slightest hint of amusement in his voice when Hyrushi said “I did not choose, Oed. Oed chose me.” and he gave short, dry, and very quiet chuckle. “I was appointed as Governor. I did not apply. The colony has a history of being very… ‘definitive’… with Governors who disappoint. I am quite fortunate that I grew to love this place quickly. It’s much easier to be a caretaker when you truly want the best for those in your care. Wouldn’t you agree, Ms. Dillon?”

Hyrushi, Governor

“I do, but love and deep care can blind us to what is truly needed as well.” She had learned that lesson in painful ways with Gavin. She was lucky though, she had learned the lesson before it was too late.

“Is Oed so dangerous? I thought, perhaps, the media was sensationalizing events.”

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

The lift slowed and stopped and Hyrushi said “I will take you to the slider now.” and his hand placed hers on his arm and they began to walk forward. “Oed can be dangerous, just like any place with millions of people in a small space. But for the vast majority of individuals, Oed is actually safer than most developed colonial worlds. We have a low crime rate thanks to our police force who are community-based rather than militaristic. Commissioner Karlson takes the ‘serve’ part of ‘serve and protect’ very seriously; and he instills that importance in each of his officers and staff.” They paused and the sound of a vehicle door opening was heard. “Watch your head, Ms. Dillon.” and Hyrushi set her hands on the side and top of the doorway into the slider.

“He seemed very knowledgeable and caring during our correspondence. He was Governor himself once, was he not?” Even as he lifted her hand to the slider, Caitlyn had already reached with her other, taking a decent guess at where the door was, and he guided her hand the rest of the way. “Thank you.” He was extremely attentive in that way, more so than most. It had been a long time since she had needed so much help. She was both grateful and nervous over it in such an unknown place. She moved into the slider with ease. She was aware of a driver, she assumed, in front of her, and then the movement of the seat as his weight was added to the seat beside her.

Once seated, Hyrushi nodded to the driver and they started to move. “Additionally, with regards to the safety of the colony, the people here have a very strong sense of community. We look out for one another, and we are slow to trust. But once you are part of Oed, you are always a part of it. Until you do something to remove yourself, that is.” he tooka breath and then said “The dangers of Oed tend to be focused more on those making policy for the colony. Several of my predecessors were assassinated, more than almost any other colony.” matter-of-factly.

Hyrushi, Governor

Caitlyn shifted in the seat slightly, considering his words. “We’re your predecessors so horrible or the people that extreme? I ask because it speaks to the overall culture of a place, and that in turn helps guide us when working with the community.”

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

Hyrushi watched Dillon closely, trying to get a gauge of who she was as a person. “An excellent question. And yes, Commissioner Karlson was Governor for a year a few years ago. The assassinations have been a result of the agendas of certain groups and factions with Oed, and a few were the result of the conflict with the Vren. I am hoping that, at least, is an avenue of early retirement I no longer have to concern myself with.”

Hyrushi, Governor

The idea of taking a life for personal gain was clearly repulsive to her. Taking a life was repulsive no matter what, but she was realist enough to know that there were times that such was justified. “We read about the history of Oed with the Vren. I imagine many of the residents feel they are letting the boogeyman run wild in their homes with no way to stop it. Many suffered and that trauma is brought back fresh with their arrival. Shinning a light into the shadows often reveals beauty that only looked monstrous with tricks of light and shadow. I hope for your sake that no factions feel these talks are cause for your retirement.” It wasn’t just words, she had an easy respect for someone who could face the enemy and try to make them a friend.

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

Hyrushi looked out the window. “The last Vren raid was decades ago, and the past months since the preliminary talks have been exceedingly productive. The vast majority of the population wasn’t even here for the last raid. And the vast majority of those that are old enough to have experienced it have moved on. Oed V has a large population, but a great deal of that population is transitory. Only about ten percent of the population is actually from Oed, born and raised here. Another thirty to forty percent have lived here over a decade. The rest? The rest average around three years on Oed before leaving. The city is a wonderful place where you can make a life for yourself and be comfortable. But the city is only a part of the planet. We have over two hundred and fifty active mines and refineries on the planet. And mining is very hard work, especially on Oed. So many, many individuals come here for work and then leave soon after. I do not blame them, either. The fact that we have a strong safety record and we rotate the crews one week in the mine and two weeks for rest and recovery is the reason so many still come. Now, those figures are shifting slowly. And as the terraforming beings in earnest I am sure that our population will not just grow, but will become more permanent.” He turned back to her and said “All of that being a long winded way of saying that while there are certainly those who experienced the ugly side of our history with the Vren, they are far from the majority… and we cannot afford to live in the past when so many lives are at stake.”

Hyrushi, Governor

“The past shapes us, but should not control us. It is a brave act on both sides to come together in understanding.” She was turned slightly towards him, her ears trained more on him than her eyes. “I do not understand much of the science behind all the terraforming, but the briefs that the McKenzies provided sound astonishing.”

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

“It is… or rather, it will be. And thanks to the Vren, we may become more much more quickly than anyone expected.” The slider came to a stop. “I will get out and come around, wait here.” Hyrushi said and the door slid open. A moment later, her door slid open and Hyrushi said “Here.” and he set her hand in his and helped her stand. “There is one step to get up on the curb, then four steps to get up to the door to the restaurant.” and he led her up onto the sidewalk and up the stairs.

Caitlyn followed him easily, used to allowing others to guide her, but surprised at the ease she felt letting this stranger do so.

Inside, the restaurant was very cool and smelled of herbs and the sea… and water. There was the sound of trickling water from all sides, and Hyrushi set her arm in his and guided her forward. The Maître d’ smiled and said “Governor, welcome back. A pleasure to have you. And who is this?” he aske din a friendly fashion. “Ms. Caitlyn Dillon, Monsieur Pierre Duquote. Pierre is the Maître d’ and, unbeknownst to many, also the owner. This restaurant is called The Grotto, and is one of the few places I can eat in peace.” The Maître d’ laughed and said “It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Mademoiselle.” And he held out his hand. Hyrushi didn’t hesitate, he simply took her hand and placed it in Pierre’s outstretched one. The man bent over and very gently kissed the back of her hand and said “Any friend of the Governor is always welcome here.” and he let go and turned.

“Thank you, Monsieur Duquote. It is a pleasure, truly.” The Grotto was not unknown to her. It had come across her readings on Oed. Caitlyn loved cuisine and she had read up on everything offered.

He led them, while Hyrushi led Caitlyn and described in surprising detail their surroundings, to a secluded table in the far back of the restaurant. After Pierre left to get their drinks, Hyrushi said “Would you like a menu, or would you like me to read it to you?”

Hyrushi, Governor

Caitlyn smiled, it crinkled her eyes just a bit and she looked truly relaxed at the moment. “Thank you, but there is no need.” She listened to the sounds, “It’s very relaxing isn’t it?”

“It is.” Hyrushi said while looking intently at the woman across from him. There was something about her…

“Good afternoon Governor Hyrushi, Ms. Dillon. I am Gregori, your server. May I start you with something?”

“I would like to start with the Cauliflower steaks with red pepper and Jula olives. Do I smell salmon?”

“Yes, madam. We have it paired with creamy white beans combine with hearty roasted broccoli and greens for a salad. Topped with…”

“Red onion and a lemon vinaigrette. I would like the seared fillet with mustard sauce rather than the fried with garlic.”

The server looked curious. It was the day’s special and brand new. “Yes ma’am. And for you Governor?”

“My usual, please.” he said, still looking at Caitlyn.

After the server left, Pierre returned looking at Caitlyn with a bit chagrined. “Madame Dillon, I do apologize. I didn’t connect the name. It is an honor to have you here.”

“It’s alright. It’s nice to be anonymous sometimes. It smells divine, thank you.”

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

Hyrushi cocked an eyebrow and looked at Pierre who simply shrugged and walked away. Hyrushi interlaced his fingers and set his hands on the table. “It is not often that I am not current on important or influential persons arriving on Oed. Did I miss something with regards to you, Ms. Dillon?” he asked curiously.

Hyrushi, Governor

Caitlyn shook her head, “No, just…” There was a wave of sadness and intense old fear, “who I used to be in another life. I used to be a Michelin Star chef.”

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

Hyrushi was not often shocked, but this was a rare moment. “I… I was unaware I was taking such an accomplished palate out for a meal. I hope the kitchen does not disappoint.” A thought then entered his mind. “I must have a word with Ms. Fen upon my return to my office. I am quite certain she knew who you are and failed to tell me.” and he laughed a soft, dry laugh. “I suppose that is part of her revenge on me.” The drinks arrived and Hyrushi told her where the glass was in relation to her. “Regardless of my ignorance as to your background, I would still like to welcome you to Oed V. Cheers.” and he waited for her to raise her glass and then gently touched his to hers.

Hyrushi, Governor

She didn’t sight exactly, but she was weary. “I am sure the food will be excellent. It is a myth that accomplished chefs only eat gourmet meals and think anything not cooked the way they would prepare it as awful. Most of us enjoy simple meals just as much.” She lifted the glass, “Cheers,” and held it out until he tapped his to hers. She took a sip and closed her eyes, enjoying the light swirl of flavor. “Please do not be put out with Ms. Fen. I am grateful she didn’t say. I am not here on Oed to cook. Just to try and help. I am not that person any more. It… was a long time ago. Besides,” she tried to lighten the mood slightly, “Ms. Fen strikes me as the type of person who would be much more… cunning in getting even with someone. What did you do? Keep an irate businessman waiting and she had to suffer their complaints?”

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

There was a long pause and then he said “No. I manipulated one of the Lieutenant Governor’s aides into bidding for her at a charity Bachelorette auction. I knew she would be particulary irritated that he was the one who won.” He took a drink and then said “She is even more incensed now because they are becoming the best friend either one has on the planet.”

Hyrushi, Governor

He was silent long enough, Caitlyn was sure she had offended him. She hadn’t meant to. The levity had been a defense against the memories, but had been a poor choice on her part. She opened her mouth to apologize when he spoke. “Oh,” she could see how that would irritate someone. Caitlyn would never participate in such a thing, she wouldn’t feel safe enough, but if she did, she would be grateful that someone ensured the bidder was someone she knew. “An unexpected boon that they are close friends now.” He seemed a caring person but very serious. It didn’t sound like he had done it maliciously. Judging from his words he had a mischievous side. She wondered if he ever got to relax enough to truly show it.

The quiet stretched, and Caitlyn decided it might be best to return to the reason he invited her. “You said you wanted to know more about the House. I am happy to answer any questions.”

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

Hyrushi looked at her and then began to keep careful note of her emotions. “Yes. I would like to know everything you are willing or able to share. How many residents came with you from earth? How did they handle the transition. Is the House a permanent residence, or do you try to help people back into society? What kind of support would you like to see from the people here? And so on an so forth.” He paused and then said “I would also like to know more about you, if you are comfortable sharing anything.”

Hyrushi, Governor

Caitlyn’s emotions were more sensitive than normal. She wasn’t the person she used to be, but she was venturing out into the public for the first time in years. Not for herself but for others. She was certain she would find her feet. She just had to keep going. “There are 5 adults and 6 children. As for the adults, Kelsey is having the hardest time. The time on the Beck and all the unknown people was hardest for her. The children are adapting. They are resilient. Only Aiden and Susie were in the House for themselves. The others were there because they needed to be because their parents were.”

“The House is both a permanent and temporary residence. The goal is always to help the residents to transition back to a normal life. Whatever that might be for them. Some residents, like Kelsey, stay permanently. She tried to transition out, but it didn’t work out. I transitioned from resident to employee. So it is a permanent home for me as well.”

“From the community… quiet help in providing information about us through police, medical, and social services. The opportunity for us to provide training for potential employeers and landlords. I would eventually like to have a list of residences and potential employeers for when people are ready to make those transitions. We did provide classes on self defense and personal security. I would like to continue to do that, but I will need to find instructors. We have access to a doctor and a counselor who will come to the House, but ideally we will make connections to others. We require a background check of all employees, residents, and ask for the same for officials that would know where we are located and who is there. I intend to ask Comissioner Karlson about that.” She paused there before continuing.

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary