Posted by Civilian Jeannette Mathis (Federation Ambassador) in Federation Embassy- A Memorial (TMODJ)
OOC: This is likely for all cabinet members and Senior Starfleet officers, plus others who think they would be here. There is, of course, extra security, so keep that in mind.

She moved across the foyer and opened one of two very large wooden doors carved in bas-relief with floral motifs and scrollwork around the borders. Inside the generous space with polished wood floors was the ballroom used for formal events. Today was its first event. Chairs and benches were set out to accommodate the various guests that would be arriving any time now. There was a podium at the front of the seating area that was to the right of a table draped in a black tablecloth. It had an arrangement of lovely flowers, an ornate metal box, and a large framed photo of Dash. She had asked his mother which one she thought would be best, and they agreed on this one. It wasn’t an official portrait. Instead, it was one of Dash leaning against the embassy on Coridan. A Federation flag could be seen fluttering in the background, and Dash as just looking over something outside of the frame. He wore a contented smile.

Somewhere, Revna was helping their new staff prep for the ceremony and the reception. Dash’s family was calling in for the ceremony over subspace, so a large screen had been set-up and a tech was working on getting the connection sorted.

In long sleeved black dress to the knee, Jeannette Mathis, Federation Ambassador, surveyed the setting and willed herself to find some sort of strength to make it through this day. She had gotten past the accidental we in conversations, and she was feeling that vacancy deeply in this moment..

Jeannette Mathis, Federation Ambassador

He was allowed to be here, but despite that simple fact, Rafael Leandro Torres felt awkward as hell as he gave his name to the Starfleet security guards at the entrance of the embassy. The place was closed to the public, but his name was on a list. He’d been invited and had received the invitation from the Ambassador herself. He wasn’t sure whose idea it was but he was grateful to be allowed to be here. The only difficulty was that he wasn’t sure how to handle this event. Hell, he wasn’t sure how to handle this day at all. What he wanted was the very thing he had to avoid.

Dressed in black pants and a black button down shirt, he at least looked tidy. His black shoes might not be formal, ut they were clean and drew not obvious attention.

Walking through the foyer, he turned in place and took in the elegant building, appreciating the architectural details. When he came to a stop, he was facing the open doors of the ballroom. He saw her there, the older woman with the bright blond hair. Summoning up his courage, he stepped through the doors, but she had turned her attention on him before he even made his presence fully known.

She smiled, even if it was small and sad. “Mr. Torres, I’m Jeannette Mathis.” She held out a hand, so Raf moved over and shook it firmly. “Ma’am,” he said respectfully. He wasn’t entirely sure on all the protocol, but he figured if he led with respect, he’d be fine.

“I’m glad you were able to come. I know Dash would have wanted you here,” Mathis said.

Torres nodded. “I.. I think so to, so I’m glad for the invitation.” He tried to not be nervous, but he could hear the slight tremor in his voice.

Jeanette’s expression, having been mostly a professional mask, softened. “Rafael. I don’t know all that happened between you and Dash, but I do know he believed in you. That’s enough for me. So know that you are welcome within these halls. And if you fel like speaking today, you’re are welcome to as well, but no obligation. This is going to be a very easy-going affair.”

“Just like how he would have wanted it. No fuss,” Raf said, actually smirking.

Jeanette smiled and nodded. “Help yourself to a beverage if you like. Others will be joining us soon.”

He nodded and headed over to the long tables along the side, grabbing a glass of water. It would at least keep him busy and steady his nerves.

Rafael Torres, Resident