Posted by Civilian Revna Freya McKenzie (Resident) in Federation Embassy

Posted by Civilian Jeannette Mathis (Federation Ambassador) in Federation Embassy

(snips)

Revna nodded, “Of course. No pressure. Though, professionally, I suggest you look into a pediatric grief counselor for Jessie. I am happy to help any of you, until you can find someone to meet your needs.” Revna smiled kindly. She knew grief, she understood it, intimately.

Revna, Lady McKenzie

“Of course, thank you,” Jeanette said. “Jessie has been on my mind a lot throughout all of this. He’s taken it very hard as well, and it’s already been a difficult transition for him.”

She gazed out the window that overlooked the private garden at the side and back of the property and gathered her thoughts. Jean was always so used to being direct and speaking her mind. It was strange to feel uneasy voicing them now and feeling unable to turn and meet Revna’s gaze. Deep down she understood what it was, but she was loathe to let it happen down here, in her work space. The memorial had been difficult enough. “The hardest part is the uncertainty. Everything feels so precarious right now. I’ve been in more complicated and dire situations, but nothing that has struck so close to me. I was always able to compartmentalize, and as much as I already told you I would do just that… I’m worried I won’t be able to. I don’t know how to go into the next meeting with Ambassador Kek without Dash. Yes, I’m there with the Governor and Lieutenant Governor, but we’re not… close, or friends in the same way. It’s a different dynamic. Their duty is to Oed and I can’t expect them to have my back. It’s been a very long time since I’ve had to go it alone. I can, and I have before, but it’s so rare at this stage of my career.” It wasn’t just about having someone to help with th administrative side of things. This was about collaboration, about mutual understanding and support. Dash’s care and regard has been unwavering, something she could rely on. Suddenly, for the first time in many years, Jeannette Mathis wasn’t sure what she could professionally rely on. Personally, she had no doubts Ren would be there for her, but Ren never crossed lines into the work. It was the agreement they had had from Day One.

Jeannette Mathis, Federation Ambassador

Revna didn’t speak or do anything to interrupt. Jeannette needed to get this out, to voice it, before she could look at the task ahead of her and decide on a plan of action. Revna knew she could never replace what Jeannette had shared with Jones. They had been a team for a long time. It took a long time to build that kind of trust. It wasn’t something easily moved past. “We barely know each other, but we both know the job. It doesn’t help, really, I know,” her voice held a deep sorrow that told of understanding grief. “I am here until you say you don’t need me anymore. Tell me what you need and tell me what you want. Professionally or personally. We have to start somewhere.”

Revna, Lady McKenzie

Jean was a quietly proud woman, but she was willing to ask for help when it was needed. Gratitude swept over her face, followed by a soft smile. “Thank you, Revna. Honestly, the everyday administrative stuff can be managed by the new staff starting, but I could use help with some of the training.”

She studied the other woman intently for a moment before coming to a decision. “And, given your background, if you are willing, I could really use someone in the room with me when we meet with the Vren. Someone who can be objective to a degree, and help me navigate this incredibly nuanced situation. There are… details that are not public yet that are going to become a hot-button discussion topic on the colony, and we have tread cautiously.”

Jeannette Mathis, Federation Ambassador

“I’m here to help. If that is what you need, then I am willing to be there. Besides, if my husband were to find out I said no, he’d lock me in the dungeon and go find his real wife,” Revna laughed.

Revna, Lady McKenzie

Mathis smirked a little. She rested an arm on the desk and leaned forward a little. “What I’m about to tell you doesn’t leave this room. So far, only myself, Hyrushi, Dasca and the Vren know, but in our first and rather positive meeting with Ambassador Kek, Kek expressed how dire the situation was with their nurseries. We know that it is one of the main reasons the Vren were compelled to seek outside help, and we of course want to help how we can.” Jeanette blew out a breath.” But the Ambassador has made a significant request on behalf of his people, Revna. They are asking for Oed to allow them to build a facility here to mature their young so they can survive.” On the surface it seemed like a basic request with an obvious answer, but did Revna fully understand what it was asking of Oed?

Jeannette Mathis, Federation Ambassador