Posted by Civilian Caitlyn Dillon (Director, The House Sanctuary) in A Private Evening in Public

Posted by Civilian Caitlyn Dillon (Director, The House Sanctuary) in A Private Evening in Public

Posted by Civilian Kenzo B’tren-Hyrushi (Governor) in A Private Evening in Public
Posted by… suppressed (57) by the Post Ghost! 👻
Caitlyn was even more a bundle of nerves than she had been going to dinner with Kenzo. She was excited for the symphony and to meet the musicians. She was more excited for the company of the man she was attending with.

The dress she wore was magnificent. Alathide had outdone herself. It was a beautiful soft orange in satin. The wide straps led to a modest v-neck, the silhouette continued as it followed her tucked in waist and then fell in graceful lines to the floor. The bodice to the hem was covered in elegant hand sewn sequin designs. It began as a matching orange and slowly faded to a delicate ivory at the hem. Attached to the shoulders was a chiffon drape the covered her upper arms and hung around her back.

Runa had braided and pinned her hair into a truly elegant look. Runa began by giving her a French side braid and then gathering her curls into a low bun just off center to the left. Then she pinned tiny orange and cream ribbon roses and pearls into the mass of curls and through the braid. She left a few delicate curls loose to soften the look.

“Caitlyn, you look like a princess.” Caitlyn laughed selfconsciously at Ashran’s praise. “I feel like the dairy girl stealing a gown.”

“Nonsense,” Revna told her. “You are more than prepared to attend the symphony. This is not your first black tie event.”

“But…not, not like this.” Runa hugged her and so did Kelsey. Even though she was scared for her friend. But Kelsey knew that was more because of her own fear than a dislike of Governor Hyrushi. He had come a few days earlier. He was very polite and non-judgemental. Kelsey hadn’t been ready to meet a stranger, but she had watched. And before he left, she had surprised herself by being comfortable enough to meet him. Caitlyn liked him very much and Kelsey was happy for her.

“Now, we went over this. If you don’t want to answer the media’s questions, simply comment about the symphony. You can also simply say that you are a member of our clan and have relocated with us. You are not obligated to answer. If you feel very uneasy, simply let the governor answer.” Revna walked over and took her hands gently and squeezed. “But most of all, have fun, enjoy his company. The rest won’t matter.”

Ragna laughed, “Trust her, Caitlyn. She’s married to Mike after all. He’s faaamous. She also has to deal with Runa being his Biggest fan.” Caitlyn laughed as she heard a pillow thwump against Ragna. “Well, I suppose.” She sighed nervously, “I’m not sure I am ready to be so much in the public eye again.” There was a pause as Caitlyn was obviously thinking. “But I really like him.”

Paul set a hand on her shoulder. “Then go, have fun, and let the rest just happen. Come on, I do believe I just heard his shuttle land. We might need to call Ada. The Governor may faint you are so beautiful.” Caitlyn turned several shades of red as she took Paul’s arm as he guided her toward the front of tent around all of their various items.

Caitlyn

Kenzo had been preparing for this moment for several days. First he had a tuxedo made to compliment Caitlyn’s gown. It was a soft gray, but almost subdued ivory, highlighting the accent color of her dress. Unbeknownst to Caitlyn, the Governor had asked Ms. Fen to request a sample of the cloth; a favor Alathide had been happy to provide. An incredibly dark, almost black, orange shirt and a bow tie that matched her orange finished off the suit. His long, straight, black hair hung loosely down to the middle of his back. As he stepped out of the shuttle, he carried a bouquet of orange and white flowers that seemed to shimmer in the low-setting sun light. He walked towards the group around Caitlyn… but he looked only at her.

Paul quietly described what the governor was wearing, how his tuxedo perfectly complimented her dress and the stunning flowers he was carrying. He was also certain to make sure she knew how the man couldn’t keep his eyes off of her. Caitlyn blushed slightly and smiled with delight and giddiness as she recognized the sound of his gait. “And here he is. 10 feet in front of you.” She released Paul’s arm and he stepped back.

“Ms. Dillon… you put my efforts to look acceptable tonight to shame.” he said. He held out the flowers to her and said “Flowers for you. I selected them because they are the most aromatic of the native blossoms.” He waited u til she raised her hands and then gently set the bouquet in them.

He was so formal, but sincere at the same time. “Thank you, Governor Hyrushi. Paul told me we compliment each other exquisitely.” She wished she could see it. She reached for the flowers, and when he set them against her palm she lifted them to her nose inhaled. They were wonderful. Like a magnolia crossed with cherry blossoms and a background of fresh rain. “Oh, these are lovely. I’ve never smelled anything like them. What are they called?”

“Oedian Hiasinths.” he said softly, watching her inhale the aroma of the flowers.

She smiled as she inhaled again, the petals brushing against her cheeks. “There exquisite. I imagine a whole garden of them would smell magical.”

Hyrushi then looked at her ‘family’. “Good evening.” he said cooly but diplomatically. “I will ensure Ms. Dillon is safe, yuu have my word.”

Hyrushi, Governor

“Good evening, Governor,” Paul nodded politely and smiled, “Of that I have no doubt. I hope you both enjoy your evening.” He set a hand on Caitlyn’s shoulder, “Would you like me to take those? Kelsey can put them in a vase for you.”

Caitlyn wanted to keep them, but that would be combursome. She pulled one from the bouquet to keep with her and let Paul take the others. “Thank you Paul.”

“Have fun. We’ll take good care of these,” then he quietly faded away with the others. Caitlyn tentatively reached out for his arm. She hadn’t wanted to take her cane. It kept getting caught in the dress when she practiced. Probably nerves. “I am very excited for tonight.”

Caitlyn

Hyrushi took her hand set it on his arm in a manner that screamed of familiarity, even though the gesture had only been done a few times in the recent past. He nodded to the ‘attendants’ and then wordlessly escorted Caitlyn to the shuttle. He helped her find her seat and then nodded at the pilot who closed the hatch and lifted off and headed towards the city.

Caitlyn leaned closer to him, as they walked. It was easy and comfortable. She felt at ease with him. She wasn’t worried about tripping or running into anything. She felt secure on his arm.

Kenzo looked at Caitlyn and then activated the privacy field between them and the pilot. “Caitlyn… if I may be so bold… you are a true vision this evening. I truly do feel underdressed looking at you. You… you are quite beautiful. And it is not just the dress.”

Kenzo

Caitlyn’s head turned towards him, her hand sliding down his arm to his hand. She laid the single Hiasinth she had kept in her lap and laid her other hand over his. “Thank you, Kenzo. You make me feel beautiful.” It wasn’t his words, but his actions, the tone of his voice, the slight way his breath caught, and the slight softening in the way he said ‘if he may be bold.’ He made her feel special.

Her fingers traced the cuff of his jacket and then lifted to his chest where she could feel his shirt and then up to his bow tie where she could feel the knot. “Well, I will just have to be equally bold,” she said softly. “The material and textures of your suit tell me exactly how much effort you put in, even though I can’t see it. But the awareness of your presence is all that matters to me.”

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

Kenzo didn’t move while her hand moved across his tuxedo, and his black eyes didn’t leave her face. She really was beautiful. And her dress was simply stunning. He watched her as she felt along his tie, and then took a quick intake of breath as her hand slid away. “In that case, I promise you that you will not be without at any point this evening.” He set his hand on the flower in her lap and said “Would you like to carry it? Or would you like to wear it? I think I could put it in your hair, if you so wished.”

Kenzo

She smiled. She had thought about putting it in her hair when he gave them to her. “Kenzo, are you reading my mind?” She wasn’t upset by the idea at all, but rather flattered. “I would very much like to wear it.”

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

Kenzo chuckled dryly and said “No, not at all. It was a suggestion… or, to be more honest, an excuse to touch you.” There was a pause and then he said something in a language she didn’t understand. There was the sound of someone adjusting themselves to a different position… the sound of something metallic sliding in or out of something… a small snip sound… the sliding sound again… some more spoken language… and then he said “If I may…” and his fingers gently took her chin and he turned her head ever so slightly. He put the blossom in her hair on the left side, just above her ear. He looked at it for a moment and then his eyes fell on her face. His fingers stayed where they were for a long moment, and then he softly cleared his throat. “There. It’s… it’s perfect.” and he let his fingers linger a moment before he dropped his hand. “I think you will truly be the most recorded person at the Symphony.”

Kenzo

So many thoughts ran through her head and emotions too. There was a thrill at his confession and a quiet longing, curiosity about what he said in that language and what she had heard. Breathlessness at his touch, a held breath as his hand lingered, and an ache when his hand left her.

She was nervous over such a public appearance, but only because the last time she had dealt with the media, it had been cruel. None of that registered. She was nervous, exhilarated, her pulse raced, and her breath caught just slightly. Her hand found his, “You don’t need an excuse, Kenzo. It is amazing to me how certain I am of that.” How certain she was of other things as well. Like him kissing her. “I am certain… I am ready,” heat rushed up her cheeks. She admitted maybe she wasn’t ready, but she felt like she was. “For you to… kiss me. I mean whenever you want. When you’re ready.”

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

Kenzo didn’t move for a moment, simply hearing her words play through his mind on a loop. He then blinked… and leaned in and kissed her very gently on the lips. He held the kiss for several heartbeats, and then several more, before pulling back ever so slightly. He kept his eyes closed for a long time before saying “I have give a great deal of thought as to what that would be like. I must confess… my imagination fell far short.” and he opened his eyes and looked at her.

Kenzo

Caitlyn was not prepared for how that gentle touch affected her. It was wonderful and warm and felt like the world stood still and an earthquake all at once. Her expression held soft, amazed surprise. She felt breathless and giddy and, oddly, very calm, comfortable, and at ease. A tiny soft smile graced her lips, “As did my own imagination, and it tried very hard.”

Caitlyn

“Did it now? That is very good to know.” Kenzo said with an audible smile to his words. He looked out the window and said “We should be landing in a few minutes. Last chance to back out. And I will completely understand if you wish to.” He took her hand in his and gave it a gentle squeeze.

Kenzo

Should she be embarrassed that he knew she was daydreaming about him? Maybe. She wasn’t though. They were filled with anticipation and happiness. No fear or anxiety marred them. For Caitlyn that was a gift all in itself.

Kenzo felt her immediate rejection of canceling and her certainty about staying. She didn’t answer right away, however. Instead she squeezed his hand and gave the evening consideration. This was not just a private date. It was a public announcement. She wasn’t sure how they would label their relationship, but the media would label her his girl friend, his woman. She had fielded a few questions from the press, but she had only confirmed that Governor Hyrushi was escorting her to the symphony. She had simply refused to answer anything else.

So, this evening was different, but only because of the media. Caitlyn did admit that being around the media made her a sick kind of nervous. That was memories though, and not experience with the media of Oed V. Yes, she was nervous and anxious, but what was forming between herself and Kenzo she thought was worth facing that.

There were other things making her nervous though. She squeezed his hand again and turned her face fully back toward him. “New places and large crowds are very stressful for me.” A little frightening as well especially at the same time. “I know you won’t let me get lost,” there was absolute faith and trust in those words, “but I’ll apologize now for holding on too tightly sometimes. I’ll try not to, but I am certain I want to go to the symphony with you.”

Caitlyn

“You may hold onto me as tightly as you wish. I am not fragile.” Kenzo said softly. The shuttle banked to the right and began it’s decent towards the venue. As it settled on the landing pad in the large open pavilion that was the main staging area for the red carpet arrivals. The carpet itself was almost a quarter mile long and flanked on both sides by press, onlookers, various staging areas for photo ops, and security. As the shuttle door opened, the pilot stepped out and looked around before nodding once. Kenzo stood and said “Well… here we are. And here we go.” He took her hand and set it on his arm and guided her out of the shuttle.

Before they stepped out the door, she said softly for his ears, “I am happy to be here with you, Kenzo.” Caitlyn gripped his arm firmly, her other hand on the edge of the hatch, as she stepped out. She did not want to trip or stumble.

The flashes of lights and cameras rained down upon them. Hyrushi was used to the press, but this was something else entirely. The number of cameras and vid-recorders was unlike anything he had seen outside of the Vren announcement. He set his hand on Caitlyn’s and said “This is… quite a bit. If you feel overwhelmed at all, we can always leave.”

She smiled, “They joys of being me, is that I cannot see the crowds, the flashes, the waves for attention, or the looks. But if it is too much for you, we can change our minds.” Caitlyn was teasing him slightly. She had no doubt he could handle whatever was going on. He offered out of care for her, and it made her elated. Her teasing was simply an acknowledgement of that and her joy at being there.

He guided her to the long, red celebrity highway and nodded at one or two reporters he knew. The questions began immediately, and came from all sides.

“Governor! Who is that you are with?!”

“My companion for the Symphony.” Hyrushi said plainly.

“Is that your girlfriend?!”

“When would I have the time for such pursuits?” Kenzo said with a slight smile and shake of his head.

“How long have you two been together?!”

“About twenty minutes.”

“Who made your dress?!”

It was a lot of voices, coming from different directions, sliders, shuttles, the whispers of Security, the hum of video drones. Revna had told her to ignore anything not specifically directed at her by name. That way she didn’t answer something by mistake. She also advised Caitlyn to not respond to anyone using her first name. ‘Do not encourage over familiarity’ had been her strongest advice. So the first few questions Caitlyn caught she didn’t answer. Since Kenzo didn’t either, she was confident in that choice.

A few more professional sorts had obviously done their homework, however.

“Ms. Dillon! Who are you wearing tonight?!”

“Alathide of Clan McKenzie-Edman,” she said with pride. Alathide was wonderful and talented and Caitlyn was happy to be wearing her design.

“Ms. Dillon! Over here! Smile!”

She did turn, but not quite enough. Her ears catching the sound and not her eyes. The photo would give a 3/4 profile rather than full on the reporter was looking for.

“Chef! Chef! How did you meet the Governor?!”

“Are you dating Governor Hyrushi, Caitlyn?!”

“How long have you been on Oed V?!”

“Are you going back to cooking?!”

“Who asked out who?!”

Caitlyn chose not to answer the other questions. She had no desire to share intimate details of her personal life, nor did she want to take away from the true stars of the Symphony with talk of her return.

“Did the Governor know you before your attack?”

Her hand tightened on Kenzo’s arm and a icy cold paralysis filled her emotions. However, her steps didn’t falter, and her smile stayed in place. Never show fear, things only got worse when you showed fear. For a moment, Caitlyn remembered the press in front of the Court House and Hospital. The cruel accusations, the rumors, the lies, and the never ending harassment. She was not going to answer or stop, but she came to an easy pause as Kenzo stopped.

The last question stopped Hyrushi and his head snapped in the direction of the inquiring individual. Enough of the press corps on Oed knew that there were certain lines you did not cross with the Governor… and calling attention to painful past events for the sake of sensationalism was right up at the top. Obsidian eyes scanned the crowd, and it was soon apparent who the perpetrator was as the rest of the reporters moved unconsciously away from him; as if trying to put space between themselves and him in case the Governor’s reaction should catch them in it’s blast area.

Hyrushi’s obsidian eyes bore into the paparazzi, and the man seemed rooted to the spot as Hyrushi looked at him. But the words that left Kenzo’s lips were flat… measured… and emotionless. “Sir. You are obviously new to Oedian press events. I strongly suggest you confer with your fellow press corps members so they can instruct you on what manners and decorum are expected of the individuals we entrust the dissemination of fact and needed information to. And then, perhaps, you may actually be allowed back to such an event as this one. Good evening.” He glanced at the nearby Security personnel and nodded once. Four suited and eyeshade wearing individuals moved to the man and he was ‘escorted’ away. Hyrushi then turned to Caitlyn. “My apologies, Ms. Dillon. Some just do not understand where the line of civility is. Shall we?” and he set his hand on the small of her back and began leading her back down the carpet.

Hyrushi, Governor

She squeezed his arm in thanks, “No apology necessary, Governor Hyrushi. You are not responsible for the actions and words of others.” As his hand slipped to her back and they moved forward again she smiled, “Yes, please. I am excited to hear Maestro Julpheta and her Orchestra play.”

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

The rest of the walk was peppered with questions and requests for photos, but it was much more professional and reserved the closer they came to the music hall. As they entered, Kenzo began describing the building and the grand lobby they were entering. Voices filled the space, but Kenzo leaned close so she would hear him clearly. “Large vaulted ceilings with a domed roof made of transparent aluminum that is tinted a deep blue. There are statues in alcoves all around the mezzanine, and the walls are covered in murals and tapestries from all over the quadrant. There is a grand staircase directly in the middle of the room that will take us up to the second floor. From there we will go right and take a private elevator to our box.”

Hyrushi, Governor

The vaulted ceilings explained the echo in the grand lobby. Caitlyn turned her head to catch his voice as he described the space for her. She turned her face more fully toward him so he could hear her. “Is there somewhere we can stand out of the way? It would help if I could listen to the crowd and room before we attempt the stairs. Perhaps you could describe one of the tapestries for me?” Caitlyn was, as she had told Kenzo, uneasy in large crowds and new places. Even with such an exceptional guide, navigating new places and large crowds was problematic. She knew taking the time to let her spacial awareness take in the sounds and feelings of the area would help. She wasn’t ashamed to advocate for herself, and she was certain Kenzo would not mind.

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

“But of course.” Kenzo said and he led her towards the left side of the room. They paused once or twice as people came up to them, and Kenzo was certain to introduce Caitlyn to everyone they spoke with. He even used her ‘Chef’ title. As they moved away from the center of the crowd, the noise levels dropped and he guided her to one of the tapestries. “Now then… This piece hangs from just under the ceiling to the floor… so it roughly fifty meters tall. It depicts a fable from the Antican home world. Legend there says that their ancestors roamed the world in great packs, and they warred with one another whenever one pack met another. As they evolved and became more cognizant of their world and their role in it, the packs were brought together by a single great leader. Her howl was magical, and it could be heard all around the world. It called to the packs together on the site of their capital city. The tapestry shows her standing on a rocky outcropping, head thrown back, howling as she is silhouetted against the full moon.”

Hyrushi, Governor

As they moved through the crowd, her grip firmed slightly on his arm. After a few minutes though, her grip relaxed as he expertly guided her. Caitlyn was polite and enchanting to everyone they met. She remembered names and details as Kenzo introduced her. She worked hard to get her gaze as direct as possible as people spoke to her. For those that realized she was blind, they were kind enough to not say anything about it. As he described the tapestry she turned toward him, which allowed her to hear and feel the room beyond them while she listened to his description. Her head tipped to the side with curiosity. She had heard of Anticans, but had never seen a picture or met one. She wanted to ask if they were lupine in appearance, but in such a public setting she wasn’t sure that would be the polite way to word the question. She could find out later. “Does it amaze you, Governor, how so many societies have stories of a unifying leader with mystical gifts? Do you think it is a reflection of a universal reality, or a reflection of a universal desire to excuse the rest of us from not having the strength to do what they did?”

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

Kenzo was silent a moment as he thought. “I believe that most sentient beings have a desire to be part of something larger than themselves. And I believe that history left long enough untouched becomes fable and legend. The figure here? I would hazard a guess that she is an amalgamation of several or even many individuals. It just becomes easier to wrap them all up in one than to keep all the names straight.”

Hyrushi, Governor

Catilyn laughed. “Well there is that too.” She turned her head slightly, picking up the sounds in the room and the pattern of sound and movement. “I think I’m ready to attempt the stairs now.” She slipped her hand more securely onto his arm and turned with remarkable accuracy in the direction of the stairs. It was a product of an excellent memory of his description of the room, and the unmistakable sound of footsteps ascending and descending on the stairs.

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

“Oh, my dear Ms. Dillon… we do not take the stairs. Security here is some of the best on the entire planet. No no… when you want to go to our box, just let me know and we will beam directly there. No door, no stairs… just private seats and an uninterrupted flow of music.”

Hyrushi, Governor

Why did her pulse race when he said that? It certainly wasn’t fear. She smiled, tipping her head up at him. “In that case, I am ready. If it would be beneficial for you to mingle some first, I do not mind.” She was aware that he was always a public figure. This might be a date, but his obligations never left him.

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

Kenzo smiled slightly and said “My obligations can be paused from time to time…” He tapped his wrist communicator and said “We are ready to go to our seats.” He then said “One moment.” He took her hand, and the familiar sensation of being transformed into energy and back filled them both.

Caitlyn felt like a teenager as the wave of delight swept her at the idea that Kenzo was putting aside his obligations to spend time with her. She wasn’t surprised by the consideration, but it pleased her all the same.

They materialized in their private box. Kenzo took a moment to describe their location, and then guided her to her seat. It was plush, overstuffed, and luxurious. “Would you like a drink?” he asked.

Hyrushi, Governor

Caitlyn let out the breath she’d unknowingly held as they were transported. She never really liked it. It wasn’t that she was afraid of transporters or felt sick after. It was just the sudden change in location was disorienting. It wasn’t nearly as bad with Kenzo there. Now she did sound like a teenager and she grinned at herself. “A drink would be lovely.” Her hand slipped gently from his arm, giving away her reluctance to let him go.

The seat was luxurious and excessively comfortable. The material felt rich beneath her fingers. She could hear the sounds from the stage already as people moved about setting up seats and instruments. The acoustics of Kenzo’s box were superb. “Do you ever get used to it?” she asked. “The security, I mean. It’s novel to me to sit in a theatre box with no doors and such absolute privacy, but does it ever wear on you?”

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

Kenzo ordered champagne and some lite hors’dourves and then sat next to her. “I suppose it should, but I grew up with diplomats and then was a mediator between opposing factions during the war; so I suppose I have become inured to it. It’s always been there…” and he returned his face to fully look at her, knowing the change in his voice would let her know he was looking at her. “Except when I make sure I have privacy, like tonight.”

Hyrushi, Governor

Caitlyn’s eyes took on a softer look. She was suddenly filled with awe and quiet delight. It wasn’t so long ago that even the thought of beinng so securely in privacy with someone was paralyzing. Instead she felt relaxed and hopefully anticipating the evening.

“It took me awhile to get used to all the security at The House. I was greatful for it. I felt safe for the first time in years, but it was an adjustment always having someone near by, watching everything. Except they were the good guys and I didn’t have to question their motives.” Though she had.

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

“That…” Kenzo said somewhat wistfully, “… would be quite the thing, I think. Not having to soft through clues to determine motives.” He sat his hand on here and said “Present company excluded, of course. I look forward to learning all I can about you, Ms. Dillon.”

Hyrushi, Governor

Caitlyn smiled, a little thrill racing through her. “I’m flattered.” She really was, that a man like Kenzo, for everything he faced, didn’t question her motives. “Though I wouldn’t be offended if you did wonder. It took awhile before I could learn to trust anyone gain.” She set a hand over his. “If I may be so bold, I am glad that I did, so that I would have the opportunity to get to know you and be able to let you know me.”

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

“A journey I am looking forward to with great anticipation.” he said and then shifted in his seat as the curtain parted and an Andorian male stepped forward. He was dressed in a tuxedo and smiled at the audience.

The rustle of the heavy fabric and the sudden hish drew Caitlyn’s attention in front of them. A thrill of excitement dashes through her.

“Greetings one and all. I am Symphony Orcestra Director Gre’as, and on behalf of the entire staff and performers I would like to welcome you to the first ever public presentation of the modern classic Vulcan symphony ‘D’uhat Mek’tol’. Maestro Julpheta went through a great deal of effort to bring this to Oed V, up to and including having the composer herself come to Oed V and work with our symphony.” He paused for a moment and then said “And we would be remiss if we did not thank our wonderfully generous patrons for making all of this possible with their continued support and friendship.” The audience gave a polite applause and then the Director said “And we are most fortunate to ight that our own dear Governor Kenzo B’tren-Hyrushi has taken time from his schedule to join us!” and he gestured to the box as the crowd clapped. Hyrushi stood for a moment, bowed slightly to the crowd and then to the Director, and then took his seat setting Caitlyn’s hand back on his.

Caitlyn let her hand slip from his as he stood. She was content to sit in the shadow while he did his duty. She wouldn’tknow exactly where to face or wave anyway feom this distance, and it would be awkward if she inadvertentlyoffended.

“And now… without further ado… D’uhat Mek’tol.” He stepped behind the curtain and then the sound of instrumental warming up could be heard. As the curtain rose, the distinctive click click click of the conductor’s baton could be heard and the first swell of music began.

Hyrushi, Governor

A soft deeply inhaled breath that was held, told easily of her anticipation as the clicks sounded. Caitlyn was enthralled by the music. Wholey focused on the experience. The notes and vibrations danced across her skin. Occasionally her head would turn as she caught some detail that the acoustics of the theater amplified and she would sigh with delight.

Music told a story, and Caitlyn was wrapped up in the emotions and tale. She knew Vulcans would say it was illogical to say their music evoked emotions, and should be experienced for its technicalities. She felt it though, the emotions the musicians poured into their instruments.

When Maestro Julpheta began to play, Caitlyn’s hand tightened on Kenzo’s and she leaned forward. Caitlyn had listened so much to her music she recognized the unique tremble that was a signature of her music.

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

It started slowly, the music, with the softness of flutes and Vulcan lyres; but soon it was joined by the woodwinds… and then the strings… and then the brass… and then culminating with the percussion section. As the symphony moved along, so did the tempo and the complexity. After a few minutes it was a tidal wave of music that had the audience raptured and wide-eyed. And then suddenly, to some almost painfully, it stopped. It didn’t trail off, either. It was akin to dropping out of warp with no inertial dampeners. No one spoke or moved for many, many long moments. And then slowly, the musicians started to put away their instruments. People in the audience began to stir. Some were crying, and some were angry. “You can’t just stop! It’s not over!” yelled a Tellerite male as his mate tried desperately to pull him back down to his seat. “How dare you stop!” yelled another. Raised voices and sobs and confusion swept through the crowd.

Caitlyn was leaned forward in her seat, enraptured by the sounds. She sat frozen for a moment in the total silence, waiting. But nothing came except the grumblings of the audience. A cliffhanger. It was rare in a piece of music. It was glorious. Caitlyn wondered if there would be another symphony to follow this one. To give closure to the story it was telling. She smiled as the noise from the audience reached her. She wasn’t laughing at them, but she found the emotion that the piece had invoked beautiful. Her lids fluttered closed as she held onto the feelings of the music, disappointed that it was over, but savoring the experience. She wished it could have gone on for just a few more minutes.

Kenzo squeezed Caitlyn’s hand and said “Don’t move. Just… just wait.” and he pressed her hand against his. Just as the crowd was seemingly about to riot, the musicians, in complete synchronicity, dropped the empty instrument cases and picked up their instruments and began playing as if the past one or two minutes has never happened. The music instantly filled the chamber and the crowd erupted into applause. Kenzo looked at Caitlyn and smiled; a deep and sincere smile, even though he knew she would never see it.

Hyrushi, Governor

Warmth tingled up her arm from their clasped hands. Her head tipped toward him as he spoke and she nodded, a soft smile warming her face as he held her hand. There was a strange thump that drew her brows together, “What was that?” she asked softly. Then the music began again. Caitlyn gasped, her other hand resting over her heart in surprise, her other hand squeezing his. Her delight was clear. She laughed softly at the trick the composer had played on the audience. Well everyone except Kenzo. Apparently he had known. Her face turned towards his for a moment. Was there anything he didn’t know?

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

Kenzo tapped an icon on the arm of his chair and one-way privacy field filled the front of the box. He and Caitlyn could see out, but no one could see in. He turned his face to hers and then, without so much as a sound, he kissed her very softly on the lips. He didn’t press or try to make the moment anything that it wasn’t. He just…

… kissed her.

Hyrushi, Governor

Caitlyn felt more than heard the slight buzz of the field. A small line formed between her brows as she tried to figure out the change in the air. She wasn’t given much time to contemplate it before she felt Kenzo’s lips on her own. Caitlyn stilled for half a heartbeat in surprise before she kissed him back just as gently. Her other hand tentatively found his arm and brushed upwards to rest on his shoulder. Caitlyn was sure Kenzo could hear her heart racing louder than the percussion of the orchestra.

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

He held the kiss for a long moment and then slowly pulled away. He was quiet a moment and then said “That is something I think I could grow accustomed to.” He leaned back and took down the field. He knew the longer it was up the more the gossip rags would make a ‘story’ of it.

Hyrushi, Governor

Caitlyn could feel warmth rush to flush her skin. That kiss and his words left her a little lost for her own. “As could I.” Which was wholly shocking to her, but in a good way. She felt him sit back into his seat and she did the same.

When the field came down, there was that buzz in the air again, drawing her brows together. She leaned toward him slightly. “Kenzo? What is that? Something buzzed the air. Like… like a soft static shock.” She hoped he didn’t think she was being fanciful or flirting about her attraction to him. Whatever it was was something external.

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

“Privacy field. What occurs between you and I isn’t fodder for the tabloids. I intend to keep that private as much as possible.” He looked at her intently for a moment and then added “Not because I am embarrassed by your companionship, of course. But because I simply do not want you to have to deal with the rigors of public scrutiny… at least, as long as possible.”

Hyrushi, Governor

Caitlyn smiled gently and squeezed his hand, “I never thought you were, and I’m flattered you told me so anyway.” Her other hand moved to rest over their joined hands. “Thank you for our privacy.” Caitlyn knew going out with Kenzo would mean being in the public eye, that there would be media and questions. She was nervous about it, but she felt it was worth it. Kenzo was used to such scrutiny, which made his consideration and care mean all the more.

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

He stared at her for a long moment before turning his head and facing the music once again.

As the symphony started towards the finale, Kenzo saw… felt… attention focused on them. His head never turned, but black eyes flicked to the side. Across the expanse of the audience, in the main balcony, he saw a single individual with a small vid cam pointed at them. He sighed softly and said quietly “Excuse me a moment.” He shifted slightly in his seat as he pulled out his personal communicator. Caitlyn heard the same strange language from the shuttle, and soon Kenzo was back to his previous position.

Hyrushi, Governor

Caitlyn nodded, “Of course,” she whispered softly. She was leaned towards the edge of her seat. Enthralled in the music, she was unaware of what Kenzo had sensed and seen.

She heard the strange language. And turned her face towards him, “Do you need to leave?” She asked quietly.

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

“No no… nothing so pressing.” he said softly. His eyes stayed focused on the orchestra, even as several human men of Asian ethnicity walked down the aisles of the main balcony and stop in front of the camera holder. One of the men leaned down and said something to the man. There was a small verbal exchange and the man started to stand up and say something… quite loudly… but then the original speaker moved slightly. The man’s voice was cut off and he was escorted back up the aisle and out of the auditorium.

Caitlyn smiled, letting her hand search for and find his again. She sighed softly at the music, her eyes closing to fully take in the experience.

Hyrushi made sure to not react in anyway to the slight commotion, but he knew that Caitlyn had probably heard something.

Hyrushi, Governor

She had heard something, but wasn’t able to make out exactly what was said. When Kenzo didn’t react, she assumed it was just someone rudely moving about loudly in the audience. Perhaps it was too soon, but she trusted him to make sure she wasn’t hurt if something was wrong. She returned her attention to last movement of the music.

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

Kenzo watched the rest of the symphony in silence, periodically looking at Caitlyn and then back out at the musicians. As the final grand crescendo filled the hall and slowly faded away, the audience rose to their feet and applauded. The sound was cacophonous, and Kenzo looked at Caitlyn to make sure it wasn’t too much.

Hyrushi, Governor

As the last strains of music faded, Caitlyn sighed blissfully. Setting her hands against the arm of her chair she rose. She was careful to stay at her seat, as she wasn’t sure how far away the railing was. Her applause joined the riot of sound. It was deafening, but every member of the symphony deserved the accolades. Anyone who was trying to take pictures would capture the absolute delight on her face.

When the noise finally faded, she turned slightly toward Kenzo and stretched out her hand to find her seat again. Her delight grew brighter as she faced him and sought out his hand again. “Thank you, Kenzo. This was magnificent. The performance was astounding.” Caitlyn had always wanted to hear Maestro Julpheta perform in person. It was a wish come true. More moving than she had inagined. She squeezed his hand again. “Thank you for bringing me.”

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

“It was entirely for my own pleasure, I assure you.” Kenzo said with an audible smile to his voice. “I doubt I would have even thought about attending had it not been for you.” He squeezed her hand back and then stood up. “Come. We have an appointment with Maestro Julpheta, and I don’t wish to keep her waiting.” He helped her to her feet and said “We will transport in five seconds.” A few seconds later, the feeling of energy surrounding them surged and they vanished from the box.

Excitement raced through Caitlyn. Kenzo had said they would meet the Maestro, but, well, it was a wish come true. Shestood as he helped her up a d nodded, counting the seconds in her head until she felt the transporters energy.

They appeared in a room with three transporter pads. Kenzo looked around and then took Caitlyn’s hand. “One step down.” and he guided her down the step and put the door. They entered a large, salon-like room where the Maestro and a few of her staff were waiting. “Governor Hyrushi. Thank you so much for coming.” she said. Kenzo inclined his head and said “Maestro Julpheta, may I introduce Ms. Caitlyn Dillon.”

Hyrushi, Governor

Caitlyn’s hand was firm and unyielding as she took the one step down, holding onto him for stability. After that her hand stayed steady, but light on his arm. Her mi d whirling to take in what she could perceive as they moved through this new area. She had no idea where she was or how to find an exit. It was frightening, but the feel of his arm beneath her hand was reassuring.

There was a child like giddy swirl and awe that raced through Caitlyn. It was said to never meet your heros, but Caitlyn had met enough real heros to not be hesitant. Maestro Julpheta was amazing and inspiring. She had been hurt in a brutal attack, loosing part of her hearing on the left side, but the control of her left hand and feeling in 3 of the fingers. And yet she played like a goddess.

Caitlyn’s head turned trying to pinpoint her location. “It is such a pleasure to meet you and your staff, Maestro Julpheta. The performance was simply evocative.” Caitlyn was a bit awe struck, but she had plenty of experience talking, or serving, famous people, and she hid her awe behind delightful poise.

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

“You humble me, Madame Dillon.” Julpheta said, the smile on her face coming through in her words. “Now then, Governor. What did you think?” Kenzo inclined his head and said “A flawless performance, without a doubt.” Julpheta laughed and said “Ah typically political answer, Governor. You know, someday I will find a piece to make you give more than a diplomatic answer.” Kenzo gave her a non-committal look and said “Of that I have no doubt.” Julpheta laughed again and the said to Caitlyn “Careful with this one, Madame. He is far too smooth for his own good ” and they laughed again

Hyrushi, Governor

Caitlyn didn’t agree at all. She thought Kenzo was refined and charming. She wouldn’t outright disagree with the woman though. “Perhaps,” she said. Kenzo was smooth, but she didn’t think it was too much. “He knows how much I admire you and your work.”

“A better compliment I could not wish for, coming from an artist such as yourself.” Julpheta said sincerely.

Caitlyn smiled warmly, “Thank you.”

“The Concertino in the second movement was thrilling. I understand the Bajoran Belaklavion is extremely difficult to master. I’ve never heard one played in person before. It was passionate and mesmerizing.”

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

Bump

She nodded and said “It is true. I know very few players of the instrument myself personally; and I know even fewer who can play it well. Those that can play no other instrument. They said the time it would take to learn how to play at a level they desired would mean they would never be able to play the Bleaklavion well at all.” Julpheta replied. “It demands musician’s entire attention.”

“Please pass on my delight of the movement to the rest of your orchestra. They are all truly very talented.” Caitlyn had enjoyed the music all most as much as her escort - which was quite a bit. She engaged Julpheta in conversation, not just about the music. When relaxed, Caitlyn seemed to draw people to her and enjoyed being social without the need to be the center of attention.

Hytushi listened as the two accomplished women spoke and exchanged thoughts. After about ten minutes, Julpheta said “Caitlyn- may I call you that?-“

“Yes of course, please do.”

“I am so appreciative of your time this evening. Please, I would love to have lunch with you sometime, if you are available?”

Hyrushi, Governor

Caitlyn smiled, “I would be delighted. I will leave you my comm signal.” She was composed, but inside, Kenzo could feel her absolute delight, almost giddiness. It had nothing to do with the fact she was going to have lunch with someone she admired so greatly. It was all because of the simple request to have lunch with her. It had been so long since she’d truly been active outside of her small group of people. Since she’d done anything social. It was something so very normal, but it felt like another victory to her.

It was all because he had been so thoughtful as to introduce her. Her hand flexed gently against his arm with gratitude. For helping her have this opportunity, for his quiet support.

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

Bump

Julpheta smiled and said “Excellent! I am so looking forward to it. Now, if you will excuse me, I have some patrons I am required to suck up to.” and she laughed. She looked at the Governor and said “Kenzo… please come again. We do so enjoy playing for you. And tell Dorma thank you for the dim sum! We ate it all and it was delicious!” She leaned in and air-kissed one cheek and then the other. “I will let her know, of course. And I will see you soon, I am certain.” Hyrushi replied. He set his hand on Caitlyn’s and said “Are you ready? We can go to dinner now, if you like.”

Hyrushi, Governor

Caitlyn’s hand tightened on his arm. “Yes, I’m ready.” Caitlyn’s grip stayed firm as Kenzo led her through the unfamiliar halls of the theatre. “Thank you, Kenzo. This was wonderful.” Kenzo was a confident guide and that bolstered Caitlyn’s confidence. She worried very little over possibly misstepping, and not at all about tripping over something or someone.

Dillon, Director, The House Sanctuary

Bump

Bump