Posted by Civilian Griget Kek (Vren Ambassador) in Farmer’s Market- Casual Saturday Diplomacy

Posted by Civilian Jeannette Mathis (Federation Ambassador) in Farmer’s Market- Casual Saturday Diplomacy

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Mathis took these details in stride and it was a very good thing to remember when it came to the Vren. Their sense of justice approached things from a different place, and that was an important perspective to keep in mind as they went forward with negotiations. “I can see how that would shape your sense of situations, including the one here,” she said, reaching for a silver ring with twisted braids. There were several dark green stones alternating around the braid and she thought it was something Ren might love. Perhaps an anniversary gift?

“What I hope you will keep in mind is that your offer of restitution was accepted,” she said, mindful not to speak in details of it aloud. “In our mind, we begin in an equal position now, and one where we can help figure out solutions to a difficult issue for you. That, I believe, is the ultimate show of faith on both our parts.”

Jeannette Mathis, Federation Ambassador

“Equals.” Kek said and then was silent a moment. “Our society is very caste-centric, so that concept is hard for me to grasp at times; but I believe that is a good place to start, yes.” He looked at the vendor and said “I admire most great your art. Please… select a few pieces that I may take home as gifts.” The head and shoulders of the Vren Ambassador turned slowly towards Mathis. ” And please include that ring. The Ambassador seems to have likening to it.”

Kek - Vren Ambassador

Gifts could be a delicate and tricky area in diplomacy, but her instincts told her that this was nothing more than. a kind gesture. An important one too. Jeanette bowed her head. “That is very kind of you, I’m honoured. I was thinking my spouse might like it. They are an artist themselves and rarely wear jewellery on their hands, but they will for special events. We do tend to have more than a few of those with my line of work,” Mathis said, smiling.

The artisan flushed with both pride and the sheer adrenaline of having such an important event taking place right now before her. “I’m very happy to do so Ambassador,” she said to Kek, trying hard not to stare before she zipped into action, gathering boxes and bags to hold the items. In total, there was a bracelet, two intricate necklaces in differing styles, a larger arm cuff, and the ring Mathis was inspecting. She put it all in a cloth bag and offered it to Kek. “I hope those who are the recipients of the gifts enjoy them.”

Jeannette Mathis, Federation Ambassador

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“You brings great joy to many with your art. Thanks from me on their behalf.” Kek said. It was odd but for as… well… ‘alien’ as Kek appeared, there was something familiar about his voice. Something that seemed to underly everything he said. It was hard to place, but when one did place it, it was impossible to ignore.

Sincerity.

Kek never said things to just say them or for courtesy’s sake. No, his words were always meant. They may not have been said in the most accurate fashion, but the sincerity in the emotions behind those words was ever present.

Kek - Vren Ambassador

Mathis had been around her fellow Ambassador long enough to have picked up some of the more nuanced aspects to his demeanour and instinctively felt that this moment was important. She let it have the resonance that it demanded and then moved along through the market some more, carrying her little package with the ring she was thrilled to give to her spouse on behalf of Kek. “I know we’ve already touched on art and cultural expression, but I was curious if you yourself engaged in any of it, or if that’s the realm of certain people in Vren society.”

Jeannette Mathis, Federation Ambassador

“We haves an artist caste.” he said matter-of-factly. “But their role is much important in Vren culture. The ability to craft and create art, to us, is a precious gift. The artist caste is the only caste in our society that one cannot be born into. And you have to be invited into it by the members of it. Therefore the artist caste is the most diverse caste in Vren society. It is the also the only caste that does not have membership in our government. We believe that politics would serve to restrain the creativity of the artist.” He was quiet a moment and then said “When I was a youngling, I desired to be an artist. Sad for me, but I do not have any talent in that arena.”

Kek - Vren Ambassador

Jean smiled. “Neither do I, sadly. Fortunately my spouse has enough for both of us. They are very gifted with sculpting with clay. They’ve been talking about teaching some classes now that we are getting more settled on Oed.”

As they walked, she considered Kek. “I’m curious about this artist caste. If it is by invite only, who decides who gets in or has enough talent to be an artist? In many societies I’ve encountered art if often very subjective.”

Jeannette Mathis, Federation Ambassador