U.S.S. Charon
Transporter Room
“Diplomacy’s Reward”
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“Shall we”, Lamont asked stepping up onto the transporter pad. Commodore Rehu was quiet and simply took a spot near the ambassador who was clothed in full diplomatic regalia.
“Energize”, the commodore ordered as the pair vanished in a sparkling cloud of blue particles.
== Lyrillian Surface ==
Commodore Rehu and Ambassador Lamont rematerialized on Lyrillia at the center of a large stone amphitheater which appeared to have been cut out of a small hill on the Lyrillian plain. Reminiscent of the old world Greek theaters back on Earth, Lamont was stunned at the number of people that had assembled. His time to marvel at the crowds however was limited given the task before them. Moving forward he and the commodore were greeted by Grand Proctor Ohoni and several of the other ranking proctors and their delegations. At the center of the theater sat a large stone table adored with a rainbow of flowers and decorations.
To signify their friendship as a result of the savior of Lyrillia and to officially consummate the relationship in an official capacity, Lamont had drafted an official treaty of relations between Lyrillia and the Federation. While non-binding, the treaty was a formal document which would set in place the initial foundation for normalized relations and serve as an official record of the mutual friendship that had developed between the Charon and the Lyrillian people.
Ohoni had promised a grand stage on which to commemorate the signing of the document, but Lamont had never imagined a gathering of such magnitude. In the clapping, ecstatic crowds were both Lyrillians and Starfleet crew who had arrived to witness the event.
As the initial greetings and pleasantries were made, Commodore Rehu and the Grand Proctor were seated as Lamont produced two large sheets of manila parchment. The official papers bore the Federation crest and text embossed in silver and gold. Producing two official ink pens, Lamont handed one of each to the Commodore and to the Proctor.
For a moment, the crowd went silent as the two signed their copy of the documents. Then, the documents were exchanged and they signed the documents again producing two identical copies. One copy would remain with the Lyrillians and the other would be taken back to the Charon. As the two finished signing, Lamont stepped over and penned his name in practiced script making both documents complete. Holding up one document he carefully inserted it into a fine wooden case and presented it to the Grand Proctor.
A cheer rang out as the delegation shook hands and bowed exchanging pleasantries over the din of the joyous crowds. The Grand Proctor, after much work, finally quieted the crowds where he delivered a few words regarding their new relations with their Federation friends.
After another rousing cheer Lamont took the stage to speak. He couldn’t help notice the eyes of the Commodore upon him watching like a parent of an infant child. Lamont felt the need to keep the speech short, succinct, and simple.
“Let me first begin by thanking the Lyrillian people for their overwhelming hospitality, friendship, and patience duringthe recent crisis and beyond. It is immensely gratifying to see our two peoples united by the bond of friendship. I am sure that this day will be long remembered by both the crew of the Charon and indeed the Lyrillian people for some time. Let us take a brief moment and remember those brave individuals Lyrillian and Starfleet alike who sacrificed so much to achieve a miracle and save a planet and its people from certain destruction.” Lamont paused for a moment to reflect on his own experiences here on Lyrillia.
“As a result of the effort and sacrifices of so many Lyrillia is once again safe and its people free from worry and fear. In addition we have gathered here today to signify the adversity that has blossomed under the harshest of circumstances into a friendship between peoples that would have otherwise never occurred. Such relationships are rare and indeed precious things. It is our sincere hope that this is just the first step of a long and prosperous relationship between the Federation and the Lyrillian people and one that will endure long after recent events are distant memories and dusty pages on the grand texts of history.”
“May the wisdom of the Teachers continue to bless and serve the Lyrillian people and we the crew of the Charon look forward to the time when we can visit our new friends again. Thank you.”
A deafening cheer rose up from the assembled crowd. Lamont stood with a large smile of satisfaction before the cheering citizens and crewmen as two shuttlecraft streaked over the theater above. Fireworks exploded high in the dark Lyrillian sky casting a multicolored glow upon the theater and those in attendance who clapped and shouted at the festivities that had been assembled.
The Lyrillians had assembled a massive farewell banquet to thank the crew of the Charon for their assistance with the fireworks signifying the beginning of a long night of food, song, and revelry. Leaving the podium, Lamont was passed a glass of some unusually colored Lyrillian beverage which according to the grand proctor was very old and only served on occasions of high significance. Accepting the glass, the proctor had a few words for those assembled as the group enjoyed the strong drink which was akin to a syrup-like wine.
With festivities, food, music, and song spread out in all directions Lamont could scarcely believe its magnitude. Memories of his college fraternity days suddenly floated into his consciousness as he smiled. His old fraternity brothers could have never dreamed of a celebration on such a scale. Lamont finally could say he was glad he had been posted to the Charon. After the altercation with the captain and his original disdain from being pulled away from his career he could honestly say he could think of no other place he would rather be than to be here, now, and alive after his recent brush with mortality.
Ensuring that the recently signed paperwork had been safely beamed back to the Charon for safekeeping, Lamont joined the celebrations determined to live in the moment for as long as it lasted.
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Ambassador Ian Lamont
Diplomatic Advisor, USS Charon
