07-10-2025, 07:43 PM
(This post was last modified: 07-10-2025, 07:58 PM by Beno Velaul.)
“Excuse me, Commander,” Jez said, her tone measured yet firm. “Perhaps we should consider taking a brief recess—something to eat, a moment to recalibrate. A fresh perspective might serve us well.”
Beno paused, regarding her colleague. Jez was right. It wasn’t unusual for Beno to become so focused on progress that she overlooked the necessity of reflection. “My associate speaks wisely,” Beno continued. “We also have updates that must be transmitted to our respective command structures.” It was protocol, but more than that—it was essential. Both people understood the implications of every development. The President was still operating under the assumption that the Federation posed an immediate threat, though recent intelligence suggested otherwise.
Crucially, the Captain needed confirmation that the Ambassador was alive and in stable condition. That alone could reframe the entire situation and bring them closer to a diplomatic resolution. Any use of force at this juncture would not only compromise that objective but risk portraying the Federation as the aggressor. That perception would be detrimental. If Beno could present the new intelligence first—clearly, credibly—it would place her, and their delegation, in a position of strength.
“There is one more matter,” Beno said, turning toward Reese. She accepted the case he had carried since their arrival and opened it with deliberate care. Inside rested a bottle of fifty-year-old Scotch.
“I brought a tribute,” she said, her voice calm and respectful. “A token of friendship and mutual respect. I recognize that true diplomacy begins with gestures, not demands.” The offering was strategic, yes—but it was also sincere. It underscored her intent to facilitate peace on the planet, even if integration into the Federation would not occur immediately. That step could come in time, and if it did, it would be on more solid, equitable terms. The pause would also allow Beno the opportunity to confer with her team. Their insight would be invaluable. She was too enmeshed in the situation—too close to see every angle. And in diplomacy, clarity was everything.
==Tag and GM input please==
Beno paused, regarding her colleague. Jez was right. It wasn’t unusual for Beno to become so focused on progress that she overlooked the necessity of reflection. “My associate speaks wisely,” Beno continued. “We also have updates that must be transmitted to our respective command structures.” It was protocol, but more than that—it was essential. Both people understood the implications of every development. The President was still operating under the assumption that the Federation posed an immediate threat, though recent intelligence suggested otherwise.
Crucially, the Captain needed confirmation that the Ambassador was alive and in stable condition. That alone could reframe the entire situation and bring them closer to a diplomatic resolution. Any use of force at this juncture would not only compromise that objective but risk portraying the Federation as the aggressor. That perception would be detrimental. If Beno could present the new intelligence first—clearly, credibly—it would place her, and their delegation, in a position of strength.
“There is one more matter,” Beno said, turning toward Reese. She accepted the case he had carried since their arrival and opened it with deliberate care. Inside rested a bottle of fifty-year-old Scotch.
“I brought a tribute,” she said, her voice calm and respectful. “A token of friendship and mutual respect. I recognize that true diplomacy begins with gestures, not demands.” The offering was strategic, yes—but it was also sincere. It underscored her intent to facilitate peace on the planet, even if integration into the Federation would not occur immediately. That step could come in time, and if it did, it would be on more solid, equitable terms. The pause would also allow Beno the opportunity to confer with her team. Their insight would be invaluable. She was too enmeshed in the situation—too close to see every angle. And in diplomacy, clarity was everything.
==Tag and GM input please==