Klingon Press Conference
Episode Name: Klingon Press Conference Written By: shaft Cast: Albertz, Alexi, Cerene, Churas, Gr'laH, Ha'nuQ, Javits, Meridian
and Shaft. Produced By: Starfleet Directed By: Shaft Aired On: Sun Apr 27 19:05:02 2003 Stardate: 53173.4
Time: Sun Apr 27 16:07:22 2003
Stardate: 53173.1
Press from the various Sector news services crowd the front of the Auditorium. The podium displaying a crimson banner set with the black trefoil of the Klingon Empire awaits the speaker who is no doubt soon to arrive. The room is somewhat sparse where press and official functionaries are not clustered, as it seems few of the crew find much interest in listening to diplomats speak. At the appointed moment, there is a sound of movement from the wings of the stage, and two massive Klingons begin moving towards the podium. One is aging with salt and peper hair, a single arm, and a single eye. The other is a young female, as yet younger than her prime, and powerful nonetheless. It is the older of the two that makes his way to the podium, patiently allowing a moment for the press to snap some photographs, right their holocameras, and otherwise prepare for his presence.
Albertz sneaks into the auditorium, practically slinking. He selects a seat near the back of the room and sits down, settling in and waiting for the conference to start.
Meridian remains seated, his back slightly reclined in the chair, hands clasped in his lap. His face shows very little emotion, and his gaze is directed straight at the two Klingons at the podium.
Churas stands a step or two back and off to the side a few steps from Gr'laH, arms hanging loosely and comfortably at her sides. She lapses into a sort of statue-like stillness so visible that it's almost like a switch was flipped. She was in motion, now she's not. Churas is not, it would seem, prone to fidgeting in the least.
"Warriors of the Empire, Honored Allies, Peoples of the Galaxy. I greet you. I am Ambassadorial Aide Fleet Captain Gr'laH son of Go'laH, aide to Ambassador Avok, the Empire's represantative to the Federation within the Dulcais Sector. Recent months have seen a steady and dramatic rise of border tensions between our great Empire and our nearest hostile neighbor, the fleets and military forces of the United Nausicaan Alliance. Our two peoples have shared generations of conflict, countless years of strife and piracy, untold numbers of dead and maimed, and all of this outside of the more Honorable venue of open and forthright War. Individual Houses within the Empire made their profit from the disorganized and decentralized feudal states on Nausicaa III, playing Warlord against Warlord, attaining the good graces of one for raids against another."
"The days of such profiteering and brinksmanship are at an end. The United Nausicaan Alliance is the unquestioned authority of their Space. They have informed us of this in word and deed. They have shown this to us against the Fleets of House Kang and the IKDF, and what's more, they are not our Enemy. Enemies are faced honorably and at war. We do not wish for War with Nausicaa. I repeat this again so that all might hear me say it: Supreme Chancellor Martok, the Klingon High Council, the Command Structure of the IKDF, its Fleet Captains, its Captains, its Commanders, its Ground Combatants-- from the Highest Authority to the Lowest Infantryman --do not desire war with the United Nausicaan Alliance."
"Every push for war, ever misstep, every raise in tensions was provoked, encouraged, or caused directly by a single House within the Empire, a House I am pleased to inform the peoples of the Galaxy, can no longer be named. An old and Noble House, its leader was responsible for placing the late Ambassador B'val into a position to push for war, and then murdering her as I was preparing to close the noose about the neck of her treacheries against The Supreme Chancellor. Moreover, it was responsible for manipulating the House of Kang into its attack against Nausicaa, where several hundred Nausicaans were taken prisoner in retribution for an attack on a Kang dilithium mine though to have been perpetrated by the UNA. A just response by our laws, were that the case. However, it was /not/ the United Nausicaan Alliance, it was this house -- whose armies are now destroyed, whose leaders have been punished, and whose members have all been discommendated and jailed -- that was responsible for that attack against their mines. As such, House Kang is prepared to release its prisoners in order to secure the release of the remaining IKDF personnel still held on Nausicaa III in the wake of the most recent battle between our two star powers. I remain hopeful that Ambassador Zuh'raah'do, in the interests of peace and goodwill within the Sector, will submit to the warranted and reasonable demands of the Kang that we might return the currently improsoned people of our nations to their rightful homes within our respective nations."
"Peace between The United Nausicaan Alliance and the Klingon Empire is, today, a reality should Ambassador Zuh'raah'do and President Gr'raak'ta desire it. We have paved the way for peace. We have honorably met every request made of us, in good will, unwaveringly. We, as yet, await their answers."
There is a pause before he continues.
"This House was, moreover, responsible for the smuggling of weapons to the Othan Sector of Romulan Space. We have informed out Allies of this fact, and have seen to it that those responsible for this destabilization of our relations were punished accordingly. The movement of weapons into that sector of space has ended. It was never our desire to provoke our allies through such shady and subversive methods."
"Concerning the matter of the treachery at Bak'TUR and the terrorist agenda of peoples within the Rynkan Confederacy, I say this: The Klingon Empire and the Imperial Klingon Defense Force are ready for open hostilities with those responsible for this blatant aggression, be it agents of some Teirian liberation front, or a direct assault by the Confederacy itself. Tens of thousands of innocents and Warriors died that die. I, myself, was present to see first hand the attrocity wrought through such methods. That we hunger for war should come as little surprise and be little reason for quarrel. Mothers and Children, the old and the infirm, members of your own governments and Officers of your own armed forces all perished that day. Bak'TUR was a cosmopolitain planet, frequented by foreign trade and tourism. The death of so many of our own with so many we Honor beside them is, at once, a testimony to the continued dedication of the Empire towards friendly relations with its neighbors and of the unity of our purposes in retribution for this assault. However."
"Due to the Federation's valiant service in the matter of a Joint Task Force that exposed so many plots against the rightful authority of the Supreme Chancellor, we have been obliged to extend to them the lesser favor of agreeing to Mediation between the Ferengi Alliance -- of which the Rynkan Confederacy is a part -- and the Klingon Empire. Justice will be served. We are adamant on this point. But justice need not come in the shape of War, at the end of a bat'leth, by the force of our armies. We are open to alternatives, and seek them even now."
"We have been criticized of late for are barbarity, for our thick-headedness, for our lack of wisdom, and for our excessive temerity. As a Warrior and a Klingon, I invite any who -- having heard of these matters -- wishes to step forward and challenge me on these points, do so. But as a Diplomat of my Empire, I say only this: Every promise we have made, and every statement given by the servants of the Chancellor have borne fruit. We give you the option of peace on two fronts, we give you an end to the unjust flow of weapons into Allied space. All of this, we give you. As neighbors, as brother Warriors, and as citizens of a greater Galaxy."
"As I told the soldiers of Martok's flagship not three days ago: Abide, and you shall know Success."
"I invite your questions."
Javits comes into the auditorium from the lower mall.
Javits has arrived.
Meridian rises to his feet, clapping loudly. He signals his intention to speak.
Javits pauses at the entry area, glancing about with a slight frown, then heads quietly down the center aisle to take a seat near the front.
Alexi comes into the auditorium from the lower mall.
Alexi has arrived.
Ha'nuQ comes into the auditorium from the lower mall.
Ha'nuQ has arrived.
Time: Sun Apr 27 16:33:08 2003
Stardate: 53173.2
Albertz's face expresses little if any reaction to Gr'laH's speech. He doesn't notice the trio of new arrivals, mulling over the diplomat's words as he is.
Ha'nuQ walks into the auditorium, and strides boldly down the steps, finding a seat as far to the front as he can. He nods to Gr'laH's speech as it is spoken.
Gr'laH lifts his chin as he spots a hand rising. He takes a moment to consider the manner of the man's dress before allowing the question to be asked with a simple recognition, "Ambassador."
Alexi quietly makes her way to a seat close to the exit, as she knows she's arriving late to the conference. The problems of alpha shift dragging out and all. Finding a seat, she sits and leans forward to pay some attention.
Churas continues to stand a step or two back and off to the side a few steps from Gr'laH, arms hanging loosely and comfortably at her sides. She does not fidget, nor applaud, merely nods her head a few times to her father's speech and waits. Her eyes flicker to Ha'nuQ as he strides down to the front, and then flicker away again, mouth setting into a thin line.
Meridian nods out of courteosy as the floor is deferred to him. He turns his upper body slightly as he reviews the assembled crowd of reporters from his station at the back of the auditorium, and waits for the cameras to focus in on him before continuing. In a clear, confident voice, heavily intoned with a feeling of satisfaction, he announces, "On behalf of the United Federation of Planets, the Federation Council, her member governments, and the people of this galaxy, I feel it imperative that I applaud these announcements made today on behalf of the Klingon Empire. These are truly honour-filled decisions made in the context of purporting ever-lasting peace in the galaxy. The Federation stands along side its most honourable ally, the Klingon Empire and denounces petty wars invoked by those who would bargain peace for profit. The Federation is most happy with your decisions regarding the Nausicaan people and especially regarding your decision to enter into mediation with the Ferengi people. I have the utmost confidence that we will be able to resolve all differences peacfully, honourably and without further bloodshed. Again, I applaud you." His hands clap together ferociously.
Ha'nuQ listens impassively, ignoring the stares of the humans. His gaze is fixed on Gr'laH, his expression solemn and proud.
Javits listens attentively to Gr'lah's statement as he seats himself, then turns his attention to Meridian as he speaks. Following the older human's lead, he begins to applaud as well.
Gr'laH appears briefly amused at the notion of everlasting peace, of course. Such things are of little interest to Klingons in the long-term, and no doubt considered an imposibility. But he does not seek to correct the Federation Ambassador, nor does he take exception with any other parts of the phrasings offered. Instead, he lifts his chin slightly and accepts the applause that the Ambassador sparks off, however polite it may be. When the applause has died away, Gr'laH lowers his chin from the reception of his accolades and offers Meridian a nod of the head. "Thank you, Ambassador! The Alliance grows strong by such words." His gaze travels the floor in search of another hand to call upon. "Further questions?"
From the farthest row back, Albertz raises his hand and remains silent until called upon.
Meridian recinds his applause as Gr'laH speaks. As he is acknowledged by his rank, he nods in response, and takes his seat again as the floor is opened to others. His hands once again come to rest in his lap, and his gaze flows around the room, looking for the next speaker.
Spotting the hand at the back, Gr'laH leans forward and squints with his single eye before admitting, "Forgive me, but I cannot make out your rank. However, please rise and speak. And introduce yourself, if you would. My sight isn't what it once was." Gr'laH pats his eye-patch with a grin, a fact that receives a few chuckles from the press corps.
Alexi glances to the next speaker, not far from where she's seated, and casually rests her chin in her hand.
Ha'nuQ swivels his head, not unlike a turret, to regard the man at the back. He seems to recognize him.
Churas remains silent and patient, possessed of a stillness that's possibly almost eerie, save that she nods her head appreciatively to the Ambassador's statement, and follows Gr'laH's gaze to the back of the auditorium, narrowing her eyes slightly as she does so. Whether that's an attempt to focus her gaze or for some other reason is not immediately evident.
Javits chuckles quietly at the Klingon's statement, then looks back over his shoulder, following Gr'laH's gaze.
Albertz stands as ordered, a slight smile on his lips at Gr'laH's self-effacing joke. "Ensign sir," he clarifies before continuing, "The decision to forgo direct conflict to give mediation an opportunity is certainly commendable, I'd imagine that such a decision was not taken lightly by your government. I'm curious as to what timetable the Empire is looking at, if they have one at all? When are talks to begin?"
Meridian looks over at the young ensign, his gaze cool and void of emotion as he speaks, save for a slight quiver of his eyes as the ensign fails to identify himself properly. He then looks to the front of the auditorium for a response.
"That would be the case, Ensign," Gr'laH responds without a pause for thought, "we take such attacks against our sovereign soil quite seriously. We made certain that preparations for war were concluded prior to accepting the Federation's offer of mediation. Before I answer your question directly, however, I wish to offer you the reasoning /for/ this, since you sound somewhat surrpised by it." Gr'laH pauses, turning to address the room in general. "The Joint Task Force responsible for uncovering the treacheries of that aforementioned house was comprised of Imperial Klingon Defense Force operatives, such as my Daughter Churas," Gr'laH gestures to the stoic female with his hand, "and members of Starfleet and the Federation Diplomatic Service. Two of your comrades fell in battle on this task force. Lieutenant Junior Grade Dana Rivers of San Francisco California, and Lieutenant Junior Grade Sulkat of London England. Moreover, these actions saw the loss of the Saber Class USS Scimitar, commanded by your now much mourned Captain Martin Rush. She was destroyed with all hands. Bringing the number of Federation dead in this matter to 42 officers and NCO's. Many of them little older than my own Daughter. Your finest, your bravest, and your youngest. Your future, Ensign." Gr'laH lets this settle into the audience for a moment before speaking more gravely. "With so many faithful souls weighing on us, so many able and Honorable Warriors calling to us from the gates of Sto-vo-kor, I answer you this: The dead demand expediency. Today would be too late to repay you this debt we have incurred in blood. Tomorrow, the soonest we could manage. Excellent question, Ensign." His gaze moves on, "Any further questions?"
Cerene comes into the auditorium from the lower mall.
Cerene has arrived.
Ha'nuQ nods from his seat down front, as if the older Klingon's most recent words are something he approves of.
Cerene quietly slips into the auditorium and makes her way towards the back, where Meridian is sitting.
Meridian looks to his left as a face familiar from his briefing notes approaches. He nods to Cerene and motions for her to sit, before returning his attention to the front of the room.
Albertz sits back down and looks around the room, wondering if there are going to be any more questions.
Javits turns back to face the front, a studious frown coming to his features as he listens to the question and answer, nodding faintly as if in concurrence.
Cerene slips around behind the chair indicated by Meridian, and puts her hand on the back of the chair as she leans in close to speak softly to him. Then she straightens back up and starts walking back towards the front of the room, towards the stage.
Cerene whispers to Meridian, "Good afternoon, Ambassador. I would be happy to join you here, but my presence has been requested up on stage for this conference. When the conference concludes, I will come find you once more so we can be properly introduced. Please excuse me."
Meridian leans back slightly in his chair to hear what the Legate has to say and nods his approval before she walks away.
"If there are no further questions, I offer the floor to the members of our Joint Task Force. Churas, Daughter of Gharas. And Aliana Cerene, First Legate of the Federation Diplomatic Service. Honor them, as Martok has Honored them, and as I cannot." One arm means no applause, after all. "Ladies and gentlemen of the Press, Honored Delegates, Brave Warriors of the Federation, the Heroes of the Hour!" Gr'laH steps back from the podium, gesturing first to Churas, then to the approaching Cerene as further applause begins to erupt in the auditorium.
Ha'nuQ's eyes go wide, for some reason, and he freezes in place, arms folded across his chest, and a distinctly uncomfortable look on his face.
Meridian applauds from his seat in the back with mild attention. He's said his piece already, and the important announcements seem to have passed.
Cerene turns to the side to face the crowd as she walks towards the stage, giving a quick wave of acknowledgement and a sheepish grin as she picks up her pace just a bit to get to the front of the room.
Ha'nuQ jerks a little, as he realizes he should be applauding, and does so, vigorously.
Albertz stands up and begins applauding, his vigour easily matching anyone else's in the room.
Javits joins in the applause, glancing towards Cerene as she ascends the stage.
Churas shifts slightly in place, her first bit of fidgeting shown so far. She clears her throat and nods her head again in acknowledgement of the applause, though she focuses her eyes on Cerene after a momentary glance to her father.
. o O Churas thinks "You talk. You talk. You're better at it than I am."
Cerene steps up on-stage and crosses the stage, shaking Gr'laH's hand vigorously and giving him a forceful pat on the shoulder with her other hand. She says something softly to him before turning and walking up to the podium.
Cerene whispers to Gr'laH, "Forgive my tardiness, I was held up by another matter... the President's visit has kept me rather busy. *chuckle* Thank you for the warm introduction, Gr'laH. I'm honored, as I have been a great deal recently, by your words."
Gr'laH shakes Cerene's hand no less vigorously, offering a chortle of amusement as the little Betazoid gives him a clap on the arm. He stoops in close to catch her words before straightening up with a broad smile. And then the photo opportunity of all photo opportunities is realized when Gr'laH stoops down lower still, releases a roar, and hefts Cerene from the ground in a one arm and one-stumped hug. Apparently her words got to the old grumbler. He spins the First Legate around once and sets her gently down before the podium, going so far as to ruffle her hair a bit. Awh. He then steps back from the podium to move beside Churas and rest a hand on her shoulder. Hee.
. o O Javits thinks "So that's what they meant by Klingon mascot."
Ha'nuQ looks up at the podium, trying very hard not to stare at the little Betazoid with something approaching religious awe. He fails. Miserably.
A uniformed crewman approaches Meridian in the back of the auditorium from behind and whispers something in his ear. The Ambassador nods and quietly rises, slipping out of the room behind the crewman.
Meridian passes through the wide doors and into the mall outside.
Meridian has left.
Albertz stifles a laugh at the mono-limbed Klingons reaction to the tiny diplomat.
Javits chuckles at the display on-stage, applauding briefly before resuming his usual quiet attentiveness.
When Cerene steps up to the platform, she looks just the slightest bit flustered, and she has a wry smirk on her lips and a sparkle in her eyes. "Thank you, Gr'laH, son of Go'laH, for that... warm introduction," she chuckles softly, glancing over at him for a moment before turning her attention back to the crowd in attendance. Somehow, though, she manages to regain her dignity quite quickly. "I am Legate Aliana Cerene, and I was the member of the Federation Diplomatic Corps assigned to this Task Force. As Gr'laH stated a moment ago, the aforementioned house's plot to take over the Klingon Empire has been responsible, in large part, for a great deal of the tension we've seen between the UNA and the Klingon Empire. With the attempt squashed, I am optimistic that the situation can be resolved far more peacefully." She pauses. "This could not have been accomplished, and these discoveries of treachery could not have been made, without the sacrifices of Lieutenant Rivers and Lieutenant Sulkat."
"It is somewhat fitting that, in the process of discovering this plot against the Klingon Empire, these two noble Starfleet officers did what every Klingon warrior hopes to do, and performed the greatest act that any member of Starfleet can perform: they gave their lives in service, to the Federation and to her allies. For that, we owe them our thanks. May their live, and the sacrifices they made, not be forgotten." She pauses once more, this time taking a sip of water from a glass on the podium.
Churas, who had roared laughter at her father's affectionate gestures toward Cerene -- clearly, by her grin, the Betazoid is a family favorite, to say the least -- turns her head to glance over at Gr'laH as he stands at her shoulder during Cerene's speech. She says nothing, and soon turns her attention back to the Legate, nodding her head at key points throughout.
. o O Churas thinks "This is why I like you. I kill things, you say nice things about it later. It works well."
Alexi slowly quirks her brow as she listens in silence, but just keeps doing just that.
Like the rest of the audience, Albertz listens in silence, his gaze shifting from diplomat to diplomat as they speak.
Gr'laH raises a brow at the notion of there having been a plot against the Empire as a whole, but to each their own interpretations. With Cerene having concluded her speech, however, Gr'laH is forced to move back to her side and impose himself upon her person. He leans down to murmur at her ear, whispering quietly. Shaft whispers to Cerene, "Time grows short, Aliana. Please conclude your statements."
Javits sits back comfortably in his seat, listening in silence to the Legate, glancing from her to the others on the stage.
Ha'nuQ is still looking up at Cerene with undisguised...something. He's just...well...staring.
Churas, glancing down at the Klingon in the audience, catches that stare. She looks from Ha'nuQ to Cerene, then over to Gr'laH, then back at Ha'nuQ indicatively, and clears her throat quietly before turning her attention fully back to Cerene.
. o O Churas thinks "Hmph."
Cerene glances over Churas' way, and gives the female warrior a small nod and a respectful smile, before turning back to the audience. She nods at Gr'laH's whisper before continuing. "When this Task Force was formed, our original mission was to investigate the murder of B'val. But what began as a murder investigation quickly became a search for a problem that ran much deeper, down into the very heart of the Empire. None of us had any idea, when we began, that this issue would be so far-reaching, or that it would become such a significant event in the diplomatic environment of this sector, and indeed, to the Klingon Empire itself."
"The Federation supports her ally during the Empire's internal restructuring, as they complete their efforts to purge the Empire of the remnants of this dishonorable plot. We applaud their efforts to normalize and stabilize relations with their neighbors, and recover from the actions committed by these traitors to the Empire."
Another sip of water, and then she smiles as she continues. "I also wish to thank Chancellor Martok for the way he honored our Task Force a few nights ago. I know I speak for Lieutenant Cristobal and myself when I say we are proud to have received the Klingon Imperial Star, and glad to have been able to assist him in rooting out this threat to the Empire." Pause. "Are there any questions?"
Javits sits up a little in his chair and raises his hand high.
Cerene inclines her head and hand toward Javits. "Go ahead, Lieutenant."
Javits stands, smoothing his uniform with a firm tug at he waist, then looks to the those on stage, the Legate in particular, "Thank you, Ma'am. For the record, I'm Lieutenant Junior Grade Nicolas Javits, Senior Structural Engineer. With regard to the task force, will it remain a viable asset to both and Klingon Empire and the Federation. If so, what are its future plans?"
. o O Javits thinks "Oh great, now my family is going to start sending me a million messages. Open mouth, insert boot."
Meridian comes into the auditorium from the lower mall.
Meridian has arrived.
Meridian slips back into the room as quietly as he can, moving to his former seat.
Gr'laH withdraws from Cerene's side, allowing her to field this question. He returns to the side of Churas, frowning slightly at something or other. What is is isn't exactly clear, of course.
Cerene turns to face Javits as she answers. "Well, the task force was formed, originally, as I said, to investigate the murder of Ambassador B'val. That mission was extended as the depth of the plot was discovered, but now that the entirety of the aforementioned house's plans have been discovered--at least, as far as I know--the task force will, as far as I know, be disbanded."
"However, the relationships formed as a part of that task force, with Gr'laH and Churas in particular, will continue to be an asset to both the Empire and the Federation, as we continue to work together on other, unrelated matters. So while the official task force itself may no longer exist, the people in that group will no doubt continue to cooperate to advance the goals of both governments."
Javits nods with a smile as he resumes his seat.
Meridian settles back in his seat, focussing his attention on his junior currently speaking at the podium.
Ha'nuQ nods as Cerene answers the question, his agreement with her response blatantly obvious.
Cerene turns her gaze over the crowd once more. "Any other questions?"
Alexi leans a bit sideways and casually puts a elbow on the armrest as she listens, that vulcan-like quirk of a brow kept in place.
Albertz is silent, no questions from him this time around.
Churas offers Cerene a feral sort of grin and a nod of her head. A brief glance back at Ha'nuQ has her restraining herself -- and visibly so -- from rolling her eyes or any other such thing.
. o O Churas thinks "For the love of all that is bladed and bloody, Ha'nuQ. So much for your lectures, you p'taQ."
"If I may," Gr'laH offers to Cerene, "The Joint Task Force will be, for the moment, disbanded as it currently stands. However, with the proven viability of the Task Force, the tested mettle of the Federation's finest, and the dedication and steadfastness of our Imperial Klingon Defense Force's chiefest Warriors, I see no reason that future task forces will be refused under identical auspices and purviews as this one. To that end, I intend to propose the stationing of Joint Operational Command Personnel aboard this station -- Klingon Warriors under the command of Churas, daughter of Gharas, who I will endeavor to have comissioned as an officer of the IKDF. For the express and sole purpose of serving in such functions from this point forward. To the greater Honor of the Empire, the continued Strength of the Alliance, and according to the Duties of all persons of Valor within the Federation, the Klingon Empire, and our friends in the Romulan Star Empire." With that said, Gr'laH withdraws once more, looking smugly satisfied.
Cerene turns to Gr'laH as he speaks, smiling slightly, and then turns back to the audience, extending a hand towards the large Klingon. "There you have it. Anything else?"
Javits shakes his head, his smile brightening at Gr'LaH's statement.
Meridian looks intruged at Gr'laH's last suggestion, but makes no other remarks or visible reactions to it.
Alexi just continues to look attentive in silence.
Churas looks perhaps just a little surprised at her father's announcement. Apparently she didn't know about that beforehand. It cannot, of course, be said that she seems at all adverse to this idea; in fact, it seems to please her greatly.
Ha'nuQ utterly ignores Gr'laH's comments, still looking up at Cerene. Maybe she'll, y'know, say something again.
Albertz's eyebrows shoot up at Gr'laH's proposal. He seems to greet the news of more Klingons arriving on the station as a mildly unpleasant prospect.
Cerene slowly looks back and over the crowd one last time, before smiling brightly. "Well, I suppose that's everything. Unless you have any last comments?" she turns to Gr'laH.
Ha'nuQ beeps. Or rather, something on his person beeps. He starts, as if coming out of a trance, and snaps a hand to shut off said beeping. He pulls out a Klingon-style PADD, and frowns at it. He stands, salutes the stage Klingon-style, and then offers Gr'laH a truly apologetic look. And then turns on one heel and stomps out, putting away his PADD as he goes.
Ha'nuQ passes through the wide doors and into the mall outside.
Ha'nuQ has left.
Gr'laH returns to the podium with a nod to Cerene. "I have only this to say: Recent events aside, we are strong. The Alliance is strong. I have faced the doubts of my peers. I have suffered roadblocks from the Nausicaans, from the Romulans, from the Ferengi, from Starfleet's own diplomatic department, and from rogue elements within my own Empire. But I have held my course, remained true to my convictions, and pursued wholly the goals my Chancellor has set out for me. Such is the way of diplomacy, that often times what may look to be one thing is often times another. Settle your doubts. Allay your concerns. The Klingon Empire desires a return to the Diplomatic Table, on an even footing with our Allies and our neighbors. We look forward to working closely with Ambassador Meridian, Legate Cerene, Ambassador K'net-mauri, Ambassador Zuh'raah'do, and Ambassador Lux. We welcome discourse, trade, and an open exchange of ideas. Welcome us as we do you, and our future shall be great. To my friends in the Star Empire, Jolan'tru. To my friends in the Federation, peace be with you. To my friends in the United Nausicaan Alliance, Courage. To my friends in the Ferengi Alliance, good profit. And to the Warriors and leaders of the Empire: Q'PLA!" Gr'laH forms a single fist at his final words before slamming it down onto the podium, ending the proceedings. He turns to withdraw with no further fanfare.
Cerene smiles broadly and quickly steps down the stairs, striding back towards the back of the room and addressing Meridian. "Ambassador, my apologies for the incomplete introduction earlier. I am Legate Aliana Cerene. Pleasure to meet you."
Javits applauds politely, slowly standing along with those around him.
Alexi glances on down at her PADD for a moment, before rising and making her way out as people start applauding once again.
Alexi passes through the wide doors and into the mall outside.
Alexi has left.
Meridian rises as Cerene approaches him. He smiles as she speaks, and holds out his hand before responding, "Legate Cerene, the pleasure is all mine. I had seen your photo in the briefing documents on the way over, but I had thought the photo was a joke - a diplomat as beautiful as you are is definitely new to me." He pauses, winking with his left eye. "Ambassador Jonathan William Meridian."
Churas responds to Gr'laH's Q'PLA! with one of her own before stalking off after her father, her pace relaxed and confident.
Albertz stands and stretches somewhat, that was certainly a long time to be sitting down for even average legs, a wonder how the enormous Klingons manage it. He looks around at the conversing diplomats, turns and begins heading out of the auditorium.
