I do not profit or own any of the original characters that belong to Star Trek, but they have now found themselves in company of characters that I have created. Apparently, they like the interaction and seem to enjoy one anothers' company. Again, thanks to Star Quilter57 for the loan of her characters.
Please allow me to again apologize for the delay in posting. I am now posting this chapter unbetaed. M'Celeste has been so busy, (she has had this chapter for over two weeks) our word processing systems are not compatible, (thus no exchange of zip drives) and my lack of computer savvy has made it impossible to exchange documents. So, all beta work is done on my laptop when she visits. Since it will be over a week before I see her, I have decided to post-throw caution to the wind, so to speak. So, all the mistakes are of my creation, and I beg forgiveness for grammatical and spelling errors.
In this story, I found myself jumping between Standard and Vulcan. I hope that this does not prove to be a distraction, but after a while I found translating both tedious and quite time consuming. And possibly not allowing a fluid read for you readers. But I do so like the Vulcan way of speaking and the depth of meaning to everything they say, so pardon if in this chapter, on occasion, I have indulged this eccentricity.
Botsey
Chapter Ten The Continuing SFS Lights, Action, Camera
As Lo'vaak's bike turned into the Embassy parking lot he noticed Spock's ground car which had just pulled in before him. Both occupants of that vehicle were in the process of exiting at the same time. It came as no surprise to Lo'vaak that they all appeared to be of the same mindset, as they had all dressed in traditional Vulcan garb. Spock and Sirin wore formal robes, Lo'vaak a formal tunic. The High Vulcan script which adorned the right front side and sleeve of all three garments proclaimed their clan affiliation. This manner of dress honored not only their mutual ancestry, but the person they were soon to meet, Osu Sarek, Vulcan Ambassador to Terra and Spock's esteemed father.
As they walked across the paved parking lot Spock took the lead, Sirin and Lo'vaak following closely behind. They were unaware that they were being observed by the person behind the narrow window that was facing the parking lot. Upon reaching the door of the Embassy, the guard bowed his head in acknowledgement and said "T'nar naksoraty'rani Osu S'chn T'gai Spockh (Vulcan formal greeting, Sir Spock).
Speaking to the guard, Spock continued, ("Sanu do'pra t'nash veh vela's dubgau-saruah nash-veh zahaj-tur Kisi pen wak." ("Please announce my presence. I shall follow in a short while.")
The three Vulcans paused for a few minutes before opening the ornate door. When the group entered, Sarek, who had been tracking their approach from a window, was already ready to greet them. Turning towards them he performed the Ta'al and said, "My Son, my brother's son and honored guest, Live Long and Prosper."
The three visitors mirrored the salute. Spock then said, "Peace and long life to you my father. Allow me to introduce you to our friend, Lo'vaak, a Vulcan healer."
Sarek nodded his head in acknowledgement. "Welcome to the Embassy, Hakausu (Healer) Lo'vaak. Word of your talents preceded you. Several members of my staff have benefited from your services, as has my nephew Sirin with whom you share these duties. Your talents are more than adequate; exceeding that of the majority of the few healers we have left here on Terra. To what do I owe the courtesy of this visit?"
After bowing his head Lo'vaak quickly stepped forward. "Osu Sarek, first allow me to express my appreciation for all that you contributed towards the time of my bonding. However, this is not my first visit to the Embassy. I was summoned here late last night to address an emergency."
Sarek head tilted to the side and he said, "I was unaware of any emergency here at the embassy. Was one of the staff in need of your services?"
"No Osu. The emergency involved one of the survivors who are housed here at the Embassy."
Though Sarek's face did not change, he almost seemed to sigh. "These are the most desperate Vulcans. Without family, home or hope. I have been informed that some have committed, Ish if shahtau mene. (suicide, self-murder) They left no one behind to receive the words of comfort, ,S'ti th'taktra, (I grieve with thee)."
Lo'vaak's anger quickly flared, then he just as quickly tamped it down. 'Though Sarak was aware of the problem, did he know the extent of it?' "Osu," Lo'vaak ventured, "are you aware of the number of this group who have chosen this path?"
"From the reports I have received, it appears that ten have performed this ritual."
"Then it will surprise you to know that more than twenty times that number have done so."
Once again Sarek's facial expression did not change, but his eyes grew dark with anger. Lo'vaak could well imagine how this powerful man, responsible for everything and everyone under this roof, would feel about being kept in the dark. The Terran expression 'heads will roll' came to mind.
Sarek nodded toward the chairs in front of his desk and he walked from the window and took his seat. He looked at Lo'vaak and said, "Tell me what you know."
Lo'vaak's narrative began with a defense for Sarek's aide de champ, Soval, whose sincere wish had been to avoid adding an additional burden to the already weighted down shoulders of his Osu. Lo'vaak then went to the defense of the defenseless ones.
"Sir, these Vulcans are in need of many things. If they are to stay here then they must be given meaningful work. They must learn Standard and be introduced to Terran society. One aspect of our being Vulcan is our being grounded to planet, to home, to family, even to our work. So if they are to have any future at all, these grounding factors must be introduced to them here on Tarra. These must be allowed to find suitable mates, homes and work. As we all know there are time constraints involved. This must happen quickly, well before their next time. Any prospective mates must be allowed to make an educated decision, that could only happen if Vulcans acknowledge Pon Farr."
"Let's not fool ourselves into thinking that they will bond with Vulcan females," Lo'vaak continued, "That door is not open for them. But look at the four of us. We here are living testimony to the success of Vulcan/Terran bonding. As a Betazoid/Vulcan hybrid bonded to a Terran woman, my life is rich, and fulfilled. I can recommend this state most highly."
All three Vulcans looked at one another with complete understanding.
Sarek gave an audible sigh and said, "My Amanda died at the same time as my planet, and until now I have never been able to calculate which one was the greater loss. On a personal level, of course, it has been the loss of her that affects me most deeply. It is this emptiness that I contend with on a daily basis. I know this for a certainty, no Vulcan female can fill that void. So, it is to my great disquietude that my obligation toward my people will dictate the race of my future mate; she must be Vulcan. One of our basic thoughts apply, 'The needs of the many….' And although envy is a human emotion, in a sense I do feel that toward you, my son, my nephew and now Lo'vaak, k'war'ma'khon." (Now family)
Lo'vakk responded, "Osu, Tu dor-tor Lo'vaak." (Sir, You honor me).
At this point Spock spoke up. "Father, you are aware of Nyota's skills in non-verbal communication. She is proficient in the dialect of those of their class, as well the teaching of Standard as a secondary language. She and I will create a program to assist them and I will be their on-site instructor. Lo'vaak and Sirin then asked for permission to check the general health of this group and regularly check their hormonal levels."
Then Sarek, son of Skon of the house of Surak-of the highestVulcan hierarchy made a remarkable statement,
"I will personally visit them and introduce you three as their champions. Never, since the destruction of our home world has so much hope come from so much hopelessness.
"I must confess that I have no idea where they are housed. We will all need a guide."
As Sarek opened his door, the office door immediately opposite his opened as well; his aide, Soval, appeared.
"Osu, how may I be of assistance?"
"I would like to be taken to the below floors to visit the living quarters of the "Vuhlkansu vi toglantausu," (Vulcans who witnessed). A shadow crossed Soval's face, as he positioned himself in front of the group. They did not walk to take the lift, but traversed the nearby staircase leading to the lower level.
As they entered the lower hallway, it was noted that all the doors in that area were opened and conversation was heard. Soval entered the first door and there could be heard the scrapings of chairs against the floor. As Sarek, Spock, Sirin and Lo'vaak entered they observed a line of neatly, simply dressed Vulcans, their heads bowed slightly in respect.
This is not what Sarek, or any of that group expected. This was not a undisciplined group of survivors, but rather a group of highly ordered and controlled citizens. Although their station in Vulcan society might have lacked the receipt and appearance of rigid dignity that was afforded those of higher birth, these were also immersed in 'The Vulcan Way' which meant they had innate dignity-a quality seem in all Vulcans regardless of class. The visitors observed the room, beds were neatly made, there was a dining table that could accommodate all in the room. In the far corner they was observed an area for meditation that also included their version of a memorial-a dried flower, a few rocks, several holo-vids, family heirlooms, and most touching, a baby's rattle, probably belonging to one of these survivor's children and snatched up from their dormitory before departure.
Each of these Vulcans, caught totally unaware by the holocaust, deposited on a foreign planet, imprisoned within the walls of the Embassy, were a tribute to the resiliency of their people. Each of those viewing them for the first time, were moved, even those who were totally Vulcan.
Soval started the introductions, "We have honored guest with us…"
Before he could continued Sarek moved forward and stood before the first one in line and said, "I am Sarek, son of Skon. By way of invitation, Sarek nodded his head and searched for the Vulcan's eyes. Making eye contact, the Vulcan who appeared to be the group's spokesman said, "I am S'lock, son of K'feir. All here in this room are Matt Nun .(Nun clan) We are ne ki'ne, (partners)." The spokesman goes down the line and each clan members introduced himself.
S'lock then continues, "Each clan is housed in a different room. What you see here in our domicile, is mirrored in all of the rooms in this area. Each clan's spokesmen was picked because their 'time' occurred recently. Therefore, they will have the most life available to them. Many of us are bound by the same loss; our bondmates were carrying life's seed at the time of the ending."
The visitors in unison say, the accepted words of condolence.
Sarak then introduces Spock, as his son, Sirin, as his nephew and healer and Lo'vaak, not only as a healer, but as a k'war'ma'khon (close as family but not genetically related).
Lo'vaak moved towards the memorial and asked, "Lau Lo'vaak linisau?" (May I examine?) All answered, "Ha." With that he reached down and touched the baby rattle and cradled it in his hand. It is a beautifully carved piece, made of wood from a tur-nuk tree. Lo'vaak was aware of the medicinal powers of that plant. To carve something from it was a silent wish for good upon the recipient.
It was a young Vulcan speaking, "Skoon nash na nu'ri- sa-fu. Ivesht dungi kki sariah tor katau kah tor Su'lok t'nash veh sa'fu. (I (Skoon) carved this for my unborn son. My adun and I had already named and bonded with him. I would have come to bring it to Su'lok, my son…) He did not have to finish the sentence. All present knew the account's end.
Lo'vaak nodded, "S'ti th'laktra" (I grieve with thee). He continued, "My bondmate is with child, a daughter."
Sarek then walked over to Lo'vaak and extended his hand. Once the rattle was in his possession he examined it very closely, He then asked Skoon, "My son, who taught you this method of carving?" To the aside, he commented, "This is a very ancient type of workmanship. It was usually passed down from father to son."
The young man said, "My family ran a shop that displayed and sold this method of carving. My grandfather instructed my father and myself in this art form."
Sarek fingered the workmanship. It is truly a marvel. One piece of wood, no opening large enough to insert the pieces that tumbled within its core. The jumbling pieces were all carved from that same piece of wood. The carver working from the outside inward. The piece showed the artist was a master artisan. Sarek asked, "Were you able to leave with any other pieces?"
The young man went to his cot and reached underneath, and pulled out a large box. As he opened it all were able to see the tools of his trade. Awls, routers, saws, chisels, sanding blocks, hand drills, every one of them an antique and in pristine condition. This young man was proud of what he was. He pulled out a small hand carved chest and inside were carved cups, cutlery, and plates all of his work adorned with High Vulcan script. A smaller box contained jewelry also carved from the tu'nuk tree. A bracelet and necklace that would be able to be worn in Vulcan's heat without the discomfort of metal jewelry's heat transference The artist explained, he had made these for his wife. He mentioned that he had distributed many of his wares among the other survivors.
"Osu Sarek," he spoke with urgency. "The tradition will die unless it is taught. I don't know how many years I have left. I have meditated through one time and my bondmate was my comfort the last time. She would have bore our son, three Terran months after the Va Pak" (The immeasurable loss).
Sarek then bowed his head, his hand on his chest as a gesture of respect. "This will be part of the programs that will be initiated once you have relocated." Sarek curiosity was peaked, he inquired, "Are there any other artisans within the other clans?"
They all spoke at once, "Ha!" (Yes) Skoon added, "Although we are registered as kastik-sokasitausum, (plant cultivators) and solai-zupsu (field hands), most of us have other talents." The young man enumerated those that could be included in that group. There were weavers, carpenters, stone carvers, metal workman, shoe makers, portrait painters, incense makers, a maker of ceremonial robes, makers of furniture, blacksmith, wood carvers and a herbalist, all in varying degrees of skill, but all desiring that these skills not die with them.
While this is going on, Lo'vaak. Spock and Sirin were against the side wall, totally taken back by these revelations. These hopeless ones, projected so much hope. The preservation of The Vulcan Way depended upon these also, the ones who worked with their hands.
The owner of the rattle approached, "Hakausu Lo'vaak, Vu dor-tor nash matt kuv vu pulayau nash tan tor ko-fu." (Healer Lo'vaak, it would be an honor (for) this clan (if) you present (it) to your daughter.")
Lo'vaak turned away, for emotions were upon him. He answered, Th'I-oxaira, tu dortor Lo'vaak. (It is appreciated, you honor me)
The spokesman, silenced the group and said to the visitors, "It would honor us if you would join us in our welcoming tea ceremony."
Sarek looked at his companions and they all nodded. They were led to the place of honor at a Vulcan table, the head and first two chairs to the left and right are reserved for honored guest. If there were more than five guests of honor, another table would be set up, and so on. The logic behind such an arrangement was that many would be allowed to benefit from the wisdom and experience of such a guest or guests. The more tables, the more are benefited. However, that would be a most unusual set of circumstances.
The spokesman stood at the foot of the table and two other Vulcans acted as his attendants. One held the kettle and tea on a tray, the other one laid out the cups.
He bowed his head, to address the kettle and had the tray placed by his left hand. He then addressed the tea and lifted it ceremonially to his right side. The measuring spoon was placed on his open palm and he again bowed his head. Methodically, he measured out the tea into the tea pot, then he grasped the kettle by its handle, turned it to the four points of a compass and the entire group said "Amsetri tre." (Your presence honors us.) The the steaming hot liquid was poured into the tea pot, the host placed the top back on it the tea pot and seated himself. The spicy aroma of the tea filled the room.
"This comes down from the ancients, the tea of welcome. May all within these walls find refreshment and companionship."
His companion to the right pours the tea into the cups, not letting one drop fall. The companion on the left, distributes the cup, starting with the guests of honor.
After the ceremony it is Sarek who speaks first. "I have just recently become aware of the serious situation visited upon you, our Vulcan brothers. We have all experienced incalculable loss, but as was at the time of the Va'Pak, there has been the seeking of relief and release by means of Ish if shahtau mene (self-murder, suicide). This was prevalent on the star ship that picked up many survivors. Many had not carried out any ritual, they had just sought the most expedient end to their sufferings. We do not wish this to continue. We will do all we can to prevent the loss of one more life.
Sirin and Lo'vaak have volunteered to monitor all hormonal level. My son, is in the process of developing a program that will aid you all to learn Standard. He was an instructor at Star Fleet Academy and his bondmate is a Xenoliquist. Having access to equipment at the Academy will assist in the availability of these lessons within a short period of time. I do believe it would be good for all the clan spokesmen to come to this room and then we will continue our discussion."
With that, several Vulcans exit the door to summon their brothers.
The new attendees brought their own chairs as they entered the room. Sarek introduced himself and the other three visitors and once all were seated a brief review followed once all are seated
We would like all of the clans to discuss the possibility of relocating after your introduction into Terran society. There is a place not too far from here whose climate is similar to our home planet, where many Vulcans stayed temporarily before being transported to New Vulcan. It is thought that meaningful work might be available there and that this will aid in coping with the great losses that have led to the feeling of hopelessness that figure most prominently in your every day lives. We are fully aware of the part that the approach of 'your time' contributes to the need to expedite these matters."
"Please, brothers, are there any questions that need answering at this time?"
There is a hesitancy and then several hands are raised. The answers are provided by the one who would be in the position to best answer the questions.
"When you speak of relocating, could we have an idea as to the size of the area of relocation?"
"What advise can the healers provide for those approaching 'their time?"
"Meaningful work was mentioned, please define."
"What was meant by introduction into Terran society?"
"When will our hormonal levels be checked?"
The meeting ended on an extremely positive note. Each spokesman was returning to his clan to share the information gained. It was doubtful if any would sleep tonight, or possibly for a few nights. Sarek was going to advise Soval to schedule time for these Vulcans to walk the grounds of the Embassy and enjoy the staff garden. It would give them all something to talk about.
As the four men returned to Sarek's office, there was a feeling of accomplishment. Hope was on the horizon.
TBC
A/N Because this story has received so few reviews, I have been wondering if there was an audience for this continuing saga. Checking my stats it is based on a small group of readers that I continue this story. To that group, let it be known, I appreciate your continued readership.
So if you jumped ship, we will throw you a lifeline, if you are still on board, we hope that you continue to enjoy the scenery.
Botsey