T'Phol had just finished taking a sonic shower when her door chimed. She pulled her robe around her and answered. It was Uhura, laden with several bags, including a long one that she laid carefully on the bunk. She had changed into a flowing caftan in shades of gold, red, and rust that complemented her coloring. It was embellished with intricate embroidery. Her hair was swept into an elaborate arrangement and bracelets jingled on her arms.
T'Phol stared a moment. "You are beautiful," she said, "very elegant. And taller."
Uhura lifted her hem and pointed to her high heels. "I have a secret," she laughed.
"You are so wonderfully petite, and your feet are lovely in those shoes. I cannot walk in heels. Also my feet are bigger than average."
Uhura raised a brow. "You are tall and willowy. You don't need three inch heels. When you walk you almost glide with graceful movements that would make any dancer proud." She paused. "Every one has something that is beautiful, whether inside or out. You are beautiful, too."
T'Phol felt a little uncomfortable. "I have never been told that before."
"It's true," Uhura said. "Here is the dress, supply just sent it over." She removed the wrapping from the bag and held up the hanger. The gown was a dark fern color they had chosen, set with a scattering of beads that glittered when they caught the light. T'Phol slipped out of her robe and into the dress.. It was sleeveless, with a straight and simple cut. The material was soft and had a slight sheen.
"It fits perfectly," T'Phol said. "I continue to be amazed at the resources available on the Enterprise, even on short notice."
"Well, we can't stop at the nearest store and pick up what we need. Of course, there are things we do without, too. Could you use some help in getting ready? I am very good at styling hair. I brought some things to work with."
"That is an offer which I gratefully accept. I usually pull my hair in a bun to keep it out of the way,"
Uhura sat her in the chair and fashioned her long hair into a bun, held in place with some jeweled picks. T'Phol inspected the result in the mirror, somewhat bemused by the unaccustomed attention but pleased with the result, even though it felt a little foreign to her. She did her own touch of makeup, no more than she usually wore.
"You look stunning," Uhura said. "I have one more thing for you." She opened the last bag and shook out a fringed shawl, woven with glittery gold and very soft to the touch. "You can wear this at the reception. It's warmer than it looks."
T'Phol took it, draping it around her shoulders. "It is gorgeous. Thank you. You have been very kind to me. You all have. "
"I am glad you feel welcome. And thank you for being so gracious in presenting us with this concert. Space travel is an odd mixture of hair raising danger and crushing monotony. Having an artist of your caliber on board to perform is a treat."
"You are the ones putting in the work," T'Phol said. "All I have to do is show up. Everyone involved has done a remarkable job. It is my pleasure and honor to play for you."
"We have about thirty minutes. I'm going out now to greet and pass out programs. I'll come back for you, or send someone to escort you to the stage."
"I customarily meditate for a few minutes just prior to stage time. I will be ready."