Ensign Tho'Bi - Andorian Bites The Dust (Chalk Dust)

[Tobi]

((Auditorium - Operations Center, Deck 5, USS Artemis-A ))

Tho'Bi: Maybe the real bias is The Federation's insistence we know best…

Imril: The Federation has done things that leave a bad taste in some mouths, too. The treatment of Synths after Mars, for instance. And augments and ex-Bs who were changed or assimilated against their will. All that suspicion and discrimination, over horrible things which none of them were responsible for.

Cole: Those kinds of biases… they don’t come from policy. They come from fear. And fear makes people cruel. … ::quite:: I’ve seen that up close. ::beat:: So yeah, the Federation stumbled sometimes hard. But I also know people who would bend the whole galaxy to keep those same groups safe now. We’re messy, and we’re not perfect. But I think we try to be better than we were.

The young Andorian was listening to the exchange of chatter, when his antennae sensed the push of a small object vectoring through the steady vibrations of system managed airflow. In much the same way other humanoids will feel the weight of a box in their arms, the Andorian felt the object would not hit him; he remained still as the object passed over his head and struck a table behind him.

Pwack! White dust and tiny fragments of debris clouded up into the air on impact.

Bergmen: So, now that I have your attention, yes, I agree that prejudice isn't something we should indulge in. But let's get back to the lesson's topic. (beat) Ferenginar and what we can expect…

The young Andorian pivoted round in his chair, lent back, and extended a long arm to retrieve the small white projectile.

Bergmen: So, there are ten basics you should know when visiting Ferenginar. ::points to slide:: Be prepared for constant rain and humidity. Pack waterproof clothing and shoes to stay comfortable. (beat) Ferengi culture values profit above all. Understanding their customs and practices can help you navigate interactions successfully. (beat) Bargaining is not just accepted; it's expected! Always negotiate prices in markets and shops for the best deals. (beat) The local currency is the Ferengi D'Ar. It's essential to familiarize yourself with the exchange rate to avoid any confusion when making purchases. ::turns to audience:: Questions so far?

The young Andorian rolled the object around between his fingers, leaving a white dust across the blue.

Tho'Bi: ::holding the object up:: What is this?

Jaran/Imril/Cole: Response

The Andorian nodded.

Tho'Bi: Thank you. ::looks down at object:: Chalk.  

Jaran/Imril/Cole: Response

Bergmen: Ok, remember these questions, they will be answered after the remaining five advisory notes on this slide. ::pause and look at the slide:: While public transport is available, consider hiring a local guide to help you navigate the city more efficiently, especially if you're unfamiliar with the area. (beat) Familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations, especially those related to business practices and trade. (beat) Building connections can significantly enhance your experience. Attend local events or gatherings to meet Ferengi entrepreneurs and merchants. (beat) Don’t miss the capital city, known for its striking architecture and vibrant markets. Make a list of must-see places to make the most of your visit. (beat) And importantly, last point: while Ferenginar is relatively safe, keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.

Bergmen: And this summarizes the mandatory lesson, and we can come back to your questions or comments for discussion if you still have any.

Tho'Bi: ::raising his hand:: Do you want your chalk back? :: holds up chalk::

Bergman/Jaran/Imril/Cole: Response

The Andorian tossed the chalk gently in a rising and then falling arch towards Bergmen.

Tho'Bi: I keep my D'Ar in my top pocket ::taps chest:: Ferengi can't reach.

Bergman/Jaran/Imril/Cole: Response

Tho'Bi: There is a holosuite that models the USS Enterprise NCC-1701 REFIT right down to the wiring. It's really good noodles. …I've been three times.  

Bergman/Jaran/Imril/Cole: Response

TAG/TBC

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Ensign Tho’Bi

Engineering

USS Artemis-A

A240203T11