((Central Subterranean Excavation, Marohu III))
As they were greeted by some kind of being that, they quickly learned, was tapping into their minds, Lhandon felt an overwhelming sense of relief wash over him when his colleagues did not panic. He let out a steady breath, his tense shoulders finally relaxing. In many ways, he was the resident expert, albeit by pure dumb luck, when it came to telepathic communication.
But this wasn't telepathic; it felt different. This one felt like he was interacting with some kind of technology, rather than having a telepathic interaction with, let's say, a Betazoid.
Nilsen: Our people have similar roles. To keep and maintain knowledge is one of the most noble pursuits we can follow.
And perhaps, that brought Lhandon some comfort. In many ways, he was safe, unlike at the end of the last mission, when he had put his own mind in the way of the unknown entity claiming to be the Herald of the Endless Expansion, The Dark Peace Bringer.
Richards/Kaelith: Response
Nilsen: Can you tell us about your people, how would I refer to your people?
There had been an unmistakable sense of awe in the room. The purpose, however, was still unclear; all they knew was that the room seemed to react to their presence.
Richards/Kaelith: Response
Nilsen: Is there anything you can show? Is this room a part of you? Are you two separate beings?
Richards/Kaelith: Response
Tarnas: That’s… extraordinary. Thank you for sharing that with us.
Showing gratitude had often gone a long way in diplomacy. More often than not, in situations that were highly tense, just letting the other side know that they were heard and seen could help to de-escalate tension.
Richards/Kaelith: Response
Tarnas: You’ve endured so much, and yet you still welcome strangers with openness. That speaks volumes.
While Lhando was the diplomatic officer, Richards and Tarnas had it in hand, and a third voice on their side might have just ended up throwing things out of kilter.
Richards/Kaelith: Response
Tarnas: Kaelith… what do you hope to gain by revealing yourself to us now? By choosing to connect with us, after holding this sanctuary alone for so long?
The rapport wasn't fully there, but it seemed to be building quickly. Lhando wouldn't have worded it as such; "What are your goals?" might have landed better, as perhaps one might have seen that as a mild threat, or a doubt. But Tarnas's intentions were pure. His prior compliment about Kaelith enduring so much and still welcoming strangers, however, could go a long way in these things. He listened for the answer. Something he'd learned on Amity: he didn't always have to talk.
Richards/Kaelith: Response
Then, Lhandon realised that perhaps, even if it was a program, it might have been tired of the questions, no matter how well-meaning they were.
Nilsen: I think Kaelith here has been most kind in answering our questions; perhaps a moment to allow us all to breathe. Kaelith, can you show us around and show us how to navigate this place?
Richards/Kaelith/Tarnas: Response
((OOC: I’m only going for one tag as we have a little bit of a question and answer session here and give Erik a chance to “zet” up this next bit…see what I did there :P….fine, I’ll leave the puns to Michael.))
Lieutenant Commander Lhandon Joseph Nilsen
Second Officer & Senior Diplomatic Officer
USS Octavia E Butler
O240007LN1
He/Him/His (Both player and character)