"As for T'remea D'amondra, it is not within our obligation to inform the Federation of changes in our political liasons. Just as you may expel our diplomats without warning, so may we recall ours without notice. However, you may tell Admiral Lasiter that the advantage of dealing with a telepathic race with a semi-hive mind is that the next T'remea to be assigned to the
Federation will have the foreknowledge of T'remea D'amondra's experience and the relationship may continue accordingly."
Lasiter could not resist, so he did not. It was the look of annoyance that he caught on the Venasian's face that pushed him to speak.
"Required, perhaps not by any law. However, by the rules of protocol, yes. It is only arrogance that would lead one to believe that they are above the rules. From the looks of things, in addition to treasuring tradition, honor, and peace the Venasians can also be accused of militarism and arrogance. You can send that to General A'amon." the young Lasiter said, not even trying to hide his annoyance.
The Secretary gave him an arch look, almost Vulcan-like. "Ah," he said clinically, almost sadly, "And I believe that the rules of protocol that you speak so highly of also state one does not march into a foreign government's office and start firing off accusation and insult, while dictating terms. Perhaps I am not necessarily the one guilty of arrogance?"
His smile was chilly - but polite - as he rose. "Because of the friendly relations our two governments have enjoyed in this past, I agreed to this meeting as a goodwill gesture, though the Federation had not done us the small courtesy of informing us of your visit, or the purpose of it. It appears to have been a mistake to do so." The door slid open, and the Venasian woman who had originally shown them in entered. "Please allow Jenna to escort you out. Gentle tides, Commanders."
(response)
After V'nquera left, the Venasian woman - Jenna - gracefully showed the Federation guests back through the hallways to the front entry. When they reached the security area and the doors opened to Pacifica, she stopped. She turned her peculiar gold-flecked eyes on them. "Please inform your government that no further delegations will be admitted without a prior appointment and proposed agenda. Gentle tides, Commanders."
-S
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