Scientific Opinions (part 3)
Posted on Sat Sep 24th, 2016 @ 3:44am by Lieutenant Illise Hale
631 words; about a 3 minute read
Mission:
Shadow Dance
Location: Operln Complex for the Sciences
Timeline: Current
PREVIOUS
“Does that not create conflict?” Pythl asked. “With the rarity of suitable planets in the galaxy, surely converting less-suitable planets would be more common.”
CONTINUED
“Admittedly here have been a few conflicts over the issue, mostly between opposing cultures outside of the Federation. Some cultures have been know to favor using terraforming technology rather than search further and further from their home systems. Overall, there is a reasonable balance of opinions within the Federation on this topic.”
Pythl thought for a moment, then made a noncommittal gesture. “It is of no matter. Our government has little interest in colonizing other worlds at present, which is just as well since we have yet to reach the level of technology that would be required.”
Illise looked back at the monitors. “You may be ready sooner than you think.”
Verrhi, deciding that the conversation was now over, gestured back towards the door. “Shall we move on?” Wordlessly the four of them exited to building and returned to the trolley. Brek took the driver’s position. “We will next visit our xenobiology department, where we study samples brought back by the teams on our warp vessels.” Verrhi said calmly once everyone else was seated, and they started to move.
Verrhi, deciding that the conversation was now over, gestured back towards the door. “Shall we move on?” Wordlessly the four of them exited to building and returned to the trolley. Brek took the driver’s position. “We will next visit our xenobiology department, where we study samples brought back by the teams on our warp vessels.” Verrhi said calmly once everyone else was seated, and they started to move.
Pythl sat beside Illise, and turned to her as they travelled. “I am curious Lieutenant, what is the meaning of the meeting of hands?” He held out his hand as though he were offering it to shake.
“It is a greeting, based on an ancient Earth custom. Ancient Earth had it’s share of conflicts, and at that time weapons were typically held in the right hand. Extending that hand to someone when meeting them was viewed as a sign of trust; to show that they were both unarmed. Over time it simply became a polite form of greeting.” Illise took his hand and gave it a firm shake.
“How interesting. I suppose that the original purpose could still be valid, however.” Pythl commented, thoughtful.
“Yes, I suppose it could.” Illise replied.
“Is the strength of the grip a required part of the greeting?” Pythl asked.
“No, not really. Although a good firm - but not tight - grip is often seen as a sign of respect.” Pythl nodded at this, and offered his hand once more. This time he returned the shake with an equally firm grip. Illise smiled. “Perfect.” He smiled back.
“Once whe have completed our visit of the xenobiology department, we will then visit the Concave. Several promising students have been chosen to meet with you. You will be the first alien any of them has ever seen.” Verrhi did not pause for Illise to thank her for the honor, and continued speaking. “After that, we shall visit the Stellar Sciences buildings…” As the lead scientist began to list departments that she had planned visits for during the tour, Illise began to realize that although Verrhi didn’t necessarily approve of her presence, she fully intended to provide as complete a ‘picture’ as she could.
Hetnal would no doubt have an interesting time trying to track her down for dinner. Illise smiled at the thought as they rolled down the paved road towards the next stop of her apparently lengthy tour.
OFF
Lieutenant JG Illise Hale
Chief Science Officer, USS Calypso
Hetnal
Jenefran Agricultural Minister
Doctors Verrhi, Pythl and Brek
Jenefran Scientists
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