The USS Yorktown held a high orbit, its hull reflecting sunlight. Beside it, the RRW Devoras maintained a quiet watch. No other ships were immediately present, save the two Quorathi escorts in the form of ancient Romulan birds-of-prey. Quorath III stretched beneath them, an M-class world of broad continents and shallow seas. From orbit, it looked calm, but Captain Jerok knew better. In the unknown of the Shackleton Expanse, even small mistakes could spark conflict. For Quorath III, the presence of both the Federation and the Romulan Republic kept a delicate balance. Jerok and Admiral Tolak tr’Servek both understood how easily it could be disrupted.

Down on the surface, a small away team moved through the pavilion’s plaza. Captain Jerok and Admiral Tolak led the group, flanked by security personnel and cultural liaisons. The pavilion of pale stone and glass seemed to rise from the ground itself. A dozen Quorathi council members waited in formal rows, their features unmistakably Romulan but slightly softened by generations apart. They watched in silence, whispering among themselves. They had seen Romulan envoys before, from both the Republic and the Free State, but seeing Jerok in a uniform so unfamiliar stirred curiosity and caution.

Jerok slowed as he reached the edge of the plaza and inclined his head in greeting, “Councilors, I am Captain Jerok of the Federation starship Yorktown. This is Admiral Tolak tr’Servek of the Romulan Republic warbird Devoras. We come to discuss your concerns regarding your system and its place in the wider galaxy.”

Admiral Tolak mirrored the gesture. After a moment of silence, one of the elder Quorathi, a tall figure with pale green eyes, stepped forward and nodded, “We are grateful for your visit. We have received your messages and supplies. Your presence honors our people.”

Jerok gestured to the crates lined along the plaza. “Starfleet and the Romulan Republic come as friends. We bring medical supplies, educational materials, and updates from the wider galaxy. We do not seek to interfere in your decisions. Your sovereignty is yours.”

Tolak added, his voice firm and measured, “The Republic is different from what you may have heard stories of Romulan governments in the past. We recognize that the Quorathi are a distinct people, and we will not impose our will upon you. Our goal is to support your growth and security.”

The elder councilor’s eyes narrowed slightly, “And the Romulan Free State?”

Tolak’s expression tightened. “The Free State may not share our approach. They are remnants of the Tal Shiar, an organization I am sure you have heard of from your ancestors. They have a history of asserting authority over planets they consider Romulan territory. That is why careful diplomacy is necessary. As far as the Republic is concerned, you have the right to govern yourselves. That will not change.”

A ripple of murmurs passed through the council. Jerok offered a small smile. “Today is about dialogue, not decisions. We are here to answer questions, discuss your needs, and learn from you.”

The tension eased enough for the away team to distribute supplies, medkits, rations, and educational equipment while cultural liaisons explained their use. Councilors examined each item with interest, exchanging nods and quiet comments in their own bastardized version of the Romulan language. Jerok and Tolak moved among the councilors, answering questions about dispute resolution, medical technology, and education programs.

The elder councilor gestured toward a side of the pavilion where long tables had been arranged. Staff carried platters of simple but carefully prepared food, aromatic and unfamiliar to the Federation delegates. Jerok and Tolak followed, taking seats at the head of the central table. Conversation softened into polite chatter as the away team settled in.

For a time, politics gave way to the ritual of sharing a meal. Councilors asked questions about cultural programs and technological aid, while Jerok emphasized assistance rather than control and Tolak highlighted the Republic’s respect for local governance. Younger councilors shared perspectives on their hopes for the planet, and the elder observed quietly, noting the care with which the visitors conducted themselves.

As the meal continued, the weight of diplomacy eased. For a moment, the Federation and Republic were not distant powers. They were guests sharing food and conversation, building trust through simple acts. Jerok exchanged a brief nod with Tolak, both aware of the significance.