The Alfore Encounter by StealthKitty

Article by R. K. Wigal

Chapter 2

"Explain." she prompted.

"This planet is one part of two. The one planet is tropical is considered a tourist attraction and tropical getaway and is visited by all. The other planet is us. No one visits us because of our..." Qwan started.

"…planet's harsh climactic conditions." Shara finished. She'd heard of racial and species prejudice, but planet prejudice? 

"Our people once were all ice dwellers, but when technology advanced and space travel was developed, a split occurred when some chose to stay here while others left," Qwan continued as he settled into a semi-lotus position on the floor by her bed.

"Why haven't you and your people left?" Shara inquired.

"The Tribes like our ancestors are strict traditionalists and raise our children on the ice. Now when they reach maturity they have a choice to stay or leave. Some leave and never return, others leave and return after having their fill, and many stay simply because of the cats,"  Qwan replied, as he scratched a kit's head.

The small replica of Kiki had crept in and and climbed into Qwan's lap. Shara gazed at the kit and understood. There was a symbiotic relationship between Qwan's people and these beautiful, intelligent creatures. This was much more valuable than mere environmental comfort.

"What of my crew?" The Commander asked.

"Only four beside you survived. The injured have been tended to and are resting comfortably," Qwan explained.

Despite being Vulcan, Shara felt as though she'd been kicked in the chest by a mule. The Valkyrie was a small ship with only twelve crew nembers. This meant she'd have to send out condolence packets to seven families.

"We brought the bodies back and they are stored in our burial cairn."  Qwan took note of Shara's somewhat distressed expression and continued.

"You should not blame yourself for their deaths. Your ship split in two like a Grafuli egg on impact. It is miraculous that any of you survived. It is also fortuitous that we found you before the storm season started. Once the big storms blow in we will be snow bound for weeks."

"How did your tribe happen to be at that location at that particular time?"

"We were having the traditional Final Hunt when we saw your ship crash."

"Thank you." Shara said appreciatively as she simultaneously thanked her own deity.

"You are welcome." Qwan replied.

"I would like to see my crew." Shara said. In response Qwan called one of the women in a singsong dialect. After a brief conversation with Qwan, she left them returned with a hooded fur robe and booties for Shara to wear.

"I will take you to them after you dress." Qwan said. Shara quickly donned the items.

"I am Shara." She said. Inwardly horrified she'd forgotten her manners, in a first contact situation of all places.

"I know. Kiki told me."  Qwan said as he smiled and nodded in response. Apparently there was no offense taken.

"Fascinating."  Shara thought as she followed Qwan from the room.