Kalmar Torek had arrived at the Grand Auditorium with the G'kra, his guests at the monastery. He had been invited to attend to witness the formal signing.
Kalmar was having a rather good time with the G'kra. They were a species who appreciated Vesputian attributes. If a species gave all due respect to Vesputians, they reluctantly gave back a certain amount of respect to them. After all, Vesputians weren't 100 percent self-serving, more like 99 percent.
Kalmar was sitting among the many diplomats and importants, as he called them. In honor of the occasion, he was dressed in a simple red robe. The robe's color was unusual -- a deep red that seemed almost alive in itself.
Several females sitting near him kept glancing his way for Kalmar was handsome indeed today. He gave them no notice at first, but then, turning slightly, he nodded to each of them. The monk had decided it was time he came out of his walled environment and into society even if he did have to lower himself to do so.
Kalmar watched as the ceremony proceeded. The commodore's wife was a fine female. A fine female to a Vesputian was not one with good looks, although Hunter's wife certainly had that, it was more a matter of strength. He perceived a strength in her.
When the ceremony ended without a hitch, Kalmar knew he would be joining the others at the official reception. At that time, he hoped to re-acquaint himself with Mrs. Hunter and the commodore. He thought perhaps they could help to introduce him to the colony's society.
Yes, now was the time to make known the Vesputian presence. The monastery was running smoothly and essential details were done. Now he could play with the sub-species.
Kalmar filed out with the others, but once outside, he detoured. He needed to find Mr. West to see what he had to report. Removing a tiny gadget from his robe's pocket, Kalmar said the name West. Immediately a location appeared on the screen.
Kalmar climbed into his mechanical donkey cart where his driver was waiting and they sped off to a northside tavern. On the way, Kalmar meditated to clear his mind.
In the dark establishment, Mr. West soon heard a voice behind him say, "Mr. West, I was wondering if you might have time to join me in a drink."
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