You're the best thing about Christmas

[abugslife]

I have an announcement to make. Pentu, the Gebian minister of science, will be paying us a visit in a week. He is greatly interested in the customs of Earth cultures, and the days they celebrate. I am sure you can figure out the reason for his visit already; he would like to learn about Christmas.

The visit is only semi-official, and there is no reason to throw him a welcoming celebration; Pentu is merely here to observe and learn. However, if you have any ideas what to do to impress him, I would be interested in hearing them. The ministry of science is a powerful faction within the High Council; its approval might not only mean more votes for us, but also earlier access to exchange of technologies between our civilizations.

[A few seconds of pause. Is it hesitation?]

...After the latest battle with the AEP, the current leanings of the Council are in their favour. But this could help us tip the scales.

Comments

[abugslife]

Oh? Should I ask, or do you prefer to keep it a mysterious surprise?

[jianai]

Let's give the minister a taste of human goodwill and charity that this time of the year brings forth! Are there any Gebian holidays with focus on philanthropy, Hetepheres?

[abugslife]

There is the tradition of kings sharing their riches with their subjects on every new year. We do not have kings anymore, but this tradition remains among leaders and bosses.

You do not do so to someone who does not work for you, however. Doing so implies they are below you.

[jianai]

It seems the intent behind the two holidays is very different. The spirit of charity has nothing to do with being a benevolent ruler... though benevolence is always looked forward to!

[abugslife]

In a culture where personal excellence is the most important value, it is up to one to decide to be charitable or not. The society does little to promote it.

[jianai]

I find Gebian culture fascinating, Hetepheres. Your kind feels so earthling-like in their ways of thinking, but there are also stances that are so unusual on Earth but for a Gebian they are a common way of life.

I hope minister Pentu will feel the same way about Earth's culture.

[abugslife]

This is one of the reasons PEP is fighting for. The culture of Earth is so unique, and varied, the common elements of all of its aspects being very close, yet very far from ours at the same time.

This culture is your own, not ours. It has to be preserved, not taken for our own.

[jianai]

I appreciate it. Really, I mean it.

Does a lot of people know about this visit? I... am not saying it can be dangerous, but some people might get wrong ideas.

[abugslife]

All the relevant figures within ESUN know. So does everyone in Unity Group, now.

...Both the PEP and AEP are aware of it as well.

[jianai]

That's not too bad, is it? Even if the Anti Earthling Party wanted to try something, it's easy to spot a Gebian in a crowd of Earthlings.
[Says a person who just blends into a crowd.]

Besides it'd make them look bad.

[abugslife]

Do not underestimate their arrogance. If one of their members comes up with a half-baked plan, they will most likely put it to life.

[jianai]

I will be careful, then.