Katae picked up her glass and took a sip of wine, she placed it down and smiled.
"No need to apologize, it has been far too long since we have had the opportunity to gather like this. Out on our missions, its all life and death. But we need times like this to help us stay grounded. To remember who we are outside of war, and to remember what we fighting to protect.
I started this tradition on the Aeon before our first mission. Circumstances have prevented us from doing it more often. But it matters to me, here we can relax, be ourselves. Hence why I come to these not wearing a uniform. Because its not an official function. But that being said, its perfectly fine for those who do. Not everyone has had time to purchase civilian clothes."
One of the wait staff came in with a small plate that had some more of the small boxes that most of the people had before them. They put one down before Katae, and one in front of each of the other members.
"Excellent, I was worried that they would not get here in time." she said putting her glass down and standing.
"If I may have your attention. First of all, I want to thank all of your for your hard work and dedication. If you haven't already noticed many of you have been promoted. They were well earned. As for our newest members, your turn with come.
Now before each of you is a small box. In it you will find a small gift from me to each of you. After all our time together, we have bonds stronger than any family. Bonds forged by common experience, sacrifice, blood, sweat and tears. The Aeon has been my home, and all of you are more than just crew members to me. So I am giving you this small token, it is a
Star Army Ring that I had created for each of you. They have been personalized with your respective birthstone. So that no matter where the future may lead us you will have this ring to look upon and remember those whom you have served with."
She then reached down and picked up her box, opened it and slid the ring on her middle finger.