[voice] 001

[ruleoftwo]

[Councilman Palpatine's voice is a familiar enough one. Like some old timers, he has a penchant for using the voice function of the Warp Band; video is still quite new to him. However, he sounds relaxed today. Even a little grandfatherly.]

Good evening, people of Union. I hope that this finds you well. I know the last few weeks have been trying. The tragedy that befell our city was felt by everyone, and all of our lives were touched by it... and, I think, by the aid so generously brought by our allies.

[Enough of that.]

I'm hoping to submit several proposals to the Council for the rebuilding of the city. One concern that we should consider is defense -- how to prevent attacks like that, and, should one occur again, reduce the loss of life.

I thought I should ask all of you what sorts of defenses you might see. Shelters and evacuation routes seem necessary, first and foremost, I think.

Comments

[ruleoftwo]

Ah, wonderful. It's a shame that you returned to find the city in such a state. But, we can fix what was done.

[Palpatine gets the hint. He's used to this. There's a soft 'hmm' over the voice line, then:]

Let me see what I can do. I think the council is afraid, and fear can make men take many sorts of actions. I'll explain the necessity of reaching out, not pulling in. I agree with you completely, Luxanna.

[rememberher]

I agree, the people of Union have shown that we're strong. We won't let this keep us down for too long.

[ There is a distinct smile in her tone. Yes, she knew she could count on him. ]

That's a relief, I'm glad that someone does. I've been butting heads with my father over this since we got back--although I suspect that has less to do with ideals than it does with the "sudden" wedding. Is there anything that I can do to make the process easier for you?

[ruleoftwo]

[He nods, murmuring in agreement to the sentiment. But, he's listening -- and considering -- after that. Anything she can do...]

My first advice is to be ready. We need decisive action, to reach out and discover more, and we need to be ready to move. We know how the Council can deliberate... and in times where we need expediency, we don't want that to stop us from talking to our allies and finding out who these enemies are. We can deliberate far more meaningfully when we have the facts.

If you know any council members who might listen, too... you might wish to speak with them.

[rememberher]

Right, of course. Depending on when we get the order, I can have a group ready to move within the week. That shouldn't be a problem.

As for Council support, I'm not sure I have that much influence myself, and my father doesn't want to listen to reason in this case.

[ruleoftwo]

Very good. I knew you'd be prepared.

Ah, but I understand that. Leave the council to me, then. I think that I can make a reasonable case. We have to change our thinking in the face of such dangers, without losing who we are.

cries I'm sorry this month has literally been 19 days of hell

[rememberher]

If you would like, I can provide you with ample evidence based on our findings with the Seekers, as well as a bit of my own work.

noooo worries!! I know how it is

[ruleoftwo]

Oh, yes. That would be most helpful, Luxanna. I've always admired the Seekers' work.