One post from each character was chosen for the run-off polls to make reading (and therefore voting) easier
"Thank you for your words, Ambassador Natasi. Unfortunately, a continuation of this dialogue must wait until tomorrow, when we reconvene
Quote:
this council." Justyna spoke easily, with all the practiced ambiguity of a seasoned politician. She'd acquired it through a long seven years of settling gubanatorial disputes and managing territorial aid, and it looked like she would need every bit of her careful diplomacy now. "I must say that I am encouraged by the direction in which our talks are proceding." Filler words; they didn't mean anything, and the ambassador probably knew it - it was all part of the game. She continued, jaded to the presence of the hovering holocams that were recording this meeting for the archives. "I think I speak for all Imadi when I say that we look forward to further developing our ties with the New Republic." Picking up the traditional officiator's rod, bound in silver and tipped with jade, Justyna rapped it twice on the conference table. The hollow thumps echoed back from the high walls and domed ceiling, punctuating the end of that day's business. "I, Justyna Regina, Third of House Viridan, declare this meeting adjourned." She smiled, perhaps the first real smile she had delivered all day. "I would not want to delay us from our meal. Ambassador Natasi, in honor of your arrival, we have prepared a traditional High Supper. We must return to the palace and don more appropriate attire for celebration - it has been long since a representative of a galactic Republic favored our halls - and from among our own people, as well."
The queen's aides, efficient and dignified, had the various datapads and access nodes packed away in two blinks of an eye. Elite guards of Justyna's private detail left their posts around the large conference room, ready to escort the royal and ambassadorial retinues for the short walk across the central plaza to the Ekateryna Palace. As they exited the doors of the marble administrative complex - a palace in its own right - the queen quietly took stock of the little party. There were her aides, of course, and advisors, foreign minister, and guards. The ambassador's
companions were slightly more interesting, including the usual aides and private security escorts, but also several Jedi, revivals of an ancient order. She had heard much about them, but never actually seen one in person. It would be interesting to actually have a normal conversation with one... In the meantime, there was quite a crowd of Imadi in the plaza - here to see their queen and the ambassador, no doubt. Imadi took a personal interest in politics.
Occupied with these thoughts, Justyna barely had time to note that they were in the middle of the plaza before a guard yelled a warning and cannoned into her, bringing them both to the ground with Justyna underneath. She would have objected, quite enthusiastically, had it not been for the vitrolic sizzle of blaster bolts ripping through the air.
Looking fearfully to Hannah, Mark spoke not a word nor did he agree. Instead, his breaths became tighter and closer together, as he turned his eyes toward the floor, watching the large moster-like feet lead the way to the unknown that awaited them.
As the anticipation grew, Mark shut his eyes in fear of what lay ahead.