Aliani pursed his lips at Jack's mention of Haeluna. "I'd like to speak to you about her. When the time is right. You'll know when." That cryptic promise would have to do, for now.

"And no, I don't need any heads cracked" he smiled back. "If I do, I'll be certain to call. We all have our own specialties, after all."

"I look forward to hearing the results of your demonstration. A message of unity and inspiration might resonate particularly well in these troubled times. To speak of what is matters, but we must always have hope for the future, a vision for a better day. Those who succumb to hatred" (*like Haeluna*, he thought) are the enemies of hope."

"So, do what you must. The larger the crowd you can gather, and the longer you can keep them here... that may serve to keep them safe."