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[dreamsoftomorrow]

What makes an Empire evil or bad?

The definition is simply that it's ruled by one person, but nowhere does it state that it's also inherently bad.

So, what makes it bad?

Why are we assuming Sen Devadatta is evil when from what I've read in the history books and from the locals, all they did was shut their doors. We don't know the reason yet either.

It's understandable to be wary and suspicious, but I don't think it's a good idea to go in believing we're going to be arrested or worse.

Comments

Voice

[piume]

[ Okay, the man has brought up a fair point - and even in his annoyance, Lean has to admit it was an error on his part to present it as such.

... It takes him a moment to cool down. ]

I worded this poorly, I apologise.

[ He sighs, searching for the right way to do this. ]

You have no formal obligations towards the Center itself, that much is true and I’m not going to pretend otherwise. However - [ And here, his tone regains some of the confidence. ] I ask of you to understand we’re dealing with a delicate situation, and therefore can’t stand idly in the face of potential threat of disrupting our relations. We are not capable of telling what the reaction might even be, at this point.

Voice

[regisrex]

Of course. [ About the apology. Because, yes, this is partly what he means in his texts to Hope. There is far too much threatening and too much fear going around. But no harm was done, he thinks.

He hums softly. ]

Believe me, I have a very fair view of how delicate the situation is. I came here fresh out of negotiating with another nation, personally.

That is why I asked - the delicate situation can be shattered by omitted assumption just as badly as by open threats or violence. I know many of us are very grateful to the aid that Curti Center has provided us, and will do our best to repay some of that, so long as it is an expectation that we're aware of.

You and your colleague have been very helpful with bringing us up to speed regarding the history of the Empire. However, by a similar token, please consider what other ways we may be going blind into a different sovereign state. Not something you need to answer right this moment - but we would appreciate it if you would let us know before we depart.

[ Especially since chances are that communications will be monitored, while there. But that's also... staying too close to the paranoia to point out. ]

Voice

[piume]

[ As he tries to put himself in the shoes of an outworlder, Lean can easily see where Regis is coming from - which further shows in his gentle tone. ]

There is currently nothing I can think of - in the interest of everyone’s safety, we can’t afford to keep potential leads private. Our affiliations with the Empire have been severed for years, so we can only rely on the official announcements. Safer Osu’s willingness to participate does dispel some of the major concerns, though.

[ A pause. ]

... Should anything change, I’ll keep you updated.

Voice

[regisrex]

Thank you. That will be most helpful - for all of us, I believe. Even the ones who are being... difficult.