Intergalactic Summit

I am not "working for" the Republic, at least not in any way that harms the interests of the Caldari State, or of any Caldari corporation, mega or otherwise. I am attempting to build bridges in the hopes that with the Minmatar at least we might be able to find a peaceful, diplomatic resolution to our differences.

The Minmatar in any case had nothing to do with the destruction of the Shiigeru. I will be interested to hear - will indeed be actively seeking over the coming days - the Matari perspective on this.

In any case I have not reversed course so much as paused for breath and reflection. It may be that I choose to follow through on my original announcement, but I made that announcement in the heat of anger, and grief, and choleric temper. I have spent much of the night doing my level best to rein myself in and consider the situation with a more level head. Why? Because even if I'm not a Wayist myself, I sincerely respect the philosophy it espouses, especially the behaviour promoted by Cold Wind. Cool tempers, level heads, looking beyond your rage and fury and flags to see faces and people instead.

We all have our own Heiian; I don't presume to lecture you on yours, I will thank you not to lecture me on mine. I view mine as the burden of being - when it matters most - the voice of reason and moderation. Goodness knows, the cluster needs such voices. But I am not obligated to prove myself to you Vikarion, nor to seek your approval.

Incidentally, the proof was provided instantly, straight from the Admiral's own mouth. Whether she intended to fire Oblivion or mere Citadel cruise missiles is an academic distinction - I cannot condone an order that would have resulted in the deaths of hostage non-combatants. Not so soon after I had argued passionately that such a course of action was unthinkable.

I am still angry at the Federation. I still very much feel that every drop of blood that was spilled in Luminaire yesterday is on the Federal Government's hands. I stand by my expressed opinion that they have shown nothing but contempt time and again for our right to plot our own course, and I have argued that yesterday's assault was an effective endorsement and repetition of the policies of the wartime government, the same old disease relapsing.

But if the order to fire on Home was given by a Caldari, then there's a rot taken hold in the State that we should feel compelled to address as well.

I am sorry your resolve was so short lived, Verin. I saw something very honest and real in your initial statement - I hope you won't over-analyse your way out of what your heart tells you is the right thing to do.

The Admiral could have fired the Doomsday weapon at any time after the FN fleet engaged - despite multiple warnings that she was about to do so, she never did. Draw your own conclusions - or else hide behind the nonsense idea that she was constantly 'bumped out of alignment'.

Oh don't worry Pieter, I fully intend to be decisive.

I also intend to make the right decision for the right reasons.

And you can continue to push the righteous, accepting and noble Gallente way.

My thoughts are with you Rakkai and I know you will do what is best.