"The evening torches along the Sovereign Assembly colonnade flicker against the polished granite arches," Sir Owen noted, watching the tense gathering of continental delegates.
"The four western regional delegations have formally submitted their withdrawal petitions to the clerk," High Scholar Ronald reported, holding four vellum documents sealed with wax.
"They fear that remaining in our mutual defense compact will draw orbital bombardment down upon their cities," Lady Seraphina said, her voice filled with quiet concern.
"Councilor Varos claims his people would rather face local wilderness beasts than the warships of interstellar cartels," Mayor Harrison of Torrel Bend added, shaking his head.
"We cannot force free cities to remain part of our military vanguard against their will," Captain Kendra stated, leaning against the balustrade as her healed arm rested easily.
