Kharn requested formal council time within weeks of Solthai's remarkable proposal, his characteristic composed bearing carrying something Rama immediately recognized as genuine, evident significance beyond routine institutional business.
"I want to share something directly," he said, addressing the reconvened council with careful, deliberate precision. "Something my own civilization's leadership has been discussing extensively, following everything this alliance's continued, honest accountability has demonstrated across our own difficult, complicated relationship."
Rodriguez, present through his continued advisory capacity, offered characteristic thoughtful attention. "Tell us directly," he said.
