Spinning Compass Network

Who just eats a taco like that??

I think it's red wine o'clock.

Is there anyone here who would be able to give me something of a crash course in the technology around here?

I have a lot of catching up to do, and I'd rather not waste time.

I have had some time to reflect, lately, and I would like to ask for your help.

My name is Katarin. Some of you know that Kordala, my homeland was invaded by our enemies, and that they wrought complete devastation. My friends know that I was one of those who fought back, even after it seemed everything was lost, because we should never surrender to those who hate us and would destroy us.

What most of you do not know is that to my knowledge I am the last of the Tavehi line, and that means that I should be in the palace, in the seat of my cousin who was ensi. I was there when they slaughtered my family, but they drew the line at little girls, and they put me in prison instead. I escaped, and lived for years under a false name, as a village girl.

I find now that I am very unprepared for the future I would like to see. If we had victory the day after my return, I would not know what to do with it. I would sit as a symbol while Ellak Temarin or someone like him ruled Kordala.

Perhaps there is a reason I am here. I have been to some of the classes, and learnt that there is much wisdom in this place. Now I think I need something more.

I need someone to tell me how to improve the weapons we have, and how better to use magic at war. I need someone who understands how to take back a city, not just pick off patrolmen and blow up ships and burn supplies. In the village I was a novelty - ah, little Kati from the auxiliary has the command because everyone who should have it by right is dead or gone - but I need to return with the knowledge and the techniques that will make the difference. So I can tell Ellak Temarin that I am taking command at Amrilat, where we are strongest, and not have him laugh in my face. He knows my true name. And so then I can lead Kordala to victory.

And then I need someone who knows what to do in peace, so that when we have driven the occupiers out, Kordala can return to the glory it deserves. There must be new treaties, and new laws.

I ask this in friendship, and nobody is obliged to help me who does not agree with my cause or does not think it a good use of his or her time here.

It has come to my attention, that two people were shot... Because we are afraid of each other. Even if that wasn't the reason, I feel it is long past time for a "town-hall" meeting. It has been years, enough years that I don't think, besides a handful, that any of you attended the last one we had.

I would like to see every single one of you in attendance, young and old, men, women, children, and in between. There is a large amphitheater classroom in the University that will seat everyone, and then some, comfortably.

We do not need to be afraid of each other here, because I don't doubt there will come a time that we well need each other, again. I'm not being dramatic, but I'm talking life and death need, not just because one or the other has a useful skill that would make life easier.

So please, help me end this, and bring us all together again.

Edit: There will be drinks and snacks.