Just Words

[LoAmi 0]

The general ascended to the balcony which faced all the delegations. The camera that recorded the picture that displayed on the large screen captured the old man's every movement and broadcasted it to the screen and on all of the planet's primary public communications channels. The announcer announced "Presenting, General Li Dyse." Applause could be heard. After it subsided, and the general waved in all directions, his voice was amplified and boomed throughout the square, as if coming from all directions:

 

"Forty five revolutions ago, our planet was engulfed in tumultuous conflict. The forces of tribalism and parochialism challenged our species until to its near destruction. In the end, the forces of unity and peace prevailed. Many nations became a nation. Many misdirected goals turned to a single path. The remnants of our people set out on a program to rebuild and re-form. Forty five revolutions ago, we were alone and dying. But, we refused to lay down and go quietly. We populated our cities. Out of the ruins, we grew them anew. The change swept the rural areas too. They returned to agriculture, mining, and industry. Together, we did more than produce what we needed to sustain ourselves. In only a small matter of time, our resources were sufficient to return to the sciences and innovation. It was then that we learned that, not only were we living - but we were not alone. Out in the stars that dot our sky nightly are many diverse species. Their delegations are here, with us, today."

 

The speech continued as the camera panned across the smaller and lower balconies where the delegations sat, then back to the general.

 

"To all of you who traveled far across the stars, we welcome you. Your presence here is a testament to the sheer force of will that brought us to this moment. While you have more experience out there, in space, there is much we can share. Surely, there is much benefit that you can provide to us; but, just as assuredly, we have much to offer to you. Let us talk together. Let us trade together. Let us discover together. Let us build together. May the gods show favor to their children. May the gods show favor to Axrekrav. May the gods show favor to all who grace us with their presence."

 

The general waved, and the canned applause continued until after he left the balcony.