The face of a great leader looms large in the expanse above.
From previous discussions with colleagues, I have only intimations of the message to come.
A silky smooth face, through eyes that sparkle, smiles serenely. "Citizens of the Solar Federation of Planets, it is my privilege to broadcast this message far and wide across the solar system and beyond."
The voice pauses for effect.
"A serious matter of an urgent nature requires resolution."
Again, the voice pauses for effect.
"The matter in question concerns the fate of Earth, our sacred home, and its inhabitants. Beyond Earth, unrelenting pressures to grow and expand bring calls for fundamental change in the relationship between Earth and its neighbors. Accusations of complacency on Earth have been raised."
Again, the voice pauses for effect.
"In particular, accusations have been raised by those on the cutting edge of growth and change against those who resist said growth and change."
Again, the voice pauses for effect. So far, I've heard nothing I haven't heard before.
"A proposal with serious repercussions for the inhabitants of Earth now stands before the Council, with the following suggestions: one, that the Pleasure Zone be moved off-world into orbit around Earth; two, that the earth be used as a base of operations for a certain project, details of which will become available after this broadcast; and three, that the project be undertaken in a manner that is independent of the Council."
In the pause that follows, I feel a wave of agitation run through my fellow listeners as they await an outline of the project in question.
