A very well experienced elLan in Lan Governance sits at her work interface area.

She has observed three pieces of data that might suggest harassment or intimidation of a new citizen; a suspicious face image, physical collapses, and a public message about 'causes'. Normally, these alone would not be enough, but there is another important issue which suggests that we look into it quickly.

She has the diagnostic logs and residence logs. Nothing out of place is there to be seen. No system extending equipment that would allow these three to affect Ami from so far away.

Governance: "You, the youngest. Step forward."

"first" steps forward. The woman from governance observes no system field anomalies. No fields that grow based on movement.

Governance: "Do you have a nickname for her?"

"first" says, with earnest excitement: "The Bright and Shining Light which diminishes us all in its presence"

"first" steps back. The governance elLan thinks it is odd to have that oddly long nickname and odd to step back after answering one question. Not unheard of, though. Stepping back. Older private schools (sticklers for traditions) used to do that and some home schools. Even the other two give the youngest one some glances. Probably enthusiasm over composure.

Governance: "You next over. Step Forward."

"second" steps forward. The governance elLan observes composure, and no field effects.

Governance: "Do you have a nickname for her?"

"second" says: "Ami"

"first" at once blurts: "Oh yes, 'Ami' me too."

Governance: "OK."

"second" performs a quick head bow with a stiffened back, but then glances with eyes left and right as she backs up.

The governance elLan considers that "second" gave a very formal bow (likely honed to instinct) in being released, but then felt she was possibly caught in the act of doing it. She comes from the home world, but carries no obvious sign of wealth.

Governance: "You next over. Step Forward."

"hubby" steps forward.

Governance: "Tell me everything I need to know."

"hubby" says: "Ami is wonderful and is a fine addition to the community of Lan."

Governance: "OK. So Ami, I will send you a message, please send a reply right back."

Ami sends a 'Hi" reply, and the governance elLan thinks there was no pause or other sign of fear. No intimidation.

Ami says: "Why did you contact us?"

Governance: "Well, OK, I allow the others to come forward enough to take a look at your screen."

"hubby", "first" and "second" come forward and show surprised expressions. The amount points and regard is much larger than anyone has ever seen.

The kidnapped alLan had reported good health, but made no actual statements (which led to a high level of social interest). The hate storm over the "Wroug Three" peaked some days ago. The Lan were feeling guilty. Ami's limited citizenship was good news.

Subtracting points allocated for private major projects that were financed by debt, Ami had almost one sixth of all available points.

Governance: "Ami, some may ask for return of funds. Do you have a default response?"

Ami says: "Well, if they got caught up and now regret it, or had some unwelcome news and now need it back. Maybe just let them have it back."

Governance: "OK, I will make that the default setting. Because of the extreme attention level, I will add locked points to the accounts of all four of you. Basic living for roughly two decades. Those are only for really bad situations, and must be authorized by us."

Ami says: "Can you send me information on social justice actions?"

The governance elLan sends links, so she can track Ami's progress in reading the material.

Governance: "OK, here are some links for you look over. Has anyone asked you to endorse any product, planned any repayment contracts, or made plans to spend your funds."

Ami says: "No. They want me to just ask by requests until I know the system better."

Governance: "Ok, I think we are covered. Ami, write to me with any questions. I might also check back with you occasionally."

The image drops off the screen. The Lans look over Ami's back to see the numbers grow.