[ he smiled easily, suddenly relaxed and on more familiar ground. ]

IT certainly is the eclectic collection of people they've brought here. [ he shook his head ] I can't fathom how they think our affection will be able to turn this city around.

[ he laughed to himself then, a small aside that was directed inward, not towards Pai. ] I suppose it's true, if you wish to live in interesting times, then you shall. [ of course, Jack had wished for nothing of the sort. Alas... ]