Christopher shook his head.
"I fail to see how brainwashed equates to state of the art... if anything its a hinderence, because soldiers that can't think for themselves are too much of an investment. Think of the complications that would arise when fearless soldiers who never retreat were to foolhardily charge into a massacre and get themselves all killed. If the Alliance wanted soldiers that did that, they'd just use robots."
"Oh, they would, doctor, but they don't need to resort to brainwashing to do it. I assume you've heard of the chain of command?" She asks, "So yes, while soliders do have to follow orders, the Alliance makes sure those orders are intelligent and thought out, which is why every officer is thoroughly screened and required to attend a six-year Academy. Military courts are the harshest in the system, and soldiers who disobey dishonorable or illegal orders are commended, not condemned." Harmony seems to be getting quite angry about this.
Kenneth arches an eyebrow. "And what do you think those six years of required Academy training are for?" He flicks a hand dismissively, as the answer, to him, is obvious. "Conditioning. We know it works, medically."
The doctor looks back at his bowl, poking at the noodles. "And what the Alliance condones is dishonorable. That's why I left Londinum."
"You're wrong about that." She says, "It might surprise you, but I was an astronaval cadet when I was younger, and I very nearly attended the Naval Academy. On Londinum. I've met more Alliance soldiers than I can remember the names of, and they are not brainwashed; they are good, honest people who are willing to fight for what they believe in. I even know Admiral DuGalle personally, and he is one of the most honorable men I've ever met. There's no more conditioning going on in NavAcad than there is in a Fruity Oaty Bars commercial!"
Toki overheard the conversation at the table about the Alliance and their alleged brainwash tactics, and the dishonor amongst them all. Some people had absolute disdain for the Alliance, and they would probably hate him even more if they found out he was the man with seven scars. He knew that what he did was right, he knew his sacrifice was his own doing, it was his choice. No one brainwashed him, or forced his mind to do anything. Toki's willpower was too great to fall prey to such tricks. He made himself visible and addressed his fellow shipmates and guests. Please pardon my intrusion, but I was wondering if I may join you all. I do not require food if there isn't enough to go around, your company should suffice well enough for me.
"Brainwashing ain't always gonna be obvious, you know. I'm sure there are plenty of good men and women who join up with the Alliance military, and it's a sad thought that they're being changed without even knowing it. But just because it's bad doesn't mean it can't happen."
Kenneth glances at Nadra. "Why would they? Why not?" He answers simply.
"So what's your evidence, Doctor? What's your proof? Any studies, or personal experience?" Harmony asks, "Stop making empty accusations and spreading baseless rumors." She stands, and glances at Toki. "Here, take my seat." She says, some of her anger getting misdirected at the soldier, "I was just leaving."
They seem rather caught up in their now-heated discussion, Toki. However, Phillip seems to have regretted bringing this up and offers you his seat.
"Have fun with this bunch," he says under his breath. "I'm going to take a nap. Could someone let me know when we are approaching Selene? I have a brother there, managed to get off of Rubicon. Anyone mind if I call him later, from the ship?"
-
"No clue," Kelly responds to Alan. "I'm thinkin' Persephone, maybe. Pick up a new job and keep on movin' as long as you keep this engine runnin'."
Toki felt like he did something wrong. This must have been a private sitting or maybe I came off rude to her or them. He thought to himself. He hoped she would stay, so he had to politely decline her offer for her seat. "No Ma'am, it is rude and unlike a gentleman to take a woman's seat. I'd rather stand on hot coals then relieve you of your chair." Toki will however take Phillip's seat. "Thank you sir."
Harmony half-laughs, triumphantly, at the Doctor. "Thought so." She says, before giving Toki a rather strange look, turning and heading out of the common room, making a beeline for the cockpit. She closes the door and slumps in her chair, before reaching out and touching the Cortex display, activating it. She stares at the 'Call' button for about thirty seconds, before exiting out. "Captain would kill me for giving away our position, anyways..." She sighs, and just stares at the Black, watching the stars slide past.
"I'll follow you where ever we go, Captain," Alan says. "As for the engine..." He turns and runs his hand over the metal. "Well I try to keep her in as best shape as I can and she's running fine right now... I'll probably pick up some spare parts next place we visit though." Alan turns back to Kelly and smiles. "Just to be safe."