[ Tidus might not like to hear this from Roland, but... He lets out a small laugh, it's breathy and it sounds as if he's remembering an inside joke. ]

Tony's probably had experiences being scrutinized by the public. I can sympathize. It's easy to assume the worst when you've felt the heat from others. Others who may want to take everything you say personally. [ Oh the stories Roland could tell you of his first life, the life before Evermore... But he doesn't say these things to discourage Tidus. Oh no, Roland is attempting to bridge some understanding. His heart is aflame with good intentions. He can't fault him for that. ]

But if I had to give a suggestion, maybe an agenda before broadcasting that meeting would have been better. You wouldn't have been so disconnected from their discussion had you known what the topic was beforehand. Right?

[ He attempts to resume cleaning the dishes, but honestly, his mind is somewhere else entirely now. His hands are just itching to work. He's ironing out a plan if someone was willing to listen to it, change the format of the council meetings...The gears were churning fast. ] You should still listen, if given the chance. Be active. Participate and let your voice be heard. I like your style, Tidus. And nothing you've said so far's convinced me that you don't have the best intentions of your fellow passengers in mind. Those are the best kinds of leaders.

[ His eyes shine with kindness, meeting his gaze in the middle. You're not half-bad, kid, is what Roland would like to say. A little refining here and there, but you're made of tougher stuff than you realize. ]