The Last Days of Krypton - Kevin J. Anderson [43]
“Debate? There is not time to entangle this matter in endless discussions and committees. First we must set up a full-scale study group and begin collecting data without delay. In Argo City—”
“This is not Argo City,” Pol-Ev cut him off, adjusting one of his many rings. Even down on the speaking floor, his cologne hung thick in the air.
Seeing his brother’s growing frustration, Jor-El broke in. “I wholeheartedly agree with Zor-El. I suggest we perform planetwide seismic studies—send probes not just across the southern continent, but distribute them across Krypton. We need to assess the extent of the problem. From what he has told me, I believe there is a real reason for concern.”
When old Jul-Us frowned, his face became a wadded ball of soft leather. “So, you claim that instabilities are building up in our core and that somehow”—he spread his hands, as if looking for a reasonable explanation—“our whole planet will just spontaneously…explode?”
“Didn’t he say that about the sun Rao, too?” Al-An muttered loudly.
Jor-El squared his shoulders. “Yes, that is exactly what I am saying. None of you can deny that our cities have noticed a substantial increase in seismic tremors in recent years. Remember the rockslide in Corril only six months ago? Three major mines destroyed—”
“Which my son Tyr-Us is rebuilding along more stringent construction codes,” Jul-Us said, as if that would solve the whole problem.
“Besides, we have always felt tremors,” said Kor-Te. No doubt he had memorized every prior incident.
“Ah, then you have also noted the evidence,” Zor-El added smoothly. “It is obvious for anyone to see.”
Before they could wander into other bureaucratic dances, Jor-El laid out the basic plan he had developed. “Without delay, we’ve got to find some way to release the pressure building up in our core. Who knows how close we are to a critical point? Zor-El took readings at only one of the thermal plumes.”
“A global problem requires a global response,” his brother added. “All cities must join in the effort. We are all in this together.”
Jor-El narrowed his eyes, sounding determined and hoping that no one here decided to call his bluff. They all knew he was far more intelligent than any of them, frighteningly so. “Perhaps I should accept that provisional Council seat you offered me some time ago. It is the only way I can be sure you will focus your efforts on the necessary work. With my vote, I could veto any other distractions until this matter is resolved.”
“That is not necessary,” Pol-Ev said quickly. “Krypton would benefit most if you dedicated yourself to your real work.”
Jor-El stared them down. He could tell he was making them nervous. They didn’t want him to serve on the Council any more than he wanted to do so.
“Jor-El is right about our priorities,” Cera-Si said eagerly. “Provide us with the data you collected, and our objective experts will review it. As soon as the threat is verified, the Council can develop action groups. Both of you should lead them. Then we will send representatives to other cities, see if additional groups wish to join us in the effort.”
“I, for one, intend to look at this data very carefully,” Kor-Te said. “Do you have it?”
Zor-El looked at his brother awkwardly, but Jor-El sighed. “Tell them.”
Mauro-Ji leaned forward, putting his elbows high on the bench. “Is there some problem? If your data is so conclusive that you would rush—”
Zor-El met the skeptical eyes of those staring down upon him. “I lost my data. There was another eruption, and I was attacked by hrakkas. My equipment was destroyed.”
With a sarcastic chuckle, Silber-Za tossed her long yellow hair. Apparently, their entrance had interrupted discussion on a civic matter she had personally submitted to the Council. “Then your claims seem premature. Even if your brother supports you, we cannot authorize dramatic changes in planetary policy on the basis of your word alone, Zor-El.”
“Why would you doubt my word?” He could barely control his anger.
“It’s not an unreasonable request.” Mauro-Ji sounded conciliatory.