TO THE STARS ✯✯ MEETING, 4/22-4/28

[ELLIE]

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[div style="text-align: justify; width:490px;font-size:9.2pt; line-height:1.4"]There wasn't much to be done for this week's meeting. It was a bit...disheartening, although Ellie supposed it was better for the oceans to be calm than frenzied, and she preferred peace to frantic business. Besides, there were still plenty of things to do, which she would attend to as soon as she was able. Hopefully that would put some vigor in the members themselves, even if it was only enough to spur a bit more participation. That was all she was looking for at the moment, and she wanted to work toward that more, but first things first: preparations for the meeting and then the gathering itself. As it was a growing custom for she and Jo, Ellie arranged for more tea and small collections of food for nibbling on, mostly tiny sugar cookies. They were all laid out across the various tables through the common area, with couches rearranged to all face in the same direction. It was a bit tedious to change them to this position every Sunday, but she wouldn't want them permanently in this position, considering their previous placements -facing each other- meant people had a better layout for interaction. So she assumed, anyway; Ellie couldn't be certain yet if the furniture arrangements were bolstering socialization.

That aside, she waited for everyone to drift in, occasionally glancing toward Jo with a private smile, simply glad to have her present. She was certainly a grounding presence to have, and of course, if there was anything Ellie overlooked, she could count on Jo to pick up those items in due course. Smoothing down the front of her sweater, she cleared her throat only loud enough to draw attention before finally beginning. "First of all, I'd like to extend a welcome to all the newcomers at the Lodge. If there is anything you need, or if you have any questions, you can see either Jo or myself." She smiled again, though this one was for the greater public, rather than Jo alone. "As an update, we've had visits from the leaders of The Badlands and The Northstar District. Once Jo and I compile everything from those discussions, we'll be sure to share it with the rest of you. Other than that, the former would like to begin trading again. It isn't wide-scale, but if you need anything, he is here with various goods.[sup]1[/sup]" She reached for a sip of her tea, pressing her lips together to even out the moisture once she set the cup down. "In light of the disappearances, Jo and I would appreciate it if someone might like to arrange a patrol. Just something to check the perimeter, and possibly even check for animals, either those we can hunt or those we should stay away from." It was always a priority to remain safe, from both other people and animals who might pose a threat.

"Are there any questions? If I've missed anything, Jo, you can take over."

1. Here is the trading thread with ND, if anyone missed it!

As a reminder, the m&g is still up and ready to go if anyone wants to post there. The reward for participating is a chance at a high position, if anyone is interested in that.

And here's an OOC welcome to everyone who's decided to join! We're glad to have you, and any questions can go to either of us. Don't be shy about popping in to say hi in the chat!