It is I who owe you thanks, Senator, for supporting the petition. I am pleased that there are Senators of like mind on this issue and I am hopeful that, as long as there are, we can change how things are done on Deralia for the good of its people and, Force forbid, our own. I share your concern for King Deralius, however. I have not met the man, and his rule is in but its infancy, but I am beginning to fear that the King may be little more than a figurehead—remaining in his palace oblivious to what goes on around him, shuffling notes or perhaps even a single note as he awaits instructions from those in whose thrall he appears to be. Whether that is the Deralian government or, worse, Governor Ribaldequin, I cannot be sure. The King's silence does seem to work in the Governor's favor, however, and I agree that for the good of the people of Deralia (and for the good of the principle of monarchy, a principle which Naboo would, of course, like to preserve) something should be done to encourage him to speak more forcefully for his people.

This may not be a good message for him to hear from a man of Naboo, however. The fate of the late Queen Apailana of my world is fresh in the minds and memories of all planetary monarchs, I am sure. It is indeed dangerous to speak too forcefully, as a Queen or King of one's people. Still, I agree with you that a visit would be helpful, although I may decline to go myself (for the above reason and also because Senator Organa tells me that my last official visit—to Carratos, as you'll recall—seems to have aroused the suspicions of the Imperial Security Bureau, and I do not wish to bring undue Imperial attention on Deralia on account of my presence there).

I do encourage you to speak to King Deralius, however, or perhaps to Senator Veritas. I assume that, despite the Senator's shrewd (if awkward) silence on this issue, he is really in agreement with us and could pass our concerns on to the King. Do let me know how this goes, and warmest regards to you.

Sincerely,

Artemis Vanden