Maximilian Yates Speech

Speech Given By Maximilian Yates aka Bilbo

Transcribed from Awards Banquet on December 17th 2073

at City Hall in Honor of the Brave Warriors who Fought and Died

Fighting for Seattle’s Independence

          Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for having me tonight.  Over the last few days I have been reflecting on the events of December 10th, and I must admit that at first the only question I could think of was why here?  Of all the places where we could be attacked, why Seattle?  Now, tactically minded individuals will tell you that it is because we are surrounded on all sides and that there was an existing base already in the city. However, I believe it is more than that.  Over the past 50 years Seattle has stood for one thing: freedom.  Freedom to live.  Freedom to do what you want.  It has been this mindset that has crafted the populace we have today.

            When the NAN and UCAS forces looked for a target for their first assault it wasn’t the tactically sound component they sought, it was this freedom they were after.  As long as Seattle stands it will always mean freedom in the eyes and hearts of any who gaze upon it.  It was this fact that our foes wished to crush.  They came to place fear within our hearts and within those that inhabit our city and nation.  Well, unfortunately for them, they succeeded.

            I say unfortunately, because they don’t know what fear means.  So let me share the secret with you.  FEAR – face everything and rise.  A simple concept that everyone in this great place took and made their own.  Those from all walks of life; citizen, ganger, police officer, and even runners stood together to rise over this opponent.  We fought together, we succeeded together.  This war is bigger than any individual, and everyone knows it.  What other place has a mayor incredible enough to leave his office and get involved in the fight personally!  Who does that?! Mayor Hill does that.

            Just a few days ago we as a group, and I mean all those that fought, had an incredible victory and were able to save this place.  However, our foes will be back.  We all hold a common goal.  Whatever this great Emerald City is to you, we need to make it and the world around us our haven.  Our refuge and shelter where we live happily as members of this great place.  Please, if you know anyone who can fight, have them take up arms and join us.  Together, we can protect this city and all of its inhabitants. It is our job to make this city an example for the freedom the entire nation deserves.  I urge you to help us protect this place, our haven.

                                                                                                                                                   Speech Written and Given By: Maximilian Yates (Bilbo)

                                                                                                                                                   Speech Transcribed By: Reverdy Davis (Snoopy)