Testimony of Former Pressman Xachar OubliantBefore the Commission on Knowledge and LoyaltyInterim Report
Special attention should be paid by future histories of recent events to the following excerpts of one exchange between the commission and the student-turned-Pressman Xachar Oubliant:
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Commissioner Varr: “Young man, you claim to have become overpowered by circumstance.”
The former student shifts in his chair so much that the metal seat creaks. “It’s the truth. I didn’t intend—”
Commissioner Andol: Intentions are not actions. Intentions don’t leave a mark on history. What was your role with the Pressmen? Did you collaborate with the librarian and the thief? What will you do now?
Xachar Oubliant plays with a small chip of pale green glass hung from a cord around his neck. He shrugs.
Commissioner Varr: “That is no answer.”
He raises his green eyes to the three commissioners. Speaks so simply that the commission is compelled to believe he means it when he says, “Sirs, I will do what is useful. That’s what I’ve always done.”
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Commissioners’ Note: Among those we’ve questioned, young Oubliant is by far the most willing to cooperate with our work. This is admirable.