Solomon launched into a smug tirade, refusing to let his good mood be fouled, "FAS is doomed to fail because it is governed by the people of old Earth, the same people responsible for mankind's long history of repeating the same mistakes over and over again.  Whereas the Quantum ruling Horizon seek vengeance against all life; a pointless but dangerous genocide.  Though it may seem so to you, Ascendeds do not hold a majority in the Ascendancy.  What makes the Ascendancy great is that individuals are rewarded for their contributions, so everyone has a fair opportunity.  Granted, some contribute more than others, but [url=http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/He_who_does_not_work,_neither_shall_he_eat]'He who does not work, neither shall he eat'[/url], and [url=http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/To_each_according_to_his_contribution]'to each according to his contribution'[/url].  It's not really my fault if some people are either too lazy to contribute, or are incapable of doing so.  Ascendeds may hold more power in the Ascendancy, but that's a result of their contribution; I'm not saying anything against Wildtypes or Quantums, but you can't argue with results.  Neither FAS nor Horizon have such a simple but fair system, they're stuck trying to establish some artificial form of racial supremacy, we're the ones giving everyone an equal chance.  But don't worry, your contributions on the field today are commendable, as Wildtypes, I'd say you sisters have proven yourselves."  This was probably the closest thing to gratitude either of the sisters had ever seen from Solomon.

During this tirade, Israfil was becoming increasingly uncomfortable.  He looked over at Claire who had greeted him, and with a weary look on his face, said, "Hi...good job out there today."