[Valdis frowned at Tony, he was being far more difficult than he needed to be, but at least Sokka and Gene were reasonable.]

There are several ways we can play this, but a common theme is avoiding conflict with the Kedan. [She nodded to Gene] Gene seems to be on the same page in that we need to make ourselves useful to them, but as a whole we must maintain our independence. [She turned to Sokka] Sokka, you have the right idea when it comes to what is needed, but do you have an idea of how to make it happen?