Got a little work done. Sorry it took so long!
Winsler was a member of that group. A short man, Winsler was a small, plump, unimposing figure. Despite this, however, Winsler's political prowress was unmatched.
Behind him, the captain of the da Vinci was having a whispered conversation with the helmsman. Many on the ship feared Winsler, and rightly so. they knew if they crossed him, they would end up on a voyage to the savage remnants of America. Winsler paid little attention to his surroundings. his focus was on the upcoming Council meeting. It was of crucial importance, as they were discussing the availability of resources. No on knew what was being discussed, of course, other than the Councilors. no need to cause unnessecary panic...yet.
Behind him, Winsler heard the captain call to the crew to prepare to ascend into the clouds, where they would lose all visibility for a few kilometers. As the ballast was dropped, New London shrunk in the forward windows, until it was completly obscured by smoke.
How was that?