"So, as far as I can tell, none. History of course is written by the victor and nothing can be truly, perfectly known, but for example -  the Austrian states have always been a tumultuous place. Earth is a common theme, even in Milliways, mind - the particular example I'm thinking of is the Austrian states and Holland, where the people can be individually quite diligent and kind - but when moving as a group turn like feral animals to anything that might threaten their security or wealth. The student revolt in Amsterdam nearly burned down the whole state. For all that they were trying to break free of old dogma and be kind and progressive and noble - when people started getting hungry, all nobility went out the window. The Ciompi revolts, the Cornish Rebellion, the Peasants' War - every example of people pushed beyond tolerance trying to build a just society I've ever read of involved burning down the old one to escape it, and trying to build on the ash, and getting something mostly the same, with different people wearing the crown."

Different Earths have different histories, Locke is slowly adapting to the idea. He wonders if it's possible for the bar to provide snacks, as he's getting quite hungry right now.

"The over-arching theme here, is how power corrupts. Good intentions barely matters in the end, when they're repeating the same cruelties enacted on them. It's a painful cycle for humanity to break through, I suppose, everyone is prone to becoming addicted to having such magnitude and authority."

"There is significance in remaining humble, even if you've won and most can't overcome their cravings to stay that way. Hope I'm following, ugh. One second."

He eyes the bar, patting the counter. "Do you have anything to eat? It's urgent, I need to concentrate."

Of course; I serve any food you can care to name, so long as it's safe for you to eat. I do charge reasonable prices after the first drink.

"That is why I tried not to become the boss. Can't do anything without me, can they..." She mutters not quite under her breath.

"I'm sure they'll figure things out. It's not like they're a hive-mind, even if they seem dependent on your aid."

Locke pulls out his wallet. "I'd like steak, please and thank you. Any cut will do fine, as long as it's rare."

"The desire to interfere when you see someone doing things in back-asswards stupid ways is too strong, sometimes. People gonna people, and I can't keep away entirely even if it's not healthy for me."

Just the steak, or would you like a full meal? Either way, I can put it on your tab for the moment.

"Stronger than the instinct to maim whenever you're watching them - or, that's only how I feel. Incompetents shouldn't have the world's permission to sink it when they're not having things their way."

He nonchalantly answers the bar, re-pocketing his leather wallet. "Full meal, please! I'm not leaving this place empty."

Here is a ribeye steak seasoned with rosemary and pepper, rare with fine marbling. It is accompanied by mashed potatoes with a dish of gravy, roast asparagus and carrots, a side salad, and a small bowl of some sort of savory white sauce.

Your tab now stands at £8.75, though if you wish for any substitutions or condiments I can make them free of charge - Enjoy!

"So cynical. Does anyone who fails to pass the test of regard deserve to rot, then? Maybe they're having a bad day. Maybe you're testing a fish on its ability to climb trees."

Locke picks up his utensils, already cutting into his steak. A meal fit for a king.

"If they weren't already having a bad day, they'd surely regret crossing Right-Heart Picard. But, no. They shouldn't rot, it's only appropriate to have them share the same air as everyone else. It's only fair that the universe is thoroughly balanced with its natural-born clowns and jesters."

He lifts a piece of meat into his mouth, biting the fork as he does.

"Some of those might call you a clown, mind. Not that I disagree entirely. -Something about this is getting tiresome. Perhaps how I try to remain an optimistic cynic. I'll have some meat as well, surprise me."

She serves Walta an omelet heavy with bacon, pork cubes, bits of chicken and turkey and beef.

All the food is, of course, delicious. And also somewhat healthier than it really ought to be, for how it tastes, not that this is immediately visible.