From the farm shed to the palace .

[Jose Benitez]

Jose waited for the Alliance delegates and the Elders that were present to take their seats. Having allowed a few minutes for people to settle he rose from his seat and coughed gently to draw the attention of the delegates.

'€œSenors'€, he began, '€œI'€™d like to open this meeting by saying that it is once again good to see delegates of the Alliance government here on Crete. I fear that sometimes our work and duties prevent us from meeting like this as often as we would perhaps like'€.

'€œThere are a number of issues that we would like to discuss and I believe that the first item relates to food supplies. The Empire is very aware of the fact that there are many that would like nothing better than to see the people of Crete starve. Whilst we are in the process of working on improved methods of food production we still have need of your assistance both in terms of technical expertise and food shipments'€.

Pausing to take a drink from the glass on the table in front of him Jose continues, '€œIn very recent times we have experienced a very small reduction in the food shipments arriving here at Crete. This seems to be as a result of the activities of our enemies, and whilst it is not sufficient to cause any concern in the short term I'€™d not like to see it continue for a significant length of time. Therefore, if it would be possible for the Alliance to increase the shipments for the next period it would be most helpful'€.

'€œI would like to take this opportunity to remind our honoured guests that should a military escort be required then the Empire will be happy to provide one, resource allowing'€. Jose sat down and retrieved his drink from the table top.