Freeport 10's "Sylvania Dome"

[Keioff Xanjer]

In their usual gazebo, the two men greeted one another and sat down.

"How are things progressing?"
"There have been some complications Noburu-sama...
R&D have reported that the Surveyor will be a fitting replacement as a light scout vehicle, but we have had a bit of trouble finding a suitable gunship.
For now, the recommendation is to re-instate the old X11s as support vehicles."
"Have you reported this to The Order?"
"Unfortunately the paperwork is not fully in order yet. I will get the matter sorted out as soon as the documentation has gone through."
"Good. We cannot afford any troubles if we want to operate freely. Just remember then we cannot be seen as supporting them, so do try to be discreet in your communications.

While Mr. Noburu poured a cup of tea, Xanjer gazed out in the vast emptiness of space for a minute.

"Noburu-sama... I am afraid that I have other news to report.
I have the feeling our employees are starting to loose faith in your new project. The scientists are scared to undertake the Omicron-missions and the enthusiasm amongst our pilots seems to be lessening."
"Are you telling me all this has come as a result of a simple mistake?"
"Not at all. There was some disappointment over this, but the pilots seems very happy with the Surveyor. The problem is the lack of commitment from the pilots. I am not sure they are motivated enough to take on the kind of responsibility you want to put on them"
"Hm! I thought Human Resources had cleared up that matter!"
"So did I, Noburu-sama. The reports I got from them were positive, but human nature is hard to predict."

An eerie silence spread through the little room.

"Yokunai... This does not bode well."
"If I may, please allow me to suggest a solution."
"Yes? Go ahead."
"There seems to be an unusual amount of ships on sale these days. Rumors amongst the pilots say that something new might be on the horizon. Maybe you should put activities on hold until everything becomes clearer."
"Hm. This is not what I expected. There have been many unforeseen complications with this endeavor. Maybe you are right. My investors will loose some money, but it is better to cut your losses before they grow.
At least I've not had to take any loans to fund this debacle."

Mr. Noburu let out a telling sigh.

"Very well... Prepare an announcement.
I do not like to lose face over this, so I rely on you to be subtle about our difficulties."
"What shall I say about future resumption of operations?"
"I need to get feedback from Human Resources. Be vague... Or delay until I have gotten an answer."
"Wakarimashita... I understand."

Xanjer got up and bowed.

"You have not mentioned anything about my offer."
"I am sorry, Noburu-sama. I need more time to think.
I will help you the best I can, through this period of transition, but I cannot give you my final answer until I have had time to think everything through and things have setteled down a bit.
Thank you for the tea..."

Mr. Noburu nodded, Xanjer bowed again. The meeting was concluded.