Ignited Minds.

[Rodent]

Xavier smiled faintly, and absentmindedly ruffled the General's hair, as if dealing with a small child. He recovered his composure quickly however, his visage returning to its usual implacable mask.

"Preferably, we want to maintain the status quo, General. Kusari of it's own volition has decided to strangle Liberty economically, and that's the biggest help they can provide us."

He turned towards her, cold blue eyes calmly staring at her with an incredible intensity. He'd had his moment of weakness, and passed it.

"We preferably do not want them to escalate matters any further. Attacking Liberty militarily will be disaster for them, and for us. I do not doubt the Naval Force's combat acumen, but they're outmatched and would be routed. Kogen could easily take the chance to return to power and close this House to us once more..."

He reverted his gaze from her, focusing instead on something in the distance.

"Tying them to us economically and militarily is what we're looking for. An economic stranglehold is a tyranny far stronger than that of kings. That's not our department however...all we need to do is to ensure that Liberty does not strike first. To let them know that we're watching, and we will act."