Veuglaire Syndrome

[Keller]

A question he fully expected to be asked, the recent annexation and subsequent reclassification of the system on the publicly available star-chart was cause for some confusion. "Exeter, formerly Omega 49. Planet Exeter was a zoner colony initially, but their closeness with the local Corsairs attracted Bretonian attention and the world was annexed. Given its relatively isolated position on the frontier, the Bretonians have to rely on the more pragmatic locals willing to cooperate. The Crimean state is such an entity." Pausing momentarily to return her stern look, he would then respond to the latter half of her sentence with all the firmness expected of a soldier. "I already gave you my word regarding your family. If you want them relocated, then they'll be under my protection. The day either you or I leave, I will have them safely relocated along with you. So if you have doubts regarding my intentions, let me make it clear at the outset that I don't want bargaining chips." Even though she hadn't directly accused him of having any ill intentions, it still seemed as if he anticipated the doubt and lack of trust. And his reaction seemed to suggest that he was partially offended by the insinuation, but not so much as to prompt more than just mild frustration.