Theobald nearly chocked on his last drops. Had he heard right in what Ian was suggesting? He let the information sicker in. “Hmm,” Theobald started, “interesting suggestion. I would never have dreamed about such a radical change. It probably would make Reverie unique in the fleet.” He chuckled, “but I will need to contact Director Seabourne about that. I have no idea what he would think. Although it often looks as if Orbitals funds are never ending, I am sure that the insurance department is already freaking out about the possible costs without knowing anything how it really looks. And they are probably breathing down Seabournes neck. So if we could lower the costs further, it would be advisable; not to speak of the time it would save.” He sighed, scratching the back of his head, “I remember how long the delivery was when the ship was newly built. Renzu Corp produces everything only on demand. It took ages for them to finish it. So I am pretty sure that a brand new engine would also take a hell of a lot of time to manufacture. And I have no idea, if they would deliver it here at all; might be possible for them to insist to have the ship at their own shipyard in Shikoku.”
Theobald inhaled deeply: “I like the idea of using a different brand, if not a uniquely build one, one that is reliable. But as I have already said, I need the clearance by our Director for this.” He handed his glass back to Ian. “How about this: you start on the ship, but leave the engines for now. I will contact Renzu Corporation, although I am not very positive there. I will also send a comm to Director Seabourne, explaining the situation. As soon as I have an answer, how we will proceed with the engines, I will contact you here on board, alright?” He looked expectantly to Ian, eager to get everything finally started.
