Ad Victoriam

[Darius]

Once pleasantries were exchanged, Horatio took the initiative, rose from his decorated chair, and headed to the hologram projector. It all seemed like a deja-vu scenario for the ambitious officer, yet he kept to his goals.

With an ardent tone, he began addressing the Crayter delegates: "Ladies and gentlemen, it will be my honor to begin the talks. We have much to discuss and even more to debate." Taking a small break, he continued shortly after; "The first subject that I and Director Steiner would like to address is the security of the Inverness system. Indeed, it seems that the Technocracy taking refuge there has decided to openly welcome in a number of outlaws and steers further away from its initial noble cause."

Almost as soon as he ended the phrase, the hologram had opened and begun displaying a nav-map view of the Inverness system, with points of interest marked upon it. Now looking at the Crayterian delegation, Horatio set to ask them a number of questions. "As it is our priority to find a reasonable approach to dealing with these fugitives from justice, it is as important to know the area to strike first. Has the Crayter Navy assessed the situation, and if so, what can you tell us about the Technocracy's defences?"

But he did not stop there. With the Crayter delegates now preparing to answer, Bartholomew looked to the Intelligence representative and stated: "I believe Director Steiner is more acquainted with the situation at hand, as the Secret Service has long worked in the Independent Worlds." An indirect invitation to address the guests and to gain their trust onto the capabilities of the SIS, Horatio awaited answers from both the Minister and the Director.