Ad Victoriam

[Darius]

Satisfied with the responses received from both the Crayterians and the Director, and with a slight smile, Horatio took several steps towards the delegation, and stated: "Indeed, we all consider them to be only mere outlaws and terrorists. Taking swift action against them would prove most beneficial to both our states, and more so to the people living on the Freeport in the system."

After ending the phrase, and with a sigh, he begun once more to speak. "Unfortunately, we must accept the reality that the Armed Forces are not able to directly assist in liberating the system. We are currently undergoing a vast reform that will see that older vessels are phased out and replaced, but it will take months before we are at a stable operational level. Still, despite that fact, the Armed Forces find themselves in possession of a multitude of ships that are capable of undergoing offensive operations with minimal required maintenance."

The hologram then changed to a view of the current tactical reserve of the Armed Forces, yet nevertheless only a fraction of the real amount was displayed, containing the best vessels put into the reserve, for operational security. Bartholomew did not lose much time and, whilst looking to Ryo Kase, informed: "Minister, do you believe that the Crayter Republic Navy, should it receive our material support, is able to perform a direct invasion of the Inverness sector?" Allowing for several minutes for everyone to understand the notion, he then continued. "Of course, that means that the Armed Forces will not be providing direct combat assistance, but instead vessels and a number of personnel to help train and command the Crayter forces. Not to forget, this task force, in the case of an agreement, will be able to assist in other campaigns just as much, further allowing for cooperation between our two militaries." Once he had changed his tone to a calmer one, and, now looking at Steiner, Horatio lastly stated: "Director, would the Intelligence Service be able to directly assist Crayter forces?"

With questions in place, the ambitious captain now returned to the hologram and awaited the Crayterians to answer first, followed by Director Victor.