Intermission

[BobMacaroni]

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The Don leaned forward in his chair, a stern look across his face. He took a quick gaze outside the windows which extended from the floor to the ceiling. Now, they showcased the celebratory lights outside, and the fruits of the efforts of the Maltese people. Harabero turned back. He smiled thinking about the Xeno issue.

I believe this is a longer issue then we have time for today. The Xeno's will be tolerated as long as they haul Cardamine for us. That is the end of the story, there is nothing more to it.

A more serious look came over him. Alejandro turned to De Marco and nodded.

As for Rheinland - as much as it may seem... short sighted... they are about on the bottom of the list for us. Why should we expand upon them when we have not yet Bretonia, or Gallia in our grasp yet, which are far more feasible? The road to Rheinland will be long, and will require the Sigmas to become more docile to our presence, before we can run long expeditions. We may find further information that may ease the journey there, but for now, we have little support in that region, as it is.

As for expanding into Rheinland, we can not openly source Cardamine to their people. Why? It will ruin their reputation with other houses, causing massive reprecussions for them. The risks would far outweigh the benefits for them. Why should they accept us over mass war with the other houses?

Resources will be supplied by Zoner intermediaries, though they seem opposed to us after the Freeport nine incident. Though we will have to expand our sources, it would be unwise to place the majority of our supplies in the hands of our eventual enemies. It would be as trusting the Xenos with making supply deliveries to Malta, for our warships. As well, for their expansion into the omicrons, we do not want to ally ourselves with them either for this reason - it makes the pathway to our homeland clear. As powerful as our defences are, we do not want to face the bulk of the Rheinland armada in a firefight, with them having knowledge of our land.

Harabero glanced around the room, then back at Chenzo, seeking his response.

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