Devil at a Crossroads

[Noth Squadron]

---

"Every parasite requires a specific treatment, lest it returns stronger than before."

While Johnathan took a seat, One prefered to stand. His eyes locked on the hologram's statistics like a night owl who searches for prey. In the back of his mind he understood the tactic. A power move made by the Corsairs to kick Phoenix out and give it to more malleable individuals who would rather submit than fight. And yet, he had to make it sound way worse. This conflict could not end as fast as it began.

"They want to quietly take over Freeport 11. Neither Core or Order will stand for this. Unless we do something about it, this pretty place is bound to go down without much resistance. Another bombing, looks like."

It was a believable enough idea. Seeing how many Corsairs would begin frequenting Freeport 11 after they noticed that Phoenix would not bend the knee, a quiet takeover would not be too far out of the question. One gestured his Zoner host with a wave of his right hand to expand on the statistics for a better view at the situation which developed at an alarming rate under their very nose. A final comment crept up his throat and left with an aggravated rasp to it.

"Sabotage -- propaganda too, whether you like it or not. I can ask some of my people to cause unrest on the Freeport and make it look like the Corsairs are a bit too keen on sharing their barbaric 'traditions'. This, however, begs a very important question. How much would you give, and how many lines would you cross to see these invaders sent back to Crete in a cheap, plastic box?"

What One asked was no ordinary question. He wished to test the waters of his host's resolve and how open would he be to outside influence, as well as where his moral compass stood. After all, The Omicrons were full of both kind hearted people and cutthroats who would gladly throw others under the bus for a chunk of bread. It was Johnathan's moment to share a little bit about his own beliefs now.

---