A change of pace

[Soban]

Corfu, Dry-dock A, "meeting" room 1

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Cayran took a few minutes to weigh Colonel Biryukov’s requests.

“As for the biodomes, their operation and substrates are among the most closely guarded Zoner secrets. Even if Freeport 9 is repaired, without willing Zoner engineers behind the systems, it will never achieve proper output. I’m sorry, Colonel—on that point, I can’t oblige.”

He paused, considering a compromise.

“That said, Corfu will host a significant number of biodomes. We had already planned to dedicate one to a joint research program. That deserves its own discussion. For now, let’s return to the weapons question you raised.”

He rotated the 3D model, acknowledging the Colonel’s argument while outlining the trade-offs of external batteries. Cayran favored layered defense: interceptor squadrons and a handful of cruisers. After all, defense must cover not only the station but the planet, and a static platform won’t stop a bombardment on the far side of Pygar.

“I hope you can see why we’re limiting fixed emplacements. And even so, this array exceeds anything previously mounted on a Zoner installation.” He gestured toward the primary weapons cluster, highlighting the new kinetic cannons.
“On your last point: if you support this project, we will of course extend docking privileges. As ever, access is contingent on respecting standard Zoner diplomatic protocols.”