The broadcast beamed at the 1984 was running a panel discussion. “On behalf of our listeners, I have some questions,” Reyes said. “What does ‘surrender’ imply?”

Ishikawa smiled. “We’ll be taking temporary control of their warship for a mission to Gamymede, or one year, whichever is longer. We’ll pay the USNE, taking past inequitable transactions into consideration. Crew will get a free trip to Xanadu, featuring a first class water park, a casino and free love, once the Republic of Threeworld’s treasury is on its feet.”

“Won’t they be in trouble with the USNE?”

“Some hearings, maybe. But they’ll be in worse trouble if they allow the destruction of the only source of 3He in this sector and expansion of Synod space toward Earth.”

“How did they get into this mess?”

“Oligarchies make bad decisions. Too few brains on the job.”

“Sir, all the Republic’s citizens report to you. Doesn’t that make us …”

BZZT. “Sorry, but we’re out of time. Commencing Stage 2.”

The picture shuddered to an even bigger explosion.