"I want you all to remain aboard the Implacable for the next two days as you review the data Ms. Ersk has provided. You will not be permitted to take it with you, and your escorts will ensure that the data is secured at all times."

Pak walked over to the sidebar and poured himself a drink, turning his back to the room, appearing to forget they were even there at all. He tossed back the expensive liquor in one gulp before refilling his glass again and turning back to his co-conspirators.

"We're in the final phase," he said. "If we're discovered, we'll be killed by their side…or our own. Be comforted we're on the right side of history. Humanity can't continue existing among the threats we now know are out there as a fractured people. We must unite, and be united under a system that is the most efficient and ready to handle the coming challenges. We cannot allow the weakness of the Federation to put our entire species at risk."

"Well said!" Councilman Haas called out, raising his own drink. The councilman had no real power within the Alliance Council being such a junior member, but he did have access to the resources and influence of Haas Ironwerks, the second largest shipyard the ESA still controlled. His older brother was chairman of the family-owned company and was pliable to the cabal's wishes…for the right price. The elder Haas was playing both sides of the fence, but he was smart enough to know if his little younger brother's little conspiracy bore fruit, it could be huge for him.

"Enjoy the hospitality of Admiral Kohl's flagship, but make sure you have completely reviewed the material we've provided before you're taken back to your own transports," Pak said as a way of dismissing them. "Admiral, please, stay a moment."

"Yes?" Kohl asked, still bristling from the insults he'd taken during the meeting. He stood stiffly as the others filed out, avoiding eye contact with him as they did.

"Relax, Admiral," Pak said. "You understand commanding fleets and spacers, but you're still an amateur when it comes to the political arena."

"Oh?"

"Of all the members of our small group, you're the only one who has any sort of muscle to actually back him up," Pak explained. "The other Councilmembers are leery of having you so knowledgeable about our plans at all, but I know it's necessary you have all the facts. If I can give them the perception you're hanging onto your command by your fingernails, it helps calm their fears."

"Foolishness," Kohl scoffed. "What we're doing is too important for these stupid games."

"For certain." Pak nodded. "But we must operate in the world we live in, not the one we wish were. For now, we will play their games and stroke their egos. They are crucial…for now. I need to know you're onboard with me, Admiral. You're one of the few people of our group who cannot be replaced. The officers and spacers of this fleet follow you, not just any puppet we might put in place. Are you with me?"