11-05-2004 07:39									#1
	The Power Company Support Apolyton, buy GURPS/ Alpha Centauri

I’ve done PBEM anthologies for years now, but every once in a while a tidbit comes up that sticks with me. Here is one from the Paradigms anthology.

*~*~*~*~*

Morgan Industries, MY 2297

Morgan smiles. “Do you think Santiago will notice we secured two Hive sea bases?’

“I expect she will know before her theatre commanders know. She may also be slightly annoyed that we have taken them, and that they have been renamed in your honor,” Rothchild said. He set down his brandy. “That kind of action implies we are going to stay.”

“I see no reason not to” Morgan replied. “I personally informed Coronal Santiago we were forming a transport-based assault force some time ago, and let her know it would be some time before it was fully operational. As to the spoils of war, Santiago has done very well and she has no cause to complain if Morgan Industries takes possession of two underdeveloped sea bases from the Hive.”

“According to ‘reason’ you are right,” Rothchild stated. “But Santiago can be quite…emotional.”

“Yes, she can. She does take actions personally. That is why I have dealt with her in person all these years. Her power is growing significantly.”

“Due to our help, I might add. The massive amounts of energy and material support has aided her cause, tipping the balance in her favor.”

“That is what it was intended to do. I had to prove that Morgan Industries had her better interests in mind, and since Santiago understands actions that is exactly what she has been given. We have been generous in donating energy, material, and especially technology. These exchanges have been profitable for her, and that was the intended result.”

Rothchild picked up his brandy again, swirling it a little. “Too much? She will soon rival us, and her infrastructure is building rapidly, as is her population base now that she is almost finished absorbing the Hive’s significant population.”

“That was the intent, also. In my opinion Santiago will only feel secure and an equal if she has rough parity. She will have that soon, and will be the absolute leader in all matters military. Do not forget, my friend – energy is the life blood of this society and when the chips are down he who controls the energy supply controls Chiron.”

Now it was Rothchild’s chance to smile. He lifted his brandy sifter to Morgan. “A toast! To the Power Company!”

Morgan laughed, raised his glass of merlot to Rothchild’s, and drank his fill.