Pool

"What do you think?" Khan asked while the ship headed toward Baoway's orbit.

"You did well, Nephew," Princess Rebecca praised, delivering a drink to Khan. "Rejecting them has always been the plan, but the bait you've thrown will give them hope for future negotiations. That will buy us time."

"Your performance was excellent, My Prince," Prince Thomas added. "However, they are right to suggest a more inclusive approach. You also have the cards to make it work."

Khan supported his head with his palm, leaning on the cargo area's chair's arm. He took a long sip from the drink while his mind explored the topic. He would partially follow that approach anyway, but going all-out would involve things he wasn't willing to sacrifice.

"I can't tiptoe around the Empire," Khan shook his head. "That's not how the Thilku work."

"You could involve them in your game," Prince Thomas suggested. "That way, there won't be treason on the side that matters."