Ondajh toyed with the idea of leaving the discussion at that. But he was well aware that the result would be a full military invasion of Bespin, and given the obvious power of Belgardi Ltd.'s defence force, it would not bode well for him to force that outcome.
"Let us be frank for a moment, Mr. Belgardi: your position is not unexpected. But you fail to grasp that Imperial Law does not allow for a territory to be removed from the Empire's oversight unless so ordered by its leaders.
"Such was not the case with Bespin - whether the Outer-Rim Soveriegnty laid claim to it at one point, or whether yourselves do today, is irrelevent - the world is and has always been the Empire's property.
"To say otherwise, Sir, is to argue with the Lord Regent. And the Regent's word is law."
The diplomat shrugged.
"That said, the Empire has no desire to be forced to nationalize Belgardi Ltd., and if it pleases you, Mr. Belgardi, I have been authorized to present you with an alternative:
"The Empire will guarantee Bespin's protection, as well as that of Belgardi Ltd. The territory is already ours - you must relinquish any claim to the contrary. In return, you will receive a guranteed contract with the Empire for our entire supply of Tibanna gas, with exlusive supply rights (outside of our own internal supplies).
"The Black Dragon Empire will remove themselves from Bespin. You may continue to supply them as you see fit, assuming the Empire's demands for tibanna gas are met."
Ondajh shrugged easily.
"I am sure this deal is no more ideal for you than whatever contract you hold with the Tions. But know this: this is not a 'take it or leave it' deal. If Belgardi Ltd. does not comply, I have been ordered to inform you your company will be nationalized."
This is a good time because Kas is so up-tight you could stick a coal up his ass and in two weeks you would have a diamond.
-Theren Gevel
