[h2][b]Falul 'Taham[/b][/h2]

[hr]

While it might become his problem soon, the squabbling between any of the others was not Falul's concern at the moment. The Supreme Commander had given the navigational data, so Falul brought it up on the device that had been given to him, then placed it on the table while he again activated the display on his own holographic device. His ship's readings on the start positions around them had been transferred to his device ahead of the meeting, so he was able to compare the star positions that his people had observed with the charts that Erthos has presented them. Falul's eyes did not have the precision of a computer, but even he could see that the two maps lined up perfectly for their immediate area. And, of course, Erthos' navigational data was far more complete for the rest of the galaxy. 

Based on what Falul had seen so far, this was the final piece of evidence that he needed to have his answer. Again, he spoke loudly, and with a voice that demanded attention. "This navigational data appears to be accurate. While it does not [i]prove[/i] your word against the Empire, it is sufficient to be evidence that I cannot ignore. I can now believe that this is your universe of origin, which means you have information of direct value to myself, and any of the others here. Your claims about this Galactic Empire...may carry some weight after all." 

With only a brief pause, Falul's gaze started to shift between the others in the room. "My [i]only[/i] goal is to return to my homeworld, and unless here is someone here hiding secrets, none of us know how. But...there are those here with understanding of this strange occurrence who may be able to find that answer. None among my crew would be able to find this answer alone, but I can provide protection to those who can. If the Supreme Commander's word is true, then the Galactic Empire he so fears will attack us, regardless of our disinterest in their affairs."

With the quick interruption of a low, rumbling growl, Falul's tone grew yet louder, and with no hint of doubt in his conviction. "Any foe that intends to challenge me shall be faced with the wrath of ten thousand of my warriors. Any ship of this 'Empire' that challenges the [i]Immaculate Aegis[/i] shall be cleansed by the fires of its fury. And if there are any here so foolish as to deny my protection, then you may leave without harm, while the rest of us get to work." Falul's eyes, after a moment, again focused solely on Erthos. "But know this, Supreme Commander: while it serves our mutual advantage, I will fight the Galactic Empire in the [i]defense[/i] of any who agree to cooperate with us, but I am still not here to fight [i]your[/i] war."