"Amiral de Lusignan, Amiral" with a bit of annoyance answered Antonin, "We both served to the Royal Navy, and despite further split to Defense Forces and Enclave, we both kept our rank. Your influence should be enough to ensure the return of the Montlucs to their roots. After this, I believe, we shall hear nothing about this family for a long time."
"Since the matter of Montlucs seem sorted, let's proceed to the last questions I'd like to discuss." Lusignan leaned back in his chair and was silent for a few seconds. "First of all, I want to lead a branch to a new-formed intelligence agency. Ranking structure can be discussed later, but if you want we can discuss the departaments we take and field we occupy now."
Pierre took again another glass of wine before answering to Lusignan.
"Ah oui, indeed. This is a matter of first importance as we need a proper functional intelligence as soon as possible. I would not be surprised if the foreign intelligence agencies try to collect information on our House following the Reunification. I assume the unification with the Enclave worried many among the so-called 'Allies'."
Pierre put his glass of wine on the table.
"I assume the depatments and fields of operations are pretty similar to what GRI used to have, that is correct?"
"I suppose you've received our message several months regarding a Bretonian liner hiding in the Dauphine segment of Languedoc system: may or not be proof of their attempt to interfere in our affairs. I have no doubt their Libertarian friends are hiding somewhere nearby and observing the situation in Gallia. For the sake of the integrity of our house, we have no right to show any weakness for the outlanders. Or they will come for us one day, and we must be ready to face them."
"As for the departments and fields of operations, they are indeed going to be similar to what GRI used, but we need to form one new one, focused on alien-related research. Our experience with the Division Vipere, Duchess La'Row's case and the other infested individuals has shown us a crucial flaw in our methods. We had not taken attention to a non-human threat due to our distance to the regions flooded with those. Therefore, this new department is required to make sure that we understand the threat and have methods to strike it back."
"If we sorted this out, then the only one matter remains - the Renaissance and her cohort. The absolute majority of Enclave fleet shall become part of the Gallic Navy, but I insist the battlegroup Renaissance stay as part of the Security Bureau. A mobile, heavy armoured center of operation may be required for our operations, and the Renaissance, if get refitted, shall suit these needs the best. The cohort includes two battleships: a Triomphant-class battleship, refitted for carrier purpose, and a Normandie-class, as the main firepower of the trio. Each of said battleships may work as a mobile HQ, but altogether they may act as supporting unit for the military operations."
"I do recall about a potential vessel trying to spy in our space, however, as you may guess, this wasn't my top priority since my duty was to defend Burgundy at any cost. It is quite obvious that with what's happening in Gallia, this may attract the attention of many of our enemies. The reason is quite simple: they are afraid. Afraid that the past may strike back again. This reasoning based on the fear that in the future, the past will come back makes them blind. Nevertheless, we don't have to be foolish. These arrogant people, especially the Libertonians will try everything to make us weakened."
"I have some experience with the alien-related research. I get it you have experienced them as well. La Division Vipère was not of all discretion. The deceitful Duchess was acting with more intelligence, but all somewhat failed in their short term goal. Their existence remains a source of concern, but I got not doubt that your departments and its competent agents will be successful in their future missions, isn't it Amiral?"
"I see no issue with you having some strategic assets for your operations. The dire times we're currently living in give us no choice but to take some unusual measures. But do not forget the main point, Amiral. These assets are more precious than ever. Our production capacities are reduced, and rebuilding our fleets will take time. The unexpected invasion by Kusari proved it: it is not excluded that some Sirian snakes try again, and and you obviously know who I'm talking about."
"Of course it wasn't a priority, per the ship was enhanced version of the civilian liner as it seems. Nevertheless, their attempts to put their nose in our affairs are not welcome, no matter the reasons: fear, greed or else. We need resources, but having the experience of the War with Sirius we should not make a single attempt to directly export the resources of Taus. Dealing through proxies like the Miners Guild, independent merchants, Zoners, Rheinland corporations, et cetera, is the way for us to restore the might of our House. Our enemies may come for those who "responsible" for Leeds, and we may need a scapegoat to give them and save us from the war we may not win. But these talks belong to politicians, and I'd prefer to keep myself away from this swamp as long as it's possible."
"The Aliens were probably one of the biggest problems before Bretonians gathered all their forces to attack them. Needless to say, it's quite impressive they did not use Liberty's help nor the help of any other ally from the Taus in their effort. This deserves some respect, I'd say. Nevertheless, back to an alien topic – without understanding what are they, we cannot develop a weapon capable to effectively fight them. This will be the primary field for one of the departments under the Bureau's responsibility. Our people can handle this, especially if accompanied by those among your ranks who had to deal with the so-called Nomads before."
"I suppose this is all we had to discuss, unless you have something on your side."
"Oui Amiral, I believe our discussion is coming to an end. I hope it was fruitful and we can now start rebuilding Gallia and restore the might of our House. Let me know if you wish to take contact with me again. I am sure we shall meet again later."