On a broadcast channel in the Tau 31 and Dundee systems, the following message is heard, in heavily Bretonian-accented Kusari.

"Citizens and Soldiers of the Kusari Empire. The Parliament and Crown of Bretonia have a message for you."

"This war, like all wars, has had a heavy price for civilians and soldiers alike, on both sides of the conflict."

"While Bretonia shall ultimately prevail, we offer, for the duration of the upcoming Bretonian Holiday season, a temporary truce; a negation of large scale offensive operations."

"For the duration of the Holidays, until January 3, our calendar, the Bretonian Armed Forces shall make no large scale offensive operations into Tau 31. Naturally, the relief of Planet Harris is foremost on our mind, and we will continue to break the blockade with food and medical supplies, but surely that cannot be characterised as offensive."

"We ask, as a reciprocal gesture, that the Kusari Naval Forces not make offensive forays into Dundee, Edinburgh, or Leeds."

"We make this offer in recognition of our common humanity, and hope it will be reciprocated."

The signal faded, and many a Kusari were left in stunned silence. More than would admit, were grateful, for the promise of a decrease in the rate of production of widows and orphans.