"Here in the Outer Region, the separate nations are convulsed by internal struggles for power both internal to their sovereignty and within the family of independent satellites that orbit their host planet. Their political philosophies are diverse, lack cohesion, and have powerful advocates or opponents, some openly, others covert. The Heads of State are insecure and fear political coups. Rapid changes in leadership cannot be ruled out." Drummer watched Narval eyes caress his entwined fingers. "If new leaders arise and take over the reins of power from incumbents, so much the better for me. New governments will need time to become entrenched, create lines of authority and accountability, and install bureaucracies responsive to the wishes of a new elite. I repeat, confusion in the ranks, within other governments, is to my advantage." "Can you count on such events materializing?" "Of course not." Narval wagged a finger at Drummer. "But the uncertainty within regimes that these disruptions can, and may occur, dissipates and weakens their energies. If they fear enemies from within, and suspect enemies from outside, then they are diseased and warrant being replaced by a daring and skillful master." "Who might that be?" "Me." "I'm not sure I understand." "Then listen carefully, because you play a vital role in my plans." Narval motioned a now openly apprehensive Drummer to the chair beside his desk. As Drummer sat, Narval leaned close. "My strategy has two facets: one involves INOR, the other, the UIPS. They are interdependent." Unfolding his clasped hands, Narval's fingers drummed the desk. "I repeat, with INOR in turmoil no head of state can feel secure. New philosophies surface and attract supporters, occasionally, even strong leaders. If forces with objectives opposing mine move into the Outer Region, I will not sit by idly. I will intervene, even if it means imposing the most stringent discipline and controls." "With respect, President Narval, does Planet Pluto have the right to intervene into the affairs of other nations?" Narval scowled, recovered, and snickered. "Power gives us rights we would not have otherwise. When the old United Planetary System decided to use Planet Pluto as the forward base for Slingshot, they invested the planet with some of their most advanced technologies. Other communities throughout the Outer Region are just that: places where people live, work, play, consume and little else.