it as a one-time
operation to, shall we say, test the waters.
It succeeded through your command, and the
extraordinary initiative of Brad Curtin. We
must now go on to other probing and design new
confrontations from which the UIPS will be forced
to retreat. Our tactics will, at times, include
diversions, as we must keep both INOR governments
and the UIPS off-balance. They must be kept
guessing -- not certain -- where I will move next."

"How do you expect them to react to such
provocation?"

"There is little likelihood the UIPS will gamble
with the future of our solar civilization by
retreating from Slingshot; they cannot risk the
system-wide demoralization and desolation that
would follow. I intend to play on their fears and
on public pressures to attain my ends. That's where
threats come in; we must use them regularly, but
with cunning and consistency. UIPS perception of
danger to Slingshot, compounded by the enormous
distances from their military centers, will
compel them to be reasonable. If our tactics
are convincing the UIPS will have no alternatives.
They will accede to my demands."

"What if they resist?"

Narval's pudgy fists resumed their cadenced
pounding.

"Let them," he snarled, "I will be ready; I will go
further and challenge them. They will be compelled
to come to me, and I command the high ground.
I will defeat them, and move on quickly to my
ultimate objective."

"And what is that?"

"Isn't it obvious?"

"Yes, President Narval, but I must be certain."
Drummer's face was pale. "My ears want to hear
what my mind has been forced to conclude."

"Very well, Drummer, hear this. Planet Pluto
is strategically situated at this time to be the
single, most influential force in human affairs. I
will use that influence to consolidate my military
control over INOR. When I have that I will confront
the UIPS and beat them down. I, Narval, will
dominate the Solar System."

Narval's ultimate objective was clear and set.
Drummer knew better than to dissuade him.

Having confided in Drummer, Narval waxed garrulous.

"I have debts to pay," he said, "and I shall get
much pleasure in making good on them. Many insults
and humiliations need to be returned to former
colleagues on Callisto. And there are others,
in tank towns throughout the Outer Region and
in the UIPS. They will feel my wrath."

"Is vengeance all there is to it?"

Narval caught himself.

"No, no, of course not," he said, hurri