p. His eyes
moved from one advisor to the other. They returned
his gaze, the bleakness in their eyes matching his
own. "Try different combinations within the options
and rate them," he continued. "Examine our treaties
with the other powers and status of current
negotiations and pending proposals. Show how
each option, which has statistical probability
for success up to exponent three can adversely
affect those treaties or negotiations."

Camari drew a deep breath. "We need to take
a fresh look at where we are. We've also got to
avoid political irritations that may exacerbate the
situation further. On the other hand, revisions to
treaties and to our positions at the negotiating
tables may be essential. Slingshot may solve our
disagreements, but we cannot wait.

"Review our readiness and activation sequences
consistent with our Quick Reaction Capability to
deal with contingencies in the Slingshot Special
Zone. Work up details on what needs to be done and
by whom to upgrade our QRC initiatives for each
contingency that I keyed in as probable. Show
costs in still accessible resources separately and
integrate results with relevant commitments and
schedules. Draft implementation plans and execution
directives to commit resources. Update constantly,
but keep all implementation directives on 'hold'
until I direct otherwise.

"We meet again in two hours," Camari, said, rising
from his chair. "Computer: be ready to give a
presentation on each option and its variations
within the parameters I specified and which surface
through your analyses. Double-check resource
requirements and schedules, and tactical options
and their possible effects on UIPS forces and
assets in the Special Zone. Maintain current. When
I select the course of action and authenticate them
with the Presidential Implementation Designators,
release directives to implement the decisions.
Monitor and report. This completes my instructions
to Computer."

The President turned toward the door from which
he had entered. Pausing, he glanced back at the
Minister of Intelligence.

"Allen," he said, "give me a rundown, within the
hour, on our intelligence assets throughout the
Outer Region. I am especially interested in your
ability to intensify earliest possible infiltration
and disruption throughout Narval's domain."

The door slid shut as he passed through. The
wall panel across the view tank cavity lowered
as the advisors departed.

The Strategic