Salihoovich held his head high and said to Minnick, who was sitting at the very top of the court throne:
"Mr. Minnick, the Alliance's friendship with Fatches has been consistent from start to finish. Since the incident with Blackbird Heavy Industries, our two sides have formed a bond of friendship."
"We indeed promised political and economic support to Fatches, and we also pledged not to pose a direct military threat to the Fatchess Tri-Star."
"However, despite our deep sympathy for Fatches's plight, we have never said that we would support Fatches in launching a rebellion against the Empire! You can recall every document that has been signed between us!"
He spoke with finality.
He might have mentioned supporting Fatches in taking a tough stance, but rarely, if ever, about rebelling, and certainly not leaving any documentation of it.
This was a handle that would not exist.
Minnick's face turned completely dark.
