Luma sighed softly, then gave a small, thoughtful smile. "I understand. It's still hard for me—and for many others—to wrap our heads around why you're doing this. It's not the kind of thing we hear every day from someone like you. But now that I've heard your reasons directly, I'll include them in my report. I'll make sure Commander Urma hears them as well, along with his order details, and I'll spread the word about your establishment. And you can rest assured, everything I've seen here stays between us."
Karl's own smile carried warmth, though a flicker of worry lingered in his eyes. "Please do. I can't afford rumors to twist the truth. My intent is—and always has been—to build something that benefits both sides. Meaningful trade, mutual profit, no hidden traps or strings attached." Though that was a lie, there definitely was a more elaborate scheme that he cooked under his plans, but he said what she wanted to hear.
