Edrin set aside his feelings of gratitude and pushed his glasses up from the bridge of his nose, adopting his professional demeanor to answer Damian's question.
"Marco and his people have occupied a little over thirty percent of the outer region so far. They've sent us about five hundred thousand Federation coins total."
He paused, pulling out a small datapad to reference the detailed reports.
"According to Marco, establishing the orphanages is consuming the vast majority of our capital at the moment. Running them properly will require even more ongoing investment."
"I see. Use that money to get everyone their choice of weapons when you visit the city later. Make sure they get quality equipment, not cheap garbage."
Damian's voice was tired, his exhaustion obvious.
"And explain to me why the progress of occupying the region is moving so damn slowly. Thirty percent in two months seems pathetic considering they already had 10% under their control."
