"We have lost about a quarter of the Empire, and are rapidly losing more. Terra itself will be in danger within six months."
Medart winced. "That much that quickly? They must have one hell of a big civilization!"
"We believe so, but we have no way of being sure."
"Mmpf." Medart was silent for a moment, then he said, "Damned if I know what you expect one person to be able to do about something that's already taken out a quarter of your Empire, but I've got to try. First thing, I think, is to get in touch with His Majesty—or Her Majesty, here—let @ know I'm available, and find out what resources I can use. Emperor Barton?"
"His Majesty," the ship said, "is Emperor Ray Kennard, and he has been informed of your arrival. On Ranger Ariel's orders, I beamed an account to his personal comset, complete as of your departure from the Bridge."
"Good—thank you. In my universe under these circumstances, he'd be the one to call as soon as I made it to the top of his priority list; would that be safe to assume here?"
"Yes, sir, I believe so."
"Okay." Medart's attention went back to Chavvorth. They'd been expecting a visitor, so there'd be quarters ready for him—and since he usually worked in his living area rather than his office, that seemed a reasonable place to wait for His Majesty's call. "Shall we continue this discussion in my quarters, Captain?"
"As you wish, sir." The two rose, and Medart followed the Traiti again, thinking.
The Emperor Ray Kennard in his universe had limited precognition as part of his Talent; if parallels between the two universes held as well as they seemed to, the one here should have some equivalent means of foreseeing parts of the future. Which might mean he'd foreseen a solution.