Exlor
At the beginning O was asking why dont this 3 make an alliance and corporation and solve their problems. But all of them have pride and strong personalities, and I dont see they giving control and work under others. That means that someone si going to end badly; and wont be the Larkinsons and friends
Heh - what would truly be the best outcome is for everyone in the room to sign a deal with VES. The ship company truly requires more protection, stable supply, AND stable demand. The mercenary company requires trustworthy clients and a source of proprietary mechs, and ships. The construction company requires a stable supply of clients with a long term market demand.
Ironically, both bidders would be fine addition to the trade Consortium of the Larkinson. As much as they want to degrade the venture, they would benefit from associating with it. They just don't know the power of the network and what being grouped with partners not anchored to powerful entities could bring them.