Conflicts

David Falkayn finds a source of wealth and gives it to the undeveloped planets, not to van Rijn: big potential conflict - but they can handle it.

In order not to compromise a source, Max Abrams does nothing to prevent an attack on a Starkadian port: big potential conflict with young Flandry - but Flandry can handle it.

Next, to smuggle intelligence off Merseia, Abrams wants Flandry sent home in disgrace after being apprehended in a compromising position with Lord Hauksberg's concubine: another potential conflict with Flandry - but he can handle this one too.

The potential van Rijn-Falkayn conflict comes at a turning point for the Polesotechnic League whereas the potential Abrams-Flandry conflicts are part of Flandry's initiation and coming of age, which in turn are important for the Terran Empire.

Hey, what a neat little post, though I say it who shouldn't.