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Boy, this guy sure could talk. “We’ve had a bit of trouble with that in the past, as well. Our policy has typically been one of flat refusal.”

“Aha, I see. What kind of trouble did you have, if you don’t mind me asking?”

“The misinformation kind,” said Jackson. “Filmmakers often have an unfortunate lack of care when it comes to depictions of the truth. Providing entertainment has too often been the only thing important to them. Which is fine, when dealing with entirely fictional stories, but not when it comes to representing my men to millions or even billions of people.”

“I understand completely. You are protective of your comrades. As any good commander should be. But I can assure you that I hold nothing but the highest esteem for you and your men. There would certainly be no unfavorable portrayals on my watch.”

Jackson cocked an eyebrow. “Excessively generous depictions can cause their own sorts of problems, too,” he said. “Some men might appreciate a bit of friendly embellishment, but others will not. Which can hurt morale. Matters of jealousy and so forth. Not to mention, if your intention is to inform the general public, then hero worship and comforting lies should not be part of such an endeavor.”

The senator’s eyes were now widened, just a bit, though he was still smiling. “It seems your past experiences with the media industry have left a lasting impression on you.”

“That is one way of putting it. I am not sure it is worth all the trouble.”

“Oh, no, please, don’t say that. It is absolutely criminal that the Vanguard is not more widely beloved here in Intar. Something must be done about that.”

“Mm.”

“Have you not found this relationship between your organization and the Intarian government to be a bit... sad and pathetic?”

Strong words. Jackson elected not to respond yet.

“A bit parasitic, even?” said Jacobson. “You do all the work, keep the world safe, and get none of the credit. Or not nearly enough, at least.”

“We don’t do this for adoration.”

“Of course you don’t. And that speaks volumes of your character. But tell me. Does it not slowly breed resentment among your ranks, when your men are so regularly putting their lives on the line, only to then see my government, for example, sitting back and doing basically nothing? Sitting on its rather plump bottom while you’re putting out fires all over the word?”