"I wouldn't say that they are on 'even ground'," she replied slowly, "Just that they seem to have agreed to not fight with each other until the threat of the Chihuleans is past."

It was important to at least appear united, both kedan and foreigners...

"Surely you remember the cultists," She continued, one eyebrow raised, "They are still around, as are Malicant's drugs. In addition, though the turtle is still alive, Tu Vishan is sinking and we don't know why."