[Was she being sincere with this question? What a sheltered life she must have been living..]

Perhaps you're familiar with the saying, "There are only two types of people in this world, those that take from others and those that are taken from"? As grim as it is there are many who give this idea credence.

[Myself included..]

I suppose, in this setting... if anyone is determined to claim that gem for themselves they might not be opposed to standing idly by and watching their competition disposed of by the Navy.

You're welcome.