Archimedes washed his whiskers as he listened, glancing up only briefly at the small spat. He observed, but did not interfere, only clearing his throat when it was done. And when he did speak, it was to address the Piano's comment toward him--not the brief exchange between it and Deli.

"I agree entirely. We must command respect. By our demeanor--and only when that fails... by force. But we must not lack that force," he added, more quietly.

Forepaws passed through whiskers once again.

"We are all in agreement as to the rest-? Then I would ask: where would you all like to begin?"

It was a mild aggravation that none of them responded. He forced a thin smile, or as much as a rat could imitate. "Rest, then, and I will begin planning. Come to me if you have ideas," he more recommended than commanded, before turning to move off.