I would also point out the others could ally, without meta gaming. As pointed out, it is an intrigue influence game. Alliances are often about mutual survival. When trying to achieve power, one needs to be able to adapt and shift momentum to keep the tempo in their favor. They may find that a mega alliance is not all it's cracked up to be of course. :D The idea of a group of folks having zero internal conflict is...sweet but idealistic.