Vice Admiral Chijin stood silently next to the young Colonial Ambassador, somewhat taken aback by this turn of events. No export license had been sought. No mutual assistance had been offerred. He was at a loss to understand this turn of events.
The two men waited as a brief whispered conversation ensued between the seated men. In less than a minute, the Kusari delegation rose as one, made a short, quick bow to Ambassador Gideon and the Admiral, and proceeded to file from the room without saying a word.
One rather nondescript man of indeterminate age in the dress uniform of Kishiro Technologies remained, and approached the two men when the others had left.
"Ambassador, I am Trading Master Bo Sun Gen, Kishiro advisor to the Council of the Rising Sun. My condolences to you, sir. It appears that you have had to leap between sampans in mid-stream as it were."
Gideon seemed a bit confused by this metaphor, but Captain Bo continued before the Ambassador could respond.
"While you have addressed the trade issues to Kusari's satisfaction, sir, there is much left unsaid. We assume that your Quorum and President have not sought or offerred more, so as not to offend your 'friends' in Hokkaido and Chugoku..."
"Friends?" sputtered Gideon. "Now wait just a minute, Captain..."
Bo Sun Gen quickly held his hand up. "Ambassador, I use the term loosely. We acknowledge that you must accomodate the Chrysanthemums to a certain degree, being only a system away from your home. However, the Remnant's neutrality with the Dragons disturbs our Military leaders. They wonder how you can be so fraternal to these two groups when the Outcasts wish you dead and gone from the Taus, as they apparently do Kusari as well."
Gideon merely nodded at the Trading Master's observations. "And how will this affect Kusari's diplomacy with our House, Captain?"
"I am merely an Advisor, Ambassador, but I will assume that the Blue Lagoon will still be neutral to the Colonial Remnant, while cautiously observing President Abelard's future actions. We respect that he and the Quorum must act to ensure your survival, and wish you success in doing so. Beyond that, only your Gods can guide you, Ambassador Gideon, as we must be guided by our revered Ancestors.
"Now, Admiral Chijin has been tasked with escorting the Gemenon Traveller from Kusari Space, and beyond if needed. We thank you for agreeing to adhere to Kusari's trade policies and restrictions. May the Gods of Kobol bless your people, and keep them safe."
Rather than bowing, Bo Sun Gen extended his hand in the ancient custom of greeting, friendship, and farewell. First Gideon, then the Admiral grasped it firmly, before turning in unison and striding quickly from the magnificent meeting chamber.