For a while afterward, everything was calm and peaceful. The Imperial warships accompanying the Scarlet Throne began to withdraw, leaving behind only one medical ship and three destroyers to ensure a minimum level of safety during the voyage.
Then, before the Scarlet Throne reached the Gate of Glory, an Imperial engineering ship even came by and installed two more shield generators on the Throne, claiming it was a small token of support for "the joint reconnaissance team of our two nations."
From that perspective, Admiral Farrell really was a man who knew how to play things properly.
"Feifei, turns out nobody in this world is a fool!" Yu Lian said.
He had to admit that Admiral Farrell's move had caught him somewhat by surprise. By doing this, the admiral had defined the situation as a joint reconnaissance mission between the Empire and the Commonwealth, giving both sides a way to save face. It would keep the two nations from falling out over a little whim of King Sulwica's.
The Commonwealth feared having its bluff called, but wasn't the Empire just as afraid the Commonwealth might throw in its lot with the Alliance?
Besides, since it was a joint reconnaissance mission between the two nations, the Empire could send a representative aboard the Throne. Of course, Yu Lian could refuse. But if he really intended to pass through the Gate of Glory, then whatever he planned to do, he would inevitably have to travel through Imperial colonies. Having someone aboard who knew the area would certainly save a lot of trouble.
And whatever Yu Lian did with this marauder battleship during the upcoming New Continent operation, the Empire would always be able to claim some of the credit.
Still, Yu Lian had no choice but to accept the favor. Right now,