"Impossible! A conspiracy! This was a carefully engineered conspiracy!" Gustav roared, veins bulging on his forehead!
Ishar quietly studied the "Solar System conflict report" on her electronic terminal, her eyes narrowing dangerously...
A wide-area distress call gave him a layer of protection, followed by a private incident report to the military. Clearly, he didn't want to blow this out of proportion. He was leaving the decision to the higher-ups.
That way, whether they made the incident public or settled the dispute internally, the leadership still had room to choose. He handled the balance well.
Heh! This kid... was rather interesting!
As these thoughts ran through her mind, Ishar discreetly glanced at the furious Gustav, a slight smile curling her lips. "Gustav, whether this is true or not, they've sent a distress signal. Surely we can't just stand by?"
"What? Even you suspect our Sea Race would lay an ambush for a brat who hasn't even hit puberty?!" Gustav stared at Ishar with bloodshot eyes.
"The Joint Council's review team will naturally investigate the truth of the matter. That isn't something we can interfere with, is it?"
Gustav's bluster faltered. Ishar was reminding him that this matter had already exceeded their authority. They had best remain neutral. Taking either side could make them look as though they were deliberately stirring up trouble.
"Of course, personally, I believe in the friendship between our peoples. Perhaps there's been some misunderstanding...
"So, shall we each send a frigate to escort them? The Sea Race has no objections, I assume?" Ishar continued with a smile.
Gustav slowly recovered from the shock of the incident. He knew Ishar's proposal would have both sides watch each other, preventing either from making any moves behind the scenes.
"Fine! I agree! Dispatch the frigate immediately!" Gustav said gravely.