What the mysterious man calling himself Black Steward said was incredible, but it did explain his earlier string of bizarre actions. Even so, Ishar remained skeptical.
"We find all this hard to believe, unless you let us enter the Solar System and see this Ante Empire you mentioned for ourselves!" Ishar said after a moment's thought.
Hearing was one thing; seeing was believing!
"I'm sorry, but I can't agree to that." Black Steward shook his head. "Gathering intelligence on the other civilization is prohibited under our cooperation agreement!
"Under that agreement, we must completely seal off the Solar System Wormhole. Opening it to traffic would be regarded as a declaration of war against the Ante Empire.
"Not only is one of our squadrons stationed on the other side of the wormhole, but they've also sent a garrison to oversee it jointly with us. We can't risk a war between our two sides just to let you through."
"So you expect us to believe you on your word alone?" Gustav demanded viciously.
"No, I don't particularly care whether you believe me. We control the wormhole now. Even if you throw your entire fleet at it, you won't break through.
"If you want to attack, you're welcome to try anytime. But believe me, it won't benefit either of us.
"I told you all this not only because I want to avoid another pointless war, but because I have something more important to discuss with you."
"Something more important?" Both of them froze.
There was a colossal Ante Empire on the other side of the Solar System, and that still wasn't the most important thing? What could possibly top that?
"Yes. In fact, I'd like to discuss the Kara Civilization! As the All Things Unity Society's steward for the Caldari Region, I ask