As soon as the high-level meeting ended, Irelia said to Lin Yi, "Commander, Grandmother has led the family's advance fleet to the outer Star Domain, about three standard jump nodes from Blue Star."
After a brief pause, Irelia considered her words before continuing. "Grandmother believes the journey through real space will still take a long time, but the many matters concerning Blue Star—especially funding and initial purchases—can't wait. So she hopes she might formally pay you a visit online first through the Pan-Spirit Alliance Virtual Network."
"Sorry for the trouble, Commander." She looked at Lin Yi, her tone distinctly apologetic. "According to the unwritten social etiquette between interstellar civilizations, especially among advanced civilizations, using a virtual network for a first formal meeting instead of visiting in person can seem a little... insufficiently respectful."
"Grandmother feels deeply uneasy about this and specifically asked me to offer you her sincere apologies."
"She earnestly hopes you'll understand her predicament and urgency. Establishing the East Blade Mercenary Corps and laying the groundwork for Blue Star Civilization's initial defenses are both time-sensitive. The Star Sea is full of danger, and the sooner we deliver the funds to you, the sooner we can begin procurement and construction."
"She believes that, compared to empty formalities, making real progress and offering tangible support is the greatest respect one can show an ally."
Lin Yi's thoughts raced, and he immediately grasped the meaning behind Clan Leader Liyue's decision.
This was by no means a sign of neglect or perfunctoriness. On the contrary, it was a decisive choice to put efficiency, pragmatism, and tangible support for an ally ahead of traditional formalities. It also showed, from another angle, just how seriously the Shina Family regarded this partnership.
It was only natural, really, Lin Yi reflected. At this moment, apart from