That's unexpected enough to take the heat out of her insistence entirely.

'If what you're asking is for me to show goodwill in my contracts with the locals, I will. Friendly face of the Tradelines. I can be tactful about it. No tough negotiations, they don't carry well.' She shrugs. 'I'm still not accepting gifts without reciprocity.' The mutually beneficial contract is the fundamental building block of society. She won't let that go.

A small smile, then, because she won't say it, but Erin's faith in her counts for a lot. 'And if I end up running my own Company here I'll be sure to appoint capable Directors who can step into the breach at need. Local people. Something sustainable and lasting. But that's a long way off, and the work I'm contracted for has first priority.'