Kato’s eyes are already on the door before it finishes banging open, and recognizing William his sidearm is back in its holster below the desk before William launches into his grievance. He listens patiently, letting the venting run its course and William to catch his breath before responding.
“I can certainly authorize extra monies to be distributed as hazard pay for the remainder of the contract. Fifty thousand C-bills per month should be sufficient to ensure they’re properly compensated for threats above and beyond, agreed? So long as we understand that it is indeed going into the pockets of the personnel and not general lance coffers.â€
His expression isn’t accusatory but it is serious. “I would consider it inappropriate to more than double your salary, beyond that, how you distribute it is up to you.*. Personally I won’t be taking a dime of it, but as you so kindly pointed out, I appear to be the cause.â€
He rises and walks the short distance to the window, his back for at least a brief time to William. After a few moments of staring out the window he addresses William though doesn’t turn. “I really dislike politics. It cost me a career in the AFFC, it’ll likely cost me access to my family on Epsilon Eridani and has almost cost me my life and that of my friends and those under my command.â€
He’s quiet for a moment. “Despite all of the stereotypes of Capellan treachery and untrustworthiness, I have never experienced it. Oh, don’t worry. I’m not naive enough to believe there isn’t a basis for it especially between Chancellors Maximillian and Romano. My experience with the Confederation though has been one of respect, duty and service. The opportunity to earn my citizenship through service to the State, in my case helping those who were displaced and affected by the 4th Succession War. It is disappointing though to see all of the warts on the Houses that have held themselves up as a bastion for good and honor. Initially I thought that limited to the Lyran half, but recent events on top of the actions of a particular General in the Capellan March show that’s not the case.â€
He turns and looks at William. “There are plenty of fine individuals within the FC. I count you and the others with the Rangers among them. As for my opinion of its leadership, that remains to be seen. As for resolving this particular bit of nastiness, I addressed the initial assassination attempt directly. I am willing to let this second attempt go quietly as a stupid mistake by some mid level bureaucrat. Should there be a third attempt I won’t be able to afford to let it go. I would let everyone here know and have the opportunity to do what is in your own best interests. I have a family to think of after all.â€
“Anything else you want to cover William?â€