Song Jin-woo was an envoy for the UN's court system. His title indicated that he had limited power in the UN's bureaucracy. But in reality, Jin-woo had focused exclusively on cultivating power during his whole career. It was simply a matter of finding the boss's weak spot. And Jin-woo was an expert at that, in consequence, Song Jin-woo was one of the most important men at the UN.
Senator Conway had discovered Jin-woo's capabilities when the Terran Federation and the UN had worked together on common space interests. Since then, he had always contacted Song when he needed a UN favor. This was one of those times.
“Hello Song,” said Conway. “I hope you are well.”
“Yes George, and how are you?” said Jin-woo.
“Very well. Song what I called you about is a problem in the Asteroid Belt me and my committee are having. And I believe it will be a problem for the UN eventually.”
“Yes. What is the problem, Senator?”
“My informants tell me that Randall Benchley has a good chance of getting a ruling in your courts of res nullis for the Asteroid Belt. We also know that a young man named Martin Jackson, a relative of Abram Jackson, the agitator, is on his way to the Belt. We think he has been sent to organize the miners. As you know, once they make claims on the Belt it will be harder for us to impose our will. And if res nullis is declared it will be impossible.”
“I agree with you there, Senator. So, what do we do?”
“We believe that a message needs to be sent, a forceful message which will derail our adversaries or at least make them fearful to proceed.”
“I see, and what do you propose?”
“Well, we believe that without Abram Jackson there is a chance to influence the outcome in a way that serves our purpose. As you know, that old man has done more than anyone to advance the cause of Belt autonomy.”
“And?”
“And,” said Conway, “we believe that if he is taken out of the picture immediately, we can push our cause with the UN and send a message to those working with Jackson that this is an issue that we will ruthlessly pursue if necessary. It should have a chilling effect on all those that support or work with the old man.”
“I see, and you think I am the one who can implement your, as you say, 'chilling effect'?”
“I know you Song. You have contacts that I, nor anyone knows about.”
“Very well Senator. I will take care of your, I mean our problem.”
Jin-woo could see the start of Conway's smile as his Annie closed the session.
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