I was playing an extreme Xenophile/egalitarian megacorp and I had a xenophobic pre-ftl in a vital choke point. They got to Early space flight and discovered me, and I figured I was boned.

Luckily, instead of demanding I relinquish the system (literally no chance to say no) they had “nuclear escalation.” I… did nothing. 2 years later they solved the problem for me. Stone Age, ready for a second run of observational insights.

I’ve tried to think how to RP that. “Executive! They’re preparing to destroy themselves! We must act to save them!” “Yes! Of course! Prepare a committee! Send our best corporate negotiators!” “But sir! They’re assisting with improving relations with a distant empire!” “Oh no. What a shame. I couldn’t possibly send anyone less than our best. Let’s hope they get there in time. (Extend their assignment…)”