He gives an indifferent shift that can almost be construed as a shrug. Whatever gesture it might represent, it's clearly a silent acceptance of Bruce's suggestion. Costigan follows it with more drinking, the only way he can handle all of the ideas in his mind outside of the pills that he has run out of, minus an emergency handful hidden away to help with withdrawals.

"You ask," he replies finally. Costigan talks to the Emperor. He find access to resources that are not easy to get. He plays a strong arm when one is needed, though he may question his judgment on the matter later. He collects information. If there's one thing he does not do, it's politely ask the kedan for some of their bodily fluids.