1. I think Ba'kif is aware that the isolationist policy limits the ability of the military to maintain defense of the Ascendancy in the Chaos. Having allies, and coming to their aid, isn't only "making friends", it's a huge defensive tactic that the Ascendancy seems to largely ignore. Although they do have ambassadors, which is confusing because why bother if you're not going to actually make allies.

3. Their encounter was SO FUN to read - agreed!

5. I suspect he'll make some mistakes and I wonder if they might be related to Thalia or possibly Ar'alani and Ba'Kif. Also, something moves him towards the Empire. IDK - in any case, it'll be interesting to find out.