Page 62 of No Strings Attached

Vi: Diplomatic relations are a passion of mine. That’s why we’re here on your station, to forge strong relations with the Ophidians tonight. We’re here now, in your office, to see if you might be able to assist us with something else.

Jarxtan Prag: Yes, your majesty, how may I assist?

Unknown Female: Oh my…! Oh, excuse me, I was startled. Your refreshments, sir. May I pour you a cup, your majesty? Wonderful, here you are. And for you, your majesty. Oh, you’re sure? Very well.

…

Vi: Our planet, Oz, is rich in gemstones. We are looking for a broker who can facilitate high-value transactions for some of these gemstones. Do you know of such a person?

Jarxtan Prag: I’m sorry, your majesty, but I’m not familiar with your world. Can you tell me where it is?

Vi: I can, but I will not. For now, we’ll be keeping the location to ourselves. Our people do not wish to interact within the galactic community, and we are respectful of their wishes. The King and I, however, would like to continue to build diplomatic relations among certain worlds.

Caussus: We need a broker to help us monetize our vast resources into the galactic standard currency in order to fulfill that mission…Of course, if you can help connect us with alegitimatebroker who has access to people who can fundimmediatetransactions, we will be most grateful. Say, a 1% commission on each transaction? Acken?

…

Jarxtan Prag: Is that…is that…a pink diamond? It’s as big as my fist!

Caussus: Yes, we only brought a few, small gems with us. Acken?

Jarxtan Prag: And a blue diamond…sapphire…ruby…

Vi: We’ll also need someone reputable from your station to set up our royal party with credit accounts that can be used throughout the galaxy. Do you have someone available?

Jarxtan Prag: Y…yes. That’s no problem.

Vi: Wonderful. So, the broker then?

Jarxtan Prag: I’ll have to make some connections; it may take me some time. Do you have quarters reserved within the station?

Vi: We were advised that it would be preferable to remain aboard our ship when travelling with a Garoxian. Is that notso? I understand his presence could be quite intimidating for your residents and visitors.

Jarxtan Prag: That’s…true. It is most considerate of you to think of the station’s best interests. I’m very sorry that you won’t have the opportunity to enjoy the station’s hospitality. May I send a meal to your ship while you relax before the reception tonight with the Ophidians?

Vi: My King?

Caussus: That would be delightful, Honorable Jarxtan Prag. We have a mixed crew of 20. The Garoxian prefers massive quantities of raw meat, on the bone. We are also traveling with an Ophidian. If you’ve already, perhaps, prepared to provide live fare for the King and Queen, and their party, I am sure he’d be pleased with something similar.

Jarxtan Prag: I’ll…see what I can do. An Estranian, Ophidian,andGaroxian in the royal entourage of Oz. Remarkable. Expect a delivery within the hour. May I speak with you tonight during the reception to let you know what I’ve found with regard to the broker?

Vi: Certainly, we’ll look forward to seeing you there. Thank you, Honorable Jarxtan Prag, you’ve been most gracious.

Jarxtan Prag: The pleasure has been mine, your majesties.

Vi: Acken, would you?

Jarxtan Prag: Ah yes, the gems. Forgive me. Until this evening, then.

…

Bahbi let out a whoop that startled everyone, kissed Friend on the top of the head, and fell back against the sofa in relief. They couldn’t declare the meeting a victory until they actually got some money, but Vi had survived the ridiculous plan, which was all he really cared about. He’d happily spend the rest of his life on the asteroid, eating kibble, if he could do it with Vi.

“Are you sure you want to go out there with two Trallians in the royal party?” Bahbi asked, as Vi looked him up and down. The two of them had separated from the rest for a few minutes, going back to the cargo hold, when Bahbi had recognized that Vi needed a minute to get herself ready. “It may negate the impact of Acken, Mister Beastly, and Steev.”

“Yes, I’m sure. Take off that belt and separate the daggers for a second.” She took the belt from him, looking at it thoughtfully. He couldn’t take his eyes off how amazing she looked in her crown, metalwork, and weapons. “You and Trak are as much part of the reason we’re free as any other one of us, and it’s exactly the kind of message we want to be sending around the galaxy. Trallians are worthy and should be treated equally. Which is your dominant arm?”

“The right one.” He watched as she started to wrap the belt around his left arm, crisscrossing it decoratively and fastening it. It crisscrossed his bicep from shoulder to elbow. “I just think it might be too soon for that type of message. We need to establish ourselves, first.”

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