Page 27 of Warrior Revealed

“I was wondering if you have any advice for me once we get to Osi,” Payim asked as he took a seat. “I don’t want to somehow be rude and disgrace my people.”

His brow furrowed as he thought about the question. Ever since his first mission, he’d been acutely aware of how different his people were from other races. No two cultures were the same. Experiencing those variations was the best part of his job and one of the reasons he spent so much time off world. It also highlighted all the things he didn’t like about the traditions he grew up with. Perhaps if he wasn’t the Premiere Servant of the Conclave he’d feel differently.

Payim doesn’t care about that.

“It will be pretty hard to embarrass yourself. We’re not easily offended. We have a very thick shell,” Aculus joked.

“Good,” Payim chuckled.

“Honestly, though. We have interacted with many races so we are used to other ways. You are a warrior, fighting for the greater good, so you will be treated with honor. The Osivoire respect strength. I think it is because our rise as a people was so harsh. Osi is an unforgiving planet.”

“I recall you mentioning it is arid.” The Cadi male nodded.

“Yes, it is. But we are advanced enough water is no longer an issue.” Even as he made the comment he laughed at the irony. “Actually, that’s not true. Water is a very big deal. The Osivoire take great pride in it, a holdover from when it was scarce.”

“That makes sense, if your people once had to fight and die over it. The memory is no doubt ingrained in the Osivoire,” Payim concluded.

“True. However, it borders on ridiculous considering we can now generate what’s needed. Either way, if you want to compliment someone, compliment their estuary. Nearly everyone has one, though it varies in size and magnificence.”

He thought about how even he suffered from the same cultural vanity. The night before, a twinge of pride had filled him when Nadzia reacted so excitedly to seeing the ship estuary.

I guess there’s no escaping who we are.

“Thank you for the tip,” Payim replied as Aculus was considering what else might be helpful.

“The males and even the females may be rougher than you’re used to.” He pounded his chest, knocking on his shell.

It was part of their nature. He’d thankfully learned better than most to temper his rough side.

“I understand. I’m not armored but I’ve got a pretty thick hide and have an older brother who yanked my tail before I could even walk upright.” Payim patted himself. “But you say even the females, huh.”

“They can be worse. So be prepared if an unjoined female shows an interest in you, you’re going to come away with bruises,” he warned.

“Seriously?” Payim looked stunned.

“Osivoire matrons are more like human females in temperament, but they have their shell to back them up.”

“I’ll make sure I don’t compliment their pools then,” Payim chuckled.

“That’s probably wise,” he laughed.

“Speaking of females, how’s your pursuit of Nadzia?”

Aculus laughed at the male’s probing expression then sobered. It probably wasn’t good his interest in her was that obvious.

“She’s better company than the males I’m cooped up with mission after mission,” he replied casually, downplaying the situation.

“That is the truth!” Payim slapped the table.

“I know Scala showed you the controls. Do you like how this frigate handles?” he asked, changing the subject.

“It’s impressive. More power than I’m used to, but smooth, very responsive and incredibly agile for its size.” Payim glanced toward the ship controls.

“Would you want to keep an eye on things? Scala should be here soon to take over.”

“Definitely.” Payim jumped up, eager for the opportunity and moved to one of the console seats where he brought up a visual of their heading.

Aculus expected the exuberant response but smiled anyway. The Cadi were still building their fleet after recovering from a lengthy civil war. He could’ve left the bridge with the ship on auto-pilot, but it was their policy to have someone at the controls, and Payim was more than capable.

---