Page 16 of Zalis
The interview was over and, as far as Gemma could tell, pointless.
ZALIS
Zalis heard every word. More importantly, he heard the frustration in Gemma’s voice. It would not do.
The constable swept past him in a huff, as if annoyed by the minimal amount of work she had accomplished.
No, none of this would do.
Zalis stepped into the room and spoke quickly, before doubt could make him hesitate. “Justice or vengeance?”
If the context of his question confused Gemma, she did not ask for clarification. She said, “A good person would say justice.”
“Understood.”
He left to chase down the worthless constable. It was clear to Zalis that the constable had no intention of following through with a proper investigation. Gemma deserved both justiceandvengeance for her ordeal, but he could only guarantee one.
“Constable Pama,” he called out, catching up to her easily. “A moment of your time.”
She stopped, her back straight and shoulders tense. “If it is indeed a moment. Do not waste my time.”
“I have a contact to help with the investigation on Earth,” Zalis said. On his comm unit, he had contact information for a government agent who had been extraordinarily competent.
“I already explained that I cannot investigate what happened on Earth.”
“Yes, you have given many reasons as to why you will fail in your duties. Reasons that I find unacceptable.”
“It’s not my job to please you.” The constable folded her arms over her chest, as if that would make her intimidating. Instead, it simply reminded Zalis of prey covering their vulnerabilities.
He could physically intimidate the constable. He was larger and stronger. Use brute force to get his way, to force the constable to perform her duty. From her stance, it is what she expected.
How disappointing.
“One must wonder if anyone is pleased with your job performance,” he said.
The constable’s eyes narrowed, and her lips pressed together.
“You Mahdfel. You think you can do whatever you please, abusing your power by acting like we’re living under martial law.You don’t intimidate me. I’ll report you to the Council,” Pama warned.
Zalis resisted the urge to explain that martial law had been well over a century ago, when the Suhlik first invaded Sangrin. Insisting that she perform her duties was hardly an abuse of power. Instead, he said, “Your threats require improvement. Considering that I arrested one corrupt council member days ago, I am unconcerned.”
He stepped forward. The color drained from Pama’s face.
Perhaps a little physical intimidation.
“You, however, should be concerned about the nine humans who were rescued,” he continued. “Six are still missing.”
“Humans,” she sneered. “They will return to their world soon. Why should I waste resources and time pursuing the matter? Tholla is a very busy port. Too busy. Let the human homeworld deal with their mess.”
The constable was intractable.
If only one of his more loquacious team members were present. He wondered what Lorran or, stars forfend, even Ren would say.
Lies. Half-truths.
Gentle persuasion, as Lorran called it.
Zalis would try his best.
