Mark Twain
The Accommodation Lobby — K’an
“Tarmenik is an old man helplessly mired in a failed attempt to discover the origin of the Overlords. Screw it. Ignore the old man. It is time we move on. Tarunik confirmed the Plentari can repair the Jenny. Let’s get the badass baby fixed. I am ready to head home.”
“No, NT, we are not going to ignore Tarmenik. Answers can vary based on the form of the question is his way of telling us we are not asking the correct question. He knows, or suspects, something that he refuses to tell us. We need to reframe our questions and refine our search parameters.”
“Corb, let’s table the conversation for a moment. How are we going to pay for the repairs? Also, we will need to replenish the antimatter pile soon. Landry, do we have enough antimatter to reach Plentari and Earth?”
“Yes, Lucinda, at twenty-two percent capacity, there is enough antimatter to reach Plentari and a follow-on excursion to Earth. I remind you, however, the Triad can induce the Jaguar to enter the slipstream. Using the Triad to enter the slipstream will preserve the antimatter to power life support, the plasma cannons, and the rail guns.
“There is something else. Corb, please check your personal communications folder. Lucinda, you are also addressed on the message, carbon-copied is the correct term.”
Lucinda reached her hand forward, toward Cass. Cass slid her ever-present tile toward Lucinda. Tiles were augmented tablets that could function as command consoles while on the Jaguar. Taking up the tile, logging Cass out of the device, and using her thumbprint and eye scan, Lucinda caused the tile to morph into a mini command console. Pressing the equivalent of the You Have Mail icon opened Lucinda’s inbox. Selecting the sort option to show the newest messages first, Lucinda saw at the top of the extremely long list a message from the Plentari High Council.
“Corb, are you seeing this?”
Using his nanobots, Corb was scanning the same message from Plentari.
“Yes, Lucinda, I see it. It seems Tarmenik is trying to make amends. He has gifted us core credits and informed Jexnell that we will be visiting Plentari. Jexnell is preparing for our visit.
“NT, how long before the provisions are loaded? When can we shove off to Plentari?”
“That depends, do you want a full load or enough provisions to get us back to Earth?”
Corb responded by weighing his options. “If we can contract with the Plentari to repair the Jaguar, we might be holding at Plentari awhile for the repairs.
“Landry, do we have enough core credits to replenish the antimatter pile? Also, can we obtain antimatter on Plentari?”
Landry responded via Corb’s nanobots, his response not audible to the Coterie.
“Yes, Corb, there are enough credits to refresh the antimatter pile three times. Of course, that is three refresh units at the current market rate for antimatter. The Plentari repair facilities resell antimatter sourced from the processing facilities on Kripkeni.”
“Landry says we can obtain Kripkeni antimatter on Plentari at a marked-up price. There is nothing more for us here at this moment. I suggest we load the provisions and get going. NT, what do you need?”
“I need access to the core credits. Dad, I need gas, can I have the credit card?”
Everyone groaned at the childish humor, Corb taking it in stride.
“NT, I do not know how to use the credit card. Take Michelle with you. She can use her nanobots to contact Landry and he’ll transfer the credits. Janish, go with them. Any sign of trouble, everyone back to the Jaguar. Any questions?”
“Yes, Corb, what are we going to do while NT resupplies the ship?”
“Cass, we are going to pay a social visit to Doctor Wolmarans and the other humans. It will be good for us to talk to other humans for a few hours. Landry plot a flight plan to Plentari. Nick, confirm the flight plan when we return to the Jaguar.”
Aboard the Jaguar — Orbiting K’an
“Doctor Wolmarans has changed. He is actually pleasant to be around. The others are so nice. The harmony exudes from everyone.”
“Cass, Doctor Wolmarans found a place where he can be a scientist without the political implications or commercial pressures. He is doing well here. If you knew him as we did, before the metamorphosis, you would have a different opinion of the good Doctor Wolmarans. Similarly, I am relieved Tarmish decided to keep Vivian … secluded …”
Corb’s voice faded away into an understandable moment of self-reflection and consideration. After several long moments of contemplation, Cass continued.
“Corb, you were pretty quick to turn down Afra’s request to join the Jaguar. I was wondering, Afra is a fully-grown woman …”
“Cass, you know Afra is Peth’s daughter. Peth maneuvered to speak to me alone as soon as we arrived. She asked we turn down Afra’s request this time. When we return to K’an, if we return, and Afra still wants to join a crew, to go exploring, we will consider the request. Peth asked for one-to-one time with me because she feels Afra is being impetuous.”
Everyone’s facial expressions exhibited understanding of Corb’s decision to honor Peth’s request. Turning to Landry’s avatar, Lucinda continued the brief.
“Landry, how long before the supplies are off-loaded, and the shuttle departs?”
“Approximately twenty-seven minutes to complete the off-loading. They are staging the container pallets in the main hold to speed our departure. The containers can be unloaded while we are en route. NT and Ragnar are overseeing the off-loading process and I am scanning each container for contraband, unapproved technology, and, of course, tracking devices and explosives.”
“Thank you. Let me know if something comes up. Everyone, alternating shifts as soon as the shuttle departs. Nick, Janish, get us to Plentari ASAP. Landry put up a clock. I want you to factor in the off-loading, in system sub-lightspeed to the entry point, and transit time to Plentari.”
“Working.”
In under two seconds, three clocks appeared in the upper right corner of every video monitor on the Jaguar.
Time to Complete Off-Loading: 00:26:01.
Time to Entry: 21:21:12.
Time to Emergence: (13D) 18:28:18.
The Open Meeting Hall — Plentari
“Madame Negotiator, thank you for agreeing to meet with us.”
“Enlightened One, it is the Plentari who thank you for bestowing upon us the honor of hosting you. We welcome you. Always. Captain Raitt, you are forever welcome on Plentari.”
Lucinda nodded appreciation, turning her head to Corb, who responded.
“Madame Negotiator, you are, especially kind. As you know, the Jaguar suffered damage during our mission to Zerain, the place you call Gowah. The Ajawlil are fierce but we prevailed. Our ship is in need of repair and our antimatter supply requires refreshing.
“We have a limited number of credits available.
“Madame Negotiator, what is it we can trade for the repairs and enough antimatter to replenish the Jaguar?”
“Enlightened One, I received the inquiry you issued from K’an and we have been considering the request for eleven rotations. We have considered many options and developed a proposal that will benefit everyone.”
“Madame Negotiator, the Plentari are widely known to be excellent negotiators. We are prepared to hear your offer. I have asked Captain Raitt to accompany me. If the Plentari custom of female leadership is required, she may speak for me in all matters.”
“Enlightened One, you are vastly wise. The Plentari have adapted. For the Enlightened One, we will allow a male to negotiate. Thank you for your consideration. Now to the proposal.
“Part one is a simple matter of efficiencies. Our maintenance leaders inform me the Jaguar will require twenty-one rotations to complete the repairs. However, the maintenance yards at Kripkeni can perform the repairs and upgrades in twelve rotations.”
Interrupting, Lucinda pleasantly chimed in, “Upgrades, Madame Negotiator?”
“Yes, Captain
Raitt, the repair facilities at Kripkeni can install upgraded plasma emitters and enhanced guides for the rail guns, which will improve cycle time. They can also provide the antimatter pile refresh at twenty percent less than the Plentari price.”
Lucinda was beaming. She looked to Corb but remained silent when she saw his poker face, cold and fixed. He did not acknowledge Lucinda before speaking.
“Madame Negotiator, that is a generous offer. However, we do not possess enough core credits to complete the repairs, purchase the upgrades, and replenish the needed antimatter.
“What is it you propose?”
Jexnell, the leader of the Plentari, had learned to smile in the year since Corb’s last visit. A stoic and firm people led by a defined matriarchy, the Plentari never smiled. Corb knew this was an important moment.
“Enlightened One, core credits will no longer be your concern if you accept part two of our offer.”
Corb’s blue eyes thinned but his trademark smile emerged.
“Madame Negotiator, I am ready to listen.”
“Part two is equally uncomplicated. Your assistance resulted in me becoming extremely powerful and exceedingly wealthy. The reports inform me of much. Your mate has recovered well and is growing her abilities. She has become powerful and wise.”
Corb modestly nodded acceptance of the compliment the leader of the Plentari conferred on Michelle. He recognized flattering Michelle was a diversion common in Plentari negations. He remained silent and let the Plentari leader continue.
“I learned a new word for this exact moment. I am prepared to bestow to the Enlightened One enough core credits to ensure you will never require additional credits. It is a gift with no repayment required, assuming you accept the second condition.”
The Madame Negotiator paused, looked at Corb, and waited. Corb’s smile widened as he used his index finger to tilt his cowboy hat a little higher on his forehead.
“Madame Negotiator, that is a generous offer. Tell me, was Doctor Tarmenik influential in crafting this proposal?”
Jexnell responded without missing a beat. “The Enlightened One knows many things. Yes, Madame Tarnish conveyed Doctor Tarmenik’s suggestions on how we might proceed. The Doctor is wise, and we trust Madame Tarnish without reservation.”
“Thank you, Madame Negotiator, for your honesty. I am willing to hear your offer.”
Jexnell, the Madame Negotiator, leader of the entire Plentari race, sat up a little straighter and waved to a guard standing at the doors six meters to her right. The guard opened the doors. Two Plentari warriors marched in and bowed to the Madame Negotiator before spinning on their heels to kneel before the Enlightened One. Genuflecting on one knee, the warriors pulled their laser sabers and placed them on the floor. Raising their backs to vertical, in unison, the warriors spoke.
“We offer our lives in fealty to the Enlightened One.”
Corb’s thin smile remained as his focus moved from the Madame Negotiator to the two warriors. He swept his left hand in an upward motion as he spoke to the warriors.
“Rise. Sheath your sabers. Stand fast. Before I accept or decline your fealty, I will complete my discussion with the Madame Negotiator.”
The Plentari humanoid appearance had a few subtle differences from Earth humans. Normally, the females measured between five foot four and five foot six. The warriors standing in front of Corb were closer to five-ten and heavily muscled. The short, rust-colored fur covering their heads and forearms had been dyed in places to denote affiliation or rank.
Their rippling arms ended in an elongated hand with three fingers and an opposable thumb. These warriors’ fingernails were the common triangle shape but were colored blood red and matched the red stripes on their left cheek.
The Plentari skin was a muted blue-green that appeared to change on demand or with mood. These warriors were purposely exhibiting a dark blue skin tone. When pleased or calm, the hue was more pale green in tone. Dark blue signified a readiness to fight.
Lucinda noticed the warriors’ faces twitch slightly and assumed these two were constantly ready to fight. The two warriors had not expected the response Corb gave. Corb concentrated on the Madame Negotiator.
“Madame Negotiator, you are to be commended. You have learned a great deal. I presume you have discussed the concept of fealty with Admiral Jexond of the Ajawlil. What is it you desire?”
“Enlightened One, these warriors are Jirmina and Jirxena. They are two of our most elite warriors. They volunteered to become your guardians. They will join your crew aboard the Jaguar. They will be your personal guard and they will function as emissaries for Plentari.
“They will function as you direct. In exchange, they will be permitted to negotiate on behalf of Plentari with other peoples. Plentari has much to learn. Our culture is strong, but it is constricting. We need to learn quickly to be relevant in the galaxy. Jirmina’s and Jirxena’s first responsibility is to be the Enlightened One’s personal honor guard. They will give their life to protect the Enlightened One. They will be Plentari emissaries second.”
Ritualistically, Jirmina and Jirxena both dropped to a knee, heads bowed toward Corb.
“Madame Negotiator, I foresee many problems with this arrangement. There are many things that may not be shared. Jirmina and Jirxena will be granted complete access but will not be permitted to share all they learn. They will be sworn to secrecy once they board the Jaguar. If you agree, may I be permitted to ask Jirmina and Jirxena several questions?”
“Of course. We expected no less from one so wise.”
Corb tilted his head to the Madame Negotiator before bending slightly to the kneeling warriors.
Chapter Four
ᛍᚼᛆᛕᛐᚱ ᚠᚮᚢᚱ
“Loyalty is the knife honed with good deeds.”
R. C. Ducantlin
“Rise and face me.”
In unison, with a practiced smoothness, the warriors rose and faced Corb.
“I am male. Many of my crew are male. Aboard the Jaguar, Lucinda is the captain. But everyone is considered an equal. You may take direction from males and females. Are you prepared to accept a role that is equal to many?”
The warrior to Corb’s left, Jirmina, spoke.
“Enlightened One, we are prepared to accept an equal role in your crew. It is our desire to serve the Enlightened One. We wish to learn how the Plentari can adapt to the expanding universe that you have graciously bestowed on all peoples.”
“Should I accept this offer, here is your first lesson. My name is Corb and you may call me Corb. Can you do that?”
“Yes, Enlightened One.”
Jexnell emitted what humans would consider a snort of derision. Lucinda laughed out loud. Corb was beaming. Jirmina and Jirxena looked confused. Lucinda stepped in before Jexnell could growl and chastise her warriors.
“Jirmina, Jirxena, you have clearly learned much and trained well for this day. Your training is exceptional. If Corb accepts the terms, you will be a welcome addition to my crew.
“It is my crew. My crew are friends and companions before all else. We treat each other with respect and familiarity. Corb tested you and you failed. The crew of the Jaguar does not fail. We fought and killed many Ajawlil. We restored the Xjaal and Ajawlil species because we do not fail.
“I defer to Corb, as he is the Enlightened One. If he asks again, I suggest you answer correctly.”
Lucinda nodded to the Madame Negotiator and stepped back. Corb’s smile was a little less thin but remained tight when he spoke.
“What is my name aboard the Jaguar?”
The warriors glanced longways at each other, unsure of the revised phrasing, before responding in unison.
“Corb!”
“Correct. What is my name everywhere else?”
“Enlightened One!”
“Incorrect. But it was a trick question. You have much to learn. On Earth, few call me the Enlightened One. On Earth, I am Mister Johnson or Corb.
“Madame Negotiator
, I have a modification to the conditions. We will accept Jirmina and Jirxena into the crew of the Jaguar. They will be permitted to perform as my personal guard.
“However, we will accept them on a trial basis. They will join the crew and accompany us to Kripkeni for the ship repairs followed by a trip to Earth. Should they perform satisfactorily, they will be permitted to remain. If there are unforeseen problems, they will be returned to Plentari and the remainder of the core credits returned.
“If this is acceptable, we can shake on it.”
“I understand this reference. Shaking hands indicates your word is your bond. The Plentari agree to these conditions.”
The Madame Negotiator, stepped off her dais, walked up to Corb, and extended her right hand. Corb looked down at the much shorter Plentari leader and accepted the offered hand with his hand and a comment.
“I am a human who considers my word to be my bond. By shaking hands, I agree to your terms and we have a deal.
“Today is a new day for the Plentari.”
“Yes, Enlightened One, today is a new day for the Plentari.”
Aboard the Jaguar — Orbiting Plentari
“Are you kidding me? How many credits?”
Nick was practically yelling. The Coterie and the two new crew members were in the Jaguar’s galley, discussing the new roles and responsibilities. The topic of core credits had come up, diverting the Plentari onboarding discussion. Nick was looking at Jirxena, expecting an answer to his questions. Not understanding the implications, Jirxena remained quiet. Landry’s small avatar, standing on the sideboard, spoke up.
“Nick, Corb is now the wealthiest human in the galaxy. He is the wealthiest human who has ever existed. The amount he was bestowed is slightly under eight percent of the Madame Negotiator’s total assets.”
Corb shrugged and spoke softly.
“Jexnell is now the undisputed leader of the Plentari. The credits are payment for what we did to aid her ascension to the position of Madame Negotiator. I harbor no regret in our actions and no guilt for accepting the credits.”
BairnGefa- The Akashic Expedition Page 3