The young sir breathed in its bouquet, his eyes closed in bittersweet pleasure, and took a sip. “It has been a long time since I have tasted Midnight Smoke.” He looked around the dive. “Will it cause a problem if I sit at a table, or should I stay close to Hssa?”
Ah. So, not stupid.
“I think it will be safe enough for you to take a table.” Rinig watched as the young sir walked away. The techs studiously avoided looking at him as he found a table at the back of the dive and sat, facing the door.
The Brachi’s muzzle parted in a toothy grin. “He may be a young sir, but I’ve learned he can be dangerous. We had a minor run-in with pirates three months back. They had a zeno-zoo in mind for me and intended to keep him for their pleasure.”
“What changed their minds?” Sloff knew as well as any
