“The quarrelss of localss do not concern uss.” Though the AAnn visage was not nearly as flexible as that of humans or Sakuntala, Jallrii managed to look smug. “We are only interessted in the pharmaceutical potential of native flora.”
“Of course you are.” Her smile remained conscientiously fixed in place. “That’s why you wouldn’t happen to know how the Sakuntala radicals have managed to coordinate their current efforts to a degree unprecedented in recorded history. Not to mention how they’ve managed to come into possession of advanced energy and explosive weapons.”
The pair exchanged a glance. “We would not,” Thessu finally responded. “Why would we rissk our possition here, as guessts, to involve oursselves in the sstupid ssquabbling of primitive localss?”
Leaning forward, she rested both elbows on the desk, tapping her lips with her steepled fingers. “That’s a question I’ve just recently been forced to ask myself.” As they both began to swell with indignation, she added quickly, “From a purely hypothetical standpoint, of course. Understand, I’m not accusing you of anything. But as administrator, it is my duty to consider even the most extreme scenarios.”
That calmed them—somewhat. “What possible advantage could we gain from a fight between nativess?” Jallrii demanded to know. “Ssuch disscord only inhibitss our fieldwork.”
“Yes, your fieldwork.” She eyed them solicitously. “I’m told you spend most of your time out in the field. It must be very uncomfortable for you.”
“Very truly.” Thessu let out a hissing sigh. “How we long to conclude our tour of duty in thiss misserable place! I pine for the hot, dry sands of home.”