“On the dates specified, you made a number of sizable payments to a human named Sethwyn Case.”
One did not become the head of a successful company operated and owned by Sakuntala without possessing at least a degree of shrewdness. “I cannot verify that without first check with company fiduciary.”
“For now, take my word for it.”
Having yet to be openly accused of breaking a law, the Sakuntala entrepreneur was starting to feel a little better about things. “Is also not illegal?”
“No.” She stared hard at the senior. “All I want to know is, what were these payments made for? What services did the bioprospector Sethwyn Case render to the company Poutukaa to be worthy of all this credit? You didn’t pay him in mulat.”
Geladu-tiv let his tongue and tail tip fall to the floor, a dual sign of abject submission. “You must believe me, Administrator Matthias, when I tell you that I not know.” Before she could object, he added helpfully, “If they are indeed accurately recorded and stated as you claim them to be, then all payments to which you refer would be ones made at behest of respected radical Hata-yuiqueru Aniolo-jat.”
Sitting back in her chair, she nodded slowly. To the senior’s discernible relief, the hulking peaceforcer who had been standing immediately behind him stepped back and resumed his original position next to the doorway.
“What business does Poutukaa have with an extremist like Aniolo-jat?”
“Trade,” Geladu-tiv responded without hesitation. “Insurance.”
“Weapons?” she retorted.
The senior looked alarmed. “No, no! Poutukaa would never be involved in the traffic of such things!”