He paused to gesture toward the individuals mentioned, who were currently standing at parade rest on either side of him, reinforcing the introductions which had been made at the beginning of the meeting.
“Now then,” he continued, “are there any questions you would like to raise in front of the group at large? Things that would affect all of the temporary Legionnaires?”
The actors, seated in auditorium formation at one end of the transport’s ballroom, exchanged looks for a few moments. Since the company leaders appeared before them in the unexpected black uniforms to start the briefing, silence had reigned, and even now everyone seemed reluctant to speak.
“Mr. Phule?”
“That’s `Captain Jester’ or just `Captain’ for the duration.” The commander smiled gently. “Yes? You have a question?”
“You said that we were free to withdraw if we wanted to, now that we’ve heard the whole story. How would that work, exactly? I mean, now that we’ve lifted off and are en route, wouldn’t it be kind of hard for us to get back to Jewell?”
“You would be provided with a return ticket to Jewell-at our expense, of course-after we had completed our assignment,” Phule explained. “In the meantime, you would be held incommunicado on Lorelei. While you were our guests, all expenses would be paid as well as a small stipend, but it should be noted that your earnings would be substantially less than what will be paid if you honor your contracts and stand duty with us.”
There was some mumbling in the assemblage at this announcement, but Phule held up his hand for silence.