Leoh shrugged and hiked his eyebrows, an expression that sent a network of creases across his fleshy face. “I’m not sure what I’m going to do. I’d still like to take a good look at some ideas for better interstellar transportation. And I’d want to be on hand here if those savages rom Kerak try to use the dueling machine for their own purposes again.”
Nodding, Spencer rumbled, “I knew it. You’re getting yourself involved in politics. Sooner or later you’ll be after my job.”
Even Hector laughed at that.
More seriously. Spencer went on, “You know, of course, that I’m here officially to attend the inauguration of General Martine as the new Prime Minister.”
“Yes,” said Leoh. “And your real reason for coming?”
Lowering his voice slightly. Spencer answered, “I hope to persuade Martine to join the Commonwealth. Or at least to sign a treaty of alliance with us. It’s the only way that Acquatainia can avoid a war with Kerak. All of Acquatainia’s former allies have been taken over by Kerak or frightened off. Alone, the Acquatainians are in grave danger. As a Commonwealth member, or an ally, I doubt that even Kanus would be foolish enough to attack them right now.”
“But Acquatainia has always refused Commonwealth membership … or even an alliance.”
“Yes, but General Martine might see things differently now that Kanus is obviously preparing for war,” Spencer said.
“But the General …” Hector began, then stopped.
“Go on, my boy. What were you going to say?”
“Well, it might not be anything important . . . just something that Geri told me about the General . er, the Prime MinisterShe, eh, well, she said he’s a stubborn, shortsighted, proud old clod. Those were her words, sir.”