Contact with Chaos by Michael Z. Williamson

Author:Michael Z. Williamson [Williamson, Michael]
Format: epub, mobi, pdf
Tags: Science fiction, General, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Fiction, Fiction - Science Fiction, Space Opera, Adventure, Fantasy, Science Fiction - Adventure, Human-alien encounters, American Science Fiction And Fantasy, Science Fiction - Space Opera, Life on other planets
ISBN: 9781416591542
Publisher: Baen
Published: 2009-04-06T23:00:00+00:00

Chapter 13

Mark did not want to reveal the presence of the other incursions to Vlashn. However, he didn't see that he had a choice. If Vlashn found out from some other source, that would be worse. The only logical, honorable course was to fess up early and let him know the details.

Still, he paused for several deep breaths before he entered the courtyard where Vlashn was due to arrive. He'd rather be fashionably late, but that would be out of character. So he sat, enjoying the local sunlight and fresh air, with its irritating tickle. He'd need to remedicate shortly. While he waited, he enjoyed a thick, crusty chunk of bread with a generous dollop of apricot preserves. Chef Finley from the Healy had been offered the position of chef on the planet and quietly but cheerfully accepted. Mark was glad. The man was discreet, observant and a phenomenal cook, even deprived of metal pans. His breads were a high point of the cuisine.

Vlashn and his usual escort arrived, and Mark's usual bodyguard escorted them in. All the human recording was now automated. Vlashn brought parrot things, but Mark hardly noticed them anymore.

"Good morning, Mark."

"Good morning, Vlashn. I have information for you today." He stood and swapped greetings.

"I am interested in anything you will offer."

"I hope so. First, I must update you on human events." He took another breath.

"I hope you have not had another war."

Mark laughed nervously. "Was that meant as a joke?"

"Fractionally yes." Vlashn glugged. "I deduce it is better than even odds that two human groups somewhere are fighting, based on the summary of your racial history you provided." Vlashn didn't sound bothered, but how could he, through a translator? Mark decided to address that first.

"That is correct, Vlashn. However, no dispute affects the relations between Freehold and UN or between humans and Ishkul at this time."

"Very well. I wish for that to remain the case."

"I have no doubt it will. There is a different dispute that you need to know about, that both UN and Freehold are in agreement on."

"In human colloquialism you are 'stalling for time.' "

"Sorry. There are other human landings on your planet," he said in a rush. Vlashn replied at once. "I understand. You seek multiple groups to observe and negotiate with."

"If we thought it wise and had more ships present we would do so. These are groups from the Freehold and from the UN who have landed on their own initiative, in remote areas, to commence trade with your less advanced societies."

"Query: To what purpose is this?"

"Their goal is to transfer technology, without regard for implications, and at a price most favorable to them. I don't have a problem with the latter per se, except that it will affect long-term relations between our peoples."

"Query: What do you plan in regard to these landings?"

"I have dispatched a special class of warrior who specialize in observation and information gathering to watch them. No other action will be taken yet. If need be, the warriors will relay the concerns of myself and Ambassador Russ.

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