“Food is not reason enough to book an expensive, slow-moving ship for a long-distance voyage to deliver a ceremonial object.”
“No, not by itself.” Cifer stayed quiet. He didn’t want to talk himself out of a ride, but he didn’t want to tell Dez that not having to move the orb was a big motivator, along with more time with Blaize.
“If we were to consider taking you to Hiargus, the fee would be calculated from Kolben. We would need to charge for the return to Cassan from Hiargus if we can’t secure another contract.”
Dez wouldn’t be able to come up with a number that was higher than the value of his contract to retrieve the orb. Add to that the value of spending time with Blaize, which was incalculable, and he would pay any price named.
Dez threw out a number half of what Cifer had been expecting. He winced by training. “Oof.”
“You would join the crew in the galley for meals and have your own quarters.”
“Now? Or do I have to wait until I can transfer credits on Cassan?”
“We have quarters available now.”
“What about access to the data systems?”
“No.”
“I’ll bring my own data system for the leg to Hiargus. I couldn’t risk having any tech with me on Kolben. But I have a business to run.”
Dez frowned.
“A legitimate business.” Cifer crossed his arms. Retrieving a stolen item didn’t make him a thief. Technically.
“That will depend on the approval of the communications officer, Bodi, and Blaize, who will want to inspect your device.”
“No problem. How long will the layover be at Cassan?”
“Typically, a few cycles.” Dez stretched his feet out in front of him and crossed his hands over his stomach. “Blaize has the pipe repair to perform, and we all need time apart. Enjoy a few meals I haven’t cooked.”
Cifer chuckled.
“Blaize will do another thorough system check. Rhysa will want to negotiate with our fuel supplier.”
“I have some business I need to attend as well.” Cifer fidgeted with the sculpture and waited.
“Is there a time limit on your contract? We might not be able to meet it. This ship isn’t built for speed.”
Not the question Cifer had expected. “There is, but it’s generous enough not to worry. I was able to acquire the orb faster than expected.”
Dez nodded.
“Do you want the entire fee up front?” It was something he would never offer, but he knew once paid, Dez would be honor bound to deliver.
“I’ll let the captain decide.” Dez rose from the platform.
Cifer stood and held out his hand to shake.
Dez took and shook it firmly. “I’ll be back once we have your quarters prepared.”
Cifer relaxed onto his bunk. He had transportation to Hiargus and more time with Blaize.
Chapter 11
Varik’s ship shuddered as it exited the wormhole. He shook off the lingering effects. “Scan.”
“Yes, Captain.” Karnek wobbled a bit in his chair and placed his hands on the built-in data pad. He clicked at the keys and glanced between two viewscreens. “No significant time loss.” The displays zoomed out and in. “Captain, there’s a very large ship directly between us and Cassan.”
