Do you really believe that? she asked, her tone clearly sceptical.

Does it matter? Sarbakshian shrugged sadly. I go where the business is, and Aguirre is fast turning into a ghost town. He tapped the fingers of one hand against an armrest, studying her carefully. You know, I was more than a little surprised about the way you turned up here without any warning. Id already heard a rumour you were retiring.

She thought for a moment. It was more that I decided to take a career break.

He looked amused. And do drug smugglers take career breaks?

This one does. She licked her lips. Look, I cant thank you enough for everything youve

He waved a hand. Weve got a lot of history between us, Megan, and even criminals like you and me have to trust someone. You asked for help, and I gave it, but that doesnt mean its free.

I know I owe you.

Yes, he agreed. And also for the information you asked me to get. He made a practised gesture in the air. Especially for that.

Glyphs appeared in the air by his hand, and Sarbakshian reached out to touch one of them. It quivered momentarily before expanding to reveal several screeds of data.

Regarding your friend Anil Sifra, said Sarbakshian, his dropship is still docked with the Liberia.

Thats all? she shook her head. Im paying you to tell me that?

Look, everythings changed since the flood. The Accord has investigators operating all over Aguirre. It knows its been caught napping, and badly, so when its not dealing with the disaster, its trying to limit other kinds of damage primarily political. That means its watching people like you and me very, very closely. I have a contact on the Liberia, but common bribery isnt working nearly as well as it did just a couple of days ago. He squinted as if in pain. And, much as I hesitate to sully our friendship with such a mundane and lowly matter, there does regretfully remain the matter of recompensing those very individuals who are taking it upon themselves to watch over your friend at considerable personal risk. At this, he pressed one hand over his heart, and flashed her a grin.

Megan regarded him coolly. I already told you, Im good for it.

Sarbakshian nodded and waved the glyphs away. Well discuss that more in a moment. First, however, I would very much like to know if you intend to kill this man Sifra.

Im not sure thats any of your business, Sabby.

But it is my business, he insisted. Sifra is well known, since hes closely linked to the former TSAs First Families. Those are very powerful people, Megan. If they were to realize I aided you in killing one of their own, who would be able to protect me from them? You?