[ENTIRE PART]

“Then why have you not told them?” Mr. Viron asks, his
emotionless, piercing eyes boring into me.  

“They… well, they are the independent sort and….”

Mr. Khal snorts.  “Well, she
certainly seems to know them well enough—very well…,” he says, waving a hand
dismissively.  “I withdraw my claim.”

Mr. Viron’s mouth flickers a brief, strangely emotionless
smile.  “It is refreshing to see a smooth resolution
to this conflict.”  His gaze comes to
rest on me again, this time severe and empty.  “Though perhaps, young lady, you will have
the foresight in the future to approach Mr. Khal with your concerns before
jumping into action.  The time of this
council is valuable.”

“I-I—yes, sir,” I reply, bowing.

He leans back, taking in a great long breath through his
nose.  “We do not need a vote on this matter; it has
been resolved.  Go about your business,
ladies and gentlemen.”