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."
"Before taxes," Tycho insisted.
"Before taxes," Xris agreed.
Jamil thought it over, raised a hand, thumb up.
Tycho, doing some rapid calculating, indicated he was satisfied by turning a rosy shade of pink.
Harry., confused, said, "What's before taxes?"
Raoul, his eyes closed against the boredom of discussing business. nudged the Little One, who tipped his fedora in response.
Quong removed a small pocket computer, made a notation, studied it, pursed his lips, then, returning the computer to his pocket, he crossed his arms over his chest--an indication that he accepted the deal.
Rowan stared at them, shocked, disapproving. "This is your king! And for that matter, Xris is your friend--"
Xfis laid a hand on her shoulder, silenced her.
"She's been in the Navy seven years," Xris said, in apology.
The others solemnly nodded.
Patriotism, loyalty, the last full measure. Crap. For the team, it all came down to plastic credits. Or so they made it seem. They were doing this for him. But they had to make it look good--in front of strangers. Someday, Xris thought, I'll have to explain things to her. He glared around at the now-grinning group, pretended to be angry.. "You characters drive a hard bargain. I'll have to think about it."
Jamil waved a negligent hand. "Sure, take your time. Tycho here'll draw up the contract. Oh, and, speaking of time, how nmch do we have?"
"Forty-eight hours
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