“A moment, Ambassador,” Ar’alani said, looking over her shoulder at the bridge hatch. Thrawn was apparently running late. “We’re waiting for Senior Captain Thrawn to arrive”
“What do we need him for?”
*Because he’s the one who can tell us if there are Nikardun ships out there*—the obvious reply ran through Ar’alani’s mind. *Because he has a feel for tactics that will be crucial if this thing blows up. Because he’s got a track record in combat situations that most Chiss commodores and admirals would give their blood firstborn for.* [.]
“Because I want him here, and I’m the admiral,” she said instead.
Ilparg made a little huffing noise. “Fine,” he said. “But he’d better not be long.”
The hatch slid open and Thrawn stepped onto the bridge. “My apologies, Admiral,” he said as he crossed to Ar’alani and Ilparg.
“Apologies, Ambassador. My studies took longer than expected”
“What studies were those, Senior Captain?” Ilparg asked suspiciously.
“Tactical data” Ar’alani put in.
“Tactical data?” Ilparg repeated scornfully. “Is that what the Expansionary Fleet calls art these days?”
Ar’alani clenched her teeth. “The first rule of strategy is to know your enemy, Ambassador,” she said. “That includes their battle tactics; but also their history, their philosophy, and, yes, sometimes even their art”
“I accept the first two” Ilparg said, the disdain still in his voice. “The third is of little to no value. However, now that Senior Captain Thrawn has graced us with his presence, perhaps you’d be good enough to contact the diplomatic office as I requested?” [.]
“Thank you for trying,” Thrawn said softly as he came up beside Ar’alani.
“Don’t worry about it” Ar’alani advised. “Sometimes it’s good to have your talents underestimated.” *Though not when your career is being evaluated*, she added silently to herself. “What did you find?”
“Our Lioaoi art files are extremely limited,” Thrawn said. “But they should be adequate to our needs.”
“Glad to hear it.” Ar’alani waved toward the viewport.
“There’s your canvas. Paint me something."
[Photo: art print by @poppourrico
No books were harmed during the shooting of this photo]
No comments:
Post a Comment