Page 52 of Signed, Sealed, Seduced
“With the right partnerships,” Kol’tar adds meaningfully.
“Indeed,” Vex’ra agrees. “The right partnerships can provide mutual benefit without compromising essential principles.”
The conversation continues as we make our way back toward the entrance, but I can sense that the real business of the day has been accomplished. The Morcrestians came to evaluate whether Zater Reach could be a valuable ally, and I think they’ve found their answer.
“Before we conclude,” Mor’dek says as we reach the main entrance, “I should mention that the Morcrest Confederacy is hosting a regional diplomatic conference next month. Several independent systems will be represented, along with some STI observers.”
“Such conferences can be valuable for building relationships,” Vex’ra notes carefully.
“Indeed. The First Blade would be welcome to attend, should he choose to do so. And his diplomatic attaché, of course,” Mor’dek adds with a slight smile in my direction.
I feel a flutter of something—excitement? Nervousness? The idea of representing Zater Reach at a major diplomatic conference is both thrilling and terrifying.
“I’m sure the First Blade will give your invitation careful consideration,” Vex’ra replies diplomatically.
“Excellent. I look forward to his response.” Mor’dek turns to me. “And I must say, Ms. Vega, your presence here adds an interesting dimension to Zater Reach’s diplomatic profile. A human courier who has chosen to make her home among the stars’ most notorious independents—it’s quite a story.”
“Every story has multiple perspectives,” I reply, trying to sound wise rather than confused. “Sometimes the most interesting truths are found in the spaces between official narratives.”
“Well said,” Mor’dek nods approvingly. “I suspect we’ll be hearing much more from you in the future.”
As the delegation prepares to depart, I find myself genuinely hopeful about the possibilities they represent. The Morcrestians aren’t just potential trade partners—they’re proof that Zater Reach doesn’t have to stand alone against the galaxy’s political pressures.
“This unit wishes to extend an invitation,” Rusty announces as the delegation moves toward their transport. “Should you return to Zater Reach, this unit would be delighted to perform the interpretive dance protocols mentioned earlier. The performance commemorating the Great Grain Harvest of 2387 is particularly moving.”
“I would be honored to witness such a performance,” Kol’tar says with complete sincerity. “Though I may need to prepare mentally for the experience.”
“This unit recommends meditation and possibly a mild sedative,” Rusty advises solemnly. “The emotional impact can be overwhelming for first-time audiences.”
As the Morcrestian transport departs, I stand with Vex’ra and Rusty, watching it disappear into the star field. The agricultural dome continues its quiet work around us, the automatedsystems tending to crops that will feed the fortress and support its independence.
“How do you think that went?” I ask Vex’ra.
“Better than expected,” she admits. “They came prepared to find a military outpost masquerading as a diplomatic partner. Instead, they found a functioning society with genuine agricultural capabilities and... interesting perspectives on galactic politics.”
“You mean they found you’re not the scary space pirates everyone thinks you are?”
“We are exactly as dangerous as we need to be,” Vex’ra corrects. “But we are also more than that. Today, you helped them see the more.”
I feel a warm glow of satisfaction at that. Three days ago, I was a courier with a broken ship and no clear future. Now I’m apparently a diplomatic asset helping to reshape interstellar relationships.
“This unit believes the diplomatic mission was highly successful,” Rusty adds. “The Morcrestian delegation showed particular interest in cultural exchange opportunities. This unit is already preparing detailed historical archives for future reference.”
“Just remember to include those dignity warnings,” I tell him. “We don’t want to accidentally start a diplomatic incident with overly potent traditional beverages.”
“This unit’s protocols are quite thorough,” Rusty assures me. “Though this unit notes that some forms of diplomatic incident can be quite entertaining for all parties involved.”
As we make our way back toward the main fortress, I can’t help but think about Mor’dek’s invitation to the diplomatic conference. The idea of representing Zater Reach on a galactic stage is both exciting and terrifying, but it also feels like a natural next step in this strange new life I’m building.
I’m still processing the implications when my communicator chimes with an incoming message from Henrok: “How did the diplomatic mission proceed? I await your report with great interest.”
I smile, typing back: “Mission accomplished. No diplomatic incidents, no airlock threats, and Rusty may have inadvertently become a cultural ambassador. Detailed briefing when I return.”
His response comes almost immediately: “Excellent. I have prepared a comprehensive debriefing session for your return. The security clearance evaluation awaits completion.”
The heat in that message makes me stumble slightly, earning a curious look from Vex’ra. “Everything alright?”
“Just... confirming the success of the mission,” I manage, hoping my voice sounds steadier than I feel. “The First Blade is pleased with the results.”
