'Twas a Famous Victory

Epilogue

Time: Some time
Location: Director's Office Free Trade Association Headquarters Dephida V

"You wished to speak to me Director?" asked the image in the viewscreen.

"Yes, Doctor. What can you tell me about the release of the bio weapon on Sangria. Who authorized it's release?

"It was an unauthorized release, Director. Some over enthusiastic researchers wanted to field test the weapon. They have been dealt with. They were infected with one of their own projects, a modified form or Triangulum measles. Their deaths were recorded and and the recordings sent to our other development labs as an example. I doubt there will be any more such problems."

"And Sangria? Has the plague been contained?"

"The planet has been quarantined. No ships will be allowed to land or depart the planet until it is determined the disease has run its course."

Excellent. Now on to Arzawa. We seem to have suffered a rather sever setback. Other planets might request permission to join the Hegemony."

"A set back yes, but not a severe one. I don't think there will be a stampede of planets wishing to accept the Than's protection. The Than have put rather severe restrictions on the Arzawans access to slipstream capable spacecraft while putting very few on what they can import or export. Only Than approved traders will be able to conduct business on the planet and they are making no efforts to upgrade the planet's spaceport. We will just have to ensure that we are the only approved traders. The Arzawans have very little that the Than want and vice- versa. I expect that it will be business as usual. Is there anything else, Director?"

"Yes, Doctor, there is but it's more of a personal matter. I have received reports that your body has developed an allergy to Regenetrol."

"I'm afraid the reports are correct, Director. I was going to speak to you about it at a later date but since you have brought the subject up I have. It appears that you will be needing to seek a replacement for me earlier than either one of us had anticipated."

"There is an alternative, Doctor. If you are willing."

"Cybernetic parts?"

"No, something else entirely. I can connect you with, well, an individual, who has the ability to prolong you life indefinitely."

"And what would this individual expect in return?"

"Your obedience should he ask you to perform a task for him."

"The bargain sounds very Faustian, Director."

"I thought the same thing Doctor. But when oblivion is approaching one often looks at such an agreement in a different light. You don't have to make up your mind now but it would be wise to do so before I begin to seek your replacement."

Chapter 6

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