Society Man

"Yes. But other parts of the Charter say that whatever the indigenous species demand during decolonization must be regarded. I recommended to the Society that we go forward with this inter-species experiment. This morning, I got word that the Executive has agreed."

"Well. That's a bittersweet ending, isn't it Manny. We still have to close down Papeete. As I lose everything I own I can take solace in knowing I've helped advance humanity in some small way."

"To bad you never had a chance to talk to scudas and scooters before, Karol. You'd be impressed. They have no tradition of revenge and they are quick to repay a favor."

"What's your point?"

"The point Karol," began the digitized voice, "is that we believe you should stay, if you wish. You have a clarity of thought that may help us all get along in the future."

"Clarity of thought! Me?"

"Oh yes," replied Rodney. "and I won't tell Manny what you really think about him."

"Be quiet, you big nosy fish."

Rodney rolled over several times in what Manny guessed must have been the scooter version of a belly laugh.

"Karol, it's not nice to call scooters fish, especially when they just saved your fortune."

"What fortune?"

"Your bar. They'll let you keep your bar."

Karol sat down. "I don't believe it. Are there conditions?"

"Just two. You have to make part of the building an interpretation center to tell tourists about scooters and scuda culture. And you must get rid of your old business partner. He's part of the Tanner conspiracy and the scudas have no sympathy for him."

"He owns 75 percent. I couldn't buy him out even if he agreed to sell."

"You don't have to. I did."

"You?"

"Yes. I offered him a good price and he took it. He's facing conspiracy charges and needs money for his lawyer. Besides, it's a great investment on my part. The Blue Lagoon will be the only building left standing on the Scooter Bay beach front. Every eco-tourist will have to come here to get a good view of the scudas and scooters."

"You're blowing your poor writer image, Manny."

"I never said I was a poor writer. Everyone just figured I was poor because I'm young and dress casually. Writing is just a part time thing anyway. My main work right now is as a Society volunteer when I'm not in university."

"Society volunteers don't get paid. So where'd you get the money to buy this bar?"

"I believe you humans use the term 'stinking rich,' am I right Manny."

"Yes, thank you Rodney." Turning to Karol, he continued. "It's in the family. Ever heard of Mooreland Mining? That's my grandfather's company. Or Mooreland Space Freight? That's my father's company. I'm a director and shareholder of both firms. That's why the Society recruited me. They like stinking rich, idealistic geeks like me. We can't get bribed and we understand the corporate mentality."

"So, now you're my senior partner. Shall I call you boss?"

"No. I wrote up a new partnership agreement giving you an equal share. My work calls me away a lot, so I need a committed person here to keep my investment safe and profitable. I figure you should get half for your efforts."

Karol smiled for the first time in days. "You're crazy about me aren't you?"

Manny couldn't answer. He'd prepared himself for every question but that.

She laughed. "There's that same silly look on your face I saw the first day."

The two humans just stood and smiled awkwardly at each other.

"As Humphrey Bogart would say," began the digitized scooter voice, "this looks like the start of a beautiful friendship."