6-290: Administration Bureau Executive Conference Facility

Zayaire examines the eyes and smile and then makes a facial expression that is equivalent to a shrug, “Very well.

“Aston, I have some information that may interest you, which I will happily exchange for some assistance in navigating through a small problem I need resolved.” 

Aston’s attention perks up, “I see, what sort of assistance?”

Zayaire holds up his hands, “Nothing that isn’t appropriately within your portfolio.”

Aston makes a ‘go on’ gesture and Zayaire continues, “Some time ago Agriculture engaged a number of independent contractors to raise sample lots of a new crop under various test conditions in different locations.  Some of those yields are promising and I need them brought back here so we can trial them in a limited production environment and see the second generation effects.  Mundo Zargo Agriculture Bureaucracy needs to purchase those crop lots from the independents and get them here.  That sounds like a Trade matter that you could facilitate.”

Aston says carefully, “and what do you need me to do?”

“I just need you to engage a ship to do a bunch of running around, collect the crops, and bring them back here securely.  I have a small freighter lined up, and Agriculture can do an inter-Bureau funds transfer to Trade to do the work.  I just need your help to make it happen.”

Aston says, “and be discreet?”

Zayair laughs a hearty chuckle, “Aston, this is all above board, you can tell who you like,” he pauses, “However, there are some people of our mutual acquaintance who enjoy making life difficult for me, so let’s say it would be easier if it wasn’t too common knowledge.  So maybe don’t tell Jayline to put it in her column.”

Aston smiles dutifully at Zayaire’s little joke about Jayline.

 

Does Winta want to do anything before Aston responds?