“Outremer may have traditionally preferred to keep to themselves, but our people have spent centuries forming connections with every species we meet, as much as possible.” Vreta interjected. “Even if we can’t rely exclusively on goodwill, we just have to be willing to give good enough deals to encourage cooperation. Still, with certain factions, I will admit it would be best if Outremer’s delegation did not…lead the way in negotiation.”

Marae felt somewhat hopeful. At least, the reaction so far had not been as negative as she feared it might be. As frightened or anxious as they might have been, there still seemed to be a will to accomplish their mission. “It is fair to worry about what other groups will do, I think. But, we have to make sure [i]we[/i] are ready first. Each of us needs to be prepared and committed to see the project through.”

Artek’Qin, the xenoarcheologist, chimed in after a moment. “Do we have a solid lead on where we can find another one of these beings?”