4 hours ago, Gengy said:"Delightful. There is but one more concern that comes to mind: the sharing of information." Ben Ying's gaze does not leave the Coedd messenger. "This one does not speak of such things that can be found in the Arkhive. No. Instead, it is a matter of professionalism. Should the Coedd desire to work outside the confines of Sansar, but remain within the confines of the agreement, by your own suggestion, you will be required to inform us of the job you want done. If the Biarbu decline the job, it would be unprofessional to take action to hinder the completion of that job; including warning those whose interests directly run counter to the task ahead. And we would expect the same level of respect from the Coedd, were the roles reversed on Sansar."
"This of course, seems obvious."
Ben Ying's plumage flattened itself as their long neck leaned across the table. "Agreements such as these, though, often require the obvious to be stated. If for no other reason than to provide the challenge to find what else wasn't said. So be very sure you are happy with how things are worded. The Coedd have invited the Biarbu to dance. And Fate ever so loves a show."
Iago nods to himself a couple of times, the manner of a man running through precisely what he wants to say.
I agree. Such an action would be unprofessional in the extreme and to be avoided in all but the most extreme circumstances. But. The world being what it is I can't...hmmm. This matter is important to us - the followers of Coedd do not leave Sansar often and despite the fun my colleagues are having in the casino that would not normally tempt us here. Good relations with the Biarbu and this agreement we are discussing are important to Coedd and we would not trivially endanger them. Such an extreme breach of professionalism would only be warranted by an extreme risk to Coedd's interests. We would hope you understand and for our part understand that an extreme risk to Biarbu interests must be responded to. We hope that friendly relations can prove to be friendly enough should such a step be taken, but can't be bound to any agreement that rules it out entirely.
Still at the table
Siobhan's little headshake was unneeded - her colleague was already moving the glass back to a more secure position. As spooked by the sudden arrival of the pitboss as she was. As the winnings were distributed she stared unseeing at them for a moment - talented lipreaders may be able to pick up her running through something to herself - so that's a three gone, an eight gone - and so on. Working out what remained in the deck. Eventually she leans forwards and scoops half of her winnings towards her, leaving the other half, her original bet, on the table.
High or low, double or nothing? she asks, And, if the dealer agrees, confidently makes her prediction.
2010 if the dealer doesn't accept the double or nothing, 2510 if he does.
Either way, she thinks him, leaves a ten chit on the desk as a tip and moves over to Fortune's Favour, waiting for a hand to start.
2000 if the dealer doesn't accept the double or nothing, 2500 if he does.