<blockquote>The interpreter’s voice is weak like a little bird’s, coming from a child’s lungs, but her diction is strong and certain like an adult’s. The Envoy speaks in his Earthian language and Henon words flow from Sam-Sa-Ee’s mouth.
Across the table sits the Henon businessman. “If you are willing to give us twenty percent of the profit for the first five years, we will help you curb local resistance,” he says in the straightforward Henon way. When the Envoy hears the translated words from Sam-Sa-Ee, he smiles, narrowing his eyes. They agree at fifteen percent and they discuss the plans. Sam-Sa-Ee translates, unable to add or remove anything from their words.</blockquote>
