That the Duro had a point did not especially soothe Arriana's irritation. Like Bambi Maddox, she did not appreciate being out of the loop. It was her business – all of their business – to be in the know, especially when it came to the inner-workings of their organization. More than that, she felt a vague sense of offense that Sorsha had not chosen to deliver this news personally. They were more than just business acquaintances, they were friends.

“Back to business,” Xel-Naga intoned, as if to draw the meeting to a point of conclusion. Beneath her breath, the Cathar muttered something dark in her native tongue. She could accept the situation, but that didn't mean she had to like it. When she spoke aloud to the group, there was a hint of spite in her voice.

“Vhat arrre ourrr orders, then? Business as usual?”