There was little point in considering further, except perhaps in a vain attempt to extract leverage that would fool no one seated at the table. Archibald had no other choice; that much was painfully clear. He doubted there was much of a market for freelance ex-aristocrats or crossword puzzle constructors here on Al Amarja.<br/><br/>"You may count me as a most enthusiastic participant, Yazkov. I wholeheartedly endorse this mad plan, and look forward to spending my silver retirement years in your most capable service." His tone was flat, yet not entirely unamused. "If you please, where shall we begin?"<br/><br/><br/>