Ossanlin hears a commotion back in the bar and his mind immediately flashes to Corliss and Keshin, both still in there. He cannot afford to leave, Claxter had run in anyway, that should be enough, he hoped.
<I understand that you will not be able to return to Visser 3 in a different host, that's why you won't return to him if you don't agree to let us help you. We can save two lives of three here, and that much is a certainty. Letting you go produces a possibility to save all three, but a much more likely outcome of losing all of you. However, allowing us to work with you allows a guarantee of at least one life saved with the possibility to recover all three of you, and also free your sister from control.>
Ossanlin watches Claxter return and wants to ask after Corliss but cannot allow himself to be diverted from the matter at hand. He lets a stalk-eye roam after Alic, his hearts still beating for her as she goes back toward the bar with tears in her eyes. <Terenia, I know you will not trust my word but I will give it...you will not be killed, however if we cannot reach an agreement, your host will be freed and if she does not agree to let you infest her again under her own will, you will not be allowed to return to her. We can supply you with a new host and several safe locations for you. The rebellion can supply you with portable kandrona, perhaps you might consider joining with them. There are possibilities, but the only one ending with your sister alive and free is the one that involves us helping you.>
He turns his eyes to Parker. <I will only vaporize your ship if it is absolutely necessary. There is a point where one must forget niceties and defer to ruthlessness in war. I do not like to do that, but I will not allow the Empire to maintain control of another morph-capable soldier. We don't even know if you're telling the truth, perhaps you're a loyalist who needed some fuel and invented a rather engaging story. If your host must die to keep the Empire from having her, then I will make it happen. I'm sure she would agree that she would rather be dead than controlled and used against her cause for the rest of her life. As I said, that is only a last-resort option, but one I am not afraid to use if you push me to it.>
Ossanlin shakes his head. <We have been more than understanding...mor e than sympathetic, and yet you refuse even to tell us your plans, what actions you are taking. Are you really taking any or is that just a part of the story? We need more information, unless of course you refuse our offer in which case you will not return to Visser 3.> Ossanlin spreads his hands wide in a gesture as if saying 'those are your choices.' <I am speaking logically and truthfully. I know you do not trust me, but I do not mislead in this.>