“Funny thing,” he commented. “A couple of my own carriers seem to have wandered clear through that null and mixed with your herd.” He smiled.
“Stroke of luck. Too bad the rest didn’t manage to stay with ’em, but you can’t have everything. I’ll pay you trespass fees on those two, of course, then I’d like to bargain with you for about four more to go with ’em. Got them all picked out and I can cut ’em out and drive them over to the train soon’s we settle the arrangements.”
Barra frowned.
“Now, wait a minute,” he protested. “Of course, I’ll bargain with you for any or all of this herd. But I’m in the breeding and raising business, [p 31] remember. I certainly can’t give away a couple of perfectly good beasts on someone’s simple say-so. I’d like a little proof that those two belong to your train before I just hand them over.”
“Well, now, if it comes to that, I could prove ownership. Legally, too. After all, I’ve worked those critters quite a while and any competent psionic could—” Makun looked at Barra thoughtfully.
“You know, I’m not just sure I like having my word questioned this way. I’m not sure I like this whole rig-out. Seems to me there’s a little explaining in order about now—and kind of an apology, too. Then maybe we can go ahead and talk business.”
“I don’t see any need for me to explain anything. And I certainly don’t intend to make a apology of any kind. Not to you. I merely made a reasonable request. After all, these brutes are on my land and in my herd. I can find no mark of identification on them, of any kind.” Barra shrugged.
“As a matter of fact, I don’t even know yet which two you are trying to claim. All I ask is indication of which ones you say are yours and some reasonable proof that they actually came from your train. Certainly, a mere claim of recognition is … well, you’ll have to admit, it’s a little thin.”
Makun looked at him angrily.
“Now, you pay attention to me. And pay attention good. I’m not stupid and I’m not blind. I can see all those jewels you’re loaded down