"Ah ... Retief," Magnan said. "Zubb has just presented a most compelling argument...."
Retief turned. Zubb stood gripping an ornately decorated power pistol in one bony hand, a slim needler in the other. Both were pointed at Magnan's chest.
"I suspected you had hidden qualities, Zubb," Retief commented.
"See here, Zubb! We're diplomats!" Magnan started.
"Careful, Mr. Magnan; you may goad him to a frenzy."
"By no means," Zubb whistled. "I much prefer to observe the frenzy of the Qornt when presented with the news that two peaceful Verpp have been assaulted and kidnapped by bullying interlopers. If there's anything that annoys the Qornt, it's Qornt-like behavior in others. Now step along, please."
"Rest assured, this will be reported!"
"I doubt it."
"You'll face the wrath of Enlightened Galactic Opinion!"