An Archive of Our Own, a project of the Organization for Transformative Works
After a charged delay, the holoprojector sputtered to life and spat out a fuzzy blue display of a seated Kaleesh. In Barzivh’s experience as overseer of the spaceport, he’d seen very few independent Kaleesh travel offworld, and even fewer return. They all shared something in common, however, as they did with this individual: none of them wore traditional Kaleesh clothing, having adopted the fashions of the offworlders. This man had no kakmusme, yet he was certainly built like a warrior. He leaned forward, presumably to peer at Barzivh’s own projected likeness, long twisted locks spilling over his broad shoulders and well-defined brow crumpling in skepticism. “Urukishnugal has an actual spaceport?” he demanded.
“He is Kaleesh,” whispered the communications officer unnecessarily.
Barzivh was less surprised, nor impressed. A returning Kaleesh might have been rare, but protocol was protocol. “Once again, I must ask that you identify yourself.”
Claws drummed the cockpit console. “Is this spaceport under full Kaleesh control? There are no Huk there with blasters at your backs?”
“It is under my control,” said Barzivh, now bristling a bit. “Who are you?”
The projected figure settled back in his chair, posture exuding cautious relief. “I am Grie—” He abruptly broke off with a startled expression, then barked out a brief sound, a cross between a huff of annoyance and an incredulous gasp of laughter. Shaking his head, he began again. “I am Sahuldeem. I would like to make port.”
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Chapter 1 of Part Five - Martyr of the Sahuldeem series is up! (chapter art will be posted...soon???)
