"It's a shame, really," said Aldrich. "The reason I'm contacting you so often is because I see great potential in our partnership."
"And I do not, unfortunately," responded Desmond.
"What about a relationship as a client? Z could manage that with me. How about for you? I could appreciate buying some information here and there."
"I cannot do that."
"Any reason why?" Aldrich gave Desmond a pointed gaze. "The only reason I can think of for an information broker not selling me information - your livelihood - is because you already have a client working against me."
"Against you? Are you questioning my trust?" Visible annoyance showed on Desmond's face.
"Am I now? You tell me."
"Anything said among allied nomads is strictly confidential. For now, that includes you," said Desmond. "I will warn you, though, once this day passes and we all go our separate ways, that will no longer apply.
