“On that we can agree,” Books said. Maldynado waved a hand in front of his face. “Is your breath always that rank?” “If I offend you, you have my permission to move to the other side of the room.” Books lowered his voice. “Or the empire.” “Since you’re the offensive one, maybe you should do the moving so the rest of us can breathe. There’s a dumpster down the block where you might feel at home.” Maldynado turned to Akstyr. “Do you believe this fellow?” “Who cares?” That surly curl to Akstyr’s lip seemed permanent.
