ILLUMINARRPG: (1-1330)- Andorian Ambassador Sei Lara and Ferengi Entrepenuer Lar

[Charles Gatling]

Mission: To Have and Have Not
Day: 1
Stardate: 2446.06.01

(Starbase Freedom - Promenade - Andorian Ambassador Sei Lara and Ferengi
Entrepenuer Lar - 1330)

Lar pushed aside the metal tray as he wiped his mouth with a napkin.
Ferengi generally didn't have the best table manners but this sort of thing
fit into his unwritten rule of be what your customers expect. For this
Ferengi, adapting to the ways of your competitors or clients was paramount
and he was building his fortune with it. Was he in Ferenginar space he
would have caught a lot of insults over being mannered and pursuing good
etiquette, it wasn't considered boisterous or natural enough. The best he
could have hoped for would be a good-natured teasing over it. But here in
Federation space you made a bad impression if you didn't adhere to some
societal norms and bad impressions were bad for business.

"Let's begin the negotiation Ambassador, what do you have for me and at
what price?"

Sei Lara had been sipping on a glass of water but set it aside and leaned
forward, placing his elbows on the table as an employee began clearing the
table.

"Four hundred cases of our ale, Ice Blue Catec and three hundred cases of
Sheltel whiskey, one of Andoria's finest products. Three hundred twenty
five credits for a case of ale and two hundred fifty for a case of whiskey.
You won't be able to acquire them at these prices anywhere else and I can
provide the same shipment monthly for as long as you care to buy them."

It took all of the Ferengi's considerable self-control and business
instincts to keep the shock off his face though he did lean forward
slightly as his pupils dilated. His brain was whirling so fast it was hard
to think but he managed to keep his composure enough to speak after only a
slight delay.

"The price is on the high side Ambassador, I was looking for something that
would help my profit margin."

Sei Lara was grinning fiercely as his antenna focused directly on Lar. "I
wasn't born yesterday my young Ferengi friend. You have been paying 500
credits a case at minimum for an inferior product and I'm offering you a
65% reduction in cost which will net you a a 350% increase in your profit
margin at minimum along with the bonus of the whiskey."

Lar's mouth was watering indeed. "How?"

The Ambassador sat back with a smile knowing that he had him. "Andorian
products are some of the finest in the quadrant and it's past time we
increased our footprint. The Ministry has agreed to acquire these at cost
and sell them with only a modest fee for the price of shipping. Any that
you can't consume you can easily turn around at a profit to another buyer."

But the Ferengi was crafty, he hadn't gotten to this point by being
anyone's pigeon.

"Moving all of that merchandise won't be easy at first, not until word gets
around of its availability. And if it takes time? Remember that I'm taking
all of the risk here."

Sei Lara shrugged. "I can arrange for a run when needed. I've already given
you a more than fair price and will not negotiate it. To accept or decline
is your choice."

Lar knew he needed another bargaining chip. He scratched one lobe
indolently as he appeared to think it over. "Or I could buy a few bottles
and synthesize it myself."

His eyes widened as the Andorian half rose from his chair and leaned
forward like a shadow of doom which mirrored the look on his face. "Try it
and I'll bury you in diplomatic red tape, highest level protests and
criminal proceedings. I'll ruin your business and send you back to
Ferenginar in penury."

"Let's not be so quick to anger Ambassador..." Lar held up his hands in
surrender. "... you've been more than fair and I accept your offer. When do
I pay for the first shipment and take possession?"

Sei Lara returned to his chair with a quick smile, he had been prepared for
the vaunted Ferengi negotiation tactics.

"In ten days. Have the gold pressed Latinum here and a transport ready."

"And I merely have to notify you ten days in advance for the next shipment,
correct?"

"Correct."

"You have a deal." Lar rose from his chair. "Thank you for a stimulating
negotiation Ambassador. I must be off to make arrangements."

Sei Lara gave a wolfish grin as the Ferengi hurried away.

Ges cleared his throat and Sei Lara turned his head toward him.

"Impressive. Very impressive. Remind me never to face off against you in a
negotiation."

Sei Lara shrugged. "That's why you're my aide, to learn from an expert how
to conduct a diplomatic exchange. Business negotiations are much the same,
one only has to study how the other side conducts themselves and adjust
your stance accordingly. Come Ges, it's time to return to our other
business."

Sei Lara stood up and turned to see the station commander hurrying their
way. "Ah, it looks like we have company. "

(Reply: Captain Dahr)

(Posted by Charles Gatling)






Charles Gatling
Commanding Officer
USS Illuminar
NCC 61240


"The light shines brightest amidst the deepest darkness."
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