"You've got that one right. That's a lad you want to keep b'sy, as I rem'mber it." Even with her darker complexion and in the low light of the lamp hanging above, the Imperial woman looks flushed as she gets merrier. Lartia laughs freely at Jim's coughing, even though it makes her splutter too.

"Take it easy, Cap'n Jim, what- what's the hurry? Gonna... miss your boat?" She chortles breathlessly at her own joke. They both need a second, but then she takes a deep breath and steadies herself on the table. Fixes Jim with a determined look.

"All... all right. Tell me true. How much trouble's... has he gotten you in? So far?"