Star Trek: Deep Space Nine: Young Adult Books #8: Highest Score
Page 9
“But,” Kwiltek interrupted, rubbing his horned claws together, “what if I am willing to give up my license? Your demands become meaningless.”
Quark gave him a measuring look, bent his bald head toward Kwiltek’s, and lowered his voice. “Maybe you’re ignorant of Ferengi customs, but you must know our reputation as traders with many … connections?”
When Kwiltek whistled and nodded in acknowledgment, Quark continued. “If you do not honor your deal with my nephew and every one of these talented young people,” he snapped, “you won’t sell so much as a microgram of your ore through legal or illegal channels. Believe me. You won’t be able to show your beak on the other side of the Wormhole without our knowing it.”
Sisko nodded, then he sternly pointed a finger at Kwiltek again. “And to ensure that your company never pulls something like this again, you will have a Federation inspector on your mothership at all times. But, before you start any new mining operations, Kwiltek, your first order of business will be to make reparations on the planet below, replanting their jungles, helping the world recover from the damage you have done.”
Jake didn’t need a Universal Translator to understand the tone of defeat in Kwiltek’s wailing whistle.
Back on Deep Space Nine, Jake and Nog took the last few days of their school vacation to settle back into the normal routine of the station.
They walked along the Promenade to the entrance of the Arcade. Jake stopped to admire the glowing marquee, with their names still displayed in clear lights showing the highest score they had ever achieved in the simulator chamber.
Nog stood at his side. “Think we can beat that score, Jake?” he asked, his small eyes flashing. “Think we should try?”
Jake looked at him, then back up at the score display. Nog seemed nervous and uncertain. Both of them shook their heads at the same moment.
“No,” Jake said, sighing. “I think I’ve had enough simulations to last me a long time. Why don’t we go watch the ships coming in instead?”
“Sounds good to me,” Nog agreed without hesitation.
Together, they went off to observe the docking ports of Deep Space Nine, leaving the Arcade behind.
About the Illustrator
TODD CAMERON HAMILTON is a self-taught artist who has resided all his life in Chicago, Illinois. He has been a professional illustrator for the past ten years, specializing in fantasy, science fiction, and horror. Todd is the current president of the Association of Science Fiction and Fantasy Artists. His original works grace many private and corporate collections. He has co-authored two novels and several short stories. When he is not drawing, painting, or writing, his interests include metalsmithing, puppetry, and teaching.