"I have a crew that does a lot of the work," said Basnaaid, but there was no denying a small bit of pride in her voice. "And it's really all just standard practice these days."

"Basnaaid's modesty," Tisarwat interjected to inform Lucille, "is clearly one of her greatest charms." And, before the compliment could manage to embarrass anyone, her next statement shifted toward Basnaaid, "Lucille here actually owns a flower shop on Earth, so the two of you have some common ground."

"Oh?" asked Basnaiid, attention shifting toward Lucille as well. "Are you a horticulturalist as well?"