"The amount of leeway given your way, Captain, will be wholly dependent on exactly what you're willing to give the United States government. Can I make any promises to you? No. Especially if you're looking for equipment. But I can be fair and I can protect your interests as far as my clout will reach." He was sympathetic, definitely, as he could see that Thrace wasn't a vicious or violent person looking only to harm.

He moved and straightened some parts, equidistantly separating them. An awkward pause penetrated the moment as he tried to start his thought more than once. When finished stalling out, Stern rubbed his hands together to distribute some grime and asked, "How long do you think it would take to finish making that plane sound?"