‘I don’t consent to being recorded.’
Pete winced as the doctor gripped his outstretched arm in his own taloned hand. The older peri clung to him as Pete steered him into the police cruiser.
‘You got that, young person?’ Saskia’s talons dug into Pete’s forearm when he stopped walking before stepping into the ship.
No recording devices. Got it,’ Pete said. ‘Do you mind if I make some notes about what we discuss?’
Saskia made a flicking motion with one of his three free hands. ‘I don’t care what you do with your time, do I? Just so long as you don’t record my likeness or my voice or anything like that.’
Pete wondered briefly if Saskia was always this sensitive about being recorded – or was it only when there was a murder investigation underway? ‘I promise.’ The door sensor was on his right, but Saskia stood on his right-hand side, clinging to his arm. Pete reached around with his left and touched to unlock the door.
He led Saskia through the ship. He fetched a species-appropriate perch from the cupboard so Saskia could sit comfortably. Well, not sit. Whatever..
No sooner had Saskia climbed up onto the perch than he barked, ‘Well then, young person. Get on with the interrogation. I’ve got plenty to be getting on with. You should be more grateful for my time.’
Pete dropped into one of the chairs and removed his data pad from his shoulder bag. ‘Thank you again, Doctor. I appreciate you taking time to answer my questions.’
‘I’m not hearing any questions.’ Saskia lowered his head and preened his chest feathers.
Clicking buttons to open the notes file he’d started, Pete said, ‘All right. Here’s one: What was the reason for your visit to Donut Station?’
‘Excuse me, young person.’ Saskia wagged a taloned finger at Pete. ‘That is a very impertinent question.’
Trouble had worked her way around to the back of Pete’s neck. Her little suckers or legs or tentacles tickled his hairline, so he pulled her back into position on his shoulder. ‘Are you declining to answer, Doctor?’
‘No, of course not.’ Saskia puffed out his feathers. ‘I’m here to co-operate with the police investigation – and the investigation into the police investigation. But I want it noted that I don’t care for your question.’
Pete breathed in slowly. ‘You refused permission for me to record the interview—’
‘Darn straight, I did.’
‘—but you want me to record your objections to my first question?’ Pete sat with his finger hovering above the data pad. ‘Have I got that right?’
‘If you struggle to hear plain language at close distance, you should look into getting visual translation in your HUD.’
