Translation

Captain Jennings gave the alien a level stare. "Tell him my government objects most strongly." He glanced at the interpreter.

The interpreter sighed. "Most strongly?"

Jennings nodded.

The interpreter flung his hands up, then snaked down in a sinuous dance. He lifted one leg and emitted a high-pitched squeal of flatulence, face a mask of concentration as he modulated the tone. The alien watched intently, scent-pores dilating. Then it opened its toothless mouth. A fleshy, viridian tongue flicked out and slapped the interpreter twice.

"He's willing to negotiate concessions," said the interpreter, dripping pungent slime. "And he complimented my accent."