He wasn’t wrong. She had enjoyed the sense of freedom that came from being on the ship, knowing they could go wherever they chose. Although she was looking forward to the challenge of running a restaurant for the first time, she didn’t want to feel as if she had no other choice. Especially as the ship descended and all she could see was barren snowy plains and craggy mountains covered with ice. She shivered.
“I’ll do my best,” she promised.
“Good girl.” He hugged her. “If something occurs to trouble you, let me know and we can see if there is a way to handle it that doesn’t result in being forced into an Imperial courtroom.”
She nodded and silently watched the seemingly uninhabited planet growing ever larger beneath them. To her relief, a town did appear as they descended. The buildings appeared to be made of stone with steep snow-covered roofs. It was late in the day, and golden light spilled out from many of the buildings into the narrow streets. The site was unexpectedly appealing—it reminded her of one of those romanticized villages found on a holiday calendar—and her nerves settled.
Varga had made several calls to the surface during the descent. Once the ship was firmly on the ground, he smiled at her. “Baralt will be meeting us shortly. He and his mate have a large dwelling on the outskirts of town, and they would be happy to accommodate anyone who wishes to leave the ship.”
“Let’s go tell the others.”
Everyone else was gathered in the lounge, looking out across the landing field to the soft glow of the port. Varga repeated his offer.
Issar shook his head. “Taliane and I will remain on board. In the morning, I will arrange passage to Asing for us.”
“Are you sure, brother? Baralt is a fine warrior. He would welcome you.”
“Thank you, but no. We wish to return to my home nest as soon as possible.”
“I understand. But please do not leave without bidding us farewell.”
Issar dipped his head. “Of course not.”
“Well, I’d be happy to get off the ship,” Saka said dryly. “The novelty of sleeping on the couch is beginning to pall.”
Joan laughed. “I’m sure. And besides, I’d like you to meet Baralt if he’s going to be our new employer.”
Saka nodded and ducked her head, but not before Joan saw the longing on her face. She prayed that Varga’s suggestion would work out. She wanted the job for Saka as much as she wanted it on her own behalf.
“What about you, Rummel?” she asked.
“Don’t worry about me. I prefer to explore the port.”
She bit her lip, unwilling to insult him, but… “Will you be safe?”
“Quit fussing, girlie.” He patted his hip grimly. “I’m prepared this time. No one is taking me unaware again.”
Which only left Polly. Joan looked over at the girl. She was huddled in the corner, her eyes darting from face to face. “What about you, Polly? Would you like—”
The chime of the door alarm interrupted and she jumped. Varga laughed. “That’s Baralt and his clan leader, Njkall. I’ll let them in.”
He disappeared down the corridor, returning a moment later with two… abominable snowmen?
It had never occurred to her to ask what the Hothians looked like and she wasn’t prepared for the sight of two giant white-furred males entering the room. Her heart started to race, but then Varga made a comment to one of them and the male threw back his head and laughed. Despite the rather obvious fangs, the laughter was so obviously friendly that she relaxed. She even managed a genuine smile when Varga brought the first male over to meet her.
“This is my mate, Joan. Joan, this is my friend and defeated fight partner, Baralt.”
“If I remember correctly, I was actually the victor,” Baralt said dryly, his eyes gleaming with amusement.
“That is because you do not remember correctly. Perhaps because of your advanced age.”
“I see that you have not changed.” Baralt bowed his head. “I am very pleased to meet you, Joan. I hope that you will join us. My mate is very anxious to meet you. She sent some clothing to make the walk easier.”
Now that he was closer, she could see the intelligence on his face and realized he was nothing like the monstrous image that had first sprung to mind. “I’d like that very much.”
Varga introduced the rest of their party, hesitating when he got to Polly. She was still crouched in the corner, eyes wide.
“And this is Polly,” Varga said uncertainly.
Joan knew that they were all braced for one of the girl’s dramatic reactions.
Baralt nodded, but Njkall bent down in front of Polly.
“I am pleased to meet you,” he said slowly. He had a wonderful voice—deep, calm, and soothing. “You are safe with me… with us.”
Polly scowled at him. “You don’t have to talk to me like I’m a child.”
Joan did her best to hide her shock. It was the most normal reaction she had seen from the girl.
Njkall laughed, an equally deep, pleasant sound. “Of course you are not. Are you joining us at Baralt’s residence?”
“Are you going to be there?” Polly asked, frowning at him.
“That was my intention, but if it makes you uncomfortable—”
To Joan’s complete and utter shock, Polly shook her head, then raised a hand to Njkall. He very gently helped her to her feet, but even then, she didn’t let go of his hand. Instead, she kept hold of him while she stroked his arm.
“You’re very soft.” She giggled, then looked
