13 Departure: 4

"If I'm willing to? Of course, but there is a cost," Karia added.

I should have guessed. Not my body! I'll share it with Harbend, no one else. "And that would be?" she asked forcing her lips to a grin she hoped wasn't too predatory.

Karia stared at her. She apparently hadn't been very successful. "Why, to learn all my commanding officer has to teach me."

You're a good man, and you didn't have to be half as charming for me to find few reasons to dislike you. "I wouldn't know what you needed learning."

"Well in bed, nothing. Already fully trained there," he grinned back at her.

Behind her she could hear Gring growl in her unmistakable way of laughing.

You little... No he actually means it. Nakora let out a long breath of relief understanding he wouldn't make any attempts to share her night quarters.

"As for the rest, I have no idea," he said and then his face lit up in a grin that made him look like a boy half his age. Pure mischief shone through his eyes. "I'm a very slow learner sometimes. I'm afraid you'll have to spend quite some time at teaching me."

Maybe not some serious attempts, at least, she changed her mind. Oh well, if he wants company I won't be misery. And he is quite charming, but no Harbend. There is only one Harbend.

Thinking of him and missing him clouded her day, but she suspected she at least was gaining a friend for the long days home in return. Life could be worse.

Nakora thanked Gring for lending the aid of her gift. Without it there would be no talking with Karia. Brakish and Khi was too different. She knew she could have asked Neritan as well, but the thought of disturbing the golden mindwalker was, well, disturbing.