401 An Invitation

"Leave?" Concern flashed across Kaleesh's eyes. "Is there a problem with the Governor? Is that why you were gone so long?"

"It's nothing like that," Arran replied. "The Governor was friendly — helpful, even. But on my way here…" He let out a sigh, then shook his head. "I got more attention than I expected, and not all of it good."

Kaleesh raised an eyebrow. "You fought for two months straight, defeated most of the Rangers in the city, and ended your display by besting a Knight. I'm not complaining — not after the small fortune you earned me — but that you would draw attention is hardly unexpected."

"It's not." Arran smiled wryly, and continued, "But I didn't anticipate that the Darians here would be quite as interested in recruiting me."