Page 35 of Grulen

“No, Lady Morgan.”

“Just Morgan, please.”

His lips quirked.

“As you wish.”

“Captain Ordan, is this the Svesti we spoke of?”

“Yes, Captain Makai.We found Stalad in an escape pod and while his body has healed, his memories still haven’t returned.We’ve been looking for a way to return him to Costonia in the hopes they can help him.”

“Unfortunately, we’re not heading in that direction at this time.”

“I understand.I appreciate you considering it.”Stalad’s tail straightened, then relaxed.

“I’m curious, why did you intervene?”

“I knew the Durelians presented a risk, so I kept watch when I saw them gathering near the stage.Human females are to be protected at all times.”

“Why is that?”

“Uh, I don’t know.My instincts tell me it is the right thing to do.”Stalad’s brows pinched together as if he were in pain.Morgan’s fingers twitched.

The Jalaxians shared a look.She knew they were silently communicating in the way of men who have fought together a long time.Crax stepped away.

“If you’re willing to work in the meantime, we can take you with us now and we’ll get you home when we can.I can give priority to jobs that will take us in that direction.”

“I’m not sure.”Stalad glanced at the Ladortan.

“Captain Makai and his crew have an excellent reputation.I also think you’re a better fit with a ship of warriors than a ship of miners.”Captain Ordan’s tusks peeked out from his long facial fur when he grinned.“We’ve enjoyed having you, but I believe the Wing Raiders are your best and safest option to continue your healing process.”

Stalad met Makai’s eyes.His tail rested on her lower spine.Is he considering it?Do I want him to?Yes, I think I want to know more about him.

“Are you certain?I can’t even tell you what my experience is.”

“Captain Ordan assures me you have sufficient fighting skills, your instincts are to protect females, and you need help.We have the room and are indebted to you for saving Morgan.”

“Then I will be happy to join you until I can find a way to Costonia.”Stalad’s face lit up when he grinned.His fangs glinted against his skin.I like the laugh lines around his eyes.

“Gather your things and meet us at theFortitudeas soon as you can.I don’t want to remain on Nulorn longer than necessary after tonight’s events.”

“I have nothing on theMorning Star.”

“Actually, there was a bag in the pod with you.I can have it delivered to Captain Makai’s vessel.”Captain Ordan tapped his comm unit.

“There was?”Stalad looked at the Ladortan with crinkled brows.“I didn’t know that.”

“It contains surveillance equipment, food, and water.Nothing to identify you.”

“Surveillance equipment?”Makai’s eyes lit up.“What were you investigating?”

Stalad pressed his temples and closed his eyes.

“I have no idea.”

“Do you often have pain when you attempt to remember?”Lezon asked quietly.

“Yes.It’s frustrating.I have a feeling of urgency that there is something I’m supposed to be doing, but I have no recollection of what it could be.”

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