Page 105 of Seven Oars
Keerym intercepted Massar, knocking the blade out of his hand. It set off a sideline tussle, forcing the women to retreat deeper into the passageway.
Only Thilza remained unengaged. Cool as a cucumber, he smoked, watching the fights as if they were an old movie on repeat.
Someone grabbed Rosamma’s hand, jerking her around.
“Give me a boost. Now!”
“Phex!”
He looked worse for wear, with fresh blood smeared over his face. New bruises marred his skin.
“What happened?”
“No time! Do it.”
Rosamma closed her fingers around his and sent a controlled burst of energy into his receptive Rix body.
He drew in a deep breath, then another.
As abruptly as he’d grabbed her hand, he released it.
“All good.”
He turned to go, but she held on fast.
“Where are you going?”
“Command Center. It’s unmanned. It’s now or never.”
He took off down the passageway, and Rosamma flew after him, ignoring her weakness, her ringing head, her fear, and every instinct that screamed at her to be careful.
Whatever that meant nowadays.
They passed the Service Block and the far side of the Crew Quarters, where they jumped over Esseh’s body sprawled on the floor.
“Is he dead?” Rosamma panted.
“I don’t know.”
“Did you knock him out?”
“Yes. I know what works.”
They skidded to a stop outside the Command Center.
Tutti stood in the middle, her purple light blinking serenely despite the controls lit up in ominous shades of red.
“Here’s our challenge,” Phex said, stepping inside.
Tutti came to life.
“Access denied, prisoner. Stand back.”
It rotated to face Phex. Its eyes moved rapidly, scanning him.
“Yeah, what are you gonna do?” he muttered, heading straight for the controls.
Tutti moved with him.
