Page 44

T wo days later, Frank and I sat in Hazel’s office.

We’d just finished giving our statements on the Ohuli Incident, as it was now being called, although it had been revealed by DNA that none of the four were actually Ohuli, nor were they related, except for Luhora and Jhanna, who were most likely cousins.

All four were Dheggian from the planet Dhegga, which had been the nearest habitable planet to Mmemsen. Because of that, they’d been very much aware of Ohuli customs and traditions.

The ship was a vyldbeyst, a hybrid space creature long ago tamed by the Dheggians. It wasn’t exactly pregnant as we’d thought but had been preparing to split itself in two. That was why it needed extra power and nutrients.

Nostromo had been pushing for that to happen, as he’d wanted to separate from the women.

They’d decided the Athos was the perfect patsy to provide them with everything they and their ship needed.

Thankfully, we’d thwarted that, and no one had lost their life in the process.

“What happens next?” Frank asked.

“We have no choice but to keep them in the brig until we arrive at our next starport at Eylamen, so they’ll be with us throughout the fallow phase.” Hazel shrugged. “Could be worse.”

“For sure,” I said. “What about the ship?”

“It’ll be turned over to FAN authorities when we reach Eylamen as well.” She glanced at the screen to her side. “By the way, those pila? They weren’t something made by the sisters.”

Frank’s eyes narrowed. “So what were they?”

“As best we can tell, some kind of secretion the vyldbeyst produces as it nears its reproductive stage.”

I tried not to gag. “I had that thing in my hand.”

Frank’s lips twitched, but he had enough common sense not to smile. “So the nanoids were created by the vyldbeyst to help it find prey?”

Hazel nodded. “That seems to be a pretty accurate take.”

I shook off the icks. “Why weren’t the fake Ohuli affected then?”

“We think because they’re immune after so much exposure, but I suppose we’ll know more as the investigation continues.

” Hazel took a breath. “Once again, you two have been instrumental in correcting a bad situation. I feel that FAN owes you. And I don’t just mean a new Instachef for the library.

Is there anything either of you would like?

I would be happy to mention it in my next follow-up with them. ”

Frank shook his head, as I knew he would.

I crossed my legs and sat back. “There is something I would like.”

“Name it, Mom. You’ve certainly earned it.”

“I’d like a compdroid. For Zanya. A cat, if at all possible.

I know there are some compdroids for sale in the tech boutique.

Maybe one of them could be turned into a cat if that’s not what it already is?

She loves Harry, and I think it would really help her not feel so lonely.

But I also know she doesn’t have the money. ”

Frank’s eyes gleamed with interest. “I could definitely turn any compdroid into a cat. Well, not a bird, but I could reprogram a dog or a ferret easily. Probably need some supplies, but I could do it.”

Hazel nodded, smiling at me. “That’s what you want? Something for someone else?”

“Yes,” I said.

Frank cleared his throat. “Probably wouldn’t hurt to give everyone who was held hostage a little something, along with Benni and Will. A credit bonus in their account, that sort of thing. They’re the ones who deserve it. All Ellis and I did was what you would have done, had you been able.”

Hazel chuckled. “I agree with you. The hostages deserve some compensation. I’ve given Benni and Will a generous hazard pay bonus already. And I’ll see that you get whatever you need, Frank, to create the compdroid for Zanya. Thank you again. Both of you.”

“You’re welcome,” I said. “Now, if there’s nothing else, Frank and I have a date for dinner.”

Hazel looked at the time. “Go enjoy. I’m headed out myself as soon as I send a few emails.”

Frank and I made our way out, saying goodbye to Ensign Gibson as we passed his desk.

We headed to my dining hall, where we were meeting Benni, Will, Zanya, and Vashti. Sten was most likely being released tomorrow. He’d have some scars, but otherwise, he was going to be fine.

“Are you going to tell Zanya about the compdroid?” Frank asked.

“Not that I doubt your abilities at all, but can you really make a cat out of a dog?”

“Sure. It might take me a week or so, but I can absolutely do it.”

“Then let’s tell her. She’ll be so happy.”

He slipped his arm around my waist as we walked, pulling me a little closer. “You know what makes me happy?”

I grinned at him. “Me?”

He laughed. “Yes. And how you take such good care of those around you. The Athos is lucky to have you, Els. And so am I.”

“I feel the same way about you, Frank. And I can’t wait for our next adventure, so long as I’ve got you, Harry, and Gracie to share it with. Whatever the future holds, I look forward to it.”

His eyes narrowed, and he gave a considered nod before answering. “No argument, but I could do without any more carnivorous space vessels.”

“You’re right. Whatever the future holds, so long as it’s not carnivorous spacecraft.” Still smiling, I kissed his cheek. “Now, let’s go eat some cake.”