Page 81 of Warrior’s Mate

Technicians. Medical staff. Civilian evacuees. Incomplete family records.

"They need a registrar," she said.

Kaiven's jaw tightened.

There it was. The old reflex arriving before the words.

Maelis waited. He closed his mouth. She could almost see him sorting through instinct, fear, duty, and everything the day had taught him.

"Do you want to go?" he asked.

The question was not easy for him. That made it precious.

"Yes."

His eyes closed briefly. "Why?"

"Because they're carrying civilians whose identities are still incomplete. Because if they divert again, the registry needs someone aboard who understands the district records. Because I can do useful work there."

"Your knee."

"Will heal whether I am in this building or on a support ship."

"The detachment could be sent anywhere."

"So could you."

Kaiven looked at her for a long moment.

"I hate this," he said.

"I know."

"Every part of me wants to say no."

"I know."

"And none of those parts has the authority."

Maelis's throat tightened.

"No," she said softly. "They don't."

He crouched beside her chair so they were eye to eye. "Then come because you choose to. Not because I am there."

"I am choosing both."

Kaiven went still.

"The work," she said. "And you. I don't see why I should pretend one invalidates the other."

His smile came slowly. "You shouldn't."

"Good."

Chapter 16 — Chosen

"There is another matter."