The Kestrel sailed with the sun peeking over the horizon. Jorges reported the night passed quietly but for a few drunken stevedores who staggered past in the dark.

The next stop was an easy three-day steam. Having reloaded at Lusundi, they didn't need any stores at Klixxe.

"This is a very different place," Lord Sifton had said. "Slavers and worse prowl the streets. Keep your people close."

On the Lord's advice, Cal didn't allow any shore leave. Whatever she thought of the ...