The most common form of address for the Haldeel wasza. If they were feeling especially polite or grateful, they'd throw in an extra syllable making it—za na.
To be calledza na riwas surprising.
It was one of the politest forms of address—denoting a respect and acknowledgment that was almost unheard of when speaking to members of an opposing race. To Kira's knowledge no human had ever been called that.
Even Himoto had never earned that honor.
There was only one form of address higher thanza na riand that was the form ofza na ri na—which was almost exclusively used for royalty.
The Haldeel were unique in how they decided their royals. It wasn't based on bloodline and was entirely dependent on a Haldeel's skill and talent. Only the most exceptional among them could reach that status.
They called the climb from commoner to royalty the Ascension. From what Kira had heard, it was a rather brutal fight that more often than not resulted in the hopeful's death along with anyone who helped them.
Kira didn't like the way the Tuann woman was looking at her—like she was a particularly clever pet who had done something interesting.
Leaving the matter aside for now, Kira held out Jin to the Haldeel. "Now that we've settled this matter, fix him."
The woman’s slow blink was as effective as a slap at conveying disapproval.
Kira had no problem ignoring her. Jin was what was important right now, and no amount of manners or dancing around the diplomacy bush was going to impede her.
Oddly enough, Graydon relaxed at her comment, regarding the rest of them with the lazy amusement of a bystander.
For the Haldeel's part, he remained unaffected, taking no offense at Kira's abrupt demand. He made a sharp gesture and the same buzz that had preceded Jin's lapse into unconsciousness took over Kira's world.
When it cleared, she could feel Jin's presence in her mind again, right there where he was supposed to be.
"It is done," the Haldeel stated.
The relief at the feeling was overwhelming.
Kira stared at her friend, ready for him to jolt to life. Seconds slid into one another until they formed minutes.
Still, Jin remained unresponsive.
"Why isn't he waking up?" Kira asked, unable to stay silent any longer.
The Haldeel leaned over, taking a longer look at Jin's small sphere. "Hmm. It may take a little time for the residual effects of the field to wane."
"How long?"
The woman stiffened further, her already straight spine going even straighter.
"Not long I think," the Haldeel assured her.
That was good enough for now.
Kira tucked Jin against her body. "I'll be sure to find you again if that isn't the case."
It wasn't a threat so much as a statement of her intentions.
If Jin didn't wake up, Graydon wouldn't have to worry about what Kira did in pursuit of Elise, because he'd have far more concerning things on his mind.
Such as the war she was likely to start.
"You overstep." The woman's stare burned into the side of Kira's face.
Maybe, but Kira always found it best to make one's intentions clear. It prevented all those nasty little misunderstandings that could result in blood shed.
