If Scarlett’s feline decided she wanted the dragon, this mission or quest or fake kidnapping might destroy her ambitions.
Ransom walked at her side, alert, scanning the surrounding beings despite his exhaustion.
Nothing wrong with his brain, then.
“What do you intend to purchase?”she asked.
“I have a list of requirements.We’re traveling into a mountainous region.We’ll land the ship and hike the rest of the way.”
“How long will it take to find this lost world?”
“I’m unsure.My people live on the hot side where the weather remains at an even temperature.The region we’re visiting is more seasonal and changeable.”
“How cold will it get?Will we need warm clothes?”
“We must prepare for everything.”
“Layers then,” Scarlett murmured.“Will we carry food or hunt?”
“Both.”
She nodded and slowed before Eva’s restaurant.“This place serves delicious meals.”On cue, her stomach rumbled.“Let’s eat.I’m starving.”
Scarlett jogged up the three steps leading to the entrance.The place didn’t give off luxurious vibes.In fact, it possessed a ramshackle air but attracted trade from market visitors and entrepreneurs.They preferred surroundings that placed them at ease, and Eva’s place did that.
Large flagstone squares lined the floor.Twelve square tables, big enough to seat four diners, filled the central part of the restaurant.Mismatched chairs added to the rundown ambiance, but the enticing kitchen scents and efficient service attracted repeat customers.
Scarlett headed toward a corner table with three spare seats.The diners mixed and mingled; an empty place considered an invitation for anyone to sit.A green-skinned man already at the table lifted his gaze from his half-eaten meal and nodded a greeting before returning to his food.
Ransom sank onto an empty chair with a groan.
“Food?”Scarlett asked.“We’re required to order at the counter.The dish of the day is always an excellent choice.”
“That’s fine.”Ransom fumbled with his electronic payment band.
“I’ll pay.You can transfer your share to me later this blacklight,” Scarlett said.
Robbie, Eva’s second-in-command, stood at the counter taking orders.
“Hey, Robbie,” Scarlett said before he could speak.“Is Eva still here or has she left for home?I left Ione Island before I grabbed my com-circle.”
“Are you in trouble?”Robbie asked.
“I don’t think so, but can you get a message to Saber?He’ll be worried.”
Robbie leaned closer and spoke in an undertone.His brown eyes were huge in his pale face.“Is the big dude you came in with holding you captive?”
“Not exactly.I’ve agreed to help him,” Scarlett said.“He’s not dangerous.I’ll take two of the specials and two tankards of reeb.”She waved her wrist, indicating he should ring up the order so she could make the payment.
“Eva never charges you,” Robbie said.
“She does today,” Scarlett countered.“Can I have those ales, and I’ll tell him I’m going to the retiring room.”
Robbie rang up the sale and held the electronic contact up for her to offer her wristband.Once they’d completed the transaction, Robbie poured her reeb.
Ransom’s eyes had slid closed while she’d been speaking with Robbie.Scarlett settled the tankards in front of him, and Ransom started at the abrupt clink of metal against the tabletop.
“I’ve brought you a drink,” she said.“Our meals won’t take long.I’ll be back in a sec.”
