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“I need to contact the station’s law keepers to escort you,” Grifforum said, moving to a display on the wall to tap on it.

At the same time, Tolly unclipped his Ident and tapped it. While they were busy, I pulled myself back up on the bed, letting out a soft, relieved sigh. I didn’t understand why both my legs felt shaky when my left leg was the one that had been injured. It was annoying!

I didn’t get to rest long because soon Narmuna, Lexarit, and several Talins I didn’t recognize arrived. Narmuna had a cargo bot following him, and after saying hello to me, he got busy loading the boxes stacked against the wall onto it.

“Human Opal,” one of the strangers said. “I’m Maven Nolus. I’ll be escorting you today.”

Another one of the strangers stepped close to Tolly and spoke in low tones, but they were standing right next to me so it was easy to hear their words.

“I’m Maven Dulsrum,” he said. “A more formal request is being sent to you, but the Committee of Stations and Travel would like to meet your pet. They’re planning to hold a formal meal this evening.”

Although Dulsrum used the word “request,” it felt more like a demand. I knew it wasn’t optional when Tolly stiffened.

“I’m not sure it would be healthy for Opal to attend. She’s only now being released by the healers,” he said.

Dulsrum’s next words were spoken with care, as if to emphasize his point. “You could refuse, but I don’t think that would be wise. Their committee oversees the Bureau of Ship Licensing.”

I heard the clear threat; if I didn’t show up, the Ever Secure might lose her license. Since she was partly my ship now too, I felt protective.

“I can go,” I said, touching the back of Tolly’s hand. “As long as I don’t have to sing or dance, I’m sure it’ll be fine.”

“Nothing but visiting will be required,” Dulsrum said.

Tolly purred. “Thank you, Opal.”

Dulsrum sounded a rumble of agreement. “This is very brave of you, Human Opal.” He looked back to Tolly. “If your pet were to fall asleep during the meeting, I’m sure the committee wouldn’t be bothered if you left. Everyone knows both the humans came in sick and injured. Unfortunately, I hear it’s a common issue when we find wild humans. They can't take care of themselves very well.”

I bit my lip to keep from voicing a snarky reply.

“Everything’s ready,” Lexarit said. “We can leave.”

Not only was the cargo bot full, but both Lexarit and Narmuna were carrying a few boxes each.

Dulsrum walked to the door to the facility. “Tolreum will carry Human Opal. Lexarit, walk on their left. Narmuna, walk on their right. Maven Nolus will follow. If a crowd forms, remain calm. We’ll handle anything that happens, and if I need you to do something, I’ll give orders.”

All the Talins rumbled with agreement before Tolly picked me up and cradled me against his chest.

It felt good to be held by him. Even better, we were leaving and would soon be alone together. I couldn’t wait.

Dulsrum turned and led us out into the hall. I didn’t know why he was so worried; the hall seemed empty. It was only when we stepped out into an area that was open to several levels that I noticed a crowd.

They were gathered everywhere but our path. The moment we came into view, the crowd started purring and talking. It was a lot of noise, and it made me jerk a little in Tolly’s arms.

He put his mouth close to my ear. “It’s going to be fine. The mavens are here. Our crewmates are here. I’m here. You’re not alone.”

I nodded and wrapped my arms around Tolly’s neck and tucked my face against the patch of bare skin. Pulling in a deep breath, I tried to ignore all the voices calling my name.

“Opal, I have some toys!”

“Look up, Opal, look up. I have something pretty for you.”

“Human Opal, show us your face.”

“I have great wealth. I can buy her.”

The voices kept up no matter that no one responded to any demands, questions, or requests. It was only after everything suddenly went quiet that I looked up.

We were in a large room with multiple doors. By the look of the utilitarian furniture and bare walls, it was a rented suite.