By the time Tarkus led Kaira into a café, her legs were aching. Even in the slightly lighter gravity she felt as if she’d been on her feet for days. She wasn’t sure how much of it was down to everything she’d been through recently, the destructive technology in her body reawakening, or the seemingly endless search they were pursuing.
She collapsed into a seat, Tarkus settling almost as heavily, and they ordered some food and drink. It arrived so quickly it must have been already cooked, and it was far from appetising, but they both tucked into it heartily. It was several minutes before there was any talking.
“I didn’t think you could be that outgoing,” said Kaira finally. “It’s a whole new side of you!”
Tarkus scowled.
“Trust me, it’s not a side of me. It’s an act I can play for
