28 Thorne “All Umbrans contain sentient within their bodies. What makes a royal is not only holding more sentient than most, but also developing related powers to a new level, whether it be battle, knowledge, second sight, or—in the case of an emperor or empress—detecting danger.” – Hammurabi the Seventh, Law of Sentient An hour later, I’m driving my favorite hovercar out of the Boston Dome. Meimi rides shotgun while Chloe and Zoe sit in the back, chatting up a storm. We got lucky crossing the checkpoint. There were no long lines, so I didn’t have to use the Star Council lane. Which means I also didn’t have to deal with Vargas. Chloe was especially appreciative. “I don’t know why Vargas glommed on to me,” she announces from the back seat. “All the guys usually drool over Zoe. No offen

