“No. Jones …” “Ursa, it’s all right,” he said quickly, sorry that he’d told her. “It’s not your fault. I didn’t want you to know. Besides, what could you have done? No-one could help me recover from Hettie’s death. I had to find a reason to live for myself.” “And you did,” said Ursa, with an uncertain smile. “Yes. I did. Hopefully Zandakar will find a reason too. And if there’s the smallest chance I can help him do that, then I must. I’m sorry if you don’t approve, but I don’t recall asking for your permission.” “No. Just my time and physicking skills,” she retorted. He winced. “True. And I’m grateful.” “So you should be!” “Ursa …” He sighed. “I’m sorry. I don’t mean to worry you. But you have to know I’ve no choice but to do this.” She let out her own gusty sigh. “I do. Just as I’

