Chapter 22The leader of the newcomers styled himself Commander; an affectation that raised a few eyebrows. And despite his best endeavours Taithur found himself instinctively distrusting the man, with his restless watchful eyes and his hunched shoulders.
After introductions, the two men faced one another in one of the Rithid’s more spartan wardrooms. The Commander, sitting stiffly opposite Taithur, was discreetly guarded by two of the Rithid’s crew while Taithur was flanked by Jion and Ersand. Taithur spoke.
“Commander Vronic, I asked you aboard so that you could tell us who you are, where you’re from, where you’re intending to go, and to see how we can help you. I apologize for the rather fierce greeting we had to give you, but... well, no matter. It was necessary, and remains necessary
