Chapter 2 (1/?)

I ducked back around the corner before she could spot me, waited a month moments, then walked out to greet them both. My nose tickled again, and I stifled a sneeze. "Yes, Mom?" I asked, pretending I hadn't been eavesdropping on their conversation.

Mom briefly explain the situation to me. "This man has a message from Jun," she said. " he'd like you to tell him if you see anything unusual in it." I could hear the skepticism in her voice.

I nodded sullenly at the investigator, resenting the fact that he had accused Jun of deserting. Still, there was a silver lining: The man seemed unaware that we were foxes. "Please, let me see the messenge," I said, remember to speak formally.

The investigator looked down at me. If I'd been in fox shape, my ears would have flattened against my skull. His expression wasn't condescending, as I would have expected. Instead, I could sense him measuring me. And now I could smell some suspicious coming of him. Did he think I was hiding something?

He drew a data slate out of a pocket, taped on it, and showed me a message marked with Jun's seal nothing fancy just his name done in simple calligraphy.

I scowled at the fact that they'd been snooping into my brother's private correspondence, but there was nothing I could do about it now.

Hello Min,

Don't tell Bora, but there are even more chores on a battle cruiser then there are at home. I can't wait until my first leave. I have so many things to tell you. I've made lots of friends. Together we've been exploring a new world, just like Dad. My friends help with the chores sometimes, too. Did i mentioned the chores?

love,

Jun