Chapter 52

“Wow!” he said, awed. “So you’re the infamous Airk Ranon.”

Airk rose to his feet and bowed. “At your service, young master.”

The kid pointed at Shaela. “Who’s that—your girlfriend?”

Airk laughed. “No, son, just a friend.”

“You sure are pretty, lady.”

Surprised, Shaela answered, “Why, thank you.”

“Call me Kitt. That’s my name.”

“Nice to meet you, Kitt. I’m Shaela.”

The boy sat down before their cell, their food tray forgotten beside him. He wore only a baggy pair of striped pants, tied at the waist with a torn piece of sailcloth and rolled at the ankles. His hair was a dark brown, tousled and shaggy. It hung in front of his eyes, and he continuously pushed the unruly mop from his face. “Where are you from, lady? I’ve never seen anyone as pretty as you.”

Shaela laughed. “How old are you, Kitt?”

“Seven. At least, I think I am. The last time I had a birthday, that’s what I was. Uncle Skurve told me so.”

“He isn’t really your uncle, is he?” Airk asked.