Chapter 32

“I know,” said Jonal. “I wrote the order.”

“Yes, sir. Some of the UnBonded Warriors are refusing to accord the Earthen females Sarran fem status. A vocal contingent claim the Earthen as a sub-species whose genes would contaminate our clans.” Bane was hesitant, but his body sung a song of its own. His demeanor was closed off, his mouth was dry. Mark’s arm came around his shoulder, pulling him closer.

::Tonas, look at Bane. He’s frightened and Mark is in full protective mode. I’m inclined to trust his instincts.::

Tonas’s brows furrowed in concentration, something wasn’t right. “How do you know this, Bane?” probed Tonas.

Jonal made eye contact with Mark, inviting him to join the conversation.

::You were right, Firefly. We do need to focus here, I do not like the stink of this.::

Bane replied, “My brother—Flagen and I had decided before this mission not to pursue a PairBond; to avoid or refuse it, if that was possible.”