I watched as the situation unfolded, ready to step in if necessary. If Firus was a truthful about his crew as he was about his history, Banon was a stout chap who served as first mate because he could handle himself in the worst storms, as well as hold his own in a fight.

He looked like he was losing ground in his argument with the two officers, holding up his hands in a universally placating gesture. When he saw Firus he seemed to find his backbone, standing up straighter, and pushing his chin out. He dropped his hands to his side and welcomed Firus loudly. “Ho, Cap’n! Glad you’re back.”

The two Air Corpmen in their pristine uniforms turned to look at who Banon was talking to and scrambled back when they found Firus almost on top of them. He didn’t give them a chance to say anything.

“You two- out!” he pointed his blade toward the end of the gangway.

One sputtered. “But we-”

“I don’t care what you two ponses were doing. I got a writ and I got a job, neither of which concerns the likes of you. Now, get!”