In the infirmary, a crew member with a white apron asked her a few questions, told her to walk to the door and back and declared her unharmed.

“That will have to do, miss. I’m afraid there are more urgent cases that require my attention. However, Hawkeye over there mentioned he’d like to meet you.”

Puzzled, Elletra weaved her way past the other beds right into the corner, where the man who she’d met outside her cabin was sitting. He couldn’t have been more than half a dozen years older than her, if that; possessed of a certain bearing that reminded her strongly of a bird of prey. He smiled easily and took her hand.

“I’m glad you weren’t hurt. If you’re one for introductions, I’m Ilse-Lorenz aul Janse-Lomberg. Most call me Hawkeye.”

She made a little curtsy, feeling suddenly as if she were back in the royal courts being lectured on formality.

“I’m Elletra. Thanks for, you know… helping me out.”

He was pretty handsome, all things considered. And those eyes…

“You’re very welcome. Have we met before?”