Page 72 of Hope Forged
Coll jerked, whipped up his head, then sighed. He took the tablet with him and disappeared into his quarters to the rear of medical.
“I would like permission to life-fuse with Ziamee.”
Faerar stilled. She gasped, splayed her fingers across her chest, then huffed a laugh. “I knew it. Come to realize what she makes you feel?”
“Yes.”
She patted her chest in applause. “Excellent.”
“A dhutyani will follow.”
“That doesn’t matter to me, Illan, not after what we’ve survived. And my daughter finding a truemate was an impossible dream. Ziamee’s happiness is paramount, of course. If she chooses you, then so shall I.” She extended her hand and pressed her palm to his shoulder, as per tradition. “Yes, permission granted.”
His breath exhaled. Relief flooded him. “I am happy,” he said and meant it. “We may have…started the process.”
Her eyes widened, then she threw back her head and laughed. “The enthusiasm of the young.”
“You are not upset?” His heartbeat paused while he waited.
“Not at all.” She stepped back, fiddling with the fabric of her garment. “Amet might be, but I’m not.”
“Illan?”
Flutters filled his chest at Ziamee’s voice coming through his O.D.I.
“Your mother is awake, ohara.”
The warmth of Ziamee’s chuckle bathed him. “Excellent.Let me cleanse.”
He brought his wrist to his mouth to whisper, “Without me?” He smirked. “Hurry. We need to tell her.” Sadness stabbed him at the task that lay before him. It wasn’t getting easier.
“She’s awake?” Faerar asked.
“Yes. Would you like a kandyru?” He cupped her elbow and ushered her toward the common’s trestle table. “We have…news.”
She faltered. “Who’s dying? Amet?”
“He is well,” Illan said, letting her sink onto the bench.
“Welcome, Faerar.” Oz’s voice filled the common.
She squeaked, raising her gaze to the ceiling. “Oz?”
“Indeed. Brac has relocated me to this shipandreconnected me to theHaile.”
Faerar beamed. “It’s good to speak to you, old friend.”
“Much has changed,” Oz said.
Her chin dipped. “As they must.”
“Would you like to call Amet?”
She scoffed. “No, not at the moment.”
“Very well.” Oz fell silent.
“Is she on her way?” Faerar asked Illan, rising to order a tisane from the rehydrator.
