with the utmost respect at all times, or I would see to it that she is removed from this ship at once, and will be left to find her own way to wherever she ends up.”
Lo'San stopped pacing and faced Zha Quin. “I left her to deal with them, unaware of what she’d most likely be dealing with,” Lo'San said.
“Yes. You did. I’ve reviewed the incoming communication between your mother and Synclare. Your mother was distant, but respectful. She gave the impression that she was anxious to repair the broken bond between you,” Quin said. “I did not approve this visit without a bit of research. And if I may offer yet another opinion… your brother and his mate are here along with his younglings. Perhaps you could give them the benefit of the doubt. Perhaps it’s not a manipulative play on their part. Perhaps she does simply wish to reestablish communication with her son.”
“That will have to be proven. In the meantime, I think your first idea was the best. I’ll pay them a visit to make sure they understand if Sink Lar is mistreated in any way, they will pay for it,” Lo'San said, before stalking toward the door. When he was halfway there, he seemed to remember where he was and who he was speaking to. He turned to face Zha Quin. “I meant no disrespect, Zha Quin. None at all. I’m simply taken aback that this has even occurred.”
“I am aware, Lo'San. None has been taken. See to your family, and your mate. They will be scheduled on the next transport possible. But it will be several days before the logistics can be worked out.”
“Thank you. I’m off to pay them a visit now,” Lo'San said, striking his chest with his forearm and leaving Zha Quin’s quarters.
As soon as he left, Vivian came out of the bedroom.
Zha Quin turned to look at her.
“That does not sound good,” Vivi said.
“No, it does not.”
“Why didn’t you tell Synclare she’d need to get Lo’San’s input before you could approve his family visiting?” Vivi asked.
“I am attempting to be more diplomatic! My own parents constantly tell me this is a skill I must develop. You yourself have said that I lack finesse! I am trying to be sensitive!” Zha Quin said defensively.
“Well, let me just say, that I will no longer lecture you about considering another’s feelings. I’m pretty well convinced that you excel at war, battle, and simply telling others exactly what’s going to be,” Vivian said.
Quin gave a firm nod. “I agree. You can be considerate. I shall be demanding. It is what I know,” he said, getting to his feet.
“Agreed — where are you going?” she asked.
“To speak to Vennie about working out the logistics of returning these people to where they came from.”
~~~
Lo'San stood outside the door that would place him face to face with family he hadn’t seen since he’d grown into manhood. It had been more than thirty years since he’d seen or spoken to any of them. He placed his hand on the sensor which responded by asking him if he wanted entry. He was the General aboard this ship, and as such, had access to all spaces, just as Quin did.
“No, I wish you to announce my presence,” Lo'San said.
A few minutes later, the doors opened, and his father stood there, grinning widely. “Lo'San,” he said, extending his arms for an embrace.
Lo'San didn’t step into the man’s embrace. He loved his father, but he didn’t have much respect for him. He’d allowed Lo’San’s mother to rule his entire life, including driving a wedge between him and his father by refusing to allow his father to have access to Lo'San as long as Lo'San refused to return home and do her bidding.
“Father,” Lo'San responded, remaining where he stood.
“Will you not embrace your father in greeting?” Lau’San asked.
“Are you still allowing Mother to make all your decisions?” Lo'San asked.
“You do not give her the credit she is due, Lo'San. We have all we do because of her talent at choosing the right path for all of us,” Lau’San said sadly.
“I’m well aware of her plans. Where is she?” Lo’San asked.
“Is that my beloved Lo'San?” Mee‘ta’s voice called from inside the suite.
“Come inside, Lo'San. Your mother wishes to repair all the damage done between our family,” Lau’San said, inviting his son into their assigned quarters.
Lo'San gave a sharp nod. When he went to walk past his father, Lau’San reached out and embraced his shoulders from