law enforcement.
“Can I claim an unfair advantage and ask how to win past Bacoj’s obvious distrust?” the Nobek whispered.
Vax took a deep breath. He wanted to give Japohn all the help he could, but it was important not to do it behind Bacoj’s back. He’d have to proceed very carefully. “I don’t think it’s a question of distrust. It’s more an issue of—well, you’re overwhelming. Intimidating, even.”
“I’m not a threat to him. I’m the opposite. I want to ensure you’re both safe from that maniac Karil.” Japohn’s scowl had returned at the idea that Bacoj might fear him in any fashion.
“That’s not what I mean by intimidating. Look, you’re familiar with how Dramoks are, right? They feel responsible for everything. If trouble happens, they wonder what they did wrong. How they failed to keep the situation from going south.”
“I’m not following.”
“Karil getting to us yesterday shook Bacoj. He feels awful that he couldn’t control the situation. His self-confidence took a major hit.”
Japohn nodded, realization dawning. Vax’s conscience gave a twinge, because he wasn’t giving the Nobek the whole story. Yet it wasn’t up to him to share Bacoj’s concerns that he wasn’t ready to lead a clan.
If only his Dramok father hadn’t died when Bacoj was so young. He’d missed out on being raised by the man who should have been the primary example of what a Dramok should be. That loss preyed heavily on Bacoj, making him second-guess himself. Japohn’s predilection to seize control when he wavered wasn’t helping the matter either.
As infatuated as he was with the Nobek, Vax recognized Japohn might not work out as his and Bacoj’s third. It could be their individual peculiarities would cause major problems within a clan relationship; the kinds of problems that would make a lifelong commitment miserable for all those involved.
No, he couldn’t share such details about Bacoj with Japohn. It would be wrong. The two men would have to figure out their relationship themselves—if a relationship happened at all—without Vax’s interference.
Japohn considered the little Vax had offered, his brow furrowing hard as he struggled with the state of affairs. “What do you recommend I do then? I can’t very well wait for Bacoj to make a decision about what action to take if Karil shows up again. Not taking critical steps quickly could mean life or death.”
“A Nobek’s gotta do what a Nobek’s gotta do. Play your protector role by all means. Just let Bacoj assume command in the areas that don’t have to do with keeping us safe.” Vax offered his most conciliatory smile. “You’re used to doing everything your way, but a clan is more of a diplomatic unit. With the Dramok taking the lead.”
“I’ve noticed Bacoj doesn’t often seem confident on that front. At least that’s how he behaves here on Dantovon, probably because he’s not familiar with the area like I am. It’s hard not to step in and point out the appropriate direction when he’s unsure.”
“Again, your experience is somewhat intimidating, especially after what happened with Karil. If you can’t let go of the reins, I doubt Bacoj will warm up as much as you’re hoping.” Vax let a warning tone thread into his statement.
“I could step aside for him, if he’d assert himself a little better. I can see how he’d make a good clan leader. There are moments when he declares he prefers something, and my initial impulse is to make it happen for him.”
“That’s the Dramok in him. You have to show him you’re fine with it.”
As Japohn mused over the advice, Bacoj clicked off his com. The trio met in the center of the room.
“Any good news?” Japohn asked.
“Dantovonian law enforcement is taking our situation seriously since Yas spoke to them. They’ve located the inn where Karil booked a bed. It’s under surveillance, but they haven’t seen him there yet.”
“After meeting Japohn, he probably jumped on the first shuttle off the planet.” Vax smirked. Karil would have to be an unparalleled idiot to believe he could fight and win against their new friend.
Bacoj grinned in agreement. “That would be nice. So, what are we up to for the rest of the night?”
Vax glanced at Japohn, crooking his brow, hoping the Nobek would take his hint.
Japohn glanced from him to Bacoj and shrugged, his manner casual. “I’m up for whatever you decide.”
“What do you think, Vax?”
“I don’t know. We could go back out, I guess. Or sit here and drink ourselves stupid. What is it you command, oh mighty Dramok?”
He hoped