“Do you have everything you need?” I asked Torran. When he nodded, I closed the cargo ramp. I eyed the pile of cargo on the starboard side of the bay, then pulled out straps and netting. “Any cargo that is remaining here needs to be secured. If you are planning to take things to your quarters, put them off to the side.”

The Valoffs moved the duffel bags farther away from the rest of the pile. Together we lashed the cargo to the various tie-offs scattered around the bay. It wasn’t strictly necessary because we should have life support, including gravity, for the duration of the trip, but cutting corners on safety was a good way to invite bad luck aboard.

Once the cargo was secured, the Valoffs silently picked up their duffels. The sooner they were out of their armor, the better. Seeing myself reflected in their helmets brought back too many memories I’d rather forget.

I led the way to the crew quarters and pointed to the three rooms I’d set aside for them. “Here are your cabins. You can decide who stays where. The shared bathroom is there.” I pointed at the door back the way we’d come. “Change into civilian clothes and then come to the bridge for crew introductions. I’m going to get us launched.”

The soldiers said nothing, but they each turned for a separate door. Not human. I suppressed the shiver.

Torran followed me farther down the hall until we came to his door. “Lotkez, my ship, will be shadowing us to Valovia.”

I stopped abruptly and turned to him. “What?”

“My ship will—”

“I got that part. Why?” Not only would I have a Valovian general breathing down my neck, but I’d also have his warship on my ass. Fantastic.

“Time is of the essence. Your ship has approval to enter Valovian space, but Lotkez will escort you directly to Valovia so that you don’t have to wait through the checkpoints. It will also ensure safe passage.”

“So why aren’t you on your ship?”

He gave me an unreadable look. “Would you have followed me into enemy space without me aboard?”

I grimaced. No, no I wouldn’t. Not even for the fortune on offer. I had to remember that General Fletcher was a brilliant tactician. He might choose to lead from the safety of the back, but at least he’d always sent his troops into battle with a solid plan. I needed to be careful or I would be outmaneuvered again.

“Very well, I will keep an eye out for your ship. Anything else?”

He shook his head.

“Make sure your crew knows about Luna. I don’t want another misunderstanding.”