The two agents stepped into her domicile wearing somber expressions, suitable for their vocation. Each returned her bow, then the other one spoke for the first time. “Thank you for your cooperation. We’ll try not to take up too much of your time.”

Her thoughts raced frantically. If they asked to see Helix’s identification documents and travel clearances, she didn’t have those prepared. As a scientist, she had little experience in scheming, and while she’d managed to fool her mothers, an actual inquiry represented a separate challenge entirely. Probably she ought to have foreseen this complication instead of being caught off-guard.

Should I pretend not to know about the crash? What’s the best way to handle this?

The fireball had been visible from her residence—and that was why she had raced out to investigate—so pleading ignorance likely wouldn’t work. Qalu decided to attack before they could. “If I’m thinking of the same incident, that was quite some time ago. Why are you only investigating the matter now?”

Agent Atarr reflected abashment in responding, “Our department has been swamped and prior ATA scans indicated the crash involved a remotely piloted vessel with no one on board.”

“You must have reason to doubt that information?” Her tone made it a question.

“Indeed. A bounty hunter has contacted us regarding a serious matter. We’re not at liberty to disclose details, so I’d appreciate if you permitted me to ask the questions.”

A bounty hunter? Silently, Qalu cursed. She needed more information, but the agent had shut her down, politely but firmly. It would be suspicious if she persisted. “Certainly. I’m at your disposal.”

The other agent settled and Qalu did the same, not wanting to appear anxious though it was difficult to control her head tendrils. “Pardon my discourtesy. I’m Agent Orlon. And we realize it’s late so we will endeavor to make this quick.”

“Would you like refreshments?” Qalu asked.

Hospitality might give her a moment to think, at least. The two agents traded a look, then Atarr said, “That would be most kind.”

“Will you help me prepare the drinks?” She directed the question at Helix, hoping he would take the cue and follow her.

So far, he hadn’t spoken, but he must be aware that these ATA investigators were searching for him. If he had bounty hunters after him, he must have been fleeing from a bad situation, something dreadful that occurred in the lost portion of his memory. Or perhaps it was simpler than that? Certain factions maintained unjustified hatred of inorganic life, so he might have been persecuted by such a group. Another possible scenario was that a collector or innovator wanted to study his inner workings or use him in some respect.

None of those options were favorable.