But what would I do? It was one thing aiming a targeting array, a task not dissimilar from taking a pict of a quick-moving subject. But I had no idea how to pilot the craft, and a single miscalculation would see us falling to our deaths.

No, such thoughts were pointless. Instead, I took a deep breath, trying to slow my pounding heart. I needed to place my trust in Shard, though that would have been easier if she had not just stolen an aircraft.

The governor’s château disappeared, the only flickering light in the shadow beneath us. The Avenger was still climbing, piercing the thin layer of cloud veiling the void beyond. The stars blossomed, reminiscent of the insects that haunted the mire below.

I felt the craft slow. The last time we had breached the atmosphere, Shard had seemed absorbed by the stars. But with the vox disabled I had no idea what she was thinking. Whatever the case, the delay endured but a heartbeat, our craft banking left and accelerating. It was an unpleasant sensation when sitting in the rear cockpit. Normally the velocity pushed one into the flight seat, but instead I was pitched forward, the harness cutting into my shoulders. All I could see through the armaglass were the stars fleeing from us, as though anxious to be far from our impending fate.

Perhaps I should have taken Gradeolous’ offer and kept my feet firmly on the ground, I thought. The governor had cautioned me against such risks. I wondered if, on our return, I could blame Shard, but she had a gift for skirting consequences. In fact, it would not be beyond her to lay the blame at my feet, claiming I evoked the authority of Governor Zanwich and commandeered her fighter to obtain footage.

It did not sound plausible, but neither did the idea of Shard wanting me on the flight. Who knew what she would do on our return?

Our return. Laughter bubbled up through me, a coarse cackle I could not contain. Soon I was rasping for breath, my chest heaving with each bellowed sob.

‘What is wrong with you? You sound like you’ve been huffing hallucinogen grenades.’

I jumped at the sound, or would have were I not pinned by the harness. Still, the shock sobered me a little.

‘I thought you had switched off the vox,’ I said, voice finally under my control.

‘I did, but I could hear you through the damn wall. What is wrong with you?’

‘Nothing. Something amusing occurred to me.’

‘Please share it. I could do with a good laugh.’

‘I was sitting here, contemplating our return and whether you would blame me for this ill-conceived plan.’

‘Hmm. I suppose that is funny. Shall I claim you overpowered me with your steely muscles? Or charmed me with your ravishing looks? Which is more believable? Or rather, which is even remotely believable?’