Page 83 of A World Enough

Ziggy gave too quick an answer. There was more to Ziggy, Kartog was sure.

Kartog replied, “Love makes us stronger because you have even more to fight for.”

“What if she goes with Brogan to her home planet Earth and leaves us without someone to protect the portals?”

“It won’t come to that, I’m sure,” Kartog said.

“Have you heard of this place Earth, Kartog?”

“Yes, but not where to find it. It’s spoken about in the ancient library on Danus. They ruled there in the ancient past.”

Ziggy sighed. “It would be much safer to get them away now.”

“According to Abnobian comms, they won’t arrive till tomorrow. Give Camber and Brogan this one night. They might never get another one for a long, long time.”

Ziggy nodded. “We both know our roles, then?”

“We do. Is everything prepared for a quick exit?” Kartog said.

“Yes, I’ve been preparing since I first contacted you.”

“Good luck, then,” Kartog said.

“We’ll need it. I better go and talk to them. Make sure you tell the Abnobians that everything was done to help you.”

“Of course. Goodbye, Ziggy.”

“Till we meet again, Kartog.”

Brogan watched Camber eat with a smile. She was really enjoying the meal and looked light-hearted and happy.

Camber had the biggest salad with some very thin slices of meat, with a spicy dressing on top. She let Brogan taste it. It was nice, but she preferred her rare steak.

“Oh, this is just delicious,” Camber said. “I normally eat ration packs.”

“I’m glad you like it.”

Camber lifted up her drink and took a sip.

“I’m not used to fancy food either, although Paris, the city I live in, is world renowned for high quality, delicious food. Parisians make a great rare steak,” Brogan said.

Camber liked to hear about Brogan’s life back on her world. Maybe it was the time to ask.

“So, earlier you said you’d tell me about your pack and why you left it. Would you tell me about it now?”

Brogan put down her knife and fork and took a drink. She nodded. “Oh yes. I thought I was getting away with that one.”

Camber could tell talking was not something Brogan enjoyed doing. It was good she felt comfortable enough to do it with her.

“It can’t be that bad, surely?”

“No, not bad, just…it’s complicated. I have to start from somewhere, I suppose.”

Brogan twisted the stem of her wine glass nervously.

“I have a really loving family. Me and my older brother had the best childhood. Our ma was the Alpha.”

“Ma?” Camber asked.