Page 315 of Commander’s Mate

Fair.

I looked through the tiny viewport.

Stars.

Always stars now.

“What about Keeper of Names?”

Zared’s expression softened.

“That is not a bureaucratic title.”

“Good.”

“Harper.”

“I’m kidding. Mostly.”

I sat.

“Recovery Director.”

“Civilian.”

“Yes.”

“Reports to?”

“Command council.”

“Not you.”

His eyes flashed.

“Not me.”

“Good.”

“Annoying.”

“Better.”

He leaned back.

“You enjoy this.”

“A little.”

“Power corrupts.”

“Then you’re doomed.”

He laughed.

The sound still surprised me.

I opened the Julconi files.