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Rynan pushed away from the wall. “I’ll see what’s going on.” With a nod, Justyn followed him.
On the screen, Eos shifted. “Is there anything else I can help you with?”
“You’ve given us a lot,” Dare said. “Thank you.”
“You’ve been a fabulous help,” Dakota added. “Thanks.”
The archeologist tilted her head. “May I ask what you plan to do with the treasure if you find it?”
Dakota crossed her arms. “Probably not build a museum for it.”
Eos smiled. “I didn’t think so.”
“But Dare and his brothers will have a share. They can build a museum.”
Eos’ face stayed calm and amused. “There are lots of ways to safeguard our history’s treasures, Dakota. Being in a museum isn’t the only answer.”
Suddenly, a man appeared on the screen behind Eos. And it wasn’t Dathan Phoenix. Dakota took in the man’s black uniform and the silver enhancement at his temple. She blinked, her blood running cold. “Why is there a CenSec behind you?”
Eos waved a hand, unconcerned. “Oh, that’s just Xander.”
Dakota blinked again. Eos was on a first-name basis with one of the deadliest cyborg killers in the galaxy? People whispered about Centax Security cyborgs in dark corners, and if they saw them coming, they got their affairs in order.
Dare made a small sound. “Saros.”
“Phoenix,” the man—or was it machine?—replied.
Another small woman appeared on screen, pressing into the cyborg’s side. “Hi, Dare!”
“Malin.” There was a wealth of warmth in Dare’s voice. “How’s my favorite cousin?”
“Excellent, thank you.” She smiled, her short, dark hair feathered around her cute face.
“You look good. Your CenSec must be treating you right.”
These two were a couple? A tiny human woman and a giant, enhanced cyborg? Dakota’s head spun at the thought.
“How’s the convoy?” Malin asked.
“Great. We just headed out of the galaxy on a run. But we’re considering making a slight detour for a treasure hunt.”
Malin’s nose wrinkled. “Well, you be careful. And avoid any rogue planets.”
Dare smiled and nodded. Dakota guessed there was a story there.
The image flickered, distorting a little from interference. “We have to go,” Dare said. “Great to see you, and thanks again, Eos.”
“My pleasure.” Eos’ gaze landed on Dakota. “Good luck. And if you find it, I’d love to study some of it.” The screen went blank.
Dakota spun. “Your cousin is shacked up with a CenSec?”
“Yes.”
“Interesting family you have.”
“You could say that. So, we know your treasure isn’t worthless.”
She nodded. It felt so good to know exactly what she was looking for.
