Meanwhile, the rest of the Nhalis operation continued without interruption.
Targan Rell was escorted to the starport command chamber under heavy guard. He was taller than Daskor and noticeably younger, with carefully braided dark hair, gold-trimmed military clothing, and the expression of a man trying to decide whether dignity or panic would give him a better chance of surviving.
Dignity lasted for about ten seconds.
Then he saw Astra standing beside Aurelian.
His voice immediately became much more polite.
"Commander Arcturus," he said. "I assume we can discuss terms."
Aurelian stood across the table, calm as ever. "You surrendered after your flagship was disabled."
"I chose to prevent further bloodshed."
"You tried to run toward the planet."
"To organize a lawful planetary defense."
"You were heading for a private fortress."
"A command site."
Aurelian looked toward Eirenne.
She smiled pleasantly. "A private fortress."
Targan's jaw tightened, but he said nothing.
