The Shattered Way (Champions of the Crystal Book 7)

Chapter 22.1

Sabrina blinked, wondering why her head felt so fuzzy. "Khediva?"

"I had to sedate you, my dear. But I was able to repair most of the damage. You must not do anything strenuous for a while, however."

She looked around to find Zepharan on the biobed beyond Marie's, unconscious. "Where is everyone?"

"Tirqwin is assisting Niavar and Asnefer aboard Sribarak. Captain Lien and Seuréa are asleep."

"Is Zeph okay?"

"He was thrown about during the phase shift," Khediva reported, "and broke several bones. The console restraints are meant for Wayfarers and apparently are not adequate for species whose bodies are more frail. Niavar should have considered this when building his ship, but he did not."

"Can I get up?"

"Not yet. We have sent Praxatillus confirmation that we have you. It is Tirqwin's intention to take the rest of you there as soon as he is assured that Niavar will be able to handle things here."

The thought of separation from Ford was nearly unbearable. "No. Khediva, I want to stay with Ford."

"Your duty is on Praxatillus," Khediva said sternly.

Sabrina tried to open her link with Ford, but he was holding his end closed as he concentrated. She sighed.

A few minutes later, Tirqwin entered the infirmary. "We are ready to go," he said. "Niavar must remain here to assist with Asnefer's investigation."

"Yes, but I don't see why I can't stay and help," Sabrina protested.

"You are needed on Praxatillus."

"But Baldaran can handle—"

"Sabrina," Tirqwin said harshly, "I have been out of contact with Mara for nearly an hour now. Something very bad has happened on Kuath, and I need to go and find her. I need you on Praxatillus to watch over the children and to coordinate any assistance I may need."

Sabrina managed to push herself into a sitting position. "Mara's in trouble?"

"I fear so."

"Then of course you have to go. What do you need from me?"

"Praxatillus' military has quarantined the planet. I need permission to pass through their blockade."

"I'll get it for you. What else?"

"I do not yet know," Tirqwin said. "But that is why I need you back on Praxatillus, to make sure I do not become entangled in bureaucracy."

"Okay. Yes, of course." Sabrina's head and heart ached in unison. "Can I say good-bye to Ford first?"

"Briefly." She could see how much the delay was wearing on him. "Come. I will see you to your room, where you can be private."

He helped her stand and took her arm, going at a slow pace down the hall even though she could feel the tension in him. "I'm sorry I'm holding you up."

"Khediva will be able to make the time up in the Way," Tirqwin said.

"Scotty was with Mara," she said, worried.

"He reported to Praxatillus a little while ago. Commander Mukryilla was kind enough to send a copy to Khediva. We were on the verge of departing for Kuath when your distress beacon reached us."

"What did he say happened?"

"He was under the impression that Mara had returned to Praxatillus. He has gone back to find her. You will receive all the details when you return, I am sure." He led her into her room and helped her sit on the bed. "I am sorry to be harsh with you, Sabrina."