As I observed Dril’s scowl, a faint recollection of Trex mentioning their relationship flickered in my memory, though I couldn’t recall the specifics.
Aza’s gentle strokes on Dril’s head confirmed what I thought. They were a couple.
He glanced in my direction once more. “Shall we proceed?”
He glanced at my baggy pants and oversized tunic that I had hastily grabbed from Alara before our departure. I didn’t have a great selection of clothing, unfortunately
“First, we must find you more suitable attire.”
ALL I HAD WERE A FEWill-fitting tops and pants, nothing else. Luckily, my military issue boots were still in good condition, so I had those at least.
I was conscious that I would need to shop soon for essential items. It was one more thing I was hoping to chat with Krin about as well.
Aza replicated me a new pair of shorts, and I immediately changed into them. I laughed as I tried them on. They were too long, but the waist was manageable with a belt I had. I put on a short-sleeved top that I personally had made for me on Alara.
Thank goodness I didn’t care too much about looking flawless. Back on Alara, ladies were all about dresses, but that wasn’t for me. They were just not practical.
I brushed some stray hair off my face and returned to the hall where Aza was waiting.
He cracked up when he saw me. I joined him, knowing I looked absolutely ridiculous. Even though I was tall for a woman, I was still much smaller than everyone on the ship.
Plus, I had a lot less muscle than everyone else.
Aza and I walked together, going through some corridors I hadn’t seen before.
What seemed like several minutes later we stopped in front of a set of doors. Aza poked a few numbers into a panel beside one of the doors and it slid open.
I entered behind him and raised my eyebrows in surprise. “I had no idea there was an elevator. And I’ve been all over this ship.”
Aza grinned with closed lips. “I know you have. The ship’s sensors tell the bridge when unauthorized persons enter restricted areas.”
I crossed my arms. “I did nothing wrong if that’s what you’re getting at.”
He gave me a scolding look, tilting his head to the side.
“Youdidhack the computer system. And youborrowedsome books without asking permission.”
My lips curved into a pout. “Fine. So why am I not in the brig or being kept under guard?”
“The Captain chose to take no action unless you put the ship or yourself at risk.” The corners of his mouth raised, filled with amusement.
Huh.“Is that why some corridors are always locked?” With enough time, I would access those areas too, but I hadn’t wanted to push things.
Krin was already giving me the cold shoulder. I didn’t need to piss him off, too.
Aza chuckled, clearly amused by my mock outrage. He was right. I definitely pushed the boundaries and snuck into places I shouldn’t have.
“Some areas are off-limits as they are not relevant for you to access,” commented Aza.
“Pfft. You act like I am some kind of criminal or something.”
The elevator glided without making a peep before the doors opened. Aza signaled for me to go out first.
I walked out, this time a little less excited.
“Your safety is our only concern.” Aza said as we walked.
“Yeah, safety.”
