A part of me still aches to call her ‘master,’ and know no troubles but her troubles.” She looked over her shoulder at me, “Is that what morta... love is?”“Something like that.” “It is exciting.” Arbor said with a small smile, “Very exciting to be ignorant. I will explore this world of flesh until I know all its pains and pleasures.”“You’ll be here for a long time then.”“Indeed.” She turned back to the pods, “Did you ever sire children, Zander Fredeon?”“No.” “Now you have sired hundreds of sons.”. "And these Hunter Killers do what, for the Empire?" I ask, my voice dripping with disdain."Well, I'm not really sure, Chronos, only they scared the crap out of me." He says so believable innocently, that I am sure he knows more. "So I ran. I didn't want to end up as their dinner."He is cagey about the Empire itself. Not too much information. No names or state secrets from him. He must have some loyalties or ties that keep him from telling us everything. And I was there, it should have been. You’re the most beautiful girl I’ve ever known and I’m fine with you calling the shots in our romantic activities. I do reserve the right to be an equal in everything else, okay?’ Gwen nodded as Steve pulled her to him and gave her a long kiss. ‘I think you’re working out to be a very good boyfriend. I’m going to do my best to keep you around.’ ‘You couldn’t drive me away,’ declared Steve as he turned and headed for his car. Gwen found Kate sitting on the bed in Gwen’s room. ‘I didn’t mean to. " Wainright, you've found him," Morrison provided and waved toward the tavern. "He is within and safe as houses. I think it would be good, most helpful and proper if you would have your men dismount, stack arms, and come inside where it is quite warm and friendly. Leave a man on guard, of course. I can promise you some decent rum and good entertainment as easy as kiss my hand."The young officer looked perplexed, but his men were smiling at each other and starting to lower their weapons..