The Last Narkoy: Gathow: Book 2 by Elizabeth Price (good e books to read .txt) 📗

to my team, I’m going to need you to figure out a way to get us home,” she explained in earnest.

At first, Danstu’s eyes turned to his shoes. He blinked several times, nodding as he thought. “I suppose I’m going to need to replicate new shoes,” he said, startling Sedom with the sudden change of subject.

“Shoes?” she questioned.

“I’m still wearing the same leather shoes everyone told me you hate. I think it’s time I start conducting myself as more Narkoy…” he paused, noticing her rather odd expression. “If I am to help lead a Narkoy city, I better look the part,” he pointed out.

Sedom chuckled, amused at his statement. “You know my agenda. At this point, I don’t care what you wear as long as I get what I need,” she explained. “Actually, I’d prefer you wear a uniform,” she mentioned.

He shook his head. “I’m a politician, Sortec. Uniforms don’t suit me,” he mentioned honestly. She rolled her eyes, waving him on as if it really didn’t matter. “Okay,” he said, then left without saying anything more.

“Okay,” Sedom huffed. She returned to the collar, lowering her magnifying glasses over her eyes. “What have I started?” she asked herself in a mumble.

Later that evening, Sedom settled back in her com seat and dialed in the call number to Danstu's former employer. A young Windrit woman's face appeared on the screen, grinning.

“Hello. You've reached Colembras No'nee's office. How may I direct your call?” she asked.

“The Calembras, please.”

“Who may I ask is calling?” the woman asked.

“Chadon Sortec of the Tasgool. I’m calling from the Narkoy city of Gathow. It's regarding a former employee that served him,” Sedom explained.

The woman frowned, her eyes down as if searching through the records on her computer. Her eyes widened with amazement. “A Narkoy? Wow... um, right away, Chadon.”

The screen blanked for a moment. A politician in his office? That astounded Sedom. She was seldom in her office, yet Gathow held very few citizens compared to No'nee's command.

Moments later, a round-faced Windrit man returned, dressed in a long, black lab coat. He was of the short ethnicity, those she learned typically held the ability to control the mind. His short hair was white with streaks of copper and gold. He was wearing a medical lab coat.

“Chadon Sortec, such an honor to see you again. I haven't seen you since your Ardath celebration. How are you, my child?”

Sedom scowled examining his features. Yes, she did recognize the man from her Ardath party... or at least she remembered his voice. She spied on him under the table while hiding from her family. Beyond that, she didn't know the man.

“Yes, as well as can be expected. I'm sure you're aware of my situation?” she asked.

No'nee nodded grim, thick lines appearing around his thin lips. “I'm deeply saddened by your loss. Your grandmother was a fine leader and your people noble. I only wish there was more I could have done to help.”

“My people are dead. A fine leader wouldn't have allowed that to happen. But I appreciate the sympathy,” Sedom return sternly.

An awkward silence was broken by his asking, “Is there any way I can be of assistance?”

“There is. A man by the name of Danstu Keriney has come to work for me. What are your thoughts about this man?”

Deep scowl lines appeared around No'nee's eyes. “Danstu? I'd have to say he's a pretentious, selfish man who put his family’s needs above my political aspirations. He left me in a bad situation of having to do my own job after he helped me win a seat with my government.”

“Ah, I see,” she chuckled. “In other words, he's exceptionally good at his job and takes care of his own?” Sedom asked amused.

No'nee nodded, not sharing her amusement. “If you want to put it nicely, yes. And good isn't a word I would use. There is no word in any species to demonstrate just how adept he is at his job. If he asked for his position back, I would gladly offer him his job back, plus a substantial raise. Though, I'd be concerned he'd eventually take my position.”

“And if I used him as my assistant?” Sedom asked.

The man grinned. “I see you're calling from Gathow. Your grandmother gave me a tour of the city a few years back. It has marvelous potential. Give him enough space and he'll turn Gathow into what it was meant to be. It's no wonder why he went to work for you, more opportunities. He's a man who enjoys quiet power. He'll stand by your side no matter what, as long as he believes in you and your cause.”

“Nom'kel only knows how much help I need. Thanks.”

“Sortec,” he called before she could end the transmission. “If you need any assistance, don't hesitate to call. Your grandmother and I were good friends and I have a lot of pull with the Windrit counsel. Know that you will forever have a friend in me,” he offered.

Sedom nodded her thanks. “That is very kind of you. Feel free to visit Gathow anytime, Calembras No'nee.” She ended the transmission, feeling Danstu watching her from the doorway. “Why was No'nee wearing a lab coat?”

“His pastime is genetic engineering. He's the head of the Windrit science counsel and a genius at cellular manipulation. I have to admit though I'm a little surprised by his comments,” he admitted.

“You are?” she questioned concerned.

Danstu shrugged. “He threatened to have me shot if I ever returned to Loos. He was quite upset when I left. But… ah… I see you two were able to catch up on old times?” he asked.

Sedom spun her chair to look at Danstu. “Not exactly. He knew my grandmother, but so did half the galaxy. And those who knew my grandmother--”

“Presumably would know you. I understand. So am