Jess made a point of ignoring Dash as he coordinated sending the shuttles out. He soon felt a familiar presence as Ali linked herself to the Wanderer.
I’ll take some of the shuttles, she sent.
Thanks, Jess replied.
He could manage easily on his own but understood that Ali felt the need to be involved, the need to watch for any issues. He could feel the extent of her worry through the link.
Soon Jess had forgotten all about Dash. He was absorbed in his work, his heart pounding every time they opened a new prisoner transport, wondering what they would find.
Sometimes everyone within was reasonably healthy, though confused at the sight of the Wanderer’s robot. Confusion changed to disbelief as their control collars were removed and their situation was explained. Then the prisoners w
