Chapter 264: Chapter 265: Heartbeats Part 1

"Sure you don't want to say goodbye?"

Reid waits for Tucker's response while the rest of us pretend not to notice. We're in the Docking Station, about to depart for the surface and from there, to Nerwolix. Sampson, Blovid and Clarence are discussing last minute instructions with Chancellor Keller, Queen Ariana and the rest of the Dofinikes and a few guards. They've grouped themselves on the far end of the center pool, leaving the others and me in earshot of Reid's question. It's not that we're nosy - it's just hard to not pay attention to something we're all curious about.

"Doubt I could if I wanted to," Tucker grumbles, frowning at the small cluster of aliens opposite the Millix. In addition to the Dofinikes, Chancellor Keller has ordered a slew of guards to surround Ariana at all times, making it impossible to get close without Sampson or the Chancellor's presence. Sadness sweeps Tucker's features and he lowers his head. "It's not a good idea."

"Why not?"