want to feed a Kin, and I have to send a Liaison
Officer to the Imperial Palace to represent Narvon System; a Kin who
was head of the team sent here to investigate us would be ideal, from a
public relations viewpoint. I can't force you, as you are well
aware--but I needn't be the one who introduces the virus, or who weakens
you so you will Change. I am perfectly capable of requesting that you
and your team be stationed here indefinitely, then surrounding you with
Kins until you can no longer resist your own desires."

Thompson's jaw tightened. "My Lady Count may of course do as she
thinks best--but I will, equally of course, protest any such orders."

The Count stood, and Thompson had to follow suit. "So be it, then,
Captain, although I had hoped you would be more reasonable. You have
leave to use the Palace ultrawave for your protest--after I have made
the initial request." She smiled, this time almost sadly and without
revealing her fangs. "I can sense hidden depths within you, Captain,
and I would like to be the one to bring them to the surface. Should
you ever decide you want to see me, I will grant you an audience as
soon as I can."

Thompson was unwillingly impressed; an Imperial Count's time was worth
considerably more than a Marine Captain's. That didn't make enough
difference to change his mind, though. "By the Count's leave, I would
like to return to my people."

"Permission granted, Captain. But please remember, I am not doing this
out of hostility; I do what I do only because I think it best for my
own people."

* * * * *

Returning to his assigned apartment, Thompson changed back into service
black. He wasn't sure whether to be angry or flattered at the Count's
intentions for him; at the moment, he felt a bit of both. She was
trying to take him away from his team, but on the other hand, she
wanted him to become Liaison Officer for an entire system--which, being
primarily ceremonial in nature, was a less responsible, but far more
prestigious, position. And, though he was reluctant to admit it even
to himself, he was more than a little tempted by the prospect of--

Resolutely, he blanked out the inviting image of Kin fangs, and went to
knock on King's door. She had evidently been going through the
library; when she let him in he saw tapes on the coffee table, and more
in the delivery tray. "Research again, Audra?"

"Uh-huh. What's up, Cap?"

He described h