l looking down.
"His body should be returned to his Empire, but we haven't the
facilities. Kelly, would you see to preparing him for burial?"

"Of course, Chief. In our memorial garden?"

"He deserves it, yes--with the warrior caste. But keep out his saber
and badge; I'm going to take them to this Empire and ask that the one
who brought him here return them, along with a copy of the tape of this
duel. His people should know how and why he died."

"Yes, they should."

Ryan turned at the unfamiliar voice, to see the warrior Nevan. He'd
been healed, though his clothing still showed the effects of battle.
"I'm pleased you agree, warrior. Now that the combat is over, I'm free
to tell you he knew your avatar in his home universe, and claimed him
as battle-companion of a century's standing."

Nevan smiled. "From what I learned of him during our duel, I would
willingly acknowledge such a bond. I ask permission to accompany you
on the mission to return his belongings to his people."

"Granted, warrior. Will you be Vader's guest until we leave?"

"I would be honored, Chief."

* * * * *

Ryan's battle cruiser entered Imperial space as Medart's little courier
had entered Sandeman: all lights on, and broadcasting its identity.
They were expected; after the second broadcast of the duel, Bryan of
Alanna had declared peace and announced both Clan Levva's investigation
of their Imperial heritage and Clan Vader's intention of returning
Medart's effects. The reply had been a cautious welcome, along with
the information that unless and until they did accept Imperial
citizenship they would be met and escorted. That seemed reasonable, so
the Sandemans had agreed; Ryan wasn't at all surprised that his ship
was met by the IBC Emperor Barton, or that Ranger Ariel invited him and
Nevan aboard.

The two went alone, without the escort that normally accompanied a
clan-chief anywhere outside his clan's territory. Ryan had decided to
use his cruiser because it seemed proper to return James' little
courier ship as well as his personal belongings; when they landed the
tiny Imperial vessel aboard its huge sister ship, they were met by an
honor guard of Marines in what Medart had described as their
"ceremonials," what they called dress blues. The Marines escorted them
directly from the lander bay to a room with a semi-circular table
facing a large viewscreen, where Ariel was waiting.

She rose to greet