them. "Welcome to the Empire, gentles. I understand
you came to return Ranger Medart's effects in person; that was
considerate of you."

"We do so to honor Prince James," Ryan said. "And it would seem we
grant him greater honor than you do. He owed this universe nothing,
since he was pulled without consent from his own; he had every right to
refuse you any service. Yet he endured much pain and finally lost his
life in the effort to preserve you and give us new opportunities."

Ariel nodded, and Ryan was pleased to see she had the grace to look
regretful. "We didn't want to draft anyone, but you were pushing us so
hard we didn't see any alternative--you'd already cost us half our
Rangers and best magicians."

"That's no excuse," Nevan said. "What if his own universe needed him,
perhaps to fight the Ravagers he told us about? What if it needs him
in the future, after you brought him here to his death?"

"If you're trying to make me feel guilty," Ariel said, "you're too
late. As soon as I saw your broadcast of his duel and the mercy
Clan-chief Ryan gave him, I contacted His Majesty; I'll be delivering
Ranger Medart's belongings and your tape personally to his Emperor--and
I will remain in Alpha Prime to take his place. It will be difficult
functioning without magic, but most universes manage; I'll learn to
cope."

Nevan bowed, his expression chagrined. "In that case I spoke too
hastily, Highness. Will you accept my apology?"

"Of course, warrior." Ariel paused, then looked wistful. "Once I get
there, I doubt very much I'll be able to find out what's going on back
here--can you give me any idea whether or not the Sandemans here will
accept citizenship?"

Nevan glanced at Ryan, then turned back to the Ranger. "I can't speak
for anyone else, Highness, but James' actions in bringing peace, and
now your willingness to take his place, have made my own decision easy.
I wish to accept citizenship and apply for a position in whatever
segment of your military is most likely to see combat."

Ryan nodded agreement. "My responsibilities as clan-chief prevent me
from joining the military, but I concur with the warrior Nevan: I also
wish to accept citizenship, and I will recommend to my clan and the
other chiefs that they do so as well."

"Thank you both. That's a considerable relief." Ariel smiled at them.
"I'm looking forward, now, to working with your counterparts in my new
home. I have the transfer spel