<<Think that'll work?>> Terenia asks, shifting back into control as Mike propels them away. She resists the urge to look behind her every few seconds, to see if the Andalite is following.
Efaen's stalk eyes narrow as one shifts to the retreating figure of Mike and the other remains focused on Serid. The Andalite nothlit is correct, of course, and that fact irritates her. She should be able to trust her own people, to depend on their word. Yet the only true Andalite in a position of power on the bar has shown himself to be a traitor.
<This is a sad galaxy we live in, aristh,> Efaen says with genuine remorse. The next words that she delivers are delivered privately. <<I do not know where you will fall in this war, aristh Serid, but I ask you a favor. On your honor, if our people request any information regarding my whereabouts you deny that this conversation never occurred. This is not a favor for the rebellion. Our cause will only benefit if our people know that I am using the rebellion for information pertinent to the war effort. Either deny your knowledge of me or ensure them that they would be at a disadvantage searching for me. When I have enough information to topple this so called rebellion I will find a way to contact them.>>
Efaen takes a deep breath, turning towards the path Mike followed. He has gained some distance, but that is not a problem for Andalite legs. She can feel the weight of the war settling on her shoulders in light of her decision, and she stands straighter, welcoming the challenge.
<I sacrifice myself,> Efaen says to Serid, <for the good of The People.>
She takes off at an easy trot in Mike's direction.
