"Take my starrail," Dax said, his voice firm and unyielding, brooking no argument.
The faint glow of the dock lights caught in his eyes as he continued, "That way, Female Master Rory can travel in comfort—and without unnecessary risk. Once I've finished dealing with Sylas Ruan, I'll come find you."
He didn't wait for a response. With the decisiveness that had always defined him, Dax turned and strode away, his footsteps echoing briefly before fading into the hum of the station. There was no hesitation in his departure, no backward glance—only resolve.
As soon as he was gone, Jasper exhaled, the tension he hadn't realized he was holding finally loosening its grip. He pivoted and headed upstairs, his pace measured but purposeful. Rory would need to be woken, and he knew she wouldn't appreciate being rushed.
He stopped outside her door, lifting his hand. For a brief moment, he hesitated—then knocked.
Knock. Knock. Knock.
Nothing.
