She rolled her eyes. He started past her, then paused, returning to her side to remove the translator from her ear. She said nothing and turned to watch them jog back to the house. Satisfied they were gone, she withdrew the spare in her pocket, placed it at her earlobe, and moved forward to greet the visitor.
The guest watched her as she approached, and she recognized the distinct features of A'Ran's family. He was much older with a full head of silver hair, a similar shade of dark eyes, and a lean build. His gaze was just as intense, his brow low, but his features not as heavy as A'Ran's.
She didn't doubt he was a relative. She paused before him, resisting the instinct to stick out her hand for a handshake. The guest was relaxed, his penetrating gaze calm and weary.
"May the suns long grace you, gentle lady," he said in a quiet, gravelly voice.
"And you," she responded. "May I escort you inside?"
He inclined his head. They started toward the house.
"I'm Kiera," she said.
"I am Mansr. Normally I am greeted by a member of my clan." There was weariness in his voice that disarmed any offense he felt.
"Where are you coming from?" she asked.
"From Anshan central."
"Where there's a war?" She looked at him more closely. "Is this what tires you?"
"Yes to both, gentle lady," he said. "I bring news to the dhjan of his people."
"The cease-fire must make it easier to travel," she observed, recalling the enemy positions around the spacecraft launch sites. "I believe your regular launch sites have been well covered by the enemy. You may not have made it out otherwise."
Surprised, he looked at her more fully.
"How are … the people?" she asked. "Aside from the battles."
"War-torn and weary."
"I would like to travel there."
"It is not a place for one such as you."
She looked up at him, unable to determine his tone. His face was unreadable, but the skin around his eyes had softened with warmth.
"I think I could help," she said. "And I can take care of myself."
Sort of, she added. If what A'Ran said was true, her presence would stop the suffering of his people. Maybe, just maybe, after that happened, he would let her go home.
"Is the Council still in residence?" he asked.