Deep down, in the place where Kason locked up any emotion, a small flicker of indecision flashed. Ryven was more Kason’s brother than his real-life brother, Keltor.
Yet to contain Ryven on the ship would be like a slap in the face; the honor of protecting a prince such as Kason was the highest form of trust to one of the Kelderan people.
Locking down his emotions, Kason followed his logical brain. “You may attend. But on-planet, you become a soldier. I can’t treat you as my friend.”
Ryven put out a hand and Kason shook it to seal their agreement. “I’m aware of protocol. I teach it day in and day out. But I will be the best damned soldier of the group. And if it comes to it, I will push you out of the way to protect your life.”
Kason released his friend’s hand. “I won’t let it come to that.”
“Good. When shall we rendezvous?”
Glancing at the small screen projecting an image of the multicolored planet, he answered, “Nine hours. That will give all of us a chance to sleep before performing the prebattle ritual. You can lead the men through their meditation and warm-up maneuvers after that.”
Ryven nodded. “I’ll see you then.”
The trainer exited the room, and Kason turned toward his private viewing screen to study the planet rumored to host the most feared monster in the region. One that had supposedly taken hundreds of men’s lives over the years. The story was always the same—a small contingent of men disappeared from any group that landed on the surface. No one remembered how they were captured or if they were even alive. Anytime a second party landed, a few more would be taken.
Over time, the planet had earned a reputation. Even the most adventure-seeking ruffians had stayed away.
However, Kason dismissed it as folklore. Whatever was on that planet, he wouldn’t allow it to defeat him or his men. Kason would bring honor to his family with a victory. He also hoped to give his people the gift of a new planet. Keldera was overpopulated, and its resources were stretched beyond the limit. The Kelderans desperately needed a new colony and hadn’t been able to locate one that was suitable. The planet on the view screen showed all the signs of being a near-perfect fit.
Even if the fiercest monster in existence resided on that planet, Kason wouldn’t retreat from an enemy. Death was an accepted part of being a Kelderan soldier.
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