“I am sorry we can’t stay longer,” Theo said, clasping Mal’s hand. “But business is business.”

“We won’t be dirtside much more ourselves.” Mal shrugged. “We need work, and all these extra mouths to feed …”

Theo laughed. “Ah, the problems of having a big family.”

“Ain't it just.”

“And don’t tell me you’re intending to stop at two yourself.”

Mal smirked. “I'm captain. I get to do what I like. Comes with the territory.”

“It does.” Theo gazed at the younger man. “Will you at least think about what I told you? Consider coming in on the right side, if the time comes?” He was trying not to wheedle, but his tone came close.

“I'm not sure the time’ll ever come.”

Theo noted the set line of Mal’s mouth, the determination in his eyes. “As I said before, you’re stubborn.”

“And it’s kept me and mine alive for a long while, Theo.” He sighed. “Look. There are others … people who’re pretty much of the same mind as you, people who might …” Mal stopped. “You let me know if you hear anything. Anything more’n rumours. I’ll pass it on. ‘N’ I’ll do the same back. That’s about all I can promise.”

“It’s more than I expected,” Theo said frankly.

“Had me a good night last night.”

“And a conversation with your wife?”

Mal grinned. “Frey’s always made me see sense. Well, most of the time.”

“I think that’s what wives are for, Mal.” Theo chuckled. “As well as for making us go grey.”

“Hey, speak for yourself,” he protested, then grinned. “But you got that right.” They shook again. “So you keep to our agreement, and don’t go getting involved in anything might hurt Noni, okay?”

“I promise.” Theo let go and stood back. “And you keep your family safe.”

“I intend to.”

The actor strode back to his ship, where Hermione was waiting in the hatchway, waving frantically to all the people outside the house. She moved aside to let Theo in, but was immediately back.

“Bye, Uncle Mal!” she shouted. “See you soon!”

“Be good,” he called above the sound of the Cressida’s eng