"I should be the one to apologize," she replied, continuing when she sensed his surprise. "It should not have been necessary for you to point out what honor requires of me. I suppose I knew, but was unwilling to face it."
"Don't let that bother you. It's not going to be either easy or fun, and none of us blame you for being reluctant."
"No, it will not be either," she agreed. "Thark is quite powerful. It is entirely possible that he will kill both of us."
"What're the odds?"
"Not good. I estimate I have perhaps one chance in five of defeating him, perhaps less."
Medart whistled. "That's bad. It doesn't change things, though; I'd have done the same thing even if I'd known the odds earlier."
"Having been in your mind, I am sure of that." Corina attempted a purr, with little success. "Nor would I expect otherwise from one in your position. You may phrase it differently, but honor compels you, also."
VII
As soon as they left the briefing room and were going toward one of the intraship shuttles, Medart said, "I'd like to start that other training you mentioned as soon as possible. When can we do it, and is there anything special you need?"