Ryan's battle cruiser entered Imperial space as Medart's little courier had entered Sandeman: all lights on, and broadcasting its identity. They were expected; after the second broadcast of the duel, Bryan of Alanna had declared peace and announced both Clan Levva's investigation of their Imperial heritage and Clan Vader's intention of returning Medart's effects. The reply had been a cautious welcome, along with the information that unless and until they did accept Imperial citizenship they would be met and escorted. That seemed reasonable, so the Sandemans had agreed; Ryan wasn't at all surprised that his ship was met by the IBC Emperor Barton, or that Ranger Ariel invited him and Nevan aboard.
The two went alone, without the escort that normally accompanied a clan-chief anywhere outside his clan's territory. Ryan had decided to use his cruiser because it seemed proper to return James' little courier ship as well as his personal belongings; when they landed the tiny Imperial vessel aboard its huge sister ship, they were met by an honor guard of Marines in what Medart had described as their "ceremonials," what they called dress blues. The Marines escorted them directly from the lander bay to a room with a semi-circular table facing a large viewscreen, where Ariel was waiting.
She rose to greet them. "Welcome to the Empire, gentles. I understand you came to return Ranger Medart's effects in person; that was considerate of you."
"We do so to honor Prince James," Ryan said. "And it would seem we grant him greater honor than you do. He owed this universe nothing, since he was pulled without consent from his own; he had every right to refuse you any service. Yet he endured much pain and finally lost his life in the effort to preserve you and give us new opportunities."
Ariel nodded, and Ryan was pleased to see she had the grace to look regretful. "We didn't want to draft anyone, but you were pushing us so hard we didn't see any alternative—you'd already cost us half our Rangers and best magicians."
"That's no excuse," Nevan said. "What if his own universe needed him, perhaps to fight the Ravagers he told us about? What if it needs him in the future, after you brought him here to his death?"
"If you're trying to make me feel guilty," Ariel said, "you're too late. As soon as I saw your broadcast of his duel and the mercy Clan-chief Ryan gave him, I contacted His Majesty; I'll be delivering Ranger Medart's belongings and your tape personally to his Emperor—and I will remain in Alpha Prime to take his place. It will be difficult functioning without magic, but most universes manage; I'll learn to cope."
Nevan bowed, his expression chagrined. "In that case I spoke too hastily, Highness. Will you accept my apology?"
"Of course, warrior." Ariel paused, then looked wistful. "Once I get there, I doubt very much I'll be able to find out what's going on back here—can you give me any idea whether or not the Sandemans here will accept citizenship?"
Nevan glanced at Ryan, then turned back to the Ranger. "I can't speak for anyone else, Highness, but James' actions in bringing peace, and now your willingness to take his place, have made my own decision easy. I wish to accept citizenship and apply for a position in whatever segment of your military is most likely to see combat."