Chapter 9

Aaron and Theta stepped out of the TARDIS. The planet was lush and green, it had lots of trees, and a warm climate. Three men dressed in, what looked liked Roman togas, stood near the TARDIS. One of the men stepped forward. "Welcome back Aaron," he said.

"Cojeck, how are you? I haven't seen you in a while!" Aaron said and gave Cojeck a hug.

"Indeed it has. Who are your friends?"

Aaron smiled, "This is Jack, Rose, and my brother, Theta."

The welcoming party bowed, "Welcome to Aru Orub. Please, follow us to the chambers were we can talk more comfortably."

The four fell in step behind the welcoming party. Aaron and Rose were chatting away like old friends, but Theta and Jack continuously scanned the area for any threats.

After about 15 minutes, they entered a beautiful village full of people. Cojeck led the group to a white marble building with classic Doric columns. They followed him inside to, what appeared to be, a banquet hall. A feast was set out before them on a low table and brightly colored pillows were spaced around the table on the floor. As they entered, so did the Orub's (as Jack dubbed them). Cojeck introduced them to the Protectorate, the leader of the planet.

"This is a special occasion. You arrived just in time for Kuron! Please, join us."

"We would be honored to join you."

"Aaron," Theta said in a warning tone.

"Theta," she said in a low voice. "This is an important event, we can't insult these people."

"You know how dangerous it is to sample food from planets I've never been to."

"Actually, no I don't, but I know these people. I spent over a month with them. Trust me."

The Protectorate invited them to take seats at the table, indicating were each person should sit. He split them up with two Orub's seated between them. Theta was at the head of the table, Aaron next to Cojeck and across from Rose. The Protectorate indicated a seat at the end of the table for Jack.

Theta, Rose, and Jack exchanged worried glances, but took their seats at the low table. Servant girls brought out trays of fruit, minni cakes, and pitchers of wine. After everyone had a cup full of wine, the Protectorate held up his goblet, "To a long and profitable year." The group held up their cups then hesitantly took a sip.

"Protectorate, this wine is the best wine I've ever tasted!" Jack enthused.

Rose, not the biggest wine consumer, also agreed, "Yeah, this is great!" she said and took a drink.

"Have to agree with ya there Rose," Theta said.

"Wonderful!" the Protectorate said as he clapped his hands twice, at which the servant girls returned with pitchers to refill everyone's glasses.