ZEDD
I watch my boy leave in the company of his best friend, surprised by the firmness that he showed as well as how much the two are still obviously in sync. Apparently the years apart have done nothing to their closeness. Through the link, I feel a little nervousness from him, but somehow I doubt that it has anything to do with his present companion. More likely, what will happen in his absence with the rest of us.
I sigh and turn my attention to our unwanted guests and Dar. "Well let's go then."
Silently, the four of us leave the room and head for the dining room. The door hasn't even closed behind us before I can hear Pina and Andros start talking about what he found. Hopefully it will be good news.
I frown. Eight people for dinner - where in the seven hells will we put them all? The dining room is more than large enough, but even extended the table will only seat six comfortably. Plus, how to seat everyone?
Just before we reach the dining room, Dar speaks. "Zedd, we have another table and chairs in one of the storage rooms just like the set that's in the dining room - perhaps we should get that first. Another few minutes won't damage dinner and we need the seating."
We change direction, followed by the others. Nothing was said as we retrieved the additional furniture. The silence was making me uncomfortable, but better that than for someone to say something stupid, I suppose. A short time later, we have the table and chairs set up and Dar has disappeared into the kitchen to check on the food.
Suddenly, Zordon speaks. "Maybe there is another way."
I look at him curiously. Dar addresses him. "Talk and work. Zedd and Rita set the table and Zordon come help me move food. We'll leave the kitchen door open so that everyone can hear."
I roll my eyes, but move to acquire the eating utensils as Rita takes a stack of plates from Dar. As we begin our assigned chores, Zordon continues. "The base problem here as I see it is that you, Zedd, are not comfortable with the call to the Keeper being made from our ship." As I nod, he speaks again. "Our problem is that we are entrusted with the means to reach the Keeper and we aren't comfortable with you having access to it."
Dar speaks up. "I think I see where you're going with this. The visiting Rangers are trustworthy enough that you could share access with them, but we wouldn't be worried about them taking off with him."
"Exactly." Zordon nods. "For this purpose, they could be considered a neutral party."
"Provided Andros agrees, of course." I mention. "Plus, his ship is large enough for us all to be there if necessary. Thomas might be more comfortable that way."
I pause briefly as I notice that Rita hesitates before agreeing. At the same time, I feel Thomas' unease. Before I can react, it fades and I relax. He seems to be handling his emotions better without shutting down. I can feel the undercurrents of other emotions, but decide to pay them no attention for the time being.
