"What would you say to them?" he asked instead of lecturing her.
"I would just talk to them. I'm curious, and it's absurd I'm not allowed to talk to anyone! I'm not sure what you or he is afraid of. I'd like to know who is visiting and why, where they're from."
"You're seeking my permission to speak to the visitors," he summarized, gauging her reaction. Nishani's eyes narrowed, and she clenched her jaw. She was independent, an odd contrast given that she was far too delicate to defend herself if left to face the planet's dangers on her own.
"Yes," she grated, displeased.
"You have it, nishani."
"Thanks, I think. How far away are you?"
"Half a day," he answered.
"You're returning?"
"Yes."
"Did you win your battles?"
"I did." He was puzzled by the question given that she had written most of the plans. She should already know he won.
"That's good. Will you stay long, or do you go to fight again?" she asked.
"I will meet with members of the Council. They should arrive there before the suns set, and I shortly after. I'm not certain how long I'll stay," he replied.
"When you go again, I'd like to go with you." The odd request made him pause. At his lack of response, she continued, "Ne'Rin disagrees. Your sisters don't like the idea either, but I would really like to go with you. I wouldn't get in the way. I can take care of myself for the most part, and wouldn't mind rough conditions."
"No, nishani," he replied. The thought of her in rough conditions or battle met instant instinctual resistance. "You will stay where it is safe."
She hesitated, then ignored the warning edge in his voice. "You don't stay where it is safe, and you're the only remaining dhjan."
A'Ran gazed at her silently, making his disapproval clear.
"We'll have to agree to disagree," she relented. "But I don't consider this matter to be closed."
Her directness and pure courage-- there was no other word for her insubordinate address!-- amazed him. He understood why Ne'Rin had refused to allow her to wear the translator with visitors.
"Nishani," he said with a shake of his head. "You are too bold."
"How else would I speak to you?" she asked. "And if I'm not allowed to speak my mind to you, who do I speak it to?"