Chapter 16 review And here we see what appears to be Dakbar orchestrating a hit on Desan. The chapter seems to suggest that this was intended by Dakbar as a way to protect himself from potential discovery by Desan. As horrible as this is, it's still a more palatable explanation than Dakbar working for Desan's arch-nemesis. How quickly Rychel and Desan's roles become reversed. Never a dull moment aboard Talon!
Chapter 17 review Desan appears to lead a very complicated life, and one wonders at the casual stride in which he takes a very nearly lethal attack. Now that he's survived Dakbar's attempt, Desan will doubtless become a more profound presence in Rychel's life, not less... which means the Cardassian's plan backfired entirely.
Chapter 18 review: Holy cow, what an assignment! And have these kids ever heard of an anti-grav platform or body harness? Old-fashioned ropes under these circumstances seem outlandishly dangerous… but then the whole damn mission seems like a suicide pact! Still, Rychel’s demonstrated a great deal of courage in the face of a bad situation. I hope she pulls off her escape without suffering too many more wounds, either physical or psychological.
Chapter 19 review: Rychel acquitted herself well in that fight, and demonstrated that she’s got the command chops to get the job done. And here’s conflicted Dakbar, hating her, loving her, and reveling in her ferocity all at the same time. And juuuuust when they were about to have a moment… the damned transporter chief gets in the way!
Chapter 20 review: In the after action 'glow' we see Rychel taking satisfaction in a job well done. Dakbar is likewise impressed with her, and for once, he is able to restrain the dark half of his soul for long enough to commit to the physical intimacy the two of them have been attempting for months.
I'm late to the party, but finished chapter 6, and this is phenomenal. High praise to the authors. Riveting.