"I did!" Corina said emphatically, trying to imitate Sunbeam's gaiety.
"The things you humans ingest and claim to enjoy, it is a wonder that
you survive at all."
"It's not that bad," Sunbeam said, still amazing Corina with her
ability to eat and talk simultaneously--and neatly. "You remember
Major Dawson, don't you, Sir Corina? His name's Pat; we got to talking
while you were hassling with Colonel Greggson. He's going to coach me
in unarmed combat--he's the ship's men's champion, since Lieutenant
DarLeras says it wouldn't be proper for him to compete with
non-warriors--and he thinks I may have a chance at the women's
championship next month."
"You must be quite good, then," Corina said.
"What hassle with Greggson?" Medart demanded.
"It was nothing serious," Corina said, and summarized the incident for
him. "I was nervous, but not badly upset."
"That's good," Medart said, then continued silently. *Maybe it doesn't
bother you, but it does me. I'll let it go for now, since His
Majesty's already warned him and I have a feeling we may need his
shield, but if he tries anything else, I want to know about it right
away.*