Fendros held his breath and tensely showed his teeth. "I don't know if that's all those rites are-...never mind. It's not important." He returned to a look of concern. "I appreciate you saying as much. Still, if Hal-Neesa's 'punishment' has you worried, don't you think it's time to finish off this deal between you and stay at arms length?" He lowered his voice. "I could not bear anyone I love to be at the mercy of someone that ruthless. Especially not you again."