The Temporal Void

Inigo's Eighth Dream

Edeard awoke to the marvel of soft fingers caressing his abdomen. It was a lovely sensation matched to the warmth of the supple mattress, the touch of fresh cotton sheets, the fading blossom scent of Jessile's perfume. He smiled, his eyes still closed as he sighed a delighted welcome to the new day. A kiss fell on his cheek. Her nose nuzzled his ear. His smile widened, and the possessive hand slipped along his skin, past his belly button, and further yet. Jessile giggled.

'Now that's what I call rising to greet the dawn, she murmured lecherously.

The other girl giggled as well.

Edeard's eyes snapped open. Memories came flooding back. Just to confirm them, Kristiana was lying on his other side watching him and Jessile with covetous intent, her flimsy white negligee far too small to contain her full figure even if the lace bows down the front had been fastened. He recalled how enjoyable it had been undoing those bows last night.

A weak 'Haaaa, was all Edeard could manage.

'Me first, Jessile insisted, her sharp teeth emphasising the claim on his earlobe.

Kristiana produced a reproving pout. 'Don't forget me, Waterwalker.

Edeard couldn't answer. Jessile's kiss had now engulfed his month. He folded his arms around her as she slithered on top of him. The memories of last night gained texture, and he remembered her delight and exactly how to cause it. His hands moved in the way which made her shudder helplessly, then he applied his third hand just so.

For the last three weeks, as autumn embraced Makkathran, Edeard had learned how to harness his telekinetic ability in the bedroom to the best possible advantage. Another arena of life in which poor old Ashwell lagged far behind the sophisticated decadence of the city. But he hadn't lacked for girls eager to teach him the most intimate secrets of this darkest art. His fame and strength had proved irresistible to the beautiful mischievous daughters of the nobility. They relished demonstrating their ill-gotten skill, almost as much as he enjoyed being the beneficiary. He never was sure exactly who was corrupting who.

'I've never seen steps into a bathing pool before, Kristiana remarked as she walked down into the bubble-coated water. 'We have these awful wooden ladder things hanging on the side in all the pools in Great-grandfather's mansion. Her hand stroked Edeard's face as she sat on the seat shelf beside him. 'This is much better.

'There are quite a few pools in the constables' tenement that have steps like these, Edeard assured her, confident she wouldn't be going in any to find out.

'Not fair you've got them and we haven't, Jessile complained. She pouted. Jessile had a very pretty pout, Edeard decided. It certainly got her just about everything she wanted.

He relaxed between them, which spoke volumes about how his life had changed since that day in Birmingham Pool. On several evenings, there had been fights in the theatres over who got to bed him — such reputable girls, too. He'd never really considered what kind of life popularity would bring. And he had enough of his dour Ashwell upbringing left to convince himself it wouldn't last. But in the meantime…

At his instruction, a ge-chimp brought two sponges and a bottle of soap oil to the rim of the pool. 'Would you do my back? he asked, and leaned forward.

Both girls took a sponge. Even with shielded thoughts, they clearly didn't have cleanliness in mind as they began to apply the liquid with languid movements.

'What are you doing tonight? Jessile asked.

'Celebrating, I hope, Edeard told her. It was the last day of Arminel's trial; his verdict was a formality. At least Edeard sincerely hoped so, but then he'd thought that last time. That good old Ashwell optimism again. The trial was the biggest event in Makkathran, and had been for the last four days as the opposing lawyers presented their respective cases. Only the grandest of the city's aristocracy managed to get into the public gallery; everyone else relied on sight and sound gifting from the official court recorder. 'How about you?

'My fiance will be back from patrol this afternoon, she told him. 'Eustace is a lieutenant in the militia. Guarding our borders, she added with a large dollop of irony.

'Ah, Edeard said. He glanced at her left hand, seeing a slim silver band like twined vines. A single diamond was set in its crest.

She bent round to look at his expression. 'That doesn't bother you, does it? You're the Waterwalker.

'No. Not worried. He did wonder what kind of marriage it would be, a thought which must have shone through his shielding.

'I'm a third daughter, Jessile said with a kindly smile. 'We're marrying because after twenty-three years I'll finally get out of the family mansion; and he gets a dowry to live off. Poor boy's a fifth son of the family Norrets' second son, which entitles him to a big slice of nothing. Daddy's promised me an estate in Walton province; they say it has a nice big house.

'That's why you're marrying?

'Of course. She paused the sponge on the top of his spine. 'I know I'm going to miss Makkathran, but I suppose I'll get used to country life. I'll visit the city every season.

'What about love? he asked.

Both girls smiled delightedly, letting wistful admiration flow free from behind their own veiled thoughts.

'You're so sweet, Jessile said. 'That's one of the things about you. I can sense it so easily. We all can. You're just endlessly fascinating. Is it true the first time the Pythia met you she said you'd be Mayor?

'What? No! She said no such thing. He struggled to remember what she had said.

'I'd like you to meet my friend Ranalee, Kristiana said. 'She's a Gilmorn, they're a merchant family. Horribly rich. She's a second daughter, very marriageable; and she's expressed, in complete confidence to me, how strongly she'd enjoy knowing you.

'Uh, right.

Kristiana stood up in front of him, wiping long damp hair from her shoulders with deliberate slow movements. 'She's pretty, too; and young, in case you were wondering. If I introduce you, we could all celebrate together tonight.

Edeard found himself short of breath.

Boyd was waiting outside Edeard's maisonette, wearing a long fur-lined coat over his smartest uniform. A slushy rain was dribbling out of an overcast sky, damping his hair. He started to say something, then stopped abruptly as Kristiana and Jessilo emerged just behind Edeard. The girls were swathed in long woollen wraps, as were currently fashionable. They just about covered up their expensive theatre dresses.

'Ladies, Edeard said courteously.

They both smiled demurely, and allowed him to kiss them on the cheek.

'Don't forget, Kristiana said. 'Tonight. Me and Ranalee.

Boyd watched in awe as the girls hurried along the walkway to the stairs. They were giggling after a few paces, arms linked, their heads leaning in together to not-quite-whisper.

'The Alrado theatre in Zelda district, Kristiana's longtalk shot at him.

'I'll be there, Edeard smiled happily at their departing backs.

'Two! Boyd exclaimed once the girls were clattering down the stairs.

Edeard knew his smile was now boastful. Didn't care.

'Lady! How do you do it. Step aside Macsen, the new king is on his throne.

'How was Saria? Edeard countered. 'Wasn't last night your fifth?

'Ninth, actually. Boyd's grin turned sinful. 'She's a Matran, you know, sixth daughter of their next District Master.

'Good for you, Edeard said. He still didn't really know his way around Makkathran's aristocracy; though he'd certainly met an awful lot of the younger members recently.

'She let slip she'd be acceptable to a proposal. Can you imagine that? Me, the son of a baker marrying into the Matrans!

'Is it so unusual?

Boyd slapped Edeard's back. 'Oh you country boy!

Edeard wondered what his friend would have to say on the subject of a second daughter in the Gilmorn family. Right from the beginning he'd thought the city's obsession with lineage and money to be unhealthy, as if such considerations were paramount. Of course, it might just be that Ranalee was a lovely person as well. Only one way to find out.

They made their way across the low bridge over the Outer circle canal and into the Majate district. Arminel's trial was being conducted in the central chamber of the Courts of Justice, the largest there was. Outside, the walls of the big ante hall were punctured by a series of deep arriere-voussure arches leading to the offices of the judiciary and their clerks. A lot of people in fine robes were already gathered there waiting when Edeard and Boyd arrived. Edeard respectfully acknowledged the looks cast in his direction as they made their way over to the cluster of constables around captain Ronark. He recognized several members of the Upper Council; Imilan the chemistry Guild's Grand Master, Dalceen, the District Master of Fiacre, Julan, District Master of Haxpen, and Finitan of course, who at least seemed genuinely welcoming with the sly grin he shot at Edeard.

'About time, Kanseen said as they joined the constables. 'We're about to go in. There was the faintest hint of suspicion leaking through her guarded mind. Edeard reckoned that was deliberate, she usually had a very strong shield. She never voiced any dismay at the success he was having with girls right now, but he knew it bothered her. In any case, he knew she'd had numerous invitations from various Grand Family sons; though that would more likely be a cause of annoyance for her.

'They wouldn't start without him, Macsen teased.

'I've given my testimony, Edeard said with a straight face. 'I don't really need to be here.

She pulled a face at him.

'And yet your ego delivered you here in time, Macsen said, equally innocently. 'How fortunate we all are.

'Any word on Dinlay? Edeard asked, ignoring Macsen's taunt. He was slightly disappointed their squadmate wasn't at the Courts of Justice. When they'd all visited Dinlay last, just a couple of days ago, the doctors had said he was almost ready to leave the hospital. It would be light duties only for another month or so, but the bullet wound was healing well.

'Bit much to expect him to be here as soon as he's out, Captain Ronark said. 'He'll probably start tomorrow.

'Yes, sir, Macsen said.

'Here we go, Sergeant Chae said.

Master Solarin from the Guild of Lawyers emerged from the nearest archway, assisted as always by a couple of ge-monkeys. After the debacle of Arminel's previous trial, Edeard had asked Captain Ronark if the district station could retain their old legal tutor as prosecuting council this time. To his surprise, the captain had agreed. But then as everyone in the whole city knew, this time Arminel and his cohorts were going to be found very very guilty. It was just that Edeard felt more comfortable with Solarin prosecuting. At least the ancient lawyer knew how to present a case, and wouldn't succumb to any procedural tricks employed by the defence.

'All waiting for me? Master Solarin said cheerfully. 'How very flattering. Come along then, let us do battle one last time.

The clerk of the court appeared at the big doors leading to the central chamber. 'The case of Makkathran versus Arminel, Gustape, Falor, Harri and Omasis is called to session, he announced loudly.

Master Solarin made his painfully slow way to the central chamber, with everyone else falling into place behind him, as tradition dictated.

Once again Master Cherix had been retained as Arminel's defence council. He followed the constables in, accompanied by two junior lawyers, seemingly unperturbed by the stature of the case.

'Wish I could afford him, Boyd whispered to Edeard and Kanseen as they made their way to their seats. 'In fact, if I ever do get arrested, I'm going to ask for him.

'When you get arrested, you mean, Kanseen smiled back.

Edeard grinned. But Boyd was right. Even with an open and shut case, Cherix had been flawless in his presentation, citing Edeard's provocation, the grudge between Arminel and Edeard, inflamed tension, the panic on the day; doing his best to mitigate the ultimate sentence.

'They had to have someone that good, Chae said as the squad settled in their benches. 'It's politics. The trial must be seen as fair.

When the central chamber was filled to capacity, the clerk trilled for silence, and the three judges walked in.

The day before the trial began, Solarin had told them that Owain, the Mayor himself, would take the role of chief judge of the proceedings. It was a very rare event for the Mayor to sit in court, even though his office was the head of the judiciary. Edeard somehow hadn't been surprised. Politics. Again. The city wanted to see the gang members punished. And there was an election in the spring. The nature of the case gave Owain the perfect justification to step in.

Owain and his two fellow judges called the court to order, and requested the closing statements from both councils.

Edeard listened with a growing sense of excitement, maybe even a sense of suspense. It was a foregone conclusion, Solarin's relentless speech made that perfectly clear, expertly demolishing the mitigating circumstances Cherix had so carefully built up. But even so, Cherix almost made Edeard feel sorry for Arminel, a life led astray through no fault of his own, dreadful childhood, abandoned by parents, fallen into crime because the city didn't care…

Surely they won't fall for this? As he looked at the faces of the judges, they were totally impassive, their minds perfectly shielded.

After the submissions, Owain announced a recess so the judges could consider their verdict. Edeard and the others found themselves back out in the ante hall again, trying not to let their feelings leak to everyone else.

Grand Master Finitan came over to talk to them. 'Any doubts about the outcome? he asked quietly. 'You seem subdued.

'No sir, Edeard said. 'But Cherix is good.

'He has to be. The Grand Council can't afford any accusation of bias.

'Politics.

'You are becoming a proper citizen of Makkathran, aren't you?

'I do my best, sir.

'I know. Finitan drew him away from the other constables. 'Then consider this; the offer you will be made after the case is over is not about ability, it is made to test you.

'Sir?

'If you accept, it will show you understand the city's politics, and indicate you play by the same rules as the rest of us. If you refuse, if you claim you're not worthy, or wish to demonstrate your humility before the Lady, or something along those lines, then you're telling everyone you're a dangerous idealist.

'Yes, sir, Edeard said blankly; he didn't have a clue what the Grand Master was talking about.

'You have my blessing either way. But it has to be your own choice. I would simply to ask you to consider what you can accomplish on the outside looking in. Think about it.

'I will sir.

Finitan patted Edeard on the shoulder, and went back to the group of Masters from the Grand Council.

'What was that about? Macsen asked.

'I haven't got the faintest idea.

The three judges took two hours to deliberate. When the court was recalled, Arminel and his four fellow accused were made to stand as Owain read out the findings.

On extortion all five accused were found guilty.

On conspiracy: guilty.

On the attempted murder of two constables, a charge levelled at Arminel alone, he was found guilty.

Arminel kept his face and mind composed the whole time. Edeard was expecting the man to at least glance in his direction, but his resolve never wavered.

Owain then put a square of scarlet drosilk on his head. Edeard finally saw Arminel tense up.

Gustape, Falor, Harri and Omasis were sentenced to twenty years in the Trampello mine. They were led away to the holding cells. Arminel stood alone, facing the three judges.

"The crimes you have been found guilty of are exceptional, Owain declared. 'I don't believe that I have ever encountered such deliberate wickedness in my time on the Grand Council. To compound this, you have constantly refused to cooperate with the constables and tell them the names of other members in your vile criminal organization. While this might earn you their gratitude, it does nothing to encourage leniency on my part. We have never had the death penalty on Querencia. For this you can thank the Lady, who in her wisdom believes that there is no human soul which cannot be redeemed. However, I see no sign that your salvation is possible. As a consequence I find myself with no alternative but to sentence you to incarceration in the Trampello mines for the remainder of your life. May the Lady bless your soul upon its ascent into the radiant heavens, for no one else will. He banged the gavel. 'This court is concluded.

The spectators filed out of the central chamber while Edeard and his squadmates sat on their benches in a mild daze.

'Wow, Macsen said.

'Life, Boyd said.

'That's just about unheard of, Kanseen said.

Master Solarin turned to face the constables. 'I believe the last case where a life sentence was issued was forty-two years ago: the Golden Park Ripper. A most unpleasant individual. Before your time, of course. For that you may consider yourselves lucky.

'Wow, Macsen said again.

'Congratulations, young man, Master Solarin said, and put his hand out.

Edeard took the old man's grip gently. 'Thank you, sir. You got the verdict for us.

'I didn't have much work to do, thanks to your extraordinary gift. I wish you luck in your future endeavours. It has been a privilege to be your legal instructor. But to use an ancient phrase, I think you have outgrown me now.

'Oh no, sir. I'm hoping for a lot more cases.

'And you'll get them, of that I'm in no doubt. And I'm not the only one, it would seem. Do you see the gentleman over there? His gnarled finger pointed with only a slight tremor.

Edeard and the others glanced in the direction the old lawyer indicated. They saw a man in a flamboyant blue jacket and grey drosilk shirt making his way along the main aisle. He was probably approaching the end of his first century, yet still hale and healthy, with thick brown hair hanging over his collar, only a few strands of which were turning to silver. He had heavy gold rings on every finger, and loops of gold chain round his neck. His face was fattening, the result of many years of good living. Even so, he looked physically powerful. He was watching them with pale-green eyes that were overshadowed by a broad forehead. Some accident or fight long ago had left him with a jaw that was unable to close straight, giving him slightly lopsided features. His whole appearance was one of a successful, self-confident merchant. As if to confirm this, he was accompanied by two beautiful girls who wore expensive dresses and a lot of jewellery. They were several years younger than Kristiana, Edeard decided with a little burst of sympathy for them. Then he met the man's gaze. It was a scrutiny every bit as intense as the one the Pythia had given him all those months ago. Edeard instinctively knew there was an enmity between them, and returned the stare levelly even though he didn't know why.

'Who is that? he asked quietly.

'That, Master Solarin said with extreme distaste, 'is Captain Ivarl.

'Has he some kind of ship? Edeard asked. He was mildly put out by the way the others groaned disparagingly.

'No, Chae said. 'He doesn't own a ship, though he makes out he used to captain a merchantman. Ivarl is the owner of the House of Blue Petals.

Edeard had heard of that establishment; a bordello in the Myco district, next to Makkathran's port.

Captain Ronark had come forward to stand at Edeard's shoulder. 'If the gangs in this city can be said to have a leader, Ronark said, 'it is Ivarl. He at least likes to style himself the master of our criminal fraternity. It was probably him who sent Arminel back to ambush you.

'Ah, Edeard said. He smiled politely, and inclined his head towards the villain.

Ivarl returned the gesture, tipping his gold-topped cane in Edeard's direction. Master Cherix came up behind him, and murmured something in his ear. Ivarl smiled tightly, and came over to the constables.

'My congratulations on an exemplary case, he said. His voice was rough and Edeard suspected the injury that left his jaw askew had caused some deeper damage.

'Thank you, Edeard said with a heavy dose of irony.

'This city is so much better off without such people, Ivarl continued. 'They are cheap vermin; they bring nothing to our lives. You, though, you are an exceptional man, Constable Edeard.

'I do my best. Edeard was uncomfortably aware of the way Macsen and one of Captain Ivarl's girls were smirking at each other. He wanted to smack his friend hard.

'As do we all, Ivarl said. 'Everyone in their own small way contributes to the flow of life of this fine city. In this respect, I extend an invitation to you and your friends to enjoy the hospitality of my house.

Edeard was very aware of everyone waiting for his response. So this is what Finitan was warning me about. I've shown the gangs that not all constables are pushovers, that their usual violence doesn't work against me, so they want to see how far I'm going to take this. Politics!

He allowed an old, deeply personal, image leak from his mind: the smouldering ruins of Ashwell, with corpses protruding from the ruins.

'I haven't been down to your district of the city yet, Edeard said. 'But I'm planning on visiting soon.

Ivarl's pudgy lips pressed together in a big display of disappointment. He shrugged elaborately. 'I look forward to meeting you there, young man. He turned and walked away, a girl clinging possessively to each arm.

Only then did Edeard notice the looks the others were giving him. 'What?

Captain Ronark smiled. 'Good man, Edeard. I knew you wouldn't betray yourself.

Chae gave him an admiring grin, and walked out with the captain.

'Where was that place? Boyd asked with trepidation.

'The village I grew up in, Edeard told him.

'Lady, just seeing it frightened me.

'I wanted some emphasis. I wanted to make sure Ivarl understood.

'Oh, I think he got it. You don't have to worry on that score.

'Shame, though, Macsen said wistfully. 'Did you see the blonde one?

'You peasant, Kanseen hissed at him.

'Hey! I can make noble painful sacrifices, too, you know. You have to have standards to be a part of the Waterwalker's squad.

'Don't call me that, Edeard said wearily.

'Too late, Boyd said. 'Far too late.

It was mid-afternoon when they got back to the Jeavons constable station. They claimed their usual table in the hall, and the ge-monkeys brought over plates of sandwiches and mugs of tea. Of late the station food had improved; local shopkeepers were keen to supply the constables with their better products at reasonable prices. Grateful for the noticeable reduction in gang activity in the district.

Edeard appreciated the gesture, but it made him very aware of the expectations settling on his shoulders. And now I've seen the real enemy. Arminel might be gone, but Ivarl can send a dozen more just like him on to the streets. A hundred.

After the elation of the trial it was a sobering thought. He hadn't really changed anything, just made himself famous. And ultimately, what use is that to people?

'Result, or what? Boyd said as he picked up one of the sandwiches, a malted roll containing ham and cheese with a strong tomato chutney. He bit in contentedly.

All the other constables in the station were making a point of coming over to congratulate them on the verdict. Edeard was finally getting embarrassed by the admiration.

'Yes. A result all right, Kanseen said, picking through the rest of the sandwiches. 'But it's only one result.

'Trust you to pour on the ice water, Macsen said.

'She's right, Edeard said. 'We're going to have to do a lot more than this before the gangs even start getting worried.

'Not so. Ivarl is worried enough about the Waterwalker to crawl out from under his rock and get a firsthand look, Boyd said.

'Will you please stop calling me that?

'I thought Arminel would get thirty to forty years at least, Macsen said. 'But for the rest of his life? He's only, what, thirty? That's at least a hundred and fifty years in Trampello. It's not exactly a pavilion on the Iguru. A hundred and fifty years! Owain must really want to be re-elected.

'I'm not sorry for him, Edeard said. 'He was going to kill me.

'Because Ivarl told him to, Kanseen said.

'You think so?

'No way could he put together an ambush like that without a lot of help. He'd need permission. Ivarl must have agreed.

'Oh Lady, Macsen muttered in alarm. 'Look out.

Edeard's farsight showed him Captain Ronark leading Chief Constable Walsfol into the hall. Everyone fell silent, benches were scraped across the floor as the constables stood up. Even the ge-chimps stopped moving.

Chief Constable Walsfol walked directly over to Edeard's table. He was in his full dress uniform, an immaculate black tunic with gold buttons and scarlet epaulettes with a diamond stud. Edeard had been introduced briefly the day after he arrested Arminel; he'd actually been quite impressed with the Chief Constable. The man was in his second century, and the fact he'd fought his way to the top of the constables was evident in his manner. Walsfol was a straight talking man, secure his position was achieved through the support of the stations.

Walsfol saluted smartly. Edeard hurriedly returned the salute.

'An excellent day, Constable, Walsfol said in his clipped aristocratic accent. 'You have done this station proud.

'Thank you, sir.

Walsfol took a pair of epaulettes from his pocket. They had a single silver star on them. 'As a consequence of your bravery and actions in Birmingham Pool, I would like to offer you promotion to corporal.

It might have been Edeard's imagination, but he was sure the word 'offer' was stressed. But he was so relieved that this was the test Finitan had spoken of rather than Ivarl's crude attempt at bribery he simply said, 'Yes, sir; thank you, sir, I'd be honoured to accept.

Captain Ronark led the applause as the Chief Constable attached the epaulettes to Edeard's shoulders. Of course Finitan wasn't talking about Ivarl, Edeard chided himself, the Grand Council want to know if I'm going to support their authority. Lady! Do they think I might be a challenge to them?

Walsfol finished, and saluted again.

'Corporal Waterwalker, Macsen said, holding up his beer and laughing.

Edeard had now completely surrendered to the ribbing he was getting. They'd all wound up in the Olivan's Eagle for a few celebratory drinks, claiming a small booth in the upstairs bar where they were relatively undisturbed.

'I wonder which squads will be under your command? Kanseen mused. 'Corporals are normally in charge of three.

'Please don't team us up with Droal's lot, Boyd said. 'They're worthless crap artists, and everyone knows Vilby is on the take.

'I didn't know that, said Edeard.

'What, with all your psychic superpowers? Macsen asked.

Edeard showed him the hand gesture Obron always used to employ, only to find it summoned up a mournful nostalgia that unexpectedly made his eyes water. Obron, he would be twenty-three now …

'You're going to have to think about this, Edeard, Kanseen said. 'Seriously, they're all going to watch what you do with the promotion. It's an opportunity to put together a team of your own constables, people you know you can rely on.

'Yeah, yeah. Edeard didn't really want to think of all the responsibility which came with his new position. Unfortunately, his problem was that he couldn't stop worrying about what he should do next. Gangs and constables would both want to see what he was capable of, if he was just some strong lad from the countryside happy with the attention of all the city girls, or someone who would stand up for the law and make a difference. The Orchard Palace probably want to know as well.

'I suppose I'll have to keep you lot, he said with a grand show of reluctance.

It was Boyd's turn for the hand gesture.

'Even Dinlay? Macsen said in such a soft voice only Edeard heard him.

'Yes, Edeard said with a tiny directed longtalk. 'Even Dinlay.

Macsen scowled into his beer glass.

'And what are you going to do with this team of yours? Kanseen asked earnestly. 'It's only fifteen people, after all.

'Two months ago it was just the five of us, Edeard said calmly. 'We can shape ourselves into something useful, I'm sure. That's if Ronark will allow us. There are procedures, after all.

'Not to start with, Boyd said, uncharacteristically serious. 'You've got some momentum behind you, Waterwalker, and a great deal of goodwill. This is your chance to make something of it.

'Dear Lady, give him a beer and listen to the politician sprout forth, Edeard groaned.

'I know Makkathran, Boyd insisted. 'There's a chance here for you. He put his arms around Kanseen and Macsen. 'And we three native guides are going to make sure you don't blow that chance.

'You three, Edeard rolled his eyes, 'Great. How can we fail?

'We stick together, Macsen said. 'Always have, always will, no matter what.

'No matter what! They all drank to that.

Boyd pushed his empty glass across the table. 'And with your new corporal's pay, I believe you can afford the next round.

'Sorry, Edeard said, standing up and buttoning his tunic. 'I have an appointment at the Alrado theatre, and it's a long walk to the Zelda district.

'An appointment? Macsen inquired keenly.

'Someone from the Guild of Clerks, they're helping me with taxes.

He left to the sounds of their derisive laughter. Just as he started down the awkward curving stairs he heard Kanseen exclaim: 'No! I bought the last round.

It was cold on the streets outside Olivan's Eagle. Frost was clinging to the city's pavements, and there were flakes of snow drifting down past the bright orange lights shining out of the buildings. People wrapped in thick coats wove past Edeard as he made his way along Albie Lane towards Flight Canal. He'd thrown out a seclusion haze to ward off curious farsight, as did all Makkathran's citizens going about business they regarded as private. The effect was like a mild version of concealment.

Edeard was approaching the iron bridge over to the Haxpen district when his farsight swept over a figure for the third time. They'd been trailing him for some time, ignoring his obvious wish to be left alone. He focused on them to find it was: 'Salrana, he exclaimed.

She scurried forwards, thoughts radiant with impish delight. Almost as tall as him now, he acknowledged. Her full length dark-grey poncho coat flapped as she moved, a big hood pulled well forwards. 'You're so slow, she admonished, giggling. 'I've been following you ever since you left the tavern. If I was an assassin, you'd be dead by now. She pushed her hood back, allowing her auburn hair to flow free, and kissed him breathlessly. 'You know, I hardly recognized you with your hair so long. The city fashion suits you.

Edeard grinned back, very aware that she was still pressed up against him. He studied her face with its sharp cheeks and lovely dark brown eyes that were wide and teasing. She was gorgeous now, and because of that he kept trying to avoid her. They still longtalked every day, but he kept using the trial as an excuse for not actually meeting up. Just being with her on a cold gloomy street made him embarrassed about all the girls he'd tumbled these last few weeks, so spending a pleasant afternoon together with her would be torture.

Why? he asked himself. She's beautiful, and she wants me, and I'd adore having her in my bed and my life. We really would be the perfect couple. The only other who even comes close is Kanseen.

His hesitation was born out of some stupid notion of duty. At least that was always the excuse he gave himself. He really did feel protective towards her — and that was hardly necessary any more. It wasn't as if they were alone against the world these days. Maybe he was just afraid to change the way things were; there had been so many upheavals, she was his constant in a very unsteady life. And how she'd hate being told that. She was young and vivacious, and wanted some fun. She deserved happiness. And they would be happy together…

'Gosh, seeing me really does cheer you up, doesn't it? she mocked.

'Sorry, he smiled, pushing his emotions down below any possible farsight perception. 'It's fantastic to see you, but that just reminds me what I've got to do tonight.

'Really? she asked brightly. Her arm tucked through his, and they started to walk over the iron bridge. 'You poor thing. It must be truly terrible having to entertain Kristiana and Ranalee in your bed.

Edeard stopped in shock. 'How on Querencia did you know that?

She giggled again, delighted to have flustered him. 'Oh

Edeard, the whole city knows who's snagged the Waterwalker tonight. Kristiana has been bragging in half the saloons in town today. And you know what this city is for gossip.

'Yes, he said brokenly. Then, because he couldn't help it, he asked, 'Are people really talking about my love life?

'Talking. Singing. Writing books on it. I think they're planning a play for the ox-roast on Golden Park this New Year.

'Shut up.

She pressed him against the railing and kissed him again. Her skin was warm, soft and silky. Her scent strong. 'Will the second act be us? And the third and the fourth?

Edeard almost pushed her away. Instead, with a massive effort of will he smiled back ruefully, and turned round to lean on the rail. Then he put his arm round her. Her mind's flash of delighted surprise at the gesture was intoxicating. 'Have I been really stupid? he asked.

'Only rejecting me. The rest of it, you're just like any Grand Family son on his fifteenth birthday. You've got the run of the city, Edeard. The difference between you and them is that you earned it. People are fascinated to learn what's going to happen next; if Arminel was just a fluke, or you're truly going to be the Waterwalker.

He sighed. 'I hate that name.

'I hope… Edeard, I hope you live up to it. Did you know church attendance has gone up since Birmingham Pool? You displayed duty and honour that day, as well as courage. They're traits so sorely lacking in this city. It showed people what was absent from their own lives. It was a wonderful thing, Edeard.

He stared down into the dark water with its surface crust of slush. There were ripples near the far bank where fil-rats were nesting. A couple of gondoliers were edging their way towards them along from High Pool on the Grand Major Canal, their lamps glinting on their prows, their gondoliers harmonizing a gentle melody. 'I don't know what to do next, he confessed. 'Actually, that's not true. I know what I should do. But if I go there, if I use my talent to take on the gangs, then there'll be no turning back. Right now I can do nothing, and all the fuss will die down. But…

She hugged him back. It was a gesture more intimate than any of her flirting had ever kindled. 'You can't do that, she whispered. 'You know you can't.

'Yeah. I know that. Thank you.

'I'm just passing on the Lady's teachings, Edeard. That's what I've given my life to.

'You're such a good person, Salrana,

She leaned in playfully. 'I don't want to be. Not with you. And those family girls, they say you're a good lover.

Edeard shivered with mortification. All Makkathran is discussing that? Yet, at the same time… 'You don't want to believe everything you hear.

'Don't I? she said archly.

'Well okay, I admit that bit's true.

'Oh listen to you! She thumped him on the shoulder, then immediately pulled him in closer and kissed him again.

It was like that time back in the bottom of the well. He knew he shouldn't. But, actually, there wasn't any real reason why not. For once let the heart rule, not the mind.

A couple walked past them, farsight gently examining the young couple embracing with growing ardour. Heads turned.

'It is him, the woman whispered. 'The Waterwalker.

'And that's a Lady's Novice!

A longtalk voice was directed at a number of acquaintances: 'You'll never guess—

Edeard and Salrana broke apart smirking like scolded apprentices. They straightened their clothes and moved down the slope of the bridge to the Haxpen side.

'I'm going to get a reputation worse than Dybal, Edeard decided.

'Good camouflage. The gangs will underestimate you if they think you're just a wicked womaniser.

'Yeah, he laughed. 'Tis a terrible price. Come on, I'll walk you back to Millical House. It's sort of on my route.

'No it isn't.

'Actually, it is. I am going to try and achieve something. You and the Lady are right, it would be wrong not to try.

'And that's tonight?

'Yes. It's perfect. Nobody will expect me to do any kind of constable work tonight.

'I certainly didn't.

'I know. We really need to talk.

'We've talked for three years, Edeard!

'Yeah. And he was hugely tempted. As always. Perhaps dealing with Ivarl could wait one day.

'Actually, I'm not being fair, Salrana said.

'Oh?

'My House Mother told me yesterday. I'm being assigned to the Lady's hospital in Ufford for the winter.

'Where's that?

'Capital town of Tralsher province, that's south of the Iguru.

'What? No!

'Yeah. Nursing is all part of our training.

'But there are hospitals in Makkathran.

'The Church doesn't work that way. It wants us to learn of life outside the crystal wall.

'You know more of life outside than any city Mother does, or ever will, he said with petulance.

'And telling them that would not be helpful.

'I could ask Master Finitan if he could speak to your Mother.

Salrana chuckled softly. 'Really? That ought to do it. A friend of his wants a Novice as a mistress, so could you please change her traditional training schedule to make that possible'

'Ah. No, put like that, I suppose not.

'You suppose right.

'But you wouldn't be my mistress.

'Wouldn't I?

'No, he shook his head firmly. 'No. Never. We would be equals. True lovers.

'Oh, Edeard. A tear emerged from her eye as she looked up at him. 'Say that again. Promise me! Promise we'll be lovers when I get back.

Edeard took both her hands in his own. 'As the Lady is my witness, I promise.

Edeard took the tall bridge beside High Pool, the one with the crystal apex. On this night the transparency made no difference, it looked like he was walking on some glossy black substance smeared by slush. It brought him out into the empty streets of Eyrie, which he hurried through on his way to the Zelda district. He hadn't planned on coming this far, but if everyone knew he was meeting the girls there, he should at least appear to be on his way in case he was being observed. Part of him was still aghast that the city knew about his love life, though he accepted he really only had himself to blame. It was strange that none of his friends had mentioned it. Did they assume he knew? That was the problem with not growing up in the city, everyone took it for granted he was familiar with the culture.

Once he was over Grove Canal the buildings changed to a warren of modest houses and shops and craft halls. The walls closed in as he deliberately chose a route that took him down the narrowest streets. In Polteral Alley he was completely alone, it was a tiny passageway between the backs of buildings, a zigzag that was barely one person wide. Indeed, there were alcoves in the walls to allow people to pass — given their slightly strange inward bulge a couple of feet above the ground he could only speculate what the city's original inhabitants had looked like. At night nobody used it, the thick walls prevented anyone from using farsight along its length, and it effectively blocked longtalk. If you were mugged in here, no one would know until morning. Edeard sent his farsight out ahead of him, checking the alcoves were all empty. When he was halfway along, he stopped under an overhanging section of wall and wove a concealment around himself. Once he was sure no one was following him, he asked Makkathran's somnolent mind to allow him passage once more. It was easier for him now; after that first time behind the shops in Sonral Street, he'd taken to practising in secluded spots like this one. There were many in the city.

The pavement under his feet changed, producing a subliminal swirl of coloured symbols. Edeard's feet sank through it as if it had no more substance than fog. Some force lowered him gently into the drain fissure running beneath the buildings. As always he felt as if he was plummeting from a great height.

Edeard walked for several minutes until the drain opened out halfway up the curving wall of the big tunnel which ran directly underneath the Grand Major Canal. He placed his feet tentatively on the little steps he'd asked the city to create down the wall. Even so, with the water gurgling over his boots, it was a treacherous descent. His previous explorations had revealed that Makkathran's entire canal network was duplicated down here in the city's hidden underworld, not that he'd ever walked their length. The crest of the main tunnel glowed with a faint tangerine light, showing him the stream which ran along the bottom. It was higher than usual tonight, indicating how much water was dripping out of the pavement slush and into the drains. A ledge allowed him to walk beside it, though he had to splash across the broad circular pools of the junctions. Water poured in over the tops of his boots. It was freezing. Not for the first time, he wondered if he could somehow bring a little boat down here. In the end he settled for using his third hand to hold the water back from his shins. He'd found that doing the whole Waterwalker trick and stabilizing the surface was too exhausting to maintain for any length of time.

Eventually, he turned off down the tunnel below the Upper Tail Canal. After a few hundred yards he scrambled his way up into another drain. He wasn't terribly familiar with the Myco district, but his farsight could easily penetrate the city's substance now. To his mind, it was as if the structure around him was built from nothing more than cloudy glass. He stopped below a secluded corner of a little square, and the city lifted him up, elevating him out into the thickening snowfall. By the time he emerged he'd cloaked himself in a concealment again.

A couple of sailors in their traditional magenta-coloured half-cloaks walked through the square, oblivious to him. He grinned at their backs, and set off in the opposite direction.

The House of Blue Petals fronted the Upper Tail Canal, looking directly across the warehouse domes of the port. A four storey establishment with a vermiculated facade, the oval windows surrounded by onyx-like anthemion friezes. Protruding from the upper slope of its mansard roof were several hemispherical windows, as if it had grown giant eyes to peer up at the nebulas of Querencia's skies. Edeard frowned up at them, puzzled by the faint violet glow that emanated from within. It had been a long time since he'd seen anything other than Makkathran's ubiquitous orange glow at night.

The three tall doorways of the ground floor were all open. The sound of piano music was spilling out into the street, accompanied by laughter and loud voices. Doormen in black jackets similar to constable tunics stood on either side of each heavy wooden door. Edeard held his breath and slipped past them, watching anxiously to see if they could sense him. One of them frowned, looking round at some phantom disturbance; but didn't raise any challenge.

Half of the ground floor was a bar, with the piano in the middle hammering out a jolly tune. Smartly dressed stewards mixed cocktails behind a long polished counter, which groomed ge-monkeys delivered. Polished tables were accompanied by high-backed leather armchairs where the customers relaxed with a drink as they waited for the madam to come round. Two big black iron stoves on opposite sides threw out a comforting heat as coal blazed away behind their grilles. The room was a high one, taking up two floors, with a wooden gallery running round it. Girls with strangely stiff curly hair leaned over the railing, wearing low-cut, brightly coloured dresses; grinning at the men below as they made eye contact and blew kisses and made saucy longtalk calls.

Edeard watched the wide wooden stairs which had been fixed to the wall, seeing who was coming up and down. It wasn't just sailors who visited Ivarl's establishment; judging by the clothes a large proportion were men from the Guilds and families. He even saw a couple of militia officers in their sharp blue and scarlet uniforms. No constables, though. Probably can't afford it.

He waited, getting a feel for the routine, and probing about with his farsight. The madam would go from table to table, sharing a few pleasant words with the clientele. There would be a brief discussion about the girls, some requesting an old favourite, some taking their pick from the gallery. A fee was either handed over discreetly or for regulars an addition made to their account, and as soon as the man had finished his drink he'd go upstairs to be greeted by the courtesan he'd chosen.

After a couple of minutes standing near the foot of the stairs, Edeard followed a carpentry Guildsman up to the gallery. The selected courtesan flounced along to throw her arms round the Guildsman in welcome. They headed off down one of the side corridors. Edeard hurried past the other girls, startled by how strong their perfume was, which made him worry he might sneeze. Then he was wiggling through an archway shielded by curtains. That was the most difficult part, trying to disguise the motion of the thick red velvet.

On the other side was an unembellished corridor leading back to stairs which took him up to the third floor. He'd sensed the layout of the rooms up there, with over thirty people gathered in groups. Ivarl was easy enough to discern, Edeard wasn't going to forget his mind in a hurry.

Edeard didn't bother with the door, opening it unseen would be impossible. Instead he asked the city to change a section of the wall, and ghosted his way through. The gang master was holding court in a long room at the end of the building. Four of the1 grandiose oval windows looked out eastwards to the Lyot Sea. Tonight they were covered by thick curtains. A green-enamel stove burnt hot in the corner, making Edeard wish he wasn't wearing his coat. Nobody else in the room was.

Ivarl's grey shirt was unbuttoned, showing off a thick mat of hair on his chest. His boots were off, resting against the side of the deep-cushioned leather settee he was lounging on. Seven other men were in attendance. Their fine clothes emphasised the illusion of them belonging to some Grand Family or merchant house. It was an image Edeard couldn't get rid of, as if they'd somehow established a Guild for their criminality, and enjoyed the same benefits as any of Makkathran's legitimate enterprises. When he'd first learned of the gangs, he'd assumed they'd consist of sour faced men in shabby clothes meeting furtively in dark underground rooms — not this.

There was a table along one wall, with gold and silver platters laden with food every bit as delicious as that served in a Lillylight restaurant. It complemented a selection of wine from estates Edeard had never even heard of.

Three girls were walking round with bottles, filling up the cut crystal goblets held by the men. They were wearing long diaphanous skirts and simple suede slippers; nothing else. Edeard stared, feeling mildly guilty, as if he'd deliberately snuck into their bedroom. Lady, you stupid country boy. What did you think girls would wear in a place like this? Then he really looked at them. Two were the girls who'd accompanied Ivarl to the court this morning. The third…

Edeard couldn't help the little groan of dismay which escaped his throat. Luckily, the men didn't hear him over their own conversation. It was Nanitte, the dancer Macsen had brought back to his maisonette the night before the ambush at Birmingham Pool. Now that was scary. Ivarl clearly operated at a level which had completely eluded Edeard. This room was the right setting for the gang master after all; he was smart and sophisticated, with money and an unseen influence that extended a great deal further than Edeard liked to think about.

Edeard had come here in the hope of overhearing a few incriminating conversations. Now he knew that Ivarl wasn't going to be removed simply by a couple of well planned arrests and some raids. If he was going to do this, to take out Ivarl and ruin the gangs, he was going to have to sharpen up his own act considerably. He would have to learn how Ivarl functioned, where his interests lay, who his friends were. With a depressing sensation, Edeard guessed that the gang master could never have grown to this stature without help from the city's establishment.

One thing at a time.

He strengthened his concealment, and settled down to listen.

It snowed the day after New Year. Big soft flakes sliding down out of a grey sky, deadening the sound of the city. Edeard bathed early, then ate a decent breakfast of scrambled eggs and grilled bacon, with some slices of Orkby black pudding thrown in the frying pan along with his mushrooms. He was pretty certain he wasn't going to get any lunch today. When he dressed he made sure his new, thickened drosilk waistcoat was fastened properly, then added a pair of drosilk undertrousers as well. There could well be a lot of resistance from the gang members during the raid, and he knew over half of them were armed with pistols.

He went out on to the walkway to finish his mug of tea, looking down on to the pool in the central oval courtyard. Snowflakes sank silently into the still surface as strands of vapour rose up. The water was too warm to freeze, but not warm enough for any of the kids to swim in. Edeard had thought about increasing the pool's temperature, as he'd done with his own maisonette, but once again he'd resisted for fear of drawing attention to his ability.

Boyd and Dinlay came along the walkway, their cheeks Hushed by the cold air. Dinlay as always was immaculately turned out, with a regulation knee-length coat exactly the same colour as his tunic, even the silver buttons were the same size and shape.

Boyd had chosen a brown leather greatcoat, quilted on the inside. Edeard had admired it so much, he'd gone to the same shop in Cobara district to get himself one.

'Everything okay? Dinlay asked anxiously. Since his return to duties two months ago, he'd been working hard to prove himself to his squadmates. Too keen, really; but they'd all gritted their teeth and waited until he lost his manic edge.

Edeard was praying to the Lady that this raid would make him feel like a full part of the team again; and he had one last trick to make that a reality. 'No movement. The ge-eagles have been watching the street all night. Trukal and Harawold are still inside. Lian is with his girlfriend in Sampalok.

'What about Ivarl?

'Where he always is, Edeard said. He was actually surprised by how little Ivarl ventured out of the House of Blue Petals; but then anyone he wanted to see responded quickly to his summons. There were Grand Council Masters who didn't command that much respect. On the plus side, that made it a lot easier for Edeard to keep watch on his opponent; by now he knew the House of Blue Petals better than any building in Makkathran except Jeavons station.

For the last two weeks he'd eavesdropped on the plans for their robbery in Vaji district. It was audacious and impressive, breaking in to the Chemistry Guild yard during New Year's Eve, and stealing their stockpile of platinum ingots. The planning was meticulous, using over twenty gang members and four gondoliers. They'd gathered guard rosters, bribed a couple of Guild members to leave certain doors open, used girls to make sure other strategic people were away from their posts. They even staged a fight in a tavern to occupy constables from Vaji station — what could be more natural than a drunken brawl on New Year's Eve?

Once he'd learned all that, the real manoeuvring game began. Edeard told the squads under his command that he'd got a source in Ivarl's gang, and there was a robbery being arranged. That took less than a day to get back to the gang master, and the resulting friction and suspicion it unleashed among otherwise trusted lieutenants was a joy to behold. Then Edeard convinced Ronark to allow the robbery to go ahead, promising his 'source' had revealed the hideaway where the ingots were to be stashed. That was where the constables' raid should take place, he insisted, after they'd let the gang think they'd got away with it, and hopefully luring out senior gang members to the hideaway as they began to fence the platinum to unscrupulous merchants and loose-moraled jewellers.

After that, Ivarl called in Trukal and Lian to announce a slight change of plan that only the three of them would know about. Edeard almost laughed out loud as they quietly plotted their reverse deception. After all the deceit and counter-trickery was starting to muddle his head, but this wasn't about the robbery anymore. This was him and Ivarl going head on. Watching Ivarl from within his concealment, he could see his adversary knew that, too.

Kanseen and Macsen arrived outside Edeard's maisonette. They looked eager.

'No hangover? Edeard enquired lightly.

'Not from last night, Macsen said. 'I have an example to set to the rest of your squads. I was in bed by nine o'clock with a cup of hot chocolate. He winked at Boyd. 'Alisool knows how to make really good chocolate.

Kanseen wrinkled up her nose. 'Lady preserve us from your ego.

'Let's go, Edeard told them.

When they got to the Jeavons station, the two other squads that were under Edeard's command were already waiting for them in the small hall. Everybody was sharing the same anticipatory glow. Droal and Urarl, the squad leaders, both saluted, which Edeard returned scrupulously. He was doing his best not to direct any attention towards Vilby.

'Everything all right? Urarl asked. He was a couple of years older than Edeard, a third son from a smithy in the Cobara district. Strictly speaking he'd been due promotion, though he never showed any resentment towards Edeard for making corporal first.

'They haven't moved, Edeard assured everyone in the hall. 'Chae's team has been observing them all night. The ingots are there waiting for us, and we've identified seventeen gang members involved. The courts are going to be very busy this afternoon.

Captain Ronark led another three squads into the small hall. 'Ready to go? he asked.

'Yes, sir, Edeard said.

'Here's your weapons certificate, the station commander said, handing over a small parchment with his official seal. 'I've just longtalked with the commanders of Neph and Bellis stations; they're reserving some squads to assist with the arrests. Good move, that. Don't want to put their noses out of joint.

'Thank you, sir. Edeard looked up as Probationary Constable Felax hurried into the room. The lad was only seventeen; he'd joined up just after Birmingham Pool, along with twenty others. Chae claimed his life was now a nightmare trying to train so many worthless screw-ups. Privately, of course, he was loving it.

'All the warrants signed, sir, Felax said. 'Judge Salby says good luck.

Edeard put the warrants into his pocket without looking at them. 'You can stay with us for today, we'll need runners.

'Thank you sir, Felax said worshipfully.

'Okay, your attention please, Edeard said, stepping up on a bench. 'The ingots taken from the Chemistry Guild are sitting underneath a house in Whitemire Street in Sampalok. They're being guarded by five or six armed gang members, however we expect more gang members to arrive this morning to begin distributing them to dodgy merchants across the city. Keeping the ingots in one place is risky for them. So we need to move in after those carriers arrive and before they leave. That will give us the maximum amount of people to arrest. Once we have recovered the ingots, we'll also be arresting everyone involved in the crime; but I have to stress we need the ingots as evidence. The first time I was in court with Arminel taught me that.

A ripple of laughter went round the room.

'We have three ge-eagles and ten ge-hounds from this station as back up; and in addition we'll have a number of other squads from Bellis and Neph. We know some of the gang members are armed, which is why we're being issued with pistols; but please only use them as a last resort. I don't want any casualties. This is a big operation, and it's going to send a very loud New Year message from us constables to the gangs that this is going to be their last year in Makkathran.

Macsen and Dinlay led the applause and whistles.

'It's going to be total chaos, Macsen said as they made their way down the Grand Major Canal on a gondola, another four gondolas were following them carrying the rest of the squads.

'Why? Dinlay demanded irately. 'Edeard has done a great job organizing this.

'Oh yeah? Who has responsibility when we arrive? The squads from Bellis and Neph are going to want to grab the credit, and they'll be led by sergeants. No disrespect, Edeard, but there are too many constables involved. The squads aren't used to working as a big team.

'I know, Edeard said. He sat back happily in the gondola, and smiled up at the sky. It had stopped snowing, with the clouds starting to clear. Strong fingers of winter sunlight were stabbing down to glare on the snow-clad buildings of the city. With people starting to return to work after the New Year holiday, Makkathran had an air of clean expectation. He liked that.

'What are you up to? Kanseen asked suspiciously.

'Actually, it's a lot worse than Macsen says, Edeard said cheerfully. He glanced back at the gondolier who was trying not to show too much obvious interest, and leaned forward to whisper to his friends. 'The gang knows we're coming.

'How? Boyd asked.

'My source told me. In fact the link was a simple one. Three nights each week Vilby paid a visit to a private room in the Black Horse tavern where Nanitte was waiting for him.

'Who in the Lady's name is this source? Macsen demanded. 'Everything we've done these last weeks is governed by what they've told us — you!

'Can't tell you. Edeard hadn't quite summoned up the courage to tell Macsen — of course, Macsen probably wouldn't even remember Nanitte.

Macsen growled and slumped back.

'So what do we do? Dinlay asked.

'Use their arrogance against them.

The squads from Bellis and Neph were waiting on the bridge by Mid Pool. Edeard's gondola pulled in to a mooring platform, and he got off to consult with the two sergeants in charge. Macsen had been right, their eagerness was palpable; Edeard knew they wouldn't follow his polite requests to coordinate with him. It would end up in a rush to make the arrests. He took out a map and showed them where the suspect house was in Whitemire Street, and they agreed to a pincer movement with their squads going through Pholas Park while Edeard took his across Myco, so they could converge on the hideaway from opposite sides. If the gang members did sense them coming, they'd still be trapped.

Edeard's gondola carried on down Great Major Canal, with Bellis on one side and Sampalok on the other. The difference was pronounced. Along the canal, the cylindrical buildings of Bellis were roofed by long twisting spires, cup-like juliet balconies bulged out of the walls as if they'd sagged open.

Sampalok was made up from big tenements not dissimilar to the one Edeard lived in, except these were three or four times the size, and the maisonettes were smaller. Families here were packed in tight. The broad streets circling the tenements were cluttered with rubbish; the district's ge-monkey sanitation teams seemed unable to cope. It was worse than Ashwell had been. Ami that would be a good starting point, Edeard thought, improve basic living conditions, give people higher expectations. So why doesn't the District Master do something?

As if reflecting their surroundings, the residents close to the canal stared sullenly at the gondoliers carrying the constables. They spat into the water and made obscene gestures. A few third hands nudged at the little craft. Gangs of kids jeered when they saw the uniforms.

'Little buggers, Boyd grunted.

'They need to be shown a different way, Edeard said. 'That's all.

'Too late, Macsen said. 'This is what they know, it's the way life is lived here. You can't change it.

Edeard stared at the skyline of sturdy uninspiring buildings, thinking how he could improve them, the new forms and functions he could shape. 'Don't be too sure, he whispered.

Kanseen gave him a curious look, but said nothing.

They all disembarked at First Pool and made their way into Myco. It was strange for Edeard seeing it in daylight for once. Nothing like as shabby as its neighbour, the small district was occupied predominately by the families of fishermen and shipbuilders, with a large Guild presence. They had a much stronger sense of community; pride Macsen called it.

'News for you, Chae's directed longtalk informed Edeard as I hey walked down Maley Street, not far from the House of Blue Petals.

'What?

'You're not going to believe who's just turned up to examine the ingots.

'Who?

'The good Captain Ivarl, himself.

The squad members close to Edeard started grinning, hungry with anticipation.

'That makes sense, Edeard replied.

'Lady, we've got him, Boyd told the others, giving them a broad two thumbs up.

'What do you mean? Chae asked.

'He's come to gloat, Edeard told him. His own farsight showed him the squads from Bellis and Neph hurrying through Pholas Park. As expected, they already crossed into Sampalok via the bridge over Trade Route Canal, which put them a lot closer to the hideaway than Edeard. They'd arrive a good ten minutes early.

'What are you thinking? Kanseen asked shrewdly.

Edeard halted the squads, and beckoned Felax forward. He handed an envelope over to the young probationary constable. 'I want you to go directly to the house in Whitemire Street and deliver this to the sergeants from the other squads.

The lad saluted. 'Yes, sir, Waterwalker.

'Quick as you can now, Edeard said. He instructed one of the ge-eagles to keep watch on the lad as he started running.

'What's happening? Macsen demanded.

'Slight change of plan, Edeard announced. 'Follow me, please.

He turned off down Campden Avenue, which was lined with winter-flowering Jakral trees whose sky-blue puffball flowers were just budding. Water dripped of the encrustations of snow on their overhanging branches. There were a lot of whispers and longtalk queries behind him, which he ignored. They were heading away from Sampalok now; the avenue led straight to the Upper Tail Canal which bordered the Port district.

'Dinlay, Edeard called. 'Take Urarl's squad, and split off down the next alley. He held up the map so only his friend could see it. 'That's the building we want; you come at it from this side, his finger indicated. 'Make sure no one leaves, remember to watch the windows, and the roof.

'What's in there? Dinlay asked.

Edeard leant forward so his lips were almost touching Dinlay's ear. 'The ingots.

The switch had been made with considerable precision in the middle of the night. As the gondolas loaded with ingots made their way back from the Chemistry Guild yard to the safety of Sampalok they passed under several bridges along Roseway Canal, including the broad stone and iron archway at the end of Abad's Royal Boulevard, which led over to Nighthouse district. It took precision timing, but Ivarl made sure that another gondola was going in the opposite direction at exactly the same time. For a few seconds the gondolas were out of direct view of the ge-eagles which the constables were using to observe them. The solid bridge structure made farsight difficult especially when the gondolas were surrounded by a seclusion haze. Identical boxes were thrown between the gondolas.

Edeard had to admire how smoothly they'd managed it. What Ivarl hadn't taken into account was for Edeard to know the plan in its entirety, and be using the sight of a ge-cat swimming idly under the bridge. Grand Master Finitan had been happy to help, loaning Edeard fifteen of the genistars so he could position several under each bridge. Once Edeard had confirmed the switch had been made, it was easy for him to track the new gondolas as they took a long route back round to Myco, where they landed the boxes at a slipway. Ivarl's men carried the boxes into a fisherman's warehouse.

'Oh dear, Chae's sardonic longtalk reverberated round Edeard's squads. 'Captain Ivarl seems to be upset about something. His gifted sight showed the gang master rushing out of the house in Sampalok, his face red, almost running. Several of his lieutenants were following, their expressions anxious.

Edeard grinned at the warehouse, twenty yards ahead now. The big doors were open, showing a gloomy interior filled with barrels. Several fishermen and women were sitting outside, mending nets. More nets were hung up in great loops inside, drying off.

'Seal it up, Edeard told his squads.

The people working on the nets looked up in alarm as the constables appeared. Ge-eagles swooped low, keeping a keen eye on the slipway leading into the warehouse. Ge-hounds growled in warning.

'Please remain where you are, Edeard announced. 'I have a warrant to search the premises.

Dinlay and two constables blocked one of the fishermen who tried to sprint away.

'Kanseen, take Macsen and Droal inside, have a scan round for me, please. You might want to check the cellars.

'You sneaky beast, she muttered, grinning as she went into the warehouse.

Then Edeard's farsight caught someone running down the slipway on the other side of the warehouse. He jumped off the side of the canal, holding the surface of the water firm as he landed. It held his weight, with only a slight dint under each foot as he ran round to the slipway. People on the other side of the wide canal stooped and stared. Fingers were pointed. Cheers echoed across the icy water. Children called their friends to watch. It was the Waterwalker, they cried, he's doing it again.

Edeard arrived at the end of the slipway. Lian was there, trying to push a small dinghy into the water. 'Don't go, Edeard asked nicely. 'We're only just getting started.

Lian was longtalking frantically. One hand went to the coat pocket with his pistol.

Edeard gave him a warning look. 'It didn't do Arminel any good. Remember?

Lian glared furiously, but backed away from the boat, raising his hands. Droal came down the slipway behind him and removed the pistol before slapping on the handcuffs.

'What is going on? demanded the sergeant from Bellis station. Edeard's farsight observed them arriving at the house in Sampalok.

'We farsighted them moving the stolen items earlier, Edeard replied, keeping his mental tone level as he examined the dinghy. 'Didn't have time to tell you. Sorry. My runner has a list for you. It has the names of everyone involved in the Chemical Guild robbery. Most of them live in the tenements close to the hideaway. Would you arrest them, please? He was aware of the callous humour shining out of Chae's mind as the Bellis sergeant snatched the envelope from Felax.

'Oh, Lady, Kanseen exclaimed. 'Edeard, you've got to see this.

'On my way, he said.

The cellar under the warehouse was one of Ivarl's clandestine stores. Edeard had only taken a fast sweep with his farsight a couple of days earlier for fear of attracting attention. He'd noted the crates, bottles, and sacks piled up in the three vaulting cellars underneath. There were a lot of them.

Macsen and Urarl began opening crates, finding an astonishing array of expensive silverware. Smaller boxes contained jewellery. The sacks held bales of raw drosilk. There were bags of tea and spices from provinces hundreds of miles along the coast. Mottles of fortified wines were stacked to the arching ceilings.

'It's going to take a week to list all this, Urarl said in astonishment. They'd only opened the first few boxes in one cellar.

'Help's on its way, Edeard assured him.

By wonderful coincidence Ronark arrived at the same time as Ivarl. The Jeavons captain led three gondolas carrying accountants from the Guild of Clerks, who had followed Edeard down the Great Major Canal at a leisurely pace. They moored to the slipway at the same time Ivarl came hurtling out of Campden Avenue, out of breath and very very angry.

'I forgot you said you lived around here. Edeard smiled at the gang master. 'How nice to see you again.

Ivarl glared at Edeard, then at the impassive Captain Ronark. His gold-topped cane was raised. He hesitated.

'Is there something we can do for you? Edeard asked as Dinlay and Kanseen carried the first boxes of ingots out of the warehouse. Ivarl's wild-eyed stare switched to the boxes with their precious contents.

'Would you like to retrieve something in here, perhaps? Edeard continued. 'We'll need to see an invoice of course. There are a great many items stored in the cellars. Strangely, the Mayor's port inspectors have no record of them being landed at Makkathran, and consequently no duty being paid. I'm sure the accountants will soon calculate how much is owed on them. Until then they'll be placed in a city store. Perhaps someone will come forward to claim them and pay the tax.

A reluctant grin appeared on Ivarl's face. 'You're good, Waterwalker.

'Just doing my duty.

'But you have to be good the whole time. And good fortune is a fickle thing.

'Yes. I'm sure Tanamin will agree with that. It was two nights earlier when Edeard had listened to the sickening instructions Ivarl had issued to Harawold on the punishment to be given to Tanamin, who hadn't extorted enough money from his patch in Fiacre district.

Ivarl couldn't cover up the flash of surprise in his mind. When he did veil his emotions he was regarding Edeard with the kind of caution reserved for a cornered fastfox. 'Yes. Very good, I see that now. Are you sure you won't accept my hospitality? Together we can accomplish a great deal.

'There's not much to be accomplished from inside the Trampello mines.

'I see. That's a shame.

'Was there anything else?

'No. Not today.