The Temporal Void

Inigo's Tenth Dream

The Poilus theatre was halfway along Doulon Lane, in the Cobara district. There was no sign outside, it occupied the cellars underneath the toyshop whose windows were full of brightly coloured wooden dolls and puppets. Entry was through a narrow doorway in a recess formed by the angle between the toyshop and the neighbouring tanner's. Two doorman in long dark coats stood outside, stamping their feet on the pavement to keep warm in the chilly midnight air.

Edeard and Kristabel arrived as the clock in Renan Plaza chimed quarter past the hour. When Edeard pushed his cloak's hood back the doorman gave a start, then smiled.

'They told us you'd be coming, he said. 'Welcome to the Poilus, Waterwalker. Mistress.

The door was opened, revealing curving stairs leading downwards. Warm air spilled up, accompanying a loud grumble of conversation and someone playing a guitar.

'He's about to start, the doorman added as Edeard led Kristabel down.

It grew warmer with each step. Edeard could sense the excitement growing in Kristabel's mind. She gave him a tentative smile as they reached the theatre itself. It was a broad vaulting chamber, with side alcoves converted to bars. Iron-caged oil-lamps on the walls complemented the small lighting strip at the apex of the ceiling. Edeard gave the glass bulbs a wary gaze. The far end of the cellar had a wooden stage, where the guitarist was struggling against the hearty voices of everyone crammed together on the main floor.

Kristabel took her coat off. Those nearest to her cast curious glances as they saw the pearl-encrusted blue silk gown she wore. Then Edeard shrugged out of his cloak, showing off his black and scarlet dress jacket with silver brocade and snow-white ruff shirt. There were a great many surprised grins.

'Hey-ho, the dandies have arrived, Macsen called out loudly.

Kristabel grinned, and hugged Macsen. Then Dinlay appeared, shoving a drink at Edeard. Boyd was laughing delightedly in greeting. Saria embraced Kristabel. A merrily drunk Kanseen gave Edeard a big kiss.

'What kept you? Dinlay demanded. He had his arm around the shoulders of a strapping girl whose flaming red hair reached down to her waist. Edeard struggled to make no comment; Dinlay always seemed to wind up with girls at least as big as himself.

'It was a good party, Edeard said loyally.

Kristabel laughed, and stroked his cheek. 'My poor boy, she said. 'He was so brave, she explained to the squad. 'All of Daddy's friends simply had to talk to him during dinner, and they're all as old and dull as him; then all their daughters wanted a dance afterwards.

Edeard gave Boyd a helpless shrug. 'This whole price of fame thing.

'Never mind, Macsen said eagerly. 'It will only ever be temporary. In ten years you'll be a fading memory, just some trivia question in a parlour game on New Year's Eve.

Edeard kissed Kristabel. 'You see, my loyalty training is finally working. She laughed and hugged him back. It was so easy, so natural. They both smiled happily at each other. Perfectly at ease. Edeard knew it wouldn't be long now, and the anticipation was a soothing warmth right in his heart. Nothing like the other girls he'd taken to bed where it was like he was in some kind of competition, nor even the cosy comfort of Jessile. Kristabel and him was going to be as perfect as two people could be together.

'Here he is, Dinlay yelled.

Up on stage Dybal ambled into view. A huge cheer went up from the audience as he waved. The rest of the band made their way on stage, three drummers, a saxophonist, a pianist, and two more guitarists. It might have been the haze of the Jamolar oil, or the quantity of very good wine Edeard had consumed back at the party, but Dybal and his band seemed to glow in bright colours. Their clothes were truly outrageous, and for that alone Edeard joined in the rapturous greeting.

The songs were fast and loud, the complete opposite of the tunes the musicians had played during the party. Lyrics spoke of love and loss, treachery and corruption, derided and mocked the Council. They were angry. They were sad. Music pounded Dybal's words home. Edeard and Kristabel danced wildly. They drank. He even took a drag on a couple of kestric pipes that were passed round. So did Kristabel, her mind radiating impious delight as she inhaled.

Dybal played for over an hour. Long enough for Edeard to be drenched in sweat. The theatre walls were running with condensation by the time he finished his second encore.

'That was fabulous, Kristabel said as she hugged Edeard. 1 can't believe the Council is still in power. Viva the revolution! She punched her fist in the air.

He hugged her back, and touched his nose to hers. 'That's your own father you're talking about.

'Who cares! She twirled around. 'Thank you for bringing me.

'I've been wanting to hear Dybal for a long time.

'Why didn't you?

Edeard shrugged. Around them, people were heading for the steps back up to the street, all of them tired and happy.

'I didn't want to come alone, he said.

The smile she answered with made the risk of such honesty worthwhile.

As soon as they came back out on to Doulon Lane, the squad went their various ways, calling goodnight to each other. There were very few people on the street at this late hour. Edeard buttoned up his cloak again before putting his arm around Kristabel. She leant in against him, her mind showing him complete contentment. They walked back towards the pool at the end of Garden Canal with the nebulas painting pale colours against the night sky. It might have been the residue of kestric but they seemed to have a lustrous sparkle as Edeard gazed up at them. Honious particularly tonight was beset by internal shimmering.

'You often do that, Kristabel said.

'What?

'Look at the nebulas.

'Do I? I suppose I just wonder how much we really do know about them.

'I can name most of them.

'Ah yes, but that's not knowing, is it? What are they really? Do you think our souls are destined to drift among them?

'The Lady says that's what befalls us if we don't lead a life that holds us true to ourselves.

'Yeah, he said grumpily as he thought back to those interminable Sunday mornings as a small boy at the back of Ashwell's church, with Mother Lorellan reading from the Lady's scriptures in a drab monotone. And who decides what true is?

Kristabel just pressed harder against him, humouring the strange doubts flecking his thoughts.

Her private gondola was moored at a platform on the edge of the pool, with a lamp swinging from the frame of the little canvas cabin. There wasn't much room inside. Edeard and Kristabel had to snuggle up close on the bench. She pulled a fur rug up round their legs. As the gondolier set off up Garden Canal, they began to kiss. He ran his hand through her abundant hair, tasting her lips, then her cheeks, her neck, returning to her mouth. She moaned excitably, her mind enraptured. Even their thoughts seemed to merge.

Eventually she pulled hack, giving him the most tender smile he'd ever seen on her delicate face.

'What? he asked. There was no way he could possibly have misunderstood her feelings. Few of the girls he'd know had ever been as open as Kristabel.

'I'm ready for this, she murmured sensually. 'And I know you are.

'Oh yes, he assured her.

'It's just—

'Your father?

'No, Daddy actually approves of you. He's not quite as traditional as he comes across.

Edeard couldn't help the grin of disbelief creeping across his face. 'I know.

'I think we both know this isn't going to be some casual affair.

'Yes. There was some echo of what she said that tickled at his subconscious, which he dismissed.

'So I want this to be right.

'It will be.

She kissed him lightly. 'It's very late. We've both been partying. You have patrol duty at seven tomorrow. None of that is good.

'Okay?

'I know you had a bad experience with Ranalee, but the family has a beach lodge outside the city. It's really lovely. I would like us to go there. Just you and me. For a week.

He was incredibly sensitive to the feel of her pressed up against him. Her whispered yearnings and the candid desire in her mind were affecting him with the same potency as any of the illicit fires Ranalee's dominance had kindled. 'Yes, he breathed harshly.

'Would you like that?

'Yes. His throat was so tight he could barely get the word out. 'Yes, I would like that.

'I don't want to pressure you into a week with me. I will go back to your maisonette with you now if you'd prefer.

'No. The beach lodge sounds wonderful.

'Really? Her cheek rubbed up against him. 'Thank you. Thank you for giving us this chance.

The gondola turned along Flight Canal, and headed down towards High Pool. They didn't even kiss any more. Their faces rested against each other while they smiled. Edeard looked straight into her eyes and mind, relishing everything he saw. The eagerness, the physical yearning, the excitement that twinned anticipation. The adoration. It was all mirrored, he knew; exactly what she could sense in his own mind. The openness was… sweet.

Homelt was standing on the ziggurat mansion's landing platform. He grinned as Kristabel climbed out of the gondolier.

'Good morning, Mistress. Did you have a nice time?

She flashed him a warm smile. 'Yes, thank you, a very nice time.

Homelt looked down at Edeard, who tried to keep a straight face and failed dismally. He nodded briskly.

'Is my father still up?

'No, Mistress, he went to bed several hours ago. There's only myself and the night-guards awake now.

'I see. Well, good night, Waterwalker.

'Goodnight, Mistress.

Homelt gave them a surprised look, then escorted Kristabel up the wooden stairs into the mansion.

'Can you be ready for next Tuesday? Kristabel's longtalk asked.

Edeard didn't even think of the mountain of work and schedules he'd have to reorganize. And a week from Tuesday was the graduation ceremony, which he could not miss. It would be tight. 'I will be. Whatever it takes.

'I'll hold you to that.

He caught one last glimpse of her atop the stairs. Smiling in expectation. It was, he reflected, an enchanting smile. Macsen had been right about her beauty after all.

The gondolier simply took him over to the other side of Flight Canal where he could walk home through Silvarum into Jeavons. There were two exceptionally bored and sleepy constables standing guard on the bridge over Arrival Canal. Both were startled to see Edeard at that time in the morning, but he stopped for a moment to speak with them. The correct thing to do politically, as Finitan had drilled him, create goodwill and support at every opportunity for you never know when you might need it.

Politics, as he had learned, could never be ignored in Makkathran, not at any level. It was Finitan's clever play which had exploited the kidnapping to get the result they needed in the Grand Council following the Festival of Guidance. It was also politics which had prevented the Gondoliers from going on strike as they'd threatened, for that would have made it look as if they were siding with the kidnappers. For now, the city remained on his side. He knew it wouldn't last, that there would be other attempts to subvert the Council, to turn his supporters away from the exclusion warrants. In all probability, those efforts would never end. He had to remain vigilant, which he was trying his hardest to do.

Kristabel, though, seemed to be filling his mind these days. He thought of her when he should be concentrating on duty rotas or meetings with District Masters or sniffing out the gang masters. He thought of her when he got up. He thought of her when he was out on patrol, remembering her laugh, the way she-looked, her scent, the trivial things of which they spoke. And when he finally did get a few free hours at the end of each day and could be with her, she simply filled his whole world.

Now this. They were finally to become lovers in the truest sense.

When he eventually got back to his maisonette and lay on the bed there were only a few hours until dawn when he was supposed to lead a patrol through Jeavons and round Tycho.

Rather than sleeping as he should, his mind was a whirl with how to rearrange duty periods so he could spend next week away. That and how she'd felt pressed against him in the gondola. Her smile. The promise. It would be difficult for the squad to cover for him; though he no longer cared. Makkathran could fall into oblivion now. He and Kristabel were to be lovers. It was hard to believe; he'd never been so happy before.

In one respect, Kristabel and Ranalee were very similar; their notion of 'just us' was one which could only ever apply to a daughter from a Grand Family. Admittedly, Kristabel only brought three of her personal staff, not five, but the wagon which accompanied their carriage was heavily laden with luggage cases and hampers of food. And of course there was the team of coachmen, and the wagon drivers, each with their own apprentices. In addition there were the ge-wolf handlers which Homelt had assigned to them for the road.

He wouldn't have minded that so much if they'd simply been able to go. But first there were all her (rather too giggly, he felt) girl friends they simply had to say goodbye to as they left the Culverit mansion. Poor Mirnatha was distraught that her sister and the Waterwalker were leaving her behind, acting as if the separation was for ever — so she had to be promised presents and treats on their return. He also had to shake hands with her father and swear no harm would befall his precious daughter; and that was while Lorin was watching impassively from a balcony above.

Edeard had arrived at the mansion with his one bag shortly after breakfast. The coach didn't pull out of the family stables in Tycho until just before midday. Kristabel sat straight-backed on the cushioned bench opposite him, her hair woven into a broad beret with little corkscrew curls dangling down. Simply sitting quietly she carried herself with the kind of imperious nature that Ranalee forever sought yet would never be able to achieve.

'You were impatient, she said loftily. 'I had to rush my leave-taking, it was almost rude. Was there some reason you wished to hurry?

He just managed to maintain his composure. 'No, Mistress.

'Really? I will enjoy testing the limit of your anticipation this evening.

'Even your cruelty is a joy, Mistress.

Kristabel managed to keep a straight face for another few seconds, then she was laughing wildly. 'Oh Lady, I thought they were never going to let us get away! She launched herself at him, and they spent the rest of the journey cuddled together.

The south road out of the city was as well maintained as all the roads across the Iguru. Twice they passed militia patrols, which had recently been increased to compensate for the growing numbers of highwaymen waylaying travellers. Edeard suspected such incidents were due to the way his own exclusion campaign was squeezing the gangs out of city districts. A number of those named in the warrants had simply left. Apart from that, their trip along the coastal route was without incident. The tall palms lining the road had survived the winter, and were now shedding their scarlet fronds to make way for the new season's emerald growth. Fields on either side were being readied for the summer crops, with large teams of ge-monkeys preparing the vines and citrus groves and fruit gardens, while ge-horses pulled heavy ploughs. This time of year always cheered Edeard up, reminding him of more carefree times during his childhood. Everyone's mood improved with the onset of spring.

He hadn't known what to expect when they reached the beach lodge. Best guess was a pavilion like the one Ranalee's family owned. He only started to suspect something different when Kristabel opened the carriage windows, and watched him with mischievous intent. They were no longer riding through fields. The land outside had transformed to gritty hummocks smothered by long reedy grass with shrivelled wind-bowed trees huddled in the lees. Ahead of them the track wound down into a modest cove, with promontories of dark rock. A small stream gurgled alongside. Then he saw it, standing back from the white beach, just behind the crumbling sandy bluff.

'Oh my Lady, he gasped in delight. Kristabel squeezed his hand in shared glee. 'I always loved this place, she sighed wistfully.

The lodge was a half-living sculpture. Five ancient muroaks had been planted in a circle, then pruned and guided for decades. Their first boughs were three yards above the ground, woven into a platform and reinforced with sturdy planks to form a level floor. But it was the wall which fascinated Edeard. Above the floor, the trunks had been allowed to fork, then fork again. As they'd done so, master gardeners had trained them into tall arches, before bending them back towards the apex when they'd all been twisted together into a final whorl of bark and branches that opened out to shade the lodge from the summer sun. It would need that shade, he realized, for the wall arches were filled with glass. A slender open deck encircled the entire lodge.

The coach stopped outside, and Kristabel led Edeard up the curving wooden stairs to the door where the lodge keeper was waiting for them. The old man bowed deeply, welcoming Kristabel as if she were his own family.

Edeard examined the wall's thick archway pillars, marvelling at the buds of green leaves that were starting to open amid the wrinkles of grey bark, seeing how the stubby twigs were meticulously pruned every autumn. In another month, the entire lodge would appear to be lead-framed panes of glass supported by lines of verdant leaves.

'It's astonishing, he said. 'I didn't know people could create something like this. He couldn't imagine anything like it in Ashwell, nor any of the towns he'd passed through on his way to the city.

'Two hundred and eighty years in the growing, the lodge keeper said proudly. 'It was my great-grandfather who originally planted the trees. Our family have tended them for the Culverits ever since; and my son will take over when I pass on.

'Two hundred and eighty years to grow, Edeard repeated, impressed.

'Makkathran makes us lazy, Kristabel said. 'It provides us with so much. We can get things right by ourselves.

Inside, the lodge was divided up into seven rooms by ancient wooden panelling. The central room, under the knot of trunks, was the bedroom, with a big circular bed in the middle. An ingenious array of pulleys and twine allowed slatted blinds to be opened or closed against the overhead windows. A thick slab of stone in the living room acted as a hearth for a tall brazier. It already had a fire crackling away, its smoke slithering up through an iron chimney cone.

Edeard and Kristabel sat on the long settee, staring out at the sea a couple of hundred yards away. He wished it was slightly later in the year, when it would be warm enough to swim. A big twin-masted trading ship sailed slowly past, en route to the ports in the south. The servants and ge-monkeys bustled round, setting out their luggage while the lodge keeper lit the iron stove in the kitchen to boil some tea. Kristabel's fingers laced through Edeard's. 'Don't worry, she said dryly. 'They'll all stay in the cottages behind the bluff. Out of farsight range. I wouldn't want to shock them tonight; some have been with the family for decades.

Edeard grinned, remembering Ranalee saying more or less the same thing. He turned back to the sea.

By coincidence, the Culverit family's beach lodge was only a couple of miles south of the cove where Ivarl's body had washed up. Edeard remembered that morning quite clearly. A week after the Festival of Guidance he'd received the message from the coastal warden asking him to identify the body. He borrowed a terrestrial horse from the militia stables, and rode out through the south gate.

The sea and the rocks had not been kind to Ivarl. Edeard had never seen what water did to a corpse before. The bloating surprised him, as did the sallow colour of the skin. Even so, there was no doubt it was the gang lord.

'Never seen anything like this, the old coastal warden said.

Edeard's farsight probed at the cords which still bound Ivarl's wrists and ankles. There was something appallingly elegant about the perfectly wound cords, the complicated knots — so inconsistent with the ugliness of death, especially this one. He'd counted nine deep puncture wounds before giving up. Ivarl had not been allowed to die quickly or peacefully.

His adversary's killing bothered Edeard a great deal more than the kidnapping did. If for no other reason than it demonstrated there was some kind of organization stirring in the city of which he had no clear understanding. Despite investigating Ivarl's closest lieutenants, they'd never managed to determine who'd killed him. Then again, Edeard found himself wondering about Ivarl's soul. Had it fled the body in the same fashion he'd sensed down in the cellar when Mirnatha's kidnapper had died? That souls were real disturbed him more than he cared to consciously admit.

That night Kristabel banished all his doubts and concerns.

The family servants might have been outside farsight range, but he was convinced they'd be woken by his cries of joy.

In the morning they dressed in plain white robes and ate breakfast on the little deck which ringed the main lodge. A warm breeze swirled around them, making Kristabel's wild hair sway about. After she'd finished her bluegrape segments, she called her maid over to brush the tangles out and arrange it for the day. Edeard settled back as the girl began her task, and told the ge-chimps to clear his plates. Out to sea, three sets of sails were passing between the rock wings of the cove. He envied the sailors their freedom. 'I'd like to do that one day, he declared. 'When the gangs are no more, and the bandits have vanished back into the wilderness, we should take a ship and sail around the world.

'Nobody has ever found a way through the southern ice flows.

'Then we go north.

'Through the atolls of the Auguste Sea? Lady, Edeard, they have reefs which stretch for hundreds of miles. The whole sea is a treacherous maze that can rip the hull off any unfortunate ship that drifts too close to the coral.

'Then we use a strong third hand to break the reef; or farsight and ge-eagles to find a way out of the maze. That's my point, no one has ever really tried. We don't know what else is on this world other than bandits. What if other ships fell here on a different continent or island? What if they kept the science which built those ships?

'Then they would have probably found us by now, she said as her maid finished applying jewelled clips.

'Oh. Yes. But still, what fun it would be to explore properly.

'I suppose it would be. I never really have time to think such things.

'I can't believe no one in Makkathran has attempted to do this. The families have such money as could build the most wonderful ships, and there are so many bored sons. Don't any of them look beyond the horizon?

'Many do, but all they're looking for are girls with suitable dowries. Nobody thinks in those terms, Edeard, not any more. The last person to attempt such a voyage was Captain Allard, and that was over a thousand years ago. He was the Havane family's second son, who built exactly the kind of ship you talk about, the Majestic Marie. Makkathran had never seen its like before, nor have we since. It was a real galleon, over two hundred feet long, and had three masts. Eighty men set sail on her, all of them experienced sailors, with the best equipment Makkathran's Guilds could produce. They never came back. Allard's wife went on to live past her two hundredth birthday; every day she went down to the docks to ask the newly arrived ships if they'd seen her husband. The watching widow, they called her. They say her soul still haunts the docks even today.

Edeard gave the sea another longing look. 'I never got to know history like that when I grew up, not real history. It was all about who built which farmhouse or Guild centre, and when their families arrived in the province. Lady it was so dull.

'You poor thing. She reached out and gripped his arm. 'So where did you learn to sail?

Edeard flushed slightly. 'I haven't. Not yet.

Kristabel burst out laughing. 'You can't sail, and you want to voyage around the world? Oh Edeard, this is why I love you so. You have such wild visions. You make it sound like anything can happen.

He grinned sheepishly. 'I have to deal with the gangs first. Then when I've time, I'll learn to sail.

'Well, be careful of pirates, she eyed the ships offshore suspiciously. 'Our captains are reporting more sightings. They don't pick on the larger ships yet, but small vessels have started to disappear.

'At least no one can blame me for that.

'Why should they?

'The highwaymen are mostly gang members driven out of the city by the exclusion warrants. They're very difficult to catch.

'Let the town sheriffs and the militia deal with them. It's about time other people started to help deal with criminals instead of looking to Makkathran to do everything for them. That's one attitude I'd like to see changed.

Edeard gave her a proud smile. 'The Grand Council won't know what hit it when you arrive.

'And that's another thing. Why should the families practise primogeniture? In this day and age! Do they think I'm not good enough?

'They're fools, Edeard said promptly.

'You have your ambitions, she said primly. 'I have mine.

'Time will see us triumph.

'Lady, you're even beginning to sound like Finitan. We need to get your mind off such things. She stood up and held a hand out. 'Come on.

Edeard let her lead him down on to the sand. The grains surged round his bare feet in a pleasant shifting sensation.

'I won't ask you to do that by the way, Kristabel said. 'I imagine you get tired of people pestering you for it.

'What?

She gestured at the low waves rolling ashore. 'Walk over it.

'Oh. Thank you.

They carried on towards the sea. Kristabel undid the belt holding her robe, allowing it to flow free from her shoulders. The sight of her trim body in the daylight was very arousing. She kept on walking.

'Uh, isn't it a bit cold to go swimming? he asked lightly.

She gave him a curious frown. 'Not here. The water around the city is always several degrees warmer that the rest of the sea in these parts. It's something to do with heat seeping through the bedrock, which makes the water nutrient-rich. That's why Makkathran and the coastal villages have so many shellfish boats.

'And of course everybody knows that, he said with rising exasperation.

'Well, yes. She put her hands on her hips. It might have been intended as a taunt, but all she achieved was an extremely erotic-pose as her robe fluttered behind her. 'Why?

'One day, I would like to dump you and my squadmates into the middle of Rulan province. Then it would be my turn to laugh while you all ate poison berries and fell into drakken pits and failed to light a campfire or get your fingers stuck picking gache fungi. Just once. So you all know what it's like.

Kristabel straightened her neck, and sucked in her cheeks. 'You came to live in the city. I have no intention of ever going to live in the countryside.

'Oh really? He took a step towards her.

'Dreadful place. No culture and very smelly. She held fast for a moment as Edeard stared in outrage, then turned and ran giggling into the water. Edeard flung his robe aside on to the sands and charged after her.

Kristabel was right, the water was slightly warmer than he'd been dreading. That didn't exactly make it warm enough to enjoy a good leisurely swim. But he managed to catch up and grab her. They both tumbled over into the waves, laughing exuberantly.

'This would be a good time to teach me how to make a fin-outdoors, Kristabel said through chattering teeth.

Edeard had given her his robe after they came out of the sea; but it didn't help warm her much. His own skin was covered in goosebumps as they walked up the sands towards the bluff.

'Very well, he said with dignity. He reached out with his third hand and gathered broken branches and chunks of driftwood. Kristabel clapped merrily as they whirled through the air and began to pile up in a hollow at the base of the bluff. 'Now, see, we need some dry leaves at the centre, he explained meticulously as his third hand bunched some fragile brown gorelow leaves together. 'And these trinpine spines are really useful, too, they catch easily. He squatted down beside the wood to make sure the tinder was positioned just right. Kristabel knelt down beside him, her mind shielded, but wearing an expression of deadly earnest. 'So now I just need some flints. Two suitable stones leapt up out of the sand and flew towards him. 'You have to spark them fast, and direct the sparks with your third hand so they always hit the same spot. At the same time you stir a gentle flow of air where they hit. But not too much, because that will blow it out. Learning to use just the right amount is tricky. He twisted round to take hold of the stones with his flesh and blood hands. There was a peculiar silver glimmer of light behind him. 'Huh? he turned back to see the tinder burning brightly.

'Oooh, Kristabel cooed. 'That was so impressive, Water-walker. A girl knows she'll always be provided for when you go hunter gathering in the wild.

'How did you…?

There was a diabolical gleam in her eyes and mind. She held up her hand. Cold white flame scintillated along her fingers and arched across into the base of the wood.

'Oh. Despite the chill, he was blushing hotly.

Kristabel nearly fell over she was laughing so hard. Her words had to be forced out. 'You are so easy to tease. Really.

'Obviously.

'Darling Edeard, she stroked his cheek. 'I'm sorry. Then she swayed forward, unable to stop laughing.

It was no use, he couldn't stay angry with her. His petulance gave way to a rueful grin. 'Yeah, but that trick won't help you with gache fungi, he informed her.

She swarmed into his lap, and twined her hands round his neck. Her smile rivalled the noonday sun. 'If I ever get attacked by legions of gache fungi, I promise in the Lady's name I will do everything you tell me from that day onwards, and I'll never laugh at you again.

'Okay. Now show me how you do the fire trick.

'I'm not supposed to; the families like it kept quiet.

'Think of it as the start of the revolution.

She kissed him. 'All right. Her mind gifted him the technique.

It was actually quite simple, he thought, as he examined the knowledge. Squeezing a little stream of air, and spinning it very fast at the same time to create a big static charge. 'Easy! He lifted his arm up, and let his telekinetic strength agitate the air around it. A blinding flash spat out, fanning wide to punch into the loose pile of wood. A ball of flame bloomed around the branches with a severe thud. Several flaming sticks twirled though the air, trailing smoke. Edeard and Kristabel ducked.

'By the Lady, Edeard! she exclaimed. Her mouth gaped in surprise.

The bonfire was now blazing furiously. Kristabel laughed again.

'That's better, he said as the flames shot even higher. 'I'm starting to warm up now.

Kristabel still had her hands behind his neck; she arched her spine, falling backwards to pull him down on top of her. 'Me too.

Edeard gave the beach lodge a mildly guilty glance, then grinned lewdly. 'I always heard sex on the beach is the absolute best. His third hand unfastened her belt.

The legend, he discovered, was quite right; sex on the beach was spectacular.

As soon as the night fell on the second day they went back to the bed in the middle of the lodge. Long after the candles had spluttered and died, Edeard lay on the bed watching the nebulas twinkle and sway across the night sky. He smiled languidly, yet sleep refused to claim him. 'How far away are they?

Kristabel peeked up at the ceiling. 'Are you still watching the nebulas? I don't know. A long long way.

'Do our souls reach them without guidance from the Skylords?

'I can't remember exactly what the Lady's teachings say. I think it's difficult for souls once they've been cast adrift from their old bodies. They just sort of float away through space.

'Lost. That's why we need the Skylords.

'Yes, she grinned and cuddled closer. 'You see, you know more than I do. You must be very devout.

'Hardly. I can barely remember that much. But how did the Lady know?

'Because the Firstlifes told her, or the Skylords told her what the Firstlifes said. I can't remember which. Though the Firstlifes would know, they're the ones who created the universe.

'This Void. The ships that brought us here came from outside.

'They certainly came from somewhere else.

'If they fell here from the other side of the sky, then they must have passed through the nebulas.

'I suppose so.

'Then they would have known exactly what they were like. Why didn't they stay there, in Odin's Sea? The Lady says it is the doorway to the Heart, where souls live for ever in unity and bliss.

'The ships were falling. They couldn't stay.

'They fell onto Querencia. While they are in the sky, ships fly. The people inside them control where they go, just as captains set course in our traders.

Kristabel propped herself up. He could only see the darkest outline of her, while her soft hair brushed against his chest.

'Why are you asking these questions?

'We have souls, Kristabel. I've sensed them. When I shot Mirnatha's kidnapper, my farsight watched his soul take flight.

'On its way to Honious, she growled.

'Not if it just drifts around the sky.

'Edeard, she asked tentatively, 'are you mocking me?

'No! he promised. 'Never. I just don't understand why the Skylords have abandoned us. What do we do to call them back?

'The Lady says we have to be true to ourselves.

'Most people are, aren't they? I know so many who were. Decent honest folk who died. Are their souls all lost? Is Akeem alone and astray somewhere in the sky? Is Melzar? Obron? For some reason he didn't want to examine, he suddenly thought of Salrana. Salrana who was working conscientiously in Ufford's hospital, waiting for the day she returned to Makkathran — and him. She'd devoted her life to the Lady, and she was decent. Certainly more than I am. Would her soul be lost in the Void? Such thoughts made him very uncomfortable, and for more than one reason. / really ought to write to her, explain I have found Kristabel. But I would never want to hear such news from a letter. Lady!

'I don't know, Edeard, Kristabel said, 'and that's the truth. If you want answers to such notions you'll have to ask a Mother. I can get you an appointment with the Pythia herself if you like. We're related, distantly.

'No. I'm sorry. My thoughts are wondering tonight, that's all. He tried to put the memories of Salrana away. I'll deal with that in an honourable way when she returns.

He felt her hair shift across him. Her fingers stroked his cheek. 'I thought I'd managed to calm you.

'You did. I am so completely exhausted my mind is in a daze, that's why I'm being so stupid.

'Do you want to make love to me again?

He smiled up into the darkness where he knew her face to be. 'I can't actually move right now, let alone do that.

'You'd better recover by tomorrow.

'I'll go to sleep now, I promise. I'll be ready for you again tomorrow night.

'Tomorrow morning, she said sharply.

'Yes, Mistress.

Kristabel, he discovered as she woke him at daybreak, wasn't joking.

During the days they walked along the coast, exploring neighbouring coves and beaches. Sometimes they'd take a swim, then warm themselves afterwards making love in the dunes. Kristabel especially took a delicious thrill at the prospect of being discovered by some estate worker or housekeeper. Obliging her wasn't exactly difficult for him.

On the fourth afternoon they walked back along the lodge's track, surveying the fields and groves that spread back from the small strip of wild ground that ran behind the shore. The coast line was a series of rugged coves reaching almost the entire way back to the city. Many of the larger ones were dominated by villages that had extended or adopted the curving cliffs to make harbours for their fishing fleets. The rest had been incorporated into the estates of Makkathran's Grand Families, who had built pavilions or lodges where their younger generations could idle away the summer.

Further south, the land dipped to become a saltwater swamp before rising again at the end of the Iguru. Then the Bruneau Mountains stood up to fence off the arid southern plains. Towns and farmland continued to cling to the coast as it curved eastwards all the way down to Charyau, Querencia's southernmost city, just past the equator.

'They say you have to wear long clothes all year round there, Kristabel said as they stood on top of a tall hummock, gazing southwards. On the horizon they could just make out the snow-tipped peaks of the Bruneau range. 'The sun is so strong it shrivels your skin, especially if you're not used to it.

'Do they have stories of anyone else sharing our world? Edeard asked. 'Perhaps strange ships that they've sighted at a distance out at sea?

'No. Our ships trade with them all the time, and their schooners regularly make port in Makkathran. If there were any stories like that, we'd hear them. She tilted her head to one side. 'You're so interested in what lies beyond our reach. Why?

'I'm just curious about the world, that's all. He didn't want to tell her his main interest was discovering where the rapid-firing guns were produced. 'Doesn't it even bother you that we don't actually have a complete map of Querencia? The ships that brought Rah and the Lady must have seen what it looked like before they landed. Why didn't any survive?

'There you go again, thinking differently. What you said makes perfect sense, but no one else ever makes that kind of connection.

'Is that so bad?

'No, but it does mark you out. I'd love to understand why you think the way you do.

'Just the way I am, I suppose. And the things I see in my dreams.

'I wish I'd met your parents. I'm sorry if that sounds selfish, but they must have been very special people. Do you remember anything of them?

'Very little, he sighed. 'Akeem told me my mother arrived in Ashwell from another province. He said she was beautiful, and smart. All the men vied for her hand, but she only ever wanted my father. Actually, he'd only been there twenty years himself, so I don't suppose he counted as a local. He had a farm outside the village. It was a big place, or at least I thought so; I remember it having furniture that was very grand compared to the other houses. I don't know why. We couldn't have earned more than the other farmers. Akeem said Father didn't get involved very much with Ashwell. I can't say I blame him for that.

'I didn't want to stir up anything that would hurt you.

'It doesn't. They died a long time ago, I stopped grieving years ago. I hate the bandits who killed them, but Akeem was a true father to me. I was lucky to know him.

Kristabel put her arm through his, and they made their way down the hillock. 'There are bandits everywhere, she said. 'In many forms. People who prey on the bounty that others have worked hard for. The gangs are no different.

'I know. That's what angers me about them, just that they exist. And worse, that people accept their existence.

'I think our gangs are smarter than your bandits; they've managed to engrain themselves in our lives.

'City and country again?

'Almost. Though they seem to share the same brutality and hatred. They're broken people, Edeard. That's why they do what they do.

'Are you saying we should show them sympathy?

'I don't know what must be done. She stroked his face, gazing sympathetically at him. 'You do understand everyone is expecting you to provide that answer, don't you?

'I don't have an answer. That's the Grand Council's job.

'They will blame you if no solution comes forward. Can't you hear their voices: you began this, you came to the District Masters with this notion. You excluded gang members from some districts, and forced them into others. Why should those districts suffer at the expense of others? What will you do to get rid of the threat you highlighted, and you went to war against?

'Oh Lady, he groaned.

'You have to find something, Edeard, some way out.

'There isn't one.

'There is at least one, and you know it. Banishment. Permanent banishment from the crystal walls. Exclude them from the whole city.

'That'll never happen, Master Bise won't allow that to happen in Sampalok for a start.

'Honious take Bise. You've got a huge political momentum growing behind you. Exclusion has been seen to work. You have to carry it forward. If you hesitate now, you'll lose that momentum.

'Banishment? You're not serious? His mind went back to the morning of the kidnapping, and how he'd been berated by Eddis's wife. 'Where would they all go?

'I can see how much this troubles you, but I think you're wrong to worry so. This is one time that imagination of yours is leading you astray. You're visualizing whole city districts being forced out at gunpoint. Edeard, the real trouble is caused by a couple of hundred people at best. I remember the night Daddy signed the exclusion warrants for Haxpen; you gave him four hundred and eighteen. That's everybody, Edeard, every gang member you can find. That number is nothing compared to our total population, they're so small they're not even a minority. Get rid of the gang masters and their lieutenants, and the rest will be lost. They'll rejoin society. They won't love you, but at least they won't be causing the kind of trouble they do today.

'I suppose so. But where will the masters go? That's just giving someone else our problem.

'Look, Kristabel said forcefully, and held her arms out, twirling round to gesture at the entirety of the landscape. 'I'll make Daddy loan you the biggest ship in our fleet, and you can take them to the furthest atoll we can navigate to; or we'll buy them fifty wagons and lead their caravan into the wilds beyond Rulan. Let them build their own houses and grow their own food. Edeard! You're not responsible for them, not afterwards. You are a city constable, a position that was regarded with utter scorn before you arrived. You made us all feel safe again, you gave us hope. Don't falter now. Makkathran cannot afford your doubts.

He stared at her in awe.

She shifted round discomfited. 'What?

'You are so incredible. I can't believe you even notice someone like me.

Kristabel looked at the ground. 'But I do.

'Makkathran is lucky to have you.

'I won't be a figurehead for the family, a mere caretaker between Daddy and my firstborn, someone who just votes for whatever the Mayor says. I will make a difference, she said fiercely.

'I know you will.

Their last night in the beach lodge together was one Edeard never wanted to end. Again, when the candles had long died Edeard sprawled over the bed staring upwards as his thoughts slowly came together in realization. Not least, what Kristabel had said to him throughout the week, in so many ways, none of which had really registered before. She lay beside him now, her arm across his chest, head nuzzled into the crook of his neck, one leg over his. It was where she belonged. For eternity.

'I love you, he said in wonder.

Edeard was dreading his return to Makkathran. Some part of his brain enacted the beautiful fantasy of them staying in the beach lodge for ever. It wasn't just their physical union, though Kristabel was all he had ever imagined a lover could ever be. He didn't want anything to break the perfection of the week they'd spent together.

'I don't want to leave either, she said at breakfast on their last day.

'I suppose we have to go back, he said grouchily.

'We do, and don't sulk.

'I wasn't — sorry.

'You say that too much, as well.

'Thanks.

'I have a present for you, she said, and instructed a ge-monkey to bring in one of her cases.

Edeard hadn't noticed it among all the other cases. For someone who'd spent most of the week naked or clad in wisps of silk and lace, she seemed to require a vast wardrobe. Now he leaned over with interest as she opened it, and held up the jacket inside.

'A proper uniform for you, Kristabel said. 'I can't have my man looking ordinary at the ceremony, now can I? Not on this

day. The day.

Edeard took the jacket from her, admiring the cut and the seriously-black fabric. It was a standard constable's dress tunic, but at the same time so much more stylish. Kristabel produced some matching trousers from the case, and a white shirt, belt, tie.

'Thank you so much, he said, then his mood dropped. 'I don't have anything for you.

She gave him a strange look, almost as if he'd said something hurtful. 'That's because you don't have any money. And that's good, because that's not what I'm looking for in a man.

'You're wonderful. He kissed her.

'We don't have time, we have to be back in the city by midday. Go and put it on.

'We could spare a few minutes, he suggested hopefully.

Her finger pointed to the bedroom door. 'Go and put it on.

Edeard did as he was told. It fitted perfectly, and as he studied himself in the mirror he couldn't help the very self-satisfied smile splashed across his face. He did look great.

'Oh Lady, Kristabel murmured huskily from the doorway. 'There really is something about men in uniform.

'The tailor got my size just right, was he spying on me?

Kristabel's eyebrow raised a fraction. 'I know your exact size, she purred. 'Now come on, we need to get going.

Strangely enough, when they did get back to the city he was cheered by the sight of it. The raucous babble of thoughts and longtalk spilling out from the human minds was a reassuring presence. Then there was the familiarity of the buildings and streets and canals. The way no one paid any attention to them as they walked back from the stables, not even bothering with a seclusion haze.

'I'm home, he decided as the gondola took them along Grand Central Canal to the Orchard Palace.

His squadmates were waiting for him in the Malfit Hall, and gave him a hearty greeting.

'Look at this! Macsen exclaimed, tugging at Edeard's splendid new uniform. He glanced at Kristabel who was chatting away to Kanseen. 'Anything to announce,

Edeard frowned. 'No. We had a lovely time. And I'm certainly not giving you lot any details.

Macsen and Boyd both shook their heads in despair.

'Still the country boy, Macsen said sadly.

'What?

'And have we got some news for you! Dinlay said proudly.

'What? Edeard repeated dumbly.

'After the ceremony, Kanseen taunted. 'It needs time to explain.

'Come on, Macsen said. 'We'd better grab our seats while we still can.

At Edeard's graduation ceremony the block of seats had taken up less than a fifth of the available floorspace. Today, some families who'd come to watch their sons and daughters graduate had to stand around the walls.

As before, Mayor Owain appeared at the top of the grand stairs, flanked by the District Masters and the Guild Masters. As they descended to the floor, the giant roof above displayed Querencia's sister planets drifting through another exquisite dawn of wispy gold-tinged clouds.

Owain began his little speech on the makeshift platform. Edeard who was near the back of the hall, looked along the line of Masters behind the Mayor. This time they all looked attentive, as if gauging the mood of the audience. Their tenseness was a contrast to the excitement and satisfaction of the new constables and their families. Then he saw Bise, whose long face was rigid with animosity; he was staring directly back at Edeard. For a second Edeard was taken aback by the loathing he saw and sensed. He composed himself, and matched the Master's hostility with tool indifference.

Loud applause broke out as the first probationer stepped up to the platform, and Owain awarded him his epaulettes. Edeard applauded politely throughout the ceremony, which lasted a long time. The only time he clapped with genuine enthusiasm was when the probationers from Jeavons station received their epaulettes. Young Felax glowed with pride as he hurried back down the steps, holding the small bronze buttons aloft so his parents could see.

Edeard and Dinlay shared a grin at that.

'Oh Lady, Dinlay groaned. 'Was I like that?

'I don't know. I was too busy trying not to trip down the stairs.

On the row behind them, Chae leaned forwards. 'You were both an embarrassment, he assured them.

Edeard knew he was expected to participate in the reception that followed. Not so many months ago, the very idea would have filled him with dread. Now, after all he'd been through, he didn't care any more. Besides, Kristabel was on his arm the whole time, smiling and impressing people a lot more than he did. So he took a wine glass from a ge-chimp, refused the canapes, put on his best smile, sealed up his mind, and started to tell parents how wonderful their newly qualified constables were, and how glad he was that they'd be helping him, and yes he did think the gangs would ultimately be defeated, and no he couldn't give a time scale, it was confidential, and yes they did have a way to finish the exclusion campaign, and please urge your District Master and Representative to support the warrants.

'We're splitting into political groups, Kristabel whispered into his ear an hour into the party. 'How very Makkathran of us.

Edeard scanned round with his farsight. She was right. Three distinct groups of Masters had collected on the Malfit Hall's black floor. One led by Finitan, who was all smiles and enthusiasm, with District Masters who'd joined the exclusion campaign. Most vociferous among them was Julan, who was almost unrecognisable as the broken man of the Festival of Guidance. His enthusiasm was sweeping people along as he greeted families to congratulate them; they weren't used to talking to District Masters, let alone ones so effusive and pleasant.

'Your father is a talented politician, Edeard observed.

'Try and say that as if it was a good thing. Her third hand pinched him sharply on his buttock.

Edeard resisted the impulse to return the jab. Finitan caught his eye and smiled approvingly at Kristabel before turning back to the head of the Fiacre pottery association whose third daughter had just received her epaulettes. There were another eight District Masters in their group, representing Jeavons, Silvarum, Zelda, Drupe, Tosella, Lillylight, Ilongo, and Padua. Finitan also had the Masters for Vaji, Cobara, and Myco in his orbit, where they were being assiduously courted for their support.

The biggest group, clustering together in the middle of the hall were the undecided. Still the majority of districts.

Then there were those who formed a picket around Owain. The most traditional families, Edeard noted, with Bise at their centre. They too were glad-handing, chatting happily with the new constables. He was rather perturbed to see the Pythia was among them. Surely she could see the exclusion warrants needed to be extended? Then he remembered she had gently refused to prohibit anyone from entering Eyrie. It had been reasonable enough, people should be allowed to attend the Lady's church.

'This division isn't good, he said to Kristabel as the guests started to leave. 'Makkathran needs to be united if we're to defeat the gangs.

'Quite. She led him over to Finitan and her father.

'Welcome back, Julan said. He embraced his daughter, then shook hands with Edeard. There was a slight pause when he looked at Edeard, as if expecting something. Finitan, too, seemed to be waiting. Edeard wasn't sure what to say.

'Right then, Finitan said. 'This is as good a time as any. Edeard, while you and Kristabel were away, we've been pressuring the remaining District Masters and Representatives to join the exclusion warrants scheme, sadly to little avail. The Mayor has been equally effusive in opposition to it.

'But why? Edeard asked.

'Because, as he rightly points out, we have no conclusion, no final answer as to what to do with these people.

'I do, Edeard said, feeling confident after everything he and Kristabel had talked about.

'You do? Finitan asked.

'Yes, sir. The only thing we can do. Banishment.

'Ah. That's a bold statement, young Edeard.

He grinned sheepishly at Kristabel. 'It was pointed out to me, that, although it sounds drastic, the actual numbers of people we need to get rid of are tiny in relation to the city's overall population.

Finitan and Julan exchanged a look. 'That makes this easier then, Finitan said. 'It's quite plain that Owain is going to steer this into another clash in Council, and delaying tactics will work in his favour. We need to grab the initiative back from him, and proposing banishment is exactly the kind of prospect that will galvanize people into supporting us.

Edeard glanced over at the Masters gathered around Owain. 'I don't understand, I expected it would make things worse in Council.

'It will, Finitan said with a smile. 'And we can capitalize on that division.

'Ah, Kristabel said, she nodded in understanding. 'Of course.

'Of course, what? Edeard said.

'I am going to announce my candidature for Mayor, Finitan said. 'And banishing the gangs will by my campaign pledge to the people of Makkathran.

'What did he say? Boyd asked as the squad made its way back to Jeavons station after the ceremony.

'That he's going to run for Mayor, Edeard told them all. He was still taken aback by the notion, though the excitement was growing. With Finitan in charge, so many things can change. 'There'll be a party in the Blue Tower tonight so he can make a public announcement.

'Not Finitan, you arse, Macsen snapped. 'Master Julan?

'Julan? He didn't say anything. But with his support, Finitan stands a real chance.

'All right, Kanseen said. 'Forget that. What did you say?

'I said that I'd support him in any way I could.

They all gave each other puzzled looks. Edeard could sense their minds closing against him, but not before several traces of irritation and disappointment were manifested. He guessed taking a week off had annoyed them more than he'd realized at the time.

'Okay then, at least we've been busy, Dinlay said as they passed through the station's main gate. 'Unfortunately, so have the gangs. The gondoliers pulled another body from the canal last Thursday. The second son of a cloth merchant from Igadi district.

'Lady! Edeard groaned. 'It didn't take them long to regain their courage.

They settled in the small hall. Dinlay's third hand shut the doors behind them. Kanseen sat down on one of the tables, her boots resting on a bench. Macsen directed a ge-chimp to fetch some water. 'That was very cheap wine at the party, he complained as he gulped down several mouthfuls from a glass tankard.

Dinlay pulled a bench over to sit opposite Edeard. His face was exhibiting a great deal of contentment. Boyd sat next to him, trying not to show too much amusement at his squadmate's attitude.

'So what did the second son do to annoy the gangs? Edeard asked.

'Nothing, Dinlay said. 'They're using a variant on the old extortion racket.

'A clever one, Macsen said, finishing his second tankard of water.

'They're not bothering with small shops and stalls any more, Dinlay explained. 'They've moved up a social class to target the smaller merchants. And they don't ask for money, they want a share of the business itself.

'It's a route to legitimacy, Kanseen said.

'If you've got a warehouse full of stock, someone comes along and asks if they can buy a share in your venture. But the thing is, they want to defer payment for that percentage.

'It'll come out of increased profits, is what they usually say, Boyd said. 'So far, nothing criminal. Certainly nothing you can use to complain to the constables or courts.

'Except you know who it is and what they're asking, Dinlay continued. 'They make that very clear. If you don't comply, then a family member gets hurt.

'Or in some cases, murdered, Macsen said. 'As with the cloth merchant's son. Which is extreme, but those are the cases we get to hear about.

'So we don't know how widespread it is, Edeard said.

'No. But everyone is complaining about how prices are creeping up, and there's no reason. There's no shortage of anything; the port is crowded with ships delivering cargo, and the city's warehouses are full.

'The lower and middle level of merchants don't have the kind of protective associations which shops and small traders have, Kanseen said. 'Their commercial rivalry precludes almost all cooperation.

'But they have personal guards, Edeard said.

'No they don't, Dinlay said. 'Oh, the patriarch will have some toughs with him when he collects large payments from clients, or pays a ship's captain, but we're not talking about the kind of small army which the Grand Families employ here. These merchants have large families who are completely unprotected, and they're a vital part of Makkathran's economy.

'I see, Edeard said. He had hoped for a brief respite after Ingot back, but he should have known better. 'So we need to identify who—

'No we don't, Dinlay said merrily.

'We don't?

'Already done it.

'Ah. Now a lot of the squad's attitude became clearer to

Edeard. He looked round, seeing their smug faces. 'So what do you need me for?

'To provide us with brute strength back-up during the arrest, Macsen said with an innocent tone.

Edeard laughed. 'Tell me.

'First the bad news, Boyd said. 'The House of Blue Petals has a new owner.

'Who? Edeard asked sharply.

Boyd gave Dinlay a sly glance, as if seeking approval. 'Buate.

'Never heard of him.

'Nobody had, Boyd said. 'Turns out he's Ivarl's half-brother.

'Oh great.

'Would you like the bad news now? Macsen asked.

Edeard gave him a brusque stare.

'Rumour has it that Buate has a partner.

'Go on.

'Ranalee.

Edeard dropped his face into his hands, and chuckled softly. I should have seen that coming, especially after Tannarl teamed up with Ivarl that night.

'Edeard? Kanseen queried.

'Actually, that's good news, he told them.

'It is?

'We finally have a link between the gangs and a Grand Family. Can we prove she's the partner?

'The Occupancy Deed is filed at the city Registry, Dinlay said, taking off his glasses to give them a polish. 'It's considered privileged unless a crime has been committed either on the premises or by the owner. We could lodge a request in the lower court to view it. But all it tells us is who's claimed residence rights to the structure, and as we know Buate is family it won't tell us anything new. And the articles of corporation governing the Blue Petal's business will be held by the Guild of Tax Clerks. However, the nature of the business means the arrangement with Ranalee isn't likely to be written down anywhere.

'So it's just hearsay?

Dinlay shrugged. 'Yes.

'And this is what you managed to discover while I was away?

'As my soon-to-be-father says, everyone's a critic, Macsen said with mock dismay. 'No, actually, we have been doing difficult observation work under dangerous conditions for little pay and scant thanks from our corporal and station captain.

'For the love of the Lady, will you tell me what is going on?

'We followed several gang members who are covered by exclusion warrants — with good reason. One of them was a member of an enforcer crew, Dinlay said, grinning broadly. 'They've just told a merchant called Charyau in Neph that they want a third of his business. He imports salsponge.

'What the heck is salsponge? Edeard demanded. 'And I swear on the Lady if just one of you gives me that pitying look over this I will dump the lot of you headfirst in Birmingham Pool and hold you under.

Boyd opened his mouth ready to explain. A frown creased his forehead, and he turned to Macsen. Macsen pursed his lips and gave Kanseen inquisitive stare.

'Well don't ask me, she said. 'I've never heard of it before.

'It must be valuable, Dinlay mused. 'Charyau has a big family, who dress in fine clothes and carouse all over the city; and there's also two mistresses he covers in jewellery.

'Did he agree to their terms? Edeard asked.

'No, Boyd said. 'The Lady blessed him with a backbone and a lot of pompous bluster. He refused.

'So we followed the enforcer crew home to Sampalok.

'You went into Sampalok? Edeard asked in surprise.

'Like I said: difficult and dangerous, Macsen announced portentously. 'Which is why we know that they're going to kick the crap out of Rapsail, Charyau's firstborn, as the first warning. And they're going to do it tonight.

'Where? Edeard asked eagerly.

Riorn Street was a sinuous pathway on the northernmost corner of Abad, linking the Roseway Canal to the Great Major Canal. The buildings which made up its walls were all tall and imposing, though one of them did incline outwards, allowing broad strands of unkempt gurkvine to dangle down from the eves like a living partition along the street. It was the building next to the overhanging vegetation which housed the Reckless Colonel, a restaurant and theatre of good repute, where the wealthier sons of the city's gentlemen congregated for a pleasurable night among their own.

Good, expensive food was to be found on the starched white linen cloths of its hexagonal tables; the cellar was stocked with an enviable selection of vintage wines from across Querencia. The lounge area offered deep and cosy chairs and settees, while the dancers who graced the stage performed their elegant moves with amazing agility to the pitch-perfect house band. Five large doormen stood outside the glossy wooden doors, physically and telekinetically strong, their presence alone enough to deter anyone foolish enough to be born beneath a certain status in life.

It was after two o'clock in the morning when one of them tipped his tall peaked hat to Rapsail who tottered unsteadily down the three awkward steps to the pavement. A heavy rain was lashing the street, dimming the orange lights shining down from the building walls. Rapsail tightened his leather cloak around his long blue and scarlet jacket as he grunted his inebriated 'goodnight' to the doormen, and began to weave an unsteady route towards the Great Major Canal.

Alcohol suppressed his farsight as much as it did his optical focus. He had no awareness of the five men lurking in the deeper shadows and alleys off Riorn Street. Nor did he notice as they emerged from their secluded refuges to walk both behind and alongside him. It was only as they started to close in that he frowned with intoxicated confusion.

'I say, hello you fellows, he slurred.

A third hand closed around his ankles. For a moment his legs moved sluggishly, then he peered down at his immobile feet. Rapsail blinked down at his polished leather shoes with their fashionable brass and silver buckles. They didn't seem to be doing what he wanted, which was to get him far far away from this place.

'I say, that's off.

One of his assailants laughed. They circled him now, dark spectres with hoods pulled over their heads, faces shadowed and wreathed with a seclusion haze. Rain pattered heavily on their oilskin cloaks to form quick rivulets over the fabric.

'What do you want? Rapsail's instinctive self-preservation was starting to get through his alcohol-saturated brain. He tried to longshout, but that required too much concentration.

A hand tugged his hood away from his head.

'I warn you, I have friends in this city. Powerful friends.

'This is a message for your father, Medath, the enforcer crew's leader said.

'What message? Rapsail asked as the rain slicked down his hair.

'He'll understand.

A fist slammed into Rapsail's podgy stomach. The young man doubled up immediately, falling to his knees. Tears of pain mingled with the rain on his cheeks. 'Oh sweet Lady, no. I have money. Please.

'It's not your cash we want, Medath explained patiently. 'It's your inheritance.

Two of the men pulled leather-weighted coshes from under their cloaks, while two more used their third hands to pinion Rapsail in his cowed position.

'After all, Medath said reasonably. 'You won't be needing it. Cripples don't have anything to spend it on.

Rapsail whimpered piteously.

'Damage him, Medath ordered. 'Badly.

Two coshes were raised into the air, slick with water. They kept on rising, pulled out of grasping fingers to whirl away into the night. Both men grunted in surprise. Medath fell into a crouch, long blades sliding into his hands. He scanned round with his farsight, probing every doorway and alcove along the street as his telekinetic shield hardened. One of the other enforcers aimed a kick at Rapsail's head. His boot was yanked backwards, sending him crashing down. There was a sickening slap as his face smacked flat on to the pavement. He yelled, 'Help me, through the blood pouring out of his mouth and nose. Then froze in terror as he was tugged violently across the pavement. He slid away from his comrades at frightening speed, hands scrabbling at the wet surface to no effect. His shrieks were cut off as he vanished round the corner.

'Dear Lady! another gasped. He started to run. His feet left the ground, and he was propelled through the air to crash into the nearest wall. He crumpled to the ground, stunned.

The remaining three enforcers closed together. Medath kept his blades held ready; the others drew pistols. Laughter echoed down the street. It was too much for one. He fired at a clutch of shadows. The bullet stopped a mere couple of feet from the pistol muzzle, hanging in mid-air. Raindrops curved neatly around it.

'Waterwalker, Medath breathed.

'Good evening. Edeard walked forward, his body becoming visible amid the wavering shadows and unceasing rain as he reached the middle of the street. The rain avoided him, parting above his head to leave his splendid new tunic perfectly dry. Behind him, Kanseen and Dinlay emerged from nowhere.

'You're under arrest, Edeard said. He extended a hand, and the two pistols were wrenched out of their owner's fingers. 'Cuff them, he told Dinlay. He turned to Kanseen. 'Get the knives.

Medath watched her approach. He rotated the blades skilfully, and proffered the handles towards her. Edeard was walking towards the enforcer who'd been flung against the wall, bending over as the man groaned weakly.

'I'll take those, Kanseen said, and held out a hand for the knives.

It was Medath's one chance, he sent them flying towards her with a vigorous flick of his wrists. At the same time he shoved his third hand against Edeard with his full strength. 'Fight them, he bellowed at his two accomplices. Kanseen stumbled as she warded off the knives, tumbling on to the pavement. Dinlay was grappling with one of the enforcers, while Edeard came to his aid, swiftly restraining the second with a resolute telekinetic grip. By the time they'd got them both subdued and cuffed, Medath had sprinted away. Edeard's farsight followed him charging over the iron bridge just above Mid Pool.

Macsen and Boyd cast off their concealment. Boyd had the unconscious first enforcer slung over his shoulder. Macsen hurried over to Kanseen and helped her to her feet.

'Well, that was humiliating, she said as she tried to brush water off her uniform trousers.

'He believed it, Edeard said. His farsight showed him Medath was over the bridge and into Pholas Park.

'For a real tough guy, he can run very fast, Boyd observed in amusement.

Edeard turned to the man he'd cuffed. 'Hold your arms out, Sentan.

'You know my name.

'Of course I know your name. I know your house, I know what you ate for lunch, your girlfriend, your three children who've got themselves proper jobs. Now hold your arms out.

'What are you going to do?

Edeard used his third hand to pull Sentan's arms up. The man flinched at the force.

'Please, he implored. 'I… I'll stop this. By the Lady I will.

'No you won't, Edeard said. He slipped the key into the cuffs and unlocked them. Sentan gave him a frightened look.

'I'm not arresting you, Edeard said. 'Any of you.

'Please, Waterwalker, oh please no. Don't kill me.

'Shut up. I'm tired of wasting my time in court with people like you. So this is what you're going to do: leave.

'I… what? Sentan gasped.

'You and your friends are going to leave Makkathran.

Tonight. Now. My squad will escort you to the South Gate. You will walk through it and you will not come back.

'Where will I go?

Edeard leaned forward, putting his face an inch from Sentan. 'What do your victims do after you've beaten them, after you've snapped their bones and made their blood run over the floor of their homes while their children are made to watch, after they've been carried off screaming in pain to the hospital? They get on with their lives as best they can. Do you understand me now?

'Yes.

'If you come back. If you set foot in my city again. I will know. Do you believe that? Do you believe me?

'Yes. Yes, sir.

'Then go.

Sentan bowed his head in defeat. Edeard went over to Rapsail who was still kneeling on the ground. He was a mess, his trousers soaking wet, hair plastered against his head, cloak in disarray. 'Thank you, he sobbed. 'Thank you, Waterwalker.

'Get up, Edeard told him without sympathy. Behind him, Dinlay and Macsen were sorting out the cowed enforcer crew; moving them down the street on the start of their journey out of the city.

Rapsail managed to clamber to his feet, and stood swaying as the rain continued to lash against him. Edeard made an effort to calm down; he was sworn to protect Makkathran's ordinary citizens, but people like Rapsail made it difficult to feel any empathy for his kind.

'There's a reason you were picked on tonight, Edeard said coldly. 'Your father didn't come to us, to me, when Medath's friends gave him their ultimatum. If I don't know what the gangs are up to, I cannot protect you from them. Tonight you were lucky, and for that you are in debt to my squad.

'Of course, Rapsail said. 'Father will pay you handsomely for your services. We are gentlemen of honour.

'I do not want money, Edeard ground out.

Rapsail was sobering last, even in his befuddled state he could sense Edeard's anger. 'Of course not, I apologise profusely, Waterwalker. Er, what do you want?

'Information. Your family is not the only one they have come visiting. Tomorrow, when you have sobered up, I will visit you and your father, and we will discuss how the constables can remove the gangs' influence from your fellow merchants.

'Yes, yes of course.

Edeard beckoned Kanseen over. 'Get him back home in one piece. Tell his father I'll be there in the morning.

'I've really got the good duties tonight, haven't I?

Edeard grinned awkwardly. 'You did well, I know that wasn't easy for you. Thank you.

'Huh! But she couldn't help a small flash of gratification from leaking out. 'Come on, sir, she said, and took a grip on Rapsail's shoulder.

'I say, a girl constable.

'Yes. Sir.

'And a jolly pretty one, too.

Edeard and Boyd drew in a sharp breath together, wincing. But Kanseen allowed Rapsail to continue living.

'Let me come with you, Edeard, Boyd said as the unlikely pair walked away. 'Please.

'I can handle this.

'They nearly killed you last time.

'I was trying not to cause a fuss, then. I think we all know those days are behind us now.

Boyd gave him a very sceptical stare. 'All right.

'I need you to go back to the Reckless Colonel. Somebody there was longtalking directly to the enforcer crew. Make it clear to the owner he's now on my shitlist; I want his full cooperation from now on. And see if you can turn the informer as well.

'Lady, is that all?

'We all have different abilities; that's what makes us good as a team.

'All right, but just be careful.

'All I'm going to do is introduce myself.

'What if Ranalee's there?

'The Lady isn't that cruel. Is she?

Edeard had stayed out of Myco ever since the night of the fire. He knew he was physically capable of protecting himself from anything Ivarl and his lieutenants could throw at him. What he lacked was motivation. He hadn't quite lost his nerve as far as confronting Ivarl — or his replacement — was concerned. It was just that he needed time to restore his confidence. The kidnapping and Kristabel had done that.

Edeard slid up smoothly and silently up through the city-altered floor into the lounge of the House of Blue Petals to find it nearly deserted. The doors were closed and locked. Two drunks were snoring on couches, with blankets thrown over them by considerate staff. Three ge-monkeys and a couple of tired stewards were busy in the room at the back, washing the last of the glasses. The fires in the iron stoves had sunk to a cosy red glimmer.

He took a good look round. The furniture was similar to last time, though it was all new of course. Even the piano looked the same. There were no globes full of oil, or any other container for that matter. No beagle, either.

Edeard shed his concealment, and walked up the stairs to the gallery. Several of the rooms were still occupied by girls and their clients. The madam and two doormen were sitting in a small parlour, eating a very late supper as they waited for the girls to finish.

It felt strange to be visible as he walked along the corridors and up stairs where before he had always crept about like a nervous ghost. As he approached the long room on the third floor which Ivarl used to hold court in, the doors swung open for him, pulled by someone's third hand. Edeard walked through.

'I wondered when you'd pay me a visit, Buate said.

That he and Ivarl shared a parent wasn't in question. Edeard guessed it must be their father. He had the same broad forehead and strange green eyes. But where Ivarl's powerful frame had started to inflate, Buate was slim and muscled, as if he'd spent his life doing hard physical work. He was also younger than his half-brother, probably no more than seventy, with luxuriant black hair arranged in trim ringlets that hung below his collar — a fashion that was current amid the Grand Families in the city's northern districts. As was the expensive gold-embroidered leather waistcoat that he'd left unbuttoned to reveal a vivid scarlet shirt. His jewellery was more discreet than Ivarl's, a couple of gold bands on his fingers, and one diamond stud earring. A very large diamond, Edeard noted.

Buate was sitting behind the desk, gazing at his visitor with aristocratic contempt. Unlike Ivarl who had always kept the office tidy, there were papers and legal scrolls scattered everywhere. As if to counter the difference, Nanitte was there as before, sitting on a broad velvet-covered couch to one side of the desk; above her gauzy skirt she wore a strange narrow corset of leather straps that looked uncomfortably tight. She gave Edeard a blank stare, her mind perfectly shielded.

Edeard used his third hand to close the door. 'It will only be the one visit, he said, deliberately ignoring Nanitte — though there might have been a bruise on her cheek, the light was too poor for him to be sure. 'This kind of visit, anyway.

Buate picked up a silver stiletto, playing with it absently. 'And what is this kind of visit, Waterwalker?

'A friendly one.

'Indeed? What kind of friendship do you imagine we could have?

'Brief.

Buate laughed. 'I see why my dear brother enjoyed you as his sparring partner.

'I don't remember seeing you at the funeral.

'I was busy in the provinces. I only returned to Makkathran after I heard the sad news.

'Do you know who killed him?

'I thought he drowned.

'No. He was dead long before he hit the water. Torture tends to do that.

'That's awful. I trust you're busy finding the criminals who did this.

'That's one of the reasons I'm here.

'Ah. How interesting.

'Did you hear Grand Master Finitan has declared his candidacy for Mayor?

'It was the talk of the house tonight.

'His campaign will be centred on banishment.

'Yes, so I heard. I'm afraid he won't be getting my vote. Too many of my friends would suffer under such a policy.

'That's why you need to lead them away.

Buate's detached amusement faltered. 'Excuse me?

'I want you to go now. Leave the city. Take your colleagues and your business associates and your lieutenants with you. This way you'll be able to leave with most of your money; you can live a good life in exile.

'Normally I'd just laugh at something so preposterous. But I can see you're actually being serious.

'A lot of people are going to get hurt over the next few months. There will be deaths. You can avoid that. Think of this as an appeal to your better nature.

'You believe I have one?

'I think you're smarter than your dead brother. He was a jumped-up thug, using equally stupid muscle against small fry. But now you're here, and I see things are already changing. The gangs are targeting merchants and larger businesses now. You're trying to integrate yourself deeper within the city's economy, and submerge yourself from legal challenge. That takes a more methodical mind. He reached out with his third hand, and aggravated a whole ream of paperwork on the desk, sending the sheets fluttering across the floor. Nanitte scrambled to pick up those that fell across her and the couch. 'The mind of someone who appreciates paperwork.

Buate dropped the stiletto, and watched the swarm of paper with disapproval. 'Please don't do that.

Edeard sent a last flurry of papers chasing up towards the high ceiling. 'A smart legal mind. And I've grown to dislike lawyers.

'I have no idea what you're talking about. I am not acquiring businesses, nor have I any desire to. The House of Blue Petals provides a more than adequate income.

Edeard heard loud footsteps pounding along the corridor outside. He cocked his head to one side and gave Buate an expectant look.

'Boss! a man yelled.

The doors burst open. A very out-of-breath Medath came charging in, his oilskin cloak scattering water on the polished floor behind him. 'Boss! Boss! The Waterwalker was there, he caught us with Rapsail and—AAARGH! Medath nearly fell over backwards in fright. He clutched at his heart, eyes bugging as he drew a juddering breath. Buate was actually trembling in anger as he glared at his enforcer.

Edeard smiled contentedly. 'T-t-t timing is everything in our line of work, don't you find?

'You can't be here, Medath cried. 'You're back there. His finger pointed madly out towards the city. 'I ran… Boss?

'SHUT UP.

Edeard made his smile vanish. 'Leave the city. Take this cretin and all the others like him with you. You cannot win. Not against me.

Buate rose from the chair, his hands pressed palms-down on the desk. 'You understand nothing. Go back to your countryside, boy, before you and everyone you love gets hurt. This city is not for you.

They stared at each other as Medath continued to pant loudly behind them.

'Makkathran is already mine, Edeard said. 'You have no idea what I'm capable of. He turned and started to walk for the door.

'You're as weak as my brother, Buate spat after him. 'Next time it won't be Mirnatha who gets taken.

Edeard spun round, flinging an arm out. Buate was torn from his seat to smash against the wall between two of the oval windows. He squirmed impotently seven feet above the floor. Thin worms of dazzling static crackled in the air around him, jabbing down at his clothes. Buate wailed in dread as tiny puffs of smoke squirted out of each strike point.

'If anything ever happens to her or any of my friends, you will join your brother in a manner that will make his passing seem a delight. Edeard abruptly withdrew his third hand. Buate fell to the floor, landing badly on his shoulder. He grunted savagely at the pain.

'You keep bad company, Edeard told Nanitte, and closed the doors behind him.

Edeard woke alone in his maisonette. His ge-chimps bustled round getting breakfast ready as he walked down the steps into his pool. For all the fun Kristabel and he had sponging each other down in the beach house, he'd missed the sheer luxury of the bathing pool with its perfect temperature. At first he thought that might account for his melancholia, then he acknowledged he just missed not waking up with Kristabel.

As he munched his way through the mix of nuts and fruit which the ge-chimps had prepared he wondered if he should longtalk her. It would be nice to find out when they could actually meet up next; yesterday had been so ridiculously busy. He was sure that she would expect him to go to the Culverit mansion and be with her to spend a night together, even though they'd be a lot comfier in the maisonette with his modified bed and the other simple comforts he'd created. Then he paused with a glass of apple and mango juice halfway to his mouth. Of all the family girls he'd been with, every one had been brought back to the maisonette — excepting the occasional night spent in an inn's room or that nightmare weekend with Ranalee. Not once had he been taken back to their bedroom at the family residence.

Has Boyd ever gone back to Sana's mansion for a night? I can't remember. Lady, I wish I understood these kind of customs better.

The Grand Families could get quite stuffy about formalities.

I'll ask Kanseen, she'll tell me.

Until then, he foreswore off longtalking Kristabel. Of course, if she were to call to him…

Macsen was waiting by the gates at the tenement's entrance. 'How did it go last night? he asked.

'Not too good. Buate wasn't inclined to leave Makkathran.

'I could have told you that.

'I knew it myself, but I had to put it to him.

Macsen grinned. 'Your conscience… It'll be the death of us.

'Most likely. But you should have seen Medath's face. It was worth ten times the risk just for that. So how did your part go?

'Sentan and the rest of them trudged off down the south road. Quite a picture, it was. We stayed by the gate for over an hour, and sent a ge-eagle out to watch, but they never came back.

'Ah well, four down, four hundred to go.

'We can't do this four at a time. Besides, it took us five days hard work just to uncover this one scheme.

'I know. We just have to hold the line until Finitan gets elected.

'You really think he will?

'He has to, Edeard said earnestly. 'Most people in the city want the gangs expelled. Owain doesn't stand a chance.

'You don't know that. He could pull out a policy that will be even more popular.

'If he wanted to be that popular, he'd enact banishment right now, and stop trying to wreck our exclusion warrants campaign.

'The politicians in this city are a lot smarter and devious than you give them credit for. You'll see.

Edeard didn't believe him, he knew Finitan would win. They reached Arrival Canal and went along to the first mooring platform to hail a gondola.

'At least we get to see Rapsail's hangover, Macsen said.

The meeting with Rapsail and Charyau was awkward and stilted. Charyau was torn between gratitude to the constables, and fury at himself and Rapsail. Rapsail especially came off badly. Waster. Parasite. Worthless. Were some of the more frequently used words. But Edeard was now quite accomplished at talking round reluctant citizens, especially important ones — or those who considered themselves important.

It wasn't Charyau's self-directed fury Edeard manipulated. It was the anger and fear the merchant felt towards the gangs who had come so close to taking his life's accomplishments away from him. In the end there wasn't that much to exploit. The whole experience meant that Charyau had undergone an almost evangelical conversion. Neph was going to get its first merchants association, of that he swore on the Lady's life. He was going to compel his friends and rivals; there were old favours he would call in, he promised, social ties he could use, even financial debts. Together Neph's merchants would stand against the gangs and this insidious new strategy. Everything he learned would immediately be delivered to the constables — by Rapsail.

Edeard walked into the small hall at the Jeavons station in an exceptionally fine mood. Several probationary constables had delivered names that their station captains wanted adding to the exclusion lists, which he passed on to Urarl's team for checking. They did that as a matter of course now, making sure the names were genuine. Several traders and shopkeepers had also forwarded people they suspected. Edeard sent runners to the relevant constable stations, asking that the new suspects be observed. Three new warrants needed drawing up by the Lawyers Guild, producing nine copies each. Which he'd then have to humbly ask the District Masters and Representatives to sign.

'I wish we could just have one warrant to cover all the districts, Boyd complained.

'After Finitan gets elected, Edeard promised. 'But I did have one idea after I saw Buate last night. If the gangs are taking shares in legitimate businesses, it'll entail a lot of paperwork. Droal, how do we get the Guild of Tax Clerks to investigate someone we suspect of cheating on taxes?

'Get an inspector appointed to review the case.

'Dinlay, can you organize that?

Dinlay smiled. 'My pleasure.

'Talk to the Myco station captain as well. The inspector should be given a constables escort while he's in Buate's office, I don't want them intimidated.

'Leave it with me.

'That should leave Buate with a large annoyance, Edeard said in satisfaction.

'If he's as smart as you say, he'll have accountants who can face up to a tax inspector, Macsen said.

'Yes, but it will cost him time and money. I want to open up as many angles of attack as we can.

Edeard turned to his own paperwork that was piled up on a couple of the benches. There were actually more sheets and scrolls than he'd seen in Buate's office. He hadn't realized how clerk-like this battle was going to become. All he truly wanted was to be out on the streets arresting criminals.

'Any gang activities we can smack down today? he asked hopefully.

'Some interesting talk coming out of the Ilongo stallholders association, Macsen said. 'I'm going to follow that up this afternoon.

'Good, Edeard said. He wondered if Kristabel was having lunch right now. If so it would be on the hortus on their mansion's tenth level. A long table with a white awning fluttering idly overhead. Family and friends gathered to chatter and laugh with Makkathran as their backdrop, wine to drink, tasty food to eat. Then an afternoon spent shopping, or at a spa bath, where they would prepare for this evening's parties.

He picked up a piece of paper from the newest pile. It was a report from the Lillylight station about attempts by gang members named in the exclusion warrants to infiltrate the district and menace their old haunts again. Their methods were becoming quite sophisticated, distracting bridge guards, disguising themselves…

The small hall's doors shut as the squad went out to lunch. Edeard looked up, realizing just he and Kanseen were left. She was giving him a concerned look, which worried him.

'Do you want to talk about it? she asked.

'Er, look, I asked you to tackle Medath because he'd believe he could overcome you. I knew he can't.

Her lips came together reproachfully. 'I'm talking about your week with Kristabel.

'What about it? He suddenly realized that being here alone with her wasn't an accident.

'Edeard, please, the two of us… She gave him a compassionate smile. 'There's a way we are closer than the others. I still almost think it's a shame you and I didn't happen, but well, now—

'I know. And I'm happy for the two of you. He needs someone like you. It's a perfect match, and I haven't told anyone.

'Edeard! This isn't about me. I'm here as a friend asking if I can help. Why didn't it work out? I mean, be honest, it's not that you lack experience as a lover, now is it? There have been enough girls these last months.

'I— he knew he was blushing. Yes, Kanseen was a friend, a very good one, especially after… well, anyway, he wasn't used to talking about such things with her. The others, yes. That was boys' talk. Not that they ever went into real detail. 'Nothing was wrong. Thank you, he said stiffly. 'Not in any way.

Kanseen stared at him,is if she was trying to figure out a major puzzle. It was almost as if she was angry with him. Then her expression suddenly changed to one of surprise, then dismay. Her hand went to her mouth. 'Oh no. No! It was as if she was beseeching him to say anything else.

'What? he asked apprehensively.

'Edeard, she stood in front of him, and took both his hands in hers. 'You do understand what last week was, don't you?

'Yes. If you must know, I had the most wonderful time of my life. It was a miracle I ever came back to Makkathran. Satisfied now.

'A week and the day, she said it as if it were some kind of test.

'Which day?

'Oh Lady, you really don't know.

'Er…

Kanseen tightened her grip. 'Edeard, a Makkathran girl of good family, particularly one in Kristabel's position, invites a man to spend one week outside the city with her for one reason, so they can both find out if they are compatible in bed. If you are going to spend the next two hundred years together you really, seriously, need to know that before you start.

'Two hundred years? Edeard's legs were somehow unsteady. The feeling of dread that was creeping over his entire body was horrifyingly similar to that time when he'd woken in Ashwell to discover the bandits. 'What two hundred years?

'Marriage! You nincompoop. Oh, Edeard, Kanseen was mortified. She let go of him and crammed her hands against her forehead. 'If your week worked out that way you are supposed to ask her father for her hand in marriage the day you return. That's the custom. A week and the day.

'Oh dear Lady, this isn't happening.

'There was nothing wrong, was there? You just didn't know.

'Kristabel thinks we're getting married? He sat down heavily.

'She was expecting you to ask. Everyone was. We were all worried for you that it had gone wrong.

'Oh Lady. Wait! Who else knows? Because this is Makkathran, and everything is in public.

Now Kanseen looked really upset. 'Well, there have been a few people speculating who was the one with the problem.

'A few? He knew all too well what that meant. The whole Lady-damned city is talking about it.

'She must hate me, he said in an aghast whisper. Not Kristabel; not her angry with me. I can't stand that.

'No. Um, look, I'd better go over to Haxpen and explain—

'No! Edeard sent his farsight surging into the Culverit ziggurat. He found her easily enough, in her grandiose bedroom, curled up on the bed, her mind a low glimmer of pure misery. Little Mirnatha was in there too, not saying anything, just miserable on behalf of her beloved elder sister. In the corridors outside, servants mooched about, sullen and trepidatious. Julan sat in one of the day lounges, trying to radiate a composed persona, but he couldn't help the distress he felt inside from leaking through, the concern for his daughter.

'Oh Lady, Edeard groaned in disbelief. 'I am such an idiot.

'You didn't know, Kanseen repeated.

He shook his head, banishing the small hall from his mind. 'Kristabel? his directed longtalk asked gently.

On the bed, she tensed then curled up tighter. Her mind's strongest shield tightened round her thoughts.

'Kristabel, please, I'm so sorry.

It was no use, she was completely closed to him.

'Fuck! He smashed his fist down on the bench, unconsciously putting his telekinetic strength behind it. The ancient wood splintered with an almighty crack. Both halves of the bench hit the ground. A small sea of paperwork skidded down on to the floor. He stood up. 'I'm going to see her.

'I'm not sure that's a good—

'My mistake, he was almost shouting now. 'I will put this right. I have to.

'Edeard.

The gentleness of her tone caught him by surprise. She put her arms round him, and kissed his brow. 'The Lady's luck be with you, Waterwalker. You deserve her.

'Thanks, he said, shamefaced. 'Er, any other customs I should know about? Before I… you know.

'Only that it's a custom, not a law. Go get her.

He perceived the two ge-eagles as soon as he stormed out of the station. They watched him carefully as he made his way over Arrival Canal into Silvarum. Someone was very interested in his movements. And he recognized at least one of the ge-eagles from the aviary at the ziggurat. His farsight skipped on ahead. Homelt was standing outside the main gates, marshalling several family guards. Armed guards — in the daytime, no less. The gate itself was closed and locked; as were all the other entrances into the mansion. It was Lorin who was organizing everyone, striding around the main courtyard issuing orders.

'You little shit, Edeard muttered under his breath. Lorin was making no effort to conceal his eagerness at sealing up the vast ziggurat mansion.

The constable guards on the bridge between Silvarum and Haxpen gave Edeard a respectful salute as he hurried over. He returned it casually. His longtalk whispered into several ge-monkeys in the Culverit mansion, stirring long-dormant amorous thoughts that were wickedly misdirected. Five of them began to scamper across the courtyard behind the main gate, their affection for Lorin unbound.

Citizens strolling along the streets outside the ziggurat heard peculiar squeaks of desire mingling with Lorin's outraged and downright fearful yells. Agitated, frightened thoughts were broadcast wildly as clothes got torn. Servants and guards came hurrying over, adding to the physical and emotional commotion. It took several minutes for the ge-monkeys to be calmed and led away. There was so much noise, that even Homelt peered in to watch in bemusement as Lorin's unwelcome new suitors were coaxed back to their nests. He looked round the courtyard thoughtfully, then closed the big main gate again, trying to suppress a smile.

When Lorin recovered his dignity, and a servant handed him a new cloak to cover his ripped sleeves, he cast his farsight out beyond the walls again — to no avail. The family's ge-eagles were now circling aimlessly above Birmingham Pool.

'Where is the Waterwalker? he demanded. No one could tell him.

It wasn't quite the grand gesture entrance Edeard had hoped for. Even though he'd slipped through the ground-level walls with no problem, he still had ten flights of those ever-damned Makkathran-style stairs to climb. And he was in a hurry, fearful that every second of delay would act against him.

When he finally passed through the wall into Kristabel's bedroom he was nearly breathless from all the exertion. Kristabel was still on the bed, sitting at one end, shoulders slumped, head in her hands, with her thick mane of hair hanging down over her knees. The broad glass doors to the hortus were open; Mirnatha was outside, bending over the vine-clad wall to look down on the western districts. Edeard abandoned his concealment and closed the glass doors.

Mirnatha spun round, her little mouth open in shock. Her fright vanished when she saw it was Edeard who'd materialized in the room, replaced with immediate indignation. Her hands jabbed into her sides as she glared at him in affront.

'It's all right, Kristabel told her with a croaky voice and unsteady longtalk. 'Walk round the hortus, for me, please.

Mirnatha gave Edeard a final glare, then stomped off.

Edeard went down on his knees in front of Kristabel, and laced his fingers together as if in prayer. 'I am so sorry, he said. 'Please, marry me. I didn't know before.

Kristabel combed some of her hair away from her face. Her eyes were red and puffy, while by contrast her cheeks had paled as if she was ill. 'Marry you?

'Please?

Confusion clouded her gaze. 'You didn't know?

'This week and a day thing. I had no idea, I swear. Please believe me, I would never try to deceive you in any way, let alone this. I love you, Kristabel.

'You didn't know? Her voice had risen in hope.

'No. By all the Lady holds precious, I did not know.

Her tears began to flow again, but now her mouth had lifted in a smile. 'You didn't know? It was nearly a wail.

Edeard bowed his head in suffering. 'Gache fungi, he pleaded.

Kristabel started to laugh, it swiftly turned to sobbing. She swatted his head, then somehow they were clutching desperately at each other.

'I thought… She wept. 'I thought you'd… I don't know what I thought. I didn't understand. After that week — everything we did, everything we shared — I didn't know why.

'Shush, he urged her, and held her tighter. 'Shush. It was a stupid mistake, and all my fault. And I will spend the rest of my life making it up to you. I promise. Now I'm going to go to your father right this second, and ask his permission. I know I've only got a day. That's… he paused. Gulped. 'If you'll have me.

'No, she said.

'What? he demanded, stricken.

'Yes, she said quickly. 'Sorry, yes of course I want to marry you. Look at the state I'm in at the thought of not. But no, I don't want you to go to Father.

'Why?

'Because this is guilt talking.

'No, it's not. I want to marry you. I can't believe you actually want me, but if you think I'm going to be stupid again then I—

'Listen, she said, and grasped his hands, forcing them to be still. 'Look at me.

Edeard did as he was told. Even with tears all over her face she was bewitchingly beautiful.

'When I asked you to spend the week with me, I knew what I was asking, she said. 'I gave you what I thought was a choice, the traditional a week and the day, or just become lovers that night there and then, with no obligation. You went for the week, which in itself tells me a lot about you, that you'd respect me rather than settle for a quick tumble. But you didn't know what that was supposed to be, what it meant. You weren't thinking of marriage. And that applies now as much as it did then. You haven't thought this through. Believe me I have, and I know what I want. But Edeard, you've known for about… how long?

'Kanseen just explained to me, he admitted.

'An hour, then.

'No! Not that long, I came straight away, I promise.

'All right, half an hour. Edeard, you don't make a decision like this in half an hour. You're doing it because of a huge misunderstanding, and you very gallantly don't want to upset me. Which only makes you more adorable, but it still doesn't make this the right thing for you.

'That's all wrong. I want to marry you. I do.

'Fine. Did Kanseen explain why we have this custom?

'To see if we're okay physically. He cleared his throat self consciously. 'I think we passed that test, didn't we.

'We did. Very much so. But did she say why we needed to find that out first?

'Because if we marry we'll spend a long time together, centuries probably. Everything has to be right.

'Yes, and even that's no guarantee; especially if we marry as young as we are. A hundred years is a long time to sustain love, let alone two hundred. So do you see now? I'd thought about this from the moment we met, and I knew it was the right thing to do for me to ask you. But you hadn't thought about it. You still haven't, except for this wild impulse. Edeard, I need you to think clearly what you're asking. I need that from you. Please.

'Oh. He sat back on his ankles. 'Of course, he said formally.

She grinned, and peered closely at him. 'And that doesn't mean you spend a week trying to work out how long you have to wait to make it seem like you've considered everything properly. Understand?

'Yes. Edeard could actually feel the warmth of the blush rise up his cheeks. 'Lady, what is life going to be like with you?

She smiled back, and kissed his nose. 'As difficult as I can make it.

'That's fair. He held her head so he could kiss her properly.

They spent a long time in a soft embrace before finally moving apart. Edeard's farsight revealed a highly agitated Lorin urging Homelt and four armed guards up the third flight of stairs. Fit though they all were, it was hard going.

'Your uncle's on his way, Edeard murmured.

'And Mirnatha is back, she said spryly.

Edeard turned round to see the little girl pressed against the glass, peering through. Then his farsight caught Julan approaching down the central corridor.

'Oh Lady, he groaned.

'I'll deal with Daddy, she said, and directed her longtalk to him.

Edeard allowed the glass doors to open again.

'Are you sorry? Mirnatha asked.

'Very sorry, Edeard assured her. 'Your sister and I have made up now.

'I knew you would.

'I wish I'd known.

She tilted her head up to scrutinize him. As he squirmed under the gaze, Edeard finally understood the phrase, six going on sixty.

'If I was older, I'd have you for my husband, Mirnatha decided.

'Er… that's good.

Kristabel kissed her sister on the top of her head. 'Once more round the hortus.

'Krissy!

'Go. Now.

Mirnatha gave her a sullen glare, and pranced out.

Kristabel smiled after her. 'I already feel sorry for her husband.

'Your father? Edeard queried.

'Placated. For the moment. We're both going to have to talk to him.

Edeard tried to smile supportively.

'He'll understand. More than anyone. She went over to study herself in a full-length mirror. 'Oh my sweet Lady. Look at me.

'You look fabulous.

'That's very loyal. If not very realistic' Kristabel directed a longtalk summons to her maid. 'I'm going to get ready to face people again. I will be some time. She started teasing strands of hair out of the tangle.

'Okay. Now he started looking round the bedroom properly, he saw that what Mirnatha was to pink so Kristabel was to frilly lace trimmings. It was slightly unnerving.

'You can wait if you'd like, she said.

'I would. Yes.

'Edeard, not in here.

'Ah, right.

Kristabel found a set of clips on a dresser. 'And Edeard.

'Yes?

'What exactly did happen to poor Uncle Lorin down there in the courtyard?

'I've no idea, he said innocently, and hurriedly closed the door behind him.

Captain Larose was waiting outside the Jeavons station entrance. Just seeing him in his ceremonial blue and scarlet jacket, with his sword and pistol hanging from his white leather belt, his back held perfectly straight, took Edeard back to the day he'd first encountered a militia officer on the road to Makkathran. Larose had the same aristocratic arrogance as that patrol officer, as well. Five ordinary soldiers accompanied him.

'Waterwalker, Larose said as Edeard approached.

'Captain?

'Mayor Owain requests that you attend him.

Edeard didn't know what to make of that at all. 'I see.

'Excellent. Larose turned to his soldiers. 'Fall in, chaps.

'Why the escort? Edeard asked.

Captain Larose smiled thinly. 'The Mayor does rather enjoy the trappings of office. He says it helps remind people of the order of things.

'Oh.

'Personally, I find all this pomp and ceremony a real pain in the arse. My mess staff spend half the night getting my uniforms ready.

Edeard resisted the impulse to look down and check his own tunic. Apart from the new one Kristabel had got for him, he was still wearing the ones he'd bought during his probationary period. They were starting to show signs of wear and tear.

'Where are we going? Edeard asked as they started to walk along Chates Street towards the Brotherhood Canal. He'd assumed they'd be going to the Orchard Palace.

'The militia stables, Larose said. 'The Pholas and Zelda regiment is leaving for Talence province today, and it's customary for the Mayor to see the troops off.

'I didn't know that.

'It's happening a lot now. I'm probably going to get deployment orders myself soon. He gave Edeard a rueful grin. 'Not exactly what I signed up for, but one has a duty, yes?

'Yes, Edeard agreed promptly.

'Good man. You've been quite an inspiration to people lately. It's about time someone brought the gangs to heel. Things simply cannot go on as they are.

Edeard was mildly surprised. He'd assumed the captain wouldn't really approve of him; he'd met so many arrogant useless family sons that these days he simply classed them all together as beneath contempt. But for all his airs, at least La rose seemed to have some awareness of what was going on in the world.

The wooden stables in the middle of Tycho's wide meadow land were bustling with activity. At one end, the regiment themselves were mounting up and forming ranks. Two hundred officers and soldiers on horseback, dressed in their full uniforms and regalia. Edeard had to admit it was a rousing sight. The purple and green insignia of the regiment was prominent, never more so that on the elaborately feathered headgear of the Colonel who sat astride his midnight-black terrestrial horse with two groomed ge-wolves keeping flank.

Down at the other end of the stables, Edeard's farsight observed the mess staff and ge-monkeys getting ready in an altogether less structured manner. Nearly forty wagons were loaded with supplies, with the final bales and boxes being hurriedly piled on board under the cursing of the quartermaster and his aides. Two smaller covered wagons contained arms and munitions, each guarded by five soldiers and their own pack of ge-wolves. A small flock of livestock were being herded by ge-dogs, while chickens and geese squawked from inside their cages. It looked like a much more difficult operation than getting the soldiers ready.

Mayor Owain was standing on a wooden platform at the end of the stables, surrounded by a gaggle of advisers and three other Masters. He wore his maroon and sapphire robes with a startlingly-white fur trim; the hood loose over his shoulder. As always, Owain's mind was perfectly shielded, while his facial expression radiated interest in the vista before him.

'Not long, Larose muttered to Edeard as they waited at the foot of the stairs of the platform.

The regimental bugler sounded formation, and the horses quickly arranged themselves in front of the Mayor's platform. Ten ge-eagles settled on the stable roofs. The colonel saluted from his saddle.

'I wish you good fortune on your endeavour, Mayor Owain said to the assembled regiment. 'I am confident you will restore order to Talence province. Whilst bandits may find it easy to elude local farmers and sheriffs, they will soon discover it is altogether different to run and hide from a stalwart man of the regiment riding after them. It is with pride that I see you leave today, knowing that our city is the symbol of hope that all on

Querencia turn to in their moment of deepest need. I know that above all, the militia can be relied on to complete their task with honour.

The colonel led his troops in a hearty three cheers for the Mayor, who applauded them back. Then the bugler sounded slow advance, and the regiment began its ride to the City Gate, and its undertaking beyond. Their ge-eagles took flight, soaring out towards the crystal wall.

Owain stood on the platform, his face perfectly composed until the last man rode past. It was only when the first of the wagons began to roll out that he turned and made his way down the steps.

'Your honour, Edeard said courteously as the Mayor reached the ground.

'Waterwalker, thank you for coming. I hope it's not too inconvenient.

'No sir.

Owain actually smiled. 'Ah, polite as well as effective. How long before you're our Chief Constable, eh?

'I don't think Walsfol has anything to worry about, your honour.

'We shall see. Walk with me, please. He waved a hand at the gaggle of advisers, who fell back discreetly; Captain Larose and the soldiers took up position just behind them. Owain chose a narrow track which led back towards the Outer Circle Canal around Majate. The meadowland on either side was just about deserted.

'I regret that we seem to have started off on the wrong foot, young Waterwalker. I blame myself, you are Finitan's protege, after all.

'He supports banishment, your honour.

'Yes. So do I.

'I didn't know that, your honour.

'Still polite even in the face of provocation. You are too kind, Waterwalker. You see me as someone who has opposed your clever exclusion warrants, and who of course will fight Finitan and his proposal.

'It does seem that way your honour, yes.

'I'm sure it does. That is because you are young, and — your pardon — can as yet only visualize short term benefits. Do you really think, do you believe in your own heart, that I do not want this city rid of crime?

'No.

'Precisely. Well I thank you for that courtesy. I actually rather like the idea of the exclusion warrants. You are to be congratulated on implementing them, and against such strong political opposition.

'Given what I understand of this city's politics, a policy which you opposed would always gain support from other quarters.

Owain grinned smoothly. 'Which brings us to today. What did you think of the regiment?

Edeard glanced back towards the stables. The last of the wagons had now left the wooden buildings. Animals bleated as they were herded along behind. 'I think the bandits will be in a lot of trouble. The Jeavons station's ge-eagle was spiralling lazily above City Gate, showing Edeard five new wagons belonging to the Weapons Guild. They were parked to one side of the road, waiting. He knew they would follow the regiment all the way to Talence province, where they would sell pistols to the frightened farmers and villagers, profiting Owain's Guild still further just as Jessile said. It wasn't a crime, he acknowledged, but that didn't make it right, either.

'Yes, Owain said. 'But why are they there in the first place?

'They are everywhere.

'Indeed they are. The bandits and the gangs are symptomatic of our society's failings, Waterwalker. That is what I am truly opposed to.

'I'm not sure I understand, your honour.

'If you banish the gang leadership from the city, where will they go?

'Beyond the borders of the furthest province, or some distant island, that's what I had in mind.

'Of course. It would seem humane, I'd expect nothing less from a man of principle like you. We're all guilty of listening to the city's tittle tattle about you, Waterwalker; but not once have I heard it said you lack integrity, and for that I thank the Lady. But have you considered what will occur a year, or even ten, after they begin their banishment? The resentment? The lure of returning? If they didn't come back here they would surely join with the bandits.

'So what is your proposal? I assume that's what we are discussing.

'We are. My proposal, as you put it, is that we do not treat the gangs and the bandits in isolation. We all live on one world. We must become one nation. Our problems must be dealt with in unison. The militia regiments out in the countryside, the constables here in the city. When we have rounded up all of the miscreants, then we can exile them in perpetuity. I like your idea of a remote island — that would certainly make them containable.

'So what's the difference between you and Finitan?

'Finitan thinks only of the city, of short term solutions. Don't tell me you haven't worried about what happens to people after banishment.

'I've considered it, your honour, Edeard admitted. 'We seem to be making things worse on the Iguru, what with all the highwaymen; that's why I wanted banishment.

'But do you see we can't treat these problems in isolation?

'I understand both problems have to be confronted, yes.

'I am happy to hear that. Unfortunately, the easy one is tin-city. You have shown us how it can be achieved, Waterwalker. Nobody doubts you will ultimately succeed, not even poor old Buate.

'I'd settle for Bise capitulating.

Owain laughed. 'Don't worry. When the time comes, I will

stand over Master Bise personally, and ensure he signs the exclusion warrants for Sampalok.

'Your honour?

'It is simple politics. Master Bise believes he can gain more influence by supporting me. In Council it pays me to encourage such support. Ultimately, Bise will accept the inevitable, and his nefarious allies will be purged from our streets.

'That's… a relief to know.

'I thought it would be. So, whilst not asking you to switch your support, for Finitan is your patron, and I would not want to foster such disloyalty, do you at least agree with some of my objectives?

'Yes, your honour, I do.

'Thank you.

'Why can you not reach a concord with Master Finitan?

'Sadly, we have been adversaries for too long. Neither of us trusts the other. And I have to say, I will campaign long and hard to retain my office no matter what we agree or disagree in private. Such is the nature of humanity, least of all flawed specimens like us ancient conservative Masters. Do you think it likely that Finitan will back down?

'No.

'Precisely. I wanted to reassure you of my own goals, because whoever wins this election, it is you who will be fighting the gangs on the streets.

'Thank you, your honour.

'I admit, knowing you will be working for the city is of considerable relief to me. The constables have performed little short of a miracle since the day you walked on water. And that resounding victory over dear little Mirnatha's captors was extraordinary. I admit to joining the cheers of joy along Grand Major Canal that day. I ask the Lady that she will be equally generous granting the militia victory. Theirs will be the more difficult task, and the one bogged down in politics.

'How is that? Ink-aid asked. They'd nearly reached the Outer

Circle Canal, up ahead he could see the bronze and jade bridge which Rah himself had commissioned.

'The countryside wishes to enjoy the benefits of the city without having to pay the cost, Owain said. 'Five times since last summer I have dispatched our regiments to aid desperate provincial governors. And what payment have we received? A grudgingly given reimbursement for our basic costs. To what avail? The regiments ultimately have to come home, leaving the lands open once again to infiltration by the bandits. It is a nonsense, a gesture which achieves nothing in the long term. If we are to achieve stability and an end to this dreadful felony, then the provinces will have to pay taxes to Makkathran for organizing their defence. Militias will have to be stationed permanently and strategically across the countryside. Such achievement will require tremendous organization, one province cannot be favoured above another. All costs — and they will be considerable — must be borne equally. The rule of law available to all without prejudice. Both the Master in his mansion and the farmer in his cottage will have to answer to the same authority.

'One nation, Edeard said.

'Precisely. At the moment city and provinces are naught but a loose affiliate. And look where it has taken us, to the verge of anarchy. To face this new threat, we have to consolidate the forces of civilization, to strengthen our boundary and enforce our justice. Only as a nation where equality reigns, can this happen.

They walked over the bridge together. Edeard's mind was awhirl trying to take in all the Mayor had said. Standing in the shade thrown by the sprawling conglomeration of Parliament House's buildings, Owain faced Edeard.

'I hope you no longer consider me an enemy, Waterwalker.

'I never really did, your honour.

'That gladdens me. Maybe one day, when your generation has risen to high office, you will extinguish the vanity and foolishness of petty politics that so bedevils us today. I wish you luck in that. He inclined his head, and walked into the tower housing the Guild Of Clerks. His entourage went with him; Captain Larose smiled knowingly as he passed Edeard.

'Ho Lady, Edeard exhaled. He turned and made his way slowly round the base of Parliament House, towards the bridge which would take him back into Jeavons. So whoever wins, they'll support me against the gangs.

Despite everything the Mayor had said, he still hoped it would be Finitan. Though the idea of a penal colony on a remote island was an intriguing one.

Of all the people in Makkathran, Nanitte was the one Edeard would never have expected to see waiting for him in the street outside the tenement. But there she was when he made his way home that evening.

'Can I talk to you? she asked as he reached the tenement's entrance.

Edeard's farsight swept round. He wasn't just searching for people he knew (this wouldn't look good to Macsen, for a start), but to see who Buate had got watching. 'You've got one minute, he said, after confirming there was nothing immediately suspicious.

'Not out here, this is too important. Nanitte's voice was brittle; her old self-confidence had gone.

Edeard took a good look. Beneath her dark-blue cloak, she wore a low-cut green and white dress, with her hair arranged in long waves. Now, out here in the sunlight, he could see the heavy makeup on her face. Even that didn't completely cover up the bruise. Her lip had recently been split as well.

'All right, Edeard said reluctantly. 'Five minutes.

Nanitte looked round the inside of the maisonette with interest. Her hand slid over the cold alcove, fingers touching the milk jug and fruit. 'It is all different in here, just like they said it was, she said as she walked over to the bed. A hand tested the firmness of the spongy substance.

'Who said?

'Girls I've talked to. On Ivarl's behalf, of course. They talk freely to me rather than him.

Edeard grunted. 'Right.

'He was obsessed with you.

'And his brother?

Nanitte slumped. 'I hate him.

Edeard indicated her face. 'He hits you.

'Among other things, yes.

'Leave him.

She laughed bitterly. 'You said that with a straight face. You really do come from another place, don't you?

'Probably.

'I want to leave him, she said. 'Those things you said to him the other night. That's all going to happen, isn't it?

'Yes. Even if Owain gets elected; I was talking to him today.

'So I'd be thrown out of the city.

'That depends how deep your involvement is.

'I was surprised I'm not on your warrants already.

'We're concentrating on the violent ones for now.

'It wouldn't be much of a life for me out there, not like that, not the whore of an exile.

'Why are you here, Nanitte? What have you got to tell me?

'He's going to buy guns, a lot of guns.

'Who from?

She gave him a thin smile. 'If I left now, by myself, I thought perhaps I could go to one of the big towns beyond the Iguru Plain, somewhere no one would know me or what I am. I could buy a small house, or some land. If I had that, I could find a husband, a nice provincial man. I'd be able to make sure he loved me; whores make the best wives, did you know that? I'm not quite sure I could do the whole housemistress and children thing for him, but we'd be happy, and all this, my life, would be gone.

'I wish Buate thought like that.

'No you don't. You're enjoying this, it makes you live. You

need to see him defeated, you want Makkathran liberated from the gangs he controls. You need an ending, Waterwalker. Throwing them out just so they can drift back into the city over months and years won't be good enough for you. The Waterwalker requires finality. I don't know what you'll do to achieve it, but I know I don't want to be here when you do. Out of you and Buate, I think I'm actually more afraid of you.

'That's a very nice summary of me. Shame it's not particularly accurate.

Nanitte glanced through the archway into the bathroom, her eyebrows rising at the sight of the perfectly flat steps leading down into the bathing pool. 'It's not just Mothers who can see the future, you know.

'Why don't you just tell me what you know of the guns? I'll take you to the City Gate myself. He'll never be able to stop you.

'And how would I get my house and my land?

'I thought… You must have money.

'I was a dancer once. A long time ago. That's all I ever really wanted to be. Then one day Ivarl visited the show I was in. That was it. He knew the theatre owner, of course, and I was young and stupid, stupid enough to believe his promises. After I'd been with him for a while I realized that was it, I'd become a part of that life, there was no way back. No theatre owner would ever hire me unless he told them to. I gave up.

'I'm sorry.

'So there you are, Waterwalker, I'm not just some girl working at the House of Blue Petals; I'm his. Do you know what it is to be owned like that? To be less than some genistar?

'I won't patronise you by saying yes.

'Thank you. So now you know. If you want me to tell you when and where he's getting the guns, you have pay me. That's what all men do, they pay me for what I've got.

'I'll have to ask my station captain, or maybe Finitan.

She came to stand in front of him, as self-assured as any Master. 'You don't have that much time. I need the money today. I want to be gone by morning.

'There's a reason these things take time to arrange.

'I told you of my dream, nothing more. We both know I can survive anywhere. Is that what you want for me, to keep on doing what I do? I thought you were going to save us all, Waterwalker.

'I haven't got that kind of coinage.

'Kristabel does.

'I can't ask her.

'Why not? Actually, why aren't the two of you engaged? All of Makkathran wants to know that. You can tell me. I'm leaving, remember.

'Stop this.

Nanitte discarded her cloak as she went over to the bed and bent across it, her hands slid over the sheets. 'If you really want her, I can show you how to make your next week and the day work perfectly.

'Get off the bed.

'You know I'm good. Who do you think showed Ranalee the physical side of her ability?

Edeard nearly reached out to grab her with his third hand, only just managing to keep his temper in check.

Nanitte straightened up. 'You see what I am, Waterwalker. How low I am? They made me like this. And now I can't go back, not after talking to you. You saw what happened to Ivarl, and he wasn't even turning on them like I am. So now you have to ask yourself how badly do you want them? Bad enough to ask Kristabel for the kind of coinage she would spend on shoes to match one of her party dresses? Or are you just going to let this opportunity slip away because it's all turned too personal for you?

'This is not personal.

'Good. Then I'll just wait here while you go and get my money.

'We can't trust her, Macsen said the next morning when Edeard called them into the small hall.

'Why not? Edeard asked, trying to be the reasonable one. He'd felt terrible going to Kristabel for money. She of course had made light of it; saying how much she wanted to help. Her understanding didn't make him feel any better.

Nanitte had counted the coins in the bag he brought back to the maisonette, unable to disguise her surprise by how much there was. 'I should have done this a long time ago, she said.

'Just tell me about the guns, he said. And she did, about the meeting in Buate's office which she'd been excluded from; the men she'd never seen before, with accents that didn't come from any city district; how Buate had started talking about constable-killer pistols, and levelling up the score.

'Because she's Nanitte, Macsen said, not understanding why that wasn't enough.

'I could sense she was telling the truth about the guns, Edeard said.

'I'd be more concerned about the rest of it, Boyd said. 'Your pardon, Edeard, but you don't have the greatest instinct when it comes to honesty. You always want to find the best in people.

Edeard gave his tall friend a surprised glance. 'All right, so what could she have been lying about? The worst case is she made an arse of me and ran off with a lot of coinage, how does that put us in trouble at the exchange?

'What was that phrase you used? Dinlay said mildly. 'Oh yes: the constable-killer gun.

Edeard scratched the back of his head, wishing that part hadn't existed. 'Yes, he conceded. Could that mean repeat-fire guns? Nanitte said they talked with a foreign accent.

Part of him wished it were true, that he could finally prove Ashwell's destruction had come at the hands of an unknown clan from somewhere else in the world. 'But if that part of her story is genuine, he said immediately, 'then we really need to intercept the handover before these weapons get distributed to the ordinary gang members on the street. If they get their hands on them we'll be facing a bloodbath.

'Good point, Macsen said grudgingly.

'They know we can conceal ourselves, Boyd said. 'I noticed a lot more dogs in Sampalok when we were following up the Charyau thing. Most of the gang members have one these days.

'I can protect us from a lot of bullets, Edeard said. 'And you know we can escape in ways they could never dream of.

The rest of the squad looked at each other.

'Okay, Kanseen said. 'But if these pistols are anything like Nanitte claims, we're going to need some reliable back up.

'I'll talk to Chae and Ronark, Edeard said.

Two nights later Edeard was wishing he had a little more confidence in the five squads of constables who were patrolling the Padua and Zelda districts. It was supposed to look like the patrols were purely random, following the whim of their corporals and sergeants. To anyone with a mistrustful mind they were highly suspicious.

Or am I being too paranoid?

Whatever, he and the squad had concealed themselves inside the base of a skewed tower in Eyrie, not too far from the Lady's central church. The tower next to them was supposed to be where the exchange would take place. Edeard didn't feel confident enough to wait there, no matter how good his concealment talent.

People were wending their way round the lofty twisted towers on their way to the huge church for the evening service. It was good cover for the gun exchange, he admitted, especially as the Pythia had refused to employ exclusion warrants for Eyrie.

'That's the third time, Kanseen's directed longtalk whispered. She gifted them the image of the ge-eagle that swooped silently round the tower outside. Then it darted in through a high curving entrance and did a fast circuit of the huge empty space inside.

The tower chosen for the exchange was one of the tallest in Eyrie, a monstrous kinked spire whose jutting vertical ribs changed from smoky grey at the foot, through a gentle amethyst to a sullen carmine at the top, where eight tapering spikes curved up around the edges of its slanted platform. The open chamber at the bottom actually had three entrances where most towers only had one. Several lengthy stalagmites and stalactites of mauve-tinted crystal cluttered the interior, while at the centre a broad smooth shaft connected the black floor to the apex of the cave-like ceiling fifty feet above; a single narrow opening led to the spiral stair which wound the entire height of the tower.

'Get a load of this, Boyd said. He'd sensed someone outside with a terrestrial dog on a lead. The dog was sniffing the ground as it was slowly walked around the tower.

'Isn't that Paral? Macsen queried. 'He's got an exclusion warrant against him.

Whoever it was, the man with the dog walked away towards the bridge back to Fiacre. A couple of constables in ordinary clothes sauntered casually after him.

Orange light was beginning to shine out of cracks in the bark-like tower walls as the sun slid below the horizon. Another ge-eagle made a swift pass through the tower's chamber.

Edeard kept his farsight focused on a gondola that had pulled up at a nearby mooring platform. Four men with a strong seclusion haze stepped off it, carrying large iron-bound wooden chests between them. His farsight could just perceive the shadowy shapes of solid metal inside. Another gondola moored, the men on that one carried smaller boxes. 'The ammunition, he muttered.

The church shut its wide doors as the evening service began; bright orange light shone out of its roof dome and hundreds of windows along the three wings. A quire began to sing softly. Nearly a dozen people left, wandering round outside began to make their way towards the tall tower.

'Oh great, Dinlay moaned. One of the people stepping through the swathes of orange illumination cast by the towers was a very cocky Medath.

Edeard grinned unseen. 'He'll die of fright when we appear.

The men from the gondolas made their way into the tower, coming together to lace Medath's group.

'I make that fifteen of them, Macsen said.

Edeard was trying to resolve the shapes inside the chests. They were definitely pistols, and not complex enough to be the repeat-fire types that had been used at Ashwell. Thank the Lady. Then he recognized them. 'Okay, I've seen these pistols before. They're the ones Ivarl and his people used against me on the night of the fire. They have very large calibre bullets, but I can definitely ward them off.

'Then we'd better stop them opening the chests, Boyd said.

'Move out, Edeard said. As he hurried silently out of their hiding place and towards the tower ahead he called Chae. 'Move in now. There's fifteen here, but they'll have watchers.

'Already spotted three, Chae reassured him. 'We're coming.

Their deployment plan was simple enough. Dinlay and Boyd would take one tower entrance, Kanseen and Macsen another, while Edeard would go in through the third.

'They're coming.

Edeard paused, frowning at the clear longtalk. He couldn't tell where it had come from; it certainly wasn't any of the squad. Up ahead, the minds of the gang members were now radiating alarm. Their farsight scoured round.

He strode up to the threshold, listening to the low anxious voices echoing off the mauve stalagmites and curious crannies in the chamber walls. The two groups were huddled together near the central shaft, with sentries positioned near each entrance.

'Ready, Kanseen's longtalk announced.

The sentry nearest Edeard swung round, sending his farsight prying at the entrance Kanseen was blocking.

Edeard stepped into the tower, and dropped his concealment. His shield hardened around his body.

The sentry gaped in dismay. 'Waterwalker, he yelled with voice and mind.

Edeard's third hand reached out as he ran forward, yanking the two cases of pistols away from the gang members. They tried to prise them back, but lacked the strength.

Medath and his colleagues drew their own pistols. Of course, Medath already had one of the long-barrelled weapons. Edeard snarled in consternation. Two of the gang members started firing. Edeard dropped the cases on the ground outside the tower and concentrated on protecting himself. Men were running for the two open entrances. The first one to reach the opening covered by Kanseen and Macsen yelled in shock as Kanseen appeared abruptly barely a yard in front of him. Her third hand punched directly against his temple, felling him instantly. She vanished. More shots were fired at the air she had occupied a second before. Edeard deflected a whole swarm of bullets, then people were playing chase around the stalagmites.

'Stop this, Edeard bellowed, his voice reverberating loudly round the chamber. 'We know who you are. Several squads of constables are closing in. Our ge-eagles are flying outside; you cannot escape.

A whole volley of bullets lashed at him. He shook his head in dismay. Dinlay rushed past, half visible as he pursued two men. Someone went sprawling, their inertia assisted by telekinesis so their head smacked into a stalagmite. Edeard snatched up two gang members and crashed them together. They fell limply on to the floor. Two more found themselves leaving the ground, and screamed wildly.

'Get up here.

It was the same longtalk voice as before, cutting cleanly though the shouts and mental babble inside the chamber. Edeard looked round zealously, trying to see who it was. His farsight caught Medath rushing into the opening at the foot of the central pillar.

Four of the gang were now standing together, their hands held high in surrender, pistols abandoned at their feet. Boyd appeared directly in front of them, his pistol raised ready. More pistol shots echoed round the chamber. Then there was a pain-wracked howl, overriding all the other voices. Macsen flicked into visibility behind a man who was clutching at his shoulder; blood poured through his fingers. Macsen pulled his pistol away from the wound. 'Next time it will be a head shot, he announced loudly. 'Now stop this, you are under arrest. He vanished again.

Edeard raced over to the central pillar. On the way his third hand picked up three gang members, who immediately stopped struggling. He dropped them beside Dinlay. The sound of footsteps reverberated out of the pillar's opening. When Edeard looked inside he saw the spiral stair winding upwards.

'Oh come on, he yelled up at Medath. 'There's nowhere to go. But who told him to go up there? Could they really see though our concealment? With a growl of anger, he started running up the steps. Almost immediately, he slipped on a cumbersome curve, banging his knee badly. The burst of pain was enough to stretch a mist of red sparkles across his vision. Medath's footsteps were becoming fainter as Edeard scrambled upright again. 'If that's how you want to do it, he muttered, and set off again.

'Edeard? Kanseen's voice echoed up the stairs.

'Medath went up here. I'll get him. You hang on down there.

The pillar walls were incredibly thick, restricting his farsight more than he liked. He could just make out the constable squads swarming towards the tower. In the chamber below, his squad-mates surrounded the defeated gang members. Above him, then-was a moving glimmer which he knew was Medath's mind.

Round and round the pair of them went. A tiny thread of orange light twinkled out of the narrow vault of the roof above Edeard. Just enough to illuminate the horrible curving stairs. He had to stretch his legs at each semi-jump upwards. How Medath kept up such a pace was beyond understanding. Edeard's heart was hammering loudly, while he could feel his lungs burning inside his chest. Sweat was pouring down his back and legs. When he was two thirds of the way up he simply had to slow, which only increased his anger. Medath started to pull ahead.

By the time Edeard reached the last spiral he was practically walking. Each breath had to be hauled down into his lungs with a big heave of his chest. Hair was glued against his forehead with sweat. Concentration was difficult. Nonetheless he managed to send his farsight out on to the circular platform which topped the tower. The eight spikes that rose from the edge stabbed up into the sky, their slightly crooked tips peaking at another forty feet above the platform floor.

Medath was out there. Standing ten feet in front of the central cone where the stair exited. He was already aiming the pistol at the opening, waiting for Edeard to emerge.

'Oh Lady, Edeard wheezed in dismay. The anger which had carried him so far was now diluted by fatigue. I should have just waited at the bottom, hunger would bring him down eventually. He started up the last few steps. It would be easy enough to deal with Medath. But then, Medath would know that. And I still don't know who that longtalker was. Or where they are.

As if to reinforce his concern, a clammy feeling of trepidation began to manifest. It was so strong he had to pause again. Something was badly wrong, he knew that without knowing why. He took a more cautious step upwards, and began a thorough survey of the platform. He froze. Medath wasn't alone out there on the platform. The floor was feeling the weight of four more pairs of feet, yet Edeard's farsight could find nothing.

'Nanitte, he spat as his anger rose again. Oh, crap; Macsen will never let this one drop.

When he was almost up to the exit, Edeard concealed himself again, and asked the city to let him through the wall. He emerged out on to the platform five feet to the side of the exit. The first thing which surprised him was the wind. Down on the ground, it was perfectly calm, up here it pushed against him. He leaned into it. His four concealed foes were standing together over by one of the spikes. Edeard could see nothing against the pale wash of nebula light that shimmered across the heavens above Makkathran.

As quietly as he could, he made his way over to them. He passed within a couple of yards of Medath, who was still staring at the stair exit, his long-barrel pistol held steady. Once Edeard was past the comically alert gang man he realized the platform Moor actually slanted down towards the edge. A tinge of what must be vertigo produced a shiver along his legs. He refused to let it get the better of him, and crept forwards.

The feet began to shift. At first, the two foes at the front took a step backwards; then they all began to move closer to the spike. Edeard grinned savagely, and carried on after them.

He was only five yards away when something struck him with colossal force, impacting on his left side, just below the bottom of his rib cage. Edeard cried out as much from surprise as pain. His concealment faltered as he fought for breath. Medath swung round. Another blow slammed into Edeard, knocking him to the floor.

'Shoot him, a longtalk whisper ordered.

How did they see me?

Medath fired. The bullet almost got through Edeard's shield. A powerful telekinetic shove sent him skidding down the slight incline. He had a terrible flashback to the day by Birmingham Pool when Arminel had pushed him over the edge. Lady help!

'Again.

The bullet struck him, as did a further telekinetic blow. Edeard was shunted over the edge of the platform. His arms flailed wildly, but straining fingers missed anything solid.

'Can you fly, Waterwalker?

Edeard plummeted downwards, screaming all the way. He instinctively tried to grip the tower with his third hand. He could even feel the force lock into the grainy structure of the wall. It didn't stop his descent.

His thoughts arrowed down to the city's slumbering mind as the air roared around him. Can you help? he pleaded to the slow, giant thoughts.

It was useless. He was falling. Falling.

Kristabel!

Somewhere on the edge of perception he heard her scream wildly. He directed one last thought — / love you. Content she would know. It made death more bearable. Falling.

Beneath him a vivid wave of alarm gushed from the minds of the constables scurrying round the base of the tower. Falling.

Any second now.

He braced himself for the terrible burst of pain which would strike for an instant before death.

Falling.

'How the Ladyfuck are you doing that? Chae's dazed voice asked.

Something slapped Edeard's arse. It was the ground.

'Huh? Edeard grunted dumbly. He looked up to see a circle of about ten faces peering down at him, all of them wearing utterly incredulous expressions. His hands patted the ground in disbelief. He was down. Intact. 'I fell… he blurted. But of course, it always felt like he was falling when the city lowered him down to its tunnels. It must be the same out here.

There was a near-hysterical laugh threatening to bubble out of his throat. Tears were already leaking from his eyes as the shock kicked in.

Some of the constables staring down were shoved aside. Kanseen and Boyd lunged into the gaps.

'Edeard! Kanseen squealed. 'Oh Lady, what happened?

'Trap, he said weakly. He pointed up at the dark shape of the tower looming above them, surprised by how much effort it was just to raise his arm.

'Medath? she asked in surprise.

Edeard nodded. It was hard to breathe, his body was tingling everywhere, and now he was starting to shake. His farsight could just discern a pulse of animal terror from somewhere. It was growing fast. 'What's happening? he rasped. 'What?

'Edeard? Boyd was sounding very faint. Chae was frowning, glancing round.

Edeard didn't have the strength to speak. 'Can you sense that? he longtalked.

'What? Kanseen asked.

Then Chae was broadcasting pure alarm. 'Move! The old sergeant pushed at Kanseen with his third arm. At the same time he tried to jump backwards.

Edeard saw it then. Directly above him. A black human silhouette against the green-glowing beauty of the Ku nebula. Edeard tried to roll away, what was left of his telekinetic strength roused feebly to ward off the plunging body.

Medath hit the ground two feet away from where Edeard was lying. Chae was only half clear. The collision produced a vile crunch as a multitude of bones snapped.

Edeard stared vacantly at the tangle of broken flesh beside him. Blood dribbled out of Chae's slack open mouth. The sergeant's eyes moved very slowly to meet Edeard's gaze.

Far away someone was wailing. It sounded like Kanseen.

'Sergeant? Edeard asked.

'Oh by the Lady, Chae longtalked. 'For a moment there, that really hurt.

'No, Edeard said. 'Oh no.

Chae let out his final rattling breath. Edeard tried to hang on to the man's mind, his farsight following the thoughts as they diminished. As they dwindled towards their extinction they disconnected from the body. Edeard perceived the spectral shape of Chae rising up to stand over his own corpse.

'Sergeant? Edeard sent in desperation.

'Oh my Lady, the spectre sent back.

'Sergeant!

'Edeard? It was Dinlay kneeling beside him: frightened, shouting.

'Can you see him? Edeard whispered.

'Edeard, you're going into shock. Try and focus on me.

'This isn't shock. Edeard gifted them his perception. There was a collective intake of breath as the constables gathered round saw their sergeant's spirit smiling gently.

'I can feel it, Edeard, Chae explained. He was looking up, searching the heavens. 'So beautiful. They're calling to me. The nebulas are singing. Can you hear them?

'No, Edeard wept. 'No, I can't.

A gaggle of Mothers from the central church were arriving to investigate the furore, their anxious voices stilled as they received the gift of Edeard's perception. Then the Pythia herself was standing next to Chae's broken body, an expression of serene joy on her face. One hand reached out tentatively, trying to touch his spirit.

'I want to go, Chae told his enraptured audience. 'I have to. There's nothing left for me here.

'You'll be lost up there, Edeard told him. 'Stay with us, stay until the Skylords return to guide you.

'The songs, Edeard, oh the songs. What a welcome awaits us.

'Wait. Please.

Chae smiled down. It was as though he was giving a blessing. 'Don't worry about me. I'll follow the songs.

'May the Lady bring you safe to the Heart, the Pythia said.

'Thank you, Dear Mother, Chae replied. He reached up to the sky as if it were a physical thing he could hold and own. His shape began to waver. As he looked down for the last time the slightest frown appeared on his phantom features. 'Who are you? Then his outline swirled away with astonishing speed as it rose towards the nebulas he sought.

Edeard fell back with a last sob. Darkness claimed him.

Consciousness returned with a slow flush of warmth. Edeard felt perfectly content lying wherever he was, with his eyes closed and his mind at rest. He was breathing normally. Not particularly hungry. A light sheet lay across him. What more could anyone ask?

'Kristabel, he said, knowing she was there. He didn't use farsight, he just knew.

'You're awake. Her fingers stroked his face.

He opened his eyes to see her smiling down at him. It was the most wonderful sight.

'Don't you ever do that again, she chided.

'I won't.

She kissed him. 'People have been worried, she said.

'I'll bet. Edeard looked round. He was in some grand room, high ceilings, walls covered in tapestries and oil paintings. Familiar wood-framed glass doors opened on to a hortus; bright sunlight shone through. 'Is it midday already?

'Um, Edeard, you fell two days ago.

'Oh.

'Our doctor said you were suffering a combination of exhaustion and shock. She gave you something to keep you asleep, she said you needed time to recover.

Edeard pulled a face as he licked his tongue round inside his mouth. Something tasted bad.

Kristabel handed him a tall glass of water.

'Thanks, he lifted himself up gingerly as she pushed some pillows behind his back to support him.

'You're the talk of Makkathran. Again, she told him with a sly grin.

Edeard gave a feeble shrug.

'I thought you were going to die when you called me. Her eyes began to fill with tears.

'I'm sorry. He reached for her, holding her close for a long time. When she'd calmed she said, 'And now you can fly, too.

'I can't, actually. That's something else altogether. The city, Kristabel, it helps me.

'The city. You mean Makkathran?

'Yes. He could sense the puzzlement in her mind. 'I'll try and explain, it's quite complicated. Perhaps I should explain to everyone. I don't know.

She rested her hand on his chest. 'You just wait. There's an awful lot you need to say to a great many people. But you need to be very careful exactly what you tell them, and you're not in any condition to make those decisions right now.

'Okay. He knew she was right about that.

'You also saw poor Sergeant Chae's soul. If you thought you were famous before, you won't believe what you are now.

'I thought I hallucinated that part.

'Thanks to your gifting, the Pythia herself spoke with his soul as it departed. You don't get a more believable witness than that.

She's been waiting to talk to you about what she's calling your "Lady-blessed connection to the spirit world". We're to inform her immediately you've recovered, Kristabel said significantly.

Edeard instinctively gripped the sheet tighter, drawing it up a couple of inches. He was only wearing a baggy nightshirt underneath. So who undressed me?

Kristabel gave him a lofty glance. 'I sent my maids in to prepare you for your rest.

'What!

She burst into giggles. 'The doctor and the Novices attended you.

'Oh. Not that it made the idea much more tolerable. Novices!

Kristabel hugged him. 'Thank the Lady, you're still my silly Edeard.

'What about my friends?

'Waiting outside. Very impatiently. Causing a lot of trouble for the staff. And they're all fine. Before you ask: the gang members are under arrest and awaiting trial in the cells under Parliament House. Their 'constable-killer' guns were recovered; and you'll never guess where they came from.

'Where? he asked eagerly.

'The Weapons Guild.

'No.

'Yes. Apparently they're a secret type the Guild holds safe in case the city is ever attacked. The design dates back centuries. Owain is furious. He's ordered a full inquiry into how they were taken out of storage. Nobody was supposed to know about them apart from the Guild's most senior Masters.

'That's got to be damaging to Owain in council.

'I expect so. Daddy was really cheerful when he told me.

'Thank you, he said softly.

She gave him a breezy smile. 'What for?

'Being here.

'You're welcome, Waterwalker. She kissed him again. A more sultry embrace this time, containing a great deal of promise. 'I'll call them in. I know you want to see them. Don't worry, the doctor already instructed them to be quick, and not to stress you.

They came in as one group. Kanseen anxious until she actually saw him awake and sitting up in bed, then she became quite emotional. Boyd nervous, almost shy. Dinlay boyishly eager, holding a big basket of sugared fruits. Macsen however had a huge grin on his face. 'Nanitte, he whooped gleefully, finger jabbing at Edeard for emphasis. 'I told you so!