And his broad arrows all amain,

upward, and in another adjustment, magnified the chosen islet, complete with its protecting reefs, quite isolated from other blobs of polly-treed islands. Here, Elder Torkes, is where I discovered the Guild-member. Fortunately, whoever abandoned her left her where there is a good fresh spring. He now magnified the islet so that its topographical features were apparent. Id a bit of a shelter on the height, Killashandra said. Here, Lars agreed and pointed. And mercifully I was high enough there to be out of reach of the hurricane tides just barely I fished in this lagoon, and swam, there, too, because the larger things couldnt pass over the reef. But, as you can see, gentlemen, I could not even have swum to an occupied island for help! One of Torkess officers noted the longitude and latitude of the islet. Just thinking about it again distresses me. Killashandra turned to Olav. That was a magnificent dinner to he served so soon after a hurricane, Harbor Master. And it was such a pleasure, for me especially, and she graciously gestured, to have so much variety to choose from and enjoy. Now, I would like to retire. Guildmember, there is much to discuss We can discuss it just as easily in the morning, Elder Torkes. It has been a long and exhausting day for me, remember. We left Bar Island with the injured at dawn and its now midnight. She turned from the Elder now to Olav. I am quartered tonight in the Residence? This way. Olav and Lars immediately escorted her to the inner wall where a lift door slid aside. Let me assure you that this is the only way into the living section of the Residence. This will be guarded well tonight. He peremptorily gestured for the guard to be posted. Elder Torkes, this is the first time that we have been privileged to entertain members of the Council, Teradia said, her deep voice tinged with awe as she took Torkess arm and began to lead him back to the reception room. Olav bowed over Killashandras hand, smiling as he came erect and gestured her into the lift. The door slid shut on Killashandra and Lars and, with an exaggerated sigh of relief, Killashandra leaned against him. He made a quick sign with his hand, his eyes busy on the ceiling pane. I am totally exhausted, Captain Dahl. So, Torkes had had the area monitored. That would make it exceedingly awkward for her and Lars. The lift made a sony canon digital camcorder camera brief, noiseless descent and then the door slid open to a scene that caught her breath. The wide window gave onto moonlit harbor. An aureole of bright light illuminating the ancient stratovolcano as a second moon rose behind it. Of one accord, they stood for a long moment in appreciation of the beauty. As Lars led her down to the short corridor toward two doors at its end, he glanced at the chrono on his wrist. Killashandra had time to notice the grin on his face before all the lights went off. Simultaneously she saw three short blue flashes, two along the corridor and a third one at the first door. What she began in alarm, but then the lights came on and Lars took her in his arms. Now were safe! You blew the monitors? And his ships systems. Fathers got a way with electronics and he swung her into his arms and impatiently strode toward the first door, which slid open to their approach. Im about to have my way with you. Which, of course, was exactly what Killashandra had been hoping for. Chapter 17 A breakfast tray in hand, Teradia appeared early next morning. Killashandra found she was in a large room brightly lit by sunlight reflected from the surface of the harbor. How the woman maintained her perfect grooming and serene composure Killashandra would have given much to know. Perhaps it had something to do with the experiential tranquillity of advanced years, although old in the physiological sense did not seem to apply to Teradia. And what of the day, oh bringer of delights? Lars asked, settling pillows behind Killashandra. Olav didnt miss a trick last night, did he? Hes still playing them this morning. Teradia smiled faintly. May I compliment you on last nights performance, Killashandra? You were spectacular. I dont think anyone on Torkess staff had ever witnessed its like. I was consumed with righteous wrath, Killashandra replied. Imagine, someone pointing a weapon at me! A crystal singer! Lars soothingly stroked her arm and poured out the steaming morning beverage. Whats Olav up to today then? Teradia seated herself on the edge of the wide bed, folding her hands together in her lap, the faint smile still tilting the corners of her