now, so you can refresh your memories.
The two exchanged alarmed glances.
In fact,’ Zulaya went on smoothly, I think we’ll have someone read you
your rights . . . since it would be difficult for you to turn pages
with bandaged hands, Brookie. And you’re not in much better case,
Ferina.
Ferina managed a nervous smile. I’d like that real well, Weyrwoman.
Real well. Our rights are printed out’? In the Charter and a!!?” Your
rights as holders are part of the Charter,’ Zulaya said, shooting K’vin
another unhappy look. In detailed paragraphs.” She rose to her feet
abruptly. Why don’t you sit over there in the sun, Ferina, Brookie?”
And she pointed to the eastern wall, where some of the Weyr’s elder lies
were seated, enjoying the warmth of the westering sun. We’ll make sure
you hear it all, and you can ask any questions you want.
She helped the two to their feet and started them on their way across
the Bow! as K’vin whistled for Leopol.
Go get the Weyr’s copy of the Charter, will you, lad?” You want me to
read it to them, too?” the boy asked, eyes glinting partly in mischief
and partly because he enjoyed second-guessing errands.
Smart pants, are we?” K’vin said. No, I think we need T’lan for
this.” He pointed towards the white-haired old brown rider who was
serving klah to the refugees. Just get the Charter now. I’ll request
T’!an’s services.
Leopo! moved off at his usual sprint and K’vin went over to speak to
the elderly brown rider. He had exactly the right manner to deal with
nervous and frightened holders.
Bridgely arrived in Benden Weyr, his face suffused with blood, torn
between fury and laughter.
The nerve of the man, the consummate nerve!” he exclaimed and threw
down the message he carried. It landed closer to Irene than M’sha!l, so
she picked it up.
From Chalkin?” she exclaimed, looking up at Bridgely.
Read it… and pour me some wine, would you, M’sha!l?” the Lord Holder
said, slipping into a chair. I mean, I know that man’s got gall, but
to presume – – – to have the effrontery Ssssh,’ Irene said, her eyes
widening as she read. Oh, I don’t believe it! Just !is ten M’shal!.
“This Ho!d has the right to dragon messengers. The appropriate red
striped banner has been totally ignored though my guards have seen
dragons near enough to see that an urgent message must be delivered.
Therefore I must add She peered more closely at the written page.
His handwriting’s abominable Ah.
“dereliction” – – . really, where does he get off to cry “dereliction”
“of their prime duty to the other complaints I am forced to lay at their
door. Not only have they been interfering with the management of this
Hold but they fill the minds of my loyal holders with outrageous lies. I
demand their immediate censure. They are not even reliable enough to
perform those duties which fall within their limited abilities.”
Limited abilities?” Irene turned pale with fury. I’ll un limit him!”
Especially when we’ve had an earful of how he treats his loyal holders
– M’sha!l said, his expression grimmer than ever. Wait a minute.
What’s the date on his letter?” Five days ago,’ Bridgely answered, with
a malicious grin.
He had to send it by rider. From what the fellow told me, Chalkin’s
sent messengers to Nerat and Telgar as well. He wants me, you’!! see
in the last paragraph, Irene,’ and Bridgely pointed to that section of
the missive, to forward it by a reliable messenger to Lord Paulin,
registering his complaint with the Council Chair. I suppose,’ and his
grin was droll, I’ll get another one when he finds out about
yesterday’s airlift rescue.
The man. . . Irene paused, unable to find words. When I think of
how he’s treated those poor people And when he’s called to account,
he’!! probably whinge that his guards exceeded their instructions . .
. and he’s fired them all,’ said Bridgely with a cynical shrug.
Oh,’ M’shall said brightly, not all of them.” He scratched the back of
his head. Ah they wanted to know why they couldn’t get to ride a