obtaining even basic food supplies. That constituted a flagrant abuse
of his position as Lord Holder.
When Paulin read M’shall’s report, he asked if Chalkin’s holders would
speak out against him. M’shall had to report that his initial survey of
the minor holders indicated a severe lack of civic duty.
Chalkin had his folk so cowed, none would accuse him – especially this
close to a Pass, for he had still had the power to turn objectors out of
their holds.
They may change their minds once Thread has started,’ K’vin remarked to
Zulaya.
Too late, I’d say, for any decent preparations to be made., K’vin
shrugged. He’s really not our concern – for which I, for one, am
thankful. At least we rescued Jantine.
Zulaya gave a wry chuckle. That poor lad! Starting his professional
career at Bitra? Not the best place.
Maybe that’s all he could aspire to,’ K’vin suggested.
Not if he’s from Hall Domaize,’ Zulaya said tartly. Wonder how long
it’ll take his hands to recover?” Thinking of a new portrait?” K’vin
asked, amused.
Well, he’s down an eighth of what he needs,’ she said.
K’vin gave her a wide-eyed look. You wouldn’t.
Of course I wouldn’t,’ she said with an edge to her voice.
He needs something in his pocket of his own. I admire a lad who’d
endure Bitra for any reason. And lantine’s was an honourable one in
wanting to pay the transfer fee.” Wear that red Hatching dress when you
sit for him,’ K’vin said. Then he rubbed his chin. You know, I might
have my portrait done, too.” Zulaya gave him a long look. The boy may
find it as hard to leave Telgar Weyr as it was Bitra.
With a much fuller pouch and no maintenance subtracted And soap and
hot water and decent food,’ Zulaya said.
According to Tisha, he’ll need feeding up. He’s skin and bones.
When the singing woke lantine, he was totally disoriented.
No-one had sung a note at Bitra Hold. And he was warm!
The air was redolent of good eating odours, too. He sat up.
Hands, feet and face were stiff, but the tingling was gone. And he was
exceedingly hungry.
The curtain across the cubicle rustled and a boy’s head popped through.
You’re awake, Artist lantine?” the lad asked.
Indeed, I am,’ and lantine looked around for his clothes.
Someone had undressed him and he didn’t see his own clothes.
I’m to help you if you need it,’ the boy said, pushing half-way through
the curtains. Tisha laid out clean clothes.” He wrinkled a snub nose.
Yours were pretty ripe, she said.
lantine chuckled. They prbably were. 1 ran out of soap for washing
three weeks ago.
You wuz at Bitra. They charge for everything there, and the boy threw
up both arms in disgust. I’m Leopol,’ he added.
Then he lifted the soft slippers from the pile on the StOol.
Tisha said you’d better wear these, not your boots. And you’re to use
the salve first He held up the lidded jar.
Dinner’s ready.” Leopol then licked his lips.
And you must wait your meal until I’m ready, huh’?” Leopol nodded
solemnly and then grinned. I don’t mind.
I’ll get more because I waited.” Is food in short supply at this Weyr?”
lantine asked jokingly as he began to dress in the clean gear.
Odd how important simple things, like freshly laundered clothing,
assumed the level of luxury when you’ve had to do without.
Leopol helped him spread the salve on his feet. They were still tender
to the touch and even the act of applying the salve made them suddenly
itchy. Fortunately the numb weed or whatever it was, reduced that
sensation.
When he had relieved himself again and gingerly washed face and hands,
he and Leopol made their way to the Lower Cavern where the evening meal
was in progress.
The lad led him to a side table near the hearth which had been set for
two. Instantly cooks descended with plates overflowing with food, wine
for him and klah for Leopol.
There now, Artist man,’ the cook said, nodding appreciation as lantine
attacked the roast meat, eat first and then the Weyrleaders would like