“Yes,” Vorgens admitted, “but this battle has gone beyond my control—beyond anyone’s control. The war on Shinar has lost its meaning. We are fighting each other now simply for the sake of fighting.”
The Komani said nothing.
“I don’t have much in the way of personal possessions to add to the pyre,” Vorgens went on, “but I do want to give these, as a token of my regret.” He unpinned the diamond insignia clips from the collar of his tunic and handed them to the nobleman.
For a moment, Lensor stood frozen, immobile. Then slowly he extended his massive hand and accepted Vorgens’ offering.
“I shall place them on the pyre myself,” he said.
“Thank you. May I stay to witness the ceremony? I could remain at this spot, if you wish.”
The nobleman turned to his fellow council members. None of them objected.
“Very well, you may remain. And—after the ceremony, you will accept our hospitality,”
“Agreed,” Vorgens said. “Perhaps then we can talk of ways to stop this killing.”
“Yes> perhaps the time has come to talk of peace.”
XXI
A Better Man
Sittas sat in Vorgens’ tiny compartment aboard the dreadnaught while the Star Watchman packed his few belongings in a travel Idt.
“This court-martial that you must face,” the old priest asked, “is it serious?”
“More than serious,” Vorgens said. “I may be lucky just to remain in the Star Watch.”
“Even though you have stopped the fighting? Even though the Komani have left Shinar?”
“That will have very little to do with it, I’m afraid. The charges filed by Brigadier Aikens concern insubordination, armed mutiny, personal malice, and a few other items.”