count those persons who are trapped in the parallel universe; and they doubtless
deserve to be.’
They seemed entirely males, Cappen recalled. He grimaced in compassion. Of
course, the sikkintairs might eat them.
Danlis was talking on: ‘- humane governance and the art of compromise. A grand
temple dedicated to the Rankan gods is certainly required, but it need be no
larger than that of Ils. Your counsel will have much weight, dear. Give
it wisely. I will advise you.’
‘Uh?’ Cappen said.
Danlis smiled and laid her hands over his. ‘Why, you can have unlimited
preferment, after what you did,’ she told him. ‘I’ll show you how to apply for
it.’
‘But – but I’m no blooming statesman!’ Cappen stuttered.
She stepped back and considered him. ‘True,’ she agreed. ‘You’re valiant, yes,
but you’re also flighty and lazy and – Well, don’t despair. I will mould you.’
Cappen gulped and shuffled aside. ‘Jamie,’ he said, ‘uh, Jamie, I feel wrung
dry, dead on my feet. I’d be worse than no use – I’d be a drogue on things just
when they have to move fast. Better I find me a doss, and you take the ladies
home. Come over here and I’ll tell you how to convey the story in fewest words.
Excuse us, ladies. Some of those words you oughtn’t to hear.’
*
A week thence, Cappen Varra sat drinking in the Vulgar Unicorn. It was mid
afternoon and none else were present but the associate tapster, his wound
knitted.
A man filled the doorway and came in, to Cappen’s table. ‘Been casting about
everywhere for you,’ the Northerner grumbled. ‘Where’ve you been?’