Thieves World 3 – Shadows of Sanctuary by Asprin, Robert

thinking of.’

‘What did you say to him?’

‘I …’ She hesitated, feeling ashamed. ‘I lied to him,’ she said miserably. ‘I

said I was tired and it was dark and smoky, and I made a foolish mistake.’

‘Why didn’t you try to persuade him you were right?’

‘Because it isn’t my business to deny what you wish known about yourself. Even

to my oldest friend, my first lover.’

Lythande stared up at the curved surface of the inside of the sphere. The

tension eased in the set of her shoulders, the expression on her face.

‘Thank you, little sister,’ she said, her voice full of relief. ‘I did not know

if my identity were safe with you. But I think it is.’

Wess looked up suddenly, chilled by insight. ‘You brought me here – you would

have killed me!’

‘If I had to,’ Lythande said easily. ‘I am glad it was not necessary. But I

could not trust a promise made under threat. You do not fear me; you made your

decision of your own free will.’

‘That may be true,’ Wess said. ‘But it isn’t true that I don’t fear you.’

Lythande gazed at her. ‘Perhaps I deserve your fear. Westerly. You could destroy

me with a thoughtless word. But the knowledge you have could destroy you. Some

people would go to great lengths to discover what you know.’

‘I’m not going to tell them.’

‘If they suspected – they might force you.’

‘I can take care of myself,’ Wess said.

Lythande rubbed the bridge of her nose with thumb and forefinger. ‘Ah, sister, I

hope so. I can give you very little protection.’ She – he, Wess reminded

herself- stood up. ‘It’s time to go. It’s nearly dawn.’