his Downwind mansion. He wondered briefly what it had taken to retrieve that
piece of furniture; the Stepsons had attacked the dwelling, driven the crimelord
into hiding. Of course, the “ersatz” Stepsons had been there for a while, which
might have made the recovery easier … but that would have to be a story to be
purloined on another day.
“These are dangerous times,” Jubal said without a trace of apology. “One as
observant as yourself must surely have noticed that, even though you have seldom
relayed such information to me since your promotion.”
Hakiem felt vaguely uncomfortable at this subtle accusation. He knew that he had
long enjoyed favored status in Jubal’s eyes, and at one time would have
tentatively called him a friend. Now, however …
“I have brought someone to meet you,” he said, striving to shift the
conversation away from himself. “Allow me to present …”
“You would not have reached me if I hadn’t known both that you were accompanied
by someone and that person’s identity,” Jubal interrupted. “All that remains to
be discovered is the motive for this visit. You may remove your blindfold as
well. Lord Setmur. My earlier instruction was meant for both of you.”
Hakiem’s companion hastily removed his eye covering and stood squinting
nervously.
“I … I wasn’t sure, and thought it better to err on the side of caution.”
“A sentiment we both share,” Jubal said with a smile. “Now tell me, why would
one of you Beysib interlopers, much less the head of the Setmur clan of
fishermen, seek an audience with a lowly Sanctuarite such as myself? I am