The City of Queg, capital of the island nation of the same name, was really two cities. Below were the docks, poor quarter, and every manner of industry given to dirt, blood, filth, and ofal: the tanners, dyers, slaughterhouses, fish markets, and forges. The air hung heavy with smoke, soot, odors that assaulted the senses, and noise to deafen.

The streets were thronged with workers, traders, and fishmongers, though few travelers came and went; Queg was not considered a hospitable nation.

The upper city rose up on the hills behind, dominated by the Emperor’s palace. It shined in the sun, for it had been faced with white marble over the years, and this “gleaming jewel” of a building could be seen for miles out at sea on clear days. It was also, Pug judged, as fine an example of excesses and bad taste as one might find anywhere on Midkemia.

A delegation of Quegan officials waited on the dock, none of them looking especially pleased at the duty before them, but all affecting broad smiles and a forced air of conviviality that was less than persuasive. They wore the traditional white togas of office, all lined with a single band of color over the shoulder and along the hem. Those trimmed in red were city officials, while those in gold represented the Emperor. As only one person had gold trim, Jim presented himself to him. “I am Baron James, of the King’s Court in Rillanon, and these are my companions.”

The official said, “I am Lord Meridious, Chancellor of the Imperial Archives, and given responsibility for your visit.” He was a round-faced man, but broad of shoulders and under his fat heavy muscle was evident.

Jim shook the man’s outstretched hand and said, “I thank His Imperial Majesty for his courtesy and willingness to allow scholars access to your archives. Especially in light of the abrupt nature of the request.”

“It was a bit odd,” agreed the Chancellor, “but his Imperial Majesty is always anxious to keep harmonious relations with our neighbors and it seemed a small favor to ask.”

Jim turned and motioned to his three companions. He introduced Pug, Magnus, and Amirantha. Looking overawed by the presence of such a great personage, all three magicians managed a fair imitation of a self-conscious bow.

“We have litters ready to bear you to the palace,” said the Chancellor.

Jim nodded and with a tilt of his head indicated the others should follow. They walked down the docks, between two lines of Quegan soldiers, four with herald horns that had been sounded when the ship had arrived. Now they merely stood motionless in the hot sun awaiting the order to return to barracks.