Dearborn nodded like a man in a trance. “You're right,” he said, clearly troubled. “But, if you'll pardon me... it just doesn't seem right.”

She cut him short. “This is a fight for survival, professor. We live or we die according to our will.”

Defeated, Dearborn leaned back, arms folded, and shook his head.

Kinkaid took up the cudgels. “Don't let her confuse the issue with her phony scenarios, Professor Dearborn.”

“Apparently I have not been able to change your mind.”

Kinkaid stood and said, “No, but I'll tell you what you did do. You've given me some good ammunition for when I bring this matter up again before committee. I wouldn't be surprised if antitrust action is merited. I'll bet my colleagues who voted for the Colorado River bill would change their minds if they knew that the whole system was going to be under the thumb of one corporation.”

I'm sorry to hear that," Brynhild said.

“You're going to be a damned lot more sorry when I get through with you. I want to leave your private amusement park immediately.”

She gazed at him with sadness. She admired strength even when it was used against her.

“Very well.” She spoke into a radio she had clipped to her belt. “It will take a few minutes to get your luggage and ready the helicopter.”

The door to the hall opened, and the man who had escorted Kinkaid earlier guided him from the chamber.

When they were gone, Brynhild said, “While some may consider this drought a disaster, it presents a golden opportunity. The Colorado River is only part of our plan. We are continuing to acquire control over water systems around the country. You are all in a position to influence the success of our goals in operations in your communities. There will be great reward for every one in this room, beyond your imagination in fact. At the same time you will be doing something for the common good as well.” Her eyes swept both sides of the table. “Anyone who wants to leave now can do so. I only request that you give your word to keep your silence about this meeting.”

The guests exchanged glances and some uneasily shifted their weight, but nobody accepted her offer of an exit visa. Not even Dearborn.

Waiters materialized magically, placed pitchers of water on the tables and a glass in front of each man.

Brynhild looked around the assemblage. “It was William Mulholland who was most responsible for bringing water to Los Angeles. He pointed to Owens Valley and said, 'There it is. Take it.' ”

As if on signal, the waiters poured the glasses full and retreated. Raising her glass high, she said, “There it is. Take it.”

She put the glass to her lips and took a long drink. The others followed suit as if in a strange communion ritual.

“Good,” she said. “Now for the next step. You will go home and wait for a call. When a request is made you will comply without question. Nothing that transpired at this meeting can be divulged. Not even the fact that you were here.”