“No. I didn’t notice them at all until then. It might just be visual—the entire landscape was spinning and transforming from second to second.”

“You don’t believe that.”

“It really felt like a portal tunnel.”

“That is interesting, and I will keep that in mind.”

“Is Mrs. Erickson with the Arkon?”

“She was, but she had become somewhat worried about the children. Teela and Mandoran offered to escort her home—with the Arkon’s very reluctant permission—and she eventually accepted their offer. She was also worried about your new guests, but understood my explanation.”

Kaylin was surprised Sanabalis had let Mrs. Erickson leave. “Which explanation?”

“They need time to establish comfort in their new home. I do believe she will return if you allow it.”

“Do you think she’ll be safe?”

“I think she is the only person in this house who will be.”

Terrano clearly felt mildly insulted, which Helen gracefully failed to notice.

“She did speak with the Arkon for some time. He is concerned, but he does not believe she intends harm.”

“Because she doesn’t.”

“Indeed.”

Kaylin sighed loudly. “Let’s go face the Dragon. Unless you’ve invited him for dinner, I won’t get to eat until he leaves.”

14

Sanabalis was orange-eyed, but flecks of red persisted. He had been ushered into the parlor by Helen’s Avatar; he was offered a drink, which he refused, and food, which he also refused. He sat heavily in the chair offered, his forearms across the chair’s rests, his hands a little too white-knuckled.

“I would ask, in future, that you not ask favors of me. It has been a very trying day.”

It had been a trying day for Kaylin as well, but she kept this to herself.

The Dragon glanced at Terrano. Terrano, usually not one for taking hints, vanished. Sadly, he didn’t bother with the door. Kaylin suspected he’d remained in the parlor.

“I’ve been conversing with Helen on the topic of Necromancers,” Sanabalis said. “And I have sent a message to Lannagaros. He will, no doubt, be annoyed by the interruption; the duties of chancellor take every waking minute of his time, and he was never full of cheer when interrupted. Mrs. Erickson is a danger.”

“Is in danger? Because she’s a little old woman who likes to bake and feed people, and she only gathers ghosts because they’re lonely and she can see them.” Kaylin had to force her arms to remain at her sides.

“I do not believe there is anything wrong with your hearing. Helen made clear that Mrs. Erickson’s influence—such as it was—was benign; the very disturbing possession occurred at the whim of...her ghosts. She is therefore being escorted to her home, but you will forgive us if we place her under surveillance.”

Kaylin looked down at her lap. “You have Records of tax collection and tax law.”

“We do.”