The Praetor nodded. ‘I thought not. Perhaps you should visit the sick camp some time. Then you would know what we do—that the human mind may be a wonderful thing, but it is also the most terrifying thing there is. Especially when it is diseased. The fact of the matter is, Albert, it is true what Father said—we try and care for the affected, but it is not care they want, it is another hit. Just yesterday, we lost one of our order. His teeth were wrenched from his mouth while he was still screaming. For the fillings. His attackers probably never even heard him scream. How could they? To them, we are not their caregivers, or even people, but obstacles, or at best, means to an end, tools that can be used in their solitary goal—one more high. That is what they all truly want, all they will ever want. Just one more high.’

The Praetor continued to look at him for a moment and then sighed, seeming even more bent than earlier. ‘I’m sorry,’ he said. ‘Of course you do not need to know all this. This is not your burden, it is ours—the Collegium’s—and we will continue to do what we can. I do not know if it is enough, though. Every day, the list of those needing our care increases manifold. To tell the truth, I do not know what we can do, except hope that with time and effort we may find a way through. Oh, how I curse the devil who created that cursed Intelligence Interface! May his soul repent, wherever it may be!’

Father gave him an odd look. ‘No one could ask you or the Collegium to do more than you have,’ he said. ‘Sanctuary owes you and the Collegium a debt we can never repay. And believe me, Damon, everyone knows it.’

‘It is our duty,’ said the Praetor.

‘And you do honour to it. To both of them. Because that is not all, Albert. The Praetor with his usual modesty has not mentioned the other, equally vital, role he performs for us. He is the Master of the Voice. Together with the Collegium, he conducts the proceedings when the people step forth to choose who will lead them. It is he who tells them whom they have spoken for.’

‘One of our less frequent responsibilities. And one that gives us great pleasure. There is nothing greater than seeing the will of the people come to fruition.’

‘It is a noble deed they do for us indeed,’ said Father. ‘Especially considering the Praetor and the Collegium abstain from voting. They give up their own right so they may help others have theirs.’