The prince looked at me like he wondered how I could be so naive. Im starting to think we have no basis for communication. This dinner may have been a mistake.

No. Its been productive. Itll keep on being productive if you listen to me. Im not beating around the bush. Im telling you how it is and how its going to be. Without me the Shadowmasters will eat you alive. You think theyll be impressed by which cult got a leg up on what with a boondoggle wall construction grant? I know how those people think. If they reach Taglios theyll slaughter everybody who could possibly make trouble ever. You should understand that. You saw what they did elsewhere.

Its impossible to argue with you.

Because you know Im right. I have a list of things I need right away. I have to build an encampment and prepare a training ground immediately.

This could lead to a quick confrontation. The resources would have to come from that absurd wall project. The city was too-big to surround effectively. The project could not be justified. It was a tool for transferring the wealth of the state to a few individuals.

I said, The men and resources devoted to the wall can be more profitably employed.

He understood. I was asking for trouble. He grunted.

I said, Why dont we just enjoy our meal?

We tried but it never turned into a festive evening.

A few courses along, with the conversation darting between his younger years and mine, I took the offensive again. One more thing I want. The books Smoke hid.

His eyes got big.

I want to know why youre afraid of the past.

He smiled weakly. I think you know. Smoke is sure you do. He believes it was the point of your coming.

Give me a clue.

The Year of the Skulls.

I was not entirely surprised. I feigned bewilderment. Year of the Skulls? Whats that?

He glanced at Ram and Abda. Doubt appeared. I recalled toying with my rumel while talking to his sister. He would not doubt long.

If you dont know you should find out. But Im not the best authority. Talk it over with your friends.

I have no friends if I dont have the Prahbrindrah Drah.

A pity.

Do you have?

That baffled him again. He forced a smile. Perhaps I dont. Perhaps I ought to try to make some. The smile changed.

We all need a few. Sometimes our enemies wont let us find them. I should be getting back. My number two is inexperienced and handicapped by his place in your caste system.

A hint of disappointment? He had wanted more than a discussion of princes and warlords.