The idea had been discussed in upper-level defense circles for decades. It was simple, if drastic: the Way at many points touched on stellar bodies. Since the Way was essentially a hollow, evacuated tube, opening a circuit of massive gates into the heart of a star would suck up the high-pressure, superheated plasma and distribute it throughout the Way. Barriers—though constructed of modified Way space-time—would transmit the extreme heat and finally break down, becoming level with the walls. The Way itself would remain intact, but everything else for billions of kilometers would simply dissolve to component particles in the fury.

"How fast would the plasma front travel?" Olmy asked.

"It would only be slowed by turbulence effects. Its final velocity could be about six thousand kilometers per second."

"Then we'd have about thirty-two hours to evacuate."

"If they can't open a gate remotely. . .”

The thought of the Jarts' being able to manipulate Way gates from a distance had sobered defense planners for years. The Jarts had never demonstrated such a capability within the human-controlled sector, but data from Way disturbances had led many gate researchers—including Ry Oyu's team—to believe they were doing so beyond 2 ex 9.

"I've passed word on to Senator Oyu," Yates continued. "Her father is with his researchers now. She'll tell him when he's available."

Olmy saw Patricia and Lanier emerge from the cubicle in the living quarters on the north side of the terminal shell.

"Will Ser Vasquez agree, do you think?" Yates asked. "You've spent much more time with our guests than I."

Olmy picted a symbol of uncertainty, carrying implications of resigned humor: an incomplete neomorph choosing between two high-fashion body designs.

"I wish I had your calm," Yates said. "I could use a Talsit session right now."

Patricia spotted Olmy and Yates and waved at them, then touched Lanier's shoulder. Both crossed the grass toward the scaffold.

"I have to see Ser Oyu," she told Olmy. Lanier seemed haggard, his eyes darting back and forth.

"He's in conference with his researchers. Senator Oyu will relay any message," Yates told her.

"Well, I suppose I don't have to tell him in particular. Olmy. . .”

Lanier focused on Olmy, his expression unhappy and resentful.

"I've decided. I'll make the bargain."

Olmy smiled. "When would be convenient?" he asked.

"Our time is limited," Yates said.

Patricia shrugged. "I suppose now is fine. Any time."

"I'll hold you personally responsible," Lanier said to Olmy, emphatically jabbing his finger at him.

"I take the responsibility," Olmy said solemnly. "She will be protected."

Yates went to inform Senator Oyu that they were about to begin. Olmy led them to the unfinished cupola where they had first met Ry Oyu, and picted instructions to a monitor floating nearby. "It will summon a medical worker. I'll make a few modifications in the worker and transfer the partials. You will then offer your Mystery and the patterns will be conformed. It's quite simple."