Nolan nodded. “Well, the infection attacks a specific combination of molecules in the gulden bloodstream,” he said. “There’s certainly a one-in-two chance that a mixed-breed child would carry those molecules. So then I would say, yes, those individuals are at risk. But the same antidotes and the same vaccines would keep them safe.”

“Then we need to make sure the media and the hospitals have that information,” Chay said. “I will see to it.”

“Once news of the epidemic becomes public knowledge,” Nolan said, “Cerisa will have to react in some way. She will at least have to pretend to be looking for a cure.”

“We have informed the doctors and the news media that our own pharmacists have come up with medicines. I hope this does not disappoint you.”

Nolan laughed. “Certainly not! I’d rather not be given credit for this particular breakthrough.”

“Though if you are willing,” Chay added, “I would be interested in hearing from you about Cerisa Daylen’s reaction. What she says and how she behaves.”

“In hearing from—but I—am I to be sent back to the city, then?” Nolan stammered. “I thought—you seem to be so dangerously ill—and you said before—”

Chay nodded. “I have reconsidered. If I die while you are still here, your life will be instantly forfeit. No matter what orders I leave to the contrary, I am afraid you will fall under suspicion and mysteriously disappear. Even if your drugs do not save me, it is clear that they will have saved countless others—a whole nation—and I do not want to repay your generosity in such a dishonorable way. Therefore, I am sending you back to the city on tonight’s train.”

Nolan came to his feet. “But I don’t want to go back,” he said urgently. “I want to stay here—and do what I can for you—and for any of the gulden. I want—”

“There is nothing else you can do for any of us,” Chay said. “And now I want you safely away.”

Nolan turned to look at Kit, sitting carved and immobile in her chair. Her gaze was fixed on Chay; she had not moved or spoken for the past several minutes. “Does Kit come with me? If you die, I don’t want the wrath of the gulden to fall on her.”

“I want to stay,” she said instantly.

“Kit, I believe, is safe,” Chay said, as if she hadn’t spoken. “She is too familiar to my family and my people to be at risk.”

“Well, I am not so certain of that,” Nolan said stubbornly. “I would feel much better if she was allowed to return to the city with me.”

Chay smiled, and this smile was both stronger and edged with malice. “I realize that,” he said, “and that is why I want her with me. I still do not entirely trust you. Forgive me for that.”