Theres no one here subtle enough to see the implications of the threat. Is the assassin here already? If not, how will he get in? And so on.

You westerners are a devious race. Were more direct.

Ive noticed. But Nassef and El Murid are working on a different level. Their behavior betrays careful calculation. They occupied Sebil el Selib knowing your strength and probable response.

Meaning?

Meaning theyre confident they can hold it. Theres no point in their taking something they cant keep. Not at this point in their growth.

You give them too much credit.

You dont give them enough. Despite everything you told me at Al Rhemish, you havent really convinced yourself that these people are anything more than bandits led by a madman. Do you recall what you said? About El Murid selling the snake oil everyone wants to buy? Ive reflected on that, and I think its even truer than you know.

What would you have me do?

There are a lot of possibilities. Radetic suggested several, all of which Yousif rejected as impractical or politically unfeasible. Then be direct. Murder El Murid. People will scream, but they will forget quickly enough. And Nassef wont be able to survive without him. Not at this point.

I plan to try. Assuming Fuad fails. You havent given me a thing.

I know Im overlooking the financial and political difficulties. You asked for options. I laid out what I see. Hell, its even remotely possible we could ignore them till they all die of indifference.

Megelin, my recovery wasnt spontaneous. Ive been lying here for two days, aching more in mind than in body. Ive thought of it all. And the only workable option is to fight and hope we get lucky. If we cant get lucky, then well try to keep them contained.

This is depressing. Were talking ourselves into accepting a defeat before the event.

Drop it, then. Megelin?

Yes?

You can do one thing to brighten my life.

Wahlig?

Stay here when your contract is up. I may need the outsiders viewpoint desperately before this is over.

Radetic was surprised. This was the first time ever that Yousif had treated him with more than minimal respect. Ill consider it, Wahlig. Id better go. I left Ali in charge of my class.

Yousif chuckled. Yes, youd better.

Im a political historian, Haroun, Megelin explained. Thats why Im going to stay. Why I have to stay. I cant leave during the political storm of the century, can I?

The boy seemed slightly disappointed. Radetic understood, but did not have it in him to lay out the true, emotional bases for lengthening his stay. He did not understand all his motives himself.

You see, Im the only one here at the heart of it. History is written by prejudiced parties, Haroun. By winners, usually. This is a unique opportunity to capture the truth.