departure from the city.'
He took the letter. 'I am grateful,' he said. 'But why would the council rule favorably?' he asked.
'We have fought together,' I said.
'That is true,' he said.
'Will you return to Port Kar?' I asked.
'I have moneys here in Schendi,' he said, 'notes which I have drawn upon my return from the Ua, moneys connected with my fees for accompanying Shaba's expedition. They will last me many months.'
'It is less dangerous now for an outlander to remain in Schendi,' I said. 'since Ayari became wazir to Bila Huruma.'
'Yes,' he grinned. No longer now did Bila Huruma demand men from Schendi for the canal. This alteration in policy in itself had inaugurated a new era and climate in the relations between Schendi and the empire of Bila Huruma. I had little doubt but what Ayari had clarified to Bila Huruma the value of the friendship and facilities of the men of Schendi.
'With this letter,' I said, indicating the document, 'you may return when you wish. I would advise you, however, should the ruling, as I would expect, be in your favor, to consider the adoption of an honest occupation. If the magistrates do not apprehend you you might, in Port Kar, run afoul of the caste of thieves. They are sometimes jealous of their prerogatives.'
He smiled. 'I think I may go to a new city,' he said. 'I think I may make a new beginning somewhere. Perhaps I will go to Turia or Ar.'
'They are great cities,' I said, 'rich in opportunities for the shrewd and ambitious.' I looked at him. 'Do you regret,' I asked, 'what has occurred to you in these past months?'
'No,' he said, 'I have had the honor of serving with Shaba, and with yourself. I have traveled the Ua. I have witnessed her source. These things are grand.' He then looked back and down at the girl kneeling near him. 'And, too,' he said, 'I have found a wondrous slave.' She put down her head, smiling, joyful that her master had spoken highly of her, though she was only a slave. Then again he looked at me. He smiled. 'I have no regrets,' he said. 'I am not dissatisfied. I am well pleased.'
We clasped hands.
'I wish you well,' I said.
'I wish you well,' he said.
'It is time to board!' called Ulafi.
I lifted Sasi to her feet and then threw her over my shoulder. I reached down with my free hand and picked up my sea bag. I then ascended the gangplank and boarded the Palms of Schendi.
