There was he aware of a proud bishop,

for, of course, Hauness and I have known Olavs history. It didnt take me very long to perceive that Corish was not looking for the man in the hologram. I could hardly brandish Dahls real likeness in case I jeopardized him. Id memorized his facial characteristics so I thought Id recognize him once I did see him. Then Corish turned to Killashandra. He hadnt altered as much as you had. I didnt recognize you at all, with your hair and eyebrows bleached and a good few kilos lighter. If it matters, and Corish gestured at the matched garlands, this is an improvement over the mawkish music student. So are you Council or Evaluation? Killashandra shot a triumphant glance at Lars. Olavs no more your uncle than I am. That inheritance business was very thin. For you, perhaps, and Corish inclined his body toward her, and his manner turned starchy at her criticism, but youd be surprised at how effective it was. Especially with Optherian officials who might get their percentage out of it. Corish made an age-old gesture with his thumb and forefinger. Since all off-planet mail is censored, and not always delivered to the addressee, such a problem is peculiarly applicable to Optheria. I withdraw my comment. Killashandra nodded graciously and then seated herself in the nearest chair. Do I also assume that Olav has been a misplaced agent? Inadvertently detained, Olav replied on his own behalf, with a nod to Corish. My briefing was at fault, on a point no one had considered at headquarters. To whit, the mineral residue, which is what trapped me here. And which provides the Optherians with such simple means of preventing unauthorized departure from this planet. The exile has not been without profit to me, and he smiled warmly at his son, though my time was not spent in activities of which the Council wholeheartedly approve. If you cant lick em, join em is useful advice. He winked at Killashandra, who gave a crow of laughter. However, you appear to be remarkably tolerant of the abuse you have suffered at my sons hands. Killashandra laughed. Oh, yes, since it has afforded me the chance to investigate a complaint. Oh? Olav exchanged glances with Corish. Lodged by a Stellar of the Federated Artists Association. Really? Nahia clapped her hands together in delight, grinning at Lars with triumph. I told you they were a good choice. Corish had straightened up in his chair. You were also told to investigate? Oh, yes, new sony digital cameras but the organ repair should have been the priority! And she gave Lars a stern glance. We can discuss this at a later time, Olav said, raising his hand for silence. We have a much more immediate problem in the imminent arrival of an official search party. Ive outlined the way to deal with that, havent I? said Killashandra. To what purpose? Olav asked. Not that I am grateful for you forgiving my rascally son I think that would be my preeminent task, Olav Dahl, Killashandra replied with a grim smile. I dont know which Elder supervises Security on this planet, but from what I have seen, your son is probably first on their list of suspects whether or not theyve any evidence at all. Oh, I agree, Olav, Nahia said. Will Security believe your explanation? Corish asked skeptically. What? Killashandra rose in a flowing movement, drawing herself up to her full height, in a pose of haughty self-confidence. Refute the statement of a crystal singer, a member of the Heptite Guild, a craftsman whose services are vital to the all-important tourist season? You must be joking! How, under which ever name you hold sacred, can they challenge what I say? Besides, she said, relaxing and flashing a friendly smile, I have every confidence in Larss ability to lend credence to the account. Dont you? I must say, when you assume that pose, Killashandra, Id hesitate to contradict you. Corish rose to his feet. But now, I think that Nahia and I had better join Hauness and prepare to disappear. If they credit Killashandras explanation, theyll not be likely to mount a twenty-five hour radar watch, will they? So we wont have that problem to contend with. Nahia had returned to the console, and was taking some hard copy from the retrieval slot. Ive all the charts we need, Olav, and my thanks for your suggestions. Just in case, I think we will take the devious course through the islands and then double back north. Lars, Olver survived the purge and you can contact us through him when you need to. Corish had her by the arm and was drawing her toward a rear exit. May I hope to see you again, Killashandra? If that is at all possible, officially, yes, of course, and I look forward to the occasion. Abruptly, annoyed at her stilted phrases, Killashandra stepped forward and swiftly embraced Nahia, kissing her