Of All the Homes in All the Town, I Walk Into His!

To my relief, Maris gives no sign of recognition. "Hello, Teran," he says. "Long time no see. Who's this with you?"

"This is Ilsa. Ilsa, meet Vosk."

"Pleased to meet you," I lie, hoping that he won't recognise my voice.

"I assume that Teran is working for you, and thinks that I can help you," Maris says. "I'm sure that he will have told you that I don't come cheap."

What do I say now? If Maris should manage to track Don down, it would be for himself rather than for us and would be very bad news for Don. Also if I reveal who I am looking for, Maris is sure to guess who I am. Maybe Teran would be able to protect me, but I'd rather not have to find out.

All I can think of is to pretend that whatever payment he will ask for is too much. That could provide an excuse for not taking the discussion any further. "How much money will you want?" I ask. Teran gives me a sideways glance, evidently wondering why I have asked about the price so prematurely.

Maris looks exasperated. "I can't tell you until you let me know what you want me to do for you, can I?" he says.

1. "She's trying to trace a Laralian," Beran says, before I can elbow him in the ribs.
2. "I'm trying to trace someone," I say. Perhaps I can avoid revealing who it is I'm looking for.
3. "Can I have a word with you in private?" I say to Teran.

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