The Hierarch studied him carefully. "Kill the Diktor!"
Angus barked derisive laughter. "As well ask me to find the Book of Nard. I'd stand as much chance!"
"I may well ask that too, before you and I are through."
"Suppose I refuse?"
The Hierarch sighed. His black eyes glittered in the shadow of his cowl. "I'll smash your legs so you can't run, and let Stal Tay send his men for you. I'll put red-hot daggers in Tandor's eyes until he confesses your crimes. I—"
Angus scowled. "I thought the Diktor was your friend."
"He keeps us penned in the Citadel as his slaves. The scientific discoveries we make he claims as his own. He sent the diseases that the people blamed on the scientists."
Angus said, "I will kill him." But he thought to himself, I only play for time. It's promise or get my legs broken.
They led Angus to a little room where a cowled man waited for him with garments that were living reds and ochres, braided with gold and ornate with jewels. The scientist said coldly, "You are to impersonate the Ambassador of Nowk. He's red-headed and big with a scar on his face like your own."
The night air was crisp as Angus stepped with the cowled scientist through a stone gateway and into a long, sleek wheeler. He gathered his cloak of black sateenis about him and sank into the foamisal upholstery.