“You don’t like the way I talk, Ch—Dzhoseph?” banteringly, stealing sly hands to mine and pretending to stare mockingly at me while peering into my eyes.

“Very well, Beelo. Did you square yourself with the king and have a good rest last night?”

“Of course. Do you think any king———”

“Stop that.”

“What?”

“Trying to see if I’m sick. Even though I were dead, your coming would bring me to life.”

“My! Did you hear that, Christopher?”

The sensible man did not answer, nor even look at her. She made a mouth at his back, withdrew her hand, and edged away a few inches. Had I made a slip after that confidence and caution from Lentala? I roused myself.

“What’s the news, little brother? What game and what killing today?”

Her face fell grave. “Something has happened with you since I saw you last night, Choseph.”