But then, as the session went on, I saw that Id misundertood. As I paid close attention to the edicts that Skys representative put forth and supported, I realized that he spoke not just on behalf of Sky the city, but Sky the palace as well. Understandable, then, if unfair; Dekarta already commanded the entire world. The Consortium existed only to do the ugly, messy work of world governance, with which the Arameri couldnt be bothered. Everyone knew that. What was the point in being overrepresented on a governing body that was little more than a puppet show to begin with?

But perhaps that was just the way of power: no such thing as too much.

I found the High North representatives more interesting. I had never met either of them, though I recalled hearing complaints about them from the Darre Warriors Council. The first, Wohi UbmI think the latter name was a title of some sortcame from the largest nation on the continent, a sleepy agrarian land called Rue, which had been one of Darrs strongest allies before my parents marriage. Since then any correspondence that we sent her got returned unopened; she certainly didnt speak for my people. I noticed her glancing at me now and again as the session went on, and looking extremely uncomfortable as she did so. Had I been a more petty woman, I would have found her unease amusing.

The other High Norther was Ras Onchi, a venerable elder who spoke for the easterly kingdoms and the nearer islands. She didnt say much, being well past the usual age of retirement and, as rumor had it, a bit senilebut she was one of the few nobles on the floor who stared directly at me, for nearly the whole session. Her people were relatives of my own, with similar customs, and so I stared back as a show of respect, which seemed to please her. She nodded once, minutely, in a moment when Dekartas head was turned away. I didnt dare nod back with so many eyes watching every move I made, but I was intrigued by the gesture all the same.

And then the session was over, as the Overseer rang the chime that closed the days business. I tried not to exhale in relief, because the whole thing had lasted four hours. I was hungry, in dire need of the ladies room, and restless to be up and moving about. Still, I followed Dekartas and Sciminas lead and rose only when they rose, walking out with the same unhurried pace, nodding politely when a whole phalanx of aides descended upon us in escort.

Uncle, said Scimina, as we walked back to the mosaic chamber, perhaps Cousin Yeine would like to be shown around the Salon? She cant have seen much of it before.

As if anything would induce me to agree, after that patronizing suggestion. No, thank you, I said, forcing a smile. Though I would like to know where the ladies room is.

Ohright this way, Lady Yeine, said one of the aides, stepping aside and gesturing for me to lead the way.

I paused, noting that Dekarta continued onward with no indication that hed heard either me or Scimina. So that was how things went. I inclined my head to Scimina, whod also stopped. No need to wait on my account.

As you like, she said, and turned gracefully to follow Dekarta.

I followed the aide down the longest hallway in the city, or so it felt, because now that Id stood my bladder had become most insistent about being emptied. When we at last reached the small chamberthe door was marked Private in Senmite, and I took it to mean for the highest-ranking Salon guests onlyit took all my willpower not to rush undignified into the very large, roomlike stall.

My business completed, I was beginning the complicated process of reassembling my Amn underclothes when I heard the outer chamber door open. Scimina, I thought, and stifled both annoyance and a hint of trepidation.

Yet when I emerged from the stall, I was surprised to see Ras Onchi beside the sinks, obviously waiting for me.

For a moment I considered letting my confusion show, then decided against it. I inclined my head instead and said in Nirvathe common tongue of the north long before the Arameri had imposed Senmite on the worldGood afternoon to you, Auntie.

She smiled, flashing a mouth that was nearly toothless. Her voice lacked for nothing, though, when she spoke. And to you, she said in the same language, though Im no auntie of yours. Youre Arameri, and I am nothing.

I flinched before I could stop myself. What does one say to something like that? What did Arameri say? I didnt want to know. To break the awkwardness, I moved past her and began to wash my hands.

She watched me in the mirror. You dont look much like your mother.

I frowned up at her. What was she about? So Ive been told.

We were ordered not to speak to her, or your people, she said quietly. Wohi and I, and Wohis predecessor. The words came from the Consortium Overseer, but the sentiment? She smiled. Who knows? I just thought you might want to know.

This was rapidly beginning to feel like an entirely different conversation. I rinsed my hands, picked up a towel, and turned to her. Have you got something to say to me, Old Aunt?