The Assyrian came down like the wolf on the fold,

only one fascinated by the process. There had been a constantly changing if discreet audience on the catwalk above the drive floor. As well. This would only enhance the image of the crystal singer. And it might just safeguard her against any more nonsense from the Elders. There now. Mr. Fernock, she said at last, arching her back against the crick caused by awkward positions. I think you can safely proceed with reconnections. I dont think theres any danger if the load is properly apportioned. A five-shaft drive should generate enough power to get us to the Mainland. She held up the hand that had been profusely bleeding an hour before. See? All better. Guildmember, do you know how long it would have taken me and my men to make such repairs? I couldnt begin to guess, Mr. Fernock, but do get on with the job. She smiled at the disconcerted officer and then, with Lars a step behind her, retraced her steps to the upper deck. Citizen, youre too much for this island boy. Huh! I was showing off again, and, leaning backward on one hand, kissed him lustily. Just in time to avoid the exchanges being witnessed by Captain Festinel, who was hurrying to check on repairs. You were a very deft assistant, Captain Dahl. I must ask for your help with the organ repair. She sedately continued her ascent. Surely, just perfect pitch Lars began as they returned to the wardroom. Perfect and absolute As you say, isnt the only requirement for your profession? The major one. Ballybran is a Code Four planet What does that mean? Im an island lad from a iggerant planet, and Lars voice was rich with contempt. Dangerous. Singing crystal is rated a highly dangerous profession, limited to Type IV through VIII bipedal humanoids Are there any other kinds? Dont alien life forms come for the Festival? The Reticulans are avid musicologists though I could never come to terms with their croons as music. Are they the ones that look like an assembly of twigs on a barrel? The wardroom was empty and Lars swung her into his arms, kissing her passionately, stroking her body, murmuring endearments. But knowing that they could be interrupted at any time inhibited Killashandras response, even as she yearned for more. At a scraping sound, they broke apart, Killashandra sliding breathlessly into the hidden digital home camera nearest chair. What a delightful description of Reticulans! The barrel is mostly windbag but Ive never been close enough to discover which of their pseudopods are the pipes. Lars stopped pacing, for the noise in the companionway had ceased, and he came back to fondle her. A candidate for Guild membership has to pass Physical Fitness Test SG-I, Psychological Profile SG-I which youd never pass if you continue to do that, Lars and Education Level 3. Im not applying to the Guild, only applying a member This time the footsteps stopped and the door was slid back. Mr. Fernock entered, smiling broadly when he saw the occupants. Well be underway in ten minutes, Guildmember, thanks to your invaluable assistance. And well be able to make a reasonable enough speed on five shafts to reach our destination on time. How marvelous, Killashandra said in a languid drawl. Marvelous was not really the way she felt, considering the inner turmoil Larss caresses had stimulated. She couldnt get to the City and the Conservatory fast enough. Chapter 18 Fortunately Lars was equally frustrated by their lack of privacy and made no further overtures. Perversely, Killashandra missed them. The cruiser had broken out flags and a full honor guard for the ceremonial and triumphant return. Killashandra steeled herself for yet another protocologically correct reception. She reflected on what scene she could produce to shorten the tedium, and debated whether or not a scene would produce any advantage. She had made several points. Unless she had sufficient provocation, she decided to leave well enough alone. For now. She might need to produce an effect to gain privacy within her suite. For she was determined to enjoy Lars without any surveillance for whatever time remained to them. She could, of course, stretch out the organ repair as long as she wished. Or her instruction of technicians. She could include Lars in that program. He had the perfect and absolute pitch to tune crystal as well as the strength and manual dexterity required. She must do everything she could to make him indispensable to the Elders, for whatever protection that could provide him, since he didnt seem at all interested in leaving Optheria. Even if that were possible. Were near enough for you to have a spectacular view of the City Port, Lars said, interrupting her reflections. A natural port?