02 Quetzals Flock

QUETZAL'S FLOCK
continued indefinitely, but Eridos elected to break the silence. Surprisingly, his tone
was pleasant enough, almost mild.
"Greetings, my Lord Quetzal. We parted in anger, I hope we meet in peace!"
Kane was wary, the gesture of conciliation was atypical. He forced himself to
relax.
"I have no memory of our parting, Eridos. If it is your desire that we should
meet in peace, it is also mine."
Eridos eyed him without smiling.
"So - it true. I had heard that you do not remember."
"It's a long story."
"We have plenty of time."
"Less than you might think."
"I have heard your dire predictions caused great turmoil in the Encampment of
Obeid."
"News travels fast."
"Faster than you, it would seem, Lord Quetzal."
Eridos' face cracked into a thin, humourless smile. Kane shrugged.
"My need for rest periods is well known."
"It was always a source of amusement for us when you graced us with your
presence two days ago."
"I am always glad to create enjoyment."
The smile broadened.
"I have heard that Obeid suffered some discomfort from your last session of -
entertainment. I understand that the pain has gone, but he has a very anti-social itch."
The vision of Obeid desperately trying not to scratch himself, brought a
responsive smile to Kane's mouth. Eridos watched him silently.
"What could have provoked Obeid to such a rage that he would try to put his
brother of the cloak into chains? Was he annoyed that you dared to fly the Ship?
Perhaps, he didn't like your growing familiarity with Hammadi - or with Ajanta?"
Kane stared back at him, the smiles were gone.
"Neither Hammadi nor Ajanta need the protection of Obeid. As for the Ship, it
was not Tursac who barred the people of the Ship from entry. Siyulk, your father was
extremely clever, but he didn't reckon with the Masters of Psi and our collective
wisdom and power! Obeid was enraged for another reason."
As a guest, he should have been offered hospitality, but that had not been
forthcoming. He should have been invited to drop the Kous and replace it with a tunic
provided by the host - this practice had not been followed. The interview with Eridos
had been conducted standing, like two warriors sizing up each other before combat. It
was time to take the initiative. Kane undid the tie of the Kous and allowed it to drop
to the floor. He stood naked before Eridos, clad only in the Pentacle which gleamed in
the red filtered light. Eridos didn't move a muscle.
"You asked the reason for Obeid's rage. Look into the mirror, Eridos!"
He held up the Pentacle so that the light could shine through its transparency.
Eridos slowly reached out his hand and took it. He stared at the image glowing in the
red light. The muscles of his jaw tightened and then relaxed.
"So, this was the cause of my cousin's rage?"
"Isn't it enough?"
Eridos turned away and picked up a tunic from a side table, he tossed it to
Kane, who slipped it over his head. Eridos watched him silently. Kane returned his
gaze calmly.
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