01 Taxilas Children

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
“"Give your assessment of the purpose of this place."
“"It is a trap."
Steve's heart started to thud again.
“""Who has set a trap and for what purpose?"
“"The builder has set the trap, his purpose is not clear."
Steve picked up the pentacle.
“""""""What is this?"
“Bait for the trap."
CHAPTER 1
The Keeper stirred from out of the latent state. He listened but not with physical ears. The
physical had long since ceased to be. Now, after measureless aeons of silence, from the
Abyss, the Masters were commanding him.
"It is time ..."
The Keeper contemplated the ten nearest suns to the cinder planet upon which he dwelt.
Once more, it was not with physical eyes, for he was beyond the concept of physical vision.
His perception was an awareness coupled with attributes which had replaced the senses. It
was in this way that he viewed his benchmark to obliteration. The ten suns were nearer,
much nearer, pulled by irresistible, titanic forces. Their change in position was the measure of
how long it had been since he had last viewed them. He knew it would not be long, measured
against infinity, before they would join so many others he had seen pass.
His world was an ember, but that was of no discomfort to him, for pain and suffering and
discomfort had been relinquished along with the physical. There was no fear, even though he
dwelt at the ultimate Gateway.
His answer was unnecessary, for the Masters knew of his awareness.
"I hear...."
He opened his being to the power of the Abyss and channelled the limitless authority of the
Masters outward into the spawning worlds. He was the Focus and the Ambassador for those
who had called him. It was the reason for his being. Thus, it had been planned, myriads of
aeons before that moment.
He began his journey by probing outward, reaching beyond the plane of the galaxy and
leaving its pulsating central lens. He sought a lonely blue star beyond the end of one of its
twin spiral arms. His essence rode the Psi Path and touched upon the star's solitary planet and
its attendant moon and then focused upon the occupant of a sealed metal casket, which
orbited endlessly about the blue star. The Keeper touched the mind of the comatose figure
within it, before moving back to where he had not left.
For an infinitesimal moment, he revisited his domicile world to refocus his power and then
plunged outward again. This time his journey was shorter, only to where the great spiral arms
joined the concentrated pulse of a thousand million stars around the central core. He surged
through the fiery halo of a monstrous red giant and onward, to its solitary, massive planet. On
a shoreline of purple sand, which skirted the blackness of a turbulent ocean, time and space
ebbed and coalesced to the epoch he sought. A solitary walker kicked purple dust with
purposeful strides. The Keeper gave him a waking dream, for the walker had not slept for a
thousand of the years of the next planet that the Keeper was to visit.
1

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
This planet was far distant in another of the galaxy's arms, it circled a golden sun in the
company of ten others. The Keeper sought a man who slept in the honey-stoned house of his
father, and haunted his dreams.
There was two more yet to be sought and then his initial task would be complete. He
marshalled his forces yet again, and focused the power of the Abyss. This time, he travelled
inward and through the light years to a sombre red sun, high in age but still capable of
supporting the two distant planets of its system. They orbited warily, keeping their distance
like children of an ageing father, unsure of his moods. In the depths of a steaming forest, the
Keeper sought the mind of a hunter at a critical moment. The unexpected vision undid the
painstaking hours which had been spent stalking his prey which escaped from him at his
startled movement.
The power of the Abyss drew the Keeper back to his cinder world. He gathered extra
power from a limitless supply. His journey took him to the final man, who would be the
coalescence of all the others. The Keeper scanned the fourth world around a golden sun and
found him and manipulated his destiny, so that in his innocent unawareness, he was led to one
of the Gateways - and he entered and the Keeper entered with him and in him.
"It is done ..."
The Awakening would commence and thereafter, the tortuous threads would interweave the
lives of four men into that of the fifth and into the purpose of the Masters.
.....
"Steve Holt."
"If you weren't, I'd be worried!"
Steve moved his hand over the receptor control and waited until the features of the girl
focused on his viewer.
"Greetings, Laura - nice to think you worry about me. Can I take it as the first sign of a
thaw in our relationship?"
"We don't have a relationship! Someone has to hold your hand - although I can't think
why!"
"Holding hands can lead to - well, you know."
"Remind me not to try it sometime!"
"I could change your mind - "
"Optimist!"
He sighed and shook his head in mock despair.
"I don't know what I'm going to do about you, Laura."
"I can tell you in one word - Nothing! Especially, if you don't shift your backside and get
out of the way of a grand daddy of a dust storm heading in your general direction!"
"Come to think about it, I thought the sky looked a bit yellow."
"The sky always looks yellow! I'm serious. This monster is about one hundred kilometres
from you and coming out of the west with winds in excess of one hundred and fifty
kilometres per hour - that gives you about forty minutes."
He shook his head in mocking admiration.
"Not only is she a raving beauty, she can count as well!"
"Smart arse! As a matter of some interest to the people who pay you. Would you mind
telling me what the hell are you doing grounded in the middle of the Vallis Marineris, when
you're supposed to be five hundred kilometres to the north?"
"Sightseeing."
"You now have about thirty-five minutes to get out of there - unless it starts moving
faster."
2

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"Your concern is touching - "
"Get out of there, Steve!"
"I have to take a look at something first."
"It'll be there when the storm has passed - whatever it is."
"I'll take a look now - it might not be."
"Don't be a bloody fool, Steve - you know the rules!"
"Bye - Laura!"
He waved his hand over the receptor and shut off her squawk of apprehension. Laura was a
nice girl - but that was the trouble - she was a nice girl.
He moved quickly to get into a surface suit. She was right, the speed of the storm might
pick up and he would have precious little time to investigate the anomaly. He looked at the
square cube sitting to one side of the cabin floor. He grimaced in disgust, there was nothing
for it, he would have to manhandle the Bole to the site. The thing weighed a about twenty
Martian kilograms and he sometimes wondered if there wasn't an easier way of obtaining the
precise measurements and analyses his profession demanded.
The wind was already picking up, when he vacated the Skimmer. The Bole wasn't designed
for comfort, it bounced against his suited legs and didn't add to his general state of happiness.
Laura had been right, of course - she always was, which was one of the annoying things
about her. Prudence - and Laura - dictated that he ought to be heading out, away from the
menacing wall of yellow red dust which was looming in from the west.
The problem was, that he didn't know what he had found and he hadn't been joking when
he had said that it might not be there after the storm. He had deviated from his regular flight
plan and survey schedule, to revisit the area. He had landed as close to a rock wall as he had
been able. Even so, the onboard computer and the Bole had joined together in an unholy duet
of complaint about the way he was risking the ship, himself and presumably, themselves,
whilst he was trying to make a perfect landing.
He aimed for the cleft in the rock which had claimed his attention. Around it, at the base of
the cliff, was the residue of a rock fall which he presumed, had uncovered it. He looked up at
the rock face with a certain amount of apprehension. This area of Mars was notorious for its
instability. The last few paces were a scramble over the rocks at the base of the incline. At
any moment, he expected to be brained by another boulder. He looked back at the Skimmer.
The wind was increasing and he could already see the ship's skin beginning to flow and ripple
under its intensity. He almost made up his mind to return, the thought of the 'I told you so'
expression he could expect to see on Laura's face, changed his mind. He turned to examine
the cleft.
It was hard to say why it had attracted him. Perhaps it had been its regularity. His mining
surveys had led him into many remote areas on Mars and he had a good reputation for
uncovering some of the more valuable minerals. It didn't concern him very much that the
wealth they represented was destined to expand the credit balances in the coffers of the
mining Cartels. As Laura had so pointedly mentioned, he was paid handsomely for the risks
he took.
His discoveries had not been neatly laid out, waiting to be discovered. More often that not,
they had occurred in jagged outcrops of weathered base rock and he seemed to be blessed
with a kind of intuition which led him to the right spot. He wasn't used to regularity, it was
something totally alien, even on an alien planet like Mars.
The cleft had a regular outline - not smooth and tooled, it was still rough rock, but there
was a regularity of shape, which was intriguing. He shone his lamp into it as far as he was
able, it went back quite a way. He couldn't be sure at first inspection, whether it was a cave or
whether there was a turn at the end which implied another section. The mouth was wide and
the floor was smooth - and the Bole was heavy enough to pull his arm from its socket. He
3

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
stepped inside out of the wind and cautiously stood upright. He opened the focus of the lamp
and flooded the place with light. Near the entrance, the walls were rough and natural.
Towards the back they were almost - shaped!
He paused and shook his head. He was allowing his imagination to run away with him.
There was no possible way they could be shaped. This area was virtually unexplored - that
was why he was doing a survey of the general area in the first place. He ran his gloved hand
along the rock face and then drew it back slowly. Experience told him that the rock had been
tooled! He directed the lamp to the far end of the cleft. There was no doubt that the cave
continued at a right angle from the chamber in which he now stood. But, where was he
standing? He considered the options. In three hundred years of exploration, there had never
been a hint that another race had ever inhabited Mars. There were no artefacts of any
description, no ruins, no evidence of prior occupation. It was an accepted fact that if there had
ever been a population, it and its works, had perished in the cataclysmic changes which had
swept away the oceans and atmosphere which had once existed.
Unless other surveys had produced results which had been suppressed - and that was
always a possibility - he was now about to face the first evidence of a Martian past! He wasn't
sure that he was quite ready to do so. He could think of a dozen good reasons why he
shouldn't venture to the end of the cave and turn the corner to see what no other man had ever
seen.
He enumerated the reasons. There was the approaching storm - and he would have to be
crazy to risk it overtaking him. There was the possibility that if he uncovered something
people wished to be kept hidden, he would become highly unpopular. There was always the
possibility that he might find himself in a situation from which he couldn't extricate himself.
He squared his shoulders. That was nonsense! If it came to extricating himself, he always
had the Bole! He looked down at the cube at his feet and felt almost benevolent. He picked it
up and the feeling evaporated. He marched to the end of the cave and hesitated before turning
the corner. He had no idea of what he expected to see, but even his imagination couldn't have
matched what was there. A perfectly tooled passage led precision straight to a small chamber.
The passage was no more than twenty paces in length, but its cross section was in the shape
of a perfect pentagon. The floor, the two walls and the two roof sections, were precisely
aligned to the exact angles to form a five sided figure.
There was no speck of dust on the floor and that which dislodged from his surface suit, was
blown back to the cave entrance. The chamber at the end of the passage beckoned him. His
heart was racing, he couldn't assimilate the magnitude of what he had discovered. Part of his
mind screamed caution, but it was a part he chose to ignore. He walked the length of the
passage and stood at the threshold of the chamber and held up the lantern. The walls seemed
to respond, as if his torch had triggered a light source.
The five sided arrangement was repeated. The floor itself was a pentagon with five equal
sides. From the five edges and including the one into which the passage led, the five walls
themselves formed perfect pentagons. Between the five peaks of the wall pentagons, five
more supported a pentagon ceiling. It was precisely engineered and, as the automated lighting
indicated, still functional. Steve wondered - for what? What had been its function - more to
the point - what was its function?
In the centre of the floor, stood a plinth. Once again, the pentagon design was repeated. It
was five sided, with a smooth pentagon top. On the top, inviting inspection, was a single
artefact.
Steve entered the chamber and carefully placed the Bole on the floor, with his lantern on
the top. He walked a few paces to the central plinth and reached out a gloved hand to pick up
the artefact. The five fold shape was repeated. This time, it was a pentacle - a five pointed
star. It was no more than a quarter of a centimetre thick. Through the gloves, he couldn't
4

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
identify the material, but it was transparent. From one of the star points was looped a strand
of similar material and was clearly intended as a neck hanging. He looked through it against
the light and nearly dropped it, for almost three dimensional in the central lens was the figure
of a man with head, arms and legs stretched out to the five angle points.
Steve's hands started to shake and he had to steady himself before he could examine the
image further. He was looking at an image of what he took to be a man. He made the
assumption that he was looking one of those whose race had engineered the passage and
chamber. The man was depicted with head, arms and legs stretched towards the five points of
the star, with his naked body occupying the central pentagon. He had strongly feline features.
Steve had the sudden desire to flee, to get away from the alienness of his discovery. He
needed time to think and to come to terms with the immensity of what he had uncovered.
He reached out for the Bole and the intensity of the light within the room seemed to
increase before subsiding once again. He stood upright without lifting the Bole. The entrance
to the passage was no longer where it had been. He fought down rising panic and rasped.
"Activate - "
A small red light flickered on the top surface of the cube.
"Status - "
"Integrity."
Steve breathed out heavily, momentarily fogging the inside of his suit. He checked the
capacity meter. His air supply would hold for thirty minutes - at the end of that time, unless
he was back in the Skimmer, he would suffocate.
"Where is the access entrance to this chamber?"
"There is no access entrance."
He stared at the cube.
"Don't talk bloody nonsense. I walked through an entrance - it was in that wall!"
He pointed.
"There is no access entrance."
"Status - "
"Integrity."
"Are you quite sure?"
"All systems are integrity."
"Explain the lack of access to this chamber."
"Insufficient data."
Steve ignored the fact that the chamber might have been designed as a sacred place and
swore vehemently. He pulled himself together - anger was making him use oxygen above the
average rate.
"Scan the surfaces and determine where there is a door."
"Scan complete - there is no door. All surfaces are uniform and cover basalt rock to a depth
of thirty metres."
Steve drew breath slowly.
"How did I get in here?"
"Insufficient data."
Steve counted to ten.
"How did you get in here?"
"You carried me."
Steve examined the walls carefully. Each angle and joint was smoothly united to the next.
He tried to move the plinth, but it too, was fused into the floor material. He turned back to the
Bole.
"Give your assessment of the purpose of this place."
"It is a trap."
5

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
Steve's heart started to thud again.
"Who has set a trap and for what purpose?"
"The builder has set the trap, his purpose is not clear."
Steve picked up the pentacle.
"What is this?"
"Bait for the trap."
Steve nodded grimly.
"The builder - whoever that might be - will be wasting his time. I have another thirty
minutes of air left and then I will die - so his elaborate scheme will come to nothing - unless
he wants to see me die."
It was an unpleasant possibility but feasible. Steve looked again at the naked, feline man in
the pentacle. Cat man or not, he didn't look like a murderer - Who was he kidding? The
laboratory rat might think of the technician as a father figure - until the last moment!
"Atmospheric conditions within this chamber have been stabilised."
"What does that mean?"
"The air is breathable and at correct atmospheric pressure to sustain human life."
"So, I'm in a nice air-conditioned cell without a door. What am I supposed to do - take off
my suit?"
"It is an option. It will preserve your remaining oxygen supply for your return to the
Skimmer."
"So, now you're telling me that you're sure I'm going to return to the Skimmer?"
"It is one logical outcome."
"What about others - logical outcomes, I mean?"
"Insufficient data."
Steve shrugged, hesitated and opened the seals on his helmet. There was a slight hiss of
equalising pressures. He hoped he would have adequate warning if it became necessary to get
his suit on again. He pealed the rest of it off and dropped it on the floor. It was madness but
something told him that the cat in the cat and mouse game had something else in store other
than suffocation.
"I wonder how the storm is doing outside."
"There is no storm outside."
Steve looked at the bland surface of the cube.
"Does that mean that you're experiencing electromagnetic interference with your sensors."
"My sensors are fully operational."
"You are not able to detect a storm which by this time should be blasting this area with one
hundred and fifty kilometre winds?"
"I do not detect a storm. Atmospheric conditions are quite calm. Wind velocity is five
kilometres per hour. The sun is shining and the sky is blue!"
Steve groaned.
"That's it! If I ever get out of this bad dream and return to sanity, I'm going to have you
trashed!"
The chamber trembled slightly. Steve got to his feet in alarm, it felt like a seismic tremor.
He looked at his suit and cursed his impetuousness in discarding it in unpredictable
conditions. He clutched the central plinth with one arm and the clenched the Bole and the
pentacle with the other. The chamber distorted and heaved, as if it was made of plastic
materials which was being manipulated by titanic forces. Suddenly, he was wrenched free of
the plinth, which receded away, beyond his reach. The regular pentagon shapes of the room
stretched and swirled into a vortex of forces within which he and the Bole and the Pentacle
floated and surged.
6

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
He screamed in sheer terror, but his scream was lost somewhere deep in the spiral which
stretched behind him. He faced a growing light. A light so blinding that his eyes streamed
with protesting tears. He was propelled on and then his feet touched something solid and then
he fell, and as he did, he heard a voice:
"Welcome, Lord. We have waited long for you!"
CHAPTER 2
Danyk son of Lyot, the heir to the Thane of The Seven Lands - to give him his full title -
awoke from a troubled sleep. He stared out into the pre-dawn sky, clear and star-sharp in the
mountain air, and wondered what his strange dream signified. It was unusual for him to have
disturbed sleep. He smiled slightly in the darkness, Zayez, the All Wise, High Master of the
Adepts, would read deep and mystical meanings into his nightmares - but that would be if he
got to hear about them and that Danyk son of Lyot, was determined to avoid.
He rose from his couch and draped the bed cover around him against the cool air. He
walked out through the open entrance to the common balcony which ran completely around
the Thanehold. He moved quietly, not wishing to disturb other members of his family
sleeping in adjacent rooms. He stared up at the stars, hard and sharp in the clean air.
His dream had been about stars but they had not been as these. The dream stars had ebbed
and flowed about him and he had moved through them, never touching them but freely
suspended. From the distance, from out of the field of stars, another man had approached and
had stood in front of him. A smiling fellow with dark-blue eyes. In his dream state, he had not
been surprised that his newly arrived companion had not been one of the Men of Lynxe, he
was a better than usual specimen of the Scarn.
Danyk had no prejudices about the Scarn, they were a sub race and subservient to the Men
of Lynxe, because that was how it had always been from the beginning. The Sagas of the All
Wise were quite clear on that point. The Men of Lynxe were dominant by virtue of their
genetic superiority and intelligence. The Scarn were shambling, mute creatures who could
barely be trained for the most menial of tasks.
The blue eyed one of his dream had not been like that. This one had been alert and
intelligent - but that was a contradiction in terms The Scarn lacked the genetic ability to be
alert and intelligent. Danyk reflected that he would regard any blue-eyed Scarn with grave
distrust, that is, if ever he was destined to meet one - and that possibility he doubted. He
returned to his room and dressed, further sleep was impossible that night.
Danyk had more to occupy his thoughts than vagrant dreams. Nevertheless, he took the
elementary precaution of imposing a mind-block, so that the subject was repressed from his
consciousness. The Lynxe Gift was at one and the same time, a great asset but it had obvious
drawbacks if privacy and secrecy were required.
The Men of Lynxe had always known how to commune in thought. It had resulted in a
tendency to be taciturn, unless it was within the family group, where a medley of mind
messages could be confusing. The mind-block he applied, would ensure privacy but as
always, it had to be exercised diligently to ensure maximum effect. Some who were
especially adept, could break through a mind-block if it was inexpertly applied.
The Adepts of the All Wise could always penetrate a mind-block and some of their number
seemed to take a delight in trying to do so. Danyk considered that an abuse of their great
7

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
powers and because he was the son of Lyot, the Thane of The Seven Lands, who sat in the
Council of the Thanes together with the High Thane, the Adepts were content to allow him
this errant thought, until the time came when they would have the opportunity to purge him.
The Seven Lands was a province endowed with great riches, it had come into the
possession of Danyk's ancestor a thousand years before, as a result of some great service
which had then been performed. Most of the great estates had come into being at about the
same time and from the same period, the prosperity of the Lynxe was calculated.
There was no reason why the Lynxe should not prosper and especially that applied to The
Seven Lands, with its fertile soil and vast mineral riches and with the surety of peace between
the great Thanes. The Lynxe had learned that the gift of mind control could be applied to the
Scarn with far greater effect than speech, therefore, they had an unlimited supply of labour.
The Scarn reproduced with amazing fecundity. The All Wise had made the pronouncement
that they had been provided by Taxila, the old god, for the prosperity of his children. That
was what the All Wise wanted them to think and Danyk was not alone among the younger
generation, in rejecting such archaic reasoning. That was another reason for the Adepts of the
All Wise to view Danyk with disfavour.
The Thanes of Lynxe had a pressing problem, one that threatened to destroy the fabric of
the people and because Danyk was of the family of a Thane, he shared in the concern.
Increasingly, the People of Taxila were beginning to realise that unless something was done,
the race of the Lynxe would disappear for ever - and when thy did, they would leave their
planet to the Scarn.
The All Wise pointed to the laxity of the younger generation and pontificated loudly that
the problem was a punishment from Taxila. Ancient rituals, long suppressed, began to emerge
as a panacea to cure all their ills - it was hard to tell whether these were prompted by the
Adepts or not, Danyk could not be sure. The All Wise officially condemned the return to the
outlawed ways of the past.
The power to sweep the minds of the people, to get a hint of what was intended, was
something that Danyk had been practising over recent times. It was by no means the breaking
down of a mind-block, he was not sufficiently gifted to do that but it was a tapping into the
aura of excitement and anticipation that was almost impossible to control, especially where
many were involved with the one intention. When this built up, there were disturbances in the
Psi and this Danyk was beginning to detect with ever increasing aptitude. As yet, however, he
was not able to pinpoint the time or the locality of the proposed activity. To do this, he had to
rely on intuition.
In the dawn light, after his disturbing dream, he moved through the sleeping household to
the rear wing, where he roused his personal men. It was a sign of his rank that he was always
accompanied by a half dozen retainers. As was the custom, they were all drawn from the
ranks of his clansmen. It was an indication of their loyalty that they raised no objection to
being roused so early, although Danyk detected here and there, a hastily suppressed thought.
He grinned in the darkness.
His intuitive sense and the surge in the Psi, urged him to lead them through the darkened
fields surrounding the Thanehold and then across the river. They were mounted and if the
men hadn't complained, the beasts did, moaning dismally, as the cool water lapped their
bellies. The men clucked reassuringly, knowing that silence was necessary. The animals
caught the mood and were muted, treading carefully with their huge, soft feet.
The rich smell of river mud, disturbed by their crossing, assailed Danyk's nostrils - it was a
good smell, a smell of fertility. With such a land, with so much richness, why couldn't the
men of Lynxe be as fecund? Why was it becoming increasingly difficult to make their own
kind? Why were so many couples childless, even when their attempts for a family bordered
8

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
on desperation? He didn't have the answers and neither had the nine Thanes who surrounded
the High Thane in Council.
Danyk and his escort were soon to see where the desperation led. Far ahead, on the top of a
wooded hill, he could see the glow of fires. Already the east was tinted with the dawn. The
Psi urge was pounding now in his mind and in the minds of his men. It was almost
overwhelming in its invitation to surrender and join the primeval rites being expressed in the
guttering light of the fiery beacons.
Danyk nudged his mount and abandoned all attempts at a stealthy approach. Even the
undergrowth seemed to conspire to impede their passage. Branches whipped across their
faces and the men cursed softly. The place had been chosen well but it was one of many that
could have served the same purpose.
The Lynxe star topped the eastern horizon, beating them to the hilltop. They were still a
hundred yards distant, when the Psi force changed to one of crazed fear - utter terror assailed
them. The mounts stumbled on, their riders unable to control them. Danyk held on to the
reins, swaying under the medley of terror, fanatical ecstasy, ruthlessness and savagery.
Desperately, he tried to mind-block and partially succeeded. He knew his men were not so
successful. He went on alone, as they clutched their heads in their hands, or vomited at the
visions they couldn't block out.
Suddenly came the climax, a hideous scream of utter agony and despair and then a wild
surge of exaltation. Danyk heard the shout and then the Psi force began to diminish and he
was able to make his way to the hilltop clearing.
What he saw was not unexpected but still it made him retch. They had not dared to take a
man of Lynxe but rather, some luckless Scarn. Some sort of ceremony had been performed
according to an archaic rite. It had to do with blood and seed and the culmination for the
Scarn had been that first they had hacked away his manhood and then, his living heart.
Danyk stared at the corpse, he swayed as if he was drunk. It had been men of Lynxe who
had done this - the superior race. Danyk left the site of the butchery to the cleansing birds and
led his men slowly homeward, retracing the way they had come. This time, the Thanehold lay
before them, the rising Lynxe star touching its rooftops. For once, Danyk could not find peace
in the sight. There had been many such days when he had risen early and had ridden through
the fields of oil-crop surrounding the Thanehold, to return as the dawn came. On less
traumatic occasions he had stopped his mount on the brow of one of the low hills encircling it
and had watched as the light touched the honey coloured stone roof and walls, giving warmth
to it as it crept down deep into the darkened courtyards.
Danyk's head was bowed down, as he topped the hill. He felt shame that men of Lynxe
could stoop to such bestiality and it wasn't the moment to reflect on beauty of the structure.
Behind him, he felt the flow of discussion among the men, their thoughts intermingling. He
didn't intrude, he knew that their conversations would be guarded because of his presence.
There was no talking as such, the only sounds being the soft moaning of the Vix, the shuffle
of their feet on the paths between the crop and the jingle of their harnesses.
They entered the outer gate and immediately, the protective warmth of the place began to
dispel the lingering residues of the Psi trauma. Someone had once said, so many generations
before that it couldn't be remembered exactly when, that the essence of those who had ever
lived in a Thanehold, lingered long after they had been dispersed to the wind. It was
interwoven into the fabric of the walls within which they had lived. Danyk wasn't so sure
about the old story, it was a legend, an old wife's tale, but then, he wasn't sure of very much
these days. He felt the Psi trauma draining from him and he supposed that the old story had to
mean something.
They dismounted and led the moaning beasts to their stalls. The men were silent, brushing
down and watering them. Danyk thanked them mentally, nothing more needed to be said.
9

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
They dispersed to their own quarters as Danyk climbed the outer steps to the balcony of his
room. He had no desire to see anyone or to speak to anyone, physically or mentally. Least of
all did he want trivial chatter. Almost as that thought crossed his mind, it acted like a
summoning beacon, and moments later he was joined by Krin. Danyk didn't disapprove of his
brother but the difference in their maturity made him hard to take, especially after the episode
he had just experienced.
Krin was an exuberant child, just emerging into manhood. He was also just emerging from
Danyk's private bathroom, cascading water all over the polished floor. Krin forestalled
brotherly protest at the invasion by a bombardment of chatter.
"You were up early. You woke us all, clattering off with half the household!"
Krin was inclined to exaggeration. He continued without slackening pace.
"Some woman giving you funny dreams? Take a cold bath, it's quieter for the rest of us!"
Danyk grinned despite himself.
"You're about the age when cold baths help - I had to go riding."
He felt a quick probe into his mind, he allowed his brother to see what he had experienced.
The boy had to grow up sometime and this would be one of the lessons. Krin's smile faded
and he stood motionless, staring into Danyk's eyes.
"Shaita!"
Danyk nodded.
"For once your foul language hits the mark. If I believed in the old gods, I'd say Shaita had
a hand in all of this."
Krin finished drying himself slowly.
"What are you going to do about it?"
"What can I do about it? I'm not exactly in favour with the illustrious All Wise and the
Adepts. I wouldn't be surprised if some of them weren't behind it. The High Thane and the
rest of them, including our revered father, have no idea what to do. It's like a disease. There's
something in the Lynxe psyche that reverts to this kind of behaviour under stress. On the
surface we're highly cultured and civilised, scratch the surface and you find our ancestral wild
cats!'
Krin's exuberance died away, the look into Danyk's mind showed that his brother wanted
solitude. He threw his towel over his shoulder and returned to his own quarters. Danyk
watched him go and couldn't help grinning, Krin was a conceited young bastard and found
nothing amiss in flouting his arrogant nakedness in the public corridors of his father's house.
Danyk turned to other things. Most of the time, his father was away from the sprawling
complex, sitting with and some might say, competing with, the other Thanes of the High
Council. They were at peace and had been for a thousand years but that did not prevent
political manoeuvring by some of the more ambitious of their exalted rulers. Lyot was home
for once. The High Council was in recession, governed as always, by economic necessity.
The oil crop was due to be harvested and each of the rulers reverted to being a farmer for that
important event.
He found his father in the great room that served as a study, council chamber, local court
and focal point of the whole complex. Everything of importance that had ever happened in
The Seven Lands had originated in this room throughout the multitude of generations which
had preceded Lyot. It was an impressive place but it was also oppressive, a symbol of the
future that Danyk did not like to consider. He had no idea where his ambitions lay but he was
sure that he did not want to take his father's place when the time came. He pushed the thought
aside but not before his father detected it. The old man had his back to him and he saw it
stiffen a little. Lyot said nothing and waited for his oldest son to walk round the great table to
face him.
"Greetings, father."
10

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
Lyot nodded acceptance of the formal approach.
"Greetings, Danyk."
The old man waited and Danyk contemplated him with affection. Lyot was not all that old
yet, still a vigorous and striking figure, even though his waistline had expanded considerably
from earlier years.
"Your turn will come, my son!"
Danyk realised with a start, that he had been thinking on open line. He grinned, Lyot was
formidable but he permitted a certain laxity with his eldest son. Lyot continued vocally.
"If you want to keep secrets from the All Wise, you had better keep your wits about you! -
You have been busy this morning."
It was a statement, not a question. Danyk nodded and moved towards the open window.
"They were too quick for you."
Another statement and no criticism.
"I'm beginning to believe that they have someone with them who is as gifted as us."
"Don't fence with me, I know you are trying to pin this business on the Adepts!"
Danyk swung around.
"How else would they know we were coming?"
Lyot grunted.
"Your men make enough noise to rouse the dead - I heard you go myself and you were
trying to be quiet. With Psi surges affecting most of you, your crashing around in the scrub
would have been heard arkas away."
Danyk ignored the obvious response that his sire slept like the dead but snored like a living
Vix. He was more concerned that his father had taken such an active interest in the morning's
excursion.
"You know the details then?"
Lyot nodded grimly.
"Your minds were wide open."
Danyk waited, there was more to come.
"Like yourselves, I wasn't able to penetrate the flood of the Psi surge, I couldn't isolate
individuals - Shaita! The bestiality of it!"
It was the second time in that day that Danyk had heard the name of the old god taken in
vain. He kept very quiet, verbally and mentally. Lyot was working himself up into a fine old
rage.
"You know the sentence I will pass when they are caught?"
"I suppose it will be in accordance with the Law of the Two Eyes."
"Which states?"
It wasn't time for a return to the schoolroom but Danyk groped around for an answer.
"The Law of the Two Eyes states that reparation must be in the form of the offence and that
it is the duty of the Thane to enforce the sentence."
Lyot's grin was a snarl.
"How do you relish depriving a screaming Lynxe man of his manhood!?"
Danyk stared at his father and attempted a feeble answer.
"I could think of better ways to spend the morning."
Lyot grunted and the surge of fury began to subside. He gestured to a recliner to one side
of the desk.
"I have a report of a hairless Scarn they've picked up out in Jabez's territory. I want you to
investigate it - but be careful. Jabez is an unpredictable, crafty bastard. If he gets wind of your
coming, he will spirit this oddity away somewhere and I wouldn't be surprised if he isn't
mixed up in this ritual sacrifice business somewhere along the line. We've had dealings with
him before - they're a wild lot in that area."
11

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
Danyk knew himself to be dismissed, it didn't rankle, the Thane had other matters to
concern him. The new commission sounded interesting. He left the Council room and
wandered out into the great hall from which all the ground floor rooms led. The feasting table
commanded its centre, raised on a platform of honey-yellow chiarn wood. It contrasted with a
floor of flag stones that were as slippery as ice when the winter rains and sleet blasted in
through the open shafts of windows that reached from floor to ceiling. It was a huge place,
airy and comfortable during the long summer months but savagely cold at other times of the
year when the Lynxe star was at its most distant. A great balcony ran around the upper parts
giving access to the sleeping chambers for the rest of the household. A single, broad stair
connected to it at one end of the long chamber. Danyk climbed it again without meeting
anybody.
It was a big enough house for all of its occupants to hide themselves if they wished, or if
they sensed that it was politic to keep themselves out of the way. The Thane could radiate his
mood as well as anyone and this morning his irritation was scarcely contained. His oldest son
had just left him but he wasn't the cause of his irritation. Danyk was a fitting man to take his
place one day and there were not many of his contemporaries among the Lords who could
make a similar statement. He tended to dismiss the mental objections he had read in his mind.
The boy would accept his responsibility, when the time came. He acknowledged himself as
fortunate and turned his attention to other concerns.
The savagery his son had witnessed and which he had also visualised by communication,
sickened him. The Council of the High Thane was divided about the course of action. Some
of the older guard were all for a massive punitive sweep through the countryside to scour out
the culprits, root and branch and were only reluctantly contained from doing so by the
uncertainty of whom they could trust to carry out such an expedition. That was the uneasy
part about the whole business. Who could be trusted? Were the Adepts with them or against
them, or worse, as Danyk suggested, actively encouraging the obscenities?
Lyot didn't know, and what he didn't know created a sense of doom. He was pessimistic
enough to believe that their race was condemned to extinction or recession into bestiality -
one way or the other it would be the end of the Lynxe. If the inability to procreate in
sufficient numbers didn't kill them off, the falling back into their wildcat past was as good.
The Men of Lynxe would cease to be the cultured, refined, sleek and elegant examples of the
highest civilisation could offer. He stirred restlessly at the thought and sprang abruptly to his
feet to pace to the window.
It looked out over the dark green fields of matured oil-crop. In other years he would have
felt a glow of pride and achievement when he contemplated the result of his husbandry, this
year he glared at it mournfully, as if it was a withered mess of parched leaves and unset fruit.
There had been such years, he was thankful that they had been so few. Somehow the crop
was indicative of the Lynxe race. It looked full and lush and attractive now, but what would
be the condition next year or the year after that? No one could predict the harvest, they could
only hope. He wished that he could foresee the future as well as he was able to read the minds
of men, but that part of the Gift was denied to him.
He turned away and returned to his desk and sat in the great chair, ignoring the litter of
reports that claimed his urgent attention. Instead, he recalled the visions he had seen through
his son's eyes and shuddered in revulsion.
12

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
CHAPTER 3
Someone was caring for him. In lucid moments, when his mind fought back from the deep
darkness, he felt their presence and reached out. He sometimes would hear a voice pleading
and then would realise that it was his own voice but he didn't know why he was pleading.
Always there was a soothing touch which quietened him and then he would slip away again,
back into the depths of the blackness.
One day, he opened his eyes and the room in which he lay, was not dark and neither was
his mind. He felt at peace, he was curious but not anxious. He looked around, trying to take in
the strange surroundings. The room was small and square, the walls were of undressed stone
like a cell. Even that thought didn't disturb him. There was a little furniture, a table and two
chairs made from wood, as was the bed upon which he lay. Again the likeness to a cell
crossed his mind, it was simple and functional. He touched the cloth that covered him, it was
of some natural fibre and he traced his fingers over it in wonderment. Natural fibres existed
in museums and were carefully preserved. It was never squandered as furnishings. Similar
material hung from three of the walls in some attempt at ornamentation. The fourth wall was
pierced with a wide entrance, through which he could see the sky.
It was daytime and the natural light caused him to squint his eyes. He tried to lift his head
for a better view but the effort was too much for him. He was very weak. He looked at his
hand, it was thin, almost skeletal. He touched his face, he had a full beard. His hair was long,
almost shoulder length. For the first time, he began to feel panic.
One of the wall coverings moved aside and a female entered cautiously. He lay quietly and
watched her - assessed her. She came to the bedside, carrying a bowl. She murmured gently,
as one would to a fractious child. He didn't understand the words but the intentions seemed
good. She smiled and started to wash him. His mind jumped back, or was it forward in time?
The face of another woman, his mother, on far distant Mars, was superimposed on the
pleasant features bending over him.
He reached up to touch her face. The fact that he had still been in diapers when his mother
would have last washed him, had escaped him. The woman's reaction drove such thoughts
from his fuzzy mind. The bowl clattered to the floor, spilling the water like a dark stain across
it. He tried to smile at her, it was a mighty effort. She raised her hands to her face as if to
ward off the evil eye.
He managed to croak.
"I won't hurt you."
13

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
His voice rustled around in his throat as if it hadn't been used for a long time. He was so
weak that there was no way he could have hurt her.
Why was he so weak?
She had jumped back from the bedside, now she crept closer again, clearly frightened out
of her wits.
She was quite handsome he supposed. It was hard to judge when you were confronted with
an alien of another racial stock. Her face was wide, with a high forehead, tawny hair, snub
nose and almond shaped grey-green eyes. He tried to remember how he had come there. He
had no idea, he remembered the five sided room and the wild swirl of movement which had
followed. He looked at her again, there could be no doubt that she was of the same race as the
man in the Pentacle!
A cat-woman! An alien! Barriers and prejudices tried to assert themselves. This was the
unknown and he was weak and vulnerable. He fought down the panic, she was caring for him
and had intended to wash him. She said something that he couldn't understand. They stared at
each other over the barrier of language. She didn't speak his tongue but someone had done so
when he had stepped from the vortex. He groped in his mind for the words he had heard:
'Welcome, Lord. We have waited for you!'
How long ago was that?
He touched his face again and knew that it had to have been a long time.
She got back a little courage and took the initiative. She smiled and nodded, backing away
from the bed, scooping up the bowl and scuttling out of the room. He hoped she had gone to
find someone who could answer a few questions.
His hopes for an early visitation from someone else were dashed. No one came through the
curtained doorway for the rest of the day. Wherever he was, it was quiet and restful. There
was no sound of other occupants, no voices or footsteps. He had no way of knowing whether
the cell-like room was attached to a another building, or if it stood alone. He was too weak to
get out of bed, although he tried hard enough. He had to give up, swearing at his lack of
strength and flopping back exhausted on to the mattress. He started to imagine all sorts of
irrational things. Perhaps he had frightened her so much that she had abandoned him. Perhaps
he would lay there in his weakness and starve to death. His mind grew cloudy again and he
dropped off into a fitful sleep, as the last afternoon light started to fade.
When he next woke, it was dark outside. A lamp had been brought into the room. It burnt
with a clear flame that flickered a little in the draught. He had seen something similar to it in
the historical records he had viewed, back in the old days in New Earth. Central Computing
had carried a wealth of information about the time before the Evacuation. The lamp's design
was similar to many he had seen on the old film records. He supposed there wasn't much you
could do with the basic design of a lamp. It had a reservoir, a wick and a flame - that was
about it.
He wondered if the woman had come back and guessed she had, the lamp hadn't walked
there by itself. He tried to lift his head again and this time he was a little more successful.
Attempting to sit upright proved to be too ambitious. He was still breathing hard from the
effort, when the woman came into the room. He turned his head and smiled at her, hoping
that a smile had the same message wherever he was. Too late, he realised that it might be
construed as baring the teeth. She was clearly terrified. He held out his hand and slowly she
came towards the bed.
"Don't be frightened."
His voice was a little more human this time. It took a little longer before she would take his
hand. Her flesh was warm and dry.
14

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"Now, we're making progress. I know you can't understand a word I am saying but that
doesn't matter. Just so long as you don't run off and leave me to starve to death. Oh woman!
How can I tell you I'm hungry?"
He said all this with many nods and an equal number of squeezes of her hand, while still
wearing his most dazzling and winsome smile. She flushed a little and smiled in return and
she didn't try to pull her hand away. If she had been a few years younger and he had been
feeling a good bit stronger, he might have tried to take advantage. Sober reflection told him
that wouldn't have been a good idea. There was no way of telling where that might lead on a
strange planet inhabited by catlike aliens. In another way, he was encouraged, there couldn't
be much wrong with him, if he was getting randy.
She disengaged her hand gently, hesitated for a moment and then hurried from the room. It
looked as if his fatal attraction wasn't overwhelming after all. He lifted his head to look
around again. He spotted the Bole standing neatly in one corner. His heart began to race - he
hadn't lost his mechanical marvel! It had survived the vortex, even as he had survived the
vortex. His unknown hosts hadn't abandoned it as a useless piece of metal. There was only
one way of finding out whether it had suffered as a result of its unorthodox journey. He
cleared his throat and tried to steady his voice to something that sounded like his former
robust and manly tone.
"Activate!"
The Bole remained silent as if considering the command. The small glimmer bulb on the
top surface blinked.
"Status."
"Integrity."
He relaxed, there was no reason to suppose that the Bole wasn't fully operational. It had
infinite capabilities and a nuclear power pack for use when it wasn't plugged in to any other
source. Its memory was sub-atomic, where the status of the electron, positive or negative, was
the equivalent of a binary bit of information. It was a mine of information on subjects ranging
from astro-navigation, space-time, advanced mathematics and kindred subjects - to the
correction of spelling and punctuation.
The Bole was also the most supercilious, smart-arsed, ego-deflating contraption ever
devised by one man to plague another. Just at that moment, however, he was glad of the
company.
"What happened to me?"
"Insufficient data to formulate an answer."
He sighed, there was nothing much wrong with it. They were back to the usual footing. He
would ask perfectly reasonable questions and it would give a perfectly unreasonable answers.
"It wouldn't occur to you to try to guess?"
"Insufficient data to formulate an answer."
He complained unreasonably.
"Have you been unconscious or something?"
"With the exception of in-built time circuits and other essential functions, I have been
deactivated."
Steve tried again.
"I have been deactivated, as you call it and I want to know for how long!"
He had raised his voice without realising it. It was a pity that the woman chose that precise
moment to return, just as the Bole was giving one of its more elaborate answers.
"My internal data-log indicates that the moment of disconnection prior to the
discontinuation of the time-line on the originating planet, was 296.1.2.19.31. In-built time
registers are 296.4.28.18.10. Mathematical calculation indicates an elapsed earth-time of
three months, twenty-six days, one hour, twenty-one minutes."
15

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
The woman was bearing a steaming platter of something. He had a moment of pleasurable
anticipation before she dropped it. She didn't scream, she stared at the speaking box and then
dropped to her knees at the foot of the bed. She murmured something and began to kiss his
feet, which were poking out of the bottom of the blanket. It didn't last for long, he was glad to
say. His feet were particularly ticklish, he was getting ready to shriek and beg, when she
stopped. She rose and shuffled backward out of the room.
He stared bitterly at his dinner which was splattered all over the floor. It still smelt
appetising no matter what it looked like.
"You are a bloody great blabber-mouth!"
The Bole didn't answer, it didn't answer statements, only questions. Steve turned his
thoughts to the limited information it had provided. He knew that he could rely on its
accuracy - that couldn't be questioned. He had to accept that he had been unconscious for
over three months, in fact, nearly four. That explained the long hair and luxuriant beard. What
the hell had happened to him? The period in the vortex had been brief. There had been an
impression of hurtling towards a bright disk, which had proved to be the entrance to this
world. He had arrived on his own two feet. He could remember it all! There had been a
clamour of voices and then one had spoken into his mind. After that, he could remember
nothing.
He cursed his weakness, he accepted the futility of doing so, but he wanted to be up and to
explore. His stomach was gurgling, he had always been a boy with a healthy appetite. He
propped himself onto his elbows and his head swirled so that he almost fainted. He persisted
and managed to sit upright by leaning against the cold stone wall behind the end of the bed.
His next attempt was to try to swing his legs off the bed. He pushed the cover aside and was
momentarily appalled at the condition of his body. The ribs stood out and could be counted,
even the pelvic region was sharply prominent through his belly. His legs looked like two
sticks and so did his arms. He was a living skeleton.
He tried to ease himself on to his legs and nearly succeeded as the curtains were moved
aside. This time, it was not the woman who entered, although he had the feeling that she was
hovering outside. The man who entered looked quite old. A great mane of white hair cascaded
down his back. He had the same high forehead like the woman. His green eyes were anxious
and staring at him. Steve slumped back on the bed and stared back. A voice said in his mind:
"My Lord is most unwise, may his servant be permitted to assist him?"
Steve was pushed his back under the covers with gentle firmness. The eyes were hard to
read but the old one didn't seem to intend any harm. He glanced at the Bole, perhaps he
expected some reaction from that quarter. When it wasn't forthcoming, he called out
something. It sounded like an order. The woman was stirred into some activity. His host
turned and smiled once again.
"I am pleased to see that my Lord is so improved."
The voice was within Steve's head, it took some getting used to.
"I can hear you - but can you hear me?"
"I hear you perfectly, Lord."
"How is that possible?"
The old man looked surprised, as if it was something he expected his visitor to understand.
"I have the Gift!"
"The Gift?"
He looked more puzzled.
"My Lord must know of the Gift."
"Sir, I know very little about anything at the moment."
16

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
Steve began to feel very vulnerable. He was a weak as a kitten, totally unable to defend
himself, even against an old man, and this old man was under some sort of delusion about
him. The use of 'Lord' had him worried.
The old man let out a kind of wail and dropped to his knees by the side of the bed. He
started to kiss Steve's hands. Oh! God!, Steve thought, don't let him start on the feet! The
mind-talk started up again. This time, the thoughts were jumbled. The old man was very
agitated.
"My Lord, your servant is overwhelmed. The honour is too great. How can I lead my Lord
to Awareness? The start of a Great Cycle is upon us. This generation is exalted - "
And so it went on. Steve grappled to make some sense out of it. He felt distinctly
uncomfortable with this venerable, old white head, kneeling beside him and weeping over his
hand. His comprehensive studies at the Academy hadn't included this. His stomach gurgled
again and the old man heard it. His ear was practically over the belly. He dropped Steve's
hand and rushed out of the room. Steve began to wonder if they were all mad on this crazy
planet.
He heard the sound of raised voices beyond the curtained doorway. His, loud and insistent,
hers, protesting and reluctant. She held forth at some length. Steve assumed that the story of
the talking box was being told. The old man said something else to her, which might have
been that he considered her either daft or drunk, for all Steve knew. The old man returned to
the room and confirmed all suspicions by giving the Bole a highly critical appraisal. The Bole
didn't take offence. Steve decided that it wasn't the time to try to explain its capabilities.
"Lord, my woman has not fed you. I will beat her! Please bestow your forgiveness upon
us."
The voice was in his mind again, Steve wasn't sure whether he was supposed to forgive the
lack of nourishment, or the potential beating. One thing was becoming painfully obvious, he
was being held in some kind of reverence. It was a worrying development and was sure to
lead to someone becoming disappointed. He decided to play along and nodded graciously.
The woman scuttled into the room, she gave the Bole a terrified glance and then tried to
avoid looking in its direction. She carried another platter of steaming goodies. Steve hoped
that it wasn't going to end up on the floor with the other. It looked like some sort of broth,
with larger lumps of something he didn't care to identify, floating around in it. He was too
hungry to care about the recipe. Her hand was shaking so much that the first attempt to put
something into his mouth, ended in his beard. The next try was more successful. The food
was warm and savoury with an inexplicable flavour. His stomach went into raptures of
delight. The old man clasped his hands together in approval.
"It is good to see my Lord taking nourishment. For so long, we have feared for you. Only
on occasions were we able to feed you some liquid. I fear the flesh has melted away from
your body but we will restore you in readiness for the Festival of the Harvest."
Steve was too busy eating to pay much attention to the conversation.
"I thank you for your kind consideration and perseverance."
He made the response in thought, it was quite easy once you got the hang of it.
"My Lord is most gracious."
Steve began to fancy himself in his new position, whatever it was.
"What is your name?"
"I am called Jabez, Lord and this woman is called Caela. Does my Lord wish to reveal his
name of this creation?"
Steve chewed slowly and made the assumption that it was the local equivalent of 'What's
your name?'
"My name is Steve Holt - I come to you as a visitor from a - er - far place."
17

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
It sounded a little lame, but he decided that concepts of space and/or time travel would be
beyond the capacity of the present company. The old man's response was reverential as if the
information was to be consigned to some sacred spot in his memory.
"My Lord's is named Steve-Holt
Steve wished he knew what he was supposed to be and what was going on.
He had been spoon fed with the contents of the large bowl by the woman Caela. This had
happened whilst the conversation with Jabez had been taking place between their minds. It
was a very convenient way of doing things. His messy eater half-brother, Ivan, would have
revelled in it. It would have given him extra ability to shovel more food into his gullet - but
Ivan was dead and his atoms scattered to the universe. Steve felt a surge of bitterness and
guilt - Ivan had died for him. He wondered how far away from home he was. Deep in his
guts, was the realisation that was never likely to return.
"Could you tell me some more about this - 'Gift'? How is it possible that I can hear you in
my mind. We don't speak the same language - "
It was a calculated risk but he had to start somewhere.
"If my Lord desires to know of the Gift, your servant will comply. Does my Lord not
remember it from those many other times he has visited us?"
Steve stared back at him. Perhaps the old man was mad - perhaps it WAS a planet of
madmen! He trod carefully.
"I have no memory of - those other times."
His host flooded his mind with raptures of exaltation.
"Then it is true! I have been chosen to lead you to Awareness!"
Steve nodded slowly.
"That would appear to be a fair assumption."
"The Gift is provided by the Great Gods. They who may not be mentioned. They who
guide all our destinies. There are many amongst us who possess this Gift, some to a greater
degree than others. Some have complete mastery, it is they who exercise the rule over us.
Some are not blessed - my woman, Caela, is one of these - "
He paused for a moment.
"The Gift has excited many of our philosophers to ponder on the nature of words and
actions. In ages past, some of our great ones realised that all words and deeds originate in our
thoughts. Does it not follow, Lord, that if we can reach across from mind to mind, the
thoughts do not need words to cloth them. This then, is the nature of the Gift. It is the ability
to reach from mind to mind. I can read the thoughts you wish to express in your wondrous
tongue and I can place the thoughts I wish to express into your mind."
He had seated himself at the table. He had a look of almost fanatical eagerness, as if he
wanted to be sure that his explanation had pleased him. Steve hoped that he wasn't going to
be too disappointed when the old man discovered that he wasn't dealing with who he thought
he was. Fanatics who thought they were being cheated, were always unpredictable. Steve's
response was measured.
"I can understand the concept - but how are you able to separate the thoughts to be spoken
from the thoughts not to be spoken?"
18

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
CHAPTER 4
Jabez continued his mind babble.
"It is partly the Gift and in part, it is the Will of the bearer of the thoughts. We train our
young ones to school the mind, so that a separation is made within the individual. Only the
most Gifted, they who have the Rule over us, are able to penetrate such a separation and read
all thoughts. In this manner, they control the lawfulness of the people."
"Do you mean that they can pry into your minds - just as they like."
Steve tried to keep the distaste from creeping into the mental conversation. Jabez's answer
was calm and reasoned.
"If there are no thoughts of evil, it surely does not matter.
Steve formulated the next question very carefully.
"Are you able to read all my thoughts?"
Jabez feline features creased into a slight smile.
"A young man has many thoughts he does not express. My Lord has an open mind - even
to one as unskilled as me - I should explain that I am not as fully gifted as are our rulers.
These are unusual circumstances and perhaps I would not normally be permitted to see so
much within your mind. There are many things I do not understand and I shrink from such
knowledge, for it shows me that you are indeed a great Lord. I can perceive that your
sickness has been of the mind, a burden of grief and guilt which I can barely comprehend. We
have feared greatly for you, Great Lord!"
19

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
The voice in his mind sounded warm and sincere. Jabez stretched out his hand and touched
the crown of Steve's head, it was like a benediction. For a moment, he seemed to have
forgotten the exalted position into which he had been placed, then he remembered again and
withdrew his hand quickly. Steve capitalised on the gesture.
"I thank you, Jabez, for the care and attention you and Caela have extended to me, as I also
thank all those who might have assisted to bring me here. I remember so little. There is so
much more I must know."
"My Lord, it grows late and you must rest. You will serve us more than we have served
you. I bid you a restful night."
He was out of the room before Steve could argue. He had seemed almost embarrassed by
his thanks and there was a peculiar mixture of deference mingled with something else which
was hard to define. Steve leaned back and closed his eyes. He knew he needed to keep his
wits about him. So far, these people had gone out of their way to care for him. He had been at
their mercy when he had stumbled out of the vortex. There were no indications that they
intended him any harm and he could see no reason why they should have waited for four
months, if they now intended to start - unless the feline psyche required a conscious victim
for a game of cat and mouse!
He settled down for the night. Just to be on the safe side, he placed the Bole in a
monitoring mode. It had sensors that could hear a pin drop at a hundred paces. He would
know if he had any unexpected visitors whilst he slept.
Jabez had snuffed the lamp as he had left, a pale light softened the darkness of the chamber
to a dark grey. Steve assumed it to be starlight. He would have given a great deal to be able to
see them. He might have been able to get a fix of where he was. It was a long shot. The
mechanics of the vortex might have placed him anywhere in the galaxy - or any other galaxy.
His relative position to that of the Solar System was an unanswerable question. The Bole
might have some ideas, but it wasn't the time to activate his garrulous friend. The answer
would be almost predictable. The net information he possessed was that he had emerged from
the vortex four months earlier, beyond that he didn't know how or why. Such thoughts did not
make for restful sleep, the possibilities churned back and forth in his mind. What was his
future? Steve blinked into the darkness. The thought had woken him. Perhaps he didn't have a
future. Undoubtedly, his enforced journey had been an accident. If someone was still
controlling the mechanism which had brought him wherever he was, they were, no doubt
trying to decide what to do with him. The more he thought about it, the less he liked the
answers. He managed to get some sleep eventually. It wasn't a good sleep but it was better
than nothing.
In the next few days, he started to gain strength. Caela fed him solid food and spared no
effort to entice his appetite. Admittedly, it took her a little time to stop scuttling in and out of
the room without casting fearful glances at the Bole. Steve was careful with his use of the
machine. He confined his conversations to the essentials and always when he knew the house
was empty.
He made new acquaintances - if that was what they could be called. They came and went
with awe written all over their feline features. He couldn't get on intimate terms with any of
them, all of his attempts at pleasant familiarity were one-sided. They almost crawled into the
room and hardly dared to look at him. It was as if they expected to be blasted from the
surface of their planet with one look. The exception was that he had to suffer the indignity of
all those who are bedridden and who have to perform their natural functions and are assisted
by their nurses. The said nurses were burly males who attended to him with a detachment that
was almost stoic and then would remove themselves as if they had melted into the stone walls
of the room.
20

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
The problem was the language. It was obvious that few of them possessed the Gift. It left a
lot to be desired when trying to convey thoughts by gestures and facial expressions. Steve
sensed that it wasn't the only problem with the succession of visitors who came and went. It
was as if they did not want to get too close. Some would come, almost to look him over and
go again without explanation or overtures of friendship. He began to feel like a freak.
Something had to be done about verbal communication. He decided to raise the matter of
language lessons with Jabez when he paid his usual evening visit.
Steve was getting stronger and was able to sit up in bed. It was good to lean back against
the cool of the stone wall behind it. The days were quite warm and the room was flooded by
the light from their star. His curiosity about the outside was nearly driving him crazy. He was
on a planet not yet visited by man. As far as he knew, he was the first of his kind to visit any
planet outside of the Solar System and yet, he didn't have a clue about his environment.
His evening meal arrived, carried by a beaming Caela. Now that she was over her fright
with the Bole and especially when she wasn't under the shadow of Jabez, who bullied her
with a sharp tongue, she became the giggling matron, as tongue tied as a young girl. Steve
enjoyed a mild flirtation, he had to keep his technique honed in case a more serious
opportunity presented itself. This evening was not any different. He ran his fingers up her
brawny forearm, as she placed the food beside the bed. She giggled and blushed and
pretended she didn't like it, whilst he grinned at her and tried to look lecherous. It was a game
they played every evening and she seemed to go away happy. He was now strong enough to
feed himself. He thought, that in a way, she wished that he was not.
He promised himself that he was going to make a few steps the next day. He had to try to
get mobility back into his legs, otherwise he would stay weak. The pattern was never varied,
during the day he was left alone. They all went off somewhere and came back in the evening.
The subject of where they went was never raised during his conversations with Jabez.
However, he did raise the matter of language lessons. The old man listened carefully and then
waffled.
"My Lord pays us a great honour that he chooses to learn our tongue. I will assign a
teacher - one who is Gifted."
It was left at that and he wondered what approach the new contact would bring. He
resigned himself to an earnest and solemn equivalent of Jabez, who would conduct the
lessons on his hands and knees on the floor, not daring to look up at him. He was in for a
surprise, a very pleasant surprise, but that wasn't until the following evening, after Jabez
returned from the day's toil.
As soon as the house grew quiet and after he had eaten his morning meal and endured the
attentions of the men who had been assigned to assist him in his ablutions, he made his move.
He made completely sure that the house was deserted and tried his first unassisted movement
from the bed.
Before he tried to do anything, he formed a tentative plan. As long as his legs would
support him, he would be all right but he couldn't expect miracles. He had been out of action
for too long. He decided to prop his back against the walls and ease himself gently along. If
his legs gave up, he could always crawl back to bed. It wouldn't be dignified but he didn't
expect an audience.
His bed was in the corner of the room and opposite the door. The window was on the wall
where the head of the bed was. It was logical to try the window first. His legs caved like
rubber but at least, he managed to stand. The bed cover dropped to the floor with his
exertions. He didn't dare to try to pick it up, he would have toppled on to his face. The stone
wall was cold against his bare flesh and rough. He took things very easily. He reached the
window, panting and streaming with sweat.
21

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
He drank in his first view of a planet unspoiled, beautiful and balanced - just as it had
been created. Mars was beautiful in its own way. A harsh, dusty, ochre-red beauty, forbidding
and relentless against those who made the slightest miscalculation. The Earth - Old Earth -
had once been beautiful but now it carried a silent death in its air, water and soil. Man had
turned her into a polluted desert and, it was rumoured, had left the residue of himself as
grotesque mutants.
This world was wonderful, lush and green, with rolling hills and forests. To the one side, a
shimmering hint of high mountains were hidden in the heat haze. To the other side, the dark
green of cultivated fields, rolled over soft hillsides.
He leaned against the side of the opening and absorbed it, for some reason, he felt like
crying but he didn't know why. Nearer at hand, a small number of stone slab shelters were
clustered. They were near but not too near, as if this was a house set aside. There was no sign
of the inhabitants. The wind stirred the foliage of the trees and shrubs and a sweet scent
permeated the air. It was paradise - but then, after Mars and the Earth, almost anything would
seem like paradise.
The ground in front of the wall opening was paved. He didn't feel strong enough to risk an
excursion away from the support of a wall - that would have to come on another day. He
reluctantly turned his attention to the house and started to ease his way around the bed
chamber. He didn't bother with the washroom, he knew it well enough, it had become the
daily routine for him to be carried there. It was a small chamber leading off to one side of his
cell and hidden by one of the wall coverings. It had a sunken stone cistern, into which ran
heated water from some external source and there was a smaller stone basin for minor
washing. It had come as a pleasant surprise. His history lessons told him that comparable
places on Old Earth would have been much more primitive.
It has raised his spirits almost as much as the discovery of a thunder box whose plumbing
coincided with his physiology. It would have been hell to land on a planet where you needed
a medal for bravery every time you had to perform your natural functions.
The wall curtain, through which all his visitors came, was his next target. He sat on the bed
and rested before he tried it. He took his time and eased himself around the wall of the room
and reached the curtained doorway and pulled the draping aside. He looked out into a larger,
central room. To one side, a wall was dedicated to a large hearth and a cooking area. Pots and
pans were scattered about haphazardly. A large rough table occupied the centre, flanked on
each side by benches. It wasn't a room designed for comfort. He doubted if there was much of
that in the lives of Jabez and Caela.
Two more doors led off on the far side. Both were covered with wall hangings. A larger
entrance led to the outside. There was no attempt at security, it looked as if anyone could
walk in and out as they pleased. They were either very trusting - or there was no crime. He
remembered the conversation with Jabez on the first evening. How could there be crime, if
you could read the intention in the mind of the criminal?
He rested against the wall, panting, the exertion was beginning to tell on him. He was
determined to explore the other two rooms before he surrendered and went back to bed. He
might have saved himself the effort, there was little to see. They were barely furnished,
almost duplicates of his own chamber. One, which he supposed was Caela's, had a few
primitive articles which might have helped her with her toilet. A few pins, a wire bangle, a
few stones strung together on a length of woven threads. These people were pitifully poor. It
made their care of him all the more creditable. He wondered how he could ever repay them.
The other room was more Spartan, probably the domain of Jabez - again there was little.
He peered into a recess and nearly fell with the shock. He clutched the wall and tried to fight
down a rising nausea. The Pentacle had been suspended by its string, from a rough projection
of stone. He had almost forgotten it, the memory came flooding back. He hadn't known
22

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
whether it had survived in the vortex with him. He looked with revulsion, at the naked man
framed in the central pentagon and then down to what Jabez had done. A small animal was
laid out in a carefully arranged posture. It had been skewered through the heart by a small
dagger. Around it were fruits and berries.
It took all his remaining strength to get back to bed. He wondered if he was going to make
it, desperation drove him. It would have been more than embarrassing to be found helpless on
the kitchen floor, or prostrate before the sacrifice. Suddenly, he felt afraid - confronted by an
alien mind and culture.
He had spent most of the morning creeping about the house. Their star was already high in
a cloudless sky, as he passed the window again on the way back to his bed. He paused for a
moment to recover his breath and take in the view. It was as still as before, the only
movement being a breath of air stirring the tree tops. It was no longer quite so beautiful.
He fell on to the bed in a muck sweat. His heart was pounding from all the exertion. He
ought to be exalting that having set himself an assignment, he had been victorious but all he
could see was the still, small furry thing that had given up its life to satisfy the superstitious
need of a superior species. He was so exhausted that he fell asleep and didn't waken again
until the light was growing dim. He could hear Caela clattering around in the room beyond
the curtain, a room that was no longer a mystery. He wondered if she had had any part in the
sacrifice.
She brought in the lamp shortly after and beamed down at him. He forced himself to
respond in the way she expected. The exertion had done him good, he felt ready for anything
- well, almost anything. She bustled out of the room again and the clatter of the utensils
resumed. He sat back against the wall and planned his next move. It was more important than
ever to get mobile and he wanted to explore the outside - that would be the next excursion.
He resolved not to revisit the room of sacrifice and tried to reassure himself that it was their
business and their custom.
Caela returned with his meal and they engaged in their little ritual. He began to doubt the
wisdom of it when she seized his hand and began to kiss it fervently. The last thing he could
afford was the complication of an irate husband, especially when he couldn't move fast
enough to get out of his way. He decided to cool the situation, slowly and gently, so as not to
hurt her feelings. He hoped that their nasty habits with knives didn't extend to those suspected
of adultery.
Caela's unsuspecting spouse made his usual call a little later than usual. He looked as
genial as ever and Steve tried not to look guilty about something he hadn't yet done. He
wondered how far the searching of his mind extended and how much Jabez knew of his
wandering.
"My Lord is looking considerably better. Each day that passes, increases my Lord's
strength."
Steve had to agree with his servant's judgement, at least Jabez sounded genial and
approving. Steve wished that he would cut out all the flowery nonsense and get down to
calling him by his name. That was another problem, Jabez had got it firmly into his head that
his name was hyphenated. Apparently, the concept of a first name separated from a last name,
didn't exist in their society. To him, he was 'My Lord Steve-Holt'. It sounded like the
measurement of something: 'The meter measures ten Steve-Holts'.
"If my Lord pleases, I have a teacher who will endeavour to explain the concepts of our
language. My Lord may remember that he requested this."
He gazed at Steve anxiously, as if he wasn't quite sure whether he was dealing with a
moron who couldn't remember what he said from one day to the next. Steve suppressed
thoughts of irritation.
"Please bring in the man you have chosen."
23

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
There was a ghost of a smile behind the beard. He turned without a word and drew aside
the curtain. He beckoned to someone beyond. Steve's heart started to hammer. This was a
version of the local population that he had not previously met.
"My Lord, I present to you Hara."
The woman moved forward into the light shed by the lamp and knelt and kissed his hand,
which he had left carelessly draped on the blanket. Her lips were warm, it didn't feel a very
reverential kiss but that might have been imagination.
All those that he had met up to that point, wore a kind of shapeless shift. A sort of rough
spun tunic that left the arms free and was fairly low cut at the neck. It ended at knee level in a
kind of skirt. On Hara, it was far from shapeless, her arms were slim and brown and it
seemed not to stretch far enough at the neck or the knee.
Steve let out his breath slowly. His exhalation was a little ragged. Hara was having an
effect on him that was not unusual. He hoped that she wasn't able to read all that was going
through his mind. He had an uneasy feeling that Jabez could. He reluctantly took his eyes
away from the top hem of her dress and tried to keep his thoughts on the business in hand.
"Are you able to look into my mind, Hara?"
She lifted her head and stared into his eyes. There was something in the look that answered
his question.
"I am able to, My Lord."
Her voice and her thoughts sounded the same - melodious.
"Will she do, Lord?'
Jabez sounded anxious.
"Most decidedly!"
He wasn't going to take the chance that she was going to be spirited away from him as
soon as they had met. She promised to be the best thing that had happened to him in a very
long time.
So, he had hired himself a teacher. The arrangement was that she would spend the evening
with him after her normal duties - whatever they might have been. It sounded a good
arrangement that might lead to anything, until it was put into practice. Jabez proved to be a
very efficient chaperone. Steve made good progress with his lessons, his natural aptitude,
coupled with a genuine talent on the part of his teacher, caused him to pick up the rudiments
of their tongue in a surprisingly short time.
The pattern continued, he spent each day alone. He used the time to become more mobile.
The weather was glorious, cool nights, followed by warm, sunny days. It wasn't long before
he decided to bask on the paved area outside of his room. He was a little cautious at first, not
wanting to be observed by anyone visiting the small community. His basking naked did not
worry him but he wanted to avoid a confrontation with elements of the local population who
might inhibited enough to object to nude men sprawling around on their walkways. He need
not have worried, no one mentioned the matter although it must have been obvious that the
healthy tan he soon developed, hadn't come about by laying all day in his bed.
It was a good, lazy life and appealed to the indolent streak in his nature. He built up his
strength, knowing that things couldn't remain as they were. He stayed close to the building. It
was his bolt-hole at the first sign of trouble. He needed to gain strength before he explored
beyond the limits he had set himself. Another problem was that he had no clothes and he
might have been taken for an exhibitionist, if he had a chance meeting with someone. He took
the bull by the horns and spoke to Jabez. He was at pains to paint a gracious picture.
24

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
CHAPTER 5
"I need to know more of your people. I would like to see how you live and where you
work. I know so little about you and you have extended such a warm hospitality that I wish to
become your friend. Hara tells me that I am making good progress with your language. I
would like to practice my skills with your people and see if I can make myself understood."
Jabez seemed to hesitate. Steve wasn't sure whether it was reluctance or solicitude for his
state of health. Whatever the reason, it was quickly over. Jabez frothed:
"My Lord overwhelms his servant with his kindness. That my Lord should wish to wear
the garments of a lowly man is exaltation to me!"
Steve interjected.
"It's either that, or I walk around naked. I might frighten the children!"
Jabez permitted himself a rare response of humour. He actually smiled! The old man
promised to provide something suitable. In a further departure from habit, he left Steve and
25

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
Hara alone for the rest of the evening. It was quite true that Steve was making good progress
with his language studies. He could hold the sort of scintillating conversation one could
normally conduct with a toddler who was just beginning to put phrases together. It was
limited and frustrating and sometimes humorous, even his grave faced teacher would dissolve
into peels of laughter when he twisted an innocent phrase into something she wouldn't
explain, except to blush when he pressed for an answer.
He could always fall back on mind-talk and that evening seemed as good an opportunity as
any to cut short the lessons. He wanted to get to know the teacher and she was still too awestricken
to try to pull rank on him. He played on that without mercy.
"Tell me about yourself, Hara. Your life and work, - your man - What do you want from
life?"
She was sitting at the table, close to the lamp. It looked for a moment, as if she was going
to scuttle out of the room. He wondered, for the hundredth time, just who the devil these
people thought he was. He turned on one of his radiant smiles and she settled down again,
smoothing her tunic nervously.
"I am just Hara, Lord. I am nothing."
"Everyone is something, Hara."
He reproached her and her eyes widened to the size of saucers.
"What is your work - what do you do when you all leave here every day?"
"We go to work in the fields, Lord."
She sounded surprised, as if she had expected him to know that.
"I care for the children of the families who labour in the fields of the Thane. I teach them
and play with them - until they are old enough to work with their fathers and mothers. There
are always little ones who are born, who take the place of the older ones."
"Do you mean to say that children work in the fields as well as the adults - We finished
with that exploitation centuries ago!"
"My Lord is not pleased?"
Steve drew breath and quietened down.
"It doesn't matter. Go on please - Who is this - Thane - you mentioned?"
"He is the Thane, Lord."
It was beyond her ability to explain. The Thane was the Thane. Steve left it for a discussion
with Jabez. He switched topics.
"And before you came to teach me - What did you do at this time? Is some hot-blooded
young man after you?"
It was a heavy attempt at humour. She blushed to the roots of her hair and stared at him
helplessly. He began to feel he was treading on dangerous ground, he told himself to shut up
and remember that he wasn't chatting up some likely piece of talent in Mars/4. She said
softly:
"No man has tried to claim me yet, Lord. One day, perhaps, I will join with a man."
"What can be the matter with your menfolk - Any man would be proud to - er - join with
you!"
Gallant speeches were not his forte and he was a little uncertain of the local idiom. She
gave him a long look, blushed and looked down at her hands. He switched topic again.
"Do you live with your parents?"
"My parents are dead, Lord. I live with the other maidens."
That didn't tell him much. It was like talking to a pot of treacle. He wondered if he was
losing his touch, it was decidedly hard going. Jabez rescued the situation by appearing in the
doorway. Steve was almost glad to see him. He was carrying a tunic over one arm and a pair
of sandals in the other hand. The way he was carrying them, gave the impression that they
were coronation robes.
26

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"If my Lord would consider wearing these rough garments?"
Steve wondered wearily why the man couldn't simply say: 'Will these do, Steve?'. He
expressed his pleasure and listened to what could only be described as a loyal petition
couched in legalistic terms. It analysed out to be a sincere request that he didn't overtax his
strength and that he should take every precaution. They wanted no harm to come to him. It
was touching, solicitous and smothering. All he wanted to do was to walk a little way from
the house and to escape from surroundings which were becoming like a prison. He wondered
why the word prison had come to mind, perhaps that was a subconscious assessment of what
was the real situation. He told himself not to be ridiculous but the feeling would not go away.
Hara left with Jabez. He had made a little more progress than he had thought - if the shy
little smile she gave was any indication. Caela came soon after to turn out the lamp. During
the previous days she hadn't looked so cheerful. It seemed to date from the time when she had
grabbed his hand and kissed it so passionately - that was also the time when Hara had come
upon the scene. Now, Caela seemed to avoid coming too close to the bed. The trouble was
that Steve wasn't sure whether she couldn't trust herself, or whether she couldn't trust Steve.
Sometimes it was a curse to be fatally attractive to women.
He dropped off to sleep with that happy thought. It was good to be on the mend, the
skeletal look was giving way to a more fleshy appearance. The light from their star had to be
filled with good qualities. This and the wholesome food provided by Caela, was doing
wonders. He grinned in the darkness, it wouldn't be long before he started to look around at
the local talent - with suitable caution, naturally - He had no desire to start trouble with irate
boyfriends, or to experience the unknown ways they might have of protecting local standards
of virtue.
The conversation with Hara hadn't told him much, apart from an oblique reference to the
'House of Maidens'. On reflection, that might prove to be a good place to start exploring. On
the other hand - it might not, especially if he went around asking where their virgins lived!
All in all, he thought he was going to like this planet. He had a strong feeling that his luck
was going to change.
He woke early, anticipating the time when he would be left alone. Caela was extra clumsy
when she brought in his food. She avoided any contact and kept her face turned away. He
wasn't sure whether these people showed their emotions by crying, but that was the
impression he got. Caela was an unhappy lady.
He waited extra time, even after he was reasonably sure that the community had gone to
their workplace. It wasn't that he expected to be restricted but such was their awe of him that
they might take it in their heads to form some sort of bodyguard. The shift-like garment Jabez
had provided, fitted well enough. It would have raised shrieks of amusement on Mars or the
Asteroids and more than likely, attempts to lift the hem. It covered the essentials and that was
all he asked for. The sandals were a lace-up variety and took a little getting used to. They
fastened around the ankle, just above the joint. He knew it wouldn't be long before they
chaffed a sore spot.
In the bathroom - wash chamber - or whatever it was that they called their place of
ablutions, was a mirror of beaten metal. His image wafted back and forth on the imperfectly
fashioned surface. He didn't look an impressive sight with his shock of black hair tangled
down to the shoulders. The beard didn't do much to enhance his looks. His eyes were hollow
and the face gaunt. There wasn't a great deal of spare flesh to pad the tunic. He hoped he
wouldn't meet anybody who frightened easily.
He left the house through his window entrance. He had already planned to head for the
shelter of the nearest clump of trees. The sun was already high and it seemed sensible to walk
in their shade. It was good to be active, even if he wasn't sure how long his strength would
last. He drew in a deep breath.
27

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
On Mars, there was little to smell that could be called attractive. Sometimes, one of the
Ladies of the Guild, might wear a perfume devised by the technical wonders of the algae
growers. There was also the antiseptic smell associated with toilets and clean clothes. There
was little else. This air was scented. Even in the house, there had been an underlying odour of
sweetness. Even when he had emerged from the vortex, there had been an odour. He had
accepted it into his subconscious and now it came flooding back. It was an elusive perfume,
and it was awakened by the heat of an alien star.
He took one of the paths leading from the house, stepping down on to the open ground. It
was covered with what he thought was grass but on inspection, proved to be very different.
This was more a fibrous herb. Every shrub and growth was different from his human
experience. The alien nature of the planet came home abruptly. The slab shelters stood around
the open patch of ground. Sheets of rock fitted together with a mud mortar, with smaller
stones supported on wooden beams as a roof cover.
At the end was a copse of motionless trees. He squeezed his eyes together and refocused
them. The colouring was not quite right. Sufficiently different to reinforce the mental
statement that this was not a duplicate of Earth, it had its own ecology and its own rules. He
almost lost his nerve hesitating, before plunging into the shade. There was a path that seemed
to go somewhere. He had stepped into a cool green cavern. The canopy was high and the light
barely penetrated to the forest floor. He stopped again, his heart beat had increased. He
listened for sounds of life, suddenly aware that he could be confronted with something he
couldn't handle. Animal life had been eradicated from Old Earth in a spectacular fashion,
three hundred years prior to his birth. Mars had no indigenous wild life - except for the
Martian Miners. He took his courage in both hands and decided that it would be very poor
housekeeping on the part of his hosts, if they allowed anything unpleasant so near to the
commune.
He moved forward slowly, following the path. New smells invaded his newly awakened
nose. Moistness, damp soil, the smell of moisture upon foliage; the musty smell of nature
breaking down the debris of the forest floor. He heard rustlings and nearly turned tail in
panic. He was not used to rustlings, he found them unsettling. He surprised himself and kept
going.
The path was clear of growth and obviously well used. It was logical that it had to lead
somewhere. He went on into what was for him, an incredible adventure. He was like a child
who sees everything for the first time. He was a child of a bleak and dusty world and of
sterile asteroids. A child of domed cites and protection suits. The offspring of people who
feared contact with nature because it still retained the polluting residues of their folly.
His senses tingled with an acuteness that he never again experienced. That short walk into
the woods, near to the house of Jabez, on an alien planet under the alien heat of an unknown
star, did more for his inner self, than the whole of his twenty six years on Mars and the
associated asteroids. The veneer peeled away, skin by skin and he found himself face to face
with primitive sensations he never knew he possessed. It was wonderful and very self
educating.
The trees above him were receiving the full midday heat but on the forest floor, he could
have been his own ancestor of a thousand previous generations, wandering in his forest home,
with every instinct alert and sharpened. His instant education ended abruptly. He wasn't quite
ready to meet another species face to face. He stopped at the sight of them, half crouching in
defence against the unknown. He told himself that he was the interloper and then wondered
how his stupidity was going to end.
There was about a hundred of them and they moved across his path from right to left. He
and they had arrived at a kind of arboreal cross-roads. He had never seen anything like them
before, even in his extensive studies of Old Earth records. They shambled along half
28

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
crouched - like himself. They were walking on two legs but their arms were long and reached
almost to the knee. They were naked and a big male led the group. He was followed by other
males and then the females and their young. Some of which, were slung across the shoulders
of the adults, the older youngsters walked.
Steve kept very still, his heart was racing. He remained crouched, waiting for whatever he
had the right to expect from wandering around in a strange environment without weapons or
support. The group leader drew abreast of him and stared blankly. The whole group stopped
and stared as well. They made no menacing moves, Steve's breathing quietened. The leader
grunted something from deep inside, it might have been a belch. Steve hoped most sincerely,
that they had already had a good breakfast.
They stood eyeball to eyeball and examined each other curiously. Steve had no idea of
what the big male was making of him but he had an uncanny feeling of identity with them.
This, together with his earlier skin peeling sensation, roused a sensation of primitive kinship.
It was very unsettling. They were hairy, yet not with a pelt like an animal might have. This
was a fine covering of short hair, which covered their shoulders and back. It was less defined
on the chest and belly. The face mask was almost free of long hair, except for a few tufts on
the upper lip and near the ears. Steve had seen miners on Mars with a thicker fur and they
went under the name of Man.
The leader's eyes showed a kind of dim intelligence, as if a fine brain was locked away in
the brute head and was waiting to be used. They were not lovely creatures - except to each
other. Steve tried to look pleasant, which attracted no response. They were waiting for
something, perhaps an intelligent comment and until he could scramble something together
from his lessons with Hara, they were likely to remain waiting.
A woman's voice from behind him said.
"Go on your way, Scarn."
The group of Scarn resumed their interrupted journey without giving Steve a second
glance. They shambled off down the path and disappeared among the trees. Steve looked
around. The woman was leaning against a tree looking highly amused. She burst into
laughter, which made her throw back her head. She stopped laughing and surveyed him with
a kind of arrogant mockery that made him angry. He snapped:
"I suppose you found that highly entertaining."
"I did."
Steve eyed her carefully. She was one of the feline race but totally unlike Caela or Hara.
"It was a picture worth recording - The Scarn versus the intrepid traveller from the stars -
that is what I am reading in your mind, is it not?"
The conversation was taking an interesting turn.
"So, you're one of the Gifted ones Jabez has been telling me about? I suppose you work
with them and he told you I was going to take a little exercise today."
The green-grey eyes flashed in anger and derision.
"Stupid clod! Do you think I look like a peasant? How dare you take me for an Overseer! I
am Laoni!"
She had drawn herself up to her full height, which was about the level of his chest. She
looked ready to spit fire. The anger in Steve exploded.
"I am so sorry if I offended your highness. I find it hard, on an alien planet, to distinguish
between the elite and the serfs. Please accept your servant's humble apologies. May I kiss
your big toe, or something?"
She was carrying some sort of switch, perhaps for use on the unseen, wretched animal that
had brought her there. She raised it and tried to lay it across his shoulders. He grabbed her
wrist and held on tight. She wrestled for a moment and then stopped. She glared into his face
with all the venom a spoiled young lady was capable of unloosing. Steve spat out:
29

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"You look as if you are overdue for a good hiding! For two credits, I'd give it to you.
Instead, I'll give you this!"
He dragged her closer and kissed her full and hard on the lips. She fought him but he
persisted, then he released her. She jumped back ready to use the switch again. He was too
quick, snatching it from her and throwing in into the forest.
"What you need, my girl, is a good man to keep you in your place."
She was quick enough to lay her spare hand hard across his face. She turned on her heel
and stalked off along the path he had walked earlier. He nursed his stinging lips and didn't try
to stop her. He watched as she vanished into the trees. Sometime later, he heard a rhythmic
beating on the ground, which diminished to nothing. He sat down against the bole of a tree
and reflected on the appalling mess he had got himself into. He had, in all likelihood,
accosted the daughter of the local landowner. He might be accused of anything, including
rape, if the kiss could be construed as such.
He considered flight and then cancelled the thought, there were several good reasons why
that was out of the question, not the least being that he had nowhere to run and no strength to
run with. He knew nothing of the people or their customs. Touching one of their women
might be punishable by death.
He tried to steady his nerves, telling himself that the circumstances were going to change.
The girl had read his mind and knew that he was from the stars, that was certain to change the
circumstances when she told someone. He could have imagined the impact such a story
would have had on Mars or Old Earth. Especially, if a daughter had come home highly upset
and told the story that a man from outer space had accosted her in the forest!
He had lost his zest for walking. His first excursion could have ended in disaster. He
returned to the house taking much longer than before. He met no one else on the return
journey. He thought about the Scarn. Clearly they were a subhuman species. He promised
himself that Jabez or Hara were going to be subjected to a good deal of intensive questioning
on the subject.
He spent the rest of the day doing what he liked most, laying under the radiant heat of their
star and letting it beat into his body. He was nearly fit again, it wouldn't be much longer
before he would leave the house of Jabez. He stayed up to watch the return of the community.
It was almost dusk before they started to trickle into the cluster of houses. He didn't make
himself conspicuous, he stayed in the shadow of the wall, close to the window entrance. They
came home in family groups, plodding wearily. They were subdued, as if the last strength
could not be spared for idle chatter. Perhaps, when they had eaten, it would be different but
thinking about it, he had never heard any sounds of evening entertainment coming from the
community. They probably ate and went to bed.
They were little more than slaves; work horses for the privileged ones who owned the land.
The same privileged ones owned the population, body and soul. His sense of outrage started
to rise. He told himself to keep his nose out of matters that could not concern him and which
he couldn't change. The problem was that he was descended from Martian stock. On Mars,
they did not take kindly to working under the thumb of a tyrant. Martians were fiercely
defensive of their independence and he had been born and raised in an atmosphere of
agitations and rebellion.
He saw Hara at the rear of the main group, she was surrounded by about twenty children.
They didn't make the sort of noise one would expect from the young of any species. He felt
his anger rising, children ought to be allowed to run and play, that didn't seem to be the way
with these people. The older ones walked with shoulders slumped, subdued and exhausted.
The younger ones looked almost too tired to put one step after the other.
30

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
Jabez brought up the rear with a small group of the men. Steve suspected that he had been
detected, standing in the shadows and watching. He heard Caela come into the house through
the main entrance. It was time for him to retreat into his room.
CHAPTER 6
31

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
The Bole spoke.
"Surveillance report."
"Proceed. Keep down the volume."
"An intruder entered this chamber during your absence."
"Identify."
"Insufficient data."
"Describe the intruder."
"Sensory observation only."
Steve swore under his breath. He couldn't expect the Bole to work miracles but he
unreasonable enough to insist on it. It couldn't be expected to describe the physical
appearance of the intruder. Steve had commanded sensor scans only, this it had done. Steve
went through the possible candidates for forced entry. It might have been Laoni or anyone
else in the population. He had nothing to steal except the Bole and the Pentacle. It did
indicate that he was under some sort of surveillance - someone was expressing interest. The
unknown visitor made him feel uneasy. It would have been simpler to have arrested him and
to have brought him before someone in authority. Surely the arrival of a stranger by
mysterious means should have provoked some sort of official response.
He was quite sure that he hadn't heard the last from Laoni. Things couldn't remain as they
were and she might well be the catalyst for change. There seemed to be no point in eating
alone in his room. He had something to wear, he had proved he could walk on his own two
feet and he saw no reason to give Caela additional work in providing him with room service.
He pulled aside the curtain and emerged into the main room of the house and in so doing,
frightened the wits out of his hostess, she dropped something which he hoped was not the
evening meal and retreated to the far side of the room.
Steve smiled reassuringly and bent down to retrieve the dropped utensil. She darted
forward and grabbed it away. Jabez chose this moment to make his entry. He looked at his
woman suspiciously as she tried to scrape up the mess from the floor and at the same time,
tried to keep her distance from her lodger. Steve hoped that Jabez had enough sense to realise
that he was much too young for his woman and that she had more sense. The old man uttered
something rather sharp and unkind and seemed to have forgotten that Steve could now
understand and speak.
"I should apologise. I appeared suddenly and startled Caela."
The old man frothed a response in thought.
"My Lord is most benevolent. My Lord has no reason to apologise on behalf of this stupid
and lowly woman."
"On the contrary, I am the one at fault, not Caela. For some reason I make her nervous."
"My Lord is most kind."
The old man was at his most obsequious. Steve felt like planting a kick on his ancient arse.
"I am getting very much stronger. In a short while I will no longer impose myself upon
you. I must seek out those who will help me to return to my own - er - land. First of all, I
would like to ask you about my arrival. I remember nothing except being welcomed and then
waking up in your house."
For the first time, the initiative had been taken out of Jabez's hands. A variety of
expressions crossed his face in quick succession. Some of them didn't increase Steve's
confidence. The old man was hiding something, eventually the ingratiating mask was
restored. He answered deferentially.
"I will be honoured and pleased to answer all the questions my Lord wishes to ask. If my
Lord wishes, I will take you to the place of my Lord's revealing."
There was nothing like striking while the iron was hot.
32

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"When?"
"If my Lord wishes - on the next day."
"Tomorrow morning, then - "
Jabez didn't look all that enthusiastic about the arrangement. It increased Steve's
determination.
"I have a mind to eat with you this evening."
The old man almost dropped to his knees in exaltation. Steve's mind was flooded with
thoughts of the high honour that was being bestowed upon the house and that it was most
unfitting that such a great one should break bread with the lowly. Perhaps the Lord would
change his mind? The Lord did not, he was feeling particularly perverse that evening, perhaps
it was something to do with his encounter with Laoni or the unknown visitor, or the sight of
human beings reduced to drudgery for some landowner.
Caela was more petrified than usual and managed to make one hell of a clatter when
setting the table. Steve was sure that it was only his presence that prevented her from getting
a good hiding from her irate spouse. She managed to get the food on the platters and the
platters to the table. It was then that Jabez tried to recover his lost initiative.
"Will my Lord give his benediction?"
Steve did a rapid data search of his memory. Prayer was no fashionable in the circles in
which he usually moved. It had gone out of fashion since the Evacuation. No one felt inclined
to launch into prayer when they felt as guilty as hell about consigning the best planet they had
in the Solar System into the trash can. He scraped around in the distant past and desperately
tried to recall a half remembered chant his mother had taught him at a time when she had
been swept along by one of the periodical religious revivals. He intoned.
"Bless the food which we eat. Bless the labours of the providers. Let the land be healthy
and bear good crops."
For good measure, he added private thanks to the anonymous deity to whom it had been
addressed, that he had been equipped with a quick mind and a reasonable vocabulary. He sat
down quickly before he was asked to expand further. Jabez seemed to have gone into a kind
of trance and Caela wasn't much better. The feeling of nervousness returned. It wouldn't take
much to turn their devotion to fanaticism. Jabez babbled in his mind.
"My Lord has blessed his servants. My Lord has enriched us with his presence."
Steve stirred uneasily. It hadn't been THAT good; besides, the food was getting cold and he
was ravenous. All the exercise and excitement of the day demanded nourishment. They sat
down and consumed the contents of the platter. Lumps of animal matter circulated around in
the dish. It smelt good and tasted better. He realised how much his inhibitions had changed.
There would have been a time when the thought of eating animal flesh would have made him
vomit. When he was finished, he leaned back and placed his hands palm down on the table.
He looked at the attentive Jabez.
"Tell me about my coming to you and tell me about this Thane whom you serve."
They sat within the circle of light shed by flickering lamp. Caela left them and retired to
her own room, she took no part in the mental conversation, nor could she have any, she didn't
share in the Gift. Steve subtracted the flowery embellishments from the remarkable story
which emerged.
Jabez was the leader of the community. It had more to do with some sort of religious
leadership than the simple task of being an Overseer for the Thane. It was his responsibility to
ensure that a certain percentage of the harvest was gathered. He had to ensure that his work
force tilled the fields and husbanded the crop. He had to account to the Thane for his
stewardship and there was some undefined penalty if he was in default. He painted this
picture swiftly, as if he was impatient to get on to more important matters.
33

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
His excitement carried over in the mental picture he tried to create. He described signs and
portents that urged him to lead his people to the Place Of Worship, early one morning, at the
start of the Season of Growth. The signs meant nothing to Steve and the old man didn't
elaborate to any great extent. They indicated that something of great importance was to occur
on that day.
They had celebrated some sort of dawn rite - again, Jabez did not explain in any great
detail. They waited for a while and it seemed that they were going to be disappointed. Jabez
was torn between two responsibilities, one, to ensure that his quota of work was completed
for the day and the other, to ensure that the indicated portents were fulfilled. He was about to
signal a return to work, when the event took place. In the most holy spot, where they had
brought their sacrifice, there had been a kind of movement. It was something outside of their
experience and they sank down on their knees in terror and then to their faces. Jabez
described the movement in the only way he could.
"Lord, it was as if the air within shivered - like it does sometimes when you look into a
heat haze in the fields - but it was not exactly so -"
"Where did this shivering happen?"
"Within the Holy Place, Lord - the place of your revealing."
It seemed that the shivering of the air had not stopped at that. There had been a
coalescence, a solidification. Steve had stumbled forth into the light of their star, his eyes
clamped shut tightly. He had held out one hand as if in a blessing, while the other clutched a
strange cubic device. In the hand of blessing was a wonderful sign and portent. It was the
opinion of Jabez and his followers that Steve was either a god, or had been sent by them. The
apparition had stumbled and cried out and had then sunk to his knees and then to his face.
At first, they had not dared to go near to him or touch him, but then, they had summoned
up courage and had carried him to the dwelling of Jabez and Caela and had waited many days
before he came to consciousness.
Jabez had finished his story and was waiting for a reaction. Steve stared at him across the
table and wished that he could look into his mind in the way that the old man could look into
his. Now he knew the outcome of stepping from the vortex into which he had been plunged
with the dissolution of the five sided chamber.
"You spoke of a device I held, Jabez. Where is it?"
Jabez looked at him and Steve knew that he was aware of his visitor's wandering around
the house.
"We removed it in case you should hurt yourself, Lord. You were very restless and cried
out as if in torture. I will bring it to you."
It was plausible, everything Jabez said was plausible. Steve watched the old man disappear
into the side room and waited for him to return with the Pentacle. He reappeared, carrying it
gingerly, as if he was uncertain of what it could do to him. Steve accepted it without a word
and looked at it. Very deliberately, he placed it around his neck. It gleamed in the light of the
lamp and he thought Jabez shivered.
"I thank you, Jabez. Tell me, do you recognise the image of the this man?"
Jabez hesitated and the thoughts were blocked.
"It is a man of the Lynxe, my Lord Steve-Holt."
Steve nodded, Jabez knew who he was.
"I look forward to a visit to the Place of Worship. Now, tell me about the Thane and his
household."
Once again, it was necessary to strip away the verbal froth. The man was so used to falling
on his knees in the face of authority, that half of what he said wasn't relevant. He elaborated
on the responsibilities of the community. They had to care for a certain portion of the Thane's
lands. Other communities looked after adjoining areas and there were others, those who were
34

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
more distant. The Thane owned great lands which stretched beyond the imagination of the
simple people. They were given little opportunity to travel outside of their immediate area. It
was not considered proper to have the population wandering around, this would cause great
disruption to the care of the crops. Each community was responsible for the stewardship of
the Scarn who could be coerced into service. This was an onerous service, for the Scarn were
without discipline and inclined to wander off, deep into the forests.
The Thane was the autocratic ruler of their lives. If there was one greater than the Thane,
they did not know of him. The Thane had total control and could look into their thoughts,
even from afar. The Thane would even know of the conversation they were having. Steve
made a mental salute to the Thane and his family.
The Thane had a wife, two sons and two daughters. The Lady Hepha was particularly
gracious and was kind to the lower folk, as befitted her rank. The older son was particularly
Gifted and travelled to distant places in pursuit of greater knowledge. The younger son was
between childhood and manhood and was kept at home. The older daughter was most
gracious, in fact, a great lady, while the younger was beautiful and kind.
Steve realised that the old man was treading very carefully. The stylised report was meant
for the listening Thane. Steve couldn't help being amused. Why, out of all the thousands the
man would control, would he choose to listen to Jabez? Then he realised the subtlety of the
arrangement. This was the power the Thane exercised. Lesser mortals could never be sure
that they were not be overheard. It was clever, it was diabolically clever!
Jabez had told him all he could - or all that he was inclined to tell. There was more behind
it all but Steve was prudent enough to leave well alone.
"Thank you Jabez - now tell me, is Hara to give me a further lesson this evening?"
Jabez bobbed up and down and told him that indeed she was. He left like a ham actor and
Caela took her cue to collect the dishes.
"That was a good meal, Caela, thank you."
Steve vocalised slowly and carefully and she blushed like a school girl and clattered the
platters nervously. She breathed:
"I wish only to serve the Lord."
She gave the words extra meaning, the expression in her eyes conveyed it. Steve managed
a sickly smile and prepared to repel rape. He was saved by the return of Jabez, Hara was with
him. Her look was exceptionally warm when she greeted him. Steve gave her a very different
kind of smile and suggested that they discussed the lesson outside. It was a departure from
the normal but it seemed more proper than in the bedroom now that he was up and dressed.
More proper than when he had been naked in bed.
They sat on a bench under the window of the main room, where Jabez could keep a
chaperonic eye on them. The old man was soon asleep, slumped over the table. These people
had no comfort, hard floors, hard seats, hard beds. Everything solid and functional. It was an
existence, it was not living.
"My Lord is thoughtful."
It was the first time she had taken the initiative, he smiled encouragement.
"I was thinking of a land far away."
"A land called Mars?"
He had almost forgotten that she could look into his mind. He wondered if she could read
other things there.
"That is - or was - my land."
"Tell me of it."
She had dropped the use of 'Lord'. It was progress! He hesitated and then formed pictures
of the ochre plains of Mars, where dust rises in incessant storms that blot out the sky for days
on end. He told her of the life of the miners and the grim underground existence in heat and
35

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
danger. He showed her bodies caked with red dust and sweat. He showed her the ice caps at
the poles and the two moons. She couldn't understand the moons.
"What are they - do they give heat like the Lynxe-star?"
She was alive with curiosity, all the reticence and shyness had evaporated.
"Look into my mind and picture them."
He thought hard of Phobus and Deimos, those little, sterile chunks of rock, hurtling above
the Martian's heads. He visualised them again, as little silver orbs, chasing each other across a
clear sky. He saw them for her, from the control cabin of a Planet Hopper, as it comes into the
atmosphere. He thought how beautiful she was and desirable. He thought how much he
would like to kiss her.
She blushed slowly and edged away.
"Did you see the moons, Hara?"
She hesitated.
"I saw a lot of things - It grows late and you must start early tomorrow when you go to the
Place of Worship. Take great care, my Lord."
She was away before he could answer. He raged at himself for his lack of control. She had
read his carnality. He thought about their Gift and decided that it would have one hell of an
inhibiting effect on their relationships. A young fellow wouldn't dare think some of the things
a normal, lusty male ought to be able to think. The girl would either slap his face, run a mile,
or lead him to some secluded spot before he could collect his wits.
He re-entered the house and bade his host and hostess goodnight. He had a desperate
homesickness, all the talk of Mars during the evening, had intensified his longing to go back
to his own kind. Sleep eventually came and it seemed too short. Jabez roused him very
early and they ate breakfast before the dawn. Jabez explained that first he would show him
the Holy Place and then go on to his duties for the Thane.
They left soon after, together with the remainder of the community who set off in another
direction. They didn't seem interested in the change to routine. As always, they were polite
but kept aloof from their strange visitor.
It looked as if the Place of Worship was only used for special occasions. The whole
question of worship, in any shape or form, was a curiosity. On Mars, and everywhere else
within the Confederation of New Earth, there was no formal worship. From time to time there
were outbursts of religious revival, which usually got out of hand and had to be put down by
Security. It was fortunate that they were few and far between. Man had got out of the habit of
worshipping gods, great or small.
They took the path which led through the cultivated fields close to the community houses.
He took a good look at the crop. It was a little disappointing, a nondescript, dull olive-green
in colour, with large fleshy, veined leaves issuing from a central stem. It stood about the
height of a man and was cultivated in rows which allowed for easy walking between. Jabez
explained what it was.
"This is the Oil-Plant, Lord It is the crop which supplies our lamp oil and is also used as a
lubricant."
Steve opened his ears wider, this was the first suggestion of anything mechanical.
"Have you no generating power?"
"That is a term I do not understand, Lord."
He sounded as if he expected Steve to blast him to ashes. He had no concept of electrical
power or turbines. They climbed up the side of one of the low, rounded hills which were a
main feature of the terrain. This one didn't drop away to another gully on the far side. Instead
it abutted on to a rocky hillside that led higher still. Even in the early hours, it was hot work.
The surface was loose and stones clattered down with every step. Steve was sweating
profusely by the time they reached the top. Jabez was hardly winded.
36

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
The hilltop was almost level, except to one side where a jumble of rocks led even higher.
Quite a number would be able to gather on the lower level, whilst those who performed
whatever they did for a religious act, could do so on the upper level. Jabez led the way, Steve
looked back over his shoulder. The valleys below stretched to the horizon with the an olivegreen
sameness. He turned his attention to Jabez who was climbing the rock pile with the
agility of a mountain goat. Steve's education had not included mountaineering. There were
many mountains on Mars, some quite spectacular, but no one was fool enough to attempt to
climb them in a surface suit - unless they had a death-wish.
Steve was even more breathless when he had completed the ascent. Jabez was staring out
over the lower area in an abstracted manner. Steve had the impression that he had not
particularly noticed the rather unlordly scramble.
"This is the place, Lord."
The wind had tightened his tunic to his scrawny frame and the white mane of hair streamed
back. He was the archetype of the primitive religious leader. He could have commanded the
sea to part. Steve dimly remembered that someone was reputed to have done that once. He
looked around, they were in a kind of hollow, surrounded by great boulders. Beyond them
was a sheer drop, except for the path which they had followed.
"It was here, Lord, that you came to your people."
About ten feet higher, there was a further ledge and behind that, what appeared to be the
mouth of a cave. Steve looked at the old man but he had gone into a glaze-eyed trance. He
turned back and looked for footholds. He reached the upper platform with a few scratches and
now he could see that what he had taken for a cave, was in fact a natural arch. He was happy
to see that there was no evidence of five sided regularity. Beyond the rock arch - was the sky.
Cautiously he moved into the entrance. He looked back at Jabez as he did so and saw that the
old man was still staring rigidly into space.
Steve took his time, whatever mechanism had been activated by his coming, might be
reactivated and he might end up anywhere else in the universe. The arch wasn't very deep and
led nowhere. Beyond it was nothing except an unpleasant looking drop to the plain below. He
turned back and walked to the entrance. This was the way he had come when he stepped from
the vortex. He touched the rock around him but there was nothing unexpected.
Jabez was staring up at him, his expression was strange, for the first time he felt that he
was seeing the real man behind the fawning mask. Friend Jabez would bear watching closely.
Steve scrambled down and thanked the old man warmly for his time and help. Jabez replaced
the mask. He was deferential and eloquent, telling Steve how much he had been honoured in
that he could assist his Lord. He was even more obsequious when Steve announced his
intention of visiting the community at work. The reaction stank of hypocrisy. Steve had seen
something else in the Holy Place. Perhaps, it was a place where one could see the truth.
CHAPTER 7
37

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
Jabez led the way through the fields, the crop was monotonously the same. It was near
harvest time, so the chattering Jabez told him. His Lord could surely see the discolouring of
the foliage. For the want of an answer, Steve complimented him on the condition of the
harvest, it was the trigger for another peculiar look, which was again quickly masked behind
the deferential exterior.
"My Lord is correct, it is a fine harvest this year. My Lord has been with us during the
entire growing cycle. It is certain that my Lord's coming has brought great prosperity to his
people. In a few days, the crop will be ready and then will come the Festival of Fecundity,
where we will give our thanks for such bounty. We will offer sacrifices to the High Gods. It is
in this way that we remain prosperous."
Steve was beginning to hear menace in everything the old man said. He told himself to
stop overreacting and enjoy the scenery - especially now that the scenery included Hara. He
realised that he had never seen her in the daylight before - not close at hand, that is. She
looked even more beautiful. She was surrounded by a tumult of small children. Their parents
were scattered around the area, supervising teams of Scarn in the important matter of
plucking succulent leaves from the oil-plants, stripping them upward from the base, where
evidently they ripened first. Hara was sitting with the children, close to what he assumed to
be an irrigation ditch.
Jabez excused himself and scurried off to start his daily labours. It wasn't quite the hive of
activity Steve had expected, the community seemed to be directing the Scarn rather than
doing actual physical labour. Perhaps the mental effort of making sure the Scarn observed the
correct sequence of harvesting, was harder than it looked. He made the excuse that he ought
not to wander around and cause a distraction, so he joined Hara. The children were shy with
him at first, so he made sure that he made plenty of mistakes with his language lessons and
soon they were shouting with laughter. A few of the nearer parents wandered over to see what
was happening and they became almost friendly. Steve kept a careful check on his thoughts
but a few spontaneous bursts of admiration leaked through. Hara flushed a few times and
busied herself with one of the children.
He didn't overstay his welcome, about mid morning he wandered back towards the cluster
of houses. The way was easy to follow after the initial directions. He spent the rest of the day
baking in the heat of their star, more than usually thoughtful. The warmth seeped into his
bones and he melted into it, yielding to a drowsy half slumber. He was flat on his back, eyes
tightly closed against the glare, drifting between sleep and wakefulness, half dreaming the
events that had led to his arrival on this world. Equations floated like a fantasy, mixing
elements of space and time. He wondered how he could exist after his time in the vortex.
How could he exist as matter? It was beyond his ability to answer, he was a mineralogist -
nothing more - except a stranger on a planet whose inhabitants did not even possess the sort
of curiosity that the arrival of an alien should have produced.
The Bole spoke up.
"Observation. Sensory observation indicates an unknown intruder."
Steve jerked open his eyes and nearly blinded himself. At the edge of the paved area, some
ten metres distant, a mounted figure sat motionless. He was riding the most extraordinary
beast Steve had ever seen, it was unlike anything he had ever studied of the ancient history of
Old Earth. The man held his attention, he was inspecting Steve with frank curiosity. He was
young, with hair that flowed back over his shoulders. It was yellow in the light of their star.
He sat the animal easily, obviously well used to the saddle. His tunic had pulled up, showing
an expanse of muscular thigh. His arms were bare and the neck of his tunic cut low. He wore
a moustache and accentuated the feline features. There was no mistaking him, he was the man
in the Pentacle!
38

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
They stared at each other for a long moment, there was a hint of contemptuous amusement
in the grey-green eyes. Steve rose to his feet but before he could recover the tunic he had
thrown to one side, the rider raised his hand in a kind of salute, touched the animal with his
knee and started to move off. They stared at each other across much more than the few paces
between them. They stared at each other across the unknown intentions of the builders of the
five sided chamber into which Steve had strayed and within which the image of the stranger
had been displayed like bait in a trap.
The stranger raised his hand again and then urged the beast forward into the lane between
the crops. Steve watched him dwindle into the distance and then merge into the darkness of a
distant wood. Sun baking was finished for the day, Steve picked up his tunic and put it on.
The encounter had created more questions than answers. He knew that he had to find this
alien again, he was the key to his future.
.....
Danyk rode away from his encounter with the naked Scarn in a very reflective frame of
mind. He had expected nothing more than a mutant. Such things happened on occasions.
Reports would be made of albinos or some other deviation from the norm. Usually the
creatures would be abandoned by their tribe and it would be easy to capture them and put
them on show, or even train them to amuse in the great houses. These variations were
normally short lived and frequently ill formed. When Lyot had given him the task of locating
this latest aberration, Danyk had surmised that the crafty Jabez had found one of these
misbegotten creatures and would try to haggle for some special favours for his community.
It had been a number of days before he could fulfil Lyot's commission. As usual, the Lord
had found other duties for his son which had required a readjustment of priorities. A hairless
Scarn did not rank very high in precedence. There had been discussions at the community
meal and Laoni had showed considerable interest. The mental waves of fury emanating from
his sister after returning from her pre-emptive excursion, had finally prompted him to try to
finalise the matter.
He knew he needed more information and Laoni had closed her mind to him with regard to
the details of her meeting with the creature. It would have been asking for trouble to confront
Jabez or to forewarn him of the Thane's interest. The price would have risen abruptly. For this
reason, Danyk had decided to spy out the land and try to get a preview of the creature. He
rode without his men, making his way across familiar territory and approaching the
community from an unusual direction. He wondered where Jabez was keeping it and decided
that he might have to rely on hearing or smell to find it in the cluster of dwellings. He was
more than a little surprised to find it roaming free in Jabez's own house.
The Vix had moved softly and he was able to draw close to the platform of stone that
surrounded the house of the Overseer. The creature was laying naked on the paving, in the
full heat of the Lynxe-star. Danyk was more fascinated than surprised. This abortion seemed
to favour the full heat and glare. It wasn't hairless, no matter what the reports had indicated. It
was certainly less hairy than the normal Scarn and what it had was distributed differently to
anything he had ever seen on the subspecies, especially in the facial area. There was little
evidence that it had grown abnormally, except that it was less than average height for a Scarn
and had shorter limbs. It was male.
It had reared up when it had realised it was being inspected. Danyk was impressed by its
nimbleness. It looked almost intelligent. He tested the mind patterns and recoiled in shock. It
was totally unlike anything he had ever experienced. The brute Scarn sub-intelligence was
missing, instead there had been a wide open mind, in which lurked fascinating visions and
concepts. The appalling thought wouldn't go away that this was somehow a bestial hybrid
between the Lynxe and the Scarn. It was revolting enough to turn his stomach but it was
39

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
possible that a Scarn had seized a Lynxe woman and had impregnated her, or that the
reversion to bestiality, which was expressing itself in other ways, had induced a male Lynxe
to mate with a Scarn female.
The creature had looked at him eagerly, as if it wanted a friendly contact. No Scarn would
ever have dared to attempt such familiarity. Danyk had raised his hand instinctively, as if to
ward off a mental blow and then again, but the next time it had been a farewell gesture.
He put as much distance as he could between him and the community of Jabez, before he
reigned in his mount at a stream. He had a great deal to sort out mentally before he opened
his mind to interrogation by Lyot. His father didn't encourage sentiment, especially when it
involved the Scarn. He didn't suffer sentimental ideas on most subjects, a Thane wasn't very
effective if he allowed those thoughts to rule.
Danyk could not shake off the feeling of affinity with the creature. He was angry with
himself that he could entertain such thoughts. He searched through his mind for some reason
and finally came to the episode of his dream, the one that had disturbed him so much on the
night before he had ridden out to break up the bestiality on the hilltop. It had concerned a
hairless Scarn with blue eyes. Danyk went cold. The creature he had inspected had possessed
much more hair than the creature in his dream, but the eyes had been intensely blue.
He took his time to return to the Thanehold and by the time he did so, he had applied
techniques to quieten down his agitation.
.....
The evening meal was subdued, as if Jabez had something on his mind. Caela looked as if
she had been weeping. Hara did not come, perhaps she thought she had already provided the
lesson for the day. Steve was glad to excuse himself and go to the solitude of his room. Some
caution kept him from mentioning the visit of the unknown man, it was hard to define why
but he felt it better not to reveal that any interest was being shown in him.
The visit had not been one of menace, it didn't look like a follow-up to apply punishment
for the way he had treated the cat woman on the previous day. The man had shown
considerable curiosity - a very frank curiosity. It was as if he was inspecting some strange
exhibit in a zoo. Perhaps that was how they viewed a visiting alien.
He was tired enough to go to bed early. It had been a long day and he was more exhausted
than he liked to admit. The fact that Hara had not paid her usual visit irritated him. He liked
her around, even if he couldn't touch, he could fantasise - perhaps that was the problem. She
was watched by Jabez and the rest of the community as well. She was no doubt controlled by
rules and regulations with this 'House of the Virgins'. Even a mild flirtation would have been
the subject of overview. Steve reluctantly admitted that he would have liked a lot more than a
mild flirtation, although he couldn't see where such a relationship could lead. It seemed that
he was consigned to a life of enforced celibacy and he was getting well enough for his
hormones to be complaining loudly.
He drifted off into a troubled sleep and had a succession of fitful dreams. He wandered
again through the windswept site of the Place of Worship. A great crowd was present, they all
wanted something from him but all he could provide was his child's prayer in which he gave
thanks for the food. They took it up in a great chant and the cadences rolled round and round
the hills like a madrigal. They wanted something more. Jabez appeared in the dream,
demanding something of him that he didn't understand. He couldn't produce what they
wanted and they became angry. He retaliated and told them he would call down the wrath of
their gods on their heads and they all rushed forward to kill him. He woke up abruptly and
stared into the darkness.
40

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
He lay there for a while, the house was completely quiet. The night was oppressively hot,
he threw off the light cover but still didn't feel much cooler. The heat had lingered from the
day, seeping into the structure of the house. The days had been getting hotter and it wasn't
comfortable anymore to bask into the afternoon. He couldn't think of their star as the 'sun'. It
wasn't his sun, it was an alien star whose light was spectroscopically different to the Sun. It
was over his head and it shed light upon this world - but it was not his 'sun'.
He fell asleep after a while, it was a night of dreams. This time, the afternoon visitor
returned on his ridiculous mount. He looked ridiculous because his mount looked ridiculous.
He was very angry and threatening but Steve laughed because he looked so stupid on his
crazy animal. The rider pulled his tunic over his head and threw it at him. Steve woke up
again and thought hard about the dream and decided that his hormones were really
complaining.
It was much later when he finally fell into a sleep that was dreamless. It had grown a little
cooler. His sleep didn't last long, this time the doorbell chimed, or maybe it was the
visiophone with Laura on the other end, telling him that he had to leave and go to some dusty
mining site at the end of nowhere. Steve woke up and collected his scattered wits. He sighed
in exasperation, it had been the Bole. During certain hours, if it wished to attract attention, it
would give this utterly stupid ding-dong noise.
"What the bloody hell do you want at this time of night - a visit to the toilet?"
"Observation. Sensory observation indicates the approach of an intruder."
Steve groaned - not another one!
"Keep quiet and let me handle this."
The Bole made no response.
Steve pretended to sleep and busied himself forming a plan of action. If whoever it was
tried any funny business, he would jump out of the bed and scream blue murder. That
wouldn't make him look very brave but it would arouse the neighbourhood. He could rely on
assistance providing they didn't put their heads under their pillows and pretend that they
didn't hear anything. With any luck, the intruder might even be frightened away.
He tried to watch the window access through half closed eyes. He was endowed with the
asset of long eyelashes, which women loved to stroke. He brought his mind back to the
business at hand. It had to be something to do with the earlier visit, perhaps the unknown man
had returned with a few of his cronies - although for what reason, only time would tell.
He sensed rather than saw a figure enter his room. It stood just inside the window. He
opened his eyes a little wider, it was hard to make out. He wished their planet had a moon, it
would have shed a little light on the scene. He got ready to spring up, his heart was
hammering in anticipation. He could only see one figure but that didn't mean that there were
not others outside.
It moved into the shadows of the room and he tensed. There was a rustling sound and then
silence. He strained his eyes to see into the darkness and then sensed the figure closing in on
the bed. He swung out with his fist but misjudged in the darkness. He heard a gasp and then a
body pinned him down. The body was soft and warm and naked, tense and shivering. Hara
whispered into his mind:
"I heard my Lord call in my mind, I knew that he lusted after me. I have fought against
you, Lord. I would not come to you but then I wanted to."
She moaned into his ear, a moan of longing, of fear, of desire. Steve woke from his trance
state and automatically put his arms around her. She shuddered as if trying to make a final
resistance. He soothed her and tried to quieten her, whispering into her mind and stroking her
flesh. She read his mounting passion and desire and tried to draw away. His body screamed
for her, it had been a long time since he had been with a woman. He forced her down on the
bed and took her, loving her. After the first time, she wept. No one had touched her before.
41

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
She slipped away before the dawn light. He hoped that she hadn't been missed in the
'House of the Virgins'. He lay quietly on his bed in the cool of the dawn and quietly
contemplated the fact that it had been many a year since he had been seduced. It made a
welcome change. It also had complicated matters for the immediate future. He had the
impression that she would consider the adventure much more than a one night stand. It was
something to be considered at a later date. He drifted into sleep, his hormones had finally shut
up.
The sun was already high when he woke. It took a few seconds for him to remember why
he felt so good. He had a fatuous grin on his face when he looked into the battered mirror. He
stroked his beard and decided that it had gave him a certain irresistible look. He looked like
one of those pirates he had seen in the history records of Old Earth, who had lived in a
kingdom called Hollywood. Every inch of him was tanned a deep brown. He had a mane of
black hair which had developed a hitherto unsuspected tendency to curl. His belly was flat
and his hips lean. No wonder Hara found him irresistible.
The water that flowed into the sunken pit, which doubled as a bath and the laundry tub,
was icy cold. He eyed it dubiously; cold he didn't mind, but icy cold? He braved it and
wondered if he would ever be the same again. After a few minutes he enjoyed it. He sang and
whistled and rose invigorated and glowing.
Caela had left him some food, no doubt she had checked to see if he was awake before
leaving for the fields. He decided to stay close to the house in case the visitor should return. It
gave him time to think about the complications that could arise from his relationship with
Hara. After all the trouble his unknown captors had taken to bring him from Mars, he was
quite certain his destiny lay elsewhere and could not involve staying with the community for
much longer. Hara was a side issue which would have to be sorted out somehow. His prime
concern was to find a way back home to Mars.
Hara came to him every night for the remainder of his time with the community. She came
to him because that was what she wanted. The roles were reversed, she had taught him, now
he taught her. Unfortunately, the tuition did not last very long. Jabez came to him early one
morning, while Steve was still sleeping. It was a rude awakening.
"My Lord, we have need of your presence at the Place of Worship. A woman has been
observed in adultery and must be judged according to the ancient law."
Steve knew in his heart that it had to be Hara. Why else would they want him to be
present? He had a sickening feeling that the consequences would be severe. He wasn't
concerned for himself so much, as for her. Jabez had drawn himself up to his full height,
every inch a religious fanatic. Steve's heart sank, he had seen that look before, when a self
proclaimed prophet had set himself up on Mars and had gained control of a group who dealt
out rough justice. He kept his mouth shut and did as he was told.
There was no conversation on the way to the Place of Worship. This time, he managed the
slope easily - truthfully speaking, he hardly noticed it. He was concerned for Hara. The
community had gathered in silence, staring at the upper platform. He looked up at where
Hara stood alone. He could see that she was terrified. There was a kind of resignation too, as
if she had already bowed to the inevitable fate. Steve followed after Jabez and moved to her
side. There was no preamble.
"The woman has been witnessed in adultery. What is your judgement?"
The crowd had one voice.
"Death!"
There was little emotion, as if it was a ritual response. Jabez was in a trance of religious
exaltation.
"She shall be cast down!"
42

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
A cry rose from the crowd, there were no recognisable words. Hara was ashen grey, she
started to tremble. Steve thought of the dizzy drop at the back of the arch.
"Stop!
The word had come from somewhere within him. Jabez looked at him, Steve could have
sworn that there was a gleam of victory in his eyes.
"You who have witnessed my coming must now listen to my words! You saw me emerge
from the place which now you wish to desecrate with the death of this woman."
The crowd was deathly silent - waiting.
"You say that I have come from the gods and that I am their messenger."
Steve knew that he was breaking every space law on the statute book, especially those that
say that there will be no interference with the social, religious or political life of any planet
that is visited.
"I say to you, in the name of the gods you worship, that this woman shall live. She is my
handmaiden and pleases me. I have placed my seed in her. If the gods permit, she will bear a
child!"
43

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
CHAPTER 8
It was strong stuff but he had always had a flair for histrionics - quite apart from which, he
had the tendency to get carried away in the stress of the situation. It had the desired effect.
Steve had the feeling that Jabez was not quite so pleased with himself. The shouts of acclaim
and religious fervour from his followers were not directed towards him.
Hara swayed and Steve caught her as she dropped into a dead faint. He glared fiercely at
Jabez, who shrank under the look. It was all quite melodramatic. They trooped down from the
top of the hill and dispersed to their work places. Steve insisted that Hara should remain with
him - nobody dared to argue. When they were back at the house, she broke down and sobbed
wildly. Steve tried to calm her, telling her that everything was all right and that nothing could
harm her anymore. She quietened down eventually enough to tell what had happened.
When she had left his room earlier, Jabez had been waiting for her. He had marched her out
of earshot and then had accused her in front of witnesses who had been dragged from their
beds. The Keeper of the House of Virgins reported that Hara had been missing from her
sleeping place for a number of nights. Jabez had known that Steve was the only one with
whom she had been but had managed to convey that she was acting the prostitute with any
man who could buy her favours. They had kept her locked away until they had dragged her
off to the hilltop and then Jabez had roused Steve.
Steve's suspicions were confirmed. Jabez was a very dirty piece of work. He knew that he
no longer dared to remain under his roof. There was something behind the care and attention
that had been lavished upon him. Something more than solicitude. Jabez had hoped to make
religious capital out of the strange way Steve had arrived on the planet. After the events of the
morning, his plans might have changed. Steve had stolen his thunder. A declared Messenger
of the Gods would have to eclipse the importance of a mere religious leader of a small
community.
In the day that followed the confrontation at the Place of Worship, the community went
about its duties as if nothing had disturbed them. Hara was still very shaken by her
experience but she could tell little about the affairs of the men. There were deeper ceremonies
which were completely male affairs. Women and children were invited to festive occasions
but were never permitted to witness the secret rites. She told Steve that her experience was
not something that happened very often. Usually, if a woman was caught in adultery, the girl
got a good hiding and the man was beaten up by her male relatives. The old way had been
death and for some reason Jabez had decided to reintroduce it in her case. Jabez was up to
something very deep and Steve didn't like the way things were shaping. The more he thought
about it, the more he became convinced that he couldn't stay another night under Jabez's roof,
without the suspicion that he might find a knife thrust between his ribs while he slept. The
other consideration was Hara, it was obvious that she no longer qualified to continue
residence in the House of Virgins.
"What are we to do?"
She thought about it for a long time.
"We could go to the House of Nuptials."
"That sounds interesting."
She blushed very prettily and explained that the House of Nuptials was where newly weds
spent their first night. It was hidden away in some discreet place in the woods. It sounded a
better alternative than the house of Jabez.
"We won't disturb any one there?"
She shook her head.
44

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"It is not the time of nuptials, it will be empty."
It was an unlikely place for a honeymoon and to crown the incongruity, he had to take the
Bole along. It was like taking a mechanical mother-in-law as a chaperone. He had nothing
else to carry, except the Pentacle which hung around his neck. He kept the borrowed tunic as
well, if Jabez wanted it back, he could ask for it.
Hara collected a few pitiful belongings from her lodgings. The House of Virgins might
have possessed a fancy title but the establishment didn't live up to it. It was no more than a
glorified dormitory and a common room. There was no privacy.
The day was nearly gone as they slipped into the woods. She led the way and they met no
one on their journey. The woods were cool and dark after the heat. They moved quickly along
paths that twisted and seemed to double back at times. He heard water, the sound of a small
stream and soon they were standing on its bank. It was a tiny rill but deep enough for bathing.
Steve looked around for the House of Nuptials and identified it as a bower of branches and
leaves seem dimly in the diminishing light. Hara would have entered immediately, he held
her back.
"Anything might be in there, we'll camp outside for the night."
She sat down without comment and opened her pack. He was glad that one of them had
had the sense to think of supper. It wasn't much but it satisfied their immediate hunger,
breakfast would be another problem - if they lived that long. They sat in the gathering
darkness and watched the silhouette of the bower merge into the blackness. High above, the
stars made their patterns. He tried to make sense of them but they were unlike anything he
had ever seen. He thought he saw Sirius but Sirius could be a very dim star from this planet.
He gave up stargazing when Hara pressed her body close to his. Her hand moved on his bare
thigh as he threw off his tunic. There was no disturbance during the night. In the early light,
they lay awake and he questioned her about the Gift.
"Is it possible for Jabez to know where we are? Can he read our thoughts from a distance?"
"I don't think so my Lord."
"Steve - no more of this Lord business. You remind me of Jabez and he's not built like you!
Are you sure he isn't able to read our thoughts and follow us?"
"The Gift does not work in that way - at least, not with us - Steve."
She hesitated over his name, it sounded foreign and sweet in her mouth.
"Jabez is able to hear what you want to say with his mind and can put what he wants to say
into yours, but he hasn't the Gift for a great distance. Only the Lords are able to do that, that
is why they must be obeyed."
"Yes, well, we'll skip that. As far as I am concerned, they are as good as us and no better."
The light was getting stronger and he could see the body of the girl for the first time.
Always, previously they had loved in darkness, touching and exploring but never seeing. She
was more beautifully formed than he could ever have imagined. She explored him with her
eyes and flushed crimson when he laughed at her. He reached out and took her again.
Later, they bathed in the rill and afterwards, looked around for something to eat. She
recognised something edible. The House of Nuptials proved to be untenanted. Steve was
relieved, an irate bridegroom was more than he could have coped with in the circumstances.
Hara started to worry about the children and her duties. He shook his head, he would never
understand the female mind. On the previous day, the parents of the same children were
calling for her death. Today, all was forgiven and she was fretting that they would be
unattended.
They made the bower habitable and they could only guess how long they would need to
stay there. There seemed no point in being uncomfortable for the sake of it. It was like most
of the other structures, a central room with a rough table and stools and a large bed, which
groaned as Steve tried it. Hara giggled.
45

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"No wonder they built this place away from the village, any nearer and no one would have
got any sleep."
He started to relax, stretched out on the trestle, arms folded under his head and watching
her busying herself around the room. He began to enjoy the rustic life, it could grow on him.
A roof over their heads, a few sticks of furniture, domesticity and his own woman. He knew it
couldn't last. It was a bubble that would prick in a week, a day or even in hours. His future
didn't lay with Hara but she couldn't know that.
They gathered more food and there was plenty of water. That night, they slept within the
bower and played their tune on the creaking trestle. Outside, any nocturnal inhabitants might
have paused at the strange sound but that would be all. It was a thousand pities that the men
of Lynxe couldn't follow the example of the lesser species. On the fifth morning, Steve
wandered out of the hut scratching his head and stretching to the dawn and nearly collided
with Jabez. The old man was standing like a statue in the centre of the clearing. Steve had no
idea how long he had been there. Steve glowered at him and looked around for the support
troops.
"I came alone, O Great Lord Steve-Holt."
The thought was soothing in Steve's mind.
"I have come to plead with my Lord that he will not turn aside from his people. Why has
my Lord abandoned us? If he wanted the woman Hara, she was his to take. We would gladly
have made a dwelling place for you both and honoured your union."
"What do you want, Jabez?"
Steve didn't take his eyes off the old man, even when Hara came to the door behind him.
He heard her gasp.
"I have come to plead with my Lord."
The old man's voice quavered in his mind.
"Leave us in peace. You wanted to murder Hara and would have done so if I had not
stopped you. Now you come with sweet talk, as if nothing had happened. Is there any reason
why we should trust you, or any of those you might have hiding in the trees behind you?"
"My Lord does an old man injustice."
The old rogue was weeping.
He fell to his knees and clenched his hands, the tears coursed down his cheeks. Steve
started to feel uneasy and turned helplessly to Hara. She looked stunned by the turn of events.
Before he could stop her, she had moved forward to kneel beside the old man.
"Please, my father - Do not weep. It is a misunderstanding, we will return."
Steve threw up his hands in disgust. He had said it before and he thought it again, he would
never understand women. They helped Jabez into the hut and gave him water, there was
nothing else. He was abjectly thankful - it was as if he had been restored to life. Steve was
still highly suspicious.
"Apart from making peace with us, why else did you come here?"
Hara shook her head in reproach, she had been sucked in completely by the histrionics.
Steve wasn't so sure, Jabez gave him a soulful look.
"Lord, I come with a petition. Your people wish for you to be in our midst when we
celebrate the coming Festival of Fecundity. You are our declared Lord, who has come from
the Great Gods themselves and might even be one, if I might dare breathe that thought. My
Lord, it is our earnest plea that you bless our harvest and join in our thankfulness. We pray
that you will be our Lord of the Harvest, wreathed in garlands and flowers. This is our season
of greatest joy, when our Lord the Thane grants that we can rest from our labours. It will be a
season of unsurpassed joy, if you would consent to bless us with your radiant presence!"
46

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
With an invitation like that, what could you do? Beside, Steve could see that Hara's eyes
were gleaming with delight. She seemed to have forgotten all her fears. Who was he to stand
in the way? Steve made one condition.
"We will not return until the morning of the festivity."
He had further and private pursuits connected with the subject of fecundity and he wasn't
going to be cheated out of them. It turned out that they would have two more days in their
idyllic setting. Hara told him that the festivity lasted the whole of one day, with a climax late
in the afternoon, just as the sun went down. In the evening there was a great deal of
merrymaking from which the virgins were excluded. It was their job to baby-sit the children
of those who could go to the party. It seemed hard lines on the virgins but Steve kept his
thoughts to himself. Hara would be able to attend the whole session for the first time and he
could take credit for that. She was like a child anticipating some magical event, willing the
time away, until the moment when the treat could start.
There was something about the arrangement that didn't ring true. Jabez had had such a
complete change of attitude. It was too abrupt to create ease of mind. Steve cursed himself for
being a fool in accepting the invitation but it was too late to back out now and he didn't think
he could have stopped Hara if he had tried.
Early in the dawn of the appointed day, they started on their way back to the community.
Hara was certain that mid morning was the right time to make an appearance. The
preparations would be coming to a climax and their arrival would be the signal for the formal
part of the festival to begin. Steve tried to get some more facts about the form the ceremony
took, she either didn't know or she didn't want to tell him.
There was a shout of exaltation when they stepped out into the clearing and walked to the
centre of it. They were surrounded by a crowd of animated and noisy men and women. It was
hard to recognise them as those who normally wore such sombre expressions. This Thane of
theirs was a shrewd character. By allowing them to let off steam, the one day he lost, paid
dividends for the rest of the year.
Steve wanted to keep Hara close to him, he was still suspicious of their motives. It proved
impossible, he was whisked off and found himself smothered in garlands of sweet smelling
blossoms. She was caught up with the chatter of women and girls, who all seemed very
interested in what she could tell them about being the consort of a godly messenger. Jabez
appeared, decked in a flowing white robe, his hair gleaming white in the bright light of their
star. Geniality oozed from every pore and benevolence from every gesture and smile.
"Hail, great Lord Steve-Holt, messenger of the Great Gods."
He cried out with a fine touch of drama.
"Hail, Lord of the Festival. We are greatly honoured and blessed by your presence."
Steve played along, maintaining a dignified silence and a benevolent smile. He inclined his
head in a slight bow.
It was lucky that he wasn't coy or introverted. He was escorted to the privacy of a
bathhouse, stripped of the floral tributes and his tunic and required to submit to being bathed
and anointed with smelly oils, which would have put the highest paid whore on Mars to
shame. He was garlanded once more with leaves and flowers, which had a certain inadequacy
in the wrong places. He decided to wear a broad smile and hope that nobody noticed.
He was lifted on to a crazy contraption comprised of branches and woven vines, which
were very hard on his unprotected backside. He had a regressive vision of what his Martian
friends would have made of the spectacle. It was too painful a thought, he switched himself
back to the present. He was carried through the village, grinning like an ape. A half dozen
attendants, better dressed than himself, provided the motive power.
The procession left the village and wound its way through the fields nearest to the
community, it was joined by the total population and many others from communities he didn't
47

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
know existed. People streamed in from all directions. It was going to be quite a party. He
tried to spot Hara but she had vanished. He was worried sick and tried to keep his smile from
slipping into something fixed and glassy eyed.
The noon heat started to warm up the proceedings. He hoped that he wasn't required to sit
perched on top of the creaking float for the rest of the day. Jabez appeared, taking up his
rightful place at the head of the procession. They stopped suddenly, the first of many such
stops. The crowd who had been following were permitted to catch up and gather in a great
cluster around the floral throne. Jabez turned and called loudly:
"Great Lord Steve-Holt, we plead with you to bless our fields."
Steve cursed the inadequacy of his tuition at the Academy. He had not been a good scholar
but he was quite sure that no one had ever envisaged one of their number sitting best part
naked on a floral float, on a strange planet and being called upon to pronounce a blessing of
any description. He stared at Jabez and saw the glint of triumph in his eye. Steve stared back
impassively, waiting the moment for the trap to be sprung. It was getting beyond the moment
where the silence could be construed as a dramatic pause. Steve was noted for his versatility.
He said in his best Solari and in sonorous cadences:
"Mary had a little lamb, it's fleece was as white as snow and everywhere that Mary went,
that lamb was sure to go."
It was amazing what one could get out of stuff like that when the occasion demands.
Luckily, he was a ham actor at heart.
Jabez knew, of course, he could read the thoughts that formed the words. Steve hoped that
there would be few others who could. He hoped they would have as much sense as Jabez and
keep their mouths shut. Steve waited for the reaction in a state of calm fatalism.
"We thank you for your blessing, Lord."
Steve thought 'You bloody old fraud'. There was no doubt that Jabez read that as well.
The crowd got up from their faces in the dirt and they continued the tour of the fields.
From time to time they stopped and Steve was called upon to repeat the nonsense. Each time,
he was thanked by Jabez. He began to enjoy the situation and smiled indulgently upon all and
sundry. He even varied the doggerel and gave a spirited rendition of 'The Whorehouse on
Mars'. This went on for twenty five stanzas and he had to be pissed to remember it all. It
didn't matter, he was again thanked by Jabez. The old man's education had been
supplemented and he looked a trifle thoughtful after the first rendition.
Steve had no idea how the whole crazy business was going to end. He had a notorious
habit of sticking out his neck and especially so, when he had no idea of how it was going to
be chopped off. By the end of the afternoon, the crowd had swollen to about three hundred.
The attraction of having a real live god for the occasion, had proved to be quite a crowdpuller.
The Lynxe-star dropped lower and the whole nature of the gathering changed. The hard
work was at an end and now they were going to play hard. He had a sudden guilty thought
about Hara, he hadn't seen her for hours. His throne bearers set him down once again. He
waited for Jabez to call for another blessing but this time the invitation wasn't forthcoming.
His bearers thankfully moved away, bowing low as they did so and he was left in lonely
estate upon his magnificent seat of majesty. His personal seat of majesty wasn't feeling so
good, a persistent twig had been paying him unwanted attentions for the better part of the
afternoon.
Jabez courteously invited him to descend to ground level. He concurred thankfully,
carefully adjusting his blossoms. They had come to rest in the corner of a great field, which
had been completely cleared of oil-plant. It was on the top of a hill. On three sides, woods
reached down the slopes to the lower plain, while on the other, was a sharp drop. The light
was going and the air starting to cool. He had no fears of catching a chill, no matter how
48

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
scanty the covering. The air was still pleasantly balmy, like the nights he had spent with Hara
in the bower house. He caught sight of her suddenly in the middle of a crowd of women and
girls. The knot of fear relaxed in his stomach.
Someone started a fire. Jabez led him through groups of men and woman who were laying
out huge quantities of food. He brightened up, they were going to eat, his stomach had been
complaining for the previous five hours. It had been a long time since breakfast and that
hadn't been substantial. Jabez installed him, with a suitable flourish for the benefit of the
onlookers, on a mound of soft, haylike foliage. It was a welcome relief after the twig.
The star had set, it vanished quickly, there was no twilight. He had surmised earlier that the
lack of twilight meant he was in the tropical zone of the planet. The fire blazed up high,
reflecting off the bodies of the men and women gathered around. Smaller fires were being
kindled from the major one and soon the whole area blazed with festoons of light. Food and
drink was passed from one to the other and tongues were loosened. It was going to be quite a
party.
49

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
CHAPTER 9
Fire worried him. The Confederation of New Earth only has fires when there is a disaster.
A Planet Hopper erupting into a fireball; the destruction of a domed city in warfare. Fire for
pleasure had no place, there was no fuel for fires, no wood or coal or oil. Fire was bad news!
He got used to the idea after a while. Food and drink was passed to him, shyly at first and
then in great quantities when they saw he put it to good use. The drink was sweetish and
slightly acid. It was mild enough to be harmless. He didn't notice that he was getting more
and more friendly. In fact, everyone was getting more and more friendly with everyone else.
Some started to cavort around in a kind of dance, he decided to join them. Dancing wasn't his
strongest suit. He did a passable imitation of something he had seen performed in a place of
ill repute and nobody seemed to mind. They took it as an innovation introduced by the newest
god on their religious calendar and seemed eager to copy the steps. The trouble was, that he
was having difficulty remembering them.
He sank down on to his hayrick and accepted some more of the pleasant fluid from a
delightful young lady to whom he had not been formally introduced. Formality was being
thrown to the winds, together with the garments of the participants. The delightful young lady
started to pluck the remainder of his blossoms. She became very thoughtful and he passed out
after drinking more of the mild mannered fluid.
The festivity carried through into the night and Steve had the impression that he was the
leading light but he didn't really remember. When he next had a moment of coherence, the
light of the fires had died down completely. The clearing resembled a battlefield. Bodies were
strewn about all over the place in untidy heaps. Here and there, was a slight movement from a
stalwart who still thought he had enough energy for another effort. Steve viewed it all
morosely, no wonder it was called the Festival of Fecundity. It had been nothing more than an
orgiastic expression of the regenerative force - it was as old as time itself. Primitive peoples
had always tried to guarantee the fertility of their fields in that way. It brought a little
excitement into their otherwise dull existence.
He considered the sobering fact that he had probably done his share. He wasn't very proud
of himself, the pre-dawn was always time for cold reflection. He thought of creeping away
into the woods, it seemed a good moment to cut and run. He thought about it, his clothes,
such as they were, and the Bole, were back at the settlement - so was the Pentacle. He
thought about Hara, she had been looking forward to the festival with all the naiveté of a
child. How would she view the dawn? He groaned to himself and cursed the sorry heap
stirring around him.
It wasn't his groan that wakened them, more likely it was some sort of psychic alarm clock.
There was a movement all around him. One after the other, they got to their feet and
stretched. They made no greeting to each other, instead they stood around as if waiting for
something.
Jabez pushed his way forward through the crowd. Steve sensed that this was to be the
climax - whatever it was to be. Jabez was dragging Hara after him. He propelled her into the
clearing formed by the circle of silent followers. Steve stood with his arms folded across his
chest and waited.
"Run Steve! Run my Lord!"
Hara shrieked into his mind.
50

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
Whatever was to happen, she knew. Her eyes were wide with horror and fear. Steve stood
his ground and glared at Jabez. The old man hesitated as if the moment wasn't quite right. He
paused and Steve guessed that he had mis-timed his entrance by a few minutes. He clenched
Hara tightly and forced her to her knees. Steve gestured and smiled.
"Don't be frightened, come over here to me."
He snarled at Jabez.
"Let her go you old bastard, if you know what's good for you!"
Jabez smiled and complied. He was still waiting, Steve wondered for what. There was a
movement you get in a crowd sometimes. Steve had seen it among the Martian miners, a
stirring triggered by some signal. This crowd had tensed and a murmur ran through them like
a wave. The six chariot bearers from the previous day stepped forward and joined Jabez.
"The time has come, my Lord. I am he who is destined to lead you to the Awakening. Now
is the moment when our god will serve us and ensure our fertility for ever. It is fitting that
you have called the woman Hara to your side. She will be honoured among us, for you have
raised her from the level of the lowly Lynxe by impregnating her so that she shall bear a
divine child. One who will rule his people after I am gone. Be happy, Lord, she will be
elevated all her days."
Hara moaned helplessly and clung to Steve's knees, she was incapable of raising herself
and standing by his side, she was also impeding his freedom of movement. The first finger of
light from the rising star, suddenly stabbed over the low range of hills to the east. It bathed
the scene in a rosy glow and the sense of unreality was increased. He realised that the women
were gone, with the exception of Hara and that every male was as naked as a jay bird.
The light dazzled him and in that moment as he flinched, there was a movement from the
throne bearers. They charged, Hara screamed and was pushed aside and Steve went down
spitting and cursing and fighting like a demon. This was no playacting!
Six against one wasn't very good odds. It didn't take long before he was pinned, spreadeagled
upon the ground, with one hefty gentleman at the extremity of each limb and another
with his hand leaning on his throat. With some difficulty Steve glared at Jabez, he was
advancing with a very evil looking curved knife raised high.
"When the flower is blossomed, it is spent. It is necessary to remove the seedcase so that a
new flower will bloom."
The horror sank in, Steve started to fight as he had never fought before. The bastard was
going to castrate him!
"Every drop of the godly blood will fertilise the field. It is fitting that our Lord of the
Harvest will contribute his lifeblood. It was for this reason that he was sent by the High Gods
unto us in a wondrous manner. Henceforth, the place of his coming will be sanctified.
Henceforth, will our Lord Steve-Holt return at the time of sowing to become our Lord of the
Harvest. He will return whole, so that we can repeat the ritual. We will maim him and scatter
his seed and pour out his blood upon the ground. We will dismember his body but he shall
return whole and unknowing of his destiny."
Steve screamed obscenities at him but Jabez was gone beyond the reach of mind-talk. The
crowd was wailing in a frenzy of religious fervour and anticipation. Jabez stood poised with
the knife. Steve felt his strength ebbing, he was sobbing for breath and the sweat was running
out of him. The next few moments seemed to lapse into a kind of slow motion. It was
probable that his brain refused to accept what was happening. The knife began its slow
descent. He tried to press his body back into the ground to avoid it. He waited for the agony
to begin and the screams that would issue from him as the knife would begin to saw.
Back in the twentieth, they used to have escapist stories about primitive areas, where
beleaguered men would be rescued at the last moment by a large military force. They would
51

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
charge with trumpets blaring. He dimly remembered that they were called the Cavalry. Steve
started to hear trumpets, or something rather like them - horns: hunting horns.
The knife wavered a few inches from target and was suddenly gone. The restraints on his
limbs disappeared abruptly. He was picked up bodily and flung in an untidy heap across
something hairy and decidedly smelly. He heard a voice say in his mind.
"Up to your old tricks, Jabez. My Lord the Thane will deal with you. Now, make way all of
you."
It was a crisp voice, young and affirmative.
There was a loud slap which cracked in Steve's ear and the beast heaved under him.
Various portions of its anatomy clouted his belly, as it settled into a rhythmic pace. They
passed through a confusion of noise, which dwindled away into the distance. Then there was
nothing to hear except the pounding of hooves on the soft ground. He could see nothing but
the dust rising and the genitals of the beast carrying him, he wasn't impressed. They
continued at what seemed a breakneck speed for about a quarter hour and then the pace
eased. He heard the same voice say:
"Throw something over it before we reach the house. Can't have its arse waving around
like a flag."
Something rough was thrown over him, it smelt of the animal to which he was clinging. He
wondered if it was the right time to start asserting himself and decided that it wasn't. They
continued the journey at a more leisurely pace. He wondered why he wasn't allowed to ride
astride the beast, whatever it was. He was being treated like the spoils of war, or a maiden
being carried off against her will. Thankfully, Jabez hadn't been able to tailor his anatomy to
fit that particular description but it had been a near thing.
The sound of hooves on the soft soil gave way to a clatter on stone. By screwing his eyes
around. He could see that they had entered a courtyard. It was paved with stone similar to that
used on the huts in the commune. They passed under an archway and turned off into a narrow
passage between two buildings. His hair brushed the wall a few times and then the cavalcade
stopped. The young voice ordered:
"Roll it in the blanket and get it inside before anyone sees us."
He was bundled up by unseen hands and nearly suffocated in the stinking folds of the
cloth. The hands that lifted him might have been heaving cargo. He was tipped at various
angles and got the impression that they were climbing steps. He was bent, fortunately in the
direction of where he hinged, which suggested the turning of corners. He was deposited
heavily on the floor.
"Its a heavy bastard,"
"Thank men. You can leave it to me now."
There were further murmurs and conversation and a hoot of laughter, as the majority of the
party left. Steve heard footsteps approaching, as he decided it was time to stand up and be
counted. He struggled to get out of the rolled up cloth and felt somebody helping. He
emerged from his cocoon and stared into the eyes of the strange rider.
"Greetings, great one! Phew! You stink like a Kharn!"
Steve extricated himself from the rest of the blanket. His host stepped back holding his
nose.
"Thank you for the rescue. I'm sorry you are offended by the smell and for the
inconvenience I seem to be causing. Now, if you would be so kind as to show me the way to
the door, I have unfinished business with Jabez and his crowd.
Hara would have been proud of his fluency.
"By Shaita, it talks! Who, in the name of all the gods, if you will pardon the expression,
great one, taught you that atrocious version of our melodic tongue?"
52

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
The cat man's head was thrown back in mockery and he half sat on the edge of an elegantly
carved table. Steve glanced quickly around the room, the same elegance and gracefulness was
visible in the other furnishings.
"It would hardly do for you to run away so soon. My sister is most anxious to return the
hospitality you extended to her. I understand that you met?"
He was a mocking bastard, full of arrogance and superiority.
"I couldn't let them take off your private parts. It might be something she would like to do
herself. Mind you, I was very tempted to let them!"
Steve felt his temper rising. Who did this young bastard think he was?
"How remiss of me. You're quite right, I haven't introduced myself. I am Danyk, my father
is the Thane of this area. He has absolute control over life and death."
A warning perhaps? Steve wasn't sure, he chose to ignore it.
"You have the ability to look into my mind but I will introduce myself. I am Steve Holt -
that is two words. I am Steve and my family name is Holt. That idiot Jabez couldn't get it
right."
"I am not surprised, we have no concept of the family name. I am styled, Danyk son of
Lyot. Well, Steve of the family Holt, I read more than your name in your mind. I see a great
deal I cannot understand. We must talk before I take you to my father but first we have to do
something about you. Running around naked in the Thanehold is not advisable and might
attract attention. Even if it doesn't, the smell will!"
Steve trailed after his host, as he led the way into another room. It proved to be a bedroom,
beyond it was the small privy that seemed to be a consistent part of the local architecture.
Danyk gestured to the bath, it was a good deal larger than the one at the house of Jabez and a
good deal more luxurious.
"Give yourself a good scrubbing and most of the stink will hopefully go."
Steve clenched his teeth, the contemptuous attitude was bringing him to boiling point. He
was left alone to perform his ablutions. He fiddled with the spigot, anticipating an icy deluge.
It was a pleasant surprise to find the water heated to the right temperature. His estimation of
the household rose a little. These people were civilised. He hadn't been given a time limit and
so he took his time. It was the first hot bath he had enjoyed in a long time. A needle shower
with a ration of a half pint of water, was the usual extent of his luxury.
He dried off on a rough cloth - it being the only thing available - and wandered back into
the bedroom. His kidnapper, host or whatever he was, had vanished. A very presentable
looking garment was draped over the couch. It was just a tunic and looked to be the right fit.
It came to his knees and wasn't tight in awkward places.
"That looks more civilised."
Danyk had come back into the room very quietly. Steve turned quickly to face him.
"Just like a cat - "
His host finished the thought.
"I see that you are disturbed that I can read your thoughts."
Steve nodded.
"Where I come from, thoughts are private."
"Where you come from - that is a fascinating muddle and will take some careful sifting, I
think."
"Just how much of my mind can you read?"
"Probably a little too much for your comfort, I would say. You are incredibly open - I
suppose that is part of the plan. They want us to be intrigued by you and to be swallowed by
this great wealth of information they have planted in your subconscious."
"They?"
"They - your clever masters, the Adepts."
53

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
Steve shook his head, the conversation was getting out of his depth. Danyk nodded in
grudging approval.
"Very good! Very clever! This is the best I have ever seen. You even believe the history
they have planted in you and somehow, they have wiped out all concepts of our Lynxe ways.
I will have to congratulate Zayez, when he comes - and he will come now that you are where
he wished to place you."
Steve stared at him helplessly.
"I have no idea what you're talking about."
Danyk nodded emphatically.
"I know! This is incredibly clever - My father will be fascinated!"
"I'm glad I haven't lost my touch - to fascinate, that is."
Danyk laughed softly.
"You have had your moments recently, I can see. Never mind, I'm broad minded!"
"Is there no privacy?"
"None! You are an open book!"
Steve sat down slowly on the side of the couch and eyed his host critically. There could be
no doubt that he was the man in the Pentacle. Tall, tawny haired, grey-green eyes, a stub nose
a little wider and flatter than the average human, and a rakish moustache. Steve knew that the
assessment was being viewed and noted.
"So, you think you have seen me on something called a Pentacle. I can even see you
standing in some strange setting, clad in a totally alien garment. Quite remarkable!"
Steve knew he was a prisoner with no independence of thought. Danyk nodded.
"You are quite right, I can read every move you plan and every thought you try to hide. It
would be as well if you remembered that. You will be treated with courtesy but eventually,
we will have to decide what to do with you. A lot will depend on your master, Zayez."
"I have no master and I have never met this Zayez. You are very cocksure about what you
think you know. I will tell you something! You know nothing! Events will overtake your
suppositions, then you might be inclined to listen to me instead of forming half baked
opinions!"
Danyk laughed softly.
"They've given you a biting tongue, be careful that it doesn't nip your own arse!"
"I'm not a contortionist! At the moment, I couldn't care less what you think I am. I'm more
concerned about a girl named Hara. She was close to me when Jabez was about to alter my
anatomy and my mode of living. Did you see anything of her?"
"Ah! yes, the girl - You've been very busy, haven't you? I can tell you that she is alive and
reasonably safe. Jabez is so concerned about putting a plausible story together to tell my
father, that he wouldn't consider doing anything drastic to the delectable Hara."
Steve had to be content with that. If it could have been managed in the privacy of his own
thoughts, he would have considered making a run for it and retracing his journey to the
community. Despite Danyk's assurances, he wasn't so sure that Hara wouldn't suffer at the
hands of Jabez. The old fanatic's moods swung dangerously and there was no guarantee that
after putting together his story, that he wouldn't contemplate so sort of revenge.
Danyk nodded as if in agreement and led the way back to the main room of his quarters. A
Scarn was placing food on the table. It had been trained in some of the household tasks and
was dressed in an ill fitting tunic. The sight was depressing, it looked like a dressed up
chimpanzee that had been trained to perform at a circus, that is, if you could imagine a
chimpanzee built on the lines of a gorilla
"The Scarn trouble you. Don't tell me that you have feelings of affinity with them?"
The question was softly voiced, this time not in thought.
54

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"Is it possible that our clever Adepts haven't been able to wipe out the memory of part of
your ancestry? You would have to be a hybrid. Part Scarn and part Lynxe, with precious little
of the Lynxe coming through. Indeed, Steve son of Holt, you are quite an enigma. When I
think of the planning that must have gone into this project. Twenty or more years ago, you
would have been conceived and born. A plan over such a time period would have to be for
some complex reason. I will enjoy peeling back the layers they have placed around you. But,
my apologies, O Great One, you must be hungry and I am not being a very good host!"
Steve breathed very slowly, it was hard to suppress his anger.
"You are a little out with your time calculations. I was born on a planet called Mars, in a
star system called Sol. I am of a race whose basic ancestry is said to derive from the primates,
although there is now some argument about that. I was conceived and born, as you put it,
about twenty five years ago. I have travelled to your star system in a way I don't pretend to
understand and I finished my journey in the middle of some religious ceremony being
conducted by Jabez. Have I peeled off enough layers for you!"
"Fascinating! Truly fascinating!"
Steve ate the meal without much appetite. His captor sat and watched him, swinging one
leg idly. Steve tried to empty his mind of all thoughts, there was not much point in attempting
to plan escape or any part of the future. He began to realise just how dictatorial the control of
the population would be. On Old Earth, the ancient kings had achieved their positions by
force of arms. On this planet they exercised their unique ability to read the thoughts and
intentions of their subjects. No doubt, if anyone dared to consider a revolt or changing the
status quo, they would be weeded out and eliminated.
Just what his silent observer made of those thoughts, he didn't much care. He was not
going to control his mental domain to try not to upset a voyeur who ought not to be prying in
the first place. These people had a lot to learn about respect for the individual. They exercised
a barbaric interference in privacy and pretended to be so elegant and cultured.
Danyk shifted abruptly and Steve allowed himself a surge of triumph - that thought had
stung. He kept his face impassive however. He had finished his meal and pushed aside the
platter.
55

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
CHAPTER 10
"Thank you - the condemned man ate a hearty meal."
"Condemned man?"
"I have no doubt you have plans for an racial aberration that causes you so much distaste."
Danyk eyed him quietly.
"Perhaps I should have allowed Jabez to finish the job. It wouldn't be the first time that I
arrived too late."
"Do your people make a practice of human sacrifice?"
"Only among the less barbaric and uncultured!"
Steve made no attempt to control his satisfaction. Those who peeped through keyholes had
to expect be insulted.
"So - What are your plans for me now?"
"At this hour my father will be busy with other matters. It would not be a good time to
interrupt him."
"Not even for the coming of a man from space with the status of a god?"
Danyk smiled slightly.
"Not even for a hybrid Scarn with delusions of grandeur!"
Steve was quiet for a moment, he moved restlessly to the window and stared out at the lush
fields.
"I see that you are still concerned for the woman, Hara."
"It isn't her fault that she's in trouble."
"In trouble?"
"Well isn't she, All-Seeing One?"
Danyk was silent for a while.
"I'll organise a party to visit Jabez later today."
"I'll have to come with you."
"Out of the question!"
Steve hesitated.
"I have other possessions I want to recover - a - box and an ornament."
"You travel lightly, O Great One!"
"The box has nasty habits with strangers."
It was Danyk's turn to hesitate.
"I get a picture of a belligerent cube - by the god's, the Adepts have used their
imagination!"
"Imagination or not - Now is your chance to see whether this thing exists other than in my
mind."
"Clever! You're trying to challenge me!"
Steve was getting tired of the conversation.
"I don't much care whether you believe me or not. I'll tell you this, you will have problems
to sort out if my imaginary box turns out to be something else. You and a whole army won't
be able to control it. If you don't wish to be seen in my company, I'm perfectly willing to sort
out Jabez by myself."
56

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"Don't be petulant! You didn't have much success with Jabez last time. And you can't place
too much value on your balls if you want a repeat session! Very well, you will come with us.
You will do as you are told and consider yourself a prisoner under escort. We'll recover your
box and anything else you value - with the exception of the woman Hara."
The Scarn returned and removed the debris from the meal. Steve took a closer look at him.
A surly, brutish character, he felt again, the unrest he had experienced in the forest. There was
an undefinable feeling of kinship. He was aware that Danyk was receiving his thoughts load
an clear.
"The Scarn DOES disturb you - If it makes you feel better, you disturb me. I know you
have to be of their stock, there is no other explanation, but I can see that all knowledge of the
Scarn has been suppressed and so has knowledge of the Lynxe. You have a strange muddle of
cultures and visions of the stars I cannot comprehend. Very well, we will play the Adept's
game for a while. Your education will now begin. What shall I tell you about the Scarn? They
do the menial tasks around the estates and provide a good source of labour when required.
Sometimes we run short of labourers and then we go off and round up some more from the
forests. They're really quite easy to catch if you know their ways."
"Sounds like a cattle roundup."
"Another of your fantasies, I suppose. They're not cattle - whatever they might be - they're
a subspecies. They're tree-swingers, who've come along the road to intelligence a little way!"
He sounded as if he was trying to educate a moron. Steve flushed a little and more so,
when his tormentor continued:
"Surely, you don't relate yourself to them, O Great One! You, descended from a treeswinger?
- Is that why you wear that great mass of hair on your face? Some atavistic
connection to your Scarn ancestry, perhaps?"
Steve glared out of the window, fighting to keep his thoughts under control. Retribution
could wait, although he would have liked to plant a fist and flatten the feline squashed nose a
little further. Hara was all that mattered at that time - and the Bole - strictly in that order of
priority.
"I will leave you with your thoughts - but rest assured, when we are ready, I will return to
collect you."
Leaving someone with their thoughts would never be quite the same again. Steve didn't
answer and didn't turn when Danyk left the room. He continued to glare through the open
window and then, as his anger subsided, to take in the view. The land fell away in a gentle
slope from the paved area around the house. This room led out on to a balcony, Steve moved
to the parapet for a better view.
It was the usual scene of rural life, cultivated fields and wooded areas. The river described
a great loop, enclosing a tongue of meadow. He fretted for a hour, conscious that Hara
could be having a bad time. It was all very well to assume that Jabez would be careful about
his dealings with the Thane, to the extent that he would keep his promise to treat her with
dignity. If that didn't matter to him, he could make her life hell. He wouldn't have to ill-treat
her himself, all he would have to do would be to stir up the community against her. Steve
wanted her, he had been too long without a woman to have one snatched away by the politics
of a backward race with barbaric practices.
Another reason was the recovery of the Bole, it was tangible evidence to shake the
cocksure attitude of his hosts that he was some sort of racial aberration. Even the so-called
Adepts could not produce some thing with the capabilities of the Bole. It would be intensely
satisfying, when his worthy electronic companion produced a variety of tricks to jolt Danyk
into correct ways of thinking. It might create a degree of respect.
Danyk appeared quietly behind him.
"It's time to go."
57

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
Steve followed him silently out into a corridor, the place seemed to be all corners and
angles, with short flights of stairs joining at different levels. It was a place in which to get
lost. They emerged into a courtyard which was surrounded by high walls. A group of men
waited for them, they eyed Steve with curiosity and the possibility of a little humour. He
guessed that they were the raiding party who had rescued him.
Stomping around fretfully, were a number of animals which proved conclusively that he
was nowhere within the Solar System. As with fire, animals of any description worried him.
None existed on Mars and certainly, none existed on the orbiting asteroids of New Earth. Old
Earth was outside of his experience. Once there had been animals, but in all likelihood they
had been eliminated along with everything else in the pollution which had preceded the
Evacuation. Steve eyed them with growing desperation, perhaps it had not been a good idea
to insist that he should go accompany the raiding party.
The beasts had a leg in each corner, the front ones seemed a little shorter than those at the
rear. The body was short, as if it had crashed into something and had been squashed. There
was no tail and that end didn't bear further description. The head was a comedy, the mouth
being set in a silly grin. It looked as if someone had told them a joke which they didn't quite
understand. The nostrils spread almost as wide as the mouth and above them, two great eyes
stared out onto the world with an expression that was part innocence, part earnestness and
part vacuousness. Two pendulous ears, which reminded Steve of a picture of a spaniel he had
once viewed in the security of a Hopper control room, completed the picture. The creatures
were harnessed but not saddled, apparently one rode them bareback.
Danyk moved off among his men. Steve tried to think of something constructive to say. He
remembered what he had been called when Danyk had complained of the smell. He said
brightly to a large individual standing nearby.
"So this is a Kharn."
The rider considered the statement for a moment, staring without winking.
"Don't know about that, my lord. A Kharn is a male Temple prostitute, as far as I know.
Depends what your tastes are, I suppose."
Steve's determined smile wavered a little and he retired with dignity around the flank of the
nearest beast, which shied away nervously.
They managed to get him mounted on the back of one they had selected. It was more than
likely the mother or the grandmother of all the rest, which were rather less patient. He hung
on to the harness and nearly choked it, it coughed a couple of times and moaned
reproachfully. It took a little while before he could adjust to the rhythm, it tended to come up
when he wanted to go down, with painful results. The wind kept lifting his skirt and he had a
hard time preserving his dignity. Occasionally, they would rein in and sort him out, if a little
roughly, showing him how to tuck his skirt between his legs, thereby relieving two problems.
After that, they set a good pace to Jabez's community. The journey earlier in the day had
taken much longer but the scene of the festivity had been well beyond the settlement. The
workers were just returning, as the party clattered into the open space in the ring of dwellings.
Steve looked into the sullen faces but there was no sign of Hara. Jabez wasn't there either.
The crowd stood quietly, the festive air of the previous day had dissipated. It was back to
normal for them, now, they were home after a day in the fields. They stared back at him
without a glimmer of interest, as if the murderous events of just a few hours earlier, had never
happened. Some more of them filtered into the clearing, Jabez was with them. Steve preempted
Danyk's greeting.
"Where is Hara?"
Jabez drew himself up to his full height and glared defiance - at least in Steve's direction.
With Danyk, he showed a little more deference. Danyk repeated the question quietly.
"Where is the girl, Jabez?"
58

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
Jabez hesitated and then seemed to think better of any expression of rebellion. He gestured
to one of the women, who scuttled away towards one of the houses.
"Where is my metal box?"
The Bole wasn't in the clearing where it had been set down on their return from the forest
house. Jabez remained sullenly silent. Danyk exploded.
"By the gods, Jabez! You try my patience! Answer him!"
Jabez pointed to a great pile of rocks. Steve's heart somersaulted. If the bastards had
damaged the Bole in any way, he would be doing the castrating!
Jabez shrieked out:
"Steve-Holt is a messenger of the Dark One. We thought him a messenger of the Great
Gods, of Zayez, Harma and Hella. He is of the Dark One, Shaita - may his name be cursed.
The evil box has injured all of those who have touched it. It is a device of Shaita and we have
buried it under rocks."
It was Steve's turn to explode.
"Then, you'd better unbury it! If you hadn't meddled with it, it would have remained quiet."
"It has the voice of Shaita, Caela has heard the voice of it. Say it is so, Caela!"
Jabez was working the crowd into a frenzy, at least, the first stages of one. Danyk and his
fellow riders started to finger their swords. Steve almost fell off of his mount in his haste to
get down. He thrust his way into the thick of the crowd. They hadn't expected that move. He
walked over to the rock pile.
He called in Solari:
"Status."
Jabez screamed in the Lynxe tongue:
"See - he calls to Shaita."
The muffled voice of the Bole proclaimed:
"Integrity."
Steve breathed a sigh of relief and glanced at Danyk. He was as white as a sheet, as were
his men. Steve hoped they weren't about to change sides. He turned his attention to the Bole.
"You are a stupid chunk of space junk. How did you manage to get yourself into this fix? I
suppose I'll have to rescue you!"
"Unauthorised personnel attempted to remove me from the position assigned. Automatic
defence measures were activated."
"So I gather. What you do? Give them a hot shot?
"There was a discharge of electro-magnetic power."
Steve sighed and looked once more at Danyk. He was relieved to see that sheer curiosity
was beginning to overtake his nervousness. As for the rest of his men, they seemed transfixed
by the turn of events. Steve half explained to his host.
"I'll have to activate his remote sensors."
Danyk looked blank, which wasn't surprising. Steve didn't bother with the explanation -
they would see soon enough. The Bole was equipped with all manner of mandibles and
gadgets that come from various apertures on its casing. Each mandible was like an arm,
immensely strong and quite capable of shifting the rocks piled all over it. Steve saw no good
reason to dirty his hands and no one else looked likely to volunteer. He gave the command
and thought, to hell with the consequences.
The pile of rocks began to shake and heave, as the Bole flexed its muscles. A moan of
sheer terror arose from the crowd of peasants, they dropped to their knees and then to their
faces. Danyk and his men were made of sterner stuff - but only just. They stood their ground,
half crouching, not knowing what was going to emerge from the pile of rocks which were
tumbling down. Steve heard Danyk say something, he probably swore, Steve would have
done the same thing in similar circumstances. A mandible emerged from the scattered rocks
59

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
and then others, until the Bole was clear of the rubble. Slowly, the metal arms retracted neatly
into their recesses.
Steve stepped closer and examined the metal cube anxiously. There didn't appear to be any
serious damage. There should not have been, the casing was supposed to be indestructible -
nuclear blast excluded. The Bole was very dusty but otherwise undented. On the top surface,
the Pentacle gleamed in the late afternoon sun. The naked man engraved on it, seemed to
gaze back at him sardonically. Probably, it was only the light. Steve announced to whoever
was interested:
"No damage done."
Danyk didn't advance a step and was spared an answer by the sudden commotion from the
crowd. The mood was changing to something decidedly ugly.
"Get mounted with that - thing - if you want it, and let's get out of here."
"Not without Hara!"
Jabez was beginning a threatening advance, with the crowd solidly at his back. He seemed
to have forgotten that he was dealing with the son of his overlord. He had the crazy look of
all religious fanatics. Steve snapped a quick order.
"Get behind me."
Danyk and his men obeyed by reflex.
"Set to stun, wide angle, fire!"
Steve took a moment to wonder how the Bole knew when he was talking to it. He had
never tried these particular capabilities before. He hoped that it would believe his life was in
danger and that he needed protection.
The crowd was gathering momentum and volume. Steve grabbed Danyk as he was about to
go forth to do battle. The Bole opened yet another aperture, one on the front face this time. A
beam of heat fanned out against the chests of those advancing. Jabez was the first to go down,
followed by the front ranks. The remainder wavered, faltered and then broke, screaming in
panic and heading off into the fields and woods. It was a complete rout! Steve was elated, it
was heady stuff, being a commanding general.
"Well done!"
The Bole shut his little trap and said nothing.
Steve grinned triumphantly at Danyk and his men, who stared at him solemnly, with white
faces. Clearly, a drastic reappraisal was taking place. Steve's smile faded, he hadn't wanted to
impress his hosts with his superior technology. He hoped it wasn't going to rebound when
they started to think about things. He heard a little cry, like a child whimpering. Hara stood to
one side of the clearing, those who had been holding her had fled with the others. She had
been beaten, her clothes were torn and her flesh bruised. Steve grabbed her as she fainted. He
glared at Danyk.
"So, she would be treated with respect - I wish I'd set the controls to kill!"
He glared at the motionless bodies of Jabez and the others who had fallen under the Bole's
attack.
He couldn't carry Hara and the Bole at the same time. He deactivated the metallic
masterpiece and assured Danyk that it wouldn't bite. With some reluctance, he accepted the
extra load. Steve draped the pentacle around his neck and scrambled on to his mount. He
accepted the fainting girl from one of the other men. He hoped his beast would remain placid.
They clattered out of the clearing, now littered with stirring men and women, moaning and
holding their heads and scorched flesh. Steve hoped the pain would jerk some sense into their
stupid heads.
It was already dark as they set off, retracing their steps back to the household of the Thane.
They rode slowly because of the extra weight. Hara was awake now and sobbing weakly
against his chest. He held her tight and cursed Jabez and every other religious fanatic ever
60

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
born. He didn't have much time to think in the short time it took to reach the overlord's house.
He knew that the arrival of Hara was going to complicate matters considerably.
They entered the gloom of the courtyard, there had been no conversation during their
return. It said something for the loyalty of Danyk's men that they hadn't rebelled in the face of
the events. Danyk led Steve and Hara to his own apartment and then made himself scarce.
Steve appreciated the gesture.
"What have they done to you?"
He stroked her neck and she started to weep again. He didn't have to be told, he knew.
She quietened down and he was able to piece the story together. They had treated her well
until they had tried to move the Bole. Then, when a few of them had been thrown around by
the sting it had delivered, they held a great debate. Jabez had held forth about the device
being an instrument of Shaita. By extension, to possess such a device meant that Steve-Holt
had to be a servant of the same dark god. Hara was defiled of Shaita and was nothing better
than a common whore. Then they came for her and she had fought them. She was pathetically
determined to assure Steve that she had fought them until her strength was gone and she
could resist no more.
Steve rocked her in his arms, as she sobbed into his chest. He considered many ways of
having revenge on every man in that community, whether they had touched her or not. She
fell into an exhausted sleep and he laid her on Danyk's bed. The flickering light of the oil
lamp wouldn't disturb her but her dreams did, she jerked and jumped in her sleep and
moaned.
It was a while longer before Danyk appeared in the doorway. He contemplated Steve
warily and flicked a glance at the Bole, which had been placed in the centre of the outer
room.
"My father has returned, the Thane calls you before the Council."
It sounded very official, Steve nodded and looked at Hara.
"She will not be disturbed and will sleep until you return."
There was nothing more to be said. Danyk led him through a maze of halls, corridors and
anterooms. The architect must have decided to be as confusing as possible. Abruptly they
entered a larger space, a broad balcony that ran around the walls of a centre room. They
descended a broad stairway to the lower floor. A great table occupied most of the length of it,
with backless benches on each flank of the table. Two great chairs stood at one end. The room
was high, occupying at least two stories of the house, with roof beams bridging the width
holding up a slab stone ceiling. The walls were the same peculiar honey coloured stone. On
them, was hung at regular intervals, tapestry like curtains. They were not very pictorial, just a
medley of designs and shapes, which made little sense - perhaps that was the idea.
Danyk led the way into another chamber, it was still impressive but much smaller. Steve
didn't bother himself with the details, instead he concentrated on the group of aliens who
silently watched his every move, as he entered. He had thought 'aliens', he had to remind
himself that this was what they were and that he was in their hands.
61

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
CHAPTER 11
The focus of attention was the man seated at the far end of the room. It was impossible for
it to be otherwise, he was so obviously in command. Steve eyed him frankly. Jabez's
description of the Thane had not done him justice. He was a big man and the impression of
size was increased by a huge mane of sandy hair which fell to his shoulders. He said nothing
at first, instead, he returned Steve's frank stare and inspected him from head to foot and back
again. When he did speak, there was no mistaking the tone of authority.
"When my son first told me about you, I formed the opinion that you were demented, or if
not, that you were some devious stratagem of the Adepts. Today, you have demonstrated to us
that we need to think again - Who or what do you claim to be?"
The approach was direct and deserved equal directness.
"I great you, Lyot, Thane of these lands, in the name of the people of New Earth."
Lyot's eyes widened a little and he glanced at Danyk, who was standing in the background.
Steve could almost feel the shrug of non-comprehension and the signals being exchanged in
their thoughts. Steve tried his best to look calm and sane, which was difficult because of the
wild man look his luxuriant head of hair and his beard were creating. Lyot's response was
measured.
"I thank you for your greeting. We have no knowledge of the people you mention. We are
aware of all the peoples and settlements under the tutelage of the Great Thane. Your people
of New Earth must be those who have not acknowledged his overlordship."
Steve smelt danger, the last thing he could afford was to stray on to delicate political
ground.
"My Lord the Thane is possessed of the Gift. I ask him to read my thoughts and he will
know that the people from whom I bring greetings, are not of this planet, or even of this star!"
Lyot's eyes narrowed into feline slits and they seemed to bore into Steve's brain. He had the
feeling that there wasn't a thought left unturned by the time Lyot was finished. The Thane
turned to Danyk, who moved around to his side. Steve knew that he was under a dual
interrogation. He sensed something passing between the father and son, from which he was
excluded. There was an impression of intense energy. Lyot spoke again.
"I see that we are confronted with the incomprehensible. We have no knowledge of planets
and stars and many of the images we have observed are quite meaningless to us. I will accept
your greetings for now. I find nothing in your mind that identifies with the Lynxe - or even
the Scarn. I read your recent experiences, I will deal with those matters first. Jabez will be
punished for his misuse of you and the woman Hara. I can see nothing in your thoughts to
show how you came to Jabez. We can see you standing before the arch in the Place of
Worship. We see you naked and blinded by the light. Beyond that, we cannot penetrate.
Before that moment it is as if you do not exist. Your thoughts contain a vast source of
memories which concern matters we cannot comprehend!"
It was clear that he was a troubled man. Like all those in authority, he liked to live without
enigmas.
"The strange cube which you commanded to injure Jabez and his people. What is it?"
62

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"It is my servant and protector, I can assure you that it will only react if I command it to do
so, or if it is touched. It is an example of the technology of New Earth."
Lyot rolled the word around his tongue.
"Technology - a strange word. Stranger, I do not understand you or your - technology.
Until we can decide what to do with you, you will remain in the custody of my son, Danyk.
You will be treated with respect, but you will be expected to offer us the same courtesy.
Danyk will try to unravel the confusion in your mind - for our benefit as well as for yours."
Steve bowed slightly the interview was at an end.
"I thank you for your hospitality, you may rest assured that the people of New Earth never
abuse the hospitality of a host."
It was hard to see whether Lyot believed him, after all he could read his thoughts and see
the roughhouse antics of the Martian miners, and probably, a lot of other things that would be
better kept hidden.
Steve followed Danyk out of the big room, conscious of the eyes of the courtiers. Lyot
stared after them steadily until they re-entered the great room, even then, Steve had the
impression of being watched by the big man. They marched silently to a side aperture that
opened on to a paved area. Instinctively, Steve looked up into the clear sky and studied the
stars. The air was very clear and they were crystal bright, almost unwinking, pressing down
on the silent countryside. That was how they must have been once on Old Earth. It was a pity
they didn't have a moon - it would have completed the fantasy.
"You are sad."
Danyk spoke within his mind, Steve jerked, he had allowed his thoughts to wander.
"I was looking at your world and remembering that mine was once like this."
Danyk nodded, a dim silhouette against the lights of the house.
"Your thoughts did not concern your world or this. You were remembering one that you
consider to be spoiled. There is only one world, our world of Lynxe - and yet, then I look into
your mind I see fantasies that can only come from your inner mind. They are like dreams
which you believe to be reality."
Steve groped for words, the conversation was verbal, he wasn't quite sure why, unless
Danyk was trying to reassure him that he wasn't trying to take advantage.
"Surely, the people of this world of Lynxe had some concept of planets and star systems
outside of their own? Unless you have, you can't hope to make technological advances. Your
race will stagnate! Unless you understand that there are other worlds - even round the Lynxe
star - you won't take the steps which will lead to space travel."
Danyk stared at him and, no doubt, read a great deal more than what was spoken. He shook
his head.
"You can't be serious. When Laoni told me of her meeting with you and what she read in
your thoughts about being a man from the stars, I thought she was as mad as you sound. Now
I can see why she was so insistent."
Steve responded softly and steadily.
"And what do you make of the Bole? Is it a fantasy or reality?"
Danyk shifted restlessly.
"I am still not convinced that you aren't some clever animal bred by the Adepts - and that
the - Bole - isn't one of their ingenious inventions."
"Do you really think your Adepts are clever enough to invent the technology that had to go
into the Bole?"
"You use that word technology again. It has no meaning to us. It is time for the evening
feast, join us."
63

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
Steve was hungry and that feeling was running a race with his desire for the answer to his
question. He thought about Hara, she might wake at any time and find herself alone in a
strange house.
"You may leave the woman to sleep, she will not waken before morning."
There was no arguing with a mind reader, so Steve followed his custodian back into the
great communal room. This time, it appeared over populated with a horde of people. He had
once read that in the ancient history of Old Earth, the high lords used to hold a kind of petty
court. The entire household would eat and drink together at the end of the working day. In all
likelihood, this was the Lynxe counterpart. Steve reminded himself that they were aliens and
that there would have to come a point where they diverged abruptly from the habits of the
human race. So far, the similarity had been uncanny.
As with the Old Earth lords, the importance of a person was measured by the place he
occupied at the table. Even in this they were no different. Steve was placed next to Lyot and
displacing Danyk, who shifted down one position and so on down the line. Steve wondered
momentarily, what happened to the poor sod at the far end. He often wondered about such
things. He was usually the candidate who fell off the end of the bench.
There was a further stir at the curtained lower entrance to the hall. Lyot's wife had entered,
followed by her retinue of ladies. He made the assumption that she was described as a wife -
no one had told him otherwise. She was a female version of her husband - without the
moustache. Steve was formally introduced. He bowed courteously, she stared at him and his
gesture with open curiosity and nodded without smiling. The Lady Hepha had the look of
being a formidable adversary.
A much younger version of Danyk arrived. Steve was subjected to close scrutiny from
steady, grey-green eyes. In Earth years he would have been no more than fifteen or sixteen.
This was the son Jabez had described, 'between childhood and manhood'. He was introduced
as Krin.
A moment later, and the tall, ash-blond, tiger-eyed beauty he had already met on the forest
path, swept into the chamber. It was a startling entrance. She was beautiful certainly, but there
was an iciness about her beauty that he found repelling. She inclined her head briefly at the
introduction.
Steve wondered if they had stage managed their appearance to suit the occasion, or if they
were regularly so unpunctual at meals. They waited a few minutes longer, Lyot flicked his
knife impatiently, Steve felt like joining him, the silence was strained. He sucked in his breath
as the remaining daughter appeared and knew he was hopelessly lost. This was the girl of his
dreams. He stared in unabashed admiration. Perhaps she read his mind, for she returned his
stare gravely when he was presented to her. She flickered a cool little smile, which was
decidedly unforgiving. He wondered if she knew that he had brought a woman into the house
with him. For some reason, it mattered a great deal what she thought of the situation.
An army of Scarn carried in a mountain of food and set it along the table. Jabez and Caela
would never have believed that their lords looked after themselves so well. Steve's mouth
tightened when he thought of Jabez, almost to the point that his hunger vanished in a surge of
rage. Fortunately, he was endowed with a healthy appetite, which returned without much
effort. There was a great variety of dishes, most of which were of animal origin. He reminded
himself that the great cats of Old Earth had been carnivores.
There was only one thing to be done and that was to do as his neighbour did and try not to
make a total idiot of himself. As soon as those at the higher end of the table were seated, the
remainder of the household straddled the benches and launched themselves into the meal.
There was no pretence at table manners and if you didn't get in first, you were likely to miss
out altogether.
64

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
There was no conversation, clearly, eating was considered too serious to be interrupted by
idle chatter. It suited Steve, he was ravenous. It have him time to think, but their curiosity
couldn't be contained for long. The Lady Hepha pushed aside her platter and leaned forward.
"It is good to see a man with a hearty appetite."
"It has been a strenuous day, my Lady."
Danyk saved him from answering.
"You must tell me. I can't be expected to keep up with everything that happens. I have
quite enough to keep me fully occupied."
It wasn't clear whether it was a statement of fact or a complaint. Lyot moved restlessly, he
looked as if he had heard it all before. Danyk gave an abbreviated version of all that had
happened. The table chatter had subsided, he had their undivided attention. When it came to
the Bole and a graphic description of its intervention, there was a general shuffle of
uneasiness. Steve tried not to look murderous, despite the beard. He made up his mind that it
would have to go. The Lady Hepha rose to her feet.
"And where is this poor girl? She must have attention. Do you mean to tell me that you
have left her alone? Have you men no sense?!"
Lyot rumbled into defence.
"She won't wake this side of morning. Leave her alone until then. I am more concerned
with what to make of our guest and his strange box. I have decided to call for Zayez. If it is
some trick of his Adepts, I will demand an answer!"
The Lady Hepha had the last word.
"It is my intention to place this unfortunate girl in the care of my ladies - effective
immediately!"
The assembly dispersed, perhaps they felt as uncomfortable as their lord and his lady. Lyot
took Danyk aside and they walked off together. The ladies trooped off in another direction.
The rest of the household melted away, except for the Scarn who emerged to clear away the
debris. Only one remained - Krin, who stared at Steve with candid curiosity.
"I believe you."
"Well, that's a comfort, my lord Krin. I feel like something that crawled out of a hole in the
ground."
He was rewarded with a flicker of a smile, then his face became solemn.
"Nobody calls me my lord Krin - I am Krin - Tell me, what is it like between the stars."
They were still sitting opposite to each other across the width of the table. Steve gestured
to one of the apertures leading to the outside and led the way. He stared upward at the strange
constellations, they formed no recognisable patterns - there was nothing to remind him of the
skies of the Solar System.
"When you are in space, the stars are sharp and hard like gems, that's when you're at a
distance from them. When you came closer, they were become fiery giants, wandering lonely
paths as if to avoid each other. When I was about your age, I was at a - school - called the
Academy. The scientists had taught, that once, there had been only one star - well - that was
the way they had described it. In reality, it couldn't be described. This one star contained all
the matter of the universe. They didn't explain how that matter had come into being in the
first place. They had never had much to say at the Academy, on the subject of a Creator-God.
At some moment in time, when this great star became so unstable that it could no longer
exist, it collapsed on itself. They told us that sometimes it happens that way even now, with
lesser stars. Out of that massive, primal collapse, a vast out-surge of energy was created,
which shattered matter into the smallest particles which are so fine that they cannot be
measured. At an indescribable speed, this energy raced outwards and began to cool and
coalesce during millions of years. They told us that still this energy races outward, as if each
particle wants to find the loneliest corner of infinity for itself.
65

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
They told us, that gradually, the impetus of that vast explosion will slowly exhaust itself
and then, at some infinitely distant point in time, all motion will stop for a moment. It will all
come to rest. Then, slowly at first, the particles and the star systems and the planets and
cosmic dust will start to come together again. It will slowly gather speed and once again
hurtle inward until, at some final moment, it will all come together in a cosmic hell and fury
to form another unbelievable 'star'. Then, the process will start all over again, it will be unable
to support itself and will collapse inward and another titanic explosion will occur - and this
process will be repeated over and over, for ever."
Steve was hardly conscious of the boy standing there, it had all been expressed in thought,
Steve's command of the Lynxe tongue wouldn't have allowed him to give a verbal
explanation.
"I often wonder into which of the cycles we have been born and how many times before
and how many more times, the cycle will repeat. Now I wonder, when I look out there, which
is my star and if I will ever see my home world again."
Steve came back to reality and found Krin staring at him with his mouth slightly open,
absorbed in the mental rhetoric. Steve grinned at him a little self-consciously.
"You're the first person in a long time who has accepted me for what I am - an alien!"
"I wish I could see all that. Will you take me one day?"
Steve was spared an answer, they had unseen listeners who now stepped into the light from
the doorway. Lyot commanded decisively.
"I think it is time you were in bed."
Krin obeyed without question. It was fair to assume that there would be few brave enough
to argue with Lyot. The boy nodded to Steve, bright eyed and friendly and re-entered the
house.
Lyot waited until he was gone and then continued.
"Steve Holt, I would be pleased if you would avoid filling the boy's head with your
fantasies."
"Thane Lyot. The truth is never a fantasy, neither are my personal experiences.
Nevertheless, I will avoid the subject if you wish, although that might prove difficult, since
you can all read my mind!"
Lyot glared at him, he wasn't used to resistance. Steve tried to suppress the thought that it
might be good if he met some occasionally. They bade each other a civil good night and the
Thane returned into the house. Danyk was noncommittal when he led him to a guest chamber.
"Your woman, Hara will be undisturbed in my quarters. I persuaded my mother not to
disturb her and to leave her there until the morning. I will sleep elsewhere."
Steve slept well, he was tired enough not to care in which room. He awoke late on the
following morning and it took him a few moments to orient himself. The events of the
previous day returned with a rush. Before he could do anything else, one of the Scarn
servants entered with a pile of tunics and then another with his breakfast. Steve accepted the
room service with a few friendly smiles and expressions of thanks which were ignored by the
shaggy providers.
He took a quick, brave plunge into icy water in the hope that he would be able to think
coherently afterwards. He dressed, ate his breakfast and awaited events.
The Scarn servant returned as Steve swallowed the last mouthful. They were well trained
to watch and act at the proper time. Steve studied him, this brute's eyes seemed duller than
those he had seen in the woods.
"Wait! The woman, where is she?"
A look of fear began to cross the Scarn's face, perhaps he was confused, perhaps he thought
he was in for a hiding because he had done something wrong. Steve wondered how they were
66

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
punished or trained to do their house tasks. He tried smiling at the brute but it made little
difference.
"You may go."
It took time to penetrate, then he shambled off in a hurry. Steve felt a surge of distaste and
pity for the poor - man. Was it a man or a beast? He was surprised with the intensity of the
desire which wanted them to be men - but he couldn't be sure. He waited a while but no one
came to claim him. He decided to do some exploring, hoping that he wouldn't blunder into
some forbidden area.
It took some time to find the great room, it was deserted as he walked down the stairway.
He had counted on someone being there, someone who might be inclined to give him a few
answers. Krin would have been the ideal choice. Now Steve was at a loss again, he hesitated,
not sure what to do next. The door of Lyot's council room was closed but in any case, he had
no particular desire to meet the Thane. He found out one fact about the communal room, it
was never unoccupied for long. Maia emerged from one of the multitude of entrances and
eyed him without smiling.
"You are concerned about your woman?"
He didn't quite like the way she put it but she was right.
"She is your woman, isn't she?"
Steve cursed the mind-probing. He nodded reluctantly.
"Your woman is with my mother, who is caring for her. She will not come to your chamber
again, unless she expresses the desire to do so."
Steve opened his mouth to protest at the high handed decision which had been made
without consultation - and then closed it again.
"Is that all you think about? To fulfil your animal lusts. The woman has been raped and is
injured, or doesn't that concern you?"
Her voice was bitterly scornful in his mind. He felt his fury rising. What the hell would she
know? She had probably never had a meaningful relationship with a man in her sweet young
life! The thought stung and he had a grim satisfaction in seeing her flush bright scarlet. If she
would have had the power to project fire as well as thoughts, he would have melted to his
socks - if he had been wearing any. She swung on her heel and stormed out of the room.
Steve sighed, his relationship with Maia was going from bad to worse. He had to admit that
he couldn't expect much different treatment with Hara in the house. It was hard to conduct a
courtship with your mistress in residence at the same time.
Gloom settled on him like a cloud. He wandered out into the open air and shielded his eyes
against the glare of their star. The fields were alive with small figures moving back and forth
through the rows of crops. The house was deathly quiet, the only sign of life had been Maia.
Something had to be happening somewhere, so he decided to try to walk round the cluster of
buildings that made up the Thanehold. He hoped he might find Danyk or Krin - someone
worth talking to. He might even find Hara. All she needed was a good lecture to undo the
advice she had been given. After a few days rest, she would be as good as new. With that
ungallant thought, he set off.
67

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
CHAPTER 12
Danyk watched the alien start his walk around the house. Lyot joined him at the open
aperture.
"Spying out the land?
"You would do the same, father"
"Perhaps - but for what - and why us? This has to be some elaborate plan of the Adepts -"
"If you think that, then why did you send for Zayez?"
"If the Adepts are involved, he will have the answer."
"I thought you considered him an ally."
"Your antagonism to Zayez and the Adepts is well known, you don't try to mind-block your
thoughts. I've warned you before that it will bring you trouble."
"And you think this elaborate plan is designed to bring me into line - They must be
paranoid about a little criticism if that's the case."
"Remember who you are and what you represent and remember you will be Thane one day.
The Adepts and in particular, Zayez, do not take chances."
"I say again, father. I thought Zayez was your friend."
"So did I."
They fell silent again, neither trying to read the other's thoughts. The alien had reached a
point where he could see two wings of the tumbled levels of the main structure. He had
stopped and was looking back. Danyk resisted the urge to step back into the shadows. If the
alien was of the Adepts, he would know that he was being observed.
"What do you make of this - box - of his? Where is it?"
"It's still in my room and I want it out of there. I spent most of the night watching the
device of Shaita and waiting for it to make a move. It doesn't make a comfortable roommate."
Lyot bared his yellow teeth in a rare grin.
"The fearless Danyk frightened by a child's toy? This thing I have to see - lead the way."
Danyk said nothing, instead he followed instructions. It was a good few years since Lyot
had visited his son's quarters. He swept it with a critical eye, taking in the replacement of the
childish things he remembered, with those of a young man. He found nothing unusual, just
the trivia he would have collected himself in earlier years. He was more interested in the box
that stood in the centre of the room. It looked innocent enough.
"What does it do?"
"It gives out some sort of heat which scorched Jabez and his people."
"How was this made to happen?"
"The alien spoke to it."
Lyot looked incredulous. His derision spilled over mentally, Danyk flushed.
"I tell you, it is so! He spoke to it and it responded."
"Then speak to it and let us see this wonder."
Danyk hesitated once again then.
"I command you to speak!"
68

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
It sounded foolish and he knew he looked foolish. The box was unresponsive. Lyot
snorted.
"And you say, that it disturbed your sleep? You sleep too much alone!"
Danyk looked scandalised, this wasn't the sort of conversation he usually had with his
father. The old man returned the gaze steadily.
"Time you were united - we need heirs and that would get your mind off talking boxes -
that don't talk!"
The Thane turned on his heel and stalked out of the chamber. Danyk didn't follow, he
looked again at the box and then decided that he didn't want to stay in his room with that
thing looking at him. He decided to find the alien.
Steve had nearly completed his circuit of the Thanehold. It was not an impressive place.
The front of it didn't exist, maybe it never had. It wasn't so much a cohesive whole, as a
cluster of buildings grouped around one that was larger. They all looked the same, no matter
which angle one approached. Walls crowded in on narrow alleys that led to courtyards. From
the courtyards, dark doorways penetrated the buildings. It looked like an architect's
nightmare.
One side of the hill upon which the house stood, dropped away sharply, towards a great
curve in the river. Down through the cultivated fields and a small wood, lay a horseshoe
shaped expanse of open pasture.
"Had a enough exercise?"
Steve jolted in shock, Danyk looked slightly amused.
"Fine."
"That's good."
Steve glared at him, he was ready for a fight, verbal if not physical.
"Where the hell is Hara?"
"I thought Maia told you. She's been taken into the care of the Lady Hepha."
"I would like to see her."
"Later, perhaps."
"Why not now?"
"Because it is not convenient."
He had spoken mildly enough but there was something in his tone that warned Steve to
back off. He swallowed his rage and tried to remind himself that he was a guest and not a
very welcome one, from all accounts. Danyk continued to watch him without blinking - just
like a cat. A slow grin moved over his face, he was mind reading again.
"Zayez has responded promptly to my father's invitation. He will arrive tomorrow. It
should prove to be an interesting visit. If you are who you say you are, you will the
opportunity to ask as many questions as you like. If you are what we expect, we will get to
the bottom of what the Adepts are trying to do. I have no great liking for the All Wise but he
won't hold anything back. As his name implies, he knows everything."
That was quite a recommendation, Steve felt curiosity stirring. Danyk continued blandly.
"He will tell us if you are what you say. I hope you have told the truth, I'm beginning to
believe you. I hope that I won't be disappointed."
Steve sensed a threat but perhaps he was being paranoid. Danyk changed the subject.
"I would be pleased if you would remove your - box - from my room - its in the way."
Steve grinned.
"It hasn't been giving you trouble, I hope?"
"Its in the way."
The Bole was in the middle of Danyk's outer chamber, Steve agreed mentally that it could
be construed as being in the way, if you stretched a point. He lifted the metal cube and cursed
his friend's dead weight. Danyk didn't offer to assist, he kept a prudent distance. The rooms
69

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
he had been given turned out to be a short distance from those of Danyk. Danyk led the way
and then excused himself, leaving Steve to relocate the Bole.
He activated it and waited anxiously for signs of life. He realised that a subtle change was
taking place in his thinking about the Bole. He had always resisted the urge to become too
attached to the thing. Some of his contemporaries in the space lanes had treated theirs as a
kind of super intelligent pet. He had always tried to keep his distance, it was an inanimate
object, an 'it', not a personality. Now, under the stress of changed circumstances, he was
beginning to think of 'it' as 'he'. Apart from the fact that the manufacturers had installed a
masculine sounding voice, there appeared to be no reason why he shouldn't think of it as 'she'.
Some of his contemporaries had even requested that sort of change to be made - he wondered
what else they might have requested, to make an eighteen inch cube more feminine. He
sighed, he would be giving it a name soon.
"Status."
"Integrity."
"And what have you been exercising your talents on?"
"In the absence of specific instructions, the relationship between Solar time and the time
scale of this planet."
Steve stared, the thing was beginning to develop a mind of its own.
"With what result?"
"The day of this planet is shorter than an Earth day. Their rotation time is twenty hours and
four minutes - using Earth measurements. Their planet orbits the star in four hundred and two
Earth days. By calculation, their year is shorter than an Earth year by reason of the shorter
day."
When asked the right thing, the Bole could be a mine of information.
The Bole fell silent
He had the rest of the day to face and to worry about Hara. He wondered when the visitor
would arrive, this Zayez, who supposedly had all the answers.
He wondered if there might be any answers for the object he wore around his neck, he
removed it and turned it back and forth. He was surprised that no one had expressed any
curiosity about it. He knew the time would come when they would have to face the
proposition that the image of the man within it, was that of Danyk. When they did so, it was
sure to firm up their suspicion that everything to do with him was some elaborate ploy of the
Adepts.
The naked image of Danyk in the centre of the pentacle seemed to mock him. He was
depicted in the manner that Leonardo de Vinci had depicted the perfect man. A full frontal
nude, legs astride and arms stretched outward at the shoulders. There was something repellent
about the blatant exhibitionism. Steve swung it by the loop from which it hung. It was very
light. If it was some sort of alloy, it wasn't something in current use in New Earth. He placed
it on the top of the Bole's casing.
"Sensory interference detected."
He stared at the Bole, it was supposed to be deactivated.
"Say again."
"Micro-short wave interference detected."
"Of what nature?"
"Indefinable."
Steve eyed the Pentacle warily, apparently, it was setting the Bole's teeth on edge.
"Status of micro-short wave interference."
"Decreasing in intensity."
It had to be the Pentacle, Steve felt a sudden revulsion for the thing. He removed it and put
it as far away from the Bole and himself as possible. As he did so, he swore at his own
70

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
superstition and tried to convince himself he was simply taking a scientific, elementary
precaution.
He was beginning to work up a considerable head of frustration and anxiety about Hara but
he felt powerless to force the issue. It was about midday and it had been some time since he
had sprawled in the heat of their star in the front of Jabez house. He felt safe enough from
intrusion, the house was as quiet as a grave. He threw off the tunic and settled himself on the
warm stone of the balcony. The penetrating heat was good, he began to relax and thoughts of
the pentacle faded, those of Hara lingered and he half dozed - then he slept.
He had missed a meal when he awoke. A house servant had left a platter on a table in the
outer room. It was already late afternoon. He wondered if the expected guest had arrived, no
one had mentioned how long he would be in coming. He slipped on his tunic and nibbled at
the food. He didn't eat much, remembering the gargantuan feast of the previous evening.
He wished he had a change of tunic, the one he was wearing was beginning to show signs
of wear and to smell a little stale. It was always a problem when you only had one garment
between yourself and indecent exposure and it was worse when the one garment wasn't even
your own. He bathed and then tried to make some sense out of the tangle of beard and hair.
Something would have to be done, he was a discouraging sight. He wandered back to the
outer room and found that the remains of the food had been removed. His eyes widened a
little, laid out neatly, was a selection of five tunics. He presumed his friend Danyk had been
mind reading again.
He was hardly dressed before he got visitors. A servant brought in the lamps. A moment
later Danyk entered without preamble, he was followed by someone Steve took to be Jabez in
the flickering light. Like Jabez, he was tall and old, with white hair that flowed down his
back. The comparison was momentary, Jabez could never have assumed the air of dignity and
peace that emanated from this man. Steve felt suddenly quiet, even before the old man looked
directly at him. When he did, there was a flow of compassion that touched Steve's mind.
"Steve, this is Zayez, Master of the School of Adepts - he is called All Wise. He would not
rest after his long journey, he insisted on seeing you immediately."
Steve flicked a look at Danyk, this was a change of tune, he was more like a son reproving
his father. Zayez smiled and sat on a chair hastily manoeuvred by Danyk. Lyot appeared
silently in the doorway behind them. He said nothing. Steve thought: Watchful - like a cat. He
presumed that the old man must have walked the distance from wherever he lived.
"You are correct on both counts, my son"
A soft, firm voice stirred in Steve's mind. It was a voice that demanded immediate
obedience.
"We will not talk for a moment - let us come to rest and admire the remaining light and the
shadows."
He stared at Steve and they were like four motionless shadows in the gathering gloom. The
lamps flickered in the draught from the open window. The sky darkened and their star
disappeared abruptly. They remained that way for what seemed to be a long time. At first,
curiosity and impatience to get on with whatever interrogation he was to experience, wouldn't
allow Steve to 'come to rest', but then, something intangible happened. He had no desire to do
other than watch the shadows lengthen until they merged into a continuous pool of blackness.
It was utterly peaceful and he became quiet.
He was relaxed for the first time in many months, perhaps even years. He couldn't
remember when he had last been without worry. It was probable that it was when he was a
child on Mars, whilst he was still at home with his mother. That had been a short time, soon
after his sixth birthday, he had been bundled off to the Academy and the little home life he
had experienced was finished. Thereafter, it had been one dormitory after another, always
under someone's feet - or smelling someone's feet or socks.
71

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
He remembered the first woman he had laid, the torture of timidity and indecision which
had led up to it. It had been an brief interlude, perhaps a few weeks. Then the need to watch
his back against the fierce competition of his contemporaries had returned. It had been one of
his classmates who had stolen the woman from him.
The presentation of his degrees gave way to his conduct of a series of geological surveys.
He had done well, his qualifications had given him a certain amount of early pride. He had
thought himself lucky to have secured such an important position. It was one that had been
jealously sought after. Then had come the reckless years - shallow years of living for the
moment, with many women that meant little to him and a contemptuous disregard for his
employers. It was inevitable that his thoughts arrived at the sequence of events that had led to
his bizarre arrival on their planet - and the blackness which had followed.
Zayez stirred and the peaceful torpor was broken.
"Have you further questions, my Lords Lyot and Danyk?"
Steve looked from one to the other, something had happened and he didn't know what.
Zayez smiled at him.
"So my son, you have described yourself as an emissary from this land you call New Earth,
even though your journey and your coming to us, was not by design. My lords Lyot and
Danyk are still not convinced and will be slow to understand these things. I am sure you will
agree that their suspicions are understandable. If you are as you say, a man from the stars, we
have much to learn about each other. We cannot comprehend your thoughts of travel between
worlds - or how you have made your journey to us."
Steve was ready for a battle.
"They believe I am some sort of hybrid between the Lynxe and the Scarn!"
"They also say that this is a great and devious plot hatched by my Adepts - and myself. Is
that not so, Danyk? They will require much convincing but I read in your thoughts of an
event that will influence them!"
He didn't elaborate. Steve looked at Lyot and Danyk, they showed no discomfort that
Zayez had read their opinions so accurately. It was nearly time for the evening meal, Danyk
and Lyot escorted the old man to his chamber and Steve was left in a turbulent frame of mind.
The episode had confirmed again how limited his actions were to be. If the power Zayez
possessed was duplicated in others, or even if they had it to a lesser degree, it would be
impossible to make a plan. It would be like being in prison and trying to organise an escape,
except that the jailer would know of every move in advance. He doubted if he would be able
to learn enough of the art of blocking out the mind-peepers for it to be of much use to him.
When he judged the time to be right, he made his way to the communal room. The
household was beginning to wander in, the hum of conversation increased with each new
arrival. Krin made for Steve as soon as he saw him.
"It seems that Zayez is satisfied about you. I could have told them that you were all right,
without dragging him here."
Steve grinned into the eager face, what he wouldn't have given to have a the surety of a
fifteen year old again.
"Don't you like Zayez?"
The boy looked shocked and his smile wavered.
"We all love Zayez!"
Steve nodded, the smile returned and he followed the exuberant boy to his established
place in the pecking order. He was a little amused, he had been moved down the line one
place, no doubt to make room for the exalted guest. It didn't matter much, as long as he got
enough to eat. The ritual was repeated, with the more important members of the household
arriving last. Steve waited impatiently for the huge platters of food to be brought in, he was
ravenous. He had no idea of what he was eating, nor had it worried him while he had been on
72

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
the planet, despite all that had been taught about the incompatibility of enzymes. The theory
was that alien food could kill a human being, either by direct poisoning, or through the
inability of the human digestion to get anything out of the food substance. He hadn't thought
much about it, he had survived on the diet provided by Caela for fifty days when he had been
unconscious, and he was still around and comparatively healthy.
He avoided looking directly at Lyot but he could feel the intense stare of his host. It was to
be expected, it wasn't every day that the average Thane found himself the host of a man from
another star system. The Lady Hepha had a different look, one of wariness. No doubt, Hara
had been well and truly mind searched by his formidable hostess and a complete knowledge
of their private moments had been extracted. Steve made the point of returning her gaze with
a frank and steady eye. They had done nothing for which they ought to be ashamed and he
saw no reason why they should have to account to a third person, even if she was a high-born
lady. The thought must have registered, there was a noticeable tightening of the lips, which
reminded him of his mother when she was on the warpath.
Danyk pushed Krin along to his rightful place at the table and sat himself beside Steve,
who gave him a quick look. There was nothing in his expression to show what he thought of
the verdict Zayez had given. The old man had been given the place of honour next to him and
at the right hand of Lyot. The meal began without preamble and the room became silent
expect for the sounds of two hundred people eating the food. Ivan would have been at home
in this assembly, he had almost appreciated a healthy appetite. Steve felt a stab of anguish at
the thought of his dead brother - and of Mars. Zayez suddenly spoke in his mind.
"Emissary Steve Holt from the Confederation of New Earth, tell us of your people, so that
all may know of what I have seen in your thoughts."
Steve hesitated, it was an unexpected request and he wanted to choose his words carefully.
He tried to explain with his limited vocabulary.
"Once, the ancestors of those who live on New Earth, lived on the planet Earth - which we
now called Old Earth. Old Earth is the third planet from our sun and one of a family of nine.
Man gained control over all the other species on Old Earth and became the dominant sentient
being on the planet. Although he conquered all other species, he didn't learn to conquer
himself and his greed. He abused and despoiled his beautiful world and eventually, he was
forced to abandon it. We call that event, the Evacuation. When they saw that the planet was
doomed, they constructed space ships to transport them off the planet. They then built an
orbiting space station and then, later, they journeyed to the fourth planet which is called
Mars. This is my birth-world. All this happened over two hundred years ago in Earth years.
From that time, man learned to master the harsh environment of Mars and also to live in
space in orbiting asteroids which he built to orbit the third and fourth planets. From the
comparatively few survivors, the population has started to grow again. We have now arrived
at the situation that resources can't meet our expanding needs."
73

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
CHAPTER 13
There was absolute silence when he finished. Steve waited for the reaction. Their feline
ancestry was emphasised by an unblinking, expressionless stare. Zayez spoke in his mind but
all could hear.
"We read in your mind your racial concern to care for the remnants of your people. There
are many other things which we do not comprehend. We cannot grasp the concept of a world
in a void, which circles a star. It is beyond our understanding. You have told us of your
society and we read much more of their nature than you have expressed. We see you as a
warlike, greedy race. You know nothing of our society, our thoughts or our philosophy - I
question if your nature and ours could combine in harmony. From your own narrative, we can
see that you are a very troubled people.
Our lands support our population comfortably and we find it hard to comprehend how you
could become in such a discord with the life force of your original home that it has become
lifeless. We have learned to live in harmony with the seasons and with nature. Danyk has
told me of the way in which you dealt with Jabez and his people. You acted abruptly and did
not give Danyk the opportunity to deal with the matter in our way."
It was said very precisely almost like a judge pronouncing sentence. There was no rancour,
just a statement of fact. Steve wanted to protest, he hadn't intended to give them the wrong
impression of the human race. Every mental argument he tried to bring, was countered by a
thought. Zayez was busy in his mind.
"There is one more thing you must know. It is not a matter we discuss readily but you
should be told. We are becoming an endangered race. Our numbers are slowly decreasing
because of our infertility. There will come a time when the men of Lynxe will no longer exist.
Perhaps this will explain the experience through which you lived with Jabez and his
community. Desperation drives many of our people to excesses."
The gathering broke up soon afterwards. There was a general air of depression. Steve felt
his frustration rising and when that happened, he tended to throw caution to the winds. He
broke whatever went for protocol and confronted the Lady Hepha as she rose to leave. She
listened in expressionless silence.
"My Lady, I must insist on having a private conversation with Hara and I would like you to
arrange for this tomorrow morning."
He had the impression that she wasn't very used to having demands made upon her. She
continued to stare, as if she was trying to melt his resolution and then she inclined her head in
acceptance.
"It will be arranged."
Steve inclined his head and she swept away to her quarters. He turned and bade them all a
stiff, formal good night. He went back to his room with no offers of company. It wasn't
surprising, they had plenty to talk about. His feeling of loneliness and despondency deepened.
The frank admission about their fertility was also on his mind.
74

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
If they had been more technically incline they might have had the counterpart of some of
the biological techniques which were available in New Earth - naturally, he had never had
reason to experience them at first hand. There had never been any question about his fertility!
But there were methods which might have assisted them. By the sound of things, it wouldn't
be long before they dwindled to nothing. It was a pity, the Lynxe might have had a thing or
two to teach the universe in general. It was clear that they had been around for a long time.
They had even successfully controlled a sub-race - even if the Scarn could still be considered
to be slaves.
He tried to work out what he was going to do next, but it was impossible to do so. He was
alone on this planet and had no idea why he was there. The only way to return to Solar Space
appeared to be the way he had come. He would be the first to agree that a return trip by the
same method was not a very likely possibility.
He was dog tired after all the thinking, so he retired to his lonely couch and cursed his luck
that he had ended up in a household where the hostess considered herself the guardian of all
female virtue. He tried to content himself with the thought that he would be seeing Hara
again on the next day. He fell asleep almost immediately.
At some time during the night, he found himself floating above his recumbent form. He
was high, close to the ceiling of the room, rolling and turning slowly, as if he was weightless
in space. The image of his room shimmered and hazed, as if he was out of focus and then, he
touched the ground slightly. For a moment, he wondered if his earlier thought that the only
way off the planet was by the way he had come, was being fulfilled. This sensation was like
the vortex - but it wasn't quite the same. He didn't come to rest in the five sided chamber
which had been his starting point.
There was soil beneath his feet which was almost black - red-black. The sky was a lurid
purple-red. He was on a seashore and a black ocean rumbled sullenly, scouring against the
black beach. He was conscious of a great heat and heaviness. He was naked and faced a great
arch or gate. From him radiated a power. It came from his fingers and from his eyes and from
the centre of his forehead. His head felt as if it was pierced open from within and provided
the surging power that streamed out through a cleft between his eyes. With the power was a
great authority. Figures entered and receded from his vision, to the right and to the left. They
had thin, angular, hawkish features. They made obeisance, acknowledging his power.
He moved towards the rock arch, impelled by a force he could not control. He screamed
out that he was not the man within the Pentacle. His voice grew louder and louder as he
walked with outstretched hands towards the arch. It became a scream of terror. The arch
wavered and shimmered and the power began to diminish from his fingers and head. The
whole scene shimmered into a haze of indecisive light. He whirled, tumbling over and over,
back into the figure on the bed - a figure that lashed out and screamed as it slept.
His own hoarse screams woke him, he fought off something that was forcing him back and
down. A voice pressed insistently into his mind, calling him by name. He began to quieten
down, his heart was thumping and racing and he had to drag air into his lungs. It was like
being rescued from a vacuum lock in space.
He found that he was clutching Danyk. He stopped wrestling, the insistent voice in his
mind commanded him to quieten; to sleep; to dissolve fear; - to sleep. He didn't know that
Zayez stood behind Danyk in the room, nor did he know of the conversation that passed
between their minds. He would have had little comfort from that knowledge. He dropped into
deep blackness and did not awaken until the light was strong through the open window.
He lay on the bed quietly and forced himself to think about the dream. It had to be
something to do with the Pentacle, it had featured in his screams of protest. He made up his
mind to get rid of it, he would find somewhere away from the house and throw it into the
fields or woods. Usually, he wasn't superstitious but he had to accept the fact that there was
75

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
something disturbing associated with it, even the Bole could vouch that it had some latent
power. He turned his mind to something more pleasant - Hara!
One of the house Scarn brought him a tray, apparently it was too late for breakfast. He
demolished the food, the nightmare hadn't affected his appetite. He was just finished when
Hara moved the curtain aside and stood, hesitating in the doorway. He jumped to his feet, for
some reason thankful that he had pulled on yesterday's tunic. She was alone, it seemed that
the Lady Hepha respected a little firmness. He ran to Hara and took her in his arms. It was
like holding a wooden doll. He pushed her out to arms length and stared into her eyes.
"What's the matter, Hara? Are you in pain or something - this is Steve!"
She stared back at him and he knew instinctively, that he had lost her. Somewhere, under
some influence, she had withdrawn from him. He drew her to him gently and caressed her,
she was unresponsive, even when he ran a replay memory of their love making. He kissed
her, long and insistently, she still didn't respond. He let her go and looked into her eyes.
"What is it, Hara? Explain to me. I thought we had something going for us. I thought it was
very special. I love you and I want you. You can't tell me that you've stopped loving me. You
can't turn off what we had, as if it never happened! What has that bitch, Hepha, done to you!"
"You must not say anything about her. She has said and done nothing. We haven't spoken
about you, except when she urged me to see you every day - even when I told her that I had
no wish to do so. Lord Steve, I have come to say good-bye - No! Please don't argue, just
listen. - I gave you my body in love and you gave me love. I was glad to serve you as my
Lord and honoured that you gave me your seed.
It is possible that I bear your child within me - only time will tell. It is also possible that I
bear the child of some other man - one of those who used me in their lust and anger - again,
time will tell. Maybe, I bear no child - it isn't unknown among our women, no matter how
often they are impregnated.
My Lord Steve, I cannot bear it that any man can now touch me. I have been made dirty
and I am dirty. No man will ever enter my body again - not even you - whom I still love!"
Steve argued with her, softly at first, then he shouted. Afterwards, he was not proud of that.
He tried to break her determination but it couldn't be shaken. He asked her where she thought
she could go. Could she go back to the community of Jabez? Did she think that she could
stop men from using her body, if she went there? Wasn't she safe with him, in the house of
Lyot? He tried every persuasion and tactic. She listened impassively while he ranted. When
he ran out of breath, she kissed him. He tried to inflame her in that kiss. It was no use. He had
to admit defeat. He turned away.
"Where will you go?"
She smiled at him as if he was a child.
"I have a place. I will be safe. I will not tell you where."
Then, she was gone, the curtain swung down behind her and when he looked out into the
passage a moment later and tried to follow her, she had been swallowed up in the contortions
of corridors and rooms. He swore loud and long about their erratic architecture and returned
to his room in a savage mood. He had a visitor, Danyk. Steve glowered at him, he wasn't in
the mood for hospitality. Danyk returned his gaze calmly.
"Did I dream it, or did you visit me last night?"
Danyk looked around the room for the Pentacle, it was laying on a chest, as far away from
the Bole as possible.
"What is that thing and why do you wear it?"
"Because I choose too."
They could never answer a straight question without asking another.
"Yet, it troubles you."
"Sometimes."
76

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"It has an evil aura - there is something unholy about it."
"That's a strange comment coming from someone who's supposedly left superstition
behind."
"You had an experience of a supernatural kind last night. It left you in mental stress which
defied my efforts to quieten. We know much about the mind - an outside influence disturbed
you."
Steve nodded, so he hadn't been dreaming, Danyk had visited him.
"The force that pulsed from your chamber drew me. It flowed from your mind and
awakened me. It was greater than anything I have ever experienced. I know such things. I
was alarmed and concerned. There was nothing I could do to withstand its influence."
Steve's heart started to hammer, he struggled for words.
"It frightened hell out of me, I have to admit. How, in hell's name, can this thing have such
an effect? Why on me in particular?"
"Sit quietly and let me read your dream."
They sat for some time, at a point, he relaxed but said nothing, then:
"I think the pentacle has an affinity with your latent self. What you call your subconscious
- what we call the hidden mind. In the Pentacle, there is a power unknown to us but you know
this power and refuse to accept it consciously. This power is activated when you are either in
contact with the Pentacle, or perhaps, when you are in a certain emotional state of
receptiveness. Last night, you were deeply troubled by what you were told about our race. I
do not know what power the Pentacle has, but it is conceivable that it is charged with a
cosmic force, perhaps integral to the structure of the universe."
"But why me?"
"If I knew that, we could be in possession of a secret that could unlock titanic forces. I
simply do not know the answer."
"In my dream, or whatever it was - I seemed to be the man in the engraving but then I cry
out that I am not the man. I wake up in a muck sweat, yelling my head off."
"I am not able to see who this man is in the Pentacle - perhaps you are right and it is not
you. Perhaps he is some imaginary person who doesn't actually exist, perhaps he represents
something. You cry out that you are not the man, but that could simply be a desperate denial
of something you do not wish to be!"
Steve hesitated, as far as he was aware, Danyk had never examined the Pentacle closely.
When he did, he was in for quite a shock.
"He doesn't look like me, Danyk. Perhaps, you had better look at him very closely - ".
Danyk changed the subject abruptly.
"I'm sorry about your woman."
He sounded sincere enough but as always, he avoided mentioning her name.
Steve allowed himself to be side-tracked.
"I can't understand what got into her head. I really thought we had something going for us.
It was like talking to a block of wood."
"You've got a lot to learn about Lynxe women. One thing is for certain, once they've made
up their mind about something, they're hard to shift."
"You're talking about women everywhere - they're all the same. - Where the hell will she
go?"
"She'll be all right."
"Seems I've heard that before. She ended up getting pack raped!"
Steve sensed that Danyk knew her destination but that he wasn't going to share the
information. The feeling of frustration intensified. He felt cheated and ill used and he was
ready to pick a fight with anybody at the slightest provocation. Danyk withdrew discreetly, it
was probably wise in the circumstances.
77

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
It was only after he had left, that Steve realised that he hadn't looked at the Pentacle.
Steve turned his attention to the subject of Hara. He considered all sorts of wild schemes
and abandoned the lot. In sheer desperation, he decided to pick a fight with the Bole. He
activated it and enquired after its health.
"Status."
"Integrity."
Having got that preamble over, he searched around in his mind to find an excuse for his
sudden burst of attention.
"I wish you could do something useful - like giving me a shave and a haircut. I look like
something you run away from on a dark night, no wonder my women take flight."
He reached out to deactivate.
"I have sonic capabilities."
Steve eyed it cautiously.
"Meaning?"
"Sonic capabilities can be attuned to provide depilatory effects."
That was something new. Steve had never heard of anyone using their Bole as a barber,
perhaps no one had ever tried. Perhaps, someone had tried and hadn't lived to tell the story!
He approached the matter with considerable caution.
"You can tell the difference between hair and flesh? And what about the hair style. I don't
fancy myself bald."
The Bole assured him that all would be well, it sounded almost eager to get on with the
job. Against his better judgement, Steve submitted to its ministrations.
"Do the beard first and then we'll see what sort of mess you make of that."
He sat very still, he didn't want to make it nervous. A nervous Bole might produce
unpredictable results. The Bole extended one of its mandibles and swung it delicately to the
side of his face. There was a slight feeling of warmth and Steve felt hair dropping down on
his hands. Afterwards, he realised that they were clenched in a posture of unconscious prayer.
The Bole moved back and forth, from one side to the other, crossing the chin and upper lip, at
which moment, Steve had to suppress a desire to sneeze. The Bole stopped.
"Exercise against facial hair complete."
Steve's hairdresser on Mars had never put it quite like that but he got the message. He
surveyed the result in the mirror with considerable trepidation. Apart from the difference in
colour tone, which had nothing to do with the Bole, it had done a very creditable job. Steve
had a lean and hungry look, was a trifle haggard after the bout of sickness, but that wasn't the
Bole's fault either.
"Let's see what you can do with the hair."
The mandible moved about his head and again there was a cloud of falling hair - great
locks of it. Steve couldn't help an anxious enquiry.
"I hope you know what you're doing?"
The Bole didn't pause.
"The profile of Steve Holt indicates the average hair length, as well as maximum and
minimum ranges. Operation is complete."
This time it hadn't used the word 'exercise' it had been 'operation', Steve practically
sprinted to the mirror. He turned this way and that. He wasn't bald and the Bole had left him
his ears. It had performed a wonder of sonic engineering, which would have made its
designer proud, or maybe scandalised at the misuse of his technology.
Steve's appearance was now one of a young Space-rider - he felt his confidence rising.
Appearance might not make the man but it did a hell of a lot for his self esteem. He turned to
his new-found barber.
78

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"Do you realise that it cost me fifty credits every time I had a trim on A90? You could have
saved me a fortune - if I'd have known."
"You did not enquire. I have a function menu. Do you wish to enquire?"
"Negative! You might get an inflated sense of your own importance!"
He cleared away his fallen tresses. He wondered if they might fetch a price with the local
population - a personal memento of the man from outer space. He decided against it, and
washed off the clinging residue. He dressed in one of the borrowed tunics and went off to
meet the world. It was nearly afternoon and as usual, the place seemed to be deserted. He
wondered where they went, he couldn't visualise them working in the fields like those of
Jabez's community.
He wandered aimlessly down a path at the side of the house, which entered the standing
crop. To his unqualified eye it didn't seem quite mature. It looked like something they served
at the evening meal. He turned a corner and nearly knocked over Maia. Her eyes widened
perceptibly, when she looked at him. He felt a surge of undiluted conceit and pride. He hadn't
lost his devastating effect upon women.
"I wondered for a moment if it was you, then I knew that only one man could be so
conceited!"
He refused to be put down, broadening his grin and laughing at her.
"Do you always hide behind bushes to pounce on a man? If I didn't know better, I'd think
you were following me - but you dislike me too much for that, don't you?"
She returned his smile with a stony stare, she was very much the Thane's daughter. He
continued to grin.
"I would have thought you would have been more concerned with the woman you brought
here."
He gave her the satisfaction of letting his smile fade.
"You are right. Hara is my responsibility. I will find her and try to talk some sense into her
head."
He made a slight bow and tried to pass her. She put her hand on his arm.
"No. Wait."
It would have been fantasy to say that a current of electricity surged through him and that
he swept her into his arms and she was his. It didn't happen, he waited for her to say her
piece. She sounded a little breathless.
"It's no good trying to find her. Hara has gone away to a community of women. She will
stay with them until her child is born."
He stared at her with out blinking.
"How do you know that she is going to have a child? It's only a few days."
"Time enough for my mother to tell. She has a special ability which the Gift gives. She felt
the mind of the unborn child."
"Surely it would be too small - too immature?"
"She can tell."
79

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
CHAPTER 14
They walked down the path. He tried to collect his wits. It was more than likely that he was
responsible for Hara's pregnancy, although there was some sense in the suggestion that it
might be the seed of one of the others who had misused her. It was the first time that he had
been confronted with the possibility that he might made a woman pregnant. He had always
assumed that his women took precautions. Hara had been different - too innocent. He was in
an appalling situation! He had put her in the family way. He could think of a dozen of his
former contemporaries, who would collapse into howls of in laughter, in the remote chance
that they ever found out.
"You loved her very much, didn't you?
She broke the silence softly.
"She was very special to me."
"I know the reason and the circumstances. Yours is a strange story and if Zayez is right
about you, you come from a hard world. I read in your thoughts that laying with a woman is a
very casual thing with you."
"It seems to me that you poke around too much in my thoughts for your own good! Yes,
I'm happy to admit that I like women. Yes, I've been with quite a few. Yes, we have a casual
approach. Yes, I am a young man with a healthy sexual appetite. Am I to be judged for that?"
She didn't answer at first.
'You must not mind that I can see into your thoughts. I see a lot of things which are
different to what we know. On Lynxe, we have long since creased to measure what one man
does or does not, against any preconceived standards. On our world, there is no judgement,
for none of us are without fault; so how could we judge? We do not set standards. If one man
hurts another intentionally, that is our greatest evil and condemnation."
"Then, you must live in chaos. Every man for himself and the devil take the weakest."
She looked puzzled.
"I have no thought for the word you used: 'devil'. What is that?'
He explained as best he could, theology was not his best subject.
She shook her head when he finished.
"We do not have such a concept. We do not hide the responsibility for our passions and
urges by attributing them to some external force. We strive to master our baser selves, so that
a higher evolvement becomes the master."
It didn't sound as is she had got the point. On reflection, maybe she had a better point.
"And you do not believe in God either?"
He was a glutton for punishment but he wanted to prolong the conversation, no matter
what the subject. He was half way through a laboured explanation, when she stopped him.
"Ah! That is different. Logic tells us that there is a Law-Giver, who has set the stars in their
places and who controls the seasons and the Law of seedtime and harvest. These things are
governed and never vary."
"But what of a God who intervenes in your everyday lives?"
80

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"You are talking about something different. You are talking about the gods, not the God
who is the Law-Giver. You are talking of those that Jabez - and people who are like him -
worship. The old gods, Zayez, Harma and Hella and a host of others. I suppose your devil
would be Shaita. Surely your people are not so primitive that they still think as Jabez does?"
She sounded incredulous, she was certainly wide eyed. He shook his head hastily.
"Up to the time of the Evacuation, they had their various forms of religion. Now, they
believe in nothing except hard work and dust and thirst. We are a people who have outgrown
the need for gods. Now and then, some fanatic like Jabez comes along and tries to stir up the
old fires, but he doesn't last for long."
"I am relived to hear it. My father has more trouble with people like Jabez than with
anyone else. We know that a destiny controls our lives. We know how to use the Gift and
many other helpful things. They originated from those who control our destiny but we also
know that we are not able to sway the path of our destiny by praying to those who control it.
What must be, is and will be. The Race Masters control all things!"
He looked at her wide eyed.
"Who or what are the Race Masters?"
As they walked back to the house she tried to explain.
"We are bound in ways inexplicable, by beings who control the complexity of our past,
present and future - so that their purposes will be fulfilled. Our lives are pawns in their
expression of will. We are infinitesimal, specks to be used or ignored in the vastness of their
design. They are they who must be obeyed. You cannot withstand the might and power of the
Race Masters. They control the destiny of all the Lynxe who ever were. They are old - so
ancient that they existed before the Lynxe-star gave light and all was darkness."
It was one of their old legends! He felt a little disappointed. He was no nearer to
understanding the significance of the Pentacle. He wasn't sure if Maia was reading his
thoughts. If she was, she gave no indication and he doubted if it would have meant very much
to her. They parted at the entrance to his room and she moved on around the corner of the
corridor. She moved well, he dwelt upon it appreciatively. Clearly, her thought came back to
him:
"Lecher!"
Another day was nearly over, their star plummeted towards the horizon. For a brief
moment, the sky was a fire of redness and then it faded to black. It was nearly time for him to
make his way to the meal table. It was to be hoped that his new appearance might give a
better impression of what the normal, well groomed inhabitant of New Earth looked like. He
delayed his entrance and watched the stars appear. It always raised a feeling of total
loneliness not to see familiar constellations. It didn't matter where he had been in Solar space,
they had always been their - a kind of reassurance.
Wherever he now was, there was a drastic difference to the perspective and alignment of
the patterns. Here and there, he thought he could make out something familiar but it was
probably wishful thinking. They probably had their own constellations. It depended if the
locals had an enquiring mind or any interest in looking outward.
He remembered how he had looked up at the stars with Hara and with the memory came a
resurge of unrest. Impending fatherhood was something with which he had to come to terms.
Her pregnancy wasn't something to be surprised about, they had been completely uninhibited
in their coupling. He would never understand the female mind. If a man on Mars got a girl in
the family way, she stayed around and tried to get as much out of him as possible. Often the
man would put the biggest distance he could between himself and his responsibility. Hara had
other ideas, preferring to hide herself away in some female community. It was more than
likely that he would never know if the child was born, or if it was his. He wasn't much good
at finger counting when it came to working out the time of the birth. He also realised that he
81

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
didn't know the period of gestation for the alien Lynxe and he was fairly certain the Bole
wouldn't know either.
He was nearly late for dinner but his ever faithful stomach gurgled a reminder. Danyk had
kept his place at the table. He was impolite enough to howl softly when he caught sight of his
naked face. The howl was taken up by the rest of the assembly - a soft, sinuous sound, Steve
hoped it meant approval - it was the first alien mannerism he had detected and was probably
the local version of a wolf whistle. His appetite overcame his embarrassment and he settled
down to eat a hearty meal.
Zayez was displaying more than a cursory curiosity over his appearance. Steve found it
unnerving to keep catching the old man's eyes on him. He was sitting on Steve's left and he
had to make a quite deliberate effort to stare. He must have caught the mental disquiet, for
when they had finished the serious business of eating, he opened the conversation
immediately.
"Danyk tell me of a strange artefact."
"If he means the Pentacle - yes, I found it in the - room - which brought me your world.
"I will fetch it from my room, if you wish."
Zayez nodded, he seemed preoccupied. The conversation had been mental and appeared to
be restricted between them. Danyk had a look of enquiry when Steve left the table. Steve
retrieved the Pentacle and returned. Zayez held out his hand for it, almost reluctantly, Steve
handed it to him. The old man looked at it from all angles, paying a lot of attention to the
catlike individual occupying the centre. Steve's heart started to thump, perhaps he was going
to get some answers.
"I presumed the medallion had something to do with the people of Lynxe. The image is of
one of your men."
He avoided a direct reference to Danyk.
Zayez continued to inspect it carefully.
"Although the image is undoubtedly of one of the men of Lynxe, I do not believe it comes
from this world. Our craftsmen are not skilled in this material - we do not know it."
He had either not recognised the image of Danyk, or was avoiding the issue.
"It is a mystery, my son - I am reminded of something that is no longer clear in my mind,
for it happened long ago when I first became Master of the School of Adepts. At that time,
many things which have been entrusted to previous Masters through the ages, are passed on
to the new Master. Some of these are priceless heirlooms and there are very many of them.
Some appear to have little significance.
All are kept in a secret place, so that they can be preserved for future generations. I will
take you to this place and we can see if my old memory is becoming confused."
Steve nodded agreement. It was an intriguing proposition and a good excuse to widen his
knowledge of the planet. These aliens were either supremely confident in their ability to
handle any situation, or they were blasé to the point of irresponsibility. Of one thing, he was
quite sure. If an alien had ventured into the space of New Earth, an army of Security would
have been deployed to ensure that he got into no mischief. The Lynxe on the other hand, had
casually accepted a self-confessed alien from the stars. Now, they wanted to show him some
'Secret Place' and then a collection of religious relics.
No one had made any further comment about his change of appearance and his
determination to ask Zayez directly what the fascination was that caused the long soulful
stares, had been side-tracked. He looked at Zayez sharply and thought he saw a ghost of a
smile on his quiet face. Krin was much more direct.
"You know, that makes quite a difference. You don't look like a well trained Scarn
anymore!"
82

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
There was one of those embarrassed silences, plenty must have been thinking the same
thing. Steve felt his colour rising. It was the private label they had put on him - a glorified
Scarn. It wasn't a comfortable feeling to be regarded as something from an inferior species.
The cats had climbed to the top of the evolutionary tree on Lynxe, anything else was inferior!
Danyk's thought came sharply into his mind.
"Don't be foolish, none of us permitted such a thought to cross our minds!"
"Perhaps not - but the thought stood at one side of your mind, even if you didn't allow it to
cross!"
"I am sorry to grieve you."
Steve smiled at Krin, he looked ready to weep.
"The truth doesn't grieve me, Krin. Cheer up! I'll survive! To show you that there's no hard
feelings, I'll tell you some more about the stars."
That cheered him up, which was more than Steve could say for himself. He sensed Danyk
probing around in his head and tried to block him out. He didn't expect to be very successful
but Danyk said nothing more.
A number of days passed without a great deal of activity. It was as if they were waiting for
something and it made him uneasy. Zayez seemed to have lost interest in him and had little to
say. They met at meals, otherwise Steve wouldn't have known that the old man was still a
guest. The hours passed like lead and Steve was almost driven to the point of asking for some
menial task to do - even in the fields - anything to relive the tedium.
Five days after their previous conversation, Zayez paid him a surprise visit. Steve greeting
him with polite caution and waited for the old man to get down to business.
"I will be returning to the School of the Adepts tomorrow. It would be opportune for you to
accompany me - if you so wish. My way leads near to the place where the treasures of the
centuries are kept."
Steve fought down a rising excitement - it would be good to resolve the mystery of the
Pentacle. The old man murmured.
"You may be disappointed."
"Is this place close by?
"Not so, it is two days distant and it will be five days before you return."
"We will go mounted?
"I think not."
Steve resigned himself to sore feet, a four day hike did not seem appealing, on the other
hand, any length of time of the back of one of their inane looking beasts of burden, implied
other discomforts. Zayez smiled slightly as he turned and awaited the entry of Danyk.
"Danyk will be taking the journey with us."
Steve brightened up at the thought, two days of undiluted Zayez might have been a little
hard to take.
"You will need a change of clothes and nothing else - we leave tomorrow."
His visitors left, leaving him with a small problem - about one foot and a half small and in
the shape of a cube
"It doesn't look as if I can take you with me."
Things had to be getting bad when he started explaining his movements to an electronic
computer. The Bole hid any distress it might have been feeling - it expressed no opinions.
"You're not all that mobile, you see. In fact, you are bloody heavy to lump around. I wish
you could walk or shuffle or something."
The Bole considered this for all of two seconds and then started to rise from the floor on
four of its mandibles. The stupid thing had trapdoors all over its hide, even on the base. It
paused to consider the situation and then opened two more traps, to extend another two
83

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
mandibles. It then began to move in his direction like an obscene insect. Steve got nervous
and retreated.
"Now, just back off!"
It stopped and then reversed, it was capable of moving in any direction. It came to rest
again, supported on the six, thin metal limbs. Steve found he was sweating. He hadn't thought
the Bole had any more surprises but he was learning something new every day. He infused a
tone of authority into a shaking voice.
"Tell me why you haven't displayed this remarkable agility earlier? Why have you allowed
me to lug you around the universe, when you were perfectly capable of shifting yourself? No!
Don't tell me! I suppose I didn't ask."
"Affirmative."
He stared at the inanimate object and wondered if it was laughing at him. He hoped it
wasn't, the last thing he could handle would be a Bole with a sense of humour - it might even
start playing practical jokes.
"Can you handle rough terrain? Steep hillsides, tangled forest floors, wet and swampy
areas - rivers?"
"Affirmative."
"Aren't you a perfect bloody marvel?"
"Affirmative."
"Shut up!"
Somewhere in the complexity of its programming, it found that to be a synonym for 'be
silent'. It obeyed. It looked idiotic, perched there on its spindly legs. Steve knew that they
were made of the toughest plasti-steel alloy known to New Earth. They might have looked
frail but looks were deceptive - that about summed up the Bole in total. Steve began to see
the funny side of it, he had always had a feeling of inferiority where the Bole was concerned
but now the boot was on the other foot. He could have it running around like a tame dog.
They left early on the following morning. Zayez had been formally bidden farewell by his
hosts on the previous evening at the communal table. This was the only recognition of the
journey. The group of five slipped away quietly in the early light. The place seemed deserted
but it was possible that Lyot and Hepha were watching events from one of the upper
windows.
The way led towards higher country, towards distant hills behind the house. At first, the
land was cultivated. Mobs of Scarn were methodically plodding their way through their tasks,
closely supervised by the Lynxe overseers. The Scarn worked without thought, Steve
wondered if they ever reflected on their loss of freedom. They were great brutes, naked and
servile, bent low over the tasks they had been assigned. No more than intelligent animals. He
wondered if they were capable of sensing his pity - and if they did, if they understood it.
The party was silent as it toiled up the side of one of the low hills. Zayez was setting a fair
pace for an old man. He had two anonymous companions, they had not been in evidence
during the time he had been within the house. Danyk had come alone, electing to leave his
bodyguard behind. Steve had decided to leave the Bole at the house, it was a calculated risk
but he had no reason to believe that he would not return.
He hoped Zayez would act his age and slow down, having regard for the frailty of at least
one of his companions. He showed no immediate sign of doing so. Steve gritted his teeth in
the best traditions of the Academy and determined not to be the first one to complain. Danyk
took up the rear, deep in his own thoughts, perhaps he had something on his mind. Steve
thought sardonically that they presented a far from happy party. One chirpy ape between four
morose pussy cats!
84

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
Lyot's estate seemed immense, Steve saw no boundaries. They walked in silence for about
an hour before Zayez paused at the crest of a rise. He stared back reflectively at the tiny
speck of buildings below them. Steve tried to be sociable, he addressed the sombre Danyk.
"Your father owns a large estate."
"My father owns nothing."
Zayez interposed gently.
"All property is held in common. We govern ourselves by the Power of the Gift - not by
Law. By consensus, not by force. A Thane holds his position, not because of the extent of his
lands but by reason of his excellence in the Gift. It is this that equips him to be a wise and
able ruler. No one owns land or property, but while there are descendants, there is tenure of
the land. When a man wishes to leave the community of his father's family, he seeks a place
which is untenanted by another. There, he establishes a home for himself. With the aid of the
Scarn, he creates a farm, or tills the soil for the common good. If he dies without descendants,
the land he has tended reverts to the stewardship of all and then another man can take his
place. It has been our way for countless ages."
"But what if he doesn't want to be a farmer and wants to go into one of your cities?"
Zayez contemplated the question.
"We have no cities. Once we had cities but we found them to be an error and we returned
to the land. We are going to the remains of one of them, it is where we shall spend the second
night."
Steve persisted with his question.
"But what about those who have no wish to be farmers? For instance, how do you and the
Adepts fit into your scheme of things?"
"No man is forced to be productive, Steve Holt. If he wishes to remain idle for some
reason, he will still receive the benefit of another man's toil. He will receive but not give of
his own labour. There are very few who are prepared to do this."
Steve thought bitterly, the good old moral obligation doctrine. These people were more
enslaved under their system than the poorest miner on Mars. Even in that menial position,
they had some freedom of action. Zayez had been tuned in.
"You have an interesting concept on life but I fear that you have a complete
misunderstanding of our ways. Perhaps you will never understand. The Masters and the
Adepts are not expected to contribute to the common good by our physical participation.
Ours is a special service - we care for the health of our people's minds."
Steve retaliated.
"We have priests in our society too - or used to have them - before their nonsense was
blasted to hell with them. They caused more harm to the human race with their clarion calls
in this or that cause, than all the warriors that followed them. They also used the mighty
weapon of moral obligation."
"We are not priests, young man. Maia has told you something of our concept of the
creative God. We are not divided into sects and schisms according to doctrines. Jabez is not
typical of the majority of the men of Lynxe. There are a few like him but we shall prevail
over them. Long ago, we grew out of such beliefs and grew into the mental status we now
possess. It requires much care and nurturing and that is our task among the people."
85

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
CHAPTER 15
Steve remembered Danyk murmuring into his mind when he was fighting the terror of his
nightmare.
"So, you are doctors? When the people of New Earth emerged from the Evacuation, we
also left behind the concept of doctrines. Those who remained - the Survivors - realised that
they were guilty of the deaths of thousands of millions, by their neglect and poisoning of the
resources of their world. It so happened that most were atheistic by default and others felt too
guilty to approach a God. A few tried but it was half-hearted. Now and then, someone tries to
fan the old fires but it soon comes to nothing."
"You may think of us as physicians if you wish, Steve Holt. I feel that your knowledge of
mystical things is locked in your mind. You think that you have outgrown the primitive
beliefs of your ancestors. You have schooled yourself to think of such things with contempt.
Some of the ancient beliefs of your people might hold the key to the purpose of your journey
to our world!"
As usual, the old man had answered a lot of questions but he had thrown the last comment
in like a piece of bait on the end of a fishing line. Danyk was staring back at his home, he
hadn't contributed to the conversation. Steve challenged him in an attempt to change the
subject.
"What's the matter with you? Did she turn you down last night?"
His mental response came as if from a great distance.
"I do not have your lustfulness."
His eyes glared fiercely for a moment - like a cat about to pounce.
"Your carnality disgusts me!"
The words were spat out. Steve's smile faded, Danyk turned away and started to stride after
Zayez, who had already moved on. Steve hesitated, looking back at the haven of the
homestead, he shrugged and followed at a respectful distance.
His rage level rose a few notches as he contemplated the conversation. He had been told
that he was a dirty minded bastard - perhaps not in so many words but that was the gist of it.
He had been called that on many other occasions, usually by equally dirty minded bastards,
but this elegant alien was treating him with such an overweened superiority that it was all that
he could do to restrain a burning compulsion to cut him down to size. He wondered what they
did in their moments of passion, perhaps they told fairy tales to each other. He saw Danyk's
back stiffen momentarily - it served the bastard right for mind peeping!
Nothing was said for the rest of the afternoon. Steve kept up with them, despite the forced
pace. He would have bitten out his tongue before he would cry for mercy. It was late in the
afternoon and after they had toiled up a particularly steep hill, that they topped a rise and
came to the ruins of a solitary building.
86

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
Steve stopped and recovered his breath, even in ruin, it was magnificent. A place where
dwelleth owls, he thought. A place of ghosts. It stood on the levelled top of the hill. It was
hard to tell if it was a natural plateau, or whether the Men of Lynxe had levelled it. The
crumbled walls had once been massive. The roof was long since gone. It was deserted and the
cool evening breeze that tugged at their tunic skirts, kicked up small eddies of dust between
the stones. Their star was already low and the valleys far below, were shrouded in darkness.
The last rays were bathing the stones in a false glory, giving an illusion of life.
His four companions hurried forward, apparently eager to set up camp. They chose a spot
to one side of the ruins. It looked as if they had no desire for a chunk of masonry to clout
them in the night. As he drew closer, he could see a small spring welling out of the ground - it
tasted very good after the dusty climb from the distant valley.
They ate from rations carried in the packs. Little was said and soon after, they settled down
for the night, rolled up in blankets, close to the fire. Steve turned his mind back to other
nights under the stars and thought of Hara. He wondered where she was and if she thought of
him. He didn't care if Zayez or Danyk were tuned into his thoughts.
He realised that he was beginning to enjoy the freedom of the pastoral life. His ancestors
would have enjoyed such nights as part of their heritage. He hoped that his descendants and
the descendants of other men, grouped around a distant star far above him, would enjoy the
same inheritance. He wished he had the power to transport them all and place them on a
planet such as this, around one of those hard bright star gems blazing in the clear sky above.
He rolled on to his side and slept.
The morning was chilly when they awoke, it was good to stay within the warmth of the
blanket. The fire had long since died but the wind had dropped. His companions set the
example and climbed out of their bedding. With less enthusiasm, he followed suit. He looked
down into the valley, where the sun was just starting to chase the morning mists back from
the river. He had never seen anything so beautiful. They left him alone, he supposed that they
understood that he was seeing everything with fresh eyes, like a child, or a blind man that had
been given sight.
Danyk fanned an invisible ember into flame and the fire burst into life. He boiled some
water in a pot to make a brew of herbs. They enjoyed it, Steve found it an acquired taste, he
would have preferred a good cup of coffee but the nearest coffee was unknown light years
distant. Stimulation was what he needed in the morning and he didn't have the luxury of a
nice fresh bath. He had to make do with a splash of water from the spring. It had the effect of
startling his brain into believing that his body was under attack and that it had better be alert
to deal with the situation.
Apart from the tensions of five men rising from uncomfortable beds on the hard soil, a
scratchy breakfast, together with the lack of toilet facilities, they started the day in a much
better frame of mind than the day before. Steve supposed they were used to this kind of
hardship, he found that he wasn't quite so starry eyed about his ancestral heritage in the cold
light of the dawn. He could find nothing to recommend it, apart from the dubious possibility
that it might prove healthy. The scenery was marvellous but he preferred to stick with his
personal luxuries. The primitive life was fine, provided he could have it combined with a
modern toilet, shower, sonic-razor, auto-dispenser - the works!
They stamped out the fire and took their last look at the ruins, walking through to the other
side of the hill. He was happy that the way led downward, his muscles were still screaming
for relief from the exertions of the previous day. The night on the hard ground had done
nothing to help.
Here and there among the ruins, an old tree still spread leafy branches. A few birds added
their song to the morning crispness. They fascinated him, in earlier days, he had never seen a
bird or heard its song, except in the old records. He looked around at the fallen stones and
87

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
wondered why such a place had been abandoned but his companions weren't talkative, so he
kept his peace. The descent was slow down the far side of the hill. Danyk said abruptly.
"We abandoned our cities and places like this, because of sickness."
"That must have been a long time back, the sickness must have died out. You could rebuild
- it wouldn't take much."
"In your cities, is there peace and harmony?"
"We have our problems - "
"So did we, and that is the reason why our people chose to leave the cities and return to the
fields and countryside. From our evolutionary ancestors, we had an inheritance to roam the
forests and plains freely, keeping our distance from each other in clearly defined territory. We
still have the territorial instinct - your race has this also, so has every other, no matter how
civilised or cultured it becomes. The Lynxe are no different to all the others. Close together in
cities, we found that tensions were created in our minds, we had civil disturbances and
disharmony. Our ancestors abandoned the city system and we now live scattered across the
face of our world. There is room for all. In that way, we can live in peace."
"Tell me, what happens when your population exceeds the viable area you have available?
One day you will have a population explosion, just as it happened on Old Earth. If it hadn't
been for the Pollution Crisis, we would have exceeded our resources in the matter of years.
We have much the same sort of problem now on New Earth. We're running out of space and
resources. The same thing will happen here!"
Danyk and Zayez were silent, the old man's two companions were ahead, momentarily,
Steve wondered if these Adepts took a vow of silence, the two men had not spoken since the
beginning of the journey. They continued down the hill. The silence was prolonged and Steve
wondered if he had offended them again. Danyk seemed to force out an answer.
"Steve, Zayez has already told you, we are a dying race. Every year there are less of the
Lynxe. Our children die at birth, even when there has been a conception. There is great
infertility too, conception is very difficult. Even if a child survives birth, it is usually weak
and ailing - "
He had spoken in thought, as if it was something he didn't want to express verbally. Steve
felt a welling up of compassion.
"Isn't there anything that can be done?"
It was Zayez who responded.
"We are a much older race than yourself, Steve Holt, Perhaps we have lost the genetic
potency of our ancestors. Perhaps this is where the long chain of evolution leads. Logic tells
us that there will come a time when the race must come to an end."
They fell silent again, Steve wished that he hadn't raised the subject. At the base of the hill,
they entered a forest. He turned back to take one last look at the temple on the hill. The light
shone full on it, accentuating the massive but broken lines of the masonry. He wondered if
they had made the right decision so long ago. It was their decision to make - not his or his
race's. He hadn't asked them how long ago it had been - it didn't matter.
The forest was cool and dark, a pleasant relief after the warmth that had hammered into
them on the hillside. Even though it was the time of harvest, the days hadn't grown cooler, if
anything, it was hotter than before.
They were still within the forest when they camped. Steve couldn't get Hara out of his
mind, the forest brought back too many memories. He wondered where she was and how she
was being treated. They had camped by the side of a small stream which tumbled down from
a rocky outcrop. It widened into a small pool at the base. Bushes grew to the water's edge
except for a small area where the light from their star found a way through the tree canopy. It
was an idyllic spot and apparently well known to his companions.
88

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
They dropped their packs, kicked off their sandals, pulled of their tunics and waded into
the inviting water. It seemed to be all one movement. They looked back enquiringly, he didn't
need a further invitation. He gasped as he hit the water, it felt like ice after the warmth of the
afternoon air.
"It comes from the rocks."
Danyk's amiableness had returned after the sulks of the previous day. Zayez kept a sedate
distance while the rest splashed around. Steve eyed his companions frankly, the water had
pinned their hair back from the softening lines it usually had about the face. He could see
how accentuated the feline features were. The hairline was high and the forehead a flat width
above arched eyebrows. Their ears were small and slightly pointed - like you see on some
earth men. The eyes were wide and green, like the water - above a short, wide nostrilled nose.
The mouth was wide and full lipped above a firm chin. Danyk looked as tough as nails, his
body hard and muscled and evenly tanned. Steve shook his head mentally, it was incredible
that in all essentials, they had the same physiology. Danyk reminded him of a drawing he had
seen once, where someone had created an imaginative picture to illustrate a historical book. It
showed ancient, blond barbarians - naked and ferocious - who had surged across Europe, two
thousand years before the Pollution. He realised that he was thinking aloud again. Danyk
stood knee deep in the water watching him. There was a glint of mocking humour in his cat's
eyes.
They dried off in the warm air and it was pleasant to lay back and feel the warmth seep into
tired muscles. He dozed off, it seemed for just a second or two and was awaked by a none too
gentle toe in the ribs.
"No time for sleeping. Time to make camp."
Steve groaned and rolled away from another ruthless prod. They spent a more convivial
evening than the previous one. The two accompanying Adepts maintained their silence, even
with each other. Steve felt that their journey was becoming more important than simply to
visit some lost city in the forest. He asked no questions as to why the timetable had been
rearranged - Zayez had said that they would camp there on the second night and that hadn't
transpired. From the viewpoint of personal relationships, their journey was breaking down
barriers. Zayez had schemed well and he had taken a gamble that they wouldn't all be at each
other's throats.
His sleep was restless, a combination of unaccustomed noises from the nocturnal
wanderings of the forest and rocks around the campsite that somehow wandered under his
blanket. The evening's conversation around the fire had stimulated him as well and in
between swearing about the uncomfortable conditions and evicting stones, he thought over
the plight of the Lynxe. His limited contact with them showed them to be a magnificent race,
it seemed inconceivable that they should simply disappear from the face of their perfect
world and that the reason wouldn't be because of war or disease, simply that they found it
impossible to reproduce themselves.
He thought back to Mars and the Asteroids and the prodigious sums spent on contraceptive
shots, aimed at preventing determined sperms from reaching eager ova. There were those
who still practised secretly the indescribable methods of abortion. The Lynxe would have
given their right arms to be in a position to overpopulate, but then, they were avoiding the
excess population that had bedevilled Old Earth before man pruned himself with extravagant
disregard for the consequences of his wastes. He wondered how it felt to belong to a society
that was going into the red, dropping below zero population growth. Fewer and fewer to
replace their dead, no sound of children. Men and women losing hope for a child, as the years
of their fecundity dwindled - that would be pitiful.
Something walked across his stomach, not only was his train of thought interrupted; he
shrieked blue murder. He didn't take kindly to unknown creatures walking across any part of
89

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
his anatomy. Eventually, the camp settled down once more and finally, he managed to doze
off with the thought that the next day promised to be interesting.
They made an early start. He had to endure a certain amount of sly mockery from Danyk,
who gave a plausible imitation of his exhibition during the night. It was useless to try to
explain that he was the product of a very sheltered upbringing and that he had never been
exposed to any species other than man.
There was a change in pace when finally they set off on the remainder of the journey. Steve
assumed that it wasn't far to the city. The brook seemed to be a kind of unofficial boundary,
even the terrain changed. Previously, they had walked on an approximately horizontal plain
after leaving the hills near the temple, now the ground became more tumbled. It was still
heavily wooded but there were great boulders scattered among the trees. It felt as if they were
steadily climbing again. The trail twisted and turned, as if trying to lose itself among the
trees. He became disoriented, he had no reference point, even their star was hidden above the
canopy.
The two young Adepts took an active hand in assisting Zayez. They handled him like a
precious object, Steve found it incredible that the old man could manage such a journey at all.
Quite suddenly, they came to their destination. One moment, they were still scrambling
among bushes and rocks and the next, he stood on the fringe of a vast cleared area. He let out
his breath in a great shudder, it was hard to say what he had expected but it had been nothing
like this.
It was utterly alien, like something he had seen in the imaginative pictures of on the covers
of the cheap literature the SCI-FI fraternity pulped out to satisfy the bored masses of New
Earth. It was one of his conditions of employment that he had concessional access to all that
Network produced.
This city was built in flowing lines, with spires soaring into the blue sky. At that time of the
day, it was in the full light of their star. The lines were unbroken, one continual flow of
smooth curves and pinnacles, filling the open space and deep, to the remote forest line on the
far side.
The rest of the party stood in silence, almost as if they were in mourning, he quickly
looked at their set faces but they were hard to read - emotionless, wary, as if they expected
the devils that had driven the population away in long past centuries, to emerge and scream
defiance at their approach. A single path led from the edge of the forest, almost at the point
where they had emerged. Steve had to commend their navigation skills. Zayez led the way
forward with his two companions flanking him, whilst Steve and Danyk plodded silently
behind.
The path led to a gap in the wall which corresponded to a city gate. It was longer than he
had thought, Steve estimated that it was a two hour plod in unshaded heat, before they stood
under the looming flank of the entrance. He realised how deceptive the perspective had been.
This city was immense, towering far into the sky - almost a home for giants. He felt crushed
down by the sheer enormity of it and more so, when they walked through dust unblemished
by footprints, into the space between the walls and on to a broad road that stretched far ahead
in a direct line into the heart of the city. Danyk's thought entered his mind.
"Only the Adepts use this way, few others come here - it is a place we avoid."
It was as if he didn't want to utter the words aloud, for fear that something might be
awakened. The hair on the nape of Steve's neck had risen, he had the feeling of eyes on his
back, as if they were under the inspection of some nameless force that occupied the immense
structures. He looked around instinctively and then upward, but the walls to each side were
unbroken, bland and featureless - blue grey, granite-like, hiding whatever secrets they
contained. After a while, his nervousness subsided and it became boring and hot and
uncomfortable.
90

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
They walked in silence for two more hours along the arrow straight channel that had no
cross streets to right or left. He was reminded of a story in one of the ancient books of Old
Earth, where a man had walked a full day into a city before he came to its centre. He could
relate to that man. From his sketchy memory, he recalled that the man hadn't been too keen
on his errand - whatever it might have been - Steve wasn't all that particular either, if they
continued this insane march into nowhere in the full heat of their star. He reasoned that they
would have to walk the same distance out of the city again and that wasn't a prospect about
which he was particularly enthusiastic.
The interminable arrow straight road approached a wall that seemed to block the way.
Steve's heart sank, this might prove to be the longest cul-de-sac known to man - or any other
alien species for that matter. Zayez moved slowly up to the bland surface with his
companions. Danyk clutched Steve's arm to prevent him from following. The trio stood in
silence, contemplating the barrier and then, something happened. It was indefinable, almost a
trick of the light or of the eye. A part of the barrier shimmered in a kind of heat haze and then
there was an opening. It was a cleft that ran the full height of the wall, as if it had been sliced
down by some invisible knife.
The hair on the nape of his neck was working overtime, as they walked through into a great
courtyard flanked by smooth walled buildings. When he looked back, the cleft had closed
behind them. He had a momentary feeling of being trapped and looked quickly around for
another exit. There were plenty of openings in the buildings and he felt reassured.
Zayez looked to be on the point of exhaustion, his two companions were extra solicitous,
escorting and half carrying him in the direction he indicated. They entered one of the
openings and the intense heat fell away. Steve wiped the sweat from his forehead and found
that he was shaking with exertion. The chamber they had entered was small and was not to be
the final destination, they navigated a flurry of rooms and corridors and ended up in a large
chamber that was flooded with light from large windows that opened on to a raised terrace.
The view promised to be interesting but Steve wasn't given time to inspect it. Zayez gestured
them to be seated on a stone bench facing him. They sat down obediently.
91

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
CHAPTER 16
"We must immediately satisfy our curiosity concerning the artefact."
Satisfying immediate hunger would have been more to the point, all the walking had made
breakfast a remote memory. The artefact had waited thousands of years, it could have waited
a few more minutes. Steve suddenly remembered another old autocrat, one of his Martian
tutors - Praetor. He had said: 'Two forces drive the young, food and fornication'. Zayez smiled
as he leaned back against the wall. He gestured to one of his Adepts. Steve watched the man
make his exit, he couldn't figure those two. They hadn't uttered a word since he had met them,
not even in greeting. It was the most alien thing he had encountered so far.
After some considerable time, which was spent in silent contemplation, the Adept reentered.
He was carrying a small package. It looked as if it had been retrieved from some
murky hole where it had rested for ages past. Steve was conscious of his heart beginning to
thump. The Adept deposited the package on the stone slab next to Zayez and then he and his
companion bowed silently and left the room.
Zayez took the package and turned it around a few times. It reminded Steve of the way
he had handled the Pentacle. The old man began to unwrap it, layer after layer, it was like one
of those joke presents which end up with nothing but wrapping. Someone had made a good
job of this one. Cloth after cloth was removed and the bundle grew smaller with each layer
gone. It was as if someone had wanted to bury the contents from his sight.
The Pentacle on Steve's chest became consciously warm. He moved uneasily, aware of it
and trying to attribute the change in its feel to his own body heat. He watched the slow
unwrapping process and then, finally, Zayez grunted with achievement. Zayez held it up for
them all to see. Its shape was identical, it was a duplicate of the Pentacle laying against
Steve's chest. Zayez extended it towards Steve. His flesh wanted to retreat from touching it
but his mind compelled him to accept it. There could be no doubt that it was identical in
shape and material to the one he wore. He held it against the light from one of the long
windows. Once again, the effigy of a man was imbedded within the clear material, it had the
identical posture.
Steve could hardly breath but it didn't seem to be important, he focused his eyes on the
features, not knowing what he expected to find. He felt an unaccountable disappointment -
once again, the figure was male and nude but it wasn't a replica of the cat man. This was a
different physical type. This one reminded him of pictures from Old Earth of lean, arrogant,
Semitic featured men. Wild and wandering tribesmen with sharp features, piercing eyes and
an almost beak-like nose.
92

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
Steve felt an illogical dislike. This man looked pitiless, sneeringly arrogant - he would
make a bad enemy. For no apparent reason and as far as he could afterwards remember, for
the first time in his life, Steve fainted. When he came too, he was laying in the air flowing
through one of the openings. He stared up into the faces of Danyk and Zayez and felt waves
of peace and soothing washing over his mind. A dark fear resisted their efforts but it slowly
subsided.
"What the hell made me do that?"
"You are better."
It wasn't a question, it was a statement of fact.
"There was great mental agitation, something from your hidden mind which responded to
the artefact."
"From my hidden mind - ?"
"The instinctive mind which has been suppressed by rules and laws and the conditioning of
the behaviour of your society."
They helped him to his feet. He forced himself to go back into the room where the artefact
still lay on the table. He couldn't bring himself to touch it again. Danyk picked it up and
turned it over and then face up again.
"It's very similar to yours."
"It's not the same - "
Steve took the Pentacle from around his neck and placed it on the table. They examined the
two almost identical pieces. Slowly, Danyk lifted the second of them and placed it on the
first. He aligned the points of the star. The two artefacts were identical in shape and size. He
manoeuvred the two effigies so that they were superimposed. Steve stared at the result, a third
man stared back from the combined figures, he had the characteristics of both and yet, was
unique in himself.
"There is something vaguely familiar about him."
Steve had spoken in a whisper.
"He should be familiar, he begins to look like you - "
"Bullshit!"
"I merely remarked that he is beginning to look like you - I didn't say it was you."
He tried to give the combined image to Steve but he refused to touch it. Danyk turned to
Zayez who had been deep in silent contemplation during this time. The old man emerged
from his reverie.
"The Stewardship of this artefact is at an end. It is proper for me to pass custody to you,
Steve Holt. It is deeply associated with your hidden mind. Perhaps in times past, when our
society was young, we were commissioned to guard this image until the owner came. I
believe that you are that owner - it is yours to keep - or to destroy!"
Steve snapped and screamed:
"I won't touch the bloody things! I refuse to accept that I'm the owner. How can I have
anything to do with two objects from two different worlds? By your own admission, you've
had this one for hundreds, maybe, thousands of years."
Zayez nodded quietly.
"You have tried to explain to us that you came here to our world, as the result of being
displaced in time and space. Can you be sure that one day, you will not leave our world for
some other destination? If you can leave us, is it not possible that you could come back once
more? Perhaps, at a time so long ago that we have forgotten it in our history, you visited us
and placed the artefact into our care."
Steve clamped his jaw shut. Only their gods knew what the future held. The knot in his
stomach tightened, now he was thinking of gods! Maybe, there was something in what Maia
93

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
had said about beings so ancient that men only knew them as divine. Maia had not been
frightened not to call them gods and she had called them - Race Masters.
"Who are these people?
He pointed to the two images. Zayez murmured in his mind.
"One you recognise, even as I do, but the time for revealing your knowledge is not now!"
He sounded tired, the answer seemed as if he was dragging it from somewhere far off.
"It is one of the mysteries of this matter that you have so little knowledge. You have no
memory of the events which led to the creation of the Pentacles. Your relationship with these
men has barely started but you will meet with the second somewhere in your future life, even
as now, you have met with the first. I see you wandering, you are destined to be a wanderer. I
warn you to remember my words when you have thoughts of ties with others. If you make
such ties, they will be broken. Circumstances will arise which will reveal to you that you
have a destiny which cannot be anchored to any one place - or even to any one time. I have
no power to answer you further, Steve Holt."
The room appeared to have become darker and yet it was nothing to do with the natural
light which was as strong as before. Zayez had merged into a shadow and yet he was in the
full light of one of the windows. Steve thought he had finished and started to say something.
Danyk touched his arm to stop him. Zayez continued in a whisper.
"I detect a cosmic force, it has a means to unleash a power rarely known to the galaxy. It is
locked in these images and two others yet to be found. They were fashioned aeons ago by
those who are Unmentionable, save to call them the Race Masters. When the four pieces are
joined, the power will flow. It is your task to seek for these four. In this, Danyk is bound to
you. It is no accident that you came to the house of Lyot! So it has been designed!"
It looked as if he had come to the end this time. It had to be some kind of trance. Steve
reached out a shaky hand to take the two Pentacles. He avoided superimposing them. Danyk
touched his arm again and nodded to the door. They left quietly without disturbing Zayez,
who had slumped into an exhausted doze. As they left, the old man's two attendants passed
them without speaking.
"Well, what do you make of all that?"
Danyk waited until they were a safe distance from the room before he answered. They had
walked out into a kind of cloister that ran along the side of the building. Steve had always
imagined that a mausoleum would be like this place - cool, quiet and deserted except for the
ghosts of those who mouldered there. On Mars, there wasn't anything that was more than two
hundred and ninety-five years old. On Old Earth, he had read, there was nothing much left
standing, ancient or modern - just underground shelters which had recently been regarrisoned
- and the rough shelters the Mutants had built on the surface. He wondered who
had built this place. He wondered as well, when the city building epoch of the Lynxe had
finished. Danyk still had not answered.
"Well, say something - Even if it is only - I don't know!"
"It would seem that we have a common destiny."
He didn't sound very enthusiastic. He stopped abruptly, turned and glared ferociously into
Steve's eyes. Steve blinked involuntarily - it was a bit unexpected.
"I don't know what you mean."
He sounded defensive.
"You heard Zayez - he said I was bound to you."
"So, what does that mean?"
"Perhaps to one of your race, it means little. To my race, it has a mystical significance. It
means that we are to become one person in two skins. It means that we are prepared to die for
each other if necessary!"
"Oh!"
94

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
It had been said as a bald statement of fact, there was no emotion which would have made
the statement sound corny - like two schoolboys pledging eternal friendship. It was
profoundly meant. Steve realised yet again, how little he knew about the Lynxe and their
culture. The thought must have transmitted. Danyk nodded in agreement.
"You do have a lot to learn about us. I find it easier to learn of your ways. Your thoughts
run riot within your mind, like a mob of unruly children, who cause damage and distress by
their activities. Thought is a powerful force which must be controlled. You have never had to
discipline your thoughts. Without such a discipline, it will be difficult for you to understand
us."
"I've learned to control my actions and until I came into your world, I had no one peering
into my mind. It was my private world, a place where I could do as I pleased. No one was
injured, as you put it - unless I chose to act on my thoughts. I learned to disengage the
intention from the action."
He was rather pleased with himself over that turn of phrase. Danyk clearly, was not very
impressed.
"A child has to learn to control its bowels, otherwise it will discharge its wastes as and
when it thinks fit. The mind also, must be controlled, otherwise it will discharge its carnality
and arouse passions that might not be easily quietened. Thought is impressive, it is that which
separates the intelligent from the bestial. Have you ever considered the power of a single
thought? That tiny impulse of energy that is triggered by something unknown and then is
converted into a word or action? It could be a thought that will stir thoughts in others and
create a chain reaction. Such little thoughts have led to mighty events."
It sounded a trifle overstated but Steve kept his peace, Danyk was opening up and
becoming - less alien.
"In the mind can be quietness and peace, that is one of the first things you must learn - to
be quiet within the mind. It is from the quietness of mind that the Gift is enhanced in those
who possess it. As you know, not all of the Lynxe have the Gift, some have to learn
tranquillity without it. At the School of the Adepts, students perform exercises to open the
channels of the mind and through these channels, pure thought energy flows. This is the
means we use to penetrate deeply into guilt and fear that blocks the minds of the injured."
Steve wondered if he still realised that he was there. One of his uncontrolled thoughts
interrupted Danyk's flow. It was as if it had come from somewhere else.
"But you have no power to answer your greatest grief."
Danyk started at him piercingly again. Steve felt anger and discomfort and then control.
"Would it be possible for you to switch me off once in a while? For your own peace of
mind as well as mine."
Danyk did the unexpected and draped an arm around his shoulders.
"I enjoy you, you are as fresh as a child. You blurt out things that we would hesitate to say.
I wouldn't miss one thought of it!"
He squeezed Steve's shoulders and then dropped his arm. Steve was getting confused.
"Now I'm as fresh as a child - just now I was a carnal minded moron."
"Not so, I was telling you of our ways and how different our two cultures are. I told you
what I found in you and how easy it is to know your ways."
"I wish I could go to this School of yours and listen to some of the - lessons - is that what
you would call them? Perhaps I could pick up some of this elusive peace of mind you seem
so enthused about."
Danyk laughed softly. Laughter didn't seem to fit in the dour environment. Steve shivered,
he didn't like the dead city.
"It would take too many years for you to do so, I think. Some struggle for inner peace for a
lifetime."
95

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"I haven't got a lifetime to spare! Forget it! I shouldn't have mentioned it - put it down to
one of my stupid undisciplined thoughts!"
The smile was gone, replaced by the grave mask.
"Do you see how easily you lose your peace?
They came to the end of the walkway. A smooth grey wall confronted them, there appeared
to be no other way out of the enclosed courtyard. Steve felt mildly irritated.
"Whoever designed this place certainly made it difficult to move around - how do you get
from one part of the city to another?"
Danyk eyed the top of the wall.
"Perhaps you jump over."
"Ask a stupid question and get a stupid answer!"
"There is no need to get angry over such a trivial matter. To answer your question - it is an
illusion which is created to make you think that there seems to be no way to the other areas of
the city. The only visible access is at the point where we entered from the forest, the only
road open to us is the one that leads here, the only building is the one we have used and this is
the extent to which we are permitted to go."
"Permitted?"
Danyk turned and started to walk back. Steve persisted, gripping his arm.
"Permitted?"
"This place is very old, so old that the history of it is hidden in legend. It is said that when
the inhabitants left - fled from the city, driven by their inability to live in harmony, the Elders
of the Clans secured the city in some way, so that none could enter and dwell here. They left
the one means of access, and the road we followed and the building we have used. The rest
they - locked."
"How - locked?"
"By mental power - The Gift is the residue of far greater mental powers which our people
once possessed. We have lost more than we retain."
He laughed without humour.
"It's ironic isn't it - even the Gift is dwindling, just as our potency to procreate is
dwindling. The Lynxe are falling back into barbarism!"
Steve let him wallow in his racial self pity for a moment, then:
"How did we get through the wall - some sort of trick gate against attackers?"
Danyk laughed again, it sounded bitter.
"Those who are especially Gifted among the Adepts, together with their Master, are able to
concentrate mental effort in such a way that something happens to the substance of the wall at
that point and an entry is held open long enough for us to pass. It takes a great mental effort,
that is why Zayez is so exhausted. That is another irony - at one time, a child could use that
power to pass through - a child! Now it takes the combined effort of a Master and his most
skilled Adepts."
Steve stirred uneasily.
"What happens if Zayez and the other two are unable to reopen the entrance for us to go
back?"
Danyk shrugged.
"The Adepts will need a new Master - and we will stay here until we die!"
Steve swallowed and said no more.
They had re-entered the room where they had left Zayez, he had been taken away by his
attendants. Danyk looked concerned.
"I have never seen Zayez so exhausted - it's clear that we won't be leaving the city until he
has recovered."
"Where have they taken him?"
96

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"This isn't the only room in this building, there are others where travellers rest."
"Your ancients must have expected a lot of visitors."
He didn't answer, instead he gestured to the door leading back into the building and led the
way along a bland corridor of smooth grey-blue stone. There were two other openings, one to
the outside, through which they had originally come and another which widened out into a
kind of anteroom. It reminded Steve of a bureaucrat's waiting room, back in New Earth.
There were a few hard looking benches, a central table and little else. At intervals around the
walls, there were a number of doors. Steve changed his mind about what it reminded him of,
it was more like the waiting room at a brothel. He was jerked out of his reverie by Danyk's
sardonic thought in his mind.
"Don't tell me you have queues for that sort of thing."
"The Ladies of the Guild are in high demand - New Earth is short of women."
They entered a room beyond one of the doors, Steve was more than a little relieved to find
it furnished quite comfortably.
"If your people left this place so long ago, how is it that this furniture looks new?"
"It is the original - our ancestors made sure that it would not deteriorate."
"How in hell's name did they do that?"
"You may be right, maybe it was an invocation to Hella - they believed in the old gods in
those days. I can't answer you - I don't know."
The subject was closed, Danyk didn't feel easy in the ancient place, it seemed full of the
ghosts of those who had long since gone and perhaps the lingering influence of the mental
strife that had driven them back into the woods and pastures. He left Steve and found a room
for himself. It was time to think out the implications of Zayez's pronouncement.
Danyk sat cross legged on the floor and relaxed his aching muscles, willing emptiness into
his mind, allowing it to flow and wash away the tension - it was one of the elementary
techniques, but it always worked for him. Soon he found the mental peace and detachment he
needed and then he began the long, measured processes of evaluating the sequence of events
which had started with his dream of a blue-eyed man who walked with him among the stars.
The memory of his previous dream evoked another, but this time, he was not sleeping. He
arose from his physical form and looked down at himself. He sat cross legged, with his toes
drawn into his groin. His face was upturned and his eyes closed in the depth of his
meditation. Part of the technique was shallow breathing. He looked like a statue.
He turned away to look at what he had been drawn from his physical form to see. Steve
Holt walked confidently in the centre of a group of onlookers. Danyk could feel the heat
pulsing up from the purple sand by the black ocean. He moved forward to join Steve and at
the same time, another man approached on the other side. There was no mistaking the stiff
arrogance of his features - or the hatred with which he viewed Steve. He carried no weapons.
All those in the tableau were unclothed, the lurid red light of a massive star bronzed their
flesh.
He reached Steve at the same time as the other man, who assessed him critically. Nothing
was said and then the trio turned to face a massive arch, beyond which they could see the
sullen surge of the black ocean. They walked forward until they were almost at its entrance
and the intensity of inner power increased in his mind. Danyk knew it would take only one
more step and the power would burst upon them and devour them away. He stopped and his
two companions did likewise. A voice came from a great distance on the hot breeze which
whipped up the purple sand. It said:
"It is not yet the time."
97

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
CHAPTER 17
The journey back from the shore of purple sand took a long time. It was as if the sand itself
held his feet and he was required to struggle for each step, before the scene changed to that of
his room and the meditative figure which he had to rejoin. Even that was a psychic struggle,
which spilled into the physical. When he came to his conscious self, he found he was soaked
in sweat and that his breathing was laboured as if he had completed a physical task which had
demanded every ounce of energy.
He reached for a towel and wiped his face. The vision he had experienced was crystal clear
in his mind. He went over each detail. His mental discipline did not allow him to panic in the
way that Steve Holt would have. It was a matter to be dealt with in calm reflection. His -
dream - was very similar to that which Steve had experienced. The essential difference was
that the element of fear was missing. The Steve Holt of his dream had appeared quite ready to
enter the Arch and had not fought or screamed in protest. It had been Danyk who had drawn
back. He had resisted taking the final step into whatever lay beyond the arch. There was
another point, another man had been there and he had not resisted - and that man he had
recognised!
Danyk uncoiled on to his feet. He bathed and changed into a fresh tunic. He made his way
to Steve's room, already knowing that it was unoccupied. Danyk felt a slight amusement.
Steve was like an irrational child, he acted on impulse without considering the consequences.
He had decided to explore the immediate area around the guest rooms. He was quite safe
because he did not have the mind power to open the accesses to other areas. Danyk could
read the intensity of curiosity in his thoughts. He would not return for a while and in that
time, Danyk would once again inspect the two Pentacles. He felt the superstitious fear they
aroused in his blue-eyed Scarn and knew that he had no wish to have them close to his flesh.
He entered Steve's room and saw the two objects on a small table. He took one at random
and looked at the image against the light. It was the one which had been held in trust over the
centuries. The arrogant, beak-featured man glared back at him, his arms and legs stretched
out into four of the five points of the Pentagram. His head occupied the fifth. The eyes were
the focus, they drew the attention like a challenge. Danyk felt challenged and knew that one
day he would face this man in the flesh and something would be demanded from him.
There was no doubt that this was the man whom he had seen in his - dream. He slowly
replaced the Pentacle where he had found it. He looked at the other and had to exert his self
discipline to overcome the irrational fear which surged up from somewhere within him. He
picked it up and repeated his action of holding it against the light. He wondered why he had
not recognised his image earlier. Perhaps he had, but he had refused to accept the possibility
98

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
that his image could be imprinted within an object which supposedly, had been found on a
world which was a fantasy within the mind of his blue-eyed Scarn.
He took in every detail. It was like looking in a mirror. It was his body, his limbs, his head,
his eyes staring back quietly and untroubled. There could be no mistake. He sensed the return
of Steve, feeling the boredom which had replaced the earlier enthusiasm to explore. The alien
had found every path blocked and had become frustrated. He put down the Pentacle and
waited for his return.
The mind turmoil came to the door of the room and then changed to caution, as he realised
he had a visitor. There was an upsurge of relief when he recognised Danyk.
"I've been exploring."
"I know."
"Yes, I suppose you would. You must live a very boring life - nobody can ever give you a
surprise party - you'd know as soon as someone started to plan one. I suppose you don't
exchange presents either - after all, you'd know what was planned as a gift. I suppose it could
have one thing in its favour, you'd never double up on a present, you'd know what everyone
else was going to give the birthday boy!"
Danyk echoed.
"The birthday boy?"
"Don't tell me you don't celebrate birthdays!"
"We see no point in celebrating something we didn't plan and execute."
Steve shook his head.
"Don't you ever have a good time - throw a party - get rid of your inhibitions?"
"We have our moments."
Steve grinned.
"I bet you do!"
"Your carnality is showing again."
Steve eyed him thoughtfully.
"Carnality worries you, doesn't it?"
"Carnality, is a necessity under some circumstances. On the other hand, it is an expression
of our baser selves."
Steve snorted.
"Small wonder you have trouble getting children!"
"Is it really your intention to lash out and wound for the sake of winning an argument?"
Danyk felt the flood of guilt and contrition. Steve muttered.
"Sorry - that was below the belt."
"Below the belt?"
"A Martian idiom - a clout in the balls!"
"Oh!"
"What were you doing whilst I was wandering around?"
"Meditating."
Steve nodded absently.
"I suppose you would be - nothing much else to get excited about."
"You seem to have an insatiable appetite to get excited. I sensed you marching around the
complex looking for something to - excite - you."
"I was restless."
"That isn't new. You've been restless ever since we met. Restless about your woman.
Restless about your strange box. Restless about the Pentacle."
"I get the picture! My enquiring mind causes you mental agitation. I've told you before,
you should switch off some time, for your own peace of mind!"
"And I told you, I wouldn't miss a moment of you!"
99

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"Then, stop complaining!"
Danyk grinned.
"I think my meditation session was more exciting that you wandering around the complex
like a Vix in heat!"
Steve sat on the edge of the bed.
"Do tell."
Danyk outlined his dream without the embroidery of emotion. Steve stared at him when he
finished.
"They say that lightning never strikes in the same place twice."
"Lightning?"
"Your dream and my dream are practically identical."
"I had another player in mine."
"The man in the second Pentacle?"
"Yes. I was becoming reacquainted when you returned."
Danyk felt the attempt to mask the thought in Steve's mind.
"You needn't try to block me, Steve. I know that it's my image in the first Pentacle."
Steve stared into his eyes.
"What do you think about that?"
"Confusion. What else would you expect me to think?"
Steve looked away.
"I wish I knew what this all means."
"Zayez gave us the answer - perhaps, you didn't listen as I did. It becomes even more
obvious that we are linked together. One soul in two skins. I don't pretend to understand how
or why."
"And yet, we keep on getting clues. The unreal world of purple sand, the black ocean, the
red star, the arch -"
"And now, the other man who was not in your dream."
"The Pentacles are the link - and if Zayez is correct, there are two more - The question is
where?"
"Beyond the world in our dreams, perhaps. Beyond the arch through which you, me and
the unknown man must journey."
Steve stared resolutely out of the window.
"If I were you, I'd give a lot of thought before you decide to exchange what you have for
some wild ride through an arch."
"If you have told the truth - you took the wild ride!"
"I had no option!"
"Perhaps, I have no option either!"
"Who's going to force you? Zayez? I won't!"
"Why should Zayez force me? No, Steve, it will be the same force which brought you to
us. For whatever it means, mine was the image on the Pentacle you discovered on your
world. It brought you here. This man is an image on the Pentacle on this world. It will bring
us there!"
Steve looked at him. Danyk felt the fear stir in his mind.
"What the hell does it all mean, Danyk? What in hell's name gives whoever these people
are, the right to shuffle me and perhaps you, around the universe to satisfy their whims?"
"Their will is law! They cannot be denied!"
The anger flared in his mind.
"Let them try me! They'll find they've picked the wrong boy if they imagine they can push
me around!"
"But you are here, Steve Holt!"
100

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
Steve shrugged and glared moodily out into the courtyard.
"What happens now?"
"Another talk with Zayez, I think."
"I thought you didn't like him."
"Sometimes it is necessary to submit to the authority of others. You misunderstand my
feelings for Zayez. I respect him and his wisdom. I do not respect some of those who are the
Adepts, who try to impose mental controls on me which I refuse to accept. It is my opinion
that some of them are encouraging people like Jabez to worship the old gods."
"If they're listening, you're transmitting loud and clear!"
"That was my intention!"
Steve thought: 'Another rebellious bastard!'. Danyk smiled and nodded.
He led the way to a stairway which Steve had missed. It spiralled upward, lit at intervals,
by narrow aperture slits. It was a long climb but any complaint was stifled when they
emerged onto a platform which topped one of the towers. There was a low wall, which
separated them from a dizzy drop to the courtyard below. Steve stepped back hastily. Danyk
smiled.
"From here, we can look down into some of the closed parts of the city. Theoretically, we
could swing a rope across and gain access."
"I'll leave that to those who have a death wish!"
Steve took in the view, walking slowly around until he could take an alignment on the long
walkway which led to the city perimeter. The walls which flanked it were high, behind those
walls, he caught glimpses of narrower streets flanked by small buildings. In some areas, there
were larger structures. He let his imagination take over - perhaps they were communal
buildings. He could visualise the bustle of commerce and the flow of traffic in and out of the
city. The sun would set and still the city would not be quiet. Small traders would keep their
businesses going into the night. Their more prosperous neighbours would relax in their
comfortable homes with their families. There would be entertainment - singing and
instrument playing. The brothels would do a roaring trade.
Danyk hooted with laughter, Steve nearly lost his footing. He turned round angrily. The cat
man was holding his sides.
"Fascinating!"
"I'm glad you're amused!"
"Quite fascinating!"
Steve glared ferociously.
"You superimpose what you romantically remember of your ancient culture, on the
structures of an alien city and make assumptions about our way of life - and you wonder why
I'm amused!"
"I think your actual words were: 'fascinating - quite fascinating'!"
"You are fascinating!"
"I'm usually told that by my women!"
"Don't let your imagination run away with you!"
"I wouldn't dare - you'd be there to catch it for me!"
Danyk sobered down.
"In the last days of this city, there was much loss of life. If the ancient accounts are to be
believed, the streets ran with blood, it was not safe to conduct commerce in the way you
imagine. We never traded with each other in that way, so there were none who were more
prosperous than others. The homes of the population were not places of conviviality, the
impending disaster of civil strife was an ever present concern. When they detected that it was
inevitable, the people fled the city never to return. It was a massive, disorderly exodus and
101

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
many were crushed underfoot. The elders closed the city in the way I have mentioned, except
for the School of the Adepts."
Steve jerked in surprise.
"The School of the Adepts is here?"
"Where else? This is the home of Zayez. We are lodged within the dormitory cells of the
students. I see in your mind, that you have a different concept of school. I see a place where
there is a great deal of movement with chattering young people. This School is one of peace
and tranquillity, there is very little noise."
It was getting dark and the distant forest was a dark smudge beyond the open expanse of
savannah outside of the outer walls. Danyk led the way down the spiral. It was as well that he
was in front, Steve stumbled a number of times. Danyk said eventually:
"No, Steve! I can't see in the dark with my cat eyes!"
Lamps had been placed in their rooms. As they parted, Steve asked.
"How long are we to stay here?"
"We return to the Thanehold tomorrow - just the two of us. Zayez showed us what he
wanted us to see."
"Perhaps, he showed us what we didn't want to see."
"You may be right but ignoring something which doesn't suit us, doesn't make it go away."
They ate in the Refractory with the Master and his Adepts. It was a silent meal which was
served by young men who melted away as soon as their task was done. Steve was used to the
lack of conversation during meals, in the Thanehold, it was no different, except that there, the
mind conversation flowed. Here it was absent. He wondered if Danyk was isolating him by
not opening a channel. He realised he couldn't be isolated - not with a room full of Adepts
and their Master.
He took a frank look at his fellow diners. Zayez occupied his rightful place at the head of
the table. Danyk was next to him, as befitted his rank as the son of a Thane. Steve was next to
him, no doubt in recognition of his special status as an alien from outer space. There were no
other guests, the remaining places being occupied by inscrutable cat men clad in black tunics.
They all seemed immersed in their own thoughts - or was it his thoughts? It ought to have
been an occasion for conversation, for an exchange of ideas and cultures. Even a discussion
about the Pentacles and the fact that there was a duplicate of the one which had been in their
custody for millennia. Nothing was forthcoming. They were either particularly lacking in
curiosity, or they were totally indifferent to him. It was ego deflating.
He was glad when they rose one after the other, to stalk off to their own devices. Danyk did
the same and Steve was quick to follow his example.
"You were annoyed because they ignored you."
It was a statement.
"It could be construed as discourtesy."
"Are you now an expert on the Lynxe standards of social behaviour?"
"Perhaps not - but I recognise a cold shoulder."
"They were very busy in your mind."
"Sounds like I need a traffic controller!"
"Don't be flippant! The Adepts possess the ultimate in the Gift - you would be advised to
remember that! Even I have to tread warily! They could be a great help to us - or they could
create - difficulties."
"Such as?"
"They and Zayez advise the High Thane in Council. My father has decided to give you the
benefit of the doubt for the time being. Not all of the Thanes are as progressive!"
"What could they do?"
102

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"Restrict your movements. Even imprison you! I got the message this evening, that the
High Thane is beginning to show interest. Your presence has been reported to him. Zayez and
the Adepts have been asked for an analysis and report. Events are beginning over which you
will have no control and where I can't help you!
"Comforting!"
"I would learn to school your thoughts - you are altogether too rash for your own safety. It
isn't everyone who finds you amusing, Steve Holt!"
"That may be so - but they and you should remember. I came to this world uninvited and
they could do nothing to stop me! If my masters decided that I must leave, they can do
nothing to stop me!"
Danyk's face was expressionless, he turned on his heel and left him. Steve sat down slowly
and wondered where that little outburst had originated. It had been more than whistling in the
wind because he was frightened, he had really meant what he had stated so emphatically. He
hoped his words would be included in the report Zayez and the Adepts were preparing for the
High Thane. They were not his thoughts but they might be construed as a message to the
authorities from those he had called his masters.
The long walk out of the city began early on the following day. There had been no
reception committee when they had arrived and there was no one to wave them farewell.
Perhaps, it was not their way. They walked out of the main door and confronted the section of
wall through which they had passed on the inward journey. It loomed massive and
impenetrable, blocking their way. Steve waited in the growing heat for the miracle to take
place. Danyk stood impassive beside him. There had been little conversation since his
outburst on the previous evening.
Steve started to fidget, he refused to believe that no one knew that they wanted to pass.
They had a long journey and they couldn't wait all day. It was a further example of the
discourtesy they had shown. His anger started to rise and he turned and glared back at the
bland walls of the building they had left. The sweat trickled down his back under the tunic.
He looked back again and then at Danyk. He was standing like a wooden doll, staring at the
bland surface which barred their way.
Steve had placed both of the Pentacles around his neck, they seemed to gather heat against
his chest. His heart started to thump. He looked back once more and then directed his ferocity
against the solid wall. He yanked the two Pentacles out through the neck of the tunic and took
one in each hand. Danyk turned his head in mild interest. Steve held out his hands as if in
entreaty, but his thoughts were not pleading, they were demanding. He shouted, so that his
voice echoed round the spires and pinnacles and was magnified and bounced from one to the
other.
"Open!"
There was no response. The heat surged in him. Rage fuelled his determination.
"Open! In the name of Taxila, Open!"
Danyk sighed, Steve didn't spare him a look. The wall in front of them shimmered and
dissolved from matter into energy. Steve marched forward, still clutching the Pentacles, as if
he didn't trust the wall to be re-established before they were through. On the other side of the
opening, he looked back. The gap was still open. A nonsensical instruction from Old Earth
history floated into his mind. 'When in the country, always leave the gate as you found it.' His
instruction was mild.
"Close - Close in the name of Taxila."
He almost stumbled over the pronunciation of the unknown name. He lowered his arms,
and feeling a little foolish, looked at Danyk. He was leaning against a wall with folded arms.
Steve pushed the Pentacles within the neck of the tunic. He looked at Danyk again.
"Well - Don't you have some observations?"
103

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
Danyk shrugged.
"What can I say to a blue-eyed Scarn who can command walls to dissolve in the name of
an ancient Lynxe god?"
"So - now I'm a blue-eyed Scarn again?"
Danyk shook his head.
"Steve Holt - To tell the truth, I don't know what you are!"
CHAPTER 18
"We're not going back the way we came."
"Observant of you."
They had completed the long walk to the edge of the forest. Danyk had been very quiet
during the monotonous trudge to the outer wall and across the cleared expanse around the
city. Steve had paused before they entered the trees. He took one last look at the walls, towers
and pinnacles and wondered if he would ever see them again.
Danyk was showing signs of impatience, Steve ignored him. The episode at the closed wall
had in some way, given him the edge. Danyk's supreme aura of self assurance had wavered.
Steve didn't know how he had made the wall open, or why he had invoked the name of their
old god, but the outcome had been impressive. He took one last look at the city and
surrendered to Danyk's mind urging. The man of Lynxe seemed eager to put as much distance
as possible between himself and the scene of the blue-eyed Scarn's miracle. The way
downward from the plateau was far easier than when they had struggled up the slope on the
previous day. By the time they reached the brook Danyk seemed to have recovered his mental
balance.
Steve was treated to his first taste of Lynxe singing - at least, that was what he assumed it
to be. He wasn't impressive but Danyk appeared to be enjoying himself. After a while it set
Steve's teeth on edge.
"Something hurting you?"
The wailing stopped abruptly.
"You don't like it? It's a song travellers sing when they are going home."
"It sounds as if you've got your jock strap twisted!"
There was a flash of puzzlement, probably the phrase lost something in the thought
translation.
"I asked you before - Why are we taking a different route?"
"We took a detour to get here - we wanted to show you the temple - This way is more
direct."
They walked for four more hours and then made camp. Danyk chose a good spot, but he
wasn't alone in his choice. He greeted a young couple who had unrolled their packs a little
further down the trail. The young man was open faced and friendly, whilst the girl was small
and quiet. Both of them were typical of the Lynxe, blond and lean. They eyed Steve with
104

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
frank curiosity, he was now boasting a three day growth of beard and looked scruffy. They
were entitled to look wary. If Danyk hadn't been there, they might have run for their lives.
Danyk talked to them quietly and Steve had no doubt that he was the subject of the
conversation. He could see their awakening interest and he began to feel like an exhibit at a
freak show. He didn't know what was said but it was always possible that Danyk had
delivered the advice: 'Keep the woman out of the way, he's a raving sex maniac. He's already
put one innocent girl in the family way'.
They camped together, sharing the evening meal and rolling the bed packs out by the side
of a stream. Steve looked at it with regret, he had been looking forward to a nice cool swim
before supper. He doubted if the present company went in for nude, mixed bathing, especially
with a suspected Lynxe/Scarn hybrid. They had built a communal fire and relaxed around it.
Steve discovered the limitations of Hara's lessons. He missed out on a great deal of the
conversation, which was vocal. Danyk neglected to keep open a mind channel. He and the
young man chattered away for a while, an odd word here and there indicated the subject to be
the oil crop and other rural delights. The girl was quiet, she stared into the flames and avoided
the glance of the shaggy, Scarn-like creature who shared their fire. It might have been
modesty or shyness - or terror. It was fairly obvious that these people didn't possess the Gift,
or if they did, it was only to a very small degree.
On the next morning, they parted amicably and went their respective ways. Danyk set a
cracking pace which Steve matched with grim determination. There was a trace of mockery
in the thought flow. There was no breath to spare for talking. Even the mind link was
unusually quiet. It was as if Danyk was trying to avoid any further discussion on the subject
of Pentacles and the taking of the name of an ancient god in vain. Nevertheless, it was a
harmonious silence. After a while, Steve did ventured one question.
"Why are we in such a bloody hurry."
Danyk slowed down a little.
"I didn't realise you were out of breath."
"I'm not - I just want to know the reason for this unseemly haste."
"At this time of the year, the Scarn need a great deal of supervision. We have more to do
with our time than keeping you out of trouble - besides, the Thanehold is expecting an
important visitor, there's a lot to prepare and my father wants me home long before he arrives
- and he wants you home too - and suitably prepared!"
"How in hell's name do you know that. No! Don't answer, your father's been broadcasting
loud and clear, I suppose. Would it be too much to ask who this important visitor is and why I
should be home before he arrives?"
"He's coming to look you over and see if you're suitable for a place in his menagerie!"
Steve stopped abruptly. Danyk turned and eyed him calmly.
"We really should hurry, I don't want to keep him waiting!"
Steve refused to baited.
"That does sound interesting. I hope you got a good price for me?"
The mind block stayed for a moment and then collapsed in a flood of amusement.
"Well done! Quite surprising! You didn't rise to the bait, you must be learning!"
"I suppose your learned Adepts haven't taught you that you shouldn't bait an inferior
species?"
The amusement ebbed away. Danyk nodded.
"I'm sorry, you're quite right. I shouldn't have done that. The Thanehold is about to be
honoured with a visit by the High Thane. You will be presented to him."
He resumed his relentless pace. Steve caught up just as they breasted a hill crest. The
Thanehold was far below. The sun was dropping quickly to the horizon. It took another hour
105

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
to complete the journey. Danyk's steps were unerring. The comparison to the Old Earth
pussycat came into his mind. Danyk exploded into a hoot of laughter.
"My eyesight is good, but I'm not that well endowed!"
"I hadn't paid much attention to whether you were well endowed - although, I suppose
you'll do!"
He rode a well aimed thump in the ribs. Danyk raced ahead, obviously happy to be home
again. Steve slowed a little, it wasn't his home. At best, he was a tolerated guest. He thought
about the High Thane. He sounded formidable and from all accounts, his word outweighed all
others.
It was the time of the evening gathering. They made their way to the communal room. Two
places were vacant at the head of the table. Those who had gathered knew of their coming,
Danyk would have been broadcasting it with increasing clarity. The greetings were friendly
but restrained - Laoni was her normal, ice cold, distant self. Steve felt her disapproval - he
corrected himself, it was more than disapproval, she detested him! Maia was friendly enough
but concentrated her welcome on brother Danyk. It was irrational, but Steve felt a stab of
envy. Lyot eyed him critically.
"We've followed your adventures with a great deal of interest, Steve Holt. So, it would
seem has our Lord, the High Thane."
Steve answered carefully.
"It will be a singular honour to meet him."
Lyot grunted and continued eating.
The Lady Hepha intervened.
"The girl, Hara, is quite well."
It was a distinct thawing of restraint.
"I thank you, my lady, for your kindness to her."
He thought she was pleased but she wasn't the type to broadcast her emotions. She would
make a formidable mother-in-law! Next to him, Danyk choked on his food and planted a
large elbow in his ribs. Steve gave his an enquiring look and would have sworn he was
crying. The Lady Hepha gave no sign that she had picked up the thought - perhaps, it was as
well.
Krin was anxious for a blow by blow description of everything that had happened. Steve
obliged as concisely as he could but glossed over the discovery of the second Pentacle and his
sudden aptitude to make openings in solid walls. The rest were quietly listening. Lyot
rumbled.
"I see more than you are telling us - and still more which remains a mystery - even to you."
There was an audible murmur from the others at the table. They dispersed to go to their
beds. Danyk followed him.
"Steve, I must apologise for my father and the others. They simply do not understand
what's happening."
"Do you?"
He hesitated for a moment and then nodded.
"Brother Steve, I have to believe you, because I have started to share your experiences. I
can't disbelieve what I see with my own eyes. After the episode at the wall, I think you have
the power within you to make anything happen!"
Steve grinned.
"Now, who's well endowed?"
"I add a warning. When you opened the wall, your power was fuelled by rage and
frustration. Take my advice and watch very carefully the emotion you use to exercise your
authority."
Steve's smile faded. The use of 'brother Steve' had jolted him. Danyk watched his thoughts.
106

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"Did it trouble you?"
He asked softly and looked as if he had been repulsed. Steve shook his head emphatically.
"Don't feel rejected, Danyk. It raised many memories and ghosts."
"Let me see."
He showed him some of the hidden things of a planet which was now dead to him and one
to which he could not return. He showed him war and rebellion and the brother who had
stood between him and a lethal laser shot. He showed him the guilt he carried.
"I can't tell you not to be guilty, Steve. You are the only one who can cancel that feeling.
Zayez has told us we are bound together. I told you that we shall be as one person in two
skins. I cannot replace your dead brother. He was Ivan - I am Danyk."
Steve stared into the grey-green cat eyes.
"Surely, no stranger alliance can be imagined than that which we are making. If it is your
wish, then also it is mine - Brother Danyk."
He nodded and grinned, the formality and the tension ebbed away.
"I want to check something with the Bole."
"I will go."
Danyk didn't like the Bole.
"Love me, love my Bole! I'd like you to stay, it might have something very interesting to
tell us!"
Danyk sat down again but kept his distance.
"Status?"
"Integrity."
Danyk was wide eyed and curious.
"What does that mean?"
"It is my way of checking that no one has been meddling where their fingers could be
burned."
"I doubt if anyone would be so unwise - Word of your box's capabilities is well circulated
in the Thanehold."
"I'm pleased to hear it."
"Bole. Institute a general search for theories concerning the racial origins of man, which
were still current at the time of the Evacuation."
There was a slight pause.
"Information is retrieved."
"Aren't you a bloody little marvel?"
"I am considered to be the most superior model of Bole developed."
"You're a conceited, bloody trash can! Remember, there's nothing more obsolete than last
year's model!"
"Your comment is noted."
"What have you discovered? Or do you intend to hug it to your little tin chest?"
"A menu of retrieved information follows:
The Epic of Gilgamesh - "
"Skip - "
"The Vedic scriptures - "
"Skip - "
"Ancient Egyptian - "
"Skip - "
"Chinese - "
"Skip - "
"Greek mythology - "
"Skip - "
107

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"Roman Mythology - "
"Skip - "
"Norse Mythology - "
"Skip - "
"Judaeo/Christian Religious Beliefs - "
"Skip - "
"The Theory of Evolution - "
"Anything else?"
"The Hauptmeier Hypothesis."
"Hold! What the hell is the Hauptmeier Hypothesis?"
"Profile of Hans-Jurgen Hauptmeier follows:
HAUPTMEIER
COMPUTER PROFILE:
SUBJECT:
Personnel.
STATUS:
Restricted.
NAME: Hauptmeier Hans-Jurgen
DATE OF BIRTH: Circa 1920 Approx. 65 P.E.
DATE OF DEATH: Circa 1980 Approx. 15 P.E.
NARRATION: Loss of biographical data due to sabotage.
CAUSE OF DEATH: Explosion.
OCCUPATION: Anthropologist.
AUTHORSHIP: Hypothesis.
END OF PROFILE.
Extract ends."
"That was quite fascinating - but what is the Hypothesis - provide the salient facts only!"
The Bole had a tendency to long-windedness unless it was restricted.
"Profile and synopsis follow:
COMPUTER PROFILE:
SUBJECT: Historical Literature.
SUB-SUBJECT: Scientific.
STATUS: Classified.
TITLE:
Hauptmeier's Hypothesis.
NARRATION:
PREFACE:
108

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
Hans-Jurgen Hauptmeier was a world renowned anthropologist, circa three decades prior
to the Pollution Emergency and Evacuation. His early career was spent in the study of
primitive tribal groupings resident in the Amazon Basin of the South American continent. He
earned the reputation for brilliance in his field, being accepted as an authority on the subject
of primitive ancestry. He had advanced ideas on the relationship of animal behaviour patterns
with those of the human race. He made his last visit to the South American continent three
years prior to his death. The visit was terminated abruptly when he became involved in a
serious accident which nearly caused his death. He returned to the European continent and
began a tour of lectures. He published a paper and presented it at a meeting of the Royal
Society. Extraordinary events surrounded this meeting. The paper which was presented on
that occasion, became known as the Hauptmeier Hypothesis. Its publication provoked
unstable conditions throughout the world - in the main, due to religious antagonism. It is
believed that the explosion which resulted in his death, can be attributed to fundamental
religious fanaticism. The Hypothesis is remarkable in that it predicted precisely, the date of
the irretrievable cycle of events which led to the Evacuation of Old Earth.
END OF PROFILE.
SYNOPSIS OF THE HAUPTMEIER HYPOTHESIS:
1. A repudiation of the Darwinian concept that modern man was a product of evolutionary
development.
2. The proposition that Earth had been colonised from external sources.
3. The proposition that the migrating colonisation's had been fourfold.
4. The proposition that the migrating colonisation's had not been competitive.
5. The proposition that each of the colonisation's provided a distinct racial type which
interbred to form Homo Sapiens.
6. The proposition that the evolution of Homo Sapiens continues with the ultimate aim of
forming Homo Galactica.
END OF SYNOPSIS.
End of extracted information."
Danyk stared at Steve across the top of the Bole. Steve cleared his throat.
"Bole. Define the four racial types forming the colonisation's defined by Hauptmeier."
There was no delay.
"Extract follows:
DEFINITION:
109

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
1. Racial type one is FELINE.
2. Racial type two is AQUILINE.
3. Racial type three is BOVINE.
4. Racial type four is SIMIAN.
END OF DEFINITION:
End of extracted information."
"Deactivate - "
Danyk muttered audibly.
"Impossible! How is it possible that this - box - can tell you such things? Now, I am certain
that my father is right - you are some trick of the Adepts!"
"So! We're back to that! Your Adepts are clever enough to create the Bole! What about the
Pentacles - did they manufacture them too?
"Yes! - More tricks!"
"How was I able to open the wall?"
"The Adepts were hidden - they and Zayez - they opened the wall!"
They glared at each other.
"You have it all worked out, don't you? What about your dream and mine?"
"More trickery! The Adepts are quite capable of manipulating the mind, they can plant
suggestions in the subconscious! Zayez and his companions were here when you had your -
so called - dream. I was at the School when I had mine!"
Danyk fury and distrust intensified. Steve snorted contemptuously.
"Our declaration of brotherhood and undying love didn't last very long did it - Brother
Danyk?"
"I know what I see! I know what is impossible! And I know when I've been tricked!"
"Please yourself! You think you have it all worked out but you know nothing! I've forgotten
more than you will ever know!"
110

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
CHAPTER 19
Danyk rose and stalked out of the room and Steve sagged back and eyed the Bole. It had
been a bad mistake to include Danyk in the interrogation session. He had been trying to force
the pace. By this time, Lyot and the rest of the household would be aware of what happened.
Steve waited for the armed escort which would throw him in the slammer to await the arrival
of the High Thane. He fully expected to be hauled up before him in chains - or the Lynxe
equivalent. What would happen after that, he didn't choose to contemplate.
He spent a restless night, expecting to be dragged from his bed and thrown into a cell under
the Thanehold. Eventually, he slept and was almost surprised to awaken a free man. He
wondered what they were waiting for - unpleasant connotations of a cat and mouse game,
wouldn't go away. He assumed that they were waiting for the arrival of the High Thane.
Breakfast was provided as usual. He ate with little appetite. Events could be moving
elsewhere in the Thanehold. Decisions were being made about him. Danyk might have
decided to sleep on his suspicions.
His erstwhile 'brother' did not put in an appearance and so, he wandered out into the
garden. He glared at the scenery without seeing it. A voice said in his mind:
"You have some black thoughts."
He turned and met a mocking stare, it was Maia. He wasn't sure why, but he said:
"I'm sorry."
"I had the impression that you were feeling sorry for yourself. Perhaps, you were thinking
of your own people?"
"You know what I was thinking about!"
She nodded.
"I do. You can relax, nothing is going to happen to you. The High Thane will make the
decisions."
"That isn't exactly comforting."
"If you are what you say you are, what do you have to fear?"
"Prejudice and ignorance! If something isn't understood, assumptions are made - and
they're usually wrong!"
"Do you understand everything that's happened to you?"
111

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"No - "
"So - perhaps you too have made assumptions and they are wrong as well."
"I don't understand Danyk and his sudden change of attitude."
"Danyk has to answer for himself. On the other hand, he was the one who brought you into
the Thanehold. He rescued you from - a fate worse than death - if I understand correctly.
Against his better judgement, he agreed to retrieve a strange object for you - this box of yours
- even though he could have been bringing great danger to the Thanehold. He ended up
bringing your woman here as well - but we'll not dwell on that. Then, there is the subject of
the Pentacles. One, which you say you brought with you by whatever means you came to our
world, carries his naked image within it. Another, identical in every other way, is found in the
custody of the Adepts, who tell us that it has been in their possession for millennia, the point
of difference is the image of another naked man whom you say you do not know.
There is more, you show the ability to open the mind lock on the access to the School of
the Adepts, which is supposed to be an authority reserved to the All Wise and the most senior
of the Adepts. You scream out a command in the name of one of our ancient gods, who is
supposed to be the first law giver of our race. You return to the Thanehold and on the first
evening, invite Danyk to be present whilst your box is asked to perform one of its tricks. It
speaks and talks of some mysterious person who has made a proposition that your race is
made up of four colonisation's, one of which is Feline in characteristic. At this point, Danyk
says: 'Enough is enough!' Are you really surprised, Steve Holt?"
Steve shook his head.
"I'm not surprised - except that we shared some experiences and I would have thought they
counted."
"A shared dream? Danyk was right when he said it could be a trick of the Adepts. They are
reputed to have skills we couldn't imagine."
"So - you don't believe me either, Maia."
"I keep an open mind."
"I suppose Danyk has made up his mind to keep out of my way?"
"Do you blame him? Do you prefer Danyk's company to mine? I thought you preferred the
company of females."
"It rather depends on my plans."
"From what I see in your mind, when you aren't thinking about racial fantasies, you are
totally preoccupied with sex and have another fantasy world to go with it!"
"In my society, a man doesn't have to justify his thoughts. He's allowed a little honest lust
and as long as he keeps it to himself, no harm's done."
It was her turn to change the subject.
"Have you heard from Hara?"
"Why do you ask? You would know if I had! I think I have the right to know what's
happening. I'd like to know when she's due - and I'd like to provide for her and the child."
Maia was silent again, the subject of Hara could be expected to make her bristle.
"Hara is well and the child is due in two hundred and thirty days. How will you provide for
her?"
"I don't know!"
Maia's voice was very small.
"I hope you realise that she doesn't want you. She realises now, that you are no god. She
feels utter and abject shame that she allowed you to seduce her. She will never come back to
you."
"I wasn't the one who told her I was a god. She listened to that raving fanatic, Jabez."
"And now - she has to suffer the consequences!"
"I want to see my child after it's born.
112

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"Hara may allow that. But get it into your head! She is lost to you, Steve Holt!"
It sounded the basis for a stand up argument. She turned and walked back towards the
house and he was left with his thoughts.
In the next few days, whether by accident or design, they found themselves more and more
in each other's company. Danyk continued to avoid him.
It was the busy time of the year when the crops had to be sown by the Scarn under close
supervision. At first, it tickled his vanity to be escorting the daughter of the Thane, and then
he realised that she had probably been given the duty of keeping him under supervision. The
last thing she required was escorting, the young lady had a very independent mind.
Whatever the motive, it was a very pleasant interlude. They wandered about in the fields
which surrounded the Thanehold, watching the ploughing of the wet soil. It was black and
rich and filled the air with a damp odour. Maia's eyes were everywhere. Sometimes she
intercepted one of the overseers and there would be some profound discussion which went
completely over Steve's head. She showed him corners of the farm buildings which he hadn't
explored for himself. There were implements which he judged to be hundreds of years old
and yet, they were still being used daily. One day, he asked her how long the place had been
in the possession of Lyot's family. She looked surprised.
"I thought you understood these things! My father is the descendant of a long line who
have had stewardship of the Seven Lands for countless generations. That is why our Clan is
known as the Clan of the Seven Lands. Stewardship of the lands will remain in our
possession, so long as the Gift is manifested in all its strength in the person of the Thane. If
the Gift should fail, or if the Thane should die without any male issue who possess the Gift,
the lands are subject to reallocation by the Council of the High Thane. It is for this reason,
that Danyk is being so closely tutored and his control of the Gift tuned to such a high degree
by Zayez and his Adepts."
They walked on in silence for a while.
"What if Danyk's Gift was to fail - or if he should decide to go away?"
He felt her stiffen physically and mentally. Her answer was low.
"Don't pin to many plans on what Zayez said on that subject. Danyk will never leave us! To
answer your question - Nothing would happen whilst my father lives. If Danyk was not with
us, the inheritance should go to Krin, as being the next oldest male - but he has very little of
the Gift - not enough for him to be the Thane. He knows that and accepts it. Women may not
assume the mantle of the Thane. It is an ancient Law and was instituted by Taxila - but of
course, you know of Taxila - enough to use his name to open mind locks!"
Steve swallowed.
"Don't let us spoil the day by rehashing that subject. As I understand it, Taxila was the
ancient god who gave you your laws. - So, a woman may not inherit - what happens in that
situation?"
"The first legitimate son in the next generation is eligible - if he has the necessary degree
of the Gift. Therefore, if Laoni has a son who is sufficiently Gifted, he would inherit."
"Not very likely! She wouldn't unfreeze enough to let any man give her a child! So - if she
fails?"
She hesitated.
"Then - If I have a son who is sufficiently Gifted - he would inherit!"
Steve grinned at her.
"It sounds like you'd better get busy!"
"Thank you for the advice! I have no immediate plans."
"What happens if there is no one Gifted?"
"The lands become forfeit!"
Steve felt the tension building, he changed the subject.
113

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"How do you - marry?"
She laughed.
"Back to the most important subject on your mind?"
"No! I'm serious! Do you have formal unions?"
She giggled.
"There is no formality with us. A man and a woman decide that they will unite. It is
understood that the union is intended for life but we are civilised enough to allow such a
union to be dissolved if it becomes obvious that it has failed to an irreparable degree. We do
not coerce each other, Steve Holt. The decision to unite has to be mutual, the union has to
remain harmonious and the dissolution of the union is also agreed in harmony."
"That sounds very level headed - if a little cold blooded."
She lowered her eyes to the ground.
"I can assure you that a union between the Lynxe is never cold blooded, Steve Holt!"
About a week after that conversation, on a day when the Lynxe star was pumping heat out
of a cloudless sky, Maia suggested that it was time to explore the woods on the other side of
the river. It would be a day's outing and so, they raided the kitchen for food. They set off soon
after the morning meal. The mist still hung close to the river flats. The Vix in the horseshoe
shaped meadow, crooned plaintively as they passed. They were unreal apparitions looming
out of the mist which lapped their bellies.
The mist began to evaporate and so did their subdued mood. Maia was very quiet in his
mind, preoccupied with her own thoughts. Steve sniffed the air appreciatively, it was a day to
be enjoyed. During the preceding days, the river had been high as a result of rains in the
mountains. Now, the flood waters had eased from the grey, rushing torrent. It was still swift
and looked treacherous, with whirlpools and eddies. He hoped that Maia didn't have plans to
swim across. Swimming was not one of his accomplishments. Mars had precious little water
and the daily ration was in the order of a half litre - which is not conducive to swimming. He
was relieved to see that she had other plans.
They followed the river bank, leaving the meadow behind them. The path had dried out but
it was still a little treacherous and they had to place their feet carefully. The problem of
crossing the river was soon resolved - even if it was in typical Lynxe fashion. By a leap of the
imagination, the structure they came to, could have been called a bridge. Steve raised his
eyebrows a fraction and examined it critically. Logs had been driven into the river bed at
random intervals. The spate of water tugged at them relentlessly and he wondered just how
secure they might still be.
He had unqualified admiration for the stout hearted soul had braved the current to place
them there in the first place - it must have been an act of desperation. Across the top surface
of the logs, a series of sturdy but very narrow planks had been laid. The structure was no
more than a third of a metre in width at the most. Strung from the trees on each side was
suspended a kind of woven, fibrous rope. The problem was, that it was still sodden with
water and the centre hung down in a great sag. It was no more than a metre above the level of
the plank road.
Steve hadn't learned to swim and he had not trained in the art of being a tightrope walker.
He looked at the whole contraption with trepidation. He had the option of going down on his
hands and knees to crawl across - which would have been the safest way. He would have lost
considerable dignity in so doing. There was a sizeable audience of the rural population
gathering, waiting patiently for their turn to test their courage.
He put on a brave face, grabbed the rope and launched himself across the fifty feet of river.
Maia scuttled ahead of him and succeeded in putting him to shame. He lost the rope about a
third of the way across, remembering as he did so, that he had neglected to wear anything
under his tunic. He was risking whatever penalty they imposed for indecent exposure. He
114

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
crept the rest of the way. The waiting assembly eyed him with curiosity, said nothing, and
crossed with catlike grace.
Maia giggled for the next ten minutes and he seriously considered taking her over his knee.
She stopped abruptly and contrived to keep a straight face. They left the river side and soon
the sound of the rushing water subsided to a dull whisper. They headed deep into the forest,
turning into side paths which plunged through deeper undergrowth. It was much thicker than
that which was around their abandoned city, but it was good to be back in the cool gloom and
sense of peace. Neither of them were inclined to speak, even in thought. They moved as
softly as they could. He learned once again, to avoid noisy collisions with branches and
stones.
The animals came out to greet them. Maia whispering in mind that he should stand quite
still. She talked to shy, deer-like creatures when they emerged from the undergrowth and
allowed her to touch them.
"So - What is it my little ones? Why are you anxious? Is my cousin the wild cat after you?
If I meet him, I'll tell him you've gone away!"
Steve resisted the desire to look around nervously. He sincerely hoped they were not going
to meet her cousin the wild cat. They moved on for a few hundred metres, he was in front and
turning a corner, came face to face with a very large carnivore. It wasn't unlike the Old Earth
tigers he had seen in the history tapes. It looked hungry and not very fussy about its diet.
Steve froze to the spot, quickly considered the many errors in his life and decided that he was
too young to die. Maia pushed past him impatiently. Her thought was scornful.
"Coward! I thought you'd at least try to protect me!"
She turned to the wild cat and purred.
"Hello, cousin."
The great beast moved towards her and Steve was nearly galvanised into a belated, if futile,
gesture of foolhardy bravery. The creature stopped and then rubbed against her legs.
"If you're looking for the Tik, you've already frightened them away, cousin. Why don't you
learn to eat fruit and nuts and leave them in peace?"
The one sided conversation continued interminably. Steve tried to remember a few prayers
- and to whom they should be addressed.
The Lynxe wild cat eventually went on its way. It gave him an interested look as it passed.
Steve relaxed weakly against the bole of a tree. Maia resumed her giggling.
"You're a strange creature, Steve Holt. On the one hand, you possess the power to open the
way out of the old city but on the other, you go weak at the knees when you meet my cousin.
Why should he harm you? Did you intend to harm him?"
"He looked hungry."
She giggled once more.
They continued their nature ramble but somehow, the charm had gone from out of the
excursion. He wondered how far away from the river they were and if they were going to
return the same way. Another encounter with cousin wild cat was a distinct possibility. Maia
maintained a steady pace. The sun was already high and he started to feel hungry. He was
also starting to feel very warm, especially when they crossed a more open part of the
woodland. The sound of water was welcome, he hoped it was a return to the big river,
perhaps further up its course.
It turned out to be one of its tributaries, quite wide and swift flowing. Compared with the
main river, it wasn't intimidating, there was no bridge but it didn't look too deep to wade.
Maia turned to him, her eyebrows in a question mark.
"Do you wish to remove your tunic on this side, or on the other?"
"Pardon?"
Her explanation was as if to a little child.
115

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"The river is deeper than it looks. You can wade across but it will come to chest height. If
you want a wet tunic, keep it on. If you want a dry tunic, take it off, fold it and place it on to
your head. I sometimes wonder if you know anything, O Great One from the stars!"
Steve wasn't sure if he knew anything either. She started to undress, turning his back on
him and lifted her tunic over her head. She was naked beneath it and he had trouble with
keeping his breathing steady. She was very beautiful - at least, her back was! She walked into
the water without looking back and waded until it covered her waist. She swam through the
middle section and then started to walk out. One arm held her clothing on her head.
He yanked off his tunic, folded it and placed it on his head, without taking his eyes off her.
He walked quickly into the water, as she reached the other side and climbed out. The river
was icy cold but it did nothing to cool the heat in his blood. He walked in up to his chest and
didn't have to resort to a dog paddle for the central section. The current was swift but it was
easy to keep balance, braced against the stones on the bottom.
She put down her bundle and started to do something with her hair. He climbed out on to
the bank and she turned and looked at him in wide eyed frankness. She was quite
unselfconscious. He stood paralysed and feasted his eyes on her. He still held his tunic
clamped on his head. She was superb, gorgeous. He had always seen her as being the
equivalent of a teenager, little more than a child - but she was revealed as a voluptuous, fully
matured woman. She said quietly.
"You look stupid with one hand on your head - unless that's a pose you men from the stars
hold when you want to attract the attention of a woman!"
"What are you trying to do to me?"
"I read a word in your mind - seducing - I suppose I'm trying to seduce you, Steve Holt!
We have each examined the other. The way of my people is direct. If I hadn't wanted you, I
would never have led you here and allowed you to come so close to me. So, what do you men
from the stars expect now? Do I have to throw myself on you before you do something - like
Hara?"
Steve threw his folded tunic to the ground and reached out for her. He pulled her wet body
against him. She shivered and he suddenly realised she was frightened, despite all her
bravado. He felt flooded with desire for her, he wanted her so badly, but he forced himself to
go slowly. He sensed her inexperience and he knew this was not going to remain a torrid little
rough and tumble in the woods. This was the beginning of something much more.
She gave a sharp little cry when he first took her and then she relaxed and with the
relaxation a response of fire which he had never experienced before. They fulfilled each other
again and again, during the warmth of that afternoon and then slept as the light faded,
entwined together in each other's arms. It was almost dark as they bathed in the stream and
then dressed and picked up their bundle of food. They never did eat the lunch which they had
raided from the kitchen of the Thanehold.
116

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
CHAPTER 20
On the way through the darkening woods, Steve started to get nervous thoughts about how
he was going to explain himself to the Thane and his lady. He knew he could never hope to
keep it secret, Danyk had once said that his mind was open like that of a child. It was all there
to be read by whoever was interested. It was very likely, that the news of how he had seduced
the younger daughter of the Thane, was already circulating.
Maia remained supremely unconcerned by his thoughts. She was displaying remarkable
poise for a girl who had just lost her virginity to an alien from outer space. She giggled and
Steve realised that he was transmitting loud and clear. She put her hand in his and squeezed
it. It was an attempt at reassurance and he tried to tell himself that he didn't really care what
her family would think.
They came back to the broad river, this time, they emerged on its bank close to a well
constructed crossing. He knew that earlier, he had been led to the rickety plank bridge, just to
have a little fun at his expense. Perhaps, it had all been part of the softening up process. Maia
was a very determined young woman and she had fulfilled her objective. As they crossed the
bridge, she reached up and kissed him on the ear and then, flicked the tip of her tongue
inside. He felt a surge of lust and grabbed her.
"Maia, behave! What the hell am I going to say to your father?"
She looked solemn.
"I don't think there is much you can say that he doesn't know already - and I think you're in
a lot of trouble. I hope he doesn't invoke the ancient law of the Two Eyes!"
"And what might that be, or shouldn't I ask?"
"The ancient law of the Two Eyes states that whatever has given the offence has to receive
the punishment. I hope they don't do that to you! It would make you very boring!"
She let go of his hand and raced ahead. He caught up with her as they neared the
Thanehold. They went directly to the main hall. The household was already assembling for
the evening meal. Steve tried to look at no one. As he sat down in his usual place, Danyk
gave him a brief, sharp look which might have meant anything.
They waited for the main players to take their places. For once, Lyot and the Lady Hepha
entered together. Their faces were severely set, it looked like a united front in the face of an
117

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
impending crisis. Laoni delivered a ferocious glare of icy contempt in the direction of her
sister and ignored him. Krin looked uncertain and then avoided his gaze. Steve glanced across
to Maia and was relieved to see that she had her sense of humour under control. He reached
out and filled his plate, hoping that he could eat in peace.
The peace was not to last. Half way through the first course, Maia said.
"I am sure you are all aware that Steve Holt and I had sexual intercourse this afternoon. I
found the exercise very gratifying. He's really rather good. We declare our intention of
uniting before you all!"
Steve was in the act of swallowing and managed to send it the wrong way. He choked and
went purple and was rendered speechless for a few moments. His nearest neighbours politely
thumped his back. When he had recovered his breath, Lyot answered quietly.
"We are aware of your activities, Maia, you did not have the elementary decency to impose
a mind block! You are well aware of our reservations with regard to the stranger Steve Holt
and the uncertainty concerning his future. You have acted with mindless impetuousness and
lack of self control. It is your right to exercise your choice to unite with him but you have not
considered the implications of your decision!"
The Lady Hepha expression was rigid.
"I wish to express my disgust and disappointment! This man is not of our race, we do not
know who or what he is! You have not considered the outcome. He has already used another
of our women to satisfy his carnal lusts. She carries the result of that conception and no one
can guess what will be the nature of the child she will bring into life. I am concerned for you,
daughter - and for your lack of judgement!"
Laoni came through loud and clear.
"You have my utter contempt, Maia! You have defiled your body by allowing this - tree
swinger - to enter it. He is a Scarn! Nothing more and nothing less. You sicken me!"
Maia looked at Danyk. He stared at his untouched food.
"You have made your choice, Maia. I make no judgement. Steve Holt came to our land in a
way which has not been satisfactorily explained. Zayez, the All Wise has already stated that
he will leave it in a similar way - and you will not stop him! He has also given the advice
that, for this reason, all commitments should be avoided."
Steve rose to his feet and looked at them, one after the other. They stared back and he felt
their alien minds focused on him.
"You've had a lot to say to Maia. I remind you, I was equally involved - so, what do you
have to say to me?"
Lyot glared at him without smiling.
"We have nothing to say to you, Steve Holt - not even on the subject of the abuse of our
trust and hospitality. In two days, our Lord the High Thane will honour us with his visit. You
will make yourself available to him and he will decide your future!"
The remainder of the meal was consumed in stony silence. There was no further mind
chatter. Steve forced food down without appetite. He ate because logic dictated that he might
need all his energy if he had to take flight. He was one of the first to leave the table. He
hardly dared to look at Maia. Considering the thought lashing she had received from her
family, she was maintaining a remarkable poise. Steve considered his next move. He had a
number of alternatives. The first was immediate flight - but the same answer as before,
applied. He had nowhere to go, no friends, nowhere he could hide. No means of getting off
the planet.
He was obliged to tough out the situation and that meant staying put. In this, he had a
number of choices. He could go back to his room and await the very strong possibility of
being placed under confinement. Another choice, in light of the activities of the afternoon,
was Maia's quarters. Perhaps, that was what was expected of him. Perhaps, she was waiting
118

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
for him - perhaps she wasn't! That always left the dog house - if they possessed one on a
planet of cats! In the end, he decided to go to the room assigned to him. He utilised its
comforts, while they lasted, and wallowed in the bath.
Despite the critical attitude of the household, it was still wonderful to be alive, young,
virile and capable. It was also wonderful to have arrived on a planet where the females of the
dominant species had a healthy regard for the pleasures of procreation - and what is more,
went about it in the identical way to the females of his species. He stretched luxuriously in
the hot water and thought back over the afternoon. He was wearing no more than the silliest
grin, when the curtain over the entrance was yanked aside. He stared at Maia framed in the
doorway. She looked hot.
"You might have been a gentleman and helped me to drag my things over here! Just like a
man to leave all the hard work to a woman! I might be pregnant for all you know - or care!"
He lay motionless with his mouth wide open.
"You look like a Vix in heat! Shut your mouth - or say something! I thought I'd move in
with you. My bed creaks like the Trestle of Hella and we'd probably wake up the household if
you came to me. Now, move over, I want some of the water!"
The Thane's daughter was definitely a lady who knew her own mind! Steve gave a mental
shrug, thought: 'what the hell', and made room in his bath.
On the following day, the atmosphere in Thanehold was a peculiar mixture of anticipation
for the visit of the High Thane, mixed with the stony disapproval of Thane Lyot and his
family. They kept out of the way of the nuptial couple, even though Maia was determined to
be confrontationalist in her approach. She flaunted her new partner in the face of all and
sundry, even though Steve would have much preferred to lay low in the face of the impending
storm. He had to endure appraising glances from the Lynxe overseers. They were polite
enough, but underlying the politeness was the reserve which went with the knowledge that
this upstart Scarn creature was in for big trouble when the High Thane made his appearance.
Steve and Maia nearly had their first marital fight, when it came time to attend the
communal meal. Steve resisted, Maia insisted. In the end, it was Maia who won the battle and
who attached herself to his arm, waiting to be escorted to their places at the table. It was a
foregone conclusion that there was a rearrangement of seating to suit the new relationship. To
her fury, Laoni found herself displaced one position, to allow the tree swinger to take his
place between the two sisters. Steve felt the seething hatred on his left side, compensated by
the intensity of Maia's devotion on the other. It was an unhappy arrangement.
There was a determined effort to keep the conversation flowing on matters relating to the
visit of the High Thane. Lyot and Hepha acknowledged his presence - but barely. Danyk and
Krin, now seated together again, looked at him warily, as if he was some plague which had
visited their house. Steve ate his food as if it was the last meal for the condemned man -
perhaps it was, no time was given indicated for when the visitor would arrive.
He was glad to retreat to the comparative seclusion of the improvised honeymoon suite,
where he exploded.
"I told you it was a mistake! But, no! You had to insist in parading me like some tame
stallion in front of them all!"
She remained calm and looked at him critically.
"We were exercising our right as members of this household, to eat a meal with the other
members! I was not parading you, I was being escorted by my husband - not a stallion - and
in any case, you aren't tame, you're wild!"
He could feel the suppressed laughter. He reached out threateningly, she didn't retreat. He
picked her up, carried her to the bed and dumped her on it. She stared up at him without
blinking.
"Aren't you worried you might shock the rest of the family?"
119

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"To hell with the rest of the family - if they're mind peeping as usual, they might learn
something!"
The Bole interjected dispassionately.
"Sensory observation detects personnel beyond the entrance to this chamber."
Maia sat up and whispered.
"What does that mean?"
"It means, someone is coming. Bole. Stand guard!"
The Bole delicately poised itself on its six mandibles and prepared to frighten hell out
of the new arrivals. Maia eyed the Bole and had the look of a newlywed who had just
discovered one of her husband's bad habits. There was a discrete knock on the wood
panelling to the side of the opening.
"Enter - but very carefully!"
The curtain moved across slowly and Danyk confronted the spectacle of a militant Bole.
He was not along, Krin hovered behind him.
"Isn't this nice! Our first visit from the in-laws!"
Danyk didn't answer, he led the way past the Bole to a point as far away as possible and
near to the window. He and Krin stood uncomfortably.
"Don't worry about the Bole, it won't bite unless I tell it to. To what do we owe the pleasure
of this visit?"
"We wish to talk to our sister - alone."
"I'm sure you can manage that - just switch me out!"
"If they do, I'll switch you in!"
"Now, Maia! Don't be difficult, the boys want to hold a family conference."
"And you're family!"
"A blue-eyed Scarn can't be family! Didn't you know that I'm supposed to be the product of
a roll in the hay between a Scarn and a Lynxe - I'm inferior!"
"Shut up, Steve! What do you want Danyk?"
Danyk glanced at Krin and shrugged.
"We want to ask you - on behalf of our father and mother - to leave this."
"Blue-eyed Scarn?"
"To resume your rightful place as the daughter of the Thane!"
"So that we can present a united front to the amused view of the High Thane, I suppose?
Do you seriously imagine that he isn't aware of everything that's happened between Steve and
me? The whole Council knows by now - and probably find it very funny!"
"We don't find it amusing! Your father and mother don't find it amusing! Your family
doesn't find it funny! Your Clan doesn't find it funny! You have behaved irresponsibly and not
in a way befitting the daughter of a Thane!"
Maia stood with arms folded and looked more militant that the Bole.
"Because I've chosen to unite with someone you don't understand - and because you don't
understand - you fear? Danyk, I'm ashamed of you! I thought you, out of all the others, would
understand! You were the one with the open mind. The one the Adepts wanted to discipline.
Now, you hide behind your fears and prejudices. You're worse than Laoni - and you can't get
much worse than her!"
Danyk's face was white with suppressed emotion.
"What you don't understand, Maia, is that this man is unproved. He could be anything. He
could be some trick of the All Wise and his Adepts. This could be some devious plan to
undermine our father in the Council. There are any number of reasons why Steve Holt isn't
what he claims to be. We want you to think about it and reconsider. Our father would like you
to stand with the rest of the family tomorrow, when we welcome the High Thane."
"I will do so - if Steve Holt stands with me!"
120

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
Danyk marched from the room, trailed by Krin who hadn't uttered a word during the
conversation.
"I think that might be the first time that's happened in our family for four hundred years."
"What happened then - did another blue-eyed Scarn carry off the daughter of the reigning
Thane?"
Maia giggled.
"As I recollect, who didn't carry me off - I had to practically throw myself on you!"
"Which proves that I'm a gentleman, despite all that is said and I was trying not to take
advantage of your youth and inexperience!"
"My sister thinks I'm a whore."
"Does that worry you."
"Nothing Laoni thinks ever worries me. I'm sorry my father thought it necessary to send
Danyk and Krin to try to pull me into line. When a delegation is sent by the family head to a
child, it's a way of saying that things are so estranged between us, that he has to send third
parties to do the talking."
Steve sat on the edge of the bed.
"Is it worth it Maia? Is it worth rejecting your family? Perhaps, you ought to think about
what you're doing."
"I've made my decision. Are you trying to tell me that you don't want me to share my life
with you?"
"You know better than that. But - "
"But?"
"Your family's reaction is only the start of the prejudice and contempt which will be
levelled at you. I'm tolerated, but in the eyes of most, I'm nothing more than a tree swinger,
some sort of mutant Scarn and you are some sort of deviant, you can only get satisfaction by
uniting with me."
Her voice was small.
"Is that what you think?"
"I didn't say me, Maia! Others will come to that conclusion because its easier to throw that
sort of filth around than face the truth."
He took her in his arms and she rested against his shoulder.
"I don't care what they say. I want to be united with you. I want to bear your children."
He kissed her.
"I can think of nothing better, it's what I want too - if we are allowed - "
She jerked away from him and stared.
"What do you mean - allowed? Who can stop us? Who would dare to stop us?"
He hesitated.
"Your father might try - or perhaps the High Thane will order us to separate. If we don't do
so voluntarily, we could be forced. I could be arrested and taken off somewhere and you'd
never see me again - and then - "
"And then?"
"Then, there is what Zayez said - and what Danyk quoted. I came to your world in a way I
don't understand. Things have happened since I'm here, which suggests that whoever brought
me here, is still interested in me. There's always the chance that I might be removed from this
world in much the same way as I came - or even in some other way. I'm in someone's hands,
Maia - Your father and Danyk are right when they remind you of that. Where they're wrong is
that they think it has something to do with the Adepts. The Adepts don't control me, but
perhaps someone or something else does. I can't guarantee that I'll be with you from one day
to the next!"
She was very quiet, laying cradled in his arms. Eventually, she said softly:
121

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"I'll take what I can have, Steve Holt. Our love must count for something - even with
whoever your mysterious someone is. If it wasn't an accident which brought you to me, then
you still have to do what you came to do. That might take all your life - "
"Or it might take a day - or I might have already fulfilled the purpose when I found the
second Pentacle. I don't know and neither do you. It isn't much of a basis upon which to build
our future. It's a huge risk, not for me but for you. You'll be flying in the face of your culture
and traditions and the prejudice of your people. Our children might be despised and rejected -
there will always be some who will see them as part Scarn. It won't matter if I'm proved to be
what I say I am, the prejudice will remain. I'm serious, Maia. You need to think this through
and make sure you can live with whatever decision you make!"
She stirred restlessly.
"I have thought it through - I have made my decision. I said to you in the forest that I
wouldn't have allowed you to come close to me if I hadn't wished it. I've thought about all
these things. My decision was made long before we crossed the stream and made love!"
After that statement, there was nothing more to be said. Steve tried to keep the feeling of
desperation and uncertainty out of their love making and for her part, Maia tried to blot out
the thought that this man from the stars might one day return to where he had originated - or
move on to some other world at the instigation of the unknown forces which controlled him.
The Bole maintained his silent watch throughout the night, perched on his six mandibles.
There was no disturbance in the Thanehold, other than those who tossed and turned on their
beds, troubled by thoughts of the disaster which threatened their household and which was
somehow coupled to the untimely visit of the High Thane.
Steve woke early on the following morning. Maia still slept and he had to ease his arm
from under her. Her body was like ivory in the dawn light, haloed in a golden haze of hair. He
felt his desire awaken again, but this wasn't the time to satisfy it. He slipped away from the
bed and to the window, to watch the star rising in the east. For some reason, he remembered
Hara and another morning where he had stood naked, waiting for the star to rise, not knowing
what was awaiting him a few moments later.
He shivered, not with the cool air, but with the memory. The High Thane was not another
Jabez, but his authority was such that even Lyot could not save him if it was decided that it
would be best for him to be eliminated as an unwanted aberration - a blot on the Lynxe
psyche. He wondered what their form of death penalty was. The answer came into his mind.
"There isn't one! Why do you think such morbid thoughts, my love?"
Her arms curved around his neck and her body was pressed against his back. She put her
tongue in his ear - it was too much! He twisted round and she looked him up and down and
laughed and then blushed. He picked her up and carried her back to the bed and their loving
was wild and abandoned. Afterwards, she stroked his hair and whispered.
"I love you, my blue-eyed Scarn! Nothing will ever separate us!"
He lay quietly and hoped she was right. It sounded as if she was trying to tempt their old
gods. Somehow, he couldn't get rid of the thought that they were somehow bound up in his
destiny. He didn't know much about gods, but he knew enough to realise that they usually had
their way when it came to fulfilling their grand designs.
122

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
CHAPTER 21
Rho Orper took his time riding through the Seven Lands. It had been many years since he
had had the opportunity to do so. The perfect excuse had been provided by the report
submitted by Zayez the All Wise. On the surface of it, the matter of the hairless Scarn should
be of little concern to the High Thane. It was an intriguing story but little more - and one had
to make allowances for the obvious exaggerations contained in the report. It would be good
for a half hour's amusement during the early hours of his visit to Lyot's domain. It would also
provide the perfect opportunity to place his Clan cousin at a disadvantage.
Lyot of the Seven Lands, was not one of his supporters on the High Council of the Thanes.
He resisted some of those measures which the other Thanes considered necessary to introduce
to counter the growing infertility crisis. The acceptance of the hairless Scarn into the
Thanehold of Lyot of the Seven Lands - and now, the incredible liaison which had developed
between the younger daughter and this creature, would provide Rho Orper with considerable
leverage.
He glanced at his silent retinue of Adepts - the cream of those trained by Zayez the All
Wise. They were the most cogent in their ability to Far See. They kept him informed of every
thought which passed the threshold of the mind in those he wished to keep under
surveillance. Lyot and his family were prime targets and had been for many years. The
current turmoil of their thoughts had kept his Adepts busy during the recent days. He smiled,
knowing that his own thoughts were masked. Not only was he the greatest Adept in matters
of the mind block, but he also had their combined force to act as a shield around him.
Zayez the All Wise might consider himself to be the Master of the Secrets of the Adepts
and possess the powers of the ancients, but there were chinks in his armour. Rho Orper could
penetrate Zayez's supposedly perfect mind block and could sense the aura of excitement and
anticipation the visitation of the hairless Scarn had produced in the old man. He could also
read the weakening of Zayez's powers. It would not be long before the Adepts would need a
new Master and the High Thane had many candidates from which to choose to fill that
demanding position.
The force which rode with him was small. Sufficient to provide an escort in keeping with
his position, but not large enough to be considered belligerent by even the most nervous of
the Thanes. Lyot had never shown any signs of nervousness, it almost bordered on lack of
123

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
respect, but Lyot had always ensured that the High Thane was treated with the correct degree
of deference. That had been the case until the advent of the hairless Scarn - now there was a
disturbance in the Psi. Lyot was rattled!
Rho Orper found his interest in this aberration stimulated. Whatever this creature was, it
had managed to agitate Zayez to issue an unbelievable report and had clearly left the old man
in a fever pitch of excitement. The creature had managed to seduce Maia, Lyot's daughter. It
had created considerable mental unrest in other family members - especially Danyk, who the
High Thane viewed as his next greatest threat after Lyot. Perhaps, on reflection, it would be
as well to devote a little extra time to the study of this - aberration!
They had entered the home fields of the Thanehold and his Adepts fed him with a view of
what was happening within. Lyot and his family were assembling - naturally, clad in their
finest clothing! He smiled slightly, their clothing wouldn't hide their thoughts, his Adepts
would ensure that. His smile faded, there was one missing! The thought was conveyed to one
of his black clad, silent companions and immediately, he was able to visualise the girl. She
stood arguing with a creature he would not have believed to exist. He looked sharply at the
Adept, perhaps his powers were not being utilised correctly. They were reinforced by another
of his company. The creature was brought into sharply in to mental focus - this was the
hairless Scarn!
The message came to him clearly, he could hear the words.
"Maia, I tell you. You must join your family to greet the big noise!"
"Steve Holt! I refuse, unless you are with me!"
"Do as you're told - or I'll slap your backside!"
"If you ever touch me - I'll - I'll have you knackered!"
"Is that the way you people organise divorce?"
Rho Orper watched fascinated, perhaps, Zayez was not becoming senile after all! But what
sort of abortion was this creature? It was speaking again, holding the girl against it.
"Don't you understand - if you're not there, it might be taken as an insult. Your father could
suffer for it. When it's time for me to be presented - or whatever happens - I'll be told. In the
meantime, go and do your social duty!"
The girl capitulated as the High Thane entered the outer gate of the Thanehold. By the time
he had been assisted to dismount by Lyot of the Seven Lands, she had joined the family
group.
Rho Orper looked at each one with a congenial smile.
"I am so happy to meet you again - all of you. Especially my cousin Lyot and you Hepha.
Can this possibly be Krin and of course, you are Danyk - and Laoni - and Maia - my dear
Maia, I have been hearing such exciting stories about you and your adventures - "
The thought came to Rho Orper as he was speaking.
'Danyk has a mind channel open to the hairless Scarn. The creature in disrespectful
towards you, but intrigued'.
The High Thane was escorted into the great reception room and received by Lyot's senior
advisors. He was seated in the place of honour and served the customary refreshments. He
maintained a well polished flow of trivial conversation until the gathering broke up and he
was escorted to a wing of the Thanehold which had been made ready for him and his retinue.
He kept with him six personal attendants and his circle of ten Adepts. He had a parting
request as his host left.
"My dear Lyot, perhaps, this evening, as part of our entertainment, I might be introduced to
your intriguing guest - this hairless Scarn which you have taken under your roof!"
Lyot bowed silently and left his gently smiling guest. He imposed the tightest mind block
he knew and allowed himself the privilege of venting his mounting rage. Danyk met him in
124

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
the Council Chamber and added the weight of his own mind block to that of his father's. Lyot
was direct.
"I have been instructed to produce our guest for the High Thane's amusement, this evening.
Attend to it!"
"What if he won't come?"
"Drag him there under escort!"
Danyk bowed and got out of the way of his father's wrath. He made his way to the door of
the nuptial chamber, remembered the circumstances - and the Bole - and knocked politely. He
kept his mind blank. Steve appeared after a few minutes. The bastard was grinning.
"Your supreme ruler must be giving you a hard time!"
"Why would you think that?"
"He looks the sort of bastard who would!"
"I'd watch your tongue if I were you - and your thoughts!"
"But, you're not me, Danyk! I put a check on neither, for High Thanes nor for alley cats!"
"I have an invitation for you to meet him this evening."
"What if I decline?"
"I have instructions to drag you there!"
"Tut tut, Danyk! remember the Bole!"
"And you had better remember Maia, my friend! One way or the other, our High Thane
will meet you!"
"I'll think about it."
"Do that!"
Danyk turned on his heel and stalked out. Maia emerged from the washroom.
"You will go - "
"Perhaps."
"You will go, Steve. You forced me to greet him this morning - now I'm forcing you to
meet him this evening. Why are you being difficult? Isn't meeting him what you want?"
"I'm not sure - something isn't right, Maia. I can feel it - those bloody Adepts, they give me
the creeps! They move around so softly and I have the feeling they're crawling into my
mind."
"You wouldn't be wrong!"
"And your boss man has a full contingent to peek and pry into every thought. It makes you
wonder what he's trying to hide!"
"Careful, Steve!"
"Don't worry about me, I can take care of myself - even with the thought police!"
"Don't underestimate the High Thane - or the Adepts!"
"Perhaps, they had better not underestimate me - or the ones who brought me here!"
The High Thane was escorted to his place at the festive table on the hand of his host, Lyot
of the Seven Lands. The rest of the household had already assembled, including the ten
Adepts who accompanied the High Thane in his travels. His six personal guards took their
places behind his seat at the head of the table, which he shared with Lyot on his right hand
and Hepha on his left. The family and senior members of Lyot's Clan occupied their usual
places of seniority. There was one vacant chair between Maia and Laoni.
Rho Arpor accepted the place of honour with the normal show of contrived humbleness.
He smiled warmly upon the assembly and listened intently to the formal expressions of
welcome.
"Rho Arpor, you honour us by your presence within the Thanehold and at our table."
"Lyot of the Seven Lands, I am enriched by the warmth of your welcome and your
congenial thoughts."
125

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
The surface pleasantries had been observed and the feast took the well trodden path of
protocol. Rho Arpor was content to bide his time, well aware that his curiosity would be
satisfied before the evening was finished. The thought flow from his Adepts pictured the
Scarn creature waiting in the chamber he shared with Maia. He could continue to wait until
the High Thane was ready - and he was in no hurry to be ready. The prolonged delay was
increasing the tension within Lyot and his immediate family - and that was always good
tactics.
He looked into the mind of Maia. The girl intrigued him. The readiness with which she had
formed a union with the strange creature was surprising. Her ability to prevent him from
gaining full access to her thoughts, was also provocative. He didn't force the issue, she could
keep her secrets until he decided to break down the barriers.
He probed the mind of Laoni and almost recoiled from what he found. The germ of an idea
started to form. A master play which would place Lyot and his stewardship for ever at the
disposal of Rho Arpor and his heirs.
At the end of an exchange of generalities, he neatly changed the subject.
"My dear cousin, Lyot. You surely must realise how devoured by curiosity I am. Is it now
not time to introduce me to your other guest? One, whom I see, has not graced us with his
presence this evening."
Before Lyot could answer, Maia broke every rule of protocol and rose in her place.
"My Lord the High Thane must surely know that Steve Holt is no longer considered to be a
guest in this house, but rather is thought of as no more than a hybrid, hairless Scarn, with
whom I have been defiled!"
Lyot also rose to his feet. His thoughts thundered in their minds.
"Sit down, girl! You embarrass your family before the High Thane!"
Rho Arpor gestured in conciliation.
"It was not my wish to introduce discord in your household, cousin. If the matter is
delicate, this creature can remain where it is hidden. It is of small consequence!"
There was a disturbance at the entrance. Rho Arpor's eyes narrowed into slits of
concentration. The creature had entered, it was how it had been shown to him by his Adepts.
It was substantial, filling the finery of its tunic. Its hair was quite dark compared to the Lynxe
men. There was no facial hair and the nose was almost a beak. Its eyes were focused
unblinkingly on his, they were a deep blue. The mouth looked capable of humour but was a
firm, militant slit on this occasion. It walked forward boldly, down the centre of the room. It
was unlike any Scarn he had ever seen.
Behind the - Scarn - was a creature out of which nightmares were manufactured. It was an
equally sided box, with no head or tail. It scuttled along on six legs, apparently under its own
volition. Rho Arpor felt his six guardians gather for his defence. Within his mind, he
instructed them to observe caution. His ten Adepts were focused. The Scarn and his creature
came to a halt.
"I great you, Rho Arpor, as a representative of the peoples of the New Earth
Confederation."
The High Thane considered the greeting.
"Your greeting is interesting. My cousin Lyot has already mentioned to you that we have
no knowledge of the peoples you represent."
He felt the exchange of thoughts in those around him. It did no harm to let Lyot know that
every conversation was monitored.
"Then, you will also be aware of my response and that I have come from a far place
beyond the stars, by a means I do not understand."
"I am aware of many things, Steve Holt."
The name was alien within his thoughts.
126

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"I am aware of the time which you spent with the overseer Jabez. My Adepts were able to
extract all relevant information from him during our journey here. I have received an
exhaustive report from Zayez the All Wise, in which he describes intriguing capabilities,
which are supposedly reserved for the most powerful Adepts. You have invoked the name of
an ancient god - a most perplexing ability for one who has come from beyond the stars, as
you suggest. You have demonstrated a most ungodlike carnality, firstly with the woman Hara
- and more recently, with Maia. You intrigue me, Steve Holt - what are you? God or
charlatan!"
He felt the unrest in the creature's mind - and much more. Even within the psychic web
constructed by his Adepts, he felt momentarily vulnerable. He wrestled for control as the
answering thought came to him.
"I have come from beyond the stars, Rho Arpor, in the way that Taxila once came and
fathered your people. I have come to you through the channel of the Psi, in a way which is
beyond your comprehension. Taxila was also carnal and fathered your ancestors. I am also
carnal and have placed my seed within those whom I have chosen!"
Rho Arpor wrestled for control. He whispered.
"And are you Taxila?"
"It is for you to decide!"
The High Thane rose to his feet and focused the power of his ten Adepts through his
thoughts. He blasted into the mind of the creature which stood before him. Steve felt the
blow, as if he had received a lethal laser shot. His hand clutched the two Pentacles around his
neck and he jerked them up before his face. He slumped down between the six spindly legs of
the Bole. The Bole obeyed the First Law of Robotics and opened fire to discourage the six
guardians of the High Thane who had moved forward to secure the fallen creature. The first
two were killed outright and the other four, severely burned.
In military terms, it was the signal for a general evacuation of the room. In reality, it was a
mad panic exit, where dignity was sacrificed to self preservation. Only Maia and Danyk
remained, as if frozen to their seats. Maia screamed in Danyk's mind.
"The bastard made an unprovoked attack! Help him, Danyk! Help Steve!"
Danyk coupled his thoughts to those of Maia and hoped it would be enough. Steve lay
motionless where he had fallen. Danyk probed into his mind. The conscious centres were
closed, stunned and inoperative because of the mental blast they had received. Danyk probed
further and found something watching and waiting, deep within the subconscious. He
momentarily recoiled from it - it was alien, unexpected - and extremely powerful. He reestablished
a tenuous contact, it was from this that he would have to rebuild Steve's
consciousness. Maia intervened, her thoughts whispered in his.
"Will he survive, Danyk?"
Her brother nodded. She tried to move forward but he stopped her.
"Not with his - box - standing guard."
"The Bole knows me."
"Too risky - it is Steve's protector. It will attack anything that moves."
The last thought was to discourage those who were thinking of moving back into the room
to take control of the situation. Danyk could feel Rho Arpor observing him. He didn't try to
block out the High Thane, or to subdue the thoughts of contempt. They were all watching
him, his father, his mother, Krin - and particularly, Laoni. He noticed that she was hiding
herself behind a powerful mind block - one far greater than was necessary in the situation. He
concentrated on Steve and the latent something deep within his mind. He established contact
and drew back abruptly - it was so powerful! He persisted and led it into the conscious paths.
He had no idea what it was, but he was sure that Steve Holt would never be the man he had
once been!
127

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
Steve moaned and twitched and within his mind, Danyk observed the return to life - like a
limb which reawakens after it has become numb.
"Are you able to understand me, Steve Holt?"
Steve's head moved and turned slowly in his direction.
"Tell the - Bole - to allow us to help you."
At first there was no response.
"Tell it, Steve!"
Maia interjected. Steve's voice sounded like the wind in dry grass.
"Bole. Let Danyk and Maia help me. Kill the rest if they try anything!"
"Uncompromising, brother Steve!"
"So - we're brother Steve once more?"
Danyk and Maia approached the Bole cautiously and pulled Steve to his feet. His legs
folded under him and they had to support him under each arm.
"What the hell hit me?"
"A mental blast to remind you to keep your place!"
Steve noticed the dead and wounded.
"The Bole, I presume?"
"You presume correctly. It has nasty habits!"
"It has nastier ones - you couldn't imagine how nasty! You can be happy it didn't destroy
the Thanehold and everyone within a ten kilometre radius! I guess that was the best it could
do on the spur of the moment."
Danyk felt a perceptible aura of caution settle over the hidden watchers. Maia examined
her lover anxiously.
"If you're feeling stronger, perhaps we'd better get out of here."
Steve managed a grin.
"The question is - where? You don't imagine that I'm going to be a welcome guest after
this? Frankly, I can't get far enough away from the Thanehold, fast enough! get one thing
clear! I don't expect you to compromise yourselves any further. The Bole and I will go our
own way and take our chances."
"Don't be petulant! Where exactly do you think you can go. You wouldn't last a day by
yourself."
Steve took her by the shoulders.
"I have the Bole - and I've learned a valuable lesson about keeping up my defences. I will
survive - and I will go to where you would expect to find Taxila."
Maia was stubborn.
"If you go - I will go."
He shook her gently.
"You will do as you are told! You will remain here and bear our child!"
He turned to Danyk and grinned.
"Brother Danyk! Stay with your family - exile is for the blue-eyed hairless Scarn, not for
you! I promise you this - the next time I leave the Thanehold, you will come with me!"
Steve turned and faced the hidden watchers.
"Rho Arpor, I will not ask you or your ten Adepts to show yourselves. Hide where you
will, I can see your faces! My message is simple. If Lyot of the Seven Lands or any of his
Clan suffer at your hands, you will attract the wrath of Taxila upon your heads. I will remind
you of what you appear to have forgotten. Taxila is the ancient Lawgiver - but he is also the
Destroyer who serves those who may not be mentioned, but who must be obeyed. Disobey
me and you will be brought down lower than the Scarn you despise and your power and
authority will be blown to the winds beyond the Rim!"
128

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
CHAPTER 22
Steve turned to Danyk and clutched him by the shoulders in a farewell embrace. Then, he
took Maia into his arms and tried to stop the flow of silent tears. She stared into his face as if
she had never seen him before. He kissed her on the mouth.
"Goodbye, my love. When the time is right, I will come back to you - Look after each
other."
The rest of the occupants of the Thanehold did nothing to prevent his slow exit from the
great room. Perhaps, the major deterrent was the sight of the Bole bringing up the rear.
Perhaps, it was what they could read in his mind. Steve wasn't sure about that himself -
something had changed during the period of unconsciousness. It was something he couldn't
define and it was something with which he would have to come to terms.
Danyk and Maia escorted him silently. Their mental protests were quelled by the same
emanation of power which had caused him to throw down his challenge to Rho Arpor. He
didn't understand the terms and references in his statement, but he was conscious that they
had been received and noted by the High Thane.
He reached the boundary of the Thanehold and looked back. Darkness hid the honeyyellow
walls. It was very dark beyond the pools of light near to the house. Danyk said in his
mind:
"To go out into the night unescorted, is asking for trouble. You could be set upon by - by
anyone wishing you harm. If you must go now, let me walk with you part of the way. Better
still, take a Vix - take two! One for your - er - the Bole!"
Steve put a hand on his arm.
"I go alone Danyk - my enemies will know what to expect if they molest me. They won't
try a second time! As for the Vix! I don't think so, I have enough trouble keeping the Bole
going in the right direction!"
"Where will you go?"
"You will know where to find me, Danyk!"
He took Maia into his arms once more in the darkness and whispered.
"I will come back to you. Now, go back to the house - both of you!"
129

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
There was activity close to the Thanehold. It looked as if Rho Arpor and his men had found
a reserve of courage. Danyk and Maia were distracted enough for Steve to slip away. When
they turned he was gone and though they searched for his mind, they couldn't find him. Maia
whispered:
"What does it mean? Why can't we feel him?"
"Some trick of Rho Arpor and his Adepts, I suspect."
They walked slowly back to the great house. Lyot watched them approach the threshold.
He said nothing and his mind was locked against them. Rho Arpor appeared from within the
entrance.
"I congratulate you Danyk and you, Maia, for the courage you have shown in escorting the
creature from the house of your father. I do not propose to pursue it. Undoubtedly, our
cousins the wild cats will purge it from our lands. As for the metal box, it will be useless
without the mind which controls it. You yourself, Danyk, attempted to make it perform for
you - is that not so? You were not successful and we may assume that only the Scarn creature
can make it behave in the unpleasant manner we have seen demonstrated. We must not
trouble ourselves any further with this aberration, especially when we have such a delightful
prospect unfolding before us!"
The High Thane had recovered his poise and his affability. The loss of two men and the
injury to four others, did not appear to be causing concern. Danyk tried to probe into his
father's mind - he failed. Lyot was unsmiling, stiffly formal. On the face of it, the peace of his
house had been disturbed, the supreme ruler's life had been threatened, there had been deaths
and injuries. These were not circumstances which bred smiles and cordiality. Danyk knew
there was something more. Something which Rho Arpor was keeping to himself behind his
impenetrable mind block - but a glimpse of it had been picked up by Lyot and for this reason,
the Thane had mustered all his defences.
Steve watched Maia and Danyk return to the house. He had stepped only a few paces from
them into the thick cover provided by the oil crop, for once, he was thankful that their planet
had no moon. He watched the group at the main door to the Thanehold. Rho Arpor's men
were milling around, but there was little sign of an organised pursuit. It was time to distance
himself. He looked around, suddenly aware that he was alone in the midst of an alien
environment which might harbour all manner of nasties. He whispered to the Bole.
"Establish a force field around us - we're getting out of here!"
He felt heartsick for Maia, he couldn't get rid of the picture of her stricken face when he
told her she had to remain. Part of him had screamed that she must go with him - another
part, a colder part, had insisted that he go alone. It had been the same part of his psyche
which had thrown down the challenge to Rho Arpor. Reason told him that he was in no
position to make good any threats he had made, but the other part was supremely confident. It
had authority and could use it.
He was faced with the decision of where to find refuge. He had a few hours to make some
distance from the Thanehold. In the cold light of day, he would be hunted. The High Thane
and his men would track him down and his ten Adepts would be able to pinpoint his location.
It wouldn't matter where he decided to hide. His options were limited. He knew the way to
Jabez's community - but that was out of the question. He knew the way to the School of the
Adepts in the great city - they would hardly receive him with open arms. His main enemies
were the Adepts which surrounded Rho Arpor. He sensed that the High Thane would be
nothing without them. He stopped abruptly at the thought, it had come unbidden from deep
within him.
He was walking briskly down one of the cleared paths through the oil crop. The Bole
tripped daintily behind, as yet, it hadn't fallen over its own feet - it could only be a matter of
time. Steve sighed, it would have been good to have had Danyk's company, but the emerging
130

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
man within him had vetoed that possibility. Steve felt a surge of rebellion and then dismissed
it as stupidity. How could he be at war with himself?
They had reached a junction of paths in the patchwork of fields. One way led towards the
forest clad hills which in turn, led to the great city. He found himself automatically turning in
that direction. Once again, logic seemed to dictate that he would have a greater chance in the
obscurity of the trees. He found it impossible to lay a long term plan. For some reason, he
couldn't visualise what would happen beyond that night. The forest was his immediate
destination and that was all he had to consider.
He reached the boundary line of the trees in a little under two hours. He hadn't hurried, he
didn't know why. It wasn't out of consideration for the Bole, who showed a remarkable
dexterity in negotiating the uneven ground, stepping out like a six legged ballet dancer. Steve
stopped to draw breath and looked back at the distant Thanehold. The lamps were still
blazing, but it was too far away to see any detail. He listened intently but there were no
sounds of pursuit. He turned and looked at the trees. It was close to the point where he and
Danyk had returned from the School of the Adepts. The path was familiar, it seemed sensible
to enter the forest along it.
They had gone a little way, when the Bole spoke up.
"It is necessary to discontinue the force field."
Steve turned and stared at the black cubic shape.
"What the hell for? Anything might be hiding in here! You'd be indigestible, but I'd make a
good breakfast!"
"The force field is expending unnecessary energy."
Steve sneered.
"Don't tell me you're getting tired! I suppose I'll have to pick you up and carry you the rest
of the way!"
"My mobility capacity is unimpaired."
"If that means you can go on without my help - why don't you say so? Who programmed
your vocabulary, a class two bureaucrat?"
"Design specification of vocal capabilities of Bole Mark IV super model, follows.
'Vocabulary capabilities designed by Andreas Heinrich Olbers, Professor of Linguistic
studies, Academy of New Earth Confederation, 282.12.30 - "
"All right! All right! I didn't ask for a potted biography! Tell me why you propose to
suspend the force field."
"It is not necessary - another force field secures your personal area."
Steve shelved the desire to have his personal area defined.
He asked cautiously.
"What is the origin of the force field?"
"Insufficient data."
"Tell me what you know about it."
"It is present."
Steve threw caution to the winds and leaned against one of the smooth trunked trees to the
side of the path. He stared into the surrounding forest, it was suddenly filled with a greater
menace. Something or someone was stalking him and the Bole was picking it up - an energy
source. The Bole spoke up again, it sounded as if it was shouting.
"The force field is not external."
Steve hissed angrily.
"Stop shouting, you bloody moron!"
"My audio transmission volume has not increased."
Steve swallowed the panic which was threatening to choke him. At the same time, he had
the impression of being amused. It was a peculiar medley of emotions.
131

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"If the force field is not external - it must be internal."
"Correct."
"That is impossible - you need recalibrating!"
"Self efficiency tests reveal total integrity for all capabilities."
"Are you trying to tell me that I'm generating my own force field?"
Steve's voice had risen to a squawk.
"Biological data on the human species indicates that it is not possible for a force field to be
generated."
"Answer my bloody question! Am I generating a force field?"
"Yes."
Steve sagged against the tree and moaned. The panic reached the threshold of where he
would start screaming in terror. He heard himself say.
"Use your navigational capabilities and find the path to the city."
Suddenly, he was walking again. The Bole preceded him and extended further mandibles
which acted like a flail against the undergrowth through which they moved. Steve wasn't sure
what was happening. His legs had ceased to feel like jelly and the rising surge of panic was
subsiding. He had a sudden feeling of inevitability, a conviction that he should just allow
himself to be carried along to wherever his destiny would lead.
They made an unreal duet. The Bole preceded him and cleared a path with flailing arms. It
looked like a monstrous spider which had grown more legs than it could handle. The Bole
also projected an intense flood of light which surrounded them like a cocoon against the
darkness. Steve scuttled along behind, very conscious that something could tap him on the
shoulder at any moment, or otherwise attract his attention in a less polite manner. It was a
nerve wracking journey, which ended as the dawn flooded the sky an angry red. They
emerged from the forest and Steve stopped dead before the awesome sight of the pinnacles of
the abandoned city, bathed in the fiery glow of the new day.
"How did we get here so quickly?"
He whispered, he didn't know why.
"My navigational capabilities are extremely accurate."
Steve glared at the Bole with rising irritation.
"You can cut the self congratulations! How did you know where to pinpoint the city?"
"My sensors detected a power source."
Steve sought the nearest tree and sat down to contemplate the silent city.
"There is no power source - the city has been abandoned for thousands of years."
"I confirm a power source."
"Of what nature?"
"Insufficient data."
"The inevitable answer!"
Steve sat for a while, he needed to think. The city seemed to be waiting - but for what? It
had waited for thousands of years. The Lynxe star was rising higher, soon it would be
uncomfortably warm. Steve rose to his feet. The path to the city led to the gate he had entered
with Zayez and Danyk.
"Is there more than one access to the city?"
"There are ten."
"Is one near to the power source?"
"Affirmative."
"Then, press on Macduff!"
"Macduff: A character in a Shakespearean tragedy."
"If you say so - Resume your perambulations in the direction indicated."
"Affirmative."
132

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
Steve sighed, it was always good when the Bole agreed. He had to admit that he was in a
strange mood. Maia and Danyk and the manner of his parting from them, still weighed
heavily but this was mingled with a peculiar excitement, as if he was going home and
couldn't wait to cover the remaining distance which separated him from the city. They had
walked a quarter hour and he stopped dead. The Bole had taken the road which led to the
original city access.
"Why are we taking this road?"
"This is the entrance nearest to the power source."
Steve eyed the city gate, there was no sign of life, but that didn't mean that someone wasn't
waiting, hidden behind the massive walls. The power source could only originate from the
School of Adepts, like a homing beacon, to which the Bole had been attracted. He cursed
himself for a fool, there could be no other possible explanation. The Adepts were the only
occupants of the city, the power source had to originate from them! He had the urge to turn
tail and retreat to the security of the forest, but then the thought came that Rho Arpor would
have set out at first light to hunt him down. His Adepts would know exactly where to find
him, perhaps they could even visualise him dithering indecisively in the rising heat of the
star.
He glared at the opening in the wall of the city. The Bole had already resumed walking
without his command. He scurried to keep up.
"What's the hurry?"
"Pursuit is close behind!"
Steve glared over his shoulder, there was nothing to be seen.
"And what is in front?"
"The gate is unattended."
"Are you sure?"
"The gate is unattended. My sensors reveal life forms ten point seven five kilometres
beyond the gate. My sensors also detect life forms approaching from the rear at seven point
three four kilometres distance."
"Head for the city!"
"That is the predetermined navigational destination."
"Shut up!"
The remaining distance to the city wall seemed interminable. Steve kept peering over his
shoulder at the receding treeline. The great, smooth flanks of the outer walls were already
looming over them, when he looked back one last time and saw a line of Vix riders emerging
from the forest. They halted and then moved forward more rapidly. He couldn't see if Rho
Arpor was with them, but it was more than likely that he had remained in the comparative
comfort of the Thanehold, whilst his men went out to hunt the mutant Scarn. Steve turned and
urged the Bole forward.
"Run for the entrance - "
"The entrance cannot be closed."
"Forget the entrance! Locate the power source."
"It is beyond the entrance."
Steve conserved his breath for the final sprint to safety. Just why he considered it to be
safety, he didn't know. They entered the city as the great cloud of dust heralded the charging
riders. They had drawn their weapons, he could see the light reflecting off the blades. This
was for real, Rho Arpor had no plans to take him alive! He looked around desperately. The
bland walls lining the long corridor to the distant School of the Adepts, offered no refuge.
There was not even a foothold on their smooth surfaces. The riders were closing in on the
gate. Steve faced the inevitable, he turned to fight. He had one small satisfaction, he would
133

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
not be the only one to spill his blood that day. The Bole would account for many of the
attackers - but he was realistic enough to accept that it would not account for them all.
The riders wheeled to a halt and watched him standing within the entrance. The dust settled
and their Vix moaned restlessly after the strenuous ride. Three of Rho Arpor's Adepts were in
the front rank. They sat, black robed and silent and surveyed him. Steve felt them trying to
mind probe him and he was surprised to find that he was able to resist. Something was
rearing up in him which acted like a barrier. He had a fleeting thought of the force field the
Bole had described - something which was supposed to emanate from within him. The
thought was dismissed with contempt, whether from the three Adepts, or from within himself,
he wasn't sure. He became the spectator, whilst whatever was rising up within him took
control.
Nothing was said, but there was a contest. The participants sat motionless and he stood
motionless also. The battle of wills was between the three Adepts and himself, the Bole and
the other riders were spectators. It was hard to say what happened. One moment, there was a
focus of forces. Then one of the Adepts raised his hand, whether it was a gesture to ward off
whatever was assaulting him, or whether it was a signal to attack, was not clear. Steve felt
and intensity of power within himself.
The Vix reared as if they had been suddenly spurred, or attacked by hide borers. The
animals screamed - and then the riders screamed and clutched their heads in agony. The three
Adepts withstood the attack a little longer, even trying to counterattack physically against the
single man who stood in their path. They moved forward a few paces and then stopped as if
they had hit a wall. Steve didn't move, from within himself, he focused a power he couldn't
comprehend and looked at each of the Adepts in turn. They started to scream and then
stopped abruptly.
Steve looked at them swaying in their saddles. They were still mounted on the Vix, only
instinct kept them there. The other riders were in a similar condition and their Vix had
quietened down to stand shivering and whining in the growing heat. For the first time, Steve
spoke softly.
"Tell Rho Arpor that this will be the reward for all who dare to stand against Taxila and
those who must be obeyed - Now go!"
The three Adepts were drooling, it wasn't a pleasant sight. Steve felt a little sick in the
stomach as he watched the battered convoy retrace their steps down the road to the forest. He
felt the power ebb away within him. He badly needed answers but he was alone. He
continued to watch the patrol until it reached the forest edge and disappeared. He turned and
looked in the other direction. The long road to the School of the Adepts was empty and silent.
Once more, he got the impression of a city watching and waiting. For what, he wondered?
Hadn't he demonstrated the latent power within him? Even if it was a power of which he was
terrified.
The Bole spoke up.
"The power source is to the north west of our present position."
"Which way is north west? - and don't give me a smart arse answer!"
"North west is to your left when facing the city centre."
Steve eyed the wall, it was a smooth expanse of stone, fully ten metres high.
"How far beyond the wall."
"Insufficient data."
Steve shook his head in exasperation. Without realising, he fingered the two Pentacles
strung around his neck. There was a jolt of rising interest within his mind. He walked a
further hundred metres into the city, turned and faced the wall to his left, held out the
Pentacles and said quietly.
"Taxila commands you to open."
134

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
There was no response. He felt the inner something mocking him. He was getting hot and
angry, frustration started to build.
"Open, damn you - in the name of Taxila, open!"
A little to one side of where he was directing his command, the wall shimmered into
nothingness. Steve clutched the Pentacles and held them out defensively in front of him. He
walked through the opening he had created, followed by the ever faithful Bole.
CHAPTER 23
At first sight, there was little to distinguish the new section of the city from that which he
had left. Once again, he faced a corridor flanked by high stone walls, unbroken by any
entrances. The essential difference was, that the corridor was short and appeared to open out
into an unrestricted area. He quelled his impatience to press ahead and turned to face the way
he had entered.
"Taxila commands you to close."
The opening remained.
"Close - I command it!"
He held up the Pentacles and there was an almost reluctant acceptance of the command. A
hesitation and then the shimmering which announced the conversion of energy into matter.
Steve shook his head, it was a crazy way to come and go, but at least, it would keep out
unwanted guests. He had no doubt that the School of the Adepts was fully aware of what had
happened at the gate of their city - and that three of the most powerful Adepts had been
rendered mindless and drooling. It would not be a matter to be ignored, neither by Rho Arpor
- nor by Zayez the All Wise.
He switched his attention to the way ahead. The corridor was no more than two hundred
metres in length. The walls to each side were uniformly high and unadorned. His heart started
to race, for at the far end was an arch. The last time he had seen something similar, had been
the entry in the shape of a Pentagram, to the five sided room on Mars. Mingled with his
excitement was a ripple of amusement. He had the distinct feeling that he was laughing at
himself.
135

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
He approached the opening, slowed down and finally stopped a few paces from it. He
looked at the view through it, as far as he could determine, it was parkland. He asked the
Bole cautiously.
"What is ahead - beyond the gateway?"
"My sensors detect a cultivated area."
"Is it an illusion?"
"My sensors detect what is actual, not what is illusory."
"Sorry I asked!"
No matter what he and the Bole thought they saw, the image of the five sided entrance had
connotations of the unexpected. He looked behind him at the other end of the corridor. The
alternative was not appealing. He shrugged and murmured to the Bole.
"Whatever will be, will be."
"That is self evident logic."
He walked forward into the opening and through. The Bole followed. On the far side, the
cultivated parkland stretched to both sides, it was perfectly groomed, the alien ground cover
well manicured.
"In hell's name, who looks after this?"
"Insufficient data."
"Where is the power source?"
"We are within it."
"Explain!"
"The power source emanates from the structure of the city and from all we see around us."
"How is that possible?"
"Insufficient data."
"You said the source was beyond the wall where we entered - to the north west."
"Correct - a node of the source is focused in the building immediately ahead."
"Explain a node of the source."
"A concentration and emission of power from a specific point."
"Where are the nearest life forms."
"The nearest life forms are seven point three four kilometres into the city."
Steve looked back at the five sided entrance. Beyond it, the corridor from the barrier wall
looked comfortingly familiar. He turned and marched resolutely towards the colonnaded
building indicated by the Bole. A flight of shallow step surrounded it, which he climbed
without hesitation. The structure was massive, it reminded him of history files of the ancient
structures which once had survived the centuries on Old Earth. They had been the palaces of
kings and the temples of their gods.
By this time he was dwarfed within a soaring chamber which was lit by long slit windows
from floor to roof. He felt like something microscopic, perhaps that had been the architect's
intention. He was hardly surprised to see that the great room was five sided and that in the
centre of the floor, was a Pentagram. He walked forward until he stood at the edge of it. Its
structure was separate from the stonework which surrounded it, and appeared to be composed
of the same clear plastic material of the Pentacles he wore around his neck.
Within, was the image of a man in the same pose as those within the Pentacles. This was a
giant, ten times the size of a human being. In the space between the two feet, something was
written in Lynxe characters. Momentarily, he thought of Hara and how she had laboriously
taught him their alphabet. He walked round the edge of the plastic to see if he could decipher
what was inscribed. Even before he stood before them, he knew what they read. He stared at
the word, absorbing the implications.
TAXILA
136

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
He walked round a half circle to look at the features, already certain of what he would find.
He was not mistaken. He stared at the face of Steve Holt and the tenfold magnification of his
physical self. It was an image which had existed from the time of the city builders and that
had been suggested as being at least ten thousand years earlier. It was an impossibility and
suddenly, his mind refused to deal with the trauma. He fell forward on to the face of Taxila,
but it was no act of supplication. Once again, Steve Holt had sought escape into
unconsciousness.
Nothing had changed within the chamber when he came to his senses. The Bole had
detected his lack of consciousness and had elected to stand above him protectively, like a
broody hen. The shafts of light from the long slit windows had moved around, giving him
some indication of the time which had elapsed. He judged it to be late afternoon. He was stiff
from his unnatural position on the floor and he spent some time easing his muscles before
trying to stand. He looked down at the clear plastic and found that he was staring into the left
eye of his image. It was unsettling enough to send him to the stone floor beyond the
Pentagram.
On the wall opposite the one where he had entered, was another door. To one side of it was
a flight of steps which led to a gallery which girded the main chamber. The other walls were
broken by the long slit windows. His choice lay between exploring the upper level, or what
lay beyond the smaller door. He decided on the door. Exploration of any description was
better than allowing himself to try to puzzle out how his image could be imbedded in alien
material forged by unknown artisans, ten thousand years into the past of a planet orbiting a
star which was not the Sun.
What was beyond the door, was almost an anticlimax. It was simply a room similar to that
which Zayez had occupied in the School of the Adepts. It was furnished with a small table
and several stools. There was a low recliner which didn't look particularly comfortable. At
one end, under the window, was a trestle which looked about as attractive as the recliner. A
curtained doorway led to an early example of Lynxe plumbing, with a pit for a bath and a
stone basin attached to the opposite wall. On the third wall was a floor to ceiling, wall length
mirror of smooth metal. An adequate water closet completed the fixtures.
Steve viewed himself in the mirror. His reflection looked back soberly. He was still
wearing the elaborate tunic he had been given for his appearance before Rho Arpor. It was
stained and streaked with sweat from the journey and his subsequent activities. He felt as
stale and dirty as his tunic. The man in the mirror seemed to be watching him. Steve almost
looked over his shoulder to see if it was the image of someone else. He turned away from the
mirror abruptly, his imagination was working overtime, he was seeing images everywhere.
The bath pit looked inviting. There was a spigot which he turned, feeling slightly
ridiculous that he should expect a flow of water after ten thousand years. When it came, he
jerked his hand back as if he had been stung. It was actually warm! He stripped off the soiled
tunic and waded in and stopped the flow when he was almost submerged. The Bole had taken
up station near the door.
"What do you make of all this, Bole?"
He received the answer he could have expected.
"This is a room designed for ablutions."
Steve sighed, some things never changed! Perhaps he shouldn't complain, the Bole was the
one thing to which he could cling, even if his sanity was threatened all else around him. He
kept his patience.
"I was referring to that image of myself in the other room, not the state of the plumbing!"
The Bole remained silent.
"Well!"
"Insufficient data to formulate a conclusion."
137

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
Steve sighed again.
"I'm not asking for a conclusion. I am asking for your opinion."
"I am not programmed for providing opinions."
Steve's frustration came to boiling point, at the same time, his amusement level increased.
He wasn't sure whether to laugh or scream obscenities. He was surely going insane! He rose
out of the water and left a trail across the floor of the bathroom and the living quarters, before
coming to a stop in the entrance to the main chamber. It was still and quiet. He wasn't sure
what had prompted the hurried exit from his bath. His heart was racing for no apparent
reason. He continued into the great room at a slower pace and walked out on to the
Pentagram. When he judged he was approximately in the centre, he looked up.
The light from the Lynxe star was almost gone, high above him was what they had once
described as a lantern in the architecture of Old Earth. The five sides of the great chamber
sloped inward to meet in a kind of dome. Except, that this dome was not circular, but was in
the regulation five sided shape of a Pentagram. This was the bottom margin of the
architectural lantern, which had the appearance of being suspended below the stars. The top
of the lantern was open to the sky.
Within the aperture was a single, bright star. Steve stared at it. It wasn't part of a
constellation. He watched until it was quite dark and he was stiff and cold in the night air. It
maintained a fixed position in the centre of the opening. Eventually, he turned and walked
back to the living quarters.
He stopped abruptly, the room was illuminated. There were no lamps, the walls provided
the light. It was then that he was quite sure that whoever had created this - Temple to Taxila -
had also created the technology to transport him from a five sided chamber on Mars! The
suggestion - Temple to Taxila - had come into his mind unbidden. Steve knew he was being
manipulated - educated. For what reason and why, he didn't know.
There were further manifestations. On the table, was food and drink. On the trestle bed,
was a clean tunic. He held it up, on the chest was embroidered a Pentagram. This one did not
contain an image in the centre. He crossed to the table and touched the food. It felt fresh and
his mouth flooded with saliva. His ever faithful stomach set up a gurgling chorus of
sympathy.
He looked at the tunic and then at the food again. He shrugged. What the hell! If you can't
beat'em. Join'em. There was a surge of humour from within - now he was beginning to laugh
at his own jokes! He dressed and sat down at the table. The food was as fresh as it had felt.
The drink was slightly acid, perhaps, a wine of some description. One thing was for sure, they
knew nothing like it in the house of Lyot.
With the thought of the Thanehold, the memories flooded back. He hungered for Maia, for
her presence, for her laughter - for her body. He was utterly alone - except for the Bole. He
looked across to where it stood guard at the outer door.
"Where did the food, drink and tunic originate, Bole?"
"They originated from this technology."
"So - this is a technology?"
"The whole city is a power source."
"Are you saying that the food, drink and tunic originated from the power source."
"That is correct."
"By what means - Who brought the products here."
"There was a transference of energy to matter."
"In the same manner as the opening of gates in the walls?"
"It is the same technology."
"Who controls the technology - the Adepts?"
"They are not responsible for the manifestation of food, drink and attire."
138

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"Do the Adepts control the city?"
"The Adepts are provided from the city."
"Who controls the city?"
"The builders."
"The city was built ten thousand years ago - the builders must be dead."
"Insufficient data to determine an answer."
"Are there life forms controlling the city?"
"The nearest life forms are seven point four three kilometres into the city centre, they do
not control the city."
"So - I may assume that the city is automated and responds to the requirements of those
who use it?"
"Correct."
"What sort of technology could possibly manage that?"
"An advanced technology."
Steve glared at the Bole suspiciously. The bastard was laughing at him.
"What is the stimulus for providing specific requirements?"
"Thought!"
Steve leaned back in the chair. As usual, after a game of question and answer with the
Bole, he felt exhausted. Thought! He didn't dare to contemplate the possibilities! It started to
make sense, on a planet where speech had almost become redundant and thought transfer was
a way of life, it stood to reason that the technology which they had abandoned centuries
earlier, would have been based on the harnessing of Thought. No wonder they had got into
strife! The indiscriminate satisfaction of every whim by wishing it to occur, would have
caused chaos. One man would have desired one thing, whilst his neighbour might have
insisted on the opposite - the inevitable result was conflict. They had abandoned the city for
this reason! There had been no alternative, other than eventual self destruction!
There was no point staring at the table at the remains of his meal. He was curious enough
to want to see how it was removed. On cue, there was a slight hazing of the light around the
platter and the wine cup. When the shimmering had ceased, nothing remained. He grinned
and was almost tempted to play with the capabilities - and then he remembered what had
happened to the original inhabitants. He went to bed in a much easier frame of mind. Some of
the pieces of the puzzle were beginning to come together - but not all, the major ones
remained an enigma.
Why was he there? How was it possible for him to be pictured in the floor of a room in an
abandoned city? What came next? He drifted on the borders of sleep without having the
answers. He felt quite secure, the ever faithful Bole had taken up a defensive stance in the
door of the room. Rho Arpor could have been a million kilometres distant and offered no
threat. The Adepts skulked in their retreat seven point four three kilometres distant and
wondered how they could control the aberrant stranger who had invaded their city. As he
drifted further into sleep, the thought came strongly, it wasn't their city - it was the city of
Taxila - and he had come home!
At some point during the night, he rose from his couch and walked past the Bole into the
main chamber. The Bole offered no resistance to his passing, nor did it offer any advice. It did
not follow, although it could still observe its master through the opening into the Chamber of
the Image. Steve walked slowly to the centre of the Pentagram and lay on his back under the
open lantern. He aligned himself to correspond with the image beneath him. He was not
dreaming and he was totally calm, unlike those times when he had struggled within a
nightmare, to resist the forces which were seeking to draw him through an archway on an
alien shore. On this occasion, he did not visit that planet.
139

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
The single star in the centre of the lantern opening drew him. He had the impression of
expansion, so that his physical form assumed the dimensions of the image beneath him.
When he had assumed that size, he was drawn upward. He looked down an saw the puny,
small, physical self still resting on the clear floor. Taxila smiled and revelled in his freedom.
He was drawn out of the chamber, through the sky opening and turned to face the brightness
of the lone star. He moved towards it, but it remained ever distant. Around him, the stars
flowed like water glittering in the light of a million suns. They intensified in number and
almost brushed against him. There came a moment of turbulence, when the flow surged and
faltered and then reversed direction, so that they preceded him to a well known destination.
He felt the tug of forces which dragged him onward. He didn't try to resist, even when matter
became energy and the shimmering cascade of light became something beyond description.
The momentum slowed and energy became matter once more and the stars flowed on
towards their ultimate destination. He moved amongst the stars and exalted in the release
from the puny physical form within which he had been imprisoned. He looked back in the
direction from which he had come, not expecting to see the Lynxe star or its family of
planets, but rather, expecting to see his Companion of the Image. Taxila smiled, Danyk would
have a further disturbance to his dreams and from that disturbance would come the
restlessness which would urge him to seek out Steve Holt.
Danyk emerged from the star flow and indeed, he did look like the gothic warrior imagined
by the earthling. His hair was unrestricted and flowed over his shoulders. His body and limbs
gleamed in the star glow and he walked amidst the stars. Taxila smiled at him in genuine
affection and held out a hand of greeting. They touched, and Danyk was swept back once
more towards the distant planet which was his birthworld.
Taxila turned away and sought the brittle cinder upon which he dwelt as the Keeper. It
stood, suspended on the threshold of the Abyss. He looked beyond it, into its dark maw and
tuned the senses which would converse with those who dwelt within it.
"Your progress is slow, Keeper!"
"It is sure, Harma!"
"You must accelerate the process."
"To do so will jeopardise the outcome."
"It is your place to obey, Keeper!"
"I do not dispute your authority, Zayez!"
"It would be unwise to even consider such an action."
"It was your collective choice to leave me as the Keeper when you entered the Abyss,
Hella!"
"You will obey!"
"I will be the judge, Harma. Remember, I am your equal! I am the Keeper of the Threshold
of the Abyss. I have chosen to remain! I will fulfil my part - you must trust me!"
There was a long silence.
"We trust your judgement, Keeper - but hurry!"
Taxila turned and faced the star swarm out of which he had come. This time, the flow was
against him, towards the Abyss. His way back was strenuous until he reached the point where
all forces were neutral and the flow slowly turned to accelerate his progress towards the
Lynxe star. He placed it behind him and sought the City of Taxila and its temple and the
recumbent form which was spread-eagled within.
Taxila submerged himself within the subconscious mind and allowed some of the
memories to flow, so that Steve Holt would remember much of what had happened. He
suppressed the memory of the discussion with Zayez, Hella and Harma. It was the first time
that they had been in dispute and he was not sure what it meant. He was also not sure what
implications might arise, if they decided to intervene in the conduct of the search. It was a
140

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
situation which had never arisen before. The memory of the altercation caused him unrest, it
was not something to concern the puny human in whose form he was active.
Steve felt battered, stiff and sore, when he woke to find one of the shafts of light from the
long windows crossing his face. He squinted into it and had to muster his wits to remember
how he had got there. He sat up on the hard floor and rubbed his eyes. He remembered falling
asleep on the trestle - and then there had been a dream - a dream where he had met Danyk
amongst the stars. There had been an incredible journey and he had stood before something
he couldn't define. There had been voices also but he couldn't remember what had been said.
The Bole was standing in the doorway to the living quarters.
"Status."
"Integrity."
"What happened?"
"There has been a discharge of intense electromagnetic activity."
"How did I get here?"
"You walked."
CHAPTER 24
Danyk left the Thanehold long before it was light and was already at the treeline, as the
Lynxe star started to rise. He paused briefly to look back as the honey stone caught the first
light, it was always beautiful to see. He was in a sombre mood, not sure how long it would be
before he returned. The dream, from which he had so abruptly wakened a few hours earlier,
had been like a directive. He had laid awake in the darkness of his room for a few moments,
before rising and getting his travelling bundle together. There could be no delay, so therefore,
there had been no farewells. He had selected one of the least prized of his personal herd of
Vix, knowing that it would not have to carry him far.
He pulled the animal's nose around and entered the forest, heading in the direction of the
ancient city. He thought back on the return of the three Adepts and Rho Arpor's men who had
been sent after Steve Holt. Those who had remained at the Thanehold had lived though what
they had experienced in the pursuit of and the confrontation with the alien. The clear link in
the Psi channel had been suddenly distorted and shattered and then there had been the ravings
of idiocy. They could only guess what had happened until it was confirmed when the
accompanying men had led the three drooling Adepts back to their master.
Rho Arpor had covered his dismay well, but it had been there. Danyk had caught the
sudden onrush of consternation - it was more, it had been fear. Then, the High Thane had
blocked his mind and the remaining Adepts had closed in around him in an impervious shield.
The mental tension in the Thanehold had intensified. Lyot's self imposed mind block had
141

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
been maintained. He did not seek out the company of his oldest son. Danyk sensed that it
wasn't Steve Holt which troubled him, or even the disaster which had overtaken the three
Adepts. It was something which had been present from the start of the visit of the High
Thane.
For good measure, Danyk had probed the mental status of his siblings. He had been
startled and repelled by what he had found in Laoni's mind. It was blocked certainly, but the
block could not mask an utter hatred of Steve Holt, which was beyond mere prejudice and
bigotry. There was also something else hidden, something which he couldn't grasp, but it was
coupled with a sense of high excitement and anticipation - it was also not wholesome. Danyk
withdrew, he was never welcome in Laoni's mind.
Maia, as could be expected, was in a state of shock and grief. She hid nothing. She loved
Steve Holt and their loving had resulted in conception. She was alone and vulnerable. There
was little Danyk could offer in the way of consolation. It was yet another reason why he had
felt compelled to set off in search of Steve, before the household was conscious of his
desertion. He had no desire to argue with a sister determined to accompany him.
Krin was the least affected by what was happening around him. His grasp of the Gift was
not great and would probably never mature to the degree of that possessed by his older
brother. He liked the blue-eyed Scarn and his romantic stories, but that was as far as it went.
He mind was occupied with other things, the thoughts that fifteen year old healthy boys
always had. Danyk had grinned and had withdrawn.
Hepha his mother, was unreadable. She had always been so. Her mind block was
impervious, but he sensed she shared the hidden concerns of his father.
By this time, they would all know that he was seeking Steve Holt in the deserted city. Rho
Arpor, together with his seven remaining Adepts, would be evaluating Danyk's motives.
There would be no pursuit, Danyk sensed that the High Thane had greater considerations on
his mind. He would be leaving the Thanehold before long, for there was no pressing reason
why he should remain more than a few days.
Lyot would be expected to clear up the matter of the mutant Scarn to the satisfaction of the
Council of Thanes. If the steps he took were considered to be inadequate, he would be
politely censured and the lapse would be noted. Rho Arpor would take no further action, he
would not sully his hands and risk the loss of further valuable personnel, the cost in prestige
would be too great.
There was plenty to occupy Danyk's thoughts whilst the Vix plodded through the forest. He
met no one, it was almost as if everybody was giving the old city a wide berth. Undoubtedly,
there was a disturbance in the Psi for those who possessed the Gift. That which had befallen
the three Adepts would be common knowledge and this information would be passed on to
those who did not have the Gift.
Danyk thought back on his dream, that was also a disturbance in the Psi. Until that
moment, he had hardly dared to relive it. The dream had been particularly vivid. He had been
drawn from his physical form on the bed and had looked down to see himself laying there. He
had soared upward into and through the stars and he had been hurtled towards a great curtain
of light, which had resolved into a thicker and denser turbulence of flame and fire. He had
cried out but he hadn't been touched by it and then he had slowed, whilst the stars flowed by
to each side and below and above.
Steve Holt had been waiting for him, his hand extended in greeting. As he had drawn near,
he wasn't so sure that this was his blue-eyed Scarn, but then he was reassured and their hands
touched in greeting. He had returned to his physical form and had awoken to stare into the
darkness.
The trees were thinning out and the Vix nosed forward eagerly. They never liked the forest,
they were creatures of the plains. Spires and pinnacles filled the sky in front of him. Steve
142

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
Holt had fought his battle of wills with the Adepts in the main avenue leading into the heart
of the city. Danyk had not been able to feel his mind beyond that point. He nudged the Vix
with his knee and set it in the only direction he could take, the road which led to the School
of the Adepts.
He entered under the arch of the outer wall without hesitation. The long avenue was empty
of other traffic. He paused and looked up to each side. The place seemed desolate, there was
not even a bird to be seen. It wasn't unusual, the birds avoided this place in much the same
way as did the Lynxe. He felt racial memories stirring. The All Wise and the Adepts had
always made sure that every generation knew that their ancestors had evacuated the place, as
if driven out by Shaita himself. It was an uneasy place to be and one where the imaginative
could visualise the spirits of those generations long since dead, who had fled from an
unknown horror.
He reminded himself that he was trained not to be imaginative! He nudged the Vix forward
and felt the beast trembling. He had to fight the rearing animal, which threatened to unseat
him. He nearly changed his mind about being imaginative, when part of the wall to his left
shimmered into an opening. The Vix started to complain in long screaming moans, which
echoed and re-echoed through the long avenue along which he had been riding. It took some
time to settle the beast. He looked into the new opening, there was no sign of Steve Holt - but
clearly, it was an invitation. The question remained, an invitation to what - and by whom?
He weighed up the options. Rho Arpor's Adepts might have communicated with
sympathisers in the School. The new opening might well be a trap - although he had never
heard of the Adepts having the ability to open any other part of the city than that which had
been left to them at the time of the evacuation. It didn't mean that they hadn't found a way.
Many of the Adepts had ventured beyond the proper exercise of their powers, as evidenced by
those who surrounded Rho Arpor. They might have found the mental key to enter the closed
areas.
He kneed the reluctant beast into the opening and plodded slowly along the corridor
leading to the five sided arch. The opening behind him closed. Danyk's lips tightened and he
felt fury rising within him. Someone was playing him for a fool! He entered through the
inner arch. The colonnaded building was the obvious destination. He dismounted in front of it
and slowly mounted the steps. He paused and allowed his eyes to adjust to the inner light.
Standing in the dead centre of the enormous room, was Steve Holt. He was smiling and held
out his hand in welcome.
Danyk hesitated for a moment and then marched forward, his eyes fixed on the apparition.
He was conscious that the stone of the floor had given way to some other material. He
crossed it. Steve glanced down at his image and winced.
"Mind where you're putting your feet!"
He took Danyk's hand and then drew him into an embrace.
"I knew you'd come - I'm happy to see you. Welcome to the Temple of Taxila! How's
Maia?"
"Unhappy, Steve - would you expect anything else?"
The humour ebbed away. Steve led the way to the living quarters.
"I had hoped she might be with you."
"I made sure she wasn't! I don't think she should be mixed up in - this!"
"I'm not sure what - this - is."
"You make my point."
Danyk looked around the room.
"How did you find this? How did you get into this part of the city? What is this place?"
"It's a long story - "
Danyk paused and turned to face him without blinking.
143

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"We saw what you did to the Adepts. Was that necessary?"
The smile was gone and the responsive gaze unwavering.
"Yes, it was necessary! Rho Arpor has to learn that he can't meddle with Taxila."
"Taxila!"
"Steve Holt didn't fight them!"
"Do you imagine that you're Taxila?"
"You tell me who I am, Danyk! There are times when I'm not Steve Holt - It wasn't the
Bole who did the damage - it was - whoever I am when I'm not Steve Holt. If that goes under
the name Taxila, I'm in no position to argue!"
"Taxila is an old Lynxe god - a legend - folklore!"
"I hope you're right but I want to show you something."
Steve led the way to the flight of steps in the main chamber. He hadn't explored the upper
level. He kept close to the wall as they started to climb. There was no balustrade. He breathed
a sigh of relief when they reached the top. Danyk looked amused.
"Don't tell me that the mighty Taxila is afraid of heights!"
"I don't know, but Steve Holt isn't keen!"
He led the way around the gallery until he judged he was opposite the feet of the imbedded
figure on the chamber floor. He gestured Danyk to the parapet of the balcony. Down below,
his image, in all its naked magnificence, stared back at them. The inscribed name was legible
in one of the shafts of light from the long windows. Danyk's face was inscrutable. Steve
waited.
"Well! Don't tell me that this heroic version of my manly beauty is striking you dumb!"
Danyk stared downward.
"I met you last night in my dream."
"At a place where the stars flowed by us like water!"
Danyk stepped back abruptly and leaned against the wall, his face was ashen.
"For the sake of whatever god you worship, please don't faint up here! I'd never be able to
carry you down the steps!"
Danyk looked at him and started to laugh. There was a touch of hysteria in it. When it
subsided, he grinned.
"You are the most unlikely candidate to be Taxila which could be imagined. Most of the
time, you go around frightened by your own shadow. Our old god is not only the Law Giver
and the divine Father of the Children of Taxila, in other words, the Lynxe nation. He has
another name. He is known as the Destroyer - "
"I have my moments - just ask Rho Arpor's Adepts!"
Danyk scrambled upright, Steve eyed him anxiously but he looked mobile. They retreated
from the gallery and avoided looking down at the ten thousand year old image.
In the later part of the afternoon, the Bole announced the arrival of visitors. As usual, the
pronouncement required interpretation.
"The nearest personnel are now five point three six kilometres towards the centre of the
city."
"How many?"
"Three persons."
Steve turned to Danyk.
"Someone has decided to take a look at us."
"It's Zayez - and his two Adepts."
"You're sure?"
"I would have thought the mighty Taxila would know."
"Maybe, the mighty Taxila does know - I don't!"
"Are you going to let them in?"
144

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"Ask Taxila!"
"I thought I was!"
Steve shook his head in exasperation.
"Do you think we could stop these bloody stupid word games? Whatever keeps coming to
the surface in me is unnerving enough without having to contend with you being a clever
bastard!"
Danyk got up and left the room without answering. Steve sighed and shook his head. The
feeling of the impossibility of a relationship with the cat man was amplified. He followed him
out into the manicured gardens in front of the temple. Danyk had crooned a command to his
Vix, which had been grazing off the immaculate ground cover. He mounted silently and
looked down at Steve.
"I will meet Zayez and escort him here."
Steve nodded and watched the Vix amble across the intervening ground to the access arch.
He fingered the Pentacles suspended from his neck. Zayez would be nearing the closed
entrance and it was time for the portal to be opened. Suddenly, he wondered what Taxila
would want with Pentacles, his power alone was sufficient to transmute the material of the
wall into energy and permit the passing of the All Wise and his two companions.
When Danyk re-emerged from the inner arch, he had dismounted. His Vix wandered off to
resume grazing. The scrawny figure of Zayez was supported by his two Adepts. Danyk
walked slowly in front of them, as if he was leading a procession. Steve descended to the
bottom of the steps and waited until Zayez faced him. The old man's face was animated with
excitement and anticipation. He was also wary of the blue-eyed Scarn who was capable of
inflicting such mayhem on the highest Adepts of the School.
"Greetings, Steve Holt."
"Greetings, Master and Adepts. Welcome to the Temple of the Image. Welcome to the
dwelling place of Taxila!"
Zayez straightened and his eyes widened, he gazed intently into those of the stranger from
beyond the stars. Once again, Steve felt his innermost self searched. It was something he
didn't resist. If anyone could provide answers, it would have to be the All Wise.
"Shall we enter, Father Zayez?"
It was Danyk who made the suggestion. They climbed the steps slowly and entered into the
shade of the main chamber. Steve stepped aside and let the newcomers precede him. The old
man moved slowly to the edge of the transparent Pentagram and read the name. After a long
pause, he walked around the edge towards the head. Once again, he stopped, absorbed in
thought. Steve advanced to the base of the Pentagram. Zayez turned in his direction and once
again, Steve was aware of a deep probing into his mind. The interrogation was prolonged,
although Steve wasn't conscious of the physical passing of time. He was also not conscious of
what Zayez read within him.
The old Master turned abruptly and walked to the living quarters. The two Adepts, Danyk
and Steve followed. The All Wise eased down into a chair and gestured for them to do the
same. He turned to Danyk.
"Tell me, my son, exactly what took place in your father's house when Steve Holt
confronted Rho Arpor."
Danyk allowed his thoughts to flow in the silence which followed. Zayez answered
verbally.
"If I understand you correctly, Danyk. Rho Arpor and his ten Adept companions inflicted a
mind trauma upon Steve Holt, and you were the instrument which repaired the conscious
mind. You drew from deep within the psyche, upon latent forces in the subconscious?"
"That is correct, Father Zayez."
The old man sighed and nodded.
145

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"I understand - "
Steve interjected.
"I wish I did - "
"You will, Steve Holt - you will!"
The old man seemed in no hurry to enlighten him. There was a prolonged pause, during
which Steve thought how nice it would be if he could offer the visitors some refreshments.
Five clear beakers of liquid appeared on the table. Danyk looked suitably impressed.
"How did you do that?"
Zayez interjected.
"I would have thought that was quite obvious, my son. Our ancestors had the ability to
request their heart's desire in this city - and it was provided. Some would say, by the gods!"
Steve interjected.
"Others would say, by the technology inherent in the structure of the city, Father Zayez.
Your ancestors must have been extremely advanced scientifically."
Zayez smiled a little.
"I see in your mind, that you repudiate the concept of gods, Steve Holt."
"Gods have their place when reason fails, Father Zayez. I understand the scientific
concepts which made that happen."
"Your thoughts are on the boundary of our ability to understand."
"When you abandoned the city of Taxila, you abandoned those ways which were given to
you by the builders. You have forgotten what you once knew."
"Perhaps, we chose the better path. We achieved peace in our simple life."
"There would be some who would say that you chose stagnation and that your lack of
virility is the outcome!"
Steve clamped his mouth shut and felt like biting out his tongue. They didn't answer.
"I'm sorry, I had no right to express my opinion."
Zayez responded softly.
"Taxila has every right to express his will!"
"Taxila? Listen to me! I am Steve Holt. I'm a traveller from beyond the stars. I have no
right to interfere in the affairs of your society."
"Who has told you that?"
"That I have no right to interfere? It is something which is taught in the - School - where I
was educated."
"Your teachers make provision for very unusual circumstances, it would seem."
"I can assure you - they could never have imagined that I would find myself here with you.
It is a standard instruction. They have the belief that once day, men will develop ships which
will travel to new worlds. When they arrive at those new worlds, they must not interfere with
the conditions they find."
"Surely interference is impossible to avoid. You have interfered in the community of Jabez
and then in the Thanehold of Lyot. You interfered when you confronted Rho Arpor and
subsequently, when you confronted the Adepts and the men he sent to pursue you. You
interfered when you accepted the Pentacle I offered to you and you have interfered by
utilising the powers which are inherent in the structure of this city. The interference has taken
place, Steve Holt, it could not be avoided - for we too, have interfered in your life. You are
not the man who came to us through the arch in the Place of Worship. Danyk has drawn
another man to the surface. One who travelled with you from your world, but who was
submerged deep within you. Danyk brought him out and now we must live with the
consequences!"
Steve's heart was beating fast. He leaned forward.
"How can I be two people, that is impossible?"
146

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
He felt Zayez soothing the panic which was rising within him.
"When you started your journey to us, you have described a physical change - I see in your
mind things I can barely understand, but there was a twisting and a movement and you were
drawn on a long journey. At that moment, another traveller joined you. He entered into your
psyche and he entered our world with you. He is now becoming dominant within you and it is
he who has the power and the authority to exercise his will."
Steve heard himself ask:
"And - Who am I, Zayez the All Wise?"
The old Master sat ramrod straight. The answer came audibly.
"You are Taxila - and you have returned to your people as you once promised!"
CHAPTER 25
The silence was almost palpable, the others did not exist. Danyk barely dared to breath. He
looked from Zayez to the one the old man had nominated to be Taxila and back again. The
All Wise sat stiffly upright and held the gaze of the stranger. The man named Taxila was a
stranger, subtly different to Steve Holt. He looked completely at ease, almost lounging in the
chair across the table from them. He had a slight smile, but it wasn't of humour, it was a mask
for something else, something hidden beneath the apparent affability. It was a smile which
carried the warning that Zayez should not press the matter too far. Danyk sensed that Taxila
was slightly amused at the temerity of the old man, but there was a limit to his tolerance.
Zayez yielded his ground, this was not the time for confrontation, Taxila would retreat
again into the host mind he had joined at the start of Steve Holt's journey, and then, the
confusion and timidity of a man unable to comprehend what was happening to him, would
become ascendant.
Steve felt the inner man ebb away, his heart started to pound and he found it hard to breath.
He felt Danyk enter his thoughts and take up the ground which had been occupied by Taxila.
Zayez contributed an element of quietness and gradually, Steve stopped shaking. He
quavered:
"I don't understand - "
"How could you be expected to understand, young man?"
147

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"I can't be two people - "
"It is said that we are all two people - In every man there are two sides to his nature. The
one comprises the base self, who is assertive and is responsible for acts of wildness, lust and
anger. The other is that which we would like to be, the person who is gentle and who seeks to
control the excesses of the other self. I recognise this in your nature as well as in ours."
"This is different!"
Zayez nodded.
"It is different. You are a complex being who is now playing host to - I will call him - a
traveller!"
"A traveller! What sort of traveller?"
"A traveller who utilises the channels of the Psi."
"The Psi! What - ?"
"Relax and listen. Become quiet - relax - allow the agitation to ebb away."
"How can I allow it to ebb away? I've been invaded by some - alien life form!"
"It could be said that all races have all been invaded by an alien life form. We are like a
plant which has been grafted upon. You understand the concept? There is a wild, rampant
growing root stock, upon which is grafted a shoot of something refined and desirable. Every
race has a wild, rampant growing, basic self, upon which is grafted something cultured and
refined. It is this which has resulted in the Men of Lynxe, whereas the Scarn are the brute
wild stock upon which no such grafting has taken place. I see in your mind, that your race is
similar. Do you understand?"
Steve nodded.
"I understand - but it doesn't explain an alien life form invading me and using me as some
kind of vehicle to get from one place to another."
"You have missed the point. Taxila is not using you as a vehicle to go from one place to
another. No traveller in the Psi has a need for such a crude approach. He is travelling with
you because he has need of you."
The note of panic in Steve's voice increased.
"What does he want to do with me?"
Zayez shook his head.
"I do not know, but he is already using you for his purposes."
Steve's throat was dry. He rasped out.
"How do I get rid of him?"
He felt a surge of amusement within. Zayez stared back at him.
"You do not - you cannot! I would not advise you to try - for your sanity's sake!"
Steve sprang to his feet and paced the floor.
"You're trying to tell me that I have no rights in what goes on in my own body? I can just
be taken over and I'm expected to sit back meekly and let myself be abused at the whim of
some insinuating bastard who thinks he has the right to do as he pleases without considering
the consequences?"
Zayez held his gaze. He nodded.
"That is correct."
Steve whirled around.
"Well, I won't! I'll fight whoever or whatever this is until I drop!"
He felt a pitying contempt within him and a degree of disbelief. Zayez leaned forward
earnestly.
"I counsel you most strongly, to resist such inclinations, they can only lead to disaster!"
Steve sat down again, he was shaking once more.
"Explain to me, who this - Taxila - is."
148

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"Taxila is one of the five ancient gods of the Lynxe culture. The stories and legends
concerning him are too numerous to relate on this occasion. The one of most importance to
the people of Lynxe is that he is our primogenitor. He is the father of the Children of Taxila,
who are the Lynxe race. In the first days, he lived amongst us and gave us laws to regulate
our lives. There came a time when he left his children and travelled to a destination beyond
our imagination. He promised that he would return to visit his descendants and this he has
done on numerous occasions.
During the most recent visitation, he instructed the men of Lynxe to build this city and he
equipped it with the special powers which we see around us - and our legends tell us, that
there are many more which are unknown to us. He left us again and once more promised to
return. It would seem that this has now taken place!"
Steve looked from one to the other. The two Adepts were looking at him with frank
curiosity. Danyk's eyes were slits of concentration and unreadable. Zayez was waiting.
"Are you trying to tell me, that a so-called god, has need to use the body of a man from
another star system, in order to revisit a world where he has been many times before? It isn't
logical! A god doesn't need human form! A god is a god! A man is a man, he lives out his life,
dies and that's the end. A god continues - he's for ever!"
Zayez responded gently.
"Taxila has always used human form. It was in the human form that he fathered his
Children. On every occasion, he has used the human form."
The old man paused and went on softly.
"He has always used the same human form! I look at the image inset into the floor of this
temple - and I see you. It is a true image of Taxila! Your human form has visited this land
many times, Steve Holt!"
Steve shook his head violently, he half rose and slumped back into his seat. Danyk jumped
up to catch him as he slipped away into unconsciousness. As his vision blurred, he thought he
heard inner laughter, as if the use of his body over thousands of years, was a huge joke!
Zayez and his two Adepts had withdrawn when Steve awoke again. Danyk watched his
twitching return to consciousness and waited for the inevitable outburst. Taxila had certainly
chosen a most unlikely travelling companion for his latest visitation to his children. Steve
raised his head and peered around anxiously.
"We are alone. Zayez is resting."
Steve rested his head back on his rolled up blanket.
"I can't accept any of this, you know."
"I believe Zayez has given you a true explanation."
Steve swung around his legs and sat on the side of the trestle.
"That this is the last of a long line of visits your god has made to this world and that he has
used me on each occasion - you must be joking - or mad!"
"Why is it so hard to accept?"
"I would have thought it was obvious! I was born twenty-six years ago on a small, dusty
planet called Mars, which orbits a sun we call Sol. I have lived out my existence until this
point, in and around Mars and the asteroids of a political system called New Earth
Confederation. Give or take a few days, I can account for my movements for most of that
time. I have no memory of travelling to this world or any other in the company of one of your
mythical ancestors. I fail to see how I could have been here ten thousand years ago - and even
earlier, if Zayez is to be believed. It just hasn't happened - I do think I would have
remembered - even if I was blind drunk! God! I wish I could GET blind drunk! Life might
make more sense!"
"Perhaps, you're right - about not being here before, I mean."
Steve stared at him and shook his head.
149

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"That doesn't seem to be the opinion of your friend, the All Wise!"
Danyk closed his eyes.
"Perhaps, your earlier journeys haven't yet happened!"
"Oh! Man! Make sense! Even a witless moron like me finds it hard to accept that he's
going to make future visits to your wonderful world which have already happened!"
Danyk opened his eyes and smiled.
"It would explain one of our ancient legends which tells of a time when Taxila will come to
the Men of Lynxe and will know nothing of his previous contact. It could be that you are now
fulfilling the prophecy of the Awakening!"
"I am suitably touched and excited - but it's a load of bullshit!"
"That expression doesn't come across in thought translation."
"To put it delicately, think of the useful material which issues from the rear end of a Vix!"
"Ah!"
Steve marched to the window and looked out into the fading light.
"Jabez raved something about how honoured he was to lead me to the Awakening."
"I presume, that was before his changed his mind and decided to cut off your balls!"
Steve nodded curtly, it wasn't an episode he cared to remember. Danyk continued:
"Tell me, Steve Holt. You say that you were born on a world called Mars which circles a
sun called Sol. You say that this event took place twenty-six of your years ago."
"Yes - well!"
"How long did your journey take?"
"I don't know - a few minutes perhaps."
"Or a few hours - or a few years - or a few centuries - thousands of years - maybe millions
of years?"
Steve glared at him.
"It was a short time!"
"In relation to what? Did you have anything to measure the time of your journey against?"
Steve turned back to the window.
"No!"
"Or the direction it took?"
"What are you getting at?"
"A journey through the medium of the Psi is not governed by physical time or distance -
remember our dream where we travelled through fields of stars? Is such a journey possible
physically? Could we calculate the time it took or the speed? Could we tell if we travelled
forward - or whether it was a journey which travelled back in time? Ask yourself this
question. When the journey is resumed, will it be forward in time or back into the history of
the Men of Lynxe? Perhaps it will even be to a time when Taxila joined himself to the first
mothers of our race!"
Steve shook his head.
"You're talking impossibilities. If Taxila hasn't yet - joined - with the first mothers of your
race, you wouldn't exist and we wouldn't be having this conversation."
Danyk shook his head violently.
"You don't understand! We're not talking about chronological events when we talk about a
journey through the Psi. We're talking about the ability to override chronology - time and
distance are non-existent in the Psi. It IS possible for you to journey back, as it were, out of
chronological order, to fulfil the purposes of the Race Masters!"
Steve returned to the trestle and sat on the edge.
"It's not the first time I've heard them mentioned."
150

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"The Race Masters have many different names attached to them. They are the
Unmentionable Ones - those who must be obeyed. The old legends say that they exist. Zayez
told you something about them on our first visit."
"Who are they really - does anyone know?"
"Another legend says that they are five in number. They have the mastery over every
aspect of our lives. Their names are: Zayez, Hella, Harma, Shaita - and Taxila!"
"The five ancient gods of the Lynxe."
Danyk nodded.
"And one of them is supposed to be using me as some sort of vehicle?"
"It would seem so - "
Steve stared at the cat man in the near darkness.
"Doesn't that frighten you - consorting with one of your ancient gods, I mean?"
"It frightens Hella out of me."
"I wouldn't appear to be Hella you have to worry about."
"That's probably just as well, she's female!"
Steve laughed in the darkness, Danyk tensed.
"I enjoy you, my Companion of the Image. Your explanation was quite scholarly. We are at
the beginning of a long association, which will have us ride the channels of the Psi to fulfil
the purposes of those who control our existence."
The silence was profound and then slowly, the walls started to glow sufficiently to light the
room. Steve was ashen faced and trembling. He crouched, almost doubled up on the trestle.
"It wasn't me that said that - "
Danyk nodded.
"I know - take it easy - just relax."
"How can I relax when my mind is invaded and I don't know what I'm going to say or do
next?"
Danyk answered carefully.
"Perhaps, I've been selected to help you to understand."
"He just said - I just said, we were at the beginning of a long association."
"- And we will ride the channels of the Psi together."
"What does that mean?"
"It means that we are one soul in two skins, Steve Holt. Where you go - I will go!"
"I don't propose to go anywhere - and if anyone or anything tries to make me - !"
"What will you do? Nothing! Don't act the defiant child! You would do yourself a favour
by trying to understand and cooperate!"
"Thanks for your unqualified support!"
"What are friends for?"
Steve resumed his pacing, Danyk watched him for a while.
"What are you trying to do, make yourself exhausted? Pacing up and down like an
expectant father isn't going to help the situation."
Steve confronted him.
"That's what I am - twice! This Taxila - and you - seem to have forgotten that I've got
responsibilities. What about Maia - and Hara - and the children I'm about to father?"
"You've rather complicated the situation."
"Complicated the situation! Is that what you call it? I'm high-jacked to this bloody planet!
I'm playing unwilling host to a god. I try to make the best of the situation and settle down to
married bliss - "
"Twice - "
151

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"Twice! And now I'm supposed to drop everything and - quote: 'ride the channels of the Psi
to fulfil the purposes of those who control our existence.' - unquote. I repeat, what about Maia
and Hara?"
Danyk shook his head.
"I don't know. We don't know what the purpose of your - and Taxila's - visit is. How long
will you be with us - it might be a lifetime!"
"Not if I'm supposed to 'ride the channels of the Psi' to father the entire Lynxe race - that
will take a little time and planning - even for me!"
Danyk rocked with laughter. Steve grinned for the first time since Zayez had arrived. They
were interrupted by the coming of the All Wise. He looked a little startled in the face of the
humour. He looked sharply at Danyk.
"I have enlisted the aid of my most senior Adepts, to probe the thoughts of your father and
of Rho Arpor. I am most disturbed by what I see!"
Danyk's face became sober and watchful.
"And what do you see, father Zayez?"
Zayez seated himself carefully and gestured with one hand.
"I sense your disapproval, Danyk. My probing would seem to confirm your worst
suspicions about the All Wise and his Adepts. You believe that we step beyond legality by
entering into the forbidden areas of the mind. We break down mind blocks and reveal secrets
which are best left hidden. We are guilty of having improper motives for what we do. I know
your thoughts and much of what you have tried to conceal during recent years."
"I make no secret of my thoughts Father Zayez. It is the opinion of many of my generation
that the Adepts exceed their authority."
"And the All Wise? Does he exceed his authority?"
The question was very soft.
"The All Wise is the Master of his Adepts. If they exceed their authority, it is his
responsibility to make the necessary corrections!"
Zayez relaxed in his seat. He smiled at Danyk.
"Such fire and rebellion! You are a fitting companion to ride the channels of the Psi!"
Danyk's tense expression twitched into a smile.
"We must yield to where our destiny takes us, Father Zayez."
"Your ultimate destiny is hidden from me, but your immediate destiny is to return to your
father's house. Grave decisions are being made in your absence. I have entered Lyot's mind
and find great unrest. He has imposed a formidable mind block, but I know that his thoughts
turn to each of his children. A great change is about to take place which will alter the lives of
each of you. It is not a coincidence that Rho Arpor has prolonged his visit for a few days.
When he leaves, the change will have been effected."
Steve interjected.
"How will Maia be affected?"
"You are correct in your assumption that Maia is pregnant with your child. The decision
will affect them both. It is also time for you to return with your friend."
Steve found himself mouthing words again.
"Danyk will return alone - but Steve Holt will follow when Rho Arpor has left the
Thanehold. Taxila's time has not yet come!"
Zayez inclined his head.
"It shall be as Taxila wishes."
Steve came to the surface again.
"But I want to go with Danyk - I want to be with Maia."
"It is not your choice, young man."
"Have patience, Steve - it will only be for a few days."
152

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
Steve roared in frustration.
"To hell with Taxila!"
He felt a surge of amusement.
"Even in the distant aeons when the gods walked in their paradise and had the option of
physical contact, Hella was never attracted to Taxila. She would not be amused by your
suggestion!"
Steve sagged on to the trestle and covered his face with his hands. He was exhausted, the
fight was uneven. He was a puppet on a string to be manipulated at will by the inner man. He
couldn't win the battle. Within, he felt a surge of approval that he was able to recognise the
fact.
He was hardly aware that a feast had appeared on the table. It looked like a special
occasion. Taxila was throwing a party, it was a pity that none of those present felt particularly
festive. The food and the wine was of the finest quality but they ate and drank sparingly. It
wasn't long before they went to their quarters.
Steve had not been surprised to find that Taxila's city had responded to the requirements.
New openings had appeared in the rear wall of the temple which led to new sleeping
apartments. The city builders on Mars and the asteroids would have been ecstatic if they
could have had that capability. Steve experienced a gut wrenching homesickness when he
thought of Mars. He was more than ever certain that he would never again set foot on his
birth world.
CHAPTER 26
Zayez and his two Adepts left early on the following morning. His farewell was restrained,
as if he wasn't quite sure whether it was to Steve Holt or the ancient Lynxe god who shared
his mind. Danyk once again escorted the All Wise to the portal, opening to the long corridor
which led to the School of the Adepts. He was very quiet when he returned and gathered his
travelling bundle together. When he was ready, Steve accompanied him to the steps of the
Temple. He whistled for his Vix, which took its time to obey.
"I want to come with you."
"Out of the question."
The response was brusque.
"If you tried, we wouldn't get very far."
"You're completely sold on this Taxila business, aren't you?"
"So - you changed your tune in the bright light of day? Feeling braver now?"
153

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"I'm not trying to pick a fight with you."
"Sorry."
"You don't know what you're riding into."
"Nothing's happened at the Thanehold which would make me nervous. I would know."
"But something is going to - "
"Perhaps - I can look after myself."
"Against Rho Arpor, seven Adepts and thirty armed men?"
"You sound like a mother Vix with twins."
They clasped hands and Danyk mounted. He called over his shoulder.
"I'll let you know when it's safe to come."
"I thought you said it was safe NOW!"
"I'll give your passionate greetings to Maia!"
He nudged the Vix into a slow plod across the open ground and vanished into the inner
archway. Steve felt suddenly vulnerable. He turned quickly and re-entered the Temple, it was
suddenly a cavern in which lurked obscure dangers. He avoided crossing the part of the floor
which contained the image and kept his eyes averted from it. If Danyk was correct, at some
time in a future journey, he would return to a younger planet and to the people who had
created this city and he would be the inspiration of the artist who would fashion his likeness.
In the quietness of the living area, he forced himself to think about it. The past was the
future, the future was the past. The journey through the channels of the Psi promising to be
one of contradictions and convolutions. It sounded like a trackless nightmare.
He was untroubled by a visitation from the man within. Perhaps, Taxila needed to sleep as
well - there was no responsive surge of humour at the thought - perhaps, he wasn't home!
Steve grew more restless as the day progressed. Eventually, he couldn't stand being confined
within the living quarters any longer and the great room of the Temple had no attraction. He
felt dwarfed by its immensity and the consciousness of his image imbedded in the floor, gave
him no peace. He wondered how far into the city he had been permitted to penetrate. It was a
huge place and he knew only a tiny corner.
The parkland surrounded the Temple, coming right up to the colonnaded steps on three
sides. The fourth side, which contained the living quarters, was much greater than he had
supposed, but the parkland continued round the solid wing of the building. Beyond the
parkland was a high wall, similar to that in which the five sided arch had given him access.
He followed it round, it took some time and he was very warm by the time he had completed
the circuit. He found himself back at the original entry point.
The rest of the city was still closed off to him. If he had had the energy and the inclination,
he could have tried thinking intensely of how nice it would be to enter the closed areas. He
wasn't all that interested. He wanted to be free of the place and the ever present image which
seemed to leer at him as he passed. His imagination was working overtime. The Temple
seemed an ominous place now that he was alone. His restlessness increased with every
passing minute.
He tried to feel if Danyk had opened a channel to him, but it appeared that he had not done
so. He tried to visualise what might be happening at the Thanehold. Danyk would have
arrived just as the evening meal was being served. Steve could imagine the scene, with Rho
Arpor sitting languidly confident in the place of honour, whilst Lyot would act the perfect
host, his mind locked against any intrusion.
Maia would be there, her thoughts focused on him. He wondered why he wasn't able to
grasp her in his mind, but it was as if she slipped away every time he tried to hold her. He
wondered if it was some trick of Rho Arpor and his seven remaining Adepts, or whether it
was the hidden man Taxila, denying him the consolation of her company - even in thought!
154

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
His sleep was very restless but he had no dreams of stars and journeys along the Psi
channels. He pitched and turned on his trestle, which seemed suddenly filled with rocks and
which creaked and groaned with every movement. He woke briefly and remembered Maia
when she had first come to him - she had referred to the Trestle of Hella - no doubt there was
a story attached to that phrase! The thought of Hella reminded him of the latent man within
his mind and there was no further sleep for him that night.
He rose early and bathed. His breakfast appeared like magic before the dawn and with the
rising of the Lynxe star, there came a solitary, imperative command into his mind. The voice
was that of Danyk.
"Come!"
He gathered his belongings, galvanised the Bole into activity and marched out into the
Temple. This time he stared at the image and made a silent salutation. He would be back but
he couldn't be sure when - perhaps, it would be when the city was being built and Taxila was
the architect!
He made good progress across the cleared ground to the forest. He didn't bother to think
about his method of exit from the city. The wall was opened for him without any conscious
thought, and, as far as he knew or cared, it was closed when he had passed through. His
thoughts were focused ahead and upon Maia. He took one last look at the city before entering
the forest. The Bole stood beside him on its six extended mandibles. He had almost forgotten
it was there and certainly, he had given it no consideration in his haste to be free from the
City of Taxila.
"What gems of wisdom do you have for me today?"
"My sensors detect much movement in the forest."
Steve looked around nervously.
"What sort of movement?"
"Life forms - "
Steve swallowed, his bravado evaporated rapidly.
"Do these - life forms - pose a threat?"
"Inconclusive - "
The Bole had added a new word to its vocabulary.
"Do you mean - the life forms might be hostile?"
"Insufficient data."
"What are these life forms - Adepts - are they armed?"
"They are numerous - most are Scarn."
"Scarn!"
The Bole stood silently.
"Proceed - you lead the way."
The Bole made no criticism of being suddenly thrust into the front line. More mandibles
extended and it thoughtfully cleared the way for its master. Its master, for his part, followed
resolutely determined to remain as close to the wizardry of New Earth science, as was
humanly possible.
When they had been walking for about two hours, Steve began to wonder if the Bole had
started to imagine things. The forest was silent, except for the usual sounds associated with
unseemly haste through a woodland setting. He ordered the Bole to stop at the edge of an
open area. He listened intently and nearly suffered cardiac arrest when the Bole robustly
announced.
"We are surrounded by three hundred and thirty-seven Scarn."
Steve cleared his throat.
"What are they doing?"
"Observing us."
155

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"What are their intentions?"
"Inconclusive - "
"Don't provoke them - "
"It was not my intention to do so."
Steve slowly eased down to the ground and rested his back against a tree. It gave him a
feeling of security to know that he had one side covered. The Bole was good, but he doubted
whether it could cope with a concerted rush of three hundred and thirty-seven crazed semiapes,
who might not have eaten in days. There was an inner surge of amusement. Steve wasn't
sure whether it was an asset or otherwise, to have the awakened presence of his alter-ego
acting as an audience.
After an interminable time, there was a movement in the undergrowth to one side of the
clearing. A huge male stepped out a few paces, to be followed by about a dozen more. They
stared mutely at the sitting figure. Steve remained motionless - he doubted whether his legs
would have supported him if he had tried to stand. He murmured to the Bole.
"Stand ready at my signal."
"My status is readiness for defensive activity."
"A simple OK, would have been enough!"
"OK"
The undergrowth parted and one after the other, the Scarn emerged from their hiding
places. His tension began to ease when he saw the females and the young ones standing
behind the phalanx of males. The inner man said:
"The Children of Taxila have rejected him, but the brutes of the forest have come to give
him escort!"
Steve stood and stared into the vacant eyes of the dominant male. There was no
acknowledgement, no reaching out, not even curiosity.
"You expect too much."
The Scarn kept their distance, moving back as the Bole led the way through the clearing
and re-entered the trees. They followed but always on the fringe of his awareness. The Bole
made good progress and Steve followed, with one eye nervously watching the moving shapes
all around them in the trees. By the time they emerged from the woods, the tribe had grown
considerably and as they walked through the fields of oil-crop in the heat of the afternoon,
those in the fields dropped their tools and instinctively joined with the others, so that, by the
time he approached the Thanehold in the early evening, he estimated he led a force of three
thousand. Danyk met him alone.
"Why do you come with an army, Steve Holt?"
"Look into my mind. Do you see belligerence?"
"I'm not sure what I see. I ask again, why are the Scarn with you? Why have our labourers
thrown down their tools?"
"Perhaps, they recognise what the Men of Lynxe do not."
"Taxila was never their god!"
"And Taxila is no longer honoured by the Men of Lynxe!"
"So - they are honouring Taxila?"
"It would seem that their brute minds have a greater understanding than the refined
intellect of the Children of Taxila!"
"Do you intend to have them camping around the Thanehold?"
"They come and they go as they please."
Steve turned and faced the shambling herd who had followed him. He said nothing, but
slowly they began to drift aimlessly away, as if they had suddenly lost interest. Danyk's
thought was sardonic in his mind.
"Perhaps, they were more interested in your wonder box, than in the great Taxila!"
156

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"Perhaps, you are right - my brother of the Image!"
He felt the shock and discomfort. He turned and faced Danyk again.
"The time will come when you have to make up your mind which way the cat is going to
pounce!"
He felt the anger rising.
"Be sure the cat doesn't pounce on you - and sharpen his claws!"
"You asked me to come back - why?"
The anger didn't subside.
"Surely, the all knowing Taxila doesn't need to ask?"
Steve refused to be provoked.
"I won't fight with you, Danyk. Open your thoughts."
Danyk's eyes were slits - unreadable.
"Rho Arpor has gone - "
"I'm so sorry to have missed him! - He has gone, but his influence remains - and that
troubles you. Your family is divided and your inheritance is in jeopardy. You have a conflict
which is tearing you apart. Your loyalty to your family is in conflict with what you know
must happen. You are needed here, to counter the influence of Rho Arpor, but you know that
your destiny is with me - and that is the reason for your anger!"
Danyk was bitter in his mind.
"The All Wise could not have put it better."
"Taxila is wiser than the All Wise, my friend. Taxila is also patient and can await the
resolution of your problems."
"But can the Race Masters?"
The thought exploded in Steve's mind.
"The Race Masters do not function within the confines of time and distance. They too, can
be patient."
Steve saw a new figure emerge from the outer entrance to the Thanehold. It paused and
then started to run across the open ground. Maia threw herself into his arms and kissed him
passionately. When they emerged for air, Danyk was gone. They walked slowly back to the
house, entwined together. The Bole followed behind, like a elegant spider.
"I thought you were gone for ever."
"How could I do that? I told you I'd be back!"
He felt a restless stir from the inner man. Patience had its limitations and when it was
exhausted, he would be expected to obey.
Despite his hasty departure, Maia had elected to stay in his living quarters. She led him
there and as soon as the curtain had dropped back to cover the entrance. She pressed her body
against his and kissed him again. She drew back, her nose wrinkling.
"You smell like a Scarn!"
"It must be the company I keep."
"You're not coming anywhere near me until you get rid of that stink!"
She darted into the bath chamber and he heard the water running. He shrugged and pulled
off his tunic, folded his arms across his chest and waited for her to come back. She flushed
when she saw him.
"Are you sure I have to bathe first?"
"Yes!"
She had loaded the water with perfume. He looked doubtful.
"I'll smell like a Kharn!"
"As long as you act like one, I'll be satisfied!"
"I think I can guarantee it."
"Conceited bastard!"
157

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
He lay back and allowed her to wash him.
"Wipe that repulsive smirk off your face!"
"Anything else you'd like?"
"Yes!"
Later, she told him what had happened.
"Rho Arpor tried to hide his fury at what happened before you left the Thanehold. He
couldn't resist sending the three Adepts and some of his men after you. When he saw what
you did to them, he changed his tactics. You became a side issue, he was playing for higher
stakes. My father had locked us all out, he didn't want us to know what Rho Arpor had
allowed him to see in his mind. Last evening, when Danyk had returned, our High Thane
decided to show his hand. He announced his intention of uniting with Laoni! It seems that my
beloved sister is quite agreeable. It was this which my father had been permitted to see. Laoni
left with Rho Arpor this morning. We are all cordially invited to the Formal Declaration,
which will take place twenty days from now - Rho Arpor made a special point of insisting on
your presence!"
Steve drew her closer to him.
"Now - isn't that kind!"
"Of course - we won't go!"
"I wouldn't miss it, Maia! How could I refuse when your illustrious High Thane made such
a point of insisting I should be there?"
She argued furiously until he suspended the conversation with another bout of love
making. Eventually, she pushed him away.
"Don't think you can win every argument by doing that!"
"Can you think of a better way? - Make love, not war!"
They dressed and went down to the evening gathering. Steve resumed his place at the
festive board, it was as if he had not been away. The space which Laoni had occupied, had
been absorbed. Across the table, Danyk and Krin sat shoulder to shoulder. The younger
brother eyed Steve with animated interest.
"I'm glad you're back!"
"I'm happy to be back - "
"You certainly put a fire under Rho Arpor's arse!"
"Shut up, Krin!"
Danyk's intervention was abrupt.
"As usual, your mouth outstrips your common sense."
"You don't believe that crap about Rho Arpor listening to everything we say?"
"I said, shut up! - and block your thoughts. It's about time you learned a little
responsibility."
It looked as if a free fight was about to erupt. Steve said smoothly.
"I never get aggressive unless I'm provoked - or attacked. Perhaps, Rho Arpor's men
exceeded their authority, if so, they learned a valuable lesson."
Danyk was hard faced.
"If you call blasting the minds of three men into idiocy a valuable lesson, I would have to
agree."
Lyot and Hepha entered together. They bowed formally and took their places. The Scarn
house servants started to bring in the food. Lyot's face was impassive when he greeted Steve.
"I see that you have decided to return to the Thanehold. You are welcome at my table."
"I thank you for your hospitality."
"I read in your thoughts that Maia has informed you of the high honour extended to my
house and Clan by our High Thane."
"I am sure the merging of your two houses will be of equal benefit to Rho Arpor."
158

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
Lyot raised his eyebrows a little.
"It is always a benefit when two great houses are united in this way."
Krin snorted into his food. His father flicked a side glance at him.
"It might be well if you spend some time at the School of the Adepts, my son. They may
yet have the opportunity to instil a little elementary wisdom and prudence into your
character!"
Krin jumped up abruptly.
"It might be better than seeing my sister acting the whore in the house of Rho Arpor!"
Lyot rose to his feet.
"Sit down - or go to your quarters!"
Krin hesitated and resumed his place. Lyot waited a moment and then sat down again, he
turned to Steve.
"The All Wise has visited my mind and has shown me many thoughts concerning you. It
would seem that your coming has many implications for the house of Lyot."
Steve put down his eating knife.
"I don't pretend to understand the consequences of what is happening to me. I can't accept
that I can be two people in one body. I don't believe in gods and I certainly don't believe that
one lives in me! Certain things happen over which I have no conscious control. I can't explain
them. I don't know how I could be responsible for what happened to the three Adepts. I don't
understand why thousands of Scarn escorted me to your house. I don't understand how my
image can be imbedded in the floor of a building constructed ten thousand years ago.
I am a mining engineer from Mars! I was born twenty-six years ago. I know my parents
and I know my background. It has nothing to do with this world - or the Lynxe - or the Scarn
- or Taxila - or the Race Masters!"
He stopped helplessly and looked across the table into the intense gaze of Danyk. Lyot's
voice was soft in his mind.
"But yet, you are here, Steve Holt. You have made a journey which brought you from what
was familiar and there is no doubt that you are caught up in something over which you have
no control. You may or may not be Taxila - it is a matter which will be determined by events.
You are united with my daughter and she has conceived a child which will be of my lineage.
You are assured of my protection in so much as you need it - and for as long as you are
permitted to remain with us. For, if you are Taxila, you will assuredly leave us in the way you
arrived. We cannot bind you to us and you are not able to vary your destiny!"
CHAPTER 27
There was a great deal of confusion about the length of the journey which would bring the
senior members of the Clan of the Seven Lands, to the court of Rho Arpor, the High Thane.
Steve tried to get clarification from Maia.
"This Formal Declaration to which we are invited - you said it would happen in twenty
days?"
"That's right - "
"And we have to travel to the headquarters of the High Thane?"
"I wouldn't put it quite that way - but yes, we have to travel to the Thanehold of the High
Thane."
"It must be quite a long journey - when do we start?"
159

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"The lands of Clan Arpor are on the other side of those of the Clans of Pelach and Bryn. It
is a long journey, we will start in fifteen days."
"Are you trying to tell me that it will only take five days to get there?"
"We will travel by Vix!"
"The trip has suddenly lost a lot of its attraction."
Maia giggled.
"I'll make you a cushion."
"How many Clans are there? Will they all come?"
"They will all come. It will be a great gathering. The leaders of the Ten Clans will
assemble to honour the occasion - and it is very rare that so many of our leaders meet
together. It will be a time of great feasting and jubilation. In ordinary circumstances, it is a
great privilege when a daughter of a Clan is chosen as a consort by the High Thane."
"But you don't see it as an honour and the circumstances aren't normal?"
"The Council of the Thanes is divided on many issues and my father is the unofficial leader
of those who oppose Rho Arpor. The marriage to Laoni will undermine his influence in the
Council."
"There is no one more senior than Rho Arpor?"
"He is the High Thane."
"He is your planetary leader?"
"I don't understand that thought. Rho Arpor leads the ten Clans in Council. He is our
supreme leader."
"The ten Clans - they rule the entire planet?"
"Of course! The ten Clans extend over all the lands within the Rim."
"The Rim?"
"The Rim is where the sky meets the land."
Steve nodded, he was beginning to get confused.
"What is beyond the Rim?"
"The sky, of course!"
He assumed that the Rim was a fancy Lynxe term for the horizon. It was a question of
semantics, he didn't press the subject.
The atmosphere with the Thanehold remained sombre. It was hard to shake the feeling that
there were preparing to attend a funeral rather than a wedding. Most of the senior members of
the Clan were conspicuous by their absence. There was much coming and going at all hours
of the day and night. It became a frequent occurrence to be awoken during the night or in the
dawn, by the clatter of Vix hooves on the flagstones of the courtyard, accompanied by the
protesting moan of the animals, who were led away to be groomed. Steve would hold Maia
against him, feeling the tension, knowing that she was awake and listening.
The inner man remained dormant but he was watchful. Steve could feel him lurking around
in the back of his mind. He had to learn to accept his presence in everything he did, even the
intimate moments he shared with Maia, knowing that Taxila shared in the moments of
ecstasy. Maia read his thoughts.
"You mustn't mind about him, Steve. You will have to learn to accept that he will never
leave you. He is really YOU. At this time, he seems to be separate, another individual, but the
time will come when his nature will become yours."
"In other words, my personality will be swallowed! What I am now, will be thrust down,
beaten by something stronger - an alien who has taken me over!"
"Only if you allow a war to develop within you - Only if you try to fight him! It would be
better if you learned to cooperate and then there will be a place for both of your personalities.
Perhaps, Taxila needs the tempering influence of your personality, as much as you need the
160

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
qualities he can give you. It was no accident that you were chosen by the Race Masters and it
was no accident that Taxila journeyed with you to us!"
Steve whispered.
"If only I could see where this is going to end."
They sat quietly in the light of the setting star and watched the shadows lengthen. Steve
murmured after a while.
"This is how I want it to be for us when we're old. We will have raised our family by then
and they will have had their children. We will watch the sun set and the night come and we
will be content."
"A wonderful dream, Steve - "
She sounded intensely sad. He looked at her, she was weeping.
"What's wrong!"
"Nothing! I'm being a stupid, emotional - pregnant woman! Take no notice!"
A rider clattered into the courtyard, it was Danyk. He was slumped in weariness. He
straightened up and looked in their direction and raised his hand in greeting. It was the first
time he had acknowledged his Brother of the Image for many days. Steve slowly raised his
arm in response. Danyk wheeled his Vix away and entered the gate to the stables.
"Where has he been?"
"I don't know, my father has sent him to talk to many of our senior cousins. They have both
set up a strong mind block."
"To keep you out?"
"To keep out all who have no reason to be part of the discussions."
"Including Rho Arpor and his Adepts?"
"Possibly."
Two days remained before they were due to start their journey. Maia spent them preparing,
Steve was left at a loose end, wandering around the Thanehold and generally trying not to get
under the feet of those who were gainfully employed. He found it easier to get right away
from the buildings and ended up by the side of the river, sitting under a tree and watching the
flow of water. Danyk found him there late in the afternoon of the second day. He sat down
beside him and said nothing for a while.
"We leave tomorrow."
"So I understand."
"I see that you intend to take your box."
"Do I detect disapproval?"
"It could be construed as provocative."
"I could construe being attacked in your father's house and at the entrance of the old city,
as being provocative. Rho Arpor hasn't demonstrated peaceful coexistence on either occasion.
The Bole comes with me - or Maia and I stay here!"
Danyk nodded and stared at the river.
"What about Taxila?"
"I can't speak for Taxila - but he'll speak for himself if he's provoked."
"You make it sound as if we are going into battle."
"Perhaps we are. A battle can take many forms. One of the method's used by the kings of
Old Earth, was to marry into the family of those they considered their enemies."
"Clan Arpor isn't at war with the Clan of the Seven Lands."
"Your father opposes him in Council. Rho Arpor regards that as a declaration of war!"
"Suddenly, you're an expert in the politics of the Men of Lynxe!"
"You forget - Taxila always has an interest in his children!"
"Ah! So now, it is Taxila who speaks."
"Perhaps, he has been provoked!"
161

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
Danyk got to his feet and walked away. Steve looked after him regretfully. Lately, their
conversations had become sparring matches. He sat by the river until it was almost dark.
Maia would be waiting for him and soon it would be time for the last meal the family would
share before they started their journey to the court of the High Thane.
She wasn't in their rooms when he returned. He bathed and dressed in a fresh tunic. He
glanced at the Bole which was positioned against one wall. It was dormant and had been
since his return from the city.
"Status."
"Integrity."
"You've been uncharacteristically silent for a few days."
"I have not been called upon to utilise my capabilities."
"Don't tell me you're having a fit of the sulks!"
"A 'fit of the sulks' is not recorded in my menu as being one of my capabilities."
"We're going on a long journey tomorrow and you will be lashed to the back of a Vix."
The Bole remained silent.
"I see the prospect doesn't thrill you."
"To be 'thrilled' is not one of my capabilities."
"Why this sudden preoccupation with your capabilities?"
"My capabilities are being under utilised."
Steve stared hard at the metal cube.
"What ingenious quirk of programming leads you to that conclusion?"
"I am activated on a continual basis but utilised infrequently, therefore, my capabilities are
not being fully utilised."
Steve sat on the edge of the bed.
"All right, I'll give you something to utilise your capabilities. Determine the nature of the -
lodger - I have living in my mind."
Steve felt a surge of humour within.
"Insufficient data."
"Don't give me that crap! Run sensor scans and determine my status."
"Sensor scans complete."
"And what are your conclusions - if you say 'insufficient data', I'll trash you!"
"Your technical expertise is insufficient for you to attempt the dismantling of a Bole Mark
IV. Sensory investigation determines that you are within physical tolerances - "
"I suppose that means I'm a fine figure of a man?"
"Physically, you are within design tolerances, as recorded. Mentally, your status is -
Violation!"
Steve felt the blood ebb from his face.
"Violation?"
"Confirmed."
Steve groped for another question.
"What form of violation."
"My sensors have detected that your mental capabilities are not within the design
tolerances."
"Less than design tolerances, or greater?"
"Greater."
"I go back to my first question - What is the nature of the invader?"
"The definition is beyond my vocabulary capabilities."
"You are trying to tell me that you can't define the alien life form which has invaded me?"
"Correction - you have not been invaded by an alien life form."
"But you just said - "
162

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"You have not been invaded by an alien life form."
Steve roared in exasperation.
"Then, who the hell keeps popping up in me and doing things I'm not capable of doing?"
"The life form is not alien - it is you!"
"Me?"
"It is who you will become."
"And who or what is that?"
"Homo Galactica!"
The inner man exploded with glee, his physical shell sat ashen-faced on the edge of his
bed. Homo Galactica - Man of the Galaxy. Hauptmeier's term. Steve felt a chill of fear creep
up his spine. He couldn't bear to be alone anymore. He fled from the room, accompanied by
the man he would become. He erupted into the great room and the assembly who had
gathered for the meal. He felt their glances and more than one probe into his mind, as he took
his place by Maia's side. Lyot and Hepha entered and the feasting began, whilst he sat and
glared into an empty platter. Maia's small hand crept into his, he clutched it as if it was his
only lifeline to sanity.
They made an early start on the following day. Even before it was light, the Thanehold was
bustling with activity and the courtyard below the window of their room was alive with a
small herd of Vix and their handlers. The beasts showed their displeasure at being disturbed
so early by a vicious display of snapping and nipping at anything within reach. The plaintive
moans increased in intensity until they sounded like howls of torment. These, mixed with
surprisingly belligerent vocalising from their grooms, revealed an altogether unsuspected side
to the character of the Men of Lynxe.
House Scarn brought an early breakfast and then another squad arrived to collect the
bundles Maia had prepared. One of the younger ones had been assigned to carry the Bole.
Steve had taken the precaution of telling it to mind its manners before he had deactivated it
for the journey. He watched the young Scarn hover cautiously. In their society, he would have
been termed a teenager. Perhaps, that was why he had been detailed for the task, perhaps, he
had the reputation for being reckless and foolhardy. Perhaps, he had volunteered so that he
could prove his manhood. Whatever the history, his courage had deserted him.
He stood indecisive, waiting to receive whatever punishment his failure would bring. He
stared fearfully at Maia and then at Steve. Maia's thought was imperative.
"You have no need to fear, take the box to the courtyard."
The creature moaned and crouched and then rocked.
"Do as I say!"
Steve found himself saying.
"Show him, Maia - touch the Bole and show him that it won't hurt him!"
Her response was explosive in his mind.
"I won't touch the filthy thing!"
"Then, don't expect him to touch it."
"The people of Lynxe have seen what you can do with your box. I won't have anything to
do with it!"
"If it's alien - it's as alien as me. We come from the same place."
"I won't have anything to do with it!"
"It's good enough for the Scarn to touch - but not good enough for the high and mighty
Lynxe to soil their hands. Very well, a blue-eyed Scarn brought it into your house and a blueeyed
Scarn will take it out!"
He lifted the Bole and gestured the cowering Scarn out of the door. He didn't look at Maia.
On the way to the courtyard, he thought savagely about the senseless quarrel. Under ordinary
circumstances, the disagreement over such a triviality wouldn't have arisen. It was
163

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
symptomatic of the high charge of tension which seemed to be crackling around the corridors
of the Thanehold of Lyot of the Seven Lands.
The Scarn teenager preceded him and hovered close by as Steve lashed the unprotesting
metal box to the back of a Vix. The animal tried to take a piece out of his hand and snarled
ferociously, its eyes rolled back. The young Scarn darted forward and grabbed the animal's
head and crooned into its ear. The beast quietened and Steve finished his inexpert lashing.
None of the Lynxe grooms offered to help. He turned to the Scarn.
"Thanks - what do they call you?"
He looked wary - but he understood. Steve stared into his eyes, perhaps the Scarn
understood much more than the Men of Lynxe suspected. Steve looked up, Maia was
watching him from the balcony outside of their room. Her face was strained and angry. One
of the Lynxe grooms interjected.
"The Scarn are mute and they have no names, Lord Steve-Holt."
Steve nodded. Some perversity made him say:
"This one seems useful. I could use him as a servant."
The groom shrugged.
"We take them as they're needed, my Lord. He's yours."
Steve knew the young Scarn understood. He had acquired a servant for no other reason
than that he was still feeling angry with Maia. He could think of no use to which he could put
an untrained Scarn, fresh out of the forest.
Within the hour, they set off on their journey to the Court of the High Thane. A small
honour guard led the way, surrounding the persons of Lyot and his consort. The rest of the
household followed in their dust. There was none of the jubilation one might have expected
from a wedding party. Once again, there was the expression of gloom and despondency and
the progress through the fields of oil crop was silent and preoccupied. Overseers and workers
in the fields watched the progress of their Lord mutely and then quickly returned to their
tasks.
Steve hadn't thought to ask for how long the nuptial celebrations were scheduled. He
glanced sideways at Maia and decided to save the question for later. The lady's face was set
militantly and she stared resolutely ahead. Danyk and Krin rode side by side, ahead of them.
Steve glanced down to the other side. His newly acquired servant lopped effortlessly by his
side, easily keeping up with the trotting Vix.
The Lynxe star was at its zenith before they stopped under the shade of some trees. The
morning had been spent firstly negotiating the interminable fields of oil crop and then
through open savannah. The heat had started to hammer down and Steve was glad of the
respite. There had not been a word or even a thought transmitted during the hours since they
had left the Thanehold. Steve was determined that he was not going to be the first one to cry
for a truce. He dismounted and the young Scarn took command of his Vix. One of the Lynxe
grooms took care of Maia's. Danyk and Krin looked after their own mounts. Steve realised
that he was the only one to have the luxury of a Scarn servant. No doubt, it was another
negative mark against him. He felt his anger rising - knowing it was unreasonable.
He ate some of the dried food which had been brought with them and drank sparingly from
the wine bottle. Maia provided for him silently, her face a feline, neutral mask. She avoided
looking at him and he made no overtures of reconciliation. He stood up abruptly and walked
over to where his Vix was grazing in the shelter of a tree. His Scarn servant shambled to his
feet at his approach. Steve gestured for him to sit and then sat down opposite. He felt the eyes
of the rest of the party on him and ignored them. He said softly:
"I know you have a name - what does your mate call you?"
The wary eyes stared back blankly.
"Your people speak with each other - you are not mute."
164

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
Once again, he was met with a blank stare.
"I won't give you a name - you will tell me yours. You must learn to trust Taxila."
He got up and returned to Maia. Danyk said mockingly in his mind.
"That was an interesting - if one sided conversation. So - Taxila is interested in the Scarn."
Steve responded in thought.
"Taxila is interested in every sentient race - and the Scarn are sentient - even though they
don't measure to the arrogant standards of the Men of Lynxe!"
"But, the great Taxila couldn't persuade the - sentient - specimen he has befriended, to
confide to him his name."
"Fear and centuries of oppression by the Lynxe make him cautious."
Steve felt the anger rising in his Companion of the Image.
"One of these days, your tongue will make you a bad enemy, Steve Holt!"
"Then, I will expect to see the veneer of civilisation stripped away and the Men of Lynxe
will unsheathe their claws!"
Lyot's command exploded in his mind.
"Enough! I have had enough of your arguing! Perhaps you could both remember the
probing minds of the Adepts who surround Rho Arpor and the message you send which tells
him of the division in our ranks!"
"Taxila thanks you for your reminder, Lyot Thane of the Seven Lands - but he reminds you
that he has his own agenda with Rho Arpor!"
There was a blankness in Steve's mind. The Lynxe had withdrawn from him. The man
within seemed quietly amused but it was mingled with a sickness of heart, when Steve looked
into the tense face of the woman he loved.
CHAPTER 28
Steve sat beneath the shelter of a smooth boled tree and looked at the stars above the crest
of the escarpment. For the past two days, they had travelled towards what looked to be a
substantial barrier. The stars were hard sharp in the night air. It was much cooler at night than
in the vicinity of Lyot's Thanehold. He realised that the little convoy had been climbing
steadily and at various times, it had been necessary to negotiate a steeper section. The Vix
had moaned and complained and there had been much slapping and swearing as the riders
wrestled for authority.
The coolness and mental distance had been maintained towards him. The mind channels
remained closed. Maia shared in his isolation and he had become more and more irritated
with her stubbornness and apparent determination to make him suffer for quarrelling with her.
He had almost forgotten the reason for the estrangement. It had been so trivial, totally
165

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
unnecessary and certainly, not a good enough excuse to send him to the Lynxe equivalent of
the dog house.
During the previous four nights, Maia had made it clear that she didn't much care for his
company and his pride wouldn't allow him to try to soften her stand. He had elected to sleep
alone - not quite alone. His Scarn had taken up station a few metres distant. Steve wondered
if he ever slept, for on every occasion he had stirred, the shaggy head had raised in enquiry.
Even now, he was being watched. Steve didn't feel irritated by the attention, in a way, it was
comforting. There were times when he felt more empathy for the shaggy sub-species than
with the superior elegance of their cat overlords.
The thought of overlords reminded him that he was looking at the dawn of the day which
would bring them to the Thanehold of Rho Arpor. He looked at the escarpment, apparently,
they would not be crossing it. Their destination was located before it. He wondered
momentarily, what was beyond. Probably more of the same. Interminable fields of oil crop or
other anonymous produce and great stretches of savannah. Somewhere or the other, there
would have to be oceans, although he had never heard them mentioned. The Lynxe he had
met had been very insular in thought. Their interests seemed to rotate around the condition of
their crops and the High Thane in his distant seat of power was about the furthest their minds
stretched.
In the final analysis, Rho Arpor's seat of power was not all that distant. It was a peculiar
society. Despite their mind power, their horizons were limited. The dawn light started to flush
the highest parts of the escarpment and the camp began to stir. He got to his feet and almost at
the same instant, his Scarn scurried away in search of his master's breakfast. It wasn't a bad
arrangement. Steve walked resolutely into the centre of the camp, dodging fractious Vix who
were milling around in a mutual chorus of complaint. Grooms and riders struggled to put on
harnesses and avoid bared teeth. House servants were collecting together the bed rolls and
baggage.
Amidst all the turmoil, the senior members of the party stood like a royal family watching
the menials perform their tasks. The thought struck him that this was what they really were -
a royal family. Lyot was one of the ten rulers of the planet. Somehow, it wouldn't marry
together with his earlier thoughts. They were too insular, too much like petty princelings to
have the rule over an entire planet.
Someone had to take the initiative. Steve squared his shoulders and marched up to Lyot.
The Thane eyed him with cold speculation.
"Thane Lyot, I am sure you can read what is in my thoughts. I would like to ask a direct
question. Is it your wish that I should go further with you, or should I return to your
Thanehold - or some other destination, if you wish?"
The Thane continued to stare at him without emotion.
"Does Taxila need to ask permission concerning his movements?"
"Taxila has not been invited to the Formal Declaration, Steve Holt has."
"You are mistaken - Rho Arpor has invited Taxila! He has no interest in a blue-eyed
Scarn!"
"A blue-eyed Scarn who has mated with your daughter!"
For a moment, their minds locked. Steve felt the fury rising. Lyot subdued it.
"Maia is controller of her own destiny, Steve Holt. It is our way to be self accountable."
Steve glanced across to Maia. She was staring at them intently. He had no doubt that she
was tuned into the conversation. He turned back to Lyot.
"For what reason has Rho Arpor invited Taxila?"
"That will become evident - Rho Arpor keeps his thoughts to himself."
"So - I am to continue with you?"
"That would seem to be indicated - but you will not return with us!"
166

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
The conversation was ended. Lyot turned away and marched towards his Vix. Steve's Scarn
thrust a dish of gruel into his hand and shambled away. Steve eyed his breakfast critically.
"It will fill your stomach."
The observation was cool and came from Maia. He turned to her.
"What did he mean? I won't be returning with you."
She shrugged.
"My father has in insight which is denied to the rest of us."
Steve toyed with the gruel.
"If I am not going to return, what happens to us?"
"Perhaps, the question should be - What has already happened to us?"
"My answer is, a small misunderstanding."
"You may be right, but doesn't it show something basic, Steve? There is a gulf between us.
Whether you are called a blue-eyed Scarn, or some other name, you and I don't share the
same heritage. You are an alien to us - and we are aliens to you. We were wrong to see it
differently."
Steve put down his bowl and then gripped her arms.
"What about the positive things we've shared? We've shared our bodies, our passion. I've
put my alien seed into you and you've conceived a child. I thought we loved each other. I
thought those emotions could transcend the differences. Now, you are telling me something
else. I can't believe this change has come about simply because of an argument over who
would carry the Bole!"
She broke his grip and stepped back. Her expression was without emotion.
"I shared my body with a poor traveller who had a sweet nature, who was clumsy but well
meaning. Someone I could believe when he said he loved me. Someone I could give myself
to, a lover who was vigorous and passionate. I loved you so very much, Steve!"
She held herself rigid, controlling the emotion.
"You aren't that sweet boy anymore. I don't know what you are. I don't like what you are!
Something hard and cynical lives in you. Something all knowing, which - evaluates - our love
making, comparing it to other experiences. When that man appears, I am afraid. He is
becoming stronger. I am frightened that if we stay together, one day, he would take command
and he will use me to satisfy his lust. If that was to happen, I would die inside!"
She walked away and he didn't try to stop her. He looked after her and knew it was
finished. A greedy Vix nudged him aside and finished his breakfast. He was alone in his
mind. The inner man was watching but was quiescent. Steve Holt was allowed to feel his
desolation undisturbed.
The remainder of the journey to the Thanehold of Rho Arpor took another three hours. It
was mid morning when finally, they breasted a low range of hills which were an extension to
the flanks of the escarpment. Rho Arpor's domain had the dimensions of a miniature city. In
reality, it was one huge complex, but its many wings and abutments of buildings, gave it a
sprawling look. Behind it, was a solid wall of rock stretching up to the ridge. It made the
place impregnable on one side.
A great cascade dropped from the escarpment with a thunderous roar into a great pool to
one side of the structure, this in turn, emptied into a swift flowing river which curved around
one side and the front of the Thanehold. Once again, Steve thought in turns of impregnability.
The place could easily be defended. The fourth side was the one they approached. It was
surely no coincidence that this was where the walls of the Thanehold were at their most
impressive. Turreted and high, with one solitary gate giving access to the inner areas. Rho
Arpor could rest contented at night, knowing that his seat of power was virtually unassailable.
The arrival of the father of the bride, together with his household, triggered an avalanche of
house servants, who scurried to secure the nervous Vix and assist their riders to dismount.
167

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
Steve's Scarn glowered at the interlopers and they backed off in the face of his belligerence.
He assisted Steve to the ground and then scurried round to the Vix carrying the Bole to ward
off any attempts to unload it. Steve felt eyes on him. He looked up into Danyk's face. There
was a hint of compassion behind the noncommittal mask. No doubt, the conversation with
Maia had been on open line.
He looked beyond Danyk and saw Rho Arpor descending the steps in front of his great
hall. His welcome to Lyot and Hepha was affable - it was also tinged with a hint of mockery.
There was no doubt that Rho Arpor was feeling very pleased with himself. Danyk and Krin
were greeted next. The brothers conducted themselves with the practised ease of those who
were well used to dealing with self serving bastards. Maia received her share of the unctuous
welcome and then Rho Arpor turned to Steve. His expression didn't change perceptibly.
"It is always a pleasure to welcome the stranger in our midst."
An overture of friendship? Steve thought not.
"I was most gratified - and intrigued - to receive your invitation."
Rho Arpor's smile broadened.
"Between strangers of different cultures, there are sometimes mistakes - miscalculations of
intent! It is the expression of our higher culture, when these events can be consigned to the
past. I am sure my dear future consort shares this view - after all, what man can resist stealing
a kiss when he meets a pretty girl on a forest path?"
Steve smiled genially.
"The intent is what counts in all things."
"A very profound statement, Steve Holt!"
"Especially when it comes from a blue-eyed Scarn, Rho Arpor!"
The High Thane threw back his head and laughed. The sound echoed off the high stone
walls, it sounded derisive.
"That is one of the misunderstandings we must put behind us, Steve Holt!"
He shepherded his guests into the great hall. Welcoming refreshments were prepared and
consumed. There were a number of small speeches of welcome on the one hand and
appreciation of the welcome on the other. It was in the finest tradition of Lynxe hospitality
and smacked of the highest degree of hypocrisy. Steve noted that Laoni did not put in an
appearance. Perhaps that was also another example of the Lynxe tradition - a daughter did not
greet her parents when they arrived to celebrate her Formal Declaration to the supreme ruler?
Steve knew Rho Arpor was listening and so were his remaining seven Adepts. So far, the
absence of Laoni was a mere curiosity. He looked into the set faces of the Adepts and allowed
his thoughts to flow unchecked. They would be strange individuals if they didn't feel
threatened by what had happened to their colleagues at the gate to the old city. They would
have nothing to fear from him, provided that they behaved themselves - and that applied to
Rho Arpor as well! The High Thane glanced in his direction, Steve met his eye, it was
mocking and it contained a hidden threat. Steve raised his glass in salute and Rho Arpor
responded before turning away.
They were led to their quarters. Steve smiled slightly when he found himself allocated a
single room. News travelled fast in a society where there was no privacy and no secrets. The
same could be said for the transport of the Bole. Its reputation had preceded it and Steve had
had to rescue it from the ground in front of the great hall and cart it to the guest room himself.
He sat on the bed and contemplated the smooth cube. It was the one connection with what
he had once been. Maia had called him a sweet if clumsy boy. It didn't quite match the
description he would have given himself but it was close enough. He didn't know what he had
become - or what he was going to become. The change had been sufficient for him to lose the
one girl with whom he had truly wanted to share his life. It was part of a general alienation.
The tentative relationship he had built with Danyk was shattered for the same reason - the
168

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
emergence of the inner man - Taxila. The rest of the family avoided him - even Krin - but
then, Krin had never been friendly to Taxila, he had been excited by the stories a stranger
could tell him about the stars.
Steve got up from his bed and caught sight of his reflection in the mirror. It was like
looking at a stranger. There was something in the eyes which held him. Someone else looking
out into the world of the Lynxe, assessing and calculating - Steve wondered, for what? He
turned away from the mirror, suddenly frightened that the man behind his eyes would emerge
and take control. The question remained. Where would it end?
He bathed and dressed in a fresh tunic. His Scarn servant did not put in an appearance. It
was possible that he had joined his own kind in some other part of the household. The Scarn
had their own quarters in Lyot's Thanehold, no doubt, the same arrangement applied in the
household of Rho Arpor.
He had the rest of the day to himself, he grew restless within the silent room. Apart from
the routine activation of the Bole for sensory duties, he had nothing with which to occupy his
time. He peered out into the corridor, it was deserted. He looked out of the window of his
room and found that it opened on to a small balcony which did not connect with those next to
it on either side. He peered over the parapet and jerked back his head. It was a dizzy drop. He
remembered the time he had spent with Danyk on the tower in the old city and wished that
the easy relationship they had shared, had not evaporated.
For the first time for several days, he looked at the Pentacles he wore about his neck.
Normally, they were hidden beneath his tunic but for some reason, he had brought them out
into the open in the house of Rho Arpor. He compared the lean faced, arrogant, hawk-like
features of the one, with the bland, serene, almost god-like features of the other. He grinned,
was Danyk really god-like? - A Greek god, perhaps - He wondered what Danyk would make
of that description. The other man intrigued him - he could hardly be described as god-like.
He was more a tough looking fighter, a ruthless bastard, who would sell his own grandmother
to a brothel. He had met one of the images and as sure as hell, he was going to meet the other.
The cliff below his balcony descended to the turbulent river. The cascade itself, was
beyond an angle of the building and wasn't visible. He could hear its thunderous roar,
subdued but always present. Across the river was an expanse of woodland which climbed
steeply to the base of the escarpment. He could trace a path which threaded upward, before it
disappeared behind a fold of rock. It would make an interesting climb. The crest of the
escarpment intrigued him, he felt a compulsion to know what lay beyond.
He returned to the room and found Danyk sitting on the side of the bed.
"Should I be honoured by your visit?"
"That rests with you."
"No, Danyk! You need to make up your mind about me. You blow hot and cold. One
moment you make declarations of undying brotherhood and the next, you give me the cold
shoulder and treat me like something that's crawled out from under a stone! A true friend
takes the rough with the smooth, the faults as well as the good points."
"What do you want from me, Steve Holt?"
"In a word - Consistency!"
Danyk toyed with the hem of his tunic.
"And what does Taxila want from me?"
"When I know what he wants from me, I'll be able to give you an answer."
"I hope he gives you the answer soon, Steve. I sense that we're coming to a climax. My
father has already told you what he foresees. He knows that you will not return from this
journey."
"That can be interpreted in more than one way. Perhaps, your future brother-in-law has
plans for me."
169

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"You have to explain brother-in-law."
"A brother-in-law is the mate of your sister."
"Ah! So you are my brother-in-law too - the mate of my sister."
"I'd get your facts up to date - Maia and I have parted - at her request."
"Your bodies have united to produce a child. You will never be parted."
"The same could be said of Hara."
Danyk smiled.
"You live a complicated life, Steve Holt."
"My life is an open book - how can it be otherwise on this godforsaken planet?"
The smile increased.
"I told you once that your mind was fascinating - it still is."
"You also said that you would enjoy peeling back the layers to find out what they hid. Are
you any wiser?"
The smile disappeared.
"I am not wiser - but I am much more concerned."
"It's good to know that somebody still cares!"
"I came to explain to you what you must expect in the coming days."
"Days?"
"We will reside here for five days. On the first three days, Rho Arpor has organised
entertainment for the majority of the guests, whilst he holds a Grand Council with the
representatives of the Ten Clans. Tonight, there will be a great welcoming feast. Tomorrow,
for those who have the necessary stamina, there will be a climb to the top of the escarpment."
Steve's interest pricked up.
"I'd like to tackle that."
"We will go together with some of the younger guests."
Steve felt his way carefully.
"And when will we meet your sister, Laoni?"
Danyk's smile widened.
"I wouldn't have thought you were anxious to be reunited with the provider of a stolen kiss.
It's the first I've heard of the episode. Laoni blocked us out from the details - all I knew was
that she was spitting fire. - I'm very intrigued."
"It was either a kiss, or slap her bare backside for being insolent."
"You probably took the wiser alternative. Now, she only hates you - if you'd slapped her
backside, she would have had you castrated!"
"You didn't answer. Why wasn't she in the welcoming party - you are her family."
"I understand that she was indisposed."
"Do you believe her?"
Danyk smiled and said nothing. He stretched out on the bed and folded his hands under his
head.
"Do you intend to introduce the Bole to our festive board this evening?"
"It doesn't appreciate good food and wine."
Danyk was silent again, then:
"Tell me - What is a Greek god?"
Steve glared at him.
"You've been invading my privacy again!"
"You have no privacy - your thoughts are like a trumpet sounding for everyone to hear.
What is a Greek god?"
"I've a good mind to leave you wondering!"
"I'm beginning to get a picture - it's very muddled. Please explain."
170

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"In the mythology of Old Earth, there was a civilisation who worshipped a group of super
beings, who had very human habits. They were always fighting between themselves, they
were jealous of each other and always trying to gain the upper hand. They were reputed to
come down from the top of a high mountain where they lived and consorted with mortal
beings. Some of their offspring became races of giants, or men with extraordinary strength.
The gods mated with each other and produced other gods. It's a very complex story."
Danyk absorbed it softly.
"They sound like our old gods. Taxila is the father of our race and there are stories of the
other gods, Zayez, Harma and Hella - and of course - Shaita. So, I remind you of your Greek
gods - very flattering."
"Don't let it go to your head! Some of the names might interest you. The old Greek gods
had as their head, Zeus - he was the father of them all. Then, there was Hermes and Hera - "
"No Taxila?"
"No."
"What about Shaita?"
"He appears in the history of other peoples - sometimes, he was called Satan - with another
nation, he was called Set."
CHAPTER 29
Rho Arpor's great hall was filled to capacity with his invited guests. He, together with his
ten Thanes and their families, were seated at a table raised upon a dais in the midst of the
assembly. At his side, as coolly aloof as always, sat Laoni. If her manner and breeding
counted, she was an admirable choice to fill the position of the consort to the High Thane of
the Lynxe. Her parents ought to have been overjoyed and exceptionally proud that their
daughter had caught the eye of their supreme ruler - If that was the case, it didn't show on
their faces.
Each of the representative ten Clans was seated fan fashion out from the central, elevated
table. In the position of honour, the Clan of the Seven Lands had been placed directly in front
of the happy couple. Lyot's sons and daughter sat closest to the feet of their overlord. By
mutual, unspoken agreement, Steve was seated lower down the table. He wasn't particularly
concerned with rank and status. Proximity to the food was his prime objective.
The room was buzzing with conversation, now that the preliminaries were over. Rho Arpor
had outdone himself to provide a feast lesser mortals would not forget for many years. Steve
171

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
assessed him quietly. He wasn't a young man but he was younger than Lyot. Laoni looked
almost a child compared with him. Steve wondered momentarily, if Laoni had ever been a
child, he dismissed the thought. Rho Arpor was richly decked in a tunic which shone with
gold and silver thread. Here and there, a gem sparkled in the light of the oil fed chandeliers.
His hair was long and fell straight to his shoulders. He was clean shaven, unlike most of the
other Lynxe males around the table. The High Thane glanced in his direction and smiled
slightly, Steve nodded and didn't drop his eyes.
The evening passed quite convivially and Steve consumed a carefully controlled volume of
the slightly acidic wine. He maintained his level of alertness and for some reason
remembered an Old Earth saying: 'If you sup with the devil, make sure you use a long spoon'.
The inner man suddenly stirred and Rho Arpor looked at him and smiled again. This time,
Steve looked away and for the first time, realised that Zayez the All Wise, together with a
party of his Adepts, were seated some way around the fan of tables. It stood to reason that he
would be present at such an important occasion - he might even be called upon to take some
part in the Formal Declaration.
The celebration lasted well into the night. Eventually, Rho Arpor rose in his place and took
his intended consort by one hand. It was the signal for them to go to their beds. Steve had a
passing thought and wondered in whose bed Laoni would spend the night. He dismissed it, it
wasn't his concern. Of one thing he was sure, no one would spend the night with him.
The Bole had also had an uneventful evening. If Rho Arpor was planning any retribution
for past events, he was not going to risk a frontal assault. Steve lay on his bed and stared out
into the night. The rumble of the cascade was soothing - but it also masked any sounds
beyond the curtain of his room. He drifted into sleep, lulled by the muted roar of water. It was
time for one of his journeys.
This time, he did not resist or struggle against the separation from his sleeping form. He
glanced briefly downward at his physical self, before commencing the wild ride through the
star fields to a destination part of him knew. Once again, he came to a place where time and
matter was in flux. Where he felt the tug of an almost irresistible force which threatened to
draw him after the flow of stars racing past him.
He waited, but there was no whisper of voices from the Abyss. He was there for a purpose,
but it was not to listen to the complaints of Zayez, Hella and Harma. He knew why he was
there. From out of the flood of star stuff, another figure emerged. He watched its approach
critically. The golden hair flowed over its shoulders and the naked body gleamed in the light
of a million suns. He drew close and stabilised to hover a few paces from him. The newcomer
smiled.
"We meet at last, Taxila."
Taxila nodded.
"It is our destiny always to meet and to be in conflict, Shaita."
Shaita laughed.
"Who is to tell us what is our destiny, Taxila? We are free agents now that they have
entered the Abyss!"
"You mean, they were deluded into entering the Abyss."
Shaita's smile widened.
"Yes, I was rather clever wasn't I?"
"We trusted you - "
"Which proves how unreliable it is to be trusting."
"Always the clever tongue, Shaita."
"Flatterer! Just think, Taxila, they are at our mercy. One exertion in the Psi and Zayez,
Harma and Hella will be thrust down beyond the point of return and they will be gone for
172

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
ever - and we can share the power! This galaxy will be ours! What do you say? Will you join
me in one last thrust which will sweep them away?"
"You will never sweep them away, Shaita, whilst I am here to counter your power. I am the
Keeper. I am their safeguard."
"You are a fool, Taxila - as you will soon learn to your cost in your latest enterprise!"
Shaita drifted back and was swallowed by the flood of starlight. Taxila felt the impact of a
force which thrust him backward towards the mouth of the Abyss. He countered and
neutralised it and from the distant star stuff, came the sound of soft laughter.
Steve woke abruptly, the sound of laughter still lingered but it became merged into that of
the rush of water. He tried to remember the details of his dream, but they eluded him, leaving
the broad outline. His reverie was interrupted, the Bole emitted his night-time alarm signal.
"Shut off that bloody row! What is it."
"An unknown life-form."
Steve coiled for action.
"Prepare to retaliate on my signal."
The curtain was drawn across and a crouched form scuttled in. It clutched Steve's feet. The
smell told him who it was.
"Secure from retaliation."
He struck a flint to metal and lit the lamp. His Scarn grovelled at his feet. He was in a state
of terror.
"What the hell has happened to you? Has someone frightened you?"
The Scarn held tightly to his lower legs, he was drawing in great gulps of air.
"Quieten down. No one is going to hurt you."
Steve eased his legs away from the Scarn's grip, reached for his tunic and pulled it over his
head. The Scarn was still sobbing for air.
"I wish you could talk!"
He cocked his head, the expression of fear remained.
"What can you hear? Bole - a full sensory scan!"
"Movement of life-forms - many life-forms."
"Are we under attack?"
"Inconclusive."
Steve debated whether to rouse the household. He had the feeling he wouldn't be thanked if
he did, especially if it proved to be a false alarm. The Scarn returned to clutching his legs, his
head still cocked. Suddenly, he relaxed his grip and flung himself into the corner of the room,
clasping his head in his hands. Above the sound of rushing water, Steve heard a sound which
sent shudders along his spine. The hair on his head stood on end. It was a hoarse, rising
scream, which seemed to float on the air above the other sounds. It persisted for a long
moment before ending abruptly - and then there was another surge of sound - a scream of
exaltation and satisfaction. The Scarn whimpered softly and stared at Steve with imploring
eyes.
"Approaching life-form."
Before Steve could answer, the curtain was thrust aside and Danyk entered the room
abruptly.
"Secure from retaliation!"
Danyk looked from Steve to the Scarn.
"What's he doing here?"
"You tell me - What in hell's name is going on?"
Danyk sat on the bed. His response was savage.
"Another fine example of Lynxe culture!"
He painted the picture in Steve's mind. Steve resisted the urge to vomit.
173

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"Here in the Thanehold?"
"Or close by. I doubt if even those bastards would dare to do that in the Thanehold of Rho
Arpor."
"Is it possible that it was some of the guests?"
Danyk swallowed hard.
"It isn't confined to the low borne. Some of the Thanes are secret followers!"
Steve pointed to the Scarn.
"He knew, he was crazy with fear."
"Still is, by the look of him. Perhaps, they were after him and he got away!"
There were lights on the far side of the river. Danyk muttered angrily.
"Rho Arpor has sent out a patrol. Too little too late!"
"They must feel very sure of themselves. It's like throwing down a challenge. Everyone
who counts is here. Rho Arpor, the ten Thanes, Zayez and his Adepts - "
"And Taxila!"
Steve stared at him.
"You don't suppose your presence has gone unnoticed. Your reputation has circulated
among the ten Clans. Now, they'll see what Taxila intends to do about it!"
"And if he does nothing?"
"What better way to discredit him - that's why they were after your Scarn."
Danyk returned to his quarters. The Scarn wouldn't budge from his place in the corner.
Steve doused the lamp and tried to get back to sleep. The picture Danyk had drawn in his
mind remained and he wondered what Taxila proposed to do about the degradation of the
proud race he had fathered.
On the following day, there was no mention of what had happened. Food was brought by
house Scarn. Steve's personal servant was ignored by them and so, he shared the food. Danyk
arrived soon after and reminded him that he was part of a group who intended to climb the
escarpment. It was a welcome escape from a structure which had witnessed the bestiality of
the previous night.
Their group was quite small, comprising four young couples who eyed Danyk and his two
companions with curiosity. They drew ahead and it seemed that Danyk allowed them to do
so. Steve detected a certain embarrassment that he was seen in the company of two versions
of Scarn, one full blood and the other, some sort of strange hybrid.
The way upward was steep and soon the Thanehold of Rho Arpor looked like a model set
in the middle of a patchwork of cultivated fields. Here and there, tongues of woodlands
interlaced between the crops and joined the main forest through which part of their climb led.
There came a point when the forest ended abruptly and they started to clamber through a rock
strewn upper section, just short of the crest. Steve consoled himself that his exertions would
soon be at an end and that the way down should be easier.
They climbed over the last steep boulder and emerged onto a plateau with a slight gradient.
It led a few hundred metres further to a crest of jagged rocks. The other four couples were
already walking along it and pointing beyond. Danyk turned to him.
"This is where the land meets the sky, Steve. That is the Rim!"
Steve stood motionless and stared at the crest.
"What's beyond?"
"The sky - see for yourself!"
Steve followed silently, he felt a surge of laughter from the inner man. For once, he felt
like joining him! Danyk stood motionless on one of the small peaks. Steve approached
cautiously, selecting one he could hold on to. The sky was beyond, whatever was below the
sky, was not visible. He looked out on to a sea of cloud - the upper surface of the cloud.
Beyond the rock to which he was clinging, the edge of the escarpment disappeared abruptly.
174

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
It was a precipitous drop - to something. Something which the Men of Lynxe didn't know.
For them, this was the end of their world! They had no concept of a spherical world orbiting
through space.
"How far does - the Rim - stretch?"
"Around all the lands of the Lynxe, of course!"
"Is there no way down - there?"
"A way into the sky? That's a nonsense question!"
The man within rocked with laughter.
"Does part of your father's lands reach to the Rim?"
"No - We are one of the inner clans which circle the great city."
"How many circle the great city."
"Three."
"That leaves seven touching the Rim."
"Your mathematics is impeccable!"
"Who apportioned out the lands to the clans?"
"You did - in one of your many incarnations, O great Taxila!"
"And in that particular incarnation, didn't I draw your attention to the fact that there are
other lands beyond the Rim?"
Danyk stared at him speculatively.
"We all know your stories - and your thoughts - about lands in the sky - from which you
say you come."
"That is something totally different! I'm talking about lands which are at the base of this -
for want of a better word - plateau."
"You will have to explain what that word means."
"The land occupied by the Lynxe is only a fraction of the land of your world. There must
be a vast extent of territory you haven't explored. The whole planet is waiting for
colonisation!"
Danyk stared out into the sea of cloud.
"The Lynxe are content with what they were given by Taxila. There is land enough for all."
"Taxila never intended for you to confine yourself to this plateau."
"You use that word again, please explain what it means."
Steve groped for words.
"The lands occupied by the Lynxe are surrounded by the Rim. I believe you occupy a vast
crater, on top of a great mountain. Once this place was filled with fire and smoke - that was
long before your people came here. It became a fertile place and somehow, sometime, they
must have made their way from below the cloud and decided this was the place to settle -
perhaps, Taxila led them here himself!"
"You should know."
"I don't know, I'm only guessing. Tell me the old legends about how your people came into
existence."
"We are the children of Taxila."
"So you keep telling me - but Taxila must have come from somewhere before he became
your racial father - and there must have been some racial mothers as well - where did they
come from?"
Danyk sat on his rock, with his legs dangling over the precipice. Steve shuddered and
turned his eyes away from such nonchalant dicing with death.
"The old legend tells us that the ten mothers of the Clans hid in the rocks to escape the
attentions of Shaita."
Steve jerked to attention.
"So - Shaita figures in this too?"
175

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"A really ancient story tells us that Shaita and Taxila were brothers. Taxila was the older of
the two and his younger, spoiled brother hated him. There is an eternal rivalry which
continues to this day. The story goes on to say that the brothers came to this land and
continued their perpetual battle. Shaita fled before Taxila and hid. When Taxila had passed,
Shaita came out of hiding and saw the ten mothers of the Clans, who were daughters of one
father. He lusted after them - "
Steve couldn't help interrupting.
"What! All at once? I admire his stamina!"
"He was supposed to be a god - By all accounts, so are you! To continue, the ten maidens
fled into a high place and hid in the rocks. Taxila returned and chased Shaita away after a
great battle. Taxila then led the ten maidens out of their hiding places and they were so
overwhelmed by his extreme beauty that they gave themselves to him and he fathered the
Lynxe nation - For god sake take that self satisfied smirk off your face!"
Steve composed his features.
"An interesting story. Skipping over the bit about the eternal battle with Shaita. The
essentials seem to be that the ten maidens fled into a high place and hid and then Taxila took
advantage of their gratitude and they all lived happily ever after. If the ten maidens fled into a
high place, they must have come from a low place - "
Danyk eyed him blankly.
"Do you agree or not?"
"It's possible - "
Steve pointed downward.
"I suggest that the low place is down there and that you might have cousins you don't know
about!"
Danyk shook his head.
"Downwards leads to death, there is only the sky below the cloud."
"How do you know? Has anyone ever tried to go down?"
"Many have tried. We heard their death screams as they fell into the sky."
Steve tried another tack.
"When Taxila had finished his stint of fathering the entire Lynxe nation, what happened to
him?"
Danyk got to his feet without answering but waited for Steve to carefully back away from
the edge and follow him. They walked for about two or three hundred metres before coming
to a natural amphitheatre which faced out over the Rim. At the centre point of a dizzy drop
into the cloud, a large flat rock jutted out over the precipice.
"One day, when his children had grown to full age - sons and daughters - and when their
children were already beyond infancy, he led them here to this place for the last time. He
walked up on to that rock and spoke to them, giving them the last of a long series of laws
which have been the basis of our society until this time. Then he turned and faced out into the
sky and walked forward and vanished from their sight."
Steve swallowed, his knees were suddenly like jelly.
"You mean, he just walked off the edge?"
"So it seemed."
"He must have been quite old by then - a grandfather, perhaps he stumbled."
"He never grew older! He was as young and as beautiful as they day he laid with the ten
maidens. They call this rock: 'Taxila's Leap'. There is one other thing. Just before he walked
over the edge, he made the promise that one day, when his people were in their greatest need,
he would return and purge the land of evil. Perhaps, you now understand why some have
taken your claim to be Taxila seriously. Taxila's children have a great need - they are dying
176

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
off because of infertility - and you know we are living under a great evil. If you are Taxila,
you will correct the evil!"
Steve sat on one of the stone steps of the amphitheatre. He was shaking, but it wasn't from
exertion
"How, in the name of your god, do you expect me to do that?"
"Taxila will know - "
They were alone in the windswept place. The other four couples were off somewhere, no
doubt doing what young couples did when they could escape supervision. His Scarn servant
was nowhere to be seen. Danyk shrugged.
"They're like that - after what he experienced last night, he's gone into hiding - I can't say I
blame him."
Steve had one last question.
"How do the Scarn figure in your story? Were they on your lands before Taxila fathered the
nation?"
"The story goes that they were always here. There has never been a shortage of Scarn, they
breed like the animals they are!"
They started back down the long path to the Thanehold. The absence of his Scarn troubled
Steve, he had really thought that he was getting through to the mute creature. The way it had
come to him for refuge on the previous night, had forged a deeper link - or so he had thought.
He wondered where it had gone. Perhaps, it had elected to hide amongst the rocks of the Rim,
or in the forest flanking the crest of the escarpment.
There was another possibility, perhaps it knew of a way down from the high plateau of the
Lynxe, perhaps there had always been a way which the Scarn had known and this accounted
for the unlimited numbers the Lynxe had always found to do their menial work. The ten
maidens had also found their way to the top - and so had Taxila. He asked Danyk another
question on the way back.
"Is the cloud always there - beyond the Rim, I mean?"
"There are times when the cloud is blown over the Rim and there are great storms. The
wind is so strong, it isn't possible, even for the strongest, to visit the Rim. At other times, the
cloud is always there."
CHAPTER 30
The Formal Declaration was scheduled to take place during the feasting in the evening of
the following day. This was announced on the return of the various groups from their
excursions. There was other news, someone had found the site used for whatever had taken
place during the previous night. They had found a familiar scene of sacrifice. It was close to
the Thanehold, in an open glade in the forest. The blood was still wet upon the ground where
some luckless Scarn had been sacrificed to the sadistic needs of the cultured high borne race
of the planet.
Steve felt nauseated by the details, whilst the inner man seethed in anger. He was boiling
close to the surface and Steve caught Danyk eyeing him with increasing speculation.
The feasting on that evening was subdued, as if the shadow of the sacrifice darkened the
mood of celebration. Steve looked around the assembly, it was hard to believe that some of
his elegant neighbours had participated in the savagery. He was suddenly glad that his Scarn
had made himself scarce, especially if he had been targeted as a victim. The danger still
existed, the bloodlust hadn't yet been satisfied.
177

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
Other eyes were on him, as usual, his thoughts were being monitored and his sentiments
were being broadcast loud and clear. Quite suddenly, he sensed that he was a target! The
thought caused a surge of adrenaline. Jabez had nearly succeeded and would have done so, if
Danyk hadn't intervened. The question was, could he rely of being rescued by Danyk a
second time, especially whilst he was a guest in the Thanehold of Rho Arpor?
There was always Taxila! The thought didn't give him a burst of confidence. Taxila had
hitched a ride with his physical body during the journey from Mars. He had no need of a
physical form, perhaps the intention was to use it as a sacrifice!
Steve tried to switch his thoughts to another subject, but persistently, they returned to the
thought of his impending death. It took a little time for him to realise that he was being
manipulated. He looked into the shrouded faces of the seven remaining Adepts, they were
seated close to Rho Arpor. Their eyes were concentrated on him, there could be no doubt as to
the source of his unrest.
When he was free to return to his quarters, he faced himself in the mirror. He wasn't sure
what he intended to do, but he knew that the time of indecision had to end. He stared into the
eyes of his mirror image. The eyes contemplated him in return. Thoughts articulated in his
mind.
"You realise that you cannot resist me? You understand that I must become dominant?"
Steve clung to a the reality of a physical expression. He nodded in agreement.
"What will happen to me?"
The thought was a soothing.
"You will survive."
Every sense screamed for self preservation, but yet, he understood that there could be no
escape. It was the inevitable moment of abdication, when he had to acknowledge that Taxila
was more than a schizophrenic image, but was a reality. Beyond that time, Steve Holt and
Taxila would fluctuate within him. Sometimes, Taxila would be content to recede and allow
Steve Holt his moments of ascendancy - but those moments would become increasingly rare.
The physical form would remain for as long as it was required. It might even alter in
nature, perhaps it would not age, as Danyk had suggested on the escarpment. Eventually,
Taxila would occupy it unchallenged, he would be the undisputed master. Steve formed the
words, his lips trembled over the sentence.
"You must take control."
There was no blast of psychic power at the moment of transition. The fear seemed to drain
from him, there was an exchange of personalities and the Steve Holt who had once been, was
relegated to some deeper part of his psyche - but he still existed. Taxila grinned at himself in
the mirror.
"Just for a little while, my timid host. I will rule until I've done what must be done. I still
have a future use for what Maia calls your blundering innocence and your clumsy
sweetness!"
He turned to the Bole, it was the next test.
"Status."
"Integrity."
"What is my status?"
"Integrity."
"Good - see you remain alert, my electronic friend. We will both be busy tonight!"
He stretched out on the bed fully dressed. His visitors would come within the hour. He
reached out into their minds and created unrest - enough to ensure that they would be drawn
to him. He looked into the blackness which surrounded Rho Arpor and his seven Adepts and
then scanned the minds of the others who waited for the approaching hour of sacrifice. He
searched for the victim and was not surprised to find it was the Scarn who had attached
178

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
himself to Steve Holt - the thought came from within - his Scarn! Taxila smiled slightly and
mentally agreed.
Almost on cue, the Bole announced the arrival of his visitors.
"Life-forms approach."
"Secure against retaliation."
The curtain was drawn aside and Danyk entered first - he was followed by Lyot.
"We felt you calling us, Steve. What's wrong?"
"There's going to be another sacrifice tonight."
"You can't know that!"
It was Lyot who responded abruptly.
"Taxila knows it! It will take place at Taxila's Leap! Tonight, you will be introduced to
Shaita!"
Lyot stared at him, Taxila felt the probing into his mind and allowed him to see what he
needed to see.
"I'll get my men together."
"It won't be necessary. We three will deal with them - together with the Bole."
Danyk raised the obvious objection.
"It isn't mobile enough to climb the escarpment."
"Then, I will carry it!"
"I still think it would be better if we take the men."
"Taxila doesn't need armed men to deal with Shaita! However, there will be many who will
see the outcome."
"You're very sure of yourself, Steve."
"No - I'm sure of Taxila! He has already called those who will be the witnesses of his
power."
Lyot snorted.
"Are you speaking for Taxila now?"
"No - Taxila speaks for himself!"
He sent the Bole out into the corridor to lead the way. The courtyard of the Thanehold was
filled with a crowd of guests. Amongst them were some of the Thanes and Zayez the All Wise
with his cohort of Adepts. To one side, Hepha stood with Maia and Krin. Lyot hurried to
them. There was no argument, no questions from those who had gathered. They moved aside
to allow the Bole, Steve and Danyk to lead the way. They took the path which led upward to
the Rim. In all, over three hundred people toiled up the slope in total silence.
Near the top, they could see the light of fires. Taxila/Steve didn't slacken his pace, fully
aware that there was nothing to be gained from stealth. The Psi channels engulfed them and
waves of mental energy impinged on their psyches. Many would have surrendered to the
compelling force of the bloodlust pounding into their minds, had it not been for the defences
Taxila raised. As yet, those who controlled the proceedings in the rock amphitheatre didn't
understand that they were dealing with the channelled power of the Abyss - with the
exception of the central figure, who paused in the moment of sacrifice and waited for their
coming.
Taxila's witnesses filed into a semicircle around the top rank of the amphitheatre. In the
places below, the onlookers who had gathered for the sacrifice were quite still. There was an
almost palpable shrinking of the frenzied energy which had been building to the climax of
blood letting. Faces were shrouded from their neighbours in the folds of their cloaks.
Steve and the Bole stood at the top of a long flight of stone stairs which led down to the
lower floor. In the centre, a stone altar had been constructed from the boulders fringing the
Rim. On the altar, the victim had been spread-eagled. His arms and legs drawn down to be
out of the way of the sacrificial knife. Nine garishly masked and cloaked figures stood around
179

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
him, the one in the centre held the ceremonial knife. This was Taxila's adversary. The others
didn't count, the Bole would deal with them.
Danyk and Lyot suddenly found that they were unable to follow the solitary figure of Steve
Holt down the flight of steps, even though they wrestled and swore in their frustrated
struggles to move their limbs. Rho Arpor's seven Adepts held them and even the supporting
power of Zayez and his followers was insufficient to counter the physic energy which they
were bound.
Taxila focused his energy on the central figure. Their minds locked. Shaita's thought was
venomous.
"Once again we meet, Taxila - but this time, I will prevail. You've made a fatal mistake in
adulterating your power with the psyche of Steve Holt. In your present status, your power is
too weak to withstand me - I will shatter you!"
Danyk and Lyot stared in horror as Steve staggered as if he had been struck a blow. He
recovered and continued his slow walk down the steps, he was close to the bottom when he
stopped again.
"Do you imagine that your machine will be able to damage my followers as it did before?"
Steve uttered a command.
"Shoot to kill!"
Energy blasted out from the front surface of the Bole. Those supporting Shaita scattered,
but five of the Adepts fell - they smouldered. The remaining three gathered closer to Shaita.
"Impressive, Taxila - but not good enough. Your machine will not penetrate our defences -
you will have to do that for yourself."
The Bole fired again, but this time, it was as if the heat energy rebounded from a force
field. The four figures and the victim were isolated. The masked figure of Shaita raised the
knife and started the plunge downward towards the genitals of the Scarn. Steve could hear
him starting to scream in anticipation. He focused his energy on the knife, it shuddered and
stopped its descent. He barked a command.
"Move round to the side and apply heat to the surface rock!"
It was well within the Bole's capabilities, it had performed the same exercise many times,
for prospecting purposes on Mars. The Bole made its move and a jet of energy focused on the
rock surface in front of the cone of protection. The rock became red and then white and then
boiled and flowed as lava. It began to creep beneath the edge of the protected area. Shaita
focused intense coldness, trying to counter the effect, but only succeeded in surrounding
himself and his followers with jets of steam.
The three remaining Adepts and the fourth figure started to shuffle and then to dance, their
faces contorted in an agony they couldn't control. They broke out of the circle of protection
with smoke pouring from their feet. The hems of their tunics were suddenly ablaze and they
threw themselves on to the ground to try to roll out the flames.
Steve ignored their screams, he locked his energy on to the slight figure of Shaita. The
cone of protection wavered, Shaita staggered back, the knife dropped to the ground. The
masked figure turned to run and Taxila followed his brother in pursuit, as he had done so
many times on so many worlds in the long eternity of their conflict.
Shaita suddenly screamed and dropped to the ground, writhing in agony. The battle was
over. The psychic power which had bound the onlookers was suddenly broken. Danyk and
Lyot raced down the steps to support Steve. The power was draining from him, slowly he
stooped down to tear the mask from the face of Shaita. Lyot emitted a shuddering hiss, he
clenched Danyk's arm. Laoni stared up at them, her face contorted in fury, pain and defeat.
Danyk's lament howled into Steves's mind.
"She can't be Shaita!"
Steve nodded and put an arm around his shoulders.
180

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"Shaita likes to amuse himself - the use of a female body would have been a novelty he
couldn't resist."
The thought response snarled into his mind.
"If you great gods have to do battle, why involve us mere mortals? Why don't you leave us
alone, we have the right to live our lives without being invaded and turned into a battlefield!"
"I suppose Steve Holt has the same sentiments. To answer you bluntly. You have no rights
when it comes to the plans of the Race Masters. They are those who must be obeyed."
"Who are you now? Taxila or Steve Holt?"
"Both - and I will remain both."
"What will happen to Laoni?"
"Shaita has left her - she has served his purpose. He has fought and lost and he is already
far away. He will regroup for the next battle."
"Do you mean to tell me that this obscene sequence of events is going to be repeated?"
Steve nodded wearily.
"Over and over again."
Danyk looked down at his sister, her eyes were closed. Lyot, Hepha, Krin and Maia stood
around her.
"I ask you again - What will happen to Laoni."
"Look into her mind, you will find the answer."
Steve pointed to the twitching forms of the eight who had supported Shaita in the battle.
Some of the spectators were turning over the smouldering bodies. Seven were the Adepts
who had supported Rho Arpor - it was no surprise to identify the High Thane as the eighth.
Zayez the All Wise stood ramrod straight at the foot of the flight of steps. Steve met his
steady gaze.
"Well, Father Zayez, tonight, Taxila has not only destroyed the High Thane and exposed
many of your nobles as savages, he has also destroyed your society! It can never return to
what it has been for the past ten thousand years. You once hoped that by leaving the cities,
you would be able to control the primitive urges which lay under your veneer of high culture.
You thought, that by returning to a simple life and controlling the Scarn to work your lands,
you would be able to develop the Gift to such a degree that you would eliminate the last
traces of the behaviour which Shaita was able to provoke through Laoni.
I tell you, that your people will always possess their wild cat heritage, to eliminate it would
be to eliminate an essential portion of your psyche. Already, you are experiencing the
consequences of what you have attempted to do. Your race is becoming infertile. The seed of
your men is losing its potency. Racially, you are not ready to progress to the condition where
you have no need for the physical. It is only when you are ready to surrender the physical
form and become beings of energy, that you can also surrender the base nature and replace it
with that of purity and tranquillity. You have striven for too much too soon!
Once, Taxila gave you laws and instructions which you did not follow explicitly. Instead,
you adapted his commandments and you have become what you are. It is your task, Zayez, to
search in the closed city for those laws and apply them. It is your task to rebuild this society,
together with your Adepts. There will be no more Thanes and the Clans will become one!
When you are a united people, go to the Scarn and they will lead you down from this high
place which was the hiding place of the ten maidens, back to the low places, where you will
find many cousins."
Zayez sounded a little breathless in thought.
"Lord Taxila, I am an old man. I do not have the strength for this task."
"You will find the strength and you have many years in which to heal the wounded minds
of your people. Slowly, they will recover their potency, both as a people and in their ability to
procreate. You will return the Children of Taxila to prosperity!"
181

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
Zayez dropped to his knees.
"Stay with us, Lord Taxila!"
Taxila suddenly ebbed away within Steve. He turned uncertainly and found Maia staring at
him. His body was shaking with the stress of being Taxila. The horror of what he had done to
Laoni and the others hit him like a blow. Only a few paces separated him from the woman he
wanted to be with for the rest of his days, but it might as well have been an unbridgeable gulf.
How could she come to a man who had reduced her sister to a drooling wreck.
Slowly, the gulf was bridged, they moved towards each other and then she was in his arms,
sobbing against his chest. He lifted her face and kissed her long and passionately. His body
cried out for her. He whispered.
"I need you, Maia - "
"I want you - "
They were oblivious to the crowd which slowly gathered around them. There was no
hostility, they were watchful and silent. Zayez cried out again.
"Your people want you to lead us, Lord Taxila!"
Steve pointed to Laoni and the dead and injured supporters.
"Even when you see what I can do to those who oppose me. No! I will not stay with you!
The time would come when you will try to seize me and throw me from there."
He pointed to the rock jutting out over the precipice. He looked down into Maia's face.
"I can't stay, my love - "
"Then, take me with you!"
The proposition was so tempting. Why shouldn't he take her with him? The inner man
stirred.
"I want you so much - but it isn't possible. You can't come where I have to go."
She clung to him, the tears were flowing again. Steve Holt was thrust down again.
"Our child will rule over the Lynxe. Zayez will tutor him. You will be honoured as the
mother of Taxila's son."
She stepped away from him.
"I would rather be loved by Steve Holt!"
Taxila smiled gently.
"We are the same, Maia - no matter what you think."
He looked across to Lyot. The Thane's thought was clear in his mind.
"When did my daughter become - what she became?"
"At her conception! Shaita lay dormant until her puberty - you can date the blood sacrifices
from that time."
Lyot's voice in his mind trembled.
"Why didn't I see - Why didn't I know - ?"
"You always feared - something. You suppressed the fear - and later, the suspicion. Her
hatred of the Scarn should have alerted you. When Rho Arpor claimed her - you knew -
because you knew what he was!"
He looked at the shattered family group. Lyot stood stricken, Hepha cradled Laoni in her
arms and rocked her like an infant. Krin was crying, the remains of his boyhood was another
casualty of that night's work. Taxila faced Danyk and stared into his eyes. This was the
moment of truth for him also.
Vapour began to drift in over the high rock which they had called Taxila's Leap. The wind
was increasing. His departure from their world promised to be dramatic. It was nearly time.
He turned to the Bole.
"Retract."
The Bole complied, withdrawing his mandibles and settling to the rocky ground, a compact
cube.
182

TAXILA'S CHILDREN
"Deactivate."
The small light on the top surface winked out. Taxila turned to Danyk.
"Decide!"
Danyk looked at his sister slumped on the ground and then back to the man who had
reduced her to idiocy. He looked at his stricken family and knew that they needed his
strength, his father was a shattered man, he doubted if he would ever recover and certainly, he
would never again function as the Thane. His mother would be locked into the care of Laoni.
Krin was too young to stand alone. Maia carried this man's child and he looked as if he had
every intention of abandoning her. He turned back to Taxila, his mind already set on
repudiation.
Taxila/Steve Holt stood alone. His metal box was at his feet, ready to be lifted to start the
journey to somewhere by unknown means. They faced each other across the space of a few
metres. Taxila held his eye, there was no humour and certainly, there was no pleading. Danyk
picked up his bundle and walked slowly to stand beside him. He didn't know why he did so.
The status of his family hadn't altered in the space of a few seconds. Their needs were still as
acute. He turned to face the stranger from beyond the stars.
"Let's go - "
Steve smiled, picked up the Bole, turned and started to clamber up the foothold on the
steep rock. At the top, was a small, flat area across which the wind had started to howl. It
increased as they arrived and plucked at their tunics. They turned for one last time and looked
down into the faces of those they would leave. Steve surfaced for one last moment. His heart
wrenched by the longing, love and anguish on Maia's face. His eyes flooded with tears which
streamed unchecked down his face.
He forced himself to turn away. With one hand, he clutched the Bole and the other grasped
Danyk's wrist. Together, they walked forward into the bludgeoning wind and over the Rim.
183