Page 33 (1/2)

Drowsy and blind, I felt him turn me over and rip off my tunic and jacket I felt hi of his assault into athered itself aroundjust when I feared it, and then I sank down beside hiainst his chest, warm under covers that he pulled up over us, I slept

It was still thick and heavy night when I openedAndwas not yet really near

I looked around for him I saw him at the foot of the bed He was dressed in his finest red velvet He wore a jacket with slashed sleeves and a heavy tunic with a high collar This cloak of red velvet was trimmed in ermine

His hair was thoroughly brushed and very slightly oiled so that it gave off its most civilized and artful shi in mannered curls on his shoulders He looked sad

"Master, what is it?"

"I have to go for a few nights No, it's not out of anger at you, A overdue for it "

"No, Master, not now, please I' you, not now! What I- "

"Child I go to see Those Who Must Be Kept I have no choice in this "

For aI tried to understand the denotation of the words he'd spoken His voice had dropped, and he had said the words halfheartedly

"What is that, Master?" I asked

"Soht perhaps I'll take you with me I'll ask permission" His voice trailed off

"For what, Master? When have you ever needed anyone's per?"

I had meant this to be simple and candid, but I kne it had an impertinent sound

"It's all right, Amadeo," he said "I ask permission now and then from my Elders, that's all Who else?" He looked weary He sat beside me and leaned down next to me and kissed my lips

"Elders, Sir? You mean Those Who Must Be Kept - these are creatures like you?"