The air is thick with humidity, but as we reach the Nile, the fog lifts, driven off by the gentle sea breeze. Proudly, I walk beside the two lovely ladies, escorting them along the main dock, sometimes cupping Zelie's elbow in the palm of my hand. The fresh sea air does wonders for the ba.-

"I have been here since I left the priesthood," I answer their inquiry. "That was about two years ago." But before I can finish my thought, the doorman shouts out to me.

"Hey you down there by the docks. Aren't you the waiter? I don't blame you for spending time with the ladies but you had better get your asp back in here. Break time is over. There's a new Scribe in town, and the place is mobbed!"

I turn to my graceful companions. "I- I can't leave you out here alone in the dark, but if I don't go inside, Oset, Louis and Culann will have my head served on a faience platter."