our techniques are guarded. If one undisciplined in our order were to learn themand then attempt to duplicate our efforts without complete understanding of thesigns and dangers, the results would be not only disastrous but demeaning to ourhumble order. No-one but the patient may witness what I propose to do. The lawsof our order are most strict about this."

"Let it pass, Saliman," Jubal ordered. "I had other plans for you. I get nopleasure or support from having others see me in this weakened condition-evenyou. If I am to rebuild my force I will need two things: my normal physicalhealth, intact; and current information of happenings in Sanctuary. The healingis my task; one you cannot help me with. But, for the information I must relyon you, as I have so many times in the past." He turned to the Lizerene. "Howlong will your healing take?"

The healer shrugged. "The time is not exact. Perhaps two months."

Jubal spoke again to Saliman. "Return to town and don't come back for threemonths. You have access to most of our hidden funds; use them and live well.Anyone hunting hawkmasks will not think to look among the wealthy.

"That hunting should serve as a weeding to test the fitness of our remainingswords. Learn their whereabouts and watch them-but let none know I'm stillalive. After three months we'll meet and decide who is to be included in the neworganization."

"If you are as wealthy as your words," Vertan interjected cautiously, "might Imake an additional suggestion?" Jubal cocked an eyebrow, but indicated thewizard should continue. "There are several wizards in Sanctuary who have thepower to ferret out your location. If I were to provide a list of their namesand estimates of their bribe-price, you could insure your safety during thehealing process by paying them not to find you."

Saliman snorted. "That way they'll take our money and still sell their services