«And so?»

  Orek hesitated. «My lord," he said, switching to the more formal and deferential title, «I think it best if I show you rather than tell you. I think you will better understand.» He brushed at his mop of unruly dark hair and rubbed his hands together nervously. «Would it be too much of an imposition to ask you to come with me to my work station? I know it is late, but I think you will not be disappointed.»

  For a moment, Sen Dunsidan considered the possibility that this might be an assassination attempt. But he dismissed the idea. His enemies would surely come up with a better plan than this if they were serious about eliminating him. This little man was too fearful to be the instrument of a Prime Minister's death. His presence was the result of something else, and much as he hated to admit it, Sen Dunsidan was increasingly interested in finding out what it was.

  «You realize that if this is a waste of my time, there will be unpleasant consequences," he said softly.

  Etan Orek's eyes snapped up to meet his, suddenly bold. «I am hoping that a reward will be more in order than a punishment, Prime Minister.»

  Dunsidan smiled in spite of himself. The little man was greedy, a quality he appreciated in those who sought his favor. Fair enough. He would give him his chance at fame and fortune. «Lead the way, Engineer. Let us see what you have discovered.»

  They went out the door of the bedchamber and into the hallway beyond. Instantly, Sen Dunsidan's personal guard fell into step behind them, warding his back against attack, lending him fresh confidence just by their presence. There had never been an assassination attempt against him, although he had uncovered a few plots that might have led to one. Each time, those involved had been made to disappear, always with an explanation passed quietly by word of mouth. The message to everyone was made clear: Even talk of removing the Prime Minister from office would be regarded as treason and dealt with accordingly.