is currently a battlefield. Many factions are fighting for control of thestreets. Though it may seem that the Beysib are the target of this violence,they are more often than not innocent bystanders caught in the crossfire of thereal war."

Jubal was leaning forward in his chair now, his eyes burning with intensity ashe warmed to the subject.

"If I were to guarantee the safety of your people, it would mean openlycommitting my troops to your defense. Anyone who wanted to attack me would soonlearn that all that was necessary would be to attack the Beysib. whereupon myforces would emerge from hiding to receive the brunt of the attack. In short,rather than relieving you of your enemies, your proposed deal would simply addmy enemies to yours ... a situation less than favorable to the Beysib. As forme, I cannot afford to have my fighting strength eroded away by becomingpredictable. My current activities are more covert in nature, playing eachfaction off against the others so that they will be weakened as I grow stronger.When I am confident that there is sufficient inequity of power to assure avictory, my forces will sweep the streets and restore order once again. At thattime, we wi!l be able to discuss terms of coexistence. Until then, you are bestto heed the advice of people such as Hakiem here in regards to which factionholds which neighborhood, and plan your movements accordingly. Such informationis readily enough available that there is no need to pay my prices for it."

"I see," Monkel said softly. "In that case, I thank you for your time ..."

"Not so hasty. Lord Setmur," Jubal interrupted with a smile. "I occasionallydeal in currency other than gold. Now, I have given you some new and honestinformation. Could I trouble you to respond in kind?"

"But ..." the little Beysib shot a confused glance at Hakiem in silent appeal