"It is well known that the arrival of our fleet has caused havoc among the localfood sellers," the youth said carefully; he had plainly memorized his speech."As the nearby farmlands were already overworked, it has fallen to the fishingboats to provide enough food to feed not only us, but the townspeople aswell...."

"Yes, yes," Shupansea interrupted. "But what of your project?"

Monkel glanced at his colleagues for support, then straightened his shoulders."We-that is, clan Setmur and the Sanctuary fishermen-wish permission, andfinancial assistance, for building a boat."

"A boat?" The Beysa swiveled into a sitting position. "We have fifty-odd boatsrotting at anchor in the harbor. Use one of them if you need another boat."

The Clanchief nodded; he had expected this response. "0 Beysa, our boats werebuilt for long sea voyages and the safe transport of passengers and cargo. Theyare ill-suited for chasing schools of fish. For months now we have put to sea inour scout-craft beside these native fishermen and learned much of the watershere. Our friends here, with their keelless boats, cannot chase the fish to deepwater where they feed in greater numbers; our scout-craft reach the deep water,but have no holds for the fish. We will make a new type of boat-as big inside asa Sanctuary boat and as seaworthy as our scouts. We ask your permission to laythe keel... and, er, for your support."

"But why can't the big boats...?"

Hakiem cleared his throat noisily. Shupansea paused and waited for her adviserto speak. "The Beysa will require time to consider your proposal and willconsult with Prince Kadakithis before making a decision. Return tomorrow foryour answer."

Monkel looked at his Beysa with glazed eyes-totally shocked by the improprietyof a commoner speaking for the Avatar of Mother Bey-but she simply nodded and