Despite his depression, Hakiem was touched by the sincere concern of this youngwoman who had been raised to rule an empire and found herself in Sanctuaryinstead. While a part of him instinctively wanted to hide his feelings, he feltcompelled to respond honestly.
"I fear for my town," he said, turning to gaze out the window once more. "Thepeople have changed since the Beysib arrived.
"Not that I blame you," he amended hastily. "You had to go somewhere, andcertainly your people have done everything possible to adapt to what I know is avery strange and often hostile environment to you.
"No. What has happened to my town was done by those who have lived here thelongest. Oh, true enough, many of the changes were forced on them by the RankanEmpire and its gods-and I know that all things must change. Still, I fear thetownspeople have lost the will and certainly the wisdom to survive the changeswhich must follow as surely as a storm follows lightning. Even now the newRankan Emperor gathers troops to-"
He stopped abruptly as he realized the Beysa was laughing silently.
"I had not intended to be amusing," he said stiffly, anger flashing just belowthe surface. "While I know the problems of a mere storyteller pale toinsignificance before-"
"Forgive me. Wise One. I meant no disrespect. It's just that you.... Please, letme be the teacher for once."
To Hakiem's surprise, she joined him at the window, leaning far over the silluntil only the tips of her bare toes touched the cool floor.
"I fear you are too close to the problem," she said solemnly. "You know so muchabout Sanctuary and watch so many of its citizens that you have become