“I've no doubt your attire will be suitable,” Baruk snapped. “Particularly if you choose the costume of a Tiste And? warlord. It's the Council that worries me. They're not all fools.”
“I would be surprised if they were,” Rake said. “Indeed, I would have you point out the cunning ones. I don't imagine you will refute my suspicion that there are those within the Council seeking to pave the way for the Empress-for a price, of course. Power comes to mind. Nobles delving in merchant trades no doubt drool at the prospect of Empire trade. Am I far off the mark, Baruk?”
“No,” the alchemist admitted sourly. “But we have that under control.”
“Ah, yes,” Rake said. “This brings to mind my other reason for wishing to attend this Lady Sinital's F?te. As you said, the city's power will be there. I assume this includes such mages as are in your T'orrud Cabal?”
“Some will attend,” Baruk conceded. “But I must tell you, Anomander Rake, your d6bicles with the Assassins” Guild has made a good number of them rue our alliance. They'll not appreciate your presence in the least.”
Rake's smile returned. “To the extent that they will reveal their community to cunning Council members? I think not.” He rose in a fluid motion. “No, I would like to attend this F?te. My own people hold little to such social affairs. There are times when I grow weary of their dour preoccupations.”
Baruk's gaze focused on the Tiste And?. “You suspect a convergence, don't you? A fell gathering of powers, like iron filings to a lodestone.”
“With so much power gathered in one place,” Rake admitted, “it's likely. I'd rather be on hand in such circumstances.” His eyes held Baruk's, their colour flowing from dun green to amber. “Also, if this event is as publicly known as you suggest, then the Empire's agents within the city will know of it. Should they wish to cut out Darujhistan's heart, they'll have no better opportunity.”
Baruk barely repressed a shiver. “Extra guards have been hired, of course. If an Empire Claw should strike, they will find their hands full with the T'orrud mages besides.” He thought for a time, then nodded wearily. “Very well, Rake. Sinital will accept you as my guest. You will wear an effective disguise?”
“Naturally.”
Baruk climbed to his feet and strode to the window. Beyond the sky had begun to pale. “And so it begins,” he whispered.
Rake joined him. “What begins?”