‘I am mildly disturbed by the thought of what else he or she might have stepped in.’
‘There are indeed complexities on the palate, suggesting a varied and lengthy history. Now, how was your day and the subsequent evening?’
‘Uneventful. Rucket informs me that Gerun Eberict has killed about three thousand citizens this year.’
‘Three thousand? That seems somewhat excessive.’
‘I thought so, too, master. More soup?’
‘Yes, thank you. So, what is his problem, do you think?’
‘Gerun’s? A taste for blood, I’d wager.’
‘As simple as that? How egregious. We’ll have to do something about it, I think.’
‘And how was your day and evening, master?’
‘Busy. Exhausting, even.’
‘You were on the roof?’
‘Yes, mostly. Although, as I recall, I came down here once. Can’t remember why. Or, rather, I couldn’t at the time, so I went back up.’
Bugg tilted his head. ‘Someone’s approaching our door.’ The sound of boots in the alley, the faint whisper of armour. ‘My brother, I’d hazard,’ Tehol said, then, turning to face the curtained doorway, he raised his voice. ‘Brys, do come in.’
The hanging was pulled aside and Brys entered. ‘Well, that is an interesting smell,’ he said.
‘Sole soup,’ Tehol said. ‘Would you like some?’
‘No, thank you. I have already eaten, it being well after the second bell. I trust you have heard the rumours.’
‘The war?’
‘Yes.’
‘I’ve heard hardly a thing,’ Tehol said.
Brys hesitated, glancing at Bugg, then he sighed. ‘A new emperor has emerged to lead the Tiste Edur. Tehol, Hull has sworn his allegiance to him.’
‘Now, that is indeed unfortunate.’
‘Accordingly, you are at risk.’
‘Arrest?’
‘No, more likely assassination. All in the name of patriotism.’
Tehol set his bowl down. ‘It occurs to me, Brys, that you are more at risk than I am.’
‘I am well guarded, brother, whilst you are not.’
‘Nonsense! I have Bugg!’
The manservant looked up at Brys with a bland smile.