One evening at the Lucky Go Lightly Inn, Rel Astra:

"Many things of this world are hidden. Things that others do not notice scream out to us. They will give us power, they give us knowledge. Mangozodia, did you sample the wallpaper here? It is nearly the best I've had in a year or more. A good wheat flour with stallions of quality! A charger at the least. Perhaps mule, hard to tell the difference. Especially after a few drinks."

"What was that? Did you say something about drinks? Good idea Mangozodia! It's time for another. Haven't had one today. Time for your bath, in you go. Good boy. Don't drip on me. Hmm, that's a good brew. Tastes like tallow. What did you do last night?"

"Secrets, steady friend. They can give us power. The power to wield the ebb and the tide. We've done good. Almost ready to begin the rites. Soon we will have the master's notice. Keeps the greatest secrets for himself. That's why he has power."

"Mangozodia, you are being quiet today - where are you? Run away? No! Stolen. Someone has taken you. Always happens here, poor thieves. They don't remember that I will find you."

"There you are in his pocket. Come out! Come out I say! Thief, give me back what is mine."

The young man turned to the door and left.

Zale followed after him.

"Stop thief, or I will be forced to stop you."

"You're crazy, old man. I don't have anything of yours."

Zale drew a slender wand from under his robe. "Cthar!" A blue bolt zapped at the boy, nearly stopping him. "Cthar, Cthar." Two more bolts leapt from the grey stick. The boy collapsed.

"Mangozodia, come out."

"Don't be shy. Come."

"Fine, then I'll get you."

Zale pulled a dull grey stone out from the boy's cloak. He released it above his head, which it slowly began to circle.

"I'm glad to see you too."

"I suppose that he isn't dead yet. But, he tried to steal you. What? You were running away? Why? Well, I suppose that it's not his fault then. Get up, boy." Zale chanted a bit. The boy's eyes fluttered a bit. He sat upright, looked about, saw Zale, and bolted."

"Hmm. You will have to be punished. Another drink. Yes, another bath in one night."