In Linnasteth, spring was far more advanced. A fragrance wafted in through open balcony doors, the sweetness of Syringa vulgaris, the lilac, which had accompanied man to many worlds in his ancient expansions.
Engwar didn't notice. His round face turned grim as he listened to his justice minister. "The entire Reform Party is in outcry at Fingas's arrest," the minister was saying. He held out a copy of that day's Bulletin. "They insist that the offending issue does not constitute sedition, and—"
"Yes?"
"Several of the Conservative Party have publicly agreed with them."
"What?! Who . . . ?" Engwar stopped, got hold of himself. "Never mind," he said petulantly. "I can name them without help." He paused to blow gustily through his narrow, full-lipped mouth. "We're at war! I'll give them something to chew on! Arrest his editor as an accessory, and then . . ." He scowled at the worried-looking minister. "Then find some further crimes he's guilty of. Create evidence if necessary. We will have a great trial before the nation, and I want . . ."
His commset buzzed, and he slapped its flashing button angrily. "Yes?"
"Your Majesty, General Undsvin is calling. He . . ."
"I told you I did not want to be interrupted!"
"That's what I told the general, Your Majesty. He said you'd want to hear this. He said it's what you've been waiting to hear."
For just a moment, Engwar's face went slack, then, "Connect us!" he said, rapped the privacy switch and picked up the receiver. "What is it, Undsvin?"
He listened open-mouthed. "Really? Really? Great Amberus, Undsvin, this is marvelous! Truly marvelous! Where are they now? . . . This afternoon! Look, sweet cousin, I want to be there. I'll fly up today. . . . Yes, I insist. Have suitable quarters prepared. I'll have you called later with anything further you need to know."
He turned, a man transformed, beaming excitedly at his justice minister. "The T'swa have made a raid—and captured Lanks! Isn't that marvelous? He'll arrive in Rumaros later today! I told people! I said the T'swa were worth the money! Now they have proven me right!
"Do not arrest Fingas's editor. I may even release Fingas himself when I get back, as an act of magnanimity and celebration.
"Go now! Go! I have things to see to!"