‘I cannot. My aspect enforces certain… prohibitions.’
‘Ah, the nudge, the pull or the push.’
‘Yes, only that.’
‘You have been about as direct as you can be.’
The Errant nodded.
‘Well, I see your dilemma,’ Bugg said.
‘Thus my query – do you have any suggestions?’
The manservant considered for a time, whilst the god waited patiently, then he sighed and said, ‘Perhaps. Wait here. If I am successful, I will send someone to you.’
‘All right. I trust you will not be overlong.’
‘I hope not. Depends on my powers of persuasion.’
‘Then I am encouraged.’
Without another word, Bugg headed off. He quickened his pace as he made his way towards the docks. Fortunately, it was not far, and he arrived at Front Street to see that only the main piers had been commandeered by the landing warriors of the Tiste Edur. They were taking their time, he noted, a sign of their confidence. No-one was opposing their landing. Bugg hurried along Front Street until he came to the lesser berths. Where he found his destination, a two-masted, sleek colt of a ship that needed new paint but seemed otherwise relatively sound. There was no-one visible on its deck, but as soon as he crossed the gangway he heard voices, then the thump of boots.
Bugg had reached the mid-deck when the cabin door swung open and two armed women emerged, swords out.
Bugg halted and held up his hands.
Three more figures appeared once the two women stepped to either side. A tall, grey-maned man in a crimson surcoat, and a second man who was clearly a mage of some sort. The third arrival Bugg recognized.
‘Good morning, Shand. So this is where Tehol sent you.’
‘Bugg. What in the Errant’s name do you want?’
‘Well said, lass. And are these fine soldiers Shurq Elalle’s newly hired crew?’
‘Who is this man?’ the grey-haired man asked Shand.
She scowled. ‘My employer’s manservant. And your employer works for my employer. His arrival means there’s going to be trouble. Go on, Bugg, we’re listening.’
‘First, how about some introductions, Shand?’