"But O forbid." said the Earl Marischal,

you want while you eat Antona smiled with genuine pleasure. I do. I dont enjoy eating by myself all the time. Could you drop down here first? Youre still listed as inactive and youll want that status amended. On her way down to the Infirmary level, Killashandra first worried then chided herself for fearing there was more to Antonas request than a simple record up-date. It might have nothing to do with her fitness to take on the Optherian job. Nor would it be discreet to imply that she knew such an assignment was available. On the other hand, Antona would know more about the amenities of the nearby worlds. The medical formality took little time and then the two women proceeded to the catering section of the main singers floor of the Guild Complex. Its so depressingly empty, Antona said in a subdued voice as she glanced about the dimly lit portions of the facility. I found it a lot more depressing when everyone else was celebrating a good haul, Killashandra said in a glum tone. Yes, yes, it would be, I suppose. Oh, fardles! Antona quickly diverted Killashandra toward the shadowy side. Borella, Concera, and that simp, Gobbain, she murmured as she made a hasty detour. You dont like them? Killashandra was amused. Antona shrugged. One establishes a friendship by sharing events and opinions. They remember nothing and consequently have nothing to share. And less to talk about. Without warning, Antona caught Killashandra by the arm, turning to face her. Do yourself a sterling favor, Killa. Put everything youve experienced so far in your life, every detail you can recall from cutting expeditions, every conversation youve had, every joke youve heard, put everything when Killashandra affected surprise, Antona gave her arm a painful squeeze and yes, I do mean everything, into your personal retrieval file. What you did. what you said, what you felt and Antonas fierce gaze challenged Privacy how youve loved. Then, when your mind is as blank as theirs, you can refresh your memory and have something with which to reestablish you! Her expression became intensely sad. Oh, Killa. Be different! Do as I ask! Now! Before its too late! Then, her customary composure restored, she released the arm and seemed to draw the intensity back into her straight, slim body. Because I assure you, she said as she took the last few steps into the catering area, that once your brilliant wit and repartee become as banal and malicious as theirs, she jerked lens for nikon digital slr cameras her thumb at the silent trio, Ill seek other company at lunch. Now, she said, her fingers poised over the catering terminal, what are you having? Yarran beer. Killashandra said the first thing that came to mind, being slightly dazed by Antonas unexpected outburst. Antona raised her eyebrows in mock surprise, then rapidly dialed their orders. They were served quickly and took their trays to the nearest banquette. As Antona tackled her meal with good appetite, Killashandra sipped her beer, digesting Antonas remarkable advice. Till then, Killashandra had had no opportunity to appreciate the viewpoint of a colleague who would not lose her memory as an occupational hazard. Stubbornly, Killashandra preferred to forget certain scenes in her life. Like failure. Well, you dont have long to wait for a fresh supply of cluttered minds, Killashandra said at last, blotting the beer foam from her upper lip and deferring conversation on Antonas unsettling advice. A new class? How did that privileged information seep out? You are only just out of an Infirmary tank. Well, you wont be allowed to brief them if thats what you had in mind, Killa. Why not? Antona shrugged and daintily sampled her nicely browned casserole before replying. Youve no injury to display. Thats an important part of the briefing, you see the visible, undeniable proof of the rapid tissue regeneration enjoyed by residents of Ballybran. Irresistible! Antona gave Killashandra a sharp glance. Oh, no complaints from me, Antona. The Guild can be proud of its adroit recruiting program. Antona fastened a searching glance on her face and put down her fork. Killashandra Ree, the Heptite Guild is not permitted by the Federated Sentient Planets to recruit free citizens for such a hazardous profession. Only volunteers Only volunteers insist on presenting themselves, and so many of these have exceedingly useful skills She broke off, momentarily disconcerted by Antonas almost fierce glance. What concern is that of yours, Killashandra Ree? You have benefited immensely from the selection process. Despite my unexpected inclusion. A few odd ones slip through no matter how careful we are, Antona said all too sweetly, her eyes sparkling. Dont fret, Antona. Its not a subject that I would discuss with anyone else. Particularly