meantime, you're free to look around Tetrahyde." When the men looked blank, the Quaestor explained, "Tetrahyde is the name of the city you're in. It's the largest city on Omega." He thought for a moment. "In fact, it's the only city on Omega." "What does the name Tetrahyde mean?" Joe asked. "How should I know?" the Quaestor said, scowling. "I suppose it's one of those old Earth names the skrenners are always coming up with. Anyhow, just watch your step when you enter it." "Why?" Barrent asked. The Quaestor grinned. "That, peon, is something you'll have to find out for yourself." He turned and strode from the barracks. When he had gone, Barrent went to the window. From it he could see a deserted square and, beyond, the streets of Tetrahyde. "You thinking of going out there?" Joe asked. "Certainly I am," Barrent said. "Coming with me?" The little credit thief shook his head. "I don't think it's safe." "Foeren, how about you?" "I don't like it either," Foeren said. "Might be better to stay around the barracks for a while." "That's ridiculous," Barrent said. "It's our city now. Isn't anyone coming with me?" Looking uncomfortable, Foeren hunched his big shoulders and shook his head. Joe shrugged and lay back on his cot. The rest of the new men didn't even look up. "Very well," Barrent said. "I'll give you a full report later." He waited a moment longer in case someone changed his mind, then went out the door. The city of Tetrahyde was a collection of buildings sprawled along a narrow peninsula which jutted into a sluggish gray sea. The peninsula's landward side was contained by a high stone wall, pierced with gates and guarded by sentries. Its largest building was the Arena, used once a year for the Games. Near the Arena was a small cluster of government buildings. Barrent walked along the narrow streets, staring around him, trying to get some idea of what his new home was like. The winding, unpaved roads and dark, weatherbeaten houses stirred an elusive tag-end of memory in him. He had seen a
Prev.
Back
Top