Read Online Angel-Seeker by Sharon Shinn - Free Book Online Page B

It is a hot and uncomfortable day, but it is cool inside, and I can give you all manner of refreshments.”
    â€œThank you. I would greatly appreciate your hospitality.”
    They stepped inside the red tent, and indeed, the temperature was at least ten degrees cooler. The interior was crammed with comforts—overstuffed chairs, piles of pillows, metal candelabra in whimsical shapes—and so many baubles and ornaments that it resembled a market booth itself. Still, it was more appealing than Obadiah’s own living quarters at the moment. The angel chose the only appropriate seat in view, a four-legged stool covered in a painted purple leather, and let his wings settle behind him.
    â€œSit, sit! Will that be comfortable? What would you like to drink? Water? Wine? My wife makes a concoction of mixed fruit juices that is most refreshing on a hot day—”
    â€œYes, I would like some fruit juice, if some is available.”
    â€œInstantly, angelo, instantly.”
    It was a few more minutes before they were settled in, and one of the sullen sons had brought a tray of refreshments to set on a table by Uriah’s hand. The Jansai handed him a glass filled with pulpy red liquid.
    â€œSo! Tell me, Obadiah of the Eyrie. What brings you to Breven on such a hot day?”
    Obadiah smiled. “I understand that all days are hot in Breven, so if I am to come at all, I must choose to come in the heat.”
    Uriah laughed more heartily than the joke warranted. This was another feature of Jansai hospitality: a great pretend warmth thatcould evaporate in seconds. But the Jansai always led with a show of friendliness. It was a strategy Obadiah could appreciate.
    â€œNot all days—come visit us in winter sometime, and you will see how miserable a hot climate can be,” Uriah said. “The wind is bitter indeed when there is nothing but sand to shield you from its malice.”
    â€œThe wind at high altitudes is bitter as well, but I have grown accustomed to it,” Obadiah said. “Still, my guess is that I prefer your city in summer or fall, so I am glad this is the time I have chosen to arrive.”
    â€œAnd to what purpose? To examine goods in our market? Just tell me what you’re seeking, and I will be happy to advise you on where to spend your money. I would want an angel to be shown only the highest quality merchandise, of course.”
    â€œNo, I’m not here to buy. Or sell. I’m here—” He lifted his glass and smiled as winningly as he could. “To lend an ear to the Jansai. The Archangel Gabriel has told me that there are troubles among your people, and he knows he has not done what he can to address them. Gabriel is busy—Nathan is busy. I merely sit on the high plateau at the Eyrie and sun myself, so they didn’t think I was quite as busy. And they have sent me here to treat with you.”
    â€œAhhhh,” Uriah said on a long sigh and sat meditatively sipping from his glass. “Well, that was generous on Gabriel’s part,” he said at last. “It is good to know he takes me seriously.”
    â€œGabriel takes everyone seriously. Gabriel is a serious man.”
    â€œGabriel is a blind, pigheaded, stubborn fanatic, and no one can deal with him,” Uriah said roundly.
    Obadiah smiled again. “I assure you, you aren’t the only one to hold that opinion. But I have to say I don’t share it. I have found him always thoughtful and well-reasoned, though a bit high-handed, I must admit. Gabriel likes things his own way. But I have seen him bend when he has been convinced his way is wrong.”
    Uriah leaned forward in his chair. “The liberation of the Edori—”
    Obadiah shook his head. “It will not be reversed.”
    Uriah flung his hands out. “But it will bankrupt the city! And if the Jansai fail, let me tell you plainly, your country will crumble within a year.”
    â€œThe last thing