And atoms within you Which have lived since time began. Be proud, Namuri; You are unbounded. Walk tall; hold your head up to the sky. Be humble, Namuri; You are unbounded. Think of what will endure. (A Namuri chant) Chapter 1 SIX WAS SITTING looking at the Emerald Lake on Xiantha. He gave a deep sigh. He couldn’t see why Diva was so determined to go back to visit the Namura clan on Coriolis. “You already saw where they lived,” he said. “What sort of a welcome do you think they are likely to give you, anyway? You are still a meritocrat, remember? As I recall, meritocrats are their least favourite people.” “I have to go back. I want to talk to that old woman – the one who officiated at Petra’s funeral. There was something about her … something that I have to know.” Diva gave a rueful smile. “I am not even sure myself.”
