You know my meaning. ( Stringent, acidic. Perhaps unkind. There is a ruthlessness they share, metallic, like poison in their blood. Both Five and he are fast friends of that sickness.

He looks askance at the door, ajar, at the gossamer of ropes on which various talismans hang within the nearest Whispering House. It is well peopled, highly trafficked. He has seen at least three spirits drift in within the past half-shichen.

Already, he suspects he knows what manner of brokering is done within. Who benefits and who weeps following the transaction. His hand on the sword steels.

He reconsiders. ) Speak. Which Whispering house is best?