Ellisandra left them to digest those statements. The rumour mill would do its work and hopefully it would come to the conclusion she wanted it to reach. They would come. They would bring their friends and neighbours.
In the theatre, she found Tolaki on the stage with the actors, and Aleyo must have gone out, because the orchestra was not rehearsing. She was pleased to find Sariandra upstairs in the office. Her eyes widened when Ellisandra came in.
“You’re all right?” she asked, staring at Ellisandra’s bruised face.
“Fine, as long as I don’t smile. Not much risk of that happening today.”
“That really does look horrible.”
“It hurts.”
“I’m so sorry that you had to get involved. There is going to be so much trouble.”
“Where are you staying?”
“We slept in the den.”
“Isn’t it cold in th
