24
WE RAN ACROSS the factory floor, between the benches where some people were still working. Once, Thayu almost crashed into a grey-haired man who crossed the aisle while carrying a crate. He gave a cry and stumbled back, almost toppling over. His work mates all scurried out of the way. They made no move to speak to us or ask questions. Many stared at Evi and Telaris with wide eyes and cowered. If ever Indrahui intended to build goodwill here, they had a long way to go.
A passage led away from the hall, and two guards stood at its entrance. At our approach, both reached for weapons. Thayu made short work of one with the gun while Evi threw a metal bar he had picked up somewhere at the other guard. It hit the man on the side of the head.
The guards both slumped to the ground. Both local
