“Why should I?” Lisbon growled at me.
“So he can speak.” I stepped between them and grasped the young labgrown's shoulders from behind. My back to Lisbon, I guided the young man to the microphone.
“Go ahead, Sweep. Tell them what you saw.” I stepped away and encouraged him with a gesture. “Tell them the truth.” A sense of peace settled upon me, déjà vu of a moment meant to happen, predetermined long ago.
Trembling, the young domestic stared at me, bewilderment on his face.
“Tell them your name, please.”
“My…my name is Sweep,” he said, his eyes imploring me.
“Now tell them your owner's name.”
His voice quavering, he glanced over his shoulder. “I'm owned by…Lord Lisbon.”
The Economy Minister looked as bewildered as his clone.
“Tell them where you first saw me.”
“Lady, please don't
