"Anthony, Piers - Adept - 06 - Unicorn Point" - читать интересную книгу автора (Anthony Piers)

with you, but our word is sacred, so we work for the other
side. Because the Adepts know we can be trusted, we have
complete freedom."

"I would not have it otherwise," Stile said sadly.

"But there are advantages for you also," Mach continued.
"Because of this, the Adepts are bound to take no action
against you personally, and the children are free to visit you
and Citizen Blue. We are also working to make the shift in
power more compatible; the status of the unicorns, were-
wolves and vampires is being safeguarded. There will not be
the disaster there might otherwise have been."

"But once the Adepts achieve power, will their guarantees
be honored?" Stile asked grimly.

"Translucent's will."

"But how long will he retain power, once the others see
no further need for his leadership?"

"That is not our business," Mach said, frowning.

"But it is mine. We all know the nature of the leadership
I represent; none know the nature of the leadership that will
emerge from the Adverse Adepts once their present con-
straints are gone, but it will surely be inimical to Phaze."

"My word binds me," Mach said tightly. "I would not
use my power directly against you, and do not use it for the
Adepts, but to the extent they can profit from my contact with
Bane, they are entitled. I think it is fair to say that this profit
is significant."

"It is overwhelming," Stile admitted. "If I can not stop it
soon, I will lose hope of ever doing so."

"I have no comment."

Of course he didn't. He knew that what he was doing was
shifting the balance to favor the Adverse Adepts in Phaze,
and the Contrary Citizens in Proton, but he was bound by
his word. Surely he hoped that Stile would somehow prevail,
but doubted that this was possible. Thus had events mocked
their preferences. "Why did you seek me?" Stile asked.

"It is personal. In three days Elach will visit you for a
week, as he has been doing every month. We are concerned
about him, and hope you can help."