he said. “If you can get the hardware, I could probably put it

together for you. But as far as programming something on that

level… oh, I get it. You’re after the backup program G. H. has in

their files.”

Modred nodded.

“You can actually get the hardware?”

“I think so.”

“I’m impressed. I won’t ask you how. You’ve either got incredible

connections or incredible bucks. I figure probably both. Hijacking

Apollonius was an amazing piece of work. ” He looked at Kira. “I

always had a feeling you’d wind up with someone heavy. ” He

turned back to Modred. “I don’t suppose Cornwall is your real

name. Not that it matters. This is starting to sound real

interesting.”

“So you think you’re up to the task?” said Modred.

“If I say no, do I wind up in the river?”

Modred smiled. “No. That would be sloppy and there is no need

for that. You will simply be made to forget you ever met us.”

Pirate raised his, eyebrows. “You’re an adept?”

Modred inclined his head slightly.

“Makes sense. It would’ve taken a wizard to hijack Apollonius.

Well, I’ll be very straight with you, Mr. Cornwall. It’ll be a

challenge. One hell of a challenge, all the way around. I might be

able to pull it off. But if I can’t, I doubt you’ll find anyone else who

can. I’m the best there is.”

“No offense, ” said Modred, “but if you are, in fact, the best there

is—”

“Why am I living like this?” asked Pirate, anticipating him. “How

come I’m not working for G. H. or I. T. M. or any of the other big

conglomerates, is that it?”

“Precisely, ” Modred said.

“I did, at one time, ” Pirate said. “When I was eighteen, I ran the

entire product planning division for I. T. M. You can check it out. I

wore a suit, had an expense account, my own office and secretary,