The Singers of Nevya by Louise Marley Page A

Committee and was also liaison between Conservatory and Lamdon. If a Cantor or Cantrix was recalled, it would be by her order. If one was reassigned, the decision was made jointly by her and Magister Mkel. Such issues were grave responsibilities, matters of life and death, and the shortage of the Gift was their most vital concern.
    Cantrix Sharn’s apartment was crowded with at least twenty Singers, of all ages and sizes, and it was absolutely silent.
    Cantor Rico, please take Cantrix Sira’s furs for her; she will be so uncomfortably warm.
    Sira turned to see a slender white-haired woman of about twelve summers. Rico helped her with her furs, then introduced her. Cantrix Sharn, this is Cantrix Sira v’Bariken.
    Sira bowed deeply. Cantrix Sharn, I am to give you my senior’s greetings.
    Sharn smiled warmly at Sira. I have greetings for you as well. From your teacher. For a moment, the image of Maestra Lu, created by their joined memories, filled Sira’s mind with an intensity that made her close her eyes.
    Sharn waited until the moment passed, then indicated two chairs close together. They sat down, and Sira looked around the room.
    The apartment was almost as bare as Sira’s own, though there was more furniture. It looked like a room one could practice in, Sira thought. When she looked back at the senior Cantrix, Sharn was smiling again.
    Indeed it is, my dear, and I do it every day, even now.
    Sharn gestured to a passing Housewoman, who carried a tray of refreshments. Sira took a piece of dried fruit containing a kind of nut she didn’t recognize, and she sipped thirstily at a cup of tea. Sharn helped herself to a tidbit, and Sira noticed her long, slim fingers. Good hands for the filhata . She hoped she would have the chance to hear Cantrix Sharn play.
    Again Sharn heard her idle thought. Actually, Sira, I was hoping you would play for us.
    Sira nodded, though the thought caused her a thrill of nerves to run through her.
    Rico returned, and stood by her elbow. We are all very curious, Cantrix Sira, to hear how things are at Bariken.
    All is well there, I think , Sira responded carefully. She kept her mind as clear of doubts as she could.
    And how do you find working for Magister Shen? Rico pressed.
    Sira was disconcerted when she realized all the other Singers in the room were listening for her answer. She took a moment to collect herself before she nodded politely to Rico. The Cantoris is a good one, with Cantrix Magret as senior. She is very helpful.
    Rico surprised her by chuckling aloud. He patted her shoulder lightly with a small pale hand. A diplomatic answer, friends! Our young colleague should be a great success! There was general friendly laughter, and several Singers sent warm wishes to Sira.
    Shr turned to Sharn, uncertain what Rico had meant. Sharn was smiling, too. Do not let Rico’s teasing disturb you. He is searching for crumbs of gossip to offer round at dinner. There was more laughter.
    We all knew of your early assignment , offered a middle-aged Cantor. We have been thinking of you.
    Sira was touched. She bowed to him, and sent, That is very kind, Cantor. She was relieved when the conversation turned to other topics.
    The Singers were especially concerned with the reason for the Magistral Committee’s meeting that had brought so many visitors to Lamdon. The Committee was to discuss the shortage of Cantors and Cantrixes, and in particular the failure of many families to dedicate their Gifted children to Conservatory. Penalties had been proposed.
    Magister Shen, Sira thought privately, would have little interest in such a discussion. He was not concerned about Singers or Conservatory, or anything except his own pleasure. It was a disloyal thought, and she shielded it well.
    A young Singer of about five summers nodded to Sira from across the room. She recognized him. He had been a third-level student when she was in her second level. She basked in the glow of their mutual history. When Sharn’s