course for
Terra. Then he escorted his guest to the ship's small lounge. "I've
followed your career for a long time, Major," he said, getting coffee
for each of them. "It's been brilliant--at times incredible. Like
getting into this ship without leaving traces."

Owajima smiled. "I left traces, warrior. Not many, and not
significant to one without the training we share, but enough that you
would have observed them. My particular Talent specialty, however, is
singularly appropriate for one in this field." His smile grew. "I
can, when I desire, make myself and my handiwork unnoticeable. It
takes a particularly strong mind-shield to block that ability even
partially; you saw nothing because I wished you not to."

Nevan nodded, returning the smile. "That makes me feel better. I got
blown when I visited the base--didn't know about the open house, and
ran into some clan-mates. I was afraid I'd let that distract me--but
if you were using Talent, that wasn't my problem. Mind showing me how
it works?"

"Not at all, though since you are already aware of me, the effect will
not be complete."

If that was incomplete, Nevan thought seconds later, Kiyoshi Owajima
must be capable of practically turning invisible. He knew the other
was there, could see him perfectly well--but it was almost impossible
to pay any attention to him. "Nice! I could've used that quite a few
times."

Owajima became noticeable again. "It is less effective against a
number of people, particularly when--as you did--they know I am
present. But against few, or those who have not already seen me when I
begin using it, you are quite correct; it is most effective."

"Too bad you can't teach it to all the agents." But that, Nevan knew,
wasn't possible; while mind-screen, or the stronger mind-shield, and
telepathy were common to everyone with Talent, the specialized aspects
varied widely from person to person. "Would you like to see your
inheritance?"

"Very much. The needler and blades in the clothing storage?"

Nevan chuckled. "That's them. Do you want to get them, or shall I?"

"There is no further need to invade your privacy, warrior."

"Nevan is fine--I'll go get them, then." He did so, grinning to
himself. He'd been favorably impressed by the reports of Owajima's
accomplishments; he was even more favorably impressed by the man
himself. Not too many standard humans could take out a Sandeman
warrior, even using Talent!

Re