Catt and the Executioner were walking through the streets of Marketday and the Poor Quarter, and chatting as if they were old friends. Catt had the feeling that her mark really wanted to talk.

As they got deeper into the Poor Quarter, the executioner stopped and said, "I guess my shift is over, and I shouldn't really go in like this," she looked around as if checking to see if anyone other than Catt was watching. Then she reached up and removed her mask.

Catt felt her estimate was confirmed. ...