Young Rissa by F.M. Busby Page A

doesn’t explain it. But when it’s life or death, time slows — it did for me, too. When we get back — tomorrow, say — we’ll test you.”  
    The radio brought rescue. Next day, and following days, Erika tested Rissa against simulated emergencies — without success. “Well, some can train it; some can’t. I can’t, but hoped you could.”  
    â€œDo you know why not?”  
    â€œMaybe we’re too smart — can’t fool ourselves about real danger. And I’m not risking you — or me — in a setup that could be fatal if the reaction isn’t enough to handle it.  
    â€œBut you can keep in mind, Rissa — when it comes down to cases, you’ve got an ace in the hole!”  
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    Rissa's skills grew, and with them her self-assurance. She had her turn — not quite as soon as Jorge had predicted — with Erika’s “stable” — and was surprised by the real warmth and intimacy within that changing group. When the turn ended, Erika talked with her, the two alone. “You’re a love, girl — we’re all agreed on that. Now this problem of yours — oh, it’s obvious, to me, at least, that you have to fake the high points — well, I think you’ll overcome it sooner or later. The odds are good. And for most purposes you do fake it well. But — and this is vital — don’t ever do so with anyone who is truly, personally important to you. Do you understand why?”  
    â€œBecause if I fool someone, there’s no way for that person to know I still need help?”  
    â€œThat’s part of it. Where one fails, two may succeed — but only if both know something’s needed. But also, you can’t help feeling contemptuous of anyone you can lie to, successfully. And contempt is a very nasty poison.”  
    â€œI see. And I’m sorry, Erika, because you and others here are important to me.”  
    The older woman shook her head. “Not the way I meant. You’re here for the year, and then you’ll be gone. I spoke of the kind of importance that sometimes has a future to it.”  
    She gripped Rissa’s shoulder and shook it gently. “Now you must get on with other matters. I’ll have your things moved to your old room; you have it to yourself now — the Faldane girl’s working at our city offices.” She paused. “By the way — have you had any luck, finding your uncle?”  
    Rissa shook her head and left.  
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    Computer tapes can be erased; Rissa found no hint that Voris Kerguelen had ever existed. She had better luck with Ivan; he had been moved, but she discovered his new location. When she was certain, she went to Madame Hulzein.  
    â€œI’ve found my brother.”  
    â€œWell, get him out. I’ve taught you how, haven’t I?”  
    â€œYes. To begin with, my money — or yours, for that matter — is useless in North America if recognized as such; it would be confiscated.” She awaited Erika’s nod. “So we work through established drops and code all communications.”  
    â€œGo ahead.”  
    â€œI will. But, your advice — which drop should I use? Camilla?”  
    â€œNo. She wound up her work a few days ago and skipped to Australia two jumps ahead of a Committee arrest order. She sends her best wishes, by the way — says she’ll answer your latest message when she gets settled and has time.”  
    Rissa smiled. “I am glad. But then, who . . .?”  
    â€œLet me think. Do you know the New Mafia codes and dropsigns?”  
    â€œI’ve seen them — I know where to look. But — can that group be trusted?”  
    Erika grinned. “They play a double game — always. But I’m one they don’t cross.”  
    â€œThen may I use your sign group in the