Im sorry.Forwhat? For not knowing? Dylen snorted. Besides, hetharedo not abide in all cities. Just the largest ones. Sidonas capitalis lovely and progressive, but it still has a long way to go beforeit attains Rikaras sophistication.Youvebeen to Nivare?Afew times. At the invitation of one of my patrons. Oh... Well,how different is a hetharfrom a felka?Asidefrom the assurance that dalliance with us wont result in assault,theft or disease? A whole world. A felkassole function is to spread himself for any Deir willing to pay hisprice. Whether he has a brain between his ears or a heart in hisbreast is irrelevant. Dylen checked himself in the mirror, runninghis hand over the tunic to smooth out any remaining wrinkles.Hetharedo more than provide sexual release, he continued. We entertainin areas other than bed, and sometimes that is all thats asked ofus. On went a fine leather belt. Otherwise, how could Addacontinue in this profession at his age? And why think you must webegin training ourselves so young? Its not only the gratificationof the body that we address.Hebrought out a flat jewelry box and studied its contents. We aretaught to comport ourselves properly in society and schooled in thepolitics and cultures of nations whose citizens we may find ourselvesproviding with our company. Many of our guests come from the HighHouses or work in government and expect more than lewd banter fromus. For that reason, hetharemust also finish secondary schooling to gain admittance into thefraternity. Many take collegiate studies as well.Didyou?Ivecompleted the basic course. I plan to resume my studies next year.Riodan blew his breath out. Fascinating. Its beyond anything Iimagined.Itisnt common knowledge outside of our circle, Dylen admitted. Heselected several wristlets of leather and silver and slipped them on.Youdont have to answer this, Riodan hesitantly said. Im justcurious. But can you choose your patrons?Forthe most part, Dylen replied. But if my club master assigns aguest to me, I must take him on unless I have a valid reason torefuse. Thats still far more choice than a prostitute has.Riodannodded. And I suppose your club master doesnt accept justanyone off the street.Noindeed. Its to his benefit to protect us. Obviously,brothel-keepers arent as discerning. Dylen picked up hisfur-lined cloak and drew it on. Furthermore, a prostitute cantrefuse to couple in whatever manner a client demands. Hetharemay and often do.Idont understand.Genitalpenetration is permissible only if a hetharagrees to it, he calmly explained. Very rarely, one might bepersuaded to yield if his patron offers to pay through the nose forthe privilege. Or if one desires a child. Otherwise, its strictlyup the arse for us.Dylengrinned. The mirror showed Riodan gaping at him. His frankness hadobviously impressed him. He turned around and slipped a finger underthe other Deirs chin. With a smart tap, he compelled Riodan toclose his mouth.Dontwait up for me, Dylen said. Im seldom home before midnight.When Riodan did not speak but only stared at him with wide eyes, hetilted his head questioningly. What is it? Have I a smudge on myface or something?Riodanstarted. Nay, of course not! Then why are you staring?Onceagain, brilliant color blossomed in Riodans cheeks. He abashedlyreplied, I