I know who he is, of course, this tall man who does not need to dream - or sleep, or eat. I wonder if this wet weather is bad for him. But he takes off his hat despite the rain, and that makes me smile.

I ain't-- I am afraid that if we've met, ma'am, then I have missed your name."

"I'm Noma," I say, "and I don't think we've met, Deputy. I live at the abbey."I smile at him. "I arrived only a few moments ago."