Book number 540 of my Science Fiction and Fantasy Reading Project
What's a birthday party without some plotting, planning, and an assassination attempt? Cajeiri is turning felicitous nine and he is excited to be visited by three human children who he knew during his two years in space. Everyone is surprised when one of Bren's friends, now a ship captain, accompanies the kids, along with two security officers.
As usual, there are machinations taking place in the planetary capitol. Cajeiri's parents are at odds, staff has been changed, and it is no place for visitors. Bren and the Dowager agree to take the children to Great Uncle Tatiseigi's estate in the country. Even there, they cannot be assured of safety, despite what seems like a battalion of Guild members accompanying them. At least the children get one trail ride in before the shit hits the fan. Tatiseigi amazes everyone by seeming to enjoy the presence of the youngsters.
Cajeiri may only be nine, but he has matured. He is less bratty (though still stubborn) and much more responsible. The safety of his friends is uppermost in his mind. He may tell them a little more than the adults would be comfortable with, but he is protective. Thankfully, he has an entire crew of adults who are determined to keep them all intact.
Likewise, Bren takes fewer chances in this volume. His worst mishap is a cut on the cheek. There are no dramatic chase scenes, just a lot of distracting the enemy while the birthday group gets where they are going. Bren and Jase make a good team. There is more political manoeuvring than fleeing from danger this time around.
This book represented a very short period of time, so it didn't include the actual birthday party. That, it seems, will be part of the next volume.
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