Strange Noises Fiction by Rachel Greenham

It's hot, so it's afternoon-rest again. Siesta, it would be called back in the other world. We're in the suite of rooms they've set aside for us, having returned here for rest after lunch with Hajarean and Hanima and the four of their grandchildren currently staying, although the latter were prone to dash off with our little pack into the garden to get acquainted rather than finish their meal. It's very well appointed in the Jeodine style, with curved-arched windows, shuttered now against the heat, and rugs and cushions and chaises-longues and proper beds. "That Hanima is something special," Sam says sleepily. "I can see why my last character called her princess." I chuckle. "She must have been an astonishing beauty when she was young," Sam continues. "She's not half bad now--- I mean I'd---" "Shush, you," I say. "You know what she did, letting us know she understands English?" "Oh yes. Fair warning, I guess. God knows who else he's taught. Guess we can't use it as a secret language any more." "Not the rate those kids are picking it up anyway. I think I heard Ateis call Garelan a 'bleeding plonker' yesterday." "Oh God, Haji's right, I am a bad influence. When did I say that?" "I dunno, probably wasn't there. You know, if the Satthei's alive I don't want to have to explain to her why we're turning her daughter into a chav." "Haha. Burberry elves with Croydon facelifts." "Shows off the ears better," I inform her, deadpan. Inspired (or something), I sit up and scrape my hair back into a ponytail held with my hand to demonstrate. "Am I bovvered? Do I look like I'm bovvered? ’Cause I'm not---" I receive a cushion in the face for my efforts. I hug it, chuckling, and lie down again. It's hot. "Hey, where _are_ the kids anyway?" Sam asks. "Common area. I think they're doing that kittenpile thing." "Aww, an' I'm missing it. You should join in." "I'm not _that_ much of a kid. Anyway, Beni and ’Suti are with them." Therefore we've been left alone for a change. "You think we did the right thing, coming here?" I ask. "You didn't argue back at Jalsone's, so---" "Yes. I think it's good. We'll find out more here. Better connections. And he's probably right about it being safer." "We're getting further from the sea," I murmur, looking at the ceiling.