Free Xone Of Contention by Piers Anthony Page A

of something awkward. “I gather there isn't racism in Xanth.”
    “Not as such. But there is prejudice. For example nobody much wants to associate with zombies.”
    “I should think not,” Pia agreed.
    “But they should, Zombies are people too, and they serve Xanth well. If you're ever in trouble, and you see a zombie, ask it for help. They're kind hearted. Their hearts are rotten, of course, but soft.”
    Pia wasn’t certain whether the girl was joking, so she played it low key “Rotten but kind,” she agreed.
    “Justin and I will be taking over Castle Zombie, when the Zombie Master retires,” Breanna said “Justin's going to be great ”
    “Breanna is already great,” Justin said gallantly.
    "You don't know the half of it” Breanna murmured.
    He looked at her "I don't understand.”
    “You will. We're sharing a nest and a blanket tonight.”
    “We are? I'm not sure that's appropriate, considering your—”
    “My age? Would you want me to huddle all by myself alone in the great wilderness of Xanth?”
    “Of course not But—”
    “Good. So finish eating, and we'll turn in.”
    Justin looked nervous “I suppose if we sleep on opposite sides of the nest.”
    Pia kept her mouth shut. It was fun observing the interaction. Justin seemed like a very nice man, but Breanna was right he had archaic notions.
    They finished their meal as dusk closed. Then they went to their nests “You know, poor Justin really likes that girl,” Edsel said as they settled down. “He told me that it's all he can do to keep his hands off her. But she's too young, so he stays clear.”
    "Sixteen is old enough.”
    “I know that. You know that. But he doesn’t know that. He thinks a girl's not a woman until she's eighteen.”
    "It's the Adult Conspiracy. But I don't think it's quite right. I told her how to try to bend it.”
    “Bend it?"
    “As in the distinction between necking and petting. I'm betting that petting's allowed at her age.”
    “Maybe so. Speaking of which, how about—”
    "Forget it. We're estranged.”
    “Not until we finish in Xanth and you don't change your mind. Anyway, we have always fought, but gotten along great at night.”
    He had a point. Still, she wasn't sure. “Sorry I don't feel like it.”
    He lay back, disappointed Edsel had his faults, but he was a gentle man about sex. There was silence.
    Then Justin's amazed voice carried across the nests “Breanna! What are you doing?”
    “Just holding hands, dear ”
    “Breanna!” He sounded shocked “You—”
    “Shut up and kiss me, handsome. Or shall I hold both your hands, like this?” After that the sounds muffled out.
    Pia turned toward Edsel “Now I feel like it.”
    He moved over immediately “Exactly what did you tell her?” he whispered.
    “Just how to hold hands.”
    “That's all?”
    “Like this.” She demonstrated with his hand.
    “He's done for,” he agreed appreciatively “This is just like the old days.”
    “For sure,” she agreed, imitating Breanna “But remember, we're still officially estranged."
    “Tomorrow,” he agreed.

Xanth 23 - Xone of Contention
    Chapter 3: MUNDANIA
    Chlorine was nervous about this particular adventure, because it was the first one where Nimby—the Demon X(A/N)th—would not have his immense power of magic. But he wanted to explore Mundania, and this was the only feasible way. Because each Demon was jealous of its territory and prerogatives, and had virtually absolute power within its domain. The intrusion of any other Demon would not be welcome. So Xanth was sneaking in to look around, and if E(A/R)th caught on there would be awful mischief. Chlorine had begged Nimby not to do it, but he had insisted, so now she would do her utmost to facilitate the visit and keep them both safe. Because she owed everything to Nimby, and his will was ultimately her will.
    They walked to the exit door, and paused “See you here tomorrow for check-in!” Breanna called cheerily.
    “Got it,” the Mundane