The forgotten program behind Weiler's back was broadcasting something about the highlights of the System from the past year, a tradition that never failed to change with the passing of decades or centuries.

Weiler tilted Locke's face up and brought their mouths together, once and then again and then a third time for good measure. "I'll take good care of you, Rhys," he promised, brushing the hair back from the man's face. "I'll take such good care of you; you won't regret it."