Without missing a beat, though he knew what would follow on his announcement, Weber said, "Caleb."

The king laughed, uproarious, inspiring the liar to give him a cold smile. Still grinning, the king inclined his head. "Are a thousand and one layers of deceit enough to make you honest?"

"Each layer, my liege, keeps away unwanted fingertips." Weber's own fingers strayed idly to his cravat. "But it is as I told you, Doctor. Those without homes have no names."