Thief of Time - Cut

'You two get behind that cart over there and run when you get the signal,' said Lu-Tze. 'Go now!'

'What signal?'

We'll know, said the voice of Lobsang.

Lu-Tze watched them hurry away. Then he picked up his broom in one hand and stepped out into the view of a street full of grey people.

'Excuse me?' he said. 'Could I have your attention, please?'

'What is he doing?' said Susan, crouching behind the cart.

They're all going towards him, said Lobsang. Some of them have weapons.

'They'll be the ones giving the orders,' said Susan.

Are you sure?

'Yes. They've learned from humans. Auditors aren't used to taking orders. They need persuading.'

He's telling them about Rule One, and that means he's got a plan. I think it's working. Yes!

'What's he done? What's he done?'

Come on! He'll be fine!

Susan leapt up. 'Good!'

Yes, they've cut his head off ...

***

The Thief of Time - p316-317