And there it is again, sidling down the alleys as the day turns into an aimless meander. Down to the fort and on through the alleys, wondering whether that lost seed which drew me here was food or architecture but doubting that I'll ever work it out. 
It doesn't matter, there's been a change in the wind, the realisation that it's time to leave and head for an unexpected destination. Away from the endless and exclusive clans and bimbling around there's a familiarity beginning to surface, recognition of that shadow stretching and shrinking beneath my steps aa days tumble by. 
It's been a good idea Bikaner, the place has got a certain electricity, just about far away from the set menu for Rajasthan to retain a sense of self. And the Rajasthani's are an amiable people. True.