Gary Gygax - Dangerous Journeys 2 - Samarkand Solution (27 page)

"Quite aptly put on your part," Inhetep drawled. "So you've been here for some time?"

"Well, no. I thought a little city life might restore my humors, so I went downriver for a few days."

The tall wizard-priest didn't ask where. "Ah ..." he murmured. "That's nice. I trust you found that trip more enjoyable."

Rachelle looked at him a moment before replying. "Yes and no, Setne. I met a charming young couple, but she was so splendidly dressed I felt frumpish. I think it's time I acquired a few new things for my wardrobe."

"But you're not one to ... to ... go in for high fashion," he stammered. "A new riding outfit, a corslet of chain ..."

"I believe I've had enough of leather and armor for a time," Rachelle said firmly. "From now on, I plan to dress in more attractive style. Memphis has wonderful boutiques, I hear. How soon can we go there, Setne?"

The magister drooped and went to check his cash box, calling back over his shoulder, "A day or two, perhaps, Rachelle. I'll have to see about getting some funds in hand—I fear we're somewhat strapped at the moment."

"Oh, no, dear," the amazon called to him in reply. "After I took care of the bills sent up from On with the money you'd left here, I withdrew more from your banker. Do you think a hundred gold atens will be sufficient for the trip?"

The sum was enough to buy a villa. Setne threw up his hands, "What!?"

"Couldn't we take just a little more to make sure, dear?"

"Yes, Rachelle, I suppose we could. If I were Pharaoh, perhaps!"

"But Setne, you spent almost that much when

you were by yourself in On—at least, I assume you were alone. . . ."

The magister winced, happy that she was unable to see him. "Well, why not? I did receive a small honorarium for assisting in the investigation—will another ten atens do?"

"Let's take two hundred," Racheile said firmly.

The priest-wizard knew better than to discuss the matter further. "I'll have it all arranged tomorrow, Racheile."

And that was the true conclusion of the events surrounding the Samarkand Solution.

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The four forms, in order of importance are: Repa-maa, Hereditary Prinee Ur-kheri-heb-tepi, Great priest-wizard-master Utchat-neb, a full captain of the secret police, a colonel Magister