10 – Aftermath by Asprin, Robert

“You conjured up the wind that delayed our ship'”

“It was imperative “

“Then you must think there’s a chance'”

“Of freeing Klikitagh? Perhaps. First, though, I must learn the reason why the curse is on him.”

“But you said already that he doesn’t know! So how-?” “Wait.” The magician raised one hand which no longer matched his handsome youthful countenance-not that he was so handsome any longer, either. “What I said was that he honestly believes it was put upon him unjustly. That does not mean there was no reason for it. I assure you, even a thousand years ago no one would have undertaken such a work without a reason. Klikitagh may indeed be innocent; if so, there is a great and long-outstanding blame to visit on the perpetrator of a crime against him. Or, more like, descendants of those who benefited by its perpetration.”

“But how can he not be innocent, having sworn by-? I waste my breath. You must already know.”

“Indeed I do. That is perhaps the most remarkable aspect of the mat- ter.”

Enas Yorl rose. “Now I must further the business. Time is wasting.”

“May I wait? May I be of assistance?”

“You may not,” The wizard’s tone was final. “You will go hence about your own affairs. About now Melilot is rising, and he will be eager to discuss your trip. He will display great reluctance to mention Klikitagh, and you yourself will give the fellow not a second thought, save perhaps to hope occasionally that I can rescue him. Until sundown. At the mo- ment when the sun cuts the horizon, you may return. Approach the entrance on Prytanis Street; address the basilisks by name-I’ll teach you how-and they will let you by. If the work is not complete by dark, it will have failed.”