CHAPTER ONE

"Oh baby, you do me so good," I moaned, writhing under his expert ministrations.

His hot moist mouth gently rose and fell in rhythm with the thrusting of my hips, the slight sideways twisting of his lips adding a new erotic feeling.

"Keep it up and I'll fill that hot throat with cream for breakfast," I gasped.

Slowly, sensually, his hands slid further up, pulling me deeper into his eager throat. The familiar shuddering of a deep seated orgasm gathered in my loins. The first spasm of fiery liquid shot into his mouth. Upward I pushed as he took it, swallowing all. Slowly he pulled back then lunged again over the erupting volcano he had unleashed.

"Alix!" I shouted, then remembering my location, muffled the rest of the words with a mouthful of the blanket clutched in my fists.

Spent with released passion, I pulled him up to my chest nestling my lips into his tousled hair. Finally falling back onto my pillow, eyes closing, I drifted back into the dream interrupted.

Mere moments later, the door opened, the pungeant aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting inward on the light breeze. A morning chill forced me to shrug deeper into the woolen blanket. The clank of metal touching glass roused me from my slumber. The gentle caress of cool hands on my face, the brush of warm lips on mine, and I knew Alex had returned.

"Good morning, lover," he whispered. "Coffee in bed or on the terrace?"

"Good morning again," I replied sleepily.

"Again?"

He rose from my side and walked toward the shuttered glass wall, folding back the thick louvered panels and sliding the door sideways on its track. An early morning mist veiled the mountain range from sight. A dampness blew inward, quickly filling the room, sending me deeper into the bed covers.

"I think a cup in bed first please," I said, motioning him back to my side.

"Whatever you say, baby," he smiled.

A calmer, gentler Alix surfaced this morning, a welcome change from the edginess of last night upon our arrival.

"Country living becomes you," I smiled in return.

"It is strangely invigorating, coming home again - to this place."

He glanced out the open door at the mists swirling lazily beyond the steel railing.

"'Eagles Nest', our home in the clouds."

He handed me a steaming mug with a cautionary warning.

"Black, strong, and hot - just like your men," he teased.

"Not anymore! I prefer tan, tawny, and hot - just like my lover," I shot back, kissing his smooth silky stomach.

We sipped in silence, enjoying our first morning sunrise at Alix's family retreat.

Breakfast on the lower terrace, off the kitchen, was an intimate gathering. Alix, his mother and I were seated at the round glass table, served silently by their Indian cook. His youngest brother Shaad was apparently sleeping in. The cantilevered deck gave me an unsteady feeling, and I was happy to be seated near the protective safety of the wall.

"You guys started without me!" called the voice from the doorway just behind my chair.

"Sorry, thought you were sleeping in," Alix said defensively. "Say hello to our guest, Rick."

"We've met, sort of," he grinned mischieviously. "This morning I popped in, guess he thought it was you."

I turned quickly at this, staring at an exact image of my Alix, minus a year or two.

"You okay, baby," Alix asked solicitously, "you look kind of pale?"

"Must be the altitude," I managed, choking back my gasp of surprise.

"I wish you wouldn't speak like that at the table," Alix's mother warned, giving him an icy stare.

"Like what?" Alix protested.

"Terms of endearment between two gentlemen should be reserved for private moments."

"Oh my God, how plebian," he shot back. "Your other son's a frigging drag queen and you object to me calling my significent other 'baby'?"

"I am not!" Shaad protested hotly.

"Not another word from either of you. We shall enjoy our meal in peace," she broke in. "I'm sorry for my sons' rudeness," she continued turning toward me with a grim expression.

Shaad moved sullenly toward the table and slipped into a chair next to me.

"Conchita," she called through the open door.

The Indian cook appeared instantly and she ordered a plate for her younger son.

Breakfast continued rather peacefully, but I was glad when Alix's mother rose and ordered her final coffee brought to her room.

"I hope she's not mad at me," I said to the two of them.

"She always leaves like that," Alix explained. "Does her mail in her room after breakfast."

"What'd you have to go and say that stuff about me for?" Shaad sputtered.

"I heard you're very good at it," Alix responded sweetly. "Maybe Rick and I can catch your act while we're here."

"I guess," he replied, somewhat mollified, "but don't talk about it in front of Mama. She knows, I guess, but we don't talk about it."

"I'm taking Rick on a little tour and when we get back we'll do the clubs in Lima."

"Where're you going?" Shaad asked with mounting excitement.

"Machu Picchu."

"What's that?" I broke in.

"The 'Lost City of the Incas'," Alix replied. "You need to know of our ancestors, our culture."

"Oh, that old stuff," Shaad said with disappointment. "I was going to ask to come along, but I think I'll skip it."

"Just as well, it's our belated 'honeymoon'," Alix said, turning to me with his seductive smile. "I'll make arrangements this afternoon and we'll leave first thing in the morning."

I sighed with relief, this household seemed a little tense for some reason. I was anxious to get away, spend quality time - alone with Alix.

The brothers chatted away as we finished breakfast, the earlier animosity smoothed over.

"I guess I'll get going," Shaad said, pushing back from the table. "Got practice this morning."

"What kind of practice?" I asked Alix as Shaad disappeared into the house.

"They call it futbol, you and I call it soccer," he explained. "Shaad's the star on his school team, believe it or not."

"He's still in school?" I asked increduously. "Just how old is he?"

"Sixteen, but acts like a four year old sometimes."

I nearly choked on my coffee.

The rest of the morning, Alix and I toured his family retreat, an architectural marvel built on a flat terrace carved out of the granite mountainside. The house climbed upward five levels, clinging to the steep rocky facade.

"Reminds me of Frank Lloyd Wright," I commented as we finished our tour, returning to the courtyard enclosed pool on the first level.

"Who?"

"A world famous architect," I explained. "Famous for cantilevered decks and terraces like these, shooting straight out into space."

"Papa commissioned this place just before he died," Alix said, sadness creeping into his voice.

"I'm sorry, honey," I consoled, pulling him close with a warm embrace. "Can we do this, without getting into trouble?"

"Of course, silly," he brightened, kissing me boldly on the lips. "Don't pay any attention to Mama. She says Grandfather has his spies stationed in the house watching us."

"For what reason?"

"Probably thinks he's protecting us from kidnappers."

"Conchita's going to fend off armed invaders?"

"No, Mama's driver, the houseman, the gardner. I'd swear I've seen them with suspicious bulges."

"I'm lookin' at one right now," I chuckled, staring down at his tightly stuffed jeans.

"I'm not packin' heat," he giggled, "but I am getting a little hot."

"I'll say!"

"Let's take a swim, baby. Go change. Meet you back here in five."

The trip up to my room on the fourth level took me through several passageways and up three flights of stairs. I encountered no one until I reached my door. The houseman was just exiting the room with the bed linens and towels.

"Pardon, Señor," he apologized, squeezing past with arms laden, and a sexy smile.

I sure hadn't seen him last night, and the only bulge he was packing was between his legs.

"Anytime!" I smiled back.

"I am called Sylvain," he replied shyly, eyes cast downward, "should you require me."

I hurried inside, closing the door to change. Too many sexy men in this house! ... or boys! I'd have to watch my step or Alix would be tossing me off the terrace to the chasm below.

CHAPTER TWO

The train glided slowly out of the station on time. Cusco to Machu Picchu, a short trip.

"It's not the Orient Express, but the scenery's romantic - and the company!" he emphasized, looking over at me with adoring eyes.

I squeezed his hand in acknowledgement, mindful of the conservative travelers around us as I reflected back on our arrival to Cusco the day before.

We had flown from Lima and spent the afternoon exploring the great Spanish Cathedral of Santo Domingo built on the foundations of a destroyed temple of the Incas, and the Art Museum, filled with colonial period treasures.

"You see what the Spanish invaders did to the great structures of my ancestors?" Alix pointed out, "replaced our temples with their own, leaving only the foundations."

I prodded him onward to lighter subject matter - supper. A gay friendly restaurant operated by Alix's childhood friend Andres and his family, served typical Peruvian fare, stewed chicken and vegetables over thin corn cakes. Here he was not the grandson of El Presidente, but Andres' amigo.

Before checking into the Hostel, we had strolled through the Plaza de Armas, a town square of sorts.

"So this is where you hide all the cute latinos," I joked, eyes roving over the assortment of young men displaying their interest the old fashioned way - tight jeans and direct stares.

"Never mind the street trash," Alix warned, "they only see your yankee dollars."

"Look at that one?" I pointed out a shirtless youth leaning seductively against the smooth chiseled stonework of an ancient Incan wall. "Talk about contrasts, the old and the new!"

"We Incans have a time honored way to deal with transgressors like that, we throw 'em off a cliff."

"You're not kidding!" I had said in awe, looking at him with new respect.

We quickly returned to our hotel and made mad passionate love.

The train rumbled on down the tracks, nudging me back to the present.

"You wouldn't throw me off a cliff, would you?" I asked suddenly.

"What are you talking about?" he exclaimed, turning to me in surprise.

"I mean, if I ever did anything to piss you off, you wouldn't be violent, like your ancestors?"

"My Incan forebears were not violent people, neither am I." Grinning suddenly, he added, "I might poison your martini though, less messy."

"You're so cute when you laugh," I whispered, "I'd kiss you right now if we were alone."

"Hold that thought, many hidden turns and passages await us in Machu Picchu."

More serious matters pressed forward in my mind.

"Something about Malike's death still bothers me."

"Rick, we're on vacation, can't this wait 'til we get back to Jamaica?"

"Yeah, I guess you're right. I'm sorry."

He worked his hand along the vinyl seat, wedging it under my leg, away from curious eyes.

I glanced around the train car quickly. "You think your grandfather knows we're here?"

"Of course! Probably knows the color shirt you're wearing, too."

I glanced down at my clothing, sudden paranoia began to surface.

We had six hours to walk the ruins before the train would carry us back to Cusco. Maybe I should say 'climb the ruins'!

"I've never seen so many steps in my life," I gasped as we came out on the top of the Pyramid of the Sun.

"The most holy of places," Alix breathed quietly as we looked around. "See that stone column? Legend says they tethered the sun to its top."

"I'd like to tether you to a fourposter right now and worship the great Inca between your legs."

"Don't be crude, Rick. We're in the presence of my ancestors, Manco Capac and Mama Occlo."

"Who?"

"They were the son and daughter of the Sun God, Apu Inti. He sent them here to found our people. They were the first Incas."

"Incest, I knew it!" I smiled broadly. "No wonder you're so kinky."

"Get serious, Rick. I'm declaring my eternal love for you, here, in this most holy of temples. May our union be blessed by the spirits of the fourteen Incas."

I looked deep into his eyes; he was deadly serious. A firey resolve glowed from within.

"I ask the great Inti to watch over us and protect us." He took my hand and placed it on his chest, over his heart, and continued, "Only death can separate us now."

Kneeling down on the smooth stone, drawing me down beside him, he took my face between his hands and kissed me deeply, passionately. This was indeed a mystical place!

Our return trip was a blur in my mind, and I swear, I wasn't chewing any coca leaves. After the train got us back to Cusco, we opted for a direct flight back to Lima, foregoing another night in the Hostel. A new found excitement permeated my lover, Alix. He couldn't wait to introduce me to his familiar haunts in the capital city.

Miraflores, the modern suburb of Lima and home to Alix's best friend JuanCarlo, was our first stop.

"But of course you will stay here with me," he insisted, hugging Alix and winking at me.

Like many young Limañeros from wealthy families, JuanCarlo had his own apartment, in a modern highrise overlooking the city behind and the ocean below.

"A drink and a shower first, then we'll talk about staying," Alix replied imperiously, breaking away from the warm embrace.

"I do detect the odor of Inca ruins about you," JuanCarlo joked. "Been visiting your ancestors again?"

"We just got back from Cusco, after confirming our relationship at Machu Picchu. Inti blessed our union."

"Oh, Alix, please! You carry on too much about that old Indian stuff. I think we all need a drink. What'll it be?"

"Did anybody say martini?" I chimed in.

"Coming right up. Alix, show Rick the ocean view while I put your things in the guest room."

Alix led me onto the terrace, fifteen floors above the sea, and perched on a cliffside. The panorama was awesome, even in the cloudy mists of spring down under.

"Don't pay any attention to him," Alix said with a hint of disdain, "not a drop of Incan blood. Spanish and Asian, like the other half of me."

"Here we go, darlings, vodka martinis. Sorry, Rick, I'm out of gin," JuanCarlo said placing the tray on a patio table. "Your dear brother is performing tonight, I presume?" he asked turning to Alix.

"If he sneaks out of the house again."

"Shall we take Rick to the Minotaur and find out?"

"At this hour," I broke in, glancing at my watch.

"Of course, darling, life doesn't begin until after midnight," JuanCarlo exclaimed.

"You sound just like my best friend Bradley," I noted.

"But this one's a wild child when you drag him out to the bars," Alix kidded. "Yeah, let's go!"

The Minotaur was the center of gay life in downtown Lima, offering male strippers, dance floor, several bars, the inevitable black room, and an occasional drag show - but not tonight.

"Darlings, how are you?" JuanCarlo called out to the doormen as he breezed by with us in tow.

"Everybody knows him, I guess they've forgotten me," Alix whispered.

"How long have you been gone?"

"Two years in Miami, and three glorious months with you, sweetheart," he returned, taking my hand in his and raising it to his lips.

We found a table on the upper level overlooking the dance floor and empty stage. JuanCarlo ordered drinks just as Shaad sauntered up.

"No show tonight, little brother?" Alix began.

"Grandfather's on the warpath," Shaad grinned. "Thought I'd better keep my pants on tonight."

"Very good advice," Alix warned.

"And he wants to see you in his office tomorrow!" he added gleefully. "You're in big trouble!"

"Oh Christ," Alix muttered. "Maybe we'd better head on back. I'll need a good nights sleep to prepare for Grandfather."

"I think I'll stay for awhile," JuanCarlo said hopefully, "my prince charming may come by tonight."

"Anyone I know?" Alix teased.

"You wish! On second thought, you got your charming man already. It's my turn."

He passed over his door key and walked us to the door.

"Be at home, guys; I'll see you in the morning."

We took a taxi back to JuanCarlo's apartment in Miraflores.

"Now we formally consumate the marriage," Alix announced, leading me to the guest room.

Frantically we both stripped out of our clothes, tossing them in a heap on the floor. Reaching into the bedside drawer, Alix removed a small brown bottle. It looked very familiar.

"One whiff of this magic elixir and you'll do anything I say," Alix promised, removing the cap and pressing it to my nose.

I knew what to expect and breathed deeply of the amyl nitrate. The familiar weak feeling hit me instantly. I liquified in seconds and pulled myself up onto Alix, plunging my mouth over his great throbbing cock.

"This is just the beginning, baby," Alix crooned. "Turn over, your great Inca prince is going to take your beautiful ass."

Slathering a handful of spit on my eager ass, he slowly pushed into me with his curled fingers.

"You want more, honey?"

He thrust the bottle under my nose again, I inhaled until he pulled it away. All inhibitions melted away as I thrust up to meet his hand. Forcing his hardened steel rod in past his fingers, he drove it home with great force.

"Oh, Alix, baby! I love you so much. Fuck me 'til I die!"

"I just may do that if you ever look at another guy," he panted, slamming his body into mine.

Our passion crested, Alix flooding me with his seed. My own cock filled his hand with my cream as he brought me to a climax with him.

Alix twisted my face around, tearing at my lips with his own.

"You belong to me, Rick," he breathed.

"Yes, dear Alix, I will always belong to you," I sighed, falling quiet in his arms.

CHAPTER THREE

"I've got to face the old man this morning, something I must do alone," Alix explained, kissing me awake. "Stay here with JuanCarlo and I'll be back after lunch."

His sudden departure caught me by surprise. He had showered and dressed while I was still sleeping. I turned over and returned to my dreams. Moments later, a knock on the door interrupted.

"Coffee, Prince Charming?" JuanCarlo asked, poking his head through the door.

"The prince left already," I mumbled. "I'm just the slaveboy."

"No rush, join us on the terrace when you're ready," he grinned, "and you can come as you are."

"Us?"

"My cute prince showed up last night and came home with me."

I struggled to an erect position and headed for the adjoining bath. Funny thing about a hangover, it leaves everything erect. I was horny as hell, but the ice cold shower put things back in perspective.

"There you are, pretty boy," JuanCarlo greeted. "My friend Tomás," he nodded toward his companion.

I settled into a chair opposite the two, once again, with my back close to the terrace wall. We were fifteen stories above groundlevel and I'd swear I could feel the building swaying.

"Rough night?" JuanCarlo asked wickedly. "You look a little pale."

"Must be the altitude," I said weakly.

"This'll bring you down," he grinned, pushing a steaming cup toward me.

I took the cup gingerly, breathing in soothing hot vapor as I sipped.

"Much better. Thanks."

"Prince Alix facing the lion in his den?" JuanCarlo continued.

"Guess so."

"I hope you know what you're in for, marrying into this clan," he warned, glancing at his companion, perhaps thinking he'd said too much.

"I'm in love with Alix," I replied simply.

Wisely changing the subject, JuanCarlo offered to take us out for brunch.

"A cruisy little café close by," he promised. "I really don't feel like cooking."

We trooped after him out to the elevator and down to the front porte cochere.

"Mártir Olaya, por favor," he ordered the taxi driver.

The trendy little restaurant offered outside tables, which we wisely chose for better boy watching. The food was excellent, but we all ate lightly, not wishing to embarrass ourselves by losing it all over the sidewalk.

"It's a 'walk in the park', as the phrase goes," JuanCarlo offered next, "Parque Kennedy, that is. You'll love the scenery, the two-legged kind!"

Tomás just rolled his eyes at me in exasperation.

"Perhaps we shouldn't be gone too long," I interjected. "Alix promised to return after lunch."

"Don't worry, Rick. When his grandfather summons, Alix jumps; he may be a while. Besides, I left our itinerary with the doorman, just in case."

"What's his grandfather have over him anyway?" I posed.

"Simple. Money, power, and the promise of head of the family when the old man retires. He put Alix through school at Harvard. Made him study political science, then on to Miami to brush up on the ways of the exile community."

"I thought his mother sent him to Miami to keep him out of all this," I interjected.

"She'd like nothing better than to see her son become Peru's leader some day. Follow the family tradition."

We walked on in silence while JuanCarlo let me digest these revelations.

"So you see, Grandfather runs Alix's life."

Either JuanCarlo had it all wrong or Alix hadn't been telling me the whole truth.

The afternoon ended with a stroll through the new shopping center perched on a hill and commanding a full view of the ocean. JuanCarlo was either showing off the wonders of Miraflores to me or trying to ditch Tomás. I wasn't sure which, but I soon found out.

"Cocktails await, boys," JuanCarlo enticed as we returned to his apartment. "I had your Bombay delivered while we were out," he winked at me.

I hurried into the guest room, but found no sign that Alix had been there since this morning.

"Rick, show me how to make these things," he called through the door. "I'll be in the kitchen."

I checked our bags in the closet, but all of our clothing was just as we had left it. Something must have delayed my lover.

"The classic Rick recipe coming right up," I said, breezing into the kitchen while trying to keep a cheerful front. "First we pour the vermouth coating the pitcher, then dump it. Pour in the Bombay, thank you for the Sapphire, and fill with ice. Stir and enjoy."

"I knew that," Juan Carlo whispered. "I need your help on another matter."

"Sure, what is it?"

"Get rid of Tomás, I'm tired of him. After we're on the terrace with drinks, I'm going to feign fatigue and retire to my room. You keep him busy, then get him out the door."

"How?"

"Suck his cock if you want to," he grinned slyly, "but get him out. Actually he's quiet sexy, you'll like it!"

"I couldn't, Alix would kill me. He put me on notice already!"

"Don't be a wimp; go for it!"

Three rounds of drinks and an hour later, JuanCarlo retired to his room. An awkward pause ensued while Tomás stared at me and I stared at the mist roiling in from the sea.

"Mind if I use the guest bathroom?" he asked, rising from his chair and running his hand across my shoulders. "Hate to disturb his royal highness," he added scornfully.

Ignoring the gesture, I shrugged, keeping my eyes on the slowly receding view. Finally the chilled air drove me inside, and I headed for the kitchen to refresh the drinks.

"Rick, I'm in here," Tomás called from the open door to the guestroom.

I carried our drinks in with me, nearly dropping them in surprise.

"Thought you'd never get in here," he said enticingly.

He was propped up in the corner of the window seat wearing nothing but his huge hard dick.

"I really don't think..."

"Get over here," he ordered. "It's the least you can do before I leave here."

"Thanks, Rick, I owe you one," JuanCarlo said, rejoining me in the living room, later.

"I gave him cab fare and sent him home."

"He's a hot little number, but after sex - what else is there? He's just not our kind."

"What is 'our kind'?"

"He's a street kid, no class! You know what I mean."

"Do you think you could call Alix's house for me? See if he went straight home," I said worriedly.

"Feeling guilty?" he grinned. "I knew you'd like him."

"Please don't ever mention it to Alix," I begged.

"Of course not, Rick. We're actually two of a kind."

He walked over to the desk and lifted the phone.

"I'll make that call for you."

Alix had phoned home and left a message with his little brother for me.

"Shaad said to tell you Alix was sent on a mission by his grandfather and would see you tomorrow night back at Eagles Nest."

"Tomorrow night?" I shouted increduously. "What the hell's going on here? We've never been apart without discussing it first."

"I told you! Grandfather commands, Alix jumps. Better get used to it."

I got up and paced the floor, stunned by Alix's mysterious behavior.

"I'm sure we can find something or somebody to amuse ourselves with until tomorrow," JuanCarlo offered with a grin.

CHAPTER FOUR

"A little souvenir of our evening," he said, tossing the photo on the desk.

Turning it over, I let out a gasp, "That can't be me!"

"I'm going back to bed. The doorman'll call you a taxi. My best to Alix when he shows up."

JuanCarlo retreated to his room, closing the door firmly behind him.

I gathered our bags, mine and Alix's, and let myself out of the apartment. Settling in for the long cab ride to Eagles Nest, my mind drifted back to the events of last evening.

JuanCarlo had an agenda. Having gotten rid of Tomás, I'd left myself wide open for a diabolical plan.

"Shall we do the town again tonight, or each other?" JuanCarlo had offered suggestively.

"If you don't mind, I've an awful headache building up," I'd alibied. "You go ahead and I'll lie down for awhile."

Actually I had wanted to be on hand in case Alix tried to contact me, and JuanCarlo was getting a bit too insistant about getting it on with me.

"I've just the thing for that nasty old headache," he'd offered.

The little white pill went down quite easily after all the drinks we'd consumed earlier. I hadn't even questioned what it was for. I soon got quite mellow and sexually aroused. JuanCarlo kept taunting me about the size of his manhood and I became more determined to get at it, tearing at his clothes, stripping him right there in the living room. I couldn't get enough of him and his hot rigid shaft, taking it all down to the mass of curly hair at the base. Finally dragging him down to the floor, I forced my way deep between his smooth tanned cheeks, seeking the warm moist prize in the center. Pumping furiously, I came quickly, filling him with my load.

"My turn, Rick," he'd said, convincing me to switch positions.

We fucked again on the floor, my face pressed into the carpet as he pounded into me. Gasping for breath, he'd let out a slight scream as he'd spurted his own seed.

Next morning found me sprawled on the white leather sofa, carelessly covered with a quilt.

I glanced down once again at the photo in my hand, before slowly tearing it to shreds. Opening the back window of the cab, I let the pieces flutter out into the fresh morning air, wondering how many other photos he had taken. I was just another trophy for a jaded rich kid.

"Señor, Eagles Nest," the driver announced, breaking into my thoughts.

We pulled up to the enormous iron gate at the base of the drive. I stuck my head out of the back window, looking directly into the camera focused on us. The heavy barricade slid slowly and soundlessly to the side, allowing the car to procede up the steep roadway toward the house.

The front door opened at our approach. A uniformed figure in black pants and white jacket opened the taxi door for me. It was Sylvain.

"Welcome back, Señor. May I take your bags?"

"Yes, thank you," I said with relief, not sure I was welcome without Alix at my side.

I followed him into the cool stone floored entry. Morning sunlight stabbed through cleverly placed window niches highlighting the colorful Indian art work displayed on the rough hewn rock walls opposite. Strange I hadn't noticed them before.

"Breakfast is over; however, Conchita could find something for you in the kitchen," he offered.

"No thanks, my stomach's not fully recovered from...." I stopped not knowing how much to reveal, and switched course. "...ah, the rough taxi ride."

"Of course, Señor," he grinned. "Señora has gone to her room. Shaad is at the pool if you wish to join him."

"What, no school today?"

"Not on weekends, Señor."

"But of course. I've lost track of the days as well as a few other things. Any word from Alix?"

Sylvain shook his head, and pressed a button on the wall. A dark wood panel slid silently back revealing the small passenger elevator. I let out a low whistle.

"This place has everything!"

Motioning me ahead, he followed with the bags. The forth level was reached swiftly. Sylvain placed my things in the room and bowed slightly as he left, carrying Alix's bags to another room. He didn't seen very talkative this morning.

I strode out on the terrace, the chilly morning breeze convincing me that I definitely was not going swimming this early. However a chat with Shaad might reveal something about Alix's strange disappearance. I retraced my steps to the outer hallway and bounded down the stairs to the pool level. Shaad was swimming laps, the steam rising around him. Of course the water was heated, I should have known.

"Good morning," I called out cheerfully, not wishing to startle him.

"Hey, Rick, jump in," he invited, pulling himself up on the edge of the tiled coping, and grinning seductively.

I smiled back but shook my head.

"Maybe later, when the sun's straight up. I'm from the warm climate, remember?"

"You look kinda hot to me," he giggled boyishly.

Ignoring the innuendo, I went right for the question.

"Just where is Alix?"

He shrugged, climbing out and walking over to the stone fountain at the end of the pool deck. Perching on the edge, he slipped off his wet speedo and briskly toweled dry.

"He didn't give you any idea where or why?" I persisted.

"Grandfather probably gave him a big lecture about not living here and sent him on some stupid chore. He does that just to get even."

I fell silent.

"You wanna go up to my room?" he asked hopefully.

"No, not a good idea," I replied firmly.

"How 'bout your room then, like we did before?"

"Shaad!" I nearly screamed, then glancing around and lowering my voice, continued, "That was an accident. You snuck into my room while I was asleep. I thought you were Alix."

"You sure liked it," he grinned, licking his lips. "So did I!"

"Yeah, but I'm your brothers significent other. We don't cheat on each other. Besides, you're only sixteen!"

"Old enough to make you scream out in ecstasy."

"That's for sure," I admitted with a little smile, starting to get hard again just thinking about that morning.

"You get horny enough, I'll be in my room," he said slyly, staring down at the growing bulge in my chinos.

He disappeared through the terrace door leaving me as perplexed as ever. I glanced upward, catching sight of Sylvain on an upper terrace looking down at me. He must have caught the whole scene. I retreated to my room to read quietly, and stay out of trouble. Thankfully I had brought a paperback for the plane trip, but had never started it. 'The Lord Won't Mind', an early classic gay novel by Gordon Merrick, kept me engrossed until late afternoon.

A discreet tap at the door brought my nose out of the book.

"Alix?" I called out.

The door opened slowly and Sylvain peered around the edge.

"I brought food for you, Señor. No breakfast, no lunch - not good."

I glimpsed a wheeled cart in the hallway as he carried a covered tray into the room setting it up on the little writing desk.

"Just like a hotel! Thanks, Sylvain."

"Señora and Shaad are eating in their rooms also."

Hmm, strange household, I thought, but said nothing as Sylvain quietly closed the door.

I walked out onto the terrace for a breath of fresh air. The sun had already set on the other side of the house washing the mountainside with jewel-toned hues of topaz, amethyst and gold. As I stood at the railing, a vision of Alix's face appeared before me, looking serene and smiling gently. The colors faded from the rocky facade just as Alix face disappeared in a light swirl of mist. Twilight had descended.

Finishing the light repast, I placed the tray on the floor outside my door and returned to my book. Fatigue finally overcame and I dozed off, the book pressed open against my chest. I slumbered peacefully dreaming of Alix, his voice calling to me from a distance. Once again I felt his warm lips brush against mine, his cool hands taking mine in his as he snuggled in close, molding his body against me.

"Baby, I'm home," he whispered.

I struggled to consciousness. It was him, lying in bed beside me, so I wasn't dreaming.

"Alix! Thank God you're back."

I wrapped my arms around him, kissing his lips, his face, his hands.

"It's been awful without you. I've worried all day. Are you okay?"

"Yes, finally! I ran into Laurenzo outside Grandfather's office yesterday."

"Laurenzo! The government agent guy?"

"More like hired mercenary! One of Grandfather's goons."

"How do you know?"

"He told me. He also killed Malike, and he killed your other guest, Mr. Chalmers."

"But why?"

"Grandfather likes things neat and tidy, no incriminating evidence, no witnesses."

"Oh my God!" I exclaimed, stunned. "Where is he now?"

"Probably floating down the Urubamba River! He had a little accident, fell off a cliff at Machu Picchu," he finished grimly.

Sudden horror filled my chest, sending my heart racing wildly.

"You did it?" I asked. "You killed Laurenzo?"

He nodded simply, as he murmured quietly, "It is the Inca way."

CHAPTER FIVE

I had to get out of this house, out of Peru! - my first waking thoughts as the sun streamed through the slats of my window panels. Sometime during the night, Alix had slipped back to his own room, not daring to risk the moral outrage of his mother again.

Breakfast was a somber affair, Alix preoccupied with his own thoughts, his mother presiding over the round glass table in silence, Shaad not yet making his appearance. The fresh melon compote and cornmeal crepes looked enticing, but I had no appetite. I toyed with my food waiting for Alix and me to be alone.

"Conchita, coffee in my room please," she announced, finally rising from the table, nodding to Alix and me.

"We've got to talk," I began in hushed voice.

"Not here," he warned, glancing toward the open door to the kitchen. "Let's take a swim. Meet you at the pool."

The morning chill permeated the stone walled house, reducing me to a quivering mass as I made my way back down to the pool level. The bright morning sun was deceiving as the cool mountain air blew over the open pool deck. Steam rising from the water looked encouraging so I plunged into the deep end, my heart in my mouth.

"Watch out, here I come," Alix yelled out boyishly as he cannonballed into the water beside me.

Sputtering to the surface, he encircled my shoulders with both arms and pulled me to him.

"Kiss me quick," he teased, "I'm going skin diving."

His tongue met mine as he covered my lips with his. Slowly working his mouth down my chest, his head disappeared into the water. I felt my speedo slipping down my legs as his hands pushed them away. The effect was instantaneous as I hardened in his fingers, his mouth drawing me deep into him. Finally bobbing back to the surface, he flashed an enticing grin.

"Let's make love, baby, right here in the pool."

Pushing me to the pools edge he backed up against me, guiding my steely cock between his cheeks.

"Can't do this in the water," I protested. "It won't work."

"Trust me and the power of vaseline!"

His tight ass worked around until I felt myself slipping easily into him. I reached down to his own growing member, stroking him with the rhythm of our lovemaking.

"Oh, baby," he gasped, writhing in my embrace, "I'm gonna shoot."

Yeah," I groaned, "me too."

I watched his milky cloud form in the water around us as I drove in hard with a final lunge. His seed spread through the warm water as mine filled his hot ass. My head dropped back on the pool coping in exhaustion as my eyes glanced upward to the terrace on the next level. Sylvain's figure disappeared through the terrace door.

"Oh shit!"

"That good, huh?" Alix said with a grin.

"Yeah, baby, that good!"

I covered for Sylvain. I don't know why.

Stretched out in the sun in a wind sheltered corner, I brought up the subject burning into my mind.

"You killed Laurenzo because your grandfather ordered you to?"

"No, baby, you've got it all wrong," he assured me, reaching over and taking my hand. "He had to be sacrificed because he fucked you, he 'raped' you."

The color drained from my face.

"I won't allow anyone to hurt you or come between us - ever!"

His voice rose in emphasis on the last word, sending a further chill down my spine.

"You can't go around decimating people because they displease you," I managed to squeak out.

"Malike's gone, Laurenzo, and now Mauricio is next. Do I have anything to worry about with Shaad?" he questioned sternly, staring into my eyes.

I flinched, feeling him searching down to the depths of my soul.

"You know that was an accident," I blurted out. "I thought it was you."

He looked away as if considering his next course of action.

"You've changed since we got here, hardened," I continued. "Let's go home, please," I begged.

"Very soon, my love," he promised, "very soon."

We lay in silence, next to each other on chaise lounges. Nearly falling asleep in the warmth of the sun, I heard the faint stirring next to me. He was pushing his bathing suit down his thighs as he lay there.

"Do one last thing for me," he asked, placing my hand on his hardening cock.

I glanced up to see if we were being observed again.

"Forget that," he said standing up, straddling his legs over me, placing his glistening member in my mouth. "This is the last time they'll have anything to report," he continued mysteriously.

I would do anything for Alix, of course I greedily sucked him off.

If I had been able to look up just then, I would have caught another glimpse of Sylvain, standing back from the terrace edge, beating off in time with our lovemaking.

We had lunch by the pool, Sylvain serving us at the wrought iron table under the sheltering umbrella. By now I was calm enough to again broach the subject of the mishap.

"How'd this happen, you and Laurenzo?"

"He was lurking about in the hallway when I came out of Grandfather's office. I knew his weakness - easy money. So I told him about an undisturbed burial chamber in Machu Picchu, reportedly filled with gold and artifacts."

"I thought you told me they were all stripped of their treasures."

"He didn't know that," Alix replied with an evil grin. "He practically insisted on cutting me in if I'd lead him to the spot. The greedy bastard!"

"So you threw him over a cliff?"

"Actually he slipped on the rocky terrain. I didn't lay a hand on him, I swear."

I looked deep into his eyes, and I believed what I heard.

"The spirits protect their own," he said simply. "You've heard what happened to the tomb raiders in Egypt - they all died under strange circumstances."

I felt better, whether I believed his story or not, and Alix returned to his cheerful self, allowing us to spend a pleasant afternoon together.

A telephone call the next morning undid all the good feelings of Saturday.

"I've been summoned to the office again," Alix said resignedly.

"On Sunday! Now what?" I exclaimed.

"Grandfather thinks he's grooming me for a political career. Some high level meeting he wants me to sit in on and observe," he finished lamely.

I looked downcast and despondent.

"Don't worry, baby," he said with assurance, "I'll be back by nightfall."

"Heard that before," I said bitterly.

"You could ride into town with me and spend the day with JuanCarlo," he offered, brightening with a smile.

"And do what?"

"Sundays he takes his boat out. It's not big and fancy like Phillippe's yacht, but you might enjoy sailing up the coast."

And so I was left in JuanCarlo's care while my lover went off to do his grandfather's bidding.

The Archibishop himself was intoning the funeral mass. We were gathered in the gloom of the Cathedral of Lima. A long white pall nearly touched the floor, the cross of gold brocade dissecting the casket into four parts, just like my heart. My lover Alix lay within.

Shaad and his mother were sitting in the first pew. JuanCarlo and I were behind them. Conchita, Sylvain, and a few others were on the left, further back - class distinction!. The service was private, as decreed by Alix's grandfather. A long black Mercedes Pullman limousine had brought us from Eagle's Nest to the cathedral in town. The presidential pennants flying from the front fenders drew stares as we passed through the city, hiding behind the deeply tinted windows. Alix's grandfather did not attend, but remained in Government Palace, sending his car to transport us.

Spanish not being my second language, I reflected back to Sunday as the funeral ceremony continued. A surprisingly pleasant day with JuanCarlo aboard his sailing sloop had ended at sunset when we cruised back through the sparkling waters of the Pacific to the marina. No sexual innuendos were detected in spite of the two handsome and attentive crew members. Everyone was on their best behavior. We taxied back to JuanCarlo's building as dusk descended.

Telephone chimes sounded as we neared the apartment door.

"Must be Alix, checking up on us," JuanCarlo observed, opening his entrance door. "Be a luv and fix your special martinis while I get this."

"You're beginning to sound more British than me," I chuckled, heading for the kitchen.

I brought the frosted pitcher and two glasses to the living room terrace. JuanCarlo soon joined me, his long face portending bad news.

"Better pour us doubles, we're going to need it," he said with quivering voice.

I sprang up from my chair, taking him by the shoulders.

"What is it, what's happened?"

"It's Alix. He's been shot."

"Where is he?" I cried out, shaking him. "I must go to him at once."

"He's dead!"

CHAPTER SIX

The short funeral cortege wended its way through the downtown streets, soon approaching Cementerio Catolica on the edge the city. JuanCarlo and I rode with Shaad and his mother in the presidential limousine, while Sylvain, Conchita, and the family's driver were in the black Mercedes belonging to Alix's family. An official police vehicle lead the procession and another brought up the rear. The shared silence in the car was not one of mutual comfort, but of shocked disbelief. There was no reason for Alix to die so suddenly, so violently. There were no answers.

We passed through the tall iron gates guarding the revered resting place of Lima's elite, finally stopping at the marble fronted mausoleum of Peru's first family. Alix would soon be joining his father and maternal grandmother in eternal rest.

The committal service was mercifully short. Alix's solid copper casket slid noiselessly into an opened crypt, then was covered from view by the square slab of marble, soon to be etched with his name, birth date, and the date of his murder. We retreated toward the cars as the bronze doors of the mausoleum clanged shut behind us.

"Into the cars, quickly," Sylvain shouted, just as a gunshot rang out.

Chips of stone went flying through the air as a bullet deflected into the stone building, missing us my several feet.

The family driver sprang forward and shoved Shaad and his mother into the back seat of the limo. Pulling a gun from his concealed holster he motioned the car to take off.

"Come quickly," Sylvain insisted, dragging me and JuanCarlo into the family Mercedes.

"Are they going to be safe?" I shouted at him.

"Both cars are bullet proof and bomb proof."

"Figures," I muttered, "armed guards and armored cars!"

JuanCarlo, appearing quite shaken and Conchita, sobbing wildly, joined me in the back seat as Sylvain slipped into the front with the driver. Our car sped off after the limo, gravel and dust spewing out behind us.

"What's going on here?" I demanded.

Sylvain glanced back at me, shaking his head.

"Shining Path!" JuanCarlo spoke up for the first time.

"What?"

"Dissidents, at odds with the government," he explained in quavering voice.

"With this much violence?" I asked increduously.

"More likely it was just a warning," he continued. "If they wanted us dead, we would be."

"Like Alix," I said grimly.

Dead silence ensued as our car passed through the cemetery gates and out of town.

By the time we reached Eagle's Nest, the front wall and driveway entrance were manned by uniformed military, rifles at the ready. The empty limo was under the porte cochere.

"What about me?" JuanCarlo asked.

"You'll be safer here, Señor," Sylvain offered consolingly.

"Of course," I insisted, "and I don't want to be alone. Please stay."

JuanCarlo was shown to a guest room by the driver, while Sylvain accompanied me to my room.

"We must speak later, Señor," he said quietly. "I will return after dinner."

The post-funeral gathering of family and household staff, plus JuanCarlo, was marked by the traditional buffet set up in the formal dining room. Conchita had yielded the honors to a catering staff who had prepared the entrees, set the buffet table and discreetly departed before our arrival home. JuanCarlo and I, being the outsiders on this occasion, withdrew to a corner of the living room with our plates.

"They've got enough food in there for an army," I commented, munching mechanically, having little appetite.

"Actually we've got an army outside," JuanCarlo noted, "but I can't stay locked in here forever. I need to get home."

"Please stay tonight at least," I begged, taking his arm. "Help me make sense of all this violence."

We spoke at length reaching no conclusions, finding no answers.

"I must be leaving, too. I don't want to be here without Alix."

I found Sylvain waiting for me in my room.

"What can you tell me about Alix's death?" I began

"It was not Shining Path."

"How can you be sure?"

"I know."

"Then who?"

"El Presidente has found traitors in his employ. Two men that he trusted, soldiers of fortune you call them, may have been responsible."

"If they are known why aren't they arrested?"

"One, known as Laurenzo, has disappeared. The other, Mauricio, is being watched. He will be made to disappear when the time is right."

I gasped at the mention of Laurenzo. Mauricio must have known Alix was responsible for his partners death and retaliated. Now he was after me.

"What do you know of this matter, Señor?" Sylvain asked, eyeing me suspiciously.

"Nothing, nada!" I said quickly. "I wish I could speak to Alix, he would tell me what to do," I muttered quietly.

"Perhaps he will speak to you in your dreams."

"I don't think I'll be able to sleep tonight."

"You need rest, I will bring you warm chocolát," he said slipping silently from the room.

I took a warm shower and prepared for bed, taking my unfinished novel with me. A light tap announced Sylvain's return with my cocoa.

"You wish me to stay with you?"

"I'll be okay, thanks. You're a treasure, Sylvain."

With a shy smile he once again left the room. I propped up in bed with extra pillows and sipped the rich hot drink while continuing my reading. The book soon slipped from my fingers as the powerful urge to sleep overcame me.

I drempt of Inca ruins, temples of gold, majestic mountains. Alix and I climbed steep stone steps leading to the top of an ancient ruin, a plateau at the summit. Hand in hand we gazed out over the panorama, a sense of peace and completeness drawing us together. Alix turned to me, the sunlight falling on his serene face.

"I must go now," he announced, "my people are calling me home."

Tears streamed down my face as I listened to his words.

"But what of me? Can't I go with you?" I begged.

"It is not your time, Marco awaits you, Marco still needs you."

"But Marco is dead," I protested.

"You will find him. Sylvain will show you the way."

"Sylvain? What does he know of these things?"

"Trust me. Sylvain will be by your side and show you the path, the shining path."

He turned from me, facing the sun. His body took on a golden glow.

"Wait!" I called to him.

"My time is up. Remember my deep love for you."

His form turned to purest gold, then shatterd into a thousand fragments, drifting upward into the beam of sunlight. I lay on the rocky slab staring intently as the sun began to arc swiftly across the sky, descending behind the mountain range. With the encroaching darkness a cool breeze blew across the top of the temple pyramid. I shivered with the clammy coldness. Warm arms embraced me.

"Alix!"

"No, it is me, Marco."

I looked up at the face of my beloved Marco. His warm body covered me, his moist lips sought mine, smothering me with passionate kisses. We made love, slowly and completely. Dropping to the center of my arousal, he drew me deep into his mouth. I thrust up as his fingers made love to my ass. Gently turning me over he placed his throbbing member where his fingers had been. Reaching behind me I clasped him tightly. Our slow lovemaking increased to a frenzy as he thrust harder and deeper. The rough motion was stimulating me to my own orgasm.

"Oh Marco, baby, I'm coming," I groaned.

"Yes, come with me," he gasped.

I felt the fullness of his cream flowing into me just as I spurted forth onto the ground beneath. We lay in silence, spent from our passion. Finally he eased out of me turning me once again to face him. The face of my lover Marco slowly dissolved before my eyes. Sylvain was bending over me.

"I must go now. We will speak in the morning."

I slowly drifted into a quiet, dreamless sleep.

Cold air blew in from the terrace door, slightly ajar. I didn't remember leaving it open, but lept out of bed quickly to close it. Sylvain was on the terrace watching the morning sun creep over the edge of the mountain.

"Good morning," I called out. "Please come in so I can close the door."

I snapped the door tight and retreated back to the warm covers of my bed.

"What brings you here so early? Has there been any further trouble?"

"El Presidente has ordered your safe departure from this country."

"Ordered? I think not!" I shot back with rising emotion.

"He wishes no trouble with your country. If something should happen to you..."

"I've never even met him. How could he be responsible?" I broke in.

"Staying in the house of his daughter and grandson..." he trailed off leaving the rest unfinished.

"He'd lose credibility with the United States, maybe jeopardize his loans," I finished for him, the disgust evident in my voice.

"Something like that."

He smiled slightly, then continued.

"His car will take us to the airport where his private plane is waiting. They will fly us anywhere in the United States."

"We? You're going with me?" I asked with puzzled frown.

"To further insure your safety he ordered an armed guard to accompany you to your destination."

"Where do you fit in to this little scenario?"

"I volunteered."

"You're my armed guard?"

"If you will permit me. I spent several years in the Peruvian army. I am an excellent marksman."

"Well 'Sergeant' Sylvain, I will be honored to have you," I grinned in a gesture of acceptance. "Although I think you may already have 'had' me."

His face remained impassive, not acknowledging my little play on words.

"We must leave at once, before the others arise," he warned. "I will return in a few minutes to receive your luggage."

"You don't give a guy much time to get ready," I protested, dropping my robe on the bed, revealing my nakedness.

I could feel his eyes on me, checking me out as I headed into the shower. I was teasing him, testing his resolve. He closed the door quietly as he left me alone in my room.

CHAPTER SEVEN

The Lear jet bearing the official seal of the president of Peru was headed for Miami. Sylvain and I were the only passengers in the luxuriously appointed passenger salon. A light lunch had just been wheeled in by the husky cabin steward.

"Is everbody armed?" I whispered, having noticed a concealed holstered gun as we were being served by the steward.

"A matter of necessity during these times," Sylvain replied just as quietly.

"I'll be glad to get back home where I won't have to worry about getting shot at."

"I've heard of many guns in Miami, Señor."

"I mean Montego Bay, Jamaica. I live in the countryside where nothing ever happens," I said with a sardonic grin.

A look of confusion flooded his face.

"You don't live in Miami, Señor?"

"Not anymore."

We continued eating in silence while my eyes wandered around the cabin.

"Is there a telephone aboard?"

"Of course, Señor. We even have American movies to watch."

"I'd like to call a friend in Miami to meet me at the airport. Would that be permitted?"

"Yes, Señor. May I speak first of a very serious matter?"

"What is it, Sylvain?" I said, noting his worried expression.

"El Presidente has ordered that I remain with you until the murderer of Señor Alix is...disposed? Is that the proper word?"

"I get your point," I replied grimly, "but you are not obligated to guard me. I'll be fine. Really!"

"But I would like to be with you, Señor."

"Oh, I see."

The situation was becoming complicated.

"Before I agree, I must know something. Last night, Alix spoke to me."

Sylvain remained silent, carefully watching my face as I continued.

"You told me I could communicate with him. How did you know?"

"The chocolát, Señor."

"You put something in my drink! What was it, an hallucinogen?" I demanded.

"You wished to speak to your loved one, and I made it possible."

"How did you do it?"

"It is the secret of the Inca. I can say no more, Señor."

" Were you in my room last night?"

"I was with you in your dream to make sure no harm would come."

"I think something did come," I said with a grin, "you and me!"

His startled expression turned to embarassment as he reddened.

"Since we've become so 'close', you'd better call me Rick and forget that Señor stuff!"

"Yes, Reeck," he mispronounced with a shy smile, "whatever you wish."

"Darling, I'm so sorry about Alix," Bradley sobbed, grabbing me in a bear hug at the landing field.

Choked with sudden emotion, I couldn't reply. We held on to each other for several long moments.

"Twice widowed and not even forty!" I managed to say.

"More like 'somewhere between forty and death'!" he roared with laughter.

"Thanks, Bradley, I needed that," I chuckled. "Things have been a little tense lately."

"Let's get you home, I do believe it's almost martini time," he said cheerfully. "Have the steward bring your bags," he said pointing to Sylvain.

"Uh, Bradley, he's going with us," I began awkwardly, "that's my bodyguard."

"Well, my dear, you certainly have gone up in the world. Married a prince, inherited a fortune, and now a bodyguard!"

"What fortune! I owe everyone in Jamaica, I need to get back to work."

"I think there's a little something I forgot to tell you on the telephone."

"One room or two?" Bradley said slyly, ushering us into his Miami Beach apartment.

"Well...two, if it wouldn't be any trouble."

"No trouble, my dear, just checking!"

I volunteered to get the martinis started while Bradley showed Sylvain into a guest room.

"Doesn't say much, does he?" Bradley remarked, joining me in the kitchen.

"He's a little shy, but the situation is a bit awkward. I'd better go speak to him and iron out a few things."

"Meet you two in the living room, my dear," he sang out.

Sylvain was standing on the guest room balcony, gazing out at the sparkling blue Atlantic.

"Beautiful, isn't it?" I said quietly, coming up behind him.

"Yes," he replied nervously, not turning.

I placed my hands around his waist, feeling him tremble at my touch.

"As I see it, we have several choices here," I began, hesitatingly. "You can either be a hired security guard, or...or you can be my friend."

"What is it that you wish, Rick?"

"You don't wait or serve. We do things together as Alix and I did. We are equals."

He placed his hands on my shoulders, his dark eyes looking intensly into mine.

"Then it is so," he replied in agreement.

I leaned up and kissed him lightly.

"I enjoyed last night," I said with grin, breaking the ice.

He nodded shyly.

"Come out and join us for a drink when you're ready."

Bradley filled us in on Alix. It seems he had surreptitiously placed signature cards with some of the supply bills I had signed at Sugar Hill. My name was officially recorded as co-owner of his Miami bank account. A will had been left with a prominent law firm in Miami to reinforce his arrangement with the bank. I was also instructed to use one-half of the funds for my personal benefit and endow a trust with the other half. The trust was to provide food, shelter, and medical supplies for AIDS sufferers in South Africa. It was to be known as the Malike Memorial Fund. My beloved Alix was just as touched as I over the plight of our guest, poor young Malike. Being compassionate and a man of action, he did something about it.

"We should leave for Jamaica tomorrow, Bradley, and I thank you deeply for all you've done for me."

"Well, my dear, get that guest resort up and running again, now that you're a millionaire!"

"It'll be running smoothly in no time."

I turned to Sylvain, sitting at my side.

"We have another mystery to solve, don't we?"

"What is it, my dear?" Bradley broke in. "I just love a good mystery!"

"Another secret of the Incas," I said enigmatically.

SECRET OF THE INCAS