Ryan hesitated.
“Look, you came here to explore the city, didn’t you?” Bael continued. “Well, I’m all set to give you a guided tour. What are you waiting for—an engraved invitation? Okay, have one.”
He pulled a small card from his pocket and flicked it at Ryan’s feet. Ryan bent down and picked it up. Engraved on it, in gold lettering, were the words: MR. RICHARD BAEL GRACIOUSLY REQUESTS THE PRESENCE OF MR. JEFFREY RYAN FOR A PERSONALLY CONDUCTED TOUR OF THE CITY.
“That good enough for you?” Bael asked conversationally.
Ryan carefully stowed the card in his samples pouch for further analysis later. “All right, Bael, have it your way.” The communicator went back in his pocket. “Lead on.”
With a flourish, Bael moved out the doorway, with Ryan two steps behind. After Ryan had passed throu
