thought of doing so would never even have crossed his mind. Wine, women, and song, it had been—and very lightly on the “song.” Since he’d met that one particular woman, however . . .
He doesn’t even drink that much anymore. Will wonders never cease?
But he had no time to pursue the thought further. The grim and imposing edifice of Casa Dandelo loomed ahead of them. Even at a distance, it was obvious the Dandelos had forted up. There was not a person to be seen anywhere in the immediate vicinity.
Except one.
“What in the name of God is that boy doing?” demanded Von Gherens. “Crazy kid!”
Erik stared at the small figure perched on one of the timbers holding up the roof of Casa Dandelo. “Perched” like a bat, not a bird. The kid was hanging upside down.
“I guess he wanted the best possible view,” said Manfred. He loosened his great sword in its scabbard. “So let’s not disappoint him.”
Chapter 61
Benito’s eyes were riveted on the bombard nestled in the hold of the barge, on