The Crystal Empire (64 page)

“If you’re interested,” he advised, unable to resist a smile in the midst of catastrophe, “I believe I can reach the Mughal fleet ere this thing sinks not that gently, to rise no more.”

He received no answer from his father.

He held up a fist. From it, upon a glittering chain, there hung a golden medallion.

“Mochamet al Rotshild,” he shouted, “gave me this, ere he rushed to aid you, as token of safe passage among the Mughal. Having destroyed an e
n
tire civilization, we’re assured of a most cordial welcome there—if we can make it!”

Ursi barked with joy.

Neither Fireclaw nor Ayesha heard him.