Pearl wings reflected the setting sun, above a sapphire sea, among the wisps of clouds.

The cabin phone rang steadily.

“At altitudes such as this, Arabic coffee provides its finest bitterness.” Akmal slurped his fenjan. “Wouldn’t you agree, Professor?”

Doctor Ziegler pushed her cup away. “I prefer dark chocolate from a lovely pâtisserie. On a terrace overlooking Jungfrau.”

Akmal smiled. “I suppose you do. Ha, a Swiss Miss misses her hot chocolate.”

“Indeed.” Ziegler reclined slowly. “Why am I here?”

“Because I want to show you this.” He pushed a small aluminum case toward her. “But do not open it! Not here.”

“What is it?”

“You are the Geologist, Miss Penelope. I was thinking you might tell me.”

“Baetyli? I have a friend at University College in London. He could be of some assistance.” She looked to his side. “Will you never answer that blasted phone?”

He lifted the receiver. “Yes?”

Under an array of unintelligible squeaks, she put the case in her bag.

“Well done. – Amesbury. Do not be late.”