About this story
Months after an old stranger laughed while a drowning man went under near Cleopatra's Needle, you meet that same laugh again at a society evening, attached to a mesmerist named Pharos and his companion, the violinist Valerie de Vocxqal. That night Pharos talks his way into your studio to examine your father's mummy, fixes you with a stare that empties the room, and leaves you waking before dawn to a murdered dealer and an empty alcove.
How it opens
Your finished Academy painting showed Pharaoh learning the cost of refusing freedom to his captives.
George MerridewCyril, the public calls this your best work, so modesty may rest for one afternoon.
Months earlier, a wet-night cry had drawn you toward the steps beside Cleopatra's Needle.
Old ManThe man sought the river deliberately; why insult his decision with rescue?
Whatever he desired before falling, a drowning cry is a request made now.
Choose
Ask his name and require him to wait for the police.
Follow him rather than leave the only witness unchallenged.
Stay and report exactly what he said.