The Details of the Deal

"Because the great red gem on the front has great magical properties. Reaibn knows that it can be used to subdue the will of the wearer, but it can also do some other things that I hope that he is unaware of. I admit that it's second best. Ideally I would have liked the Eye of Hayzus, but Reaibn keeps it on his person at all times."

"Subdue the will of the wearer? So that's why Fred was acting so strangely."

"Yes. That's why Reaibn ensured that it was that crown that was used. And unfortunately even when the crown is not being worn the effect is slow to wear off. So after you steal it you can't expect any co-operation from Fred for the next twenty-four hours or so."

"How am I going to do that? Chearly he mustn't see me, or he will recognise me."

"Nobody must recognise you, as otherwise having you seemingly chained up here would be pointless. To that end, I will transform you into a duplicate of Exotica, filthy rags, unkempt hair and all. I will ensure that she is kept out of sight until this is over. to make sure that there's no risk of her getting in the way. I will reverse your transformation once you have brought me the crown, so that will be a further incentive for you to succeed. As with all my spells, it will fool everyone but Reaibn, and will even fool him if he isn't paying attention."

"So how am I going to steal the crown, assuming that I agree?"

"That is up to you. I assume that Fred does not sleep wearing the thing, so I suggest entering his bedroom late tonight and taking it from wherever he has left it. I can provide you with a copy of his room key."

"So why can't you steal the crown yourself?"

"I'll be honest with you. The risk is too great. By the way, part of the deal is that you must promise me, on your honour as a princess of Aqualaria, not to implicate me if you should be caught."

1. "Very well, I'll do it."
2. "It seems too dangerous. Goodness knows what Reaibn would do to me if I was caught. I think I'm going to see if we can come to some sort of compromise. Maybe I'll agree to marry Fred and promise to consummate the marriage if we can do so in total privacy.
3. "I'm still not sure. For one thing I'd be leaving Fred still trapped in this madhouse."

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