Heretics book 3 - The Apocryphile Press

174 :: JOHN R. MABRY
use some work.” He glanced up at Larch. “No offense
intended, I assure you.”
Dane rose and sauntered over to the bookshelf, feigning
interest in the titles. “What I am suggesting, Mr. Larch, is
becoming your patron. Magicians often had patrons in ages
past, no? They did work of interest to the patron, but the
support also allowed them to pursue their own research as
well, isn’t that right?”
Larch hated himself for it, but he was interested. Very
interested. Many of his brothers were, indeed, very concerned
about the state of the Lodge house, and certainly they
would advance their work much more quickly if they could
dispense with their day jobs. Larch rose and joined Dane by
the bookcase. “Just what sort of patronage are we discussing?
I mean, in dollar amounts?”
“I suggest 100,000 dollars for three months, with an
option to renew for the same amount at the end of that
time.”
Larch nodded. “And what sort of...work would you like
us to pursue?”
Dane smiled a satisfied smile. “Well, fruit is all well and
good, but I’d like to make something a little larger disappear.”
He held up a cautious hand. “But I want to make sure
we get it right. I suggest another experiment.”
Larch nodded. “Yes, just what we were planning. Perhaps
our goals are compatible after all. Suppose we try something...a
little larger.”
:: 35 ::
Susan surfaced from the soft sea of sleep to the bouncing
of the mattress. Dylan was snoring beside her, and she rolled