Austin knew they were already pressing their luck. They moved toward the lights and music, taking advantage of every shadow or pocket of darkness. They saw only one guard and ducked behind a bollard until he passed. Moments later, they were strolling along the deck.

Petrov, who looked debonair in his tuxedo, lit up an American cigarette. “What are your plans now?”

“You didn't see Razov's pet monk, did you?”

“I suspect that Razov prefers to have Boris stay out of sight on public occasions. He mayor may not be on the ship. We're not likely to see him.”

“In that case, maybe I'll spend a few minutes talking to our host.”

“Razov? Do you think it's wise to play your hand here on his territory?”

“Maybe I can get him rattled enough to make a mistake.”

“I've heard it's not safe to play with rattlesnakes, but do what you wish. I think I'll wander around and enjoy the food and drink as long as I'm here.”

“You came alone?”

Petrov plucked a shot of vodka from the tray of a passing waiter. He slugged it down and smiled. “I won't be far away if you need me.”

The party was going full-blast. Guests wandered about the deck with food and drinks. The Cossack band had switched from Russian folk tunes and was belting out a rock number. Petrov mingled with the crowd and disappeared like a leaf being swept away in a stream. Austin saw a knot of people, with Razov holding court at its center. He moved closer, wondering how he was going to get past the body- guards flanking Razov. The pair of long-legged canines took the matter out of his hands. Razov's dogs jerked away from him and galloped toward Austin in a dead heat. As before, they jumped up, put their paws on his chest and licked his face. He managed to dislodge them with strategically placed hip blocks.

He grabbed the leashes and held them short to keep the rambunctious hounds under control. A moment later, the dogs' trainer came running up, this time with panic in his eyes. Austin was about to pass the leashes over when he saw Razov and his two bodyguards coming up behind the trainer.

“I see you've met Sasha and Gorky,” Razov said, with a genial smile. He took the leashes from Austin and said some1hing in Russian. The dogs obeyed instantly and sat by his side. Their haunches quivered as they fought their instincts.

“I shared some prime rib and sausage with them a while ago,” Austin said. “Hope you don't mind.”

“I'm surprised they ate it,” Razov said. “They dine on fare much better than most people's. My name is Razov.” He extended his hand and glanced at the name on the press pass hanging around Austin's neck. “I'm the host of this little celebration.”