The old man was still sitting quietly in his throne, finishing his glass of champagne. Nobody else in the crowded room had any idea of the developing crisis, and Fitz meant to keep it that way. He bent close to Van Brakel’s ear, keeping his voice down so as not to cause mayhem among fifty public figures, statesmen and pillars of the nation who would take to their heels and flee like antelopes at the first threat to their safety. It wasn’t his concern for their peace of mind that prompted his discretion; on the contrary, if his fears were correct their rush to escape would only precipitate an attack and reduce his own and the Grand Master’s chances of getting out of here in time.

‘Sir, we may have a problem.’

The old man’s dry, lizard-like lips tightened into a thin line as Fitz told him about Dudley’s peculiar absence. Van Brakel replied, ‘Call him.’

‘I have. He’s not replying. Sir, I’m deeply concerned and I think we should take heed of this warning. We must leave, now.’

But the old man shook his wrinkled skull of a head. ‘You’re overreacting. The evening must proceed as planned. If anything is amiss, the security team will take care of it. And if our Brother is found guilty of irregular behaviour, he will be punished according to our rules.’

That wasn’t good enough for Fitz. ‘It’s my job to protect you in an emergency, sir.’

‘What emergency? Nothing is happening. Surely you can’t expect me to miss this event for no good reason.’

‘I’m very sorry, but I must insist. I’m getting you out of here as fast as possible.’

Leaving Van Brakel sitting there fuming, Fitz sought out another senior member who’d been with them for many years. ‘Brother, a matter has arisen that requires the Grand Master’s urgent attention elsewhere. Can I ask you to take over as acting Master of Ceremonies for tonight?’

The member looked delighted. ‘Why, certainly, Brother. I’d be absolutely honoured.’

Fitz thanked him and hastened back to Van Brakel. With great reluctance the old man allowed himself to be coaxed from his throne and led out of a side door. Short of beating Fitz over the head with his cane there was nothing he could do to resist. ‘I’m sure this is completely unnecessary,’ he was muttering.

‘Trust me, it’s necessary.’

As Fitz and his mentor made their exit, the ceremonial gong sounded and the acting Master of Ceremonies announced: ‘Brothers, the time has come for you to prepare. The ceremony is due to begin shortly.’