Phule's Paradise by Robert Asprin (rsv) Read Free Book Online Page A

choice. They circulate through the casino rather than stand duty just in the dining room, and the kind of action you're watching for will probably be going on at the tables, not over a meal. Besides, the tips are better from drinkers."
          "I was thinking more in terms of working with the housekeeping staff," Brandy supplied. "That photo spread was fun, but I don't really see myself wearing one of those peek-a-boo outfits day in and day out. Having a legitimate excuse to be in and out of the guest rooms wouldn't be a bad idea, either."
          The two looked at their commander expectantly.
          "Actually," he said slowly, staring at his notepad, "the recognition problem wasn't my major concern. Super Gnat should be okay, but ..." He hesitated, then shrugged and looked at his top sergeant directly. "I'm not quite as comfortable with you going under cover, Brandy. I had been counting on you to help me ride herd on the company while it was standing normal duty. The fact is, Chocolate Harry and Escrima have already volunteered, and the cadre roster is starting to look a little thin even if you stuck around. With you gone ..." He let his voice trail off, then shook his head.
          "I can see where that might be a problem, Captain. But ..." Brandy hesitated, then leaned forward slightly. "Can I speak candidly, sir?"
          Phule nodded curtly.
          "Well, you know how you got on my case when you first took over about being cynical and not trying? This is the first time in ... hell, I don't know how many years now, that I've volunteered for anything. Now that I'm moving, I'd kinda like to see it through. I'm not sure if I'm trying to prove something to you or to myself, but I'd like to give it a shot."
          The commander pursed his lips and stared thoughtfully at his pad again, then realized there was really nothing to decide. If it came to choosing between making things easier for himself or helping Brandy rebuild her self-esteem, there was only one choice that would be acceptable to him.
          "All right," he said, raising his eyes to look at them directly. "We'll tentatively figure you both for undercover volunteers. I'm going to want to see a demonstration of this hair and makeup thing, though. Shall we say, tomorrow afternoon?"
          "No problem, sir ... and thank you, sir."
          The two women rose and saluted, turning toward the door only after their salute was returned.
          "Just one more thing ... Super Gnat?"
          The little Legionnaire paused at the doorway at the commander's words.
          "Sir?"
          "Have you discussed this with Tusk-anini? I don't mean to meddle, but he's very devoted to you."
          At the mention of her partner, the Gnat's usual easy self-confidence wavered.
          "I ... I know, sir ... And no, I haven't. I wanted to see if you figured I was acceptable first ... I'll go talk to him now. I think he'll understand. He may be devoted to me, but he practically worships you. You were the one who called for volunteers, and I'd be willing to bet he'd put his hand into a fire up to his elbow if you asked him to. He might not like my volunteering, but it'll be mostly because he can't volunteer himself. Give him some time and he'll get over it ... but even if he doesn't, he won't let it interfere with his performance."
          Rather than being reassured, Phule again felt the pangs of discomfort at this testimonial.
          "All right, Gnat. I'll leave it to you. Just let me know if-"
          "Say, Captain ... Excuse me, Gnat."
          Brandy had just poked her head in the door, interrupting the conversation.
          "What is it, Top?"
          "I was thinking about what you were saying-about being thin on cadre for normal duty. Anyway, it occurred to me that you might want to give Moustache a try as acting sergeant."
          "Moustache?" The commander frowned, searching his