Chapter Twenty-Four
The Sultan’s Villa
It wasn’t huge, by any means. In fact the whole structure could almost fit in the entry hall of Attaboy’s mansion. But it was oh-so opulent. It stood three stories tall, looking like a big Moroccan layer cake, topped with a glistening onion dome. Sprawling in front was a private swimming pool, its shape mirroring the dome’s outline, which was, in turn, inverted and reflected on the glassy smooth surface of the placid water. Wisps of steam rose from its surface, inviting intimate guests to a warm bath, a luxurious way to stay cool on oppressively hot and humid days.
The place was surrounded by meticulously tended gardens. Its balconies looked out over the lush forest canopy, which would be perpetually wet even in dry season from computer-controlled
