Once Amon and I were settled and Dr. Hassan had set a tray of cold beverages before us, I gave myself a moment to assess him again. I was determined to proceed with caution in trusting him. Though Amon could do many things on his own, I knew that he was also relying on my modern-world smarts, and I didn’t want to let him down.
The air was warm, but the slight breeze carrying the scent of desert rain and night-blooming flowers kept me cool enough that I wasn’t uncomfortable, even with Amon’s warm arm draped across my shoulders—I wasn’t sure if his touch was meant in a romantic way or to comfort me or to just keep tabs on my health, but I’d take it, regardless of the reason. If Dr. Hassan hadn’t been there and our situation hadn’t been urgent, I would’ve enjoyed having a romantic dinner date on the roof. As it was, I needed to focus on other matters.
“Why don’t you start by telling us how you found us,” I suggested to Dr. Hassan.
“When Dr. Dagher and I came across you, to say we were shocked would be a bit of an understatement. The Great One”—Amon gave Dr. Hassan a look and he changed his word choice midsentence—“Amon,” he said, and I could tell from his expression that saying the name sat wrong with him. “Amon was covered in the dust and yet remained unaffected. His lips were pressed against your neck, a death sentence, since the toxin covered your skin in multiple areas. I knew what it was immediately. The form of dust you came across hasn’t been used for centuries, but there are records of it. That you happened upon it in the Valley of the Kings was incredible to say the least.”
“It sounds like you were more interested in the discovery of the red dust than in getting us the care we needed,” I said.
“Of course I was interested in it. I am an archaeologist. As far as the help you needed, I already knew you were beyond it. I determined that if you weren’t dead already, you would be in mere moments. But then you kept breathing, and Amon finally acknowledged our presence. He was aware of us, though he was completely wrapped up in caring for you.
“I approached the two of you, and since I was no longer holding him back, Dr. Dagher rushed forward and accused Amon of defacing the temple and bringing the substance in with him. I believe Dr. Dagher thought you were drug-crazed. But I have had access to things, to stories, to information that he hasn’t, and so I knew right away about the problem you were dealing with. I will admit that I selfishly kept you in my tent. I could not let Amon leave. Not when I knew, absolutely knew, what…who he was.”
Dr. Hassan glanced at Amon. “The others never believed me, but I had a vision as a young man that I would one day witness your rising. I am the most fortunate of men!” he cried out, the fanatical gleam in his eyes relit.
“Yes. We get it,” I said. “But let’s get back to what happened next and save the worshipping for a more convenient time, shall we? Now, if I understand correctly, you next manipulated Amon into thinking that you were helping him. Is that right?”
“I was. I mean, I am,” Dr. Hassan insisted, and then added, “I mean, I will be.”
“I should think so.” I narrowed my eyes.
“Of course. My entire existence, all of my work, all of my studies, have been focused on this one purpose.”
I stared at the good doctor for a few uncomfortable minutes. He looked right back at me, his face open and innocent. “Fine,” I finally announced. “I’m willing to forgive your duplicity as long as you help us.”
“You may ask anything.”
“Understand that we expect your complete honesty from this time forward. No more manipulation to further your own agenda. Amon’s purpose must remain the priority.”
“Yes, yes. Of course.”
“Okay, so tell us all you know, starting with how Amon ended up in New York.”
“Very well. But you must understand that I have made vows not to share this information with anyone outside of our order.”