Elie sat, dazed, in the stunned silence of the tent. Poor Saladin was lying just a yard from her on the dirty rug that constituted the floor of David’s tent. He looked like he was barely breathing. The silence was soon broken by Professor Kamila.

“Prudence, please check the boy,” she said. Then she turned to Seamus Tripp. “I am professional enough to offer you an apology,” she said. “Clearly, there are dark forces at work in this site.”

Seamus had pulled aside the main flap of the tent and Elie noted that a crowd was gathered close around the exterior. Even Jofre was there, standing with his valets. The two British Egyptologists, Chesterfield and Bonningsworth stood nearby as well, peering into the tent.

“I am satisfied,” continued Professor Kamila, &ldq...

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