The Genghis Tomb Read online

  David recognized the president’s dilemma.

  “I take it still no acknowledgment out of China?”

  Dashiin shook his head.

  “No reaction from Beijing, whatsoever,” he said. “In an odd sort of way it’s as if nothing has happened. The premier undoubtedly authorized the entire scheme—but it now apparently best serves his purpose to pretend it never occurred. A complete non-event, if you will. Unless Mongolia makes formal accusations and presents evidence—which we certainly have in abundance—he appears quite willing to leave it that way.”

  “And the Russians?”

  “Their overall attitude is much the same. If a huge diplomatic incident can possibly be avoided, then that’s their clear preference. As you know, I’ve been working almost hourly with the Russian ambassador since yesterday morning. As we speak, Moscow’s nuclear experts are preparing to remove the device and transport it to a safe location inside Russia for proper examination and dismantling. Not an enviable job. Nor a task our people have the expertise to attempt.”

  Dashiin paused for a long moment before adding, “At the ambassador’s personal request, Major Nikitin’s body will likewise be returned to Russia. It’s unfortunate that Feliks’ contributions in all this must also go unrecognized for the immediate future, but such is the way of things, I suppose.”

  Elizabeth blinked back tears.

  “And does that extend to Zayaa, as well?” she asked. “As baffling as her involvement was with the colonel, if she hadn’t intentionally given me the iron knife when she did, that bomb would’ve obliterated everything . . . Mongolia’s national treasure lost forever.”

  President Dashiin heaved a deep sigh.

  “What you say is true, of course. But as you can imagine, I’ve been struggling for the two past two days with my own sense of betrayal. As close as we were, how could I have been so deceived all these years of our working so closely together?”

  “I can’t answer that question,” she replied. “No one can. David and I have tried to make sense of it, but all we could conclude is that somehow she got trapped—or perhaps even blackmailed—into a situation beyond her ability to control. My point is, in her final moments, she came through for all of us when it most counted. I know how much you and Vlad meant to her. That I’m sure was genuine. Perhaps you should look at this the same way, don’t you think?”

  Dashiin gave a slow nod, appearing willing to follow her advice.

  As he did so, David changed the subject.

  “Elizabeth and I should head out to finish our packing. You haven’t said as yet, but when is the public announcement to take place? It’s going to cause quite a stir.”

  “Like you can’t possibly imagine, David. It’s scheduled for later this evening. I’ll be making an address to the nation on both radio and television.” He again smiled. “Thanks to you, this promises to be a very great and historic day for my country.”

  As they stood, the president reached over and clasped David’s hand. “Can I assume you’ll both be watching?”

  “Count on it, sir.”

  Books by Daniel Leston

  The Snow Leopard - Copyright © 2010

  The Amun Chamber - Copyright © 2010

  1st adventure of Professor David Manning

  The Genghis Tomb - Copyright © 2012

  2nd adventure of Professor David Manning

  Look for the 3rd adventure of Professor David Manning coming Fall 2013