A s Marc climbed the stairs leading to Parliament’s main entrance, Sameh passed through the central doors and started down toward him. “How was it at the cemetery?”
“Very moving,” Marc replied. “And very hot.”
“Leyla has never before invited anyone but Bisan to join her there. I, well…” Sameh paused, then waved the words aside.
“I understand.”
“It is not my place.”
“It is absolutely your place. They are your family.”
Sameh studied him a long moment, then said, “And you are my friend.”
Marc found it necessary to study the granite at his feet. “I wish I knew how to tell you what that means.”
“There is no need.” Sameh glanced down the sun-drenched stairs to the waiting vehicles. Josh Reames and Barry Duboe stood by a trio of embassy transports with tinted windows, conversing with the ease of old friends. They were going to accompany Marc to the hospital to collect the other Americans, then take them to the airport. Sameh said, “I wanted to see you off. But today’s meetings are very crucial.”
“Leyla explained. Do not give it another thought.”
“I am to receive a special appointment. That is, if the Alliance does indeed manage to form a coalition.”
“They couldn’t ask for a better man on their side,” Marc said.
“I have spent my entire life avoiding the center stage,” Sameh said, shaking his head.
“Alex told me once that faith is all about letting God lead us beyond our comfort zone.”
“Your friend is very wise indeed.” Sameh held out the small parcel he carried. “This is a gift from Jaffar.”
Marc’s fingers felt numb as he struggled with the string. He folded the paper back to reveal a brass shield about the size of his hand. Upon it was emblazoned a raging lion, raised up on its hind feet and roaring at the unseen.
Sameh said, “This is the ancient symbol for a lugal, a hero intended to lead our people from peril.”
The polished shield caught the sunlight and momentarily blinded him. “I don’t know what to say.”
Sameh settled his arm upon Marc’s shoulder. “Just that you will not be long in returning. Those are the only words I wish to hear.”