The Thracian Idol by Andrew Clawson

Author:Andrew Clawson [Clawson, Andrew]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2024-08-03T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 14

Perperikon

His thoughts of Thrace vanished. “Olivier wants to meet me?”

“He wishes to discuss the bible and its contents in person. I suspect the idea of what may yet be found is at the root of his request.”

“Olivier wants to meet the person who can find whatever else tied to Charlemagne is out there.”

“Exactly.”

“You think it’s a bad idea.”

“Why would I?”

“You’re the broker. You keep both the buyer and the seller safe. The two parties meeting can’t help either side, or you.”

“Correct. I told Olivier this could never happen.”

“Then why tell me about it?” The wheels in his head picked up steam. “Because you think I want to do it,” Harry said. “And even though you know it’s a bad idea, you’ll let me decide.”

“It is my responsibility to advise you in these transactions. My advice is to proceed with caution. However, I would be remiss to stand in your way. You feel a debt is owed. Who am I to prevent you from collecting?”

Fair enough. “This isn’t about me or even Charlemagne’s bible. It’s about stopping the man who ruined my father’s life.” A field of cows passed outside Harry’s window. “It’s about payback.”

Her response carried the weight of an unspoken burden Harry didn’t know of. “I understand how the desire for retribution can be consuming.”

Harry couldn’t guess what Rose wanted vengeance for. All he knew was he felt sorry for the person on the receiving end. “What if I say I want to meet Olivier?”

“I would say I am not surprised.”

“Any recommendations for how to not get myself killed?”

“First, Olivier will never meet you. He is too cautious. One of his representatives will come in his stead. The man I spoke with, if I had to predict.”

“Not a dealbreaker. Getting close to him will take time.”

“Second, disguise your appearance.”

“A fake mustache and sunglasses?”

“Use your discretion. Third, meet in a public area of your choosing. Olivier indicated he wishes to meet in France. His business is based in Paris.”

A city Harry knew well. “That works. I’ll choose a location right before the meeting.”

“Giving them no time to prepare any unpleasant surprises. Wise decision. Finally, I would still tell you not to do this, though I have no doubt you will meet as Olivier wishes. Hence my focus on your safety.”

“I appreciate it, Rose. Olivier wants to know what else is out there for his collection.” Which presented a problem. “He’s already purchased the bible. I need more bait to dangle. Another relic to keep him interested.”

“Even the possibility of a relic. A description of the writings you found will suffice. I promised Olivier the bible within one week. That week is not nearly over.”

“I can’t give him the bible yet,” Harry said. “I can tell him about what it suggests, what remains to be found.” He closed his eyes and pulled the inscription up in his head. “Exquisite gifts, including an elephant. And a water clock with the keys to Jerusalem.”

“Olivier will want some evidence those artifacts actually exist.”

“I only need to make him believe the artifacts exist.

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