The Exhibit

Chapter 7 - They Want Our Mummy?

A month passed, and Amenhotep had been out for the public to see and enjoy for the whole of that month. The tablet was also complete, along with the translation, and was also out for the public—they were out with the original Egypt exhibit but could be moved when the newer one opened. The big project now was another huge slab of limestone with hieroglyphics engraved all over it.

"I'm amazed at the amount of writing that was found in Ahkmenrah's tomb," Edward commented.

Hannah looked over at Edward, who was dusting off the stone with a small brush. "My mom always told me to keep a journal—I felt kind of bad when I realized that the Ancient Egyptians did better journaling than me."

Edward smiled, amused. "You and I both. When I saw the amount Egyptians wrote and documented, it persuaded me that I should do the same. You know, in case some scientists find my body 3,000 years from now and wonder what on Earth happened to me."

"Tell me about it."

The two continued with their work when Dr. Fisher came into the lab walked up to them. "Just got off the phone with the EHA."

"And?" Hannah prodded.

"They said to keep all other artifacts out of the public eye until the exhibit opens."

Both Edward and Hannah stared at him, stunned, as did the workers around them. "After what happened a month ago?" Edward questioned, surprised.

"Yes, I'm afraid. Those guys are now as paranoid as Hannah was a month ago. They want all artifacts in here until opening day. So, looks like it will be a tad crowded in here for you two and your team."

"Gosh..." Hannah exasperated and sat on her stool.

"That's not all," Dr. Fisher added. "The EHA wants Amenhotep."

Hannah shot up from her seat. "What?"

"I'm afraid that's what they said. Dr. Asir is adamant since the Egyptian government called him personally and asked for the mummy."

Hannah looked at Edward, who had a deep furrow in his brow. He said, "They want Ahkmenrah to be alongside his brother."

"Precisely."

"But they gave him to us," Hannah argued. "And they want to take him back?"

"Hannah," said Dr. Fisher sternly, "you should know out of all of us the culture and customs of Egypt. Family is family, no matter how many years ago."

"When do they want him?" a male team member asked.

"As soon as possible. It's more of a big deal since we know now that Ahkmenrah and Amenhotep were lovers as well as brothers. The EHA thinks it would respect the two brothers and would adhere to the inscriptions on Amenhotep's sarcophagus that a brother's love will last for eternity."

"Can't argue with that," Edward said, and looked over at Hannah. She took in a deep breath in irritation and let it out.

"I guess we have no choice but to give him to them."

"Good girl," Dr. Fisher complemented. "Now, Dr. Asir will be here in an hour to talk through the details of transportation."

"But we already know how to prep mummies for transportation," Hannah protested. "Probably better than they do."

"Humor him. Now if you excuse me, I have a Board meeting to get to."

He left the room, and Hannah sat down on her stool again. "I expected as much. Those two were brothers and lovers." She looked over at Edward and saw him purse his lips as he looked at the limestone. "What?"