Page 23 of Ancient Obsession

“This is a small, palm-sized pouch that appears to be made from the same material as the bandages.” She used a forceps to pluck the item from the coffin and dropped it into the jar. “Vera, once Samira has secured the scroll, please make notes about both items in the log and take photographs of each. I’ll need you to run tests on this pouch to determine if it contained whatever we were exposed to, and a chemical breakdown of the material.” Dr. Brennan met each of their eyes, Oliver and Robin’s as well. “Keep track of any physical or mental changes you may experience. I wasn’t expecting that kind of exposure, or I would have insisted on body suits.”

He rubbed the pads of his thumb and index finger together as he shared a look with Robin. What the hell had gotten all over them?

The team moved with an impressive rhythm. Each member documented a specific detail, taking measurements, photographs, and even small clippings of the bandages. It was fascinating to witness, but Oliver’s heart pounded and sweat slicked his back as he watched. Would he be called out for touching it? What would be the punishment? Expelled from classes? Fined an exorbitant amount of money?

He shifted his weight often, crossing and uncrossing his arms. He tried to pay attention to what Dr. Brennan and the others were doing, but after an hour, he couldn’t handle it any longer. If he left before they understood what the smudge across Amenmose’s forearm meant, they might not think to blame him for it.

Leaning in toward Robin, he whispered, “I think I’m going to go.”

Robin’s eyes were drooping, most likely their body coming down from all that caffeine. They whispered back, “Thank God. Me, too.”

He cleared his throat. “Dr. Brennan, I appreciate you allowing me to witness the opening of such an important find, but I do need to be heading out.”

She studied him. “Are you feeling ill? You appear flushed.”

He shook his head. “No, nothing like that. I just…need to be somewhere.”

“I’m feeling fine, too,” Robin said. “But I was going to leave as well.”

“Very well,” Dr. Brennan said. “Does someone on the team know how to get in touch with you?”

“Yes, I do,” came a voice over the intercom. “Robin and I are friends.”

“Very good, Beryl. Please keep me apprised of any physical or mental changes you’re made aware of.”

Oliver’s face heated, and his throat went dry. “Oh. Do you anticipate us having reactions?”

“Nothing is anticipated,” she said. “But one never knows. Just keep Beryl informed of any changes. Thank you again for your help.”

“Sure, yeah. I was happy to do it. I hope your research returns amazing results.”

Dr. Brennan gave a single nod before returning to her work. Oliver gave the mummy one last look, then followed Robin into the control room.

“Dude, nice save.” Ricky held out a fist.

“Oh, thanks.” He bumped his fist. “It was all just reflexes.”

“Good ones, though.” Beryl gave Robin a once over. “What got on you guys?”

“Not sure,” Robin said, looking down at themself. “Dust, I guess.”

“Feels like more than that,” he said. “And I really want to get home and wash it off.”

“Should have been wearing the suits,” Beryl said, shaking her head as she turned back to the control board.

“Definitely,” Ricky agreed.

“Good suggestion,” Oliver said dryly. “Now.”

They left, both quiet as they walked down the empty hall. Outside, the sun had set and shadows skulked in the depths of bushes planted along the base of the building. The fresh air of the May evening encouraged Oliver to stop and pull in a deep breath.

“Trying to clear your lungs?” Robin asked.

“Yeah.” He started toward the car. “What did you think of the experience?”

“It was pretty sweet.”

“But?”