“Matthew, people who succeed in life take chances, seize opportunities and make things happen themselves,” Mercer said with building enthusiasm.

Matt waited.

The Harvard president continued. “And an opportunity has arisen. One that if seized could put you in the box seat for a full tenure, with all privileges and seniority restored. Straight back into the high-ranking fold, as it were. How does that sound?”

“Sounds like you’ve got my attention, President Mercer.”

“I knew you’d be interested. Your file said you were a go-getter,” Mercer said, the words clearly delivered through a smile. “There’s a little fieldwork that needs to be done. Basic translation stuff, simple as that – Middle Eastern languages, ancient Greek, Latin, various other vocabularies and dialects…right up your expertise alley, I would say.”

Matt shrugged. “Sounds straightforward; where’s the fieldwork site?”

“Syria,” Mercer said quickly.

“Syria?” Matt frowned. “Uh, bit of a war zone, right now isn’t it?”

“Won’t be a problem. It’s away from all the major cities and the fighting – more out in the leafy suburbs. Matthew, this is urgent and important…especially for you. There’s a plane leaving for Aleppo tomorrow morning. You’ll be met by Captain Tania Kovitz, an archeologist, and will be introduced to the rest of the small team. You’ll also have a military escort, so you’ll be as safe as can be.”

“Tania Kovitz? I know her.” Matt sighed, feeling a knot starting in his stomach. “How long is it for?”

“In and out; probably only a few days.”

Matt nodded. “And I’m guessing, seeing as this fieldwork will allow Harvard to improve its portion of the R&D budget allocation, that it must be a government job…military.”

“Professor Kearns, Matthew.” Matt could hear the confidence in the president’s voice – the man obviously knew he was now hooked, and that it was time to reel him in. “All of that is way above my pay grade. There are people who are much better informed than me, just waiting to answer any and all questions you may have.”

“On the plane,” Matt said.

“Yes, on the plane.” Mercer sounded like he had gotten to his feet. “Well, seems you’re a man in demand; they requested you personally. Apparently you’re on their books.”

Matt slumped in his leather chair. He groaned. “I’m on the books,” he repeated softly. “Sir, I’m not…”

“Please call me Edward.”

“Edward, I’m not sure I want to get involved in any more government projects right now.”

“Nonsense – a few days, a week at most, and then next thing you know, you’ll be guiding young minds through the intricacies and beauty of ancient languages. Just as you were famed for doing in these halls of Harvard. You’ll make a fine addition, and I personally can’t wait to have you back in the fold…with us.”

“If I help?” Matt said, weakly.

“If you help, yes, Matthew. It’s a small thing and you can consider it part of the interview process,” Mercer said, hurrying him now.

“No jungles or caves, right?” Matt held his breath.