“Power and militancy do not seem compatible with most people’s notion of Buddhism,” Rausing said.

Dhammasara laughed. “You in the west have this image of Buddhists as lotus-eating, meditating pacifists, but there is a long tradition of our religion standing up for what is just and right, and of strong Buddhist warriors.”

The monk rubbed his head thoughtfully. “It’s not only the Muslims who can have their holy wars.”

“You feel that Islam is not right and just?” Rausing countered. “I have no love for the Muslims, but then again, I’m not terribly fond of any religion.”

Venerable Dhammasara shifted in his chair, which creaked ominously under his weight. “Buddhism is not a religion as you think of Islam or Christianity. It is more a way of life, a perspective on the world and a connection of one’s spirit with nature. We just happen to follow the teachings of one particularly wise, or as we say, enlightened, man—the Buddha.”

Rausing didn’t react. In truth, he didn’t care about the reasons Dhammasara had hired him and he regretted even being contrary.

Dhammasara continued. “Sri Lanka was historically a Buddhist land until the Europeans came and brought slaves from India with their own religions. Anagarika himself was the first to really stand up to this intrusion.” He gestured to the scowling portrait. “The BBH is not against Muslims per se. But Islam has its holy lands in the Middle East. We Buddhists have ours here. The country is over seventy percent Buddhist as it is. It used to be higher.” An enigmatic smile. “I’d like to return to that.”

Rausing studied the monk’s smooth face and dark eyes. “So, after you get rid of the Muslims, are the Christians next?”

“As Lord Buddha said, ‘There is nothing mightier than patience’,” Dhammasara replied.

“And no error greater than hatred,” Rausing shot back.

The monk smiled. “You know your teachings, Mr. Rausing.”

“Your motivation is of no concern to me. By the time you put your plan in place, I will be gone from this country.”

“Well then, enough of the philosophical discussion,” Dhammasara said. “Are you confident you can retrieve the weapon?”

“Certain.” Rausing said. “We located it earlier this week but had a slight setback.” He shifted uncomfortably, thinking of McElroy’s failure and the Taprobane’s interference. Both problems had been eliminated; there was no need for this monk to know the details. “We’ll be diving on the wreck later this week as soon as this weather system passes.”

There was a flash and a loud crack of thunder. The monsoon rain was drumming on the roof above their heads.

“I’m glad to hear it,” the monk rubbed his head and smiled. “Ramadan is in two weeks. We would like to be ready by then, for maximum effect.”

“We’ll make the exchange at our agreed-upon location. From there, you can do with it what you wish.”