“Yes, I spoke with Ulama al-Khan just now. We greeted each other with warmth and relief that neither was very seriously injured from the attack. He explained his objection in the National Assembly to me very well, which I fully accept. His concern was that new elections not be clouded with any constitutional challenges during our nation’s most critical time. I assured him that I will do what’s best for Egypt and myself.

“Yes, of course, my husband’s murderers should be hunted down, but only to be brought to justice, not retribution. This should be a time of healing, not revenge. I’m sure that’s what my husband would have wanted, and I know that’s what Dr. Kalir and Ulama al-Khan want too.

“Yes, with the help and support of my friends in the National Democratic Party and the people of Egypt, I am a candidate for president of Egypt. Of course, my doctors will have to give their blessing as well—I am strong and determined, but I’m not foolish enough to think I know more than my doctors.

“I suffered some damage in my left eye and some burns, but I’m feeling all right, kwaysa ilhamdu lillah, shukran. Thank you.

“Yes, I believe I can work with Ulama al-Khan in a National Democratic Party-led government. The Ulama and I share many of the same beliefs: that Egypt can and must be the spiritual, moral, and philosophical leader of the Arab world and show by example the power and courage of the Arab people. My husband believed strongly in this, and I shall continue to work to make this idea a reality.

“No, I have absolutely no intentions of leaving Egypt except for brief visits abroad or in some capacity with the government.

“Yes, I still hold dual nationalities—I can’t change my place of birth. But out of respect for my husband and to his countrymen, and reflecting the love I have for all Egyptians, I’m staying. I have no plans to reside in the United States or anywhere else but Misr, insha’allah. Sabah el kher. Shukran. Thank you all.”

General Baris and Captain Shafik escorted Susan out of the National Assembly building into a waiting car. “I think it went pretty well, don’t you, Ahmad?” she asked.

“The interview was fine,” Baris replied. “But this is a dangerous game you’re playing, Sekhmet. Men like Khan do little all day but dream up ways to defeat, humiliate, or eliminate their political opponents. Unless you want to reduce yourself to their scum-sucking level, stay away from political intrigue.”

“I have no illusions of this—Khan wants to see me dead,” Susan said. “Khan failed to do the job before, so he will ensure it’s done now.”