"Look, there wasn't anything valuable in this museum," Emily said. "If anyone told you there was, they lied."

"I was told there was a very valuable item, and my source is very reliable." He shook his head. "Which means that you're lying."

"I have no reason to lie. I told you, our orders are to give up any artifacts if it means risking personnel. What are you looking for?"

He tilted his head and studied her expression. "Zelov's hammer."

"What?"

"Maybe you don't recognize it by its name. But I'm sure you'd recognize the treasure hidden in the handle. You're an expert in Rus¬sian artifacts. Was it too tempting for you to give up?"

"We don't know what the hell you're talking about," Joel said. "There weren't any tools on display at the museum. Certainly none with any hidden compartments."

"No tools at all?"

"There were used gardening tools in the cellar of the museum," Emily said. "Go check those out."

"I will," Staunton said. "You're being very cooperative. I'm im¬pressed."

"Then let Joel leave. You don't have to keep both of us as hostages." Joel began to curse. "No way."

"He doesn't like the idea," Staunton said. "Neither do I." He smiled. "But I do like the idea of getting out of here. We've run out of time." He turned away. "I'll call the helicopter. Bring them."

Borg was coming toward them. Emily tensed. Going anywhere with these murderers might be a death sentence. She had no choice but to make a move.

Her gun that she'd dropped at Staunton's order.

She fell to the ground, reaching for it.

"Oh no, bitch." Borg swung viciously, and the stock of his rifle struck her in the temple. Darkness.

"WAKE UP. I'M GETTING IMPATIENT."

Emily tried to open her eyes, but the pain was too great.

"Wake up!" She was lifted by her shoulders and slammed against the wall.

Her eyes flew open.