Jerusalem, Israel

December 2022

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Bree watched the city unfolding before her from the jeep window. They had not hesitated even for a moment; the day after meeting with Corin, they booked a flight and set off for Jerusalem. Daniel and Zara were eagerly explaining the significance of the Garden of Gethsemane and its role in Biblical history, though both had their doubts about finding anything new. The site had been thoroughly examined from every angle, and nothing of note had been discovered there for decades.

The sun was slowly setting, and heavy dark clouds hung over Jerusalem in the distance. The temperature was dropping quickly, and the wind was rising, soon to tear the clouds open and release their weight onto the stone city below. Yet it would not wash away the centuries of desert dust or the modern smog that clung to its walls.

They had landed only a short while ago at a nearby military airport, and the Organisation had arranged for a high level of discretion. Even so, they were accompanied by a local army escort. It was only a single jeep with three soldiers, but Jackson kept nervously glancing at the rear-view mirror to check on them.

The sky was gradually losing its light while the city ahead began to glow. With the holidays approaching, it shone more brightly than usual, like a beacon for lost souls. Suddenly, their armed escort overtook them and signalled for them to follow. They were now nearing the roads where the unmistakable hum of the city could be felt; traffic was thickening. Daniel, seated in the front, clutched his backpack tightly, where Adam was safely stored, and kept his eyes on the tablet in his lap, following the navigation. He was not at all comfortable with Jackson’s driving but refrained from commenting. Behind them, in the quiet, Zara was dozing. Her head had slowly come to rest on Bree’s shoulder, and she mumbled something in her sleep. It was impossible to understand what she was saying, but Bree could sense that even in sleep, Zara was restless.

They were on their way to meet Professor Tzvi Cohen, one of the most respected experts in Biblical history and archaeology at the Hebrew University. His research focused on the Garden of Gethsemane, making him the obvious first choice for consultation. They had been fortunate that he agreed to meet with them on such short notice and share his findings.

The journey was mostly quiet, broken only by the sounds of local traffic. They were filled with anticipation, but the meeting with Corin had left a bitter aftertaste. Suddenly, Jackson was forced to slam on the brakes and bring their jeep to an abrupt stop as a group of children ran into the road. He rolled down the window and shouted something unpleasant at them, then drove away.

“Brats,” he muttered under his breath as he tried to catch up with their escort. Zara stirred and woke. Her gaze was unfocused and confused, and Bree could almost sense Zara’s heart tighten at the sudden jolt of waking. 

“Oh...I´m so sorry. Where are we?” Zara asked, her voice shaky, embarrassed that she fell asleep on stranger´s shoulder. Stranger so far.

“That´s alright, love," Bree smiled. "We should arrive soon. Here, drink this,” she said, handing her a bottle of water while turning her gaze back to the sea of lights outside. It was nearly impossible to tell that night had completely fallen.

The jeep eventually came to a stop in front of a building at Hebrew University. Daniel and Jackson stepped out to speak briefly with the escort team. After exchanging a few words, the soldiers got back into their vehicle and drove away. In front of the university building stood a large menorah with eight candles. Bree paused to admire it, knowing that the first candle would be lit in just a few days. She noticed an older man approaching, a warm smile on his face, and instinctively checked the reassuring weight of the weapon beneath her coat.

“Shalom! Welcome to Jerusalem. I am happy to see you,” the man said cheerfully, extending his hand to each of them. There was no doubt this was Professor Cohen. His eyes sparkled with friendly curiosity, and his tone carried genuine delight at their meeting. His English was impeccable, as expected from a renowned academic, though his soft Israeli accent remained evident.

“I apologize for the chaos,” he said, gesturing toward the busy street filled with holiday preparations. “But Hanukkah is like that; it's full of life and joy.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Professor. We truly appreciate you taking the time to see us on such a short notice,” Daniel responded, briefly introducing the others. Professor Cohen led them to his office, asking polite questions about their journey and their impressions of Jerusalem along the way. The walk was short, and soon they arrived at a tall door marked with a golden plaque bearing the Professor's name. His office was filled with books and papers and had a view of the Old City. It was a typical academic space, far too small for the amount of material it contained, yet somehow both mysterious and inviting. Although the campus itself was modern, the archaeology Professor's office had acquired a distinctly ancient atmosphere.

“Well then, let us get to it,” he said, gesturing for them to sit on the small sofa and spare chairs. With a mix of curiosity and anticipation, he asked, “How may I assist you with your research?”

“We are mainly interested in the Garden of Gethsemane and its historical significance,” Daniel began, intentionally omitting any reference to the information they had gathered from the Book of Adam. “We are familiar with the basics and your research, but we believe there might be something we are missing. That is why we have come to discuss the archaeological findings with you and, with your permission, to explore the area.”

They had agreed in advance on how to approach the Professor and what information they could share. Aware that danger and potential sabotage were still threats, they remained cautious.

“I’m afraid that for any type of research, you need proper authorization, and securing that can take months. I’m still waiting for a new one myself, and I am the guarantor for these excavations. It’s an appalling process,” Professor Cohen grumbled.

"Our research will be completely non-invasive. It is primarily an academic visit. As we discussed over the phone, our Organisation is happy to offer a generous donation to both your university and the research center within the Garden," Daniel said, demonstrating his skill in negotiating with academics. His proposition brought a smile back to the Professor's face.

“Very well. I believe that an academic visit would not require special permission. The Garden itself is quite literally a garden, a place of pilgrimage and contemplation. It lies at the foot of the Mount of Olives, directly opposite the Old City of Jerusalem. We have closed it for renovations, new pavements for tourists. Its name,” he said, lifting his finger towards the ceiling, “derives from the Aramaic ‘Gat Shmanim,’ which means ‘oil press.’ Imagine, colleagues, that there were once ancient olive presses here. Even now, you can find olive trees, some of which are over nine hundred years old. Their silvery-grey leaves form a canopy overhead, allowing sunlight to break through and create a beautiful mosaic of light and shadow. It is truly a magical place. I believe you will enjoy it,” he said dreamily, handing Daniel an older volume that contains the earliest recorded mentions of the Garden.

“You are likely familiar with the Biblical story in which Jesus, after the Last Supper, went to the Garden of Gethsemane with his disciples to meditate and pray. It was in this garden that Roman soldiers arrested him. While there is no archaeological evidence to confirm the exact events described in the Bible, we do know that the site was inhabited as early as the Iron Age. Additionally, we have evidence of an earlier temple complex that dates back to around 516 BC. Later, in the fourth century AD, a church dedicated to the Virgin Mary was constructed at this location. Like much of the surrounding area, early Christian monuments can be found nearby, but that summarizes the extent of the archaeological findings."

“All of that is far too recent. Please tell us more about the Iron Age findings,” Zara interjected, noting observations in her journal.

“These include pottery, tools, weapons, and structural remains characteristic of the ancient Israelites and the Kingdom of Judah,” Professor shrugged.

"Is there nothing unexpected or unexplainable?" Zara asked, earning a cautious glance from the Professor. He couldn't shake the thought that they might be curiosity-seekers or conspiracy theorists. It wasn't the first time he had to firmly reject and expel such individuals from the academic setting. “We recently came across a fragment of text suggesting the Garden might conceal a special temple of unusual religious significance,” Zara added when she noticed his hesitation.

“May I see it?” Professor Cohen’s eyes widened as Zara stepped forward and handed him a translated copy of the excerpt from the Book of Adam describing a temple dedicated to the Creator.

“Where did you find this? The script is a strange combination of primitive hieroglyphs, pictographs, and cuneiform signs. I have never encountered anything like it. Towards the end, what does that symbol represent?”

"Some of the symbols resemble Mayan script. Overall, the text is a sophisticated blend of ancient writing systems. My theory is that it was either created by several individuals, each using their own script, or that it serves as a kind of origin point from which later scripts evolved. It comes from a private collector and is a rare, old edition that maps the Biblical period. Unfortunately, I am bound by contract not to disclose its origin or location," Zara explained. Daniel felt a surge of tension but hoped her words would reassure the Professor.

“Both theories are implausible. Such individuals would have struggled to meet or understand each other. Moreover, your text is far too divergent and diverse to be the root of all scripts. Are you certain it is not a forgery?” The Professor’s sceptical mind lingered on the more probable explanations.

"That is definitely one of the possibilities we are exploring. Carbon dating was inconclusive, but if we place the manuscript in the likely period it was written, most of the scripts had not yet been created, as far as we know. Therefore, the text shouldn’t make any sense at all... and yet it does,” Zara replied, being careful not to reveal more than necessary. She understood that they needed to earn the Professor’s trust.

"Why do you think the location you are searching for is specifically the Garden of Gethsemane? The translation does not suggest that," the Professor said, carefully examining the page line by line and symbol by symbol.

“It is one of several possible locations mentioned in the materials. We are investigating all of them,” Zara lied, but she was unusually calm. The Professor thought for a moment before speaking again.

"I'm afraid I must disappoint you. We haven't found anything unique or unexplainable here. Everything aligns with its historical context and purpose. May I keep this?" Professor Cohen gazed at Daniel with a look of hope in his eyes.

“I’m sorry, Professor, but I’m afraid that won’t be possible. Believe me, we would gladly share all of our research with you, but we are bound by confidentiality. However, I will speak with our employer on your behalf,” Daniel said, gently taking the page from the Professor’s hands while trying to ignore the disappointment in his eyes.

"You must have very wealthy patrons to pursue such a curiosity. In the academic community, this would undoubtedly cause a sensation, but it would soon lose credibility," the Professor leaned back in his chair and clasped his hands together.

"I agree," Daniel replied with a polite smile, hoping to reassure the Professor. He suspected the man thought they were merely seekers of sensational stories. "That is why our research remains secret for now. We are trying to avoid danger."

“Danger, my dear fellow, this is history. All danger has long since been documented and passed. We're not talking about another Indiana Jones film,” the Professor chuckled, and Daniel laughed along with him. However, the Professor couldn't help but wonder, what if they really were Hollywood screenwriters? It could generate a lot of positive publicity, but it could also bring its fair share of challenges.

“You are right. It is more about avoiding various fanatical groups who tend to condemn and sabotage this kind of research,” Daniel added.

“Ah, I see. Unfortunately, we have had our share of experience with such people, too,” the Professor nodded eagerly, glancing with curiosity at the page in Daniel’s hand. “May I have another quick look?”

Daniel handed him the sheet while keeping his gaze fixed on him.

“So, nothing then?” Jackson made no effort to hide his disappointment with the visit.

“I would be happy to show you around the site. There is a small but interesting cave system, and I can also share my research along with the plans for future investigations. However, based on my experience, I believe the Garden has already revealed all its secrets. Still, I would appreciate it if you could discuss with your employer the possibility of releasing your findings. I am willing to sign reasonable confidentiality terms, as it is quite a curiosity. Although I typically do not indulge in sensational stories or conspiracies, I must admit that this is something of a guilty pleasure,” the Professor said with a slight smile.

“Absolutely, Professor. It’s getting rather late, and we wouldn’t want to keep you from your family. If you’re available tomorrow or in the coming days, I would be happy to review your research in detail. We would also greatly appreciate it if you could show us the Garden.”

"Of course, Daniel, of course," he responded with a gentle smile. "Your visit is no trouble at all. However, you’re correct; it is getting late, and the Garden is best appreciated in daylight. Please come tomorrow morning. We can have a proper tour and discuss the details then."

Daniel nodded, pleased with the Professor's willingness to help. The Professor reluctantly handed back the page with a sigh. They said their goodbyes and made their way back to the jeep together.

​

***

​

Over the course of the next three days, they thoroughly explored the Garden and its surroundings. On the first day, Professor Cohen guided them through the area, carefully showing them everything from older excavation sites to the most recent ones. They also visited several modern landmarks, including the Basilica of the Agony, where they wandered through its quiet corners and descended into the cold tombs. Unfortunately, they did not find any secret passages.

At the end of the first day, they shared a modest dinner with the Professor in a gazebo beneath the olive trees. It was a truly magical place, one that seemed to exist outside of time. Only then did Zara notice how strangely the olive trees smelled. The bark was wrinkled and rough, yet its scent carried something delicate, sweet and bitter all at once. The smell of wood and resin mingled with the damp earth, still moist from the afternoon rain. It was an unforgettable scent, the scent of a place that knew more stories than people could ever tell. A smell that stirred a hunger, not only for food but for knowledge.

Professor Cohen took them through the small cave system the next day, but every crack and tunnel ended in a dead end. Daniel returned with the Professor to his office to review the research and discuss potential findings while Jackson, Bree, and Zara continued to explore the Mount of Olives. No matter which direction they took, they found nothing out of the ordinary. Secret passages or underground chambers led nowhere or back to the surface, where they were met with dry hillsides, olive groves or modern buildings.

On the fourth morning, the sun emerged, bathing the paved pathways in gentle, golden light. The olive branches arched overhead, and the entire place felt silent as if the noise of the city could not reach it. Yet their luck did not turn.

Although they were well equipped and had picked up a small device from the technical department before leaving, one that used radio waves to detect underground structures, they found nothing. No unusual temple, no curious site, nothing. They decided to expand the search to a broader area, but the effort bore no fruit. In the end, they returned to the Garden, from where they were meant to head to the Hebrew University to meet Daniel.

“So we came here for nothing,” Jackson said bitterly, folding his arms across his chest. “I knew that little songbird sent us on a wild goose chase,” he grumbled, thinking of Corin.

"Hard to say. Maybe it was meant to lead us somewhere, but the path has been lost over the millennia. We could dig here for years and still uncover something new, or we might find nothing at all," Zara replied as she sat on the ground beneath an ancient olive tree. She leaned against the thick tree trunk and took a sip of water.

“It will rain soon. We should get going,” Bree said, glancing at the sky, which was slowly turning a deep blue in the west. Zara nodded silently.

“So there is nothing we can do?” Jackson frowned and looked in the same direction as Bree. It had rained every day lately, and although he was used to British weather, he had hoped the southern sun would at least warm them up a little.

“We could try to run a reflection seismic profile of the terrain. It would be more accurate than using radio waves, but we would need specialized equipment, a team, and a permit that is unlikely to be granted to us. According to Daniel, a similar method was tried back in the 1970s, but they found nothing. Our technology is better now, of course, but the fundamental principle remains the same,” Zara said, shifting uneasily. She had thought that a voice had been guiding her to this very spot, but ever since their arrival, it had grown quieter, as if the eternal calm of the Garden had silenced it. But she felt lighter here than back home.

“So, we’re back to square one,” Bree sighed, offering her hand to help Zara up.

“It seems so. Daniel has not come across anything new, either. We just need to keep working on the translation and hope Adam reveals more secrets,” Zara rubbed her eyes and brushed the dust off her trousers. The wind was picking up again, carrying desert sand, so she wrapped a silk scarf around her head, covering her nose and mouth. She looked out over the old city below and knew their journey was only just beginning. Bree simply nodded and reached for her phone.

“I will book a flight for tomorrow. Nothing will be flying in this weather anyway. We can have dinner, stay at the hotel, and be home by midday,” she said, trying to lift their spirits, although she knew they had been chasing shadows for months. Even after just a few days with them, she could tell. The thought kept creeping in... what was the actual purpose of this entire research? But she’d been in the army long enough to know not to ask too many questions. Only this wasn’t the army anymore.

Another migraine began to throb behind her eyes, the third one in recent days. They just needed to rest. Surely, that was something they all needed.