Klein forced himself to reveal the trademark crooked smile of the "Shepherd," the gold teeth sparkling in the sunlight.
"And may Allah bless you, Chief Hakeem."
He responded in a deliberately raspy voice, mimicking the tone of the arms dealer from the interrogation recording.
"The desert wind has finally blown us to the same oasis."
Hakeem suddenly asked in English, "How are the cherry blossoms in Washington this year?"
This was the first trap.
Klein's heart skipped a beat but he remained expressionless.
Song Heping's briefing mentioned that the real "Shepherd" did spend two weeks in Washington last spring.
"I prefer the oak trees in autumn."
Klein responded calmly, "Especially those behind the Lincoln Memorial."
Then he added, "I brought a gift from there, would you like to see it?"
This was the opening line of the rendezvous.
"Let's see what gift you have."
Hakeem said coldly.
Klein took out the dagger and raised his hands to show he meant no harm.
