A/N: This is kind of a requested story, and may be a little darker than the other Skimmons stories. The Love Song for Shu-Sin is a real thing, the oldest long song in history.

PART ONE: IN THE BEGINNING THERE WAS LOVE

Mesopotamia, 1500 BC, the small city of Qattara…

The city bustled with preparations; the annual celebration of King Hammau's birth was the largest celebration in the land and everyone came from miles around to participate in the joyous occasion. King Hammau was known as a good king, intelligent, cunning, and patient. King Hammau cared for his people, firm yet generous he had the reputation of "father" among the populace. Everyone loved him.

King Hammau trusted the security and safety of Qattara to two noble families, Tilmun and Hirin. And though both families pledged their allegiance to the King, they did not work with each other, instead they detested each other's very existence and continually fought with one another for the king's favor.

The Tilmun family was run with an iron fist by Alexander Pierce Tilmun, a devout man who was a patient and cunning leader, totally devoted to the gods to his king and to his family. Tilmun meant distinguished in their language and Alexander Pierce made sure everyone with his blood lived up to that name. The family and the army under their control were known as the right hand of Hammau.

The other family, Hirin, was run by John Garrett Hirin; he was a strong intelligent man, prone to answer with violence and fury when challenged. Hirin meant spiked shoots in their language, and every member of the clan were known to be just as deadly. Hirin was Hammau's enforcer, the one he called when he needed something or someone put down quickly. Hirin was totally devoted to his king first then his gods, his righteous fury was well known. Hirin and his army were known as the Kings left hand of justice.

Qattara enjoyed peace, yet, conflict constantly brewed just under the surface of the city. The Hirin and Tilmun families hated each other; both wanted what the other had both wanted to be the only family serving the king. And at least once a moon a skirmish between the two families would break out shattering the peace and forcing the King to rein in both families. The animosity between the two families had been going on for generations, for so long that the King Hammau declared upon taking the thrown that the two families were forbidden from interacting with one another forcing each family to take half of the city with an invisible boundary separating them. The king hoped by not allowing the families to mix it would prevent more fighting. The only time the King ever lifted that ban was for his annual birth celebration, the families were allowed to mix under the strict rule of no bloodshed upon penalty of death for both involved if broken.

And as the city prepared for the celebration, two young women from different sides of the city, each sat at their window high above the city to stare at the rising sun over Qattara.

One young woman from the south end of the city, an angelic brunette with a bright smile and deep brown eyes sighed heavily. The cool breeze pushed her long hair away from her eyes and she closed them breathing deeply. A melancholy fell over the girl; a sadness that had been growing inside was beginning to make its way to the surface. She lived a life of luxury; she wanted for nothing and spent her life reading the books in her father's great library and learning how to be a proper wife for whoever her father picked for her one day. She was surrounded by a dozen body servants that attended to her every need, yet, the girl felt totally alone. She was lonely and desperate for company, for intelligent stimulation and for love.

Thinking of love, made the girl wistful. She never knew the word, didn't know what it meant until she read: The Love Song for Shu-Sin. The girl had found the clay tablet hidden away in a desk, forgotten until she discovered it by accident. The poem spoke of great love and awoke something deep inside the girl she never knew was there. A hunger rose up, one that could not be quenched with food or drink, a hunger that plagued her dreams and cast a shadow over her days. The girl did not know what the hunger was, only knew that nothing satisfied it. And as the hunger grew, so did the girls desperation to see it sated. It was a unique torture she could not share with anyone. Today sitting at the window, the girl felt that hunger down in her bones, she sighed heavily her eyes fluttering closed as she prayed quietly to Ishtar for love to find her.

"Lady Skye it's time to get ready for the King's celebration."

Across the city, up in the north section of the city, sitting at the window over-looking the city sat a second girl, same age as the first and just as beautiful. Yet, this girl had thick curly light brown hair that hung in natural ringlets from the ribbon used to tie it back. This other girl had dark thick brows over deep intelligent piercing hazel eyes, skin the color of fresh milk and full strawberry lips with a smile that rivaled the suns light. This girl closed her eyes with a smile turning her face toward the late afternoon sun, enjoying the warmth on her face the girl inhaled deeply. Every lovely and pleasant scent emanating from the city teased the girl's senses.

To her the scents would forever remind her of her home, of this city and of her life up until this point. Lingering traces of saffron thyme cumin garlic anise and cardamom teased her senses. The kitchen's vents were nearby her window, she could smell the feast cooking drawing her hunger. The sound of the door opening and the soft patter of sandaled feet upon the smooth marble caught the girl's attention.

"Lady Jemma, it is time for supper. Your father is waiting for you to join him." The servant girl said quietly as she bowed respectfully to the young mistress of the house.

"Thank you Bobbi." The girl replied her eyes still on the brightly decorated city.

Behind Jemma, the servant girl known as Barbara or "Bobbi" to Jemma alone; watched the girl with eager bright eyes. The young woman had been sold to Alexander Pierce Tilmun at age seven to serve as Alexander Pierce's newborn daughter's personal servant. Barbara was raised to serve her mistress and she did, very well. Barbara was Lady Jemma's closest friend and confidant, the one person who was always with her to serve every whim, every need. And yet, as Barbara watched the girl grow into a beautiful young woman, so did grow Barbara's affection for her mistress.

And the affection for the young woman kept growing until Barbara was filled with intense longing for the young woman, a desire to get physically close as often as possible, to press her body close and kiss her mistress. These feelings though familiar and constant frightened Barbara who kept it as secret from everyone but the gods. Barbara knew she could never tell anyone how she truly felt about her mistress, as she knew she would never get to hold her mistress close as she dreamed. Not only was she just a lowly servant, Barbara saw the line of handsome rich suitors come calling to pay respects to Alexander Pierce Tilmun in hopes of winning his favor in marriage to his daughter, the most beautiful woman of Qattara.

So instead, everyday Barbara completely devoted herself to Jemma, showing the young woman in her own way all the love she felt for her inside. And her mistress never noticed.

"Bobbi will you grab my shawl for me, I feel a chill in the air." Jemma commented over her shoulder as she moved away from the window to check herself in the mirror. Barbara bowed nodding her head slightly as she moved to fetch the garment then place it upon Jemma's shoulders. Jemma nodded her appreciation as she continued for the door, Barbra dutifully followed close behind. Jemma lead the way to the dining hall only to be surprised when she noticed only her father seated at the table. With a look of confusion Jemma smiled at her father and bowed respectfully.

"Please daughter, sit and sup with me."

"Of course father. Are we dinning alone father? I thought mother and the rest of the family would be joining us before we join the celebration." Jemma replied taking a seat to the right of her father. He smiled kindly at her and nodded for her to take a sip of the wine already poured. She nodded taking up the gilded goblet sipping the rich wine, when she set the cup down her father began with a warm hand on hers.

"I wanted a moment alone with you daughter. Tonight will be your last evening as a girl; tomorrow we announce your official engagement to Lord Strucker. This is an exciting time daughter this marriage will secure our power in Qattara. Lord Strucker supplies the city with grain and cattle, besides King Hammau he is the most powerful man in these lands. And with this marriage Lord Strucker will officially be on our family's side, I hope in the next few moons we can finally push out the Hirin's and Qattara will finally be ours. My true hope is to marry one of your children to King Hammau or to the first prince, Hamaunara and tie our families to the kings securing our status with the gods."

Jemma couldn't suppress the frown; Alexander Pierce mirrored her frown asking. "What has darkened your mood daughter? This is a joyous day."

"I know father and I am trying to be joyful. Lord Strucker is as old as you father, you know him well. Are you sure this is a good match for me?"

"Is there another man you're interested in?"

"Of course not father. I am curious about the man you chose to be my husband and would like to know what sort of man he is. I would like to be the best wife possible; can you help me with that father?" Jemma was quick to reply, she could not tell her father her true feelings. Her existence was to please him, she would do everything he asked of her even if it meant being miserable the rest of her life. Jemma forced herself to smile.

"That is good to hear daughter. Allow me to tell you about the man that I've chosen to be your husband."

Jemma sat listening with a fake smile frozen in place; a heavy feeling filled her heart weighing her down. She felt like she was going to wither away and die.

OoOoOoOoOoOoOoOo

As the sun slowly set the city of Qattara came alive with light, and both noble families, Tilmun and Hirin ventured out for the festival. Both families were expected at dusk to participate in the special ceremony in honor of the king in the center of the city, an open courtyard known as Hammau square. Both families took the main route to the square accompanied by large numbers of personal guards. Upon arrival at the square both families were greeted by numerous well-armed soldiers of the king as well as standing forces of their own. The square had been divided down the center, Tilmun on the right Hirin on the left.

The procession of the Hirin family arrived to take their place first. The beautiful brunette, Lady Skye was first daughter of Lord Hirin, watched the swelling crowd through her sheer veil. Like all Ladies and noble women of Qattara, she wore a sheer veil over her face to hide her beauty from the common folk. This day she wore a light blue dress the color of the early morning sky, her shawl was white with gold trim, the veil a sheer silver material that glimmered and sparkled in the low light. And from her position at the front of the procession, she had a clear view of everyone there.

An intense boredom filled her, a feeling of emptiness of floating on an ocean welled up in the young woman; she needed something to occupy her focus so that the dozens of eyes watching her didn't feel so intrusive. And this time the goddess Ishtar heard her prayers, and the young woman's eyes were drawn to the Tilmun family's entrance into the square.

"Lady Skye, are you enjoying yourself this evening?" A familiar masculine voice inquired.

"As much as to be expected Lord Sitwell." Lady Skye replied without turning around.

Lord Sitwell was her main suitor; he was also her father's left hand man and was older than her father by three years. He was bald, short, and had a well-known violent temper. She had heard many stories of the women he courted getting beaten for no reason. It was well known enough, that when Lord Sitwell formally began courting Lady Skye, he told her publicly that he would never strike her out of anger. He made Lady Skye physically ill yet she hid it well.

"I look forward to escorting through the festival this evening." Lord Sitwell commented his eyes looking her up and down. Even covered head to toe, Lady Skye still felt his eyes upon her skin and it made her nauseous; all she could muster in response was a simple sharp head nod.

Turning her eyes back to the incoming Tilmun family, Lady Skye's gaze swept over those in view and suddenly stopped upon a woman in a yellow gown, her face covered by a gold and silver veil. The woman was being escorted by a man known as Lord Strucker. From overheard whispers among her guards, Lady Skye knew the woman in the yellow gown was Alexander Pierce Tilmun's oldest daughter, Lady Jemma. The gossip among the guards was that Tilmun's daughter was very beautiful. Lady Skye wondered how beautiful.

Lady Skye's attention wandered as everyone moved into place and the ceremony began. All eyes were on the king as a procession of costumed dancers, musicians, acrobats and priests made their way down the main road into the courtyard. In the middle of the group of priests was a herd of ninety nine oxen, each one set to be sacrificed in honor of the gods, in honor of the king. The herd was ushered toward the front then lined up several at a time to be slaughtered in sacrifice by priest in costume, each one designed to look like one of their gods. Lady Skye smiled as she recognized each one.

The King stepped forward flanked by Tilmun and Hirin with the King giving the signal to begin the official sacrifices. All seven of the oxen were slaughtered at once and as the priests went through the process of removing the heart of each massive beast to present the large organ with a bow before slipping it into the brass cauldron set up in the center causing the flames to momentarily grow bigger. And as this was done, other priests stepped forward to remove the massive carcass so the next one could be lead forward.

Lady Skye's eyes drifted from the sacrifice after the second set of oxen were slaughtered. Her gaze scanned the crowd landing on Lady Jemma and remained on Lady Jemma. Curiosity blossomed inside her and desire to see what Lady Jemma looked like filled her making her eager to move. A motion out of the corner of her eyes caught her attention and she looked over to see an odd thing.

A man dressed in dark colors, his face covered by a hood and mask pushed his way toward the front of the crowd to stand just behind the soldier keeping the courtyard clear. Then Lady Skye noticed several other similarly dressed masked men take position behind the Kings men. A heavy feeling of dread tickled the back of her mind making her stomach twist into tight painful knots, she could feel something bad was about to happen. She wanted to raise alarm yet didn't know what the danger was.

Suddenly the masked men in dark clothes attacked the Kings men in a coordinated attack slitting each soldier's throat quickly. In a single heartbeat the courtyard erupted into chaos as it was filled with armed masked men slaughtering the confused soldiers where they stood, most before they could draw their swords. The push of masked men came in all directions, they seemed to be everywhere and everyone panicked.

The King was rushed off by his personal guard. Alexander Pierce Tilmun and John Garrett Hirin acted quickly ordering their own people to fight back. Both men and the men from each family focused on killing as many masked men as they could. The personal guards of each clan's family acted without hesitation to pull their charges away from the chaos and back to their homes for safety; however in the moving mass of the confused crowd both Lady Jemma and Lady Skye were separated from their guards and were quickly swallowed by the mass of the panicked crowd.

Both Lady Jemma and Lady Skye screamed for their guards however no aid came, and they were pushed to the fringe of the courtyard. Lady Skye was pushed back by a group of men struggling over a sword, frightened she pushed back and fled taking the first open path presented to her. In a frantic flight from the chaos Lady Skye took a narrow winding alleyway and when she reached the other end she realized she didn't know where she was. Her guards had always kept her to the main streets, to the wide open spaces and now she found herself in the slums of Qattara with no idea how to get home.

OoOoOoOoOoOoOoOo

In the courtyard Lady Jemma was having a similar experience. The violent mass of men battling to the death pushed Lady Jemma to the fringe; however, instead of getting pinned she fled right taking off down an alley. In her panicked flight, her thin cloak and veil were torn off and she barely noticed as her entire focus was on getting away from the fighting.

Lady Jemma knew the basic layout of the city from studying maps of Qattara and used that knowledge to navigate the winding alleyway and down three streets to get far away from the chaos. When she paused to catch her breath she noticed a pair of bright gray eyes watching her from the darkened doorway hidden in the wall. It was a young man her age; he had a sweet gentle face and a kindness in his eyes which was unusual for a man. Jemma was drawn to him right away, he was so familiar yet she could not place from where. She locked eyes with him and stepped forward toward him. His eyes widened at her approach yet he remained silent.

"Hello? Can you help me? I'm lost. I was separated from my guards in the courtyard. I'm not sure how to get home from here."

The man said nothing, his gaze darted past her up and down the alleyway then he huffed through his nose and pressed his lips together in grim resolution. With a sharp nod of his head he told her. "Come inside Lady Jemma, before anyone else sees you. It's too dangerous for you to be alone on the streets."

The man stepped back opening the door behind him, Lady Jemma paused eyes wide surprised this man knew who she was and for the briefest moment she questioned what his motives were, if maybe she was walking into more danger than what waited for her on the streets. However loud shouting from a group of men getting closer pushed Lady Jemma into action. She entered the young man's home and he shut the door behind her.

The interior was dark; it took her eyes a moment to adjust to the dim light from the small fireplace along the far wall. The man slipped the wood lock in place then moved to the fireplace to stoke the fire bringing needed illumination to the inside of his home. Lady Jemma stood frozen in place trying to take it all in at once while she watched the man move about his home. He pulled out a chair and set out a clay pitcher and cup, they were both simply made yet she was grateful for the clean clear water that he poured for her.

"Please Lady Jemma, sit, drink. I don't have much but what I have I will share."

Sipping from the clay cup she smiled the cool water soothing her throat. "You're very kind sir. May I inquire? How do you know of me?"

"My father was a gardener in your father's house for many years. When I was boy I used to help him."

"Fitz?" Lady's Jemma's eyes lit up in recognition.

"You remember me Lady Jemma?" Fitz replied with a shy smile.

"Of course I remember you Fitz. You were my best friend as a child. I was so sad when you stopped coming to the garden."

"I was too. When father couldn't work anymore I took a job."

"Really? What do you do?"

"I work in the ovens at the beer house. It's good work; the beer house supplies the whole city."

"And your father?" Lady Jemma asked gently and Fitz's face twisted briefly with grief. "Father passed last winter."

"I'm sorry Fitz."

"Father was comfortable and happy. Plus your father paid for my father's funeral, it was quite nice. All I could ask for."

"Thank you Fitz for giving me shelter; I don't know what happened earlier or where those men came from. The fighting broke out so quickly, they were everywhere."

"Yes, I was there as was the entire city. Its best we stay indoors until the king can gain control of the streets again. You're lucky to have escaped Lady Jemma; it's not safe to be unescorted right now."

Lady Jemma noticed a change in tone as Fits spoke and she narrowed her eyes a little. "Fitz, is there something you want to tell me?"

Fitz frowned and stood up pacing the small space then sat down again, he leaned in and spoke softly. "There has been talk of Lord Hirin bringing in a warlord for extra muscle. I thought that's who those men were only they were cutting down Lord Hirin's men as much as they were Lord Tilmun's."

"I thought the peace was being kept? I thought things were improving between the families?" Jemma was confused and it showed. Fitz frowned again shrugging as he replied. "No, it's slowly gotten worse. It's tense out there, really tense. I try to stay out of it but working at the beer house I hear everything. A fight between the houses is inevitable."

"My father will never allow that, he's too smart for that. He will outwit Lord Hirin and show the king he should be the only Lord of the city." Lady Jemma insisted and Fitz's frown grew.

Lady Jemma's mind drifted as she became lost in her own despair of being separated from all that she knew. In the silence sudden shouting from outside startled them both, the fear rolling through her forced Lady Jemma to her feet. Fitz followed quickly offering, "I have a room upstairs where you can lay down for a bit. You're safe here Lady Jemma. When it calms outside I will escort you home."

"You are my savior Fitz."

"I am forever your friend Lady Jemma."

Lady Jemma was filled with affection for Fitz in that moment; she broke protocol for the first time of her life and reached out hugging Fitz with both arms. Fitz froze in shock allowing her to hug him for a long moment his heart beating fast. Lady Jemma let him go and he showed her the room upstairs, it was small but comfortable with a shuttered window facing the inside of the tiny square created by four five alleyways meeting in a point. Fitz showed her around the simple room, lit the large candle on the small table then quickly left her to return downstairs.

Lady Jemma collapsed on the bed and burst into tears. She sobbed quietly for a long moment until more angry male shouting was heard through the thick wood of the shutters. It was loud and sounded nearby then it grew soft as the men moved on. The commotion happened again and again and again until Lady Jemma's curiosity got the better of her. She dried her face and got up from the bed stepping hesitantly toward the window. The shouting of men rushing up and down the alleyways continued drawing Lady Jemma to the shutters giving her the courage to push them open and peak outside.

Three of the alleyways were full of angry armed men heading out for more fighting and to Lady Jemma's surprise that was all the traffic for a long moment. And after waiting for more people to appear and none showing up Lady Jemma grew bored; about to give up when a quick flash of silver rushing toward her caught her attention. She pushed the shutters open a little more to see a woman wearing a silver veil rushing toward the tiny square. In the distance Lady Jemma could see more men heading down the alley.

"Oh no! That's Lady Skye, she's in trouble. She's in trouble! Ishtar, give me strength." Lady Jemma whispered then rushed out of the room and back downstairs startling Fitz. She grabbed him pulling Fitz to his feet as she begged him for help. "We need to rescue her Fitz, hurry! Hurry!"

"Wait? What? Okay."

Fitz opened the door and Lady Jemma rushed out into the alleyway heading toward the square, Fitz stood at the open door with a confused expression. Lady Jemma reached Lady Skye in one long heart pounding moment of rushed steps. Grabbing hold of Lady Skye's arm Jemma shouted, "Come with me quickly!"

Lady Skye didn't resist, she allowed Lady Jemma to pull her down the alleyway to Fitz's home and through the open door. The moment both women were inside Fitz shut the door and slipped the large wood lock in place. Lady Jemma was panting from the sudden excursion and still holding onto Lady Skye's arm, in a flash of realization she abruptly let go and took a step away giving the still veiled young woman some room.

"Thank you stranger. I thought I was going to meet Ereshkigal before the new day." Lady Skye replied breathing heavily and looking around from under her veil.

"The goddess of death is too busy to claim us this night." Lady Jemma replied as out of breath as the other woman. In a flash Lady Jemma realized her disheveled state and became slightly embarrassed about it. Patting down her loose hair, drying the perspiration from her brow she apologized to Lady Skye. "Do forgive my appearance. I found myself in the same dire predicament as you and lost my veil in my flight away from the chaos."

"Nothing to forgive, you're an image of Ishtar herself." Lady Skye replied as she reached up and removed her veil revealing long thick shinny hair the color of dark cinnamon.

Lady Skye looked up catching Lady Jemma's gaze and their eyes locked. Lady Jemma felt a jolt of lightening run through her from her toes up to top of her head; she gasped exclaiming in a disbelieving whisper. "By the gods the rumors were true."

Fitz paid the two women no attention, the crowd outside was gathering; each man well-armed and on a mission searching for someone. Fitz watched through a crack in the shuttered window with a worried expression.

Lady Jemma and Lady Skye continued to stare silently at each another with a matching expression of surprise. Fitz frowned deeper as he turned back to his guest announcing. "I think those Tilmun men are looking for you Lady Jemma but they don't seem to be on a peaceful errand."

"Lady Jemma? Lady Jemma Tilmun?" The beautiful brunette asked starting hard into Jemma's eyes until Jemma shifted her gaze to Fitz.

"Father would have never sent his men; he would only send my personal guard. If my father's men are searching for someone, it's most likely Lady Skye or Hirin men."

"You're Lady Skye Hirin?" Fitz asked his eyes growing wide and the beautiful brunette grew sad as she silently nodded yes.

Lady Jemma was filled with empathy and wanted to reach out to the other woman. Instead Lady Skye sighed then looked up and asked with great courage, "Are you going to turn me over to your father's men Lady Jemma?"

"No. No. I won't. And neither will Fitz. You're safe here." Lady Jemma announced and Fitz's eyes went even wider than before and he was pale, very pale. Lady Jemma ignored it to focus on the woman standing in front of her. The relief in Lady's Skye's face was obvious.

"Lady Jemma, why don't you take Lady Skye back upstairs with you to rest? I will keep watch on the alleys from down here." Fitz suggested with a firm look and Lady Jemma nodded in agreement.

"Lady Skye will you join me?" Lady Jemma asked reaching out to Lady Skye offering the other woman her hand. Lady Skye's eyes went a little wide with surprise but it quickly vanished to be replaced by a bright happy smile that reached her eyes. Taking the offered hand Lady Skye confessed, "This is the first time I've ever been asked that question and feel free to answer it honestly. Yes I will join you. However before we go, may I inquire who your friend is?"

"Oh, please excuse my poor manners; I seem to have lost myself today. Lady Skye this is Fitz an old childhood friend of mine. He saved me this day too."

"It's an honor to meet you Fitz, today you and Lady Jemma are my hero's."

"You should save all your praise for Lady Jemma, it was all her doing. I only held the door open." Fitz shyly protested.

"To your home and I am very grateful for your hospitality and the sanctuary you've provided." Lady Skye added as she reached out taking Lady Jemma's offered hand.

Both women paused and looked down at their clasped hands in shock then back up at each other. Neither spoke a word yet both wanted to, Lady Jemma glanced at Fitz then turned heading for the stairs pulling Lady Skye with her. Hand in hand they went upstairs to Fitz's room going inside and shutting the door. Lady Jemma kept hold of Lady Skye's hand leading the other woman to the small bed. With a heavy sign Lady Skye sat first gently pulling Lady Jemma with her, and still they continued to hold hands.

The candle on the small table next to the wall gave off soft yellow light that made tiny shadows on the wall dance with each flick of the flame drawing both women's gaze. The mutual silence felt oddly comfortable and without realizing it Lady Jemma leaned into Lady Skye. Then to both of their surprise Lady Skye released Lady Jemma's hand to wrap her right arm around Lady Jemma holding her close, then Lady Skye reclaimed Lady Jemma's hand with her free hand. Neither spoke a word, they sat in comfortable silence for a long time.

Both women quietly reflected on the day's events, both were privately stunned by what transpired and by where they ended up. And yet, both women felt such comfort from the others presence and physical closeness; they both felt blessed by Ishtar for having this intimate moment. There was something about being close to the stranger beside them that felt as if something deep inside was sliding into place, making both feel, oddly, whole.

The longer the moment stretched out the more both women became hyper aware of the other, and where their bodies pressed together began to tingle. Lady Skye let go of Lady Jemma's hand and using her fingertips began tracing invisible patters over the palm of Lady Jemma's hand causing a fast hard tingle to run up Lady Jemma's spine. In heavy silence Lady Skye continued to trace tingling patterns over Lady Jemma's sensitive palm then up the inside of Lady Jemma's forearm. Lady Jemma's heart began speeding up as Lady Skye moved her patterns up while leaning in a bit more. In a moment they were so close they could feel the heat of each other's breath. All Lady Jemma could hear was her own heartbeat loud in her ears, all she could feel was the pull of the other woman, all she could think of was how soft and inviting Lady Skye's lips looked.

Lady Skye was conflicted. There was something special about this woman next to her; something different, inviting, intoxicating and alluring. She felt pulled toward the other woman, and when she caught whiff of the other woman's rose water perfume Lady Skye's mind filled with strange new thoughts, thoughts of kissing Lady Jemma's plump pink lips. Lady Skye was overwhelmed by rising desire that clouded her mind and pushed her closer, her gaze wandered from their hands up to Lady's Jemma's face and became stuck on those full inviting pink lips.

The crack of thunder and the rumble of a storm startled both women breaking the moment and replacing the space between them. The abrupt roar of heavy rain filled the air as both women smiled laughing nervously.

"Ishkur sounds determined this night." Lady Jemma joked with a nervous smile, her eyes darting all over the room, anywhere but on her companion.

"Lord Ishkur sounds as if he's trying to drown the whole city with his storm." Lady Skye added with an amused smirk, her eyes quietly drinking in the sight of Lady Jemma in the soft candle light.

They caught each other's gaze and both smiled in reflex before dissolving into light laughter at the growing tension in the room. Lady Skye shook her head as if trying to dispel her thoughts before turning her full attention upon Lady Jemma with a confident smile teasing the corners of her mouth. "I feel as if I should make special prayers and offerings to Lord Ishkur this season."

"Really? Isn't your family dedicated to Lord Ninurta? I wonder if the god of warriors would be offended to be passed over for the god of Storm's." Lady Jemma asked genuinely curious. She had never spoken to anyone from the Hirin clan, this was a once in a lifetime opportunity that she would not pass up.

"Of course someone who worshiped Lord Nabu would ask that. I've heard you are the only one in your family who actually demonstrates all that the god of writing and wisdom embodies. To answer your question my father worships Lord Ninurta, I chose when I am able, to worship the great Goddess Ishtar." Lady Skye admitted with a casual shrug of her shoulders despite the small fact both women knew if the wrong person overheard such a statement a punishment of ten lashes with a rod would await them both.

"I'm honored you would confess such an intimate thing to me. And in return allow me to add my own confession. I too prefer to worship the great Goddess Ishtar. It is the goddess I pray to every new day. This is a joyous evening Lady Hirin, I never thought I would meet another who dared to worship who they wished."

"Please call me Skye."

"Only if you do me the honor of calling me Jemma."

"It's wonderful to meet you Jemma."

"It's lovely to meet you too Skye. I never thought I would though I have heard about you. Everyone has, they all speak of your great beauty which I'm delighted to learn was not an exaggeration."

"You think me beautiful?" Skye asked a slight tremor in her voice, her eyes gave away her genuine surprise.

"Has no one ever told you?" Jemma asked completely delighted and fascinated by the other woman in a way that was brand new and so exciting.

"Lady Jemma, forgive me if I offend you but I must confess; I find your beauty mesmerizing. I too, have heard of your beauty, many whisper of it and I have always been curious. To see that all the gossip was true is so surprising I'm having difficulty putting it into words."

"No one has ever spoken so eloquently about me. Usually they use terms that could easily describe one of my father's many oxen." Jemma commented getting Skye to laugh.

"No one with eyes could ever confuse you with such beasts. The great Goddess Ishtar has blessed you Jemma."

"As she has blessed you as well Skye, I think we are in agreement."

"This will be improper of me Jemma, please forgive my forwardness. However, I must know more about you. How old are you? Has your father put you through bridal training? What is it like in your house? How many siblings do you have? What do you like to do when you have time to yourself? What are your favorite things?" Skye rambled until she caught herself and fell silent biting down on her lips in embarrassment.

Jemma laughed and began answering all of Skye's questions. They soon learned they had much in common. Both women were the same age of sixteen, educated by private tutors from the same school, they had the same number of siblings and were both being courted by dozens of suitors though both women were certain their fathers had already chosen their husbands. And to their collective delight, both were dreading getting married. Jemma and Skye's conversation moved to more detailed things such as favorite food and favorite color allowing both girls to enjoy the moment and their youth. Soon they would be married women, expected to bear children and run a household, such silly discussions would become forbidden.

"Favorite food?" Skye asked looking Jemma in the eyes with calm intensity that made Jemma giggle with delight.

"Honey butter made from goats milk and barley bread. Simple I know."

"Simple and yet delicious. Honey butter can make any bread taste as if it was touched by the gods." Skye commented with a big happy smile drawing out a similar smile from Jemma.

"So Skye, you're turn which food is your favorite?"

"Honey covered dates. I would eat as many as put in front of me." Skye replied and Jemma nodded appreciatively licking her lips at the thought of the sweet treat.

"And what color?" Jemma inquired looking her companion over taking note of the light blue dress Skye wore.

"It's a type of green."

"A type of green?" Jemma asked obviously confused and Skye answered by reaching into her dress to pull out a necklace of gold with a pendant of polished stone.

"This color." Skye stated offering the stone to show her companion.

Jemma reached out immediately admiring the delicate craftsmanship of the gold chain before lifting the bright green stone up higher so she could look closer. The stone was several shades of green instantly reminding her of the sea on a clear day, it was incredibly beautiful.

"Where did you get such a beautiful stone? I have never seen anything like it."

"Father brought in a large shipment of it from the east. Big basketful's that they ground down into a powder to make dye for the Queen's clothing. This was the only piece that was saved."

"I've never seen a green so deep, and the shades how they change; it's rather like a ripple of color in still waters. It's beautiful and matches you wonderfully."

"Thank you Jemma, that's very kind. So, tell me, what is your favorite color?" Skye asked slipping the pendant back under her dress.

"I love the color of a rising sun in a clear sky. It's hard to describe yet I find it very beautiful. That particular shade of deep golden yellow outshines even the gold we both wear. It's warm and soothing yet promises so much."

"Do you watch the sunrise often?"

"When I am able to sneak away past my guards to the roof of my home; I'm lucky my body servant Bobbi wakes me and helps me get past the guards. I think she is my only real friend. Is that weird? That a body servant is the closest thing I have to a friend?"

"No, not at all; at least you have one person you can call friend. I have none. My body servant is ancient, deaf and mostly blind all my servants are old and weathered. Father doesn't trust anyone with me. I'm surprised he's not knocking down people's doors looking for me."

The hard tone Skye's voice took on alarmed Jemma; boldly she looked her new friend in the eyes asking gently. "You must have been so lonely Skye. How did you manage to survive?"

"Prayer's to Ishtar."

Jemma gave Skye a brave smile reaching out for the other girls hand to hold it pressed against her heart. Skye could feel the strong beat of Jemma's heart and it made her own beat faster. Skye managed a weak yet brilliant smile that caused Jemma to raise Skye's hand to her lips and lightly kiss the back of Skye's hand. Skye blushed and felt a tingle run up her spine.

Skye and Jemma talked until dawn moving closer, lying down on the bed pressed close staring deep into each other's eyes. They lost track of time, lost track of the world outside that room to drink in each other's company. Smiles of wonder and happiness remained as they confessed intimate things to each other. And with every secret shared, every new thing they found they had in common the trappings of their families, the identity of belonging to a clan, the identity of being dutiful, and obedient fell away allowing their true selves to be revealed.

In each other they found someone who could see all the way inside, all the way to their soul. They drew closer with their foreheads pressed together, each breathing the other woman's breath, both feeling the magnetic pull and both ready to give in. Skye smiled and leaned in pressing her lips to Jemma's, their hearts swelled with love and nothing would ever be the same again.

Skye and Jemma kissed pressing even closer and in a fumbling innocent way, they made love. All clothes were shed as they entwined their bodies in gently intense sex, and each time they rested, they whispered words of love to each other.

OoOoOoOoOoOoOoOo

The sun rose bringing a new day to Qattara. And as it traveled its usual path across the sky the city of Qattara went about its usual business. Fitz remained downstairs tending to his home and waiting for the right moment to sneak the women out and to their respective homes. He was expected at work but that would have to wait. All while Skye and Jemma remained wrapped up in each other, in that moment nothing existed but them. They needed no sustenance except for each other. Fitz lived in a busy section of the city the constant foot traffic around his home provided a comforting background din to the girls' day. A little before dusk Fitz slipped on his cloak and went out for supplies to make dinner, he did not notice the hooded figure in the shadows watching him, following him on his way.

When the sun began to set the comforting din that had gone on all through the day quickly fell quiet. Having just finished making love both women were wrapped around each other half asleep blissfully happy when a loud commotion downstairs jolted them both awake. The muffled cacophony of men shouting filled the girls with instant overwhelming dread. The shouting was accompanied by heavy footsteps up the wood stairs and in their half asleep panic they moved to reach for their clothing when the door was kicked in.

Several guards from both the House Hirin and House Tilmun burst in flooding the room startling both women making them scream. They desperately tried to hide their nakedness only the shocked wide eyed mouth open expression of the soldiers told them it was too late. Lord Sitwell pushed his way in angrily shouting for the soldiers to make way. When Sitwell made it past the wall of shocked men his eyes went wide with shock then instantly twisted into a look of utter disgust. With a snarl he ordered both women covered then bound.

Terrified to the brink of insanity both women looked to each other, they knew this was the worst thing that could have possibly happened. It was the end of them together and maybe the end of their life as they knew it.

The guards were obviously embarrassed by the women's nudeness and were unsure about forcibly dressing the women, years of firm orders to never touch their charges kept them in place and kept their eyes on the floor. Lord Sitwell's anger bubbled over and he snarled at the women. "Get dressed or I'll drag you into the street like this for all of the Qattara to see!"

Only showing fear through their eyes and keeping silent both women quickly dressed themselves. The guards finally stepped forward with iron manacles shackling both women's wrists together. Both women held their chins up as they were lead downstairs, showing such bravery it surprised most of the guards watching. However when they reached the bottom of the stairs both women spotted Fitz who was slumped over and being held up by two large guards. Fitz's face was several shades of purple, his eyes swollen shut, blood drying on his lips and chin as well as burn marks on his exposed arms, his hands broken and twisted. It was obvious they had horribly beaten and tortured Fitz. Tears welled up in Jemma's eyes and silently spilled over as they were taken out of the home.

Both women were forced inside a covered wagon. Skye was forced to sit opposite Jemma, she turned to the guard closest, a man that had been guarding her for four years, and asked him. "Where are you taking us?"

Lord Sitwell's face twisted into rage and his hand shot out slapping Skye across the face so hard it rattled her teeth. Blood immediately began trickling from her nose and Jemma glared at Lord Sitwell with such venom that Lord Sitwell blinked and stepped away. Jemma felt a moment of satisfaction at the man's reaction, it was short lived. A moment later, Lord Sitwell ordered hoods to be placed over both women's heads.

"You don't get to ask any questions. You've both acted shamefully, dishonoring your father and your family. And you infecting the woman I was going to marry with your twisted abomination of behavior. I feel sick just looking at you." Lord Sitwell sneered with disgust at them. They were forbidden to speak as they were taken, somewhere.

Terrified down to her bones, Jemma searched her mind for a way out of this debacle. She began to sweat profusely under the hood, the stress of the situation kept her heart racing and her stomach in knots. She was so afraid of what her father would say. So afraid of what her father would do. In that moment of panic Jemma decided to lie to try to save herself and to save Skye. What confused her more than anything else was why Hirin and Tilmun guards were working together. So many questions circled her mind, how did they know to grab Fitz? How did they find out they were together? Who was really behind this? Her father or Skye's father?

They rode in the covered cart for a long time, so long Jemma lost track of time. She could hear Skye softly crying and each sob from the beautiful woman was a stab to Jemma's heart. The cart came to an abrupt halt and both women were dragged from the covered cart and forced to walk. The sand underfoot gave way to slippery stone that was cold against their bare feet.

The echo of footsteps against stone suggested they were at the palace or one of the temples, this meant very bad things and it increased Jemma's terror until she was partially frozen with fear. Suddenly they were forced to stop then were brutally shoved to the floor forced to kneel. Both women cried out when their knees hit the hard stone but those cries of pain were abruptly silenced when their hoods were pulled off and they both realized in the same instant they were in the King's court, they had been brought in for judgment. Judgment meant death. Silently in shock both Skye and Jemma began crying.

The court of King Hammau was usually filled with dozens of nobles, and rich merchants eager to earn the kings favor by showing great interest in the affairs of the city. However, this evening the great hall was empty save for five dour looking men. King Hammau was flanked by Lord Hirin and Lord Tilmun with Lord Strucker and Lord Sitwell on each end. Each man wore a hard disgusted expression. For the first time in Jemma's and Skye's life they saw no affection or warmth in their fathers faces, instead what they found was judgment, disappointment and disgust.

With tears filling their eyes, they silently cried lips trembling staring at their fathers with hope only to have them dash a moment later when the king finally spoke. "Your fathers have brought a very serious accusation to me regarding both of your behavior. So I will inquire into this matter only once. Answer truthfully or anger the gods. Nod if you understand."

The girls nodded in unison.

"You two were found without your proper attire in the same bed with signs of copulation present. Which man or men were with you?"

Both women looked at him confused, the king ordered Skye to speak in a menacing voice. "Tell me Lady Skye, which man did you lie with? Was it the peasant whose home we found you in?"

Skye's voice trembled in fear. "That man who gave us shelter saved us from being harmed in the streets when those men attacked. There was no man your highness."

The king's face twisted into confusion and Lord Sitwell sneered at them hard. Lord Strucker looked ill while Lord Hirin and Lord Tilmun's expression were hard as stone.

"Tell me the nature of your…association with Lady Jemma." The King pushed and Skye began to cry, tears streamed down her face as she answered. "I'm in love with Lady Jemma."

"What does that mean?" The king inquired his look of confusion grew.

"I don't want to marry Lord Sitwell. I want to be with Jemma." Skye whispered terrified.

Jemma watched with wide eyes as tears streamed down her face, she couldn't believe Skye had told the king the truth. Jemma knew this was the end.

"By the Gods daughter, do you know what you are saying?" Lord Hirin asked distraught.

"The Goddess Ishtar has blessed us father. My heart and soul belong to Jemma. I did not want to dishonor you; I did not mean to shame our family. I am sorry father." Skye said directly to her father who looked green and very ill.

"Is this true daughter? Have you lain with this deviant as would a wife would a husband?" Lord Tilmun demanded of his daughter. Lips trembling Jemma looked her father in the eyes and stated. "Yes father. It is true. I love Skye as a wife would love her husband."

All five men acted stricken momentarily turning away in disgust, and when the king faced them again his face was twisted in anger. He proclaimed judgement on them both. "Your tryst is an abomination upon my kingdom, a burden upon your families and a wrong I have been appointed to rectify. I sentence you to be stricken from your family's official records, stricken from all royal records and to suffer the god's wrath until death claims you. Then your bones will be scattered across the desert."

"I was going to marry you. Make you a wife and mother. Jemma how could you do this to me?" Lord Strucker asked looking at Jemma as if she were the lowest trash on earth. Jemma didn't answer, she turned her eyes to the floor letting her tears stream into a pool on the marble. Then her father stepped toward her and her gaze shifted back up as he proclaimed. "I thought I knew you daughter. How could you betray the family like this? How could you betray me like this? I don't know what demon has taken over you. I have no daughter now." Lord Tilmun declared with tears in his eyes.

"Father, please! Don't do this!" Jemma begged sobbing.

"I don't know what I'm going to tell your mother." Lord Tilmun replied turning away.

"I will be there be there to watch you both die." Lord Sitwell declared spitting on Skye as he walked past.

"What have I done to offend the gods to have them punish me like this?" Lord Hirin whispered with tears in his eyes, he walked away shaking his head.

The King's guards took Skye and Jemma to different isolated cells for a few hours leaving both women to quietly contemplate how they ended up in a cell awaiting death. Before they could wrap their minds around their sentence the guards came back slipping hoods over their heads and escorting them out of the palace and put in a cart to be escorted to the execution site. Both women could feel the cool of the early morning through their clothing. They were desperate to speak to one another but didn't know they were sitting across from each other in the cart.

When they reached the execution site, Jemma was taken off the cart first. Her clothing was torn from her body until rags barely covered her, the hood was taken off and she was forced to get into a large iron cage. When the top of the cage was shut it forced Jemma to sit down. The sun was just coming over the horizon for another clear hot day. Jemma had finally stopped crying in the cell at the palace, she managed to hold it together as she was striped and as she was forced to get into a cage, however, a moment later a rider on a horse came into view and she saw that it was her father and burst into tears. Before Jemma could speak to her father, he took off on his horse out of view.

Jemma spotted the city and realized where she was, on the outskirts of Qattara at the edge of the desert known as death's passage. Jemma had heard whisperings of many executions taking place here. This was the place the dammed were executed. Looking around Jemma realized not only was her father there, so was Lord Hirin, Lord Strucker, Lord Sitwell and a dozen of the kings guard which stood guard around the cart. The guards moved to the cart and pulled a hooded Skye out and lead her toward the cage. Guards stopped and held Skye next to the cage. Jemma's eyes grew wide as the cloudless sky with fear she pushed close gripping the bars of the cage with each hand.

Lord Sitwell glared hard at Jemma as he tore off most of Skye's clothing turning it to rags as they had Jemma's dress. Jemma was desperate to cry out, to try to stop them yet was too afraid that they'd do more harm to Skye. And when Skye's dress was nothing more than rags Lord Sitwell pulled off Skye's hood. Skye had been crying under the heavy cloth and looked terrified.

Skye spotted Jemma in the cage and their eyes locked and stayed locked.

Lord Sitwell turned to Lord Hirin, "My Lord the girl is ready."

Lord Hirin trotted up to his daughter, looked down on her with a sad expression. "My last kindness as your father in this life will to make your death quick. May you find peace in the afterlife."

Lord Hirin nodded to Lord Sitwell and the bald man pulled his dagger out and cut Skye's throat.

"NOOOOOOOOOO!" Jemma screamed trying with all her might to pull the bars open to reach Skye. Jemma screamed the word "No" again and again and again.

Lord Sitwell ignored Jemma and held Skye's body as she bled out. Jemma kept Skye's gaze shouting at Skye "I love you. We will see each other again. We will. This is not the end. I love you Skye. I love you." Jemma saw the life drain from Skye's eyes and she was gone.

When Skye went limp in his hands Lord Sitwell picked up Skye's body and the guards opened the cage. Lord Sitwell shoved Skye's body into the cage with Jemma and locked it with a heavy pin. He then turned to Jemma giving her a smug look of disgust. "You will die from the desert and will be forced to watch that whore's body rot. Enjoy the time while you have it."

Jemma silently sobbed and Lord Sitwell laughed. "Nothing to say deviant? Humph I thought you'd say something."

Jemma looked up meeting his eyes with pure hatred and said with deadly seriousness. "I will return to take my vengeance tiny man. This is not the end."

"For you, it is." Lord Sitwell sneered and turned his back on her to climb onto his horse. With it done all the men on horseback turned their steeds around and trotted away with the kings guards following close behind. No one stayed behind to guard the cage. Jemma didn't watch them leave her eyes were glued to Skye. Reaching out to Skye's still warm body Jemma pulled Skye close holding her and sobbed even harder. Jemma was wracked with grief, her mind twisting until it shattered. Loosing Skye was too much, she could not go on. Jemma cried holding Skye all day she could not let her go.

OoOoOoOoOoOoOoOo

The sun traveled across the sky for a long scalding hot day. Jemma did not notice how thirsty she was or how hungry, her grief made her numb to everything but Skye in her arms. The grief even blinded her to what the sun was doing to Skye's body. The grief made Jemma want to join Skye as quickly as possible. Jemma begged Ishtar for release.

Sunset cooled the earth, the moon rising brought a chill that seeped across the land. Jemma felt none of it, she longed for death. And at the witching hour a shadow crept out of the darkness, a hooded figure on a horse rode up at a soft trot. Jemma never noticed her eyes had not been focused on anything for hours. The rider stopped at the cage and dismounted. Pulling out the pin the hooded rider opened the cage door.

"Lady Jemma! Lady Jemma! Are you still alive? Please tell me you are still alive." A familiar voice called out, familiar enough to pull Jemma out of her stupor. Jemma weakly called out. "Bobbi?"

"Thank Ishtar you are alive!" Bobbi replied pulling back her hood and looking around making sure no one was coming. Bobbi reached into the cage grabbing hold of Jemma just underneath her arms and tried to lift her up only to realize Jemma was still holding Skye. Bobbi let Jemma go then begged her. "Lady Jemma you must let her go. I cannot lift the both of you out. Please let her so I can lift you out. Please Lady Jemma, please."

"No. I can't let her go Bobbi. I can't."

"Please Jemma. I can't lift the both of you out. Please!"

"No. I can't leave her behind. I can't leave Skye behind."

"I promise after I get you out, I'll get her out too."

"Promise?" Jemma asked blinking and looking up at Bobbi. In the moon light she could see Bobbi clearly as the taller woman nodded yes. Jemma let Skye go and lifted her arms up toward Bobbi, and in a moment Bobbi had her up and out of the cage. Too weak to stand Jemma lay on her side on the sand, Bobbi made her drink water while she pulled Skye's body out of the cage. Jemma slowly forced life back into herself while Bobbi wrapped Skye's body up in a white sheet she had brought with her. By the time Jemma got to her feet, Bobbi had put Skye's body on the horse, tying her to the saddle.

"What now Bobbi?" Jemma asked lost.

"You can't come back to the city. You will be killed on sight. You must run mistress flee and go as far away as you can. There is water on the horse and food for a week." Bobbi instructed taking a single canteen off the horse, she pushed Jemma to the horse and forced her to get on.

"Won't you get in trouble Bobbi?"

"I don't care if I do. You are more important Jemma. Please hurry."

"Bobbi?"

"Please go now!" Bobbi gave Jemma a stern look and slapped the horse on the rump startling it into a fast trot.

Jemma gripped the reins tight and tried to stay on the horse as it ran further into the desert. Turning to look over her shoulder Jemma caught a glimpse of Bobbi running back toward the city. Jemma turned forward and held on tight.

PART TWO: THEN THERE WAS DARKNESS AND DEATH

Jemma rode until dawn then stopped to let the horse rest. She ate a tiny bit and drank more water, her mind finally cleared and she broke down sobbing. She missed Skye so much. A single thought rose up taking hold: Find a place to bury Skye, someplace they won't find her and desecrate Skye's body. With this new goal in mind, Jemma got back on the horse and rode toward the horizon searching for the right place to bury Skye.

Nine days later Jemma was deep in the desert, Skye was still with her. Jemma was searching for someplace other than sand to bury Skye only she was too deep in the desert, there was nothing but sand as far as the eye could see in every direction. Days of riding in the hot sun with Skye rotting under the sheet she was wrapped in yet Jemma didn't even notice the smell anymore. She was in numb state, the food was long gone, the water was low and she was only giving it to the horse. She was beginning to hallucinate thirst did strange things to people. In the back of Jemma's mind just behind the thirst induced delusions, she was aware she was dying, that this was the end. And yet she pushed on, her last goal in this life had not been reached, she still needed to find a nice place to put Skye and once she did, she could happily join Skye in the afterworld.

On the tenth day Jemma reached the base of a mountain and found shelter from the sun in the mouth of a cave. The horse could go no further; it sat down and would move no more. Jemma was weak, dizzy and heavily hallucinating. For the last three days she had seen specters of Skye and the goddess Ishtar, neither spoke to Jemma they instead watch her as she pushed on. Even in her delirium Jemma kept her goal in sight, she turned to look further into the cave and decided on a whim that the cave would become Skye's final resting place, a good place for her to go as well. And using the last of her strength Jemma unable to carry Skye dragged her. They managed to get past the narrow entrance and into an inner cavern.

A cold breeze blew against Jemma's back making her shiver and she let go of Skye turning to look around. Instinctively Jemma searched for the source of the cold wind yet was shocked to find herself in a temple. Having been in every temple in Qattara Jemma recognized the design, decorated intricately carved pillars, and torches on each one giving light to walls painted with scenes from a world Jemma did not recognize. A world of lush green filled with strange creatures with long necks, heads with three horns and massive creatures that flew high in the air.

Jemma grew alarmed and wondered if she was alone. She looked around and saw no one so she stepped deeper into the temple searching for whoever it was that kept the place up a priest or priestess. Jemma wandered with shuffling steps all the way back to the main altar and was shocked to find a tall alabaster statue of a very realistic naked woman with great ebony wings out of her back. While the statue was made of the creamy white stone the accents were made of deep red and light pink stone. Red eyes on pink made the statue seem alive; the lips were also made from the bright red stone as well as the finger tips and veins in the large black wings.

Jemma stepped closer to check what was in the offering bowls at the statues feet and was shocked to see something dark, almost black, some sort of liquid. Reaching down Jemma dipped her right hand fingers into it and was shocked to find it very warm, raising her fingers up to her face. The smell of the liquid and feel hit Jemma in one flash. "Blood."

Jemma walked around the temple studying the walls, she was fascinated and felt as if it was very important to learn the secret of the story being told in this temple. Then she found it, the most important panel of all. A scene of the beautiful woman with wings tearing apart men until their bodies piled high. And it hit Jemma who this winged woman was.

When Jemma was a small child she remembered over hearing the high priest of Nabu speaking with her father about the nightmare that was the goddess of death known as Lilith. The priest was frightened of the goddess and only spoke of her in whispers, it was enough that years later Jemma sought out written legends of the goddess Lilith. She found only one, and it described the goddess of death decimating entire cities with her wrath by personally killing each person herself by stealing their life force from each person. That was the scene she saw, the goddess killing everyone.

"Lilith."

Weak from no food and no water combined with days of riding in the hot sun, Jemma's fevered brain came up with a crazy idea. Invigorated by the idea Jemma ran back to Skye and dragged Skye to the altar laying her down in front. Relieved she had finally found the right place Jemma collapsed onto her knees and leaned forward resting her head on Skye's body.

Jemma wanted to cry but there was no moisture left in her body, then she remembered that bald man and the smug look on his face. And Jemma grew angry, she screamed and sat up. With tears in her eyes Jemma looked up at the statue of the goddess and prayed. "Lilith I beseech thee, bring my love back to me. I can't go on without her, I beg thee great goddess bring my love back to me."

Jemma did not think she would be answered until a moment later the statue moved shocking Jemma, it twisted looking down at her blinking twice before answering in voice that sounded so familiar. "Child of Ishtar, you beg for naught. Your love has moved on to another vessel as is the way of all good souls who succumb to the transition of death."

"Moved on? I do not understand great goddess." Jemma asked stunned by the revelation.

"The essence of who your love is has moved on to a new vessel being born this very moment. The essence is called a soul, good souls are put into new vessels, and bad souls are imprisoned in the dark to prevent them from doing more harm."

"Will I never see her again? I thought death would reunite us." Jemma sobbed distraught and dizzy.

"Death can reunite you. Death can give you time."

"Time?"

"Yes, time, that may allow you to see your love again."

"What must I do great goddess to earn such an opportunity? Please great Goddess, tell me what I must do?"

"First, tell me child of Ishtar, beside the return of your love, what does your heart truly desire?"

"Vengeance. My love was murdered in front of me, stolen not a moment after I found her. I beg thee grant me vengeance, allow me to bring death to those who have harmed my love. I offer the only thing I still possess in return, myself."

"You think that is enough? Why not ask the gods you've worshiped all your life? Why ask me?"

"None of the other gods can do what you do; none of the other gods are as powerful as you. I want real vengeance to those responsible for her death. I do not need empty hope. I need to rain death down upon them. I need them to pay for what they've done."

"You will trade your body and soul for this vengeance? To do what you ask you must take on a great and terrible gift. How much is your vengeance worth?"

"For the chance to see my love again or the chance to pay back those who are responsible for her death? I give myself to you willingly great goddess Lilith." Jemma stated raising her hands palm up to the goddess in a sign of offering and surrender.

Lilith stepped off the pedestal past the offering bowls of blood onto the floor just in front of Skye, the Goddesses great wings stretching out and twitching with each step. The goddess reached down gently touching Jemma under her chin making her rise to her feet until they were eye to eye. The red on pink with inky black pupils drew Jemma in hypnotizing her until all she could see was how stunningly beautiful Lilith was. And yet in truth, Lilith showed her true form, that of a large humanoid bat. A mix of human and animal, her fingers were tipped in long yellow claws, her naked body covered in a thin soft black brown fur, her face an image of beauty except for the pressed up nose, long tipped ears and mouth full of sharp fangs, her tongue long and forked.

Lilith leaned in kissing Jemma on the lips. Jemma swooned and fell into Lilith's arms, the goddess picked Jemma up kissing her on the lips once more then nuzzled Jemma's neck kissing Jemma's skin. Lilith opened her mouth wider before biting down on Jemma's neck drawing blood and drinking deeply. Jemma gasped and twitched a few times and blacked out.

Jemma woke up screaming.

Her body felt on fire, as if it was burning from the inside out. Jemma had never felt such intense overwhelming pain in her entire existence; she squirmed on the ground trying to dig into the dirt in vain effort to lessen the pain. The hot searing pain rippled through her limbs as she convulsed out of control, in her thrashing she rolled over vomiting everything in her stomach then rolled away still convulsing. Terrible minutes passed feeling like hours, each wave of pain bringing new heights of sharp agony pushing the boundaries of her mind until her body shut down and she blacked out again.

A cool breeze across her face gently pulled Jemma from the abyss. First she felt the rough grit of sand and stone under her face and body. With great effort Jemma rolled over onto her back and forced her eyes open. Bright blinding moonlight from directly up above forced her eyes immediately shut. She frowned in annoyance when it suddenly hit her: The burning pain was gone.

Shock and relief blended together into a euphoric feeling and Jemma got up to her feet with a smile on her lips. For one brief moment she forgot everything else. And in another moment it all came rushing back. Eyes wide mouth open Jemma looked around. The temple was gone, the horse was gone, Skye's body was gone, the goddess was gone; it was all gone. Panicked Jemma rushed around and was shocked to find herself on top of a mountain and in the far far distance she could see the lights of Qattara. At the distance it was hard to make out what city it was and yet, Jemma could feel the city and she knew which one it was.

Jemma frowned and took a step back. Qattara was over a week away on a horse, so she should not be able to see the lights even at night; the city was too far away. And how did she know which city it was. Jemma searched her mind yet no logical answer could be found. Confused Jemma took a mental pause and as was her way, she stopped to think everything through. With her mind clear, her body not making her hallucinate she felt normal again and in that mind set Jemma took a moment to figure things out. In the silence of the evening, Jemma tried to think deeply yet found herself continually distracted by loud sounds coming from all around her. Frowning she sought out the origin of the sounds and followed the closest, loudest sound. She followed the sound and was stunned to find a beetle tapping its hard black butt on the rock, and then she found another set of beetles making similar noises.

"Why does that sound so loud?"

Confused Jemma turned and followed the next loudest sound she followed it down the mountain in a rush and suddenly found herself at the bottom of the mountain. The rush of moment and how far she traveled in a blink of an eye startled her into staying put. Afraid to move she stayed still, the sounds of creatures moving all around her made her peer into the shadow of the mountain only to be surprised again; even in the dark shadow Jemma could see as if it were day. She could make out each noise making bug then she saw something different. In the darkness she saw movement and noticed a splotch of red in that moment. She focused her gaze on the movement and it came into abrupt clarity: a rat. In the same instant she realized what it was, the scent of the creature hit her as did the blood running through its veins. A hunger sprung up overwhelming Jemma and she rushed the creature, reaching it in an instant.

Jemma caught the creature easily and examined it up close. The rat squealed and squirmed in her grip, she could see it so clearly. Jemma could make out the detail in its short smelly bristly fur, the black on black of its eyes, the yellow white of its teeth and she could feel the life pulsating through it, the strong beat of its heart. The hunger inside grew with each beat of the rats heart, Jemma instinctively bared her teeth. She didn't know her face changed, the nose and eyes shifted resembling that of the goddess and Jemma's teeth grew long and sharp. Without hesitation she raised the rat to her mouth and bite down on it. Blood exploded into her mouth and Jemma swooned overwhelmed by euphoric waves of pleasure rolling through her making her tingle and feel so alive.

As the blood soaked into Jemma her skin pales and flashes of blood in her veins across her face and body pulsated under the skin. Jemma felt connected to the world, she could feel the winds above, feel the vibrations of the earth. Jemma felt amazing, as if she could take on the world.

The moment of euphoria was short lived. It passed quickly and the crash from the high hit Jemma hard. She wanted to drink more blood and get that feeling back. The euphoria was almost as good as being with Skye, she wanted to feel it again. Jemma tossed the rat aside and noticed her hands; her fingernails had turned into long thick yellow claws.

"The goddess changed me." Jemma whispered looking at her hands with awe. Then she realized she what she had done to the rat, she swooned in dizziness as the truth of her transformation sunk in. She didn't know how to feel about it and oddly, when she tried to feel something she instead felt nothing not good not bad, nothing.

"The goddess has changed me. I am death now."

Jemma broke down crying and stopped when she noticed her tears were red. She was confused at first to what was bleeding, it took a moment to realize they were her tears, she tasted it and it had hint of rat to it. "This is different."

Suddenly Jemma was curious to what else had changed. Running back up the mountain Jemma tested herself forcing the transformation a number of times. At the top of the mountain a hard gust of wind pushed her back and she turned to see a wing. Shocked she stopped and reached behind with both hands and was surprised to find wings sprouting out of her back. She relaxed and they shrunk down and into her body.

"I have wings now…I have wings now!" Jemma laughed forcing the wings out, she let the wind pick her up.

Hours later as dawn approached and the sky lightened Jemma sat on a rock at the base of the mountain. She had tested the limits of her new body, not only could she sprout wing's and fly, she could transform into shadow and moved like a ghost. She also found more small prey feeding on rats, birds and rabbits.

Jemma thought of Skye, she missed Skye so much. Skye had changed everything, and the fact that she was gone filled Jemma with such rage and anger. Jemma was going to make those men pay, make them all pay. They didn't have to kill Skye way they did, and to force her to starve and watch Skye rot, they were so cruel. They could have just forbidden them to see each other, why kill them both? Why not execute them both? What she did know was leaving Jemma to die in the cage would be their undoing.

A sadness filled Jemma and she let out a heavy sigh. She never had any delusions that what she had with Skye would last, who had ever heard of two women being together as Jemma had wanted to be with Skye; no one that's who. Yet Jemma never thought it would only last one day. She wanted more time with Skye, she needed more time with Skye.

Then Jemma remembered what the goddess had said, Skye's soul was being reborn into a new vessel, and that she could give Jemma time. What did the goddess mean by that? Jemma would need to dwell on this more.

The sun rose and when the sunlight hit Jemma all thoughts were shoved away as she was washed in burning pain. She cringed gasping and searching her body to see it smoldering in the morning light. The smoking from her burning skin stunk and Jemma moved into action instinctively searching out a place to hide from the sun's rays. With no caves in sight Jemma grew her fingernails and dug into the earth under her feet. She dug low enough to cover her body with earth shielding her from the sun's harmful light. Under the earth Jemma relaxed her skin felt better and she grew sleepy falling into a deep sleep.

OoOoOoOoOoOoOoOo

The sun rose and made its usual journey setting in a clear sky. The moment the sun disappeared Jemma woke and clawed her way to the surface, she stumbled to her feet and shook the dirt from her body. She felt reborn.

All Jemma could think of, was vengeance, she decided it was time. Jemma flexed and her wings spread out to their full length, her eyes turned red as she her wings lifted her from the ground, she rose high up in the air then flew directly toward Qattara. Jemma flew with the wind making it to the city in a very short amount of time. As she approached the city Jemma took in the scents of a large population, the people, the animals, and the trash smelling each individual scent and yet enjoying the blend it made all together. It smelled like endless food. However she noticed an area just outside a crop of rocks and slowed to land.

The cage was still there.

Jemma walked over to the cage reliving that moment in her head a few times over. Her face was grim, red tears dripped down her face; she could smell Skye on the dried blood all over the cage. The scent was heady and intoxicating yet brought such sadness with it.

Rage flared up inside rolling through her in waves, Jemma's hands twitched eager to hurt, eager to kill. Letting the anger rise up and take over, Jemma transformed into her full bat self and took off at lightning speed toward the city. Jemma flew high up so no one on the ground could see her; she circled the city as its population settled in for the evening.

Jemma landed on the highest rooftop and took the moment to examine the city from her vantage point. It was the first time she viewed anything from a predator's vantage point. Memories of walking around the king's palace and of being in the forbidden areas of her own father's home rose up in her mind. Jemma grimly chuckled when she realized she knew more than she thought she did. She knew the patrol times, the patrol routes of the men her father employed. And she remembered the private entrances into the palace.

Sitting on the rooftop thinking, Jemma was startled to realize she didn't really have a plan. Was she just going to show up and force her way in? Kill her way in? She wasn't even sure how hard it was to kill a person animals were easy, people? That could prove to be difficult. And what was she really after? Just killing those directly responsible for Skye's murder? Jemma's transformation into the harbinger of death didn't seem like it would be enough. Jemma needed satisfaction in these men's deaths and she was determined to make everyone else pay for being a part of the mechanism that allowed Skye's murder to happen. "Everything you taught me father, everything you raised me to believe you showed me was a lie. There is no mercy, there is no forgiveness. You've shown me one act can doom you as your act has doomed you."

Jemma's mind wandered and she remembered Fitz, how horribly Fitz was beaten for giving her and Skye sanctuary. Jemma frowned her anger bubbled up. "Fitz never did anything wrong and that's how they repay kindness? Fitz…"

Wondering what happened to Fitz caused Jemma to think about Bobbi. Was Bobbi okay? Did she get caught for helping Jemma? Worry filled Jemma and she got to her feet, in an instant Jemma made a choice. Jemma flew over the city toward the palace, she found one of the king's soldiers alone on guard at one of the secret entrances that Jemma had used many times as a young girl. Jemma transformed into shadow before she landed, the guard had no idea she was there.

In shadow form Jemma snuck up on the soldier materializing behind him, she felt the hunger rise up inside of her pushing away all doubt, all hesitation to replace it with keen focus. Jemma grabbed him by the shoulders pulling him close. The man struggled but Jemma held him firm; she relished her new strength and covered the man's mouth with her hand muffling his cry for help and bit him on the neck. Blood exploded into her mouth and she drank deeply, not spilling a drop. Jemma swooned as the guards blood pulsated through her, it was so much more intense than animal blood, she felt intoxicated then unstoppable in one long heady rush.

Jemma let out a soft laugh removing the guards cloak before letting the body drop to the ground. She slipped on the cloak pulling it over her head then kneeled down taking the key off the guard's belt. Jemma unlocked the door keeping the key. She moved to walk in and was shocked when some invisible force prevented her from entering the hall. Jemma frowned in her confusion and tried to force her way in to no avail. A guard came down the hall and immediately grew alarmed at the sight of the open door. Jemma panicked stepping back but the guard spotted her.

"Halt! Who goes there? Identify yourself in the name of King Hammau."

"Kind sir, I am but a simple woman. Lost and in need of help." Jemma replied pulling back her hood to show the man her face. The man stepped forward to look at her closer and when their eyes met Jemma felt her mind reach out to the man and hold him. It was a brand new sensation yet Jemma could feel her influence reach out and touch the man, getting him to blink and shake his head in confusion. A flash of memory from her childhood rose up out the murkiness of her memory, a story of a demon from the sands trying to steal a child, the demon could not enter unless invited. An idea formed and Jemma took action.

"Good sir, invite me in."

The man blinked then his eyes went dull, he silently nodded. "Please come in fair lady."

Jemma felt the invisible barrier keeping her out dissolve into nothing and she stepped inside. A rush of sensations washed over her skin and it took Jemma a moment to realize that she could feel and literally sense the other guards patrolling the halls. She could also hear them, hear the guards talking, hear them shifting on a seat, hear the steady beat of their hearts. It was thrilling. Jemma began to enjoy herself a little bit, she felt different and she was fully embracing it.

Using her senses to avoid the guards Jemma sought out the dungeon, a place she had heard her father speak of many times yet was never allowed to go. Not until this day. Jemma found the stairwell down, she could smell the rancid stench of death, blood, feces and urine. She could smell the people imprisoned there, she hoped one of those people were Fitz.

Half dozen guards came marching down the hall forcing Jemma to transform into shadow to make her way down the stairs. She found the dungeon guarded by a single filth covered man who was in a very deep sleep. Jemma materialized walking past him to the hall that led to the individual cells, each one were nothing more than closets with heavy wood doors and iron locks; a single hall with twelve "cells" with six on each side.

Reaching out with her senses Jemma counted several people alive and three that had died recently, the rot smelled sweet to Jemma's new senses. She didn't bother opening each cell, Jemma simply transformed into shadow passing under the door into each cell containing a person still alive. The first two were men from the attack on the city; they were horribly tortured and barely hanging on to life. The next two were beggars caught stealing; the stumps where their hands used to be were still bloody and stank of burnt flesh.

The next cell Jemma entered was occupied by a single person, huddled in the corner trying to hide in the shadows yet Jemma could see them clearly. A step closer and Jemma noticed the delicate arms and realized it was a woman. Jemma took a deep breath in through her nose and caught the scent, confirming it was indeed a woman.

Curiosity bloomed inside Jemma's mind and she knelt down reaching out to gently touch the woman on the arm and she startled looking up. Jemma was met with dark terrified almond shaped eyes and inky black hair that was a matted nest on her head. The woman had been imprisoned a long time, she was covered in filth.

"Is it finally, time?" There was so much dirt and grime, she barely looked like a woman yet though she spoke with fear and oddly hope her voice did not waver.

"Why are you here?"

"You're not here to take me to the executioner?" The woman asked confused.

"No. Tell me, why are you here? Who are you? You don't look like you're from these lands. You can talk to me, I will not harm you." Jemma asked in a gentle voice willing herself to remain human in appearance so not to frighten the woman.

"I'm not. I was a slave in the Henan province in Chixian Shenzhou. I was bought by Emperor Tang and given as a gift to King Hammau. I was supposed to be a body servant but I caught the king's eye and his wife, the Queen took action against me. That's why I am here, awaiting the executioner."

"What is your name?"

"The head servant in the palace named me Melinda May."

"Melinda, would you like to be free of this place?"

Melinda's eyes went wide yet she didn't speak as if afraid.

"Would you like to be free to choose your life for yourself? Free to take vengeance upon all those who have harmed you?"

With tears filling her eyes, Melinda nodded yes.

"Melinda, my name is Jemma. All you have to do is take my hand." Jemma said with a warm smile as she offered her hand to Melinda.

The frightened woman hesitantly reached up and took Jemma's hand. A large smile blossomed on Jemma's face as she pulled the other woman to her feet. Melinda was taller than Jemma but not by much and now Jemma could see that the woman was actually older than she first appeared to be. However what Melinda's actual age could be, Jemma had no idea.

"What do we do now?" Melinda asked seeming to swallow her fear.

"I give you a kiss and your new life begins."

"A kiss?"

"Yes, a kiss."

Jemma wasn't sure if that was really how it was done, yet she remembered the kiss from the goddess as well as the taste of blood on her tongue. Using her intellect Jemma guessed at the process and had decided to use Melinda to see if it worked. Melinda leaned in to kiss Jemma and Jemma smiled gently holding Melinda's face placing a delicate kiss upon Melinda's lips making the older woman swoon. Jemma pulled back to look Melinda in the eyes, hypnotizing her. Biting down on her tongue Jemma waited for it to bleed then leaned in kissing Melinda deeply for a long moment then pulled back to nudge Melinda's face to the side exposing her neck. Jemma felt her teeth change, and her hunger grow; she bit down on Melinda's neck causing two small puncture wounds in a vein. Jemma drank slowly, gently taking Melinda to the very brink of death and pulling back just in time to keep Melinda alive. It wasn't easy and took all of Jemma's self-control. Jemma set Melinda down upon the ground then knelt down to kiss Melinda on the forehead. "Sweet dreams Melinda. I will return when you wake."

Jemma stood up and waited until Melinda's heart slowed then stopped, with that done she turned her attention to the other cells. She checked each one and was disappointed to find two old men instead of her friends. Frustrated Jemma turned to shadow and returned to her high perch to think. Jemma searched the city carefully, and one hour before dawn she finally found Fitz. Severely beaten and tortured, he had been chained to the floor in the main receiving chamber of the King's court. Jemma stood by him as long as she could, his heartbeat was strong, his breathing normal despite the wounds all over his face and body.

"It hurts me to see you like this friend. I will return tomorrow, take you away from all this pain. It will be better my friend, I promise Fitz. I promise."

When the sun began to rise Jemma was forced to seek shelter, she fled the city heading back to the desert to bury herself for the day. When she was deep underground and could feel the sun rising up above, she smiled.

OoOoOoOoOoOoOoOo

The next evening, Jemma took her time returning to the dungeon. A little after sunset Jemma returned to Fitz's home. It was in disarray from the kings men, everything had been turned upside down but it was empty and a sign had been posted next to the door to keep everyone out by orders of the king.

"Fitz's home will work well for what I need. Now let's see if I can find Bobbi."

Jemma searched every place she could think of and kept coming up empty, feeling the nagging pull of failure she sat upon her perch high above the city to think. Her mind spun in circles yet no solution was found. The moon rose in the sky bathing the city in bright white light, suddenly Jemma became aware of how filthy she was.

"These rags will no longer do. I need to change." The comment whispered out loud to no one but herself, Jemma made a snap decision to return home. Once decided she flew across the city making it to her window within a few moments. The house was quiet, her room dark yet to Jemma's keen eyes she could see it was untouched since the last time she was there. Jemma tried to fly in through the window but was rebuffed by an invisible barrier. Jemma growled under her breath at her own forgetfulness then flew down to the courtyard heading to the servant's entrance in the back.

Jemma waited in the shadows until someone appeared. Luck was with Jemma, a small child, the son of the head cook came out the back door heading straight for the fruit grove Jemma was hiding in. The boy was no more than four yet walked into the darkness with no fear.

"Hazi! Hazi!" The boy turned at the whisper call of his name, Jemma stepped out of the shadows and the boy's whole face lit up. "Jemma! Jemma! Jemma!"

The boy rushed Jemma throwing his arms around her to hug her legs as he always did causing a warm smile to touch Jemma's lips. She ruffled his hair with affection. "Hazi I need you to do me a favor. Can you do me a favor Hazi?"

"Yes Jemma, anything for you." The boy answered brightly and eagerly. Jemma was a favorite among the house staff's children because unlike other ladies of the house, she was genuinely sweet to them.

Jemma knelt down and pulled the boy close whispering in his ear. Hazi nodded with a big smile and rushed off back to the door. Standing inside he smiled brightly, "Please come in Jemma."

Jemma grinned at the boy patting him on the head as she slipped inside, "Remember Hazi, you did not see me this night."

"Our secret Jemma." The boy replied then headed back out to the fruit grove. Jemma turned to shadow making her way quickly to her old bedroom. The scents that used to be so welcoming, scents she associated with home smelled sour to her now. Scents from her father tickled her senses causing an ill feeling to well up confusing her. Jemma paused to blow the scent from her nose and push forward heading to her chest where her clothes were kept. She rummaged in her old belongings and changed into a clean dress forgoing the veils and other items she would normally wear. The dress and shoes were the only things she really needed. Then she remembered Melinda and pulled out two more set of clothes out. Jemma placed them in a scarf wrapping them up and tucking the bundle under her arm.

Jemma moved to leave when a scent of fresh familiar blood teased her senses. It was enough to pull Jemma back into the house. She wasn't ready to see her father, yet the familiar scent pulled Jemma deeper into the house. Jemma turned to shadow following the scent down past the servants quarters to the underground cellar. Entering the cellar Jemma was slapped with the harsh smell of thick drying blood, bile, feces, urine and fear. Jemma materialized and gasped softly, "Bobbi! What have they done to you?"

Bobbi had been stripped naked, beaten severely and left chained to a stake in the dirt for so long she had defecated on herself. Jemma could hear Bobbi's weakening heartbeat and the shallow breathing instinctively she knew Bobbi was dying. Tears of blood welled up in Jemma's eyes as she rushed to Bobbi's side kneeling next to the battered woman. "This is all my fault Bobbi. I am so sorry."

"Lady Jemma?" Bobbi whispered her eyes fluttering open. "Is it really you? What are you doing back here? You must go! You must run! They will kill you on sight if they catch you."

Bobbi began to panic trying to sit up and making her injuries worse. Jemma was quick to hold her, "It's okay Bobbi. They can't hurt me anymore. What happened to you?"

"I was caught by the house guards coming back. I was accused of stealing the horse. Your father sentenced me to die by hanging at dawn." Bobbi replied tears welling up.

Jemma felt her own tears spill down her face and was quick to wipe them away. "I'm sorry Bobbi, you have been nothing but a loyal wonderful friend. You don't deserve this."

"It was for you, it was worth it Lady Jemma."

"I can make it quick if that's what you want." Jemma asked gently touching Bobbi's face to push her hair out of her face. Bobbi looked at Jemma with worry.

"No! I don't want to die. I just want to be with you." Bobbi begged and Jemma immediately nodded. Jemma made a snap decision; she broke the chain holding Bobbi, delighted by how easy it was. Jemma picked Bobbi up gently cradling the taller woman in her arms with ease. Jemma fled the house taking Bobbi back to Fitz's home then found her water and bread. The sustenance revived Bobbi pulling her back from the brink of death. "Stay here, I will return." Bobbi nodded yes and watched wide eyed as Jemma disappeared.

Jemma returned to the palace dungeon to check on Melinda and was utterly delighted to find Melinda awake and sitting up despite some obvious confusion. Jemma turned to shadow slipping inside the cell startling Melinda. The older woman shot to her feet and pressed against the wall to hide in the shadows. Jemma smiled warmly. "I know you can see me just as clearly as I see you. Are you ready Melinda?"

"You came back. I thought you'd left me to die here."

Jemma's smile grew wider. "No, I would never leave you behind. I have taken you beyond death now Melinda, nothing will ever be as it was. Are you ready to leave this place? Are you ready to start a new life?"

Tears welled up in Melinda's eyes as she smiled and nodded yes.

"First thing we must do…feed you." Jemma replied grinning. She could hear a single guard approaching to check the row of cells. Jemma giggled at Melinda's confusion. "Relax this will be fun."

Jemma knocked on the door of the cell from the inside catching the guards attention. The guard opened the latch on the door to peer inside, Melinda caught on quickly and hide out of sight; when the guard saw no one there he opened the door. Jemma grabbed the man by his armor and yanked him into the room immediately covering his mouth with her hand.

Melinda's eyes grew wide and fearful. "What are you doing? They'll hurt us worse for acting against them."

"No they won't." Jemma replied smiling and showing Melinda her growing fangs. "You need to feed Melinda. This is how we will live this is how we will take our revenge upon all those who have harmed us."

Melinda watched with eager bright red eyes as Jemma bit down upon the guard drinking briefly from him. When Jemma pulled back her mouth was smeared with fresh blood. Melinda's nostrils flared at the heady scent and slowly approached licking her lips.

"Take that hunger and let it guide you Melinda."

Melinda nodded and when Jemma pushed the dazed man over, she grabbed him and quickly clamped down upon his bleeding wound drinking every drop until the man was gone. After a few moments Melinda looked up at Jemma with a huge happy smile on her face, her shinning red eyes catching what little light was in the room.

"That was better than anything I've ever experienced before." Melinda said with unabashed glee.

"Good. Now let's get out of here."

"Where are we going my Lady."

"Melinda, please no titles between us. Just call me Jemma."

"Where are we going Jemma?"

"To a friend's house to get you cleaned up. Then to work, we have much to do before we leave this city."

"Cleaned up? I haven't bathed since before I was sold to the king."

"Thing's will be different now Melinda."

OoOoOoOoOoOoOoOo

Bobbi was too weak to move from the spot Jemma had laid her. She ate the bread and drank the water wishing she could live yet knowing that the pain in her stomach and the blood she was coughing up meant she didn't have long. She thought of Jemma and cried inside. Bobbi didn't want to die anymore she wanted to live to be by Jemma's side. Unable to move Bobbi watched Jemma return with a woman covered in filth immediately taking her to the back of the house out of sight. Bobbi strained to listen in and eventually heard the sound of splashing water. A short time later Jemma reappeared to check on her. "How are you holding up Bobbi?"

"I'm still here. Who was that?"

"A friend. I will introduce you later. Stay with me Bobbi."

"I'm trying."

"Good, now I must go. I will be back shortly." Jemma told her with an encouraging nod and small determined smile.

Bobbi was shocked and stared at the door Jemma disappeared through heading back out into the city. Now that she was more awake she had paid close attention to Jemma, her mistress, a woman she had known most of her life had changed somehow. Jemma was too calm, too collected to be the same woman she rescued from the cage. There was something in Jemma's voice, in Jemma's eyes that was different, dangerous even. Confused, Bobbi pushed these thoughts out of her mind.

Not long later Jemma returned carrying a man in her arms. Bobbi knew for a fact Jemma was not strong enough to carry a man like a small child, this alarmed Bobbi and confused her more. Jemma carried the man upstairs and did not return for a long time, so long Bobbi dozed off.

"Bobbi. Bobbi wake up, we need to talk."

"Jemma?"

"Yes I'm here Bobbi, I'm here. Bobbi, do you understand what's going on?"

"With what?"

"With you."

"I'm dying." Bobbi admitted bluntly. Jemma smiled, "You don't have to."

"What?" Bobbi was suddenly awake and staring hard at Jemma, her mistress was deadly serious. "You don't have to die. You can be like me. You can be strong; you can take revenge on those who hurt you."

"Who are you? You look like my mistress but you are not the same. Who are you?" Bobbi begged fearfully.

Jemma's face fell, she looked hurt. "I'm still me Bobbi, I'm still Jemma. I should have died in the desert. I was going to. I was close, like you're close now. I was saved by the Goddess Lilith. I was given a gift, and I want pass that gift on to you. I want you with me Bobbi. I need you, please stay with me."

"You want me with you?"

"I need you Bobbi. Come with me. Let me give you the Kiss."

"A kiss?" Bobbi asked her head swimming, she felt light headed and dizzy; this was all too much.

"Yes Bobbi, a kiss."

"Yes. Kiss me Jemma." Bobbi whispered staring up into Jemma's eyes.

Bobbi felt like she was dreaming as Jemma leaned in kissing her softly on the lips, then Jemma deepened the kiss and Bobbi could feel Jemma's tongue dance with her own. Bobbi reached out pulling Jemma closer and kept the kiss going with every ounce of energy she had left. When Jemma finally pulled back Bobbi was lost to the euphoric feeling rolling though her, Bobbi didn't even feel the bite as the void took her.

OoOoOoOoOoOoOoOo

Jemma gently set Bobbi down and used the back of her hand to wipe the blood from her mouth. Standing up Jemma walked to the door locking it then made her way to the back of the house. In the very back was a washroom area with a wood tub filled with dirty water, in the corner Melinda finished tying up her hair with a piece of cloth. The woman had washed and was now clean, she had clothed herself in the dress and shoes Jemma left her. The dress was a little short for Melinda but it would work just fine.

"By the Gods Melinda, you look like a completely different person. You're very beautiful."

Melinda looked down and away in a shy manner that made Jemma smile. "How do you feel Melinda?"

"I feel like a different person. I feel good."

"Excellent. Let us eat and then get ready for tomorrow night."

"What's tomorrow night?" Melinda asked with a happy smile.

"We take our revenge."

Jemma lead Melinda outside, they walked in the shadows with Melinda following close behind. Jemma stole Melinda a cloak, then took her to an empty corner. In whispered words Jemma instructed Melinda how to transform, grow wings and fly. Melinda picked it up very quickly following Jemma over the city to Jemma's favorite perch. The sun was coming up in a couple of hours, Jemma and Melinda both felt it rising. Jemma wore a blank expression on her face as her mind drifted back to Skye and she felt the grief rise up again.

"What are we?" Melinda asked pulling Jemma out of her introspection.

"We are what the goddess Lilith made us. I do not know the name."

"What else can we do?"

"Many things, I have only been like this for a short time but I have figured out a few tricks. I will show them to you when we feed."

"Feed? When?"

"When the sun breaks the horizon, we will descend and grab something to eat on the way back to the house." Jemma replied with a tiny smirk.

"Thank you for freeing me Jemma." Melinda said with a smile drawing a small one out in Jemma. "Don't thank me yet Melinda. I may ask too much of you. The gift may be too much to live with. We shall see."

"Who was that man? That woman? You turned them too?" Melinda asked hesitantly, physically cringing as if expecting to be physically hit. Jemma pretended she didn't see it. "I did. They are my friends. The man's name is Fitz. He was dying because he gave me shelter, I owed him. The woman was my body servant; we grew up together her name is Bobbi. She too was close to dying, she rescued me from the cage I was sentenced to die in. She gave me a second chance, I owed her too."

"You're very kind Jemma."

"Kind? To my friends maybe, I won't be to those we kill tomorrow night."

"How many were you thinking of?"

"Most of the city."

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Jemma woke first, she checked on Fitz upstairs, then on Melinda who had slept in the wash room, and last Bobbi who was sleeping in the front room. Jemma watched the sky darken through a cracked window quietly thinking of Skye and letting her grief and anger rise up and take hold. If she was going to do what she planned, she would need to push what was left of her humanity down deep. Watching the people of Qattara go about their business, Jemma whispered, "Tonight I will unleash a monster and purge the city of authority so it may rise again."

When the moon began to rise so did everyone else. Jemma took a few minutes to show Fitz and Bobbi how to transform to fly letting them get used to the physical transformation then she explained the plan. Qattara had four main gates, one in the north, west, east and south. Jemma instructed each one to take a gate and kill every adult of wealth they find and to meet at the palace at the center of the city. Bobbi and Fitz both looked hesitant and Melinda stepped outside without word returning a moment later with a dazed man. Jemma could tell Melinda had hypnotized the man to make him complacent; she was very pleased by Melinda's idea.

"Fitz, Bobbi, this is Melinda May."

"Good to meet you both. Here drink, eat and understand." Melinda stated using one long fingernail to cut the man making him bleed then shoving the dazed man toward Fitz and Bobbi.

They caught the strong scent of blood making their fangs grow, Bobbi eyes grew wide turning dark then bright red and she dove in sucking on the small wound with eagerness. Fitz watched, his breathing increased as he tried to fight it, his eyes shifting with his rising hunger. A moment later he broke and dove in biting the man and drinking deeply. They completely drained the man in moments, when they realized there was no more they dropped the body like discarded trash.

"That was good, I want more." Fitz stated licking his lips.

"What if they fight back?" Bobbi asked her eyes still on the dead body at their feet.

"Worried they'll cut you down?" Melinda asked bluntly and Bobbi simply nodded yes.

"The goddess has blessed us in more ways than one." Jemma stated walking over to Fitz's kitchen area and picking up a small knife. Jemma took the knife and stabbed her own hand then she showed them how it healed. "The blood is the life. And the goddess Lilith has given the four of us, the ability to live forever. No one can harm us now."

"I want to wash this place in blood." Bobbi stated finally look up and into Jemma's eyes.

"And we will."

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They attacked in unison just before the witching hour hitting all four gates at once killing the guards and locking the doors so no one could escape. And as Jemma instructed, each needed a key to get into the homes of Qattara so each of them snatched the closest harmless human they could find to hypnotize them and force them into servitude for one evening. With inhuman speed all four moved in slaughtering all those who wore the king's insignia and any man of wealth. Woman and children were left cowering in the corners of their homes, fearful and terrified of the demons laying waste to the city. Each home of the rich and powerful was systematically burned down sending dozens of fleeing women and children into the streets.

Though bringing death and destruction was easy, each person newly turned dealt with their own questions and hesitations over so much death.

Fitz was unsure that such actions were necessary; he had never purposely taken a life before. He worked the land and made beer none of which ever never called for slaughter it was almost against his natural nature. However Jemma's orders to kill compelled him on allowing him to hypnotize a young boy, maybe ten years old, to be his key without issue. Fitz's hunger for more blood to drove him forward drinking each person dry in a frenzy of feeding, tearing out the throat of anyone who got in his way.

House to house Fitz went, killing the men and setting the structure on fire as he left to move on to the next home. Fitz was lost to his blood lust until the wailing cries of women and children grew too loud in his ears. The piercing sounds cracked Fitz's resolve until mercy and hesitation welled up inside slowing his hands and crumbling his pleasure. Growing hesitant, Fitz was forced to pause when faced with a woman of wealth and her three screaming children. All he could smell was their fear, it filled his nostrils and disgust bubbled up inside of him forcing him to step back he turned on his heel to leave.

The man of the house, a wealthy noble who had been hiding behind his wife and children rose up dagger in hand lunging at Fitz stabbing him in the back. The blow was hard and deep, enough to take the life of any normal man only Fitz was no normal man. With a look of confusion and hurt Fitz turned around and faced the man as he reached behind to pull the dagger out. "I was going to walk away. I was going to let them live. Thank you for showing me you and your kind are not worthy of such a gift."

Years of scraping by, years of being humiliated by those richer than him, years of being used and disregarded by those in power over him rushed to the surface and Fitz screamed through gritted teeth attacking the man with both hands tearing his throat out. The man looked shocked and gurgled trying to speak then dropped to the floor in a growing pool of his own blood. In the sudden silence the whimpering sobs of children pulled him from his berserker rage and brought him back to the moment. He turned to see the woman and her children watching him with wide terrified eyes. Again Fitz felt mercy rise up in his chest and he changed directions again.

"Take whatever you can carry and run. There is nothing left for you here." Fitz made sure to look the woman in her eyes as he spoke yet she seemed frozen to the spot. His red eyes flared in brightness his nose pressed up and pulled back flared as he took in more of their fear.

"Run! Now!" Fitz screamed at them and they bolted, the woman grabbed both her children half dragging them out as she left as quickly as her legs could take her.

Neither Melina nor Bobbi had any such reservations, both were used to being ignored and treated as less than human, treated as an animal. Both took their transformation with natural ease and they used their newfound powers to purge their soul of all the abuse they suffered throughout their lives.

After watching the nobility for years, Bobbi had no such delusions that these men were worth saving. Made to be invisible, subjected to every man's whim with no say of her own over her own body, being treated like trash, Bobbi relished the euphoric feeling of power surging through her as she slaughtered man and woman alike. Bobbi embraced Jemma's command as well as Jemma's insistence no children were killed. Following through with Jemma's order Bobbi felt a warm embrace, a physical feeling of content and happiness that only came from pleasing Jemma. Bobbi was very happy.

Melinda already had a taste for blood and she reveled in her new found strength, she felt invincible for the first time in her life. Melinda was sold into slavery at age five; being a slave was all she knew until now. She felt like a different person and she embraced it with every fiber of her being, she didn't want to be helpless ever again, she wasn't going to allow anyone to take possession of her again, she would die first. And now she relished the new fact that instead of giving up and escaping through death, she could now bring death to those who tried to harm her. For the gift she had been given Melinda would forever dedicate her life to serving Jemma.

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Jemma entered through the north gate, she slaughtered the guards then locked the gate snapping the key off in the hole. She was determined to finish it all before dawn. Jemma found a young man, maybe 14 hiding behind a stack of trash, she pulled him to his feet by the rags he wore and immediately hypnotized the boy. "You will escort me to each home and invite me in. Do you understand?"

"Yes master." The boy replied with a clouded look to his eyes. Jemma smiled and nodded for the boy to lead the way. The boy walked with stiff legs, his eyes glassy and unseeing, he moved with obvious determination to the closest home of a wealthy noble. Jemma was close behind, she moved like a panther in the shadows taking out each guard, each man while making her way to each noble's home where they boy walked in through the closest entrance and invited Jemma in.

Once inside, Jemma whispered to the boy sending him off to the next house to wait for her. Jemma made no efforts to hide her face as she searched each home for the noble that lived there, she purposely kept her features completely human so the wives and women of each house could see her, so they could recognize her, so they knew who was coming for them. And most did recognize her, and each woman asked Jemma, "Why?" And Jemma would answer, "This is for killing Lady Skye, a true innocent and one blessed by the gods themselves, killing her cursed this city, your king did this, and your husband was a part of it. I am the blade of this curse, I bring death. I do not wish to harm the innocent so take your children and run. And remember what these men have done, how they have angered the gods, for if you make the same mistake I will come back for you and your children."

Playing the part of a merciless killer was difficult for Jemma, yet with each new death, each life she drained, each body she walked over the humanity left in Jemma, the source of her hesitation, her guilt and her very soul was pushed down until it had no effect on her as she continued her slaughter. Jemma bathed in her grief, wallowed in the sadness of losing Skye and embraced being a monster.

The wealthy wives and children of the city flooded the streets fleeing to the poor parts of the city the servants that survived lead the way, it was the only place untouched by the fire ravaging the city from the inside out filling the clear sky with thick smoke blotting out the moon.

Jemma finished her area early leaving her to wait in the town center perched on the tallest building still standing, sitting alone as fire ate most of the city, half the buildings around her burned and yet all she could think of was Skye and that day in the square. Her face, arms and clothes were covered in sticky blood, she could taste dozens of men on her tongue and her hands itched to do more damage. And despite the carnage she personally caused, she still felt unsatisfied, still hungry for more, she needed something else but what eluded her.

A light hand on her shoulder pulled Jemma from her introspection, Melinda was looking at her with subtle concern. "It's done."

Jemma responded with a simple nod of her head and Melinda flew off. Jemma watched Melinda go her face twisted into a frown, she reached out with her senses and could physically feel Fitz, Melinda and Bobbi leaving the city. Reaching out a little further Jemma startled when she realized she could feel the city's human inhabitants. Her surprise reminded her she still had much to learn about her new existence.

Jemma flew over to Lord Sitwell's home and was pleased to see it engulfed in flames. Next she checked on her own home, she sensed everyone had fled the burning structure then quickly pushed thoughts of her mother and her siblings from her mind flying to the palace next. The home of King Hammau was crumbling under the heat of the raging inferno devouring it from within. Flying high above the flames able to see the full extent of the destruction Jemma giggled, seeing the palace melting under the heat filled her hardening heart with such joy.

With most of Qattara in flames Jemma felt good about moving on, she was satisfied with this part of her plan. Jemma circled the city once from high up above surveying the chaos she caused before changing directions mid-air to meet up with the others at a spot specially chosen by Jemma for its significance in her transformation. Jemma could feel the others before she could see them, she could smell the humans with them, and she could smell their fear brining a smirk to her lips.

From high up above Jemma circled the open area using the low moonlight to pinpoint everyone present then landed silently in the shadows behind everyone. She could feel Bobbi, Fitz and Melinda tense up at her arrival, the humans with them did not, and the humans were as blind and as helpless as newborns in the darkness. Jemma smiled as she drank in their fear however a moment later when the cage came into view the smile disappeared. The cage still smelled of Skye despite the wounded bound man inside and as the reminder of who she lost filled her nostrils it brought blood tears to Jemma's eyes. "Tonight they will pay for taking your life Skye."

"Did you say something?" Melinda asked Jemma turning her way, Jemma silently shook her head no then hardened her face as she approached the terrified men held captive by Melinda, Bobbi and Fitz.

"Unhand us now! We are Lords of Qattara you have no right to do this. The king will have your heads for this! Your heads!" Lord Tilmun shouted struggling to pull free of Bobbi's iron grip.

"What is the meaning of this? Do you know who you have kidnapped?" Lord Hirin demanded with anger in his voice, he too struggled to break free of Melinda's grasp and failed.

"When King Hammau finds out you have taken us prisoner he will send all the forces of Qattara after you!" Lord Sitwell sneered, glaring at them with rage until Fitz started laughing behind him confused Lord Sitwell fell silent.

"I demand to speak to who's in charge." Lord Tilmun shouted at them as he blinked at the darkness feebly trying to see. Then the clouds shifted and the moon broke free bathing the world in white soft light. Suddenly the cage was seen as was the hooded figure walking over to them.

"Are you the one who did this? Who are you! Why have you taken us prisoner?" Lord Hirin demanded until the hooded figure revealed herself.

"By the gods….it can't be. You're dead! The desert took you." Lord Tilmun mumbled shocked he tried to back away but Bobbi held him in place and taunted. "There will be no running away from your child now Alexander. You will stand here and face the daughter you sentenced to death."

"Barbara? You're supposed to be in chains. How did this happen?" Lord Tilmun asked shaking his head in shock. Lord Sitwell and Lord Hirin stared at Jemma with wide disbelieving eyes, he whispered shaking his head. "Demon. You are nothing but a demon."

"I do not think I am a demon Lord Sitwell but I am death."

"King Hammau will send soldiers after us. You will not get away with this." Lord Hirin threatened his confidence growing again.

"Hammau cannot help you anymore." Jemma replied walking over to the cage and opening it to reach in and pull off a dark cloth covering the wounded man inside. All three men gasped as they realized King Hammau was already inside the cage.

"They will come for the king! There will be no place to hide daughter, no place to hide." Lord Tilmun said eyes wide and fearful.

"No one will come for the king. No one will come for you. Qattara burns. Do you not see the light in the sky? Morning is still hours away." Jemma's casual response made all three men turn to the west to see the light in the sky.

"There is no escape father, no way out and no way to change my mind. When you doomed me to death in that cage you killed your daughter. She is dead and gone. I am her vengeance. I am the hand of the Goddess sent to punish each and every one of you for what you've done to Skye and what you've done to me."

Tilmun blinked at her in stunned silence. Hirin's face was twisted in angry grief while Sitwell began silently crying.

Jemma felt nothing watching their pathetic display, with a weary hand she gestured to put the men in the cage. Melinda shoved Lord Hirin in followed by Bobbi forcing Lord Tilmun to get in, the space was cramped forcing them to sit pressed up against each other. Hirin checked on the king and whispered to Tilmun that Hammau was still alive.

Fitz moved to stuff Sitwell in next and Jemma reached out stopping him. "Wait Fitz! I have something in mind for this one."

The king finally regained consciousness in time to witness Jemma pull Sitwell backward to her as she transformed into a monster and bit down on Sitwell's neck spraying everyone with a burst of blood. Sitwell screamed and tried in vain to flee. Jemma drained him halfway then forced him to drink from a cut on her hand smearing his face and mouth with her blood. Satisfied, Jemma picked Sitwell up like a rag doll and tossed him into the cage.

The other men moved to make room as Melinda shut the cage door and twisted the pin into a tight circle permanently locking the cage door. The fear wafting off the men was thick and heavy amusing all four of them. Fitz turned to Jemma first asking, "What do we do now?"

The fear coming off the men in the cage intensified making Jemma chuckle. "We leave."

"We're just leaving them? This is all we're going to do? Jemma, I thought I'd get my revenge on them?" Bobbi asked her anger showing.

"Did you not kill enough tonight Bobbi? How dare you question Jemma." Melinda was quick to jump to Jemma's defense. Bobbi moved to argue until Jemma raised her hand silencing them both, and all eyes turned to Jemma who was looking her father in the eyes.

"A fast painless death is too good for these men. No you will sit in this cage until death claims you all. And from this day forward I will never think of any of you again. I will honor Skye and her memory but I never again think of any of you. And as I forget you, so will time, so will history. I will make sure of that."

"Jemma! Jemma wait! What about your mother? What about your brothers and sisters?" Tilmun called out.

"They were allowed to flee the house before it burned. They will go on, the gods will watch over them. Good bye father."

Jemma waved to the others to fly and they took off, she turned glancing one last time at the men in the cage. Her mind was already past them, her thoughts on Skye. Jemma faced forward with a heavy sigh then lifted her face to the sky and flew off into the night.

Desperate Lord Hirin and King Hammau called out to them begging them to come back. When it was obvious no one was returning they took to shouting and screaming for help only no one was around to hear them. Lord Tilmun put his face in his hands and silently sobbed. Hours passed and the three men awake began to argue, tempers flared and punches to the face were exchanged leaving them all with bloody lips and black eyes. It did them no good. At dawn Sitwell stopped breathing, they pushed him into the corner but there was no escaping. The sun rose and they all drifted off until the heat of the day grew too much and they awoke covered in thick sweat.

Thirst and hunger occupied their thoughts as the heat from the unrelenting sun wore them down, they listened and searched for any help and found none. They saw carrion birds head toward the city and their hearts grew heavy as they began to lose hope. Around noon Sitwell's body began to thrash scaring all three men, they crouched in their respective corners trying to put distance between them and the dead body only there was nowhere to go. Eventually Sitwell stopped moving and they soon forgot all about the weird death thrashing.

Night fell brining relief from the heat; all three men began to grow comfortable in the cage when Sitwell suddenly opened his eyes. All three men startled and pushed against the cage bars but there was nowhere to flee. Sitwell blinked a few times and his eyes changed, they burned a glowing red and his face transformed, his face twisted monstrously as his teeth grew into razor sharp fangs.

All three men screamed and Sitwell attacked draining each man dry. The king was drained first, Sitwell made a mess of the man's neck and chest tearing and shredding the flesh. Next to go was Lord Hirin, he pleaded and begged but it fell to deaf ears and he died screaming. Lord Tilmun was last, he kicked and punched at Sitwell doing little to slow the monster down. Sitwell tore Tilmun's jaw from his body to stop the screaming, he took his time drinking Tilmun dry.

Only after he was left with a pile of corpses did Sitwell snap out of his bloodlust. And when he did he was crushed with guilt. Eyes wide, mouth trembling he grabbed the kings body and shook the dead man screaming "No!" again and again and again. Covered in the men's blood his hands crusted with flesh and bits of broken bone, Sitwell's mind shattered leaving him lost in his own mind. Mumbling and rocking himself back and forth he desperately tried to convince himself that he had not murdered the three men with him.

At dawn Sitwell was pulled from his madness by a physical overwhelming pain that started small like an itch on the skin and grew to engulf him entirely until he was clawing at his own body trying to escaping the burning pain. And as the sun rose the burning got worse, he tried to get out of the cage, and he tried to bury himself under the dead and for a moment it worked and the pain receded. Then the new day's light reached across the desert and crept into the cage. The dead with him did not cover him enough and where his body was touched by the sun it burned. Bubbling the skin, melting the flesh until he all he could hear was his own screams as he watched his hand melt in the sun exposing bone which caught fire. With nowhere to run, nowhere to hide from the slowly rising sun Lord Sitwell sat in the cage slowly, painfully, melting until the ooze and gore from his own body coated the dead around him setting the bodies on fire. Sitwell died screaming.

Hours later a caravan of business men returning to Qattara saw the pillar of black smoke and three men rode over to see what was going on. They saw the cage on fire, and whatever had been inside was nothing more than a screaming black husk. The riders shook their heads assuming it was just another unusual punishment from the King, and rejoined the caravan.