Hello Pumpkin Spices!

I hope everyone is ok after the storm. The water has gone down in St. Augustine and people are getting help. (But dont count on FEMA*rolls eyes*) There was so much cleanup. If volunteered your services to help people...or even sent beautiful words of prayer, thank you so much! 3

Now I can get back on my weekly schedule of updating!

Chapter 38 has been brought to you by…

Thank you Chapter 37 Reviewers

kagomeLove2 – Right! We are moving onwards very quickly! Only a few chapters left to this story!

Guest 1 – Nope! Same story but now moving onwards with how this is going to work between them. Hope you enjoy this chapter. After this one…it's going to be nonstop action. Brace yourself!

EbonySapphire – Right! Or they might…we never know….

Blackcrescendo – People are themselves when behind closed doors. And yes it will definitely be a challenge to control all the talk about the temple.

Lilura Maeva – LoL I thought about it but I feel like if Sesshomaru is so confident in himself and what he brings to the table…why would he be concerned? I don't agree when ppl write him like. I would like to think hes much more educated and reasonable to think of solutions than to throw a tantrum which we haven't seen since his character growth within the series. But that's just me.

And things are about to get thicker! We are going to move pretty fast now after this chapter. Hope you enjoy it! Read you soon!

Guest 2 – We hope so! Sesshomaru is badass in Japan but can he handle West Africa?

GreenEggsN'Ham – Lmao! Where do I go to get his birth certificate? I'm going to need that…like asap!

And no! But I'm happy about it. I feel like Ororo in Xmen can do so much better! Hell I wish we could cross universes for her to hook up with like a strong ass character in DC Verse.

Thank you Chapter 37 Followers

Oro08

LadyKhaiju

Thank you Chapter 37 Favs

Oro08

Sashasnow522

Review, Fav, and Follow for updates to this story. 3- 5 Reviews will get you an update.

Check out my profile page for more information regarding update information, book updates, disclaimers, warnings, goodies, etc.

Chapter 38: Fog

Ororo sat back in the cool quiet pond in the back of the manor watching the lazy mist move about the lush overrun greenery of the land before her gaze. The sun was hidden by the moving clouds that passed through leisurely giving a small peek here and there. She dipped her head back allowing the water to soak deep into her white tresses before massaging her scalp tenderly with her fingers. The sound of the water rushing off the cliffs became background music to her pacified mind. Ororo brought her head back up and pulled her mane to her left shoulder before turning to lean back against the edge of the pool to fully relax. The water line rested against her bosom keeping her skin refreshed despite the temperature. She shifted her legs to spread slightly apart to soothe the muscles in her thighs and core from her previous activities. She had lain with kings but truly none have ever satisfied her the way her mate had proven.

She smiled and turned her head to look back at her demon mate who sat on the old wooden worn step sharpening and oiling his swords with concentrated effort. A fire was started in the pit where a boar sat roasting for the meal that night. She had found left over grains, gardens of vegetables, and pottery that she put on the fire to cook. Ororo had wondered through the homes taking a gander at all the intricate details of the people that once thrived there and how they went about their daily lives. She tried to explain to Sesshomaru how so much could be learned by a simple pottery bowl or an altar that had been left untouched. He simply followed and spoke about the traditions of his clan and the histories that accompanied them. She looked upon Sesshomaru's skin as if he was etched with all those tales on his flesh. His chest was bare showing the muscles, scars, and symbols that proudly shined under the filtered daylight. His silver hair was combed and braided to lay down his back as he worked moving the sunstone repeatedly against his weapon. She wished she had her bag to give him a proper oil for his weapon but he seemed happy with his lot. Sesshomaru's eyes came up to connect with hers, catching her as she looked upon him in his element. A grunting sound came from his throat and she quickly turned around to face the pool not wanting to encourage him into any more activity.

"Just talk he said." Ororo mumbled underneath her breath with a smile as she lifted her arms to rub them soothingly. They had communicated alright. They communicated many times and in many ways until at one point she just became lost to the conversation that was being had. Whatever he was saying or whatever point he was making, she just waved it on to be passed into law until further notice. Something fluttered to her right on the edge and she looked to see a red jeweled beetle had returned to her. She smiled knowingly that Iset had received her messages. Ororo waved the beetle off silently telling it that she would deal with the return message later. She smiled thinking of the time she had to send the little thing. She had to urge Sesshomaru at one point to allow her air to send notice to Iset about their conjoining and extended time away from the duties of their estate. Of course he responded with a short explanation of his previous activities while she was sleep in which word had been carried out already. She couldn't help but smile to have learned that he had sent word himself while she lay sleeping. Sesshomaru amazed her. Nothing seemed to scare him. She was happy the male was at her side. He gave her balance, foundation, and he gave her above all peace at night. Now, she needed to think on her own before they returned from their newly found paradise. Ororo looked at her reflection in the pond and started making ripples with her fingers across the surface.

Sesshomaru had given her a solution that was…probable despite the means required to accomplish such a feat. She had never heard of anything like it or anything like what he spoke of ever happening. But it had elements to it that made sense. Overall, his answer to her cause was just too hard to believe but so crazy it had to be true and worth an attempt. Despite all the things she had seen and done in her lifetime, this took the cake as being far-fetched and a story worth an audience of children. There was nothing left to do but wait until they returned to confront the solution he offered. She just hoped they didn't have to rush to the other option that she had. If all else was to fail, she would leave on her own and see to her people rather he liked it or not. She would fix the problem even if it meant blood was to flow into the entire Nile River.

She would find a way to be in control of her lands and be with her king at all cost. If not in this realm than surely the next. She was the chosen Pharaoh after all. Ororo looked down at her slim wrist where the Crook and Flail sat staring up at her in shimmery gold light that had died down a bit. It was the symbol of supreme power and it did not transfer to her mate like she had thought it would. The Eye of Horus transferred meaning he was accepted as governing royalty and protected by the Gods. But her kingdom and people's fate still rested in her hands. She came all this way to protect everything she knew, she would not stop now. She had stopped her foes from the West that tried many times to cross the great water to conquer Egypt and lay claim as if Egypt was some weak farm or as if she was some common whore. She would be damned if she allowed anyone else to try and take what was hers underneath her nose. Family or not, someone would pay for this.

She knew whoever did this, obviously wanted her away but clearly they had no idea that Amun had great plans for her and the sun kingdom. Ororo smirked twirling her finger in the cool water at how prosperous the venture actually turned out to be. Obviously, the trick was meant to get her out of Egypt but she knew whoever the perpetrator was, did not expect for the journey to take her down the Silk Road and far beyond the Middle Kingdom. But it had and she would return home with knowledge and riches that could possibly make Egypt into an even large super power. Hopefully, they could get involved in the trade as well and invest in the unique silk fabrics in exchange for their exports. Her boats will have the finest cotton and silk known to man. Ororo smiled and moved her arms in the water. "Fools." She nearly laughed leaning her head back to look at the clouds.

Now she had to think of a solution to problem plaguing her house. Only the royal family had access to the curse that was unleashed. The Book of the Dead was only accessible by the higher powers. Someone got ahold of it and mutilated it into something she'd never read before in her life. Whoever did it, didn't know what they were doing for sure. And if it was her blood relatives than that was an even bigger insult to the power she had in her veins. But despite all this, clearly neither Rameses nor Asa were both unfit to rule. Rameses was too busy soaking his oats and Asa sounded as if she was emotionally unstable right now and needed family. On top of these things, the people didn't sound too pleased. She was sure the people had realized that neither one of them carried the Crook and Flail despite her publicly holding a ceremony to pass the throne over with free will. The crown was passed but the Gods didn't acknowledge it. But this has happened before in their long intricate history.

But what would she do if she found out one of them was responsible for all of this? She could care less about Rameses for all the acts he had done. But what if Asa was to blame? Would she be able to slaughter her own sister? By law, she would have to give justice to Sesshomaru. He deserved the head of the one responsible. Or what if it wasn't and it was done by another? It still wouldn't matter. The pair still wouldn't be fit to rule. Who would take the throne? She would stay for a little to see to her people's fate and build the trust back up into the crown that governs them. Then what? Would she stay? For how long? Where would she find a replacement? She did have a boy cousin that could inherit it but he is just a child. What if she did pass it to the boy and had Iset marry him or someone in her bloodline? Maybe destroy the bond between Asa and Rameses and have Asa marry the young boy. That was a potential solution. Not the most likeable solution…but a probable one.

"That last solution was disturbing and disgraceful."

Ororo smiled and looked over at Sesshomaru as he stopped what he was doing to look at her with cutting golden eyes. "Don't worry. I'm just thinking out loud. But it's unfortunate to say that in the past it has been done." She turned fully around to rest her elbows on the shore to look at him. "Families will go as far as to marry their own sibling to keep wealth and power in their favor."

Sesshomaru growled at this but held his tongue knowing his mate's endearing yet questionable pride in her country even when in the wrong. His mate was very loyal to a fault. But the Inu within him adored the quality she had and found it an anchoring virtue in their bond. He bet he could slaughter and entire village and she would still stand at his side. She would be angry with him but she wouldn't stray. "Why don't you pick someone that you trust? That would honor your people and also seek your council at times?" He asked, helping her walk through her own thoughts.

Ororo sighed and laid her head down on her arms on the edge of the pool. Her blue eyes looked upon him as she spoke. "I wish I could but doing such a thing could very well upset the people and bring chaos…a potential civil war that would open a door to another unfit family to take the thrown or worse…outside invasion by our neighbors. I know Iset would be a good choice as she is my cousin and has loyalty to me, but I fear she will never have what I have. Also, my sister Asa will not accept this and she could use her position to dethrone Iset before she has even sat down. That will cause strife between them of the worst kind." Ororo looked to Sesshomaru. "Plus, I will admit I do enjoy Iset's company and I am selfish enough to desire to keep her at my side."

Sesshomaru stood up and brushed off his sword to study his handiwork. The bond they shared was calm and he relished in the feel of her tranquil mood despite the burden resting on her shoulders. He couldn't solve everything for her or begin to tell her where to start for he already proved he had very little patience for others. Also the way her country governed was very different from his. He was quick to slit throats than he was to be diplomatic like Ororo. Sesshomaru placed his weapon down at the edge of the pond. He undid the knot on his hakamas and stepped his way down into the pool of water to join his mate. Naturally, Ororo moved to make room for him and somehow she found herself seated in his lap and wrapped in his arms. Sesshomaru rubbed her soft skin and picked up her hands already seeing them prune. He took his hand and began smoothing her fingers with firm motions. He smirked as Ororo leaned her head to the side against his shoulder showing off her mark. He bent down and kissed it tenderly before giving it a strong lick. "When we return, I do implore you to look through the scrolls of history in my study to gain some ideas. Maybe the past can help you fix the future." He spoke against her skin.

Ororo smiled as she rested her weight against him fully. "I suppose it wouldn't hurt." She shifted her head up and kissed underneath his chin already feeling the vibrations from his chest echo into her body. He encouraged her to lean back into him in which she did. For right now she was happy, safe, and gifted beyond measure. She looked down at the Crook and Flail on her wrist with determined eyes. Regardless of what was going to happen. She wouldn't give up all that she had accomplished. For no one.

"I can't believe this." Kagome exclaimed excitedly as she touched her smooth pale belly. "How can you be so sure?" She asked looking over at Iset who was finishing up her prayers and sat back on her hind legs to look at the miko in the tea room they occupied. Her unfinished scripts on the right wall seemed to call for additional messages to be honored among the torch lights on the walls.

Iset blew out two of the three lit candles and put all her things back into her satchel where they belonged. A bowl of dried red powder sat to the side of her leg. A kettle and cup of something herbal she had made sat in the corner cooling off a bit. "Ororo and I sensed it before when you lay unmoving after the attack you sustained. Your holy powers reacted as a defense mechanism and shut your body down immediately from the intrusion. Although intense, this is quite common among women that undergo heavy stress while pregnant. The body shuts itself down for self-preservation." Iset pointed to the bowl she sat aside that once held the priestess's blood. Now instead was a red powder. Iset picked up the remaining candle and set the powder on fire before blowing the candle out. Immediately the powder began to burn until it was completely gone leaving only white smoke in the bowl. "I have checked every method I know including consulting the stars in the sky. All have come to the same conclusion." Iset pointed at her belly with her index finger. "You indeed carry a child in your womb. One of royal blood as well." She said looking at the white-silvery smoke that still released from the bowl into the air.

Kagome inhaled deeply with a growing smile on her face as she looked upon her flat belly. It was so soon that even modern medicine wouldn't be able to tell if she was or not. But they knew. She couldn't help but believe they were right. Her hand rubbed the skin there gently with soothing hands. She already considered herself a mother to Shippo. He brought so much joy and life into her world. And now he was going to be an older brother. She had always dreamed of being many things and one of those things were indeed to become a mother. But she never thought it would happen so soon. Joy filled her heart like an inflated balloon. The life growing inside of her would be more than just her child. It would be Inuyasha's as well. "I-I'm going to be a mom." She said hugging her middle already trying to send her child love and affection.

Iset sat with a smirk on her face as she poured Kagome the sweet mixture she had made that early morning for their session. She placed the kettle gently back on its stand before picking up the cup into her hands. "Like I said, I have been doing this for quite some time and I'm never wrong in these cases. However, rather or not you stay with child is entirely up to you and fate. But fortune smiles upon you graciously at the moment." Iset spoke handing her the cup which Kagome took courteously. Iset helped pull down her white shirt and tucked it back gently into her clean red miko hakamas before sitting back. "I do believe the others are coming." She went to reach for her tea tray but Kagome stopped her with a quick grab to her hand. Iset turned to her with a questionable gaze watching Kagome place the cup down.

"Thank you. For…everything! You have been amazing to us all." She said as Iset smiled slowly nodding her head unsure of how to respond to the miko's overwhelming gratitude. Not many had ever thanked her for her services and saw them as more of a right than a privilege. It felt reassuring and satisfying to receive such pleasantries.

"I am doing what I have been called by the Gods to do. I'm living my blessings." She responded placing both the miko's hands on the cup gently and encouraging her to drink.

Kagome looked down at the dark drink smelling the sweetness inside of it. Her hand clutched the steaming beverage in her hands with joy smelling different scents of herbs and liquids. So many emotions ran through her but above all was the profound love she had for everyone in her life including the newest one growing inside of her. Making the decision to stay in this time period had been the stuff of fairytales and epic novels. Along the way she had met incredible people that had become closer than blood could ever allow them to be. She thought about the family she had surrounding her and she stilled with the brim of the cup touching her lips. A chilling thought ran through her and she immediately spoke up. "Lady Iset. C-can you help me keep this a secret between us for now?"

Iset looked at her with a questionable gaze. "But you have nothing to fear…"

Kagome sighed and looked at her with her big brown eyes. "I want to surprise everyone later when I'm further along. When everyone is settled and safe."

Iset placed both her hands in her lap as she looked upon Kagome with a searching gaze. In Egypt is was very common for a woman to hide her pregnancy as it was bad luck to speak about such things too early when the child was fresh in the womb and the days that lay ahead were uncertain. Even royalty hid the news of pregnancy to avoid scandal or worst especially if it was a boy she carried. Iset thought over the words and she smiled. Kagome gained her respect at the mention of her last statement. It was a great thing to put one's happiness aside for the sake of everyone's happiness especially in times of strife. Her heart swelled for the priestess and she nodded her head. Iset quickly reached for her satchel and dug into it. She pulled out a small jar of orange powder.

"Ororo and I are very blessed to have gained you as a relative to our house. I will do this for you, my holy sister in spirit." Iset leaned over and sprinkled the orange powder in her cup. "This drink will help the work of your womb and the powder will hide your body's intentions. Husbands have their own connection to their wives body that goes unchallenged. I'm sure he knows of your menses, body pheromones, and bond as mates. These things will change and alert him and others to your pregnancy. Hopefully by then, you can live freely and not hide for long this reason of celebration. But for now, no one will sense nor smell a thing with this powder I keep. I will give you your daily regiment to help your heir build strength and increase your vitality to carry to term. The father carries blood of the Inu so I must learn about your possible gestation period as well as understanding the survival needs that are required for this birth."

"Thank you!" Kagome said holding her cup tightly.

"Drink, Priestess Kagome. You must get this down while it is hot. It is no good to you cold." Iset said tapping the white porcelain cup with her nail. Iset turned back to the tray making sure the kettle was drained completely before moving it to the side for cleanup.

Kagome took a hesitant sip before humming in delight at the sweet drink. It tasted like that of cold milk tea. Very close to the kind from her time. She started to drink a little bit quickly until she drained the whole thing. Her tongue felt slightly scorched from the heat but she figured it was a small price to pay for what she was asking. The drink was very warming and she felt fully relaxed. Suddenly, the shoji door was thrown open by Inuyasha followed by the others standing closely behind him with questions in their eyes.

Iset placed her bag on her shoulder but stayed seated watching everyone fill into the room. She watched the odd family take up the remaining space into the small tea room before finally Lady InuKimi sat gracefully down with handmaidens preparing teas and treats out for all of them. They took the tray that she had used out of the room as they exited. Inuyasha sank to his mate's side and pulled her into his arms protectively. "Well…how is she?"

Iset looked at Kagome with a knowing smile ready to play her part and do what she had been doing her whole life. She turned her focus to Inuyasha and bowed her head slightly in greeting. "Priestess Kagome will be at full health come morning and simply needs rest. She exhausted herself using too much energy to do too many things at once. But with rest, she will be just fine." Iset spoke and bowed her head to end her session with the family having completed her duties.

"What a relief." Sango said while holding onto her brood who piled underneath her and her husband's side.

"Make's sense." Miroku said tapping his chin as one of his twins climbed into his lap to rest. "You did use a lot of energy and you were assaulted internally. When we return we will need to find a way for a more automatic holy defense system."

"I agree." Kagome said before taking another sip of her tea. If she was she knew her ability to help protect the village were going to be very limited. Many things would need to be recalculated. Her hand wanted so badly to touch her belly but she refrained. She looked around for the other children when she noticed they were missing. "Where are Shippo and Rin?"

"Hiromi is preparing them for dinner. They got quite dirty and everyone needed a good wash." Sango said looking down at her nearly sleeping twins.

Inukimi sat silent watching how everyone was interacting and taking it all in. She wanted to roll her eyes. No one was asking the important questions at the hour. There was an elephant in the room that needed to be addressed. Inukimi picked up her drink and sipped casually. "Have you heard from your Empress?" Inukimi asked coyly causing Inuyasha to look at her with a deadpanned expression.

"You just couldn't wait, could you?" He asked while rubbing his mate's arm soothingly while glaring at the demoness he had yet to categorize into his life.

"This affects the clan and the lands. I need to know if he has simply rutted or taken her as a mate. This does affect politics and status my young pup. And you will need to learn these things as well." She said placing her cup down and looking at Iset expectantly.

Everyone knew exactly with whom she was with and what they were doing. Their aura's the previous night long before could have blown the roof off of the whole castle and the heady scent that lingered was potent. It was no secret at all Sesshomaru had taken Ororo. But the question of rather they mated or how this would work was on everyone's mind. No one wanted to see Ororo leave but she did have obligations to finish. And mating a foreigner would be quite a scandal the way Inukimi saw it. She approved his choice but the fallout of this within the Inu Clan and the Royal Cardinal families were going to be difficult. Also, they would have to deal with the new territory that now lays unclaimed due to the demise of the governing Lord. If he didn't mate, she would simply pick the most acceptable female that was high in status and rank from the unclaimed lands and propose a marriage. Or pick a female from the other Cardinal Lords or Inu Clan that would draw support for the expansion of the Western Territories. But she needed to know if it was even worth thinking about.

"I don't need to learn any of that shit." Inuyasha mumbled and tucked his arms in his big red sleeves and looked away. Miroku made a snide sexual comment which earned him a quick slap on the back of the head by his wife. Her eyes glared into his soul daring him to open his mouth again in front of their daughters. She didn't care if they were sleeping or not.

Iset smiled reaching for her empty bowl and rising to her feet. "Pharaoh Ororo is where she should be." She simply stated before rising to her feet.

"When do you think they will return?" Kagome asked, looking up at Iset and holding up the empty cup for her to take. Inuyasha's nose wiggled from the smell as he sniffed it in passing unsure of what he was witnessing.

Iset quickly took the cup and placed it in her bowl. She stood tall and looked at them all. "They will return when a decision is reached or…if one cannot be." Iset spoke catching the odd looks of those sitting around her. She held her head up and turned to exit to finish her other duties. She could not answer any additional questions as she was promised not to do so by Ororo. Ororo wanted to be the one to answer questions as it pertained to her. Without further words she left through the shoji door and made her way quickly into the halls towards the stairs.

Iset walked with a steady pace making no eye contact with others nor missing a beat in her passage. A few soldiers bowed to her politely but they went unnoticed as she moved forward. For once she found herself lost in her thoughts. She exhaled thinking on her current situation. Of course she knew Ororo had mated the Inu King. But what that meant for Egypt…remained unclear. His lands however were recovering well. New settlements were being designed for those wishing to move back to their lands. People were picking up their lives again. The battlefield had been cleared and blessed. The sick and the wounded piled into the infirmary. The soldiers' conversations on what would happen next reached her ears and she couldn't help but wonder the same thing. The skies weren't speaking which meant knowledge was not meant for her understanding at the moment. Time and the upcoming events simply had to take its course. However, she was not so keen on moving blindly.

She walked into the room she had been given and placed her bag down gently onto the wooden floor. She looked at the burning sage in the corner noting the mix she added to it had produced blue smoke. Iset had prayed and treated the earth with her herbs. She asked for healing, peace, and forgiveness on the land for war was never kind for the living and sometimes even the dead couldn't find their way afterwards. Iset sat on the stack of pillows she stacked and took cleansing breaths as she begun to pray once again. She went on to express her praises for things that passed and further to express her fears. At the mention of her lack of sight she opened her eyes to stare at her hands that clutched in her lap.

They had defeated the foe that could have devastated the lands as far as the eye could see with the power of the pink jewel that he tried to create. Now would come the hard part. The questions on her lips remained unanswered. What will come of this venture between her Pharaoh and Son of Anubis? How would Egypt fair? The danger that lurked the palace was real and deserved to be dealt with at once. Ororo could not do that from a distance while sitting on a throne here. She would have to be in Egypt to see firsthand what has become of her legacy. There were no questions about it. She didn't know how much time they had until Asa or Rameses reunited or even figured out what was going on. She wondered if they even knew she was absent yet. She only spoke to her peers of her duties but she had not told anyone else where she was going. She was sure upon her return she would have to stay vigil at all times. Iset sighed releasing the negative energy in her body. She blinked a few times feeling the General approach and she waited patiently to understand the intent. A light knock came to her door.

"Enter." She called out putting her hands together in a prayer. She heard the heavy footsteps of the male entering her quarters with a pair of soft ones following. Iset smiled to herself. "You are in need of me?" She turned in her positon to look at him.

Tamatsu walked further into the room assessing the woman before him. She didn't seem to move or be bothered at the interruption of whatever she was doing that fogged the room in blue smoke. "No, High Priestess. For once, I have come to check up on you." He said walking further into the room before a servant followed with a small bowl of soup and tea. "And give thanks from my men for your protective and healing services." They watched as she rushed out clearly finding it uncomfortable to be in the foreign woman's presence. The door closed behind her leaving the two alone in the room together.

Iset watched as he walked to stand in front of her. He found her covered in a purple dress that actually covered her up…well as covered as she would allow but it was a change. It was sheer and held no sleeves. It hung to her chest which seemed as the support for keeping the dress up. He could see layers of the dress was sheer. He bowed kindly to her and sat before her in lotus style dressed to the nines in his armory and uniform clearly serving in the absence of his King. His silver and black hair shined under the sunlight filtering in through the windows giving him a serene expression. "This is a first." She spoke noting that it was twice in one evening that she was being praised for doing things required of her. She was a bit taken aback quite frankly. Her curiosity got the best of her and she continued to sit and feel his energy out. Her green eyes stayed upon him closely.

Tamatsu motioned to the food tray set at her side. "I've been raised by the Black Inu Clan. It is within our custom to make sure the females of the house are taken care of. You are no exception. You've done a lot without much rest." He said.

Iset looked at the soup with a soft smile. "Thank you for the kind gesture. But, I will not sleep nor consume until the day of the Sabbath, General. It is custom that is adhered to after a great battle is fought and much has been lost or gained." She explained thinking of her time in the Temple of Nut. "After seven days, then I shall take part in festivities and indulge. But for now the Gods need to see my devotion and gratitude for their grace and glory."

Tamatsu watched her gaze drag back onto him. Her head tilted to the side and her finely braided hair moved with her. He looked around the room at the oddities found all around. Once again he was reminded of their differences. He wanted to argue that the Gods could care less if she starved herself or not. She needed to rest and she needed to eat if she wanted to be strong and prepared for the next day. Anything could happen. She needed her strength. "Would it be so wrong to take even just a spoonful?" He asked.

Iset eyed him distrustfully. "You and I both know that you wish for me to consume the whole bowl. A spoonful would do absolutely nothing for me."

He held his hand up not wishing to argue. "Fair. But even one would be better than nothing."

Iset shook her head and smiled. "The Gods do not take kindly to cheating." She countered. "Besides, I have done this many times and it has done wonders. This needs to be done and I will be fine at the end."

Tamatsu inhaled deeply before nodding his head. "We no doubt will need you in the upcoming days. I'm sure there will be much to sort due to this royal union."

"So you are aware…"Isis turned slowly to him with a questioning gaze. "You sound hesitant."

"Aren't you?" He asked watching as she took him in with green eyes glowing among the torches on the wall. "This could be devastating for one of our lands. Inu's mate for life and with the new bond your Empress has taken, she will not be leaving Sesshomaru's side. I know my Lord will never leave his ancestral home and birthright. Your Empress will not be returning to Egypt."

Iset looked upon him unflinching. "I am never hesitant. I do not question the acts of the God of Ra." She made to stand and she watched as he stood up with her. "Besides, who says she will stay? Your King could very well be seated soon on the throne of Egypt. After all, you have another that could very well take his place without question or dispute. Prince Inuyasha could be king."

"You can't honestly believe that!" He spoke quickly moving out of her way so she could walk off pass him. He didn't come for this conversation but he found it spilling from his lips. "Sesshomaru is Lord of these lands and now has two territories to consider until proper governance can be decided. Besides, as in our custom it is the chosen female that leaves her mother's house and follows her mate to their new home." He practically yelled behind her.

Iset stopped in her tracks at the truth of his words. Such things were true even in Egypt. But that did not affect the life of Royalty. She thought about his words and understood the meaning within them. She knew his concerns mirrored her own. One of them would lose a ruler. There was no way around it. It was terrifying and uneasy to think about. But she believed in the powers that be. She had not been led wrong once and so she had to keep her faith. She didn't know what that meant. He could very well be right. Then what would happen? She turned around slowly and walked back towards him. She stood as close as possible to his body allowing barely enough air to pass between them. Laughter was in her eyes at the uncomfortable stance he had taken at being so close to her. Even when angered he still held true to his morals and beliefs. Boldly she lifted her arms up to rest on his shoulders and her fingers played with his two-toned hair feeling the silky threads glide against her skin.

His hands came up to grab onto hers to stop her movement and his eyes cut into hers clearly not in the mood for her antics. He looked upon her scantily dressed body that would put even the most provocative concubine to shame. The purple dress did cover her up but the sheer layers revealed her midriff and legs. He didn't understand it and he didn't understand her. The scent of spices filled his nose and he could not deny a stirring inside of him. His grip on her hands slacked allowing her arms to move further up and wrap around his neck.

Iset pressed her body close to his and moved her head forward so that her lips were just a space before his. She arched her back a bit and lightly ran the back of her right hand against his cheek before it came back to rest around his neck. She breathed lightly onto him feeling his cold armor against her body. "I took an oath to always pray and ensure Egypt's prosperity the day I was accepted as a priestess into the Temple of the Goddess Nut. Do know that I will make sure of this oath by any means necessary. The sun may rise over this land but it forever resides in mine. You be sure to remember that…General." She said moving her lips onto his and stealing a sensual kiss. His lips were firm as they pressed against hers. Her fingers looped in his hair and dragged forward onto his shoulders understanding the fix that her Queen found herself in. The line of Anubis did have very handsome males that were also as stubborn and strong as he himself. But this male was also a very powerful player and maybe he could be of some use to her plans to ensure Egypt's future.

He was caught off guard she could tell but his lips still moved as she took another one from him. Before he realized what was happening, her arms had slid down his chest and she had pulled away slowly. He watched seemingly caught in intoxication as she walked away towards the tray he had sent in. She bent over and picked it up before turning towards him. Carefully, she walked by him with a smirk on her face to place the tray outside the door. "Thank you for your insights and generosity. In two days, the Sabbath will have passed and only then will I be able to indulge in the gratifications of this world." She stood up and left the door open for him to exit. "Maybe then our beloved rulers will return with an answer. Best of luck to you." She said biting her lower lip savoring the ghost touches of his lips onto hers.

The General was about to speak but the sound of footsteps approaching made him grow quiet. Not knowing what to do or how to feel at the moment, he simply bowed respectfully to her before making his way out of her door. Two guards were walking by and both bowed to them in respect. He too nodded his head lightly as what was required of his station while Iset tilted her chin up at them in proper acknowledgement.

Iset reached out to graze his arm in passing causing him to pause in his retreat. "For what it's worth, your loyalty admiral."

Tamatsu nodded his head and quickly walked away in silence. Iset leaned against the door watching him walk away. Her smirk slowly faded as she looked down to see the strands of hair she managed to comb from his locks. Her fist tightened around it with a firm grasp. She looked both ways out of habit before she closed the door behind her. She was truthful when she made that oath. She lived to serve the Gods and watch over Egypt. She would see to its prosperity by any means necessary.

Sol was knelt down on her hind legs with her forehead on the ground praying before the altar she had freshly prepared. The light shined off of her white skin and shaven head. In her hands was the scarab she had received from Priestess Iset telling her of great news regarding the safety of Egypt from her foreign enemies. There was so much to be thankful for. Egypt was safe from harm and prospering under the gentle guidance of their Pharaoh Ororo. However, word had gotten further than she could contain despite her head priestess Hafsa and the elder Priest's wishes.

The people were celebrating and chanting their prayers daily to the heavens for Pharaoh Ororo to return with the moon's incarnate at her side. She had already gone out to join them singing and telling all who wish to hear the great news. Then she was told to keep it a secret. Why should she? The people needed to know the truth. They needed hope back into their lives. Many people filled the halls to look at the story unfolding on the temple walls. Already they were bringing offerings and tributes to the temple praying for her speedy arrival. This all pleased her until the morning had come.

She had found out through a messenger that Queen Asa had found out. Hafsa went on to seek guidance from the Temple of Nut. She had to get word to Priestess Hafsa about this possible fact. For she was sure the royal family had caught on and would be reuniting soon. Trouble would be on the horizon. There was nothing more she and her fellow kin could do to keep peace within their own country. The royal family was a mess and political turmoil began to simmer. The people wanted Ororo and no other would do. And she couldn't help but bandwagon on that notion. Ororo was an excellent ruler who kept the peace and prosperity growing for all her people. She needed to pray for a speedy return and get the message to High Priestess Hafsa as this was the only thing that could help her right now.

"Well aren't you very happy today, Priestess Sol."

Sol jumped to her feet and spun around. Her beige dress whipped around her and hit her jeweled ankles almost causing her to fall over. Her heart hammered in her chest as her brown eyes took in the man that stood before her. She took a step back putting more space between them. "General Adofo. What brings you here?"

Adofo looked around the room at the burning incense and the various items placed everywhere around it. He placed his hands behind his back as he walked forward to look at her with a mirthful expression. "I came to seek word from a high priestess. But it seems everyone is busy or gone for the day. Why are we celebrating exactly?"

Sol swallowed thickly feeling a sinister energy swell within the room. She clutched the scarab in her hand tightly and rubbed its back to wake it. "We have much to celebrate!" She responded with a nervous smile. "The skies have shown that a great positive change is coming for Egypt."

"A yes! It was said that you and two other priestesses witnessed this…momentous declaration in the temple hall. Hafsa was there I presume." He said continuing his slow pace around her. "But enough about that. I came here to see about the whereabouts of Priestess Iset. "You do hail to the Temple of Nut which I find it odd to find you here paying deep tribute in this temple."

Sol could feel the fear rising in her chest. "All temples need to be respected by everyone regardless of station." She couldn't tell him where Iset had really gone otherwise the time they had to fix things could possibly become nonexistent. Surely, Adofo would report his findings to the royal family. If they hadn't gotten word from Iset or Ororo than something was clearly wrong and trust was broken completely. "Priestess Iset had gone to see about the events plaguing Egypt since the powers that rest on the throne have been too distraught as of lately to deal with the matters of the state. It is predicted High Priestess Iset was successful in her journey. You need to speak with High Priestess Hafsa for details." She felt the scarab in her hand wiggle before biting her hand spilling forth her blood.

"Interesting…" He said rubbing his chin hairs gently. "The royal family had requested High Priestess Iset to return prior to her finishing the journey but she has not." Adofo spoke walking around her with glowing brown eyes. His ponytail moved with him as he walked eyeing her up and down. "It is a most grievous offense to ignore the commands of our Pharaohs when called upon." He spoke stopping at her alter and touching the moon flowers she placed.

Sol tilted her chin up while rubbing her blood on the scarab thoroughly coating it. Her bones now ached as the energy she was using began to wane. A terrible dark feeling settled in her body and she felt the need to run. Something told her it was too late. She looked him squarely in the eyes already seeing what was to come and she lifted her head high resigned to her fate. "High Priestess Iset does her duty to the Pharaoh which is Pharaoh Ororo as sanctioned by our Gods since her birth. Pharaoh Ororo has not left this world and so she continues to wear the mark of the Pharaoh which everyone knows." She called out eyeing him distastefully. "You, Hafsa, Iset, myself and everyone else serve's the will of the Gods and the Pharaoh. The Pharaoh is Ororo. Her jurisdiction overpasses everyone's call and judgement or have you forgotten to exactly to whom you serve."

Adofo walked forward towards her and smiled. "Oh I know exactly who I serve." He said with a smile. His hand came out and his sword embedded itself deep into her stomach. She looked upon him with wide eyes as her hands held her scarab. Her mouth moved and words spilled forward before he twisted his sword and watched as she fell to her knees. He watched as the life light drained from her eyes.

"And it is time to make sure everyone understands to whom they serve now." He spoke watching her sink slowly to the ground to rest in a pool of her own blood. He pulled his sword out and shook his head at the blood that stained it before placing it back in its sheath. He turned away and walked out of the room unaware of the little scarab rushing away through the cracks of the temple building.

Review, Fav, and Follow