"Daughters of Isis"
By: Heikou and Janime Lee
A Heavy Burden
As the sun rose to its high point, he watched the two Sisters of the Moon and their Guardians from a distance. He couldn't make his move just yet, for he knew that the Guardians would intervene. They were young but extremely skilled.
He continued to follow them as they made their way through the market. His fellow cult members considered it a granted opportunity that the caravan had returned even after the original owner had died years ago of "natural" causes.
A smirk played on his lips knowing that the potion slipped into the merchant's wine was slowly killing him from the inside out, and no doubt that he had suffered for at least one year. He glanced over to the other vender, seeing one of his associate waiting, then nodded.
It was time.
Hanif was still on edge. The hairs on the back of his neck were standing on end and he could not get the image of that stranger out of his head. He knew they should go back to the temple but he knew that Dalila would not let Peisimemne step foot outside the temple to enjoy the day as a commoner.
Just one more hour then we head back, he told himself.
A group of children ran past, laughing and tossing a cloth ball tied with string between them. Hanif couldn't help smiling, remembering when he used to be like them before he arrived at them Temple of Isis.
"Just one more," Agalameia pleaded, looking at Khalfani with an expression that she knew would work. It always did on her mother and Theliane.
"Alright," the tall Guardian sighed, giving in. "But we have to head back soon."
She smiled and quickly hugged him before dashing to another stall. She missed the slight color rushing to her Guardian's face but he quickly fought it down. It was clear to see that he cared for the young woman more than just a friend.
Peisimemne giggled as she watched her Sister. "All these years and you still submit to her look," she teased him.
"I don't want her unhappy," he said firmly but they just laughed.
Thabit smiled and looked to see where Gyasi had disappeared. At the moment, the other Egyptian boy was at a vendor that was selling fabrics. A girl, probably a couple years younger than Gyasi, occupied the stall. She had extremely long hair and gentle eyes that were a mixture of several shades of green.
As Thabit approached them, Gyasi was talking to her in Greek.
"Enjoying yourself?" Thabit asked.
Gyasi spoke to the girl and turned to Thabit. "Sorry," Gyasi grinned. "Thabit, this is Mona. I was just telling her that her name in Egypt is Salama."
The girl smiled and blushed prettily.
Thabit shook his head slightly. "These fabrics are lovely."
Gyasi translated and the girl seemed to beam as she said something to him in Greek.
"She said thank you and asks if you wanted to buy some fabric for anyone special."
Thabit pursed his lips. Someone special… his eyes quickly to Peisimemne then returned to the fabric just as fast. He slowly flipped through the fabrics, not noticing the dark robed men making their way towards the Sisters of the Moon.
--
Kasuyan walked back into the market, feeling lighter than a feather carried by the wind. Theliane was a wonderful young woman. Pleasant to talk to and she was very caring. It was no wonder why Tumaini adored her.
Sadiki had been a little less than obvious that he didn't like Kasuyan there. The glares and blunt answers were beyond giveaways. Fortunately, Tumaini kept Theliane occupied when the two older boys were at a stare-off.
He looked around for his friends. As much as he had wanted to spend more time with the priestess he knew he still had duties with the caravan. Besides, he could also learn more about the lovely young angel that saved his life through her sisters, could he not?
He froze, narrowing his eyes. A man dressed in a hood robe caught his attention. Normally it wouldn't but why was the man wearing something like that in this heat? Even the natives of the land wore loose light-colored linens but this one seemed to try to hide everything about his appearance. Something doesn't feel right, the blonde thought to himself.
Then suddenly, he was roughly shoved to the side.
"Watch it!" Kasuyan yelled at the rude person, and stopped when he saw that this one was also dressed in a dark hooded robe.
And walking towards the Sisters of the Moon.
I have a bad feeling about this. Kasuyan quickly went after the hooded figure.
--
Theliane gently touch a petal of one of the flowers Kasuyan had brought for her, and now they were in a metal vase on a table near the balcony. The gentle wind that flowed past the archway carried the floral scents throughout the room.
She smiled at the memory of the young man. There was something about him that made her want to see him again. He was different from others that was a fact, but even so there was something else about him. She knew that deep down she could trust him with her life.
Suddenly, Theliane's body jerked and she grabbed the edge of the table to balance herself. Once steady, the Daughter of Ra walked out onto the balcony, her eyes traveling over the rooftops and looked towards the market.
"No…"
--
Gyasi landed on a large basket filled with straw. The basket then broke and the straw fell about the young man.
They do mean business, he thought and rubbed his neck.
A hand grabbed his arm, and Gyasi looked up at Kasuyan. The Greek boy was without question very angry at the transpiring events.
Khalfani and Hanif moved Peisimemne and Agalameia behind them, and now faced the three robed men. Thabit also stood near the two Guardians, swearing in his mind that he would not let any harm befall the two Sisters.
The hooded men slowly advanced upon them, showing they meant serious business. It was clear to see that they knew who they were so talking out of this situation wouldn't work. The young men would risk their lives for the women though, not afraid and not backing down.
"Give up, you cannot hope to win," one of the men laughed.
"Don't be so sure of yourself," Khalfani said in a cold tone.
"What in Hades' name do you men want?" Kasuyan asked.
"Foreign trash!" one of the men snarled. "You dare speak of your god in our land! Set tends to favor outsiders, but you seem to have fallen from that stature."
"I will never bow to a god that would destroy anything just for amusement!" Kasuyan barked.
"Then you can kneel in pieces!" The robed man pulled out a short sword and charged at the blonde. Kasuyan shoved Gyasi away and grabbed a large clay bowl. Ducking quickly to the side, he avoided the attack and slammed the bowl against the man's head. The attacker slumped to the ground unconscious.
"How dare you stand in our way!" another man yelled.
"I stand for what I believe is right," he said firmly.
Hanif looked around, hoping to find a way out. If they could reach the temple's ground the girls would be safe! If we can just escape these men, he thought angrily.
"A rare trait these days."
Everyone looked at the speaker.
"The Daughter of Osiris!" someone cried out. The onlookers immediately fell to their knees, whispering prayers and small chants.
"So," the robed man smirked, "you finally decided to leave your little shelter now, have you? I see that you also brought along your dogs."
Dalila narrowed her eyes at the man, also knowing that her three Guardians did not take the insult lightly. She could feel Garai shift-his action telling her that he wanted to get to Peisimemne the moment he had a chance.
"Mother!" Peisimemne gasped. If we manage to escape these men I'll never leave the temple!
"Ah, your child is that one."
"Stay away from her," Dalila growled.
"You and your Sister are past your child-bearing years," the hooded man smiled darkly. "Wouldn't it be such a shame for the lines of Osiris and Anubis to suddenly end?"
Fadil ran at the man, scythes held tightly in both hands and ready to strike. The man held up his right arm and Fadil slashed at him, only to have his blade stop the moment it contacted the stranger's forearm.
He blinked in shock. "What the-?"
The man smirked, pushing him back. The sleeve fell to the ground to reveal black armor covering the man's arm. "You think we would come ill-prepared?" he mocked.
Kasuyan frowned, his eyes darting every which way in hopes to find an escape. Wish I could hit them all over the head with a pot but I doubt they're that dense, he thought to himself.
Khalfani made sure Agalameia was behind him at all times. He knew she was trembling but he reached for her hand. "I'll protect you no matter what," he whispered to her.
She only nodded but terror seemed to grip her heart. She could feel something building that she didn't notice the way several small figures scuttled out from her shadow and moved towards the nearest man. The scorpions lifted their stingers and bought them down hard and fast, repeatedly striking the man's shadow.
He jerked, screaming in pain as the shadow scorpions continued their attack. He fell to the ground, eyes wide and no longer breathing.
Dalila saw the small shadows hurry back to Agalameia's shadow. Father, please, she prayed, if she is truly the Daughter of Anubis, don't let her follow the Black Scorpion's path.
"Watch out!" Gyasi ran in front of Peisimemne, holding up a large wooden platter. The dart one of the other men had fired towards the young priestess was now imbedded in the wood.
Now! With a battle cry Kasuyan lunged at the men, tackling him to the ground and began to punch at him. "Get outta here!" he yelled at his new friends.
Hanif didn't want to leave the blonde but they had no choice. "Let's go!" Making sure he had Peisimemne's hand they all ran. Dalila followed as well as two of her Guardians. One stayed long enough to help the blonde before following. The crowd of people at that moment made sure the group was lost in the mass, saying nothing as the remaining men shoved them aside, trying -in vain to search for the priestesses, their guardians, and daughters.
--
"Did we lose them?"
Garai peeked through the window of the empty house. "I believe so," he said quietly, "but there's always a chance. Just because we only saw those who attacked doesn't mean that they were the only ones."
Dalila nodded, keeping to the shadows. She looked around the small accommodations, and guessed that the place hadn't been used in years. To her right was a pile of large sand-colored cloths. Picking one up, Dalila examined it. Dust had collected upon it, but it was as large as a bed sheet.
The Daughter of Osiris immediately wrapped it around Garai so he now looked like a commoner. "What are you doing?"
"Our clothing makes us too conspicuous," Dalila wrapped another large sheet around herself. "If they see us before we see them, who knows what will happen."
Garai nodded gravely at the unwanted thoughts entering his mind. He grabbed another sheet and ripped two long strips, giving one to his charge and tied the other around his waist.
As he moved to check outside again, he stopped when he felt a hand on his right shoulder. "Garai, I want you to find Peisimemne."
He spun around, eyes wide.
"You have to make sure she returns to the temple unharmed," Dalila finished.
Garai shook his head. "But then you'll be unprotected. I cannot leave you like this."
"Please, my love, she must be safe. If anything happens to Peisimemne then Osiris' line ends." Dalila stepped closer. "I know you won't fail our daughter."
He looked at her for a long time even as he lowered his head and kissed her softly, his hand gently caressing her cheek. "Please, be careful," he pleaded with her.
She nodded, smiling softly. They silently parted and blended in with their people. May Isis watch over us, she prayed.
--
"I don't see them," Thabit said quietly. "Any idea who they are?"
Hanif shook his head. "They might be followers of Set but I'm not sure."
Peisimemne looked away from the two boys. Foolish, she scolded herself, that's exactly what I am. I dragged three innocent boys into danger that could have been avoided had I not disobeyed mother.
"Peisimemne?"
She didn't bother to turn around. "This is my entire fault."
Gyasi blinked in confusion. "Excuse me?"
"I should have never left the temple. This is why mother didn't give me permission to leave."
"None of this is your fault. We just had some bad luck," Hanif tried reasoning.
"If they are working for Set, then it would only have been a matter of time until they caught you or your Sisters alone," Thabit said softly.
The blue-eyed brunette just shook her head. "No it is my fault. You three are going to get hurt because of me."
Gyasi gently turned her around to face them, his hands gently resting on her shoulders. "This was not your fault in any way or manner. No one is to blame except Set for trying to get his revenge on the gods. I will do everything in my power to protect you, just like Hanif."
"As will I," Thabit promised.
The Daughter of Osiris finally looked at them, smiling a little. "Thank you."
--
Agalameia sighed and slumped to the ground. Khalfani kept looking around, staying on guard and ready to move if needed.
"Do you think we lost them?"
"It seems that way," Khalfani answered. "Don't get too comfortable. As soon as we have a chance, we're going back to the temple."
Agalameia looked at him. "But what about my Sister and the others?"
"I have to protect you, Agalameia," her Guardian's blue eyes bored into hers. "Once you're safe, I promise I will come back here to help them."
With a sigh, the Daughter of Anubis nodded. Suddenly, Khalfani grabbed her arm and pulled her through a doorway into an empty house. The hid in the shadows and listened to the footsteps--one person Khalfani judged.
The person walked by with a slow even pace, talking in a low tone. Agalameia caught the words. They were Greek and the same ones Kasuyan had taught them when they had the stew. And the voice no doubt belonged to the Greek boy.
"Kasuyan!" Agalameia called quietly, jerking slightly at Khalfani's tightening hold.
The young blonde immediately turned around and looked inside the house, smiling at the couple. "Are you alright?" he asked as he entered.
She nodded glad to see that he was alright. "Did you see the others?"
"No, but I sure they're fine. First we have to get you back to the temple."
"That's what I suggested," Khalfani said and peered out the window, watching for any of the men. "It's clear, let's go."
--
"We should have gone."
"Sadiki," Deunoro looked at him, "we have to stay here. Omari is the only one of us that can actually leave. You heard what he said."
"How couldn't I?" Sadiki grumbled as his eyes found Theliane in sitting at a table playing Hounds and Jackals with Tumaini. He could tell she wasn't focused by the poor way she was playing, and not to mention losing in only a few moves.
"My life is a small sacrifice," Omari said as he put the commoner's robe on. "I cannot be Theliane's Guardian. I loved her mother more than anything in the world, and I know that Nathifa is waiting for me."
"Then… Theliane is your daughter," Sadiki looked at the older Guardian with mild surprise.
"Theliane is the Daughter of Ra. I can never claim her as mine, even though my blood runs in her veins but Ra's blood outweighs mine."
He had wanted to stop him, to go in his place but the older Guardian would hear nothing of it and made the two boys stay here to protect her. Sadiki had a terrible feeling inside that this would be the last they would see him alive. They had soldiers and wanted to send them out as well but they would be a bigger danger in case the temple came under attack.
Zashida entered the area, looking at the youths. She felt as nervous as they looked. She wanted to go and bring her daughter back but she had faith in Khalfani. It was taking everything she had in her power to keep the twins from running out to look for Agalameia.
Well, mostly the aggressive twin.
Speaking of the twins they entered the room, Mosi storming his way in with his brother in tow. Tumaini shifted uneasily ands quickly put his hound piece to the side and moved over to Theliane. She put her arm around his shoulders and kept a sharp eye on the older twin.
Zashida took a deep breath, knowing very well that this would turn into another argument. "Before you ask, the answer is no."
"She could be in danger or hurt," he growled angrily.
"Khalfani is with her, he would lay his life for her," she countered.
"He didn't grow up in the streets like I did. I can protect her better!"
"You have not completed your training as a Guardian. Rushing out there recklessly may endanger her life even more."
Mosi couldn't take it anymore. He was so mad he could only see red he stepped up to her until they were practically nose to nose, jerking his arm from Manu's grasp when he tried pulling him back. "What kind of mother doesn't care about the welfare of her only child!"
SLAP!
The sound of hand meeting flesh echoed loudly within the temple walls. Tumaini jumped at the unexpected noise and clung to Theliane tightly even as arms held onto him tighter. Manu's eyes were wide and had had both hands covering his mouth. Mosi slowly blinked at the sharp sting. The force behind it was enough to turn his head but he completely unprepared and nearly fell but caught himself at the last moment. He looked up at the priestess.
Zashida slowly lowered her hand, ignoring the pain in her palm and replied in a calm tone, "I would do anything to keep Agalameia safe, but I have faith in Khalfani. I also have faith that Isis would not let any harm come to anyone under her protection. You are not a full Guardian and you still have much to learn, Mosi. Think about that." Without waiting for a reply she left the main chamber, heading for her private quarters but once she knew she was safely without of their hearing and sight, the tears slowly fell.
Meskhenet, am I truly doing the right thing? she asked her deceased sister and former priestess of Anubis.
You are, little sister.
Zashida gasped. Meshkenet…
Mosi and Manu are knowledgeable a street urchin's life, but they are not ready. Khalfani will prove himself today.
And the others?
In time they will also prove themselves, Meshkenet answered.
She smiled softly, closing her eyes as tears threaten to fall. Thank you.
No words were sent but love filled her heart.
--
Kasuyan looked around the corner, his eyes darting right then left. He motioned with his hand to the other two as they quietly eased out from the alleyway. no sign of those robed men but no one wanted to take any chances.
"Let's go," the Greek whispered and they quickly ran down the alley.
Khalfani took over the lead as they weaved through the junctions of small houses and animal stalls. Contrary to Mosi's beliefs, Khalfani knew the streets and market just as well as anyone who lived there, Mosi included.
They skidded to a halt when they heard voices pass. Khalfani holding Agalameia tightly, prepared to run if needed. The speakers passed and the trio relaxed some. Khalfani's eyes gazed over the rooftops and he sighed inwardly at the sight of the temple.
Almost there, he thought to himself.
Agalameia was still worried. No sign of Peisimemne, Hanif, Gasai, or Thabit. I wish I could call upon Mother Isis.
"We can cut between some buildings but it might be safer if we stay with crowded streets. That way we'll blend with everyone else," the blonde told them quietly. "But it'll take us longer."
"You go in one direction," Khalfani said, "and we'll go another path."
Kasuyan looked at him. "But-"
"No offense, Kasuyan, but you do stand out here."
"He's right," said Agalameia. "If they see you, they'll figure that you're with us."
"So I can get a couple of them to follow me instead," Kasuyan nodded. "Better to fight a few than to be outnumbered with a slim chance of winning."
They looked out and wishing the other good luck, went their separate ways. The Greek blonde walked quickly, keeping his eyes out. If he did see those men he would try to get them to follow him. Khalfani refused to release Agalameia's hand as they hurried. They were so close to the temple once behind its doors she would be safe.
As the neared their home, the couple slowed. Agalameia following Khalfani's movements as if they were commoners just walking about the market, eyes glancing here and there for something in particular. They were just moments away from the temple steps when a dark robed figure stepped into their path.
"I thank you for bringing her to me," he smirked.
Khalfani moved in front of Agalameia. "What do you want her for?"
"My master wishes for her presence."
"If Set is your master then you can forget it," Agalameia glared at the man, peeking out slightly from behind Khalfani's right arm.
The man chuckled. "Another reason is to make sure that the Sisters bloodline is pure."
Agalameia blinked in confusion. "Pure?"
"How dare you mock the Sisters of the Moon!" Khalfani yelled, which caught the attention of everyone around them. The people stopped and those close to the Daughter of Anubis and her Guardian backed away.
The man looked at him but laughed at the young Guardian. "You are a fool, boy."
"You'll regret speaking to us in that manner!" he yelled and would have gone after that man but his first duties were to protect Agalameia.
"And who shall stop me? Look around you, the people would rather turn away than help you." He began walking towards them, still smirking. "Give me the girl and I shall let you live."
Khalfani glowered at the man. How dare he speak like he owned the kingdom! I have no choice, the young Guardian thought. Jabari can yell at me later.
"You think I'll listen just because you gave me an order. Think again, you bastard!"
Khalfani's body was surrounded by a strange purple glow, and from the glow a white mist with two glowing blue orbs appeared. The mist took form and became a large white winged creature with the blue orbs as its eyes.
The people in the market began to run in every direction to get away, fearing for their safety. But the man could only stare at the creature in amazed terror.
"You!" he shouted. "You're an avatar!"
"And you're dead!" Khalfani pointed to him. "Send him to Anubis!"
The dragon roared and opened its mouth, releasing a blast made of lightning at the man. He was too shocked to move and the attack him dead in the chest, enveloping his body in a bright light. Seeing that the man was dealt with, Khalfani took firm hold of Agalameia's hand and ran the rest of the way to the temple.
"Mother!"
Zashida turned and ran to Agalameia, embracing her daughter tightly in her arms. "We saw the blast. Are you two alright?"
"Someone tried to stop us just before the temple," Khalfani began to explain.
"Khalfani is an avatar!" Agalameia said with a big smile.
Her eyes widen as she looked at the young man. "Is that so," she said softly.
"Agalameia!" Ishaq, Jabari, and Asim came out. The young lady ran to them and embraced them but Asim seemed to be the most relieved. Jabari stepped towards his charge and narrowed his eyes.
"You summoned it," he said firmly.
"I didn't have a choice," he explained once more. "He said his master wished for her presence," Khalfani defended.
"I have told you not to summon it unless you had no choice. You could have put both your lives in danger."
"I didn't have a choice! He insulted the Sisters of the Moon, saying some nonsense about making sure the bloodline stayed pure!"
Everyone fell silent.
"Asim," Zashida spoke, "take Agalameia to Theliane." He nodded and led her away.
"Khalfani," Ishaq stepped forward, "you are never to repeat what he said. Do you understand?"
The young Guardian looked at them. "What's going on?"
The Daughter of Anubis and her Guardians looked at each other.
Another reason is to make sure that the Sisters bloodline is pure.
"Is it because of Meshkenet?" Khalfani asked.
"Yes," Zashida sighed.
"But you are her sister. You're both Anubis' Daughters."
"Not everyone sees that, Khalfani. Meshkenet was born first and for that birthright, she was chosen. I was never meant to be a Sister of the Moon. I should have been sent to the Black Scorpion, not Meshkenet."
He blinked. "I don't understand."
"Then don't. You are to protect Agalameia no matter what. Understood?"
Khalfani nodded. "… Yes."
--
Kasuyan saw the bright flash of light, which blinded him for a moment, then the man was gone and Khalfani ran inside the temple with Agalameia.
Good, they're safe, he thought with a relieved sigh. Maybe I can find Peisimemne and get a couple of those men away from her.
He ran down the streets, keeping an eye open for the blue-eyed girl. Where could they be? He turned a corner and slowed to a stop. Was that... yes!
Peisimemne! he thought to himself.
Gyasi looked up when he heard running and smiling briefly. "Kasuyan! Where are Agalameia and Khalfani?"
"Hopefully at the temple. Are all of you alright?"
"For now," said Thabit. "We haven't seen those men yet."
"Pray that they don't see us," Hanif said with a worried look.
"No argument there," Kasuyan agreed. "I know this may sound like a bad suggestion, but we have to split up. If we make it look like each of us is with Peisimemne and Hanif, they come after us and this will give them a better chance to reach the temple."
"Sounds like we may need a disguise then." Thabit looked around before grabbing a cloak and threw it around Gyasi's head.
"Hey what are you doing?" he asked in surprise.
"Hold still! You're slightly taller than Peisimemne but as long as you keep your face hidden you look like her."
Hanif studied the two of them and nodded. "Good idea. They won't know who's who as long as their faces are hidden."
Peisimemne nodded in agreement. "Then let's split up and meet up at the temple."
If I ever let Kasuyan talk me into something like this again, it'll be too soon, Gyasi thought as he walked aimlessly through the market. He saw Kasuyan from the corner of his eye, knowing that the servants of Set would spot him easily.
He felt ridiculous but it was the best way to protect the Daughter of Osiris.
They hurried down the street but he saw a quick flash of movement. He turned and barely made out a man with a dark hooded cloak. It was them and they were taking the bait. Now to keep the rouse up.
--
"I just don't understand," Agalameia sipped from her cup. "What did he mean by making sure that our bloodline is pure?"
Theliane sat across from her Sister at the table in the garden. Agalameia immediately began detailing her event in the marketplace with the hooded men up to where Khalfani revealed that he was an avatar.
"Do not forget that foreigners have been chosen as Guardians for the Sisters of the Moon in the past," Theliane started, "they may have given their chosen Sister a blood child. And some people do frown upon outsiders. They say that Set protects them."
"I wouldn't be surprised if the Hittites do follow him," Agalameia set the cup down.
Theliane smiled and reached across the table, squeezing her hand. "You're safe mow."
She sighed and nodded her head. "I am... but Peisimemne is still out there."
"She has Hani to protect her."
"True. I hope they come back soon though."
Anubis looked at his mistress and rested his head on her lap. She smiled and petted the jackal fondly, watching as his tail thumbed softly against the floor. He seemed to be saying 'have faith'.
--
"They're following Kasuyan and Gyasi," Hanif said quietly.
"Anyone following us?" Thabit asked.
"I haven't seen anyone," Peisimemne answered.
"Keep your eyes open."
The trio slowly made their way through the mass of people, trying their best to look as though they were there to enjoy the day at their own leisured pace.
No one gave them another look and that was a relief. Stopping once in a while they looked for signs of the temple and soon found it. It was just beyond several buildings and if they could keep their disguises up they would soon be there.
The young lady sighed to herself. She was still worried though. They hadn't seen her mother or her Guardians since everyone split up. They had also seen the bright flash of light a few moments ago.
Hanif looked at her with concern when she sighed once more. "Are you alright?" he asked.
She looked at him and smiled. "All I wanted to do was see the market square. A day of outing turned into an unexpected adventure for all of us."
"Next time, you'll listen to me."
Peisimemne immediately turned around, finding her mother wearing a commoner's robe. "Mother?"
Dalila looked at her daughter with a slight frown. "What's done is done," she said. "Let's go home."
A scuffle across the street caught their attention, and they watched two dark robed men pull the hood off Gyasi's head.
"Rouse is over!" Hanif grabbed Peisimemne's hand and the four ran towards the temple.
The man who had pulled off Gyasi's hood blinked. "You're not the girl!"
"Surprise!" He brought his fist back and slammed it into his face, sending the man flying.
Kayusan dodged his attacker but stuck his foot out, making him lose his balance and hit the hard-packed earth. "We won't let you harm the Sisters of the Moon!"
One of the men scowled and noticed four figures running towards the temple. "There they are!" he shouted.
Leaving his accomplices to handle Gyasi and Kasuyan, the lone man ran after the small group. He stopped short when a man stepped in front of him. He glared at the infidel then smirked, realizing who he was.
Garai said nothing as he removed his sword from under his robe.
"You vowed to protect the Sisters of the Moon with your life," the man sneered, "and what kind of reward do you receive when your life ends."
"Knowing that I will be reunited with her in the afterlife," Garai said simply.
"It that so... then perhaps I should send you there myself." He pulled a sword free and charged at the older man.
Garai met his attack, their swords clashing he pursed his lips into a tight line. This man had some skills of the sword but he would not give in. They parried and traded insults but neither would give up. The Guardian hissed as the blade came close to taking off his nose but he brought his sword into a wide arch.
The man's eyes went wide as he stumbled. Blood began to rapidly die his robes a sickening red color. The sword clattered to the ground, both hands clutching at his wound, but he laughed. "You think I would be so ill-prepared?" he mocked.
Garai narrowed his eyes then blinked as a shadowy dart appeared in the man's hand. He threw it and the Guardian watched in horror as it flew through the grounds, aiming for Peisimemne.
Suddenly, Dalila turned and saw the dart. She immediately moved into its path and it struck her left shoulder.
"Mother!" Peisimemne cried when she stumbled.
Gyasi and Kasuyan appeared next to the Daughter of Osiris, horrified looks on their faces as they watched Dalila pull out the dart.
"Go!" she yelled at the boys. "Get her out of here!"
"Thabit, take her!" Hanif moved beside Dalila.
"Hanif, go!" Dalila commanded. "You must protect her!"
"And I will," he said.
"You are her Guardian!"
"So is Thabit," Hanif smiled at the other boy. "I have no doubt that the Osiris has chosen you, my friend. Go."
"Gyasi, go with them," Kasuyan pushed his friend to follow the young Sister and Thabit. The Greek boy then stood beside Hanif.
Garai managed to catch Dalila before she fell but he felt her weakening. "Dalila..."
"It's no use," the man laughed. "That dart has the venom... of a desert asp... there is no cure..."
Hanif's hands shook as he felt anger swell deep inside. "Why... Why are you doing this! What do you think you can gain!" he asked angrily.
The man just laughed and fell forward, his eyes lifeless. The sword wound to his stomach finally took his life.
Kasuyan looked beyond the fallen man as several more started making their war to the temple. The people in the market--shoppers and venders--had already fled.
"Get inside," said Kasuyan.
Hanif looked at him. "But-"
"Go!" the blonde yelled.
"You can't handle them all by yourself!" Garai said with Dalila now in his arms.
"Trust me," Kasuyan smirked and faced the group.
Hanif and Garai raced up the steps, leaving Kasuyan at the bottom. Unknown to his newfound friends, Kasuyan's mother was high priestess to Hades, lord of the Underworld in Greco beliefs. Before her untimely death, she had taught her son a powerful spell--one that took her many years to master but for Kasuyan it took much less time.
I'll introduce them to who guards my country's Underworld, he thought. Holding his hands up, the blonde drew symbols in the air and closed his eyes.
"You who guard the Gates of the Underworld, I call upon you to protect us. Hear me now and do as I command! I summon you!" Kasuyan slammed his right hand down to the sand. "CERBERUS!"
A large wave of energy rippled across and then the air itself before Kasuyan seemed to split open. The infamous demon dog guardian of the underworld stepped out from the crack and let out an unearthly howl. It seem to shake the very ground beneath their feet but the foreigner was not afraid. The beast was huge and smelt of sulfur, it's fangs were sharper than any weapon, it's eyes glowed blood red with hunger.
The men were shocked. Never before had they come across a creature as this. According to their master they would have limited protection against Ammit but this creature was from another land.
One of the men shook away the fear and stepped forward. "You won't escape us! Once we kill you we'll storm the temple and take the girls as our master commands us!" he yelled, smirking to himself.
Kasuyan looked at him but slowly shook his head. "I won't let you pass, even at the cost of my own life. Cerberus, send these men to Hades."
The dog snarled and lunged at the nearest one. It didn't take long but before the others knew it their comrade was nothing but a bloody mess on the sands. They turned to run but one by one they were caught and murdered. Kasuyan never said anything but watched as these foul men were sent to the Underworld. Once they were all gone Cerberus lifted his head and released another howl. It ran towards the young man but jumped into the split earth. It came together and everything, save for the bloody massacre, went back to normal.
Kasuyan stood up, wobbled a little as summoning the underworld creature always took a quite a bit of energy from him. He knew he had to be careful. Calling forth Cerberus was not to be taken lightly, as his mother had warned. There were days that Kasuyan had wondered if summoning the creature had taken its toll on his mother's life.
I'll guess I'll never know until I see her in Elysium, Kasuyan thought. He turned to the temple, deciding not to go inside. The occupants had enough to worry about right now. Kasuyan then turned and jogged down the street back to where the rest of his caravan.
--
"I can't draw it out," Theliane said sadly.
"He said it was from an asp," said Garai, "surely you can ask Selqet for assistance."
"I already have," the Daughter of Ra looked at him, "and you know that it would have been removed from Dalila by now. Something else was mixed with the poison."
"It must be from Set," Zashida wiped away the sweat dripping from her Sister's face.
Peisimemne sat next to her on the older woman's bed. Guilt was upon her face for the fate that had befallen her mother.
Dalila was in a deep sleep, her chest rising and falling rapidly as she struggled to breath. She was so pale and her skin was clammy. But when Peisimemne took her hand in his own she weakly squeezed her hand back and opened her eyes. "Peisimemne..."
"Mother!" she gasped, gaining everyone's attention.
"Please leave…" Dalila said hoarsely. "I must speak…with her…alone…"
Zashida nodded and led Theliane from the room. Dalila's Guardians also left--Garai giving her one last kiss before departing. Once the doors were closed, Dalila focused her eyes onto her daughter.
"There is something you must know…"
Peisimemne nodded, feeling tears run down her cheeks.
"Zashida…is the second chosen…Daughter of Anubis," Dalila forced herself to steady her labored breathing. "Her older sister…Meshkenent…sacrificed her life…to protect Egypt…from the…Black Scorpion…"
Peisimemne frowned. She remembered hearing her mother's Guardians speak of the Black Scorpion many years ago, but what did he have to do with Zashida?
"Agalameia…is the blood child… of Meshkenet and…the Black Scorpion…"
Peisimemne's eyes widened and she shook her head vehemently. "No, she can't be… Zashida is her mother. She is the Daughter of Anubis and-"
"My daughter, hear me now…" Dalila continued. "Before Meshkenet died… she enlisted help…with three women…Subira, Nuru, and Meanae…"
A spasm wracked her body and she coughed up blood. She pushed her daughter's hand away as Peisimemne tried to wipe it off.
"Meanae betrayed her king... she couldn't stand the loss... They planned an attack... Nuru's avatar was summoned and made to kill the Scorpion... but she and Meanae killed one another..." she wheezed painfully. She could feel her life rapidly dwindling away but she had to tell her the story. "Meshkenent... took Meanae's soul... to keep a promise..."
"The assassin? But..." the words fell into place and the girl's face went white as a sheet. "Meanae and Agalameia are one and the same..."
Dalila nodded and coughed harder, her body shaking from the force. Peisimemne held her tightly. Her time was almost gone. "She... may one day... walk in... in her father's footsteps... you must make sure that never comes to be..."
"W-What?"
Her hands held hers tightly, squeezing it as hard as she could. "This burden rests on your shoulders..."
Peisimemne slowly nodded her head.
Dalila smiled at her. "Over there…" she pointed to a large woven basket against the wall to the right of the bed. "Bring it…to me…"
Peisimemne rose from her spot and picked up the basket. She carried it over to her mother.
"The lid…"
She did as told, pulling the leather ties holding the lid in place and removed the lid. Peering inside, Peisimemne's eyes widened at the asp curled inside. She looked at her mother.
Dalila said nothing, only motioned with her hand to bring the basket closer. She placed her hand inside, and then hissed in pain as the asp's fangs sank into her wrist.
"Cover it…"
Peisimemne immediately covered the basket and securely tied the lid. "Mother?"
"Your other…two Guardians are here…they have…arrived…Nephthys…spoke true…" She smiled faintly. "Isis is calling me, Peisimemne... You are the Daughter of Osiris now."
"Mother, please..."
Dalila lightly touched her daughter's cheek; the puncture wounds from the asp still fresh on her wrist. "I will watch over you..." She brought her daughter's ear closer to her. "Remember what I told you... Osiris is your Father... You are the only one who can..."
Peisimemne nodded as tears slid down. She didn't want to hear that. She didn't want to be reminded what she might eventually have to do. She didn't want this to be her mother's last words to her, haunting her like a horrible dream.
Dalila smiled. "I love you...my daughter..." Her hand fell and she became still.
Peisimemne broke down, leaning her head against the side of her mother's bed.
"Mother..." she said between sobs. "How can I kill my Sister?"
Authors' Notes:
Janime: Wow… that's gotta suck for Peisimemne.
Heikou: Uh, yeah, she might have to kill Agalameia if she follows the Black Scorpion's ways.
Janime: Let's hope that Anubis will intervene on that.
Heikou: I sure hope so.
Janime: And now it's time for another history lesson.
Heikou: Isn't it fun to learn? cheesy grin
Janime: The Hittites, as mentioned in the fic, were Egypt's longtime enemy. After Tutankhamen died, his wife-
Heikou: And half-sister (yuck)!
Janime: Ankhesenpaaten (or Ankhesenamun) sent a letter to the Hittite king asking to marry one of his sons so that there would be an heir to Egypt's throne.
Heikou: And maybe the union would finally bring peace between them.
Janime: Unfortunately, we'll never know. The Hittite king did send one of his sons, but the prince had been killed just before he reached the border.
Heikou: No one knows who killed him but the matter was just left as is.
Janime: Things were different back then.
Heikou: You're not kidding. The royal family kept the bloodline pure, so to speak.
Janime: Inbreeding. Ever see images of Akhenaten? Scientists believe that he was a hermaphrodite.
Heikou: TMI! Too much information!
Janime: We know the updates are taking longer than our other stories but things are somewhat hectic.
Heikou: I start school tomorrow. I'm now a junior in college going for a BA.
Janime: And I'll be going back to school next spring. Until next chapter!
Heikou: See ya!