"Daughters of Isis"

By: Heikou and Janime Lee

Eclipse of Hearts

"You have failed."

"Forgive us, Lord Set!" the remaining men groveled before their dark god. "Their Guardians and that foreign boy-"

"Silence!" Set hissed, his smoky form wavered as the dark purple eyes flashed angrily. "I know their little secret. Bring me that bastard's so-claimed daughter."

"Lord," one of the men dared to raise his head, "to attack again so soon, everyone in Egypt is aware of our intentions."

"Not now, you fools! We will wait until the time is right. When I say, you will bring Agalameia to me--alive and unharmed."

The men immediately cowered, bowing until their foreheads touched the ground. "Yes, Lord Set."

--

Hanif watched Peisimemne, his own heart grieving over the loss of the Daughter of Osiris. She had been like a mother to him and now… He entered the room and gently reached out, touching the young woman's shoulder.

"Peisimemne..." he said softly, unsure what to say.

"Why didn't I listen to her?" she asked, tears streaming down her cheeks. "Why, Hanif, why didn't I listen? It's my fault…"

"No," Hanif sat next to her on the bench. "How could you have known that Set's followers were in the market? It was all bad timing." He paused, trying to think of something to say. "I think that no matter what the circumstances, Dalila would protect you."

"But if I hadn't disobeyed her she would still be alive."

"I know you don't want to hear this... but we're only mortal and one day we will all die. Being the Daughter of Osiris is a dangerous position. Dalila knew this yet she and those before her have accepted it." The young man took her hand in his own, squeezing it lightly. "She loved you even to die to protect you. If she didn't care..."

"... I would have died," she whispered. Turning to him she slowly wrapped her arms around him and cried into his shoulder. "I miss her so much, Hanif."

His arms came around her and held her as tight as he could. "I know, Peisimemne; I know."

--

"You can't be serious," Mosi said.

Ishaq turned his head to look at the older twin. "You heard me. Be ready within an hour." And he left.

"Interesting," Thabit said, "I've only been here for two moon phases and I'm going to be trained."

"But we're going into the desert for two whole moon passes," Sadiki informed.

"Why just the three of you?" Gyasi couldn't help asking.

Deunoro looked at the newly appointed Book Keeper. "Tradition among the Guardians. One of the elders takes three of the younger Guardians to train them in the desert. No distractions; they learn how to work together and discover their strength and weaknesses.

"I can think of better ways to spend my time," Mosi grumbled.

"What happens if something happens at the temple?" Manu asked.

"That's why the other elders stay but I doubt anyone would be crazy enough to storm the temple," Deunoro said with some confidence.

Anubis walked into the area and immediately went over to the young men, sitting on the marble floor as he watched them talk. His tail wagged as he felt a hand gently scratch his ears.

Sadiki sighed. "Ishaq isn't gonna go easy on any of us. The moment we leave the temple we have to work as a team or he may keep us out there longer than necessary."

Mosi rolled his eyes and groaned. "So what do we bring with us?"

"A few basic necessities," Deunoro answered, "hunting gear, food rations."

"Gone into the desert, have you?" Thabit asked.

"Last year with Omari and Hanif."

Manu looked at Sadiki. "You didn't go?"

"I was bitten by a cobra and had a fever for three moons."

"He was lucky," Deunoro patted Mosi's shoulder. "Let me show you what to pack."

--

Agalameia watched Peisimemne from the entrance to the garden. Her Sister sat quietly on the bench near the pool with a small round loom in her lap, which she was stitching a figure of her mother with her Father's name above the upraised hands.

She wanted to talk with her, to see if she could cheer her up but every time she went near her she felt like a wall was pushing them apart. It reminded her of how she felt when Dalila were alive. Being as quiet as she could she left the Daughter of Osiris alone.

One of the older Guardians were taking the boys to train in the desert for two moon passes so the temple would be quieter but that was one of the things farthest from her mind. She walked, her footsteps barely making any sound as she let herself be lost in her thoughts. When she stopped she found herself standing on the balcony that overlooked the arena. With no one practicing he area was quiet.

I don't understand, since our first meeting I've felt safe with Peisimemne and the Guardians, but with Dalila I couldn't wait to get away. Now I have that same feeling with my own sister. Why? she asked herself, absently twirling a dark brown strand of hair around her finger.

"Something on your mind?"

Agalameia turned at the voice. "Mosi. I thought that you were packing."

"I conned Manu into doing it for me," he grinned. "He has more patience than I do."

"You take advantage of your brother quite a bit."

"Maybe I do, but if anyone else tries then they have to answer to me."

She smiled, shaking her head at him. "You are one of a kind, Mosi."

Instead of his usual smirk and remark he stepped closer and looked deeply into her eyes. "What's wrong?"

She blinked and looked away. "Just thinking."

"I can't help if you won't talk to me."

"... When Dalila was alive, I could never feel comfortable around her. I love Peisimemne as my sister and I trust the Guardians with everything I have, but there was always something that separated me from the former Daughter of Osiris. Now I feel like the same barrier has risen between Peisimemne and I. I wish I knew what to do."

Mosi's brow furrowed in thought, and then said, "Perhaps it's because you still have your mother with you, and you feel a little guilty about not getting along with Dalila. All families have their share of problems, you know. I doubt that your mothers never fought with each other. They might have had a disagreement that was never resolved."

"Maybe…" Agalameia said quietly. She then changed the subject. "So, are you ready for your training?"

"Oh, I can't wait," groaned Mosi.

Agalameia laughed. "You three will be alright. Just think," she moved closer to him, "you won't have to read any boring scrolls."

"Thank you, Lord Anubis," Mosi grinned. Suddenly, he gently caught the Sister of the Moon's chin with his thumb and forefinger and kissed her. When he pulled away, Agalameia's eyes were partially lidded, her breath was slightly quick, and a dreamy look graced her face.

"Something for you to remember me by while I'm gone," Mosi whispered and left the arena.

To say she was surprised was an understatement. His lips felt so soft... she hesitantly reached up and touched her own lips. She could still feel his warmth. "Come back safely," she whispered to him. For the time being, her worries were the farthest thing from her mind.

--

"You are nothing more than a street rat," said the soldier to a young man who had asked to enter the sacred Temple. "What could a woman like Theliane possibly want from you?"

"The respect of also being human," said Theliane as she walked down the steps. "I am not a goddess, and I am not immortal--only my soul, which will also be judged like a mortal's soul. My heart shall be weighed against a feather on the Scales as well."

"Forgive me, Theliane," the soldier bowed, "but you are a Sister of the Moon. Your power is a gift from the gods."

"That does not make my Sisters and I gods." Theliane looked at the boy and smiled. "I did ask Kasuyan to come here. Let him pass."

The soldier looked at the boy warily but moved aside. Kasuyan did his best not to run up the steps. Theliane held out her hand and he took it in his.

"How are you feeling?" she asked.

"Much better, thank you Sister of the Moon," Kasuyan answered.

"Please, call me Theliane."

Kasuyan nodded and they walked into the temple.

"I'm very glad to see you," Theliane smiled lightly.

"And I, you," the Greek boy answered. "Everyone in the caravan expresses their gratitude for healing them of the fever."

"It is one of our duties," she explained.

Kasuyan just smiled, immensely pleased that she had called for him. it had been a surprise but one that he would not have missed for anything.

Theliane led him deeper into the temple. "Kasuyan, I wanted to thank you for helping my sisters escape from those men."

"I may not be from here but I couldn't stand by and let this happen."

"I'm glad that you did help. Not many people accept foreigners. They believe that Set protects them."

Kasuyan frowned at the dark god's name. "I would never bow to a god that causes pain and death. He killed Osiris, am I right?"

"Yes, and Horus fed Osiris his eye and he was resurrected." Theliane sat on a bench along the eastern wall of the garden. "Then Osiris ascended into the heavens with Isis at his right, and Nephthys to his left."

"Nephthys was married to Set, wasn't she?"

"True, but she loved Osiris. Because of her love, Nephthys had to abandon Anubis to protect him from Set. Isis found Anubis by the Nile and raised him." The Daughter of Ra took a deep breath before continuing. "After Set was defeated, Ra declared Set and Nephthys marriage null, and so that is the reason she followed Osiris and Isis."

"I see. Set still has followers that wish to see him rise to power though."

"Unfortunately yes. He promises them wealth and power but they end up dying."

"You think they would learn from others' past mistakes."

"They believe the ones who had failed were not worthy of Set's promises," Theliane shook her head. "It's sad that there are people who would risk their souls just for a small amount of power."

Kasuyan looked at her. "And you?"

"Sometimes I wish I was an ordinary person. To be honest, I become bored here--that's why my Sisters and I sneak outside the temple."

"I would have done the same thing. There are things you can experience as an ordinary person than one of great importance. But you and your sisters use the powers granted to you for the greater good."

Theliane was amazed at his words. The people were usually unsure of how to act around the priestesses but this foreigner felt at ease and spoke to her as if she were an ordinary woman.

Tumaini ran into the garden, immediately grabbing Theliane's hand the moment he reached her. "They're leaving," he panted.

Theliane gasped slightly. Berating herself for letting the Guardians' departure, the Daughter of Ra jumped up from the bench and let Tumaini take lead from the garden. Kasuyan followed but was stopped at the archway by two soldiers.

Guess I better wait, he thought and went back to the bench.

--

Sadiki tied the last of his supplies behind the saddle. Finished, he patted the camel's side gently for remaining still.

Not that he'd move anyway, the young Guardian thought.

"So," Deunoro stepped up beside him, "just me and Theliane."

"Touch her and you will regret it," Sadiki said.

The green-eyed boy looked at him. "Are you threatening me?"

"Consider it a concern."

"For who?"

"Me. I don't want to beat you to pulp and feel bad later."

Deunoro narrowed his eyes for a moment then broke into a grin. "I would be lying if I said I wasn't going to miss you."

Sadiki nodded his thanks and looked over to where Mosi was having an exchange of words with Ishaq. "I have no doubt that I'll miss you as well."

Deunoro laughed and clapped Sadiki's left shoulder. "Just think of how interesting this will be."

"I'm trying not to."

Manu watched as Mosi walked towards him. "Everything alright?" he asked.

"Yes, but Ishaq is unmoving as the pyramids themselves," he growled.

"Promise you won't cause any trouble?"

"Trouble seems to follow him no matter where he goes," Sadiki remarked, ignoring the glare sent his way.

Agalameia walked up to them, smiling. "The temple will seem quiet with the three of you gone," she replied.

Mosi smiled at her. "Well, if you really want us to stay-"

"You're going," Khalfani walked up behind Agalameia and pulled her into his embrace. "I had to go, now it's your turn."

Mosi glared at the taller Guardian but decided to keep his mouth shut. He was spared another remark when Tumaini ran into the courtyard with Theliane. Sadiki couldn't help smiling when he saw her.

Theliane walked over to them, smiling. "I cannot believe I almost missed your departure."

"It's alright, you're here now." I don't want to leave but what could happen in two moon passes? Sadiki thought to himself.

"Time to go," said Ishaq. The older Guardian had removed all of his clothing and jewelry that marked him as Zashida's Guardian. Instead, he now wore the robes of a low status merchant.

As Ishaq mounted his camel, the three young guardians immediately pulled the commoners robes on and covered their heads with the hoods. Like Ishaq, they also had to leave their clothing and jewelry behind for their own safety. Now the small group looked like a merchant with his three lackeys.

Thabit climbed into the saddle and managed to make his camel rise to its feet. Just as he was turning the beast towards the entrance gate, he looked up to the second floor terrace and saw Peisimemne beside a pillar. She waved a little then disappeared back inside.

He smiled weakly. He hated to leave at a time like this but this was part of his duty. May Osiris watch over you, he prayed silently.

Sadiki got on his camel, seemingly perfectly at ease as it rose to full height. He smiled at Theliane. "It's too bad a cobra didn't bite me this time."

"You were lucky. Come back safely," she smiled.

"Anything for you."

Mosi got on his camel, having a little bit of difficulty and nodded to his younger brother. "Don't do anything foolish."

Manu just smiled. "I should be telling you that."

"Funny." Looking at Agalameia he winked at her but the smile faded when he looked at the other Guardian. "Protect her with your life."

Khalfani's only response was to hold onto the young woman tighter.
Zashida watched as the group left for the desert. Two moons. So much can happen in such a short amount of time but I hope not. She looked at her daughter. She is not ready to carry the burden.

"You look more than thoughtful," Asim appeared beside her.

Zashida said nothing, taking her Book Keeper's hand in hers and led him away from the entrance to her chambers.

"Set's followers," the Daughter of Anubis looked at him, "they will try again. They know the truth… Set knows…"

Asim stepped closer. "I cannot predict the future, Zashida. You and your Sisters, and now your daughters as well, have that power."

"I'm afraid of what I will see if I ask for Horus to lend his sight."

"Can you bear the answer, even if you don't agree with it?"

"I have raised her as my own; I swore she would never follow his footsteps."

Asim stopped her and tuned her around to face him. "The future has many paths, but we must have faith that she will do the right thing."

Zashida closed her eyes but nodded. "I need to know... good or bad I will always love her. But I wish..."

"I know, my love," he said softly, pulling her closer and held her tightly in his arms, stroking her hair.

--

Kasuyan pulled another reed from the large vase and started to weave it in with the others. He wasn't quite sure what he was going to make with the reeds--a small basket or woven box--but as long as the guards didn't yell at him for using the reeds, the small self-appointed task kept his mind and hands busy.

"What are you making?"

He looked up then smiled at Theliane. "I'm not sure yet. I hope you don't mind me using the reeds but I wasn't sure how long you were going to be."

"It's alright," she sat down next to him, "I had to say 'goodbye' to Sadiki, Thabit, and Mosi. They left with Ishaq for training. They will return in two moon passes."

"Why don't they train here?"

"They need to learn to work together and learn to trust one another. In the desert there will be nothing to distract them from their training."

"Two moon passes. I'm impressed," he nodded as he paused in his project.

She smiled and looked up at the sky. "It'll be lonely, but its part of a Guardian's training."

"But you have three Guardians, right?"

Theliane nodded. "A total of three, yes. But at the moment, I only have two--Sadiki and Deunoro."

"So where is your third Guardian?" Kasuyan asked.

"I don't know," the priestess shook her head. "People are becoming worried that he will not come. But I know that my Father has already chosen, so I must be patient until Ra sends him to me."

Kasuyan finished the little basket. He took Theliane's left hand and placed the item on her palm. "For you."

She smiled. "Thank you."

"I guess I should be going. Thank you for the visit." He stood up.

"Would you like me to go with you?" Theliane asked.

"Don't worry," Kasuyan grinned, "I'm quite certain that the temple guards won't let me stray." With a small wave, the young man left the garden.

Theilane remained on the bench, studying the little basket in her hands and smiled.

--

"Why do I have to cut my hair?" Mosi asked angrily.

Sadiki reached out and grabbing a fistful, pulled.

"OW!"

"That's why."

Mosi growled and removed the other boy's hand. "I am not cutting it!"

"If I have to keep my hair a certain length then so do you. The shorter the better," Sadiki replied.

Thabit rolled his eyes. This will certainly be an interesting event. He urged his camel to move up ahead of the other two, not wanting to get caught in their verbal war.

Ishaq led the three young Guardians far from the city. He looked over his shoulder to see how the boys were fairing, which they seemed to be all right for the moment. They kept going until the sun began to set, casting a reddish glow on the sands.

The elder Guardian raised his hand, signaling to the three to stop. They made their camels lay down--Mosi had a little difficulty but succeeded.

"We'll make camp here," Ishaq said, removing the overcoat of his disguise and placing it on the saddle.

The others did the same and prepared to make camp. With night rapidly approaching they needed to make a fire to keep the chill of the night at bay. This was one of the reasons the training was done in the desert far from people. The Guardians had to depend on themselves and one another instead of others. With the fire going and the tents all set, they sat around the fire, the camels seeming at ease as they grunted softly

Mosi ran his hand down his hair. Over the years he had let it grow and it nearly extended to his waist but he kept it bound tightly. I don't see any reason to cut it, he thought to himself.

Sadiki pulled out his dagger and sat on the small pile of blankets next to the saddles, which had been removed from the camels' backs to give the creatures relief. Removing the sharpening stone from his side pack, Sadiki ran it along the slim blade. This dagger was a gift from Sefu many years ago, and Sadiki treasured it greatly. He always kept it close and took excellent care of it.

"Mosi," he called. Grumbling, the other Guardian walked over and sat before Sadiki with his back facing the other boy. Sadiki took hold of the long horsetail gathering of hair and slipped his dagger underneath it, just above the leather tie that bound it together.

"Brace yourself," Sadiki grinned and sawed the dagger upwards.

Thabit fought the grin that tried to take root on his lips at the look on Mosi's face. It looked like he was being mummified alive instead of having his hair cut. When Sadiki's dagger went through the last of the strands, he dropped the hair onto a small leather spread to Mosi's left.

Mosi looked down and a mournful whimpered escaped him. Sadiki turned his head forward again. "Not finished yet."

"I hate you," Mosi said through his teeth.

"Same to you. Turn around." Mosi grumbled but did so. As the hair was evened out more strands of hair drifted to join the growing pile. Sadiki said nothing, sawing the slender blade through the hair before finally pulling back. "I'm done."

The young man immediately ran his hands over his hair and frowned. He hated having to get his hair cut but he did feel better without it weighting down. He looked over at Thabit who was trying very hard not to laugh.

"Say a word and you'll regret it," he warned.

"My lips are sealed," he said but that didn't stop him from cracking a grin which Sadiki mirrored.

"Don't worry, Mosi," said Ishaq, "you look fine. Of course you can always shave your hair off completely." The older Guardian smiled as he touched his scalp.

"No thank you," Mosi scrunched up his nose in disgust at the thought. "Khalfani has a better chance of becoming pharaoh than me shaving my head."

"I feel sorry for Hakizimana," said Thabit. "To be thrust into such a role with only so much preparation."

"As we all have," Ishaq sat down on a blanket and pulled a small piece of dried meat off before passing the larger piece to Thabit. "The gods decide our fate. Sometimes certain events they cannot predict, and that is why they choose who can help maintain balance of our home."

"What about the foreigners?" Sadiki asked.

"They are under their gods' ruling; when they are here then our gods govern them."

"What if they don't choose to follow our gods?"

"Then they are fools."

"That'll make Set happy. More fools for the fire."

"Indeed," Mosi sighed as he looked at his hair on the spread. With great internal effort, he gathered his hair from the leather spread and dropped it into the fire. Sadiki and Thabit gagged from the smell as the camels grunted.

"It makes you wonder, though," Mosi said thoughtfully as he watched the flames dance.

"About what?" Thabit asked.

"Why is it that the gods only intervene when they see it fit?"

"Careful, Mosi," Ishaq warned. "Some would believe that what you say is heresy."

"I'm just asking. I thought they were suppose to help us with our troubles."

"They do help us but we can't depend on them to keep us sheltered," Thabit spoke up.

Everyone looked at him and he looked down at his lap.

"It would seem you have thought about the answer to such a question," the older Guardian said.

He nodded and took a moment before continuing. "If the gods were to answer every prayer, to give us anything we wanted, we would become dependent on them. The gods granted us life so we may live and think freely. We face day to day challenges that make us stronger in mind, body and spirit. But we have the freedom to make our choices rather than have them made for us."

"Think of the Sisters of the Moon," Ishaq added. "They may call upon Isis for help but she does not always answer. The Daughters know this as well."

Sadiki looked at his dagger, turning the blade in his hands. "Ishaq, how does a Sister of the Moon choose her consort?"

Ishaq paused in removing the cork from the water skin. "What do you mean?"

"Well, each Sister has three Guardians: one to hold the Book from their Father, one to safeguard her life, and one to give her a blood child."

Sadiki took a deep breath before continuing. "Omari is Theliane's father. He told me. He also said that Isis wanted him to stay so that he could protect Theliane until her third Guardian arrives."

Ishaq took a quick drink. "When a Sister of the Moon dies, depending on how many Guardians her daughter has determines which ones will stay. About four generations ago, the Daughter of Osiris died and her Guardians became her daughter's. The consort had become the safeguard, and the safeguard had become the consort."

"That's a switch," said Mosi.

Sadiki chewed his lower lip before speaking again. "From what I've heard, there was never a Book Keeper who gave a Sister a blood child."

"You have a sharp mind, Sadiki," Ishaq chuckled.

"Well it wasn't hard to miss Asim and Zashida nearly…" Thabit paused, trying to find less crude words. "They were in the gardens," he decided to let Ishaq figure it out.

"Is Agalameia Asim's blood daughter?" asked Mosi.

"More or less," Ishaq answered. "We can't claim who is the blood father, because the Father is the god they represent on this earth, and his blood outweighs ours." And there isn't a day that goes by that I wish Agalameia was truly of my blood.

"Who is Meshkenet?" Sadiki asked.

The older Guardian closed his eyes and sighed. "It is time that you know the truth. You have heard of the Black Scorpion, yes?"

Two heads nodded, while Thabit looked confused.

"The Black Scorpion struck a bargain with Anubis," Sadiki began, "but he became corrupt with the power and nearly destroyed Egypt just as Set did."

"He was finally brought down," Mosi picked up, "although I don't know exactly how."

"Because of Meshkenet," said Ishaq. "She is… was, Zashida's older twin sister."

"Twins?" Mosi blinked.

"Yes," Ishaq nodded with a slight smile. "You can understand my humor at the fact that Meshkenet and Zashida were twins, and now Agalameia has twin brothers as her Guardians." His face became serious again. "It was a first for the Sisters of the Moon, having a set of twins born. Meshkenet was the elder and so she became the Daughter of Anubis, whereas Zashida became her apprentice. It was also the time where the Black Scorpion's armies were marching across the upper and lower kingdoms."

The boys shifted, eagerly awaiting more of the story.

"Anubis sent Meshkenet to trick the Black Scorpion into surrendering his power, his army, and his soul to her. Once he did, Meshkenet fled his palace and returned to her Father's temple. The Black Scorpion followed her and struck her down. However, Meshkenet had already given over everything the Black Scorpion pledged to Anubis, and so the pact was completed."

"And Meshkenet?" Thabit asked.

"She died a few months after, when Agalameia was born. Zashida had witnessed the whole event. It was many moons before she was able to sleep without waking in the middle of the night screaming. Asim was the only one to calm her. They have been in love long before he was chosen as Book Keeper."

"So Asim is Agalameia's father," Mosi said quietly.

Ishaq took a sharp intake of breath. "I think I'll retire now. You boys better get to sleep soon. I'll be waking you at sunrise."

"Yes, sir," they replied and watched their teacher enter one of the four tents.

"What's with him?" Mosi asked.

Thabit looked at him. "You couldn't tell?"

"Ishaq was in love with Meshkenet," Sadiki pointed out. "He's still grieving for her."

--

Kasuyan looked out from his tent in the direction of the Temple of Isis. He shut his eyes; his decision was made. Grabbing the small satchel near his bedroll, Kasuyan slipped out of his tent and into the night.

--

"I'm glad that you stayed, Hanif," Peisimemne said.

"You know I wouldn't leave you," her Guardian smiled. He was sitting on the floor leaning against a pillar, which was decorated with a large serpent Shadow Creature and colored with red paint. Dalila had said that the Shadow Creature was called Slypher the Sky Dragon, and he was a gift from Osiris.

She smiled. When did she fall in love with her best friend? Since Hanif came to the temple she had never been so happy. He had been there for her during all her good points in life and bad. She couldn't picture her life without him.

"Peisimemne? Are you alright?" the young man asked.

"Yes... Yes I am."

Hanif stood up and walked over to her bed, sitting on the edge. He reached out and pushed her hair behind her left ear. "Something's troubling you. What's wrong?"

She blushed. How did one express her feelings when she was unsure if they would be returned? Peisimemne sat up and paused for a moment, knowing full well that Hanif was watching her intently. Gathering up some courage, Peisimemne leaned over and kissed Hanif.

It would be a lie to say that Hanif wasn't surprised by her abrupt actions, but he was also ecstatic. Only in his dreams did Peisimemne kiss him; however, he was the one who initiated the kiss.

Her hopes fell. He didn't return her feelings. But just as she was about to pull away she felt him begin to kiss her back! Now she was surprised but couldn't be any happier. The kiss was innocent and simple but it spoke such volumes. The kiss broke off naturally but they didn't move away, gazing deeply into each other's eyes.

"Peisimemne... since when?" he asked softly.

"I'm not sure when, but I can't see my life without you," she answered. "I love you."

"And I love you. From this day on to eternity." Smiling they both kissed but this time, the kiss seemed to lead into something more.

--

Khalfani was alone in his room, on his bed and staring at the ceiling. He couldn't sleep, wondering if perhaps he was pushing himself onto Agalameia.

Mosi and Manu did save her from those bullies but I…

He put his hands behind his head, sighing in frustration. Agalameia had been his childhood friend, and as they grew up, he saw her differently from all those years ago.

"Does she even see me the same?" Khalfani whispered into the darkness of his room.

He was pulled from his musings by a knock on his door.

Sighing he got up and opened it and stared at the visitor. "Agalameia."

She gave him a weak smile, holding a sheet over her shoulders. "I'm sorry to disturb you so late, Khalfani."

"It's alright. Please come in." He held the door open then closed it when she entered. "Is something wrong?"

She still wasn't sure why she was hear, but something compelled her to see her Guardian. Without turning she took a deep breathe and spoke. "We've been friends for most of our lives. In you I saw a friend and a brother, someone I could trust my very life with." She slowly turned to face him. "How, do you show your affections to someone, who you consider more than a friend?"

The ache within Khalfani's chest came without warning. She has chosen him, he thought, and she comes to me for advice.

"Well," he started, turning away from her and walked over to his bed. "What do you like about him?"

Agalameia bit the inside of her bottom lip. "He's kind, and he's taken care of me. He's also protected me in the past when we were children."

"He sounds like a great man. Do I know him?" Please, don't torture me anymore.

She slowly walked over to him, close enough to touch him. "Yes, you do."

"Then, I hope you will be very happy with him."

"Khalfani? Why won't you look at me?" She felt like crying as she held onto her robe tightly. "Have I, upset you?" He doesn't feel the same.

He quickly turned and rested his hands on her shoudlers. "I could never be mad at you for any reason. I-" That's when Aglameia leaned up and pressed her lips aginst his. He was very surprised butdidn't hesitate to kiss her back. So warm and soft he felt her feelings for him in such a simple gesture.

They pulled back and looked at each other. "Me…"

"Who do you think I was talking about?" the Daughter of Anubis asked.

"Uh…" Khalfani's eyes darted around the room, embarrassed.

Agalameia laughed quietly and hugged his waist. "I love you. Always have."

Her love held her close and sighed contently. "For a moment, I did believe that you were talking about Mosi."

"I do care for Mosi… and Manu, but it's not the same way I care for you, Khalfani."

"I will always love you." But deep down inside he felt like cheering. She had chosen him! Not Mosi or even Manu but him! Stroking her hair helifted her face to his, trailing his thumb over her bottom lip, She reached up, letting her fingertips glide along his face as their lips meet into another kiss but this time filled wiht more passion.

--

The Daughter of Ra knelt before the statue of her Mother Isis.

I'm still confused, Nathifa, she thought, I wish you were here. My Sisters can only help so much with this kind of dilemma. Hearts are very confusing. But I know that Peisimemne and Hanif are content, as are Khalfani and Agalameia.

"Mother Isis," Theliane prayed, "Lady of Love, hear my prayer. Know that in the recesses of my heart burns a flame for Kasuyan. The ways of the heart are mysterious, Mother, and I ask your guidance in this path, for Kasuyan is a foreigner. If my love for Kasuyan weighs true in your hands, let him know that I welcome is glance. Let him know that I delight in his conversation. Let him know that I yearn for the touch of his hand, and desire that we should love one another happily. If my attention is not welcomed by Kasuyan, let my heart release all desire for him. If you find this love unworthy, cleanse my heart of it. Take its power as an offering. Bring forth new joy and free me of sorrow." Theliane looked at the statue with beseeching eyes. "Mother Isis, hear my prayer!"

The only thing she heard was the sound of crickets chirping. Closing her eyes, Theliane rose to her feet.

"She doesn't always answer," Nathifa had said. "There will be times that Isis cannot help you, or she'll answer you in a different way than you would expect."

"I suppose, mother," Theliane said quietly.

A rustle of cloth caught her ears, and a thump upon the marble floor had followed. Theliane quietly darted over to hide behind a large pillar; her heart beating fast at the thought of an intruder within the temple.

The footsteps of bare feet padded over to the statue of Isis. Theliane froze; what if this intruder meant to desecrate her Mother's statue? Steadying herself, the Daughter of Ra held her right hand up to summon her power. She slowly peeked out from behind the pillar. Her eyes widened and she nearly gasped aloud as the young man lit the sage in his hand.

Kasuyan!

--

The moon was whole and lighted the alleyways just enough for a person to see. A figure crouched low to avoid being spotted by guards, snaked his way through the dark paths and to the temple of the Sisters of the Moon. Kasuyan neared the temple, keeping quiet and staying in the shadows. For the past few days, he had watched the guards make their rounds and timed them-- who moved to which direction and how long it would take them to return.

He ducked behind large clay water jars, carts, and huge bundles of straw. Soon he was only a short distance away from the temple, hiding behind a wagon. Kasuyan would have to time this perfectly. There wasn't anything else to shield him from the guards from where he was now. He watched the guard by the temple steps walking then turned and walked the other way.

Kasuyan dashed across the open area, slipped, quickly regained his balance and ran to the corner of the steps.

"Who's there?" the guard spun around.

Kasuyan held his breath. They would surely kill him for being this close to the temple in the middle of the night. And being an outsider would not help him at all; despite the kindness Theliane had given him.

The guard started walking back; Kasuyan shut his eyes tight.

"Meow."

"Was that you making that noise?"

Kasuyan peeked out and saw the guard pick up a young kitten.

"I think I'll take you home," the guard smiled, "my daughter would love you." He walked away.

Sighing, Kasuyan leaned against the cool stone; he waited a little while then peeked out again, watching the guard walk down a few paces then turned left. Kasuyan ran from his hiding place and up the steps, going past the door to one of the open windows. Grabbing one of the white banners that hung from it, Kasuyan climbed up and through the window. He let himself hang from the edge before dropping down to the smooth marble floor, falling over.

Recovered, Kasuyan stood up and slowly walked towards the enormous statue of the goddess Isis. He stared at it in awe for a moment then pulled a small piece of sage from his pouch, held it to the lamp that burned all day and night, lighting it. Kasuyan knew that the people here in Egypt would--and did--considered his way of worshipping the gods heresy, but he didn't care. This was the way he had been taught, this would be the way he would worship.

He held the sage up and drew symbols in the air, the light smoke coming from it leaving a wavy pattern behind the moments. Kasuyan placed the sage in the coffer next to the altar. Kasuyan knelt down and bowed before the statue.

"Great Isis," he prayed, "Lady of Love, hear my prayer. Know that in the recesses of my heart burns a flame for Theliane. The ways of the heart are mysterious, Lady, and I ask your guidance in this path, for Theliane is a Sister of the Moon. If my love for Theliane weighs true in your hands, let Theliane know that I welcome her glance. Let her know that I delight in her conversation. Let her know that I yearn for the touch of her hand, and desire that we should love one another happily. If my attention is not welcomed by Theliane, let my heart release all desire for her. If you find this love unworthy, cleanse my heart of it. Take its power as an offering. Bring forth new joy and free me of sorrow." Kasuyan sat up and stared at the statue with beseeching eyes. "Great Isis, hear my prayer!"

The only thing he heard was the sound of crickets chirping. Closing his eyes, he rose to his feet.

"Kasuyan."

He spun around and faced the speaker.

Theliane!

Kasuyan's heart leapt to his throat as he looked at her. She was not wearing her temple attire but rather a simple green dress. Theliane slowly walked over to him. Kasuyan's heart was beating so fast and hard against his ribs that he was certain that she would hear it.

Theliane said nothing as she took Kasuyan's left hand and placed it over her heart. She looked into his shocked almond eyes. "It seems that Mother Isis has answered both our prayers," she whispered.

Kasuyan slowly moved his hand from over her heart, up her neck to her cheek. She leaned into his hand, and then he brought up his other hand, bringing her lips to his and kissed.

It was magical. Kasuyan felt that the heavens had just landed on the earth, inside the very temple he stood in. Theliane tasted so sweet, so wonderful, he craved so much more than this simple, yet powerful, show of emotion. Then she pulled away.

Kasuyan looked at her with mild confusion. "Theliane…"

She smiled, taking his hand in hers. "Come," she said quietly.

"But the guards," he paused, "they do not trust me. I am an outsider. I entered here without permission, they will-"

She put two fingers of her free hand to his lips. "Be calm, my love."

Leading him over to the east wall behind a statue of Bastet, Theliane reached up to the lighted sconce on the wall just behind the representation of the goddess. Taking hold of the metal piece, the Sister pushed the sconce to her right and a section of the wall slowly moved back revealing a dimmed pathway.

"This is how my Sisters and I move between our rooms and the main temple," Theliane explained.

Kasuyan marveled at the hidden tunnel as his beloved led him through. The stone door closed as they stared walking, making the caravan traveler jump slightly. He calmed as Theliane rubbed his arm.

They continued on until they reached another wall, which Theliane pushed open. The door led right into the bathing room of the Sisters' home. A few small lamps gave the room enough light so that a person could see.

"You may use it if you like," said Theliane. Kasuyan nodded eagerly. "The linens are over there," she pointed to a bench near the edge of the massive pool. "I'll be waiting outside." Sharing one more kiss, Theliane left the bathing room through the opaque white curtain.

Kasuyan wasted no time in stripping himself of his garments, placing the clothing on the tiled floor besides the bench. He walked down the steps into the water, the warmth embracing his body and he relaxed.

Making sure that he was clean, Kasuyan stepped out of the pool and took one of the large linen sheets from the bench and dried himself. Then he took the smaller one and wrapped it around his waist to cover himself. He walked over to the curtain and pulled it aside, seeing Theliane waiting in the hall.

"I…" he blushed. "I don't have anything to wear."

Smiling, Theliane stepped into the room. "You are wearing it," she said. Reaching out she adjusted the linen so that it stayed in place without Kasuyan holding it.

"Thank you," he whispered.

She nodded. "Follow me."

Kasuyan did as told, and Theliane led him to a set of solid wood doors with the Winged Dragon of Ra engraved and lined with gold upon them. She placed her hand in the center and a click was heard then the doors swung open into the room on their own.

They walked inside and the doors closed behind them.

Authors' Notes:

Janime: I wonder if any of them had onions?

Heikou: Why?

Janime: Found out on the History Channel (love their shows on Egypt) that in Ancient Egypt, the people believed that onions were like an aphrodisiac.

Heikou: WHAT?

Janime: Yup! The celibate priests would not even dare touch an onion.

Heikou: blinks Okay... guess it's better than garlic.

Janime: I don't want to know how they dealt with bad breath.

Heikou: Anyway, this is how the girls and guys hooked up in the past.

Janime: We all know that three certain Guardians aren't going to be too happy when they come home and see what's been going on.

Heikou: Speaking of which, don't you have lemons to write?

Janime: I'm working on them. It's going to be a little difficult now. I've been promoted!

Heikou: Sweet! Knew you could do it!

Janime: The hours are different but I'll try to be on and to finish my lemons.

Heikou: Gotta have them! winks

Janime: Yes, lemons are healthy, as are other citrus fruit.

Heikou: Won't go there.

Janime: Too late.

Heikou: Okay, people! We'll see you in the next chapter! Don't forget to review!