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<blockquote data-quote="Silver Moon" data-source="post: 6979609" data-attributes="member: 8530"><p><strong>Chapter 115, "There's Going to be a Wedding" , September 12, 1882, 11:30 AM.</strong> </p><p></p><p>Sabah garners everyone's attention and directs them toward the chapel at the end of the hallway for the wedding to take place. Across the room the French Empress approaches Manual Gonzales and asks, "Will you give me away?" He replies "I would be honored to, my beccroise bifascie" (a French bird, also known as the two-barred crossbill). Abby raised her eyebrow at the odd way of addressing an Empress. Not only as a bird, but one rarely seen in France. </p><p></p><p>But even more interesting was that this mentor of Miss West's seemed to have connections far beyond what she would have expected. But considering the group of people she had fallen in with, the elder elf shouldn't have come as a surprise. The light at the end of her days without sleep tunnel was finally visible. Abby stood up straight and followed Sabah, striking and graceful as any Empress or Priestess, and determined to make it through this ceremony and get on the airship before she collapsed into sleep. </p><p></p><p>The wedding gathering is small, with only around three dozen including the servants and guards. The High Priestess Sabah had changed her attire to a simpler Egyptian Robe, although she still wears the magical artifacts that were used to summon Bast to this world. Victor Duray stands before the Alter of Bast, with his friend Hippolyte Taine standing beside him as his best man. The bride is escorted down the aisle by her matron of honor, the Egyptian Queen mother. , and by Manuel Gonzales who is giving the bride away. The ceremony begins with some traditional Egyptian music. Sabah announces that the ceremony will be a combination of the traditional Egyptian service given the setting and also of a western-style ceremony in keeping with the couple's background. </p><p></p><p>Ruby snuggled in next to George to watch the wedding. Even though she barely knew these people, it was a beautiful thing to watch and warmness spread over her. For a moment she wondered if this was Aphrodite's doing, her valuing something like love. It wasn't so long ago she didn't care about anyone or anything. Now, life was so different. And this especially was crazy, going from a war to a wedding in the matter of minutes. And of such important people in the world to boot. At any rate, it was nice to not be in peril. She shrugged to herself and nestled into George closer. Whatever is was, she didn't care. She was happy. She gave a huge smile and a little wave to her teacher as he walked by. She would ask him about his reference to the Empress later, in private. Ruby was starting to suspect he was much, much more than he would admit to. </p><p></p><p>A quintet of musicians enter the room. They begin playing their trumpets, flutes, drums and an odd-square-shaped stringed instrument, playing the Egyptian version of a bridal march. The tempo of the music increases. The musicians then change to soft background music as Sabah begins the ceremony. Ruby finds the music and initial part of the ceremony to be very similar to Neferka's wedding. It was hard to believe that was only four days earlier, in many ways it seemed like it had been years. </p><p></p><p>She speaks of the beliefs of the couple in magic, citing the western deity of mages Math, and also the Egyptian deity of Magic, Isis. She wishes the couple long life and wisdom, stating that the companionship that most couples seek is already embodied by this couple who have been close friends for many decades. The two then exchange vows, repeating words stated by Sabah, as there clearly has not been time for them to prepare some themselves. "I Jean Victor take thee Eugenie Maria" and she repeats "And I Eugenie Maria take thee Jean Victor as my husband". The two kiss and Sabah declares them married. </p><p></p><p>"Isn't it so romantic?" She squeezed George's hand. "I guess no big party since this was so last minute." She glanced to Abby sitting next to her, looking beautiful in her change of clothes but Ruby could see the weariness in her eyes. "I don't think any of us would stay awake very long, even at the fanciest party on the planet. "</p><p></p><p>The ceremony draws to a close. Queen Neferka indicates that the possessions which the French diplomats had left at the palace in Cairo have arrived and have been loaded onto the airship. The seven French are asked to proceed outside to it. They are accompanied by Callum and Abigail, who will be flying them to Paris. Also with them is the druidess Meren, assuming her new post as Ambassador to France. </p><p></p><p>As this was one of the smaller airships the gondola compartment is a little cramped with all ten people plus the luggage, with the trunks doing double-duty as chairs since all of the airship's chairs except for the pilot's have been removed to make space. Before Abby left Ruby pulled her aside to say goodbye. "I hope you enjoy Paris, you've really earned a vacation after this crazy trip. I hope you'll be returning to us, eventually." Ruby gave her friend a big hug and kiss on the cheek. "Take care of yourself and get some rest!" She winked at Abby before returning inside to the Queen. The airship soon takes to the sky and proceeds northward. </p><p></p><p>The others head back inside the Temple of Bast. Ruby approached Neferka and gave her a long, tight hug. "You did good Your Majesty. I can't imagine what you are feeling right now but I am certain your father and brothers would be very proud of you." She says, "It has been a long week. I never imagined that I would be in this role, my brothers were the line of succession. The most I could have hoped for was to be married off to somebody of importance. We will hold the formal funeral services for my father and brothers in a few days. I would do it sooner except I think making peace with the rebels and getting the British soldiers off of Egyptian soil is the most immediate priority. Well, second priority, right now I believe that all of us could use sleep. Let me talk to Sabah about that, I think that she knows a spell that could shorten the time." </p><p></p><p>Once inside Neferka breathes a sigh of relief saying aloud, "I am glad that they are gone." She turns towards Barrister Sefu and says, "Please locate the other French wizards within the country and see that they receive a military escort to the border and transportation away from Egypt." Sabah adds, "The other Frenchmen can be found in Zakazik, Tanis, Port Said and the Nubian Capital." </p><p></p><p>The High Priestess Sabah is able to cast a spell on Neferka and the others the will enable them to experience twice the sleep as the time taken. Each is given lodgings in the temple and sleep until mid-afternoon, at which time they feel that they have been asleep nine-to-ten hours. The group each bathe and dress. </p><p></p><p>They reassemble in the main room of the Temple at 4:00PM. Barrister Sefu tells Queen Neferka that it will require at least a week's construction before the palace in Cairo would be safe and secure for her. She says, "That is fine, the British army and my husband's army are both now near Zakazik. I used the Zakazik Grand Hotel as my base of operation for most of the past week, it will continue to serve that purpose until the residence in Cairo meets your satisfaction." </p><p></p><p>Neferka calls for the "Chariot of the Winds" to be brought. Turning to the party, she says, "Which of you would like to join me for the trip to Zakazik?" Ruby looked to George and he smiled and nodded. "Go ahead my love, keep the Queen safe." Ruby gave him a kiss and bounded over to Nerferka. "I will go with you Your Highness." Neferka says, "The chariot will hold up to eight, your intended could join us if he wishes, as could your grandmother."</p><p></p><p>Mina says, "I will pass. My husband will be arriving in Alexandria shortly. I will return from here to Cairo and have the ship USS Franklin Pierce bring me there to meet him." Ruby says, "Oh, thank you Neferka! George will certainly enjoy it. Nana, will you meet us at the hotel with James?" Mina says, "Yes, eventually, probably sometime tomorrow. I want time to bring him up to speed on all that has transpired, preferably out of earshot of any French, British or Egyptian that might be present. Plus we could also use some time to...well...get reacquainted."</p><p></p><p>Ruby chuckled, "I know what you mean, we've been quite busy, haven't we? Not exactly the vacation I was looking forward to. It will be nice to have some quiet, alone time." Ruby stood up tall and stretched. "Well, let's get this show on the road!" She kissed her grandmother on the cheek. "Take your time getting reacquainted and be safe! We'll be at the hotel waiting." She waited for George to be ready then hopped on the chariot. "We are ready when you are!" </p><p></p><p>Lt. Col Hassan is once again requested to accompany Neferka and pledges to her personal safety. Sabah too says that she will accompany her to Zakazik. Barrister Sefu says that he has much to organize in Cairo, but expects to be able to join the Queen in two days time. The magical carpet is quickly retrieved and set up on the rooftop balcony of the temple. Neferka, Sabah, Hassan, Ruby, George and Lawrence step onto the carpet. </p><p></p><p>One of Neferka's younger sisters decides to join them as well. The Chariot soon departs. Ruby had riden on it before, and George had been told what to expect, but Lawrence is in awe of the fantastic speed at which the carpet travels over the sands. They very quickly put the distant pyramids and Nile river behind them, making their way steadily towards the Zakazik region. </p><p></p><p>"So, now that you're Queen I suppose you have a lot more responsibilities," Ruby said to Nerferka. "After getting some well earned rest, have you thought of your next moves? Meeting up with your husband being one of your priorities I am sure." Neferka replies, "Actually, getting the British Army out of Egypt is my top priority now. My father invited them, I can un-invite them." Ruby says, "Of course, you are in charge now. I assume they will leave peacefully but I guess you never know. Is there anything George or I can help you with?" </p><p></p><p>She says, "Well, the British Empire has a history of going into places and deciding to stay. But they do need me to repay Egypt's loans to their banks and also want use of the canal, so I have considerable power for the negotiations. On the other hand, being married now to the leader of the army they just fought won't make these talks any easier. Any assistance that you can George can provide will be appreciated." Ruby says, "Of course. I don't know much about that stuff but George is a man of considerable talents. You know we are your friends and will help you in any way we can." (And thus, Ruby now volunteers her fiance to Neferka for a major job that he never requested). </p><p></p><p>Neferka makes a slight detour away from the direction of Zakazik and flies high overhead above Tel el-Kabir, the site of the morning's battle. She sees that both the British and Egyptian rebels are fully encamped behind their battle lines but that the truce is being upheld. She then turns the carpet northwards towards the city. Ruby comments "That's good, things seem to be stable. Hopefully it stays that way. When will you get to meet up with your hubby?" </p><p></p><p>Neferka replies, "Tomorrow I think, it is best that I let Ahmed play out his role as the leader of the Rebel Army before he assumes the duties of my consort. I will send messengers to both camps this evening to arrange it." Ruby says, "I understand. I know you have a lot of responsibilities but you also need to rest. I know we have gotten sleep but... Sometimes you need to rest your mind, from all the thinking. You know?" Ruby placed her hand on her friend's arm. "I just want to make sure you're okay." </p><p></p><p>Neferka says, "I will be. We have several serious days ahead of us, but after they are over I hope that you'll stay around so that we can have some fun together." " Oh! I would very much enjoy that. I..." Ruby's words trailed off and she sighed deeply. "I want to say I am very sorry for what happened. We really did try to stop anything bad from happening and obviously we failed. And in such a terrible way." Ruby's head hung low. "We will stay around and help you with whatever you need. If part of that is having fun then that is what we will do. I think we could all use some fun."</p><p></p><p>Neferka says, "Ruby, there were failures all around. If anything, I blame myself. When I realized that the man the French were sending me with to Gizah wasn't Ahmed I should have just kept that information to myself and waited to alert Barrister Sefu upon our arrival. Instead, I made a scene, was replaced, and lost my father as a result. We were all victims of a well orchestrated and very evil plan, and they might have won without your help." </p><p></p><p>Ruby took another deep breath then a small smile came to her lips. "I suppose you're right. None of us, including you, are to blame. We've already figured that part out and you've dealt with it rather well. You will be an amazing Queen, Nerfeka." Neferka smiles and says softly so that only Ruby can hear, "I know that I will, and not just because Bast showed us that vision from three-dozen years into my future. All my life I have examined all of my father's choices and quietly kept to myself how I could have done better with this or that. </p><p></p><p>I am far from perfect, but my shortcomings are well counter-balanced by the strengths of these three men who you have met, Ahmed, Barrister Sefu and Lieutenant Colonel Hassan. In terms of a game I am always focused on a positive offense. Ahmed will be able to advise me of modifications to an offensive strategy, while Sefu and Hassan will focus on the defense, and protect me where I leave myself exposed. And then there is also the High Priestess Sabah, whose advice will be immeasurable. Collectively, we will make Egypt one of the greatest nations on earth." </p><p></p><p>Ruby says, "So let us do what we must to move forward. I suppose we were just in the right place at the right time." Neferka says, "The goddesses surely had a hand in this. Between Bast and Aphrodite, we have been well watched over. And your George is now linked to both of them." Ruby answers, "Huh, I hadn't thought of that, you're right. A couple years ago I would have never guessed I would have anything to do with any gods, let alone be helping more than one of them. Funny how life is like that." </p><p></p><p>Neferka says, "Ruby, while the majority of the people on this world believe in their own personal deities, and those of the clergy dedicate their lives to them, very few of us are blessed enough to actually encounter them. We are fulfilling a special destiny, which I believe is a mixture of divine providence and individual self-determination. What about you? I would guess that you strongly believe in Aphrodite, but even she won't be telling Ruby West what to do." </p><p></p><p>Ruby thought hard on that for a moment before bursting into laughter. "Yes I suppose that is true. She can 'strongly suggest' something but I make my own decisions. Still, it is nice to be able to help out someone so important. Not so long ago I didn't believe in anything. But things have changed, obviously." Ruby turned her face into the oncoming cool desert air, letting it blow her hair around her face in cool waves. "And I had really thought we were only coming here on a nice vacation. And while things have been crazy, at least I have made a new friend." She smiled at the Queen. Neferka says, "And I feel the same."</p><p></p><p>The Chariot of the Winds arrives at the roof of the Zakazik Grand Hotel. It is obvious that Barrister Sefu has notified them, as a full honor guard is assembled on the roof and musicians begin to play as the carpet touches down. Sultan Ali Ranual, the nephew of the hotel owner that had initially greeted Ruby and Mina when they first arrived, moves forward and makes a long speech about how honored they are that the Queen has chosen their establishment as the Royal Palace for the initial week of her reign. He says that the Royal suite has been prepared and that the overwhelming majority of the hotel's servants have been made available to cater to her every need.</p><p></p><p>Neferka says, "Very well. My sister will stay with me. See to it that suitable quarters are also prepared for the High Priestess Sabah, the head of my personal guard Colonel Hassan, Mr. George Eastman, Miss Constance Grace West and Mr. Lawrence Cantrell. My Chief of Staff, Barrister Sefu, should be arriving by Friday. Until that time Mr. Eastman will serve as my Interm Chief of Staff. See to it that all logistical arrangements are made through him, or through his fiance Miss West if he is unavailable." Ruby squeezed George's hand. "That is quite the honor!" </p><p></p><p>She approached the Queen. " I forgot to ask, what will become of Freya? She was quite helpful through everything." Neferka replies, "Barrister Sefu has requested her assistance for the next few days. She is acting as an observer for the departure of the remaining French wizards from my land. After that is concluded she has been asked to join us here." Ruby answers, "Very good! I was hoping she hadn't left yet, I do want to be able to say goodbye. We went through a lot together." </p><p></p><p>Neferka says, "We should all visit our quarters. I will plan to see you and Mr. Eastman for dinner in the main dining room in approximately two hours." "Excellent. Let us know if you need anything." She approached a waiting staff member to be shown to their room. Ruby and George are brought to a pair of adjacent rooms, each larger than the ones that they stayed in before at this hotel. "Wwhheeeeaaa" Ruby ran through the enormous rooms like a kid in a candy shop, pointing out all the wonderful upgrades over their last room. Finally she collapsed on a bed with her arms wide open. "Now THIS I can live with. Isn't it wonderful George?</p><p></p><p>George dozed on and off on the carpet ride. Catching snippets of the conversation between Ruby and the Queen. He stood attentively as speeches were made and raised an eyebrow as he was named interim Chief until Sefu arrived. Still he was tired. It had been a very long trip, and he was bone tired. Still he had to smile at Ruby's enthusiasm at the room. "Yes my dear, I think we will see a much better level of service and amenities now that we are a part of the royal entourage, rather than some ragtag group. </p><p></p><p>Still something the Queen said bothers me. It was about your, well our associations with.... you know what, it will wait. It isn't important right now. We have a dinner date in two hours and I know my Miss Ruby will want that entire time to bathe and put on her prettiest dress and do her hair and make up like she hasn't been able to do in weeks." says George as he kisses Ruby. "So go and get ready my dear, we can't keep the Queen waiting." Ruby says, "No darling, tell me now. What is your concern? Our association with who?" </p><p></p><p>"With Bast and Aphrodite. History shows that mortals do not fare well when the gods become involved. But, I am tired and I am sure I am over thinking things and am over worried from the constant suspicions I have had over the past few weeks. I am sure it is nothing. Come let us get ready." replies George. Ruby says, "Hmmmm, perhaps we should talk about it at some point. I mean, I have only ever considered good things coming from Aphrodite. But yes, let's get ready for dinner. We need to have some fun after everything that's happened."</p><p></p><p>Ruby spends the next two hours enjoying a nice, hot bubble bath then getting ready for dinner. She wears her nicest plum color dress and spends significant time wrestling her curls into submission. George smiles as Ruby approaches. "See, this is what I was saying. Aphrodite doesn't like mortals to show her up, and you my dear come closest of any mortal." says George kissing Ruby. "It will be nice to actually enjoy a meal for a change instead of wolfing it down while looking over your shoulder." </p><p></p><p></p><p><em>[DM's Note: At this point the party split up, with Orchid Blossom (Abigail's player) finding more free time to post, so the next five chapters will follow her and Callum in France. This also gave me an opportunity to greatly expand upon Callum Stuart's backstory, as he will be my own Playing Character in the next chapter of the AGELESS campaign, where Fenris (George Eastmasn's player) will be the Dungeon Master. Starting with Chapter 120, as we move to the next character day for both locations, we will then alternate the settings with odd-number chapters taking place in Zakazik and the even-numbered chapters taking place in France.]</em></p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="Silver Moon, post: 6979609, member: 8530"] [B]Chapter 115, "There's Going to be a Wedding" , September 12, 1882, 11:30 AM.[/B] Sabah garners everyone's attention and directs them toward the chapel at the end of the hallway for the wedding to take place. Across the room the French Empress approaches Manual Gonzales and asks, "Will you give me away?" He replies "I would be honored to, my beccroise bifascie" (a French bird, also known as the two-barred crossbill). Abby raised her eyebrow at the odd way of addressing an Empress. Not only as a bird, but one rarely seen in France. But even more interesting was that this mentor of Miss West's seemed to have connections far beyond what she would have expected. But considering the group of people she had fallen in with, the elder elf shouldn't have come as a surprise. The light at the end of her days without sleep tunnel was finally visible. Abby stood up straight and followed Sabah, striking and graceful as any Empress or Priestess, and determined to make it through this ceremony and get on the airship before she collapsed into sleep. The wedding gathering is small, with only around three dozen including the servants and guards. The High Priestess Sabah had changed her attire to a simpler Egyptian Robe, although she still wears the magical artifacts that were used to summon Bast to this world. Victor Duray stands before the Alter of Bast, with his friend Hippolyte Taine standing beside him as his best man. The bride is escorted down the aisle by her matron of honor, the Egyptian Queen mother. , and by Manuel Gonzales who is giving the bride away. The ceremony begins with some traditional Egyptian music. Sabah announces that the ceremony will be a combination of the traditional Egyptian service given the setting and also of a western-style ceremony in keeping with the couple's background. Ruby snuggled in next to George to watch the wedding. Even though she barely knew these people, it was a beautiful thing to watch and warmness spread over her. For a moment she wondered if this was Aphrodite's doing, her valuing something like love. It wasn't so long ago she didn't care about anyone or anything. Now, life was so different. And this especially was crazy, going from a war to a wedding in the matter of minutes. And of such important people in the world to boot. At any rate, it was nice to not be in peril. She shrugged to herself and nestled into George closer. Whatever is was, she didn't care. She was happy. She gave a huge smile and a little wave to her teacher as he walked by. She would ask him about his reference to the Empress later, in private. Ruby was starting to suspect he was much, much more than he would admit to. A quintet of musicians enter the room. They begin playing their trumpets, flutes, drums and an odd-square-shaped stringed instrument, playing the Egyptian version of a bridal march. The tempo of the music increases. The musicians then change to soft background music as Sabah begins the ceremony. Ruby finds the music and initial part of the ceremony to be very similar to Neferka's wedding. It was hard to believe that was only four days earlier, in many ways it seemed like it had been years. She speaks of the beliefs of the couple in magic, citing the western deity of mages Math, and also the Egyptian deity of Magic, Isis. She wishes the couple long life and wisdom, stating that the companionship that most couples seek is already embodied by this couple who have been close friends for many decades. The two then exchange vows, repeating words stated by Sabah, as there clearly has not been time for them to prepare some themselves. "I Jean Victor take thee Eugenie Maria" and she repeats "And I Eugenie Maria take thee Jean Victor as my husband". The two kiss and Sabah declares them married. "Isn't it so romantic?" She squeezed George's hand. "I guess no big party since this was so last minute." She glanced to Abby sitting next to her, looking beautiful in her change of clothes but Ruby could see the weariness in her eyes. "I don't think any of us would stay awake very long, even at the fanciest party on the planet. " The ceremony draws to a close. Queen Neferka indicates that the possessions which the French diplomats had left at the palace in Cairo have arrived and have been loaded onto the airship. The seven French are asked to proceed outside to it. They are accompanied by Callum and Abigail, who will be flying them to Paris. Also with them is the druidess Meren, assuming her new post as Ambassador to France. As this was one of the smaller airships the gondola compartment is a little cramped with all ten people plus the luggage, with the trunks doing double-duty as chairs since all of the airship's chairs except for the pilot's have been removed to make space. Before Abby left Ruby pulled her aside to say goodbye. "I hope you enjoy Paris, you've really earned a vacation after this crazy trip. I hope you'll be returning to us, eventually." Ruby gave her friend a big hug and kiss on the cheek. "Take care of yourself and get some rest!" She winked at Abby before returning inside to the Queen. The airship soon takes to the sky and proceeds northward. The others head back inside the Temple of Bast. Ruby approached Neferka and gave her a long, tight hug. "You did good Your Majesty. I can't imagine what you are feeling right now but I am certain your father and brothers would be very proud of you." She says, "It has been a long week. I never imagined that I would be in this role, my brothers were the line of succession. The most I could have hoped for was to be married off to somebody of importance. We will hold the formal funeral services for my father and brothers in a few days. I would do it sooner except I think making peace with the rebels and getting the British soldiers off of Egyptian soil is the most immediate priority. Well, second priority, right now I believe that all of us could use sleep. Let me talk to Sabah about that, I think that she knows a spell that could shorten the time." Once inside Neferka breathes a sigh of relief saying aloud, "I am glad that they are gone." She turns towards Barrister Sefu and says, "Please locate the other French wizards within the country and see that they receive a military escort to the border and transportation away from Egypt." Sabah adds, "The other Frenchmen can be found in Zakazik, Tanis, Port Said and the Nubian Capital." The High Priestess Sabah is able to cast a spell on Neferka and the others the will enable them to experience twice the sleep as the time taken. Each is given lodgings in the temple and sleep until mid-afternoon, at which time they feel that they have been asleep nine-to-ten hours. The group each bathe and dress. They reassemble in the main room of the Temple at 4:00PM. Barrister Sefu tells Queen Neferka that it will require at least a week's construction before the palace in Cairo would be safe and secure for her. She says, "That is fine, the British army and my husband's army are both now near Zakazik. I used the Zakazik Grand Hotel as my base of operation for most of the past week, it will continue to serve that purpose until the residence in Cairo meets your satisfaction." Neferka calls for the "Chariot of the Winds" to be brought. Turning to the party, she says, "Which of you would like to join me for the trip to Zakazik?" Ruby looked to George and he smiled and nodded. "Go ahead my love, keep the Queen safe." Ruby gave him a kiss and bounded over to Nerferka. "I will go with you Your Highness." Neferka says, "The chariot will hold up to eight, your intended could join us if he wishes, as could your grandmother." Mina says, "I will pass. My husband will be arriving in Alexandria shortly. I will return from here to Cairo and have the ship USS Franklin Pierce bring me there to meet him." Ruby says, "Oh, thank you Neferka! George will certainly enjoy it. Nana, will you meet us at the hotel with James?" Mina says, "Yes, eventually, probably sometime tomorrow. I want time to bring him up to speed on all that has transpired, preferably out of earshot of any French, British or Egyptian that might be present. Plus we could also use some time to...well...get reacquainted." Ruby chuckled, "I know what you mean, we've been quite busy, haven't we? Not exactly the vacation I was looking forward to. It will be nice to have some quiet, alone time." Ruby stood up tall and stretched. "Well, let's get this show on the road!" She kissed her grandmother on the cheek. "Take your time getting reacquainted and be safe! We'll be at the hotel waiting." She waited for George to be ready then hopped on the chariot. "We are ready when you are!" Lt. Col Hassan is once again requested to accompany Neferka and pledges to her personal safety. Sabah too says that she will accompany her to Zakazik. Barrister Sefu says that he has much to organize in Cairo, but expects to be able to join the Queen in two days time. The magical carpet is quickly retrieved and set up on the rooftop balcony of the temple. Neferka, Sabah, Hassan, Ruby, George and Lawrence step onto the carpet. One of Neferka's younger sisters decides to join them as well. The Chariot soon departs. Ruby had riden on it before, and George had been told what to expect, but Lawrence is in awe of the fantastic speed at which the carpet travels over the sands. They very quickly put the distant pyramids and Nile river behind them, making their way steadily towards the Zakazik region. "So, now that you're Queen I suppose you have a lot more responsibilities," Ruby said to Nerferka. "After getting some well earned rest, have you thought of your next moves? Meeting up with your husband being one of your priorities I am sure." Neferka replies, "Actually, getting the British Army out of Egypt is my top priority now. My father invited them, I can un-invite them." Ruby says, "Of course, you are in charge now. I assume they will leave peacefully but I guess you never know. Is there anything George or I can help you with?" She says, "Well, the British Empire has a history of going into places and deciding to stay. But they do need me to repay Egypt's loans to their banks and also want use of the canal, so I have considerable power for the negotiations. On the other hand, being married now to the leader of the army they just fought won't make these talks any easier. Any assistance that you can George can provide will be appreciated." Ruby says, "Of course. I don't know much about that stuff but George is a man of considerable talents. You know we are your friends and will help you in any way we can." (And thus, Ruby now volunteers her fiance to Neferka for a major job that he never requested). Neferka makes a slight detour away from the direction of Zakazik and flies high overhead above Tel el-Kabir, the site of the morning's battle. She sees that both the British and Egyptian rebels are fully encamped behind their battle lines but that the truce is being upheld. She then turns the carpet northwards towards the city. Ruby comments "That's good, things seem to be stable. Hopefully it stays that way. When will you get to meet up with your hubby?" Neferka replies, "Tomorrow I think, it is best that I let Ahmed play out his role as the leader of the Rebel Army before he assumes the duties of my consort. I will send messengers to both camps this evening to arrange it." Ruby says, "I understand. I know you have a lot of responsibilities but you also need to rest. I know we have gotten sleep but... Sometimes you need to rest your mind, from all the thinking. You know?" Ruby placed her hand on her friend's arm. "I just want to make sure you're okay." Neferka says, "I will be. We have several serious days ahead of us, but after they are over I hope that you'll stay around so that we can have some fun together." " Oh! I would very much enjoy that. I..." Ruby's words trailed off and she sighed deeply. "I want to say I am very sorry for what happened. We really did try to stop anything bad from happening and obviously we failed. And in such a terrible way." Ruby's head hung low. "We will stay around and help you with whatever you need. If part of that is having fun then that is what we will do. I think we could all use some fun." Neferka says, "Ruby, there were failures all around. If anything, I blame myself. When I realized that the man the French were sending me with to Gizah wasn't Ahmed I should have just kept that information to myself and waited to alert Barrister Sefu upon our arrival. Instead, I made a scene, was replaced, and lost my father as a result. We were all victims of a well orchestrated and very evil plan, and they might have won without your help." Ruby took another deep breath then a small smile came to her lips. "I suppose you're right. None of us, including you, are to blame. We've already figured that part out and you've dealt with it rather well. You will be an amazing Queen, Nerfeka." Neferka smiles and says softly so that only Ruby can hear, "I know that I will, and not just because Bast showed us that vision from three-dozen years into my future. All my life I have examined all of my father's choices and quietly kept to myself how I could have done better with this or that. I am far from perfect, but my shortcomings are well counter-balanced by the strengths of these three men who you have met, Ahmed, Barrister Sefu and Lieutenant Colonel Hassan. In terms of a game I am always focused on a positive offense. Ahmed will be able to advise me of modifications to an offensive strategy, while Sefu and Hassan will focus on the defense, and protect me where I leave myself exposed. And then there is also the High Priestess Sabah, whose advice will be immeasurable. Collectively, we will make Egypt one of the greatest nations on earth." Ruby says, "So let us do what we must to move forward. I suppose we were just in the right place at the right time." Neferka says, "The goddesses surely had a hand in this. Between Bast and Aphrodite, we have been well watched over. And your George is now linked to both of them." Ruby answers, "Huh, I hadn't thought of that, you're right. A couple years ago I would have never guessed I would have anything to do with any gods, let alone be helping more than one of them. Funny how life is like that." Neferka says, "Ruby, while the majority of the people on this world believe in their own personal deities, and those of the clergy dedicate their lives to them, very few of us are blessed enough to actually encounter them. We are fulfilling a special destiny, which I believe is a mixture of divine providence and individual self-determination. What about you? I would guess that you strongly believe in Aphrodite, but even she won't be telling Ruby West what to do." Ruby thought hard on that for a moment before bursting into laughter. "Yes I suppose that is true. She can 'strongly suggest' something but I make my own decisions. Still, it is nice to be able to help out someone so important. Not so long ago I didn't believe in anything. But things have changed, obviously." Ruby turned her face into the oncoming cool desert air, letting it blow her hair around her face in cool waves. "And I had really thought we were only coming here on a nice vacation. And while things have been crazy, at least I have made a new friend." She smiled at the Queen. Neferka says, "And I feel the same." The Chariot of the Winds arrives at the roof of the Zakazik Grand Hotel. It is obvious that Barrister Sefu has notified them, as a full honor guard is assembled on the roof and musicians begin to play as the carpet touches down. Sultan Ali Ranual, the nephew of the hotel owner that had initially greeted Ruby and Mina when they first arrived, moves forward and makes a long speech about how honored they are that the Queen has chosen their establishment as the Royal Palace for the initial week of her reign. He says that the Royal suite has been prepared and that the overwhelming majority of the hotel's servants have been made available to cater to her every need. Neferka says, "Very well. My sister will stay with me. See to it that suitable quarters are also prepared for the High Priestess Sabah, the head of my personal guard Colonel Hassan, Mr. George Eastman, Miss Constance Grace West and Mr. Lawrence Cantrell. My Chief of Staff, Barrister Sefu, should be arriving by Friday. Until that time Mr. Eastman will serve as my Interm Chief of Staff. See to it that all logistical arrangements are made through him, or through his fiance Miss West if he is unavailable." Ruby squeezed George's hand. "That is quite the honor!" She approached the Queen. " I forgot to ask, what will become of Freya? She was quite helpful through everything." Neferka replies, "Barrister Sefu has requested her assistance for the next few days. She is acting as an observer for the departure of the remaining French wizards from my land. After that is concluded she has been asked to join us here." Ruby answers, "Very good! I was hoping she hadn't left yet, I do want to be able to say goodbye. We went through a lot together." Neferka says, "We should all visit our quarters. I will plan to see you and Mr. Eastman for dinner in the main dining room in approximately two hours." "Excellent. Let us know if you need anything." She approached a waiting staff member to be shown to their room. Ruby and George are brought to a pair of adjacent rooms, each larger than the ones that they stayed in before at this hotel. "Wwhheeeeaaa" Ruby ran through the enormous rooms like a kid in a candy shop, pointing out all the wonderful upgrades over their last room. Finally she collapsed on a bed with her arms wide open. "Now THIS I can live with. Isn't it wonderful George? George dozed on and off on the carpet ride. Catching snippets of the conversation between Ruby and the Queen. He stood attentively as speeches were made and raised an eyebrow as he was named interim Chief until Sefu arrived. Still he was tired. It had been a very long trip, and he was bone tired. Still he had to smile at Ruby's enthusiasm at the room. "Yes my dear, I think we will see a much better level of service and amenities now that we are a part of the royal entourage, rather than some ragtag group. Still something the Queen said bothers me. It was about your, well our associations with.... you know what, it will wait. It isn't important right now. We have a dinner date in two hours and I know my Miss Ruby will want that entire time to bathe and put on her prettiest dress and do her hair and make up like she hasn't been able to do in weeks." says George as he kisses Ruby. "So go and get ready my dear, we can't keep the Queen waiting." Ruby says, "No darling, tell me now. What is your concern? Our association with who?" "With Bast and Aphrodite. History shows that mortals do not fare well when the gods become involved. But, I am tired and I am sure I am over thinking things and am over worried from the constant suspicions I have had over the past few weeks. I am sure it is nothing. Come let us get ready." replies George. Ruby says, "Hmmmm, perhaps we should talk about it at some point. I mean, I have only ever considered good things coming from Aphrodite. But yes, let's get ready for dinner. We need to have some fun after everything that's happened." Ruby spends the next two hours enjoying a nice, hot bubble bath then getting ready for dinner. She wears her nicest plum color dress and spends significant time wrestling her curls into submission. George smiles as Ruby approaches. "See, this is what I was saying. Aphrodite doesn't like mortals to show her up, and you my dear come closest of any mortal." says George kissing Ruby. "It will be nice to actually enjoy a meal for a change instead of wolfing it down while looking over your shoulder." [I][DM's Note: At this point the party split up, with Orchid Blossom (Abigail's player) finding more free time to post, so the next five chapters will follow her and Callum in France. This also gave me an opportunity to greatly expand upon Callum Stuart's backstory, as he will be my own Playing Character in the next chapter of the AGELESS campaign, where Fenris (George Eastmasn's player) will be the Dungeon Master. Starting with Chapter 120, as we move to the next character day for both locations, we will then alternate the settings with odd-number chapters taking place in Zakazik and the even-numbered chapters taking place in France.][/I] [/QUOTE]
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AGELESS Campaign Episode 2 - Temple of the Cat-Goddess
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