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Sighing as he continued to stare out of the open window, it wasn't too long before Harry heard a number of footsteps outside his door. Putting out his cigarette, he went toward the door in order to greet whoever was awake, but sighed as he passed the tobacco sitting on the bedside table yet again. The first cigarette had not quite done its job in relieving his stress, and he found himself rolling another, taking a few moments to do so as he slid it comfortably between his lips and lit it, ensuring he was comfortably dressed as he smoked it before moving out into the hallway. By then most of the others had moved off to breakfast, however Harry gave a curt nod to the guard who directed him along.

Moving down to the officers area, he glanced around idly at who was there, letting his gaze rest upon Aziza as he spotted her. Giving her a distant smile, he continued to puff gently on his cigarette as he moved to retrieve some breakfast, taking some tea along with the heartiest plate of food he could gather, at that moment he needed some proper food. Finishing off his cigarette, he stuffed it out in an ash-tray as he passed it, moving over toward Aziza and Haakon whom he could see speaking to her. "Good morning." He gave everyone a simple greeting, nodding his head curtly toward them all as he moved to take a seat at Aziza's side.

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It wasn't long into William's unexpectedly early morning research that he found he was going in circles. Letting out an irritated sigh, he looked to the time and figured that Vera would ideally be at the Museum by now. Taking a few moments to dress himself and gather his notes and daily goods, he set out, without breakfast, into the street. Oblivious to most of the goings-on of the night before, William paid little attention to the news of the escaped convict, only really taking in enough to get the general gist, rather than any possible mention of the group who had been quite closely involved.

Eventually coming to the Museum, he sighed as he moved up toward the doors. He knew it was not technically open to the public, not yet anyway, but he'd come and gone at odd hours since he arrived, and figured his work carried at least enough sway among those there to be considered more than just 'the public' - if the curator wouldn't let him in alone, he was sure he could send for Vera anyway. And so he knocked firmly upon the doors, waiting for the clerk or whomever might've been there within earshot to come and ideally let him inside.

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Barracks: "Morning," Aziza said as she looked up from her cup of tea. Resting it down on its saucer she shook her head. "I slept soundly enough but I had the strangest dream," she admitted before taking another sip of her tea. Looking at Laurens plate she felt her stomach tighten. She was indeed hungry but wasn't sure what was what on the buffet. Smiling as Josephine sat down she nodded. "I will, I am just afraid I do not know what much of the food is. I wish to try something new but not sure where to start."

She was about to ask one of the ladies if they would be kind enough to help her figure out what to eat when Haakon joined them. Cocking a brow she listened to him speak. "How can one make a promise not to do something again when he does not know what he did? Seems like an empty promise that cannot be seen through," she stated quickly, about to rise and leave the table. She didn't like being lied to in any manner, especially not such a bold faced one when the day had just begun. Promising not to repeat something when they obviously had no idea what it was the had done? One couldn't make that sort of promise. It was a flat out lie in her eyes.

Aziza stilled though as she spotted Harry walk in and give her a smile. She returned it and found herself blushing slightly as he came and seated himself next to her. "Good morning," she said sweetly, her mood lightening somewhat now that he had arrived. Taking a breath she leaned in and whispered against his ear. "Could you help me figure out what to eat? I'm afraid I don't know your countries cuisine." Leaning back she grinned shyly as she motioned towards the food at the buffet.

Peter nodded to his uncle. "Of course, I wouldn't have it any other way. Rules and regulations are what give us an ordered society. Though if it would make things easier, please just place me on temporary assignment here under your order," she said as he placed his hand on top of his cane and rose from his place. Stepping over to the door he grinned towards his uncle. "It is good to be around those I care about once again," he said giving his uncle a pat on the shoulder before heading to the door.

"Let's! I am famished and could really do with some bobbles and squeak," he laughed before opening the door and heading out. Seemed he should have waited another moment or two for just as he was rounding the corner he was nearly plowed down by one Lady Munn, her nose buried in a book. Not her usual book, one of military regulations since it was the only thing in her room to read. She gasped as Peter's arm slipped around her waist to steady her. His cane hitting the ground as he caught the book she fumbled in mid air.

Vera looked up to him startled at first and nearly apologizing to whomever it was she ran into only to freeze as her eyes caught Peters. "Lovely morning isn't is Vera?" he said, not even mentioning her little head on collision with him as he kept her close. He had always been like that, never making a big deal of her clumsiness. Vera swallowed slightly.

"Um yes, very," she replied as she started to straighten herself.

"Uncle, do be a gent and go on without us. There are a few things I wish to discuss with Lady Munn before the day gets any older."

Garden City: Neema came in and sat the tray down, smiling as she handed over the letter to Nora. Nodding she sat down and started pouring each of them a cup of tea. "Of course, why I brought enough for both of us. Your company is far more welcome than any of the staff," she chuckled as the steaming tea poured from the pot and filled each cup. "Sugar or milk dear? or both?" she asked as she sat there.

"And then tell me how your evening went? I would like to take a look at your finger again and make sure infection has not set in. Please, tell me all about your dreams. Whether they mean anything or not I cannot say as of yet but I am interested to hear them nonetheless. Life here is so dull, what I wouldn't give to be an assistant again," she said as she looked up towards Nora. "Before I settled down I used to go on dig after dig, seeing so much of country. Now I only get to see a kitchen and a few rooms. Very dull! Liven up my day with tales of your dreams."

Egyptian Museum: The doors of the museum stayed closed for a bit before the doorman came over and let William into the building as he had many mornings. "Good morning Mr. Drake, I'm afraid Lady Munn isn't in yet," he said. That was surprising. Vera was always in before anyone else, many nights staying into the wee hours of the morning only to be found asleep either on the couch in her office or slouched over a stack of papers at her desk. At her latest she was in before the sun rose. To have it be already so late in the morning and her not to be in yet seemed to have worry on the doormans face.

"The curator has sent someone to the hotel to see if she was home but she had not even returned last night. I hope she is alright, after the murder last night at her hotel I wonder..." he said quietly as he shut the door once William had entered. "The papers did not say if it was a man or woman that was killed. All I know is that the British military showed up. Do you think it could be because it was Lady Munn?"

"Stop the wondering, it does nothing but cause worry," the curator said as he walked up to the two men quickly. "I am sure Lady Munn is fine. Anyone that would try to harm her would probably end up damaged themselves. Her two left feet tend to hurt anyone that comes within five feet of her," he said but it was clear he wasn't as convinced of his own words as he was trying to portray. "Mr. Drake, could you head over to the Base and speak with her uncle? Lord Major Keystone? I am sure he could find out for us. All my messengers are out and it will be hours until they return."

Shepheard's Hotel: The taxi made its way from the train station through the streets of Cairo. The morning was busy as usual and it took a little bit of time but eventually it pulled up to the front of the hotel. While the hotel was built back in 1841, it was still a master piece. One of the most called on hotels in Cairo, known for its grandeur, guests, and a secondary base for the military. Three stories tall, it was opulent with stained glass windows, Persian carpets, gardens, terraces, and large granite pillars that resembled those in Ancient Egyptian Temples. Its bar was an American one but it was frequented not only by the Yanks but by British and French officers. Dances are held nightly and guests are dressed in their finest. Tourists shops face the hotel from across the street and store rooms available for military to stow their excess luggage. The food there is described as being as wonderful as anything Paris, Berlin, or Rome could ever offer.

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“Thank you.” Mosi said to the driver, handing over the money for the ride as she hopped out of the taxi, quickly moving to grab her huge suitcase. With a heavy motion she pulled it from the vehicle, barely stopping it from hitting the ground a few inches off it. She smiled, fixing her body stance as she moved towards the entrance of the hotel. Her pace was quite fast for someone who's carrying that huge luggage with her. The streets were decently busy and she noticed the hotel's appearance. Damn if it wasn't a beautiful sight! It was better than most building in America she had seen. Well she might be biased since she didn't really find the industrial design of many of those buildings attractive at all, but hey it was her opinion and she was going to stick to it until the sky cracked or something!

Making her way into the grand building, she headed towards the reception, smiling as she went, making note of the people who were about. There was quite the variety after all! It was as she had heard on her way here that this place was very well received by visitors. It made was no wonder, considering how well things looked so far. Priscilla moved and finally stopped by the reception.

“Excuse me, do you speak English? I wish to ask if there are any rooms available?” She said with a smile, showing a charming smile of hers, reaching with one hand and taking off her hat, shacking her head ever so softly to let her hair fall free.

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Nora accepted the letter from Neema, smiling slightly at Neema's compliment. She was quickly becoming one of Nora's favorite persons in Cairo, and perhaps, in the world itself. There was a warmth to her that she had never experienced with her own parents nor her siblings (aside from Ethan, of course). She was not one to trust so easily, and it perhaps surprised her how willing she was to divulge to Neema--and indeed, to Lady Munn as well--her private affairs.

"Both would be lovely, thank you," Nora replied, her eyes glancing over the letter from Lady Munn. It appeared that the librarian and expert on Egyptology wished for her to meet her at the museum in three hours time. Lady Munn's admonishment of hocus-pocus brought another amused smile to Nora's face, and she set the letter down, glancing up at Neema.

"Of course, thank you," Nora answered, allowing Neema to examine her finger. To be truthful, she figured that with her luck, infection would indeed set in. She had never had much luck when it came to health as a child--though she did suppose that perhaps she was lucky for having survived her childhood malady, one that claimed the lives of many. She was not certain either as to whether or not she had been lucky or unlucky to have been branded as well. In her opinion, there was a formidable case to be made for either side.

As Neema explained that she had been an assistant before settling down, Nora warmed up to the woman even more. They had the same line of employment. However, her eyes flickered back towards the letter from Lady Munn. Perhaps she should inquire as to whether or not Neema could accompany her to the museum. The woman had experience with these sort of things, experience that lended itself towards answers and explanations. Of course, she could not help but wonder if Lady Munn could be persuaded as well to believe Neema's tales. She would not be surprised if Lady Munn ended up being dismissive of her new friend's insights.

But of course, she could finish pondering that in a moment. "You must have had so many grand adventures," Nora said finally. "I should quite like to hear them, if I may...But I suppose I should explain the dreams first." She explained her dream from the previous night in detail to Neema, though she did not mention Haakon and Josephine by name, instead referring to them as the journalist and the American. Once she finished her recount of that dream, she then explained the other one, the one that had haunted her dreams for more than one single night, with the voice speaking in a tongue she did not understand, and the Udjtat burning on her finger.

"I must confess, I do imagine there is some meaning to those dreams," Nora said, as she finished describing them to Neema.

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Lauren started to make herself comfortable in her seat and leaned back slightly looking over at her plate of food she just randomly grabbed, turning her attention over towards Aziza once more as she mentioned a strange dream. "Pretty much the same here, I had a really weird dream as well last night." Lauren said softly as she started to dig into her food already, pretty hungry herself that's when she heard Josephine's voice as the starlet simply joined her and Aziza's table. Lauren looked over at Aziza for a moment, Jo and her seemed to developed a friendship over the night during the whole hotel fiasco. She ran a hand through her hair as she continued to eat her food then she heard Haakon's voice Lauren gave him a soft smile and then his apology towards Aziza. Lauren remained fairly quiet as she looked between the two of them as Aziza gave the journalist a little bit of attitude.

"I hope you two slept fairly well." Lauren said giving both Josephine and Haakon a friendly smile as she took a drink of water then she watched Harry joining them as well. Lauren could see Aziza's face looking at her friend's face softening once more at the sight of him, she gave Harry a friendly smile and wave towards him. "Good morning to you as well." Lauren greeted as she continued to simply enjoy her breakfast her eyes wondering over towards the Nile River before them, the scene looked fairly peaceful to her enjoying the cool air around them.

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Soon, others were joining them. Josephine made a particular note that the soldier man still seemed to be content to be at Aziza's side. Even though they seemed to deny any romantic entanglement, she knew firsthand what this type of thing led to. She merely smiled and continued eating her breakfast. At Haakon's entrance, he made a point to apologize for...whatever it is he did. Aziza didn't seem to take it. The poor man wasn't having the best luck with these people, it seemed.

"I'm sure Haakon was only trying to make sure that yesterday doesn't happen again. He's got a good head on his shoulders, darling. He wouldn't intentionally upset you." Though Josephine knew, somewhat, why Aziza was upset, she felt it best not to betray the woman's trust by disclosing it with Haakon. If Aziza wanted, she would tell him.

She looked over at the blonde woman sitting there as well. She hadn't interacted with her much, though she had seen her before. It seemed she was roped into this adventure too. "Truth be told, I had a particularly nasty night's sleep, but that seems to be a common occurrence here in Egypt." She left Aziza and the soldier to deal with the food situation. She wanted to eat before they started this deal.

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Haakon simply sat there for a moment, a puzzled look drawn over his face as Aziza turned her attention to Mr. Walsh who sat down beside her. What had just happened? He had expected her to accept the apology, or at the very least to acknowledge that he tried to give her an apology in a less pleasent manner, but this? Not only had she refused the apology, she had told him that that was something that couldn't be done. She effectively called him a liar, at least that's how he felt like.

The sudden change of Aziza's heart didn't do much to eliviate the fleeting river of emotions and thoughts. At the very sight of Mr. Walsh, she suddenly got friendly; towards him. Haakon continued to sit down at the table, his puzzled look moving from Aziza over towards whatever was in front of him. Josephine's words were of little comfort, regardless of who it was actually meant for.

Haakon was no longer simply confused. He was offended.

"No, apparently I'm an evil, evil man who wishes nothing but the very worst to those around him. Even when I'm sorry. Excuse me, I need some air." Haakon said flatly to Jo. He stood up and walked away from the table, eating the lone slice of bread with cheese on it as he headed for somewhere else; somewhere else with a window, a door to the courtyard or anything of that nature.

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It was a touch unusual for the Lord Major to rise and exit his rooms later than most on his base. Not unprecedented, mind you, just uncommon. It could have been the heavy drinking from the night before, or the lateness of hour when he finally succumbed to sleep, or even the mystifying dreams of war and heart removal. Despite all of these things, Reginald joined the others with absolutely elevated spirits. Before he moved to the common area to partake of a proper breakfast, he took the moment to address his nephew, Peter.

"Yes, yes. Capital idea, quite!" pipped the Lord Major, "I shall send a line to the War Office to that conclusion later this morning. We shall have to find suitable assignment for you that provides requisite flexibility of duties to keep you of use in our little adventure. In the meantime, it's a Full English for me, don't you know? Ha ha!" Remarkably good spirits, evidently. He noticed the following interaction between Peter and Vera and took his nephew's advice, but not before tipping his cap and wishing the Lady Munn an agreeable morning.

He maintained his cheerful disposition as he entered the common area where breakfast was being served. Visions of grilled bacon and sausages, poached and scrambled eggs, scones, pudding, and strong tea danced in his thoughts while he entered the room, apparently just in time to almost run into a fast retreating Haakon J. Elvsgaard. Behind his Scandinavian guest, there quickly followed a dutiful armed sentry, the same one assigned to his door through the night.

Still smiling, Reginald held up a single finger to halt the sentry's movement, intoning a quick, "Stand fast there, Private." with the sharp tone of authority, his face hardening momentarily. He bloomed back into the sharp, jovial man from a moment ago, addressing the exiting reporter. "Aha! Mr. Elvsgaard, I trust you are having a pleasant morning?" He continued without waiting for response, "A trifle of a matter has come to my attention over the course of the evening, my good sir, one for which I would be ever so grateful to solicit your assistance. Let us say, shortly following the breakfast hour? Excellent! The Private behind you will ensure you do not forget our little appointment." Reginald looked to the soldier, "Private?"

The soldier snapped to attention and threw a quick salute. Reginald returned the gesture, and re-addressed Haakon, "Do try the tea, sir. It is remarkable."

The Lord Major found a seat near Aziza, Josephine, and Harry, collecting a good sized plate of Full English Breakfast, in all of it's Anglican glory. He leaned forward, into the table a bit, as if he were about to tell some open secret, "I say, you should all procure a stout mug of the Builder's. It is, gentle folk, just the world on this morrow. Reginald smiled and bit into a scone, carefully dabbing the corner of his mouth with a pleated serviette.

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Picking up his knife and fork, Harry turned his head as he heard Aziza speak and saw her lean closer. Shifting his head closer, he smiled and was unable to stifle a soft chuckle at her question. Glancing back over toward the buffet as he smiled and nodded. Turning back, he glanced over to Haakon and Josephine, realizing that his entry had also perhaps interrupted something. Of course, that only became more clear as Josephine and Haakon spoke up themselves. He raised an eyebrow as he listened to the two, and as Haakon spoke and moved to stand the old soldier had to stop himself from snapping back, not wanting to add any more venom to the table or perhaps make Aziza any more uncomfortable.

Clearing his throat, he pushed what had been said to the back of his mind and turned his gaze back over to Aziza, setting a hand atop hers. "Of course, come, I'll show you what's there so you can find something you'll like." In truth, he merely figured it would be best to slip Aziza away from the table long enough to let different conversation spread, so as to stop more awkwardness permeating. As he stood, he saw the Major approach, stiffening up somewhat as his legs moved together. He had to stop himself short before he saluted, his muscles following through with the ritual as if he were still in the military. Instead, he offered an awkward smile and merely hoped his slight oddity had been unnoticed. "Good morning, Lord-Major." Harry greeted him politely as he kept his gentle hold upon Aziza's hand, ready to guide her back over to the buffet if she wished.

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Pacing idly, William waited the few minutes for the doorman to come and let him into the museum, giving the man a gentle nod as he moved inside and cleared his throat. He moved to immediately head off and down the hall toward Vera's office when he heard the man's voice, she was not in. He paused, turning his gaze back toward the man with a look that suggested he'd claimed the sky was falling. He had been in Cairo long enough and indeed known Vera long enough to know very well that this was certainly unlike her. He had perhaps wondered if she ever actually left the museum, to hear that she was not in and the startling late time of nine o'clock in the morning? It created an odd, twisting feeling in his stomach. Worry, intense worry. And he did not know why.

The doorman's continued comments did not help the feeling, especially as he suggested that perhaps one of the people killed the evening before could have been Vera, he was about to open his mouth to speak when he heard the familiar voice of the curator as well. Turning to face the man, he raised an eyebrow as he approached, listening to him as he spoke. He appreciated at the very least the Curator's effort to dispel the possibility of Vera being injured, or worse, but he still found that odd pit in his stomach remained, he figured it would until he had confirmation of her well-being. He nodded at the man's suggestion, checking in with Keystone would be a good idea, he had only encountered the man properly the night before, but he seemed a decent fellow, and if anyone, he would know where Vera was. "Of course, I'll head there now." He gave a nod toward the curator again and shifted back past the doorman, hurrying out of the museum and onto the street.

He walked at a brisk pace, hurrying through the streets toward the barracks, as quickly as he could without seeming too concerned or suspicious. When he reached the base however, he was slightly out of breath, not bothering to take a moment as he approached the guard post by the entry, clearing his throat. "Good morning, I'm looking for the uh..." He paused for a moment, attempting to recall the man's rank. "Major, that's the one. Major Keystone?"

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Barracks: Aziza glanced over towards Josephine and smiled a bit, giving her a small nod. "I hope you are right," she said, still not sure about Haakon but Josephine seemed kind enough and had been a shoulder for her in the hotel the night before. She was more likely to trust her in time. At Haakon's words though she perked a brow and her lips thinned. "If that is how you take rejection of an... oh how do the British say... Pie Crust Promise, then perhaps you are," she said coldly and firmly. Her voice raising somewhat to ensure he heard her as he stormed off like a child who had just been told he couldn't go out in play in the rain.

Shaking her head she felt a hand on hers. Looking over towards Harry her demeanor softened a bit and she let out long breath. Thank you," she said gratefully. Not only for the offer to help her find something to eat but the chance to get away from the table for a minute or two. Rising from her place as Sgt. Walsh held her hand her eyes fell on the Lord Major who had come to join them. Her eyes darting towards Haakon and his escort for a moment, worry in them before she looked back over towards Reginald and let loose the bottom of her lip which she had been unknowingly biting on. "Good morning, please excuse us. The sergeant here was just about to help me chose my breakfast," she said in voice that was a bit nervous. Swallowing the lump in her throat she looked over towards Josephine and Lauren.

"Ladies, will be just a minute. Excuse me," she added as her fingers laced Harry's, feeling more comfortable with him than anyone else in the room currently, save the Lord Major whom she had known for quite sometime. Looking back over to Harry she smiled. "Lead the way." Her voice a bit softer and kinder than it had been as she waited for him to escort her to the buffet and explain just what bubbles and squeak where.

In the meantime Peter escorted Vera down to the main garden within the base over looking the Nile. Vera knew what this was about, she was sure of it and she could feel the butterflies in her stomach fluttering away. Why was she so nervous about this? She had all but agreed to it years ago. Sure time had passed but she hadn't grown close to anyone since then had she? A thought of William went through her mind. He was very handsome, and charming if you liked that sort of rakish attitude. Yet thinking about the night before she found herself sighing. He was the type that would never see someone like her as anything more than a passing conquest.

No, she had to stop being nervous about this. Peter was kind, handsome even with the scar on his face. He let her be who she was without question, supported her, always had. He was titled, proper, a fitting match. The ton would be all up about an engagement between the two but it was a right match and it would cause no scandal. Yes, of course Peter was the right choice. There wasn't even a choice. It wasn't like Mr. Drake cared about her, he just enjoyed tormenting her. Like a school boy pulling on her pig tails. Then why oh why couldn't she stop thinking about the way it felt for him to have his arm around her? Warm, inviting, exciting even. While as Peter lead her to the courtyard she felt nothing but a fond affection. "Stop it Vera, this is right and will make both Peter and Uncle Regi most happy." she thought to herself.

Peter lead her over towards one of the trees and brought them both into the shade. "Vera, I have something I have been meaning to ask you," he said softly as he took her hand and caressed it softly. Holding it with his own as his fingers trailed over it. Vera suddenly felt very sick....

At the gate the guard cocked a brow and nodded. "Lord Major Keystone, yes he is in. If you would, present your identification, remove any arms to be stowed, and state your reason for the visit," the guard said before his attention got diverted as another man came up and pushed his way to the front. "See here sir, we do not tolerate that sort of misconduct here," the guard said, clearly vexed with the situation.

"Sorry, sorry," the man said breathlessly. "I was sent by the warden, most urgent. I need to speak with the Lord Major," he said holding out a notice. The guard took it and his eyes skimmed it over before nodding and tucking it into his front pocket. "Right, of course. Arms here, you come with me as well. Might as well kill two birds with one stone," the guard said towards William. "Men, lock down for now. No one else enters or leaves without the Lord Majors expressed permission," he ordered the rest at the gate. After a moment of waiting to ensure neither of the men were armed, he escorted them with an additional soldier through the grounds of the barracks.

As they came into the courtyard and the officers main hall was in sight so was Vera and Peter. Vera looked rather nervous, glancing around as if she was trying to make a decision on something. "Vera darling, do you accept my proposal?" Peter asked as he stepped towards her and leaned in, pulling her closer as his arm slipped around her waist. Biting her bottom lip Vera tried to muster up the courage to answer, that was until her eyes fell on William. She froze, and Peter cocked a brow. Turning his head slightly to see what had caused Vera's sudden statue like demeanor.

Garden City: Neema relaxed herself in a seat and took her time preparing the tea for the both of them. Once that was done, she turned her attention for Nora's finger. Removing the small bandage and checking it over. The branding seemed to be healed this morning. While a scar still remained, the fire in it was gone. The bandage where it had touched the brand left a mark in the shape of the brand, as if it had been burned into it with acid of some sort. "Ah yes, much better. Much better indeed. Keep it open for now, let it breath. Tonight and each night for the next week, apply what I have given you and wrap it while you sleep," she instructed Nora before settling back in her chair and handing over a cup of tea to her host.

"It seems you are about to embark on your very own. But yes, I will when we have a moment but please, continue. Tell me of your dreams." Neema seemed excited about the possibility of telling her own tales, something her son never wished to hear and others dismissed. Yet she was there to help if she could and she was indeed interested in these dreams that Nora spoke of. As she listened she sipped on her tea and kept her eyes trained on Nora. Like a student fully enchanted with the teachers lecture for the day.

"Oh my, that is quite the dream," she exclaimed as Nora finished and leaned forward. "Tell me, are these two you speak of. What do you know about them? The Journalist, is this one very determined? What about the American? Endearing and proud? You, I know you. Open-minded, practical, logical. Yes, my dear. I know what corner of the pyramid you are. You are the Nile itself. Let me guess, you were born either in January, June, September, or November. Considering you hold so many of the traits, I would say you belong to the first cycle. Yes, you were born in January. Between the 1st and the 7th."

Shepheard's Hotel: The desk clerk looked up from the paper work he was dealing with and put on a smile for the lady standing before him. As he spoke his accent was heavy but it was manageable. "Why yes Miss. I do indeed. Welcome to the Shepheard's Hotel." His voice was kind and rather excitable. He looked her over but only for a moment, he had seen women dressed as she before. In fact it was starting to become the rage for some of them it seemed. Slacks were welcome when dealing with the sands of Egypt. Though most did not think it was right for women to wear them, he did not care. As long as people payed and behaved themselves in his hotel. "I am the day manager. Please, call me Hakeem."

Looking back down, he pulled out the registrar and flipped the pages over slowly. "Let me see, we have been rather busy as of late." His finger went over the pages, one by one. "Ahh yes, we do have a room. The former patrons just checked out this morning. It is in the middle of cleaning and restocking." Looking up he smiled towards her and handed her a registration card to fill out. "Yes, if you could just fill this out for me, name, age, the like. How long you intend to stay, and so forth. It will not be until this afternoon that the room is ready but we can stow your belongings until then and have them delivered to the room once it is ready if you would like."

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Priscilla smiled when the man introduced himself with quite the manners. His accent was pretty obvious, but she understood it non the less. It was a thing you got used to after a while, she had met a lot of people back in the states and had heard a lot of different accents. She just politely smiled and nodded.” Pleasure to meet you, Hakeem. My name's Priscilla Harker, but please call me Mosi.” She greeted in return and introduced herself as she waited for the man to check for free room she could get.

She smiled with pleased and happy expression when she was informed there was in fact a room she could use. She nodded as she was given the form to fill out.” Thank you.” She said and took a look at the paper.” Let's see...” She mumbled and started filling it out. The name, the age, the duration of the stay.” Let's say a week for now. Will there be an option to extend the duration later?” She asked, greatly interested in the answer. Staying in the hotel was all fine, but she planned to get another place eventually. When that could happen was anybody's guess at this point so she had to use hotels.

“Ahhh, that would be most welcome service. I plan to explore the city until the room's ready then.” She said with a smile, doing the finishing up with the paperwork. She still had to be given the costs for the room and pay it before she can leave though.

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While Nora had been uncertain before as to whether or not to ask Neema to accompany her to see Lady Munn, her uncertainty vanished. Neema knew things that she could not have possibly known, without extensive studying of individuals and situations she had not known before. She had quickly made a believer of Nora, as the evidence gave credibility and truth to Neema's words--even if her words spoke of magic and gods.

"Yes, the journalist is quite determined...He has a proclivity for bringing offense, but I believe that is from his desire to get the scoop of the century, so to speak. From what I have noticed, he does not understand the implications of his own actions," Nora said, reflecting on Haakon's behavior with Peter Keystone. She then switched her mind to thinking of Josephine, the bold social butterfly. She had managed to charm Mr. Drake and did seem to possess more than her fair share of pride. "The American, yes, she is endearing and prideful. Her method of employment, I believe, is as an actress...She has a way with men--and if memory serves, I believe she was mistaken for a prostitute."

There was not much more that Nora knew about Haakon and Josephine. They had been whisked away by the Lord Major, along with her friend Lauren, to a place with more privacy, as to allow the more academically inclined minds a chance to work. But she was more fixated with Neema's correct guess of the date of her birth. She had indeed been born between the first and seventh of January. She was the Nile? She could hardly comprehend that, with her feeling that her greatest connection to the river was that she did enjoy to swim.

"Yes, yes...I was born on the fifth of January," Nora said, biting her lip slightly. "Neema, what does this pyramid mean? What does it mean that I am the Nile? Is that...is that perchance a good thing?"

She could only but hope that it was. Seeing the way the pattern of her brand had been burned into the bandage had been alarming, almost nearly as alarming as the events from before. She felt as if she were drowning at this very moment, struggling to comprehend the events that had been set in motion.

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Lauren's eyes wondered over between Haakon and Aziza, her friend seemed to have a very string distaste for Haakon however it wasn't really her position to butt in and find out what was wrong with them. Lauren continued to eat away at her breakfast for awhile longer as Haakon turned and stormed out of the room. Lauren slowly ran a hand through her hair as she leaned back in her seat taking a sip of her water, then she could hear Lord Major Keystone's face. She turned to look over at him and gave the man a friendly smile, Lauren did enjoy her time getting to know the Keystones more as well as Vera.

Lauren looked between Harry and Aziza seeing the two of them, they did seem to really like one another but they seemed to not want to admit it. When they got up to leave to get their own breakfast Lauren looked back towards Josephine, remembering meeting the woman briefly from last night but didn't really get the chance to know her just yet. She mentioned dreams as well, Lauren finished drinking her water setting the empty glass. "It was a weird dream, but I guess I should get used to it." Lauren said with a slight shrug.

Lauren's attention then went back towards Lord Major Keystone as he approached their table suggesting the Builder's Tea. "Good morning Lord Major." Lauren said giving the officer a friendly smile as she decided to try the tea as well, and made her way over towards the buffet and poured herself a glass and came back. "Did you sleep well?" Lauren asked him as she went back to taking her seat at the table motioning for him to join them.

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Josephine watched as Haakon threw a little hissy fit and walked off. She couldn't help but feel for the poor man. He was trying desperately to make amends. She turned to give Aziza a good talking to. It was quite rude to not at least entertain the apology. Being mad was one thing, being vindictive was another. However, before she could, Aziza's attention turned to the soldier. And rightly so. She let them leave, giving them a winning smile. She would talk to Haakon later.

She was left with the other woman, who she met briefly before. She couldn't remember her name though. Did it matter? She didn't leave much of an impression on her, but perhaps now would be a good time? "Yes, the dreams are becoming a problem. I need my sleep." Once again, the conversation was interrupted as the old man came back. He was in a jollier mood this time around. Had Christmas come early? She sipped her drink, "This is simply delicious. Thank you for taking us in. I know it wasn't what you wanted, but I do appreciate it, none the less." She figured she better make a good impression since Haakon seemed determined to dig his hole deeper and deeper. She would help him when able. She knew he was a good man.

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It was a true miracle that Haakon didn't storm right into the proud chest of the Lord-Mayor, with his attention focused on finding a suitable exit and all; another miracle was the lack of outbursts of anger and annoyance that would surely have spewed out of his mouth, hadn't it been for the suddeness of it all. Nothing else but short, stocky beginnings of sentences made their way from his tounge, only to be cut off swiftly and joyfully by the Lord-Major.

Before he realised it, he had been agreed for to meet the Lord-Mayor after breakfast. It took the time between him being recommended the tea and Haakon witnessing the Lord-Mayor sitting down amongst his previous company, that the full magnitude of the situation began to sink in. Trifle of a matter? The nature of the Old Guard had been most pleasent, though Haakon thought the matter was anything but pleasent itself. The fact that the Lord-Mayor had spoken to him about a matter, led him to believe that it involved his writings; why else speak to him personally and, to be frank, give Haakon an appointment he couldn't refuse? The fact that he had an armed soldier following him was little comfort to the Norwegian journalist.

Haakon walked in silence towards the breakfast-counters once again, no longer seeking the comfort of the outside. The armed soldier behind him made sure of that, for he would surely be reminded that they'd prefer him inside those four walls. He took the pot of tea, filled a cup with its content, and silently took a sip of it. He'd be damned, but the Lord-Major had been right. It was good.

"...Hvile kan man gjøre i graven..." A muttered to himself, before walking back to the table with his previous company. With Miss Tarek gone, Haakon felt more comfortable in their presence, even if he was wondering what he was going to do with the Lord-Mayor afterwards. He sat down just as he heard Josephine thank Keystone for his hospitality, even if it was a reluctant one. "I'd like to second that motion of gratitude, Lord-Mayor, even if these walls cannot hinder nightmares of Biblical propotions. It would seem that yesterday's events were more tiring than expected."

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Hearing Aziza's initial response to Haakon and Josephine, Harry frowned, giving her a nod as she thanked him before comfortably leading her away from the table in time. He gave her hand a gentle squeeze as he usually did once he felt her fingers lace with his own, moving over toward the buffet as he glanced over to her. "I'll happily escort you home, or anywhere else, if you decide you've had enough at any point." He assured her quietly. It was strange for Harry, over the past day or so he had experienced quite the shift in personality. His book, the very reason he'd come to Cairo in the first place, was no longer a concern in his mind, his own safety was little one at this point. Instead, Harry had begun to feel as though his greatest purpose was essentially to be a guardian to Aziza, there was just something about the way he felt around her, she could drown out all the nightmares and thoughts that he still had, that he normally would have had in a place such as where they were.

Reaching the buffet with her, he smiled softly as he shook the thought from his mind, not realising he'd been gripping her hand a little tightly as it ran through his mind. "Now, let's see what we have here..." He took some time explaining all of the available dishes, smiling as he did so. In a way it was nostalgic, seeing the kind of food available that he as an enlisted man only dreamed of having during the war. There had been a few times where he and a few of the other non-commissioned officers had snuck into the officer's kitchen to steal leftovers before they left for Africa, it felt strange to actually be able to properly enjoy it all. Strange, but good.

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As William waited by the gate he couldn't help but feel an odd pit in his stomach. His mind was on a loop, reminding him to ensure that Vera was okay. It was surreal, never before had he experienced such a sensation, and he couldn't understand why. Vera was lovely, attractive and intelligent, her clumsiness had a sort of adorable charm and the ways she acted when she became frustrated with him were almost endearing. However, it was not the first time he'd had a physical attraction to a woman before, that was essentially true of almost any woman William ever laid eyes on. No, there was something more about Vera, something he couldn't put his finger on, it just didn't make sense to him.

Turning his gaze over to the other man who approached, William raised an eyebrow as he said he was sent by the warden. Suddenly the pit in William's gut got deeper, what if he was here to inform the Lord-Major that something terrible had happened to Vera, that she had been one of those murdered the night before, or that something else even more tragic and awful had befallen her. His face went white as a sheet as he turned to the guard, quickly hurrying after him as he let his eyes dart around the barracks, looking for any sign of the Lord-Major. As they reached the courtyard however, that feeling in his gut disappeared, setting his eyes upon Vera.

He smiled, genuinely and with relief as he saw her, about to run off away from the guard and over to ensure she was indeed okay, then he realized who she was with. Seeing as Peter slipped his arm around her, that horrid, wretched feeling in his gut returned, twisted far more now than it had been before as his smile faded quickly and turned into almost a scowl, William had never experinced jealousy before. Quickly, before Peter could look over and see his distaste, he turned and continued following the guard, paying her no mind, well, trying not to.

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The Lord Major was settling into his substantial breakfast, utilizing the proper application of gentlemanly etiquette in the presence of mixed company. That is to say, not only mixed in the usual meaning of gender, but military and non-military people as well. He politely answered the various morning salutations from Harry, Lauren, and Aziza before pouring fitfully engaging himself with his tea. He was a man who did enjoy a good cup of Builder's in the morning. "Yes, quite. And a pleasant morning to you all. Do help yourselves to our standard English, and without reservation, if you would. Today promises to start a grand adventure, of at least the preparations for one. Good start for a good day, and whatnot."

Not that he was ignoring the Starlet nor the Reporter, though he did make it a point to address them separately. Still of bubbly, optimistic demeanor, he picked up conversation with them. "Welcome, quite. It is my hope that our difficulties over the previous eve were the result of a series of profound misunderstandings. It is my further hope that we can lay some of these to rest," he looked directly to Haakon, "...hopefully before this morning has concluded, in a very final manner."

It did not escape his attention that most of the people around the breakfast table had made passing talk of a restless night or odd dreams. He had his own fill of nocturnal oddities recently, and he was not alone in this, a similar phenomenon discussed just yesterday. The lack of open discussion about it vexed him. "Well then, let's be open about it, shall we? Come now, show of hands, who else witnessed a great skirmish between inhuman blackguards overseen by a jackal-headed chap before having their hearts fitfully removed and levitated before them, hmmm? There's detail I've not shared, but let's call it a preliminary, shall we?" He paused, popping a forkful of quiche and sausages into his mouth.

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Barracks: Aziza smiled over towards Harry gratefully. He was being so kind to her and understanding. The fact he was willing to stay by her side through anything that seemed to come towards them put her at ease. An ease she had never remembered feeling during her life. Sure she had felt safe when she was around the Lord Major, well after they got to know each other. He was good friend. But there was another level of comfort she felt when she was near Sgt. Walsh and she had to wonder if this was how she was supposed to feel. How people felt when they were not in constant terror. Either way, it was a feeling that she did not want to go away.

As he explained the foods from his country she nodded and picket a few small things here and there. A couple ones that she grew up on and that were local. Dates were a must in the morning and she poured a cup of the so called Builders Tea the Lord Major had spoken off. He seemed to truly enjoy it, she wanted to see what all the fuss was about. A few more items from England and she was satisfied with her plate. It was not much in comparison to others in the group, very little actually but to her it looked like a feast. Biting her bottom lip and before she made any move to go back to the table she looked up at Harry a tad nervously. "I had dream last night. I was in Sahara, there was a cat. And others," she said quietly to keep others from hearing her. Leaning in some she whispered against his ear. "And you."

Out beneath the tree Vera stood there staring at William. Peter turned to see him as well and cocked a brow, wondering what he was doing there. When Vera saw the smile come to Williams face she couldn't help but return it yet her smile fell as quickly as his when it did. What had she expected? Him to come speak to her? To have some moment where he interrupted what her and Peter were discussing, some how letting her know she was more than just a conquest. Of course not, that was ridiculous. William was not that sort of man.

"Wonder why he is here," Peter said before shrugging as the group continued passed them and headed towards the Officers area where his uncle was having breakfast. Shaking his head he turned his attention back to Vera and smiled at her. "Darling?" he asked, trying to get things back on track. Vera stood there for a moment before blinking and looking back over to him. He was a kind man, good breeding, titled. He was everything the ton would approve of and there would be no scandal.

"Yes..." she said. Peter's eyes lit up and he embraced her, holding her tight but Vera could only barely wrap her arms around him. Her eyes following William as he was shown into the building.

"Lord Major," the lead guard said before leaning over and whispering into his ear, letting him know what was going on and handing the slip of paper he had been handed at the gate. "And Mr. Drake is here to speak with you as well sir when you have a moment," he added as he righted himself. At the door Peter lead Vera into the room with a bright smile on his face. Vera looked ill.

Garden City: Neema listened and nodded. It didn't surprise her. Somethings were just known and this was one of those moments for Neema. "Oh yes, very good. Well, maybe not. It depends on how you look at it. You see, when you are born you are born beneath a star in time. A god or goddess. Those born within those times have certain things in common with the higher," she explained. "You are the Nile. Hapi is your goddess. Very good goddess, very good. Calculating, logical, brings life. Some say man, I say her."

Waving her hand she dismissed the gender speak. "You have mark of Bastet. You need to find her, or him. If you have been called then others have been as well. You are Maji, protectors. You must protect the Bastet. If called something evil is happening. The blood, yes the blood. A plague on Egypt. You must stop the plague. You have to find the Bastet," she said before taking a sip of her tea and picking up a biscuit. Taking a bite she looked as if she was discussing the weather or someone's meal, not like she was discussing gods and magic.

Shepheard's Hotel: "Yes of course Miss Mosi," Hakeem said with a smile. "It will be 577 Egyptian Pounds per week," he said before jotting down some numbers. "We also accept British pounds and American dollars. Which is 25 British Sterling or 32 American. Payment required upfront of course. If you should need to check out before then I can refund any unused portion," he said once he finished his calculations. Setting his pen down he smiled up at her. It was a little pricey but it was on the mark for the hotel and the area. It was obvious he wasn't trying to gouge her. "And of course, we can always extend the stay," he added as he checked the registrar.

"Now, if you will just sign here and place your name on these tags I can stow your luggage and have it delivered to your room this afternoon," he said as he handed her a slip of paper with the cost and what amenities the hotel had as well as some paper luggage tags for her to fill out. "Your room should be ready for you to check in fully by 3 P.M. Is there anything else I can help you with?"

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Nora felt puzzled, to say the very least. As far as she was aware, the stars had never been scientifically proven to hold any influence over a person at the time of their birth. In her classes at the college, they had been required to make estimations assuming one variable or the other. And from the math Nora did quietly in her head, it just didn't add up. The doctor assisting with the delivery of the child would exert more influence on the baby than a star would.

But of course, that didn't change that Neema's words matched the facts, while science failed to explain them. She bit her lip slightly as she mulled it over, before coming to an inevitable conclusion. Perhaps magic was simply science that was not yet understood. She could imagine some sort of other force of influence, perhaps a celestial force, one that doctors in the delivery room could not exert but a star could. Yet she could not imagine any scientific explanation for gods and goddesses.

The talk of plague on Egypt peeked Nora's interest as well. She had nearly been killed as a child from illness, tended to by an Irish nursemaid until she was well. It was the reason why she was fluent in Gaelic-- it was the preferred tongue of her nurse and she was so little that it was easy enough for her to pick it up. But with the way Neema spoke of Bastet, with the article in front, Nora couldn't help but feel like Bastet was a person and not a goddess. It was as if Neema had told her she had to find the Countess--as if Bastet was a title.

"How do you find the Bastet?" Nora asked, feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the information Neema had imparted on her. Yet she still had a million more questions to ask the incredibly calm and serene woman. "And how is it that a star can influence someone's birth? The mathematics don't support that conclusion...And a plague? I...I am no doctor and I have no skill with medicine. How do I stop such a thing?"

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“Alright~” She said with a pleased sound as the man stated the price she would need to pay up front for the room. It was just a normal thing for hotels and she had used quite a few up to this day, so she was used to it. Still smiling she pulled her wallet to take out the money out of it.” Thank you for the information. That's good to hear.” She said, quickly counting the 32 dollars to pay the man for the week and put her wallet away in her tight pocket, so she can always feel it. Best way to prevent theft... don't leave a way for the thief to steal it without sensing it.

With a smile she started to sign and fill out the last of the required paperwork and the luggage tags, so her heavy suitcase can be taken away. She didn't travel with much clothing, so she was going to have to buy something simple from here one of these days. That was for later though, once the tags were done, she smiled at his question if he could help her any other way.

“Yes, it's a little embarrassing, but I seem to have forgotten to grab my map and I forgot to get one around the train station when I arrived. Can you please point me towards somewhere I can get one? If you cannot, it's fine, please excuse me for causing such inconvenience.” She pleaded with a small smile of apology. She really screwed up this time, but it was fine either way. She had a very rough memory of where the museum should be from here from the time she studied the map she had forgotten. Besides in the worst case scenario, she can simply ask people on the street! Either way with the bill paid, the luggage about secured, her room in preparation, she was ready to get to exploration this curious city! She quickly put her cowboy hat back on.