---

---

---

---

Nora hesitated for a moment, a bit stunned that Peter had acquiesced to her request. Even when she informed other members of the peerage that she preferred to be addressed as Miss Kingston, they often would instantly lapse back into the use of her courtesy title. To have her request acknowledged and both fulfilled was something that she did not quite expect. The Lord Captain - no, Peter - was more than a brilliant mathematician in her mind. He was also a good man.

"Very well then, Peter," Nora replied with a soft smile.

His insistence to escort her was similarly unexpected. He was courting Lady Munn - would he not prefer to escort her? The British had limitations as to displays of affection, so surely he would wish to guide Lady Munn to the permit office? His indiscretion did not warrant such a display of remorse. Truthfully, if George were to escort her, it would test the angle of safe viewing she had determined - yet it would also allow her to increase her tolerance. Her skittish and nervous behavior was rather uncouth towards George.

"Please do not stress too much over the indiscretion - it is already forgiven and forgotten," Nora said. "Yet if you insist and do not wish to escort Lady Munn instead, I would be happy to accept your escort."

Nora tilted her head slightly at Neema's grin. Was she simply happy that she was not having another fainting spell? She supposed she could inquire later, but there were more pressing matters at hand. They would need to obtain the permit and then prepare for the expedition - a set of tasks that others present had far more experience with. "I would very much like that, Lauren," Nora answered her friend, with a bit of a shy smile. She truthfully didn't know if she had the time, but she always did enjoy sharing a drink with the other Irish speaker.

At Peter's question, Nora nodded politely, though she had a bit of an amused smile at Vera's clumsiness. She followed the duo along with her escort, Peter, the famed mathematician.

---

---

Josephine waved Haakon's comments off. "Now now, darling, I am sure we could hold our own in a conversation. However, we are at the disadvantage. You being a journalist and me being an actress, we don't come across as brainy compared to museum director and professor and, of course, the Lord Major himself. However, that is precisely why we make the best team, you and I. I think we could use that to our advantage if we just play our cards right." Josephine was quite used to assumptions made about her. They suited her just fine.

As for the heat, "The heat does wonders for your skin, darling. You sweat out those nasty things. Plus it's a great way to get tan. Not to mention it's an excuse for women to wear less clothing. I'm sure even you can appreciate that," she said with a sultry wink.

Finally, they made it to the museum no worse for wear. She entered the building and took it in before continuing to where she assumed LAdy Munn would be.

---

---

---

---

---

The pretense of pride or vanity concerning the slowly departing colonic winds inside of his office faded immediately. It was a rare thing that anyone, including Vera, use only his full first name when addressing him. Generally, his older brother (the first born and thusly impeccably titled Keystone) referred to him as such, often going as far as to omit his title of nobility and earned rank within the military, even in public settings where such a thing would have been proper and polite. It irked him greatly, though he would never let it show outwardly. At least, not directly. The fact that he went out and earned something that his family did not give him was a source of pride on his part; at least his brother could not say the same. But he was the Earl of Sussex, and Reginald was not.

All the same, the use of his full first name only, Reginald, was something that got his attention. The fact that Aziza was saying it to him meant that there was a matter of non-official but equally important business to discuss. Another show of the importance of the occasion was that the talented Miss Tarek didn't say word one about the noxious assbomb he unintentionally dropped moments ago. His voice softened to one of understanding and pragmatic seriousness. "Indeed, Aziza." Two could play at that game, though he said it with kindness. "I shall always stand ready to help you, in any way that I am able, so long as I draw breath. What do you require of me?"

---

---

Streets Of Cairo: It took a few minutes but the old couple seemed to be figuring out what Mosi was asking and wanting. The two stood there going over each piece of fabric, unrolling lengths of it, laying them out but not cutting yet. After awhile they had a stack of cloth that was ready to be cut but hadn't yet. Probably just in case she didn't like the price. Eventually the old woman wrote down a price on a piece of paper but it was in Egyptian Arabic numbers, not the usual roman based. This was going to prove difficult.

The woman stood there and looked at what she had wrote before shaking her head. She knew this wouldn't work. Taking a breath she thought for a minute before an idea came to mind. Going over to where they kept their money she opened a lock box and pulled out various amounts of paper money and coins. Handing the box over to her husband she held up the money. It looked to be around 300 in the local currency, which was under twenty American. It was actually a very low price for the amount and quality of the fabric. It seemed that the couple was not going to try to take advantage of a tourist that didn't speak the language.

---

---

Neema looked over towards Lauren as they walked through the museum and looked to be headed towards the front as they did and not towards the archives. "Oh yes, a life time ago. Times were much different then and I was much younger. Probably younger than you are now," she said before looking over at the front desk where Akhmed was standing. He looked up from his paper work and nodded slightly towards Mahendra before turning his attention to Neema.

"Well isn't this a surprise. Does the curator know you are here?" he asked with a thin lipped expression on his face.

"You know he does. I need the key to the archives," she said and he looked at her oddly for a moment.

"I will give him the key, you are not employed here anymore," he said before pulling open a drawer under the counter and holding out the key to Mahendra. "Do NOT let her have these."

"Why my nephew puts up with you is beyond me," she said with a slight smirk on her lips.

"Ask him yourself next time you see him." Shaking his head slightly he turned his attention to two new comers to the museum. Or at least two he hadn't personally seen before. Lauren of course would recognize the reporter and the actress. "Welcome to the Egyptian Museum, how can I help you today?" he asked and Neemas smirk only grew. It was obvious there was a bit of tension between the two.

Meanwhile...

"I am sure Vera will not mind in the slightest and she seems to be doing well with George. I could hardly refuse such a friend of mine pleasant company. So please, tell me about yourself. How did you come to be working on this little adventure with my uncle and Vera?" Peter asked as Vera lead them around to the employee entrance at the side of the museum and to the coat check so she could retrieve her hat and wrap.

"Here, let me mmm help," George said as Vera tried to reach where her hat was and nearly fell. Keeping an arm around her waist he managed to keep her from falling while retrieving her hat and wrap for her. As she placed the hat on her head, George hesitated but then helped her place it over her shoulders.

"Thank you so very much George. Please, could you retrieve those pieces for me as well?" she said pointing to two much higher up. "For Miss Kingston, the sun is harsh today and these will help."

"Mmm, yes, of course," George said before reaching up and grabbing the two. Turning he held them out and Peter took them from his friend before turning to Nora.

"Yes, with all the excitement today would probably be best to keep you ladies shaded as much as possible," Peter added as he held out the wrap so Nora only need to step back into it.

---

---

"You're right, we just got to find our strong sides which the upper classes doesn't possess. I think the weather, and the past days have made me soft like that, but I won't let that happen again." Haakon felt shameful about selling himself short like that, it really didn't suit his character. Where had the strong-minded journalist gone? Probably to colder climates after the prison-episode and, well everything. If he had let his head hang down before, now he tried to push himself up and puff his chest out. The aristocracy be damned, he would show them. They would show them.

Right now however, Haakon showed a sudden unease to Jo's sultry words. Not as much as he didn't enjoy the thought of women like that, but that she had inserted it into the conversation he did not expect. Then again, who else would have? For the time they had known each other in that ancient city, Haakon could only guess one person to be like that. Jo. "...So far the only thing I've gotten is red skin, like an Indian. You seem to have fared better in that regard, very much so."

And with that, they had arrived at the Museum. But they were not alone.

---

---

---

---

While Mahendra didn't pitch in the conversation his figurative ten cents, he continued to listen intently to what Lauren and Neema shared amongst each other. So Neema was indeed the wise woman that she had appeared to be, having worked at the museum many years ago and knowing her way around the place. That notion only strenghtened as they came into contact with Akhmed, the man Mahendra had met earlier in the reception area and lead him down the proverbial road to employment. The nod didn't get lost to the geologist, but its true nature didn't reveal itself until a few words after.

As the keys where handed to Mahendra, the tension was touchable to Mahendra, making him stand rather quietly as a by-stander. A bystander standing in the middle of what possibly was a long-term feud between literal generations. He simply gave a confirming, or more assuring nod to Akhmed to his order, at that time not sure whether or not he would follow it.

The arrival of two new strangers would hopefully ease the tension, or at least divert it away for long enough, Mahendra hoped.

"Good day Sir. We'd like to have a word with Lady Munn, if she's availalbe. Is she occupied at the moment?" Haakon said politely to the man standing behind the front desk. It was only now however that he saw a familiar face amongst the small crowd that had gathered there. "Ah, Miss Ridgeway. I'm almost surprised to see you here. I hope all is fine and well since last?" Haakon asked Lauren, before taking further notice of the two others with her. An older, native woman and someone Haakon could only guess was someone from the Indian subcontinent. Haakon gave both of them a pleasent smile, glad to finally see a friendly face. "I'm sorry, where are my manners? Haakon J. Elvsgaard, of the Norwegian Dagbladet. Very pleased to meet you."

Mahendra couldn't help but think that he was weary of this apparent aquintance of Lauren. Sure, he seemed polite at first, but a journalist? A man who read little and wrote tons, was never as good as a man who wrote little and read more. But for now nodded politely back to the clearly foreign, non-British man and introduced himself. Mahendra Huq Zalil.

---

---

Lauren walked along towards the front desk of the museum looking towards Neema as she asked for the keys to get into the archive room, though she looked between the two of them for a moment. He declined to give her the keys but instead handed them over to Mahendra, though she could understand why. Someone who didn't work there obviously shouldn't have the keys even if you were a former employee to the museum, she remained fairly quiet as she watched the man exchanging the keys to Mahendra. Neema seemed to know the man who was manning the front desk as well, and her son was most likely friends with him as well from what she stated.

Lauren then turned her head to see two familiar faces coming into the museum, she gave Haakon and Josephine a friendly smile and wave towards the two of them. "It's good to see you two again. Vera you just missed her she, Peter, as well as Nora are all headed towards the permit office to get the stuff that they need for the expedition we are going on."

---

---

---

---

---

Arranging for buying things when both parties spoke different languages was pretty darn hard, but also fun, Mosi noted to herself as the rather hard arrangement was being made mostly by gestures. Eventually the old woman had started to try to give her the price, but that on itself was rather hard and a whole different beast of a adventure on it's own way. The older woman was a smart lady though and in no time figured out a way to give Mosi the precise cost of the fabrics she wanted to buy.

Mosi once more couldn't help herself and displayed a very happy and impressed smile.” Of course!” She stated, knowing they probably couldn't understand her, but to that end she also nodded a few times vigorously to confirm as she started to take out the money. If her memory worked correctly, the number they displayed was around 20 dollars after conversion, so without much time to be wasted she took that out from her wallet and handed the money over with a smile. She then resumed her studying the different cloths, while waiting for them to cut it, but not before pulling her notebook to scribble the text from the poster for the Alf Leyla Salah establishment, she'd have to visit that one later. All in all she was really looking forward to tonight.

---

---

---

---

A little adventure? Nora wondered exactly what impression Peter was under about the various happenings. She had been branded by a mystical force, Vera's jewelry had been branded as well, and they were all experiencing mysterious dreams. Neema even explained to her that she had been chosen as some sort of protector for an Egyptian goddess. Nothing about this warranted the adjective of little - though adventure was most likely appropriate. Of course, it was entirely possible that Vera didn't want to tell Peter about these divine happenings.

"Oh, I had come across a curious marking and I thought it would be best to consult the expertise of an employee of the Egyptian museum," Nora responded. It was not entirely a lie - she merely left out that the marking she had come across was a brand on her own person. Had she truly just stumbled across a strange symbol, she likely would have consulted someone who worked with her father - the person she was supposed to act as an assistant for. Though truly, it was an excuse for Lord Kingston to keep his oddest child out of the eye of the ton.

But what else about her merited mention? She had had a rather unremarkable life, mostly because life itself was unsatisfying. "Oh, thank you," Nora said gracefully, a bit surprised that Vera selected some pieces for her. She certainly did not expect it, though she supposed they likely belonged to Lady Munn. There didn't seem to be many female employees at the Egyptian museum. She stepped backward, accepting Peter's assistance while she still pondered his question.

"I'm afraid there isn't very much about me that you would deem interesting," Nora concluded. To a mathematician like Peter Keystone, her studies of the field probably appeared to be rather trite and almost irrelevant.

---

---

Josephine listened to Haakon as she entered, but her interest was held at the two people in front of her in a pretty heated discussion. As they approached, she could hear what they were saying, but it didn't mean much to her. She didn't recognize either of them. However, she did recognize the other woman as she approached. She couldn't for the life of her remember her name until Haakon mentioned it. Thankful for that, she bowed her head, "Nice to see you as well, Miss Ridgeway. Darn, I was hoping to catch her before she left. Do you suppose she will return soon? Or maybe we can meet her there? I do have some questions of my own."

She turned her attention to the other man as Haakon introduced himself. 'Hello, darling. My name is Josephine Clark, but I assume you knew that already. A pleasure to meet you." With introductions out of the way, Josephine waited until her last question was asked. She really wanted to find Lady Munn before she retired and tomorrow came.

---

---

---

---

Aziza looked over towards Reginald and sighed slightly. "Did you really mean it when you said you would be willing to get me out of the country?" she asked him as she bit her bottom lip nervously. This was a huge change from the night before, something had to have happened.

This was important. "Of course, my dear. Certainly. My offer concerning the Brighton estate remains, should you desire it. But whatever has transpired since last evening that would prompt a change of heart?" This did seem unlike her, especially now with the bit of mystery afoot. She was not one to leave something unfinished.

Biting her bottom lip still, her eyes darted over towards Harry. He could see that she was nervous and saying any of this out loud, even to the Lord Major had her scared. "Sir, when we reached Miss Tarek's home it had been broken into. Nothing seemed to be stolen but I have seen war zones with less damage. That combined with the attack on her at Alf Leyla Salah's yesterday," Sgt. Walsh began to say and try to fill in the Lord Major as best he could without sounding crazed but making sure to point out the seriousness of the situation. Aziza however cut him off mid-sentence.

"I think my ex-husband is trying to have me killed Reginald, I can't stay in Cairo," she blurted out as she wrapped her arms around herself. She was shaking from saying it outloud. Harry sighed as he stepped over to her and pulled her into his arms, trying to calm her.

The Lord Major straightened himself, his face losing much of the softness that it had ordinarily when dealing with friends and not associates. It seems that this was a piece of business that required his attention. "I see." His voice was businesslike and final. He walked back over to his desk and sat down behind it, pulling out a pen and sheaf of paper. He began writing, pausing every couple of seconds to speak. "Indeed. Worry not; you are at under the protection of His Royal Majesty's Armed Forces, on what is considered British soil. You may stay here for as long as you wish, as my personal guest." He looked over his paperwork, blowing lightly to help the ink dry. "If you are certain that this is what you wish, I shall attempt to expedite your legal immigration by stamping a work permit, concerning the position we had discussed, but are you certain this is that vile man's doing?"

The dancer nodded slightly as she kept her face buried against Harry's chest. Smoothing her hair down a bit, Sgt. Walsh reached into his pocket and pulled out the stone which had collided with the side of Aziza's head the day before. Reaching over he set it down on the desk in front of the Lord Major. "This is what struck her while she was on stage yesterday," he said as he wrapped his arm back around the woman. It was still stained with the blood it had drawn from her. "The person who threw it called her Manbudh as he threw it," Harry added. It was a word that the Lord Major would be familiar with, a term that literally translated to wreckage but when tossed out at a woman meant she was trash, a home wrecker, a whore, and so much more. It was usually yelled out before a woman was stoned to death because of infidelity.

On the stone written in Arabic was Azizas name and some choice words that when translated would read "death is coming." "I thought it was a threat but just in passing until I saw my home today..." she said as she looked down at the stone. "Now I am sure my ex husband is set to finish what he started the day I was driven out of my home and away from my son."

Reginald considered the words of both Sergeant Walsh and his good friend Aziza. He nodded soberly, looking at the pair with weary eyes. "Some people simply cannot act as gentlemen... I am very sorry for this Aziza, and I promise that I shall keep you as safe as I am able." He paused for a moment, then tried to speak with some optimism. "Madame, you will enjoy Brighton, I am sure of it. Beach resort city, and whatnot. Excellent nightlife, quiet during the off seasons, and superior opportunities for persons wishing entrepreneurial ventures. You just tell me when you wish to leave, and I shall do my best."

"I don't want to leave. Not without my son..." Aziza said quietly as she stared blankly at Harrys chest as she rested her forehead against him and sighed.

"You can't help him if you let yourself be killed," Harry said and Aziza nodded, knowing what he said was true. Turning her head slightly she looked over at the Lord Major.

"Yesterday, today, as soon as possible," she finally said. It was obvious she didn't want to go but with everything going on she had to. These type of men never stopped and she couldn't live the rest of her life in the barracks. Leaving the country was the best she could hope for.

"Lord Major, if it is possible, I wish to go with her. I will escort her and keep her safe," Harry chimed without a moments hesitation. Azizas eyes darted up and she let out a nervous smile before burying her head back against his chest and thanking him silently.

A deep breath filled the lungs of the Lord Major, followed shortly by a long exhale. This was to be a means of escape for not just Aziza, but for the retired Sergeant as well. The folly of youth, he supposed. It was a very keen-edged thing, the nature of mutual affection, and not one that was guaranteed to remain indefinitely. Still, Reginald did not really know this man, Sergeant Harry Walsh, remotely as well as he knew Miss Aziza Tarek. The same level of trust had not been established.

If he wished to join her, Reginald would not pose an objection, but he wanted to ensure that Aziza had the upper hand, legally speaking. Though his words were pointed at the dancer, his knowing tone implied that they were meant for the both of them. "Aziza, the paperwork I hold in my hand has declared you the Steward and primary caretaker of the Keystone Estate in Brighton, East Sussex, England, with a contract to the family lasting not less than twenty years and moderate retirement afterward, if desired. The existing staff is at your disposal, and any decision to modify said personnel or share the responsibilities of the office is, of course, at your pleasure." Clearing his throat, he concluded with, "And I am able to make travel plans for two almost as easily as one."

Azizas eyes widen as the Lord Major spoke. She had no doubt that he would help her but on this level? She didn't know what to say but the look in her eyes, which were now tearing up, spoke volumes. He had always been good to her and treated her with respect, well minus that one time where he propositioned her, but she never thought he would do so much. Her lips rolled in as she left Harrys arms and made her way around the mans desk. It didn't matter there was still a stench hanging in the air and on the mans clothing. It didn't stop her from wrapping her spindle like arms around the aging Keystone and hugging him as he body shook and she let a tear or two slip from her eyes. "Thank you," was all she could manage to sob out.

Swallowing lightly Harry watched Aziza and nodded in gratitude towards the Lord Major. "I have a passport, a member of his kinds empire, no need to make arrangements for me as well sir. I will handle my travel arrangements, I just did not want to be escorted away from her if you were to assign a protection detail is all," he said as he stood there and placed his hands behind his back in a parade rest.

"Indeed. You are quite welcome, my dear." Reginald looked piercingly at Harry, though he returned Aziza's hug with the grandfatherly understanding. It occurred to him that, when Aziza left the barracks, it would very likely be the last time he would see her ever again. It made him genuinely sad. "Aziza," he started quietly, "You will be the Estate Mistress of a great house. It is not a title of nobility, but it can carry a prestigious amount of influence, especially in a port city along the Channel. Establish yourself. Invest. Use this new influence to tend to your own affairs as you see fit. You are in a position to take back control of your life - but do keep my house in proper order, hmm?"

Taking on a more steady, soldierly voice, he continued, "Sergeant Walsh, so far as I am concerned, the two of you are in this together. When I assign a detail, rest assured you shall not be shuffled off. To wit, when the boundaries of military influence have been crossed and more civil authorities take the reins, it falls to you, sir, to ensure Miss Tarek's safety. Take what you need from this base, the both of you. I shall sign for it. Now for the meantime, I have only one question: do you prefer air travel, or would you fancy a ship?"

---

---

Streets Of Cairo: The old woman nodded and smiled as she took the money from Mosi. Once the script had been exchanged her and her husband got to work on cutting the fabrics that Mosi had purchased. It wasn't long before everything was cut, bundled up nice and tight in brown paper and bound with twine. They ended up having a rather large stack and the old woman brought out a rather large bag that seemed to be made from reeds, similar to the many baskets that lined the streets of Cairo. Loading everything up into the bag the man set it down on the counter in front of Mosi. "T..thank you," he managed to eek out in English. "ﺷﻜﺮﺍﹰ جزيلاً," the woman said, seeming to echo her husbands words in their own language.

Rosheen peeked her head out of her window and looked down. "Are ya about done Lass?" she asked as she waved at Mosi once she spotted her still looking at the various fabrics while the couple were getting everything together.

Museum: Neema stood there eying Akhmed and then she shrugged. "As long as we can get into the archives, I don't care who carries the keys," Neema quipped as she stood there and the new comers came up. Neema had no idea who the woman was but it seemed that Akhmed did.

"Jo Darling? Queen of the silver screen! Oh by Allah!" he exclaimed. The man was star stuck. Coming up from behind the counter he held out his hand for hers as his other pressed to his own chest. "You are the 8th wonder of the world. I have seen all of your films at the theater, I never miss a debut. To think I have Miss Clark here, in my museum? Oh the pharaohs would have bent knee to a goddess such as yourself. Please, tell me, anything. What can I do to assist you?" he said, kissing her hand if she would allow him to do so.

Neema had to chew the inside of her mouth not to mock the man for his outburst. She just looked over towards Mahendra. "I think he is in love," she said under her breath so that only Mahendra could hear. Taking a breath she looked back over to Lauren. "Friends of yours? Maybe they can help us, the archives are large and I am sure it would make Lady Munn happy that we were able to search everything before she returns."

---

---

Helping Nora into the wrap, Peter held out his arm for her to take before letting Vera and George lead the way out of the museum. George and Vera stood there as George held the door open for Peter and Nora. Peter gave a grateful smile towards his friend, trying to escort a woman with one arm ad lean on a cane with another could pose problematic from time to time. As they made their way down the stairs of the side entrance of the museum Peter chuckled somewhat. "Now, please. Do let me determine what my mind would find interesting and what it would not. I would suspect that I would get a right proper slap across the face if I would tell you how your own mind should work," he said with a right bit of mischievousness in his eyes as he smiled over towards her.

"If she wouldn't I would Peter," Vera chimed in as her and George made pace ahead of the two and lead the way, it was only fitting since Vera knew where the permit office was and she wasn't sure of Nora did. She was pretty confidant that Peter and George hadn't a clue.

"Mm, you tell him," George teased as he escorted Vera down the street.

"Ha! I would expect nothing less from you Vera darling," Peter laughed but turned his attention back to Nora. "Now this marking, please tell me about it. My uncle has filled me in on some of the happenings and I am piecing together a bit more in my mind. It sounds intriguing. The fact that Vera seems to hold you in high regard is even more so. She does not think well on most," he added and caught the daggers Vera shot him at the mention of her name.

"I never!" the bluestocking said, tripping over her own two feet as she tried to walk and talk while not even bothering to look where she as going. It was a good thing George caught her again, this time by the waist and swung her about in midsentence. It didn't look to even phase her as she was carried for a moment on his hip before being set back down.

"I only mean that you do not place a lot of stock in breeding, just brains my dear and far too many fall short of the mark to be able to keep up with a mind such as yours," Peter said with a charming grin on her lips.

"Flattery will get you now where with me Peter and if it were not for the fact that Miss Kingston there happens to be brilliant and accomplished in your field I would be much more irate currently," Vera spat as George coaxed her across the street. "Maybe that will shut him up," she said to George who smiled slightly from beneath his mask.

"Quite him no, change his turn.. mmm, yes," George said as they continued on their way towards the Permit office.

"My field? I dare not hope, you are a mathematician?" Peter asked as his eyed widened in delight.

---

---

Lauren gave Josephine a friendly smile and returned the slight nod. "It's good to see you again as well. Though i'm honestly not sure when they will be back, I don't know where the permit office is myself to be honest." She answered, when she ended up getting interrupted by Akhmed who was apparently a super fan of Josephine. Lauren took a step back to let the man get up and close to her, like a groupie which made Lauren roll her eyes slightly and crossed her arms over her chest. Lauren looked over her shoulder at Neema as she whispered something to Mahendra which she wasn't sure she could hear what they were saying.

Then Neema turned her attention towards her, Lauren looked over at Neema asking if she knew Josephine and Haakon. "We met yesterday evening, we went to visit Vera and they happen to be there as well last night. I don't really know them all that well, aside from Jo's movies." Lauren answered and then eyed the two of them for a moment and thought for a moment. "They could help that's if the curator or whoever else is fine with it and they are fine with it as well." Lauren said.

---

---

Mahendra couldn't for the life of him understand the welcome Akhmed gave the American woman, praising her like she was some kind of royalty or ever deity and seemingly about to collapse from joy. He himself had no idea who this lady was, save from Lauren's knowledge of her and Haakon. From Josephine's tone, at least she thought he should of course know her. A woman thinking so highly of herself probably hid her insecurities like that. He couldn't agree more with Neema's quiet remark, silently snuffing at the spectactle made by Josephine and Akhmed.

Haakon on his part gave Akhmed a raised eyebrow at his behaviour. Though he was by no means a stranger to fans of well-known stars of various qualities and quantities, he had not experienced such a behavior around Jo. But perhaps this could be to their advantage, all things considered? "Certainly we could be of assistance. I am in agreement with what the Lady said, Lady Munn might be glad of our help. Two heads think better than one, right? Don't you think so, Jo?"

---

---

It was as if everything she had experienced up until now had led to this moment. Josephine did not expect that walking into this museum she would be recognized. Hell, she was beginning to think this entire country hadn't seen a movie before. So when she introduced herself, she wasn't expecting any sort of reaction.

But boy, was she surprised. And it takes a lot to surprise her.

The man stepped around the corner and poured his heart over every word he spoke. He kissed her hand (of course she allowed it, HE RECOGNIZED HER) and professed his profound admiration for her work. The compliments, the praise, it was all going to her head. And damn, did she enjoy it!

She fanned herself mockingly, "Well, I do say. Darling, it is indeed I. You have made my entire trip here. I was beginning to think no one would ever know who I was." She patted the man's hand with her free one. "What is your name, my darling? You have won my heart with your words. Truly, it was fate that brought us here together."

She almost missed the others. She was paying them little mind when this god in man's form stepped over to express his devotion to her. "Oh, yes, I suppose we can help. It's the least I can do." She was kinder than intended, but she wanted to continue having herself be admired. It was about damn time.

---

---

---

---

---

“Thank you too.” Mosi replied with a grateful voice and a nod when everything was finally cut to size, bundled up and prepared for her to take it. They even gave her a reed bag to carry it which she didn't expect, but was an incredibly nice gesture, not to mention comfortable. To carry such big bundles would be rather uncomfortable otherwise. She smiled once more and gave a one last thankful nod with her head before turning at the appearance of Rosheen's voice.

“Yeah! I'm done, coming over~!” Priscilla replied with a grin, raising the reed back to show her new friend.” Got everything right here, hehehe.” She smiled and quickly headed back towards her friend's home. She'd have to get to the second floor, but that's fine given there were stairs to take easy enough. Not to mention she'd climb the walls even if it's for spending time with friends.

Mosi was looking forward to getting some new garments done, especially the veil one that was usually worn by dancers. That one looked really exotic, attractive and ethereal given it was mostly made by veil like thin basically seethrough cloth. There was an old saying : when in Rome, do like the romans. That was a rather good motto to live by in certain regards, though to be fair Mosi as usual just did like she felt like doing. She wanted to try local clothing and she was going to do so. That mentioned, she reminded herself that once she gets properly moved in at her hotel later after visiting that blacksmithing demonstration, she'd get to visit that place the old couple showed her the poster for. That seemed really interesting.

---

---

---

---

---

While Nora would have perhaps struck some as the type to slap those who perpetuated sexist and misogynistic standards, she wasn't the sort. She had long resigned herself to the status quo as it was and realized that nothing she did would ever change society. It was a foolish effort to even try, though she did admire those who were determined to set themselves at such a futile task. Equality did not appear to be in the cards - though Peter and George did appear to be making an effort to treat Nora and Vera as equally as they could.

She listened to Vera and Peter's verbal swordplay with amusement, a slight smile on her face. It was good that Vera and George were in front - if pressed, she wasn't certain she would be able to find her way to the permit office without the aid of a map or a prescribed set of directions. She had not been to the establishment on many occasions. A slight blush formed as Peter mentioned the high regard that Vera held her in. It wasn't something that Nora expected by any means. Aside from Neema, very few people had ever complimented her on her intelligence before. Compliments were directed towards her beauty, if there were any at all. As the youngest in a large family, especially given how her parents considered her to be damaged goods, not much attention was placed on Nora.

"I studied mathematics at Girton College for Women, yes," Nora replied with a nod. "Yet since I have not been employed due to my certificate, I can hardly say whether or not that qualifies me as a mathematician. Instead, I mostly use the application of mathematics to deduce patterns and codes - an amateur cryptographer would perhaps be a more apt description."

"As for the marking...It was a Udjtat, the mark of Bastet," Nora answered, referring to Peter's earlier question. She once more did not mention that she had been branded with the mark.

---

---

---

---

"Yes, of course. I won't let you down Reginald. I would never do anything that would put anything of yours in jeopardy," Aziza said quickly as she looked up at Reginald.

"Understood sir," Harry said as Aziza looked towards him.

"I have never flown before... Do you think I should?" she asked, slightly excited at the prospect.

A twinkle ignited in Reginald's eye at the topic of flying. Naturally he was biased, being one of the original Flight Officers for the British Royal Military back before planes were a big thing and dirigibles were all the rage in battlefield communications. He hadn't logged as much time behind the stick recently as he would have liked, but it remained the single greatest pleasure of his days when he could. "Oh indeed, I would greatly prefer travel by air, you see, if but I were the one piloting the aircraft. Otherwise, I can only recommend travel by plane for the sheer velocity of it. However, if you have never taken an a plane, I should imagine it might be quite the experience." He gave a cheery grin, his hands itching to use a stick and throttle again, "A ship would be slower, but provide greater opportunities for luxury; additionally a ship may drop you off directly in Brighton. A plane might be a touch less comfortable, an upside being a much faster journey. If you wish to put Cairo behind you quickly, I submit a stark affirmative, and shall charter something accommodating."

Harry was content to go along with whatever made Aziza more comfortable even if he disliked airplanes. He wasn't about to say that to the Lord MAJOR though. Not when the man was willing to help Aziza out as much as he was. Plus, he hated smoke and the large ships and trains were nothing but that. So for him it was a coin toss and best left to the lady he was promising to protect. Aziza thought on the matter for a moment, looking over to Harry for his input. The two discussed it quickly, Harry being supportive of whatever Aziza felt most comfortable with. It was rather evident the prospect of flying was a bit unnerving to the woman but that was to be expected, it was something new and flight hadn't exactly been an option for most until very recently in human history. Yet she wanted to put Egypt behind her, at least for her safety. Maybe one day she could return, find her son. Maybe he would seek her out. Swallowing she made up her mind and looked towards Reginald. "I want to fly."

"Excellent, my dear. Unfortunately, there are limited aeroplanes in service here at our small airstrip at the Qasr El Nil Barracks, and they are mostly for supply and postal services... hmm..." Reginald mused aloud, considering any options that may present themselves for use. "...however, I might place a phone call, if you would be as kind as to give me time. Please, take a seat. I shan't be but a moment."

"Of course."

"Aziza, here," Harry said as he rested his hand on the back of a chair and turned it so she could have a seat. Nodding Aziza stepped over to the chair and sat down, arranging the shawl around shoulders better as Harry found a place to sit for himself. It was all in the hands of the Lord Major now.

Reginald was one of the luckier people in Cairo, so far as organized communications went. Being the commander of a major barracks had its perks, not the least of which being open lines to other, friendly entities within the city. Especially as it related to air service, owing to his longstanding, nigh legendary history. He picked up the receiver to his office telephone, and addressed the operator. "Cheerio, yes. If you would be so kind: Cairo Airfield, please. Yes thank you, quite." A few seconds passed in silence as the Lord Major drummed the fingers of his free hand upon the edge of his desk. Suddenly breaking the silence, "Yes, good morning. Lord Major Reginald I. Keystone, Commanding Officer, Qasr El Nil Barracks, at your service, sir. Yes, yes. Oh, I do remember you, sir. Yes, jolly good occasion. Roasted goat and bulgur wheat spirits. Capital. But to business! I am curious as to the state of outgoing passenger vessels, sooner the better, with at least two openings." Reginald grabbed a notepad and pen, and began scribbling furiously. "Yes, oh indeed, sir? Well... Yes, of course. Thank you very much. Absolutely. One hour. Do bill the barracks. Thank you."

Biting her bottom lip slightly, Azizas eyes kept darting between Reginald, the phone, and Harry. Sitting there in antici....._{SAY IT!} pation was horrible but as Lord Major Keystone seemed to be wrapping up his call it seemed as if everything was in order, or at least it sounded that way from the thank yous. He wasn't screaming bloody hell or the like.

He set the receiver back down, and looked to Aziza and Harry. "One hour. In one hour, a dirigible shall depart from the airfield, headed toward London. Everything is arranged, mention my name and you shall have luxury accommodation from there out. I shall arrange for a car to meet you at the London Airport and take you to Brighton. It is done, my dear."

Letting out the breath she hadn't known she was holding Aziza laughed nervously and nodded. There was a slew of thanks from both her and Harry. Harry for the Lord Majors assistance and being a right true friend to Aziza, all the while giving him assurance time and time again that he would look after her and protect her. Aziza for the simple fact that she felt if she could get out of town alive she could finally put this part of her life and fear behind her. There had to be some talk about both hers and Harry's horses they had brought over. Those would have to be sent on ship but it would be done and they would arrive later.

"It is you who are doing me a favor, of course. We have been trying to find a trustworthy Estate Manager for quite some time; I am amazed that I had not suggested this sooner, my dear. I shall assign a relations officer to handle any affairs or personals you have in Cairo. In the interim, you send word my way if there are any complications, and this..." the Lord Major pulled out his wallet, handing over a few of his business cards and two certified promissory bank notes, "Is redeemable with any financial institution that does business with the London banks. It is for expenses and unforeseeables, you understand. It has been my utmost honor and pleasure to be your friend, Miss Tarek, and if I am unlucky enough to survive this mess, I shall retire to the estate that you are maintaining in my stead. Perhaps we shall meet again. My life was the better for your presence. And Sergeant Walsh! It was a pleasure making your acquaintance. If you are fortunate, you may have a long and profitable employment under this fine lady. Good day to you both."

After several more hugs and thanks yous, Aziza and Harry were on their way and heading out the Lord Majors office. Reginald closed the door slowly, a wave of disheartened sorrow passing over him. He never did like saying goodbye to people he cared about. It was a comfort to him that she would be safe from her previous life now, and might even be able to do something about her family situation.

Just as the door was about to click shut, a sharp knock sounded from the other side. It was the enlisted man from earlier, handing him papers before offering a quick salute and returning to duties. The remainder of the inventory report was now in Reginald's hands, which he skimmed through quickly until he located the numbers he was after. "Ha! Jolly good!" he exclaimed, focusing his mind back onto the budding adventure. The figures seemed to fall favorably enough to supply the first leg of their journey, and so his role as Quartermaster now required him to report his findings to the Vera, their Fellowship's leader. "Hmm... I must get myself to the museum, straightaway!"

Reginald did give a couple minutes' pause before leaving for the sake of decor. He didn't know if he could handle seeing Aziza and Harry again, so soon after saying goodbye.

---

---

Streets Of Cairo: The couple was very happy to have helped out with Mosi, not to mention that most of it was because she bought something and was new around Cairo. It meant a sale that they were not used to having on a regular basis. Waving at her they thanked her again and went back to their normal day to day duties. First things were first and that was returning the remaining cloth on the bolts that Mosi had figured out to their respective places.

Rosheen had the door open and was waiting on Mosi, excited to see what she had purchased. It was simple enough to get to Rosheens apartment above the little food stop. The stairs were right next to it and they lead up to only one door. "Well show me what you have and then we better get moving. Didn't you say you needed to be back at the museum this evening?" she asked as she looked at the old clock against the wall of her apartment which was now reading five.

Museum: It seemed that Josephine and Haakon wanted to help with this little endeavor. Which was good. Neema glanced over towards Mahendra and waited for him to answer yet the man didn't utter a single word. It seemed odd to her. She wasn't a member of the staff, which Ahkmed had made very clear. Lauren obviously didn't work there and if those two new comers were just coming in, they probably didn't work for the place either. Not to mention that Mahendra had been introduced to Neema and Lauren as Veras new assistant. Neema figured he would be the one to say something, but again, he didn't.

That didn't seem to matter though because Akhmed was on top of things. Seems being start struck was going to pay off, at least enough so they could get a move on. "I am Ahkmed and I am at your humble service," he said, more than happy that she allowed him to kiss her hand. "We here at the Egyptian Museum would be more than grateful for a star such as yourself to aid us. Please, please. Yes, look to your hearts content. I am so sorry but I am unable to go with you, I have a previous engagement that will be arriving shortly," he began but then obviously had a thought come to his mind as his eye lit up.

"One that perhaps one such as yourself might care to witness. I will be escorting a new arrival to the city to a demonstration on weapons smithing in ancient times hosted by a dear friend of mine," he began.

"My nephew to be exact," Neema quipped with a smirk.

Akhmed paid the old woman no mind. "If you would care to join we will be leaving here within the hour. Oh what am I thinking, that one such as you would dare want to watch menial labor, you are far more fitted to be on stage and have all eyes on you are you not?" he said beaming as he stood there and gazed adoringly towards Josephine with his bright amber eyes.

Neema had never seen the man act like this and she didn't know whether to laugh, throw up, or roll her eyes. She had nothing against Josephine, she had only just met the woman. Akhmed however, they seemed to have a past, and she was finding his entire display moronic. "We should get moving if we are to have looked at anything by the time Lady Munn returns," she said before starting to make her way towards the archives, she just hoped Mahendra came with her since he did have the key.

---

---

Peters brow arched deeply as Nora spoke. "Miss Kingston, job or certificate matter not, nor does where one studied. A mathematician is not defined by such things. Nor limited to them. Do you live by the numbers? By the laws that which give us everything in this universe? When you look at the perfect spiral in an unbloomed rose do you see the petal or do you see the equations? Can you find the golden ratio in that spiral? In the features of those you love? When I speak of Euler's identity most would wonder whom I am speaking of but you my dear, you know I speak of the most stunning representation, the supreme example that shows us a profound connection between the most fundamental numbers in mathematics." His voice was kind as he spoke but it was firm, and full of passion for the numbers he spoke of as they walked.

Stopping he turned and gave Nora his full attention as he rested his palm on the top of his cane to keep his balance. "Mathematicians are born, it is in our blood. Never let anyone tell you different. Math is blind to race, to age, to gender. It is the true neutral in the world and our greatest gift is those that can speak its universal language. You are a mathematician and if anyone says differently send them to me for some enlightenment," he said before continuing on his way as he turned and kept Noras arm in his.

Vera seemed to have no noticed the two had stopped until they were passing the Statistical Department. They had headed east from the museum when they left and pretty much kept on that course since. Vera and George were exchanging pleasantries. Mostly speaking about recent books she had read that George might find interesting. "Oh there they are," Vera said as she finally spotted them in the crowd.

"Leg, mmm, must be slowing Peter down," George said. He didn't like being out on the street but he was glad that Vera had not called them a cab and had chosen to walk instead. Out on the street in such crowds he was less likely to be noticed. People were too wrapped up in their own minds and worrying if anyone was noticing them to notice anyone else. Hiding in plain sight was a real thing.

"You must be right, I had not even thought about that. I should apologize," Vera said. It hadn't crossed her mind that Peters leg was holding them up. In truth it hadn't been, it had been because Peter had stopped to directly addressed what Nora had said.

"Mm, no. Don't point it out. Mmm, makes Peter self conscious," George interjected. Vera looked over towards George and gave an understanding look. If anyone would know how it felt to have a disability pointed out it would be George. It was not only sound logic but sound emotional reasoning. She would heed his words.

"Sorry, Miss Kingston was telling me about the symbol from Bastet. I can see why you are so interested now Vera. She was always your favorite goddess," Peter said as the two caught up with them.

"Well not that I am to put much stock in hokum but the Ancients did worship her for various reasons, and she was most fascinating," Vera reminded Peter.

"And the fact you were born during her second cycle according to their astrology has nothing to do with it," Peter chuckled.

"Posh, I will not even acknowledge such muddle headed thinking," Vera said before her and George continued on their way. It wasn't long until tehy had reached the Governorate in Bab El Khalq and George was holding open the door for Vera to enter. Taking a deep breath he braced himself for what was likely to happen when someone laid eyes on him.

---

---

---

---

---

Reginald sighed and grabbed up a spare clipboard, tacking a few inventory request forms onto it. He had things to do, now that his supply personnel had returned with the requested information. As it wasn't anything along the lines of classified material and they were not in what was considered a hostile nation, and there had been many a time he had brought out contract paperwork with him to whatever watering hole he decided would receive his money for the evening. All the same, it was a horribly bittersweet hour for the Lord Major. Quartermastering for the last adventure he expected to experience, while the the same time saying goodbye to a very good friend. He could at least comfort himself with the knowledge that Aziza would have something that resembled a Happily Ever After, seeing to his estate back in England. It's not like his ex-wife wanted to live there anymore. Someone should enjoy what his station in the nobility could offer. And Sergeant Walsh? He seemed like a decent fellow who just hit a jackpot. "Ah, well. Best of luck to the both of them." he mused aloud. Reginald did honestly wish the two of them a happy and fruitful life together. And if it didn't work out, everything was in Aziza's name and she would be better than fine.

The walk from his office and out into the light of day felt long and lonely. Hopefully, the end of his walk would alleviate some of that as he was on his way to the Museum just down the way for the purposes of finding Vera. He needed to tell her (quietly) about the sudden loss of manpower in their Fellowship, then discuss the particulars of what they would need. The farther he got away from his office, the greater the spring in his step. Soon, he was exiting the main gate of the Barracks and trotting to the main entrance to the Museum.

Upon entering, the Lord Major's eyes fell upon the Starlet and the Reporter; people he knew. But there were also a couple of others he did not. Just at that moment, it did not matter quite so much to him except for the sake of etiquette. There was one person he had just spotted that might be able to assist him in locating Vera, presumably somewhere within the grounds. "Ah, Akhmed! It is a pleasure, dear sir. Oh, but you have company. My apologies." He turned to Neema ad Mahendra, "Good day sir, madame. I am The Lord Major Reginald Keystone of His Majesty's Armed Forces, Commanding Officer of the Qasr El Nil Barracks. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance. If you would forgive me for just a moment, my temporary breach in introductory protocol, I must inquire to ...Akhmed! Wherever might I find the Lady Munn at this hour? Dreadfully sorry; business of a particular nature, you see."

---

---

Lauren simply rolled her eyes as Ahkmed and Josephine spoke to one another, she didn't mine Josephine at all but she felt a bit out of place she crossed her arms over her chest. Looking towards Haakon he seemed to be willing to help out which was good eventually Josephine spoke up on her willingness to help out searching through the archives. Lauren looked towards Neema and then over at Ahkmed as he mentioned some kind of event somewhere in the city during the next hour. She was slightly interested, but she felt like her place was needed here more and help out searching for the tablets.

Lauren watched as Neema turned and started to make her way over towards the archives, she gestured towards Haakon if he decided to choose to follow them as well. She then quickly turned around and started to follow alongside the older woman. She figured that Mahendra would end up catching up with them as well when they were far enough away Lauren decided to speak up. "Looks like he is a big fan of hers." Lauren said quietly.

Lauren then stops as she turns her attention and hears a familiar voice she then notices Reginald and smiles towards him. "It's good to see you again Lord Major." Lauren said giving him a friendly nod. "Vera headed to the permit offices a few moments ago."