Lion Head Mesa meadowlands

“I want you as mine.”

Between them, though separated by years and lines of sanctified blood, the girl felt she had encountered a spiritual advisor on the path. Though only days before she struggled with how to answer her aunt Tavina, she felt clear and unshrouded in his presence. Enough so that the words flamed to life in her throat, and the princess needed only free what she knew to be true.

“I will be Queen, Charmion. And it is you who will be by my side. Not as a fellahin. As my vizier. My most trusted, and faithful advisor.”

The air thrums. The princess turns to regard the coyote then, the glassy sheen now open upon her face, for no secrets would exist between them.

“But Pharaoh offers choice to her servants, and I shall do the same. If your loyalty to the Lord Gucci is stronger, then your amiirad releases you from her service.”