.

THE SLAYING OF IDERNES.
Whilst I was still talking to my mother I received an urgent summons to the palace.

I went and in a little ante-chamber met Amada alone, who, I could see, was waiting there for me.

She was arrayed in her secular dress and wore the insignia of royalty, looking exceedingly beautiful.
Moreover, her whole aspect had changed, for now she was no longer a priestess sworn to mysteries, but just a lovely and a loving woman.
"It is done, Shabaka," she whispered, "and thou art mine and I am thine." Then I opened my arms and she sank upon my breast and for the first time I kissed her on the lips, kissed her many times and oh! my heart almost burst with joy.

But all too fleeting was that sweet moment of love's first fruits, whereon I had sown the seed so many years ago, for while we yet clung together, whispering sweet things into each other's ears, I heard a voice calling me and was forced to go away before I had even time to ask when we might be wed.
Within the Council was gathered.