She spoke wisely, and with a forethought he felt could only be attributed to some great effort, even if not an effort others had cared to perceive as such. Hotep tilted his head, forcing back a faint smile in answer, There are many kinds of discipline. If you have found a way to bring mortals comfort in the arms of a goddess, that is no small thing.

Then he ground his teeth faintly behind sealed lips. Better she believed he had found fulfillment in such an oath. It might avert much uncomfortable gazing in future days. As well as the worse cousin, uncomfortable questions. She'd comforted him once before, and he felt that was all the burden he could politely afford to extend to her.

But he did not want to lie to her, even if he did not want to tell her the full truth of it. In Sitamun, he felt he sensed something of the Divine, and that made it seem a sin. He had no scarab to speak for him, and a mouse would not suffice as replacement in this regard.

His eyes turned to the gently lapping waterside, and the reeds that rustled faintly together on the edge of that black expanse.

I did not choose to be a Priest. He said, finally, and tried not to feel as if he was throwing stones at crocodiles. It was the responsibility asked of me by those with the power to decide what is best for Ma'at. He looked up at the moonless sky, I found great comfort in the work, until I did not, and sometimes now I even miss it.

Here his nose wrinkled, cracked lines forming over his snout. But it is no oath of abstinence which stays me. Nor do I intend you offense. You are beautiful Sitamun, any eye could see it, and I am sure well-skilled in the arts you take joy in... An inhale, Nevertheless, I cannot indulge. That must be answer enough.