By the time Naima stumbled back to the palace, her mind was a whirlwind of emotion and she was barely able to converse with anyone as her thoughts consumed her entirely. She struggled to maintain a facade of composure, forcing her face into a neutral mask, the opposite of everything going through her mind. Every piece of the prophecy that came to her, she jotted down onto a scrap of paper that she kept close at hand.
Atem noticed her distractedness immediately, scrutinizing her over dinner. He didn't say a word, just watched her with a perceptive eye that was somehow both gentle and piercing at the same time, a silent inquiry laced with concern. He continued to remain silent as they retired to their chamber for the night.
But when they finally settled into bed and he pulled her close to his warm body, he gently turned her face towards him and brushed away a stray lock of hair with a single finger.
"You have been very quiet today, you seem troubled." he said.
His voice was a gentle caress against the clamor of her thoughts.
"Everything alright?"
Naima stared at him, hesitant, the enormity of explaining what occurred settling onto her like a massive weight. She wondered where she could even start, what to even say. As she stroked her fingers idly against his bare skin, the words, though fragmented, came to her.
"When I was in Thebes today, I visited a seer." Naima said.
"Mona... I met her when we were in Naqada and, from all the strange dreams I've been having lately, I asked Eliyah to find her. She has been living in Thebes."
As Naima recounted the visions, the hourglasses, the origins of the Millennium Items, and the prophetic shards that now lay in her hands, Atem's face remained still as a stone. His gaze remained heavy on her as she explained the prophecy, showed him the pieces of it she was able to remember.
She stayed nestled in his embrace, letting the warmth of his presence sink into her bones as everything she said slowly sank in.
Atem sighed heavily, deep in thought, a stoic expression on his face.
"It is time."
"Time for what?" Naima said. Although she feared she already knew what he meant.
"We must seek out Ra," he declared. "Without the mighty Obelisk the Tormentor by our side, it is our last chance for victory."
Naima raised her eyebrows. The God Ra, its essence taking the form of a mighty dragon, its power dwarfing any monster or deity she had ever known.
"Hassan said that the dwelling of Ra resides in Abeydos, The holy city..." Naima trailed. "We will journey there, then?"
The silence stretched between them, thick with Atem's brooding thoughts. He said nothing for a long while, his face a well of contemplation.
"It would be best if you stayed here," he said eventually. "And for me to complete this task alone."
Indignant fury surged at his words, her eyes locking onto him with a fierce glare.
Did they not just recently discuss this... how they were a team. She inhaled a sharp breath, readying to give him a piece of her mind. But Atem quickly placed a finger over her lips, silencing her protests before she could even get a word out.
"Listen." he said softly.
She glowered at him, but he met her gaze and held it before continuing.
"The path to Abeydos, the path to obtain Ra, it will be dangerous, Naima." he said.
"Who knows how many obstacles we will face. While I am gone, I cannot fulfill my duties as ruler of this kingdom. It would also draw too much suspicion for both of us to disappear from Thebes without explanation. You must take on my role in my absence."
Naima gawked at him.
"You want me to stay here and rule in the interim while you seek out Ra."
Atem nodded.
"But I want to come with you." Naima pleaded, her voice shook. "This will be dangerous, Atem. How can you even think about going by yourself?"
He slid his fingers through hers.
"I will not make the journey alone. The priests will accompany me there."
More protests began to form in Naima's throat, but Atem continued.
"Naima, the sacred city of Abeydos houses the burial grounds of the earliest pharaohs, and in the center stands the temple of Ra. Only those deemed worthy are given the chance to enter and challenge Ra himself."
"And you plan to face Ra, in hopes that you may wield his power."
"I must." he said.
"You think you can do it alone..."
"I do not have a choice Naima." He looked at her in the eye.
"Even if you join me on this quest, there's no guarantee that you'll be allowed into the temple by my side. Abeydos holds great significance to my lineage, where the ancient pharaohs of Egypt are entombed. I hold faith that Ra will look upon me with favor, recognizing the blood of those who rest within its sands."
Naima turned her gaze to the far wall.
"And what about me?" she muttered. "I am supposed to rule here in your absence..."
Atem took her hand in his own and smiled down at her, his dark eyes burning with conviction.
"You will be fine, Naima." he said. "I will have Seto stay back with you for guidance."
Naima scowled.
"Seto..." she said, raising an eyebrow. "Out of all of the priests, you pick Seto. What about Shimon? Or Karim? ...Shada?"
Atem cupped her chin tenderly and brought her gaze back up to meet his.
"Naima, I know Seto may seem distant. But he is bound by the oath to protect and serve the kingdom. His strategic mind and knowledge of the kingdom's affairs are unparalleled."
"Atem..." Naima trailed off.
Something roiled in her stomach at the thought of him leaving on such a perilous journey while she stayed behind.
"How can you expect me to watch you walk into the unknown while I stay here in this palace and act like nothing is happening? You could be killed." she implored.
She had always stood by Atem's side, facing every challenge together. But now, the thought of ruling in his stead, of being separated from him while he undertook this journey... It was daunting.
"I have faith that you will rise to meet the challenge," he said with a smile. "And succeed, as you have done in all your other endeavors".
Naima sighed heavily, steeling herself.
'Get it together.'
She was now Queen, and it was an obligation she was honor-bound to uphold with dignity and grace, a responsibility that went beyond personal desires.
Perhaps now was the time to shatter the mold she had been inadvertently placed in. She refused to remain a silent figurehead that was merely something pretty to look at, a voice that awaited an invitation to speak. But instead, she would be a force to be reckoned with, a leader who was prepared to demonstrate that she could—and would—stand resolute and true in the face of adversity, for the sake of her kingdom and its people.
"I understand." Naima finally said. "I may not like it, but I understand the path that you must walk... your duty. And, I also understand mine. The kingdom needs stability, and if my role is to provide that in your absence, then so be it."
Atem closed the distance, his eyes dark and searching.
"Your courage never ceases to amaze me," he said gently. "You're remarkable, Naima."
His voice, a low, velvet murmur, caressed her very soul.
"It's our shared strength that will forge our future, Atem," Naima murmured to him.
The night encroached, bringing with it a certain kind of serenity, their shadows merging in its inky embrace. Each whispered word hung in the air, promises of a future they were slowly weaving together. Laying there on the bed, nothing else mattered but their fingers interlaced and soft touches they shared. Atem's lips seared against her own, and then he was gone, trailing a path of kisses down her neck and breasts, his hands making gentle caresses across her body with a familiarity that made her heart stutter.
She surrendered fully to him as he made love to her, and in the heat of their passion she whispered his name like a fervent prayer in the stillness of the night.
And in that moment, she had never felt so alive.
-o0o-
The air was thick with anticipation.
Naima felt it, a palpable energy that seemed to ripple through the very walls of the palace. For two days now, discreet preparations had been underway.
In the privacy of her and Atem's chamber, Naima stood by the window, staring blankly into the distance. The desk was a landscape of papyrus scrolls, evidence of her recent nights spent in the library. She had sought knowledge about Abeydos and Ra in hopes of arming Atem with information for his mission. Among these, she had retrieved the court records from her mother's time, hoping for insights about her that have remained hidden in the past. Yet, for all her efforts, the secrets she sought remained elusive.
The sacred city of Abeydos, as she had learned, was a place shrouded in myth and legend. As a sacred burial site of the earliest pharaohs, multiple texts confirmed its abandonment by humans several hundred years ago, but legend had it that Ra had chosen Abeydos as his terrestrial abode. The divine temple of Ra still rested in its center, adorned in gold and gemstones and untouched by time. Despite its opulance, no thief had ever dared to desecrate it, for it was said to be shielded by the might of Ra himself. Many sought to enter Ra's sacred chambers, lured by tales of divine knowledge, unparalleled power, and treasures beyond imagination.
Those brave enough to seek entry into Ra's sanctum faced a trial of the heart. Anyone with a tainted soul or with ill-intent would face severe repercussions.
Naima felt a chill at the notion.
Atem's caution about them not entering in tandem was well-founded, after all. The texts further detailed that those who endured the heart's initial scrutiny would then face a succession of trials, gauging the merit of the soul that sought Ra. The temple was apparently an enigma, designed to test the worthiness of those who dared to seek an audience with the god, known as the 'Trials of Ra'. The scrolls spoke of brave souls who entered and were never seen again, their spirits trapped forever within the temple's hallowed walls.
As Naima pondered the magnitude of Atem's task, images of him facing these trials filled her with dread. The risks were immense, each trial a step into unknown dangers. The possibility of Atem being ensnared or worse in the temple's depths was a thought she couldn't bear.
Yet, she knew she must remain steadfast. Atem's resolve had always been a source of strength, and in his absence, she had to uphold that same fortitude for their people.
Drawing a deep breath, Naima centered herself.
She could not let worry consume her.
Her eyes drifted back to the desk, to the stack of court records she had been sifting through in the meantime. Between the mundane details, she found a few amusing entries. One of them detailed a court meeting where in the midst of a heated debate about trade routes, a flock of ibises had suddenly flown through an open window, causing a commotion. The Pharaoh Aknamkanon, amused, declared it a divine sign to take a recess and enjoy the day outside.
Naima smiled.
With fingers stained from the ancient ink, she gently caressed the papyrus, then turned her attention back to the window.
A modest-sized caravan had since congregated outside the palace grounds—a handful of guards, several servants, and the court, with the noticeable absence of Seto, who was nowhere to be found.
Naima quietly made her way outside. Hidden from sight, she slipped silently back against the pillar near the door, just in time to witness with Atem checking his supplies for one last time and Mana flitting around him.
"Let me come with you, Atem." Mana grumbled.
"It's too risky."
"Come on. What can go wrong?" Mana said.
"A great deal." Atem replied tersely.
"Oh just relax, will you? We're all gonna be fine." Mana sang, her smile radiant and unwavering. "Have faith in me, your devoted apprentice magician!"
Though a part of her envied the adventure that awaited them, Naima also felt the gravity of her role in Atem's absence. She would be the anchor, the steady hand that would keep their kingdom thriving until his return.
Atem's sigh broke her reverie.
"Alright, Mana, you may come." he finally conceded, begrudingly.
"But please, you must be careful."
Mana's jubilant cheer echoed through the grounds, but Naima barely heard it, her nerves rattling as she watched final preparations being made.
She emerged from the shadow of the pillar and Atem caught sight of her immediately. His eyes, carrying the weight of his impending journey, softened as they met hers. The clamor around them seemed to mute for a brief moment.
"You are leaving soon?" she said.
Atem cast a glance over his shoulder, where the caravan sat mounted and poised, awaiting his signal.
He exhaled, giving a single, decisive nod.
His fingers met her cheeks, tenderly cradling her face in his hands.
Naima bit back tears as she looked at him.
"Safe journeys ahead." she whispered, "I await your return."
The unsaid fear of a final farewell lingered in the air.
But Atem, sensing her unspoken dread, pressed his forehead to hers.
"I will return to you." he murmured,
As they departed, their figures shrinking in the distance, Naima felt fragments of her heart leave with each step they took, a silent procession of hope and heartache.
-o0o-
As dawn broke the next morning, Naima rose, her h`eart fortified with a newfound resolve, stark against the empty spot beside her.
She dressed for battle, donning a white silk gown overlaid with delicate sheer purple fabric that draped behind her. Amethysts, gold, and a myriad of other precious gems glinted as they adorned her body, catching the soft light of the morning glow. Although her reflection radiated elegance, she was armored in spirit.
For today was no ordinary day. The sun burned bright above her as she marched out of her chamber with purpose, her stride a silent oath to embody her mother's regal poise and strength.
Today was the day of rulings - when the citizens of the kingdom could present their grievances to royalty, and it would be her first time making a decision on her own. She had attended these with Atem before, watched him preside over the hearings. But today, she stood alone.
Seto was already waiting by the hall's entrance, arms folded with a gaze as sharp as the jewels at her throat. Their gazes locked for a brief, intense moment before he motioned her forward.
The musty air clung to them as they made their way into the hall. Seto walked slightly behind her as her dress billowed out in the slight draft. The ornate room, with its high stone ceilings adorned with gold and red tapestry, was filled with the kingdom's elite.
A hush blanketed the room with her entrance. Eyes, many laden with curiosity and expectation, sought the figure they had anticipated - Atem.
Undeterred, Naima approached Atem's throne. The weight of their gazes followed her, and yet, she settled onto the seat with as much grace as she could muster.
Seto stationed himself beside her in an authoritative stance, his Millennium rod in hand with his arms crossed over his chest.
She sat tall, every inch the ruler, despite the chaotic sea of anxiety in her mind.
'Just do what Atem does.'
"Welcome." Naima said. The entire hall fell into a hush.
"I will be presiding over this week's rulings."
A charged silence ensued.
An old man with a kind face stepped forward.
"My Queen, it is an honor." he said, inclining his head. "If I may ask, where is the Pharaoh today?"
"The Pharaoh is currently attending to matters of great importance." Naima said. "Today, I am here in his place."
Her words carried an unspoken finality, a gentle yet firm reminder of her authority in Atem's absence.
"Let's proceed."
Immediately, two groups of people stepped forward. Naima recognized them - the Al-Masri family and the Bahari family, both titans of Egypt's trade, and were also known for their incessant disputes.
From the Al-Masri side, a burly man with a commanding beard spoke up,
"My Queen, for generations, the river route through the Nile Delta has been under the exclusive control of the Al-Masri family. But now, the Bahari family seeks to encroach upon our territory."
A statuesque woman from the Bahari clan glared at him.
"Your claim is baseless. Our ancestors have traded there long before you."
She then turned toward Naima and bowed low.
"My Queen, the Bahari family has always respected boundaries. But the river route is vast, and there's enough room for both families to benefit. The Al-Masri's greed knows no bounds."
The Al-Masri man scoffed,
"Your words twist the truth. We have watched you extend your trade routes slowly but surely, into territories long held by us."
"Because you have overreached and hoarded, leaving nothing for others." shouted a younger Bahari man who couldn't hold back.
"The Nile belongs to Egypt, not to one greedy family!"
"Enough," Naima interjected, shooting a stern look toward the Bahari side.
"This isn't a marketplace squabble. I expect you to keep your tempers in check."
The Bahari man bowed low after being elbowed by someone else in their group.
"My deepest apologies, my Queen."
"I have heard enough." Naima said.
The room crackled with anticipation, all eyes fixed on her as she drew in a slow breath, gathering her thoughts.
"Both of your families have contributed greatly to our kingdom's prosperity. Instead of fighting over a stretch of the Nile, why not share it? Divide the area equally. This way, both families can benefit, and our kingdom's trade will continue to flourish."
The Bahari woman nodded, her eyes revealing a touch of gratitude. "Your wisdom is commendable, my Queen."
But the Al-Masri man looked unconvinced.
"This is a drastic departure from the earlier rulings," he said, narrowing his eyes. "The Pharaoh always recognized our longstanding claims."
There were murmurs throughout the hall. Naima felt a flare of indignation. It took all her effort to keep her voice level.
"I respect and uphold many of the Pharaoh's decisions, but today, I sit in this throne, and it's my duty to ensure harmony and fairness for all. We must adapt and evolve for the betterment of our kingdom. Remember that peace is more profitable than endless disputes."
Naima exhaled, before continuing.
"My decision stands. Both families will work together for the greater good."
The Bahari woman stepped forward.
"We accept this decision and pledge to work with the Al-Masri family for the prosperity of Egypt."
Both families bowed in acknowledgment before leaving the hall.
Naima sighed and closed her eyes, taking a moment to steady her thoughts before a new string of people came to the front.
The weight of judgment bore down on her shoulders, every choice and command under intense scrutiny.
But she will not falter - she is Atem's replacement, yes, but also a ruler in her own right, determined to prove her worth.
-o0o-
The next few days became a blur for her. She was thrust into a world of governance, a realm she had only observed from the sidelines.
Seto, as Atem had promised, was a constant presence, his piercing gaze following her every move. It seemed he had embarked on a personal mission to scrutinize every minuscule thing she did, seeking flaws to exploit and opportunities to undermine her, making her appear inept in front of everyone. His watchful eyes, a constant in the background, became a daily test, eroding her resolve.
During a meeting about the harvests, Naima had sat at the head of the table, striving to project poise and composure amidst several regional leaders.
"We must distribute the harvest evenly among the provinces." Naima said. "Times have been hard, and all must have their share." Her eyes swept across the gathered faces.
Seto, standing to her right like a shadow, leaned in and whispered, "My Queen, while equality is an ideal, efficiency and loyalty should guide our resources. Allocating more to strategic provinces could ensure a stronger defense and economy."
Naima turned to him and gave him an incredulous look.
"All our people are loyal, Seto. We cannot show favoritism during times of crisis."
He conceded with a reluctant nod, but Naima did not miss the look in his eyes, sharp and calculating at all times.
The next day during another meeting, Naima proposed a temporary tax relief for the farmers affected by the recent drought. Before the council could react, Seto interjected.
"My Queen," he began, his voice edged with his typical arrogance. "Have you considered the financial implications on the kingdom's treasury? Our wealth and influence must be preserved at all costs."
Bastard.
Naima's lips remained in a firm, thin line as she regarded Seto with barely veiled contempt.
"Thank you for your input, Seto."
As she spent more time with him, Naima saw a pattern emerging. Seto would often counter her decisions, always with a logical explanation, but she couldn't shake off the feeling that there was more to his objections.
This suspicion deepened when Naima advocated for diplomatic outreach to neighboring countries. "Building alliances through dialogue is our path forward," she asserted.
Seto, however, raised an eyebrow in clear disapproval. "But a display of military might be even more persuasive in securing alliances," he countered.
Naima's eyes flashed with irritation as she bit back the urge to unleash a flurry of curses. The room grew tense, the other council members exchanging uneasy glances.
But she decided to hold her tongue, choosing instead to nod thoughtfully.
"Thank you, Seto. Your insights are invaluable. But I truly believe that true alliances are built on mutual respect, not fear."
Seto seemed to relish in these power plays. Each day was a challenge in that Seto would happily take every opportunity to undermine her in front of everyone he could. Additionally, the once lively palace now felt tense and somber, as if everyone could sense the power dynamic shifting. And Naima couldn't help but think that Seto was secretly reveling in it.
Naima had made countless attempts to bridge the gap between them, to extend a hand in peace. And perhaps, she would try once again...
"How is Kisara? What has happened with her?" she asked tentatively as they walked the halls after a meeting. "I haven't seen or heard from her in a long time."
"She's fine," he spat. "Why don't you go back to minding your own business."
Naima clenched her jaw, cursing herself for even trying. Some things never change, and their strained relationship seemed destined to remain that way.
-o0o-
In the heart of Abeydos stood the Temple of Ra, bathed in a light that seemed not of this earth. It shimmered like a mirage, a jewel amidst the endless sands where the divine touched the mortal, and the veil between the worlds thinned.
The shifting sands, guardian of secrets long buried, concealed the resting places of the earliest pharaohs, their spirits woven into the very fabric of the place. Here, amidst the silent vigil of the ages, the formidable Temple of Ra stood tall like an unyielding guardian, its facade a testament to the artistry of a bygone era. The entrance, guarded by massive pillars studded with blood-red rubies and lapis lazuli as deep as the night sky, stood tall and proud like guardians of a sacred stronghold, beckoning to those who dared to tread the path of the divine.
And there, standing before this threshold of gods, was Atem. The golden hue of the sun wrapped around him like a cloak, his silhouette etched against the timeless architecture. His eyes scanned the sacred expanse before him, an acknowledgment of the weight of history that pressed upon his shoulders.
Just beyond this threshold, the court stood in solemn vigil with their eyes fixed on him in silent support.
"...Who dares to disturb the dwelling of Ra..."
The voice, more a vibration than a sound, resonated through the very stones of the temple, through the sands beneath his feet and the marrow of his bones.
"It is I, Atem, son of Aknamkanon, descendant of the line of great Pharaohs who came before me. I come seeking the power of Ra, so I may safeguard the people of Egypt from the looming threat of darkness that approaches." he declared, his voice a steady thread between the slew of whispers that filled the air.
For a moment, time itself seemed to pause. Then, a deeper resonance, like the heartbeat of the earth, answered him.
"...Enter... Chosen one..."
As the words echoed into silence, the entrance to the temple seemed to widen. He took a step forward, then paused and turned back at the call of his court.
"My Pharaoh, remember that you do not walk alone."
Their voices, a unified swell of loyalty and faith, reached out to him. Then, with a nod that conveyed his gratitude, he turned back to the temple and with the unknown darkness ahead, he stepped inside and did not look back. The ancient doors of the temple slammed shut, leaving Atem to face Ra and himself, alone in the sacred darkness, where the only light was the faint glimmer of hope in his heart.
-o0o-
Atem's absence in the palace was acutely felt by all.
Naima, who had confined herself mainly to her chamber and leaving only when necessary, wrestled with a discomfort that intensified each time she ventured out. It was as if unseen eyes bore into her, scrutinizing her every move. This sense of paranoia, whether real or imagined, gnawed at her. She couldn't help but fear that Seto's relentless undermining had eroded everyone's confidence in her leadership.
Meanwhile, each day that passed without news from Atem and his entourage to Abeydos deepened the worry lines on her face. The lack of communication was not just unsettling; it was a foreboding omen that left her feeling on edge, wondering if the silence meant they had encountered a fate too grim to report.
In Atem's absence, the palace, once a symbol of light and hope, had somehow transformed into a maze of shadows and hushed whispers. Eliyah had mentioned servants speaking of unexplained cold drafts and flickering torches in previously warm hallways. Despite the ample light, a pervasive sense of darkness loomed for some strange reason.
Pushed to the edge, Naima's patience frayed, enough so that one afternoon, she resolved to confront Seto after a particularly frustrating day.
She found him in his study in the early evening, and her gaze fixed on him immediately.
Seto's usually sharp blue eyes now held a distant, almost haunted quality, causing her to hesitate momentarily, a mix of apprehension and confusion knotting in her stomach.
"I came to talk," she stated firmly.
Seto continued to peruse a scroll for a moment longer, as if to emphasize his indifference, before finally setting it aside. He looked up, his gaze cold and distant.
"About?"
Naima took a steadying breath.
"Your actions ... they're causing unrest. You're constantly undermining my authority. Why?"
Seto's expression shifted ever-so-slightly, just enough for Naima to catch a flicker of arrogance in his eyes.
"I'm taking necessary measures for the stability of Egypt," he replied cooly.
She fought to quell the surge of irritation that rose up in her.
"By sidelining me? By contradicting me every chance you get? How does this inspire confidence in the government by our people?"
His features hardened even further.
"The Pharaoh entrusted me with the responsibility of this kingdom in his absence."
Naima's fury simmered.
"And he entrusted me as well," she shot back. "Yet you act as if I'm irrelevant."
Seto leaned in closer through a charged silence, locking eyes with her, and for a few tense seconds, they did not speak.
"I refuse to let this kingdom succumb to foolish mistakes made by incompetent leaders who can't see the bigger picture. Egypt cannot afford to be paralyzed by indecision or misguided sentimentality." he growled.
"So you are challenging my authority?"
Seto's eyes, sharp and calculating, locked onto her.
"I challenge the decision to place an inexperienced ruler on the throne at one of the most crucial times in Egypt's history. Leaving Egypt in turmoil is unacceptable. This kingdom teeters on the edge of destruction."
"You speak as if Atem is never returning. He will return soon enough." Naima seethed.
An eerie silence filled the room like a fog, only pierced by Seto's scathing reply.
"And if he doesn't return?"
A fire began to blaze in her chest.
"He will return." Naima's jaw clenched as she stared him down.
"He is the heart of this kingdom and its rightful leader, and he undertook this journey for the sake of Egypt and for all of us."
"Can't you see, you naive fool..." Seto muttered.
"You truly have no understanding of the risk the Pharaoh has taken. This journey will have cost us our king. His absence leaves Egypt vulnerable, a kingdom without its king... a void that I am prepared to fill."
Naima balked at his words, recoiling.
The audacity. Seto's true intentions were now laid bare before her... She scowled at him.
"How dare you... To even think such treasonous thoughts... Concealing your true loyalties until it benefits you? I should have you burned for this..." she hissed
"It's as if Atem is nothing to you, to any of us. Like he is just some obstacle in your way. Do you have any idea how much respect he has for you?"
Unmoved, Seto's eyes narrowed, and for the first time in a long while, Naima felt cornered.
He slammed his fist on the table.
"We need stability now, not chasing after stupid legends. Seeking out Ra is a fool's errand. Everyone who has entered that temple has never returned."
Naima's spine chilled at his words, and her breath shuddered in her chest as she attempted to control her own indignation.
"He believed in the power of Ra, believed it was necessary for the kingdom's protection. How can you question his judgment now?"
Seto's gaze was unyielding.
"Without him, Egypt is vulnerable. We need decisive leadership, not baseless hope."
"And you believe that leadership should come from you?"
Seto met her gaze without hesitation. "Yes."
Naima paused, taking a moment to let the tension subside while she circled the room. She stopped by a vase of lotuses, plucking one from the arrangement.
"Lotuses... They symbolize purity and resurrection, rising from the mud untainted. A fitting symbol for our kingdom. But even the purest lotus can be tainted if its roots are poisoned."
"Are you suggesting I'm poisoning this kingdom?" Seto barked.
Naima turned to face him.
"Our kingdom thrives when its leaders act with honor and integrity." she said. "Our pharaoh leaves to undertake a perilous journey, and yet you disobey his orders, and go behind his back and try to take his position right from under him. You're so sure that he is already dead, aren't you, Seto? Betrayal... is a poison that harms not just the betrayed, but the betrayer as well. Our kingdom has already suffered one betrayal, and now you plan to be the second?"
Naima took a step closer, her voice low. "What are you planning?"
His gaze remained steely.
"I plan to do what must be done to ensure the continuity and strength of Egypt."
Naima faced him squarely. "You've already assumed Atem is dead, that you'll claim the throne. But you forget I am the reigning queen. So, then, what will you do with me?"
Seto remained silent, his gaze intense.
"Will you have me disposed of as if I was nothing? Just as you wished that day we met in the hall..."
Silence hung between them like a heavy veil.
"Atem is alive and well. And he will return." Naima declared. "The kingdom is in capable hands. And it will remain so."
Seto stood, facing her squarely, their glares locked in a silent battle of wills.
"For now..." he said, before he left the room.
-o0o-
In the deep hours of the night, Naima lay awake, her heart thrumming with a restless fear. The shadow of Seto's ambition stretched long and dark across her thoughts, stirring a paranoia that he might exploit her vulnerability.
Therefore, she ordered three guards to stay in her chamber, and three additional guards at every entrance. As she lay there, Seto's ominous words haunted her, a relentless reminder of her precarious position.
'Atem... please be okay. Please come home soon...' she prayed. 'The kingdom needs you more than ever...'
The next day, cloaked in the solitude of her chamber, Naima sought refuge from Seto's prying eyes.
"Eliyah, what is the word around here?" Naima said as she poured both of them a cup of tea.
"It is tense, Naima." he said. "Very tense. People are whispering about a change, a shift in power that seems inevitable now."
Her decision to have guards in her chamber had not gone unnoticed, and apparently many were speculating about the reason, causing rumors to circulate throughout the palace.
Naima settled back, cradling her tea cup, the earthy aroma of the leaves offering a small respite.
"Do you remember Kisara?"
"Of course."
"I haven't seen her in weeks. Do you know where she might be? Have you heard anything?"
Eliyah shook his head, concern etching his features.
Naima took a deep breath, trying to calm the storm of worry brewing within her. "Find out about Kisara, discreetly. I need to know she's safe.""
A few hours later, Eliyah returned with news.
Kisara was indeed safe but had been confined to Seto's chambers all this time. The revelation left Naima puzzled, her mind racing with questions about the implications of Kisara's seclusion.
Word had reached her that Seto was away on a brief excursion to Thebes and Naima recognized her chance. The risk of entering his chambers was significant, but the opportunity was too crucial to ignore. With a quiet determination, she made her way to Seto's chambers, slipping inside unnoticed.
The room was bathed in sunlight, its grandeur almost rivaling that of her and Atem's chamber. There, by the window, sat Kisara, her figure illuminated in the soft light.
Kisara looked toward her, her blue eyes widening in surprise and recognition.
"Naima?" she whispered, rising to her feet.
Relief flooded her. Kisara, despite her naturally pale complexion, looked well and healthy, a newfound sparkle in her eyes.
"Kisara... you're okay." Naima breathed out, embracing her. "I haven't heard from you in weeks... I just needed to see you were safe."
"I'm safe now." she said. "Seto has been protecting me since... since the incident."
Naima's brow furrowed with concern. "Incident? What happened, Kisara? I thought you'd be safe with Seto."
Kisara's eyes filled with a haunting mix of fear and relief. She glanced away, her voice a trembling whisper. "It was after you brought me here... Seto was kind, he made sure I was comfortable. But then... Aknadin found out I was staying in Seto's chambers. He... he took me, Naima."
Naima's heart sank, a cold dread washing over her.
Kisara's hands clenched into fists, the memory visibly paining her.
"He put me in chains and brought me to some underground place where others were forced to fight with their Ka. It was horrifying, full of chains and screaming."
Tears brimmed in her eyes.
"Seto found me there, in a cage. He couldn't believe it. 'You cannot be serious,' he said to Aknadin. But Aknadin, he spoke of destinies and armies, of needing creatures as strong as the Egyptian gods. He said he wanted to... take my Ka, and use it."
Naima's mind reeled, but she kept a steady gaze.
"He forced me into a battle. I was just supposed to stand there and fight these other prisoners' Ka. Seto, he couldn't stand it. He stepped in, said it was an outrage, that I'd done nothing to deserve this. I was so scared, but seeing him stand up for me... it gave me a bit of hope. But then, things escalated, and we both ended up falling into a pit. I had no choice; I had to call on my Ka. It was the only way. Afterward, I was so exhausted, I could barely stand. Seto caught me; he was there for me."
Kisara's eyes filled with tears, a mix of fear and gratitude. "Aknadin kept on rambling on about power and control, how I could be used as a weapon. Seto handed me over to the guards, told them to let me rest. Afterward, he said he told Aknadin that if he ever laid a hand on me, he would personally ensure that not even the shadows could hide him from his wrath. He vowed to protect me, no matter what it took."
Kisara's smile could have outshone the sun itself.
"Seto cares for me. He makes sure I'm well. I know I've been cooped up in here all this time, but I really don't mind. I feel safer than I ever have in my life. I like it here, with Seto."
A strange tumult of emotions swirled within, confusion and an unexpected warmth. To think that Seto, with all his hard edges and sharp words, could show such tenderness...
Naima took a moment to absorb Kisara's words, her gaze drifting around the room. The chamber was indeed a sanctuary, a place of comfort and luxury.
"Kisara, I'm glad he's caring for you. But be cautious. His behavior lately... it's concerning." Naima said.
"In Atem's absence, Seto seems to be positioning himself for the throne."
Kisara's eyes widened slightly, her fingers playing with the hem of her dress. "Really? That's... alarming. I... I didn't realize."
She moved away from the window.
"Things have been different since... since the day we lost Aknadin."
Naima paused, absorbing her words.
"That was a dark day for us all." she said. "But why would that affect Seto to this extent?"
Kisara looked away, clearly struggling with her loyalty.
"Naima... there's something you should know. Did you know... he is Aknadin's son."
Naima shrank back in disbelief.
"No... I did not know that."
"It's true. Very few people know about it." Kisara said simply.
"I think despite Aknadin's disappearance, something of him... a shadow, perhaps... It lingers here, around Seto. I can feel it."
Naima was floored by this revelation. Perhaps... the darkness that had been pervading the palace... perhaps now they had an explanation.
"Seto became different after Aknadin disappeared. Darker, more serious. He always seemed to struggle with his identity, especially after Aknadin's betrayal and allegiance to Zorc. But now... it's just different."
Naima's heart quickened.
"Kisara, are you saying that maybe Aknadin is influencing Seto somehow?" she asked, her mind racing to comprehend the enormity of it all.
Kisara's voice broke, "I don't know, Naima. All I know is that Seto is torn. It's like he's battling an unseen force. He battles within himself. There are nights he doesn't sleep, just stares out of the window.
Naima felt a chill run down her spine. The thought of Aknadin's spirit, still present within the palace walls, influencing Seto...
A silence fell between them, heavy with unspoken fears. Naima gently placed a hand over Kisara's.
"Thank you for sharing this with me. We must help Seto, for his sake, and for the kingdom's."
Kisara looked up, her eyes filled with determination. "I want to help, Naima. But I fear for Seto. He's caught in a web, and I don't know how to free him."
Naima took Kisara's hands, squeezing them reassuringly. "We'll figure this out."
As Naima left the chamber, the weight of their conversation pressed down on her. The palace, with its grandeur and beauty, was becoming a battleground, and the stakes had never been higher.
-o0o-
Naima's mind was full. Not just with matters regarding Seto. But full... of everything. It is just too much. Everything is. It was hard enough without someone trying to take over the throne, without worrying if her husband is even alive.
She collapsed onto her bed, too defeated to even cry as a sense of defeat enveloped her. Tears refused to come; instead, there was only a numbing dread.
What if Atem was truly gone? What if silence from the court signified a greater loss than she dared to admit? Her position, she realized, was far more precarious than she could acknowledge. Her mind kept returning to Seto, his threats, and the dark transformation she had witnessed in him.
A curt knock on the door jolted her from her spiraling thoughts.
"My Queen, the High Priest Seto has come to speak with you." a guard said.
Naima's stomach dropped as she gestured for the guard to let him in.
Seto sidled in, taking an unamused once-over look around her chamber, before his eyes hardened on her.
"A word." he grunted.
"What is it?"
She feared she already knew the answer to her own question.
"I know about your little escapade into my chamber. You're playing a game you can't win." he said.
"A game? Is that what you consider this? This is far more than just a game." Naima's eyes hardened on him.
"This isn't you, Seto."
"Don't pretend you know about me."
"I know enough to know that the real Seto, despite being an arrogant ass, would never turn his back on his duties or his honor. But now, you're letting whatever this is consume you, and it's leading you down a dangerous path."
She stepped closer, her voice softening. "Seto, I don't want to be your enemy. I want to work with you, for the sake of this kingdom. But I can't do that if you're working against me."
Seto's gaze was unfathomable, a stormy sea of thoughts and emotions. He seemed on the verge of saying something, then closed his mouth before his cold gaze returned again.
"You think you can waltz into my private space and meddle in affairs far beyond your comprehension?"
"I comprehend it just fine and I'm not sorry for going into your chamber." Naima spat.
"Your behavior over the last week has been outrageous. You dare to threaten me and covet the throne in your own personal quest for power, you're lucky I haven't charged you with treason and ordered your head on a spike."
She stood up and faced him, and for the first time she was not afraid.
His scoff was derisive, igniting a fire within her.
"It's funny how quick you are to dismiss me, yet you and many others forget who you are dealing with. Do you remember the last time you challenged me, Seto?" Naima said as lightning crackled in her palms.
Seto burst out laughing, mocking and sharp, and his reaction made her pause in confusion.
"Your pathetic Ka is nothing compared to the power I possess."
"You lie."
"You don't believe me? Suit yourself." he said. "You see sooner or later."
The words were stuck in her throat, but she had to say it.
"This reminds me of... someone we both know. Aknadin." Naima said.
Seto's expression flickered, a brief disturbance. "What about Aknadin?" His voice was a low growl.
Naima stepped closer, locking eyes with him. "Remember how he changed? From trusted member of the court to a shadow lurking in darkness, who pledged himself to Zorc. I see that same shadow in you, Seto. Are you walking his path?"
Seto's scoff was bitter. "You compare me to that traitor? I'm nothing like Aknadin."
"You're not?" Naima pressed, her gaze unwavering.
"Both of you, brilliant, powerful, but then... something shifts. Can you honestly tell me you're not on the same descent?"
Seto's eyes narrowed.
"My actions are for the sake of Egypt's future."
"By threatening its queen? By trying to overtake the throne? What's leading you, Seto?"
Seto's stance stiffened, a sign she'd hit a nerve. "You know nothing of my intentions."
"Then enlighten me." Naima challenged. "Because right now all I see is a man shadowed by the same darkness that claimed Aknadin. And we both know how that ended."
As they both stood there, a subtle yet unmistakable change came over him. His posture straightened, and the arrogant glint in his eye transformed into something colder, more calculating. It was as if the shadows in the room gathered around him.
"You misunderstand," Seto said with an eerie calmness that sent a chill down Naima's spine.
"I'm merely being guided to my destiny, just as your mother tried to guide you to yours."
The mention of her mother, so unexpected and out of place, caught Naima off guard. Her mouth fell open in shock, a reaction that Seto observed with a faintly unsettling grin.
"Yes, Naima. There are forces at work here that far exceed your understanding. Aknadin sought power, true, but he was merely a vessel, as am I. A vessel for a greater purpose."
Naima felt a cold dread settle in her.
"...Aknadin?"
His eyes burned with an unrecognizable malice.
"You, Naima, are standing in the way of my destiny."
Despite her fear, Naima stood her ground.
"And you're willing to betray your kingdom, your Pharaoh, for this destiny?"
A tense stillness settled in the air, thick with unspoken tension, until Seto promptly turned toward the door.
"Stay out of my chamber," he said. "And maybe I will spare you when the time comes."
-o0o-
In the confines of her chamber, Naima tossed restlessly. Every creak of the wood, every whisper of the night wind, seemed to speak of Seto's growing power and her own dwindling influence. The fear that had been simmering within her since Atem's departure now boiled over. What if he never returned? What would become of her? Endless questions clawed at her mind. Visions of the future, grim and uncertain, paraded before her eyes. She must act, quickly, or else risk becoming a shadow, a forgotten regent, or worse, a traitor in the eyes of the new order. The safety and respect she had known under Atem's reign felt like a distant memory.
As the first light of dawn pierced the darkness, a commotion broke the heavy stillness. Naima, with a sense of foreboding tightening around her heart, hurried toward the source of the disturbance, leading her to the large hall.
The room bustled with activity, servants and guards in a state of barely controlled chaos. In the midst of it all stood Seto, his usual stoic facade cracked by a fierce determination burning in his eyes.
Seto's eyes met Naima's as she entered. He looked crazed, haunted. A flicker of something indefinable passed between them.
"Naima," he addressed her.
"Egypt cannot linger in uncertainty. You of all people should understand the need for decisive action."
Naima, gathering her composure, responded with a calm she did not feel.
"Seto, this is not the way. Atem—"
"Atem is not here," Seto cut in, his voice firm.
"And we cannot afford to wait for a sign that may never come. I do this for Egypt, for its people, for its future. As of this moment, I declare myself Regent Pharaoh."
Naima's breath caught in her throat. "You can't simply declare yourself ruler, Seto. This is madness, a betrayal of everything Atem and this kingdom stand for."
Seto's gaze hardened, a cold fire burning within.
"I do what must be done. Egypt needs a leader, and I am that leader. Stand with me, Naima, or stand aside. But make no mistake, I will do whatever it takes to protect this kingdom."
"I will not stand for this, Seto."
Seto's eyes flickered with a darkness that seemed to swallow any semblance of reason.
"Then you leave me no choice. If you will not stand with me, you will stand against me."
"Seto, you turn against your Pharaoh and your kingdom ..."
Seto's response was a chilling smile, one that didn't reach his eyes.
"No, Naima. I am saving Egypt from itself, from the paralysis of your inexperience and Atem's absence. I am its salvation."
"You're lost, Seto. But I will not let you drag Egypt down with you." Naima said.
Seto's patience, it seemed, had reached its end.
"Seize her!"
His command was a death knell ringing in her ears. She was trapped in the nightmare she had always feared, with no escape in sight. Never safe, no matter what.
The guards snapped their heads towards her, their expressions a mix of bewilderment and confusion, but they did not immediately grab her like she expected.
"Don't you dare touch me." Naima hissed to them.
The darkness within her stirred as the fierce growl of her Ka roared in her ears.
"I am your Queen."
Her thoughts spiraled into chaos as the guards stood around her, their faces etched with uncertainty and fear. None dared to move. Her heart pounded against her chest, a drumbeat of defiance and dread.
As Naima braced herself, the air itself seemed to shiver with a distant, primal roar that sliced through the thick tension, a sound so powerful it seemed to vibrate through the very stone beneath her feet.
Every head turned, eyes wide, as a colossal shadow swept across the sun, bathing the hall in an eerie twilight. Without hesitation, Naima surged towards the balcony, her heart thundering in her chest.
And the sight before her almost brought her to her knees.
Atop a cliff overlooking the city, Atem sat astride his horse, flanked by the court, their forms bold and resolute against the bourgeoning dawn.
But it was the sky above that held the true spectacle. Two mythic titans dominated the sky. Slifer, the sky's serpent, ribboned through the clouds with a deceptive grace, its body a living myth etched against the morning light.
And at its side, Naima's breath caught in her throat as she beheld the form that without a doubt was the Winged Dragon of Ra. Its body and wings were a breathtaking display of shimmering gold, adorned with iridescent scales that glinted like miniature suns, painting the land below with prisms of light.
Their deafening roars shattered the stillness of the dawn, reverberating through the souls of all who bore witness. It was a sound of primal strength and regal authority, of ancient power and unwavering protection.
Below, the people of Thebes spilled from their homes, their gazes skyward as they beheld their Pharaoh and the mighty beasts that protected them.
"Pharaoh!" they proclaimed as they bowed where they once stood.
Atem was back.
As Naima stood amidst the fray, her heart resonated with the cries of her people, their voices a lifeline in the storm. And with every roar from above and every shout from below, hope sparked anew.