P A R T  T H R E E | K H E T

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Prologue: A Tale of Two Brothers

• 𓎬 ☼ 𓋹⋅☾𓂀 ☽⋅𓋹 ☼ 𓎬 •

Disclaimer: the following facts used in this chapter have been researched. Some information has been altered to fit the purposes of the story. Ancient Egyptian may also be factually correct-ish. Considering that Ancient Egyptian evolved from the Old Kingdom and into the Ptolemy Dynasties, it's sad to say we won't know the exact translation of all words and such so I've blended it to make it work. A mixture between all the words deciphered from recent discoveries.

A dictionary will be placed at the end of the chapter.

• 𓎬 ☼ 𓋹⋅☾𓂀 ☽⋅𓋹 ☼ 𓎬 •

Ahkmenrah IX

2536 BCE - Men-nefer [Memphis]

On the longest night of the year - a son was born.

Second son of the King and Queen of Kemet, Ahkmenrah the first was the blend of his mother and father's appearances. With a tuff of brown hair on his head and bright blue eyes, he wailed after he was brought into the world - small and fragile under the arms of the midwife. So loud that perhaps the whole palace could hear him. But when the midwife passed him into his mother's embrace, the baby's cries slowly turned into whimpers, somehow feeling the familiarity of safety.

Shepseheret gazed down at her son, smiling tiredly as her tears dried on her cheeks. He was terribly small, and a tint of fear formed in her head.

The gods have blessed her with something so precious, more than any jewel or gold in their land. And to feel the gift from the gods in her arms made her feel even more compelled to protect him, just like her firstborn. But to have two sons, both healthy and alive: she felt that she was burdened by expectation.

She was the Queen of Kemet, the first wife to Merenkahre and the glittering Jewel of the Nile. When she first arrived in court, her friends and peers told her that being a queen meant to hold power and to rule with poise and propriety, with confidence and good in her heart. What they never prepared her was the deep and beautiful responsibility of love and motherhood alongside it.

It was why she adored Kahmunrah when he first to the world.

Six years apart seemed to be a large gap in others' eyes. But for her: Shepseheret thought it was perfect. She knew it was perfect from the time her oldest son shyly entered the room and asked her politely to see his new brother.

Kahmunrah's eyes shone in wonder and awe as he looked down at his younger sibling. Shepseheret watched the two brothers interact, a mixed feeling of worry and happiness as Kahmunrah didn't speak.

However, something shocked her even more.

When her littlest son opened his eyes, Ahkmenrah stared at his older brother with the largest inquisitive blue eyes.

It was as if the two were looking through each other's minds. Reaching out a hand to him, Kahmunrah pressed his finger over Ahkmenrah's hand - no bigger than the size of his finger itself. Her youngest son then wrapped it around Kahmunrah's finger, never leaving his eyes at Kahmunrah.

Shepseheret silently cried, joyful tears as the two interacted together. She realised that Kahmunrah and Ahkmenrah had something special, and it was something a mother should feel so blessed with. Her sons will protect each other, and she would assure both of them will be protected from the darkness.

Their light will overcome the darkness and unknown that plagues the darkest depth of her mind.

For it, all began with a prophecy set to her family ever since the birth of Kahmunrah.

• 𓎬 ☼ 𓋹⋅☾𓂀 ☽⋅𓋹 ☼ 𓎬 •

2529 BCE - Men-nefer [Memphis]

"Where are you?"

They've been playing hide and seek for over an hour despite his little brother not understanding the rules of the game itself. So with a heavy sigh, Kahmunrah wandered the public courtyard near the marketplace, dodging several people walking past them as they did their daily business.

The city of Memphis during the day was a bustling hub of merchants, farmers, sellers and crafters – going to and from the city outskirts or out of the city itself. The smells of the desert sand mixed with the scent of fruit and spices filled the air as well as the sound of people shouting and conversing.

As Kahmunrah turned around the corner, to what seemed like a pile of empty baskets. He called out once more asking where he was.

He cupped his hands around his mouth, "Where are you, Ahk!"

A tuft of dark hair popped out.

"I'm here Kah!"

Leaping out of the empty weaved baskets, a small figure – no older than seven – appeared in front of him. The largest grin ever on his lips.

Kahmunrah facepalmed and shook his head. "Ahk." He groaned, "You're supposed to hide. Not tell me!"

Vibrant blue eyes fixated on his own brown ones.

Before long, a giggle left Ahkmenrah's lips, his hands shaking on how much fun he was happening. His happiness must be magic as Kahmunrah couldn't help but form a smile on his face, shaking his head as he laughed along with him. Sometimes he often wondered what went on his brother's head; how does he find everything that annoys him funny?

However, Kahmunrah had accepted what Ahkmenrah did or liked, as long as he was happy and safe. He swore as a young child that he would always make sure his brother was safe and made sure he would never be hurt – either by an enemy or by the tongue. However, words have never affected Ahkmenrah for some reason.

The time when Khafre insulted his brother for being so tiny and weak almost made his blood boil. He thought his little brother would act the same too. Instead: Ahkmenrah had bested him in their lessons and made sure to practice his stances secretly.

Kahmunrah had defended him, almost approaching Osaze and Mother about the quarrel. That led to Khafre being sent to extra lessons with his father and being taught how to hold his tongue. As much as he was a dear friend, Kahmunrah always made sure Khafre not to step out of line when it came to affronting his brother. Djedefre was never around, always apprenticing with either his father – Khufu – or spending the days with scribes (which seemed boring for Kahmunrah's taste).

Despite being close friends with his father's advisor's son, Djedefre was, in fact, a year older than him and was a year ahead with his duties. Therefore their times sneaking out of the palace and playing with the children in the city were slowly diminishing. Djedefre's brother Khafre: was taking lessons with Khufu today. Which left him with Ahkmenrah.

Walking up to him, he wrapped an arm over his little brother's shoulders and led him out onto the main road and began their journey back through the city.

The sun beat down onto their skins as they meandered around the tall adults and carts. When Kahmunrah gazed up at the sun, which was past the highest point of the day: he realised how long they've been out.

"Come on," He ushered his little brother, taking his hand instead and quickened his steps. "I'm supposed to be in a lesson with Osaze."

'Supposed to' was an understatement.

His lessons were always first and foremost the priority in the day. Where he would be spending the first half after sunrise to learn about the kingdom and its politics and management; Kemet's history and the dealings with their neighbours. He would then do group lessons with Khafre, Djedefre and Ahkmenrah (which his little brother began this year) about the customs of their kingdom and basic languages such as Nubian and Hun.

He found the lessons to be exciting and ideal for his accession for the throne, as he knew that as the eldest: he would succeed his father as king. But despite how interwoven and in-depth Osaze's lessons were, always captivating it as a story in his ears – Kahmunrah would tend to fall asleep after a while on Nile exports and imports and the stories about his ancestor's greatest achievements.

But Ahkmenrah loved it. He loved the stories and lesson Osaze had and adored the idea of the mystical land beyond their borders of the desert. Either it was the Mufkat or the area beyond the Red Land. It often scared him when he was a little boy what could lay beyond it but his brother asked Osaze many times what could possibly be out there.

"More sand, obviously."

Khafre would say before being given a scolding look from Osaze. Kahmunrah and Djedefre would then argue back that there's probably some civilisation or kingdom passed the known territories, or just more unoccupied land for them to use.

As for his little brother. Ahkmenrah hoped that there was a place that might be different than Kemet, of people that were different and yet the same as they were.

That had confused Kahmunrah and perhaps everyone else in the room when his brother explained that foreign lands could possibly have the same customs and dealing as Kemet had and his mind agreed. Not that it was his brother but the possibility of something potential for them.

After that lesson, Osaze made sure to give some time during the day to teach Ahkmenrah. He wasn't jealous. Sure he was the heir, but it didn't stop making him glad that his brother was doing something he loved for that he never seemed to enjoy being with the other children around the palace.

What Ahkmenrah preferred was playing with the common children out in Memphis.

They continued, leading down in an emptier way towards the quieter gates to the palace. Kahmunrah and Ahkmenrah paced themselves round the corner, only to find themselves stuck inside what seemed to be the stables of a home. The stench of manure lingered about, and hay littered the sides.

There were several mules and horses stationed around, mostly encased around their wooden gates. He mentally cursed and told his brother that needed to come back outside and retrace their steps back to the palace.

'I swear this was the way back,' He thought but was then abrupted by the growing figures in front of them

Kahmunrah then stopped in his tracks.

Several boys appeared before them, at least a head taller than Kahmunrah was. If he had the moment to think, Ahkmenrah would have looked minuscule in comparison them. There were four of them, and what looked to be a bunch of wooden sticks shaped like a dagger in their hands. Their faces were scorned by malicious intent, a smile than neither showed kindness or good intent.

They perhaps didn't know who they were, having rarely been paraded out of the palace grounds since his little brother was born.

He looked over his shoulder and tugged Ahkmenrah. He murmured to him, "When I say run, you try and call for the guards."

"Kah?" His brother's eyes were wide, fear displayed on his face as he tucked himself behind Kahmunrah.

With a soft pat on his shoulder, he said. "I'm here, brother." Kahmunrah glared up to the older boys and raised his head. "Put your weapon down, for I shall have to fight you."

They all laughed at him, eyeing each other as the leader (he presumed) stepped forward and spoke, "With what? Your fists?" The rest snickered as the leader spat back, "You need to be taught a lesson on why you shouldn't wander alone in our territory."

The leader then let out a battle cry, running straight to Kahmunrah. The first thing he did was shove Ahkmenrah out of the way, getting hit full force by the boy's fist in his face. Kahmunrah stumbled back and his vision spun about. He shook his head and snarled, and unsheathed his hidden dagger.

But before he could swing it, the boy grabbed his hand and knocked it out of his hands. Kahmunrah cried in pain as a foot slammed onto his stomach, his hands clutching the area before getting on to his knees.

He could hear them laugh and call him names.

Weak. Pathetic. Stupid.

He gritted his teeth and bared down the pain, and glanced up. The leader had its wooden dagger above his head and was about to aim at his face.

Then a figure jumped out of nowhere.

His breath cut out as Ahkmenrah tossed himself between him and the dagger. The wood slices down his little's brother's leg and sent him screaming.

Kahmunrah's eyes widened and his mouth dropped open.

The boy had just hurt his brother.

He shouted at his brother and told him to get away and forced himself up. He could see the blood already seeping down his leg and the all he could do was tell him to hide.

He pulled his brother round into one of the gates and pulled the reigns of one of the horses. Kahmunrah did something stupid.

He kicked the horse.

The horse screeched in fear and got up to its hind legs, and clambered up to its full height. In full force, the horse kicked the approaching boy away and sent him flying towards the pile of hay. The next one was slammed right onto the wooden gate, their eyes rolling back as the was knocked out unconscious.

As for the last one, Kahmunrah at his last strength swung his legs and kicked the boy right where the sun did not shine. That sent him falling to the ground faster than any chariot he had seen. When all four of them were either too much in pain or unconscious, he stood around to take a moment's breath.

"Kah!"

Kahmunrah turned and widened his eyes, and ran up to his brother that had hidden behind one of the mules. The mule grunted back at him before he slowly approached the animal with assurance.

Somehow, the mule understood that he wouldn't harm who was behind it so it moved slightly away to revealed his brother. He rushed to his side and encased him with his arms, looking at him in the eye. Kahmunrah whispered, "I'm here, Ahk. I'm here..."

Tears were streaming down his eyes as he spoke, "I was scared Kah."

He shook his head and said in a cry, "What were you doing, Ahk?! You were so brave but so reckless."

Glancing up to his brother, Ahkmenrah's face was edged in confusion. "But I saved you?"

Kahmunrah nodded and wiped the tears off his brother's cheeks. He answered, "And you did. But you're my little brother, Ahk; I should be the one protecting you, Not me."

"But you're going to be King. And kings must be protected and guarded." Ahkmenrah spoke, and a warmth soared in his chest.

Kahmunrah shook his head and looked down to his brother. It was a long cut, though it didn't seem too deep. He needed to take his brother back to the palace. Oh gods, what would they say when they see Ahkmenrah bleeding in his hands?

Oh Ra: he was so dead.

However, it wouldn't help to panic. Kahmunrah replied to his brother's response: "And you are also a prince and my brother. And as the oldest and your king, I must protect my subjects as well."

Ahkmenrah nodded, rubbing his tears away with a large sniff.

There was the sound of jogging steps he looked behind his back and saw the familiar uniform. "It seems they found us," Kahmunrah muttered.

Entering the stables was Kafele - the captain of the guard. Kahmunrah gulped and a dark pit dropped into his stomach. His presence meant it was urgent...which meant they've been searching for them for hours.

"My princes."

Kafele hadn't seen Ahkmenrah yet, since he stood in front of him, as he spoke. "We heard from a vendor that he heard a child scream. And when I heard from my men that you both left I assumed the worse it was Prince Ahkmenrah. Are you both well?"

"Ahkmenrah...he's." He slumped his head down and stepped aside.

There were audible sharp gasps and he was quickly pushed aside by Kafele. The captain picked his brother up, cradling him on his chest as Kahmunrah spotted the rest grabbing the unconscious boys in the stable.

The man who appeared to own it must have notice and paled to find royal guards and both of the princes. Kafele reassured the stablemaster that there had been no damage to their property or horses. 'The man didn't need to know I kicked one of his...' Kahmunrah thought.

"Come. We must return to the palace." He glanced down at him and gave him a stern gaze. "And you, my prince. Osaze has been searching for you. And so is Fukayna, Prince Ahkmenrah."

Kahmunrah's heart skipped a beat. He was indeed dead - and it was all his fault.

They returned to the palace in the northern gate at a fast pace, getting on one of the guard's horses with them and galloping towards their destination. When they arrived at the entrance of the palace, Kahmunrah's heart dipped slightly. Neither their father nor mother came to wonder if they were back. He only assured himself they were busy with some important meetings with the council.

However, it didn't stop a familiar figure run down the steps. Her white dress billowing behind her as she held it up from tripping. Fukayna's eyes found him and they were as wide as the paintings drawn over the walls.

This was much worse.

"My princes! Oh Ahkmenrah, what happened?" Their Mnat shrieked.

Hoisted down from the horse, the guard bowed to him before Kahmunrah's face was squished between two slim hands. Fukayna studied his face, trying to find any mark. She could probably hear his heart thumping when she noticed the bruises and cuts in his shoulders.

If she saw the large bruises forming on his stomach.

His little brother on the other hand had some linen wrapped around his leg, where red stains began to already form. Guilt still began to build up in his throat as their Mnat pulled him into an embrace. Kahmunrah's breath slowed down a bit and felt comforted by her presence. Fukayna was a very protective woman, especially to him and Ahkmenrah.

"Some beggars." Kafele began and nudged his chin over to Kahmunrah. "Almost got them hadn't Prince Ahkmen saved his brother."

When he stepped back, Kahmunrah found eyes staring at him. He murmured, "...My brother stepped in front of me."

"Is this true?" She asked while Kafele settled his little brother down and had him leaning against the captain's side.

Ahkmenrah nodded his head shyly.

The Mnat knelt down and cupped her hand over Ahkmenrah's cheek. She whispered with a smile, "You, my prince...are going to be something special when you're older."

Kahmunrah couldn't help but smile at the interaction. Fukayna was the best Mnat they ever had. She began working for the royal family ever since Ahkmenrah was born, and always made sure they were taken care of at the best standard. She also taught some things that Osaze didn't offer, like mannerism and mythology. Fukayna like Osaze was a natural storyteller and always kept him and Ahkenrah on their seats.

Speaking of the Royal tutor, his smile disappeared when he saw him striding towards them. The Mena neswt descended the steps and stood in front of the palace. Kafele stiffened his position and held Ahkmenrah. With a command from their captain, the guards dispersed back to their positions as Fukayna walked over to Osaze.

Kahmunrah was so dead.

"Fukayna, my princes. Where have you been?" He calmly asked them, casting his eyes over to the figures in front.

His mouth opened to finally confess but was stopped by a cry.

"It was my fault, Osaze! I asked Kahmun to play and I wanted him to show me the play area he and Djed and Khafre go to." Ahkmenrah hobbled up to their tutor, tears beginning to form once more.

Glancing down, Osaze's eyes flickered in a moment of shock. Kahmunrah internally winced at every second that was passing. He knew what was coming and he was not going to enjoy it one bit.

Fukayna amazingly noticed his nerves and ushered them, "I think it's best to discuss this with the Queen." She turned to the Mena neswt and directed: "Osaze, escort Prince Kahmunrah to her highness."

'Or maybe not,' Kahmunrah gulped and caught staring over to Osaze's disapproving expression. With the royal tutor gesturing for him to follow. With a sigh, he then hurried up the steps and hidden the grunts of his stomach. Glancing over his shoulder, he found his little brother being carried by several servants up the steps after being gestured by their Mnat.

"Come on, my prince. Let's head to the healer." He heard Fukayna say to Ahkmenrah. "Kafele, I'm sure you'll sort out the guards that allowed them to sneak out."

There was an exchange of words, some which Kahmunrah wasn't sure off. Though before he could see them leave, he already entered the palace and straight towards his mother's chambers.

• 𓎬 ☼ 𓋹⋅☾𓂀 ☽⋅𓋹 ☼ 𓎬 •

She was having one of her busiest days.

Mostly it was due to the festival which was coming in a fortnight and preparations were being planned as she spoke. Whilst her husband was busy sorting trade agreements and issues of their kingdom, she was appointed to overseeing the palace as well as the Wag festival. A festival dedicated to the death of Osiris and honouring the souls of the deceased on their journey to the afterlife.

Luckily she had many advisors and handmaidens to aid her during the day, making sure she would eat and drink and take a breather. She was eager to spend the midday meal with her sons, knowing how grumpy they sometimes were after Osaze's lessons, and had her advisors continue without her. Shepseheret knew it best to give some time to her sons, even if they were growing up.

Therefore: hearing that one of her sons were at the healer's wing almost made her drop her goblet.

Faster than any flying falcon or ship, Shepseheret sped toward the direction and found herself looking at Ahkmenrah: a cut running down his leg. She had cried over to her son, asking what happened? Where did he go and who had done it. Bless the child was so intent to tell her everything Ahkmenrah burst into tears.

He admitted to asking his older brother to sneak out of the palace and wanted to place.

And then the mention of delinquents made her inhale her anger. How dare they hurt her children.

However, despite being angry with the boys that attacked her sons: Shepseheret couldn't help but ventilate her anger at their actions. It was why she allowed Peseshet to tend to her child and search for eldest. Osaze had escorted her son to her and allowed them the room to speak.

Hence why she was pacing now back and forth across her chambers with her son standing in front of her. When Kahmunrah finished explaining his story, she froze in her path.

"What!"

She saw his son physically wince.

"It was an accident, mother! We wanted to explore..." Kahmunrah tried to reason with her

"Yes, and you forget that you and your brother are the royal princes of this country." She scolded him. "You must understand that those who oppose us may seek us gone."

She saw the horror-stricken face her son wore, and she quickly regretted scaring him.

Kahmunrah shuffled his feet, as he replied coolly. "I am turning thirteen, mother. I am old enough to be able to protect Ahkmen."

She replied, "And you return and I come to your brother being tended by the healers!" Her voice got louder as she spoke. "What if it was both of you?"

Her eyes watered slightly. She could never lose her sons. They were her prize and precious things she would ever have. Years after Kahmunrah was born, she and Merenkahre kept trying again and again to have another child. But after several miscarriages, Shepseheret was afraid she would never have another child. Until miracle had struck in the form of her youngest child.

She admitted to herself and Merenkahre that two was enough and she would never be able to bore more children. Perhaps she was too harsh.

Especially when she looked at her son, his head lowered down and small sniffs came from him.

Kahmunrah whispered, "I'm sorry, mama..."

Her heart cracked a little and Shepseheret closed into her son and placed her hand over his shoulder. She noticed that his hand wandered down to his stomach and she carefully pressed a hand to it. Hearing a sound from him, she suppressed a gasp.

"Look at me, Kahmun." She softly spoke.

Brown eyes stared towards her. So unlike her younger son's. It almost irked her to ask how different they were sometimes even by some appearances.

"...I'm not angry with you, Kahmun," Shepseheret revealed. "But what you both did was risk your lives. You could have asked to bring a guard with you at least. You must understand that you are more precious to me than any gemstone in Kemet, alright?"

Nodding back, she couldn't help but bring him once more into a tender embrace.

"I know, mother," Kahmunrah whispered over her shoulder. "I love you very much."

She knew Kahmunrah was still upset from what occurred today, so she ushered him to go and meet his brother at the healer's wing with her. The two's faces already lit up when they saw each other, to which Peseshet scolded Kahmunrah for poking his finger on the stitching. That made her quirk her lips and mentally shake her head.

These were her sons, and indeed it was hard to keep them apart.

Once the boys were tended, she decided to have Fukayna attend to them until the evening meal. Her husband was gone for the whole afternoon as well which meant he would have to find out about the news later tonight.

The evening meal passed by and she made sure to wish her sons a good sleep. They were wondering where their father had been and she promised them that he would come by tomorrow to see them before his duties. She was glad that they understood how much Merenkahre did as king, though she felt sorry for them either way. They would never be able to spend as much time with their father as common people did.

She stopped by to Merenkahre's study before she retired to bed, allowing the guards in front of the doors to open it for her. After thanking them, she swept into the room find her husband sat behind his desk.

Merenkahre was few a years older than her, though it didn't stop their love from blooming the moment they met thirteen years ago. She was a young handmaiden serving the dowager queen: Hetepheres, when she laid her eyes to the pharaoh. Soon their love blossomed secretly around the palace grounds until he professed his love in the gardens.

Thirteen years later, Shepseheret still felt her heart fluttering at his presence. He was her other half, and she would love him beyond the mortal life. She greeted him with a kiss before he returned to writing. Shepseheret poured herself a glass and wandered the study.

"What happened?" He asked her.

Shepseheret answered nonchalantly, "Your sons had an adventure today."

That didn't faze him. "Oh? What happened?" He asked.

"I was informed by Osaze and your Head of Guard that our eldest snuck out of his lessons to play with his brother." WShe told him.

When she turned, she found Merenkahre furrowing his eyebrows at her. "That doesn't seem different-"

"-Out of the palace grounds."

His eyebrows raised in surprised. It would seem that he also didn't expect their sons sneaking out of the grounds. In fact, they were well behaved indeed. "Then we must increase security." Her husband said.

Sepseheret walked over to him and loudly placed the cup down. "That is not the point I am making, Merenkahre!" She exasperated. "Your son threw himself to save his brother."

He glared at her, annoyed to be interrupted by her. Merekahre spoke, "Of course, he is the eldest. He is supposed to protect his little brother."

"Not Kahmun, Meren." Shepseheret's features softened.

"Oh."

He paused and stared at her, rather astonished as the idea seeped into his mind.

His face had the mask of pondering, and he put away his papers and gestured for her to sit by side. "He has always been a special child, Shepse." He told her, holding a similar cup on his hand. "Khufu told me a few nights ago he was able to listen in to the meeting between the Huns and understood rather well."

Shepseheret in turn was surprised. Ahkmenrah was only seven years old and his academics has stretched to what was equivalent to his brother's ability. But for him to grow up to already talk as an advisor and representative to the monarchy: is that his fate?

She shook her head. 'No, he is too young. He hasn't even begun training yet.'

"He would be a good negotiator once he begins his training. What is wrong with sacrifice?" Merenkahre asked her and she huffed. "He was brave. These are good qualities for a soldier and general. Kahmunrah and he would thrive when Kahmun ascends the throne." He tried to persuade her.

However, the idea of soldier and general referred her back to the night of Kahmunrah's birth. The prophecy between her sons and the notion of something darker coming.

How will she protect them?

"But what if it happens?" She muttered, "His future?"

Blinking, Merenkahre titled his head and questioned: "You believe what the Oracle says?"

She didn't respond, only to sip her wine and look to the side. After a moment, she felt his hand tilt her chin back and she sighed against the palm of his hand.

"You muse not think the prophecy is set in stone, my love." He assured her.

She placed her drink down and held his hand over hers. "Of course I don't. But I am...afraid." Shepseheret admitted. "I love them too much to lose them. But I'm afraid that what your father had done, will it tie them to it?"

His eyes looked over to her and he appeared to process the question she asked.

"I do not know." Merenkahre professed. "Perhaps Khonsu and Osiris will be merciful for once and keep us together once more."

• 𓎬 ☼ 𓋹⋅☾𓂀 ☽⋅𓋹 ☼ 𓎬 •

2520 BCE - Men-nefer [Memphis]

"On your left, brother."

Ahkmenrah skidded around, weaving away from the metal blade coming at his side. He gritted his teeth as a foot jammed right into his side and sent him stumbling back. Hitting the ground with a thud, he rolled away and got back up.

His skin was burning under the scorching hot sun, stinging by the friction of the sand and rock beneath his feet. His leather sandals were rubbing against his soles, making them blister. His hair was a tangled mane of curls. He had bruises and cuts up and down his body. As well as that, he was very thirsty.

However, it didn't stop him from continuing to lash out against his brother.

Kahmunrah was a force to behold. Despite being six years older and already in his early twenties, his brother was nothing like he was. Quick and yet controlled; calculating and time. He would best him most of the time as they trained during the morning.

His brother blocked another swing of his sword and spoke, "You're getting better, Ahk. But-"

"Argh!" Ahkmenrah felt the blunt end of the sword hit his ribs and he took his free hand and clutched the spot. "Fuck!"

Before he could even move, another swing was aimed at him.

He blocked it hastily, wobbling at the force he took.

"You need to focus even better," Kahmunrah instructed him, a stern eye aimed at him. "What if the enemy is faster and more stronger than you? You must fight dirty sometimes. Even if lacks of honour. Argh-"

It was his brother to curse as his sword knocked him down. Kahmunrah clutched his arm and hissed. His language can be rather colourful sometimes in Ahkmenrah's opinion.

"Like that?" He spoke with an innocent tone.

"Fuck!" Kahmunrah glared to him. "That wasn't the point."

He rolled his eyes and retorted. "Obviously the point was for you to keep eyeing Hetepheres."

Kahmunrah's face turned a shade of red. Though it might just be because they had been sparring for almost two hours. With a grin, Ahkmenrah held his hand out to his brother and he obliged.

Kahmunrah had a small smile and shook his head. "I'll let you win that time, brother."

"You mean like all the time." He muttered and wiped the sweat off his brow.

Giving his brother an unimpressed look, Kahmunrah replied. "Sarcasm won't be good for you as a general Ahk." He added, "Or even a scholar."

Ahkmenrah's mood deflated slightly, commenting back: "Oh you know father won't allow me to become a scholar, Kah. It won't be befitting for a prince and brother of the king of Egypt."

He was speaking the truth. Even though he hadn't discussed with their father what duties he was planning to apply for, Ahkmenrah already had in his mind what reaction would he expect after he expressed his love for learning. His father was the king, and the image his sons posed greatly affected their whole family.

If he wished to become a scholar, he would spend days on days in the libraries and temples - constantly learning much like Djedefre. His father on the other hand wanted him to lead as a symbol for their army - a wish that he only accepted because he was fascinated in the far lands of Kemet.

Kahmunrah sheathed his sword and sighed. "Well, once I am king you may wish to become either any of them." He tried to cheer him up. "Perhaps both. A general both in mind and body."

He paused and raised an eyebrow at his brother. Ahkmenrah inquired, "So like you but without your ego?"

That earned him a punch in the arm, sending him laughing.

Kahmunrah protested, "Hey! I am not like Khafre thank you very much." He sniffed. "At least I don't go running around telling people I bested this much slaves during the morning drill. I mean-oh!... H-Hello."

His brother froze when he bumped into someone as they made their way out of the yard. Ahkmenrah was at his side and realised who it had been.

Dressed in a plain white dress, Hetepheres carried a basket which held some blankets which some fell onto the floor. His brother realised after a moment and quickly assisted her to put them back. Her cheeks were pink, reflecting the same colour at Kahmunrah's.

Of this is going to be a sight to behold.

"My princes!" She squeaked and apologised. "I'm sorry, I was just going-"

Kahmunrah blinked and muttered something he couldn't understand. However, he never looked away from her.

"It's not good to wander on your own despite being palace grounds." Ahkmenrah cut the silence and eyed his brother. "Why don't you escort Hetepheres back to her quarters, brother."

Hetepheres smiled and glanced away as Kahmunrah nodded and spoke, "O-of course."

As the two began to head out to the opposite direction (which was away from the royal wing), Ahkmenrah was happy to see his brother finally overtake his shyness about the woman at hand. He knew that his brother began having feelings for Hetepheres ever since she arrived at Memphis, having been brought up near to the Nile Delta.

All he could hope for is that Kahmunrah wouldn't mess it up.

Before he left the yard, his older brother muttered to his side with a growl. "You are going to get beaten later."

He flashed him a smile and wink and answered. "If you catch me first."

• 𓎬 ☼ 𓋹⋅☾𓂀 ☽⋅𓋹 ☼ 𓎬 •

2519 BCE - Men-nefer [Memphis]

It was happening too soon.

One day, his father left to go on an expedition up the Iteru for some peace negotiations with the Nubians.

The next, word was sent to the palace in Memphis that something had happened to him.

He had been with Osaze that day, finishing his work after helping him aid the younger children in the palace of lessons. It was something he had done nowadays after turning seventeen, now being old enough to do royal duties and ascend as a soldier for the army.

Though the prospect of leaving for the Mafkat was wearing thinner. He saw the figures of the returned entourage at the front gates and saw both his mother, Kahmunrah and Khufu hurrying down to the throne room. Osaze dismissed him with his work and followed him towards the direction.

When he entered, there was a thick eery atmosphere.

He thought of the worse.

"What happened?" Ahkmenrah asked, swiftly heading towards his mother that was sobbing over his brother's shoulder.

Kafele and Khufu shared a look, who appeared to silently choose who would reveal the truth.

Instead, it was Fukayna that wore the truth in her reaction. Tears around her eyes as she whispered to him. "I'm sorry, Ahkmenrah."

He stumbled back in shock.

His father.

His father was dead.

Ahkmenrah couldn't breathe. He couldn't. It felt as if the earth was shaking beneath his feet, wanting to collapse underneath and swallow him whole. He could feel the heat rising, his eyes watering as the realisation hit him like a wave.

He would never be able to see his father again. The father that had tried his best to be there with him. Who, despite his flaws, always understood the weight which he held being the second child. His father had confessed to Ahkmenrah that Merenkahre was the second child as well after his older brother passed before his time. Merenkahre knew what it felt when he had to take his brother's place as king.

They understood what it was like to be the spare.

And now he was gone.

"All hail the new King of Kemet," Kafele announced, giving a respected gaze at his brother. "King Kahmunrah."

Kahmunrah's eyes had a haze, red-rimmed from crying at yet he maintained composed. "Mother? Do you want me to ask for Fukanya or Khufu?" He asked whilst Ahkmenrah got closer to them.

Their mother sniffed back and broke away from Kahmunrah. "No! I mean...I am alright." She grabbed his hand and grabbed the other one from Kahmunrah. She whispered to them. "My sons. You are all that I have left. Please do not leave me."

"Of course not, mother. We are here for you." Kahmunrah promised and Ahkmenrah slowly nodded.

What he couldn't bear to tell them that he had been horrified because he had witnessed the same thing many months ago.

He had been getting visions. He wasn't sure as to why he got them but they were beginning to get close to the truth. At first, it took a while to accept, almost annoying due to his sleep. But the death of his father already told his suspicions.

He knew the only way was to consult the priests in Thebes. He had seen himself consult to them in a recent vision, one that could give him answers. Therefore on the evening, a night after the news was sent: Ahkmenrah decided to sneak into the night down the Iteru.

However, he wasn't as sneaky as he thought himself to be.

Kahmunrah held a disappointed expression, frowning and also betrayed. "You cannot leave, Ahkmen." He said, "Mother is hurting and now you think you must go South because of what? A Vision?"

He winced. He shouldn't have told his brother about it.

"I just need to go alright." Ahkmenrah exasperated. "I will be back before the procession to the pyramid. I promise you."

His brother gave him a stern nod before he let out a breath. "Alright. But be with us when the coronation happens?"

They hugged tightly as Ahkmenrah spoke, "I will. I promise you, brother." He smiled at him "You can do this. You were born to be king."

• 𓎬 ☼ 𓋹⋅☾𓂀 ☽⋅𓋹 ☼ 𓎬 •

It was exactly nineteen days to which he returned to Memphis. However, he didn't return the same as he was before.

He ignored all courtesy and propriety and stormed into the throne room. Surprisingly, his mother, brother, Hetepheres, Osaze and Khufu were in there. Some held surprise looks whereas others wore disapproval and confusion in them. Ahkmenrah didn't care, only storming up to his brother and gave the most scrutinising glare to her.

Ahkmenrah snarled, "Why didn't you tell us we were tied to a god, mother?"

Her eyes bulged out and she let out a gasp.

So it was true.

Kahmunrah was far from the truth and creased his brows. "What are you talking about?" He asked, trying to cool his temper.

It didn't help unfortunately as he answered: "Our father is a liar."

More gasps were heard.

Khufu appeared at his vision, a dark look in his eye. "Hold your tongue to your king, boy."

"I am not a boy." He argued. "I am seventeen years old and I demand to ask why our grandfather sought to deal with the gods."

Silence filled the room.

"...Is this true?" Hetepheres glanced over to his mother. "My queen mother?"

Tears began to streak down her eyes and she turned her head away.

"Yes. But you must understand." She pleaded and rose from her seat, holding Ahkmenrah's arms. "We only did it to keep our family alive."

Ahkmenrah scoffed and looked away. How could he even accept her for that he had lied to him and his brother?

Shepseheret hurried back to Khamunrah in front of him and whispered, "Kahmunrah."

His brother stayed silent, a blank look as he stared towards her. He wasn't choosing a side.

He could feel her hand reaching toward him but Ahkmenrah dismissed it. Tears sprung out of his eyes, and he roughly wiped them away as he lowly spoke, "You promised to always be open and tell you anything." Ahkmenrah hissed at her. "But how can I when I can't even trust my own family."

Shepseheret stared at him, never blinking an eye until he clenched his eyes and glanced away. With a shaking head, Ahkmenrah ran out of the room - slamming the door shut behind him.

All Shepseheret did was take a sharp breath and her body shook. Tears trailed down her cheeks as she rubbed her arms and hugged herself. A soft sound escaped her lips and she cried in front of Ozase, Khufu, her son and daughter-in-law. She couldn't care less about how she appeared.

She had broken her son's trust.

• 𓎬 ☼ 𓋹⋅☾𓂀 ☽⋅𓋹 ☼ 𓎬 •

During the late evening, Hetepheres strolled down the halls of the royal wing. The atmosphere was far from relaxed, but not as stifling as it was during the day. When his brother-in-law decided to burst into the throne room to reveal something rather shocking.

To hear that there had been a deal to the gods and prophecy made for him and Kahmunrah was unheard of. Yes, there had been a fair share of visions and prophecies but they never dealt with magic and death.

Death was a sacred thing to their people, and it was hard to comprehend that as of now - her father in law was alive.

Alive, but hidden. Deep within his pyramid at the west bank of the Iteru. One of the largest buildings to hold. Kahmunrah always said he would plan to build his own, and already it was under construction. In time, they would be together in the afterlife.

But after the revelation: would her husband fall into the same fate?

How Shepseheret could live thinking she would never see Merekahre was horrible. She knew the consequences and lived through it. But to hear the hatred coming from her son must have worsened the blow. She won't let herself think of the future. Hetepheres would vow to spend every moment of her life with the one she loved, no matter how much it pains her to imagine she would never be with him forever.

As her thoughts wandered, she arrived at Ahkmenrah's chambers and slipped through.

He was sitting by the large windows, his feet dangling out into the gardens in front. Hetepheres slowly strolled over and sat by his side, seeing the forlorn expression. Even at seventeen, it seemed that he was so old by his time. Perhaps his souls was an old one, who had taken itself within a younger body.

They sat watching moon high above quietly, never uttering a word.

She calmly spoke, "I think you should talk to him, Ahkmen."

"Hetepheres." He said, shaking his head.

The new queen sighed heavily, crossing her arms. Hetepheres answered, "I am his wife but clearly you understand this better than I do." She tried to let her eyes wander to his but Ahkmenrah was too focused out of the window.

He looked away, hearing another exhale before the sound of sandals moved towards the door and hear the door close. 'That was stupid of you, Ahkmen.' He told himself and covered clutched his knees up to his chest and leaned his head down with his arms.

Then, there was another knock.

He moaned, "Hetep I don't want-"

"It's me." It was Kahmunrah. "May I enter?"

He stayed silent, hoping he would just go away. But then out of spite, Ahkmenrah grunted. He heard his brother walk over and sit where Hetepheres had previously sat.

Ahkmenrah glanced and eyed him and then sighed, "Look, I shouldn't have mentioned-"

"No."

His eyes widened slightly.

Kahmunrah rested his hands onto the floor at his back to hold himself and continued: "I'm glad you did. But to here that we are forced to never be with our family is the worse thing to have ever imagine. No one should be alone." He wondered. "And for what? To watch over Egypt because it is our right? I don't think I'll be able to be away from you, mother or Hetep or my child for that matter."

Guilt rose against his throat as Ahkmenrah quietly said, "I shouldn't have shouted at mother."

"She will forgive you." His brother spoke softly and asked, "But will you forgive her as well?"

Their eyes met, blue against brown and he nodded. "Of course."

A smile crept up his brother's lips. "Quick to anger and also quick to forgive." Kahmunrah dawdled. "How are your Hun and Nubian going along?"

"My Greek is doing well thank you." He muttered, earning a roll of eyes from him.

Kahmunrah replied, "Well, I would say the first thing is: as my right-hand man, you are to translate some of the papyrus documents."

Ahkmenrah groaned and slapped his brother's arm. "That is boring!" He complained. "You have Khufu to do that. And Djedefre will be your next advisor. I'll be your general and scholar and from time to time your translator."

"I sometimes wish Osaze tutored you instead." Kahmunrah pointed out.

He perked up a raised brow. "I thought you liked him?"

"Yes." He said, "But he would have loved your mind more, brother."

• 𓎬 ☼ 𓋹⋅☾𓂀 ☽⋅𓋹 ☼ 𓎬 •

2516 BCE - Men-nefer [Memphis]

He spent the next three years away from the capital city.

His life had once revolved being the prince of Kemet and the brother of the future king. But now: he was his own person. Not as the sibling or the spare: but a leader. He became one of the youngest leaders since their time, having aid defend the eastern borders of Kemet from foreign invasions. He would train until his lungs would give into the night and begin after the rising sun.

However, with fighting as well as being a strategist in warfare: Ahkmenrah also grew to understand the differences between fighting the battles. Sometimes they didn't need a sword to cut conflict down. Instead, Ahkmenrah had reduced conflict through talking and negotiating.

Villages and settlements were always vulnerable to attackers, and the best way from damaging the children's' hearts was to keep them from seeing blood and violence. He would never let them suffer to see the pain and horror of war and violence. Ahkmenrah vowed to himself, prophecy or not: that he would make sure every child would grow to live through happiness.

His life with the army was a stark contrast to palace life. The soldiers, both men and women, didn't see him as a prince that couldn't be harmed. They saw him as an equal - a comrade in their eyes. The respect they gave him after he told his orders to evacuate the area from innocents being killed was swiftly done.

Ahkmenrah was no longer the boy that lost his control or was naive to the life around him. He was a soldier.

It was why it felt so odd to return to Memphis for once. He paused his duties after he received word from his brother that his son was born. Ahkmenrah was overjoyed and was eager to meet his new nephew.

When he arrived at the palace, he was greeted by the king, queen, his mother and the new crown prince. He was still hesitant to approach his mother at first, but it never stopped them from hugging each other. Hetepheres was as beautiful as ever, with beautiful dark locks and painted eyes. She could outmatch any goddess if Ahkmenrah ever witnessed one.

His brother no doubt had changed as well. Three years may be small and yet there was already some greying hairs and more lines on his forehead. Ahkmenrah could only be glad that he didn't get balding from their father.

After the welcome and before the feast honoured by him, Kahmunrah and Hetepheres introduced him to their son. They placed him onto his arms and he quickly panicked for a second.

He didn't know how to hold a child, and they trusted him with their child? In the inside, he was panicking but Hetepheres assured him that he wouldn't hurt him.

With a soft voice, he spoke. "Hello, little Ramses. I am your uncle, Ahkmen."

The baby's eyes were a mixture of gold and brown, something which Ramses inherited from Hetepheres. Under the warmth of the light, it was more evident to spot the gold specks.

'You will always find hope in the most unexpected places.'

"It seems you're good with children, Ahkmenrah."

Looking upwards, he found his brother watching him with an odd look. His face held a tender look, almost sincere and surprised by his actions. 'Perhaps three years has been long.' Ahkmenrah thought.

Instead of asking about why he was giving him the odd look, Ahkmenrah answered his statement, "Children are very innocent and so full of light and kindness. They shine like the stars."

Kahmunrah let out a hum, never leaving his eyes off his son. Ramses then began to squirm in his arms and Ahkmenrah pleaded to his brother to take him. Kahmunrah was amused and picked his son off Ahkmenrah's arms and cradled him.

As his brother stood, Kahmunrah changed the subject. He asked, "How are things up north in Mafkat?"

"We managed to keep some peace with the tradings across the East." Ahkmenrah spotted the bottle of wine and cup and decided to take a drink. After a drink he sighed in relief, letting the alcohol enter his system. "Most of the trouble was the lack of grain coming from the Iteru."

His brother made an expression of stress and glanced away. It would seem that it was common knowledge, the fact that their kingdom was at a shortage of food. The complaints from the people were beginning to grow and it was making his brother's life much harder. Not only that: he had a child to bring up.

"Yes. Khufu and I were discussing these things. I swear whenever I send Khafre to do some tidying up all I hear is more mess created." Kahmunrah shook his head. "I should have asked Djedefre. He's very good as an advisor you know. And a lovely sister too..."

Waggled eyebrows were directed at him.

"Don't." Ahkmenrah glared back. "I know what you are asking of me." He then took another gulp of wine.

"You are far from the age I married Hetepheres, brother." He stated, "You need to seek a wife. Or a husband."

Ahkmenrah spat out the wine, coughing back as he heard him chuckle.

"I prefer the opposite sex thank you." He pointed out placed his cup down.

Kahmunrah gave him an apologetic look and said, "I am only jesting." He sighed. "But please consider it. Mother is getting worried about you."

He said nothing afterwards, not wanting to share his opinion of any potential suitors. For all of his life anyways, not once had he found anyone that shared the same affections for him. From time to time, Ahkmenrah had taken some lovers during his time in the army. But it had stopped after his position changed to a top role.

No: love was not his agenda in this lifetime. Perhaps after everything has settled, and his family was secure he would.

But right now, Ahkmenrah felt that all his love was solely for his family and kingdom alone.

• 𓎬 ☼ 𓋹⋅☾𓂀 ☽⋅𓋹 ☼ 𓎬 •

2514 BCE - Iunu [Heliopolis]

"Ambush, my prince."

One of the soldiers from Kahmunrah's ranks told him. He had been in Heliopolis, preparing his journey back to Mafkat. But then something struck.

Ahkmenrah pushed him and asked, "And my brother?"

"Presumed dead."

The soldier gulped down, not wanting to have been the one to tell the news.

His heart stopped.

No: it shattered.

His vision was coming true.

And it wasn't a vision any longer - but a nightmare.

A nightmare he would never wake up to.

"Presumed? How?" Ahkmenrah croakily asked.

"His body cannot be retrieved in the Iteru." The soldier revealed. "I am afraid he is now gone...my King."

The moment they left his chambers, Ahkmenrah headed over to the desk and clenched his fists. Anger, anguish and sadness were filling his veins. He would never see his brother. He would never see him into the afterlife, for that he knew in the back of his mind that the visions were true.

There was no room in the field of reeds for Kahmunrah the first.

Suddenly his wall that he build crumbled. A year spent after that night that he cried after knowing their family's fate. That their family will never be together. It had finally burst into a mixture of wrath.

His hands slammed against the table and he punched and kicked until the desk was just a pile of scraps. Ahkmenrah could see his hands, soaked in blood as his vision stirred and he felt himself slowly descend onto the floor.

He cried for the rest of the night - mourning for the loss of his only true friend and brother.

• 𓎬 ☼ 𓋹⋅☾𓂀 ☽⋅𓋹 ☼ 𓎬 •

2512 BCE - Men-nefer [Memphis]

He returned to the Memphis afterwards, stoic and silent as he saw only his mother standing on the steps of the palace. Ahkmenrah knew for a fact that Hetepheres was mourning, and perhaps inside with Ramses.

A sudden thought hit him.

Ramses would never see his father again.

It took all his will not to break into a sob and fall off his horse. He couldn't break, not when he was now the king of Kemet. Ahkmenrah the first. The second son of Merenkahre the first, the soldier of the East. The kingdom now rested on his shoulders and he would do it in honour of both his father and brother to make things right.

The first year hadn't gone as badly as he expected. Khufu was a lot of help and aided him to make decisions over the new year. Djedefre returned from Aswan after his expedition up the Iteru and was a breath of relief to his work. Being king was much more difficult than his father portrayed. There was no time to train or greet his mother or Hetepheres.

Hetepheres had gone into mourning, decided to take Ramses to a secluded part of the city. He understood well enough that everything in the palace perhaps reminded her of Kahmunrah too much and something different might help her heal. Ramses was a diligent and smart child, and Ahkmenrah assured his nephew that he would return and they would spend time together.

Now it was just him and his mother, who had grown closer once more due to their loss. Ahkmenrah now understood what it was like to lose someone so dear to his heart. He often wondered how bad it was for her, to lose the one she loved as a husband and as a son.

The mourning also took a toll on her health, and now she spent most of her time in her chambers.

Khafre hadn't returned from his conquest at the West and he grew suspicious as to what he was planning. Their relationship was straining ever since the day they were little children, almost getting bullied and picked on the boy that would become the man that led his brother's armies. Khufu assured him that he was fine and was soon to return to bless himself as a follower to the new pharaoh.

However, the time of his blessing never came.

After the second year, things had drastically changed. Ahkmenrah could sense it. The tension lingering in the air and feeling in the back of his mind. Words that told him to be aware of who he trusted and who spoke his feelings too. It was why all he could discuss his sorrow either been with Osaze or Khufu. Fukayna left with Hetepheres so there wasn't his Mnat to confess too. He prayed to the gods. The Ennead and to the rest.

But the gods seemed to not hear him.

A fight had broken out at the gates of the palace. Soldiers fighting guards. Against one another. It only meant one thing to him - a coup.

Someone had betrayed him.

He helped the wounded by dragging them away, killing those that shouted his name. With his dual swords, he cut them down easily. The adrenaline pumping through. Once his side was completely eradicated, he heard a sharp inhale.

Spinning around, he saw his captain of the guard slice the rebel's throat - and both he and the rebel fell.

"Kafele!"

Ahkmenrah cried and rushed towards him. A heavy wound was on his chest. Something that won't heal.

Kafele struggled in his words "Go, my king! She is down in her wing!"

With a silent prayer, he ran back into the palace and headed down to the royal wing. The whole place was tarnished: with vases broken and curtains ripped. There were screams from servants as the rebels killed them at his sight. He wanted to help so badly but his mind was set to search for his mother.

When he arrived at her chambers, she found her slumped onto her bed. Pale as a white sheet. He gasped, "Mother-"

A hand forced his head to look at her as she begged. "Ahk, you must go! Find her! Find her."

What was she talking about? Who was he supposed to find?

"Find who? Find who?" Ahmenrah asked.

Her voice was straining as her eyes began to lower, "The guardian...She will help us." She spoke, "Help our family."

"I don't understand." He pleaded. "You are sick."

Shaking her head, his mother trailed her fingers over his hair and mouthed the last words.

'I love you, my son.'

"Someone has poisoned you." He said.

"Indeed."

The deep voice echoed across the room as a cold feeling trailed down Ahkmenrah's spine. He watched his mother's eyes lose the light that always shone every day. Now it had gone out. His gently closed her eyes and pressed his lips over her forehead.

'I'm so sorry, mother.'

His hands clenched into a fist. His swords were gone, taken by the culprit who stood in behind him. When he turned around, Ahkmenrah gritted his teeth and said, "Khafre. You did this."

His smug smile rested on his lips as Khafre walked towards him. He said. "Oh, definitely not me. I prefer this way-"

The glimpse of metal was at his sight.

But it didn't give the time for him to spot it embed into his chest.

Air knocked out of his lungs, he stared towards the face in front of him. He saw the hatred and glee mixed within his emotions. A psychopath. His hands tried to pull out the sword by he could himself being held up by Khafre's hands.

"Still weak all this time?" Khafre asked and twisted the sword.

Ahkmenrah took his last breath before all his vision turned to blackness.

At the same time, Khafre was laughing on the inside as he said to himself: "Long live the king."

He had done it. Done what his father had tasked him and his brother to do; destroy the line of the royal family. It had been something he wanted to do ever since. Fueled by the neglect of love from his father and mother, ignored by his brother. Now he would be symbolised as a good son and good prince.

Their followers found him wiping the blood off Ahkmenrah's sword. Poetic how naive the young kind could still be and be killed by his own weapon. Shepseheret was dead, poisoned by his brother Djedefre who had made it after his journey up the Iteru.

"Take their bodies. We will begin removing them from the pyramid." He ordered them and watched at the chamber was emptied by all of their belongings. They needed to remove as much of it as possible. Everything.

Meanwhile, his father entered the room along with his older brother. He scowled at how close the two were and quickly changed the spotlight to himself. "Father, I did what you asked." Kahfre proudly spoke.

Walking up to him, Khufu had a proud look in his eyes as he replied. "Well done, my son."

"What will happen?" Djedefre asked which Khafre grunted.

As they watched the bodies dragged away towards the front gates, Khufu said: "Their family will be removed from the line. The gods have given us luck today." He turned to his sons. "Whilst Djedefre will rule as king of Kemet, our descendants will remember no Merenkahre of Kemet, but Khufu: son of Snefru."

Khafre was surprised and yet also expecting it.

His brother said, "You wish for their existence to be gone?"

"They won't be truly gone," Khufu muttered, looking out into the land to see chaos at its fullest. "Not when the last Heka Guardians of Ennead are walking this earth."

He understood what his father meant, having been told the truth of the magic.

"And what will we do?" Djedefre asked.

In his hand, Khufu held a gold coin up to his eyesight.

It hadn't burnt him.

For he had discovered a way to cheat through magic.

Khufu answered, "We will wait. For Set has given us his blessing."

• 𓎬 ☼ 𓋹⋅☾𓂀 ☽⋅𓋹 ☼ 𓎬 •

Sometime between 2512-2502 - Kher Neter [Giza]

They had found her and sent her son and herself back to the palace. Where she was forced to watched Ahkmenrah and Shepseheret be paraded around and humiliated. Their corpses were sent afterwards away, to which Hetepheres never knew where they had gone.

It Khufu all along. The traitor, the underdog. She refused him, no matter he kept telling her that she would marry Djedefre and continue the line to respect the gods' wishes. She continued to defy the old monster until her son was on the line.

They threatened to kill Ramses if she didn't accept.

And for that Hetepheres had no choice but to follow the fate she was forced into.

They were the harshest years. Even if she was treated like a queen and still the same respect, there was hesitance from the servants and the people around her. They were afraid to speak up and become comfortable around her. And she hated it.

She hated her new husband, her new life and a new facade. No longer was she the wife of Kahmunrah but the slave of Djedefre and Khufu. It was worse when Khafre was around, who always looked at her in lust and appetite that made her gag.

However, after four years, things changed.

Djedefre was dead, slain by the hands of his brother. And her body...was used until a dagger was stabbed through her heart by the end.

Hetepheres waited to see the Halls of Truth, a place which her parents used to describe to her as a child. Though what she found herself to be was in bed - in a room. Standing before her was the royal tutor: the Mena neswt.

She breathed. "Osaze?..."

The man hadn't changed at young. Still the bald head and inquisitive eyes. "Hello my queen, it has been a while. Fours years." Osaze spoke.

Hetepheres spluttered out, "But...I thought you died. Wait...I thought I...I died."

"You must have questions, do not worry. Your son is fine." He assured her.

At that moment, a small figure raced towards her and jumped into her arms. "Mama! You're okay!"

She choked out, "Ramses! But...how?" His son nuzzled his head over her chest, where no dagger was in there - but a scar.

The man answered her question. "You have been chosen by Isis, Hetepheres. As a Wadjet key."

Hetepheres looked up in confusion, but only eyed the object held between Osaze's fingertips.

It was a golden coin, with the Eye of Horus.

"And my son?" She asked him.

He smiled as he replied, "Chosen by Nephthys."

Her memory jogged back to the time when Kahmunrah revealed to her the truth. Of how there was such thing as the Heka Guardians, those who were chosen to protect certain prize artefacts. He had told her that he was one of them, and the other was his brother - who didn't know the truth.

Now it had been herself and Ramses.

There was supposed to be five in total.

Hetepheres asked, "And the other? He said there was another."

He shook his head and answered. "I'm afraid I do not know."

Another realisation caught to her and she broke into tears. "No...no, no! Kahmunrah-" She cried. "We will never be together, the three of us will be apart forever."

Her son was eyeing her in concern, but before she could continue - Osaze wiped a tear off her cheek.

He trained his eyes towards her and said, "Not if you choose to do something, my queen."

"Hetepheres. I am no longer the queen." She murmured. "Tell me. How can we save them?"

"Their bodies are now hidden away somewhere safe until the time is right. As for Kahmunrah, his body may be gone but his soul has not entered the Hall of Truth."

She raised her eyebrows. "So he's not dead?"

Osaze looked away and stared out of the window of what seemed to be their safehouse. "No. The prophecy still clings on to the two brothers. The tablet must have a guardian but Ahkmenrah is the true guardian. Kahmunrah on the other hand...he will have an important part to save humanity." He glanced over to her direction. "But to do this before Khufu knows, we must do something that is forbidden. Something the Ennead have given our permission."

She spoke aloud, "What is my part?"

"You will have to lose your immortality," He admitted.

She stared down to Ramses and saw him smile back. Her beloved son, a guardian who would be destined to pass his task to another once he has passed through the hall. For he was just the guardian of all guardians, someone to look out for the others. To protect the protectors. But herself? She knew that being the Wadjet carrier she would live through this first life forever until destiny arrived and sought her through.

However, she knew that she had to choose to save this mortal world. She would wait for him.

Wait for her mer ek.

"If it allows me to be with him again, I will." Hetepheres kissed Ramses's forehead. "We will be together, my son..."

"We will wait for your father."

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Dictionary

Kemet - What the Ancient Egyptians called their country as to what we now know as Egypt.

Iteru - What the Ancient Egyptians called the River Nile.

Mafkat - The Sinai

Ennead - The nine gods worshipped at Heliopolis

Mnat - Title for wet nurse or guardian [Taken back to the Old Kingdom]

Mena neswt - Royal Tutor [mostly introduced in 18th Dynasty]

The Hall of Truth - a place where Osiris, Anubis and Ra judge you through the 42 confessions before the heart is weighed with the feather of Ma'at.

Wadjet - The Eye of Horus

Mer Ek - My love

The Red Land - the Sahara.

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A/N: Welcome back to the series. And oh my gods this prologue has got to be the most emotional rollercoaster I went through! And the amount of fancy words I had to research. Basically, it was a lot of reading, and trying to mix several of my sources together so it fits.

So some key things I'd like to point out.

One is that I raised the age of when you turn into an adult to 18 to suit the story. Factually, girls get married at 12 (which is insane) and I wasn't having any of my character getting married at that age. It must have been a huge risk when girls have kids in those times let alone age.

Second is that I've changed the timeline slightly but made sure we've kind of fitted it into the 4th Dynasty in real life. Which is around 2613-2494BCE so that works.

Thirdly is that I know Ramses is a Middle Kingdom pharaoh but considering he's a Guardian, he's going to live a little bit older than the typical human. He's half immortal, so he'll age longer but will eventually die - a gift which Nephthys give to her chosen guardians. As you know, the next guardian is in fact Larry, hinted in Audere est Facere.

Peseshet is an actual physician in the 4th Dynasty and is recorded to be the first female one to exist.

Like Hetepheres too, she was the wife of Djedefre in real life but here she marries Kahmunrah first before being forced to marry Djedefre next. She's the previous Wadjet holder that will in turn be given to Rowena.

In time we will learn who Salma got her coin from, and why this is important. But it's kinda hinted here. ;)

Okay, it's been a very long prologue but I hope this pleases everyone and kind of rounds up what sort of adventure we're sticking our head into.

Next chapter: we head back to the present day, in 2014...

Hope you guys enjoyed and have a great day/evening/night!

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Written: 10/08/2020

Edited: 10/08/2020