Lorena
**"You're an idiot. Coming to another rulers realm unannounced like this. When you get us all killed, I'm going to thrash you in hell."** Those kind words were said by Atlas, the half demon within Cullen that had been against this idea from the jump. Yet Cullen had heard the stories of the risen again Pharaoh and... Well he felt strangely in a way sympathetic. Her people rebelled against her as his own people did him. In a world where having a friend was scarce- he had to chase any opportunity. Two sticks together were stronger and harder to break than two. 

"My name is Cullen Stellae, Archduke of Velaris. I am here requesting an audience with Her Highness the Pharaoh of Rhakotis." He announced to the guards at the door. He'd been escorted through the palace by a host of armed men, ready to slaughter him the second he showed hostility. Nervously he tugged at his hair, stroking the white locks behind his ear. What would this woman be like...? An undead leader of a nation- surely she wouldn't be nice, but perhaps she too would see the merit in having a friend in another Archduke like himself. 

*"Be steadfast little one, do not waver. You're here now, stay resolute in your desire to form a bond with this woman."* Aranea had not liked the idea either, but she'd folded into it more quickly when she'd learned Atlas had been against it. Spite was a powerful thing.
Johnnie
The arrival of the Archduke of Velaris at the front gates of the Oasis Palace created quite a stir. Since Cullen introduced himself and stated his purpose in visiting, the Pharaoh's guard allowed him in almost immediately. However, he was escorted straight to the Throne room under heavy guard, watching Cullen's every movement. They didn't trust anyone. It was a quick walk through a few halls, leading up to the Throne room. When they arrived, they stopped in the middle of the room. 

The Throne room was a magnificent sight. Large pillars lined the sides of the large room, engraved with ancient text and pictures depicting different stories, likely the history of the Realm. The ceilings were high, with a large chandelier hanging in the middle. The golden Throne stood in the middle at the far end of the room, yet it was empty. More guards stood at their posts at the far edges of the room. One of the guards from Cullen's escort left the room, and for a few moments, all was silent. They said nothing to the Archduke, but it seemed like they were waiting. 

Eventually, three figures entered the room again. The Pharaoh herself, flanked by two guards on both sides of her. Upon entering, she glanced at the Throne before turning full attention to the foreigner. Instead of going to sit on the Throne, she approached Cullen but maintained a safe distance.

— 
Meryet was dressed in a long, white dress decorated with gold jewelry. Black markings of an unreadable script covered her face, neck, and arms, from what could be seen. Her complexion was pale, but the most interesting part was her eyes. At the moment, they were a dull yellow and her irises seemed to divide and multiply. It was definitely strange. Her hair was cut unevenly but neatly brushed. Before speaking to Cullen, she spoke to the escort of guards. 

"Leave us. Go back to your posts," She said quietly, in Vaedric. The guards surrounding Cullen immediately moved away from him and left the room, as well as those flanking her. Only the guards at the far ends of the room remained. Then, she spoke to Cullen, her expression carefully neutral. 

"My sincerest apologies for keeping you waiting, Archduke. Welcome to Rhakotis," She said in decent Valerian, the language of Velaris. The Archduke's sudden appearance in Rhakotis came as a surprise to her. Not many foreigners visit, especially nowadays. Meryet was curious as to why he was here.
Lorena
His first thought was that she was pretty- and in a way, he could see that she'd been a real beauty in life. It was so strange to him that he was talking to a woman that had been dead. Perhaps that was a rude thought. 

*"It is a rude thought, sweetheart."* Aranea chided. 

**"So is she a zombie or what?"** Atlas snarked. 

Unsure of what to do, he went into a deep bow as his white hair fell around his face. "Your Highness, pleasure to meet you. It's not problem for the wait, truly. Thsnk you for the kind welcome, you have a lovely home and may you experience many blessings upon your land and your people." He was running through his script and sweating only slightly. Luckily he never sweat profousely, perhaps thanks to his drow blood. Still he had never faced another ruler before, he'd been too angry at his father to look at him as an Archduke. 

He raised his head and tried to smile at her, he had a pretty smile- boyish and even slightly dimpled. His own eyes were golden and widened slightly at her iris'. 

"Wicked..." He said, amazed at them before realizing he'd spoken out loud. He blushed and rubbed the back of his head. "Wicked place! It looks great in here, the golds really popping on your uh... Throne." He was lost, he had *No* Idea how to really do any political speech. No one in Velaris had any interest in training him on ettiqeute and his father had spent most of his time on preparing him to get stabbed in the back. "My apologies, travel has left me perhaps just a bit out of sorts." It had been a long ride on horseback, his butt ached and his back was sore. Too bad he couldn't massage himself.
Johnnie
Meryet's first impression of Cullen was that he seemed like a young ruler like she was. It was a guess because she was aware Elves aged differently, compared to Humans. She couldn't be sure, but an interesting observation. She observed that Cullen may be more than an Elf, considering particular details of his appearance. He looked a bit different from her head advisor. 

As soon as he bowed, she returned the gesture with a quick curtsey, as an act of formality. "It's a pleasure to meet you, as well, Majesty. Thank you for your kind words," She said smoothly, sticking with the same formality as she was supposed to. Meryet had never been good at this but had to learn now that she was the ruler of the Realm. She could tell he was trying to be formal, as well. With how things were going when it regarded the people of the Realm, blessings would be very nice. The uproar might just become worse if something wasn't done. 

Once he tried to smile, she returned the courtesy. At first, she was perplexed as to what was wicked, and soon realized he was improvising with his words. Meryet thought about what he could possibly be amazed at, considering the way his golden eyes widened, but soon moved on from it. "Thank you. It is only a small portion of the Palace's beauty," She said, glancing at the Throne momentarily before turning back to him. 

"I don't doubt it. You are welcome to stay as long as you like." 

She glanced about the room once more, considering it would likely get boring if they stood here the entire time. 

"Walk with me?"
Lorena
"Sure! I mean, uh, yes that would be lovely." He said and hurried over to her side. She really was a strange beauty, the touch of death was on her but she had a gentleness to her. Though perhaps death could be gentle too- he'd just never seen it act that way. He clasped his hands behind his back as he walked alongside her. 

"Look... I'll be honest. This whole... Nobility thing is new to me. I'm not really good at these things- but I hope that we can still get along." His voice was soft, he felt nervous. 

"Did you grow up in this place?" He asked, watching their surroundings as Atlas yawned boredly and Aranea tsked at his lack of etiquette.
Johnnie
"I will give you a tour," She said as he moved over to her side. Meryet turned and began walking slowly, intending to go down the hall that would eventually lead to the garden. As soon as the two started, two guards began following them. The Pharaoh gave them a warning glance as if to advise them to keep their distance. She had no desire to scare off her guest, even if protocols were in place. The guards slowed their steps in response, and Meryet turned back to Cullen. 

At first, she was a bit surprised by the fact he was being honest about everything that was nobility, but she could tell. It was nice to relate, in fact. But, she wasn't sure if she would admit it. It took her a moment to reply. "I'm sure we will get along just fine. I appreciate the honesty. I suppose I could say the same. Nobility... Is not my strongest suit either." 

They walked through a long hall, devoid of windows but the ceilings were high. The structure seemed to be made of stone, old but strong. The architecture was admirable. They passed closed doors. It... Seemed lonely and silent, aside from them and the guards tailing them. 

"Yes. It's the only place I know. Have you been to Rhakotis before?"
Lorena
"I'm honestly glad to hear it! I think we will be great friends after all." He said with a smile, such a boyish and kind smile. Yet his eyes did not carry the lines of someone who smiled all too often, and yet it was warm and generous. "Still you do much better at it than me. You look very regal and impressive." He admitted, looking down at his own clothes. His clothes were rugges travelers garb, a smudged white tunic that showed his well defined chest, black leather pants and high walking boots. He also had a brown travelers cloak, gloves and a studded belt with no sheath. It seemed he traveled without a weapon. 

"The only place you know? You mean you've never gone out there to see the world? Theres no way, you gotta see the ocean! I bet you'd love it, when the sun strikes the water just right its like a millions diamonds are glittering at the surface. Its why pirates go out so much, they can always see treasure on the horizon." He spoke excitedly, passionately. Cullen loved the Riable Isles and he loved to travel, to see new things, check out hot babes and watch awesome sword fights. In other words he just wanted to have a good time and help people along the way. 

"This is my first time in Rhakotis. It's super hot but, I like the sand. Its nice, soft." He said with a grin, peering at her. He was unsure if he'd rambled too much. 

**"Of fucking course you did."** Atlas muttered. 

*"I think your enthusiasm is charming Cullen."* Aranea reassured.
Johnnie
"The feeling is mutual." Meryet admired his enthusiasm in wanting to be friends. It would be good to have a friend. It was quite lonely here. Things were different now and therefore, a new beginning. Her expression was less neutral and formal now, simply brighter as they walked. It was nice to see a smile from him, as it seemed they both were enjoying each other's company so far. "Thank you, kindly. I'm certain you would make an excellent ruler for your Realm, even if you are new to nobility. It's all a learning path," She said, glancing at him. "A path you may become more skilled in as time goes on." 

"That sounds... Beautiful. I have always wanted to see the Eternal Ocean. I've never been anywhere but Rhakotis. However, I have explored parts of it that most would consider not going. Once I... Settle some important matters here, I hope to see the world." Meryet was smiling now, finding it seemed they both had something in common, noticing the way he talked so passionately about it. It was always wonderful to find someone who loved to travel and explore, as she did. 

"I hope your first time has been welcoming. Most of the locals are nice. The sand is certainly unique. My favorite part is the architecture," She said, as they approached a set of large doors. 

Meryet turned the handle and opened one of the doors, revealing a large garden full of trees, flowers, fruits, and more. It was enclosed, with natural light coming in from the top but a large area. It was considered the most beautiful thing in Rhakotis, a rare something few got to see.
Lorena
Cullen grinned back at her smile, he was happy to see it was going well and truth be told he felt a strange sort of comfort around her. Despite the fact that she was undead, she had a ... Warmth about her that plenty of nobility lacked. Kind of ironic really. 

"I hope so. The council there hopes I'll die or at least stay away a few years while they find a way to remove me from power. I didn't exactly inherit my seat smoothly." He said with a grimace, thinking of his fathers bloody death and the surprise revelation that the bastard child would be the heir. It was a brutal few months but there was no way to fight it when his father had been setting it up for years. 

"Perhaps me and you can go to the ocean together one day. I'd love to see your reaction to the waters." He said optimistically, unaware of the turmoil she was facing in her own lands. 

"It's been nice! I-" But his thoughts were lost as they entered the garden. It was one of the most beautiful things he'd ever seen. It felt like something ripped from a storybook his mom would steal from a boyfriends shop and bring home to him to read. 

"Wow, My Lady this place is incredible! You get this all to yourself?!" He said with a laugh, nearly running in but faltering a few steps and giving her an awkward glance. Perhaps the place was sacred and he was violating some taboo. 

"Sorry- it's not often a guy like me gets to see things like this." He spoke as if he didn't realize he was an Archduke of the Nine Realms.
Johnnie
For the first time in what seemed like a month, but was a year, Meryet was feeling more like herself. In comparison, she was feeling more alive, and less dead like she was supposed to be. It was kind of ironic. She was enjoying this very much, and the fact she may gain a potential friend, if not already. Immediately, she was fascinated by his words about the fact he was not considered... Possibly well-liked in his Realm, and that it was not easy to inherit the Throne of Velaris. It seemed they had more in common than she thought. 

"That's truly unfortunate. I hope they don't remove you from power. I suppose I could say I didn't inherit my seat smoothly, either," She said slowly, soon wondering why he wasn't back in Velaris sorting out that problem. Surely that would be the top priority, to keep the position of power, but that was her opinion. 

She took another moment to respond to his offer. The possibility was wonderful, and a dream of hers. And yet, it seemed too far away. Day by day, problems only piled up. More threats, and therefore the reason why she could not leave. "I would love to see the Ocean with you one day. I cannot wait for that day to come," She said neutrally, not leaning on a positive or negative tone to not give anything away. 

Once they entered the garden, she stepped to the side so he could see the beauty of it. The guards stopped at the door, not entering but glancing at Meryet for orders but she did not pay heed to them. Considering his awkward glance, she simply gestured to him that it was all right. She was half-expecting him to react the way he did. It was truly beautiful and a pleasant surprise at first glance. 

"No need to apologize. I know what you mean. Feel free to explore. It's my favorite place here... Somewhere I would spend much time as a child."
Lorena
"Then we will go, I'll make us a picnic. You ever had one of those? It's where you make food and take it to a pretty place you both like and eat together." He said, smiling warmly at her before turning to walk deeper into the garden. The young Drow looking man squatted at a plant here, sniffed a flower there, watched bugs crawl across stalks and peered into foreign plants. He spent a solid ten minutes just exploring the place before he came back to her. 

"This place is lovely, truly. Thank you for showing it to me." Pausing a moment, he continued. "Is it because of you being undead? I don't think that should matter, personally. You radiate more life than any of the nobles I've been forced to interact with." He said and instantly became sheepish, concerned he'd gone too far. The words had been spoken softly so that only she could hear, but still he rubbed his head without looking away from her eyes. Atlas gave him a headache whenever he let nerves force him to break eye contact. 

"I mean no offense of course if I caused any." Cullen murmured.
Johnnie
Picnics. Yes, she remembered those. A long time ago, whenever she snuck out, she and Ramses would have something similar to that, if it could be called a picnic. She settled on a response. "That would be lovely. I believe I have had a couple in the past, but it's been a long time. I look forward to ours," She said, smiling slightly in return to his. Meryet watched as he went off to explore the garden. It was quite large, with much to examine and observe. 

Meryet didn't move far from where she was, occasionally touching a tree trunk gently to get the feel of the texture and examining the patterns of the leaves. It's been done before but did it nonetheless. She kept herself occupied as Cullen spent ten minutes exploring, knowing he was likely enjoying it and glad for that. 

When he returned, she looked over and gave a simple nod to his thanks. "Of course. You are welcome here anytime," She said, pleasantly. When he spoke his next words, her expression did not become offended but carefully neutral as if she was deciding carefully what to say. There was a long moment of silence, and her eyes were slightly troubled, but not in the slightest offended. 

"Yes, that is the reason I can't leave here currently. Ever since the news spread that I inherited my father's throne and my resurrection occurred, that has caused some tension among the people. It's a dangerous game of politics that I must play. But you're right, it should not matter. Thank you for your kind words, and don't worry. You did not offend me," She reassured, seeing that he seemed concerned about saying too much. If it were anyone else, perhaps she would not have been so open.
Lorena
"But if you're father left it to you, then it shouldn't matter!" He said, and from the passion in his voice it was clear what he'd say next. "My father passed and his final command was that I take his place- he'd already had it set up in secret. The court spent months trying to find a loophole but I was accepted in some time ago. Still, I'm on my way to Magios Academy to speak with Merlin. He's a legendary guide, if anyone can help me keep my throne it's him." He admitted, wanting to be open and share with her as well. Cullen stepped closer and spoke softly. 

"Perhaps if I can gain a good reputation, I can vouch for you to your people. Let them know they are in good hands. I believe in you, My Lady." His voice was a soft stream that brushed her ears, he stood only a few feet away and his golden yellow eyes made contact with her muti-formed ones without flinching, without disgust. 

"We both sit on the outer edges of the realms, we know what evils lie beyond our borders. We need our people to trust us in case a threat comes- so... I guess that's why I came. I want to be your friend, to help each other keep our seats and to stand United against the threats of the lands of evil and chaos beyond us. I know I'm asking something big- but I need you to believe in me, and I will believe in you. We can beat these odds together." He said softly, and extended a hand out to her. If she took it, he'd kiss her knuckles as if to say "I bow to you, I see you."
Johnnie
As soon as Cullen started speaking, she immediately agreed with his words. Meryet was very interested in what he had to say, the passion in his voice catching her attention. It seemed they were both on the same page, and it was rare for that to happen. After all, it's only been a month and only a few realized that it didn't matter since her father left her the Throne, despite her not wanting it. Someone needed to take it. 

The more that was spoken, the more she realized how much they had in common. It was amazing how similar their situations were. Magios Academy. Merlin. Both names seemed oddly familiar. She was pleased to hear he would receive assistance with keeping his Throne. She wanted to help, as well, if she could. "Let me know if there's any way I can help." 

"I would greatly appreciate that. It means a lot, truly," She said gently, looking into his eyes as he did. It took much courage to do what he was doing. It was admirable. The words would not form how much she appreciated that, the fact that he was going to try to help. If the people weren't going to listen to her or any others, perhaps they would listen to him, someone not directly associated with the Royal family. 

Threats. That was another matter that needed to be watched. He was right. Meryet was glad he came and was quick to believe in him. Her expression was carefully neutral, but she was on board. As soon as he extended his hand, she took a step forward and took it. Immediately, he would likely be able to feel the magic omitting from the black markings on her hand, but it was nothing of concern. 

"I believe in you... Cullen. I'm pleased to call you a friend. We're in this together."
Lorena
"Together, Meryet. It's a rare for people like us to have friends, I know that, so let's be strong together." He said, still holding her hand. The young archduke covered it with both hands and squeezed hers gently- he didn't care about the eerie magic that radiated off of her or the cold touch of her skin, he cared about the sincerity in her eyes. Finally he let go of her hand and smiled widely at her. 

"You know when I first arrived the place was so imposing I thought I might not leave alive. Yet, you brighten this place up. Once your people get to really see you, they'll know just how lucky they are to have you as an ardchuke. As a leader. You're going to beat the odds you face, Meryet. When you need me, I'll come. I'll be there for you." 

"Now! Shall you get me a room? I really am tired and could use a rest, I have a lot more travel to do. Let's chat once more before I leave, as friends this time all the way through." His voice was soft and if her guards had not been watching he'd have patted her shoulder, instead he simply fidgeted in place not know what to do with his hands.
Johnnie
A smile came across her face once more. It was rare for rulers to be friends, but regardless, she was happy to have a friend. They could be both friends and allies. They will be strong together. She looked down at his hands momentarily, noting that his were gentle and soft before returning her gaze to him. "It may be rare, but I think it will work well." 

An ally and friend was exactly what she needed. Meryet's new life didn't seem so lonely anymore, because of this day. She didn't mean for him to feel as if he might not leave alive. It's always been that way, and she mainly blamed the guards. They were not kind to most, due to the past. His words were giving her encouragement, and she appreciated it, greatly. 

"Thank you, Cullen. Your words mean a lot. As you'll be here for me, I shall be there for you. Let me know if there's any way I can help with your current situation," She said, pausing before continuing. "And, I apologize for the tight security within the palace and outside. There are reasons for that, and I understand that may add to the imposing figure of the place." 

As soon as he asked for a room, she nodded immediately, turning toward the doors. "Of course. I shall arrange that immediately for you," She said to Cullen before switching to Vaedric to speak to the guards. "Go back to your posts. You are not needed here," Meryet said firmly, her tone commanding. They looked hesitate, almost as if they'd object but soon turned around and disappeared from view. 

Meryet switched back to the language of Velaris when she spoke again. "Shall we?" She said, moving back into the palace hallway and gently shutting the doors once Cullen stepped into the hall with her. She began moving forward again, with the intent of introducing him to a guest suite for his stay.
Lorena
"It's okay, I'd rather feel nervous around your guards than have you be in danger. Your safety comes first." He said, walking with his hands behind his back and gazing at the halls, then back around to her. The young man always made eye contact with her when they spoke, even with her strange eyes and pale skin and eerie tattoos, his warm golden eyes locked onto hers like she had gold in them. His boyish smile played across his lips. 

"So, what do you do for fun? Please tell me you do fun." He said, bumping her with his shoulder as they walked. It seemed that now that he considered her a friend he'd instantly relaxed around her, as if that agreement between them was all he needed to think of her as someone he knew all his life. His body was warm even through his clothing, a side effect of his unique physiology. 

Daydreaming about the room and hoping it had a killer view, snacks and a cold bathe would be incredible. He hummed just at the thought of all the incredible things.
Johnnie
"I appreciate your understanding," She said quietly, her eyes locking with his. He had lovely gold eyes, and the way he looked her in the eyes told her that he wasn't fazed by her unnatural appearance. That was admirable, as most foreigners couldn't look her in the eye. Meryet sent the guards away because it did not seem like she was in danger, nor did she consider Cullen a danger. It was risky and reckless, but she didn't want them here now, even if they didn't understand the language she and Cullen conversed in. 

When asked about what she did for fun, another smile played across her lips. The bump on the shoulder seemed almost playful, what friends did. She liked it. "I do try to have fun, but it's been a long while. Aside from reading or climbing trees in the garden, my definition of fun is sneaking out and exploring the unknown, at least, within Rhakotis. I used to do it all the time. What do you do for fun?" She asked, as they got closer to the intended destination. 

As they entered another part of the palace, the hall was long with several doors next to each other on both sides several feet apart. Coming to the first one on the right, she opened the doors to reveal a large suite that was decorated to match Rhakotis' style and culture.

— 

At the far end, in the middle, was a neatly made canopy bed covered with white pillows and light blankets. There was a couch, a wooden closed wardrobe, and another small room in the back, which held a bathtub and other necessities for washing. At the side of the room, were two more double doors concealed by curtains. Meryet entered, immediately grabbing a key from one of the nearby tables. She pulled the curtains back and unlocked one of the doors to reveal a balcony with a view of Osirisun City.

"This is one of the guest suites. There should be fresh clothes in the wardrobe. I shall send for one of the servants to bring you food if you wish. I imagine you must be hungry after your travels. After you've rested, you can find me in the dining hall," She said, with a slight nod.
Lorena
The white haired youth widened his eyes in amazement at the room. It was such a sweet set up! He grinned and took it in, running to the bed to sit on it to see how comfy it was, then peeked at the tub (he'd been eager to bathe too), then over to her side to gaze at what was indeed and incredible view. He stood there with his hands on his hips and whistled low and appreciatively through his teeth. 

"You certainly know how to put a guy up in style, Meryet." He said, nodding his head in astonished approval. As his golden eyes scanned the city beyond, his gaze flicked over to her and he gave her a mischievous grin. 

"Why don't we sneak out together, like you used to? You can show me some spot in the city you like that isn't far." He said, turning to face her and cocking his head. Something about her made him feel comfortable, like he'd known her his whole life. Constantly he found himself forgetting she was undead at all. He was quite sure he'd really like this woman .
Johnnie
Meryet stood by the doors, observing his reaction with a small smile on her face. She was glad he liked it. His expression and movements told it all. There were so many empty rooms when they needed to be occupied. That was one of the unfortunate things about not having many visitors at this time. When he came over to her side, she looked outside again, gazing beyond the palace ground. "I'm glad you like it," She said enthusiastically, glancing at him for a second when she spoke. 

When he spoke of sneaking out, she froze for a second, unsure how to react at first. She stared at him for a moment, thinking about it. That sounded wonderful, dangerous, but wonderful. One time wouldn't hurt, would it? It's been a long time since she last snuck out, and desperately wanted to. However, there was a particular someone she usually only snuck out with and he was nowhere to be seen. That didn't stop her from wanting to do it. Eventually, she nodded, closing the door for the moment since it was hot out. 

"I would love that. It's been too long," She said slowly, nodding. "The best time to go would be nightfall, so we can go then. In the meantime, you can relax and unwind."

Meryet smiled again as she handed him the key to the doors and moved to the other side of the room, intending to leave to let him settle in. 

"I'll leave you to it. Come find me when you're ready."
Denise
Dressed in finery fit for royalty and gliding through the halls with ease, Amunet looked as if she lived here. She wore a choli top of red embroidered with gold, bearing her abdomen, with a long matching skirt with a long slit up to the hip, each step showing her tight black pants and boots. She'd purposefully, and somewhat thoughtfully, worn a golden net of clinking coins on her long dark hair, that made sound with every step or gesture; she thought it might put the guards' nerves at ease to be able to keep up with her every movement. Her jewelry was simple and light, gold, save for the ruby ring on her left middle finger, which she toyed with absentmindedly, spinning it around her finger.

She missed the gardens of the palace; they were by far the best in the city. But since the previous pharaoh's death, no one had really been welcome in the palace. She'd had to make several requests, nearly beg and plead, just to get this audience today. It put her on edge, more than she already was. An undead pharaoh was... Unusual, to say the least. She had concerns Meryet was being controlled, that something sinister might be afoot. But without seeing the woman in person, she couldn't be sure. She'd been somewhat acquainted with Meryet before her death, enough to at least know her general personality and mannerisms. But who could say how those might have changed?

At the doors to the throne room, one of the several guards escorting her stopped and held out a hand, "We'll need your weapons please, baroness."

She gave the guard a wide smile, laced with just a little snark, **"You're going to need a basket..."** When he raised his brows, she chuckled softly, purring out, **"Just trust me."** Once he returned, she began to produce various knives and daggers from her person, pulling them from her boots, her shirt, her hair, until the basket was filled with at least about 12 blades. She thought for a moment, then pulled another from the leg of her pants.

The guards laughed nervously, a little baffled how this thin woman wearing such tight clothes, save for the flowing skirt, could hide so many weapons. She hid her mirth behind a small but warm smile, the mischief a bare twinkle in her eyes. These guards were either new or had forgotten; it was like this every time she came.

As they pushed open the heavy doors, and Amunet reverently approached the throne, her mind wandered. She'd been close with Meryet's father. He was a good man, a good ruler. Part of her couldn't help getting stuck on how such a smart man could make such a foolish decision. He should know this would rile the people's wariness and surely could see that Meryet wasn't exactly excited to rule. But then Amunet often saw many things others didn't. She knelt several feet away from the throne, waiting to be addressed before rising or speaking. Yet for the other part... She shuddered. She couldn't deny that she would do whatever need be done for her own child. She couldn't fault Meryet's father for the same. Amunet only hoped that Meryet was willing to work with her. It would be so much smoother that way, and she truly only wanted to be of use, if the Pharaoh's heart was in the right place.