We will find certainty together, then. Hotep encouraged, offering a smile still tinged with bewilderment and awe. He straightened himself, neck arched into serpentine poise, then turned and nodded in invitation to follow.

Small feet darted in limber stride over sand; he kept an ear back for any sign that she might be struggling to keep pace. Hers was the heavy build of a Northerner, and dunes did not move quite like snow, even under skies as cold as this. If he needed to slow, he would.

Until the obelisk was in sight, its great shape reaching heavenward as if to pierce the gloom. Look at her glory, the Skyspear! He called, with some pride.

Once they reached it, he explained, Horus-heir should be within. Ordinarily I would say that you must be cleansed to enter... but given that you emerged from sacred flame, it is hard to imagine how your form could be more entirely purified.

He approached the guard out front, announcing himself and proclaiming the need for audience. Though loathe to interrupt the intended restful hours of Khaemwaset and Merneith, in this case, he felt it ought not to wait.

It was only a matter then of waiting to be summoned. When we enter, you must bow. Very low. Hotep mimed the gesture for her to observe. Pledge to them your good intent, and recognition of their sovereignty in this land. Then wait to addressed before you rise again. They are patient rulers, and as a newcomer I do not think you would be punished for neglecting the step. But as you enter in my shadow, it would reflect better on both of us if you make good attempt to perform these rites.

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