There was much to think about and plenty of time, given that she was stuck within her quarters for the time being. They were a fine enough space, especially after having the court waste time and resources in modifying them.

The painted man Kwetau had finally finished the triple-sun, and ducked out as dusk settled; but that then left Satakhetem alone and in the company of the spacious room, the obsidian decorations, and a high-cut window she could not reach even if she stood as tall as possible upon her hinds.

The shaft of silverlight cast off-center of the triple-sun.

Khaemwaset was poised in the top-center, the focal point. His sphere was marked with gold and in to the wall was etched his mark; to the right and left were twin spheres, one a ring with no core, like a closed eye, inlaid with pearlescent shell; the other was wide open in opposition and the center held a core of vibrant blue, like the sky.

All was diluted to a hazy gray by the starlight. The shell that was Merneith did not shine, and the gold inlay of Khaemwaset looked like rust brown in the darkness. A slow smile came upon Satakhetem as she sprawled back upon her bedspread, unable to sleep.