Anger broiled in Hotep's private thoughts, that Satakhetem had even thought to work magic upon the very walls of the Skyspear. Unconscionable that she continued to insult Horus who, even were she an intended bride, she owed the very minimum of respect and manners.

He could not excuse her youth, for by her age any aspiring court member would have learned to perform guile without offense. She wielded her club not at Egypt's enemies, but at those in the very palace she wished to lay claim over.

Yes! He seethed.

But he kept within himself the patience of a man who had seen many terrible things, and known victory beyond them. She was here for some reason, and perhaps it was not to be Queen but it was certainly to serve some cosmic rite. He must divine it.

And though no sling or arrow could deter him from what he had offered to Pharaoh, Hotep felt it past time to speak with the one who had so summarily dismissed him before the court, and see what her tact might next be.

Gods, he hated politics. This needless disorder! He nearly lamented his choice to retain priesthood, though he knew as sesh alone the compulsion to serve would have remained, and he would have only less power to affect aid to the Pharaoh and Queen.

He stood before the doorway and had mazoi announce him, with full titles. They were lengthy.