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Iaheru meandered through the gardens, reminiscing on past reveries she had as Iaheru H’Sheifa and as Iaheru of Cairo. Walls of H’Sheifa glittered with gold leaf frescoes, goddesses, and the mercantile history of H’Sheifa illuminated for Egypt to revel below. Retainers flocked from the perimeter, assuaging every opium deluded guest and toting malachite serving platters of far-away luxuries. Onuphrious wove through the crowds slowly, having terribly abstract and dotingly personal conversations with almost everyone he met, his warmness gathered around the sun stained, wrinkled eyes. Iaheru observed a leaf, calmly pressing it into the palm of her hand absent-mindedly to wretch her to the current party.
Iaheru discarded her thick cloaks and discerning fashion for an ochre kalasiris that would catch her form on its most extreme points. Surely, her kalasiris did not have a liquidity to its movement like Her Evening Radiance’s fine mesh did, but it draped over Iaheru in such a way that it was Iaheru that carried the garment on pointed, erect shoulder blades. Iaheru had also discarded her husband, favoring the arm of her distant son, occasionally, if rudely so, withdrawn from the festivities in their private conversations. Perspiration collected on a copper stemmed glass stained with carmine around a beveled rim as she absorbed the evening. A part of her is relieved Hei Sheifa was no longer expected to host the Pharaoh.
She remembered that on a night unlike this one how the late Pharaoh had approached her from behind, cupping her chin and forcing her to look upwards at him as the words “I want you,” spilled from stringent breath. The Pharaoh was dead, but her daughters were very much alive and the tendency of men to take what did not belong to them was a truth as old as the Nile itself. Her daughters were radiant, if lightly dressed for the evening chill; Neithotep absent, but surely not for long.
Yet another thing Iaheru discarded this evening, her solid head scarves in exchange for a matching, transparent veil that lazily hung around her neck and framed her face. Gold baubles in her ears and beads collected around a distant, statuesque expression. With a war brewing, a House in disarray, and a son she so desperately missed within arm’s reach, Iaheru was utterly indifferent to anyone at this party, but still interested. She would speak to whoever approached her and nothing more.
To no avail, she tried to hide traces of sourness when the young Pharaoh announced his war- No, this will not do. Annoyed, dissident eyes scanned for her husband, an adversary to war for the sake of it, and for the first time in months she caught his gaze as he quickly looked away and applauded as expected. Iaheru's hands stay still, plausibly distracted.
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This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
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Iaheru meandered through the gardens, reminiscing on past reveries she had as Iaheru H’Sheifa and as Iaheru of Cairo. Walls of H’Sheifa glittered with gold leaf frescoes, goddesses, and the mercantile history of H’Sheifa illuminated for Egypt to revel below. Retainers flocked from the perimeter, assuaging every opium deluded guest and toting malachite serving platters of far-away luxuries. Onuphrious wove through the crowds slowly, having terribly abstract and dotingly personal conversations with almost everyone he met, his warmness gathered around the sun stained, wrinkled eyes. Iaheru observed a leaf, calmly pressing it into the palm of her hand absent-mindedly to wretch her to the current party.
Iaheru discarded her thick cloaks and discerning fashion for an ochre kalasiris that would catch her form on its most extreme points. Surely, her kalasiris did not have a liquidity to its movement like Her Evening Radiance’s fine mesh did, but it draped over Iaheru in such a way that it was Iaheru that carried the garment on pointed, erect shoulder blades. Iaheru had also discarded her husband, favoring the arm of her distant son, occasionally, if rudely so, withdrawn from the festivities in their private conversations. Perspiration collected on a copper stemmed glass stained with carmine around a beveled rim as she absorbed the evening. A part of her is relieved Hei Sheifa was no longer expected to host the Pharaoh.
She remembered that on a night unlike this one how the late Pharaoh had approached her from behind, cupping her chin and forcing her to look upwards at him as the words “I want you,” spilled from stringent breath. The Pharaoh was dead, but her daughters were very much alive and the tendency of men to take what did not belong to them was a truth as old as the Nile itself. Her daughters were radiant, if lightly dressed for the evening chill; Neithotep absent, but surely not for long.
Yet another thing Iaheru discarded this evening, her solid head scarves in exchange for a matching, transparent veil that lazily hung around her neck and framed her face. Gold baubles in her ears and beads collected around a distant, statuesque expression. With a war brewing, a House in disarray, and a son she so desperately missed within arm’s reach, Iaheru was utterly indifferent to anyone at this party, but still interested. She would speak to whoever approached her and nothing more.
To no avail, she tried to hide traces of sourness when the young Pharaoh announced his war- No, this will not do. Annoyed, dissident eyes scanned for her husband, an adversary to war for the sake of it, and for the first time in months she caught his gaze as he quickly looked away and applauded as expected. Iaheru's hands stay still, plausibly distracted.
Iaheru meandered through the gardens, reminiscing on past reveries she had as Iaheru H’Sheifa and as Iaheru of Cairo. Walls of H’Sheifa glittered with gold leaf frescoes, goddesses, and the mercantile history of H’Sheifa illuminated for Egypt to revel below. Retainers flocked from the perimeter, assuaging every opium deluded guest and toting malachite serving platters of far-away luxuries. Onuphrious wove through the crowds slowly, having terribly abstract and dotingly personal conversations with almost everyone he met, his warmness gathered around the sun stained, wrinkled eyes. Iaheru observed a leaf, calmly pressing it into the palm of her hand absent-mindedly to wretch her to the current party.
Iaheru discarded her thick cloaks and discerning fashion for an ochre kalasiris that would catch her form on its most extreme points. Surely, her kalasiris did not have a liquidity to its movement like Her Evening Radiance’s fine mesh did, but it draped over Iaheru in such a way that it was Iaheru that carried the garment on pointed, erect shoulder blades. Iaheru had also discarded her husband, favoring the arm of her distant son, occasionally, if rudely so, withdrawn from the festivities in their private conversations. Perspiration collected on a copper stemmed glass stained with carmine around a beveled rim as she absorbed the evening. A part of her is relieved Hei Sheifa was no longer expected to host the Pharaoh.
She remembered that on a night unlike this one how the late Pharaoh had approached her from behind, cupping her chin and forcing her to look upwards at him as the words “I want you,” spilled from stringent breath. The Pharaoh was dead, but her daughters were very much alive and the tendency of men to take what did not belong to them was a truth as old as the Nile itself. Her daughters were radiant, if lightly dressed for the evening chill; Neithotep absent, but surely not for long.
Yet another thing Iaheru discarded this evening, her solid head scarves in exchange for a matching, transparent veil that lazily hung around her neck and framed her face. Gold baubles in her ears and beads collected around a distant, statuesque expression. With a war brewing, a House in disarray, and a son she so desperately missed within arm’s reach, Iaheru was utterly indifferent to anyone at this party, but still interested. She would speak to whoever approached her and nothing more.
To no avail, she tried to hide traces of sourness when the young Pharaoh announced his war- No, this will not do. Annoyed, dissident eyes scanned for her husband, an adversary to war for the sake of it, and for the first time in months she caught his gaze as he quickly looked away and applauded as expected. Iaheru's hands stay still, plausibly distracted.
Neithotep didn’t want to go.
If there was anything Nia truly dreaded, it was feasts like these—fancy Court functions where everyone talked and laughed and pretended to be on their best behavior, while meanwhile they were all just gathering whatever gossip they could. Her home had hosted enough of them in the past for Nia to know just how dreadful these banquets usually were. Surely, with another Hei hosting the Pharaoh, she could get out of this one. Surely her parents wouldn’t force her to go. After all, who would truly notice her absence, the wayward middle daughter of a house in shame?
Unfortunately, it was not to be.
The evening of the banquet arrived and an irritable Neithotep straightened her ivory kalasiris with an unhappy grimace. The only compromise she’d been able to reach with her mother was that she and Akhenaten could travel separately and arrive later, but that they were to make their faces seen. In spite of her endless begging and shrill whining, Iaheru had not budged, so here she was. Standing on the outskirts of the Haikaddad gardens with her hair coifed, her face painted, and an expression of utter misery plastered across her features. She wished she were anywhere but here.
Her brother offered her a bolstering smile before parting from her to start making rounds of those gathered while Neithotep took a deep breath and steeled herself. It’s not the worst thing in the world, she reminded herself, starting a slow path through the lush greenery that was the backdrop to the evening’s festivities. Remember, at least it’s not at home this time.
Friendly smiles were offered to those Nia passed, stopping for the occasional word or two before moving on. She sought the presence of either of the Haikaddad twins, but being the hostesses of the event, and Safiya the queen’s retainer, both seemed rather indisposed. Swallowing a twinge of disappointment, she lifted a brief hand in greeting to her friends before turning to seek out the rest of her family. Her father even greeted her more warmly than she expected, an affectionate hand brushing over her head. A surprised smile tugged at her lips, but she couldn’t help but wonder why her mother didn’t accompany him. As if she didn’t know the answer.
Finally, after what seemed like hours, she caught sight of Iaheru hanging on her half-brother Sutekh’s arm and fought a sneer. When her mother had insisted on Neithotep’s presence at the party, she’d gone on and on about maintaining the honor of Hei Sheifa, now more than ever. How they had to appear united and harmonious, to fight back against the words that would seek to shame them. But yet, here she was, the stain on their family, proudly accompanying the reason for the not quite low enough whispers that still circulated about their scandal. So much for the pride of our Hei, eh, Mother? she thought with more than a touch of resentment. Guess you’d rather be seen with him now than us.
A nod and a curt wave were all she gave her mother and brother, seeking the company of her sisters instead. While Nefertaari and Nenet were not necessarily her favorite people to be around, they were better than her mother, who could never seem to follow her own advice. At least not in Nia’s eyes.
When the Pharaoh at last made his announcements, the ones that he had apparently gathered them all for, she applauded and smiled just like everyone else. The news didn’t seem to affect her much, though that didn't seem to be the case for many of those gathered. A pregnant Queen was surely a good thing, she thought, and on the surface, most seemed to agree. War with Greece, on the other hand? That, she wasn’t so sure about, though it wasn’t like she’d be doing any of the fighting. It mattered little to her.
With the announcements made and the feast falling back into a different rhythm, Nia started contemplating the easiest way for her to slip out with no one else noticing. Quietly walking away from her sisters and out into the crowd, she started making her way back toward the edges. Slowly detaching herself from the others, she sought the refuge of a much quieter section of the gardens where she might find her escape before noticing another woman who seemed rather keen on doing the same. Partially hidden behind a fern, she looked as put out as Neithotep herself, who couldn’t help but chuckle.
“You look as tired as I feel,” she told the beauty across from her, a sweet smile taking any potential offense from her words. “These things do seem to go on forever, don’t they?”
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This character is currently a work in progress.
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Neithotep didn’t want to go.
If there was anything Nia truly dreaded, it was feasts like these—fancy Court functions where everyone talked and laughed and pretended to be on their best behavior, while meanwhile they were all just gathering whatever gossip they could. Her home had hosted enough of them in the past for Nia to know just how dreadful these banquets usually were. Surely, with another Hei hosting the Pharaoh, she could get out of this one. Surely her parents wouldn’t force her to go. After all, who would truly notice her absence, the wayward middle daughter of a house in shame?
Unfortunately, it was not to be.
The evening of the banquet arrived and an irritable Neithotep straightened her ivory kalasiris with an unhappy grimace. The only compromise she’d been able to reach with her mother was that she and Akhenaten could travel separately and arrive later, but that they were to make their faces seen. In spite of her endless begging and shrill whining, Iaheru had not budged, so here she was. Standing on the outskirts of the Haikaddad gardens with her hair coifed, her face painted, and an expression of utter misery plastered across her features. She wished she were anywhere but here.
Her brother offered her a bolstering smile before parting from her to start making rounds of those gathered while Neithotep took a deep breath and steeled herself. It’s not the worst thing in the world, she reminded herself, starting a slow path through the lush greenery that was the backdrop to the evening’s festivities. Remember, at least it’s not at home this time.
Friendly smiles were offered to those Nia passed, stopping for the occasional word or two before moving on. She sought the presence of either of the Haikaddad twins, but being the hostesses of the event, and Safiya the queen’s retainer, both seemed rather indisposed. Swallowing a twinge of disappointment, she lifted a brief hand in greeting to her friends before turning to seek out the rest of her family. Her father even greeted her more warmly than she expected, an affectionate hand brushing over her head. A surprised smile tugged at her lips, but she couldn’t help but wonder why her mother didn’t accompany him. As if she didn’t know the answer.
Finally, after what seemed like hours, she caught sight of Iaheru hanging on her half-brother Sutekh’s arm and fought a sneer. When her mother had insisted on Neithotep’s presence at the party, she’d gone on and on about maintaining the honor of Hei Sheifa, now more than ever. How they had to appear united and harmonious, to fight back against the words that would seek to shame them. But yet, here she was, the stain on their family, proudly accompanying the reason for the not quite low enough whispers that still circulated about their scandal. So much for the pride of our Hei, eh, Mother? she thought with more than a touch of resentment. Guess you’d rather be seen with him now than us.
A nod and a curt wave were all she gave her mother and brother, seeking the company of her sisters instead. While Nefertaari and Nenet were not necessarily her favorite people to be around, they were better than her mother, who could never seem to follow her own advice. At least not in Nia’s eyes.
When the Pharaoh at last made his announcements, the ones that he had apparently gathered them all for, she applauded and smiled just like everyone else. The news didn’t seem to affect her much, though that didn't seem to be the case for many of those gathered. A pregnant Queen was surely a good thing, she thought, and on the surface, most seemed to agree. War with Greece, on the other hand? That, she wasn’t so sure about, though it wasn’t like she’d be doing any of the fighting. It mattered little to her.
With the announcements made and the feast falling back into a different rhythm, Nia started contemplating the easiest way for her to slip out with no one else noticing. Quietly walking away from her sisters and out into the crowd, she started making her way back toward the edges. Slowly detaching herself from the others, she sought the refuge of a much quieter section of the gardens where she might find her escape before noticing another woman who seemed rather keen on doing the same. Partially hidden behind a fern, she looked as put out as Neithotep herself, who couldn’t help but chuckle.
“You look as tired as I feel,” she told the beauty across from her, a sweet smile taking any potential offense from her words. “These things do seem to go on forever, don’t they?”
Neithotep didn’t want to go.
If there was anything Nia truly dreaded, it was feasts like these—fancy Court functions where everyone talked and laughed and pretended to be on their best behavior, while meanwhile they were all just gathering whatever gossip they could. Her home had hosted enough of them in the past for Nia to know just how dreadful these banquets usually were. Surely, with another Hei hosting the Pharaoh, she could get out of this one. Surely her parents wouldn’t force her to go. After all, who would truly notice her absence, the wayward middle daughter of a house in shame?
Unfortunately, it was not to be.
The evening of the banquet arrived and an irritable Neithotep straightened her ivory kalasiris with an unhappy grimace. The only compromise she’d been able to reach with her mother was that she and Akhenaten could travel separately and arrive later, but that they were to make their faces seen. In spite of her endless begging and shrill whining, Iaheru had not budged, so here she was. Standing on the outskirts of the Haikaddad gardens with her hair coifed, her face painted, and an expression of utter misery plastered across her features. She wished she were anywhere but here.
Her brother offered her a bolstering smile before parting from her to start making rounds of those gathered while Neithotep took a deep breath and steeled herself. It’s not the worst thing in the world, she reminded herself, starting a slow path through the lush greenery that was the backdrop to the evening’s festivities. Remember, at least it’s not at home this time.
Friendly smiles were offered to those Nia passed, stopping for the occasional word or two before moving on. She sought the presence of either of the Haikaddad twins, but being the hostesses of the event, and Safiya the queen’s retainer, both seemed rather indisposed. Swallowing a twinge of disappointment, she lifted a brief hand in greeting to her friends before turning to seek out the rest of her family. Her father even greeted her more warmly than she expected, an affectionate hand brushing over her head. A surprised smile tugged at her lips, but she couldn’t help but wonder why her mother didn’t accompany him. As if she didn’t know the answer.
Finally, after what seemed like hours, she caught sight of Iaheru hanging on her half-brother Sutekh’s arm and fought a sneer. When her mother had insisted on Neithotep’s presence at the party, she’d gone on and on about maintaining the honor of Hei Sheifa, now more than ever. How they had to appear united and harmonious, to fight back against the words that would seek to shame them. But yet, here she was, the stain on their family, proudly accompanying the reason for the not quite low enough whispers that still circulated about their scandal. So much for the pride of our Hei, eh, Mother? she thought with more than a touch of resentment. Guess you’d rather be seen with him now than us.
A nod and a curt wave were all she gave her mother and brother, seeking the company of her sisters instead. While Nefertaari and Nenet were not necessarily her favorite people to be around, they were better than her mother, who could never seem to follow her own advice. At least not in Nia’s eyes.
When the Pharaoh at last made his announcements, the ones that he had apparently gathered them all for, she applauded and smiled just like everyone else. The news didn’t seem to affect her much, though that didn't seem to be the case for many of those gathered. A pregnant Queen was surely a good thing, she thought, and on the surface, most seemed to agree. War with Greece, on the other hand? That, she wasn’t so sure about, though it wasn’t like she’d be doing any of the fighting. It mattered little to her.
With the announcements made and the feast falling back into a different rhythm, Nia started contemplating the easiest way for her to slip out with no one else noticing. Quietly walking away from her sisters and out into the crowd, she started making her way back toward the edges. Slowly detaching herself from the others, she sought the refuge of a much quieter section of the gardens where she might find her escape before noticing another woman who seemed rather keen on doing the same. Partially hidden behind a fern, she looked as put out as Neithotep herself, who couldn’t help but chuckle.
“You look as tired as I feel,” she told the beauty across from her, a sweet smile taking any potential offense from her words. “These things do seem to go on forever, don’t they?”
The arrival of the Pharoah was - as usual - one of great pomp and extravagance, even if it was later then the time alotted. Narmer was not so stupid as to infer him as being late, unless he wished himself to be executed. As such, the man merely escorted the Queen Dowager as was his duty as the host of the ceremony, leading her to her place of honor at the head with her family, before returning to the festivities.
He knew Na'meah and Kissan would be around, doing their duty as he did his to mingle with the guests and the other members of their Hei. His eyes roamed, and paused when they stopped at where a woman he knew to be Lady Berenike, who seemed stuck in an awkward conversation with an elderly widow. A small, amused smile curled his lips when he noticed the body language of the Isazari daughter, and Narmer was just about to head in that direction to extricate her from a situation she'd likely find no fun in, when the Pharoah's voice boomed loud and clear for all to hear, halting all other conversations.
Each word had muscles tightening in Narmer's body, even if he knew he would not be the one joining in this new war the pharoah declared on Greece. As Head of Hei, he could join the armies in heading out to fight for the glory of Egypt, and had it been years ago as he took military command, he would do so with no guilt, for he knew that if his life was to be taken by Osiris, he could go with no worry of the Hei. Yet, the circumstances of life had resulted in his position here today torn between going, or remaining and allowing his nephew to take the reins. That the young Queen was pregnant was no surprise, for she was young, and Narmer doubted the pharoah would've kept his hands off his beautiful and young wife for long after marriage, especially when they had heirs to beget.
But one look at his friend over the heads of others was enough to tell Narmer that Osorsen could not be happy about such news, despite being drowned by others flooding around him to discuss strategies and tactics of this new war the pharoah had just decreed.
Did he wish for war? Not entirely. At least, not now. Unlike his friend, Narmer was not one to let anger cloud his need for pride. He was prideful, in a very Egyptian sense, but he did not see the need to wrench pride from the grasps of someone else. Should it come to fighting for the glory of Egypt however, Narmer would... yet such a call was not his to make for now.
Applauding with everyone else to not seem as if he was second guessing the Pharoah's decision, he exchanged smiles with others who cheered loudly, but if anyone knew him, they would see that his heart was not in it. His eyes roamed, seeking and spying Na'meah's eyes meeting his own - at least, Safiya and Sameera would be around, and Kissan is too young as of yet to join the army that would attack Greece. His sister-in-law need not worry that any of her offspring would be chosen to fight and risk their lives for the glory of Egypt. Kissan had been bothering Narmer about joining the military unit under Hei Haikaddad, but Narmer was reluctant yet to say yes.
As Narmer's eyes continued however, he saw the figure of the lady of Hei Sheifa, a woman who has had her fair share of adversities in the year since he's returned, and whose daughter he had recently conversed with at the Sed Festival held in the Pharoah's palace. That the half-brother of the young Queen was the son of the Lady Iaheru was already scandalous enough - everyone was surprised, least of all Narmer, that Onuphrious had done nothing to his wife, at least nothing visible that can be seen by the public for now. While he was curious, at the same time Hei Sheifa was a Hei famous for avid merchants, and a rich Hei - just the kind of Hei that Narmer would require to be on his side, if to fix all the peeling gold paint and ageing furniture within his Hei - all the reasons why he had held the dinner outside for the night.
Weaving his way through the crowd, amidst the applause, Narmer cleared his throat lightly to announce his arrival once he stood by Iaheru's side, and flashed her a small, friendly grin as he motioned with his chin at her hands. "Clap, should he see you. Do not risk your Hei's safety by acting out of order, at least not tonight. The Pharoah is not a man we can take lightly, m'lady." Looking up, Narmer caught the eye of the husband to the lady he stood next to, and gave a respectful bow. Onuphrious was a man Narmer highly respected, and knowing the stories that surrounded him and his wife, Narmer had no wish for any bad blood between himself and a Hei he wished he could align himself with - he merely wanted to ensure none of them got in the Pharoah's line of fire, at least not for tonight.
He couldn't afford a new coat of paint.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
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The arrival of the Pharoah was - as usual - one of great pomp and extravagance, even if it was later then the time alotted. Narmer was not so stupid as to infer him as being late, unless he wished himself to be executed. As such, the man merely escorted the Queen Dowager as was his duty as the host of the ceremony, leading her to her place of honor at the head with her family, before returning to the festivities.
He knew Na'meah and Kissan would be around, doing their duty as he did his to mingle with the guests and the other members of their Hei. His eyes roamed, and paused when they stopped at where a woman he knew to be Lady Berenike, who seemed stuck in an awkward conversation with an elderly widow. A small, amused smile curled his lips when he noticed the body language of the Isazari daughter, and Narmer was just about to head in that direction to extricate her from a situation she'd likely find no fun in, when the Pharoah's voice boomed loud and clear for all to hear, halting all other conversations.
Each word had muscles tightening in Narmer's body, even if he knew he would not be the one joining in this new war the pharoah declared on Greece. As Head of Hei, he could join the armies in heading out to fight for the glory of Egypt, and had it been years ago as he took military command, he would do so with no guilt, for he knew that if his life was to be taken by Osiris, he could go with no worry of the Hei. Yet, the circumstances of life had resulted in his position here today torn between going, or remaining and allowing his nephew to take the reins. That the young Queen was pregnant was no surprise, for she was young, and Narmer doubted the pharoah would've kept his hands off his beautiful and young wife for long after marriage, especially when they had heirs to beget.
But one look at his friend over the heads of others was enough to tell Narmer that Osorsen could not be happy about such news, despite being drowned by others flooding around him to discuss strategies and tactics of this new war the pharoah had just decreed.
Did he wish for war? Not entirely. At least, not now. Unlike his friend, Narmer was not one to let anger cloud his need for pride. He was prideful, in a very Egyptian sense, but he did not see the need to wrench pride from the grasps of someone else. Should it come to fighting for the glory of Egypt however, Narmer would... yet such a call was not his to make for now.
Applauding with everyone else to not seem as if he was second guessing the Pharoah's decision, he exchanged smiles with others who cheered loudly, but if anyone knew him, they would see that his heart was not in it. His eyes roamed, seeking and spying Na'meah's eyes meeting his own - at least, Safiya and Sameera would be around, and Kissan is too young as of yet to join the army that would attack Greece. His sister-in-law need not worry that any of her offspring would be chosen to fight and risk their lives for the glory of Egypt. Kissan had been bothering Narmer about joining the military unit under Hei Haikaddad, but Narmer was reluctant yet to say yes.
As Narmer's eyes continued however, he saw the figure of the lady of Hei Sheifa, a woman who has had her fair share of adversities in the year since he's returned, and whose daughter he had recently conversed with at the Sed Festival held in the Pharoah's palace. That the half-brother of the young Queen was the son of the Lady Iaheru was already scandalous enough - everyone was surprised, least of all Narmer, that Onuphrious had done nothing to his wife, at least nothing visible that can be seen by the public for now. While he was curious, at the same time Hei Sheifa was a Hei famous for avid merchants, and a rich Hei - just the kind of Hei that Narmer would require to be on his side, if to fix all the peeling gold paint and ageing furniture within his Hei - all the reasons why he had held the dinner outside for the night.
Weaving his way through the crowd, amidst the applause, Narmer cleared his throat lightly to announce his arrival once he stood by Iaheru's side, and flashed her a small, friendly grin as he motioned with his chin at her hands. "Clap, should he see you. Do not risk your Hei's safety by acting out of order, at least not tonight. The Pharoah is not a man we can take lightly, m'lady." Looking up, Narmer caught the eye of the husband to the lady he stood next to, and gave a respectful bow. Onuphrious was a man Narmer highly respected, and knowing the stories that surrounded him and his wife, Narmer had no wish for any bad blood between himself and a Hei he wished he could align himself with - he merely wanted to ensure none of them got in the Pharoah's line of fire, at least not for tonight.
He couldn't afford a new coat of paint.
The arrival of the Pharoah was - as usual - one of great pomp and extravagance, even if it was later then the time alotted. Narmer was not so stupid as to infer him as being late, unless he wished himself to be executed. As such, the man merely escorted the Queen Dowager as was his duty as the host of the ceremony, leading her to her place of honor at the head with her family, before returning to the festivities.
He knew Na'meah and Kissan would be around, doing their duty as he did his to mingle with the guests and the other members of their Hei. His eyes roamed, and paused when they stopped at where a woman he knew to be Lady Berenike, who seemed stuck in an awkward conversation with an elderly widow. A small, amused smile curled his lips when he noticed the body language of the Isazari daughter, and Narmer was just about to head in that direction to extricate her from a situation she'd likely find no fun in, when the Pharoah's voice boomed loud and clear for all to hear, halting all other conversations.
Each word had muscles tightening in Narmer's body, even if he knew he would not be the one joining in this new war the pharoah declared on Greece. As Head of Hei, he could join the armies in heading out to fight for the glory of Egypt, and had it been years ago as he took military command, he would do so with no guilt, for he knew that if his life was to be taken by Osiris, he could go with no worry of the Hei. Yet, the circumstances of life had resulted in his position here today torn between going, or remaining and allowing his nephew to take the reins. That the young Queen was pregnant was no surprise, for she was young, and Narmer doubted the pharoah would've kept his hands off his beautiful and young wife for long after marriage, especially when they had heirs to beget.
But one look at his friend over the heads of others was enough to tell Narmer that Osorsen could not be happy about such news, despite being drowned by others flooding around him to discuss strategies and tactics of this new war the pharoah had just decreed.
Did he wish for war? Not entirely. At least, not now. Unlike his friend, Narmer was not one to let anger cloud his need for pride. He was prideful, in a very Egyptian sense, but he did not see the need to wrench pride from the grasps of someone else. Should it come to fighting for the glory of Egypt however, Narmer would... yet such a call was not his to make for now.
Applauding with everyone else to not seem as if he was second guessing the Pharoah's decision, he exchanged smiles with others who cheered loudly, but if anyone knew him, they would see that his heart was not in it. His eyes roamed, seeking and spying Na'meah's eyes meeting his own - at least, Safiya and Sameera would be around, and Kissan is too young as of yet to join the army that would attack Greece. His sister-in-law need not worry that any of her offspring would be chosen to fight and risk their lives for the glory of Egypt. Kissan had been bothering Narmer about joining the military unit under Hei Haikaddad, but Narmer was reluctant yet to say yes.
As Narmer's eyes continued however, he saw the figure of the lady of Hei Sheifa, a woman who has had her fair share of adversities in the year since he's returned, and whose daughter he had recently conversed with at the Sed Festival held in the Pharoah's palace. That the half-brother of the young Queen was the son of the Lady Iaheru was already scandalous enough - everyone was surprised, least of all Narmer, that Onuphrious had done nothing to his wife, at least nothing visible that can be seen by the public for now. While he was curious, at the same time Hei Sheifa was a Hei famous for avid merchants, and a rich Hei - just the kind of Hei that Narmer would require to be on his side, if to fix all the peeling gold paint and ageing furniture within his Hei - all the reasons why he had held the dinner outside for the night.
Weaving his way through the crowd, amidst the applause, Narmer cleared his throat lightly to announce his arrival once he stood by Iaheru's side, and flashed her a small, friendly grin as he motioned with his chin at her hands. "Clap, should he see you. Do not risk your Hei's safety by acting out of order, at least not tonight. The Pharoah is not a man we can take lightly, m'lady." Looking up, Narmer caught the eye of the husband to the lady he stood next to, and gave a respectful bow. Onuphrious was a man Narmer highly respected, and knowing the stories that surrounded him and his wife, Narmer had no wish for any bad blood between himself and a Hei he wished he could align himself with - he merely wanted to ensure none of them got in the Pharoah's line of fire, at least not for tonight.
He couldn't afford a new coat of paint.
Iaheru squinted at Narmer, the man’s words quickly drawing her from her internal strategizing. She was not familiar with him and she couldn’t say that she was familiar with Hei Haikaddad, however, reputation had an unfortunate tendency to precede in Egypt. Eyes fiery with a blended fury of both the war brewing and the interruption of the man nearly twenty years her junior leaving sourness on her tongue. Before the truth of her son, Sutekh, emerged, no one would have dared to question her actions within the court.
This anger dispersed as rapidly as it presented, Iaheru’s inner dialogue reminding her that she was, in fact, at a party. She was sure she angered several noble women that accepted disrespect in good grace, none of these women lesser than the Queen Dowager. She was not sure that was the case anymore, once again, as the consequence of Sutekh’s blood, but after she was commanded to serve the Pharaoh, Isetheperu remained coldly accepting of her. Her hands clap lightly, her smile subdued much like her dress and public allure. After all, she was not a flashy woman, or even a moderate woman by Egyptian standards. Iaheru’s life was one marred by her reservation. “I seem to have lost myself for a moment there, I apologize. Hei Sheifa has always supported Hei Naddar and the Pharaoh diligently,” Iaheru regarded Narmer with a warm smile that illuminated the gold of her skin, “I hope my lapse in present has not convinced you otherwise.”
“This is a lovely evening, Narmer. You’ve been an excellent host,” Iaheru mentioned genuinely, taking to the chill of the evening well, “I’m glad that I’m finally able to see the gardens. Usually these parties are so stuffy, just unbearable, when they’re held inside. It’s why I had the roof removed from my foyer.”
Iaheru, tiring of olives, cherries, and following her son about the perimeter of the party, redirected her entire attention to Narmer. If she was known for anything besides her son, she was known for her intensity, “Tell me something that would surprise me.”
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Iaheru squinted at Narmer, the man’s words quickly drawing her from her internal strategizing. She was not familiar with him and she couldn’t say that she was familiar with Hei Haikaddad, however, reputation had an unfortunate tendency to precede in Egypt. Eyes fiery with a blended fury of both the war brewing and the interruption of the man nearly twenty years her junior leaving sourness on her tongue. Before the truth of her son, Sutekh, emerged, no one would have dared to question her actions within the court.
This anger dispersed as rapidly as it presented, Iaheru’s inner dialogue reminding her that she was, in fact, at a party. She was sure she angered several noble women that accepted disrespect in good grace, none of these women lesser than the Queen Dowager. She was not sure that was the case anymore, once again, as the consequence of Sutekh’s blood, but after she was commanded to serve the Pharaoh, Isetheperu remained coldly accepting of her. Her hands clap lightly, her smile subdued much like her dress and public allure. After all, she was not a flashy woman, or even a moderate woman by Egyptian standards. Iaheru’s life was one marred by her reservation. “I seem to have lost myself for a moment there, I apologize. Hei Sheifa has always supported Hei Naddar and the Pharaoh diligently,” Iaheru regarded Narmer with a warm smile that illuminated the gold of her skin, “I hope my lapse in present has not convinced you otherwise.”
“This is a lovely evening, Narmer. You’ve been an excellent host,” Iaheru mentioned genuinely, taking to the chill of the evening well, “I’m glad that I’m finally able to see the gardens. Usually these parties are so stuffy, just unbearable, when they’re held inside. It’s why I had the roof removed from my foyer.”
Iaheru, tiring of olives, cherries, and following her son about the perimeter of the party, redirected her entire attention to Narmer. If she was known for anything besides her son, she was known for her intensity, “Tell me something that would surprise me.”
Iaheru squinted at Narmer, the man’s words quickly drawing her from her internal strategizing. She was not familiar with him and she couldn’t say that she was familiar with Hei Haikaddad, however, reputation had an unfortunate tendency to precede in Egypt. Eyes fiery with a blended fury of both the war brewing and the interruption of the man nearly twenty years her junior leaving sourness on her tongue. Before the truth of her son, Sutekh, emerged, no one would have dared to question her actions within the court.
This anger dispersed as rapidly as it presented, Iaheru’s inner dialogue reminding her that she was, in fact, at a party. She was sure she angered several noble women that accepted disrespect in good grace, none of these women lesser than the Queen Dowager. She was not sure that was the case anymore, once again, as the consequence of Sutekh’s blood, but after she was commanded to serve the Pharaoh, Isetheperu remained coldly accepting of her. Her hands clap lightly, her smile subdued much like her dress and public allure. After all, she was not a flashy woman, or even a moderate woman by Egyptian standards. Iaheru’s life was one marred by her reservation. “I seem to have lost myself for a moment there, I apologize. Hei Sheifa has always supported Hei Naddar and the Pharaoh diligently,” Iaheru regarded Narmer with a warm smile that illuminated the gold of her skin, “I hope my lapse in present has not convinced you otherwise.”
“This is a lovely evening, Narmer. You’ve been an excellent host,” Iaheru mentioned genuinely, taking to the chill of the evening well, “I’m glad that I’m finally able to see the gardens. Usually these parties are so stuffy, just unbearable, when they’re held inside. It’s why I had the roof removed from my foyer.”
Iaheru, tiring of olives, cherries, and following her son about the perimeter of the party, redirected her entire attention to Narmer. If she was known for anything besides her son, she was known for her intensity, “Tell me something that would surprise me.”
While she wouldn't pretend to understand exactly what was going on with respect to the Queen and her marriage, it had been increasingly clear that she wasn't entirely happy at least not in the way that Safiya had understood such matters to be carried out. Naturally, much of her understanding of such things came from the books she thrived on reading and the stories that she had her sister had shared with each other.
None of which meshed with the young woman they both currently served. Safiya was not sure she had ever seen her really relaxed around the Pharoah and surely she should be? He was her husband and that had to count for something, Safiya knew that she wanted to have a marriage that brought her happiness, much like the one her parents had possessed. Yet, another reason for her skewed opinion and perception of what marriage should be and how the people engaged in it should be reacting and acting around each other. It had left her rather cold to think that she might end up with something similar.
Even though Safiya didn't want to think about it, the fact was that she was unlikely to be able to marry the man she actually loved. Which left her to hope that she could at least marry a man whom she could learn to love and in return might also be able to love her as well. Was that really too much to ask?
"Your welcome, I hope it will please you, your highness" she added, aware that she needed to keep her voice now as the rest of the people reacted to the news the Pharoah had shared. Surely her uncle wouldn't have to leave again unless this was why they had arranged to have this event hosted here. While Safiya had no head for figures she knew that Narmer was the best chance for their Hei to survive the difficulties that they currently faced.
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While she wouldn't pretend to understand exactly what was going on with respect to the Queen and her marriage, it had been increasingly clear that she wasn't entirely happy at least not in the way that Safiya had understood such matters to be carried out. Naturally, much of her understanding of such things came from the books she thrived on reading and the stories that she had her sister had shared with each other.
None of which meshed with the young woman they both currently served. Safiya was not sure she had ever seen her really relaxed around the Pharoah and surely she should be? He was her husband and that had to count for something, Safiya knew that she wanted to have a marriage that brought her happiness, much like the one her parents had possessed. Yet, another reason for her skewed opinion and perception of what marriage should be and how the people engaged in it should be reacting and acting around each other. It had left her rather cold to think that she might end up with something similar.
Even though Safiya didn't want to think about it, the fact was that she was unlikely to be able to marry the man she actually loved. Which left her to hope that she could at least marry a man whom she could learn to love and in return might also be able to love her as well. Was that really too much to ask?
"Your welcome, I hope it will please you, your highness" she added, aware that she needed to keep her voice now as the rest of the people reacted to the news the Pharoah had shared. Surely her uncle wouldn't have to leave again unless this was why they had arranged to have this event hosted here. While Safiya had no head for figures she knew that Narmer was the best chance for their Hei to survive the difficulties that they currently faced.
While she wouldn't pretend to understand exactly what was going on with respect to the Queen and her marriage, it had been increasingly clear that she wasn't entirely happy at least not in the way that Safiya had understood such matters to be carried out. Naturally, much of her understanding of such things came from the books she thrived on reading and the stories that she had her sister had shared with each other.
None of which meshed with the young woman they both currently served. Safiya was not sure she had ever seen her really relaxed around the Pharoah and surely she should be? He was her husband and that had to count for something, Safiya knew that she wanted to have a marriage that brought her happiness, much like the one her parents had possessed. Yet, another reason for her skewed opinion and perception of what marriage should be and how the people engaged in it should be reacting and acting around each other. It had left her rather cold to think that she might end up with something similar.
Even though Safiya didn't want to think about it, the fact was that she was unlikely to be able to marry the man she actually loved. Which left her to hope that she could at least marry a man whom she could learn to love and in return might also be able to love her as well. Was that really too much to ask?
"Your welcome, I hope it will please you, your highness" she added, aware that she needed to keep her voice now as the rest of the people reacted to the news the Pharoah had shared. Surely her uncle wouldn't have to leave again unless this was why they had arranged to have this event hosted here. While Safiya had no head for figures she knew that Narmer was the best chance for their Hei to survive the difficulties that they currently faced.
Hatshepsut smiled a bit wanly at Safiya as she took the glass from her with a shaking hand. Lifting it to her lips, she took a sip, savoring its smooth taste as it slid down her throat, easing its dryness considerably. A languorous warmth began to spread through her body, and she felt a bit calmer, though her knees were still weak and her vision blurred. “It does,” she told her retainer. “You seem to know just what I need, Safiya. What would I ever do without you?”
This was true. The young Queen thought she was lucky to have such thoughtful and diligent attendants. Safiya and Sameera served her well and she would probably be relying on them more often as the months passed and her belly swelled with the precious little life growing within her. Yes, it might be Iahotep's, but she still loved it because it was also hers. She could raise it to be compassionate and merciful, everything that its father was not.
Yet children developed their own personalities as they matured. Hatshepsut was nothing like her own mother, and sometimes believed that she could see the disappointment in her eyes. Maybe if she had been a copy of Isetheperu, she would have welcomed a marriage with Iahotep. In the past two months, she had begun to notice the similarities between her mother and husband and that they got along quite well. Maybe they had even discussed the war together long before it was announced.
With any luck, the child she carried would take more after her than Iahotep and perhaps she herself would develop a thicker skin in time. She wasn't sure if Pharaoh planned on leading his men into war or if he would stay behind and direct the army from Cairo, but if he did go, she would most likely be left in charge of Egypt. Hatshepsut looked forward to the chance to prove herself a capable ruler in her own right, though she imagined she would rely heavily on her mother's help and advice. This time she would listen carefully and try to emulate the woman she so admired. Maybe some of her confidence and strength would rub off on the shy, anxious, and insecure young girl. Though she still despised her husband, she was determined to show him that she was knowledgeable enough to rule by his side. The young Queen was tired of being nothing more than a pretty ornament to parade around on his arm.
She took another sip of wine, feeling stronger by the moment. Her vision cleared and she looked around the gardens, trying to spot Berenike in the crowd. She had seen her friend earlier speaking with an older woman whose name Hatshepsut could not quite recall, though she was sure it would come to her eventually. Now, however, Berenike seemed to have disappeared. Had she left before the announcement had been made? It wasn't as if she could go to her anyway, stuck as she was in her husband's strong grip.
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Hatshepsut smiled a bit wanly at Safiya as she took the glass from her with a shaking hand. Lifting it to her lips, she took a sip, savoring its smooth taste as it slid down her throat, easing its dryness considerably. A languorous warmth began to spread through her body, and she felt a bit calmer, though her knees were still weak and her vision blurred. “It does,” she told her retainer. “You seem to know just what I need, Safiya. What would I ever do without you?”
This was true. The young Queen thought she was lucky to have such thoughtful and diligent attendants. Safiya and Sameera served her well and she would probably be relying on them more often as the months passed and her belly swelled with the precious little life growing within her. Yes, it might be Iahotep's, but she still loved it because it was also hers. She could raise it to be compassionate and merciful, everything that its father was not.
Yet children developed their own personalities as they matured. Hatshepsut was nothing like her own mother, and sometimes believed that she could see the disappointment in her eyes. Maybe if she had been a copy of Isetheperu, she would have welcomed a marriage with Iahotep. In the past two months, she had begun to notice the similarities between her mother and husband and that they got along quite well. Maybe they had even discussed the war together long before it was announced.
With any luck, the child she carried would take more after her than Iahotep and perhaps she herself would develop a thicker skin in time. She wasn't sure if Pharaoh planned on leading his men into war or if he would stay behind and direct the army from Cairo, but if he did go, she would most likely be left in charge of Egypt. Hatshepsut looked forward to the chance to prove herself a capable ruler in her own right, though she imagined she would rely heavily on her mother's help and advice. This time she would listen carefully and try to emulate the woman she so admired. Maybe some of her confidence and strength would rub off on the shy, anxious, and insecure young girl. Though she still despised her husband, she was determined to show him that she was knowledgeable enough to rule by his side. The young Queen was tired of being nothing more than a pretty ornament to parade around on his arm.
She took another sip of wine, feeling stronger by the moment. Her vision cleared and she looked around the gardens, trying to spot Berenike in the crowd. She had seen her friend earlier speaking with an older woman whose name Hatshepsut could not quite recall, though she was sure it would come to her eventually. Now, however, Berenike seemed to have disappeared. Had she left before the announcement had been made? It wasn't as if she could go to her anyway, stuck as she was in her husband's strong grip.
Hatshepsut smiled a bit wanly at Safiya as she took the glass from her with a shaking hand. Lifting it to her lips, she took a sip, savoring its smooth taste as it slid down her throat, easing its dryness considerably. A languorous warmth began to spread through her body, and she felt a bit calmer, though her knees were still weak and her vision blurred. “It does,” she told her retainer. “You seem to know just what I need, Safiya. What would I ever do without you?”
This was true. The young Queen thought she was lucky to have such thoughtful and diligent attendants. Safiya and Sameera served her well and she would probably be relying on them more often as the months passed and her belly swelled with the precious little life growing within her. Yes, it might be Iahotep's, but she still loved it because it was also hers. She could raise it to be compassionate and merciful, everything that its father was not.
Yet children developed their own personalities as they matured. Hatshepsut was nothing like her own mother, and sometimes believed that she could see the disappointment in her eyes. Maybe if she had been a copy of Isetheperu, she would have welcomed a marriage with Iahotep. In the past two months, she had begun to notice the similarities between her mother and husband and that they got along quite well. Maybe they had even discussed the war together long before it was announced.
With any luck, the child she carried would take more after her than Iahotep and perhaps she herself would develop a thicker skin in time. She wasn't sure if Pharaoh planned on leading his men into war or if he would stay behind and direct the army from Cairo, but if he did go, she would most likely be left in charge of Egypt. Hatshepsut looked forward to the chance to prove herself a capable ruler in her own right, though she imagined she would rely heavily on her mother's help and advice. This time she would listen carefully and try to emulate the woman she so admired. Maybe some of her confidence and strength would rub off on the shy, anxious, and insecure young girl. Though she still despised her husband, she was determined to show him that she was knowledgeable enough to rule by his side. The young Queen was tired of being nothing more than a pretty ornament to parade around on his arm.
She took another sip of wine, feeling stronger by the moment. Her vision cleared and she looked around the gardens, trying to spot Berenike in the crowd. She had seen her friend earlier speaking with an older woman whose name Hatshepsut could not quite recall, though she was sure it would come to her eventually. Now, however, Berenike seemed to have disappeared. Had she left before the announcement had been made? It wasn't as if she could go to her anyway, stuck as she was in her husband's strong grip.
He watched as the rest of the events unfurled around them, occasionally allowing his gaze to rest on his two nieces by the side of the young Queen who now - as was announced - carried the future heir to the Egyptian throne within her. The positions of Safiya and Sameera as the Queen's handmaiden was simultaneously dangerous and the safest one could have within Egypt at the moment, yet it was Narmer who had to sit through Na'meah's worries each evening as she fussed over whether or not she should allow her daughtrs to continue. Personally, Narmer would much prefer to marry them off... but with an impending war just announced, he doubted he'd be able to arrange that anytime soon.
Turning to the elder lady as she replied him, a brief flicker of recognition passed Narmer as he saw the similarities in between her and the young Sirdsett Neithotep he had managed to converse with just a few weeks prior at the Sed festival in the Pharoah's palace. It would seem he can tell where the young Sirdsett got her beauty from, for her mother seemed similarly elegant, and had aged beautifully. The rumors around her were flagrant of course, with her youngest son now revealed to be a brother to the Queen, yet through all of that Sirdsett Iaheru still carried herself with a pride Narmer could detect.
Returning her smile with one of his own that spoke of understanding and a warm kindness that could only be shared by two people who understood what it meant to go through hardships, he chuckled wryly at her praise to the gardens. "Thank you, Sirdsett Iaheru." he murmured politely in return, as the applause around them died down. "We're moving into beautiful weather now in this Awwal, I do not see any reason why we can't enjoy the cool evening." It was his luck that the weather had remained cool and beautiful that evening. He did not know how would he explain himself had it rained and they had to bring the festivities indoors, where the upkeep of his saraaya left much to be desired.
Taking a step back as Iaheru turned her attention to him, his eyes registered surprise at the straightforwardness of the lady's question, and the man fumbled for words for a little, before hesitantly venturing, "I have recently conversed with your daughter, young Sirdsett Neithotep? She has grown into quite a beauty, it would seem." he tapered off with a small, but smooth smile, hazel eyes reflecting the glow of the dancing fire on the candles that illuminated the gardens. "Are plans for her marriage in order? I should assume she is of age. I fear I would need assistance on that matter when it comes to that of my two nieces. My sister-in-law and I are woefully unprepared for the marrying off of two who look so alike."
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He watched as the rest of the events unfurled around them, occasionally allowing his gaze to rest on his two nieces by the side of the young Queen who now - as was announced - carried the future heir to the Egyptian throne within her. The positions of Safiya and Sameera as the Queen's handmaiden was simultaneously dangerous and the safest one could have within Egypt at the moment, yet it was Narmer who had to sit through Na'meah's worries each evening as she fussed over whether or not she should allow her daughtrs to continue. Personally, Narmer would much prefer to marry them off... but with an impending war just announced, he doubted he'd be able to arrange that anytime soon.
Turning to the elder lady as she replied him, a brief flicker of recognition passed Narmer as he saw the similarities in between her and the young Sirdsett Neithotep he had managed to converse with just a few weeks prior at the Sed festival in the Pharoah's palace. It would seem he can tell where the young Sirdsett got her beauty from, for her mother seemed similarly elegant, and had aged beautifully. The rumors around her were flagrant of course, with her youngest son now revealed to be a brother to the Queen, yet through all of that Sirdsett Iaheru still carried herself with a pride Narmer could detect.
Returning her smile with one of his own that spoke of understanding and a warm kindness that could only be shared by two people who understood what it meant to go through hardships, he chuckled wryly at her praise to the gardens. "Thank you, Sirdsett Iaheru." he murmured politely in return, as the applause around them died down. "We're moving into beautiful weather now in this Awwal, I do not see any reason why we can't enjoy the cool evening." It was his luck that the weather had remained cool and beautiful that evening. He did not know how would he explain himself had it rained and they had to bring the festivities indoors, where the upkeep of his saraaya left much to be desired.
Taking a step back as Iaheru turned her attention to him, his eyes registered surprise at the straightforwardness of the lady's question, and the man fumbled for words for a little, before hesitantly venturing, "I have recently conversed with your daughter, young Sirdsett Neithotep? She has grown into quite a beauty, it would seem." he tapered off with a small, but smooth smile, hazel eyes reflecting the glow of the dancing fire on the candles that illuminated the gardens. "Are plans for her marriage in order? I should assume she is of age. I fear I would need assistance on that matter when it comes to that of my two nieces. My sister-in-law and I are woefully unprepared for the marrying off of two who look so alike."
He watched as the rest of the events unfurled around them, occasionally allowing his gaze to rest on his two nieces by the side of the young Queen who now - as was announced - carried the future heir to the Egyptian throne within her. The positions of Safiya and Sameera as the Queen's handmaiden was simultaneously dangerous and the safest one could have within Egypt at the moment, yet it was Narmer who had to sit through Na'meah's worries each evening as she fussed over whether or not she should allow her daughtrs to continue. Personally, Narmer would much prefer to marry them off... but with an impending war just announced, he doubted he'd be able to arrange that anytime soon.
Turning to the elder lady as she replied him, a brief flicker of recognition passed Narmer as he saw the similarities in between her and the young Sirdsett Neithotep he had managed to converse with just a few weeks prior at the Sed festival in the Pharoah's palace. It would seem he can tell where the young Sirdsett got her beauty from, for her mother seemed similarly elegant, and had aged beautifully. The rumors around her were flagrant of course, with her youngest son now revealed to be a brother to the Queen, yet through all of that Sirdsett Iaheru still carried herself with a pride Narmer could detect.
Returning her smile with one of his own that spoke of understanding and a warm kindness that could only be shared by two people who understood what it meant to go through hardships, he chuckled wryly at her praise to the gardens. "Thank you, Sirdsett Iaheru." he murmured politely in return, as the applause around them died down. "We're moving into beautiful weather now in this Awwal, I do not see any reason why we can't enjoy the cool evening." It was his luck that the weather had remained cool and beautiful that evening. He did not know how would he explain himself had it rained and they had to bring the festivities indoors, where the upkeep of his saraaya left much to be desired.
Taking a step back as Iaheru turned her attention to him, his eyes registered surprise at the straightforwardness of the lady's question, and the man fumbled for words for a little, before hesitantly venturing, "I have recently conversed with your daughter, young Sirdsett Neithotep? She has grown into quite a beauty, it would seem." he tapered off with a small, but smooth smile, hazel eyes reflecting the glow of the dancing fire on the candles that illuminated the gardens. "Are plans for her marriage in order? I should assume she is of age. I fear I would need assistance on that matter when it comes to that of my two nieces. My sister-in-law and I are woefully unprepared for the marrying off of two who look so alike."
Iaheru's eyebrow piqued, highlighting the sloped geometry of a face dusted with the finest sheen. Her powder sifted with gold leaf, her face bore resemblance to the moon with a distinctly weathered sadness. A small smirk crept up her face, watching the young Sirdar fumble under her request. She greatly enjoyed these broad requests at parties, watching the attendees fumble or immediately blurt out the first thing that came to mind. Iaheru enjoyed the candidness much more than the deliberate responses, but Narmer's response seemed to embody both possibilities.
She fidgeted with a ring, twisting the gold band adorned with lapis, slowly forcing it back down to her knuckle. Absent-mindedly, she watched the man's eyes. Yes, he was handsome, especially for a soldier. His face wasn't dimpled with raised keloids. Hazel eyes twinkled with interest. Iaheru glanced over Narmer with her daughters in mind. Surely, he was not wealthy enough to make an equal match, but Hei Sheifa was rich enough to supply the difference. "She has," Iaheru nodded in agreement, her fingers readjusting her jeweled collar.
"We have considered marriage for both Nefertaari and Neithotep. My husband and I have our reservations." Although their marriage was noticeably weathered, perhaps that was because they had been so intimate, so well suited to one another. It was not arrangement that brought Onuphrious and Iaheru to marriage, but a mutual deligence and delight. She had not been born to royalty, but rather, the docks of the Eastern bank of the Nile-- the frogs and Acacia branches on muddy streets and music drifting from distant taverns. They hoped their children would find their true matches, but even then, as recent revelations had proved, these matches were subject to fracture. "Neithotep is past the age most are married." Far older than the young Queen and twice as beautiful, Iaheru thought to herself, pitying the young girl at the helm of Egypt and a mad husband.
Iaheru jolted back to reality, taking Narmer's hand between both of hers. "Sometimes, the more we obsess over matters the less likely they are to materialize," She gave the young man a wink before caramel irises drifted to her young daughter. Hopefully, her advice wouldn't contradict her meticulous reputation, although even that was truncated by the mere existence of the son she lingered around tonight. "Marriage has the tendency to soften the extremes in our thinking. You should consider it."
"At the very least, you should join me for an afternoon," Iaheru had glanced about the saraaya shortly before she entered the gardens. She was not one to judge, but certainly others were. Iaheru had always held a tender spot in her heart for those like Narmer and Hei Haikaddad.
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Iaheru's eyebrow piqued, highlighting the sloped geometry of a face dusted with the finest sheen. Her powder sifted with gold leaf, her face bore resemblance to the moon with a distinctly weathered sadness. A small smirk crept up her face, watching the young Sirdar fumble under her request. She greatly enjoyed these broad requests at parties, watching the attendees fumble or immediately blurt out the first thing that came to mind. Iaheru enjoyed the candidness much more than the deliberate responses, but Narmer's response seemed to embody both possibilities.
She fidgeted with a ring, twisting the gold band adorned with lapis, slowly forcing it back down to her knuckle. Absent-mindedly, she watched the man's eyes. Yes, he was handsome, especially for a soldier. His face wasn't dimpled with raised keloids. Hazel eyes twinkled with interest. Iaheru glanced over Narmer with her daughters in mind. Surely, he was not wealthy enough to make an equal match, but Hei Sheifa was rich enough to supply the difference. "She has," Iaheru nodded in agreement, her fingers readjusting her jeweled collar.
"We have considered marriage for both Nefertaari and Neithotep. My husband and I have our reservations." Although their marriage was noticeably weathered, perhaps that was because they had been so intimate, so well suited to one another. It was not arrangement that brought Onuphrious and Iaheru to marriage, but a mutual deligence and delight. She had not been born to royalty, but rather, the docks of the Eastern bank of the Nile-- the frogs and Acacia branches on muddy streets and music drifting from distant taverns. They hoped their children would find their true matches, but even then, as recent revelations had proved, these matches were subject to fracture. "Neithotep is past the age most are married." Far older than the young Queen and twice as beautiful, Iaheru thought to herself, pitying the young girl at the helm of Egypt and a mad husband.
Iaheru jolted back to reality, taking Narmer's hand between both of hers. "Sometimes, the more we obsess over matters the less likely they are to materialize," She gave the young man a wink before caramel irises drifted to her young daughter. Hopefully, her advice wouldn't contradict her meticulous reputation, although even that was truncated by the mere existence of the son she lingered around tonight. "Marriage has the tendency to soften the extremes in our thinking. You should consider it."
"At the very least, you should join me for an afternoon," Iaheru had glanced about the saraaya shortly before she entered the gardens. She was not one to judge, but certainly others were. Iaheru had always held a tender spot in her heart for those like Narmer and Hei Haikaddad.
Iaheru's eyebrow piqued, highlighting the sloped geometry of a face dusted with the finest sheen. Her powder sifted with gold leaf, her face bore resemblance to the moon with a distinctly weathered sadness. A small smirk crept up her face, watching the young Sirdar fumble under her request. She greatly enjoyed these broad requests at parties, watching the attendees fumble or immediately blurt out the first thing that came to mind. Iaheru enjoyed the candidness much more than the deliberate responses, but Narmer's response seemed to embody both possibilities.
She fidgeted with a ring, twisting the gold band adorned with lapis, slowly forcing it back down to her knuckle. Absent-mindedly, she watched the man's eyes. Yes, he was handsome, especially for a soldier. His face wasn't dimpled with raised keloids. Hazel eyes twinkled with interest. Iaheru glanced over Narmer with her daughters in mind. Surely, he was not wealthy enough to make an equal match, but Hei Sheifa was rich enough to supply the difference. "She has," Iaheru nodded in agreement, her fingers readjusting her jeweled collar.
"We have considered marriage for both Nefertaari and Neithotep. My husband and I have our reservations." Although their marriage was noticeably weathered, perhaps that was because they had been so intimate, so well suited to one another. It was not arrangement that brought Onuphrious and Iaheru to marriage, but a mutual deligence and delight. She had not been born to royalty, but rather, the docks of the Eastern bank of the Nile-- the frogs and Acacia branches on muddy streets and music drifting from distant taverns. They hoped their children would find their true matches, but even then, as recent revelations had proved, these matches were subject to fracture. "Neithotep is past the age most are married." Far older than the young Queen and twice as beautiful, Iaheru thought to herself, pitying the young girl at the helm of Egypt and a mad husband.
Iaheru jolted back to reality, taking Narmer's hand between both of hers. "Sometimes, the more we obsess over matters the less likely they are to materialize," She gave the young man a wink before caramel irises drifted to her young daughter. Hopefully, her advice wouldn't contradict her meticulous reputation, although even that was truncated by the mere existence of the son she lingered around tonight. "Marriage has the tendency to soften the extremes in our thinking. You should consider it."
"At the very least, you should join me for an afternoon," Iaheru had glanced about the saraaya shortly before she entered the gardens. She was not one to judge, but certainly others were. Iaheru had always held a tender spot in her heart for those like Narmer and Hei Haikaddad.
If the previous Pharoah had intentionally asked upon for Sirdsett Iaheru to attend to him, Narmer could see why. Despite her elder age, the Sheifa lady's facial features were dusted to the finest of gold, and smooth to boot. She held an air of confidence that would attract bees to honey, and despite the surrounding rumors of her relationship with her husband, Narmer could see that the Sheifa lady did not let it outwardly show on her countenence. For that, he admired her, for Narmer himself has had to work for many years to hide how the effects of his father and brother's death still affected him.
Only now, it manifested itself at nights.
"I can see where she has inherited her looks from of course." Narmer responded smoothly with an easy, knowing smile, not at all being subtle in his praise for the elder lady. Listening closely, to a certain extent, he knew of why they have their reservations. While the elder of her two daughters was known to be wily and wise while graceful and beautiful, her second born was more of a wildchild, with known reputation for being too free with her attentions. The youngest was a quiet one, and Narmer had never had much interactions with Nenet herself, but it was Neitohtep and Nefertaari which held much of the Egyptian courtier's tongues.
But arranged marriages were common, and Narmer assumed the same would be done for all of the Sheifa children's.... that he was eyeing their considerable connections in terms of merchants, business and wealth, was not something Narmer would hide that he wanted, but neither was he going to enter an agreement doing all the taking. His house was old and reputable, once upon a time a powerhouse within the kingdom. He was willing to lend the name and power to the Sheifa's wealth and smarts, and together they would be able to rise to great glory once again.
Or at least, Narmer hoped. He only wanted to make the names of his brother and father proud, and not have the Hei crumble in his hands.
Blinking in surprise when Iaheru took his hands, his eyes widened, but nodded in return to what she had said. "That is very true, Sirdsett. Of course, I am not averse to marriage myself. My sister-in-law tends to remind me that I have a duty, it seems." he laughed wryly whilst he returned his hand to his side, his mind turning over how often Na'meah reminded him. In a way, Narmer wondered if he could get away with not reproducing at all, and allowing his nephew to take over. Afterall, it had always been Kissan's legacy, and Narutt would've wanted that. But how would he find a wife who would agree to her own son being opted away from inheriting a Hei? "I do not have any extremes that needs softening, I hope. I do however, seem to have more responsibilities these days, it seems."
Following Iaheru's caramel irises to her young daughter, the man settled upon the countenance of the young but beautiful daughter of Sheifa, before returning to the elder lady's murmur and offer. "Of course, Sirdsett." Following behind her as she entered the gardens, Narmer kept his hands behind him as they walked, before he ventured forth again. "Have there been any candidates of choice for your daughters then, Sirdsett? Any possible suitors?" He winced internally, unable to bear it as he listened to how stunted he sounded as he tried to drop his way into hinting at a possible marriage. The man was not cut out for this, be it political playground or arranging of matches. Narutt had been so much better at these matters.
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If the previous Pharoah had intentionally asked upon for Sirdsett Iaheru to attend to him, Narmer could see why. Despite her elder age, the Sheifa lady's facial features were dusted to the finest of gold, and smooth to boot. She held an air of confidence that would attract bees to honey, and despite the surrounding rumors of her relationship with her husband, Narmer could see that the Sheifa lady did not let it outwardly show on her countenence. For that, he admired her, for Narmer himself has had to work for many years to hide how the effects of his father and brother's death still affected him.
Only now, it manifested itself at nights.
"I can see where she has inherited her looks from of course." Narmer responded smoothly with an easy, knowing smile, not at all being subtle in his praise for the elder lady. Listening closely, to a certain extent, he knew of why they have their reservations. While the elder of her two daughters was known to be wily and wise while graceful and beautiful, her second born was more of a wildchild, with known reputation for being too free with her attentions. The youngest was a quiet one, and Narmer had never had much interactions with Nenet herself, but it was Neitohtep and Nefertaari which held much of the Egyptian courtier's tongues.
But arranged marriages were common, and Narmer assumed the same would be done for all of the Sheifa children's.... that he was eyeing their considerable connections in terms of merchants, business and wealth, was not something Narmer would hide that he wanted, but neither was he going to enter an agreement doing all the taking. His house was old and reputable, once upon a time a powerhouse within the kingdom. He was willing to lend the name and power to the Sheifa's wealth and smarts, and together they would be able to rise to great glory once again.
Or at least, Narmer hoped. He only wanted to make the names of his brother and father proud, and not have the Hei crumble in his hands.
Blinking in surprise when Iaheru took his hands, his eyes widened, but nodded in return to what she had said. "That is very true, Sirdsett. Of course, I am not averse to marriage myself. My sister-in-law tends to remind me that I have a duty, it seems." he laughed wryly whilst he returned his hand to his side, his mind turning over how often Na'meah reminded him. In a way, Narmer wondered if he could get away with not reproducing at all, and allowing his nephew to take over. Afterall, it had always been Kissan's legacy, and Narutt would've wanted that. But how would he find a wife who would agree to her own son being opted away from inheriting a Hei? "I do not have any extremes that needs softening, I hope. I do however, seem to have more responsibilities these days, it seems."
Following Iaheru's caramel irises to her young daughter, the man settled upon the countenance of the young but beautiful daughter of Sheifa, before returning to the elder lady's murmur and offer. "Of course, Sirdsett." Following behind her as she entered the gardens, Narmer kept his hands behind him as they walked, before he ventured forth again. "Have there been any candidates of choice for your daughters then, Sirdsett? Any possible suitors?" He winced internally, unable to bear it as he listened to how stunted he sounded as he tried to drop his way into hinting at a possible marriage. The man was not cut out for this, be it political playground or arranging of matches. Narutt had been so much better at these matters.
If the previous Pharoah had intentionally asked upon for Sirdsett Iaheru to attend to him, Narmer could see why. Despite her elder age, the Sheifa lady's facial features were dusted to the finest of gold, and smooth to boot. She held an air of confidence that would attract bees to honey, and despite the surrounding rumors of her relationship with her husband, Narmer could see that the Sheifa lady did not let it outwardly show on her countenence. For that, he admired her, for Narmer himself has had to work for many years to hide how the effects of his father and brother's death still affected him.
Only now, it manifested itself at nights.
"I can see where she has inherited her looks from of course." Narmer responded smoothly with an easy, knowing smile, not at all being subtle in his praise for the elder lady. Listening closely, to a certain extent, he knew of why they have their reservations. While the elder of her two daughters was known to be wily and wise while graceful and beautiful, her second born was more of a wildchild, with known reputation for being too free with her attentions. The youngest was a quiet one, and Narmer had never had much interactions with Nenet herself, but it was Neitohtep and Nefertaari which held much of the Egyptian courtier's tongues.
But arranged marriages were common, and Narmer assumed the same would be done for all of the Sheifa children's.... that he was eyeing their considerable connections in terms of merchants, business and wealth, was not something Narmer would hide that he wanted, but neither was he going to enter an agreement doing all the taking. His house was old and reputable, once upon a time a powerhouse within the kingdom. He was willing to lend the name and power to the Sheifa's wealth and smarts, and together they would be able to rise to great glory once again.
Or at least, Narmer hoped. He only wanted to make the names of his brother and father proud, and not have the Hei crumble in his hands.
Blinking in surprise when Iaheru took his hands, his eyes widened, but nodded in return to what she had said. "That is very true, Sirdsett. Of course, I am not averse to marriage myself. My sister-in-law tends to remind me that I have a duty, it seems." he laughed wryly whilst he returned his hand to his side, his mind turning over how often Na'meah reminded him. In a way, Narmer wondered if he could get away with not reproducing at all, and allowing his nephew to take over. Afterall, it had always been Kissan's legacy, and Narutt would've wanted that. But how would he find a wife who would agree to her own son being opted away from inheriting a Hei? "I do not have any extremes that needs softening, I hope. I do however, seem to have more responsibilities these days, it seems."
Following Iaheru's caramel irises to her young daughter, the man settled upon the countenance of the young but beautiful daughter of Sheifa, before returning to the elder lady's murmur and offer. "Of course, Sirdsett." Following behind her as she entered the gardens, Narmer kept his hands behind him as they walked, before he ventured forth again. "Have there been any candidates of choice for your daughters then, Sirdsett? Any possible suitors?" He winced internally, unable to bear it as he listened to how stunted he sounded as he tried to drop his way into hinting at a possible marriage. The man was not cut out for this, be it political playground or arranging of matches. Narutt had been so much better at these matters.
Safiya wanted to do a good job as a handmaiden, although the exact nature and purpose of her role was one that while explained from time to time was something that she could not always truly pinpoint. There were times when she felt very strongly that Hatshepsut needed to have a friend more than anything else but she was not really sure that she was the best person for that role. Safiya did believe that she could do with someone that she didn't need to worry about wanting anything from her, although the reality was that this position was supposed to provide all kinds of opportunities for her to develop a chance to attract not only a suitable match but a wealthy one.
That wasn't really the skill that Safiya was really sure she was that good at achieving but at least it made her mother and uncle happy and having the chance to be away from their watchful eye for much of the time was not that terrible and outcome either. Hatshepsut was a kind woman and in some ways, Saifya didn't really think that it made her the most suited to be Queen or to have her current husband but these were such matters that had nothing at all to do with her having them. That was all about the gods and the path they had mapped out for a person, Safiya would just persist in attempting to do her very best to make sure that the Queen had some comfort and help.
"I am more than happy to serve you, highness. I wish I could do more" she stated, the sentiment a wholly sincere one and the reason behind her smile that arrived in the wake of her words.
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Safiya wanted to do a good job as a handmaiden, although the exact nature and purpose of her role was one that while explained from time to time was something that she could not always truly pinpoint. There were times when she felt very strongly that Hatshepsut needed to have a friend more than anything else but she was not really sure that she was the best person for that role. Safiya did believe that she could do with someone that she didn't need to worry about wanting anything from her, although the reality was that this position was supposed to provide all kinds of opportunities for her to develop a chance to attract not only a suitable match but a wealthy one.
That wasn't really the skill that Safiya was really sure she was that good at achieving but at least it made her mother and uncle happy and having the chance to be away from their watchful eye for much of the time was not that terrible and outcome either. Hatshepsut was a kind woman and in some ways, Saifya didn't really think that it made her the most suited to be Queen or to have her current husband but these were such matters that had nothing at all to do with her having them. That was all about the gods and the path they had mapped out for a person, Safiya would just persist in attempting to do her very best to make sure that the Queen had some comfort and help.
"I am more than happy to serve you, highness. I wish I could do more" she stated, the sentiment a wholly sincere one and the reason behind her smile that arrived in the wake of her words.
Safiya wanted to do a good job as a handmaiden, although the exact nature and purpose of her role was one that while explained from time to time was something that she could not always truly pinpoint. There were times when she felt very strongly that Hatshepsut needed to have a friend more than anything else but she was not really sure that she was the best person for that role. Safiya did believe that she could do with someone that she didn't need to worry about wanting anything from her, although the reality was that this position was supposed to provide all kinds of opportunities for her to develop a chance to attract not only a suitable match but a wealthy one.
That wasn't really the skill that Safiya was really sure she was that good at achieving but at least it made her mother and uncle happy and having the chance to be away from their watchful eye for much of the time was not that terrible and outcome either. Hatshepsut was a kind woman and in some ways, Saifya didn't really think that it made her the most suited to be Queen or to have her current husband but these were such matters that had nothing at all to do with her having them. That was all about the gods and the path they had mapped out for a person, Safiya would just persist in attempting to do her very best to make sure that the Queen had some comfort and help.
"I am more than happy to serve you, highness. I wish I could do more" she stated, the sentiment a wholly sincere one and the reason behind her smile that arrived in the wake of her words.
Berenike did her best to hide the surprise she felt. She had thought she would’ve heard someone approaching, but she was apparently too absorbed in her thoughts to notice. It was a young woman
Damn it, go away! She thought bitterly. Couldn’t this woman see she was trying to avoid people? Of course, she would not let her true feelings show. Berenike knew the other girl wasn’t really at fault, she was just feeling irritable. Lady Meeraj’s pathetic ramblings had worn her out.
“Oh, forgive me, miss,” Nicky said, smiling brightly at the young woman. “I did not hear you. Maybe this wine is too strong?”
Truthfully, Berenike could have drunk way more than she already had and not even feel sick the next morning, but she was embarrassed that this woman caught her practically asleep on her feet. Her cheeks were a little red, but if the other woman could see her that well in the dark she might mistake it for alcohol flushing.
Berenike stepped out from behind the tree and bowed respectfully. The beads in her wig bounced off each other with soft clinking noises. Around her ankles, her pleated dress swirled and showed off the extensive henna designs her maid had done to her feet. Her toes were painted, and the flowery design extended up to her ankles. Her fingers, nails, and hands were painted with the same flowery design.
“I’m Berenike of Hei Isazari. It is a pleasure to meet you.”
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Berenike did her best to hide the surprise she felt. She had thought she would’ve heard someone approaching, but she was apparently too absorbed in her thoughts to notice. It was a young woman
Damn it, go away! She thought bitterly. Couldn’t this woman see she was trying to avoid people? Of course, she would not let her true feelings show. Berenike knew the other girl wasn’t really at fault, she was just feeling irritable. Lady Meeraj’s pathetic ramblings had worn her out.
“Oh, forgive me, miss,” Nicky said, smiling brightly at the young woman. “I did not hear you. Maybe this wine is too strong?”
Truthfully, Berenike could have drunk way more than she already had and not even feel sick the next morning, but she was embarrassed that this woman caught her practically asleep on her feet. Her cheeks were a little red, but if the other woman could see her that well in the dark she might mistake it for alcohol flushing.
Berenike stepped out from behind the tree and bowed respectfully. The beads in her wig bounced off each other with soft clinking noises. Around her ankles, her pleated dress swirled and showed off the extensive henna designs her maid had done to her feet. Her toes were painted, and the flowery design extended up to her ankles. Her fingers, nails, and hands were painted with the same flowery design.
“I’m Berenike of Hei Isazari. It is a pleasure to meet you.”
Berenike did her best to hide the surprise she felt. She had thought she would’ve heard someone approaching, but she was apparently too absorbed in her thoughts to notice. It was a young woman
Damn it, go away! She thought bitterly. Couldn’t this woman see she was trying to avoid people? Of course, she would not let her true feelings show. Berenike knew the other girl wasn’t really at fault, she was just feeling irritable. Lady Meeraj’s pathetic ramblings had worn her out.
“Oh, forgive me, miss,” Nicky said, smiling brightly at the young woman. “I did not hear you. Maybe this wine is too strong?”
Truthfully, Berenike could have drunk way more than she already had and not even feel sick the next morning, but she was embarrassed that this woman caught her practically asleep on her feet. Her cheeks were a little red, but if the other woman could see her that well in the dark she might mistake it for alcohol flushing.
Berenike stepped out from behind the tree and bowed respectfully. The beads in her wig bounced off each other with soft clinking noises. Around her ankles, her pleated dress swirled and showed off the extensive henna designs her maid had done to her feet. Her toes were painted, and the flowery design extended up to her ankles. Her fingers, nails, and hands were painted with the same flowery design.
“I’m Berenike of Hei Isazari. It is a pleasure to meet you.”
Iaheru flushed with color with Narmer's compliment. It was not her first compliment and doubted it would be her last, it was a great liability and asset to be beautiful in Egypt, a society premised on aesthetic and indulgence. She rbushed against his elbow with a light grip. "You have a duty to marry well, not simply to marry," Iaheru second-handedly thought she should have preceded her observation with a disclaimer of her role, but she had learned long ago to lean into her power and buttress the supremacy of men's words over women's.
Iaheru's eyes flickered with exctement at Narmer's proposition. Since Hei Sheifa had fallen from the graces of the court, she supposed bolstering her upstart house with the old regality of Egypt would serve to benefit her. She pulled Narmer closer, but not close enough to raise suspicion, lips but a foot away from his ear. "Surely. I am known for my intention, am I not?"
Iaheru released him and candidly spoke, "You seem very invested in this matter. Perhaps I should host you sometime soon, Narmer." Winking, Iaheru casually plucks a glass of wine from a platter, she expectantly awaited his response with the haze of her perfume lingering between them.
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Iaheru flushed with color with Narmer's compliment. It was not her first compliment and doubted it would be her last, it was a great liability and asset to be beautiful in Egypt, a society premised on aesthetic and indulgence. She rbushed against his elbow with a light grip. "You have a duty to marry well, not simply to marry," Iaheru second-handedly thought she should have preceded her observation with a disclaimer of her role, but she had learned long ago to lean into her power and buttress the supremacy of men's words over women's.
Iaheru's eyes flickered with exctement at Narmer's proposition. Since Hei Sheifa had fallen from the graces of the court, she supposed bolstering her upstart house with the old regality of Egypt would serve to benefit her. She pulled Narmer closer, but not close enough to raise suspicion, lips but a foot away from his ear. "Surely. I am known for my intention, am I not?"
Iaheru released him and candidly spoke, "You seem very invested in this matter. Perhaps I should host you sometime soon, Narmer." Winking, Iaheru casually plucks a glass of wine from a platter, she expectantly awaited his response with the haze of her perfume lingering between them.
Iaheru flushed with color with Narmer's compliment. It was not her first compliment and doubted it would be her last, it was a great liability and asset to be beautiful in Egypt, a society premised on aesthetic and indulgence. She rbushed against his elbow with a light grip. "You have a duty to marry well, not simply to marry," Iaheru second-handedly thought she should have preceded her observation with a disclaimer of her role, but she had learned long ago to lean into her power and buttress the supremacy of men's words over women's.
Iaheru's eyes flickered with exctement at Narmer's proposition. Since Hei Sheifa had fallen from the graces of the court, she supposed bolstering her upstart house with the old regality of Egypt would serve to benefit her. She pulled Narmer closer, but not close enough to raise suspicion, lips but a foot away from his ear. "Surely. I am known for my intention, am I not?"
Iaheru released him and candidly spoke, "You seem very invested in this matter. Perhaps I should host you sometime soon, Narmer." Winking, Iaheru casually plucks a glass of wine from a platter, she expectantly awaited his response with the haze of her perfume lingering between them.
It was a wry smile that Narmer gave him, for her words resonated with the young Head of Haikaddad Hei more then she could imagine. The pressure to marry well especially, for it was his marriage that could hinge on whether or not the man could gain the funds necessary to put the Hei back on the path of glory. It was a Hei filled with pride and glory back in the hands of his father, and Narmer was terrified of the reputation falling to pieces in his reins. While he felt guilty, at this point he was willing to have his nieces married to the richest man they could interest, so long as he could have the benefit of gold.
The sudden invasion of Iaheru into Narmer's own personal space surprised the man. He had his own fair share of sharing a bed with many over the years, especially in his travels during the time which Narmer tried to escape the reality of his responsibility upon the death of his brother. Yet the fact of the matter was that Sirdsett Iaheru was a lady who had fallen from graces, and was very much in danger depending on what her husband chose to do with her. The years that stretched of her hiding her son's identity, and the affect that had wrought on her marriage was no secret to anyone within the court of Egypt, and for that, Narmer found the need to not get himself entangled in such familial situations.
As such, the man instinctively leaned back when she pulled him closer, lightly resisting her tug, but not missing her words. He bit his lip, and quickly took a step back when she released him, giving her a brief smile that the man hoped was not too awkward over her behavior. While Narmer could not say she was known for her intention per say, he did not think he wanted to pursue the matter.
Her next words however, did have his caramel gaze flicker in interest. The man gave a laugh, and picked up a mug of half-filled beer himself, taking a swig before replying. "I would be glad to, and I'm sure my nieces would enjoy your daughter's company, and my nephew would be glad for the company of another male figure, in a house full of females." He chuckled for a little, and then paused. The sound of a throat clearing faintly would be heard, and Narmer hoped his awkwardness would be hidden by the faint sounds of chatter in the distance. "I would be happy to get to know the esteemed daughters of Hei Sheifa as well.
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It was a wry smile that Narmer gave him, for her words resonated with the young Head of Haikaddad Hei more then she could imagine. The pressure to marry well especially, for it was his marriage that could hinge on whether or not the man could gain the funds necessary to put the Hei back on the path of glory. It was a Hei filled with pride and glory back in the hands of his father, and Narmer was terrified of the reputation falling to pieces in his reins. While he felt guilty, at this point he was willing to have his nieces married to the richest man they could interest, so long as he could have the benefit of gold.
The sudden invasion of Iaheru into Narmer's own personal space surprised the man. He had his own fair share of sharing a bed with many over the years, especially in his travels during the time which Narmer tried to escape the reality of his responsibility upon the death of his brother. Yet the fact of the matter was that Sirdsett Iaheru was a lady who had fallen from graces, and was very much in danger depending on what her husband chose to do with her. The years that stretched of her hiding her son's identity, and the affect that had wrought on her marriage was no secret to anyone within the court of Egypt, and for that, Narmer found the need to not get himself entangled in such familial situations.
As such, the man instinctively leaned back when she pulled him closer, lightly resisting her tug, but not missing her words. He bit his lip, and quickly took a step back when she released him, giving her a brief smile that the man hoped was not too awkward over her behavior. While Narmer could not say she was known for her intention per say, he did not think he wanted to pursue the matter.
Her next words however, did have his caramel gaze flicker in interest. The man gave a laugh, and picked up a mug of half-filled beer himself, taking a swig before replying. "I would be glad to, and I'm sure my nieces would enjoy your daughter's company, and my nephew would be glad for the company of another male figure, in a house full of females." He chuckled for a little, and then paused. The sound of a throat clearing faintly would be heard, and Narmer hoped his awkwardness would be hidden by the faint sounds of chatter in the distance. "I would be happy to get to know the esteemed daughters of Hei Sheifa as well.
It was a wry smile that Narmer gave him, for her words resonated with the young Head of Haikaddad Hei more then she could imagine. The pressure to marry well especially, for it was his marriage that could hinge on whether or not the man could gain the funds necessary to put the Hei back on the path of glory. It was a Hei filled with pride and glory back in the hands of his father, and Narmer was terrified of the reputation falling to pieces in his reins. While he felt guilty, at this point he was willing to have his nieces married to the richest man they could interest, so long as he could have the benefit of gold.
The sudden invasion of Iaheru into Narmer's own personal space surprised the man. He had his own fair share of sharing a bed with many over the years, especially in his travels during the time which Narmer tried to escape the reality of his responsibility upon the death of his brother. Yet the fact of the matter was that Sirdsett Iaheru was a lady who had fallen from graces, and was very much in danger depending on what her husband chose to do with her. The years that stretched of her hiding her son's identity, and the affect that had wrought on her marriage was no secret to anyone within the court of Egypt, and for that, Narmer found the need to not get himself entangled in such familial situations.
As such, the man instinctively leaned back when she pulled him closer, lightly resisting her tug, but not missing her words. He bit his lip, and quickly took a step back when she released him, giving her a brief smile that the man hoped was not too awkward over her behavior. While Narmer could not say she was known for her intention per say, he did not think he wanted to pursue the matter.
Her next words however, did have his caramel gaze flicker in interest. The man gave a laugh, and picked up a mug of half-filled beer himself, taking a swig before replying. "I would be glad to, and I'm sure my nieces would enjoy your daughter's company, and my nephew would be glad for the company of another male figure, in a house full of females." He chuckled for a little, and then paused. The sound of a throat clearing faintly would be heard, and Narmer hoped his awkwardness would be hidden by the faint sounds of chatter in the distance. "I would be happy to get to know the esteemed daughters of Hei Sheifa as well.
Hatshepsut did indeed need friends, especially now, and she hoped that Safiya and her sister would become close to her in time. They were new to her service and she had been too busy since her marriage to spend much time with them. The twins assisted her in dressing and undressing, doing her hair and makeup, and fetched anything she needed, which was usually her lyre and lap harp when she developed the sudden urge to play and sing outside of her chambers. They had not told her much about their family life or their ambitions and dreams, but then she had not asked. Her duties to her kingdom and to her hated husband gave her little time to herself.
Did Safiya suspect that she was unhappy with Iahotep? Always mindful of how she appeared to others, she tried to hide her fear and loathing of the man the Council and her mother had chosen for her. To do otherwise would invite his wrath, and she knew firsthand what her punishment would entail. He had struck her once and she was certain that he would have no qualms about doing it again.
You can do something else for me, she thought. You can stay out of the Pharaoh's way so you won't catch his eye. He would hurt Safiya even worse than he had hurt her and the young woman deserved better than to become his plaything. Hatshepsut suspected that he had not been faithful to her and had already taken a mistress or two. In her opinion, she would rather them share his bed than her, but she feared that they would suffer under his cruelty. Maybe he would stick to whores, who didn't mind rough treatment as long as they were well-paid.
“I am fine now,” she assured her retainer, though in truth she was not. Had her husband's grasp tightened on her fingers or did the effects of the wine make her feel the pain more keenly? Her vision was becoming blurred again and she felt dizzy and disoriented. “I need to sit down, my Pharaoh,” she whispered to Iahotep. “I feel as if I am about to pass out.”
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Hatshepsut did indeed need friends, especially now, and she hoped that Safiya and her sister would become close to her in time. They were new to her service and she had been too busy since her marriage to spend much time with them. The twins assisted her in dressing and undressing, doing her hair and makeup, and fetched anything she needed, which was usually her lyre and lap harp when she developed the sudden urge to play and sing outside of her chambers. They had not told her much about their family life or their ambitions and dreams, but then she had not asked. Her duties to her kingdom and to her hated husband gave her little time to herself.
Did Safiya suspect that she was unhappy with Iahotep? Always mindful of how she appeared to others, she tried to hide her fear and loathing of the man the Council and her mother had chosen for her. To do otherwise would invite his wrath, and she knew firsthand what her punishment would entail. He had struck her once and she was certain that he would have no qualms about doing it again.
You can do something else for me, she thought. You can stay out of the Pharaoh's way so you won't catch his eye. He would hurt Safiya even worse than he had hurt her and the young woman deserved better than to become his plaything. Hatshepsut suspected that he had not been faithful to her and had already taken a mistress or two. In her opinion, she would rather them share his bed than her, but she feared that they would suffer under his cruelty. Maybe he would stick to whores, who didn't mind rough treatment as long as they were well-paid.
“I am fine now,” she assured her retainer, though in truth she was not. Had her husband's grasp tightened on her fingers or did the effects of the wine make her feel the pain more keenly? Her vision was becoming blurred again and she felt dizzy and disoriented. “I need to sit down, my Pharaoh,” she whispered to Iahotep. “I feel as if I am about to pass out.”
Hatshepsut did indeed need friends, especially now, and she hoped that Safiya and her sister would become close to her in time. They were new to her service and she had been too busy since her marriage to spend much time with them. The twins assisted her in dressing and undressing, doing her hair and makeup, and fetched anything she needed, which was usually her lyre and lap harp when she developed the sudden urge to play and sing outside of her chambers. They had not told her much about their family life or their ambitions and dreams, but then she had not asked. Her duties to her kingdom and to her hated husband gave her little time to herself.
Did Safiya suspect that she was unhappy with Iahotep? Always mindful of how she appeared to others, she tried to hide her fear and loathing of the man the Council and her mother had chosen for her. To do otherwise would invite his wrath, and she knew firsthand what her punishment would entail. He had struck her once and she was certain that he would have no qualms about doing it again.
You can do something else for me, she thought. You can stay out of the Pharaoh's way so you won't catch his eye. He would hurt Safiya even worse than he had hurt her and the young woman deserved better than to become his plaything. Hatshepsut suspected that he had not been faithful to her and had already taken a mistress or two. In her opinion, she would rather them share his bed than her, but she feared that they would suffer under his cruelty. Maybe he would stick to whores, who didn't mind rough treatment as long as they were well-paid.
“I am fine now,” she assured her retainer, though in truth she was not. Had her husband's grasp tightened on her fingers or did the effects of the wine make her feel the pain more keenly? Her vision was becoming blurred again and she felt dizzy and disoriented. “I need to sit down, my Pharaoh,” she whispered to Iahotep. “I feel as if I am about to pass out.”
Nia’s face was apologetically rueful as the woman who introduced herself as Berenike stepped out from behind the tree, looking at the intricately beaded wig and the elaborate designs on her hands and feet with mild interest. A fashionable woman then, one who seemed to take to her appearance with immaculate detail. It was pleasant to look upon, but Nia shuddered at the thought of how long she must have sat to have all those flowers drawn upon her. “The pleasure’s mine,” she responded amiably enough, bobbing into her own little bow. “I’m sorry if I startled you. I’m Neithotep of Hei Sheifa. You may have met my sisters, Nefertaari and Nenet. They spend a lot more time in Court than I do.”Or my brother, Sutekh, she added silently, but thought it best to keep quiet her relation to the newest member of Hei Naddar, just on the off chance Berenike wasn’t aware of their scandal.
She smiled at the woman’s excuse about the wine, nodding in agreement. Whether her flustered reaction was brought on by the alcohol or not, it didn’t matter, and Nia didn’t particularly seem to care. She was happy enough to go with it in any case. “Indeed, it’s a bit strong tonight. Hei Haikkadad picked an excellent vintage.”
Biting her lip on a laugh, Nia couldn’t keep herself from commenting on the absurdity of the situation, “So, do you often find yourself hiding behind trees at parties like this or was this just a special occasion? I must admit I’m a bit jealous I didn’t think of it first.”
Feeling the weight of eyes upon her and fearing whose exactly they might be, Nia flicked a glance behind her only to find the host of the party himself looking in her direction as he spoke to her mother. While she was relieved to find it wasn’t who she had expected, her eyes still narrowed with uneasy misgiving. Why was Narmer speaking with Iaheru, and why did she looked so pleased about it? More importantly, why did they keep looking at her while they did it?
When she caught them looking at her again, she raised her eyebrow and made a questioning gesture at her mother. What the hell were they talking about? Whatever it was, she had a sneaking suspicion she wasn’t going to like it. One last look was spared for the two of them as they started walking off before she turned her attention back to her companion.
“Parents,” Nia said with a shrug, her way of explaining her abrupt distraction. “I always get suspicious when she’s got that look on her face. Never can trust what she’s up to.”
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Nia’s face was apologetically rueful as the woman who introduced herself as Berenike stepped out from behind the tree, looking at the intricately beaded wig and the elaborate designs on her hands and feet with mild interest. A fashionable woman then, one who seemed to take to her appearance with immaculate detail. It was pleasant to look upon, but Nia shuddered at the thought of how long she must have sat to have all those flowers drawn upon her. “The pleasure’s mine,” she responded amiably enough, bobbing into her own little bow. “I’m sorry if I startled you. I’m Neithotep of Hei Sheifa. You may have met my sisters, Nefertaari and Nenet. They spend a lot more time in Court than I do.”Or my brother, Sutekh, she added silently, but thought it best to keep quiet her relation to the newest member of Hei Naddar, just on the off chance Berenike wasn’t aware of their scandal.
She smiled at the woman’s excuse about the wine, nodding in agreement. Whether her flustered reaction was brought on by the alcohol or not, it didn’t matter, and Nia didn’t particularly seem to care. She was happy enough to go with it in any case. “Indeed, it’s a bit strong tonight. Hei Haikkadad picked an excellent vintage.”
Biting her lip on a laugh, Nia couldn’t keep herself from commenting on the absurdity of the situation, “So, do you often find yourself hiding behind trees at parties like this or was this just a special occasion? I must admit I’m a bit jealous I didn’t think of it first.”
Feeling the weight of eyes upon her and fearing whose exactly they might be, Nia flicked a glance behind her only to find the host of the party himself looking in her direction as he spoke to her mother. While she was relieved to find it wasn’t who she had expected, her eyes still narrowed with uneasy misgiving. Why was Narmer speaking with Iaheru, and why did she looked so pleased about it? More importantly, why did they keep looking at her while they did it?
When she caught them looking at her again, she raised her eyebrow and made a questioning gesture at her mother. What the hell were they talking about? Whatever it was, she had a sneaking suspicion she wasn’t going to like it. One last look was spared for the two of them as they started walking off before she turned her attention back to her companion.
“Parents,” Nia said with a shrug, her way of explaining her abrupt distraction. “I always get suspicious when she’s got that look on her face. Never can trust what she’s up to.”
Nia’s face was apologetically rueful as the woman who introduced herself as Berenike stepped out from behind the tree, looking at the intricately beaded wig and the elaborate designs on her hands and feet with mild interest. A fashionable woman then, one who seemed to take to her appearance with immaculate detail. It was pleasant to look upon, but Nia shuddered at the thought of how long she must have sat to have all those flowers drawn upon her. “The pleasure’s mine,” she responded amiably enough, bobbing into her own little bow. “I’m sorry if I startled you. I’m Neithotep of Hei Sheifa. You may have met my sisters, Nefertaari and Nenet. They spend a lot more time in Court than I do.”Or my brother, Sutekh, she added silently, but thought it best to keep quiet her relation to the newest member of Hei Naddar, just on the off chance Berenike wasn’t aware of their scandal.
She smiled at the woman’s excuse about the wine, nodding in agreement. Whether her flustered reaction was brought on by the alcohol or not, it didn’t matter, and Nia didn’t particularly seem to care. She was happy enough to go with it in any case. “Indeed, it’s a bit strong tonight. Hei Haikkadad picked an excellent vintage.”
Biting her lip on a laugh, Nia couldn’t keep herself from commenting on the absurdity of the situation, “So, do you often find yourself hiding behind trees at parties like this or was this just a special occasion? I must admit I’m a bit jealous I didn’t think of it first.”
Feeling the weight of eyes upon her and fearing whose exactly they might be, Nia flicked a glance behind her only to find the host of the party himself looking in her direction as he spoke to her mother. While she was relieved to find it wasn’t who she had expected, her eyes still narrowed with uneasy misgiving. Why was Narmer speaking with Iaheru, and why did she looked so pleased about it? More importantly, why did they keep looking at her while they did it?
When she caught them looking at her again, she raised her eyebrow and made a questioning gesture at her mother. What the hell were they talking about? Whatever it was, she had a sneaking suspicion she wasn’t going to like it. One last look was spared for the two of them as they started walking off before she turned her attention back to her companion.
“Parents,” Nia said with a shrug, her way of explaining her abrupt distraction. “I always get suspicious when she’s got that look on her face. Never can trust what she’s up to.”