The Pharaoh’s Favorite novel Chapter 26

The Festival of Khoiak preparations have begun, but my thoughts are consumed by a lingering dream. Crimson Nile waters, bloodstained shores, the Temple of Isis. A voice spoke to me, deep and rich like honey spiced with venom. “You may resist your fate, but you cannot escape it.”

In every free moment, I attempt to decipher its meaning, but the festival whirlwind leaves no time for introspection. The Golden House buzzes with silk, incense, and golden adornments as we craft Osiris figurines from sacred Nile clay.

We sit in the grand chamber, hands coated in cool earth, molding the god’s divine form. Our offerings will be placed in the temple during the great procession. The scent of burning myrrh fills the space as soft squelches of clay mix with hushed whispers.

Heket sits across from me, her sharp gaze lingers; her fingers mold her figurine with precision. I pretend not to notice and focus on shaping Osiris’s serene features. But my mind drifts and I press too hard—a crack runs along the figurine’s surface.

A bad omen.

My heart pounds.

Quickly smoothing the crack, unease lingers despite my steady breath. Soon, we’re ushered into the dance chambers for the ritual dance of Osiris—a sacred reenactment performed before Pharaoh and his court. The instructors are unyielding as they drill the steps into us.

“Again,” calls the instructor, pacing like a watchful jackal.

A shiver crawled down my spine, recalling the memory of my blood on his hands and his unreadable expression. I needed to ask him about it.

Day after day, I sought an opportunity for a private conversation, but it never arose. His time was always occupied as a Pharaoh, but there were moments he could have spoken with me if he wanted to. Yet, he evaded being alone with me at all costs. The uncertainty gnawed at me like a festering wound.

My thoughts wandered to the scrolls in my chambers containing hidden answers and to Amen’s reaction upon seeing my blood. I pondered over the dream, its warning in an unrecognizable voice, and his refusal to touch me.

The festival loomed closer. On that night, our relationship would transform into something far greater than before. When that moment came, I knew my silence would be impossible to maintain.