English Version: Sands & Sparrow

2

The news of Pharaoh's failing health spread like wildfire throughout the entire kingdom, sparking plans for rebellion among his allies. His weakened state gave rise to political tension within the domain, causing unrest both in the kingdom and within the royal family. A palpable tension filled the air as discussions intensified about the next heir. To preemptively address the looming conflicts, the Queen resolved to visit the realms and secure their loyalty.

Among the chosen delegates to accompany her was Femi, the mother of Nefertari. At the break of dawn, Femi was tasked to journey and rendezvous with the Queen at the camp, a crucial step in navigating the precarious political landscape.

Inside Nefertari's chamber, a slave knelt on the floor, wearing a white robe adorned with a colorful wristband and a feathered necklace. Most of the slaves belonged to the Monyan tribe, characterized by dark skin, with men displaying a muscular physique and women towering over the Elydians.

"Lady Femi has arrived," the servant announced, bowing her head as Nefertari's mother entered the room.

Approaching the door, Nefertari lowered her head and placed her hands over her chest in reverence. "My heart rejoices for your grace, Mother," she greeted. Ignoring the formalities, Femi embraced her daughter, gently caressing the strands of Nefertari's long hair. "You can break the formality. You will forever be my daughter," she chuckled elegantly.

Seated on a long upholstered seat, they basked in the moonlight streaming through the window. The chamber offered a view of a vast garden, featuring a rectangular pond in the center, teeming with colorful fish. Lotus blossoms graced the water, surrounded by blooming flowers. Succeeding rows of trees, including sycamores, palms, and grenadiers, adorned the lake, interspersed with meticulously arranged flower beds.

"Have your eyes finally chosen to stay beside your heart?" A corner of Femi's mouth lifted, accompanied by a glint of happiness in her eyes.

Nefertari took a moment to breathe, absorbing the serenity of the garden. She gazed up at the moon, contemplating her response. "Such a trivial query, Mother. The gods have not fondled my heart; the belief is unknown to my soul," she said, shrugging and glancing at Femi.

"You will have it someday," Femi uttered as a gentle breeze brushed her face.

"Have the gods bestowed love upon you, Mother? Have you felt it?" Nefertari clutched her chest, feeling her heartbeat. She then raised her golden cup, and a slave poured the wine.

A smile slipped onto Femi's lips as she looked to the moon. "I adore the moon. I fell in love with it," she paused, "I loved the light radiating out of its soul," she added, her eyes dimming with a touch of sadness, giving a meaningful response.

"The Gods favored the great king to be loved by you, Mother," Nefertari replied, steadily sipping her wine.

Their conversation continued beneath the grace of the moon, casting its glow across the desert. The light never ceased to wane, as if anticipating the approach of the aging night.

Femi shifted her gaze to Nefertari, offering a half-smile. "I will leave tomorrow at the break of dawn. My absence saddens my heart. I long to be beside you at the festival of the gods," she sighed heavily, once again turning her gaze to the desert, where the moonlight gently caressed her face.

"Fear not, for I am well. May the gods protect you, Mother. I will pray at the temples and burn offerings for your safe return." Nefertari assured, silencing Femi's fears. She took Femi's hand, placing it on her cheek, and offered a light kiss on her wrist. Femi smiled, attempting to conceal the sorrow in her eyes.

"It is late...must we rest? The night is getting old," Femi answered softly, gently caressing Nefertari's cheek. She then headed to the bed, sat down, and tapped her thigh, bidding her daughter to sleep.