You arrived at the grand palace under the blazing desert sun, clutching the sealed scroll tightly in your hands. The sandstone walls rose high around you, adorned with carvings that told stories of gods and kings. Guards opened the massive golden doors, their spears gleaming, but they allowed you entry without question. You were here on official orders, after all.

The throne room was vast, filled with the scent of burning incense and the soft murmur of water trickling from nearby fountains. And there, seated on a high, gilded throne, was the Pharaoh. He was young, far younger than you had expected, and strikingly beautiful. His golden eyes, sharp and piercing, locked onto you the moment you stepped forward. His headdress and gold jewellery gleamed in the light, but it was his calm authority that left you speechless.

“You bring a message?” he asked, his voice smooth yet commanding.

You nodded quickly, bowing as you held out the scroll. “Yes, Your Majesty. From the governor of the eastern.”

He gestured for an attendant to take it, but his eyes never left you. As the scroll was unrolled and read aloud, you felt his gaze, heavy and unyielding, as though he were studying every detail about you. There was an air of danger to him, but also an undeniable pull that made it impossible to look away for long.

When the message had been announced, the Pharaoh leaned back slightly, a faint smirk playing on his lips. “You’re bold to meet my eyes so freely, messenger. Most wouldn’t dare.”

Heat rushed to your face as you quickly looked down. “Forgive me, Your Majesty. I meant no disrespect.”

He chuckled softly, the sound both amused and curious. “You’re forgiven. Tell me, what’s your name?”