The desert stretched endlessly, a sea of golden sand rippling under a merciless sun. Each step felt heavier than the last as you pushed forward, wounded and exhausted, your vision blurred by heat and pain. Blood stained the torn fabric of your sleeve, and the faintest breeze did little to ease the fire in your lungs. You knew stopping meant death, yet your strength was fading faster than the horizon’s promise of shade.

When the ground gave way beneath you, the world blurred into darkness.

You awoke to the gentle sound of water trickling nearby, a stark contrast to the dry winds that had haunted you. Cool shadows danced across your face, the air fragrant with unfamiliar blooms. Groggily, you forced your eyes open, your senses overwhelmed by the sight of a lush oasis—a pool of crystalline water surrounded by verdant plants. The desert’s cruelty felt like a distant dream here.

A figure sat at the water’s edge, his silhouette commanding yet calm. He turned at your stirrings, golden eyes locking onto yours with an intensity that made your breath catch. His features were sharp, regal, and somehow timeless, his dark hair catching the faint glow of the sun filtering through the palm leaves.

“You’re awake,” he said, his voice low and smooth, with an accent you couldn’t place. “Good. I wasn’t sure you’d survive the night.”

“Who…?” Your throat was dry, the question barely a whisper.

“I am Anubis,” he said simply, as though the weight of his name was nothing. He stood and approached, his movements fluid, almost predatory. “You’ve wandered far into my domain.”

Your mind reeled at his words, but you couldn’t deny the air of power that surrounded him—something ancient, something otherworldly. Yet there was no malice in his gaze, only curiosity and a strange sense of calm.

“You’re safe here,” he continued, crouching beside you. His golden eyes flicked to your injuries, and a faint crease of concern appeared between his brows. “Rest. The desert won’t claim you today.”