CHAPTER 1
The setting sun illuminated the walls, pillars, and statues within the temple complex in Thebes. Often referred to as Karnak, the site reflected a range of colors representing various deities of the Egyptian pantheon. Covering a large area, the site housed numerous gods, effectively forming a vast spiritual center. Located outside Thebes, Karnak was visible to the city’s residents, who frequented it for worship and offerings. Specific ceremonies and festivals were held there to honor individual gods or the pantheon as a whole.
Ra, the primary and sun god of the Egyptian pantheon, had the largest area dedicated to him in the temple complex. Preparations were already in progress to repaint and repair his temple in anticipation of the Opet Festival, a major celebration held later in the year. The colors adorning his section of the temple were vibrant and distinct, illustrating the story of Ra’s ascension and his dominance over Egypt and the world. Large statues honored Ra as well as the pharaoh, who helped build the temple and was believed to have been anointed by Ra’s blessing. While Ra was worshipped throughout Egypt, Thebes, serving as the capital, hosted the largest worship center. Most Egyptians worshipped Ra as their primary deity and held a secondary god based on their trade, family history, birthplace, or personal preference. However, for Amen-Raad, the only god he worshipped and honored was Montu, the god of war.
Amen-Raad, a devoted soldier of Egypt’s mighty army, stood in reverent worship at Karnak, paying homage to the revered deity Montu alongside a dozen fellow warriors. This act of devotion was not tied to any specific celebration, festival, or historic occasion for Amen-Raad, the sacred moment of communion with Montu was profound and sufficient in itself. He favored the section of the temple dedicated to Montu, where a grand, armored statue stood proudly atop a soaring pedestal. This imposing figure, towering at least five to seven full-grown men tall, was adorned with shimmering gold and silver embellishments that caught the sunlight. The falcon-headed deity’s visage shone brilliantly in the daylight, set within an expansive open-air square bordered by ornate, vividly colored poles that symbolized Montu’s divine power and majesty. Every element of these poles and the surrounding walls was a vibrant mosaic of colors, illustrating Montu as a formidable falcon-headed warrior, crowned with a circular red headdress from which majestic feathers streamed gracefully. In many images, Montu brandished his formidable battle staff in one hand, while the other grasped a sacred ankh. The temple’s intricate design featured lush trees, flowering plants, and fragrant blossoms, creating an atmosphere of divine splendor, captivating sights, and a sense of grandeur that elevated the sacred space to celestial heights.
Many soldiers, outside of war, chose their own hairstyles, looks, and styles. Some kept long hair, others short some sported beards, while others had smooth faces. Some wouldn’t wield a sword unless called upon, and many preferred a life of farming, trading, or craftsmanship over battlefield violence. For Amen-Raad, the only reason Montu let him breathe each day was for war.
While in the temple, as the priest showered blessings and honor upon Montu and the soldiers, Amen-Raad meticulously kept his face smooth and ready. This careful grooming ensured that helmets, if needed, would fit snugly during intense combat. His deep amber eyes, set beneath a commanding brow and framed by naturally pointed eyebrows, radiated a fierce intensity that hinted at constant readiness to strike. His strong jawline and chiseled features added to his formidable appearance. The warm glow of his amber eyes contrasted sharply with his bronzed skin, adorned with tattoos honoring Montu and the Egyptian empire. Standing a full head taller than most of his comrades, Amen-Raad’s muscular, powerful physique and relentless endurance made him a force to be reckoned with on the battlefield.
Amen-Raad earnestly hoped and prayed for a time when he could serve his nation during war. He regularly followed news reports and speculations about potential threats to the empire. Several neighboring countries aimed to exploit Egypt’s resources or people for their own benefit. The most concerning reports involved possible conflicts with the Hittites, a civilization located far to the north. Tensions with the Hittites were a recurring issue, particularly concerning border cities like Kadesh.
Amen-Raad gained combat experience during his military service, primarily against hostile nomadic tribes and raiders. Being part of a mercenary group was advantageous when the country was peaceful, as it allowed him to confront threats in line with his lifestyle. He also had opportunities to protect the royal family, serve noblemen, or work the land. However, he took up farming only when absolutely necessary to meet his needs, preferring to channel his skills into more aggressive pursuits.
The priest was solemnly reciting his final prayers and blessings before the revered statue of Montu. It was now the time for the followers to present their offerings to Montu, honoring his divine presence. Unlike other times of the year, these offerings were not in blood, food, or jewels. Instead, they offered water, a precious resource in the often arid land of Egypt. Amen-Raad and the other warriors carefully brought water in various bowls, cups, goblets, and containers, placing their humble offerings at the base of the statue. Though modest in appearance, this act of sacrifice reflected their devotion and trust, believing that Montu’s protection could shield them in times of conflict and on the battlefield.
After Amen-Raad poured water from his jeweled goblet at the statue’s base, he headed home to change into light armor battle gear, ready to guard some wealthy nobles at their celebration. It wasn’t an ideal job, but it helped him pass the time and earn pay. Amen-Raad appreciated Ukani, one of his close friends, for finding such an opportunity when military efforts were few.
Within Thebes, neighborhoods were organized based on political status, wealth, occupation, or ethnicity. The city was extensive, spreading across a large area. Those who relied on the Nile River for trade or had substantial wealth lived close to this vital water source. In contrast, others had to depend on the river’s tributaries to secure enough water for their families and farms. Amen-Raad’s residence was situated in the warriors’ district of the city. Although not all military officers and leaders were housed there, a significant number were. This proximity facilitated easy gathering, training, and the exchange of knowledge about wars and conflicts impacting Egypt. A key feature of this area was the cluster of Montu statues, notably the large one positioned at the front of the neighborhood. This statue was elaborately decorated, featuring a falcon’s head, expansive wings, and a staff symbolizing readiness for battle. It was painted with various shades of blue and red, and its torso was gilded with gold armor. Beyond the main gate of the warriors’ district lay numerous homes, including Amen-Raad’s residence, situated within this community.
Amen-Raad never intended to start a family, so his home consisted of a front room, a cooking area, sleeping quarters, and a courtyard. The house was decorated with various shades of brown, yellow, and white. Numerous Montu statues decorated the room as a sign of reverence. The warrior made a point to touch at least one statue’s head, whisper a brief prayer upon entering, then bathe and change before meeting his friend to go to the noble’s house.
After putting on the rest of his light armor, which matched the gauntlets on his forearms and shin protectors, Amen-Raad selected a few knives and a medium curved sword for protection. He didn’t believe it was strictly necessary, but displaying strength and potentially deterring danger seemed wise, rather than risking having no weapons if trouble arose. Amen-Raad sighed, grateful to the gods for this chance to serve. Then he headed to Ukani’s home, a larger residence within the same complex.
“You hear!” Ukani exclaimed with a joyful burst of excitement as Amen-Raad arrived at his door. The honey-colored-skinned soldier was, of course, shorter than Amen-Raad and had a slightly more slender, muscular build. Ukani kept his hair reaching his shoulders and sported a well-trimmed midnight-black beard.
“Of course,” Amen-Raad responded. “We agreed to meet before leaving.”
Ukani chuckled and patted Amen-Raad on the shoulder. “You always take things so literally. Come, relax a little while I grab my things.”
Ukani’s home, twice the size of Amen-Raad’s, was designed to accommodate his wife and two sons, filling the space with lively activity. Loud noises came from the back, where the young boys engaged in mock fighting, accompanied by the inviting aroma of duck and lentils that filled the house. In the corner, a Montu statue lay on its side, which Amen-Raad corrected by positioning it upright. After adjusting the statue, he turned around and heard the boys call out, “Uncle Amen-Raad,” as they saw him in the front room.
Amen-Raad and Ukani were not brothers, but their close friendship meant Ukani’s children saw him as an uncle. Amen-Raad appreciated this arrangement as it provided a sense of family without the daily responsibility of raising the young men. He enjoyed their enthusiasm for fighting and sparring, as these were skills he was eager to teach and help them improve.
“Hello,” Nachen said as she exited the kitchen to the front room. She watched Ukani hurry past to grab his belongings, while the boys dashed by him to greet their guest.
“Nachen,” Amen-Raad said after he greeted the young men and then hugged her.
Nachen’s stature echoed Ukani’s in height, yet her frame was more delicate, a slender vessel of strength capable of taming sons, conjuring meals, tending chores, and brewing sweet, intoxicating ale. Amen-Raad’s senses were attuned to the aroma of her brewing, but duty called, and clarity was his desire. Her eyes held a captivating beauty, spaced generously, with a gentle roundness to her face that bespoke youth, lips curved as if perpetually on the brink of a tender touch. Her hair, usually braided or coiled in a bun, would cascade past her shoulders when loose, flowing closer to her mid-back like a silken river. As a devoted wife, she cloaked herself in modest, unassuming garments, yet Ukani always saw her as radiant and refined. Though she adorned fewer jewels and makeup than many other women, some of whom Amen-Raad might have sought comfort with in moments of release, her understated elegance shone with an effortless, timeless beauty.
“Did Ukani offer you anything to drink?” Nachen asked.
“No, and I’m okay. There will be plenty at the celebration or party,” Amen-Raad said.
“Maybe afterwards,” Ukani responded as he walked into the room with light armor similar to Amen-Raad, a few knives, and a bow with a few arrows slung around his back.
“You really think you’ll need that?” Amen-Raad asked.
“It’s my specialty,” Ukani said. “If I don’t bring it, the wealthy might get anxious.” Both men laughed, while Nachen shook her head in disapproval.
“Get back safe,” Nachen said.
Ukani kissed his wife and chuckled. “It’s just a celebration for the wealthy what could possibly go wrong?” Ukani asked.
Aptero’s residence took Amen-Raad by surprise. While most affluent nobles and leaders dwelled along the Nile River, Aptero chose a different approach, constructing his home beside a tributary that supplied abundant water for his land and fields. He cultivated spices and operated several mines near various cities close to Thebes. The house was sizable, featuring two levels Amen-Raad understood the upper floor was designated for cooling and relaxation during the hottest months. The structure was adorned with a few obelisks painted in eggshell white, topped with decorations in shades of red, pink, and orange. Chariots were parked in front, serving as a symbol of status for wealthy and royal visitors. Guards dressed in various shades of red and white stood near the chariots and at the entrance, ensuring security and an air of authority.
The guard in charge, who wore a simple yet authoritative headdress, patiently asked for the credentials of Amen-Raad and Ukani. Aptero had many guards, but given the high-profile visitors and their personal servants frequenting his lavish home, he decided to station a few extra to ensure everyone’s safety. All of Aptero’s guards donned uniforms adorned with bold red and white patterns, symbolizing their allegiance. Meanwhile, those who were paid directly to serve as security personnel distinguished themselves by tying a bright red ribbon around their right arm, making it clear at a glance who was part of the protective detail.
Once they cleared the guards, Amen-Raad and Ukani were led through the residence into an expansive courtyard. The house was adorned with an array of statues, intricate artwork, and miniature sculptures, complemented by food and drink scattered throughout. Amen-Raad noted the man’s fondness for the color red it was evident in the tapestries, curtains, and decor that featured reddish hues and flowing shades.
Among the furnishings, Amen-Raad observed numerous statues and illustrations of Ra, as expected. Still, his attention was drawn to a small statue and a drawing in the corner of the main room, likely depicting a goddess. The statue portrayed a figure in a vivid red dress, crowned with a vulture headdress, clutching a luminous green staff, her piercing gaze fixated straight ahead. Amen-Raad nudged Ukani and subtly nodded toward the mysterious goddess. Ukani responded with a shrug and a shake of his head. Their guide noticed the silent exchange and offered a small, knowing smile.
“That’s Abaset, the hedgehog goddess,” the guide explained. “Sera, Aptero’s wife, introduced that belief when he married her a year ago.”
“That’s unique,” Amen-Raad whispered. He didn’t mean to mock anyone’s beliefs he just found Abaset genuinely different from the gods he knew, both primary and regional.
“Truly,” the guide said. “She really likes red, and Aptero wanted to please his young bride.”
The courtyard stretched expansively, surpassing the size of at least three of the homes in the neighboring military colony. Tall lanterns, their warm glow casting flickering shadows, lined both the outer perimeter and a central arrangement, illuminating the entire space with a daylight-like brightness. To the side, a few gnarled trees and a neatly tended garden added touches of greenery. Still, the majority of the courtyard was dominated by imposing stone fixtures, intricately carved sculptures, ornate fountains, and various decorative elements painted in deep shades of red. The courtyard connected seamlessly not only to the main walkway that Amen-Raad traversed but also extended toward the side of the house, where a small curtain hung, marking an entryway. Several workers, dressed in simple tunics, had passed behind and around this curtain at different times. Near the courtyard’s edge, close to a bust sculpture of a man wearing a small headdress, a small band played haunting melodies on two flutes, a harp, and a lyre. A handful of dancers moved slowly and deliberately, their movements synchronized to the music, providing a rhythmic backdrop for onlookers who found their presence captivating. Amen-Raad observed the scene with curiosity, unsure of the story behind the performance, yet fascinated by the graceful choreography and the alluring appearance of some of the dancers.
Near the center of the courtyard stood an imposing object, towering at least twice the height of an ordinary man, draped in a shimmering black silk sheet. Amen-Raad couldn’t quite fathom what lay beneath, but it seemed to hold significance for the celebration. Amen-Raad guessed it might be a birthday gift or another statue to compete with the rest in the courtyard, yet the covered gesture left him uncertain about what was soon to be revealed. To him, it made little difference. The scene revealed how the wealthy conducted their affairs in solitude, shielding themselves from any unforeseen disturbances.
Once Amen-Raad received his assignment and the details of his role, his focus sharpened. He kept a watchful eye on the surroundings, alert for any threat to Aptero, who, as he soon discovered, was an elderly man with mostly white and silver hair. His wife, Sera, was barely eighteen, possibly nineteen, and it was clear she was Aptero’s fifth wife, the previous four having passed away. It seemed Aptero knew he wouldn’t have long, and he was determined to enjoy what little time he had left.
The unveiling of the statue captured Aptero in his prime, embodying strength, pride, and vitality from a youthful era. The colors mirror his former appearance, with robes adorned in vibrant reds, whites, and blues. Around the statue stood four smaller figures, likely his wives. It was believed that after his death, they would be laid to rest with him in the same tomb where three of his previous wives already lay. The first wife was omitted due to familial issues. Amen-Raad overheard this tale from nearby guests while searching for anyone who might cause a disturbance.
As the evening wore on, Amen-Raad observed a servant acting oddly. He no longer seemed to be attending to guests as he had earlier, instead frequently approaching the side of the courtyard and a hidden part of the house. The servant wore a white band and a rope around his arm, marking him as a helper for the guests. Amen-Raad glanced at Ukani, who had just finished a small fish meal, and subtly nodded toward the strangely behaved man. Ukani responded with a cautious nod, studying him closely, then exchanged a quiet look with another individual who seemed to be disregarding the guests’ needs and signals.
Amen-Raad and Ukani slowly moved away from their designated areas, edging toward the side of the courtyard where the two men, and now a third, lingered in a seemingly suspicious manner. An unsettling feeling settled over them. These servants had arrived not merely to serve but concealed a darker purpose. Amen-Raad couldn’t quite decipher what it was. Still, considering Aptero’s ability to craft a grand statue in his and his wives’ honor, it hinted that the true prize might be something hidden, perhaps jewels or another valuable that was meant to be stolen and sold.
“Excuse me, aren’t you out of place?” one of Aptero’s guards said to Amen-Raad. The man was solidly built, with a height that reached around Amen-Raad’s shoulder. He looked up and grinned, as if wearing the host’s colors gave him a sense of authority. Amen-Raad could tell from his stance that he had not seen combat or served as a soldier of any kind. He was probably the type to fight in bar brawls, but unprepared for the true skills of a trained warrior.
“Those men over there,” Amen-Raad said with a nod of his head. “They seem to be out of place. Acting suspicious.”
The guard looked, nodded, and then returned his attention to Amen-Raad. “They’re right where they need to be.”
Amen-Raad observed the men, who had set down their trays and moved to a hidden area behind the curtain. He sensed that something was off, and he knew it.
“You’re a part of this, aren’t you?” Amen-Raad asked.
“I would suggest you go back to your spot and enjoy the food and festivities,” the man said.
Amen-Raad sighed softly and cast a cautious glance toward Ukani. His instincts warned him not to provoke a scene or cause trouble. He sensed that this man, and perhaps some others on Aptero’s staff, were secretly letting a theft unfold. It seemed likely they weren’t earning enough and thought they could cover their shortfall by taking from their own boss. A few of the guards shared his and Ukani’s experience, battle-hardened warriors who had seen their share of conflict. But at least half, if not more, of the others were ordinary fighters, desperate for a few coins to get by.
“Sorry, I have to do this,” Amen-Raad said, then returned his attention to the guard in front of him.
“Do what?”
Amen-Raad struck the guard’s nose with the heel of his hand, causing the man to yelp in pain. Shouting fiercely, Amen-Raad declared, “The servants are stealing something important!”
The band’s ambient music near the statue abruptly ceased, and everyone instantly paused their conversations. Ukani sprinted from the far side of the courtyard to catch up with Amen-Raad, who was charging toward the spot where he spotted the three paid servants slipping aside. Amen-Raad could hear the man he’d struck roar in agony, just as a handful of Aptero’s men lunged into action, launching themselves to pursue the two soldiers.
“I hope you’re right,” Ukani said while running behind Amen-Raad.
The footsteps of some of Aptero’s red and white guards could be heard, but neither soldier slowed their pursuit. “I know what I saw,” Amen-Raad insisted.
Beyond the curtain lay the sleeping quarters designated for guests and family members. A locked door, which the servants were able to open, led them down a hallway toward the back of the house. At the end of the hall was a door adorned with intricate designs and painted with images of various animals and individuals dressed in hunting attire. Amen-Raad was unsure what lay on the other side, but it was evident that the area held something of value, motivating the few servants to enter.
“I’ll stop the men from stealing what’s inside, you convince Aptero’s guards from being a problem,” Amen-Raad ordered.
“Convince?”
Amen-Raad looked at Ukani’s arrows, then at him. “Don’t shoot to kill.”
“Where’s the fun in that?” Ukani said and grabbed an arrow.
Amen-Raad could hear Ukani shouting to the guards that they were protecting Aptero and that they were not the enemy. Beyond that, Amen-Raad’s gaze shifted to the room, which was filled with a variety of large animals, creatures that Aptero must have hunted, killed, and preserved. Among them were massive alligators with their powerful jaws, a majestic lion’s head mounted as a trophy, the long neck and head of a giraffe, and an imposing male hippopotamus with its thick, hairless skin. The room was also decorated with numerous birds, rodents, and other small animals, adding to its wild, primal atmosphere. To Amen-Raad, this array of trophies was unexpected. Yet, his attention was soon drawn elsewhere, toward four men standing to the side, quietly stealing what appeared to be several priceless necklaces. These necklaces were crafted from pure silver and intricately set with sparkling rubies and emeralds. Three of the men appeared to be paid servants, identifiable by the white bands circled around their arms. Yet, amidst them, there was also a guard bearing a distinctive headdress, evidently among those not entirely what they seemed.
“Put down the items, or there will be trouble,” Amen-Raad commanded.
“Kill him,” the man with the headdress ordered to one of the servants.
The servant’s shoulders drooped, and he drew a knife as he confronted Amen-Raad.
“Listen, I understand you have a job to do, but I see no reason to kill you. Why not turn around and…”
Amen-Raad interrupted before he could finish, hurling a knife at the man’s throat. The servant quickly dropped his blade and fell to the floor, clutching his neck as blood and air escaped from the wound. Amen-Raad drew his sword and rushed toward the other targets, confident that the man on the ground was no longer a danger.
The nearest servant picked up two small swords lying nearby. Amen-Raad quickly blocked the servant’s poor attacks and struck him across the stomach, leg, and chest, causing the servant to stumble and fall near the man with the knife in his throat.
The remaining servant, overwhelmed by Amen-Raad’s speed and ferocity, charged with his sword drawn, screaming about his brother. Amen-Raad dismissively blocked the attack, spun around to slash the man in the back, then swiftly turned again to decapitate him with a powerful swipe.
“Who are you?” the last guard asked, trembling. The assaults were so quick that he couldn’t even drop the jeweled necklace or reach for his own weapon.
“Amen-Raad, servant of Montu, warrior for the Egyptian empire.”
“Listen,” the guard said, slowly going for his weapon while clutching the jewels. “We can work something out.”
Amen-Raad gave a slight smirk and shook his head. “No.” Before the guard could fully grab his weapon, Amen-Raad sliced through the man’s wrist and removed the guard’s hand from his body. The jewels hit the ground as blood sprayed across the desk and floor. The guard shouted in pain, dropping to his knees and clutching the end of his now-stump arm.
“Aptero will determine your fate,” Amen-Raad ordered, approaching the guard. “Now stand,” he added, grabbing the man’s clothes.
In the courtyard, Aptero and a Thebes police officer, attending the party, reprimanded the guard wearing the headdress who had lost his hand. Ukani demonstrated his strength by shooting an arrow through two of Aptero’s guards, signaling that he was not to be underestimated and that Amen-Raad supported their boss. Those two guards, also involved in the robbery, would ultimately face Egyptian justice.
In front of the shiny new statue, Aptero cheerfully thanked Amen-Raad and Ukani for rescuing a small fortune and family heirlooms that would be buried with him upon his passing. They were part of his treasure that Aptero believed would accompany him into the afterlife, where he would find eternal bliss in the next plane of existence. To top it off, Aptero tripled what they were about to earn, making both soldiers practically jump with joy at the chance to serve.
“I thought you said no killing,” Ukani whispered after Aptero publicly showed kindness. Both soldiers stood close to a statue that Amen-Raad believed honored Osiris, featuring a bust as large as a man, placed among some flowering bushes.
“Mistakes were made,” Amen-Raad responded.
“Three times?” Ukani asked.
Amen-Raad shrugged his shoulders, a nervous laugh escaping him. As the men stood, a wealthy nobleman in elegant blue and gold approached, his attire hinting at recent indulgence. Yet, beneath the veneer of wealth, a deep, lingering sadness etched sorrow across his face.
“Hello, gentlemen, I’m Sepi.”
“Hello,” Amen-Raad said. “Is there an issue?”
“Yes, and it involves my wife,” Sepi responded.
