The Pharaoh’s Favorite novel Chapter 27

“More grace in the wrist!” The dance teacher’s voice interrupted my thoughts. My muscles ached from hours of practice, but rest was not an option with the court watching soon.

“Grace, Neferet,” my instructor said while circling me during the sequence. “Every motion speaks of longing and sacrifice. It’s a tribute to Osiris’s suffering and resurrection. No hesitation, only surrender.”

I took a deep breath and began again as the drums pulsed with my heartbeat. My body flowed through the movements, silk garments clinging to my damp skin.

My mind wandered to that eerie dream – waking up in cold sweats, details slipping away like water. All I remembered were those burning red eyes and the taste of blood in my mouth.

“Neferet! Focus! The festival is in three days!”

Three days until I danced before the court – before Amen and envoys who would scrutinize every move for signs of weakness in Pharaoh’s newest concubine.

The teacher demanded sharper movements, deeper emotion—this dance was an offering. I inhaled, the warm air soothing my tense muscles. Despite unanswered questions, I enjoyed the challenge.

A soft, delicate sound reached me—a woman’s voice singing. Unlike temple hymns or festival chants for the gods, this melody was personal. The sweetness captivated me as a harp accompanied her cascading notes.

Driven by curiosity, I approached the source of the sound.

There she was, perched on a terrace and half-hidden behind a column. A girl with hair like ripened wheat, glowing under the fading light. Her fingers danced over a small harp, melodies shimmering like moonlit water.

Her beauty was quiet and unassuming—unlike Meritaten’s bold elegance or Heket’s striking presence. She seemed untouched by palace life.

I stepped closer without disturbing her. “You play beautifully,” I said gently.

She gasped, fingers freezing on the harp. Suddenly, she darted behind a nearby statue, as if trying to disappear into the cold stone.

I blinked, taken aback.

“Forgive me,” I said, lifting my hands. “I didn’t mean to frighten you.”

The girl peeked out, dark eyes wide with nervousness. She only stared.

“Please,” I called softly, “don’t be afraid. Your music was beautiful.”

A small face peered around the statue’s base, eyes watching me warily. “You… liked it?”

“I’ve never heard anything like it.” I took a cautious step forward. “I’m Neferet.”