(Old) PR Chapter 1: New Beginnings

Season of Shemu
Payni (April) 17th, 1326 B.C.
Thebes, Upper Egypt

 This day could not have come soon enough for Atem, but then again, it could have been a little less stressful. Preparations had begun before dawn for the event that would be taking place shortly. This ceremony was nearly a year in the making.  So, the closer it got towards the afternoon, the more nervous he became.

 Inside the Pharaoh’s chambers, Priest Seto was standing near the door with his arms crossed. He was more than amused at the state his usually calm cousin was in. Silently laughing to himself, he watched as Atem fidgeted with his own outfit. To the Pharaoh it seemed like he had to fix his nemes headdress for what seemed like the umpteenth time and his postiche(1). He didn’t really mind the headdress that much other than it being hot, but the false beard was definitely another story.

"You're acting like you're going to be thrown to the crocodiles. It’s just marriage.” The Priest said with a smirk. Atem shot him a sideways glance.

“Yes, well..."

 A knock on the door caused Atem to jump, making Seto laugh. The Pharaoh glared at him before saying, "enter". The door opened and in stepped Shimon, Atem's most trusted vizier. The elderly man had a large smile on his face as he bowed.

“We are ready, my king."

 The time had finally arrived. The anxious feelings that had gnawed at Atem all day were completely gone. In their place were feelings of pure happiness. One last time, he adjusted his outfit by smoothing the wrinkles from his shendyt(2). With Shimon in the lead, Atem followed along with Seto out into the hallway. The guards stationed outside gave a salute as the three walked past.

 Entering the throne room, Atem smiled remembering the promise he and Mana made the night before. To stay with tradition, they had agreed not to see each other until right before they signed their marriage contract. Noticing Mahad over by the doorway, Atem walked over to speak with his old friend. The Magician was so deep in thought that he didn't even notice the Pharaoh's presence. Atem smiled.

"Good afternoon, Mahad."

 The magician slightly jumped.
"Oh! Good afternoon, my king!" He gave a slight bow. "Forgive me, I was just thinking over some things.”

 Atem gave him a questioning look. “Care to share your thoughts?"

 Mahad looked down at the Pharaoh and couldn't help but smile at how excited he seemed.

 “Well, it just seems...odd. On how everything turned out, I mean."

The Pharaoh laughed. "Oh? How so?"

 “Just what the three of us have become. We've been friends since you and Mana  were my apprentices. Then I became a royal magician, you became pharaoh, and now Mana will be queen." Mahad laughed slightly. "To be honest, I didn't know how she would react to such a responsibility when you first purposed to her. It shocked me to no end when she accepted. I know that you both love each other greatly and everything will be alright but, she’s still like a little sister to me.” He put his arm behind his head in embarrassment. “I guess I’ll  always worry about her."

Atem nodded. “I chose her as my queen because I know that she will be good to  Kemet(3). However, I vow on my title as Pharaoh, you can always count on me to love and protect her.”

 Mahad smiled. “She will be in good hands, that I’m sure of.”

 He looked up and made a motion to the Pharaoh about something behind him. Atem turned to see Isis escorting Mana in. His heart skipped a beat at the sight of his soon to be queen. Mana was in a floor-length sleeveless white gown with a beaded collar of rubies, turquoise, and gold. The simple golden crown that she wore allowed her hair to fall freely.
For the first time in his life, the Pharaoh was absolutely tongue tied. He walked up to her and took her hands. Looking into her beautiful aqua eyes made him unable to speak.

“Mana! You look...! I-I mean, you're...you're beautiful!" He finally managed to stammer out.

“Thanks." Mana replied with a blush.

“Haha! Well done, Mana! Not everyone can make His Highness stutter!" Shimon laughed. "Oh! But I guess I cannot call you by that name anymore."
He bowed to her. "My Queen, it will be an honor to serve you."

 Isis and Mahad both did the same. Mana looked around at everyone not knowing how to react. It was so weird! It was definitely going to be awhile before she got used to this.

"Cut it out, you guys! You don't have to do that!" She laughed nervously.

 Mahad cleared his throat.
"Mana, you need to understand that you are taking on a new role. One that is the highest in all the land. As such we...”

Mana cut him off. “Mahad, I know what you're going to say. I've been through those lectures a hundred times.” She laughed. "I just mean that I don't want to be treated any different. I'm still the same me as before.”

The magician shook his head in defeat and smiled.

Isis placed her hand on Mana’s shoulder.
“Of course, you will be the same you. But, your role is very important to the people and this land. It requires the utmost of respect. Now, it’s time for it all to become official." She motioned to the scribe that was waiting to write up Mana and Atem’s marriage contract.  

Mana took her seat next Atem as the scribe began to write. Feeling a little nervous, she took the Pharaoh’s hand in hers. In response, he gave her hand a light squeeze.

“In the month of Shemu on the seventeenth day of Payni; year three of the divine king, His Majesty, Atem, born in Kemet, Lord to the limit of the sky, Son of the late king Akhenamkhanen, whose mother was the late queen Akila, has said to the woman, Mana, daughter of Osiris, whose mother was Isis: I have made you a married woman. I have received your dowry from your hand complete and intact; I am satisfied with it. If I dismiss you, or you choose to leave, then I will give back to you the dowry that you have brought with you into my house...” (4)

There was more to the contract but Mana’s mind had wondered off. Her as the Queen of Kemet? She had received the training for it and she knew Atem would support her all the way but...could she really do it?

“My lady, do you accept this contract?” The scribe asked setting down his pen.

Mana snapped out of her thoughts.
"Yes! I do!“ Her face turned red; she didn’t even hear Atem say his part! The scribe finished up his writing before handing it off to the Pharaoh. Atem scanned over it then stamped it with his approval to be filed away in the records. He stood up while smiling down at Mana.

“Are you ready?" He asked holding his hand out to her.

 Mana nervously nodded and stood up. This was the part she was scared of the most. How many people would be waiting outside the palace? Surely there wouldn’t be that many. Who would want to see her anyway? Still nervous, she took Atem's hand then quickly pulled him close by the arm. The Pharaoh chuckled at her behavior as they walked out into the Window of Appearances(5). The light was so bright that Mana had to shield her eyes. Regaining her vision, the new queen’s eyes grew wide in amazement. Below them were thousands of people. From their own capital city of Thebes to the outreaching villages, people had traveled miles upon miles to catch a glimpse of her. The sound from the crowd was deafening when the two appeared. All the noise and excitement was making Mana feel light-headed. Were all these people  cheering...for her? She subconsciously tightened her grip on Atem's arm. This was just too amazing to believe!

"Everything is alright, Love." Atem said rubbing his thumb over her hand. "They're just happy to see you."

 Mana swallowed hard. This was too much! She didn’t do well with crowds! “Don’t lock your knees, don’t lock your knees!” She chanted in her head. Atem raised his hand in the air. On command, the crowd went silent and bowed to the ground. Mana always wondered how he was able to do that. Would she be able to do it too?

“People of Kemet." Atem began. "Today we usher in a new era. One of peace and prosperity. I am honored to present to you your new queen. I chose her to stand by my side because I know in my heart that she will do everything in her power to protect you.” He took Mana’s hands into his. The love that shone in her eyes reflected how he had felt for her all these years. Yes, she truly was the one. “May Amun watch over and protect all of us.” The two leaned in for a kiss causing a deafening roar from the crowd. Turning back towards the crowd, Mana gazed over all the people. All those faces...these people were the ones that she had vowed to serve and protect. They were the reason she and Atem were here. Now she finally realized how important this role truly was.

Atem hooked his arm around hers and guided her back inside. Once the rush wore off, Mana felt her legs go weak. She immediately went over to one of the chairs and sat down.

“Oh, man! That truly was something!” She looked up at Atem. “I never understood how you could do that.”

“Part of the job description.” Seto said as he exited the throne room. Atem shot him a glare then turned to his wife with a smile.

“Years of practice, you’ll get used to it!”

“Ha-ha...right.” Mana laughed.

“You did a fine job, don’t worry about Seto.” Mahad said placing his hand on her shoulder. “Now do you understand why I said this is the greatest role you can take on?”

The queen nodded. “I do now. Once I saw everyone, it just sort of clicked. Everyone...” Her stomach suddenly growled loudly. “Uh, let me rephrase that!”  She said in embarrassment while everyone laughed.

“I say that is a good enough reason for the banquet to begin, Her Majesty is hungry!” Shimon said laughing. “What are we waiting for?”

No one could argue with that! With that go ahead, everyone made their way to the dining hall. Mana was beyond excited to eat, it was one of her favorite things to do after all! As they entered the room, she could smell all the delicious food awaiting them. Her eyes sparkled at the sight of the mounds of food. Besides when Atem became pharaoh, this had to be the biggest banquet she remembered seeing! Every kind of dish you could want was present! For meat there was honey roasted gazelle, thick slabs of beef, spit-roasted duck and other stuffed fowl. Breads of all kinds along with several stews completed the main course. Pair that with fresh fruits like melons, grapes, and drapes, you have a meal fit for a king (literally)! Mana eagerly took her place next to Atem’s. They had their own table for this meal but seating arrangement was usually based on rank. The higher up you were, the better your seating. Also, men and women usually ate separately. For example, before today she would have sat at the Priestesses’ table with Isis on benches. Now that she was married, she would always sit with Atem along with having her own comfy chair! The Pharaoh took his seat next to her and grinned.

“The way your stomach growled earlier I bet you’re starving!”

Mana nodded her head. “Definitely! I was way too nervous to eat this morning.” She gave Atem a funny look. “I’m honestly surprised you’re still wearing your ceremonial pieces. I know how much you dislike them.”

It took a moment for Atem to realize he was still wearing them. “Ha, I guess I forgot about them.” He removed his head dress and false beard before handing them off to a servant. He rubbed at his chin. “The nemes isn’t a problem to wear but I can’t get used to the postiche, it’s so scratchy!”

“Glad I don’t have to wear those things.” Mana said rinsing her hands off in the water bowl a servant brought to them. She looked around at the several round tables situated around them. Everyone seemed to be having a good time as they chatted waiting for the meal to start. She saw Mahad and Isis looking over their way causing her wave. The two looked shocked for a moment before hesitantly waving back.

“Aw, they’re acting weird again.” Mana said with a frown.

“Who is?” Atem asked looking in the direction she was.

“Mahad and Isis. They’re treating me like I’m a goddess or something.” She propped her head up in her hand. “How did you ever get used to this? I don’t think I ever will.”

Atem smiled and placed his hand on hers. “They’re only showing their respect to you. Now that you’re queen, you’re among the highest ranked in the land. But you can always tell them they don’t have to be formal all the time. Just in the public eye. Seto and I leave out all the formalities when we are working on something ourselves.”

 “I’ve seen how you and Seto interact and most of the times it’s not pretty.” Mana laughed. “But, I guess I’ll give that idea a try. I really don’t want to be treated any different.”

By that time the servants had come around and placed the food onto their table. After they were served, the meal officially began. Mana was somewhat disappointed that she couldn’t really enjoy it because various people came by to congratulate them. One Priestess in particular that she had trained with on several occasions did more than offer her congratulations.

“So, when can we expect an heir?” She asked excitedly. “I know they will be just adorable!”

Mana started to choke on her drink. Heir...as in baby?! She shot a glance towards Atem. Fortunately, he had been too preoccupied with his conversation with Mahad to hear. The two did stop talking when they heard her choking.

“Are you alright?” Atem asked surprised patting her on the back.

“Uh huh.” Mana said with a fake smile and closed eyes because they were tearing up. Her face turned a bright red. She had only been married this afternoon and now this topic was being discussed? Her and Atem...? She needed some air!

"If you'll excuse me, I'll be right back!" She said quickly jumping up from the table All the while avoiding eye contact from Mahad. He could probably tell what was going through her head! Atem on the other hand was clueless. He excused himself also and followed after his queen.

 While everyone was still hopefully preoccupied with the banquet, Mana slipped outside to the palace garden. This had always been one of her favorite places. The relaxing atmosphere combined with the setting sun was what she needed at the moment.

“There you are!”

Mana turned to see Atem coming through the entrance. “Are you alright, Love? Do you feel ok?” He asked worriedly as he walked up to her.

The queen nodded, embarrassed about her behavior. Not to mention worrying him. “Sorry, I uh, just needed some fresh air. It was getting kind of cramped in there.” She felt her face blush again. Those priestesses certainly weren’t the most modest of the bunch!

The Pharaoh placed his hand on her forehead. “Your face looks flushed, are you sure you’re feeling alright?”

“Oh, just fine!” She laughed nervously trying to change the subject. She hated to lie to him, he was just so sweet! “Do you want to stay out here for a bit?” She asked taking his hand. “It’s really pretty tonight.”

“I would love too.” Atem said giving her hand a squeeze.

The two walked for a bit before settling down in front of the garden pond. Mana leaned up against the Pharaoh as they watched the fireflies dance through the air.

“What are you thinking about?” Atem asked placing his arms around her.

"Just about today. I still can't believe I’m actually a queen."
Mana said looking up at him. Atem smiled.

"You know, Mahad was saying the same thing earlier."

The queen looked interested. “Really? What did he say?”

“He’s proud of you and your decision. He knows that you will be a just ruler.” Atem chuckled. “But, he did say that he was still going to worry about you, queen or not.”

Mana rolled her eyes. “That big worrywart. He’s always been that way.” Her eyes wandered across the still waters of the pond. “Do you remember when we first met? It was in this exact spot.”

Atem had a big grin on his face. “How could I not? You pushed me into the water, twice.” He held up two fingers to emphasize it.

Mana made a face at him and giggled. “Hey, now! You fell in the first time yourself!” She playfully nudged his arm. “The second time you definitely deserved it. You were being mean to that poor frog!”

~Flashback~

 Seven-year old Atem ran as fast as he could out into the palace garden. If he managed to escape his teacher, then that meant no more boring lessons!  He quickly dove behind some of the shrubbery and patiently waited. Sure enough, his tutor came running out looking for him.

“My Prince! We have yet to complete your studies!" He called out frantically while looking in every direction.

The young prince laughed to himself.
"He won't find me here!"

“Who won't find you?"

Atem jumped in surprise at the sound of another voice. “W-Who's t-there?"
He stammered out. Waiting provided no answer. By this time his teacher was long gone so he used a louder and more forceful approach.
"As the Pharaoh of Kemet, I command you to show yourself!"

 The shrubs behind him started to rustle causing him to spin around. What could it be?! Was it a monster? An assailant? A...girl?!  
The young prince was confused. Who was this? She was about his age but he had never seen her before. The young girl giggled and walked up to him.

“You're not the king!"
She said poking at his crown. “You’re too small!”

Atem batted her hand away, insulted.
"Yes, well. I am just a Prince for now, but one day I will be Pharaoh!" He adjusted his crown. "Now, tell me who you are!"

The girl laughed again. “You don’t have to be so serious! Lighten up! I'm Mana, what's your name?"

The Prince eyed her suspiciously. Should he tell her his birth name? It was something that was definitely not shared with strangers. Even some in the palace didn’t know his true name. Well, she certainly didn’t look threatening in the slightest. “My name is Atem...”

“You mean like the Creator? That’s cool!”
She excitedly grabbed him by the hand. “Come on, Atem! Let's play!"

"H-hey! Wait!" The prince said as she yanked him behind her.
 
Finally deciding on a game of tag, Atem chose to be It. Mana jumped up on the side of the garden pool and skillfully leaped to the other side to avoid being tagged.

“That’s not fair!” Atem complained climbing up on the opposite side.

“Sure it is!” Mana said spinning gracefully around on the tips of her toes. “Come on, try it! Or can you do it?”

The prince glared at her. “Of course I can!” He jumped back down and backed away from the edge a bit. Gauging the distance, he took off in a dead run. He didn’t get very far due to his right foot getting hooked under the outer wall. “Gah!” He yelled out while floundering in the air. Mana burst out into laughter as he fell face first in the water.

“Oh be quiet!” Atem said removing a lily pad from his hair. The young girl laughed harder making him throw water at her.

“You’re still It!” She said dodging the splash before taking off once more.

 The two continued to play tag for awhile until they grew bored with the game. Mana ran over to the garden pool and sat down on the edge while Atem followed.

“I'm too tired to go on!" Mana said as she flopped down dramatically.
Atem was about to do the same until something caught his attention. From the bushes out hopped a large green frog. He looked at it, repulsed.

“Those things are so gross." He said trying to grab it. There was just something about them that he didn’t like. Maybe it was how their skin felt or how they peed all over your hand when you caught them. In any case, it lazily hopped out of his reach and turned around to stare at him. Atem glared at it. Maybe he could throw it somewhere to get rid of it. Mana saw the look in Atem's eyes causing her jump up to defend the creature.

“Leave him alone! He's cute!"

The frog watched the two not caring in the slightest.

“You like frogs? You're weird." Atem grabbed the frog up forcefully.

“Hey! Put him down!" Mana begged  trying to grab the frog out of his hand. The prince raised his arm out of her reach.

“Or what?" He teased.

Mana took a step back then charged forward. “This, you big jerk!” She yelled, forcefully shoving him backwards.

“Not again!” Atem yelled as he went into the pond once more. The frog escaped from his grasp and hurriedly swam away. The prince jumped up looking extremely embarrassed.

“That’s what you get!” Mana said doubled over in laughter.

“MANA!”

She quickly stopped her laughing and looked behind her. It was Mahad! Uh-oh! She was in trouble now! Turning to run, her escape was cut short as she started to float in the air.

“Stop it, Mahad!” She yelled angrily struggling to break free from the spell. The magician came storming up to her.

“No way! I let you out of my sight for a few moments and this happens!” He pointed over to Atem. “Apologize right now!”

“Ugh, fine!” Mana looked back over to Atem and stuck her tongue out.

Mahad wanted to literally die on the spot.  Today, was the day he was going to introduce her to Pharaoh Akhenamkhanen as his apprentice along with the prince. So far, she had managed to slip past him and cause trouble with not only the Pharaoh’s son but also inside the palace. He’d be lucky if he still maintained his magician title!  

Snapping his fingers, the spell broke making Mana fall to the ground. “I am so sorry for her behavior, My Prince!” He bowed to the ground. “I take full responsibility!”

Atem looked at Mahad and then to Mana. The girl gave him a glare witch he returned.

“Oh, forget about it. I fell in the first time anyway.” The magician had always been a friend to him and he didn’t want him to get into trouble. “Why’s she tagging along with you anyway, Mahad?”

The magician returned to his standing position. “I was needing to speak to your father about something very important. Although I doubt it will work out now.” He grabbed Mana up by the hand. “Let’s go, this time you’re not leaving my sight!” Bowing to Atem and apologizing once more, he left for the palace while dragging Mana by the hand. The prince watched them go wondering why Mahad had brought someone like that.

Later that day, Atem was made to join his father during his council meetings. Nothing interesting was talked about, of course. When would there be some real excitement? Like foreign invaders, or monsters, or...

“Atem are you even listening to me?”

“Huh?” The prince snapped out of his day dream. “Of course, Father!” He looked at him blankly for a few seconds. “Um...could you say that again?”

The Pharaoh sighed. “I was saying that Mahad would be our last visitor for the day. You really need to start paying more attention. You’ll never become a great ruler if you always have your head in the clouds.”

Whatever his father had said to him went through one ear right out the other. Atem was more interested on what Mahad had to say. It wasn’t often that the magician spoke to his father during a royal council. This had to mean something good! Akhenamkhanen waved Mahad in. The magician came in while dragging someone very familiar behind him.

"YOU!?" The prince yelled out in shock.

Mana made a face at him causing Mahad to hit her on the head.

“What did I tell you about disrespecting the Prince?! I’m sorry great Pharaoh! She usually does not act this way!” Mahad said as he dragged Mana down into a bow with him.

Akhenamkhanen waved it off with a laugh. “It’s quite alright, Mahad. It’s seems like my son may have already caused a stir with our guest.” He looked over at Atem. “I’m assuming you skipped your classes again if you’ve already met her am I correct?”

“N-no! Why would you say that?” Atem laughed nervously.

His father gave him a look. “We will get to that later. Anyway, back to the matter at hand. Mahad, will you please explain?”

The magician stood up. “Of course, Your Majesty. My Prince, Mana and yourself will be studying sorcery under me as my apprentices. Much like you, Mana has an exceptional grasp on magic at such a young age. His Majesty believes that it would be good for you two to study together.”

The room was silent for a moment before both Atem and Mana yelled out simultaneously, “I’M NOT WORKING WITH YOU!”

~End Flashback~

“It’s hard to believe we acted like that, especially in front of your poor father. I feel really bad for Mahad having to put up with us for all those years.” Mana giggled.

Atem grinned. “I think they just got used to it after awhile. Otherwise I’m not sure how they would have kept their sanity.”

A cool wind blew by making Mana shiver. “Are you getting cold?” Atem asked removing his cape and placing it around her. The queen nodded.

“Yeah, I can’t wait for it to warm up at night.” She pouted snuggling up to him. “I hate the cold!”

Atem chuckled. “My poor Queen.” He gave her a kiss on the cheek. “Let’s go back in then. You don’t need to catch a chill.” He said helping her up.

“Ugh, wouldn’t that be great for me to be sick on my first day on the job?” Mana listened for a moment. “Sounds like the wild party has died down.”

“I’m assuming it’s safe for us to go back in then. I don’t think they even noticed us being gone.” Atem said grinning taking her hand.

“I certainly don’t mind it.” Mana replied leaning her head against the Pharaoh’s shoulder as they walked. “It’s nice just us being together.”  She had a sudden thought. “ I do wonder what tomorrow’s going to be like. Hopefully nothing too crazy comes up!”

Atem laughed. “I’ve probably thought that exact thing  everyday for the past three years now. You can honestly never know how the day’s going to go, you just have to be ready for anything.”

“Oh, that’s comforting.” Mana said playfully.

“Don’t worry about it. I’ll be with you every step of of the way.” Atem leaned his head against hers. “You’ll be just fine.”

“If you say so.” Mana sighed slightly nervous. She hadn’t thought about how her first day was going to go! The two stopped in front of the garden entrance.

“I know so.” Atem said smiling at her. Mana returned his smile and hugged him. Maybe he was right. Everything would be just fine. They had each other.