The morning sun cast long shadows across the Nile, but Nefertari barely noticed. She stood on the palace balcony, watching black smoke rise from the foundries along the eastern bank—pillars of soot that stained the sky where once only temple incense had climbed toward the gods. Three years ago, those factories hadn't existed. Three years … Continue reading The Smoke of Progress
Ancient Egypt
Shadows of the Lotus
Neferet's fingers worked swiftly in the pre-dawn darkness, weaving lotus blossoms and jasmine into Princess Meritet's long black hair. The sweet scent of the flowers mingled with the burning incense that wafted through the palace chambers, marking the start of another day in the royal court of Egypt. "They're watching me again," Meritet murmured, her … Continue reading Shadows of the Lotus
The Confusing Middle 