Spiritual Dialogue with Light

"Marcelle Mansour 'Threshold' Exhibition @ Mary MacKillop. 

Respecting the Cammeraigal People: We acknowledge and respect the traditional custodians whose ancestral lands we gather upon at Mary MacKillop Place. 

We acknowledge the deep spiritual attachment and relationship of Aboriginal peoples to this country and commit ourselves to the ongoing journey of Reconciliation. 

'Threshold' exhibition by Marcelle Mansour From 11 December 2014 - to 30 March 2015 Threshold focuses on spiritual and socio-political change. It aims to end war and to celebrate the rebirth of world peace. 

It is a work of contemporary art that has a sense of creative purpose which is humanly transformative, using light as a material and perception as a medium to effect healing and to embrace love and just peace. 

Viewers are invited to experience the movement of the dynamic shifting colours of light in contemplative surroundings. 

This may allow renewal and rethinking ourselves and the world towards reshaping our reality for a better world to embrace love. The exhibition will be open to public from 11 December 2014 to 30 March 2015. is open daily from 10am to 4pm. Closed Good Friday, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and NewYear's Day. Mary MacKillop Place is located at: 7-11 Mount Street North Sydney NSW 2060 Australia Mary MacKillop was an ordinary person who lived an extraordinary life, an unconventional life that saw her triumph over adversities and obstacles placed in her way. 

She truly was a woman who lived her life out of the ordinary. Similarly, Mary MacKillop Place is a place unlike any other. A place of tranquility amidst busy North Sydney, offering accommodation, conference facilities, a holy site and more. When you visit us you'll discover it's a place that is truly out of the ordinary."

For you I built my heart

For you I tried my best

And I only cared about you

I had no time to rest

When I wake up in the morning

I get up very slow

And to enjoy the rest of my day

I kiss you before I go

You're in my mind whenever I'm working

Also, when I'm having my meal

Now you know when you're not with me

Exactly how I feel

Sekhmet watched as the guards she sent to fetch Isis from her chambers emerged with their chores done. They stopped at a short distance from her in the court. Isis was resisting and thrashing about attempting to release herself from the guards grip but to no success. As soon as she saw Sekhmet she shouted, "What kind of insult is this? I demand that they release me now."

  "Have you forgotten the order rank you two faced serpent." Isis gave Sekhmet a dumbfounded look of wonder as she heard the insults. "Seti's orders are heard firstly, then Ramses's then mine then yours you harlot." Isis shouted, "Don't you dare insult me. If it wasn't for my brother you would still be a servant serving me and him you ungrateful slave!" 

"Are you sure he is still your brother?" Sekhmet walked up to Isis and gave her a very sharp look. "I believe I heard your brother which is also my husband once say that the penalty of treason is beheading." Sekhmet gave Isis a small smile and then walked towards her throne while saying. "Do I have to explain further or will you save us a lot of time and tell us of your disgusting scheme with Setekh."

Isis felt that a lightning bolt struck her. She swallowed very hard but maintained a lot of self confidence and denounced the accusation. "I know nothing of what you are talking about."

"We shall see. Satis!" Satis came running at her ladies calling. She stood obediently in front of Sekhmet eyes to the floor. "Yes your majesty."

I want you to repeat what you told me earlier today.

"I had headed to the temple as you told me to summon the head priest Setekh when I saw my lady Isis's chariot outside. Thinking that she was on the same errand as I was I entered but stopped when I overheard her with the head priest Setekh speaking words of treason."

Isis spat at the servant and thrashed about madly while protesting, "You're lying, these are all lies. Sekhmet you always hated me for not supporting my brother ever in marrying you. This is your way of squaring things with me."

Satis looked at Isis and said firmly, "I do not lye. I was born in this residence as my mother and father served here since a long time. I have served in this residence for my entire life and I will not betray my lord pharaoh Seti for any reason. I found it in my conscience to tell about your cheap conspiracy and to save our country from corruption. Our people saw prosperity and famine was curtailed from our cities ever since pharaoh Seti came unto the thrown." Satis realized that Sekhmet was eyeing her firmly as her boldness was out of the acceptable. Even speaking freely without being asked to was an unacceptable trespass from servants to their masters. Satis immediately went down on her knees and worshipped in front of her lady while saying, "Please forgive me your majesty, I allowed my feelings to guide my words and lost control of myself."

"Rise Satis, I marvel at your audacity. You have spoken better about Pharaoh

than his sibling." Sekhmet looked back at Isis and said, "I am also amazed at the filthy, disgusting and foul people that harbor accordingly only cheap ambitions with in them. Speak up and tell us what you heard also Satis."

"She was there to tell Setekh about pharaoh Seti's illness but he had already known about it and he said that he arranged it. I also heard her swear at pharaoh. They parted when Setekh promised to come tonight to her chambers."

"You have no real proof against me. Satis is making this up!"

"We shall see in due time. Satis, I was thinking of giving you a beating for being out of place a moment ago. However I will forgive you if you pick up that whip on the wall near you and give your lady Isis a strong whipping till she speaks up the truth."

Satis froze in her place totally perplexed. Isis wailed in protest. "I'm Isis sister of Mighty Seti, Pharaoh of the greatest power that ever existed, getting a whipping and by a slave! This is a bitter insult! I would rather be speared on the spot that go through with this!"

"Satis if you don't do what you are told…"

Satis knew the iron will of her lady to well. She picked up the whip while Sekhmet asked for a mobile whipping post to be brought from the prison cells. 

Isis showered Sekhmet and Satis with insults. She demanded continuously her release but nobody listened to her. Deep inside she was shaking with fear. She had never tasted the whip before. She used it on a lot of slaves and had seen them sizzle at its taste. She used it twice mercilessly on Satis but the tides have turned now. 

Six guards emerged quickly with a big rectangular wooden block that was waist high. They placed it in the middle of the court. 

"You're going to pay for this Sekhmet, I swear by the gods!" Isis kicked about and resisted but was no match for the firm grip of the guards. They made her go down on her knees and bend over till her upper body was pinned to the surface of the block while her hands were strapped well to it. She gasped as Satis tore down her gown till the bottom of her back and walked back a few steps. 

Sekhmet ordered, "Show no mercy."

Satis knew she was going to enjoy this. She nodded to her lady and lashed the grounds underneath releasing a sharp whip crack. Isis's heart filled with terror at the sharp sound. Her death stricken body grew pale. She noticed the deep canals that were dug underneath her tied up hands. She gulped hard as the strife of prior victims tied up to the post flashed within her mind. Her body began to shake with the woes of anticipation. She knew the first lash was coming very soon and held her breath in. The whip fell fiercely on her back and her body jolted involuntarily. As the full scorch of the lash climaxed within her she gasped and tears came to her eyes. A red welt showed as Satis raised the whip again and gave her a second strong lash. Isis screamed madly as the mounting pain was unbearable. Her body gave snake like convulsions and her nails clawed the wood. The whip whistled as the third lash came down tearing her skin apart. She twisted crazily and cried for mercy. The ensuing lashes cruelly worked her back. Her back turned into a raging conflagration. Her wailing and howling was tremendous and echoed through the residence. She shrieked wildly for mercy but Satis was deaf to her agony. Satis was elated to make her taste a portion of the lashes she had heartlessly given her in the past. The severe begging and the harsh welting on her victim's back were fueling her will to inflict more suffering, to make every lash burn properly. Isis's body fluctuated and careened massively as the lashes followed. She fell into a hysterical frenzy of screams. 

Pharaoh Seti heard faint screaming in the near distance. He sat up questioning through gestures the cause of the commotion. His two doctors tried to make him lye back down but to no avail. He felt that something was wrong. He motioned with his hands his will for the doctor's to help him get up. The doctor's felt indirectly happy for his movements which were a clear indication to them that his illness wasn't sever and his body resisted it. But they knew that movement so soon would have a negative setback on his health. They tried to make him lye down again but to no avail. They knew what a stubborn man he was when he locked his mind to something. The doctor's too were baffled by the commotion in the backgrounds but the palace's events were strictly none of their business. They knew that well. After several attempts to change his mind they obeyed and helped him walk out of his chambers. As they walked him down the corridors it became apparent to him that his sister was screaming and crying. He gestured the doctors to quicken their paces. By the time he reached the court he saw Satis lashing his sister. A storm of panic swept through him. He waved his arms and attempted to speak but could only release weak inaudible sounds that got lost within the turmoil in front of him. Sekhmet was only concentrating on the lashing in front of her and failed to see her husband signaling at a nearby distance to her. The doctor's saw how distressed their patient was and wanted to return back in fear of a sudden setback but he resisted and kept pulling back to the direction of the court.   

On the twentieth lash Sekhmet ordered Satis to cease. She approached Isis and gave a smile at the site of her worn out back. She knelt down and looked at her victim that was lurching madly under sever exhaustion. Her "AAAAIIIIYYYY'S!" and AAAAAWWWW'S!" were thundering through the court. She yanked her head up and said in a very calm indifferent voice, "Believe me this is only a small appetizer. I can sit here all day and watch you boil in your agony. It's up to you, should I ask Satis to continue?" Satis released another whip crack and smiled at the idea. 

Isis Yelled, "Mercy! Mercy! I will speak," Then paused for a small while. She continued in a worn out feeble voice, "I confess and I admit to treason. I… and Setekh betrayed Pharaoh… and plotted to seize the throne from him…we also arranged for the spies to enter...and attempt to murder Seti."

Sekhmet ordered the guards to untie Isis. "Take her to a prison cell. Throw her in there till I order otherwise."

Seti watched as the guards dragged away his weeping sister. He didn't believe what his ears were hearing. He felt the pain of a thousand knives stab his chest. He cried and released anguish moans that caught the attention of Sekhmet. Sekhmet shrieked with shock and ran towards him. Darkness prevailed all around Seti as he fell down to the ground. 

*****

"Our Pharaoh is asleep but will not wake very easily." One of the two doctors spoke sincerely to Ramses and Sekhmet. "We have to thank the gods that he has quite a tough body but…the future is totally unclear presently."

"I don't understand what you are saying," Answered Ramses. Ramses moved towards his ill father and sat beside him in bed. He picked up his hand and kissed it passionately.

"We have dealt with cases like these in the past. We don't know what causes it. The body is in a deep sleep breathing normally but doesn't awake…" The doctor shook his head and said, "I have to tell you that all the cases we dealt with, well none of them woke and died in a very short period of time. I'm afraid our services are of no use anymore. He rests in the hands of the gods." The doctors excused themselves and left Pharaoh's chamber. 

Ramses asked Sekhmet, "Is that what Satis heard Setekh say, that he arranged for my father's illness. But How?"

Sekhmet eyed Ramses as he sat beside his father totally helpless and sorry. She was frustrated herself as her life was all crashing about her very strongly and quickly. She threw up her hands and replied, "I don't know. I haven't got a clue. But with Isis's confession, it is no longer obscure that they are responsible. Setekh will answer your questions."

"She must have had him drink or eat something. I will show that harlot and her bastard lover. I will leave for somewhere shortly but when I'm back I will personally order that Isis meets an agonizing death along with the priests of the temple. I will bury them tomorrow in their tombs after a very painful death. This should serve them right for putting my father into this misery!" 

Sekhmet never saw her step son more determined towards an issue like he was right now. She feared his expression that shot spears of death at his present experiences. She replied concernedly, "Ramses, no, don't be hasty. We don't know what kind of black sinister evil we are up against. You saw how Setekh killed the spy in the prison fortress."

Ramses stood up with a confused expression on his face. He looked at Sekhmet questioning her advice, "Do you expect me to see my Kingdom crumbling down and sit here hands folded. Muwatallis is hammering our armies in Sidon and Tyre and Setekh waving a dark war in collaboration with our enemies to steal my throne. You ask the impossible of me!"

"Your father always held on you massive aspirations for the future." Sekhmet placed her hands on his shoulders and begged, "Don't do anything impulsive and foolish. I forbid you to leave here without telling me what you are going to do Ramses."

Ramses removed her hands and walked towards the door slowly. Sekhmet always felt that Ramses inherited his father's stubbornness and firmness. She knew that there was no power on earth that could stop her step son from changing anything in his mind. Ramses answered, "You don't know what kind of fire is blazing inside me. I really don't know but what I'm going to do is within the lines of going to that temple and beheading that two faced serpent Setekh. I know that my father and you love me a lot. But I wish to confront that evil minded bastard tonight." 

"Ramses, with your father ill I'm responsible for you. You will do as I say and stay here. Satis heard Setekh say that he will visit Isis tonight in her chambers. He will come to us. You don't have to go to the temple. In our palace we are stronger." Sekhmet walked up to Ramses and caressed him warmly between her arms. She continued in an earnest voice, "Your strength is needed very dearly when the upcoming war begins. Please think about the consequences if anything should happen to you. The army needs the son of Pharaoh to be there and lift up its' spirits in battle. If anything should happen to you things are going to worsen."

"Believe me the worst is happening to me right now. I will not leave Setekh behind to play around and toil with the safety of my people and kingdom. I won't be able to concentrate on battle if my home is in anarchy! Forgive me mother. I know ever since my natural mother died four years ago you have taken good care of me. You have been a true mother to me. I used to envy all my brethren for having heir natural mothers to take care of them but ever since my father married you my life changed and I was well taken care off. Thank You. But I'm afraid this once I will have to break your order and do what my post as leader asks me to do. My people will never respect a weak charactered leader. They need a pharaoh made out of steel to govern their Empire." Ramses felt a strange feeling creep inside him. He felt as if he will never see his mother again. He had never had such a gloomy feeling come over him before, not at even the ill sight of his father. A disturbing brief dizziness came over him and left swiftly. Was this an omen from the gods of upcoming gravity? 

"Mother I love you. What ever happens to me always remember that I love you. I have to leave." He knelt down and kissed her feet in full respect to her. He stood up and raced off.  

"Ramses what is going on! Ramses come back!"  Sekhmet raced briefly after her son but she was no match for the brisk strides that he took. She watched him leave with nothing in her power to stop him from facing Setekh. She wept and cried hard as her son's words lit a blaze of uncertainty in her breast. 

*****

"Setekh! Setekh!" Ramses screamed strongly. His voice echoed mightily within the big spacious walls of the temple. He withdrew his sword in anticipation of the confrontation and shook it vigorously within his grasp." Crawl out from under your rock you untrusting scorpion!" Moments passed with no one appearing, not even the twelve temple priests. 

"Where are you?! If you are a man, which I doubt you are, you will show yourself!" No sounds were heard but their breathing and the crackle of the fires that lit in front of the statue and the middle of the temple. 

Ptah and the twenty soldiers were circled around their leader in case of any unexpected danger. Their eyes roamed alertly in the spacious room they were in. "Spread out and search the temple premises. I want that scoundrel alive now!!!" The soldiers burst out in teams of two and began their search. Ptah remained with Ramses and made his safety his top priority. Bird wing flapping in the background was aroused from Ramses's screaming. 

Ptah thought out loud but still in a restraint voice, "That bird must be quite a big one for it to produce such noise." 

"What did you say Ptah?"

"Nothing of any relevance but…" The bird flapping was heard again. Ptah turned around till he got a glimpse of the bird. It was an extremely large creature. It circled randomly near the high ceiling of the temple for some time then headed for the entrance. He impulsively picked up his spear and hurled it at the bird. The bird dropped to the floor and danced about from the pain. 

"By Amenram Ptah, this is no time for target practice." Ramses right away noticed the extraordinary size of the bird. He took a few steps back and exclaimed. "Great gods what is that thing."

"Wait Ramses." Ptah ran up to it but to his amazement it managed to fly back up. It headed straight at him targeting him purposely. Ptah and Ramses ducked down allowing it to fly over their heads. It circled around and took a dive at them again. Ptah and Ramses covered their heads with their arms as the creature neared. It clawed at Ptah's arm making him scream with pain. Ramses was nearly paralyzed with fear from its size. It was almost his size with wings open. He gave it a hard blow and it hurled backwards in the air a distance dragging Ptah with it before releasing him. Its powerful grip at Ptah's arm caused a sever laceration as it yanked backwards from the blow. Ptah folded his injured arm and screamed as he fell to the floor. The guards all came back from their search at Ptah's screaming and threw their spears at it shooing it away. The bird flew awkwardly out of the entrance. 

Ramses hurried to where Ptah was to check up on him. "That was a very large vicious eagle," Ptah said worn out by the blow. 

"I didn't have time to notice its' type. I was dead worried on how to make it go away. But why by the gods did you attack it? We could have avoided this whole contact."

"It had the shadow of a human being Ramses. Didn't you notice?" Ramses exclaimed, "Setekh?!"  

One of the guards brought a piece of cloth and wrapped Ptah's arm with it. "Lord Ptah, we will need to go to the doctor's. We must move you quickly." Ptah nodded. As the guards helped him up he said, "Ramses, I fear that we will never catch Setekh. We are obviously dealing with a pure illusion. He's just once step ahead of us always."

"I will deal with him eventually. Believe me Ptah the hate that I harbor in my heart for this black personality will never go away. I will slay him with my sword. I want guards set up throughout the temple. Confine our twelve priests within the temple. Place two guards to check each one. They may not rest without being guarded firmly. As for Setekh, give orders to any guard that sees him to take his life. Make his treason known throughout our kingdom. Tell the people that any person that helps him hide will be executed along with him. Give your orders to the commanders in chief as of tonight to hunt him down in all our cities till they find him, even if they have to organize a house to house search. This will prevail till I'm back from war. As for Isis, send her off to work with the slaves that are working at the new temple in Thebes. Give your orders that she may be treated like all the other slaves Ptah."

Ptah stared at Ramses with disbelief. Despite the strong acquaintance between them never did Ptah see such character and determination in his friend before. The distress they were in was beginning to form a very mighty personality in Ramses that Ptah feared already. A very solid leader was in the making.   

*****

Isis turned uncomfortably in her sleep. Tickles spread over various areas of her body. They were very light sensations that gently messaged and irritated her. For a few times she tried scratching the itchy areas but to no avail. They returned and disrupted her sleep. She turned on her back but was fully awakened by powerful stings. Her entire body ached as the pain propelled her to sit up in the darkness that was the dominant feature at hand. The memories gradually seeped to her mind. 

A small torch lit on a wall in the far distance projected thin beams of light that barely made things possible to see. Two soldiers that were on night shift were standing near it fully alert. The prison cell she was in was small, nasty and smelled like an animal stall. It seemed totally empty to her aside a saucer of some liquid and a piece of bread. The thought that she slept in it caused a deep feeling of disgust to soar through her. 

She stood up and walked feebly towards the bars that blocked her from freedom. One phrase kept rolling in her mind, "from the riches of royalty to a commoner's prison." She was locked up with filth instead of her royal chambers. Her once silky gown that she wore torn to a piece of rag. "This can't be happening to me, I'm in a dream, I will awake soon and find myself in my palace again." Isis hit the bars with her fists and demanded, "Get me out of here. I'm the princess of these lands; guards get me out of here. I'm commanding you!" Nobody answered but the echoes of her voice in the prisons around her.  

She thought to herself, "It's my entire fault, did I have to visit Setekh in that temple. I should have listened to him." Tears came to her eyes as her feelings for him surfaced, "Oh I miss you Setekh. Where are you? I miss being between your arms, I miss your sweet caress, how much I need you. If he only knew what was happening to me he would have come to my help by now. If he only knew what his love has done to me?" 

A strong surge of hunger crept within her. Isis didn't know for how long she had slept in the prison. Her senses told her that she hadn't eaten in long while. Her spirit was weak and she felt dizzy. She looked at the saucer and bread but didn't have the slightest appetite to taste the contents at all. The smell of lamb meat arose within her and captivated her senses. She would be having some upon her order with some remarkable wine. 

Another strong convulsion hit her stomach. All of a sudden everything seemed delicious, the thick anonymous liquid, the bread. She walked towards her modest meal and sat down. She picked up the piece of bread and broke a small morsel off. She dipped it in the saucer and ate. The cream was tasteless and the bread crackled as she chewed. Despite the neutrality of taste she felt her stomach rejoice at the portion of nourishment that had just settled in. Isis dipped another morsel of bread but stopped. Something was wrong. Suddenly she felt tickles rising up her back. She jumped and shrieked while trying to brush off what was climbing her back. She rammed her back against the walls but the gentle throbs were unaffected and continued their way up to her neck. Isis smacked her neck as hard as she could and felt something drop down. It faintly showed in the dim light. It was a big beetle. She stepped on it. It cracked underneath her shoes. A deep feeling of uneasiness came over her as she knew what was tickling her while she was asleep. Isis thought she was dreaming. 

Her hand had clutched firmly from the tension she felt at brushing off the beetle and mashed the bread she was portioning. She looked at the mashed soggy bread with disgust as her perception glowed with what was really crackling earlier with it in her mouth. Her stomach turned and toiled. Isis fell down on her hands and knees as the eruptions gushed from her mouth. Everything in her body shook and shivered as her stomach revolted against its new contents. She gradually settled into heavy breathing and groaning as the successive fiery feelings prevailed in her throat and chest. Another big beetle crept and mounted over her vomiting right under her face. Isis took off her shoes and started beating the beetle with it severely. The liquid splashed on her face and all around her. She beat the floor and screamed and cried her frustration out frantically then fell into helpless tears. No one was there for her. 

- There is still time to make for lost time.

- Dark days……after….. bright nights.

- And even if life does not rhym.

- There is still time 

               ****

- Strong winds motions killed the notion…

- Voice is quite…..despair speaks loud….

- Hit the will with the wind and chime.

- There is  still time!!

                                       ****

- Aims are too high, my slope is deep….

- Hands are too short… can’t reach……..

- Reach the cliff with the eye and climb.

- There is still time!!

                                        **** 

- Now and my there are apart in space….

- Dreams stillborn …won't be buried.

- Create your gold out of the grime.

- There is still time!!

                                  ****

Poem: "Hypocrites"

Some only belive what they only wish to belive, lest;

They might be exposed out of their self-decorated vest. 

Their ignorance is uttered with close mind and open chest. 

Awarded themselves the marks after they invented the test.

The fools bragged and promised this is not yet their best. 

I dusted off: may you give your brains a lasting rest. 

*******

"It is I, you fool!" Setekh thought, reading the exact words of mind of his adversary on that particular moment of encounter. 

*****

The python moved very slowly and calmly through the long corridor of prisons in the army fortress. It passed unmarked by the many guards that were dispersed around the premises. It released a very low shuffling sound as it dragged its lengthy body behind it. Its sound could only be noticed in the tranquility of the night and not in the busy day time hours of the fortress. It stopped as it reached the proper cell. Its prey lay unconscious and helpless on the ground in front of it. It slipped itself diligently through the thin iron bars of the prison; it managed to propel itself under the lengthy weight of the body and started roping itself around it, waist first then working itself up to the chest. The squeezing began. 

The spy's sleep lightened with the shuffling of the python. He attempted to move right and left, only to find himself constricted, as if tied by a rope. As his vision was clearing he was unable to decipher the identity of the big head that was staring at him. As the choking became unbearable the striking reality of being bound by the beast hit him instantaneously. Waves of terror and pain thundered through his body. He managed to release a terrorizing scream of pain as he thrashed about on the ground torn apart by the agony of suffocation. Two guards that were only a few meters away ran up to him and released cries of surprise at the scene. By the time the guards opened the prison door it was too late. The spy had taken his last breath and lay motionless on the ground. A guard bravely attempted to take a stab with his sword at the creature but it violently lashed at him. His mate picked up his spear and accurately speared its upper neck to the wall behind it. The Beast's blood sprayed all its surrounding and then it ceased motion. 

Setekh released a powerful cry as the feeling of pain pounded his mind and body. The strong mental telepathy with the beast bridged the pain that tore it when it was killed. Setekh fell to the ground and crouched until the connection faded away. He released loud cries as his body shuddered from the bitter experience. The cries lessened to gasps gradually as he recuperated and regained control of himself. Despite the pain he felt he was relieved that the spy died. He was no longer a threat to him and Isis. 

Setekh gave a sigh of relief as he sat up for his second mission. Despite his weak body he approached the boiling pot of human organs that was boiling in the middle of his quarters. The scent still caused his nausea to surface from time to time. He looked back and checked that the door was securely locked. He wouldn't want the other priests in the temple to know what he was up to. None of them knew of the special rituals and ceremonies that he was performing in the Temple.

The fire slowly boiled away all the water in the pot and started frying what was left of the contents. The potent aroma of the burning flesh grew stronger and concentrated within the limited environment. Setekh closed his eyes and began a deep session of meditation. He let his mind clear and think of only one thing, the black force of evil. After a long pause he began saying magical incantations. 

"Channels of all evil, whose power is very lethal, your subject requires your presence, to set him free of his body, and roam freely above all people. Channels of all evil…" After a while his quarters filled with very thick fog. Setekh was no longer able to see a thing clearly around him. "It's time he thought." He closed his eyes and concentrated on only one thing, Seti.

*****

Setekh watched Seti and Sekhmet ponder the events of last night in the royal court. Seti was seated on his elegantly decorated throne of pure gold and Sekhmet was standing right behind him. His throne was decorated with seventy rare gems that were brought to him as presents from his recaptured territories of Transjordan and the fertile plains upon his wedding to Sekhmet. The royal court lit brilliantly with the Sunlight that came from the east side windows and the fresh breeze was extremely relaxing. The rich colors of the paintings on the walls gave the huge court a touch of magnificence and majesty. They all spoke of Seti's excellent military conquests and his glory as Pharaoh, ruler of the Egyptian Empire, god and supreme commander. Usually these paintings caused joy and happiness in the heart of Seti, but the new events made his heart bear only gloominess and bitterness. 

The court swarmed with women who were singing and playing their instruments to his honor. The songs played were excellent and spoke of his valor in battle and of the people's love to him. The dancers danced at the tunes for his entertainment and pleasure in the middle of the court. Hunefer, the royal court steward and Ptah were seated on a side bench discussing the army rations given by the court. It seemed to Seti that the discussion wasn't very harmonious between them. It was totally peculiar how they never agreed upon any matter and how he always had to mediate things between them. He knew what a hot tempered person his friend Ptah was and how cool and balanced Hunefer was. He sometimes thought that they completed each other. Hunefer was a man of normal height, figure and strength. He was a young man coming from a healthy family who wrote and spoke well. His circular face radiated with frankness that made him very comforting to deal with. His wide black eyes always caught the attention of eligible women who dreamed to have him as a spouse. His bald head that he shaved to reflect his rich spiritual life complemented his young facial features well. Seti was very happy with him and with his work output. He was always there for any advice and had very healthy ideas to give in times of need. 

Ptah a very lengthy six foot personality with rough facial features that included huge ears that stood up resembling almost that of a fox's, a long nose, thin cheeks that made his jaw's retractions clear as he spoke and visible skin wounds on his right cheek and upper arms from the battle ground. However one soothing characteristic made his rough face a bit presentable, a pair of wide blue eyes.  

Ptah's strength was well known in all of the Egyptian empire and no sane man dared frustrate him or be his adversary in any fight. Once angered by a donkey that blocked his path in a public square and in front of the masses of people that were busy with the usual business of the day, Ptah gave the donkey a strong punch on its neck causing it to crack. The Donkey was put out of its misery immediately by a spear stab from one of Ptah's accompanying soldiers. A great portion of the people circled around the poor creature unbelieving what the first commander of their army can do when angered. "Quite a pair he had for advisors," Seti thought. 

Seti stood up and turned to Sekhmet. He eyed her superb beauty. She was extremely attractive and gorgeous with a superb feminine figure. Her long black abundant hair, green eyes and soft white complexion were all a fabulous portrait that captivated him always. Her eyes were magical magnets that mesmerized him every time he looked at her. Her elegance moved powerful male instincts within him that he never knew with any of his other wives. Sometimes his only meditation was to look at her and enjoy the sugary sweet sensation she bought to his soul. 

"Do you know something? Last night when you were in the grip of that murderer, I was terrorized by the thought of losing you."

Sekhmet smiled and felt extremely elated by her lord's remarks. She knew always deep inside that Pharaoh placed her above all his women. Many a times they tried to make problems for her and harden his heart on her only to find deep opposition from him. Sekhmet was like a magical charm that he couldn't extract from his life.     

She answered, "The only thing I thought about was your safety. I wasn't thinking about myself. My life wasn't important as much as saving yours. You're so important to me and to Egypt. I would pay my life as collateral for your life any time." 

"I fear the future. I fear what it holds for us and our people. I fear those ruthless Barbarians of the east. I fear Muwatallis and his unquenched thirst for our destruction. Our lands and splendor frustrated him always. I feel a huge eminent up coming clash between our mighty powers. Oh how much I want to be around to see my son Ramses blossom into a ruler. But with the obviousness of wars I know that a dark destiny awaits me…"

Sekhmet gasped and interrupted, "Seti stop, I will not let you lead any battle. Do your hear me. I will not lose you. There is a chance that the whole issue will be resolved without another war…"

Seti erupted like a wild storm, "A chance you say, ha… a chance…" Seti grabbed his heavy golden throne and turned it over while screaming madly. The throne shattered into four big pieces.  "Don't you see, don't you understand!!! That sick bastard won't rest until he crushes us under his power." Hunefer and Ptah stood up amazed at what Seti did. The musicians and singers ran out of the court and the soldiers closed the huge gates of the court and gazed at their leader dumbfounded. 

Seti continued shouting, "We are at the verge of a massive clash here!!! Thousands of our people will get butchered… for what…for wanting to regain my countries sovereignty over Transjordan and the fertile lands…the same lands that they stole from us while my grandfathers were busy discussing silly religious reforms…I had to be the person paying the price for Egypt's glory to flourish, prosper…I had to take things into my own hands and to save our race and glory from extinction and from being stepped upon by the greed of ruthless leaders…I don't know if what I did was worth the price that we are going to pay… I waged war on Muwatallis and now I plunged my Kingdom into lurking devastation!!! 

"Seti stop please, calm down." Sekhmet walked up to Seti and wanted to embrace him. He brushed her aside and continued. "Those people will fight endlessly till they accomplish what they want. Nothing will stop them but the annexation of our lands." 

*****

"Or your death," Setekh thought.

*****

 "Then we fight mighty Pharaoh…your not alone with your fears my lord. I'm sure we give Muwatallis the same nightmares. We are a mighty power like they are. We can defend ourselves." Ptah said assuring.

"Is there any glory in continuous battle? Is there any consolation in bloodshed Ptah? Battle and bloodshed only quenches the thirst of beasts like Muwatallis."

"I say we fight too." Young Ramses walked in the court with a sword in his hands. I will make those feeble animals pay for daring to murder my father."

Seti eyed his young son reveal his zeal for conquest and valor. "Son, come close to me." Seti smiled as he saw his son of seventeen springs boil with vengeance to protect his father's pride. He was a young complete look alike of him. Seti embraced him and said, "Son you haven't seen the bitterness of the brutal play of the swords and spears. You don't know what a battle ground looks like after a war; cut up bodies, body parts, heads that sometimes still hold the screaming faces of the moment of death and pain…the pain that surged through me as pharaoh and leader of my people when I saw the wounded and dead lying helplessly about me when we recaptured Transjordan. Although I was happy with my victory, that particular moment made me rethink the cost really well." Seti walked up to the drawings on the wall and said, "These are only lifeless drawings that reflect want the painter wants too without feelings, the real world is totally different son."

"But father, you said they will stop at no price until they capture our lands. The ruthless don't know but the language of the sword and battle. We have to speak their same language and show them that we don't fear them. Maybe only then will they back off and leave us alone."

"Mighty Pharaoh I do support Ramses in what he said. Please give me an order to organize a full campaign. Let us show these people what a real Egyptian army looks like."

Ramses boasted, "I have the will to lead this war myself…"  

"No!!!" Seti placed both his hands on his sons shoulders, "No, you will not pay the price of your father's choices. I will lead this army."

"But father, I'm grown up enough, I can handle this campaign. Ptah trained me well on weaponry and he believes in me."

The huge court gates opened and a soldier came up running to the assembly. All looked at him as he went down on his knees and paused for a while catching his breath. His face was pale and his body shook frantically with every breath he took. "Mighty Pharaoh, I wish I had good news to tell you but unfortunately I'm the bearer of catastrophic news."

Ptah approached him and helped him up, "speak, you have nothing to fear."

"The Spy died. He got choked by a huge snake like beast. The strange thing about it is this snake is totally unknown in our areas."

Ptah exclaimed, "Beast, snake like beast. Are you drunk?"

"How dare you mock Pharaoh's council?" Sekhmet reprimanded. "I will lash you myself for this mockery!" Sekhmet grabbed a whip that hung on a wall near her and approached the soldier. The soldier fell down to his knees again and raised his hands in defense of the expected lashes as he saw Sekhmet raise the whip. He managed to explain in the proper time, "Your majesty I assure you I'm not mocking anyone. I have proof of my words." The soldier looked up at Sekhmet who ceased her attack upon hearing his assurance. The soldier feeling more relaxed looked at the court gate and motioned with his hand. Four men barely able to walk entered with the heavy beast. Everyone opened their mouth in total amazement. As the soldiers neared the assembly Ptah and Seti touched it with their hands.

"I was the one that speared it." The soldier eyed the huge long creature along with the assembly.

"From where could this beast have come from?" asked Seti.

"This animal is not from our lands," announced Ptah. "I have heard stories from merchants that have come from the southern kingdoms, while crossing thick forests, to have encountered these creatures. Once they lock on to something they keep squeezing their prey till suffocation." 

"Who ever brought it here, brought it with the intention to kill the spy, an extremely smart way to kill and not be the center of accusation." Seti rubbed his chin with his hand and went into deep thought, "The betrayer we are looking for just covered valuable information to remain anonymous. Although I'm disgusted with his behavior I have to admire his smartness. He is careful and keen minded." Seti paused for a moment and restudied the beast. 

Hunefer asked, "Our Egyptian history hasn't seen incidents like these ever. Mighty pharaoh we have to act fast and stop this assault now." 

The messenger soldier stood up and announced, "I have more bad news." He eyed the whip that was still in Sekhmet's hand and moved back a couple of steps. Sekhmet noticing the soldier fears placed the whip back. The stunning view of the serpent was overwhelming.   

"Our forts in Sidon and Tyre, they've been attacked by Muwatallis's armies. The soldier gave the Papyrus scroll to Ptah. Ptah opened it and read,

"To lord Ptah, from the commander in chief of fort Tyre, our fort in Sidon fell to the enemy after a surprise raid. Our soldiers were all killed. Our enemy has managed a massive strike force that is marching on to us. I'm most amazed at how they had the power to reestablish an army so quickly. There is a strong rumor that the armies of Aleppo have taken their side. While I right this message they are three days travel away from us. By the time support comes I don't know of our outcome. I will assure my allegiance to Egypt by fighting the enemy till the last man and breath, but I know with an army that huge we will only last a few days. Lord Ptah, please tell our mighty Pharaoh that we will all be honored to die fighting for our lands and honor. Tell my wife and children that I love them and always will. If I'm not back to tell the story of battle and valor tell them not to lament and weep, for their lord died as a true soldier would, in the line of duty, defending our mighty Pharaoh and Egypt. Long live Egypt."

Tears came to Sekhmet's and Hunefer's eyes as Ptah rolled up the scroll. Ramses ran up to Ptah, took the scroll from him and read the contents himself. Engulfed by sheer madness he threw it on the ground and stepped on it till it turned into dust. "Do we need more proof as to what the next step is? Father please."        

"I have taken my decision. Bury this creature where it will rest in peace." Seti was left alone with his two advisors, son, wife and the unacknowledged spiritual presence. It hovered close to him as he was announcing, "I Seti, Pharaoh and god of Egypt formally order a war campaign to be arranged on Muwatallis and his allies. As of today, full priority shall be given to the preparations of the campaign. Let it be known through all the lands that it is an obligation for every eligible male to enlist in the army and be prepared for battle. Hunefer prepare the war rations for the army as it leaves in less than ten days…" Seti felt a strong breeze on his face. It was as if somebody was breathing directly on to him. Strong pain struck the left side of his chest. He screamed and covered his chest with his hands falling down on his knees.  He swayed side ways unable to attain any balance. Everyone ran up to him panic stricken and yelling.

"Father what is wrong!" Ramses had tears in his eyes as he saw his father fall down in illness. 

"The Doctor, Please! Someone!" Sekhmet screamed out as she hugged her husband. 

Ptah hastily carried him and headed towards his chambers. He placed him on his bed and ran out to summon the doctor. Hunefer and Ramses hovered over him while Sekhmet sat beside him in bed. He was groaning loudly in pain. Massive sweat covered his face and was soaking his clothes. His hands covered the pain stricken area of his chest and his tongue was paralyzed. He was unable to speak a word. Sekhmet and Ramses were crying hysterically not having a clue as to what to do. 

*****

"Die Seti, your body will never live through this massive stroke ever." Setekh laughed loudly in triumph of the events. He left his quarters in the temple of Amenram and headed towards the statue of the war god. He sat down and thought about what would the next coming events look like. Upon Seti's death he would have to inform Muwatallis. Ramses will be taken care of. It was coming closer, the power, authority and glory. He has waited a long time for this to happen. "Egypt will kneel under my will soon. It will soon be my will and rule."

"Setekh! Setekh!" Setekh knew this voice very well. He turned around and greeted Isis Uncomfortably. "Why are you here?" I told you we shouldn't be seen together."

As soon as Isis hugged him his will went weak and he hugged her back. He stroked her long red hair and kissed her milky white cheeks. Before the needs of his body could control him he managed some restraint and pushed her back. "I told you we shouldn't be seen together at these times." 

"I came to tell you that Seti just had a major illness. That rubble of filth is useless as a cripple lying in his bed."

"I know…"

Isis paused for a moment and processed what Setekh just said, "But how, this just happened moments ago."

"Who do you think arranged this?"

"I don't understand…Oh you cunning smart devil. I always admired your skills and power." Isis hugged Setekh and rubbed her lips against his. "Don’t you want some reward for your superb planning? I'm in a very generous mood." Her black eyes sparkled like a night with a thousand stars. Her eyes were nets binding Setekh, turning him into a slave that didn't want to do anything but please her. But he had no time. He had to execute the rest of his plan before Ramses could set his army to leave. Satis also mustn't see him with Isis at all. The temple was a near distance from the residence and Satis would get here soon. "Isis you have to leave right now. I can't put our entire plan to risk. I will come to you tonight, to your chambers. Stay awake."

"But the guards…"

"Don't worry, The guards will never be able to see me."

Isis hurried out towards her chariot dreaming of the romantic night ahead.  

*****

Satis worked the horses' backs with the reigns restlessly to attain more speed. She must summon the head priest Setekh quickly, before night time, as her queen had told her so he can give offering to the gods for Seti's health to recover. The thunderous trots of the three horses that pulled the chariot echoed through the pathways. The wheels grinded fiercely with the grounds underneath and sparks flared from the iron helms. People in its wake jumped to the right and left as they viewed the chariot tear recklessly through the roads. In a few moments the temple began coming into focus. Satis instantly brought the chariot to a halt as she viewed another chariot at its entrance. The horses screamed and bucked as Satis pulled harder on the reigns in fear of losing control of the vehicle. As she maintained the situation she parked her chariot at a far distance and stepped down. She walked rapidly to the entrance and carefully examined the chariot and horses. It was certainly a nobleman's chariot from its status and condition. Satis entered but after a couple of steps chose to stand still in her place as she heard Isis's voice. "What was she doing in the temple?" Satis immediately reasoned that she was there for the same purposes as what Sekhmet sent her for. However before she resumed her paces the dialogue made her chill with fear.

"I came to tell you that Seti just had a major illness. That rubble of filth is useless as a cripple lying in his bed."…

Satis was bewildered at the words of treason that Setekh and Isis spoke. Upon hearing Isis's footsteps growing louder she hurried out of the temple and raced towards her chariot. She, as silently as possible, steered herself out of sight heading back to the royal residence. Satis felt that she was in a dream, that she would wake up soon and come to reality. She had no idea as to what forces of evil would drive Isis to betray her brother. The way that harlot would hug and kiss him at every time they met. The way she would display obedience and allegiance to him and his rule totally blinded him. He loved her and spoiled her with riches and splendors. It was totally amazing that during all this time she harbored nothing but jealousy towards him. Pharaoh was a very good ruler and managed the kingdoms affairs brilliantly. All the people of Egypt prospered under his reign. No famine knew the people or hardship ever since he came into rule. His cities flourished with trade, culture and grandeur not known in long years. Satis felt very sorry for her lord and hoped that he would recover well soon. She had to hurry and tell her mistress what she heard.