Meeting of Serrano and Kheta-Kedet
The Meeting of Serrano and Kheta-Kedet
In-universe date: Era Nova, May--June, Year 2
Real-world date: 16 August 2026
Author: Osiris
Osiris sat quietly at the table, trying not to let their nerves show.
Meeting a queen was intimidating enough. Meeting their queen, after everything that had happened, was something else entirely. They had technically met before, but this was different. This was official.
Queen Semet sat across from them, composed and regal, accompanied by the quiet presence of a spirit who seemed to watch everything. Khiron sat nearby in their usual silence as the meeting began.
They discussed the proposed embassy, the relationship between Serrano and Kheta-Kedet, and the differences between their cultures. Eventually, the conversation turned toward Khata's treatment of slaves and the gods they worshipped.
Osiris listened carefully. They already knew much of what was being discussed, but they could not let anyone know that.
Then the spirit spoke.
"Something about you feels wrong."
Osiris felt their stomach drop.
The spirit's gaze settled directly upon them, questioning where they came from, why they had arrived, and why they seemed so strangely familiar despite being a newcomer.
Every question dug a little deeper.
Osiris remained tense as the room grew increasingly uncomfortable. The spirit pushed again, but Osiris kept their expression still.
Don't react.
Before they could respond, Semet quietly interrupted.
"Enough."
The single word carried the weight Osiris knew well. The spirit immediately fell silent.
Osiris lowered their gaze, pretending to relax, though their heart was still pounding.
The meeting eventually moved on, but Osiris could tell the matter was not finished.
When it came time to leave, Semet departed with the spirit. Osiris did not need to hear what they were going to discuss.
They already knew.
They were speaking about him.
They couldn't find out.