Chapter 4: Chapter 4
Merlin was guided into an ornately decorated sanctuary, a space reflecting the grandeur of an Egyptian palace. The room boasted towering columns adorned with intricate carvings, their surfaces painted in vibrant turquoise and gold. The ceilings were high, with elaborate murals depicting celestial patterns and gods watching over their domain. The light filtered in through latticed windows, casting soft, geometric shadows across the polished floors and shimmering pools.
Feeling the exhaustion of his travels, Merlin decided to unwind. With a flick of his hand, he transfigured his attire into a simple towel that wrapped securely around his waist. His arms bore the Ten Rings—sturdy iron bands worn across his forearms. Their dense, dark metal exuded an aura of ancient power, each ring intricately etched with symbols and carvings that whispered of a forgotten age. Five rings adorned each arm, balanced to amplify and distribute his strength evenly.
The Ten Rings were a treasure he'd acquired from the Shang-Chi movie book, now part of his expansive arsenal. Nestled within a storage ring, among other artifacts, was Excalibur.
Adjusting his height with a minor spell to comfortably fit the bathing pool, Merlin settled into the warm, soothing waters. He leaned back, letting the heat seep into his weary muscles, and closed his eyes, momentarily at peace. As he reclined, maids approached, their hands skilled and gentle, easing the tension in his shoulders and back.
Lost in the comfort, Merlin didn't immediately notice the arrival of a new presence. She entered with the grace of a goddess, her beauty as radiant as moonlight. Her glowing complexion spoke of divinity, her features soft yet striking—a face framed by dark, wavy hair that cascaded elegantly over one shoulder. Her smile was delicate but inviting, exuding a charm and warmth that only enhanced her captivating gaze, filled with a playful wisdom.
Her attire was nothing short of divine. The upper half of her ensemble was an intricately crafted brassiere-like top, shimmering with beadwork in vibrant hues of red, gold, and blue. Its design evoked feathers or scales, and at its center, a golden winged emblem stood as a symbol of protection and celestial grace. The lower half was a skirt of golden sequins, each one catching the light to create the illusion of fluid motion. Chains of beads draped loosely across her hips, enhancing her regal presence.
It was Hathor Egyptian goddess of love, she was Merlin's lover in every sense. But she couldn't be fully be with him, because of the fact she has duties as Egyptian goddess.
Without a word, she approached Merlin, gracefully dismissing the other maids with a simple wave of her hand. Her touch replaced theirs, and her fingers worked with a deftness that spoke of both strength and care. Merlin, caught off guard but too weary to protest, sighed in relief.
"That is amazing," he murmured, his voice laced with gratitude and exhaustion. For now, he allowed himself this rare moment of indulgence, unaware of what intentions the goddess might harbor.
Merlin felt Hathor's hands wander too far, prompting him to swiftly grab her wrist. Turning to face her, his expression was firm yet amused. "No, no, no. It's fine, thank you," he said, his tone light but resolute. As his eyes met hers, however, a smirk crossed his face. Recognition and mischief sparked in his gaze. "You," he muttered knowingly.
Hathor's lips curled into a flirtatious smile, her tone dripping with charm. "What a pity. I have arrived late," she teased, her eyes gleaming with amusement. "I was coming to see a show. Don't tell anyone—I have a bad reputation to uphold."
Merlin chuckled, his grin widening as he grabbed her arm with playful determination. "Come here, you," he said, his voice filled with mock authority.
Hathor let out a string of protests, tugging back in feigned resistance. "No... no... no... no!" she exclaimed, trying to hold her ground. But despite her protests, she was pulled into the warm water and straight into Merlin's lap.
The once-pristine ensemble that adorned her was now soaked, clinging to her figure. Water glistened on her golden attire and her cascading dark hair, enhancing her already ethereal beauty. Hathor's initial shock faded as a soft smile graced her lips, her playful nature shining through.
"I like bathing with you," she murmured, her voice low and teasing as her fingers brushed against his chest. A wicked glint appeared in her eyes. "But without my clothes on."
Merlin's grin turned devilish, his hands moving to her hips, where he cupped her supple curvy ass with a confident touch. "Is that so?" he asked, his voice rich with amusement and challenge.
Before she could respond, Hathor leaned in, her lips meeting his in a kiss that was both bold and passionate. Their tongues danced in a rhythm of playful dominance and mutual desire, the heat between them rivaling the water surrounding them. Their laughter and whispers filled the chamber
The sanctuary glimmered with divine light, the golden pillars stretching skyward as if holding up the heavens themselves. Intricate carvings of ancient hieroglyphs pulsed faintly with life, whispering the stories of creation and eternity. The air was thick with the scent of lotus and myrrh, a calming yet regal fragrance that befit the gods who resided here.
Osiris stood at the heart of the chamber, his imposing figure radiating authority. His rugged face, marked by sharp, angular features, bore an expression of deep thought as he listened to Isis. His golden crown, crowned with celestial spikes, glinted in the sanctuary's glow. Each band of his layered golden neckpiece caught the light like ripples across a still pond. His shimmering metallic robes flowed like liquid gold, the patterns of his armor reflecting his unyielding balance as ruler of the dead and life alike.
Beside him, Isis exuded a serene grace that softened the room's sharp edges. Her delicate crown towered yet remained balanced, its turquoise gemstones catching the faintest flickers of light. Her almond-shaped eyes shone with intelligence, framed by soft tendrils of auburn hair escaping her ornate headdress. Her golden collar and embossed robes shimmered with symbols of fertility and magic, her very presence an embodiment of celestial power and maternal warmth.
The sanctity of their discussion was interrupted as Horus strode in, his steps confident yet respectful. The god of the sky, with his hawk-like vigilance, carried a quiet storm of purpose. In his hands were three vials, glowing faintly with an otherworldly hue.
Osiris turned, his stern features melting into a rare smile. "Horus, what has brought you here?" he asked, his deep voice reverberating through the sanctuary.
Isis tilted her head, curiosity glinting in her sharp gaze. "This is the hour you are usually soaring through the skies," she said, her tone light but inquisitive.
Horus held up the vials, their light dancing across the room. "Merlin is here," he announced, his voice steady. "He brought these—gifts, he called them."
Both Osiris and Isis exchanged surprised looks. Osiris's frowned slightly as he muttered, "I told the boy we only need such measures in times of true need."
Horus shrugged, a wry smile playing on his lips. "He said they are for emergencies, Father. 'You never know when you'll need them most.' His words, not mine."
Osiris sighed, shaking his head, but there was a flicker of affection in his eyes. "The boy's heart is in the right place," he admitted, lifting one vial to examine its radiant contents. "Still, these are dangerous tools."
As Isis reached out to touch one of the vials, her expression softened. "He cares for us, Osiris. Merlin is like a son to us as well."
Osiris nodded but added, "Two of these should be for Set and Nephthys...."
But Horus his gaze sharpening as his divine sight flickered to life. "We can't. Not until Merlin trusts Set. Last time they met, Merlin confided in me—something about Set felt... off. And I agree."
Osiris frowned, his tone hardening. "Set is my brother. Whatever his faults, he has his domain to uphold. Harsh, yes, but he is still family."
Horus's jaw tightened. "Family or not, my sight shows enough to warrant caution. Merlin was right to distrust him."
Before their disagreement could escalate, Isis stepped between them, her presence calming the brewing storm. "Enough, both of you," she said firmly, her voice carrying a quiet power. "Set and Merlin must find common ground before we involve him. Let us not let suspicion erode the bonds of family."
Osiris sighed, his shoulders relaxing slightly. "You are right, Isis. As always."
Horus gave a reluctant nod, though his piercing gaze remained unwavering. "Very well. But I will keep watch."
As the tension eased, the sanctuary seemed to breathe again, its golden light settling into a tranquil glow.