Rosewater Oasis your excellence

Samirseti's hum deepened, low and indulgent, as he watched the once-groveling figure rise before him. The sharp, gilded eyes that burned into Arkane’s form were alight with interest, flickering over every scar, every subtle shift of muscle. This was a man who had been honed by the fires of conflict, tested by the harsh elements of life, and yet stood unbroken before him. Arkane spoke with conviction, his words carefully measured but filled with the promise of unyielding loyalty, and Samir found himself pleased.

Good, Samir murmured, voice a silken rasp.

Samir circled him now, much like a panther might circle its prey—not with intent to kill, but to judge, to weigh the value of what stood before him. He stopped beside Arkane’s flank, his muzzle tipping upward ever so slightly, close enough for his breath to ghost along the edge of the man’s scarred cheek. He stepped back then, gaze locking onto the horizon for a moment before sliding back to Arkane, molten eyes alight with something predatory and dangerous. Perhaps I shall test you sooner than later. There is no greater honor than to serve the will of the Pharaoh. His smile now was sharp, like a blade, cruel yet inviting. And no greater punishment for betrayal.

His tail flicked once behind him, dismissively, but he did not fully turn away. Instead, he inclined his head, a gesture so slight it may have gone unnoticed. For now, you will remain at my side. Alay-Basi—a commander of my armies and my personal guard. Samirseti stepped back slightly, his tail flicking once behind him, his regal posture unwavering. Come now. Walk with me. Tell me of your journey.