#camel trekking

[karim7sblog]

10 Must-See Destinations in Morocco That Will Leave You Spellbound

culture

Morocco is a North African country that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From the bustling city of Marrakech to the peaceful town of Chefchaouen, Morocco has a lot to offer to travelers who are seeking unique experiences.

Marrakech

Marrakech is a vibrant city that is known for its bustling markets, traditional architecture, and historic landmarks. One of the must-see landmarks in Marrakech is the Jemaa el-Fnaa square, which is home to snake charmers, street performers, and delicious street food. Other must-see landmarks include the Koutoubia Mosque, Bahia Palace, and the Saadian Tombs.

Casablanca

Casablanca is the economic capital of Morocco and home to the largest mosque in Africa, the Hassan II Mosque. The mosque is a stunning structure that showcases intricate Moroccan architecture and offers a breathtaking ocean view. Other notable landmarks in Casablanca include the Rick's Cafe and the Royal Palace of Casablanca.

Fes

Fes is a city that is steeped in history and culture. The city is home to the oldest university in the world, the University of Al Quaraouiyine, which dates back to the 9th century. Fes is also famous for its traditional tanneries, which have been producing leather goods for centuries. Other must-see landmarks include the Bou Inania Madrasa, the Dar Batha Museum, and the Royal Palace of Fes.

Chefchaouen

Chefchaouen is a small town that is located in the Rif Mountains. The town is known for its blue-painted buildings and peaceful atmosphere. Chefchaouen is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding mountains. Other notable landmarks include the Kasbah Museum and the Ras Elma River.

Essaouira

Essaouira is a coastal city that is known for its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful beaches. The city is also famous for its historic fortifications and traditional fishing port. Other must-see landmarks include the Skala de la Ville, the Essaouira Citadel, and the Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah Museum.

Rabat

Rabat is the capital city of Morocco and home to the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, which is a stunning example of Moroccan architecture. The city is also home to the Hassan Tower, which is an incomplete mosque that dates back to the 12th century. Other notable landmarks include the Royal Palace of Rabat and the Chellah Necropolis.

Atlas Mountains

The Atlas Mountains are a stunning range that spans across Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. The mountains are home to traditional Berber villages and breathtaking landscapes. A trek through the Atlas Mountains is a must-do activity for any adventurous traveler.

Sahara Desert

The Sahara Desert is the largest hot desert in the world and covers most of North Africa. The desert is a magical place with towering sand dunes and clear night skies. A camel trek through the desert is an experience that you will never forget.

Ouarzazate

Ouarzazate is a city that is located in the middle of the desert and is known as the gateway to the Sahara. The city is home to the Kasbah of Taourirt, which is a stunning example of Moroccan architecture. Ouarzazate is also a popular filming location for Hollywood movies and TV shows.

Agadir

Agadir is a coastal city that is known for its beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere. The city is a popular tourist destination and offers a range of activities, including surfing, golfing, and hiking in the nearby hills.

In conclusion, Morocco is a country that is full of unique experiences for travelers. From the vibrant city of Marrakech to the peaceful town of Chefchaouen, and from the stunning Atlas Mountains to the magical Sahara Desert, there is something for everyone in Morocco. The country is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, and a visit to any of these ten must-see destinations is sure to leave you spellbound. Whether you are seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply a chance to explore a new culture, Morocco is a destination that should be on your travel bucket list.

[docileeffects]

[leomitchellart]

Inktober 2024 no.6 - “Trek” 🐪 

A ship of the desert with their captain. 

[pangeen]

" Dunhuang Camels Safari " //© allaboutchina88

Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring is a famous scenic spot located in Dunhuang, Gansu Province, China. It is situated at the foot of Mingsha Mountain and derives its name from the crescent-shaped spring at the base. This attraction is a vast desert area characterized by continuous sand dunes and desert landscapes. When the wind blows across the dunes, it produces a singing sound, hence the name Mingsha Mountain (Singing Sand Mountain). The Crescent Spring is a lake that has formed within the sand dunes, taking the shape of a curved crescent, creating a spectacular contrast with the surrounding sand dunes. This destination attracts numerous visitors who come to admire the magnificent desert scenery and experience the unique natural phenomenon.

Music: © Will Smith - Arabian Nights 2019

[atomicjellycat]

"Go get some ice"

Meant you were going on a JOURNEY through time and space. Endless backroom corridors, random liminal space hallways, and an abandoned staircase to get to the one tiny ""kitchen"" that happens to have an ice machine, one dirty sink, and a microwave from 1952

Tips for writing those gala scenes, from someone who goes to them occasionally:

Generally you unbutton and re-button a suit coat when you sit down and stand up.

You’re supposed to hold wine or champagne glasses by the stem to avoid warming up the liquid inside. A character out of their depth might hold the glass around the sides instead.

When rich/important people forget your name and they’re drunk, they usually just tell you that they don’t remember or completely skip over any opportunity to use your name so they don’t look silly.

A good way to indicate you don’t want to shake someone’s hand at an event is to hold a drink in your right hand (and if you’re a woman, a purse in the other so you definitely can’t shift the glass to another hand and then shake)

Americans who still kiss cheeks as a welcome generally don’t press lips to cheeks, it’s more of a touch of cheek to cheek or even a hover (these days, mostly to avoid smudging a woman’s makeup)

The distinctions between dress codes (black tie, cocktail, etc) are very intricate but obvious to those who know how to look. If you wear a short skirt to a black tie event for example, people would clock that instantly even if the dress itself was very formal. Same thing goes for certain articles of men’s clothing.

Open bars / cash bars at events usually carry limited options. They’re meant to serve lots of people very quickly, so nobody is getting a cosmo or a Manhattan etc.

Members of the press generally aren’t allowed to freely circulate at nicer galas/events without a very good reason. When they do, they need to identify themselves before talking with someone.

[toursinmauritania]

Discovering the Tailor-made Mauritania Tours: An 8 Days Traverse

Are you looking for Tailor-made Mauritania tours?Mauritania is an interesting country that is situated in Northwest of Africa, most of this country is occupied by the famous Sahara desert. For those tourists, who want to get acquainted with the African desert, with its sands, palms, caravans, and historic cities, Mauritania is an amazing opportunity.

Day 1: Arrival in Nouakchott

The majority of Sahara tours of Mauritania are launched from the capital city of Nouakchott. Once you get there and are done with registration in your hotel accommodation you should spend some time sightseeing in Nouakchott. There is the National Museum that one can visit and not forget the marketers’ hub, the roads along the coast which gives you stunning shots of the Mauritania adventure desert tour.

Day 2: Drive to Atar

Drive overland through constantly changing desert views while heading to Atar, the starting point of the Adrar region of Sahara. Blend and take in the sand dune sites and the oasis valleys as you make the journey. Kayos is a halt over destination to be followed by desert camps that are situated further in the desert dunes.

Day 3/4: Erg Warane Dunes

Spent two rousing days probing the stunning Erg Warane most inspiring sand streamline by 4 wheel driving car. Spend valuable time exploring the core of the largest Erg; admire beautiful scenery engulfing you after climbing the top of the high dune.

Tailor-made Mauritania Tours

Day 5/6: It includes Terjit Oasis & Ouadane Caravan Town.

After that, drive south to the oasis of Terjit that has been listed as a UNESCO site and plays host to a variety of plant and animal species in a wetland environment. Take a full day walk under the shadows of groves of date palm trees and natural rocky water tanks. Ouadane is a historical caravan town, and some parts of the movie the English Patient were shot here, the next stop.

Day 7: Drive Back to Nouakchott

Drive many hours through the Sahara back to Nouakchott beginning your journey by departing Ouadane. Last opportunity to peer at awe inspiring Sahara landscapes through the window of the 4×4. When you return to the capital, wash up and then go out for the last meal in Mauritania, utilizing the services of a standard Mauritanian eatery.

Day 8: Departure

Our representative will drive you to the airport in the morning where you will fly back home after an enchanting tour of the Sahara desert, Mauritania.

Visit our website and book your Tailor-made Mauritania tours now!

[neha4321]

Explore India: A Journey Through Vibrant Cultures and Timeless Landscapes

Embark on an unforgettable journey through India, a land of diverse cultures, iconic landmarks, and breathtaking landscapes. Discover top destinations like Delhi, Agra, Kerala, and Goa while experiencing India's rich heritage, flavorful cuisine, and thrilling adventures. Whether you're trekking in the Himalayas or enjoying a serene houseboat ride in Kerala, this guide covers everything you need to know to explore India. From travel tips to the best time to visit, delve into India’s wonders with this comprehensive guide.

[arabiantour29]

Abu Dhabi City Tour

Abu Dhabi, the glittering capital of the United Arab Emirates, beckons with its captivating Unveiling the Enchantment: An Abu Dhabi City Tour

blend of tradition and futuristic vision. Embark on an unforgettable journey to explore this majestic city with our captivating Abu Dhabi City Tour.

Dazzling Landmarks and Cultural Gems

Our tour commences with a pickup from your Dubai residence, whisking you away in air-conditioned comfort towards Abu Dhabi. As we traverse the scenic route, prepare to be enthralled by the ever-evolving landscape of the UAE.

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: A Beacon of Faith

Our first stop is the awe-inspiring Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. Marvel at the intricate details adorning the white marble facade, reflecting the artistry and devotion poured into its creation. As you enter the prayer hall, be captivated by the world's largest hand-woven carpet and the dazzling Swarovski crystal chandelier.

A Glimpse into Emirati Heritage at the Heritage Village

Step back in time at the Heritage Village, a living museum showcasing the traditional way of life in the UAE. Explore recreated marketplaces, wind towers, and Bedouin tents, gaining insights into the region's fascinating past. Witness artisans practicing their crafts, and soak in the atmosphere of a bygone era.

Emirates Palace: Opulence Defined

Journey onwards to the Emirates Palace, a landmark renowned for its opulent design and grandeur. While entry isn't included in the standard tour, you can marvel at its gilded exterior, reflecting the city's wealth and sophistication.

Corniche Beach: A Relaxing Interlude

Indulge in a refreshing break at the Corniche Beach, a waterfront promenade stretching for several kilometers. Take a leisurely stroll along the pristine sands, soak up the sun, or relish a delicious meal at one of the many beachfront restaurants (own expense).

Yas Island: A World of Entertainment (Optional Add-on)

For an extra dose of excitement, consider adding a visit to Yas Island, a man-made marvel brimming with theme parks, museums, and entertainment options. Witness the architectural marvel of Yas Marina Circuit, home to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, or experience the exhilarating rides and attractions at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi (tickets not included).

Tailoring Your Tour Experience

We understand that every traveler has unique preferences. Here's how you can personalize your Abu Dhabi City Tour:

Ready to embark on this inspiring exploration? Contact us today!

Phone: +971 58 198 8064

Address: Abu Hail, Deirah, Dubai

Please note: Dress code and entry timings may vary. Our team will ensure you have the latest information before your visit. Let us help you design the perfect Grand Mosque Tour for you!

[saharadesertsmorocco]

Fez to Marrakech Trip

From Fez to Marrakech: A Mesmerizing Journey through Morocco's Rich Tapestry

If you're looking to embark on a memorable adventure from Fez to Marrakech, look no further than the Sahara Desert Crew. We will guide you every step of your journey and ensures that every step of the way is filled with warmth and hospitality. For more information, you can call us at +212(0) 662 541 300.

[omansafaritours-blog]

Oman Tour Packages

Discover the beauty of Oman with our comprehensive tour packages. Whether you're interested in exploring the ancient cities of Muscat and Nizwa, hiking in the Hajar Mountains, or sandboarding in the Wahiba Sands, we have a tour that's perfect for you.

Our Oman tour packages include everything you need for a hassle-free vacation, from transportation and accommodation to guided tours and activities. We offer a variety of tour lengths and prices to fit your budget and interests. 

Oman Safari Tours

Experience the wild side of Oman on a desert safari. Our safaris take you deep into the Wahiba Sands, where you can sandboard, dune bash, and camp under the stars. We also offer camel treks, 4x4 adventures, and birdwatching tours.

Oman Tour Operators

We work with a network of trusted tour operators in Oman to ensure that you have the best possible experience. Our operators are experts in their field and can help you plan the perfect trip for your interests.

Contact us today to book your Oman tour package. We can't wait to show you the beauty of this amazing country!

[aljazeeratours-1]

A sunrise camel riding Dubai offers an unparalleled experience, allowing you to witness the breathtaking beauty of the Arabian Desert as the sun paints the sky with its golden hues. With options such as camel safari Dubai, camel ride experience in JBR Beach, and camel trekking Dubai, this magical journey promises a unique and unforgettable adventure for every traveler.

[1picaday2014]

Interlude: a video

a 'loading the camel' video

This video was made on the 2021 camel trek to Lake Frome from out starting point at the township of Blinman in South Australia. It was made on the morning of the day that we walked into Mt Chambers Gorge around lunchtime. loading Henry I made a couple of ‘loading the camel’ videos with my iPhone 6 on the 2021 trek. However, I had to upgrade the personal plan that I had been using for this…

[suetravelblog]

Dromedary Riding Diabat Morocco

Dromedary Riding Diabat Morocco

Desert Shadows Camel rides in Morocco are a great way to experience the landscape, so Kasbah and camel trekking is becoming popular. I had a perfect mini-outing on Saturday, but think a multi-day Sahara camping expedition might be my next adventure! I’d like to experience the magical nighttime desert – sunsets, moonlight, and gazillions of stars. Merzouga Sahara Desert Morocco –…

[allmyocsarebritish]

A passion for exploration

(Known in my notes as ahkaeology)

Pairing: Ahkmenrah X reader

Warnings(?): Grave robbing

A/N: okay okay I know it's really odd that a wednesday blog is now posting for natm but I went down a rabbit hole and I'm afraid I lost the entrance. History nerd has shown through well and truly :')

Also my first multi part fic :D

Title is courtesy of my mate Abi using AI

Ch 1

Grave robbing

Was desecrating the tombs of these once honoured, omnipotent kings of Egypt really something you were willing to do? Had the circumstances preceding the grave robbery been less bleak, the answer would have undoubtedly been an definitive no. These rulers commanded the uptmost respect in life, and here you were, excavating the only memory that remained. There wasn't a day that went by during your expedition in which guilt did not infiltrate your mind, suffocating your conscience and depriving you of any sleep, even before you came close to finding an ancient tomb. But it wasn't like you had any other choice.

Pushing down your gnawing feelings of dread, you trekked on through the Egyptian desert. Rough sand brushed against your lower legs beneath your simple, calf-length skirt, chafing at the skin. You were the only one of the troupe resigned to walking, as the youngest and the lowest class. Astride camels, the two men had a better view of the surrounding plains, though the blank, barren flats stretched on long beyond the horizon.

"The valley of the kings shan't be too far from this place" called Lord Carnarvon, map still in hand.

You held back a scoff, rolling your eyes as you knew he wasn't looking at you. If only he would admit none of you knew where you were going. The only clue you were given was that the gold rich landmark was announced by a grand pyramid at the end of a hollowed valley consisting of a multitude of others. What a shame that this was the Egyptian desert.

Filled with pyramids.

Days and days stretched on of travel, and eventually, you stopped counting the sunrises, resigning to the fact that this would only stop when the valley was found, however long that took.

As with most great things, the discovery of the valley occurred at a time when you least expected. You had taken advantage of a small oasis, resting for a few hours and permitting the camels an indulgent drink. Howard Carter dozed beside you, hat pulled low over his face, in order to shield his resting eyes from the blazing fire of the sun. Carnarvon had taken his liberty and ran off, or so you had hoped. No, in fact he was continuing the investigation alone and on foot, clutching a worn, shoddy map, which was twinged a grimey brown with years of filth accumulated around the edges of the paper. He never strayed far, though attempted to work out his bearings, using the wind or some pretentious bullshit you never bothered listening to. No, you were perfectly content drawing in the sand with a stick you had found and claimed an hour or so prior.

You were more than unimpressed when the sketches you had so tediously etched into the sand were scattered by Carnarvon sprinting back to the small camp. Jolted awake, Carter sat up sharply, alarm etched across his features.

"Blimey, good sir! You gave me quite the fright!" He exclaimed as you nodded in agreement.

"Are you alright?" You asked, though your eyes may have given away your disinterest (had either man been paying an ounce of attention).

"Shh!" Carnarvon interrupted your pleasant concern, to which you rolled your eyes and began attempting to recover your drawings. "Carter, good sir! I dare say I've found it. I've discovered the pyramid!"

A bold statement, and not the first time either. No, twice prior you had been dragged into the colossal ancient skyscrapers, only to find they were far from your true destination. Empty of any treasure or historical worth beyond the buildings themselves, you continued on, fruitless. Grand structures were quite an obvious goldmine, and previous grave robbers had left the tombs void of, well, anything.

Though of course, it was more than worth it to explore this fresh discovery, not taking any chances.

Time was of the essence, or so you were told. Camels saddled up in record time, you were hoisted up from your seat on the floor by Carter, borderline dragged up.

"Come, young Y/N, you heard his lordship. We may have found the Valley. Hurry on, now" his words were gentle, still treating you as he had done in your childhood, despite the fact you were now 19. It was something that you both appreciated and hated simultaneously. Howard was kind to you, much more so than Lord Carnarvon, who cared as little for you as you did for him. The mutual disinterested made for some long, awkward silences, and many threats to leave you in an unknown grave.

Still dragging you by the arm, Carter began to untie his camel, before finally letting go of you. The rush was honestly needless, you had been expeditioning for months at the least, what harm would a few mere minutes cause? But the men were adamant, and there was no arguing, especially not from a useless child as yourself.

"Can I at least keep my stick?"

Recieving no reply from Carnarvon and an incredulous stare from Carter, you concluded the answer was yes.

The journey from the oasis to the pyramid was shorter than anticipated, though still rather long. Another day passed, spent entirely wandering through the desert. Exhaustion washed over your entire body, and it was a war every minute to keep your eyes open. But, alas, you must continue, and eventually your trek drew to a close as with further examination, it became clear this pyramid was not what you were searching for.

Disappointment and rage filled Carnarvon upon the realisation that this was, in fact, not the Valley of the Gates of the Kings, but rather a singular, sandy pyramid. "Why, there must be some mistake!" He complained impetuantly, always one to shift blame elsewhere. You exchanged a look with Carter, who for once was willing to admit the incompetence of the troupe's leader. After all, what were the chances that a random pyramid would mark the infamous, esteemed valley?

From a distance it appeared mighty, though in fact that was more than likely a mirage caused by the monochromatic nature if the desert. Upon further examination, however, the pyramid was far from the grandeur anticipated by Carnarvon and Carter. Huge gashes and rifts in the brickwork jumped out from metres away. Crumbling brickwork was cratered, resembling a sponge with many holes, as dusty gravel avalanched down the sides of the architecture at every other interval. Overall it was worn and aged, therefore more likely to be looted and barren.

"I do say it's worth taking a look around, my lord." You spoke, addressing him clearly. Carnarvon waved his hand dismissively, wishing you out of his presence.

"Yes, yes. Go ahead child." Did you expect that? No. Did you need to be told twice? Also no. A small grin gracing your features, you took off into the pyramid.

Racing across the gravely surface of the desert, the sand provided a slight level of resistance. Nevertheless, you persevered onwards, stride refusing to falter. Basking in the glorious heat of the warm Egyptian sun's rays casting down on your face, you closed your eyes as you ran, chin tilted upwards. Naturally, this obscured your vision, rendering you blind, and therefore leading you to miss the gaping hole in the ground.

A short squeala of surprise passed your lips as you suddenly found yourself unexpectedly falling through the earth. The drop was rather long, and you landed in a heap on the floor of the dugout with a large thud. You weren't aware of how long you were unconscious, but judging by the severe lack of any source of light, sunset had passed. Pain shot through your body, coarsing through your veins and ricocheting off each of your bones in turn. Head pounding, you groaned slightly, trying to work out what in the hell just happened to you.

Darkness continued to fill the room, prompting you to fish within one of your pockets, pulling out a match and striking it aflame. The hidden chamber was large, that much you could tell even despite the dim lighting. Blinking twice as you began to, very slightly, register your surroundings, you noticed the sheer obscurity of this interior. You'd heard of the saying 'paintings that seemed to follow you around the room', but this gave a new meaning to those words.

No, wait.

Those paintings were moving, and not metaphorically. Eyes widening, you began to notice everything in the tomb writhing like a cluster of cobras. Onyx black cats prowled upon shelves, worn linen bandages slowly unfurling from being bound around each of their limbs. Animated drawings of men, deities and horses alike moved naturally, as though it were a perfectly normal occurrence. Shabti servants, the colour of oxidised copper and ranging from 5-30cm tall formed an army scattered throughout the tomb. Then, slowly, as though delaying the inevitable, your eyes trained upon it.

The sarcophagus.

Shuffling away rapidly, your back hit the decrepit wall of the hidden grave. The embodiment of terror plastered over your face, you watched in horror as the coffin began to violently shake. Your blood ran cold as bangs from the inside began to echo across the acoustic chamber. The rusted hinges were worn and flimsy, and the bolts began to unscrew from their holdings. Padlocks had become frail with ages and popped open, one almost smacking you square in the forehead, to which you responded with a short yelp. For a moment, all movement ceased, as though whatever was inside had begun to listen to the intruder in their grave. You took liberty of the fleeting moment, and began to craft a way out. The quiet was short lived, however, as, with one final, mighty heave, the final lock was broken.

The sarcophagus had been opened.

Your breath caught in your throat, the air thick and suffocating as you watched a wrapped hand emerge from the tomb. The coffin lid was ajar, though it didn't take much pushing to be removed almost entirely. Almost at once, the creatures residing in the grave marched forward, crowding their newly awoken master. Hidden in the shadows, you froze, hoping to remain unseen and ignored, and thus leaving unscathed. Soon enough Carter and Carnarvon were bound to find you?

Right?

A huge open grave couldn't be subtle, you only missed it as you eyes were closed. A stupid decision really, and you mentally cursed yourself.

You remained rooted to the spot on the freezing floor, as the reanimated corpse continued to rise from its grave. Surely this was an affect of your concussion; for all you knew this was just an unconscious dream. Besides, with all the travel in the desert, dehydration had undoubtedly left you delirious. It was at that split second of slight relaxation (if you could call it that) in which you spied the piles of treasure sloping at every corner of the tomb. What could you say - you were a grave robber. Carnarvon would be so proud - if you returned alive that was.

It began to claw at the ancient, frayed linen covering its face, causing your heart to race: it thumped so hard you swore you'd be given away. Praying you didn't go into cardiac arrest, you continued staring bug-eyed as the bandages unfurled in front of you, like the dramatic unveiling of an innovative new invention. Closing your eyes for the second time that day, you winced, raising your arms to shield your face from the horrors you were undoubtedly about to witness. Bile rose in your throat as your mouth drew dry. Images of rancid, rotting flesh peeling off bones flashed through your mind, prompting your whole body to tremble.

'I'm just delirious. Any moment now I'll open my eyes to be met with a chamber of riches.' You thought to yourself. Awoken mummies were the stuff of fairytales, and despite what Carnarvon and Carter believed, you were most certainly not a child.

Your internal monologue was cut short however, interrupted by the gentlest of touches placed on your arm. It prompted you to flinch away instantaneously, a soft whimper escaping. Eyes shooting open, you came face to face with the pharoah himself. And he was not what you had anticipated.

He wasn't the scary mummy you were expecting, he was a teenage kid.

Kind, cerulean eyes rimmed with a smoky black eyeliner stared into your own, azure oceans plagued with concern. Concern for you. Such a colour must have been pricelessly rare, sapphires amongst stones.

His golden, tanned hand had felt cold and lifeless against your arm, yet the heat it had radiated was electrifying, continuing to shoot jolts throughout your entire body. His skin was soft and smooth, betraying the fact that this royal had almost certainly never worked a day in his life.

Slightly unruly brown curls and a toned slender figure - he was actually rather cute.

"Are you alright? You seem a little... Lost?" He queried, to which you seemed unable to form a response.

"I- what.. who? What's going on?" You managed, stumbling over your words as your voice cracked slightly.

He gave a small smile, clearly sympathetic of your utter confusion, before gesturing at a golden tablet, as though that were supposed to help you in any way. Noting your expression of utter bewilderment, the undead Pharaoh elaborated.

"That's my tablet, blessed by Khonsu himself. It holds the power to awake the dead at night," he gestures to himself and the cats, who stared at you, blinking and unsure whether it would be safe for them to approach. Then, he pointed to the paintings in the walls and dragged his finger towards the mass of shabti dolls, both of which watched you with the same confusion. "Along with anything else resembling a life form that finds it's way into the presence of the tablet."

"Right." You answered, holding your head and still in shock.

"You needn't be afraid, you know. I'm not going to hurt you."

"Thank you, that is a relief." You swallowed thickly.

He hummed in response, smiling with an amused frown at the fact you feared him.

"So, who exactly are you?" You asked after a short yet not uncomfortable silence.

His lavish outfit betrayed the royal status he claimed in life, only accentuated by the Red Crown, or Deshret supporting a golden snake - the symbol of monarchy- resting atop his sarcophagus. Around his neck fastened a Usekh collar, adorned with teal and umber jewels and beads, and topped with golden accents. Sleeves of cloth draped over his arms, the fibres of the fabric woven with pure gold. The metallic shine of the element was evident in the chromatic sheen of the cape resting over the Pharoah's shoulders. At his waist there hung a Shendyt kilt, fastened with a cloth belt, also elaborately decorated. Beautiful gold jewellery decorated his figure, your eyes drawn in particular to the stunning gold bracelet cuffs he supported on either wrist, encrusted with gemstones, potentially aquamarine or topaz. Once again your attention was drawn to his face.

"I am Ahkmenrah, fourth king of the fourth king. And you are...?"

Stunned into silence for a moment by the regality of the ancient king before you, you blinked and paused briefly before answering.

"Y/N. Y/N L/N."

"So, Y/N, what are you doing in my grave?" Ahkmenrah asked you, barely trying to surpress an amused smile. Your cheeks flushed as you tried to form a lie. This ruler seemed nice, and regardless, you couldn't exactly tell him you were intent on raiding his tomb for riches.

"It was an accident. Really, it was. I was running, and, well, I wasn't exactly looking where I was going."

"Clearly." He smirked. "Why were you in the desert though? Forgive me if I'm mistaken, but you don't appear to be Egyptian."

"What? Oh, no I'm not. I'm English. I came out in an expedition with two other men; Lord Carnarvon and Carter. They're archaeologists." You winced at the manufactured truth. It wasn't entirely a lie, that was what the men claimed to be. Though all your troupe really planned to accomplish was glorified tomb-raiding, a fact that made you sick.

"And they left you here?" Ahkmenrah questioned incredulously, unable to fathom why on earth they would abandon you like this.

"Well, no. Not exactly. They allowed me to go check out the pyramid about 10 yards south, but, as o said, I fell down a hole." You blushed again, this time due to your own stupidity and clumsiness. This was not how to earn the respect of an esteemed king.

Ahkmenrah frowned. "So how long have you been down here?"

"Uh. I don't actually know, I was unconscious for a short time. Or possibly a long time, that I'm not sure of either."

Concern once again crossed the young Pharoah's face. "You poor thing! Are you alright? You're not concussed, are you?"

"Probably." You shrugged, further alarming him.

The next few hours were spent talking to Ahk, discussing everything from the legal affairs of ancient Egypt to the cats that accompanied him in his tomb. Over the course of the night, the two of you had grown closer, both in terms of friendship and literal distance. Most of the other inhabitants of the grave had deemed you safe, returning to their regular routine, and the most curious of the mummified cats, an (aptly) Egyptian mau apparently named Tivali, had become rather taken to you. Eventually, the exhaustion of the day had caught up with you, and you slumped against Ahk's shoulder. Revelling in his presence, contentment washed over you as, for the first time on your quest, you relaxed, finally at ease. Perhaps it was delirium, but in your sleepy state you swore you felt his fingertips grace against your cheek, the ghost of his lips pressing gently against your temple.

"Sleep well, my dear."

[henghost]

idk if someone's done this post already (it seems so obvious!) but can we talk about how closely taylor's character arc mirrors the three metamorphoses proposed by the titular character in nietzsche's thus spoke zarathustra. (i'll use the kaufmann translation.)

"Of three metamorphoses of the spirit I tell you: how the spirit becomes a camel; and the camel, a lion; and the lion, finally, a child."

taylor is first the camel, a beast of burden; in other words, she is skitter. she "makes friends with the deaf," the undersiders, who don't understand what she really wants. she compromises her virtues (do-gooding) in the name of what zarathustra might call "wretched contentment."

then, beginning with the discovery of dinah, taylor begins a terrible and arduous trek into a spiritual desert, where the second metamorphosis occurs, and taylor becomes a lion. "for ultimate victory [s]he wants to fight with the great dragon" -- literally! for zarathustra, the dragon represents all preexisting virtues, the notions of good and evil that have been developed for millenia. dragon, the ai, represents this very moral rigidity -- and by defeating her taylor completes her transformation into proud unyielding weaver, who will brook no opposition to her, uh, ethically unorthodox methodology. only this blond beast could kill aster.

finally, taylor must become the child to complete her task. "why must the preying lion still become a child? the child is innocence and forgetting, a new beginning, a game, a self-propelled wheel, a first movement, a sacred 'yes.' " she must learn to speak a googoogaga-ass language. (as nietzsche notes in the fifth book of the gay science, what is conventional language but a means of becoming part of the herd.) khepri creates her own values, propels the rest of humanity forward. khepri exists, truly, beyond good and evil. "the spirit now wills [her] own will, and [she] who had been lost to the world now conquers [her] own world." khepri was an arrow of longing who crashed mangled and defeated back to the earth.

thus, taylor fully emblematizes an ontology of becoming. she is a bridge to the overman, and zarathustra will bury her with his own hands.