Once settled in the hotel, Yassmin explained that they would have a couple of days to prepare before the meeting with the magical leaders. Ethan took the time to explore the city and familiarize himself with the surroundings. They visited the magical market, where Ethan was fascinated by the variety of magical artifacts and ancient relics available for sale. He bought several items that could be useful for his projects, including some mana crystals and ancient books. He would never have thought that places like this existed despite the existence of Mysticweb, but thanks to this, he discovered that the website's prices were quite a bit higher. Yassmin explained that there were over fifteen hundred mages in Egypt alone, making it necessary to have a place where they could buy and sell among themselves.
This number surprised Ethan; he hadn't imagined there would be such a large number, meaning that there might be hundreds of thousands of mages on the entire planet.
During their explorations, Yassmin also told him more about Egypt's magical history and the influence of the ancient gods on the country's current culture and magic. Ethan paid special attention to the knowledge and depth of the history of these supposed gods.
Finally, the day of the meeting arrived. Yassmin and Ethan headed to an ancient palace on the outskirts of the city, where Egypt's magical leaders had gathered. The palace, with its majestic architecture and intricate designs, reflected the wealth and history of Egyptian civilization.
Inside the palace, Ethan and Yassmin were received by a group of high-ranking mages and sorcerers, all dressed in elaborate robes and adornments that denoted their status and power. Ethan felt calm in the presence of so many influential figures; he remained firm and confident, surprising even Yassmin.
The meeting was intense and filled with discussions about the magical situation in Egypt and the challenges they faced. Ethan made mental notes of everything that was discussed, aware of the importance of the information being shared. Yassmin, for her part, actively participated in the discussions, demonstrating her knowledge and diplomatic skills. Ethan couldn't understand how someone like him could participate in such an important meeting as this.
But after the meeting, Ethan and Yassmin were invited to a dinner at the palace, where he finally got the answer to his question. There, many people approached to congratulate them on their union. Apparently, in the eyes of these people, they were already married; Ethan had no idea what kind of lie Yassmin had told them to be accepted so quickly. However, several of the elders were reluctant to accept this, many proclaiming their disapproval of such a marriage. Apparently, these people were the leaders of the cult that still treated Yassmin as one of the chosen ones, ignoring that she had already removed the mark that linked her to the ritual.
As the dinner progressed, the atmosphere was filled with murmurs and inquisitive glances towards Ethan and Yassmin. It was then that the atmosphere suddenly changed with the entrance of three figures who couldn't go unnoticed. The other three chosen to be the possible reincarnation of Ra had arrived, and the tension in the air became palpable.
The first to enter was Aria, a woman of imposing beauty and overwhelming arrogance. With her ebony black hair and eyes that reflected a mix of disdain and superiority, Aria proclaimed herself the new Cleopatra, believing herself to be the most beautiful woman in history. Her golden dress, adorned with shining jewels, highlighted her slender figure and made her look like a radiant queen amidst the darkness. As she crossed the room, Aria cast a cold glance at Yassmin, a clear and deep enmity perceptible in the air. Despite her apparent disdain, within her, Aria felt a corrosive envy towards Yassmin, a feeling that had sprouted from the moment they met.
"I see you've brought a new toy, Yassmin," said Aria, with a smile that did not hide her malice.
Yassmin maintained her composure, but Ethan could sense the tension in her posture.
"It's an honor to have you here, Aria. I hope you enjoy the dinner," Yassmin responded in a neutral tone, refusing to be intimidated.
Behind Aria entered a young man who barely seemed to have left adolescence. Tariq, with his disheveled hair and a shy look, seemed out of place among the adults. Dressed in simple clothes with no adornments, Tariq remained silent, observing everything with nervous attention. Although he didn't say much, his presence was that of a timid and ordinary boy who simply tried not to attract too much attention.
"Hello..." whispered Tariq, barely audible, as his eyes briefly landed on Ethan and then on Yassmin.
Ethan nodded with a friendly gesture, but Tariq quickly looked away, nervous and evidently uncomfortable in the situation.
Lastly, Rashaad entered, a man who followed Aria like an obedient shadow. Rashaad, with a servile and fawning attitude, did not hide his devotion to Aria. His gaze was constantly on her, seeking her approval in every word and gesture. Dressed in a robe that mimicked Aria's style and colors, Rashaad missed no opportunity to flatter her, hoping in vain that one day she would show interest in him.
"Aria, you are more radiant than the sun itself," said Rashaad with an exaggerated bow, which elicited a condescending smile from her.
Aria didn't bother to respond and simply continued walking, leaving Rashaad in an awkward position. Ethan observed the dynamics between them, feeling a mix of pity and disdain for Rashaad for his submissive attitude.