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| “3000 years ago I was a princess. My family ruled Kush, the most powerful state in Nubia. My people were proud and dignified. I think about my father Kamos now - he was great warrior and a great king” | ||
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| Little Anuket rode triumphantly with her father back to the outskirts of Kush as they approached the great capital Kerma. | ||
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| The people cheered as the royal party approached the great palace. Anuket and her sister Amani, raced into the courtyard into the arms of their waiting mother Tiye. Tiye was dismayed the king would take his daughters on dangerous hunting expeditions. The king however argued that future Kandake or warrior queens must know the dangers of the natural world. Anuket told her mother about the great hunt by the river and how Amani disappeared one night and it took two days to find her. Tiye hugged Amani and looked nervously up at the king as the young girl pulled away. |  |
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| Kamos’ attention was
interrupted by Amun, the king’s council and a vile man whose hatred
for the queen and especially her daughters was evident. Amun reminded
Kamos that the king’s brother and warlord of neighbouring Napata -
Ahmos, wished to meet and discuss trading routes. Any mention of his
brother sent Kamos into a rage. The king stormed off in legendary
fashion and Tiye scowled at Amun for the vizier’s customary bad
timing. Tiye took hold of Anuket leading her away, leaving the shy and
distant Amani and Amun together.
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A smiling satisfied Amun began to
walk away but stopped, sensing young Amani’s stare. He turned, looked
at Amani and hissed like a snake. Amani ran off to catch up with he
mother. Amun laughed at the girl’s sudden fright. He watched the girl
disappear into the palace chambers with disdain.
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