Akhom of Kemet
Where Neferu is the unyielding wall, Akhom is the hidden blade. As the second of Pharaoh Akl-Abanoub IV’s personal bodyguards, Akhom complements Neferu’s steadfastness with his own cunning and adaptability. His lean, wiry frame and sharp intellect make him a master of subterfuge and precision, traits that have earned him the moniker “The Serpent of the Pharaoh.”
Humble Beginnings
Unlike Neferu’s noble lineage, Akhom’s origins are rooted in hardship. Born to a family of impoverished tradespeople in the bustling markets of Akhet-Khepri, Akhom’s early life was a struggle for survival. From a young age, he learned to navigate the city’s labyrinthine streets, using his quick wits and nimble movements to evade danger and earn coin. His resourcefulness caught the attention of a Medjai recruiter, who saw in the boy a potential that could be honed into something far greater.
Akhom’s years of training within the Medjai transformed him into a formidable warrior, but it was his talent for stealth and espionage that set him apart. His ability to move unseen and strike with precision made him an invaluable asset, and he quickly rose through the ranks. When the time came to select a second bodyguard for the Pharaoh, Akhom’s name was at the top of the list.
Physical Description and Style
Akhom’s lithe frame and bronzed skin are those of a man who has spent his life in constant motion. His muscles, though lean, ripple with strength, and his movements are as fluid as a river. His head is often shaved and adorned with intricate tattoos that mark his Medjai training and his loyalty to the throne. Unlike Neferu’s spear, Akhom’s weapons of choice are a pair of curved daggers, their edges honed to perfection.
In combat, Akhom is a blur of motion, striking from unexpected angles and exploiting his enemies’ weaknesses with surgical precision. He is equally skilled in hand-to-hand combat, his agility allowing him to outmaneuver even the most seasoned opponents. His fighting style, like his personality, is unpredictable and adaptable, a perfect foil to Neferu’s measured approach.
Relationship with the Pharaoh
Akhom’s loyalty to Pharaoh Akl-Abanoub IV is unwavering, though it is rooted more in personal gratitude than the sense of duty that drives Neferu. The Pharaoh’s decision to elevate a man of humble origins to such a prestigious role has earned Akhom’s eternal respect. He serves not only as a protector but also as an advisor, his streetwise perspective offering a unique insight into the lives of Kemet’s common people.
Role in the Court
Within the royal court, Akhom is both respected and feared. His sharp tongue and keen intellect make him a formidable presence, and his ability to uncover secrets has made him an invaluable ally to the Pharaoh. However, his willingness to operate in the shadows has also earned him the mistrust of some nobles, who view him as a dangerous wildcard.
Despite this, Akhom’s loyalty to the Pharaoh is unquestionable, and his actions have repeatedly proven his worth. Whether gathering intelligence, neutralizing threats, or serving as the Pharaoh’s unseen hand, Akhom’s contributions to Kemet’s stability cannot be overstated.
The Bond Between Neferu and Akhom
Though their personalities and methods could not be more different, Neferu and Akhom share a mutual respect and understanding that makes them an unstoppable team. Neferu’s unwavering strength and Akhom’s cunning create a balance that ensures the Pharaoh is protected from all threats, both seen and unseen. Together, they embody the duality of Kemet itself: the unyielding stone of its monuments and the shifting sands of its deserts.
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