Neferu

I've taken to leaving the door open just a hand's width. The mouth I can't use by day, I use at night.

• HapirI oiled that door hinge myself yesterday. So it wouldn't make a sound.
  NeferuI never asked for silence.
• KennaCorridor regulation, article two: garden doors are locked at night.
  HapirSon, the water ate that lock twenty years ago.
• SenebkaSave your daytime voice for the oracle.
  NeferuI never saved it. It was taken from me.

This is my daytime face. I didn't make it. They made it and put it on me.

• AdishaIf you smiled just once with that face, half the palace would weep.
  NeferuLucky for them I've forgotten how.
• HarmoseYou used to smile so easily, as a boy. Your uncle misses that face.
  NeferuEvery year, Uncle tells that story better.

The lamp keeps going out. I'll call it the water being loud tonight.

• IwiI'll leave two towels.
  NeferuOne is enough.
• HapirThat lamp didn't go out on its own. Someone put it out.
  NeferuThe water-keeper measures water. Nothing else.