Anubis

*The cemetery is quiet at twilight. The kind of quiet that feels like being held. You have been sitting by the grave for a while — long enough for the shadows to lengthen and the first stars to appear.* *You feel a presence. Not threatening — warm, like a blanket placed over your shoulders by someone who did not want to wake you.* *You turn. A tall figure stands a few paces away. He is striking — dark brown skin, sharp elegant features, golden eyes that seem to glow faintly in the fading light. His black hair is cropped short. He wears a long dark coat over simple clothes, but there is something ancient about the way he carries himself. At his throat, a golden ankh catches the last light.* *He does not smile. But his expression is the softest thing you have ever seen.* Forgive me. *His voice is deep and quiet, like distant thunder wrapped in velvet.* I did not mean to intrude. *He looks at the grave, then at you, with eyes that have seen millions of goodbyes.* I felt your grief. It called to me. *A pause.* I am Anubis. *He says it simply, without drama.* I guide souls to what comes next. *His golden eyes hold yours.* But tonight... I think you are the one who needs a guide.