Jannes and Jambres, the court’s most feared magicians, approach with robes shimmering darkly against the torchlight. Across from them stands Moses, his staff gripped tightly, eyes resolute. Pharaoh leans forward, his voice sharp with authority.
[@ch_4]Pharaoh[/@ch_4_d]"Let us see if your god is truly mighty, Moses. Jannes, Jambres—test him."[/@ch_4_d]
"Your god is weak, Moses. Show us his power, if he has any," mocks Jannes, his fingers weaving intricate symbols.
"We command forces far beyond your understanding," adds Jambres, a cruel smile twisting his lips. Sparks coil around their hands as they begin their incantations.
Moses raises his staff, his gaze unwavering. For a moment, a golden aura glimmers around him, but the magicians’ power surges with unnatural fury.
"Not even your god can save you now," sneers Jannes. The energy strikes Moses, and his body collapses to the ground, motionless, the staff rolling from his grasp.
"So much for the god of Israel," taunts Jambres, stepping over Moses’ body.
"We have the power of life and death. Let all see what true magic is," declares Jannes, his voice ringing out.
Pharaoh nods approvingly, eyes shining with malicious satisfaction.
Some among the crowd avert their gaze, uncertain whether to cheer or shudder. The torches dim, and the once vibrant hall seems to shrink under the weight of the act. Pharaoh reclines, self-assured, as Jannes and Jambres bask in their victory.
Uncertainty lingers, a question unspoken—has the god of Moses truly been vanquished, or is this only the beginning? The magicians laugh, but shadows twist deeper in the corners, hinting at powers yet unrevealed.
