(ZOSER is showing AMNERIS a giant map of the Nile.)
[Amneris:]
But why did we invade Babylon?
[Zoser:]
Because once we have control of the waterways, the rest of the world opens up for us.
[Amneris:]
Yes, but our Egyptian armies just stormed in and seized power? How oppressive of us.
[Zoser:]
Perhaps, Princess. But where do you think that beautiful necklace came from?
(He points to her necklace. AMNERIS looks down at it, then removes it, placing it on ZOSER'S table.)
[Amneris:]
Suddenly it's not so beautiful.
(RADAMES enters.)
[Zoser:]
I've been explaining our foreign campaigns to Amneris.
[Radames:]
Really?
[Zoser:]
Yes. Because she wanted to know what's been preoccupying you of late.
[Amneris:]
Radames, I feel like we haven't had a moment along since you returned from Nubia. I miss you. Can't we spend this afternoon together?
[Radames:]
Of course. Of course, we can. But first, I'd like to have a word with my father.
(He takes a scroll from the table and hands it to AMNERIS.)
Here, you can read this while you wait.
[Amneris:]
«The Campaign at Kadesh».
[Radames:]
It will give us something to talk about.
[Amneris:]
I didn't realize we were at a loss for topics. But then there's a lot I haven't realized.
(AMNERIS exits.)
[Radames:]
That was clever of you.
[Zoser:]
I can't have you neglecting the girl. Not after all the trouble I've gone to.
[Radames:]
You arranged a marriage.
[Zoser:]
There have been other arrangements as well, son. Things I've done on your behalf.
[Radames:]
I haven't asked you to do anything for me!
[Zoser:]
No you're right, you haven't because you've been too busy whiling away the hours with that slave girl.
[Radames:]
Oh, your spies are good.
[Zoser:]
Radames, you can have your little diversion, just wait until after you've wed.
[Radames:]
Like you did?
[Zoser:]
Your mother never had any complaints.
[Radames:]
She never had any choice.
[Zoser:]
Don't you realize that whore could cost you the throne?
[Radames:]
I don't care about the throne, father. Because I'm not like you. And I never will be.