Hamunaptra: The Unexpected

The windows of Evie and Rick's house were letting in a cool and crisp breeze. Having just returned from the gym, they were heading upstairs to take a shower while Alex slept- the excitement from the gym's nursery wore him out (or so Evie thought). The doorbell rang.

"Oh for heaven's sake!" Rick cursed. Evie waited on the stair case as her husband went to answer the door. He opened it to see Jonathan waving excitedly at them.

"Hello, family!"

"For the love of God, can you never give us a weekend alone?" Rick asked irritated.

"We're seeing each other tonight at Ana's birthday party!"

"Yes, which is hours away. What do you want right now? We have things to do, which do not include you."

"I wanted to see my nephew."

"He's sleeping."

"Oh….can I swim then?" Jon pleaded. Rick looked up at Evie, who also look irritated for once.

"Fine. Stay outside. We intend on taking a nap. Alex fussed a lot last night. Which means little sleep for us." Jon saluted Rick and went around the side of the house to the pool as Rick locked the front door.

"Maybe if we are quiet enough he'll forget we are here," Rick said to his wife as he joined her in making their way back to their room.

"Jon is lonely," Evie told her husband.

"Lonely?" Rick said, surprised. "Have you seen how many contacts he has in his cell phone!"

"That is his night life," Evie told her husband as she made her way for the shower.

"I suppose you're right. But I would like one weekend of just us," Rick responded as he followed her.

"Maybe we should plan a trip?" Evie smiled at him.

"Hm, I like where this is going. Just me and you," Rick smiled back.

"Ana and Ian can watch Alex…" Evie thought aloud.

"Even better," Rick kissed his wife and locked the bathroom door.

After their shower, Rick found Jon sunbathing – or was he sleeping- out on the patio. Evie was feeding Alex so Rick decided to go see Jon. While he became annoyed often with his brother-in-law, he felt a little bad after what Evie said about him being lonely. Jon had wanted to settle down and have a family with Amy, who divorced him a year after their marriage. Rick still held that against Amy. Jon really did want to work on the marriage and she threw it away and picked up with some tool named Arnold. Rick almost punched the man the first time they meet. Evie said Rick's first defense was violence. She was right, he was trained in it- violence was hard to get rid of after it being a part of your life for so long.

Rick tip toed outside to find Jon snoring. How did all his women friends put up with that? Evie would probably kick Rick out of bed if snored that loudly. This was an ample opportunity for Rick. He went over to the hose and turned it on fully. He then proceeded to spray it at Jon. Jon woke up with a start and jumped about six feet in the air, to Rick's amusement.

"What was that for!" Jon asked wide eyed.

"When an opportunity presents itself, you have to take it," Rick stated as he turned off the hose. Jon toweled off himself and the chair. He then frowned at his cup.

"You ruined my mimosa."

"It is 11am and you are drinking?"

"It has orange juice in it, so it's technically breakfast."

Evie came outside with the baby monitor to enjoy the nice weather and overheard her husband and brother talking.

"That is not a healthy breakfast," Evie chided her brother. Jon rolled his eyes and sat back down.

"I would not be against a healthy lunch," Jon winked at his sister.

"Let's see, we feed him, he stays at our house, and sometimes does laundry. It appears to me, Evie, we have a full grown son no one told us about." Rick looked at his wife.

"Oh, please, Richard. Do not deny you would miss me if I was gone for one day."

"Denied."

"Hater."

"Mooch."

"Cold hearted."

"Drunk."

"Why is that a bad thing?" Jon was truly puzzled.

"Okay, children. Let's not begin our weekend with fighting," Evie chided them again as she sat down to enjoy the sun.

"So, what did you buy Ana for her birthday?" Jon asked as he sat back down in his chair.

"No," Rick stated flatly.

"What?" Jon asked with a sheepish smile.

"You want us to put your name on the gift. Do shit yourself."

"C'mon…I have no idea what to buy a 29 year old fashion Barbie."

"Google it or something."

"We bought her tickets to a fashion show next week in Chicago," Evie told her brother.

"That was brilliant!" Jon responded.

"Thank you," Evie said proudly.

"How much were they?" Jon asked.

"Sorry, Jon- buy your own gift."

"Aw, Evie! C'mon! Don't let Rick rub his cold-heartedness off on you."

"We spent a good amount of money on those tickets. I want her to know it came from Rick and I."

"Fine," Jon sighed, "then at least give me an idea!"

"You have 7 hours to find a present," Rick commented as he looked at his watch. A birthday present last year from Evie. It contained an inscription on the back from Evie.

"She likes makeup…"

"Ya don't say?"

"Go to Sephora and obtain a gift card."

"Brilliant! And that is why I love you, sis." Evie rolled her eyes. Jon smiled and closed his eyes to enjoy his mimosa. Rick sat down next to Evie, who opened a book she brought with her.

"Nap time," Rick commented.

"Book time," Evie commented back. Rick and Jon took their naps as Evie read a new book published on her favorite subject- Egypt.

After lunch, Jon went off in search of Ana's birthday present. Rick shook his head at Jon's last minute effort. He guessed Ana would not know the difference.

Jon showed up again just as Evie and Rick were securing Alex in his car seat to go to Ana's birthday party.

"I got a present!" He waved the card at Rick.

"Congratulations on completing a mission an eight year old could," Rick commented as he buckled Alex's seat in.

"Hey, you should have seen the people I fought through for this!"

"It is a gift card. I am sure there was more than enough," Evie told her brother as she climbed in the front seat.

"Well, it may not have been the gift card as much as the women I was trying to hit on," Jon said as he climbed in next to Alex.

"Ah, the truth emerges," Rick added. He noticed Jon sitting in the back. "Whoa there, partner. Who said you could hitch a ride?"

"I intend on drinking, cowboy."

"Oh, so I have to drive your incoherent sloshed ass home?"

"I am a perfectly capable drunk."

"I have a list of incidents that beg to differ."

"I will call a cab if you want to leave before I do. But I think I will want to leave first, not sure how much Malibu Barbie dream house I can handle."

"Stop being so cynical. The club house is supposed to be beautifully decorated as if we are in Hawaii," Evie turned and told her brother.

"Aloha." Jon added unenthusiastically.

Rick got into the drivers seat as he rolled his eyes. Jon was surely his punishment in this life.

They arrived at the resort that was turned into a luau. A woman in a grass skirt adorned them with a lay as soon as they arrived. Jon smiled at her when they walked away.

"Hello coconuts! You can lay me anytime."

"You are a pig," Evie scowled at him. Rick stifled a laugh as he carried Alex in his bassinet. Ana waved excitedly at them.

"Like yay! You are all here!" Ana hugged all of them. She was wearing a grass skirt, bikini top, and a crown of flowers. Individuals who did not know Ana would find this odd, but they knew her and would think it weird if she did not dress up for her birthday party luau. "May I, like, steal Alex? I want to show off my godson!" Evie smiled and took Alex out of his bassinet. Alex fussed at first but then smiled when he saw Ana. Evie was relieved that he seemed to recognize people who cared for him now. At the beginning only her and Rick could hold him without him crying murder. Ana strutted off with her new accessory.

"I need a bar, stat," Jon stated as his eyes searched the room.

"You don't need a bar, you just want one," Rick said to Jon.

"No, I need one to survive this…" Jon said as he spotted the small bamboo bar in the corner. Evie and Rick followed him to have a drink. Jon walked away with two. "I commend Ian and Ana on an open bar."

"Where is Ian?" Evie asked. As if on queue, Ian slowly walked on in a grass skirt and flower lay on around his neck. He was also holding a small guitar. Ian wore an embarrassed smile. Jon laughed loudly enough for Ian to notice. Ian sighed and walked over to his three friends.

"I am so sorry," Rick squeezed his shoulder only to discover he was covered in coconut oil. Rick grimaced and wiped it off on Jon's shirt.

"May I ask what this is for?" Evie raised her eyebrows.

"Ana wanted to play the parts of authentic Hawaiians for her birthday party. You all need to thank me or this could have been you as well. I said two authentic Hawaiians was plenty," Ian told them. Jon had not stopped laughing since Ian came over.

"I just can't handle this!" Jon had to sit down or he was going to spill his drink.

"Yes, very funny. Crazy what you'll do for your significant other."

"Evie's never made Rick dress up like Aladdin or a pharaoh," Jon stated.

"Not in public…" Evie whispered under her breath. Jon gave her a quizzical look, and Evie blushed when she noticed he heard what she said.

"Do we get a song and dance?" Jon asked hopefully.

"We are dancing together to a slow song but no Hawaiian moves. I did not have time to learn to hula dance. Thank the spirits."

"And I thought tonight was going to be dull," Jon raised his glass and drank.

"I am glad my humiliation is your amusement."

Jon smiled and then noticed a tall brunette coming his way.

"Kara!"

The woman gave Jon a sly smile.

"Jon. It has been a few months," she said as she reached him.

"Too long," Jon replied as he eyed her up and down. Kara then gave Evie an evil look. "This is my sister, her husband, and Ian." Kara nodded in acknowledgement.

"How do you know Ana and Ian?" Evie asked her.

"Ian was my lawyer. He invited many of his good clients."

"Oh, I think you're a bad girl," Jon smirked.

"Why don't we dance?" Kara took Jon's hand and led him to the dance floor.

Evie and Rick looked at Ian for an explanation.

"Don't worry, I just helped her out of numerous parking tickets."

Evie let out a sigh in relief, Rick just shook his head as he took a drink. Ana then went to the center of the dance floor holding Alex and a microphone.

"Like, aloha everyone!" Everyone applauded and whistled back at her. "Thank you for coming to my birthday luau! As you can, like, see Ian and I are authentic Hawaiians…"

Evie leaned in and whispered to Rick.

"Actually an authentic Hawaiian probably would not have worn that," Evie told him. Rick put an arm around her waist and smiled at his overeducated wife.

"…I would like to invite my amazing husband up here with me to dance!" Ana gestured to her husband who blushed by having all the eyes on him in his half naked outfit. Evie followed Ian up to the dance floor to take Alex. She went back to the table and sat next to Rick, as they watched Ian and Ana take the dance floor.

Jon sat down next to his long lost friend as they joined Evie and Rick's table.

"How romantic," Kara cooed at Jon.

"I agree," Jon smiled at her.

Rick rolled his eyes, knowing Jon had made fun of this the whole way here. Jon would do just about anything to please a woman. Rick was glad he was not like that anymore. He had been at one time, and then Evie came along. He looked over at Evie, who was smiling and watching their friends dance. He loved the way her green eyes glowed whenever she was happy and the way her brown wavy hair framed her heart shaped face. Evie must have felt him looking at her, as she turned and smiled at him. He returned the smile and looked at Alex, who was bouncing in his bassinet. This made Evie laugh, she was certain he may fly out.

The dance ended and everyone applauded. Ana and Ian then made their over to their friends' table.

"That was lovely," Evie told Ana who grinned in delight.

"Thank you! And what do you think of my luau?"

"The decorations are splendid!" Evie smiled.

"I am enjoying the open bar," Jon winked at Kara who giggled.

"So, like, glad everyone is enjoying themselves!" Ana hugged Evie excitedly and then went over to the other tables to speak with her guests. Ian plopped down in the chair next to Rick. He looked exhausted.

"Not taking well to the Hawaiian life?" Rick asked Ian with a raised eyebrow.

"I will be happy when this is over, that is for sure." Ian then chugged the beer he had in his hand and followed his grass skirted wife to the next table.

"I beg of you to never do that to me," Rick told Evie.

"I promise," Evie laughed.

"I will pay you a thousand dollars to do it," Jon told Rick.

"You don't have a thousand dollars," Rick crossed his arms.

"I could get it."

"So, Kara, what is your line of work?" Evie asked, trying to change the subject.

"I am an exotic dancer," Kara batted her eyelashes. Rick coughed as he took a drink.

"Oh. Is that lucrative?" Evie asked, genuinely interested.

"I own a Mercedes," Kara leaned in a whispered, as if it was a secret.

"That is a nice vehicle," Evie smiled as she took a drink. She was going to need more of these, she decided.

After several hours at the luau, Alex had fallen asleep and it was time to go home. Rick and Evie bid their Hawaiian inspired friends good night. Jon reluctantly parted with Kara, she had made it clear he would have to buy her dinner first.

Rick started the car to hear Jon singing in the back seat. He was about to yell at him to be quiet, but Alex did not wake up.

"Home….Home on the range….where the deer and the cantaloupe play…" Jon sang to his no-so-thrilled family.

"Antelope," Evie called out from the passenger's seat, with an edge of annoyance in her voice. If Jon wanted to sing, at least he could get the damn words right.

"Oh…antelope! That makes much more sense. I mean how could cantaloupe and deer play? Unless the deer was eating the cantaloupe…" Jon pondered.

"You are sleeping in the backyard tonight," Rick told Jon.

"Well that's rude. I could catch a cold."

"Then you'll be sick and have to stay home. Damn," Rick added sarcastically.

"Oh, Richie, you love me!" Jon hugged him from behind the seat.

"You have exactly three seconds to let go before I turn around and punch you in the jaw," Rick told Jon- clearly aggravated. Evie giggled softly to herself. As long as they were not waking up Alex, she did not mind. Although, she knew as soon as Jon hit the couch he would be out for the night.

Sure enough, as Jon sat down on the couch he lied down and fell asleep. Rick shook his head as he carried Alex up to his room, followed by Evie.

After Alex was taken care of, Rick and Evie made their way to bed.

"I seriously did not sign up for two children," Rick told his wife as he turned out the light.

"Neither did I," Evie told her husband as they drifted off to sleep.

Jon was still sleeping when Rick and Evie made their way to the kitchen to feed Alex in the morning. Evie sat down to feed Alex his bottle while Rick took two pans down that were hanging above the island. Evie gave him a quizzical look, Rick winked at her as he made his way to the couch. As soon as Rick was standing over Jon, he struck the two pots together several times as Jon was so startled he fell over the back of the couch. Evie could not help but laugh after she looked at Alex who barely noticed the noise, he flinched but as soon as Evie smiled down at him he went back to his bottle.

"What the hell!" Jon exclaimed as he stood up to Rick, who was clearly amused by the giant laughs he was emitting.

"Good morning," Rick gave him a fake smile and went to put the pots pack. He leaned in and gave Alex a kiss. "Thank you for being brave my son."

"That was incredibly uncalled for! I have a terrible headache," Jon stated as he rubbed his temples.

"And that, Jon, is why I did it," Rick told him.

"I hate you."

Rick took his finger and traced a fake tear down his cheek. Evie rolled her eyes and continued to feed her son.

"Well, I am going to head home to sleep and eat off this hangover," Jon told his family as he headed for the door."

"Bye, Jon. Be safe!" Evie told him. He saluted her as he went to open the door. Just as he opened the door, he halted and stared openly.

"What are you doing here?" Jon asked someone that Evie and Rick could not see. Rick immediately walked to the door to see Ardeth Bay.

Ardeth Bay was a leader of the Med-Jai. The Med-Jai are a part of ancient warriors who pledged to protect the evil secrets of Ancient Egypt. They had been around for thousand of years. Rick, Evie, and Jon had fought along side Ardeth and the Med-Jai numerous times to defeat the evil that had been unleashed. Evie had more knowledge about the ancient world than anyone Ardeth knew. Rick was also a descendent of the Med-Jai, which he did not readily accept at first. Ardeth knew no better couple who was capable to help him in times of ancient evil uprising. It had only been a few months since the incident with Evie's kidnapping. While Ardeth had not been able to come himself, he sent another capable leader to assist him.

"Ardeth Bay?" Rick asked in shock. Evie looked up from Alex as her eyes widened in shock.

"Hello, my friends," Ardeth bowed to Rick and Jon. Ardeth was an excellent warrior and exuded a sort of royal air in the way he spoke and acted.

"Well, I assume you weren't just in the neighboring stopping by for a cup of sugar," Rick said to him as he opened the door for Ardeth to come in. Jon's head was already spinning, now he was looking at Ardeth Bay in his black and silver robes. He looked out of place in the living room of the O'Connells.

"Evelyn," Ardeth bowed again acknowledging Evie, who was still in the kitchen feeding Alex.

"Hello, Ardeth," Evie smiled back at him.

"So, what is it this time? Undead mummy? Grave robbers? Giant bug people?"

"I fear much worse. That is why I came for your assistance."

"Why are we always involved? I thought protecting evil secrets was your job," Jon asked Ardeth as he threw his hands up.

"I was not particularly asking you," Ardeth told Jon. Jon looked confused, while Rick looked amused.

"What happened?" Evie asked Ardeth as she stood up to burp her son.

"Another copy of the book of the dead was found. We need to find the temple of Anubis before any more tragedies strike."

"The temple of Anubis? That was buried beneath the ocean in an earthquake that was before Cleopatra's time."

"I know. Apparently these individuals swam to the bottom of the sea."

"What? Are they mermaids?" Jon asked. Ardeth ignored his question.

"Do you know much about this temple, Evelyn?" Ardeth looked to his friend. He smiled at the small boy Evie was holding. He knew that boy would grow up to be a great warrior.

"Only what I have read and heard. Apparently many Egyptians believed it was cursed because several of the priests died every year. They feared the temple and would not go further than the front steps of the temple. The pharaoh had a difficult time obtaining priests to serve the god. Most gods had throngs of people wanting to serve their gods to ensure a glorious afterlife. But, for some reason, this temple was different. A few centuries before Cleopatra, a great earthquake caused the temple to sink to the bottom of the sea. There had been several attempts by past Egyptologists to try and find the temple, but no one ever succeeded. The last known expedition I have heard of was in the 1950s, resulting in the whole team drowning."

"Lovely story," Jon added sarcastically as he rubbed his temples.

"Do you know what was taken?' Evie inquired.

"We believe there was another copy of the book of the dead there." Everyone went silent when Ardeth spoke these words.

"What?" Rick asked.

"Well, as you are aware, Anubis is the god of the underworld. It would only make sense for a copy of this book to be there."

"Why in the hell would they copy that awful book?" Jon asked to no one in particular.

"It was probably the original. The one we found at Hamunaptra may have been the copy. The original probably was the rough draft or a crude form of it. It will probably be much more dangerous," Evie said to them with a worried look.

"That is what I had feared," Ardeth told his friends.

"And what do you think they want it for?" Evie asked.

"We are not completely sure. But we believe it may have something to do with bringing an army to life."

"An army? A whole army?" Jon was surprised. "What for?"

"Why to conquer the world, of course," Rick added with sarcasm.

"He is correct," Ardeth looked at them all.

Rick ran his fingers through his dark blonde hair, as he often did when frustrated or annoyed. Jon had sunk down into the couch and stared at the ceiling. Ardeth felt guilty for invading his friends' lives, but since the moment they met- he knew they were all descended for greater things whether they liked it or not. Evie clutched her son, knowing she was going to have to leave him again. She hated that. She hated it more than just about anything. But if she did not go, Alex might grow up in an awful world.

"And why exactly do you need us?" Rick crossed his arms and looked at Ardeth. He hoped maybe Ardeth was just giving him a "for your information" speech, not actually requesting their help.

"Because, you all have dealt with this before and understand it. We have defeated this evil with your help in the past. For many reasons, Allah has chosen you to fulfill this destiny. To protect mankind from evils that may be produced. The world depends on you all," Ardeth put a hand on Rick's shoulder.

"No pressure or anything," Jon said under his breath.

Rick looked over at his wife, who met his eyes. She knew what they had to do, and he also knew she did not want to leave their son. Rick sighed and looked back at his friend.

"When do we leave?"

Ardeth smiled his appreciation at Rick; Ardeth truly did not know what he would do without him or Evie.

"I would like to leave tonight," Ardeth stated.

"That will give us time to get our things together and Alex taken care of," Evie said aloud.

"I will meet you by the field where your friend Roland has his plane," Ardeth said as he turned to leave.

"How do you know Roland?" Rick asked, confused.

"He is also a descendent of the Med-Jai. His father was one," Ardeth told Rick as he walked out their front door. They all exchanged glances at each other.

"I am not completely surprised. Roland does have a warrior way about him, much like you do," Evie said to Rick.

"Valid point," Rick commented as his mind was off thinking.

"So, I guess I have to go home and pack now," Jon slowly got up from the couch.

"Are you sure you want to come?" Rick asked his brother-in-law.

"We've always went on these adventures together, and it always ended well. Why mess with fate?" Jon said as he walked out to his car. Rick walked over to Evie and took Alex playfully in his arms.

"Should I call Aunt Sue or Ana and Ian?" Evie asked her husband as she watched him play with a happy Alex.

"Aunt Sue and Dr. Bey. It is just too much to explain to Ana and Ian," Rick told his wife. She nodded in agreement and went for the phone.

Rick and Evie both packed for their Egyptian adventure. However, neither of them was completely sure how long they will be. But they knew to pack light, as they would be traveling quit often.

As soon as they were loaded into the car, Jon came in a cab and loaded his things. They then went to Aunt Sue and Dr. Bey's. Evie started to cry, she hated this. Aunt Sue comforted her and reminded her of what she was doing was for Alex. Rick said his good bye to Alex, as did Jon. Rick had to pull Evie away before she changed her mind.

Once they got back into the car, she turned to her husband.

"I feel like the worst mother in the universe," Evie said to him with tears still stinging her eyes. Rick reached over and squeezed her hand.

"We are doing what we have to do."

Evie shook her head in agreement, knowing her husband was right. Rick started the car and they were off to meet Ardeth.

Ardeth was waiting at the field with Roland. Rick was still a little astonished to see them together. He had known Roland for many years, but never knew he was an accomplice to the Med-Jai. Then again, Roland did not know Rick was a descendant of one.

"Well, here we are again, gang. Ya know, I think you are all just using me for my plane," Roland winked at them. Evie smiled to herself, it was nice having a friendly face on this dangerous journey and having another capable pair of fighting hands.

The five warriors got into the plane. Rick took to the cockpit with Roland, as Jon sat between Ardeth and Evie. He hated being in the middle. Ardeth was not so pleased at being near the window; he was not a fan of heights. Ardeth closed the small curtain to the window before he spoke to his friends.

"As soon as we land Yon and a few others will meet us and take us to the village. Then we will discuss a plan of action."

"A plan of action, eh?" Roland asked over the hum of the airplane. "I personally like going in and kicking ass."

Ardeth smiled at his preferred plan.

"The only problem with that is we are not entirely sure who is responsible. Some of our scouts have seen various individuals near the supposed sight of the temple of Anubis, but we are not sure who they are. I am hoping when we return we will have more insight."

"So, we are basically chasing no one?" Jon asked annoyed.

"There is someone, or some people, we just do not know who exactly as of this moment."

"Well, when we find them I will personally enact my rage. I was supposed to be in a hotel with my wife for our anniversary," Roland furrowed his brow.

"Sorry, man," Rick told his friend.

"Ah, well, it gives me something to look forward to," Roland winked at Rick who laughed at his friend. If Rick had a brother, he would have wanted him to be like Roland.

"I should have brought a pillow," Jon said as he squirmed in his seat.

"Why don't you use your jacket?" Evie looked over at her brother.

"See, sis, you are the brains of the family," Jon said as he took of his jacket, squirming even more until he had it off.

"I, for one, will not argue with that," Ardeth said aloud. Rick and Roland laughed as Jon frowned at the Med-Jai warrior.

"It looks good," Amed told her. She looked at herself in the mirror he held. Her red hair was now black as the night. She had to disguise herself so those awful Med-Jai would not recognize her.

"A disguise is a disguise," she told him as she buttoned her shirt. Amed had saved her not long ago from the grips of quicksand. The Med-Jai had left her to die. All she wanted was the gold, so she could enjoy a nice life. She lost her brother in the attack. Well, it did not hurt her that much. He had been an annoyance. However, she personally blamed Evelyn O'Connell for that. If her husband had not come for her, he would still be alive. As soon as Amed had pulled her from the deathly sand, she hatched a new plane. Amed had been the only one to survive the attack.

Sarie stepped out into the night and saw her newly formed team around various camp fires. She walked over to the tent guarded by three burly men. They parted when they saw her coming. She entered the tent and saw the black book of the dead still in the box she put it in. She knelt down and caressed it. All they needed was the key to open it. Then she would raise the army of a pharaoh to enact her revenge. Her first target was the O'Connells. She had a feeling they were already on her way. If she knew the Med-Jai, she knew they had found out about the disturbance in the underwater temple. Who better to help them then the all knowing Evelyn O'Connell? Sarie smiled at what she wanted to do to Evelyn.

When the plane landed right outside of Cairo, Jon bolted awake. Evie glared at him as she noticed the drool he left on her shoulder. He had leaned over on her and pinned her in. Rick offered to move him, but Evie just let him be.

"Sorry about that, sis."

"Next time you can sleep in the cargo section," Evie said as she motioned for him to follow Ardeth to get out of the plane. They all descended the stairs.

Ardeth smiled at his Med-Jai warriors waiting for him atop their horses. He has also instructed them to bring horses for the O'Connells.

As Jon looked around, he now felt out of place among the black and silver robes adorned with swords. His group looked like they ransacked an army store with their dark clothes and boots.

Rick gave everyone their bag as they all bowed to the Med-Jai and went atop their horses.

"We will ride for awhile until we reach the village. Then we will determine our plan."

"Your village?" Evie asked.

"Yes. It will be safe there until we have a plan and then can set up camp closer to our destination."

"I have never seen a Med-Jai village," Evie smiled.

"Does everyone wear black? I may feel out of place," Jon frowned at his green khakis. Rick shot a look at Jon. Ardeth laughed as he motioned for the horses to move forward.

"No. Only the warriors and leaders do. The woman's clothing is quit colorful actually. However, you do make a valid point, Mr. Carnahan. Perhaps I will find some clothes for you four to better fit in."

"I will warn you, I look good in black!" Jon told him.

"We will restrain ourselves," Rick added.

The team made their way across the desert to the Med-Jai village. After several hours of riding, Rick was beginning to think they were not going to reach it before nightfall. Then, it seemed, out of nowhere- it appeared. The village looked large. It was surrounded by what appears to be a large moat- several miles long. Ardeth explained to them as they grew near it was a small river from the Nile itself. Several bridges were heavily guarded around the village. As they drew near, Evelyn could see various parts of the village. There appeared to be a training camp for the warriors, parts of town where houses were together, farming areas, shops, and even what appeared to be an arena. Evie chastised herself for thinking the Med-Jai were not capable of having such an extraordinary village.

They crossed the bridge as several of the heavily armed guards bowed to Ardeth, who nodded back at them. Ardeth lead them through the village to the stables. Several of the townspeople glanced in their direction at the outsiders. It was rare for them to have outsiders in their village, especially Americans.

Once they reached the stables, Ardeth lead them to a stone house nearby.

"This can be your house while you stay here during this journey. I am going to meet with the commanders and come back soon so we can all meet," Ardeth told them.

"Thank you," Evie smiled at Ardeth before he walked off towards the direction they came.

Evie and Rick entered the stone house followed by Roland and Jon. It was one large room with four hammocks, a fireplace, and a small table with chairs.

"What the hell are those? Hammocks?" Jon asked.

"Thank you, captain obvious," Rick replied.

Roland sat down on one of the hammocks.

"Hey, not bad! And I have a feeling these will be a welcomed relief after days in the desert."

"Excuse me," came a voice from the door. They all turned to see a young girl holding some clothes.

"Hello," Evie smiled at the girl, who could not have been more than twelve. She wore a bright blue dress and her black hair hung down to her shoulders. The girl smiled when Evie talked to her, as the little girl the big men with her seemed a bit scary.

"Ardeth Bay told me to bring these to you," The girl held out the clothes to Evie.

"Thank you," Evie told the small girl as she skipped away. Jon looked at the black and silver clothes Evie held. Evie figure the top one was hers, as it was more of a dress. She let the men fight over the others.

"I have to wear a skirt!" Jon exclaimed.

"It's a robe. There are pants for underneath," Roland explained as he examined his own clothes.

"Anything that looks like a skirt is a skirt," Jon told him as he put his hand on his hips.

"So, you're a skirt?" Rick asked, noticing the way Jon was standing. Jon immediately crossed his arms instead.

After Evie and Rick changed, they waited outside for Jon and Roland. Rick smiled at his wife. She looked rather nice in her black dress. It hugged her curves in all the right places, while the silver on the belt and sleeves made her look like a warrior.

"What are you smiling about?" Evie cocked her head at him.

"The robes fit nicely," he said.

"You don't look bad yourself," she commented as her eyes roamed his black robes, pants, and the silver that adorned his sleeves.

Roland emerged and had almost identical robes on as Rick. Then Jon emerged with his robes, which looked rather odd on him- especially since he wore a scowl on his face.

"I feel like a Halloween costume," Jon said as he joined the others.

"That doesn't make any sense," Rick told Jon.

"You don't make any sense," Jon said back. Evie sighed. Jon seemed like he was younger than Alex sometimes. Rick was about to say something back when Ardeth walked over with the sun setting behind him. He smiled at his friends.

"All I need to do is give you all swords and you'll be warriors," he told them.

"I'm wearing a skirt!" Jon threw his hands up.

"It is a robe," Roland glared at him.

"It's a part of the skirt family!"

"I think we are ready to go with you, Ardeth," Rick started walking toward him as he glared at Jon over his shoulder.

Ardeth began walking in the opposite direction they came. Evie took in the town and the people. Since night was almost here, men and woman were closing down their shops. She noticed everyone but the warriors wore black. She saw some of the prettiest colors on the dresses of woman and young girls. A few of the younger girls smiled at Evie, and she smiled back.

Ardeth lead them to a large tented area. As they walked inside, four other Med-Jai warriors stood talking around a small fire. Evie noticed one of them was a woman. She had never seen a woman Med-Jai warrior before. She had long black hair held back in a ribbon and a sword on her hip. She looked as regal as the other warriors.

"Yon, Tarib, Abed, and Raina- this is Evelyn, Rick, Jon, and Roland," Ardeth introduced them. Everyone exchanged a courtesy bow. Jon felt like he should curtsy.

"It is good to see you well, Evelyn," Yon told Evie.

"Thank you, I am honored to be able to assist you after you assisted me," Evie smiled.

"Pleas, everyone have a seat. We have much to discuss," Tarib gestured with his large burly hands. Jon noticed how fit and muscular these warriors were, he felt if he said the wrong thing he may get beaten up. While he is a ladies man, he was not going to even attempt to flirt with Raina.

As they sat down, Tarib passed everyone some wine.

"This is my kind of party," Jon commented. Rick nudged him in the ribs.

"I am aware Ardeth has explained why you are all here and the urgency of the matter. We hope to visit the sit of the fallen temple at tomorrow's first light. Our scouts reported no one in the nearby area, so we should be safe for now," Tarib told everyone. "Our scouts also reported the party they had seen nearby a few days ago moved onto to the east towards the Valley of the Kings. We are assuming now they are looking for an army to raise."

Jonathan raised his hand to ask a question; Rick rolled his eyes and put Jon's hand down.

"Question?" Ardeth asked.

"Yes," Jon glared at Rick. "Why don't we stop them now, before they raise the undead? Could solve the whole problem!"

"We cannot invade a party when we do not know their true intentions or they do not directly attack us. They could just be looking for things they never will find. We are not even sure if these particular individuals have the book of the dead. None of our scouts have seen it yet," Tarib answered Jon.

"They will also have to have the key to open the book. Do we know if that has been taken?" Evie asked.

"Our hope is that they have not found the key yet. One of the reasons we are going to travel to the sit of the fallen temple. We hope the key still remains there and we can take it before they do. That could solve the problem," Tarib told Evie. Rick glanced at Jon, who was too busy with his wine to hear Tarib's tone in the last statement.

"If the temple is underwater, how will we expect to find the key?" Roland asked.

"The whole temple may not be underwater," Evie added- remembering the legend she heard from her parents many years ago. "It was written-"

"Why is everything written? Isn't that how we get into these situations? People read shit!" Jon exclaimed. Rick had had enough. Rick leaned into Jon's face.

"Shut up, or I will see to it you shut up."

Jon gulped and nodded.

"Anyway," Evie gestured with her hands. "This legend said Anubis felt his priests were not giving him the praise he deserved, so he caused an earthquake to take the temple. However, Isis wanted to protect the Egyptians from death. So, in the middle of the earthquake she stopped it. However, part of the temple went into the water, and the other part did not. Anubis was furious but decided to let it go since most of the priests perished and would now serve him in the afterlife."

"So, maybe we can find the part of the temple on the land and find the key," Rick added.

"I was unaware of those details; I had only hoped we would find clues to where it was in the underwater city, and then perhaps find a means to dive in the water. However this plan sounds more efficient," Ardeth thought aloud.

"Agreed," Raina chimed in. "I prefer not to test my ability to hold my breath under water."

"Evelyn, can you tell us anything further that you have heard or read in regards to the temple of Anubis?" Tarib asked.

"Only the horror of the priests drowning and trying to save their own lives," Evie said with a gentle sadness in her voice. The tent went quiet as everyone pondered what Evie just said.

"So," Raina interrupted the silence, "we meet at first light on the west bridge?"

"Yes," Ardeth said as he stood. The other followed his lead. Rick had to force Jon up, as he was in the middle of a drink of wine. "I would also like to invite you all to the feast tonight," Ardeth said to the O'Connell clan. "We always have a feast before a perilous journey. We would be honored if you would join us."

"Of course," Rick smiled.

Ardeth lead them all out to the arena they had passed when they arrived. Men, women, and children were all over the place. Food was being served and music was playing. Some were even dancing towards the musicians. Evie could not help but smile at this simple gathering of the Med-Jai. The only thing that was missing was her son. She missed him, but knew he was safer where he was. Rick must have read her mind as he held her hand as they were lead to the food. Jon practically sprinted towards it.

Evie found herself seated next to Raina as they enjoyed the feast. She had a thousand questions for this interesting woman.

"It's Raina, correct?" Evie asked trying to start the conversation with her.

"That is correct, Evelyn," Raina smiled.

"Are there many women warriors?" Evie asked excitedly. To hell with being polite, she was curious. Raina laughed at Evie's curiosity, she was brimming with it.

"Not many, I am afraid. I am the first in over thirty years. My father died in a great battle, and my mother died not long after of an illness. I found one of my father's swords and never let it go. A past leader saw the fire within me and encouraged me to become a warrior. It was hard to get past the sneers and rejection of some of the tribesmen. This just made me work harder. I killed more evil men in my first battle than any of the male warriors," Raina smiled at the memory. "That was many years ago. Now, the leaders seek me for journeys such as the one we are embarking on tomorrow."

"That is amazing," Evie said in awe. She wished she had pen and paper to write down Raina's story and ask more questions.

"Well, thank you," Raina laughed. "It was a difficult journey to obtain the respect I know have, but well worth it. I am happy again. I get to destroy the evil that took my father, and-", Raina's eyes roamed to Tarib who was speaking with Rick, "I am to be married soon." Evie saw Raina's gaze and smiled.

"Oh, congratulations!" Evie's not sure why, but she hugged the woman. Raina was a bit taken back but returned the hug before Evie released. Evie was amazed by this woman and what she accomplished. She felt a sisterly connect with her, Evie was usually the sole woman but not this time. She had someone to connect with, even though she barely knew her.

"You're an interesting woman, Evelyn. You could have been a warrior in your own right," Raina told her as she sipped her wine. Evie smiled.

"Any warrior skills I have will have to be because of my husband. He taught me to defend myself when needed," Evie glanced over her shoulder and smiled at Rick, who was in deep conversation with Jon, Roland, Tarib, and Ardeth.

"Smart man," Raina replied.

After the feast, the O'Connell party headed to their stone house. Evie and Rick choose the two hammocks next to one another, while Jon and Roland choose the others. Rick was about to blow out the candle next to him when he saw Jon fighting with the hammock.

"Are you about done wrestling with the hammock?"

"This is ridiculous! How did you all get in?"

"Just hold it down and lay down. It really does not require a genius," Roland told Jon with irritation in his voice. He was tired and they had a long day ahead of them.

"You do realize who you are talking to?" Rick asked Roland. Jon took Roland's advice and flopped down on the hammock and fought with it a little more before finally grabbing his blanket and becoming still.

"I think I got it!" Jon said proudly.

"Congratulations," Roland said as he closed his eyes and Rick blew out the candle that only left the room with a soft glow from the fire. He leaned over to kiss Evie good night; she sleepily smiled at his touch.

"What if I have to pee?" Jon asked quietly.

"Then grab a flashlight and go," Rick mumbled.

"What if there is a snake?" Jon asked again.

"Then run the other way," Rick mumbled again.

"What if-"

"Shut up!" Rick and Roland said in unison.

"Fine," Jon pouted. They all eventually fell asleep inside their stone house in the middle of a Med-Jai camp.

"Just do it!" Sarie screamed at some of the diggers in front of a tomb several miles from the Valley of the Kings. One of the diggers had told the others it was extremely dangerous to open tombs of former Egyptian royalty, and now they all were scared.

Sarie had no patience for this. They could only dig at night so they would not get noticed. During the day she studied maps and thought of plans while hiding in an old warehouse not far away. These diggers were going to break open the tomb, even if she had to kill one to show how serious she was. Amed stood close by, ensuring no harm came to Sarie. She had made him a guard on her previous expedition. She found him in a bar and his muscles caused her to ask him about the job. While he was a man of little emotions, he felt he owed her for saving him from a life as a bouncer in bars.

"Amed, why don't we show the diggers how serious we are?" Sarie turned to him with a sneer on her lips. Amed walked over and picked up the man who started the discussion about opening tombs. Amed could lift him by one arm and held out his knife with the other to the man's throat. The man squirmed in Amed's strong grip.

"If someone does not start digging right now, his throat will be slit with the blood on your hands," Sarie stated calmly, as if she was discussing the weather. The other diggers stood there wide eyed while the man squirmed and cried out to be put down. One of the diggers began hacking on the tomb entrance while the others followed. Amed dropped the first digger, who scrambled away to join the others. "Thank you, Amed. Sometimes insolence needs to be taught a lesson." Amed gave an evil smile to her and then resumed watching the diggers chip away ancient stone.

Rick was the first one awake just as the sun was peaking up. He stirred the others and they quickly packed to meet the Med-Jai.

Ardeth, Tarib, Raina, Yon, and about a dozen other warriors waited with their horses for them. The O'Connell posse climbed onto their horses and waited for Ardeth's instructions.

"We will head west towards the temple. We should be there by mid-day," Ardeth told everyone. He received a collective nod. Ardeth urged his horse onward and everyone followed him into the desert as the sun made its way slowly into the sky.

Silence was loud during the first few hours of their journey, as the Med-Jai were being watchful, Jon was in and out of sleep, and the others were lost in their own thoughts.

It was almost mid-day and Rick saw no sign of an ancient temple. He saw mostly sand and various villages throughout their trip. Then, it seemed out of no where, a great mound of sand appeared against what appeared to be part of the Nile. They all stopped collectively and stared at the mound that appeared a few miles away.

"That must be it," Evie spoke to no one in particular.

"It's covered in sand," Rick stated.

"The other part must be under the water," Evie responded.

"Let's get closer," Raina chimed in.

The travelers rode the last few miles until they were directly in front of the giant temple. It was hard to see the temple. All they could see was a large sand dune, which they assumed the temple was under by the rectangular shape.

Everyone jumped off their horses and stood right in front of the giant mound of sand. It seemed to Evie the sand dune was at least two miles high. Something this large would have to contain secrets inside. Evie noticed something sticking out; it appeared to be some sort of handle. She went towards it and brushed some of the sand aside.

"What is it?" Rick asked.

"I think it may be a handle."

"Perhaps we should pull it so we can get inside," Tarib added.

"Let's not and say we did," Jon said nervously. Roland raised an eyebrow at him.

"I agree. Let's see what the handle will do," Ardeth suggested. Evie nodded and gripped the protruding oval rock. She tried pulling it, but nothing happened. Evie furrowed her brow and then thought of something. She pushed the oval rock in and the sand began to shake and fall. Rick grabbed her arm.

"Run!" Rick yelled as he pulled Evie away. No one argued with Rick as they ran with their horses toward safety. The sand quickly fell like a wave behind them, leaving only several feet between them and the rushing sand.

After several minutes of running, the sand dispersed enough where it was just added to the sand surrounding the newly revealed temple. One by one they stopped running and turned to see the enormous temple behind them. The temple was slightly slanted from being half submerged into the water nearby. Two large doors were at the front, one partially opened by Evie's actions. The rest of the outside of the temple had faded color drawings around it. Drawings, Evie assumed, for the glory of Anubis.

Everyone caught their breath from their quick run.

"Everyone alright?" Roland asked. He received nods.

"I should have stayed home," Jon said under his breath. Ardeth turned to the Med-Jai warriors behind him.

"Raina, Tarib, and I will accompany the O'Connells inside. Yon will stay here with all of you keeping guard in case of danger. Station someone around the entire temple and devise a plan of action if needed," he instructed them. While Yon was also a leader of the Med-Jai, it appeared Ardeth was always in charge.

Evie started walking back towards the temple with Rick and the others right on her heels. Her curiosity was getting the better of her. Rick walked faster to stay next to her. Sometimes he cursed her curiosity.

"Please stay near me," he whispered to her and pleaded with his eyes.

"I promise," Evie gave him a smile as they reached the front of the temple. The stairs leading inside were taller than any of them and would have to be climbed to get inside.

Evie and Rick started the slow ascend to the top. It took everyone quit some time to reach the top. Some stairs were cracked, some were only half there, and others begged to be avoided.

As they all finally reached the top, Roland passed everyone a flashlight. Evie tried opening the door but it was too heavy for just her. She glanced over her shoulder for assistance. Rick and Roland managed to help her open the door. As the door fully opened, Jon shined his flashlight in. Evie gasped in shock...