A.N.

I literally have not slept in 2 days, my son is getting his 1st molars in so I thought why not write some more since I'm up and before I knew it I wrote 11,000 words, so fair warning this chapter is super long.

So a little bit of background, Egyptian culture believed that when we die our soul is split into several parts, they believed in a much more diverse way of thinking where it is possible to exist in multiple places simultaneously. They also believed in hundreds of deities and believed that when we die a part of our soul if it has lived a worthy life can enjoy the everlasting peace of the afterlife while if your heart was reflected as a sinner, your entire soul was devoured by the crocodile demon thus you cease to exist. Chapter three is going to be more in-depth of it but I wanted to give a little direction because I know Yugioh touches on it but ultimately differs a bit from actual mythology.

I loved the Ancient Egyptian culture since I was a child and I studied extensively to become an Egyptologist until my Father was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer. I used my personal experiences and poured myself into this piece of work so I truly hope you enjoy it. While writing this I listened to Ivan Torrent's deeply moving songs

-Passage to Eden

-Skyborn

When Anzu performs I drew inspiration from Lindsey Stirling's Elements.

I do not own the rights to any listed artists nor Yugioh or it's characters.

Chapter Two_

Before long, night time had passed quietly and Atem felt himself to slip off into reluctant sleep once the sun had been down for a few hours. It was still a few hours prior to sunrise when a knocking came at his chamber doors. "Enter," sleep fled his mind and Atem's deep voice carried easily across the room.

The woman previously assigned to stand watch over Anzu entered his chamber with her head dipped and eyes cast downward, "Your Majesty, forgive the intrusion but the Lady Anzu has awoken."

Atem sat up quickly throwing the sheets off his body and headed out the door down the hall, not bothering to dress in his royal jewels. The servant followed at a slight distance with her gaze still cast down. Atem without turning his head asked, "Has she been awake long?"

"No my king, I apologize, I did not come immediately, but rather when the Lady awoke she was very anxious and panicked about missing dinner with you so I took a few moments to calm her and assure her that you were not angry at her, please punish me if I shouldn't have spoken for you," the servant dropped fully to the floor on her hands and knees as they reached Anzu's chambers awaiting Atem's judgment.

Turning to the bowing servant, "That will be all, return to your mistress," dismissing her effectively, Atem knocked and waited for the soft voice bidding him enter. Anzu's back was facing him as she sat on a golden chair lavishly decorated with scenes of the goddesses Isis and Osiris.

When the person had entered, Anzu had assumed it was the kind servant from earlier returning. Even though the woman had assured Anzu that Atem was understanding at her need for rest, Anzu still felt bad especially after the servant had helped her change into the beautiful dress Isis had given her earlier.

When no one spoke, Anzu pulled her gaze from the nearby window where she had been gazing up into the Egyptian night sky, silently distressing about missing her dinner with Atem. Upon noticing exactly who it was who entered, Anzu jumped up from her seat and turned into a bow clasping her hands together with a slight blush dusting across the bridge of her nose, "I'm so sorry, Pharaoh. I didn't realize that woman from earlier would wake you nor did I intend to miss dinner with you." Atem pulled himself away from the pillar he had leaned up against when he noticed Anzu deep in thought as he entered her chamber.

Crossing the room quickly, Atem reach Anzu and gently palmed his warm hand under her elbow, lifting her head from her bowed position before him, "Anzu, you do not need to address me so formally, we are so much beyond that now and you also do not have to bow before me in private."

Claiming one of her hands in his free one, Atem tucked her arm into the crook of his and began guiding her down the dimly lit corridor towards the banquet hall, "Now since you missed dinner would you care to join me for breakfast?"

"But Pharaoh...I mean Atem," Anzu slightly faltering at his flat stare when she continued to address him formally, "Isn't it still night time?"

"It is just before dawn, do not worry the others will arise soon save Mana," Atem and Anzu reached the banquet hall where the massive table was slowly being filled with bowls of dates and figs while some baskets held loaves of bread and jugs of beer placed throughout.

Upon entering, the servants all stopped what they had been doing and dropped into deep bows towards Atem and Anzu by default. Anzu who was unaccustomed to such treatment stepped behind Atem as much as she could due to her hand still being trapped in his as he raised his arm in greeting to his servants to signal them to continue their work.

Striding up to the head of the table, Atem gestured Anzu to sit on the brightly colored cushions spread out on the floor beside himself at the head of the table causing a few nearby servants to falter slightly in their tasks. Taking his seat beside her, Atem waved over a servant who had been placing plates and goblets down the table for the typical occupants to place a setting where Anzu now sat.

Anzu could tell something was up and looked around nervously before turning to Atem as he took two goblets of wine being offered to them by a servant for each of them, "Thank you," Anzu accepted the cup and asked, "Am I doing something wrong?"

"No," Atem swallowed a gulp of wine before clearing his throat, "I have never allowed someone to sit beside me like this, the servants are just confused."

"Oh!" Panic entered her eyes however, Atem seemed to read her thoughts for as she started to stand he laid his hand firmly on her shoulder when she motioned to move her seat, "It is fine Anzu, I wished for you to sit beside me so we may talk without raising our voices, besides I am Pharaoh," he winked, "I make the rules."

Anzu relaxed slightly back into her seat as she turned to the table, noticing the intricate carvings partially blocked beneath the food, "Is this another legend of your time living as Pharaoh?" Anzu sipped her wine very timidly, she had never tried it when she was living and had no wish to get drunk and make a bad impression.

Atem noticed her tiny sips but decided to answer her question first, "Yes and no," Atem motioned for the servants to begin filling his and Anzu's plates despite her protests at being waited on, "It is part of their duties Anzu," Anzu's protests faded away reluctantly and she politely thanked the elderly woman who in return bowed earnestly with a broad genuine smile.

"The legend is about the Goddess Isis and when found all of the pieces of her husband Osiris who had been cut apart by his jealous brother Set. She took the pieces and bandaged him back together and used her magic to reanimate him as neither living or dead. Isis then went on to bear Osiris a son who won back his father's kingdom in the living while his father ruled over the dominion of the dead. It is partially my story because it is said that the Pharaoh is the physical representation of the god Horus while we live and when we die part of our Ka, or the spiritual part of one's soul, becomes apart of Osiris while the remainder of our soul that we call the Ba, or personality of the soul lives on in the undying lands eternally."

Anzu sat fascinated by the story and hadn't noticed the arrival of Isis and Mahad, and a couple of other guardians she hadn't met yet. "Good Morning, my Pharaoh, Lady Anzu. I trust you both slept well?" Isis gentle voice startled Anzu momentarily out of her focus on Atem as she turned her head to greet Isis with a hesitant smile while Atem gave a slight nod at the newcomers sitting in the designated seats.

"Anzu," Atem began, drawing her attention back to himself to introduce the remainder of his guardians, "This is Shadi, holder of the Millennium Key and Karim holder of the Millennium Scales." The two bowed and gave Anzu kind smiles but refrained from speaking as everyone's attention was drawn to the entrance as arguing could be heard coming rapidly from down the hall.

Only Anzu jumped as Mana came running into the hall with a familiar headpiece in her arms before she dashed just as quickly into a large decorative pot right before a panting Priest Seto burst into the room without his obvious headwear, apparently chasing the mischievous mage for his stolen property.

"Good morning Seto," Mahad greeted boisterously, "Come join us..." Mahad was cut off however by the look the enraged former Pharaoh turned back into High Priest shot the court Magician.

"Yes Yes, Mahad, good morning Pharaoh, fellow Guardians, Honored Guest," Seto stalked over to one pot Mana was not hiding in peering in before moving onto the next pot, then the following pot until finally at the last one a large puff of smoke exploded in his face as he peered into pot with his headdress being launched backward onto his face as Mana scurried out the room.

Growling loudly, Seto pulled his headdress off and wiped his face with a scrap of linen being handed to him by a servant before placing the headdress on correctly and turning his attention back to the table as he took his seat and gulped a large swig of his beer.

Anzu's eyes were the only ones wide with shock as everyone around the table began turning back to their conversations.

Turning towards Atem with a confused expression, Atem decided to whisper in her ear and explain the weird chemistry between the Mage and Priest, "Mana has an infatuation with Seto, who is still oblivious, she does this sort of thing routinely to him in order to gain his attention, all the while thinking that no one else knows."

Anzu nodded and gave a shy smile before turning her attention to the plate of fruits and bread Atem was offering her to try, and listening to him talk about the different things about Egyptian culture he had experienced growing up 3000 years ago.

Some time had passed and Anzu felt must more comfortable and more relaxed about her presence, especially when no one made any motion to question why she was there.

Once the meal had been completed and the servants were beginning to take the soiled dishes away to be washed, Atem turned his attention fully onto Seto who was drinking the last remnants of his cup, "Seto, you will preside over today's daily meetings with the ministers, there are only a few issues to deal with and most of them are dealing with the temples anyways," Seto sighed and bowed his head towards Atem, "As you wish your Majesty, I will complete the duties fully, will Isis and Mahad be joining me?"

"I do not think their presence is necessary however I will send out word to Mana that she is to help with court duties today," Atem gave Seto a knowing smirk who grinned back in response, "In that case, my King, I shall be extra diligent and go over each detail with careful inspection."

Mahad rolled his eyes at Seto's evil grin as the Priest held anticipation in his expression towards Mahad's former apprentice, "My king what shall Isis and I be assigned?"

Atem turned to the couple, his expression thoughtful, "Why not take a rest, both of you have been working hard with the summit being held at the end of this moon, enjoy the day together."

The couple looked slightly shocked and bowed hesitantly to Atem, "If that is your will my King," Isis murmured perplexed.

"Shadi, I need you to organize the scrolls in the library, the junior Priests seemed to have not put them back in order once again and I would rather not rush to set them back to order right before the summit." Shadi bowed his turbine covered head to Atem who turned his attention to the last guardian at the table, "Karim I'll need to oversee the cavalry to check on their progress for the summit and make sure the horses are in a fit condition for all the carriages coming." Karim bowed and crossed one arm over his chest, "At once my King!"

"My King?" Isis's hesitant voice broke through, "If I may be so bold as to ask what your plans are?" Everyone seemed to tense and go still at Isis's reminding words and Anzu felt a shiver of trepidation run up her spine as the Guardians focused their attentions fully on to Atem, "Be at ease Isis, I am simply going to be giving Anzu a tour of the Palace it wouldn't do for her to continuously get lost, now would it?"

Anzu was confused at the obvious sigh of relief everyone else emitted and watched as they rose to head off to their various tasks. Once alone Anzu looked at Atem, "Why did it seem like they were afraid of your answer?"

Atem snorted as he finished off the last of his wine, "I have a reputation for sneaking out and causing trouble when I was younger. It seems like I cannot outgrow it. Was the wine not to your preference, you barely touched it?" Anzu blushed lightly, "It was fine Atem, it was just the first time I've ever had it so I didn't want to overindulge and behave badly."

Giving a slight chuckle, Atem stood from his golden cushion and held his hand out for Anzu to take, "So would you like a tour of my childhood home?"

"I'd love to see it," Anzu laughed and took his hand, allowing Atem to help her stand before tucking her arm in the crook his elbow once again as they walked side by side out the side entrance.

As they walked through the various corridors and courtyards, Anzu could help the look of amazement donning her face, giving Atem a warm feeling as he gave explanations to different scenes along the walls or told stories of his and Mana's mischievous past. "No wonder they were apprehensive about you wandering freely," Anzu laughed at his latest tale, "poor Master Mahad and Lord Seto."

Atem's chuckles matched hers as he recalled the times of his youth, "Yes it seems they were a matching pair of worried mothering hens. We have been walking for a while, would you like a tour of the town and marketplace?" Atem's expression playful while Anzu knitted her eyebrows in concern, "Are you being serious? Wouldn't we get in trouble?"

"I am Pharaoh I may do as I please although the guardians, should they discover us missing may blame your influence, I am jesting Anzu," Atem laughed at her suddenly fearful expression and clasped her hand resting on his elbow reassuringly, "even if they did blame you I would protect you, though no doubt they will understand it was I who coerced you. Let's go!"

"Wait, Atem!" Anzu was pulled into a sudden run towards the stables, "Atem wait please, you're too fast!" Anzu laughed as they grew closer to their destination.

Coming to a stop right before the corner Atem pulled her up against him while they hid like children behind a stone column as a small group of guards guided some of the newer horses past them towards the large training corral where Karim was with the rest of the guards.

Guiding Anzu gently behind him as they moved stealthily into the now deserted stables, moving past the rows of empty horse stalls, Atem held a finger up to his lips and motioned to Anzu to peer in quietly. Anzu had to cover her mouth with her hands at the beauty of the pitch-black Arabian horse.

"This is Nyx," Atem introduced as he stroked the beautiful animal. "When I first crossed over it wasn't just my friends and family waiting for me, but also Dartz and his court as well as Alexander and his. This horse was a gift from Alexander and her name is derived from the Greek Goddess Nyx, Goddess of the night, it is fitting." Atem held his hand out to Anzu to guide her to greet Nyx.

Reaching forward gently, Anzu laid her hand out on Atem's larger one and waited for Nyx to sniff her hand and rub its nose in her palm, giving Anzu permission to rub up against its jaw and pat it's neck affectionately. Anzu was so transfixed by the gentle horse that she failed to notice Atem slip out of the stall and return with a saddle to place upon Nyx's back. It was only when Atem playfully bumped her hip with his, holding the reins in his hands waiting to put them over the horse's snout did she realize Atem's intention and stepped back slightly to get out of his way.

It seemed Nyx had a similar mindset to her master or that this was a repeated occurrence for she barely made a sound as the three of them moved silently to the opposite end of the stables as the rest of the guards out to the sandy desert. After walking a decent distance away Atem steered them down to a nearby canyon path that followed the river endlessly. "Atem?" Atem turned back to Anzu at her unsure tone and watched Anzu fiddle with the material of her skirt, "Are you sure we should be doing this? I don't want your friends to not like me or think that I'm a bad influence-,"

"Anzu," Atem's deep voice cut through as she trailed off, "I promise, they could never hate you, I truly believe no one could, most definitely they will assume it was my idea. Besides I never said I would remain in the palace." Atem winked and laughed as Anzu shook her head conceding to his logic, "No, I suppose you didn't."

Atem hefted himself onto the horse's back and reached a single strong arm down to help Anzu. She timidly grasped his hand and arm gasping lightly as he pulled her effortlessly side-saddle in front of him, holding onto the reins with each hand at either side of her.

"Hold on Anzu," Atem's laughter echoed around them as he flicked Nyx into action down the canyon path, freeing the hold on her reins to allow Nyx to rear up on her hind legs while holding himself and Anzu tightly on the saddle before Nyx dashed off into a fast gallop.

Anzu shouted in fright as she felt herself nearly fall off. She quickly grasped at the Atem's neck and hugging herself to him, her eyes closed fearful she would fall. Atem chuckled and ushered the horse to slightly slow his pace but continue to gallop towards the marketplace, "You will miss the scenery if you continue to keep your eyes closed," Atem murmured patiently into Anzu's nearby ear, eliciting an adorable blush as she cautiously peeked her eyes open but continued to hug herself to Atem.

The landscape was indeed incredible, the way the Nile cut through the sand and cause the affected areas to turn lush and green with the fertile soils it left behind. It truly took her breath away with its oasis beauty.

After riding for about an hour and passing various little villages set up along the way. As they rode past the villages, Anzu could see children run out of homes to wave as Atem rode by while several women shook their heads laughing and waved as the pair passed.

Atem and Anzu soon came upon the bustling marketplace and trotted the horse over to the outskirts and came up to a vendor handling horses for customers. Upon seeing Atem, he dipped into a deep bow before offering to take the reins from Atem and hitching them to the post before them and pouring a bucket of water in the trough. Atem swung down from the saddle and reached up to the help Anzu down as she stumbled to get her foot into the stirrup to get down, just catching her in time before she fell completely off while her foot remained stuck in the stirrup.

"Sorry," Anzu blushed and looked down, "I've never ridden on a horse before." Atem chuckled, "It is fine Anzu, I can only imagine how graceful Joey would have fared." Looking up at his joke, Anzu couldn't have the bubble of laughter spilling from her throat as Atem reached over to Anzu get her foot out while keeping one arm behind her back.

Steadying her once her foot was out, Atem kept his hand behind her back protectively and reached into one the saddlebags and pulled out a coin purse before handing payment to the vendor, "Good day for business eh, Nephi?"

"Greetings Pharaoh Atem, yes it is the beginning of the lunar cycle where the traders bring in their goods from along the river. You picked a good day to escape your guardians and show your company around," the man named Nephi replied enthusiastically back to Atem bowing as he took the gold coin.

Turning to address Anzu standing at Atem's side, Nephi swooped into a deep bow, "Greeting Milady, may the gods smile down on you and our good King during your travels today, please excuse me I have to tend to these horses, please enjoy your day your Majesties!" With those parting words, Nephi moved to the new customers waiting to have their horses hitched but before Anzu could correct the man on her title.

"Come Anzu. Let us wander the marketplace," Atem held out his elbow for her to take purposely ignoring her worried expression at Nephi's presumptions. Taking the offered elbow, Anzu let the subject drop, she wasn't ready to confront those inner demons just yet, "How is it no one is surprised their Pharaoh is strolling about the marketplace without his guards?" Atem's steps slightly falter briefly and he coughed a bit to clear his throat, "I uh, I may have been slightly stretching the truth earlier when I told you that I only snuck out as a youth... Ah look at this Anzu," in an attempt to dodge the subject, Atem pointed at a nearby tent where the vendors were selling carved statues of the standard deities of Egyptian lore.

Anzu studied the various statues impressed, "But I thought that is what Lady Isis and Lord Seto's jobs were at the temples." Atem nodded in agreement, "Yes it is, however, some folks like and choose to hold a relic in their homes as well."

"Ah I see, like in Japan there were places of worship for communities to attend but also you could practice privately in your home, I get it, sorry my family wasn't very religious so I only know so much from what we were taught in history lessons at school," Anzu seemed embarrassed and hesitant at talking about her family which made Atem realize that in all of the time he knew her or Yugi and the others, Atem had never heard of Anzu speaking about them, like the others he had just assumed she lived with her parents and they were supportive of her passions for dancing.

The hesitancy on her face made Atem quickly decide that that was a conversation best said in private quarters, "Would you like to look around some more? There are other vendors that sell various things, I was thinking of making some purchases for the others as well."

Anzu could read between the lines and laughed removing the previously tense air surrounding the pair, "Going to get them gifts so they don't scold you too badly?" Atem sheepishly shrugged and joined her in her laughter, "Something like that, you there, I wish to purchase two of the statues," Atem called over the owner of the tent, selecting a statue of the God Osiris and Goddess Isis, Atem made arrangements with them to be delivered to the palace as he paid for them.

Returning his attention to Anzu who had moved to study the nearby statues of Hathor and Thoth quietly as Atem did his business, "If you see anything you like please let me know, Anzu." Anzu's head snapped around back to face Atem, "Oh no!" she said very quickly, "I appreciate it but I don't have any money.." To which Atem waved his hand to cut her off, "It is no trouble Anzu, I have enough funds to buy everything here and still be incredibly wealthy."

Anzu looked stricken, "I couldn't besides I don't know anything about the significance of these things, I wouldn't want to offend anyone with my ignorance." Anzu's face was red even as Atem chuckled at her wit, "Very well," his expression layered with hidden deviance that made Anzu slightly wary, "Shall we move on then, and Anzu, if I am buying gifts for my friends back at the palace wouldn't it also be appropriate to get you a gift as well?"

Anzu silently cursed his strategy mind but she was not completely ignorant of mental banter, "But Atem? Didn't you already give me a gift earlier?" Atem lost his cocky expression a dawned a perplexed one as he wracked his mind for something he could've given her that counted as a gift, "I am not sure what you mean Anzu."

Now it was her turn to wear the confidence even as she gave him a shy smile, "Why Pharaoh, you gave me my first horseback ride, you showed me the beauty of a place I could only read and hear about, you who gave me a place in your life no matter how brief, could all constitute as precious gifts to me, gifts I will treasure in my memory as long as I am able to," Anzu looked away blushing while Atem's jaw dropped in disbelief though he recovered quickly as he noticed people in the tent began to stare at the pair.

Clearly his throat and squaring his shoulders Atem raised his voice slightly, "We are finished here, let us move on to the next tent," offering his elbow once more, Atem gestured Anzu to walk beside him. Anzu remained quiet as they left thinking she had said too much even as Atem led her to another tent, this one run by a middle-aged woman selling Persian style clothing and jewelry. "Anzu," Atem began seriously as they moved to the back of the already fairly empty tent for their conversation not to be overheard. Anzu slowly lifted her eyes to meet his steady gaze on her, "You never have to thank me for opening my home to you, you will always and forever be welcome without question. When we get back to the palace, though, we do need to talk in private, agreed?" Anzu nodded the knot in her stomach unfurling slightly, Atem gave her a brilliant smile at her response that gave her butterflies in place of the knot, "Good, now then I know Isis gave you that dress to wear but you will need some more and you do not have any jewels, let's pick some out."

"Atem, I said you don't have to get me anything," Anzu tried digging her feet in the ground as Atem's stride never broke or faltered as he walked up to vendor at the displays, "Greetings Rehema, how fares your day so far?" The woman looked up from the necklaces she was laying out carefully and seeing Atem, she broke into a beaming smile as she bowed deep at Atem and Anzu, "My King! It is so good to see you on this fine day. Did the Lady Isis and Mistress Mana enjoy the last piece you ordered for them?"

"Ah yes they wore them for the Feast of Hathor, they were very impressed at the intricate detail work," Atem smiled and held fast on the hand Anzu was subtly trying to pull off his arm to escape, Rehema looked at Anzu and the corner of her mouth quirked up, "And who may I ask is this your Majesty, her beauty is as refreshing as the Nile?"

"This is Anzu and I am in need of your help Rehema, she a very dear companion of mine and has recently crossed over. I am afraid her wardrobe is severely lacking and as a man I fear I am clueless and she is refusing to allow me to buy her things, I feel as though a woman's intuition is needed," Anzu wanted to escape desperately at the grins both Atem and Rehema was directing at her, "I am quite fine thank you, I am not used to such things and would feel awful for not paying for my things," Anzu tried stuttering off excuses but it was no use, Rehema clapped her hands twice and two young girls stepped forward from the back of the tent to move to Anzu's sides, linking their arms with hers, they more or less dragged her to the backroom, "Atem?!"

Atem paid her cries no mind as he waved to her and turned back to Rehema, "No doubt she will decline anything, she is stubborn, however anything that looks tasteful on her, have it sent to the palace. I shall return shortly for her. If she finishes before I return, have her wait for me, like I said she is new to all of this and it would not do for her to wander by herself yet," Rehema nodded and bowed once more with a Cheshire grin on her face, "Your wish is my command, your Majesty."

Atem nodded and chuckled as he heard Anzu's protests behind him as he moved to visit the nearby tents for items for Mahad, Karim, and Shadi. About an hour had passed when Atem was satisfied with the items he had procured for his guardians, 'A little bribery to soften their moods never hurts, better tackle the bulls by the horns with Anzu though,' Atem stepped back through Rehema's tent to see an exhausted-looking Anzu sitting on some cushions with a small cup in her hands listening politely to Rehema talk about the various points of the marketplace.

Upon seeing Atem, Rehema stopped talking abruptly and stood to bow at Atem's arrival, "Ah greetings once again my King, I believe I have failed to have anything the lovely Lady Anzu liked, though I do believe I now have inspiration for my next visit down the Nile when I restock during the next lunar cycle," Anzu gave a slight smirk and she turned to give her goodbyes to the attendants, who were Rehema's husband's nieces, so she did not see Rehema give Atem a wink nor the nod her returned.

"That is disappointing Rehema. Perhaps next time, I fear though it is growing late and we are famished, until next time," Atem offered his arm to Anzu as he guided them back to the horse, "Did you truly not find anything Anzu or are you still being stubborn?"

"I already told you Atem, that is your money I don't need to spend something I did not earn," Anzu felt a moment of pride before noticing, Atem's downturned expression, "I apologize Anzu, I thought you would genuinely find something you would like, to feel less anxious about being here," Atem took Anzu's hands inside his own and stared straight into her eyes as he spoke seriously from his heart, "I know you are not one to use others funds recklessly, but I had hoped you would let me do this for you, after all, you have done so much for me, if not for your cartouche I never would have remembered my name. It is something that is immensely precious to me and I have never once taken it off since you gave me it, would you allow me to return the favor and give you something that reminds you of me?"

Anzu felt so bad at that moment, "Oh Atem, I am so sorry, I didn't realize. I just...I am too used to having to provide for myself and having been so independent for so long, I guess...I just..." Anzu cast her eyes down at her feet making Atem feel slightly bad about buying those things from Rehema behind her back but playing it off for now, "I am sorry to Anzu, I didn't mean to spoil this day," Anzu's head turned up and she began to protest quickly, "Oh no you didn't ruin my day," she gave a slightly watery smile from hiding back tears, "I still got to spend the day with you."

Atem noticed a crowd had begun to gather around them, "Alright, we can talk more about this later let us head back," Anzu nodded and walked with Atem back to Nephi for their horse. Thanking the man once again, Atem and Anzu mounted and heading back towards the palace although taking the main road now versus the canyon passage from before.

"How come we are going this way?" Anzu asked as she held onto Atem's neck even though Atem had only ushered the horse into a steady gait towards the palace, "Before we were trying to sneak out unseen, after the whole day of the various things being delivered to the palace from the marketplace, everyone is going to know undoubtedly what happened."

"Ah, I see," Anzu was slowly beginning to nod off with the slow trotting pace of the horse and the strong earthy scent of Atem pressed right up against her, before long Anzu's eyes dropped down and her body relaxed against him.

Peering down at Anzu's sleeping form against his chest, Atem held hope that Anzu could harbor similar feelings to his. For now though, until they could talk about everything privately, Atem could settle for this as he curled his body around hers protectively, enjoying the moment where it was just he and Anzu, their own bodies with no worries about the end of the world obligations.

They rode in the peaceful quiet for a while until Atem spotted the familiar palace drawing up close. Shaking Anzu's slumbering form gently Atem woke her before the others would see them, "Anzu, wake up we have returned," Anzu's eyes blinked open and she pulled one hand away from its spot on Atem's tunic to rub at her eyes, "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to fall asleep." Anzu sat a bit straighter and blushed slightly. "It is fine Anzu, you are not used to traveling upon such in the sun like so, it is understandable," Atem pulled the horse around to the side of the palace to the horse stables and witnessed with immense humor all of the guardians rush about trying to saddle some horses to go search for them. Anzu made a noise of discontent even as Atem purposely ignored the commotion as he dismounted and began leading the horse into the stables, not yet helping Anzu down.

"Evening everyone, what is all the fuss about?" Atem asked dryly as he offered the reins to a nearby stable boy who was frozen in disbelief along with everyone present, all staring at the missing monarch as Atem reached up to assist Anzu to get down. "My King," Karim rushed up bewildered, "When did you? How did you? Why did you?" Karim couldn't seem to get full questions out and Seto was nearby with a disapproving frown directed towards him and Anzu. "Ah well, I had decided to show Anzu the marketplace, it is the beginning of the new lunar cycle after all, however we have been in the sun all day so I will see you all at dinner, until then," Atem turned and gestured for Anzu to take his arm again as they walked away from the shocked crowd as the pair walked into the palace.

"I told you," Atem assured her smugly, "They didn't blame you, now let me escort you to your chambers to freshen up for dinner." "Are you sure I should join you, won't they think I am a bad influence on you?" Anzu asked worriedly as she and Atem walked at a comfortable pace to the chambers she had been given last night. "Absolutely you should, and Anzu, you are hardly a bad influence if I was already doing this prior," Atem shrugged unapologetically as they rounded the corner leading directly to her rooms. "If you say so Atem," Anzu looked at his smug expression wary but decided to let go of those worries, for now, deciding that if there truly was an issue she would find out at dinner.

The pair stopped before the door to her chambers and Anzu flashed Atem a dazzling smile before reaching up onto the tips of her toes and pressing a gentle kiss to Atem's cheek, inwardly giddy at his shocked expression, "Thank you for showing me everything and spending the day with me, I see you at dinner." Anzu rushed into her rooms before Atem could get past the unexpected gesture and bid her farewell.

Coming back to his senses at the sound of the heavy door shutting, Atem slowly raised a hand to the spot where Anzu had kissed before straightening himself and turning back down the corridor towards his own chambers to freshen up. Right before he could leave the hall though, Atem heard Anzu's indignant cry, "Oh that sneak! No wonder he guilted me before!" Atem drew and amused smile and continued walked, pleased that Anzu's gifts had been delivered to her chambers already, 'It is a pity though,' Atem thought, 'that I couldn't witness her reaction first hand.'

Coming to the doors of his chambers, Atem was not at all surprised at the sight of all of his guardians looking crossly at him, though he was surprised at Mana's presence even if she was grinning at him. Donning an innocent expression as he addressed Isis and Mana, "Anzu may need some help preparing for dinner if you two wouldn't mind."

Unable to contradict his silent order, Isis bowed and nodded at Mahad, no doubt letting him know he was to give her all the details later. Mana continued to grin cheekily, "No problem Pharaoh, and thanks for the cauldron, hopefully, this one lasts a bit longer." With that, Mana ran off to catch up to Isis as Atem gestured for the remaining men to enter his chamber.

Calling forth his servants to help him behind a dressing screen, Atem sighed though his tone held undercurrents of humor, "Alright let me have it, I know you're itching to scold me, Seto."

"If you know I am going to then why do you continue to act in such a childish way?" Seto exploded, "Furthermore, it is your right as Pharaoh to do whatever it is you wish to do, no one would dare to stop you, however...You. Are. The. King! It is our job to protect you! How can we do that if you take off with no protection, no guards, and more importantly no one even knowing when or where the hell you ran off to?"

Atem waited patiently as Seto ranted, amused at the change in the pallor of Seto's face. Once Seto finished his speak Atem just stared straight at him, "Seems I was correct earlier." Mahad intervened before Seto could further lose his temper, "If I may be so bold to ask my King, correct about what?" his apprehension grew as Atem's expression donned an impish grin. "Anzu was concerned about causing you all anxiety, therefore I was reduced to kidnap her," Seto at this point looked like he had swallowed a large object with his face becoming more redder. "However," Atem continued, "when she had stated her concerns to me I told her that you did indeed remind me of a mothering hen, Seto."

"Why you...brat!" Seto was about to launch himself into another rant when he was grabbed by both arms by Shadi and Karim, who quickly dragged him out into the hallway, shouting their goodbyes to the Pharaoh as they attempted to cover the angry retorts by the High Priest.

Atem chuckled at the display as he continued to get ready for dinner while Mahad took off his headdress and sunk into a nearby sitting area to hold his uncovered head in his hands as he chuckled with dry humor, "Sometimes my Liege, you are simply too much."

"Ahh, yes however he is my cousin, therefore I am allowed to give him regular grief," Atem waved the attendants away and put his crown back on himself. "So, Pharaoh," Mahad began cautiously, sitting back up and replacing his headdress, "What role will Lady Anzu play here?"

"Whatever role she wishes," Atem didn't take his eyes away from his own reflection in the mirror as he clipped a fresh cape to the metal holders on his shoulders, "Oh?" Mahad replied curiously as Atem continued, "Although I hope she will agree to become my Queen." Mahad's jaw dropped down in shock, "Queen, your Majesty?"

Turning to face his childhood friend fully, "I gave her up once before, thinking her heart lay elsewhere on someone else. I refuse to make such a mistake again." "Gave her up, your majesty?" Mahad looked perplexed as Atem continued knowing this conversation would stay solely between the two of them.

"My former vessel when I was sealed away, the boy Yugi Moto. I believed her heart lay in his hands and so I kept my feelings for her private and to myself, Yugi didn't even know. Now I will find out what had happened since the time I left them to now. However the gods have brought Anzu and I back together, if there is a chance, I will not let this opportunity slip by."

Atem grew quiet as he slipped his remaining jewels back on, Mahad stared in astonishment as the information given to him by his sovereign friend. Standing quietly and walking over to stand beside Atem. Laying his hand on Atem's shoulder in support Mahad spoke quietly, "No doubt my king, no doubt. I shall leave you to your thoughts and check on Isis with the girls and make sure Seto has cooled down," Bowing as he left Atem to ponder his thoughts quietly.

Anzu had pressed herself against her closed door on Atem's shocked expression, holding a hand to smother her shy giggles, a bright blush adorning her face. As she looked down at her bust, slightly aware that her heart wasn't racing like it would have been had she still been alive, but not regretting how she came to be here. Anzu noticed the sand and dust spotting all over her once pure white dress and moved towards her bed where Isis had said she would send more plain dresses. Once she had earned some funds one way or another she would definitely return to Rehema's stand for some outfits that had caught her eye.

Tugging the curtains back, Anzu's steps faltered at the sight before her. On top, her bed lay many of the outfits she had tried on at Rehema's and on a nearby sitting table were various necklaces, rings, earrings, and a few circlets.

"Oh, that sneak!" Anzu cried out loudly gripping the curtains tightly, "No wonder he guilted me earlier!" Forgetting her earlier embarrassing actions, Anzu raced back to the door and wrenched it open only to find only a few handmaidens waiting in the hall for her orders but no Atem.

"Mistress? Is everything alright, would you like to prepare for dinner now?" one of the kneeling attendants asked while keeping her head bowed startling Anzu. "I'm sorry, what did you call me and why are the four of you out here?" Anzu inquired. "Mistress for the Lady Isis has assigned the four of us to be your personal handmaidens. It is truly our honor kind Mistress, I am Na'eemah." Anzu nodded hesitantly to the oldest of the group before gesturing lightly to the remaining three, "I see and your names?" Na'eemah spoke up for the others, "This is Nane, Masika, and Khepri, your Ladyship."

"Oh, I am not a 'Lady' to be honest I'm not sure what my purpose is," Anzu corrected with a quiet, gentle voice tinged slightly with an undertone of sadness. Na'eemah looked up at her Mistress' statement and ushered in a quiet tone, "Perhaps we could talk more with her Ladyship inside her chambers? Dinner shall be served shortly."

Anzu blushed lightly, "Ah yes, please come in I do need some help picking out a new dress, my current one is a bit dirty." The three other junior handmaidens kept their places behind Na'eemah as they all followed Anzu into her chambers. Nane and Masika silently moving off to the side room to prepare some water and sweet-smelling potions to help Anzu freshen up from being in the scorching heat all day while Khepri moved to the bed and beginning the process of putting away the pile of clothes.

"My Lady, would you have a preference for your attire for tonight?" Khepri asked in a timid voice as she moved the mount of clothes apart. "No, not really, could you pick something out that would be appropriate? I would appreciate it," Na'eemah offered her hand out for Anzu to take as she guided her behind a decorative screen to undress as Nane brought over a basin filled with water containing floating lotus flowers and some clean linens.

"I can wash, thank you," Anzu said quickly embarrasses as Nane began to reach for one of the linens. Dropping her hands away and bowing quickly, "Of course Milady, forgive me." Anzu rambled on nervously, "I'm sorry, I am just not comfortable being seen naked."

"Of course, Milady, I shall wait for your instructions, I have also brought a larger piece of linen than those beside the oils for you to dry off. I shall hand you it when you are ready," Nane answered keeping her head still bowed. Anzu nodded and wiped the dirt and grime from her body quickly, before accepting the linen and wrapping it around her torso.

"Milady what do you think of this dress?" Khepri was holding a green Persian style two-piece outfit that was more or less a jeweled bra and skirt and showed a bit more skin than Anzu felt comfortable at this time, "Maybe something else? Perhaps a bit more modest, please?" Khepri nodded and pulled out a long white dress with slits along the sides of the skirt that stopped at the midsection and was held up by small Greek-style straps at the shoulders before flowing out into sheer, see-through sleeves also slitted ending at golden wristbands that held the sleeves to the body rather than flowing freely. It was simple and flowed with a delicate feminine taste.

Before Anzu could answer, the sound of knocking could be heard throughout the chamber. Ducking back behind the curtain, Anzu nodded to Masika cracked the door announcing Mana and Isis's arrival.

"That is a beautiful dress, you should definitely wear that, Anzu," Mana stated enthusiastically. "If you think it'll do," Anzu stared at the fine fabric unsure as Isis chimes in as well, "Yes it will look perfect upon you."

Anzu took the dress back behind the curtain and pulled the dress on, "It sort of feels a bit strange, like the top is fitting fine but I feel like the skirt is too loose and the sides open when I walk," Anzu held the sides closed as she came out from behind the curtain bewildered at Mana's sudden giggles, "That's because you're supposed to wear a belt to hold it closed, here use this one, where did you get all these things by the way?" Mana asked holding out a delicate gold chain adorned with various little charms to weigh down the dresses material. Nane took the chain from Mana bowls lightly and fastened around Anzu's waist and fasten the excess metal off to hang down to her thighs in a single dangling chain.

"They are Atem's, I mean Pharaoh Atem's, sorry," Anzu flustered at the lack of a title when she spoke of Atem. "He bought them, so they're his technically, I wouldn't let him buy me anything earlier so he did this all without me knowing."

"Ah," Isis looked up from the two circlets she had been examining placing one down and bringing the other only over to put on Anzu's head kindly, "Then if he bought them for you, you should use them. Especially if you did not want him to buy them for you,"

"Huh? What do you mean Lady...Isis," Anzu faltered weakly at Isis's soft glare at the title. Isis sighed gently as she adjusted the circlet on Anzu's head. "I mean, Anzu," Isis started patiently, "If you do not wear them, then our Pharaoh will take it as a challenge and continue to shower you with gifts although you wish against it."

Mana nodded in agreement, "You don't have to wear everything all at once, either, if you do Pharaoh will no doubt realise what you are up to and just buy you more anyways, but changing bits up here and there, I really is out of place here to not wear any jewels no matter what class you are it is a representation of the wealth and prosperity of the kingdom as a whole."

Anzu bobbed her head in understanding as Isis winked conspiratorially at Anzu, "Plus, we cannot allow the men to know when they have bested us." Mana and Anzu broke into giggles, at Isis's hushed whispers before attempting to hold back their laughter as Isis straightened back up and dismissing the handmaidens opting to help Anzu finish herself, "Here wear these with your outfit, your ears are pierced yes?"

"Yes, I just haven't worn earrings in a while... oh Isis, they're beautiful!" Anzu gasped at the sight of the delicate gold hoops with a single sapphire resting at the base. As Anzu hooked one earring in Isis also brought matching necklace up and around Anzu's neck in the design of a golden serpent encrusted with sapphire eyes. "Isis are you sure it isn't too much, I mean you and Mana aren't wearing this much jewelry..." trailed off unsure of her appearance as she looked at her reflection in the mirror when Mana piped in, "Oh don't worry we still have to drop by our chambers, I'll head to mine now, while you two head to Isis and Master Mahad's and meet you there when I finish, don't worry I won't take long." With that, Mana jumped up joyfully and bounded out the open door leaving a confused Isis and Anzu left behind.

Until they too heard the grumbling of a familiar grumpy High Priest arguing with who it sounded like Shadi and Karim in a nearby corridor headed away from Atem's chambers. Isis and Anzu locked eyes and renewed their giggling. "Mana was correct, I just need to change my headdress and dress, tonight is the first night of the lunar cycle with a full moon, therefore Pharaoh hosts a more family-like dinner with us guardians, occasionally inviting his father, the old Pharaoh Aknamkanon as well as his old court of guardians," Isis explained as she fastened the clasp of a bangle for Anzu, standing back and nodding at Anzu's attire proudly before searching the much smaller pile of clothes for a simple pair of sandals. "Oh?" Anzu asked anxiously, "Are his father and court going to be there tonight?"

"No not tonight, Pharaoh Aknamkanaon doesn't usually join us until the summer season, all the Kingdoms of the afterlife are busy right now getting their ministers and various village leaders ready for the upcoming floods, but enough on that for tonight, later I will explain how life is in the afterlife in detail when there is more time, but we really must hurry," Isis's explanation calmed Anzu's nerves slightly though she was still jittery about facing everyone after this afternoon.

Following alongside Isis, Anzu found herself once again in Isis's chamber though this time Isis's own handmaidens were ready with her dress and jewels having been laid out already. Beckoning Anzu to sit in a nearby area with four chairs surrounding a checkered table, Isis went behind her own curtain and allowed her servants to undress and redress her in minutes.

Isis's servants had picked out a bosom hugging dress that held a thick golden cloth along it's top and peeked over the sides to create off the shoulder sleeves. The skirt was a high-low design that flowed with each step Isis took. Moving to her vanity, Isis removed her headpiece to reveal the long brown locks Anzu remembered Ishizu had in a similar style with bands of gold wrapped around some of the strands. Anzu waited patiently as within the period of about ten minutes, Isis had her circlet, disk necklace encrusted with beads and lapis lazuli, earrings, belt and armbands adorning her and they were headed out the chamber.

"Let us head off to dinner," Isis looped her arm around Anzu's in a sisterly fashion and led the way to the banquet hall. "Shouldn't we find Mana?" Anzu asked confusedly to which Isis shook her head and winked, "No, if she went to irritate Seto after she got dressed, I'd rather not get caught in the cross-fire or witness something that I would rather not see if you understand where I am hinting towards." Anzu understood immediately and her face flamed bright red, as she cough to attempt to hide her obvious discomfort, "Ah, yes wouldn't want to irritate Lord Seto any more than I do."

Isis smiled gently in understanding until most people got to know the easily irritated High Priest many feared to risk his temper. After a few more moments of walking Anzu and Isis found themselves entering the banquet hall with Atem, Mahad, Shadi, and Karim already there talking and drinking amongst themselves.

Upon noticing their arrival, Karim greeted both ladies with a deep bow, "Greetings beautiful goddesses, I was unaware we would be graced with the presence of heaven tonight."

Anzu looked at Karim slightly uncomfortable while Isis laughed gaily, "Oh Karim, you are ever the serpent tongued charmer." Mahad gave Karim a light glare as he moved over to his wife and gave her a soft kiss upon her temples, "Karim how many times much I tell you to not to flirt with my wife?"

Mahad rolled his eyes at his fellow guardian and returned his attention back onto Isis, his gaze softening with a small smile as he brought her hand up to his lips, "Although he has a point," he whispered making Isis giggle at her husband.

Karim returned to his conversation with Shadi as Atem moved over to Anzu's side, startling her slightly as he offered his a goblet of light pink liquid. "Oh thank you Atem," Anzu accepted the offered cup and gave it a tentative sniffle before taking a small sip, still wary of alcohol. "Oh!" she gave him a bright smile, "it's good what is this?"

"I remembered your preference for not drinking alcohol just yet and found a vendor earlier while you were in with Rehema selling a fruit juice, I believe he called it pomegranate juice," Atem laughed out loud at the look Anzu gave him at the reminder of her time at Rehema's and what he did for her.

Anzu turned her head and sipped her juice as she and the other guardians waited for the last two to join the dinner, "Well it is very good, thank you."

Atem laughed once more, fully aware of the guardians trying to be discreet as the not so subtly stared at him and Anzu waiting for some entertainment at his and Anzu's expense. He had to cough slightly to prevent laughing at their disappointed faces before he decided to indulge them in pestering Anzu a bit further, "So did you like the jewels and clothes, we can go back for more if they are not to your liking."

Surprisingly, Anzu did not rise to the bait, but rather took a deep breath and gave Atem a brilliant smile, "No Atem, everything you got was really pretty and I appreciate it, truly...it's just a little overwhelming," she ended with a small smile as she broke their gaze making Atem feel guilty at poking fun at her kind personality.

Backtracking quickly, Atem caught her hand with his and gave a gentle kiss on her knuckles in an apology, "Forgive me Anzu, I shouldn't have teased you with something that makes you uncomfortable."

"It-it's alright Atem, really," Anzu had a blush dusting across her nose and cheeks at the feel of Atem's lips pressed on the skin of her hand. Her expression making Atem inwardly grin although their interlude was interrupted as Mana and Seto calmly walked into the hall having a light conversation between themselves causing everyone to stop their conversations and stare at the pair in disbelief.

Furrowing his brows in confusion momentarily before relaxing and rolling his eyes at the strangeness, Atem addressed everyone with his commanding voice resonating off the stone surrounding them all, "Come let us dine now that we are all here."

Everyone took their respective seats and renewed their conversations as Atem led Anzu over to the seat she had used in the morning, clapping his hands loudly to signal the servant to begin the small feast and the dancers and musicians to come to entertain them all while they ate.

Offering Anzu some more pomegranate juice, Atem was struck with a memory from his time sharing Yugi's body when Yugi had tricked both him and Anzu on what he had called a "date." Setting the jug back down, Atem addressed Anzu, raising his voice to draw the attention of the hyperactive mage currently irritating his High Priest while he ate, "Anzu didn't you study to be a dancer?"

Anzu snapped her attention to him at the same time Mana did, "Oh Atem I haven't danced in a long time, I am not very good anymore-" "Nonsense, the last time I witnessed your dance was against Johnny Steps at the arcade but I know that is not the kind you studied," Atem cut her protests off but at her curious expression. Atem felt his cheeks slightly heat up in mild embarrassment as everyone stared at him before he defended his obvious in-depth knowledge, "Yugi told me you wanted to be a bail-a-reena I believe is the word he used, someone who dances on their toes."

Anzu looked down modestly, "Well yes I guess that is the simple way of explaining it, but-" This time, it was Mana who cut off Anzu's protests, "Oh come now Anzu, you'll just have to show us."

As Mana leaped up from her seat, nearly knocking Seto's goblet out of his hand, and rushed over to the group of musicians. The lead string player nodded at Mana and moved to speak to his fellow musicians.

"Lady Anzu come, come!" Mana ran over excitedly ignoring Anzu's obvious reluctance and grabbed her hand to drag her up out of her seat and out into the center of the room.

"Mana, Pharaoh," Anzu gritted out with forced politeness that was ignored as well, "I'm not really dressed for dancing-" "Oh right! Of course," Mana agreed rather than took the excuse before she used her wand to tap Anzu's shoulder, changing Anzu's dress into an Arabian dancer's outfit that caused Atem to nearly choke on the wine he had currently been drinking, once he took in the revealing outfit.

Now donning a two-piece jeweled bra and harem pants with a sheer skirt covering her legs, Anzu blushed further as she notice the sides of the pants had slits all the way up from her ankles to her hips with only clasps at the top and bottom as well as noticing Mana had conjured a jeweled belly ring to fill her empty piercing.

"Ma-Mana!" Anzu's face was beet red and she was trying to look anywhere but at everyone else who had choked on their food and drink at Mana's choice in dancer's attire. Atem cleared his throat and motioned towards the center of the room for Anzu to show everyone her dancer skills.

"Well, Anzu? Will you grace us with a dance or did you truly forget how to?" he egged on lightly. Giving him a firm glare, Anzu squared her shoulders and moving to the center of the room where the other dancers had moved out of the way for her. Facing away from the group and taking her stance, Anzu nodded her head back towards the nervous musicians start playing, listening to the first few beats before moving in rhythm alongside the sounds.

The sounds of drums accompanied by a lute and cymbals began to fill the room as a swaying hypnotizing beat flowed around everyone. Anzu closed her eyes and ignored the swarm of butterflies in the pit of her stomach and begun moving to the music, following the rhythm with graceful movements until the tempo switched and her movements reflected the song.

Soft and graceful before powerful and purposeful jerks and movements in time for the various switches representing the different elements in nature. Her body moved like water, floated like air, had a passion like fire, and steady like earth as she lost herself to the music twirling and leaping into different stances and poses, mystifying the entire room.

Atem knew she studied to dance, but he too felt his breath stop as he watched Anzu move effortlessly with a serene expression.

As the music picked up slightly, Anzu had turned to more advanced moved from her training while keeping with the theme of an Arabian dancer, leaping into the air effortlessly and twisting to land at near-impossible poses before pulling and contorting her body with inhuman flexibility.

Landing into a simple pose where she held her leg high above her head by her ankle as the music died off slowly. Anzu exhaled and released her stance, snapping out of the trance she hadn't been able to connect to in a long time as she remembered where she was currently and more importantly, who was watching.

Slightly out of breath, Anzu held her stare even as her embarrassment and modesty rose, "Well Pharaoh, have I forgotten to dance?" Atem was silent for a moment before settling his goblet down and clapping returning her steady gaze with a slight smirk, "Bravo Anzu, breathtakingly beautiful."

The rest of the Guardians and Mana clapped loudly with genuine smiles, even Priest Seto clapped and nodded to her. Mana pulled her wand out and restored Anzu's former clothes to sit more comfortably as she returned to her seat.

"Lady Anzu you should teach the dancers, even they are spell struck at your performance," Mahad offered politely, Mana nodding at her master's words. "Oh yes, Lady Anzu! You should teach me to!"

Seto chuckled mirthfully into his wine closing his eyes, "Absolutely Mana if anyone needed to learn grace and pose it is you."

With his eyes closed, Seto was unaware at the slight dulling of Mana's eyes at the barb. Anzu spoke quickly for her new friend, "I would love to spend more time with you dancing Mana, I am sure you are secretly fantastic and just don't know it yet."

Mana smiled sadly at Anzu, "Thank you Anzu, perhaps when you are more settled." Mana turned back to her plate and opting to reply to Shadi who had started up a conversation onto a topic the two of them had obviously covered before while Isis shot Seto an icy glare that was returned with a confused expression.

Atem sighed as well before offering Anzu the roasted beef on the platter before them to attempt to take her attention away from the oblivious priest, "Try this Anzu, it is a delicacy."

Accepting the food hesitantly with her eyes darting to Mana's dejected form once more before meeting Atem's and catching the meaning in his eyes, Anzu gave him a small smile in thanks and changed the subject to release the tense air, "So what was all that with Miss Rehema earlier?"

Atem choked lightly on his wine at her question, caught off guard at the directness. "I assure you Anzu, I am completely unaware of what you are speaking about."

Anzu raises one eyebrow delicately while cocking her head at him quizzically at his mock innocent expression.

"Where Miss Rehema was unable to find anything suiting me because I tried to refuse you spending your wealth on me. So the strangest thing I found on my bed was several garments and jewels that I had tried on earlier," Anzu paused enjoying the slight nervous sweat on Atem. Batting her eyelashes at him demurely Anzu continued fully aware the other's had stopped their conversations eager to eavesdrop, "Now how do you suppose they could've gotten here my Lord?"

Atem laughed, accepting being caught, "Very well Anzu, I wasn't going to allow you to dress in the clothing of others forever, plus as a guest of my palace, it is my duty to see to your needs."

Anzu purses her lips in a mocking grimace, about to start again before Atem caught sight of the others staring avidly and not at all discreetly and stood from his seat holding a hand out to Anzu, "Join me for a walk in the courtyard?"

Blushing as she too noticed their exchange being so intently observed, Anzu nodded and accepted his hand allowing him to pull her to her feet. Before he could lead her from the room, Anzu bowed to the remaining Guardians giving them all a slight shock at her politeness, "Please excuse me, have a good evening."

Atem nodded in farewell to them and guided Anzu out to the courtyard where the slightly cooler air slowly filled in around them from the now set sun.

The courtyard, Atem has saved showing Anzu this place till now. Of course, it was beautiful during the day, but at night it was simply enchanting.

In the center of the large garden was a small pond built to buffer against the stone floor that led out of a large archway supported by columns shaped into lotuses. In the archway hung sheer curtains pulled back slightly to allow the breeze to pass but deterred birds from swimming in. Along the water floated dozens of water lilies that held dancing fireflies weaving on top their petals in a peaceful, tranquil dance.

"Atem... this is breathtaking," Anzu whispered as she stared around her in awe. Satisfied with her reaction, Atem nodded gently and guided her over to a beautifully pink Judas tree where a stone bench had been erected to sit and observe the tranquility, "I am glad I was able to show you my world, Anzu. However," At the slight change in his tone, Anzu felt the small tendrils of apprehension gather in the pit of her stomach, "Yes Atem?"

"We really need to talk," Atem held her hands in his while holding steady eye contact. "Anzu, as happy as I am that you are here, I must ask, how is it you have died?"