In front of him towered the Summoned Skull that his father summoned. The Sword of Revealing Light protected him so far and the effect would disappear in this turn. The Silent Magician became stronger but not strong enough to win the fight against that frightening ka. Atem concentrated on the trap that he would use next turn. He wished that Yuna were also here to watch his fight. He put his hand on the Millennium Pendant and looked up and he could have sworn that he saw something purple at the exact the place where Yuna was standing last time but the sunlight made him blind and he had to take away his eyes from that spot. Mentally he scolded himself because what he knew that what he saw was only a game of his imagination. Yuna had spent the whole day in bed sleeping and resting last two days. Even with Mahado and Mana's help the fight had been a huge load on her and she needed to restore her powers...He had been staying with her watching over her when he was not practicing. He did not neglect his training because he wanted to make the girl proud of him when she woke up. His two friends decided to take watch over the girl willingly today...
He felt that this turn would be the decisive one and he needed to fight the way as if they were watching the whole fight... His dear father had taken his poker face since the beginning of their ka duel. The last sword lost its power and there were no boundaries between him and his father. But instead of being afraid Atem the energy flew into his veins. He had to admit that he enjoyed this duel and he wished to show his best against his father! "Give your best father! I wish to show everyone what I am capable of!"
His dear father looked at him with a smile of confidence. "Get ready my son, my ka the Summon Skull will have his last attack!" The Summoned Skull charged against his ka which was the Silent Magician.
"Mirror Force, bounce back the attack!" shouted Atem.
"I am sorry my son but I cannot allow this! I have prepared a magic during the time I had to wait for the attack! The magic storm that I invoke will sweep away your trap!" said his father with a confident smile again.
That magic is great! I will try to learn that once I get on a higher level. My father has some tricks that it is worth trying out! Wow! His father had some tricks that he should try out next he would duel!
And Atem felt even more excited as beforehand because his father's magic meant that they had another turn to prove who was better. In this turn his ka turned to be stronger than his dear father's. And that would mean that he could win the duel! That was more than he could have ever dared to dream of. But what if his father had something in his mind to turn the situation?
I wish that you could watch this and I could see what you think about my duel so far... he thought wishfully. Then suddenly the sun was covered by some clouds and he could look up at the spot again where Yuna had been last time. And this time he saw it clearly. The purple collar was wound by the wind and Yuna smiled proudly with arms around her chest. She was surrounded by his two best friends and they were deeply involved in a conversation Mana was the first one who saw he watching them. She started waving at him like crazy making the other two looking curiously at her who pointed at the direction of him and Atem saw that she was overexcited as usual. Mahado looked at him as well and nodded to him in appreciation. Yuna also showed up a thumb at him which made Atem not afraid of his future anymore. He was ready to face any result that awaits him today; because he knew that he had given his best!
"Silent Magician, attack the Summoned Skull!"
His father smiled and nodded approvingly. "You have fought well my son, I am really proud of you. You have become a brave fighter who deserves respect. So I will not look down on you but show my best! Mirror Wall, appear."
The Silent Magician bounced back from the mirror and became smaller and weaker. It was his father's turn to attack and the Summoned Skull charged towards the Silent Magician but stopped just before him. "Atem, I assume that our duel is over this time." Strangely he did not feel any disappointment; the reaction of the crowd and the faces of his beloved ones was the proof that he had made his present better than he ever dared to dream of. His father considered him as an equal partner in this fight and he did not need to hold himself back! "You may depart Silent Magician. The duel is over. " He looked into his father's eyes. "I may have lost but I will win next time!" stated Atem proudly. The two kas disappeared into their stone tablets and Atem realised that his dear father looked down on him happily and enormously proud. Atem knew that this would always be a day that he would never forget in his life.
"We will see each other in the throne room to have our ceremony." whispered his dear father.
"Dear Father, Yuna has been recovered." whispered Atem.
"Then bring her and your friends to the throne room as well! But be quick do not make the people wait long! I will make sure that today will be a special day for every one of you!" Atem's heart wanted to burst out from the happiness. He waved to the cheering and clapping crowd and walked slowly out of the arena to join his friends and his blood kin. Even now he could not believe that Yuna really wished to become his blood kin. Everything was too good to be true! When he saw them he stopped and smiled broadly.
"Today your dept has been repaid officially! You have done a good job! The work has been paid off!"
Yuna smiled back and put her thumb up. "I know I always make a great job."
"I am happy that you recovered soo soon." Atem said confidently.
Mahado put his hand on Mana's head and looked reproachful. "Actually, that little woman knew from the early in the morning that Yuna is awake but she kept it as a secret!"
"I wanted to make Atem surprised." she stuck out her tongue. "Hope you did not mind Atem!" she added with a wink.
"Not at all. It has been a wonderful surprise for today. I could not have wished for better. And the day is not over. We should go to the throne room for the after ceremony!" said Atem excitedly.
"Oh I nearly forgot it! Then do not waste any time! I want to be there as soon as possible! Let's go, let's go, let's go!" said Mana excitedly pulling Mahado's arm.
"Mana...behave yourself!" rolled the young man his eyes.
"But why? It is a special day for all Atem! Atem you were sooooo great, I could not take my eyes off on you! I wish that I were also able to summon at least one ka on my own..." there she looked utterly devastated.
"Mana, you are a magician master. It takes more effort that you summon a spirit than a spirit summoned there are magician masters who cannot call any spirits in their own life but they can call as many magic and traps as they wish helping the spirit summoners to concentrate on calling as many kas as possible. It is a great talent as well." Yuna said kindly.
"Still I wish that I could call at least one ka on my own. I wish to be able to protect those that I love. I do not wish to be always on the sideline." Mana said dreamily and Mahado looked at her seriously. Atem could guess what he was thinking right now. This Mana was a different Mana that he was used to...
Yuna smiled encouragingly. "Well then...I suppose with practice you might even call one or two spirits on your own but do not be hasty. I will help you if you want..."
Mana started jumping up and down and returned to her usual cheerful self. "Yes, yes, yes,yes! Of course I want it! I cannot wait to see what my kas will look like! But let's go to the throne room! The first one will decide what game we will play today!" And with that she stormed away.
"Mana! You have not thanked Yuna for her offer!" he shouted after her. "That girl is incorrigible." he shook his head.
" Mahado, do not be so strict with her! It is natural that she feels excited. She is pure and fresh as a little child. I hope she will always behave like this she is kind of refreshing." Yuna said kindly.
"Like cold water poured suddenly on your head when you are overheated. She is sometimes too refreshing..."
"I see..." Yuna smiled as if she had found out something interesting.
Atem could not take the eyes of them. He thanked the gods that he had such wonderful people around him and wished that this moment would never end, he was so happy.
...
His dear father rose from the throne and turned to the audience. Behind him were the circle of priests and priestess and the four priests and priestess candidates. Atem next to his father next to him his special ones. All of them had their eyes set on the pharaoh who started talking. "I have lot of things to announce my dear people. As we could see this day has proved my son's spiritual power. He performed in this challenge extraordinary today. As you know he performed unlike his young age three days ago as well where his bravery made it possible that the palace was not inhabited by the dark powers. He acted like a real man today and that day as well. He proved his courage and he put himself in the front line to protect everyone he cares about. I believe regardless what the last challenge may bring, I can state that Atem showed well how brave our gods in this era. And they are not just brave but kind and fair as well. They stand on our side and they do not fear to make sacrifices to protect you people from any danger."
The people in the throne room knelt down in union. "We thank you our prince, our next beloved ruler. May you have the gods' bravery, the kindness and fairness as long as you are with us. Let it shine through you all the time." Atem blushed at this and got embarrassed a little and his father smiled a little when he looked down at him and continued his speech to link the crowd's attention again on him.
"But formality is formality: Atem needs to prove his knowledge and wisdom in the last challenge to honour our god Toth and Seshat. And he can show us something in which he can show his best form as well. His choice will reflect how well he know his abilities. Because wise man should know his strength and weaknesses. May I ask Atem what will you perform apart from the riddles and your test in your last challenge to show your best?"
Atem took a deep breath and said as loud and proudly as he could manage. "I will play Backgammon!" Some people looked confused at first and started whispering. "Backgammon?" "Do you know what that is?" "I never heard of that." Even his father looked taken aback and confused. Priest Siamun's eyes however shone up and looked gaily at Priestess Kiya who nodded and smiled at him and then turned to Atem and mouthed: "Good choice!". Yuna looked at him and put her right hand on her heart. Atem looked away to show that he saw Yuna's gratitude. He looked up at his father and then at the people. "Backgammon is a game played by two people. It is not known in our country but hopefully after you watch my play with my opponent it will become popular here." The people in the room became noisy and started talking and whispering from which Atem could hear the words: "Like his great grandfather!" "Extraordinary choice!" "Interesting!" "I cannot wait to see this!" Then the people in the room cheered and clapped happily and celebrated the decision.
His dear father smiled proudly at him and asked him curiously. "And who will be your opponent if I may ask my dear son?" There he looked at Priest Siamun cheekily but Atem shook his head.
"My opponent will be that girl over there if she accepts it!" Atem pointed at Yuna. The girl straightened her back, walked towards him with a barely visible limping and looked into his eyes. "Is that a joke? Of course, I accept it Egyptian!"
The people around them were watching them curiously and started murmuring. "Who is she?" "She has such a strange complexion..." "Is she from another land?" "Is she ill or what?". Yuna looked at them briefly and started blushing and looked uncomfortable at the situation. Atem looked at her and grabbed her hand and whispered. "I am sorry Yuna...I would like to apologise for this..."
"There is no need to apologise. People look out those who are different. I was always different a way but in my country I could at least mingle with the people I did not stick out... Well it is different here I think I just have to get used to it." she whispered back. "It is not your fault..."
The pharaoh looked at the scene thoughtfully without saying a word he just stood next to the two young ones. Then he took a deep breath and started speaking again. "Everyone, please listen to me. I would like to introduce this young lady whose name is Yuna. She is special and not just that she will play backgammon with Atem at the last challenge but because she has taken part in the fight three days ago. She is the special one who possesses the sacred sword again. She is the one the rumours talk about." The people in the room started looking at the young girl differently." Yuna today I wish to thank you what you have done for all of us. With your help the evil of the palace was forfeited and the life of the heir of the throne was saved. May the gods bless you as long as you live little lady." He put his right hand on his heart and bowed, the people assembled in the throne room murmured their blesses and their gratitude. "My people, I want that you never forget to show your respect and gratitude of this young lady because she will be part of our life from today. I want you to help her get accustomed to our customs and disregard her strange behaviours. The gods sent her from a far away land where the beliefs and customs are different from ours. And even the colour of her skin may be different but I want you to regard her with the same respect as a princess because from today on she will become the member of my family. From today I am adopting Yuna and she will officially be my daughter!"
The people bowed to the ground. "Gods bless the little princess!" Yuna seemed total speechless for a second then blushed and whispered. "There is no need to do that. Please raise up."
But the people remained there and said in union. "Long live the little princess. Have Ra's blessing on you. We will always serve you faithfully as long as you live Princess Yuna!"
The pharaoh showed that they might arise and everyone stood up.
"I also wish to announce another news: Priest Siamun appointed her as a possible priestess candidate and a possible successor of one of the sacred items. What do you say to this honour my dear daughter?"
Everyone looked surprised and Atem saw that Uncle Aknadin even hissed angrily and murmured loud enough that everyone could hear it. "That is ridiculous...Last time she were outraged at the idea of becoming a priestess...she blew her chance last time. Why does she get another chance? She is not even one of us and she has no right to become a priestess in the first place..."
Atem could not help to be quiet and whispered back angrily. "The times are changing Uncle. That day she was a girl suffering losing her mother and friends...Her actions cannot be taken seriously...But today she has found her real place and become my sister, so she has the same rights as anyone else in this place!"
Uncle Aknadin smirked and whispered back as the pharaoh asked Yuna why she decided that way. "I am curious how she will perform in her challenges! If she fails she will not become a priestess anyway...We will if she can be as good as us that time!"
"You will be surprised uncle." smiled Atem confidently.
"Dear Pharaoh...dear Priests and Priestess and people of Egypt. I will be honest with you! I am different than you in many aspects. My powers are special but they do not make me able to stand alone in a fight. I will never be able to summon powerful spirits as I am not a spirit summoner...I can invoke the spirits of my family who has been serving us for centuries. But do not be afraid that does not mean that I am useless. Because I am a spirit healer...I can make spirits more powerful and I help people be able to fight longer...I wish to get better and learn as much as possible to become even more powerful. I will take all of my challenges once I master your way of reading and writing! Give me some months I will show you what I am capable of! I promise that you will not be disappointed in me." There Uncle Aknadin hissed disapprovingly. Yuna did not pay any more attention to him. "I also wish to teach you my people's knowledge as well. We can learn a lot from each other I believe. My road as priestess will be teaching and helping everyone as much as my powers allow me."
The Pharaoh looked satisfied with the answer. "Well Yuna... if that is what you want then achieve it my dear daughter. Use your time wisely learn as much as possible so when you come of age you will be prepared for your tasks as a priestess. I am sure that we can learn a lot from you dear daughter!" Atem watched fascinated as one of the servants brought a box to his father who opened it. It contained the two bracelets which protected children from the dark powers and the one bracelet of the upper arm which was the symbol of being a priestess candidate. "I wish to give you the bracelets which will hinder the dark powers from you...And the bracelet on your upper arm will symbolise that you are the next priestess candidate. I am sure we will all be proud of you little princess." As his honoured father reached out to put the golden bracelet and wanted to put in on Yuna's upper arm the girl took a step back and seemed to be hurt.
"Is there a problem Yuna?" asked his father.
"Uhm...I am sorry my dear Pharaoh."
"You can call my father from now if you wish."
Yuna blushed and her eyes reflected pain and hurt. "I am sorry my dear Pharaoh..." she stated again. "But I cannot take these jewelleries! Please do not make me do this." she cried out and cast her eyes as if she were ashamed.
"But please tell me what the problem is?" Atem saw that his father looked as taken aback as he was.
Yuna blushed even more, closed her eyes and said uncomfortably. "The problem is that I am not a man."
His father's face was astonished and the faces of the most priests showed that they were also dumbfounded. In the meantime Priestess Kiya and Priest Siamun could hardly conceal their chuckles.
Atem saw that among the priest candidates Seto was looking like as if he were uncomfortable. His face was pale and he stared at Yuna with widea eyes if he could not believe what he was just seeing. He seemed as if he were in a trance...Next to him Uncle Aknadin shot a look full of disdain towards Priest Siamun and Priestess Kiya, crossed his arms around his chest and turned to Yuna.
"I am sorry but I think that is not our business whether you like being a girl or not!" he said mockingly.
"What are you talking about? I would never be a man in a million years!" Uncle Aknadin looked taken aback.
"Oh Ra, this day is a great fun!" put Priest Siamun his hands in front his mouth to conceal his laugh and Priest Kiya also turned away to hide her chuckles. Uncle Aknadin looked at them with a killing look.
"I am glad that at least you have such a great fun!" he snapped. "I wish I knew why! I see no reason why we should laugh!"
The priestess was the first one to regain her composure and gave Priest Siamun a slight kick on the side to be silent. Atem saw that the pain helped the priest regain his seriousness and took a little bag under his garment. Slowly he walked to the ruler and held out the small bag respectfully. The pharaoh looked questioningly at him. "May I ask what that supposed to mean?"
"In Yuna's land women usually do not wear gold. It is the jewellery which represents masculine power. Women wear silver which represents feminine power. Yuna simply does not wish to wear something which might symbolise that she is masculine. I think that she is a little bit offended and confused why you wish to give her gold jewelleries." Here the priest opened the box and there were silver bracelets. Yuna's eyes shone up with wonder and delight. "Uncle Siamun...Are those...?"
The priest stepped in front of her. "You remember that I wanted to give you the silver jewelleries that your mother left you but you told me that you do not want them and I can do what I want with them. Well I wanted to make new jewelleries for this special occasion that you can wear without being ashamed."
Yuna seemed to get touched by the gesture but had not chance to do anything as the pharaoh took out a bracelet and put it on her forearm.
"I would never want to make my daughter feel ashamed. Thank you Priest Siamun for these beautiful pieces of jewellery! " Yuna looked thankfully at both of them and put her hand on her chest. The two men looked away and their eyes met. Both of them looked at each other with respect and gratitude. Atem saw that his dear father also had a friend that he could count for his whole life. Just like him!
"Please do not look away, I really wish to wear the other beautiful jewelleries!" clapped Yuna her hands. The people looked horrified at the scene as they believed that the girl was insolent. But the pharaoh helped them to understand the situation. "That is the way how my daughter expresses her gratitude. She is very respectful in her own way." The gaze of the people soothed once again. Atem loved how his father handled the situation. Soon Yuna wore two bracelets around her wrists and one on her upper arm on the left hand-side and she walked back to Atem. Behind them the priestess and priest candidates congratulated the new member. But it did not leave Atem's attention that Seto stayed out of the circle as if he did not belong to them anymore. Atem found his behaviour utterly strange and he wished to talk to his cousin later but now he turned to Yuna who was watching the silver bracelets on her wrist in wonder.
"It suits you little sister!" Atem said happily and Yuna smiled back. "Sorry for last time, I did not know what the gold meant in your land."
"Well, last time was emergency...but do not dare to talk anyone that I wore gold little Egyptian brother! You will regret it if you do, I promise! Even today I feel ashamed when I think about it..." Atem laughed quietly. He loved this new situation between them.
Soon his glimpse was guided back to his dear father who signed his wish that he wanted to speak again. "My gratitude goes to two other people as well. Mahado, Mana please step ahead in front of me!" The two magicians walked and knelt in front of the pharaoh. The priests and the priestess looked at them with appreciation whereas Uncle Aknadin raised one eyebrow and seemed rather irritated than happy.
"First master magician apprentice Mahado. You have proven your wisdom, hard work during your challenges; your calm and humble behaviour was always an example for everyone in the court. Everyone is aware of the fact of that both of you should become the successor of our Master Magician, as you wear the bracelet that my son gave you years ago and which I announced officially and never regretted it...And everyone heard about the events of three days ago. You also played an important role to prevent that the evil powers win on that particular day. You also helped to save Atem's life risking your own life...Therefore I feel that I need to express my gratitude in front of the whole court... Mahado, I have seen that you are totally able to control the powers of the Millennium Ring which is a hard task now as it is unfortunately contaminated by evil power. Most people would crush under the stress that you handled well: you could stay calm and smart. I also saw that your behaviour helps your surrounding as well not to lose their common sense..." here the pharaoh paused for a while. "And even it is me who wish to express my gratitude today I wish to ask a favour from you. I know that you have prepared to become the next Master Magician and never thought about having any of the seven sacred items. Still after what I saw I wish that you become the successor of the Millennium Ring because you are the only one who have enough powers to keep it under control. You will be the first Master Magician Priest in the history Mahado, if you agree. Due to your calm and patient behaviour I also wish that you become the maester of the young candidates to be a good example of the future masters. You may have taken the challenge for magicians which does not involve invoking a ka but I have made sure three days ago that you are more than ready to get this sacred item. Mahado, I just have one question...would you like to take this hard path?"
"I am honoured my pharaoh..." Mahado took a step toward the ruler but then froze and looked back on Mana who nodded at him encouragingly with teary eyes. "Go for it Mahado! You deserve this!"
The young man smiled and knelt down and spoke calmly. "My honoured Pharaoh! The task that you asked me is too great to bear it alone..."
Uncle Aknadin hissed angrily and muttered something that Atem could have sworn he heard the word "weakling".
"... I will need an assistant as a magician who can assist my magical rituals. And my tutoring of young candidates. Even the task as a Master Magician I wished to fulfil with a faithful assistant." Mahado nodded towards Mana who put her hands in front of her mouth. "I cannot take this position without my assistant Mana, my honoured pharaoh I am sorry!"
Mana ran in front of him and spoke vehemently. "But Mahado... This is a one in a lifetime chance! Do not throw away this opportunity because of me! You have worked so hard, you deserve it! My dear pharaoh I can assure you that Mahado will be the best!"
His father also looked kindly at both of them and whispered to Atem. "My son, I must tell you that you have chosen well in regards of your friends. Both of them are great treasures!"
"I know my dear father. They are the best friends I could ever dream of." answered Atem honestly. His father turned back to the two young people. "Mahado! I know perfectly well the task is too huge for one person to bear alone. Actually I also wanted to offer that Mana should become the next Master Magician Priestess candidate. If she successfully takes her challenges it might be no problem that she even takes your footsteps one day Mahado if you are satisfied with her results. In this delicate case I see no problem that she will be an apprentice and priestess candidate at the same time. Will you take the position this way Mahado?"
"I am honoured to take the position my honoured Pharaoh." knelt down Mahado.
His father took another box from the servant stepping next to him and took out a golden bracelet that he attached to Mahado's forearm so that now Mahado wore two bracelets and became the next priest or better to say the first Master Magician Priest!
Mana on the other hand looked a little bit troubled. "My dear ruler...when shall I take my challenge?" she asked fearfully. Atem could understand the reason why his friend was so frightened. She had just told them that she could not call any kas...In a magician that would be mean any problems but in the case of a priestess candidate it would mean an automatic fail in the challenges...
"When you are ready my dear Mana. As a priestess candidate you have as much time for practicing as you wish. Take the challenge when you are ready...only the prince must take his or her challenge before the age of ten but some of us seems to forget this and makes a race from this..." Uncle Aknadin looked as if his brother had slapped him. He seemed as if he could erupt as a volcano any moment. Her face became red and his hands turned to be fists...but his dear father had not recognised this as he was watching Mahado and Mana. Then he reached out the Millenium Ring and put it Mahado's neck. An enormous proud feeling spread in Atem's chest. His best friend became the first Master Magician-Priest in history! He was happy for Mahado's success!
"I am sure that our court and every Egyptian people will benefit from your good qualities. Today Mahado is officially the member of our priests and priestess! And Mana has become the next Master Magician Priestess candidate. Have the gods bless you!"
"Have the gods bless you Master Magician-Priest Mahado and Mana!" echoed the people in the throne room.
"Master Magician Priest Mahado and Mana please join our inner circle to welcome you."
The people of Egypt knelt down again of his two friends and Atem watched with a smile how the circle of the priests and Priestess Kiya welcomed the new priest and the new priestess candidate who resumed her always cheerful attitude and hugged Isis and her brother, hit Bebi on the back. Only Seto seemed to be gloomy and when Mana reached her hand hesitantly towards him he took a step back. He looked away uncomfortable seemed to be on the verge of tears and gasped aloud as he saw how his father looked at him. Uncle Aknadin looked at his son as if he were a disgrace and seemed not to enjoy the company of the new priest he even theatrically stepped aside from Mahado's handshake with disgust on his face and walked in front of the crowd.
"I cannot watch this farce quietly any longer! Seriously I cannot believe that you can watch this without raising your voices! Am I the only one who thinks this whole scene strange? You seem to forget one thing! But I will make you remember all of you then! Maester Priest Sabu appointed Seto to be the successor of the Millennium Ring! And here is this young man taking the place from him! Just because he is the best friend of the prince. It is outragous!" shouted Uncle Aknadin.
"Brother Aknadin. In your place I would rather be quiet after what has happened. Do you seriously think that Priest Sabu's word should be taken into consideration after that he has betrayed the whole court and sent messages to the followers of Zork? I believe in this case we should listen to our common sense and not the words of a liar and a betrayer. And it is ridiculous that you believe that Mahado has been appointed because he is the best friend of my son. I made this decision because my sense as a Pharaoh tells that Mahado has the powers which can make sure that the Millennium Ring remains harmless. It is the only fact that I took into consideration and nothing else." replied using his authoritative tone of his father.
"And what about Seto? He has been training hard and he has proven his abilities as well. Does that supposed to mean that he is weaker than Mahado my dear brother?" Uncle Aknadin hissed furiously.
Atem saw that his cousin stepped back behind the priest candidates and seemed that he wished that he could vanish in an instant. Atem realised that he had been so involved in emotions that he forgot to consider how Seto might feel right now...He felt ashamed of himself. Seto seemed to be paler than usual and he looked at Mahado furiously. His hands were balled into fists and he clenched his teeth.
"Who told anyone that Seto is weaker than anyone? He and Mahado have different qualities!" snapped his father. "Be reasonable Aknadin!"
"How can I be reasonable if you exclude my son from becoming a priest? To take his well earned place after his challenges? And not just that! He would be placed one place lower now in the order of inheritance of the throne as well because you adopted the niece of your friend that you always adored! Why do you disgrace Seto so much?" Uncle Siamun Aknadin lost his composure.
"I did not have the intention to exclude him but I cannot endanger your son's life to satisfy your pride so that he can receive the Millennium Ring! And what does it make any difference who is the second one in the line? I do not believe that it is so important who is the second. It is Atem who is the rightful owner of the throne anyway!"
"You know what I believe my brother? That you favour everyone but my son, just because you happened to be on the throne and have powers!" Aknadin shouted.
"Priest Aknadin please calm down and listen to your brother before you make hasty judgements on him!" Priest Siamun cried out and stepped between the two brothers. "Pharaoh Aknamkanon please open your eyes a little bit more and be more compesionate! Don't you realise how your brother feels right now?"
Atem saw the anger of his father's eyes disappeared and seemed as if he had woken up from a dream. He looked at his brother in surprise and asked with huge disbelief in his voice.
"Brother! Aknadin! Holy Ra! Do you seriously believe that I wish to exclude my nephew to keep him away of the court?! If that were the case he would not stand among the priest candidates! Seto will inherit naturally inherit your sacred item, he is not excluded at all!"
Priest Aknadin crossed his arms in front of his chest and looked furiously. "Oh that is so kind of you my brother! Seto will inherit the Millennium Eye which means that my son shall wait patiently till I pass away to become a priest. Shall I thank you for that I will not see my son becoming a priest?" he said venomously. "Seto should have taken his right place once Atem comes of age and takes the throne, just like any other priest candidates who are standing there! How do you want to make this? I have to wear the Millennium Eye till me dying day, it is not an item that I can take on and off whenever I like it! Just like any other father I would like to see that my son succeeds and gets his rightful position!" There he stepped close to his brother and looked into his eyes provokingly.
"Brother, I am sorry that this turned out this way... the gods made a different path for all us of to walk on...We must accept it no matter how hard it is you know it..." said his father calmly.
"You try to imitate the fairness of Pharaoh Ana but you will never become like her! She knew what the gods wanted but you have no idea of it! I do not think that is what the gods want! The gods want my son to become a priest the same time as any other candidates! I want a ka duel. That will show us who is right! " he hissed angrily. The whole room became silent at once...Only a fair haired priest candidate moved from his place and stepped ahead. His sister Isis grabbed his wrist but the young man shook his head and continued his walk. His face was determined and he spoke self-confidently.
"My honoured Pharaoh, Priest Aknadin, please stop this! The gods want that Seto Priest to become a priest the right time Aknadin is right. It is no need to fight over this matter!"
"And whose item will that be if I may ask you? Every item has a candidate now." hissed Uncle Aknadin.
"It may be true now but this will change now... resign from the position of becoming a priest candidate so Seto can take my place once he takes his second challenge..." Everyone in the room exclaimed in surprise and Isis put her hand in front of her mouth. "Brother..." Their father Guardian Ramose stepped ahead and lost his temper and exclaimed.
"What is this farce Marik? You can stay as long in this position as you wish. You earned your place Son you do not need to resign just to make Seto a place!"
Marik walked in front of his father and gave him a little bow. He did not seem to be someone who made this decision in an instant but like someone he had carefully thought this over more than once. And like someone who does not have the slightest doubt that he was doing the right thing. "I know my honoured father. But you know very well that my place is not here...I knew from a long time...I told you millions of times but you never listened to me...It was only you who forced me to become a priest in my whole life. But I have a different goal in my life...I wish to become the master of secrets of the room of wisdom."
"You have gone mad my son! And I know the reason why! I know who made these thoughts into your head. I will make sure that that servant will be sent away." Guardian Ramose looked behind him at the servant who was standing with eyes as if he could not believe what he was just withnessing. Marik, however, lost his composure at those words and spoke much more angrily as beforehand.
"Servant? Do not dare to call him like that! Karim is special for me and I will set him free next week when I came of age! He will be my faithful partner for my whole life soon, so do not dare to do anything against him or you will regret it! Next week I will be a grown-up man! It will be high time to live my life the way I wish!" Marik stood in front of his father looking deeply into his eyes.
Marik's father answered with an evil smile. "We will see who regrets and what my son. You are passionate and reckless; you do not have the ability to think like an adult! You are an amateur in making plans...You should have remained silent and then you would have had any chance...But you acted like an idiot child."
"That would not be right! I cannot remain silent and let two brothers fight with each other over a matter that has already been decided! I could not look into a mirror anymore if I had done that! That is despicable!" responded Marik.
"And that is why you are nothing but a little child. You were not cunning and you will regret that because I will make you remember that you are nothing, it is my word that counts and not yours! You are not an adult and next week is so far away from here. Till that time your precious partner will be sent away, because I do not need that servant anymore! And if you still insist on that stupid idea of resigning your post as priest candidate I will help you with the decision. If you resign you can do whatever you want because I will disinherit you. We will see how far you reach alone if you have no power and wealth. You will be no better than a pheasant! You will be able to do nothing for your dear Karim. But you still have a chance to hinder this fate... You can kneel down right now and beg for mercy and apologise for your stupid behaviour and I and the pharaoh will forget this little incident. Have you understood my son?" Guardian Ramose laughed out in an evil way and Atem felt a pity for Marik. Even the strict Uncle Aknadin looked horrified at Guardian Ramose with disgust on his face. That man treated his own son too horrible and cruel to his taste and Atem knew that this meant something...
Karim looked guiltily at Marik and said ashamed. "I am so sorry Marik... I have nearly ruined your life...It was not my intention...Please forgive me Marik..."
Marik walked to him and looked sternly into his eyes. "Karim, what are you talking about? What should I forgive you? You have done nothing wrong! You could never ruin my life it is the opposite that is true! You saved me several occasions from losing myself and my desire to live...When father hit me, it was you who stood by my side along with Isis, it was you who whispered comforting words when father insulted me...It was you who were my hope in every hopeless situations...It was you whom I could confine my real dream and you did not laugh me out but you encouraged me to go for it...You are special for me and I cannot imagine my life without you...I rather become a servant than be called a son of that kind of man." Marik grabbed the head of Karim and pulled him close to him till Atem saw that their lips softly touched.
Atem heard the people started whispering in the room and the two young men stepped aside as if they had just woken up from their dreams. They stepped a little apart but their hands remained intertwined as if they were waiting for the last judgement upon them. At that moment Priestess Kiya stepped in front of them and looked into Guardian Ramose's eyes. "Brother, are you serious? Do you wish to disinherit Marik? He is your own son!"
Guardian Ramose raised an eyebrow. "Son? I have no son of my own. I only have a daughter from this day! She will make all my dreams come true! She will make my proud and happy!"
Isis' eyes were full of tears as she was watching his brother holding Karim's hands. "Oh my dear brother..." she whispered painfully.
Priestess Kiya knelt down in front of the pharaoh. "My dear ruler. You have heard everything. My nephew has been disinherited by his own father. As his aunt I cannot look at this without doing anything. Please my ruler let me have him as my own son. Please allow me to adopt him! I cannot let that young man who is nothing but a brave man full of honour become an outcast." Priest Siamun looked at the priestess with the most gently love and proud and Atem felt sorry that the priestess could not see that as the priest was standing behind him...
"Tsk..." hissed Guardian Ramose. "Well take that boy and be happy with it. I am taking the love of his life with me and send him as far away as possible." He grabbed Karim's wrist and started pulling him behind him out of the room.
Atem moved away from his place and took Priest Siamun's hand.
"What is it Atem?" he asked surprised.
"Priest Siamun? What are you waiting for? If you cannot tell her directly what you feel why don't you show her how much she means for you? Do you wish to stay here doing nothing?" He saw that Priest Siamun's eyes shone up and he stepped in front of the pharaoh. "Wait Guardian Ramose, I wish to say something to our ruler that you should also hear." The guardian stopped at once and looked back furiously. Everyone could hear and see that his patient and calm voice was nothing but an act.
"Go ahead and tell what you wish to say of course, Priest Siamun."
"My honoured Pharaoh. I have become old and I feel the consequences of my age. I am afraid that I need a servant who could help me with my daily needs. Guardian Ramose just made us all clear that he does not wish to keep his servant anymore. Could you please ask him if he could give him to me and not send him away?" The priestess face lit up with joy and gave him a bright smile. Atem saw that his father's eyes softened at the sight and looked briefly at the two young men who stood there staring at wonder at the two kneeling elderly people.
"Guardian Ramose. You have heard the request of my faithful priest. I hope that you have no objection that I grant the wish of him." The guardian grunted and let go of the wrist of Karim unwillingly who ran back to Marik instantly jumped into his arms. The two young men sobbed uncontrollably from relief...The pharaoh looked kindly at them but when he turned his gaze at the guardian his expression changed into fury.
" You should be ashamed that you threw away two precious and pure hearted souls who had no sins but that the pure love that they felt towards each other. I want you to think about your actions and if you wish to keep your position as a tomb keeper, then please come and apologise in front of the whole court and your son. You may depart now!"
Guardian Ramose turned and left the room quickly. Atem could however not forget the last glance he cast on them. It told everything...hate, disgust and the wish for revenge...Atem felt cold frightening feeling creeping up on his spine. But soon it passed as he saw how Isis stared after her father. Her face reflected fear, worry and disbelief. She suddenly turned to his brother who was also staring after the place where his father left the room with a sad look. The black haired girl walked to the two young men and hugged each of them. "Marik, my brother I am glad that you found your goal in your life. You were so brave I am so proud of you. Karim I know take good care of Marik as you always did. Aunt Kiya, Priestess Siamun thank you what you have done to us."
Priest Siamun waved his hands symbolising that it was nothing and Priestess Kiya smiled gently at Isis. Atem looked at the two elderly people and he waved the priestess to her. "What is it Prince Atem?" Atem mumbled something and the priestess bowed down. "I cannot hear you if you speak so quietly." There Atem stepped closer and whispered into her ears. "I do not understand. Why is it possible that two young men can confess their feelings so openly in front of everyone and you and Priest Siamun cannot be honest with each other?"
"Prince..." the priestess looked away blushing. "There is nothing...even if it were one time it is late now..."
"Priestess, true feelings do not change over the time! You are the proof of it! Why did you write your feelings in a letter then? I saw it in that vision...I do not get you...You told me to change my future but why don't you change yours as well? Priestess why do you wait when in this present you have a chance to tell him what you feel? Why don't you tell him in person what you wrote in the letter?" The priestess looked at him with eyes. Then she got up and walked to Karim, Marik and Priest Siamun. She stroked the face of Marik and looked at him with kindness. Then she looked into the eyes of Priest Siamun.
"My dream has just become reality. I always wanted to have a son in my whole life..." she said quietly. Priest Siamun looked at her in wonder. "Kiya, I always thought that you..." then he bit his lip and looked away embarrassed. "I have been an idiot..." He glimpsed at Marik took a deep breath and he also stroked his face. "Young man, whatever you need you can always count on me. Kiya, I mean Priestess Kiya will be your mother but if you need an advice as a man you can always turn to me."
"Thank you Siamun." whispered the priestess.
"Will you meet with me later in the afternoon in the garden? I must go to my room to fetch something at first after the ceremony."
"Sure thing. We need a lot to discuss I suppose."
"You can bet it." nodded the priest.
Atem could have watched the scene for a while but he felt that someone was pulled his right arm. As he glimpsed sideways he saw that it was Yuna. "What are you doing Yuna? Is something the matter with you?"
"Do you really want to know the answers for these questions? Well then...I am pulling your arm so that I get your attention. And no nothing is wrong with me." she said with a smirk. "I need to teach you how to ask questions properly!"
Atem smiled at that remark. "I cannot wait it. But first can you tell me what you wanted to say?"
"Holy Godess you really cannot ask a question properly."
Atem raised an eyebrow questioningly but Yuna shook her head. "No time for that now. Your cousin is no longer here. I think you should follow him and talk to him." Atem looked around but he could not see Seto...
"But why has he left the room? I saw that he looked hurt by the whole events but everything turned out good...So what might be the matter?" he wondered.
Yuna sighed. "Egyptian brother! These questions are better but you are asking the wrong person. The question you should have asked it this: "Which direction he went? And the answer is the there." pointed the girl to the left and shook her head. "You really have to learn about questioning...but go now! Everybody is involved in these events so you have time to fetch back here."
Atem did not waste more time. He ran out of the room to find his cousin. It was high time that they talked to each other...
Notes of the author:
- Yu-Gi-Oh! and its characters belongs to Kazuki Takahashi please note that I try to be faithful to the storyline of the manga but in order to make the my own story complete and logical I may have made some alterations and will do if necessary
- the avatar that I used was found on pinterest at: pin/507147608010770878/ I does not belong to me, I would be wonderful if I could make my own pictures about the story but I am not on that level. I would be a dream come true if I could inspire artists to make pictures about this story. :)
- I set my story mainly in ancient Egypt but as I am not a historian, historical inaccurances are also possible
- Please note that English is a foreign English for me however I try to my best to improve my vocabulary and grammar, feel free to higligh my mistakes I will correct them as soon as possible
- As I work and have a private life the updates can take some time, but if I have some free time I devote it to the story.
Notes about this chapter:
- This chapter was enormous fun to make, finally I could write a bright chapter after so many dark ones. :)))) It is good when good things happen to our characters. :) I have made several versions of it, but this was the one that I was the most satisfied. :) I am at the point that I cannot wait to write and post the upcoming chapters. I wish I had more free time for it. :)))