Chapter XXXVIII: The Sand Cat

Her priestess training had been going exceptionally well according to Halima. For some reason, being a priestess was more exhausting than being a magician. She did a whole day's worth of working in the temple, offering prayers to the gods, cleaning the idols and performing magical rituals to ensure their gods would continue to bless the earth. Meskhenet was reminded by Halima that priesthood was not a permanent job; they did these priestly duties for a month and then returned to their original professions. She was also informed that in order to enter a temple, sexual contact was not permitted during those times of priesthood. She needed to let Bakura know...

"That is all for today," Halima informed Meskhenet after they both prayed. "Tomorrow I would like to see your ka in battle."

"Yes...about that I have yet to explore my ka's power fully," she rubbed her arm uncertainly, but Halima gave her a warm smile.

"That is what we will practice. For now, you must rest for the coming day." It was a little odd hearing that from Halima, though she knew full and well that Halima wanted her in top shape, it wasn't something she made attention to. Seeing her expression must've told Halima that the young redhead was confused, "We will have a mock duel, though it is not a real duel, the pain that comes from the offense are very much real."

"Ah," Meskhenet nodded. A mock duel…she had hoped to have one with Zaim or perhaps her father, but Halima was her teacher now, it was only befitting for the stern woman to duel Meskhenet. Maybe she should ask Bakura for some pointers. "I will make sure to do so. Thank you for today."

By the time she returned home, she was exhausted and all she wanted to do was sleep. Sighing, she pushed open her bedroom door and trudged over to her bed, stripping off her gown crawling into the sheets, wrapping herself in them, not bothering to care to put her nightgown on.

"I think our first order of business should be to get ourselves a hideout," she heard Magda's voice, followed by the front door slamming shut. Frustrated, she sighed and turned to the entrance of her door. Damn, she left the door open.

"I've already taken the efforts of procuring a place," came Bakura's voice. "Khenet should be home."

"Do we need her?"

"No," Bakura's curt reply was followed by silence except for footsteps. He came in the room in his light tan tunic. He gave her a glance before trailing his eyes to her dress on the floor.

"I'm tired," she said simply. He said nothing, going over to her. "Are you and Magda discussing business again? Have the other thieves responded?"

"Neith and Seth are on board," he kissed her, his hand trailing down the opening in the blanket near her abdomen. She took his warm hand in hers and placed it on her cheek. "No response from the others. It was strange...though," he paused, looking at her intently, "The tomb wasn't as difficult as everyone said it would be."

"I guess that's a shame for you," she smiled, hoping he couldn't see through her lie. "I'm glad you are safe. I'm sorry for the other night, I overreacted."

"Hmm," he said as he looked back at the entrance. "Will you be home tomorrow?"

From the way his eyes were looking at her, she suspected he wanted something from her. "I have time tonight with some rest and once you finish your business with Magda." She replied, biting her lip when she saw him smirk at her. He gave her a long kiss before he left the room. Sighing, she rolled onto her back. She better get some rest. She had a feeling tonight was going to be a long night.

It was barely ten minutes since Bakura left before she drifted off to sleep. Her priestess training was really draining for her. Ah, she forgot to tell Bakura about the duties of a priestess, she supposed she would tell him when she awoke…

She awoke in a field of wheat with strong winds blowing the grass, back and forth; bending them with the slightest breeze, brushing passed her ankles and bare feet. No matter where she looked, there was wheat everywhere, the only thing else was the blue sky overhead. It was such a lonely place, yet she didn't feel alone.

She was standing in a white gown, plain and long with her usual slit on her right leg to allow her legs a little more movement. For some reason, her hair was tied in a braid and she was wearing the Akhet Dagger at her waist. She touched the Dagger, how long had it been since she last saw the Dagger? Some time when her father was still here… her heart ached as a squeamish feeling passed her insides.

She looked up to see the Black Witch floating in front of her, dreary black robes fluttering in the wind. She really didn't like her ka, so dark, so dreary… Diabound was beautiful, the Time Wizard amazing and Zaim's majestic, but hers, ugh, she could barely stand to look at it. She hoped as she evolved so would it.

"Hi," she reluctantly called to the creature that merely stared back at her with its mask. "We have a battle tomorrow. Are you ready?" No reply, what exactly was she expecting? The Black Witch was lifeless, unlike the other kas she met. Realizing she had the Dagger, she reached for it, "Maybe…" she pulled the Dagger and glanced at her ka, "If I could use this then you will speak, yes?"

There was a presence in her mind, not unlike Volcanic Wings' except she couldn't make out what it was saying. Was it the Witch? Was it trying to talk to her, she hadn't used the Dagger yet. "What are you saying?"

A strong gust caught her off guard, and she turned to see the wheat rushing towards her in waves as the winds picked up, she blocked her eyes to prevent anything hitting them. Vaguely in the distance, she saw something…a man robed in white with blonde hair. She couldn't quite make out his features but he had a staff. Was he a magician too? She didn't know.

By the time she could make out a voice, she awoke a few minutes before Bakura finished his business with Magda. And when morning came, she was somewhat happy, anxious and overall too busy day dreaming to pay much attention to anything or anyone, but when she had finished her work and was standing in front of Halima at an empty area somewhere underground near the palace dungeons, she finally put her thoughts aside.

The place felt a little too small and a little too suffocating that she was taking deep breaths the whole time she was down there. Halima stood on the opposite end of a large square ditch in the floor that led somewhere deep into darkness with no signs of an end. Meskhenet didn't want to think where that led, this was a prison after all so maybe that's where they dumped the bodies of the executed criminals. She shuddered at the thought, rubbing her arms. Halima wore a beautiful light blue kalasirus with turquoise and gold jewelry; her gorgeous dark hair cascading contrasted the light garments. Meskhenet wished there was a color that contrasted her hair, alas though, her red was a mid-color, and neither dark nor light would contrast it.

"Are you ready?" Halima asked her student.

Meskhenet nodded but realized the gap between them so called out, "Yes." She tried to remember what advice Bakura had given her during sex, however most of it had been lost in their intimacy and she cursed herself for it. Calming her breathing, she closed her eyes and thought of the Witch from her dreams, "Black Witch, come out!" From behind her, darkness rippled into view, swirling and whirling in a violet and black portal, as it continued to swirl the darkness turned to garments. It was the robes of the Black Witch who now floated behind the redhead, staff in hand, silent as ever.

She couldn't see the reaction of Halima from afar, but she thought she saw a look of disappointment which made her feel self-conscious. Would the court judge her for the dark ka of hers? Would they doubt her righteousness and goodness? She glared at her ka, angry at its form. She wanted a magician platypus like Tahir…a Witch Platypus! Perhaps she would head down to the library and see if there was any information on transforming one's ka to another form.

"Sand Cat, I call upon you!" Halima called and from the grounds of the squared arena came piles of sand, gathering together like some sort of magnet calling them forth until from the center top of the sand rose a form that slowly became etched with details of features of a feline body. Color appeared onto the cat just as its form became completely visible, its long pointed ears twitched to life while the stripes of its body were colored in by sand as if some artist had finished a paintjob. The sand didn't stop there; rather it began to build golden armor over the cat's body but never blocking its black claws that protruded out. Its lion like tail swayed with every second as its sharp eyes bore holes into any and all who caught its gaze.

Meskhenet caught her breath at the fierceness of Sand Cat. It wasn't exactly a ka she would call beautiful in appearance, but she felt the power and majesty from the mere look of the cat ka. It was almost like a perfect statue, guarding a house, guarding her master. What power… how long she wondered, did it take to harness such power? Would she ever grow to be that strong?

"Let's duel," Halima said, "Sand Cat! Attack!"

The call for an attack took Meskhenet by surprise, she quickly asked her ka mentally to defend but the ka did nothing. "Block it!" she shouted in panic, her heart beat racing as she quickly turned to look at her ka that just barely dodged the tackle from Sand Cat. Her heart wouldn't slow down even after the attack was over except it wasn't, Sand Cat skidded on the arena's floor but made a sharp turn around to do a follow up attack, this time making contact with the Witch that was pushed over the gap of the floor.

"Defend yourself," Halima instructed, "Do not focus on the possible damage that might be done, rather focus on your offense and defense. Look for the openings in your opponents weak points such as your ka, you have left her wide open for another attack." And as if to demonstrate her point, Sand Cat growled before jumping into the air and slashing Meskhenet's ka in a cross like manner which sent her body shaking in pain as she felt the claws clawing at her soul. "This is a mock duel to prepare you for a real one. What should happen if you find yourself against a thief or murderer? What if they challenge you? Will you let yourself to fall as easy prey to them?"

She couldn't answer, it never occurred to her. Her battle against Ata had been mainly magic, he had summoned his ka but she hadn't fought it. She had just assumed every magician she would have to face would only attack her with magic and any criminal that came her way…well, she thought Bakura would deal with them. Facing Halima now, however, made her realize, those were foolish thoughts. Her father used to tell her that duels could happen to anyone, anywhere.

"Defend yourself!" Halima said again as the onslaught of Sand Cat's attacks continued. Halima was holding back, she could feel it. Sand Cat was merely pouncing and knocking the Black Witch down, barely making any scratches or wounds, still some of the attacks had knocked the wind right out of Meskhenet. Frustration grew inside of her as she tried to command the Witch to no response, fire raged within as each attack from Sand Cat landed until she screamed out in anger. Just then the Witch sent out a shockwave around its body, throwing Sand Cat into the walls of the arena, only for the Cat to swiftly land on its feet, kicking off the wall to step in front of its master. She couldn't think clearly, all she had was her wraith that chastised her every action, only furthering her rage. The Witch responded to this, sending a wind blast straight at Sand Cat who nimbly dodged the attack, countering the ice shards that followed. "Do not rely on anger. Keep your emotions in control otherwise you will lose."

It was hard to follow Halima's words as anger seemed to be the only command the Black Witch would listen to. It blasted all sorts of magic at its opponent, countering the attacks it faced, making up shields and defenses that lowered the blow of each attack. Meskhenet focused on her anger, thinking of Ahmed—a fire ball whirled over Halima's, exploding at the wall behind her. Amon—Sand Cat was thrown back by a defensive shield placed around the Witch. Ata—swords of lightning materialized and shot out everywhere. That ugly beast she saw in Ata's shrine—the Witch's robes caught fire as a tornado of sunset colors swirling around it, damaging and protecting all at once. The raiders who destroyed her farm—the walls were blackened from the dispersing fire. The crocodiles that killed Taymur—water shot out from the staff before Sand Cat grabbed it between her teeth and threw it down the gap.

"Anger makes you reckless," Halima said as if in conclusion just as Sand Cat followed up the assault with a blast from its mouth that sent the Black Witch wheeling backwards until it was on Halima's side of the field where sand left from the Cat's summoning suddenly burst out hands, clasping around the cloaked figure to drag it down into the sand where there was nothing in sight. However, Meskhenet felt the sand's grip on her soul and knew her ka was still there, if she was Halima's enemy she was sure the stern woman would've crushed her ka, wiping her from this existence.

All the anger that Meskhenet had felt disappeared and she was left with a feeling of emptiness and fatigue. It had taken all her energy and she hadn't even won the duel. She had failed. She had no more strength for her ka to be out so the Black Witch disappeared, she fell to her knees and Sand Cat dissolved back into the sand it had come from. Exhausted, she sighed and sat down while Halima made her way around the arena to see how she was doing.

"That is all for today. We will practice again soon," the older woman offered her hand to the young woman who tiredly took it. Rising to her feet, she bowed, no words exchanged as she was both ashamed and amazed of how much Halima could still be disciplined even in this situation. If it was Zaim, he would've blown his head off for her not listening to him. "I will send an escort to guide you home."

"It's not…" she had no energy to argue so she merely nodded her head.

To her horror, Ahmed was assigned to escort her back and he knew exactly where she lived. He led his horse in front of Bakari with them making no talk at all until they entered Deir El-Medina. "If you work in the palace, why not move to Thebes?" he asked her on their way to her house.

"I didn't want to…" she said in a low voice which she was surprised he heard her.

"Because Deir El-Medina is a village full of thieves like the one you eloped with?"

"I didn't elope," she responded rudely. "And it's a beautiful village with many noble tombs and intelligent women and—and we're a good distance from the Nile and Thebes, plenty of room for flocks an—"

"All tombs that have been robbed, all women who are content to live their poor lives here for the rest of their years, a good distance meaning two hours from the capital and quite the distance to go fishing which makes it all the more inconvenient for the common man," he turned his head to look at her with his judgmental eyes as she huffed and pouted. The nerve he had! She wanted to shoot him with a fire ball but alas she had no willpower to do so. "Of course, you do not need to worry of such things, what with your thief providing for you with stolen goods."

"I bought all my belongings," she started.

"With stolen money," he concluded.

For the love of Ra! What did I do wrong to you, you pompous, son of a jackal? She bit her lip and became quiet. Luckily for her, they didn't need to reach her house because Bakura was awaiting her return a good mile from their home with another thief that ducked low and vanished into the night at the sight of Ahmed. Relieved, Meskhenet had Bakari trot ahead of Ahmed's horse before she tried to gracefully hop down only to stumble into her husband's arms.

Ahmed regarded Bakura with a cold look which Bakura returned. Then he gave the soldier a cocky smirk, "Thank you for bringing my wife home," he emphasized 'my' quite clearly as if to tell Ahmed that he lost. Except Meskhenet was quite certain Ahmed didn't actually care about her being his. He just didn't like her.

"Gamilla war—" as if he said something taboo, Ahmed immediately fell silent. It was too late though, the name had come out of his mouth which caught her undivided attention. Gamilla? What of her? Hadn't Gamilla mentioned that she might be in Thebes? But the redhead hadn't seen her at all.

"What of Gamilla?" she asked. Without a word further, Ahmed turned his horse and walked away. "Wait! Where is she?" Bakura tightened his grip on her waist and shoulder, turning her attention from the fleeting soldier to the thief. "What does he know?" as if Bakura knew.

He shrugged like he didn't care—and he probably didn't. "How was your duel?" he immediately asked, "Did you do as I told you?" Suddenly she was hit from last night's moments; her face became a deep shade of red as she stammered an excuse. He waited before barking at her, "What are you mumbling?"

"I don't remember!" she replied hastily. He raised an eyebrow at her as she straightened up, clearing her throat while swinging her arms back and forth. "I didn't do well…I forgot everything you said." He looked so angry she averted her eyes shamefully before blurting out, "I—I was lost in the moment! I wasn't exactly listening."

He seemed to relax, but still regarded her disappointedly before breaking into a grin, "Which moment?" she slapped his arm before taking hold of the reins of Bakari and stalking away, embarrassed. "I want to know."

"Go away! Don't you have some thief business to take care of?"

"I finished," his strong arms wrapped around her waist, pulling her back into his body as his face appeared right next to hers. She giggled and squealed as he spun her around while she tried to look angry at him, failing. He gave her a quick kiss and asked her again as she wrapped her arms around his neck, standing in the starlight. She always felt better at home, no worries, no duties…it was just her and Bakura, two souls together in the midst of the Egyptian night. "Tell me." He pressed his forehead against hers.

"When you had me fro—" they were disrupted when they heard children voices coming from the alleyway behind them. Both of them had their heads turned in that direction as a family of four came, laughing and talking. Slowly he looked back at her; she let out a nervous laugh while he took the reins from her hands.

"We should talk at home," he declared, taking her hand in his free hand as she leaned her head on his shoulder. "I want to show you something." She looked up at the moon then furrowed her brows as she glanced at him. Now? It's late… as if reading her mind, he said, "I know it's late but tomorrow I will be gone sunrise and won't return until late night—you'll be asleep by then."

"Where are you going?" she asked, frowning. She didn't want him to go. She wanted him to stay. She didn't tell him that. What good was it? She fell in love with a thief; she knew how busy he was. She leaned over to peck his cheek while he let her hand go to throw his arm around her shoulders, "Is it far?"

"A bit," he answered, "Rumors are that there is silver so I'm taking my newly recruited with me to scout the area and if luck be on our side, we'll go in." His gaze was off in the distance as if he had other things on his mind as he became silent. She felt uncomfortable under his silence, it was like that time—the night they were wedded, he had the same look and quietness when he spoke of his family. She wished he'd tell her what was bothering him, what happened with the invaders… She took hold of his hand on her shoulder and kissed it which seemed to grab his attention. "We'll ride Kek there. I'll have you back here before midnight."

"Where is 'there'? What is this 'there'?"

He grinned at her, "You'll see," he told her. When they got home, he stabled Bakari only to take Kek out and lifted her onto his black steed before getting on behind her. He rode his silhouette of a horse across the desert night, the galloping hooves and slight wind was like a lullaby to her, she drifted off to sleep, again dreaming of her ka but was abruptly awoken when Kek stomped into a stop with a loud neigh to shatter the night's silence. Groggily, she blinked her eyes as she felt Bakura move behind her, shifting until he was down his horse. She felt his hands on her waist as he pulled her down.

Yawning, she blinked, "Where…?"

They had stopped near the Nile, not too far from a small town that looked rather abandoned except for a few individuals. He took hold of her hand and led her by foot towards the suspiciously quiet place. A few old men, who she had to say looked like crooks, watched as the two of them passed the few housing areas along with the shops and restaurants until they were right in front of a bar with a mean looking fella. She was glad she had nothing of importance with her, she felt like these men weren't afraid of attacking an innocent woman who had enough valuables—her only valuable here was Bakura who still had a form grip on her hand as he led her down an alleyway to the left of the bar. The night was silent despite the few people in town, here and there could murmurings be heard but so silent were they that one would literally have to strain their ear before they could make out one word. The alleyway was like a mini maze, left, right, left, left, right and… then there were in an ancient housing district that looked like it once had many inns and brothels but now only a few places ran services. Definitely not the brothel though, in this abandoned town there didn't seem to be a single woman here.

Escaped criminals, was the first thought that came to her mind, however as Bakura led her to the center inn that had at least two stories, her mind was back on where they were going. The inn was horribly falling apart as if a sandstorm had hit it in the last decade a hundred times, the awnings were falling apart with gash marks like some lion had torn through, the windows were boarded up with wooden planks and whatever paintjob that used to be on it was faded to almost white. It smelled of burned firewood and smoked stone.

She barely had any time to see the inside because Bakura kept tugging her in a direction she couldn't see; it was so dark with no candlelight to light the way. How did Bakura know where to go? When they finally stopped and her eyes adjusted, she saw that they were in a room that had a desk in the corner with a bed next to it, a beaten faded red rug on the floor and nothing else. He pulled the rug off, kicking up dust and sand and whatever else that could kill someone if they inhaled it all. She hacked up a cough, waving her hand in front of her. "Wha—what…?"

Bakura searched the floor for something until his hand found a small nook in the floor that opened a hatch up to reveal stone stairs receding downwards underground. He smirked and glanced at her before gesturing her forward. Frowning, she stepped into the darkness, about to light up a fire until Bakura grabbed her hand, "Don't," he insisted as he placed her hand down. She shivered in the cold darkness, as if sensing her hesitation he took the lead again, keeping her hand in his. As they descended into darkness, she remembered Ata's shrine to that monster…that hideous monster in the darkness with the candles and the tablet, oh! She hated the dark. The warmth from Bakura's hand was the only reassurance she had that she wasn't descending into some madman's shrine.

Deeper they went until the blackness turned to a faded dim glow from torches lit up on the wall, though the light did little as she still had no idea where they were going, they were comfort enough to send the chills out of her. She stumbled when her feet landed on a stone platform before the stairs continued in a sudden left. Bakura caught her, lifting her to her feet. "You're such a klutz," he chuckled. She didn't find it funny.

"Where are we?" she asked impatiently.

"Be patient," he insisted, tugging her downstairs until they reached the bottom where she huddled close to him. He seemed to find her discomfort amusing. They were once again with no light so Bakura literally had to push her by the small of her back deeper inside. Where were they? Why was their an underground structure here? How old was this place? She had so many questions but she was just too tired to ask. They passed double doors that had violet paint falling off along with broken golden designs rusted before they made a right through an open archway covered by some tattered curtains. The short hall of a room had little decorations with two tables at either side of the hall carrying old statues of miniature gods and creatures with pottery. They didn't stay long enough for her to fully process the room as he pulled her towards another set of doors that resembled the ones out of the hall. In a final grand gesture, he slammed the doors open and pulled her inside, blinding her with whatever light that spilled from the room.

It was golden lit with a large violet rug on the floor; a long low table was centered in the middle of the grand room with no chairs but low enough for its guests to sit on the floor. Some curtains and drapery hung on the walls of the room. There were other decorations spread out in the corners—pottery, table ornaments, good luck charms, bowls of nuts and water, vases on tables around the room. A lounge looking area was situated at the far right cornered decorated with cushions and pillows while across was another door leading elsewhere. The room was beautiful albeit empty and lonesome; it still took her breath away.

"This," Bakura laughed, "Is what I wanted to show you." He gently took both her hands and led her down to the lounge area before plopping down on a cushion, pulling her down atop of him. "It still needs some work but what do you think?"

"It's beautiful," she said amazed, still looking around. "How—where did you find this?"

He merely smirked at her, "It's going to be one of our hideouts away from the soldiers and everyone—where we can all gather to bring in the rewards."

She stopped. He found this place for his newly recruited band. He really was serious about all this. She fiddled with her hands as she thought about the town and everything, "What if you get found out…what if someone leads the soldiers here?"

He scoffed as if the thought was impossible. "It's like a maze down here," that wasn't good, what if she got lost? "I'll make a map for you but other than that everyone else is going to have to memorize the many exits and dead ends. We're going to put traps in too."

She didn't really know what to think, he had put so much effort into finding this place for this band. Just what exactly did he plan on doing with a band of thieves? What couldn't he do for himself that he hadn't already done? You said you'd be supportive…

"You don't like it," he frowned as he looked away angrily, lightly pushing her off.

It's not that, she was just worried. Realizing, she might've been coming off ungrateful and unsupportive, she leaned over to him, turning his face towards her as she kissed him on the mouth. "It's fantastic!"

He grinned and stole another kiss. "We should get back."

She frowned, "I'm tired." Halima had said they would practice again soon, meaning she wouldn't need to see the dark haired woman until later. She nuzzled her head on Bakura's chest, "We can stay here the night, yes?"

"Magda is the only other person who knows," Bakura told her, "So no one will bother us if that's really what you want." He tilted her head up and gave her a hard peck, "My chambers are not furnished yet unless you are content with the floor." His tone was mocking and his smile was taunting as if he was daring her to take the challenge. She shook her head and climbed on top of him until she was straddling him, her red hair curtaining their faces as she giggled, leaning in close to him.

"I'm no princess," she said matter-of-factly, "I've slept most my life on the floor," rubbing his chest, she kissed his cheek and nose, "Besides our first night together was on the floor, remember?"

"Oh," he laughed, "How can I forget?" in a matter of seconds he had her on her back as she squealed. "You were like this except more fidget," he ran his hand down her chest as she flushed a deep crimson color. His fingers traced her dressed all the way down to the hem as he lifted her skirt up to kiss her legs. She giggled and squirmed, feeling his hot fingertips and lips dance over her lower half.

The door across the lounge flew open as Magda came in with a dagger in his hand, alerted as he looked around before his eyes fell on the couple, a look of relief washing over him. Meskhenet froze at the sight of him, but Bakura was still at work until she lightly kicked him in the ribs, making him pull out from under her skirt, he turned, unsurprised, at Magda.

"I thought someone had intruded," Magda sheathed his dagger away, "It was only you…two."

"Is there something you want?" Bakura asked impatiently, "If not, get out. I'm busy."

"At least warn me if you are coming. What if I attacked you?"

Bakura gave Magda a look that said 'like that would happen'. Meskhenet sat up, tucking her legs beneath her as she waited for Magda to leave. "Magda," Bakura said.

"Yes?"

"Why are you still here?"

"Oh!" the auburn haired man scrambled back to the door but before he closed it, he turned, "Are you not supposed to be at the palace tomorrow?" he addressed Meskhenet who frowned.

"No…I don't think so. Why?" Meskhenet questioned. She was told nothing therefore she didn't really care about being late.

"Ah, well, one of my informants told me that the Queen would be summoning all of the Court members for a meeting," he replied.

She let that information sink it. "I am yet to be part of the Court formally, but I have had no word of this." Magda shrugged and left. "I suppose I should get some sleep, I might need to be at the palace," she laughed bitterly.

"No longer in the mood?" Bakura asked, frowning as he laid her down. She scooted closer to him as he lied on his side next to her. He brushed her face with his fingers as she kissed his hand gently. "What if I steal you away for one day?"

"You said you will be gone in the morning, you can't," she frowned. Both of their jobs were keeping them apart. She cursed her luck. She really wished he could steal her away…not for a day but for life, she'd go with him anywhere but she remembered her father's wish. How could she break it? She wanted to change the subject before she got sad again. She turned onto her side away from him, taking hold of his hand and laying it across her breasts. "Who are Magda's informants?"

He snaked his other hand under her, pulling her closer into his body before he stuck his calloused hand in the neckline of her dress, roughly groping her. "Some people he bribes, blackmails, women he sleeps with."

Meskhenet closed her eyes, enjoying his warmth and touch, moaning lightly. "Women?" she laughed a little, "He looks like a virgin."

Bakura burst out laughing, his body vibrating hers. "That man is probably the biggest whore. What do you think he pays to get his little secrets? His information?"

"I thought he pays secrets, information for information…he pays his body?"

"Indeed," Bakura responded, flicking her nipple which sent her body shivering with delight. "I told you he's a thief of a different kind. It makes him almost similar to a female thief."

She turned her head to look at him," What if I asked you to pay?" she asked, a little teasingly. He seemed to understand what she was getting at. He laughed loudly, pulling his hand out from under her dress which made her frown. She wanted his warmth back.

He grabbed her hand and kissed it, "That, my dear, is called a prostitute."

"Oh, so you wouldn't?" she asked, feigning offense.

"I didn't say that," he retorted before yanking her into his chest, placing one hand on her rear. "The beauty of marriage, though," he gave her a devilish grin, "Is free sex and service."

"Excuse me?"

He merely chortled, pulling her into an embrace. "Get some sleep." She felt the little bubbles of anger rising, but that just made her feel more tired. She'd get him back for saying that—or better yet, she would start making him pay! Hmm… she had to come back with some better way of revenge for those words. She felt like if she started demanding him to pay, he would start withholding his money to taunt her and make it sound like she needed the sex more than he did, ugh! How did she fall in love with this demon?

"You're such a jerk."

"And you love me for it."

Sighing, she breathed in his scent. She couldn't deny that. She did.

.Magda's informant wasn't lying, the next morning when she arrived at the palace she was ushered by the Grand Vizier to the throne room where the entire Queen's Guards and the Pharaoh's Court were gathered in one place. It was intimidating! She hadn't known half the people here but the Pharaoh's Court consisted of: Aknadin—the nice old man who toured her the palace and wielder of the Millennium Eye, Mahad—head of security and powerful magician who was the same age as her as well as the wielder of the Millennium Ring, Set—the newly appointed wielder of the Millennium Rod, Isis—a woman of great beauty garbed in priestess garbs whom Meskhenet had not the pleasure of meeting yet and wielder of the Millennium Necklace, Karim—the big, muscular man she had seen when she first arrived formally and wielder of the Millennium Scales, and Shada—the nice bald man Zaim had introduced her to and wielder of the Millennium Key. The only Millennium Item not present in the room was the Pendant, but she knew that without the Pharaoh, no one was wielding it currently; perhaps the Prince would take it when he was older. The Pharaoh's Court stood at the left of the room while the right was filled with the Queen's Guards. The Queen's Guards were also a bit unknown to her but it consisted of: Halima Re—wielder of the Akhet Dragon's Eye and Meskhenet's priestess mentor, Amon Ishtar—the number one jerk of Egypt and wielder of the Akhet Medallion, Sabra—the most unusual member of all as he was a dog and wielder of the Akhet Collar, Rashida—a young blue haired girl around Meskhenet's age and newly appointed wielder of the Akhet Earring, Radames—a quiet man who looked as if he didn't know what smiling meant and wielder of the Akhet Bracelet, Bahiti—a tall woman who had her eyes always closed and wielder of the Akhet Locket, Yuf—a richly looking dark haired man and wielder of the Akhet Star, and finally the Great Wife herself—wielder of the Akhet Heart.

Some of the people who stood here were new such as Rashida, Mahad, Yuf and Set, unfortunately for Meskhenet she was the only one (as far as she knew) who was not actually officially apart of the Queen's Guards which made her feel out of place. If her father was still here, he would've been standing here, not her. But he wasn't. He was gone. And the only person they had to bring here was her.

The Queen made no sound except seemed to straighten even more in her throne—the late Pharaoh's throne—and yet it still garnered the attention of all. "I have gathered you all here for an announcement," she paused and for a brief second Meskhenet saw the wear and strain the Great Wife was actually enduring, then just like that it was gone. "As all of Egypt has known, our beloved Pharaoh Aknamkanon has passed." It seemed to almost grow even quieter in the room, "This has been one of the greatest losses of Egypt, however in our time of mourning we cannot afford to show our enemies our weakness—no, we will not allow our beloved Pharaoh's death be our weakness, rather our strength." Her voice began to crack as she continued and for the first time Meskhenet realized just who the Prince had gotten his inner strength from.

To continue her speech, the Grand Vizier jumped in, "We will hold a tournament as a festivity to praise our gods and to show just how strong Egypt is."

"As a distraction so the people don't realize an enemy invasion to avoid widespread panic," Set smirked as he inputted his thoughts, "Clever."

Meskhenet gave him a glance as the Grand Vizier grumbled something about stealing spotlights before he coughed and continued, "Yes—that's exactly what we're going to do—"

"Will we be discussing the military's outposts and units?" the buffed man Karim asked, cutting the Grand Vizier off.

"My Queen, are we at risk of another war?" the young blue haired girl Rashida questioned for everyone, however before the Grand Vizier could speak, the woman Isis turned to Rashida.

"The Millennium Necklace has foreseen an attack on Swenett," Isis placed a hand to the golden snug necklace that, like all the Millennium Items, contained an eye. "The outcome of the battle however is hazy."

"What does that mean?" Sabra, the dog, spoke which startled Meskhenet as she turned her now undivided attention to the Pharaoh hound who stood solemnly attentive to all while never turning away from the Queen. How was such a dog able to speak the language of man? Her brown eyes fell on the thick golden collar around his neck that had the hieroglyphic akhet sectioned in the middle while a stripe blue and gold cord wrapped around the golden piece. It must've been from his Item… "I thought the Necklace could foresee all except that of the other wielders' futures."

Wielders' futures? She looked around the room, staring at each of the Items of the Court and Guards. So the Millennium Necklace's weakness was that it could not foretell the future from its comrades. She looked down at her own hand, though she did not carry the Dagger, she envisioned it and remembered the weaknesses she had read about it and what Halima had told her, a part Zaim had left out.

They had been in the library where Meskhenet was taking notes of the history of the Akhet Items while Halima perfectly recited the creation, usage and forms of all the Akhet Items as if she had memorized a whole scroll or book of all the facts of the Akhet Items. When she got to the Dagger, instead of pacing, she took the time to sit across from Meskhenet as if she wanted the girl's complete attention on her and not the notes she was taking. "As you have learned, the Akhet Dagger is a prototype of the Millennium Items, it can take the ka of a person and with its power it can communicate with many kas, one's with masters and one's without. However, there is one thing you should know…" she paused, staring at the image Meskhenet had drawn of the Dagger her father once held, "If the Dagger is used to take one's ka away, it will take the life of the master. The Dagger has been covered in blood for many years, Priest Yaqeen tried to redeem it by never using that part of the Dagger and another part—which I am unaware of."

The Dagger she would wield was just what it was—a weapon and weapons were only used to hurt. She needed to be like her father and never use that side of the Dagger. Halima didn't know all the details of the Akhet Items, including the Dagger and most importantly the Dragon's Eye, as most of the magic had been lost in time after their creation but she had given Meskhenet some insight to get a good idea what she could use her item for. She felt bad for the stern woman, having wielded an Item for years and never once knowing the powers, potential or even use of that very Item. Though, she believed it was because of this that Halima was so strong. She stood in a Court among other guards who had mastered their Items, pushing her own strength to stand on equal grounds. Meskhenet clenched her fists, even if she discovered all the powers of the Dagger; she wanted to be like Halima. She wanted to stand as equals with the other wielders with her own power.

She was pulled from her thoughts when the woman, Isis, responded. "Strong dark magic also makes the future difficult to predict."

"So our enemies are using magic," Shada said thoughtfully.

"It is too early to tell," the Grand Vizier coughed, trying to gather the Court's attention. "If this is a declaration of war or simply a well-planned attack is beyond our knowledge currently."

"We have enough magicians in the Court to ward off the attack," Aknadin declared, looking amongst the many other Court members.

"Yes, but some are still inexperienced," Halima replied, "And if we send all the Court to Swenett we will gather much attention from the people. Waiting for an attack would be just as bad. Our best option is to have the tournament, remove the people from Swenett as best we can and send our most skilled members to meet the enemy."

The Queen nodded, "Yes that is how we will meet the enemy. The tournament will be announced in three days' time. Master Aknadin, Halima, Karim, Radames, Sabra and Bahiti, I will be sending you to Swenett along with a troop of soldiers and a few messengers. For now, you are all dismissed."

And like that, the Court disassembled, but Meskhenet had a few questions. She wanted to ask the Queen after the meeting but when she saw Erina and a few soldiers approach the Great Wife, she lost her nerve and instead ran after the nearest person she could find: the Grand Vizier. "Excuse me!"

The Grand Vizier turned around at the corridor to spot her, "Oh, uh, Meskhenet, yes? What may I help you with?"

"Sir, is it really wise to send just six of the court members? And nonetheless, the oldest ones?" she didn't want to question the Queen's thinking, it was just worrisome of the attack…and besides dark magic made her think of one person, Ata, but she knew he probably wasn't the only one who dabbled in such sorcery.

The Grand Vizier laughed, "Oh, ho, ho, sending anymore would cause too much attention. Six is enough, besides some of them might be older than you and the new Court members, but they are also the most experienced ones who have mastered their kas. Do not worry; they have dealt with things like this before. Ho! The Prince is waiting! I completely forgot!" and like that the Grand Vizier scrambled away, his blue robes fluttering behind him.

She sighed, Halima would be away and a tournament was coming…she didn't know what to make of all this. Before she could even gather her thoughts, some servant shouted at her to get back to the kitchen to which she ran just as fast as the Grand Vizier. Kitchen duty was about the same, only difference was Set did not come in neither did Amon, meaning they were either prepping for the tournament or doing some other business either way that made Meskhenet's day so much better.

"Meskhenet, you're so quiet today," Maat, the older woman, said as Meskhenet placed the clean dishes aside. "Is something the matter?"

"Ah, no… I jus—"

"Did the Queen intimidate you?" a servant girl came in from somewhere, raising her voice rather loudly. The other servants shushed her and she waved them off. The girl looked about Meskhenet's age, maybe a little younger but her hair was hidden behind the loose scarf she wore on her head that was a lighter shade of brown then her plain robes. A few brown strands of hair could be seen from the back and her large green eyes were filled with excitement and wonder. "I heard there was a meeting. What was it about?"

"Rania!" shouted Maat.

"It's not like you all aren't curious."

Meskhenet merely giggled, but said nothing. She didn't think she was allowed to tell everyone before the tournament announcement and she definitely couldn't tell anyone of the attack. "I have a lot on my mind."

"Don't you have your priestess training afterwards? Hmm, you really skipped out on us today. Lucky…" Rania waited for Maat to leave before shifting her gaze around, "Want to come with me to the soldiers' barracks afterwards? I heard a rumor Halima is leaving town for a while. We can check out the gorgeous men and maybe…" she winked at Meskhenet, "Get some alone time."

"Rania, I'm married!" Meskhenet exclaimed which only made the servant girl shrug.

"You're young. What he doesn't know won't hurt him!"

The redhead shot her a look before stalking away. She didn't care for gorgeous men, she liked her handsome man, maybe he was less dignified than the soldiers but as far as she could see, they were jerks! Her brother was the only decent man who had been part of the army. Oh, she needed to tell Bakura of the attack to be sure he wasn't going down to Swenett any time soon.

After her shift, Meskhenet planned on heading home but Rania did end up dragging her all the way to the soldiers' barracks much to Meskhenet's horror. There were men of different ages ranging from thirteen to forty, all quite fit (except the younger ones, they were still getting there) and some, she had to admit, were not bad on the eyes but their presence made her feel uncomfortable. She didn't want anyone finding out her husband was a thief so she resolved to be silent while Rania went off on her business.

The barracks wasn't too far from the palace, if anything it was right next to it. It was huge! It housed a lot of soldiers and horses; there was a large stable outside that led to a corridor with a lot of arches and doorways that led to different divisions in the stone structure. The room Rania had chosen had at least forty soldiers or so with beds for each of them, some belongings and a few desks, on one side of the room there were all the weapons: spears, swords, bows, daggers etc.

Some soldiers seemed quite happy that some females came to their barracks, others went on their business. She didn't like the way some of them were eying her, she knew what they were whispering about, 'Red hair like Set's desert.' 'Must be a cursed child.' 'Set's daughter, probably.' She remembered all those comments when she was a little girl, her mom told her that red hair was unique but a curse because people didn't take well to the color red, that's why they're family mostly lived away from town and why when they were still a family, her father was the only one who had gone to get supplies. Hakim never let those word get to him neither did her mom, but she wasn't as strong as them, she had become self-conscious of her hair which warped her view of herself. Bakura thinks you're pretty, that's enough. She sighed, anyone else's opinion didn't matter she told herself.

"What are you doing here?" someone asked her from behind as she spun around to see herself face to face with none other than Set.

"Oh, I was just accompanyi—"

"No women are permitted here," his eyes shifted from her to Rania in the distance flirting with a dark haired soldier who seemed quite happy to see her. "Are you trying to distract the men who fight for Egypt? They don't need any distractions from any women especially those who know what they're up against."

Her heart sank. Ammit! She forgot, some of these men would be going to Swenett to fight. How could she forget? She shouldn't have let Rania come. "I'm sorry…I forgot. We'll be leaving now." She turned to call Rania, but Set beat her to it.

"You there!" he shouted loud enough for the whole barracks to hear, "Enough of your frivolous and shameful behavior, these men have a duty to perform! Go home and don't ever come here again!"

"You didn't have to yell," Meskhenet said, feeling bad for Rania who looked upset at her callout. "I was going to get her."

"You've done enough, now get out of here." Set didn't even bother to hide his animosity. He wasn't as degrading as Amon or Ahmed, he was more a constant wave of anger but nonetheless his attitude had placed him with the other two on who to avoid.

"Set, that's enough," Mahad walked over to them; apparently he had heard Set's shouting. He was completely garbed in robes of light tan with little jewelry on this time, but his Millennium Necklace stood out among his entire wardrobe, grabbing her attention to the weird circular talisman. "I think you have given them enough of a lecture."

"You're supposed to be the head of security. You can't even secure your own barracks from a couple of silly women," Set glowered at Mahad who seemed unaffected by the insult. Meskhenet shifted her gaze between the two men, both newly appointed to the Pharaoh's Court. She knew Set and Amon didn't get along, but not even Mahad…she wondered who did get along with Set in the Court?

"Nonsense," Mahad laughed a little, "What are a few nice ladies going to do?"

"You underestimate the power of a woman."

"No, I trust the Queen's judgment of who she hires," Mahad countered. Set didn't reply but lingered his gaze for a while before shifting it onto Meskhenet then turning on his heel. Somehow, Meskhenet didn't think Set was taking about just the sexual appeal of a woman but rather actual power. "I thought Master Aknadin asked you to watch the Prince?"

"The Prince is old enough to take care of himself. He's not going to grow up into a pharaoh if everyone is always coddling him," Set disappeared behind the open doors when some soldiers came in. Mahad let out a sigh while Rania tapped her foot, pouting.

"How can he be so disrespectful to our Prince?" she asked, her foot tapping even faster than before.

"I don't think it's that," Meskhenet said.

"She's right," Mahad told Rania, "Set doesn't disrespect our Prince, rather he believes in his power and acknowledges his strength; however he fails to remember that guidance plays a part too in one's learning and growth. I apologize for his behavior."

Rania seemed to perk up at that apology, "There's nothing for you to apologize for. Besides, a handsome man like you didn't do anything wrong. Say, how about you give us a tour of the soldiers' barracks?"

Mahad gave her a kind smile, "His behavior was wrong, though he had a point, the soldiers must prepare to protect Egypt. I do hope you understand, perhaps another time."

Before Rania could say anything, Meskhenet jumped in, "That's quite alright. Thank you! I wish them all the best of luck, let's go, Rania!" she pulled the brunette out of the room before marching out from the barracks' area. "I'm such a fool."

"Hold on, ow! Come on, stop for a minute!" Rania shouted, yanking the redhead back who turned around, realizing she had been practically dragging Rania out. 'Gods, why are you in such a hurry?"

"It's nothing, let's go," she let go of Rania's hand before turning and smacking right into Set, "Set!" she said angrily before realizing her mistake, "I'm sorry…I was just leaving." He regarded her with cold eyes, half of her wanted to slap him for it, why was everyone noble man a pompous jerk? Then again, according to Mahad, Set was similar to her and yet when she looked at Set's clothing, his attitude, he was nothing like her at all. She didn't wear gold, fancy cloths (she barely had any color clothing) and least of all, looked down on others. She understood how the poor were, how it was to be poor so she tried to empathize with others. Set didn't seem to do that at all.

"I need to speak with you," he said without any indication that he cared if she wanted it or not. "You're to join the Queen's Guards, correct?" Before she could reply, he went on, "Yet, you have no motivation, no skill in what you're trying to achieve. Regardless of whether you're Yaqeen's daughter or just another pauper trying to climb the social ranks, the Court or Guards doesn't need a person like you."

He was a higher rank than her, maybe even a noble…he already had his Millennium Rod—but she no longer cared! The little tinder that carried her fading embers lit up and she jabbed a finger at him. "I am Yaqeen's daughter and I will take my place among the Guards. My place isn't for you to say where I belong! I don't care if you think I'm capable of achieving what I nee—"

He snarled at her, "You can't become a guard with your attitude. Priestess Halima trains you, her goal is to get you through your training as soon as possible and yet whenever she leaves, and you squander your time doing what? I never see you in the library studying if she's not there, I never see you in the Temple of Wedju's trying to attain the kas your father had before you and least of all you never even try to train and master your ka! You think Mahad or I even Rashida got to where we are by making excuses and slacking?"

Rania was silent as she looked worriedly between the two. Meskhenet was stunned by his words. They infuriated her, they hurt inside…but the truth of the matter was…he was right. She didn't try hard enough, she only did things because her father wanted her to become a Queen's Guard and she settled for the least amount of work possible. She resolved to fulfil her father's dying wish without any actual motivation. She was squandering her time…

"Listen… Priest Set," Rania piped in a little quietly, "Meskhenet isn't like you or the other nobles. She works in the kitchen, she lives two hours away and whenever Priestess Halima is not around, she takes it as a reprieve for all the hard work."

"No," Meskhenet replied, "He's right, Rania. I haven't been trying," clenching her fists, she looked Set straight in the eye, "Thank you but from here on out, I'm going to do my best. I will take my father's place and I'll make Priestess Halima proud… because one day I will be standing amongst you all—as one of the Royal Court." Whether her speech made Set believe in her or not, she wasn't certain but he left with no further comment. "Rania, thank you for that, I will be going home after I stop by the library."

Rania gave her a big grin, "Do your best! Show them what you can do! We from the kitchen will support you as best we can!"

She nodded and smiled. I'm sorry, Father, I will try from now on, that's my vow to you. She hurried to the library and with the help of Erina, gathered a bunch of scrolls and books on kas, priest rules and temple policies before taking them all with her home. Unfortunately she had gathered too much that Bakari couldn't carry them all without slowing down so she had the scrolls and books floating behind them on their way home. When she got there, Bakura was already in bed, marking something on his map before he saw the paperwork she had gathered from the library much to his surprise.

"What is all this?" he asked, sitting up.

"I need to get better," she answered without further explanation. She changed into her night gown before crawling over him, taking a book before dropping the rest on the floor. "I'll never get to where I need to be if I just keep at what I'm always doing." She flipped through the book without even reading, still fuming from Set's words. Ugh! Ammit curse him! How dare he?! All in front of Rania too and who knows who else was nearby.

"Someone said something," Bakura stated, eying her.

"Yes! And worse of all…it was true. All I ever do is waste time whenever my teacher leaves. I'll prove him wrong! I am not just some pauper trying to climb the ranks!" she slouched in the bed, sulking as the tears began to gather in her eyes. No, no! You're not supposed to cry, you fool! She couldn't stop herself, though, the tears just spilled out. "I'm just a poor farm girl trying to be like everyone else—but everyone else are nobles, richer, more intelligent, elegant, stronger—I…I don't belong there and then you…" she trailed off as Bakura was still staring at her, she shook her head, try as she might, she didn't feel like she belonged with him either, "You have your thieves and I can't even relate to them. I'm stuck in the middle somewhere between home and work. That's not fair." She was sniffling badly now, wiping her tears before they could hit the pages of the book.

Bakura was silent before he rubbed the back of his neck. He scooted closer to her before giving her a tight embrace while she hiccupped. "Stop crying so damn much," he told her like that'd comfort her. "You don't belong over there—not with those royal bastards or with the scoundrels I hang around with. You belong with me because you're mine."

She hiccupped before grabbing her pillow, "I'm not property!" she slapped him with the pillow before he yanked it away from her, grabbing her book and throwing it aside before crashing his lips against hers. She squirmed beneath him, though she couldn't say that it didn't ease her somewhat and she calmed down before he broke the kiss. "I need to study."

"Your place is with me," he told her again. "That's final." He pulled away from her, "Don't compare yourself to the likes of them. You're better than them even if you're just a farm girl, a shepherd, you'll always be leagues ahead of them."

She wiped her eyes, "And why's that?"

He beamed at her, "Because you're my queen." Those words alone melted her heart as she giggled through her drying tears. "You need to remember that." He bent over to pick up a scroll which she tried to grab, but instead he threw the pillow in her face much to her protest. "Promise me that!"

"Give it to me," she reached for the scroll only for him to hold it higher.

"Khenet," he eyed her.

"Hmm, I promise," she said halfheartedly. He still didn't give it to her. "Come on, Bakura…"

"Say it."

"Just give me my scroll!"

With his other hand, he grabbed her face much to her discomfort, brushing his thumb over her lips, "Say the whole thing, Khenet." He tried to keep a straight face but she saw the corner of his mouth curling up.

"I promise that I will remember that my place is with you because I am…your queen," she recited before he placed another kiss on her lips, this time more gently before he handed her the scroll, wrapping an arm around her shoulders and pulling her to lie in bed. "Go to sleep."

"I'll help," he told her. She laughed. She didn't think Bakura could help, what did he know about priesthood or the gods? She didn't protest though as she leaned her head on his shoulder. He pointed to some hieroglyphics on the scroll, "What is this?"

"Oh…" she forgot to tell him about the duties of a priest and how they couldn't commit any sexual acts during their months of active duty.

He must've read that whole passage because he said, "Bullshit, how long do you serve the temple?"

"A month," she squeaked. He made a growling noise of disapproval, "It's the gods' decree." He cursed and threw some very loud profanities at the gods. "Bakura!"

"Why? What does it matter what you do at home? If you don't do it at the temple, shouldn't that matter?"

"Bakura, no one does those types of things at the temples." She paused, glancing at him, "Maybe you," he gave her a sinister smirk, "gods! Don't you have respect for anything?! Sex is dirty and during priesthood, one must remain clean."

He was silent for a while, "Why is sex dirty? If a man and woman love each other, does it even matter?"

"You are a fool," she told him, "You don't do laundry so you don't know. It is dirty."

"You don't believe that."

"Yes, I do."

"Then why do you participate in so mu—" she slapped him with her pillow again before sitting up.

"I'll study on my own!" she said, embarrassed, flushing red as he laughed at her. "You're annoying!" She whacked him again but he only kept laughing at her embarrassment. "You are cruel. You live off other people's sufferings."

"Ahaha, I live off my own pleasure," he replied, licking his lips. She ignored him while she skimmed her scroll. He touched her hair, playing with it between his fingers before he grabbed a handful of her locks and sniffed them, moving towards the back of her neck. "You can't just study material. You need actual experience too."

"What are you talking about?" she glanced at him, "If you're talking about sex the—"

"No," he frowned, "You already have plenty of experience of that." She face palmed herself before sighing, "I'm talking about dueling and whatever rituals you need to do at the temple."

"Then enlighten me, oh, Priest Bakura!" she said playfully, giving a low mocking bow.

"Heh, for a fee, perhaps," he grabbed her waist and pulled her into his body, surprising her as she giggled. He was so foolish sometimes.

She kissed the tip of his nose, "What fee, Priest Bakura? I have little to offer."

"Whatever money you have," he smirked at her.

She feigned a gasp, "I don't pay false priests." He merely burst out laughing then gave her a deep kiss. She didn't think it was important, but felt obligated to point out, "We don't get paid for our priestly duties with coins." He gave her a confused look, "We get paid with grain."

"Well, that's waste."

"It puts food on the table," she shrugged, "And besides it's a great honor. Only the hery sesheta priests and his fellow embalmers get paid with a pretty hefty price from the families of the deceased." She looked at Bakura long and hard and giggled to herself. Bakura liked tombs; she thought he could be an embalmer.

Bakura caught her look, "What?" he asked, smiling.

"Hmm," she said thoughtfully, "I think you could be a hery sesheta."

He quirked an eyebrow at her, "I don't care much for the dead, it's much more lively to be with the living," as if to emphasize his point he began stroking the middle of her neck, sending her into a series of fits of giggles. Unfortunately, Meskhenet wasn't ticklish on her feet or stomach or even under her arms or ribs like some people, they had learned through their many nights together that her neck was quite ticklish so whenever Bakura remembered that he wouldn't let it go.

"S—stop!" she laughed, trying to shield her neck. "But if you become an embalmer you can dance and run around wearing a jackal head!" Priestess Halima had told her that her husband was an embalmer and as one of the rituals to see the deceased off was to wear a jackal head mask as the first embalming was of Osiris done by Anubis and thus the hery sesheta imitated this.

"Really?" Bakura asked in feign excitement, "Then maybe I'll try it out."

"You should."

"Tomorrow, we will go to the temples here and have you shadow someone," he told her. "There should be two: the Temple of Hathor and the Tempe of Mut."

She placed a hand on his face, he really was trying to help her out but he must've forgotten then she worked tomorrow. Still, the thought counted. She kissed his warm lips before placing her forehead against his and laughed. "It's the Temple of Ma'at not Mut, those are two very different goddesses."

Author's Note: I was going to have her babysit Atem and Mana in this chapter but I decided to cut it there. This chapter went in a different direction than I planned, Meskhenet was supposed to use magic but instead I had her duel Halima now. In the next few chapters, more duels lol. So had little information on the payments of priests, one source said they got paid 20 gold a day but I couldn't find any other source that said that too, a few did say they get paid grain so I just took that one. The hery sesheta are the lead embalmers (who are also considered priests) who wear the jackal head mask during the process of mummification, I know for certain they get paid. Besides the high priests, every other priest serves 1 month of priesthood at a temple before returning to their regular job for three months and then repeat and during that 1 month the priests/priestesses are supposed to remain clean, bathing multiple times a day, abstaining from sexual intercourse and performing rituals to honor the gods, they don't preach or educate about their religion, at least this is the information I found, those priests are called 'lay priests' I think. Priests are designated to a temple depending on where they live, so once Meskhenet finishes her training she will either choose the Temple of Hathor or the Temple of Ma'at to serve 3 months in a year :).