Chapter Sixteen
a few nights later...
Something was wrong with Octavius. Since the the minute he saw the date on the information desk calendar, the miniature Roman's whole demeanor changed.
His shoulders slumped and his smile immediately faded away. His eyes grew dark and sad. His head hung a little, and he would barely speak, even when spoken to. It was a far cry from his usual proud, noble stance.
Nothing Jedidiah did cheered his friend up. Jed cracked jokes, tried to give pick-me-up speeches, and even offered to let Octavius drive their new red sports car. The cowboy could only think of one other thing that would possibly work to dispel his best friend's sudden depression. Or rather, one other person...
Jed hopped into the car and headed for the Egyptology wing.
The little westerner raced through the hallways and corridors, after getting Atilla to carry him and the car up to the second floor, straight into the tombs exhibit area.
He found the two resident Egyptains in Bektamunet's garden. They lounged beneath a palm by the lotus pool, Bek strumming the string of what looked like some type of harp, and Akh singing with it in Ancient Egyptian.
Jed parked the car near the exhibit entrance and trekked across the floor to where Ahk and Bek were.
"ahem...Um, 'scuse me, ya majesties..." he called, clearing his throat loudly to get their attention.
"Hello, Jed!" Ahk smiled in greeting.
Bek stopped her strumming. "Good evening, Master Jedidiah. Do you need assistance?"
"Yes, ma'am," Jed answered, taking off his hat and subconsciously fiddling with it in his hands. "It's Octavius. Somethin' ain't right with him ta-night.
Concern flitted across both Egyptians' faces.
"Has General Octavius fallen ill?" Bek asked.
"Not 'xactly," Jed answered. "At least, he ain't sick in body, Miss Bek."
Bek cocked her head in confusion. "Then...what is it that ails him?"
Jed shrugged sadly. "I don't know; he won't talk to me."
"Are you not the closest of friends?" Ahk asked.
"You bet yer crown we are," Jed nodded firmly. "He...he might as well be my brother."
"Then what would you have us do?" Bek asked gently.
"I dunno...talk to him maybe?" Jed replied. "You ladies are much better at this emotional stuff than us fellas..."
Bek blushed. "You honor me, Master Jedidiah. I would have thought you would seek out Sacagawea in a time like this. She is very wise."
Jed shrugged despondently once more. "Ockie seems pretty open and comfortable with ya..."
"Then I will do what I can for our lord general," Bek answered.