I hope you guys enjoyed the last chapter! Now that you all got the story about Goddess Wadjet, now its time to see how the other characters are doing! In this chapter, we will have Ryou introducing Bakura to his father along with the rest of the gang traveling to Tanis and over to Buto! Hope you all like this chapter!

He felt the wind blowing against his hair as he continued to hold his hat that protects him from the sun. His eyes squinted against the sun's glare, while trying to avoid sand particles as they drove on the desert sands. He glanced over at Bakura, who is sitting next to him and had his arms folded while looking at the desert with his eyes glazing over, almost like he's thinking of something from his past. Ryou had a feeling he's remembering his time as the Bandit King from his past era.

Right now, he's in the current time as Bakura Touzoku, a regular citizen who works as an interrogator at Kaiba Corporation. Ryou is glad that he and Bakura are starting to become friends, but it'll be one step at a time since he still has to help him get use to being in the present and not in the past. Plus, making sure he's on his best behavior and not doing anything illegal is also something Ryou needs to watch out for. His darker half can be sneaky and clever, so he'll need to make sure Bakura doesn't get in trouble with the law.

Letting out a huge breath he didn't realize he was holding, his eyes gazed over in the distance where he could make out the pyramids and a campsite. Bakura was right. His father is here in Cairo excavating with the rest of the Egyptian archaeologists. Today, he'll be seeing his dad again after so many years apart. But not only that, he and Bakura will actually meet for the first time.

Hopefully, the meeting will end well with no complications. He doesn't know what his father's reaction would be in meeting the spirit of the Millennium Ring, but he'll have to believe his own son since everything he told him about the Ring and what it does is true. Once he meets Bakura and learn about his time as the Thief King of Ancient Egypt, he'll have to believe him.

Feeling the jeep slow down until it then stopped across from the campsite, Ryou picked up his bag and got out. He thanked the driver, who was a follower of the Wasem Clan, and walked over to the campsite with Bakura next to him. He could feel a trickle of sweat running down his forehead, and it wasn't from the sun.

Will his father look the same as always? Will he look different? What would his reaction be once he sees his son and his darker half? Many scenarios formed in his mind of his father being surprised, shocked, or astonished to meet the former King of Thieves, along with realizing that he came from the Millennium Ring. Hopefully, they'll talk it through and his father will realize that the spirit isn't really a bad person.

He yelped as he felt something hit the back of his head. Rubbing the spot, he glanced over at Bakura, who frowned at him. "What is it?"

Bakura rolled his eyes in annoyance. "You need to quit worrying, landlord. Your old man isn't gonna hate you or anything. He'll probably have a heart attack or something and faint."

"K-Kura!"

"Its better for him to faint than get angry," Bakura scoffed and folded his arms. "Besides, we're not gonna be here for that long. Lets just use the spare time we have to speak with your old man and then make our way over to the temple."

Ryou blinked, and nodded once. "You're right, Bakura. Its best if we do this now and get it over with. Whatever reaction my father will have, I'm sure it won't be that bad."

He went over to the campsite, missing the small smirk appearing on Bakura's face. As they arrived, some of the archaeologists spotted them. A tall man, who was wearing the usual outfit for an archaeologist, approached them. "Is there anything you two need?"

Ryou cleared his throat. "Hello. I'm Ryou Bakura and over there is my friend Bakura Touzoku. We are looking for Mr. Bakura. He's my father who is supposed to be here on a dig with the rest of you. Is he here?"

The archaeologist looked at him, and then at Bakura. "I'll go ask the crew. Wait here for a moment."

As he left, he and Bakura scanned the area. The archaeology sites had a lot of digs, and there were a few objects being cleaned by the archaeologists. Most of them ancient pots and vases, so there wasn't anything shiny or valuable in Bakura's eyes. Since they were near the pyramids, they wouldn't find anything valuable around here unless there was a hidden tomb filled with treasure.

Soon, the archaeologist came with a man trailing behind him. He wore the standard outfit archaeologists wore, and has a hat on to protect his blue hair from the sun. His face indicated he was an older man, and he even wore glasses. The archaeologist talked with the man, who nodded and thanked him as the archaeologist left.

"H-Hello, father," Ryou whispered.

The blue haired man gave him a tired smile, and pulled him into a hug. "Its nice to see you again after so long, son."

"Y-Yeah," Ryou hugged him back. "A-Are you well?"

Mr. Bakura nodded, and broke the hug. "I'm doing just fine. What about you? Have you been keeping up with your studies?"

Ryou nodded. "I have, father. I've been making very good grades and scoring well on my assignments."

"That's good to know," Mr. Bakura looked up, causing his eyes to nearly widen and then glanced back at Ryou. "R-Ryou, are my eyes deceiving me? Or am I seeing a clone of you?"

"O-Oh yeah! I need to tell you something!" Ryou gestured to Bakura. "Father, this is Bakura. The reason he resembled me is because he was once the spirit of the Millennium Ring and a former bandit king in the past. All the weird stuff that had been happening to me is his doing." He gulped. "I-I know it's a lot to take in, but I'm telling you the truth. You need to believe me."

Mr. Bakura still didn't move, his eyes never leaving Bakura's eyes. Bakura glared back at him, finding his stare unnerving. Ryou fidgeted while looking back and forth. He's hoping that everything would be fine, but it looks like his father is having trouble believing it. Then, Mr. Bakura's eyes rolled to the back of his head and he fainted on the spot.

Bakura raised his eyebrow. "I told you he would have a heart attack and faint after seeing me."

"B-Bakura!" Ryou looked at him in disbelief. "This isn't funny! Lets hope and pray my father really didn't have a heart attack!" He quickly hurried over to his father and shook him. "D-Dad! Please wake up!"

The next day

"Your dad fainted after meeting Bakura?" Yugi asked him.

Ryou groaned. "I'm afraid so. The other archaeologists helped us carry him to his tent and waited until he woke up. I told him everything, and he had trouble believing me until Bakura used his shadow magic to convince him."

"And he fainted again?" Joey added.

Ryou nodded. "He was surprised at first, but wasn't scared at all. In fact, he was fascinated to meet the former spirit who once resided in the Millennium Ring. He asked a bunch of questions and wanted to know everything about Bakura, so I did that with Bakura backing me up. Luckily, there were no complications, but I'm hoping he won't faint again."

Tea lightly patted his back. "We're sorry to hear that, but we are glad that he believed you and is supporting you with what we're doing."

"Thank you. I did promise him that if I found anything in Tanis, I must inform him about it soon. He wished that he could come, but couldn't because he and his team recently discovered a hidden tomb near the pyramids," Ryou explained.

"Sounds pretty neat," Tristan said.

"It is," Ryou smiled. "Hopefully, they'll avoid any traps laid out in the tomb."

As they continued to chat, the yamis were busy having a quiet conversation with one another, surprising Malik and his siblings since it's the first time they're conversing with no arguments. Luckily, their discussion looked serious and not violent so there wouldn't be any problems while they're in the jeep.

Their driver, whose name is Darius and is part of the Wasem Clan, was appointed as the one who will take them to Tanis to visit the Temple of Nebesheh and later over to Buto. They're all packed in a huge van while Professor Hawkins and Rebecca are driving their own car and followed behind them on the road. As for Kaiba, he stayed in the van but in the back since he needed personal space while working on his laptop.

They all had to wake up early to beat the traffic, and have plenty of time to visit their locations before dusk approaches. Supplies were brought with them in case they do run into any trouble. Ishizu had a feeling something will happen once they arrive at the temple. She isn't sure if it's a good feeling or a bad feeling, but is hoping that whatever it is will not hinder their mission.

Since the drive lasted for only 2 hours and 11 minutes, they were able to reach their destination. As the cars stopped, they all got out and examined the area. Resembling an ancient ruin, the area looked like it hadn't been touched or seen for quite a long time. However, the atmosphere felt different, almost like someone is watching them from the distance.

Darius scanned the area, and then looked at Ishizu. "Once we enter the temple, make sure to stay close to me. There might be snakes who are affiliated with the cobra queen. If you stay away from them, they will stay away from you. It is best that we do not anger them."

"Snakes?" Ishizu asked with a surprised look. "But what would happen if we get bitten?"

"I have a medical kit and vials that can eliminate the venom," Darius answered, his black dreadlocks swaying from the small wind. "Like I said, all of you will be fine if you stay close to me. Do not wander off or they will think you are invading their territory."

Malik trembled in fright, rubbing his arms as he felt goosebumps forming. Now he hope and pray they don't see any snakes, nor will one bite them. He cannot handle getting bitten again, or get poisoned. It's terrifying and painful; since he almost died from getting bitten by one when he was a small child.

A hand was placed on his shoulder, causing him to slowly stop trembling and touch the hand that is offering him comfort. He knows who it is, and it's a little rare to see his darker half offering him warmth and solace. At least Mariku knows how to be patient and understands that it will take a little while for Malik to get over his fears.

"Before we go inside the temple, did you bring the jewelry?" Darius glanced at Yami, Bakura, and Mariku.

Yami nodded and picked up the necklace from his pocket. "Its right here."

Bakura got his ring out and Mariku got his bracelet out. Satisfied at what they did, Darius's brown eyes glanced at Yugi and his friends. "Put them on your lighter halves. This can help us stay safe and avoid any danger in the temple."

"Is there a chance the snakes would recognize their scents as the descendants of Heba and his brothers?" Yami asked.

"That or if they still have snake blood in their veins," Darius stated, his eyes staring at the jewelry. "We will have to test it once we go inside. Now please go ahead and put the jewelry on them."

Glancing at each other, they all shrugged and did as they were told. Yami carefully placed the necklace around Yugi's neck, Bakura placed the ring on Ryou's finger, and Mariku placed the bracelet on Malik's wrist. The jewels sparkled from the sun, causing a familiar warmth to spread in their bodies that made them feel safe and protected.

"I never thought this place would be really creepy," Joey gulped, his eyes darting from left to right while walking close to the group.

"Are you certain this place isn't haunted?" Tristan asked, nearly trembling in fright.

Tea shook her head at them. "Guys, the temple isn't haunted. It's an old, ancient place that was built thousands of years ago. You should be used to it by now."

"Not when it involves snakes, ghosts, and mummies," Joey pointed out. "Last time, we were searching for the pharaoh's memories. Right now, we are looking for answers on the snake queen and her family." He glanced over at Yugi. "Hey Yuge, are you sure you didn't have any weird dreams about your past life?"

Yugi looked at the ceiling for a moment. "The only thing I can recall is that I was whistling from a leaf. It felt like I was trying to make a song out of it, but I didn't know why."

"It must've been Heba's leaf whistling," Darius answered.

"Leaf-whistling?" Professor Hawkins asked.

Darius nodded as he continued to walk while holding the flaming torch. "Like playing a flute, our snake queen taught her son Heba how to leaf whistle. It helps keep the snakes calm so they wouldn't get aggravated."

"How fascinating!" Rebecca gushed, and turned her head to look at Yugi. "Can you also do that, darling? I would really like to see you leaf whistle!"

Yugi rubbed the back of his neck. "I'm afraid I've never done it before. I don't know if I can leaf whistle like my ancestor can."

"We can try if we find a good leaf, partner," Yami replied. "It takes practice and time to master the art of leaf whistling."

"Were you ever taught how to leaf whistle, Yami?"

Yami shook his head. "I'm afraid I haven't. I mostly watched and listened to Heba leaf whistling. I never got the chance to ask him to teach me how to leaf whistle."

"I'm sure the library could have books about it," Tea suggested.

"Or the Internet," Tristan added.

"How about you all silence yourselves so we won't get attacked by anything venomous," Seto commented.

Bakura smirked. "Are you talking about the snake hiding in the shadows watching us?" He pointed to a black snake coiled around a small statue, flicking its tongue at them. "That one looks curious."

Joey quickly scooted closer, grabbing the back of Seto's trench coat, which surprised him. "I will not get bitten! I'd like to stay alive, please!"

"I'm sure its harmless, Joey," Ryou reassured him. "It doesn't look like it will strike."

"It hasn't found the prey's weak point, yadonushi," Bakura devilishly grinned. "The predator is waiting until its ready to strike and capture its prey."

"Or kill it," Mariku grinned evilly.

Yami glared at them. "You two behave yourselves. You're scaring the others with your words."

"A little too late for that!" Malik scowled, hugging his arms.

Before Ishizu could open her mouth to tell everyone to stay silent, they all stopped. In front of them was a staircase leading them to an altar. They couldn't see what it is from the distance, but they were able to see hieroglyphics engraved on the walls surrounding the room.

Darius lifted his arm and lit a torch hanging on the wall with his, causing the other torches to light up in unison to light up the room. "This temple had been built to dedicate Goddess Wadjet, our beloved cobra goddess of Lower Egypt. In this area, people worship her and call her the 'Lady of Imet'. This is where each and every member of the Wasem Clan have came to learn of her origins."

"Amazing," Professor Hawkins whispered in awe. "I had no idea this temple would be very huge."

"To please our cobra goddess, this temple had to be big so she would know we worship her and respect her," Darius explained.

"What about the altar? Does everyone give her an offering there?" Odion asked.

Darius gazed at the altar. "Besides a shrine, there is something else up there. Something that helped us understand who our cobra queen is and what her past origins are." He glanced back at the others. "The reason I volunteered to take you here is because I'm one of the few who can speak to them."

"Speak to them?" Ishizu asked.

Bakura quirked his eyebrow. "You speak the language of snakes?" His lips stretched into a smirk. "How interesting. Looks like I'll be able to witness an actual snake whisperer."

Darius closed his eyes and nodded. "You are correct, young man. You'll understand why once we go up there." He then opened his eyes. "However, I can only take a total of 3 people with me to go to the altar. The rest must wait here."

Kaiba glanced at the altar. "There is something or someone guarding the altar, correct?"

"Yes," Darius answered. "He guards a rare item and makes sure no one would dare steal it. That particular item contains the story and secrets of Goddess Wadjet."

His statement caused Bakura's smirk to widen. If this item is considered rare, then he must see it. If not, then he'll make the person who saw it tell him what it is and what secrets it contained about the cobra queen. Something that involves her powers or her weakness can help him if he runs into another powerful deity. Plus, this power can help him and his Ka Diabound to get stronger.

"So please make your decision. Which of you 3 wish to go up to the altar with me?" Darius glanced at them. "Please choose wisely."

The whole gang looked at each other, and let their minds think it over. Since only 3 people are able to go up to the altar with Darius, then they must figure out who is allowed to go up there. However, Darius did mention of a male guarding the sacred item on the altar. Is it a person, or is it a snake?

"Yugi, Ryou, and Malik will be the ones to go up there."

"Wait! What!?" Malik yelled in disbelief.

Odion looked at Ishizu in shock. "Ishizu, are you sure? Maybe one of us can go up there."

Ishizu shook her head. "Each of the Wasem Clan members are descendants to Goddess Wadjet's followers. They each have a connection with the cobra queen, and I believe whatever is up on the altar is something only those with snake blood can see." She looked at Malik, and then to Yugi and Ryou. "You 3 are not only the descendants of her sons, but there might be a chance you inherited her snake blood. You also have the jewels that belong to your ancestors."

Yami looked at the necklace hanging around Yugi's neck, and then glanced back at Ishizu. "Are you certain, Ishizu? We mustn't force them if they don't want to."

"I am certain, pharaoh," Ishizu said. "Please trust me, everyone. I know they are the right people who can go up there. They'll be safe since Darius will be with them."

"She is right. I'll make sure there will be no danger to them," Darius replied. "Are you 3 all right to go over to the altar with me?"

Yugi looked at Ryou, who looked at Malik, and then back to Yugi. They didn't know why, but something is telling them that they should go up there. Whatever they'll see, they know it won't be dangerous. Darius is there to keep them safe, and their friends will be close by if anything happens. They must get the answers needed for their questions.

They looked at Darius and nodded their heads. "We're ready."

"Excellent. Now please watch your step and follow me," Darius turned around and started walking up the stairs.

They soon followed behind him, feeling the gaze of the others watching them from behind. Luckily, the stairs leading to the altar wouldn't take that long. They don't know why, but the closer they get to the altar, the stronger the feeling is within their bodies. It almost felt like they've been here before. Is it possible their ancestors came here before?

Reaching on top of the altar, their eyes widened in astonishment at what they saw resting on the flat surface. Not only was there an old, giant book with a black cover that had golden Egyptian hieroglyphics on it, but there was also something standing behind the book.

Gazing at them with its ruby red eyes twinkling from the light and its silver scales shimmering, the cobra stretched out its hood and flicked its forked tongue at them. They weren't sure if the snake is curious or waiting to strike, but they do hope it's a friendly snake that won't attack them.

"Do not be afraid of him," Darius said to them. "Umi is the guardian of the book of Wadjet."

"U-Umi?" Ryou stuttered.

"That is his name. Umi is an elderly cobra who lived for a very long time. He and his fellow snakes are able to live long thanks to Wadjet and her blessings," Darius explained. "They guard the book and keep it safe from anyone who would dare try to read or steal it without their permission. The Wasem Clan is given permission by him to read the book as long as we do not tell anyone about the cobra queen's secrets."

Umi hissed, gazing at the jewels the boys were wearing. He widened his eyes as he saw their faces, making him see 3 familiar boys from a long time ago. He then bowed down to them, and pushed the book over to them with his head. This action surprised Malik. "I-Is he letting us read the book?"

"I believe so. He recognized you 3 as the descendants of Heba, Riyu, and Namu. He sensed their spirits within you and recognized the jewelry you wore," Darius said. "You have been given permission to read the book."

Yugi gulped, and took a small step forward. Ryou and Malik did the same as they walked beside him. The book was pushed over to them, as Umi slithered back so there would be enough distance between them. Taking a deep breath and releasing it, Yugi carefully opened the book as he, Ryou, and Malik started going over the pages, not realizing the jewels they were wearing had glowed.

Did you guys liked this chapter? Get ready for their trip to Buto in the next chapter! Please comment and review!