Mellow Town Stories: Ankha's Destiny

by TheFoolOfTheNoon

Time passed since the Immortal Shagaru incident and things have been returning to normal. However, one day another Chosen of the Egyptian god's shows up and inform Ankha of her negligence to her duty to the Goddess who chose her; to set up a place of worship. However, with Aten looking for her, this is impossible, but a new way is revealed to her and she takes it.

10. Chapter 10

Chapter 10: The Next Steps

Things to know:

("Egyptian speech")

["Neo-Egyptian speech"]

Author's note:

Hello everyone! Another chapter out and about for your viewing pleasure. A bit longer than I expected, but the action at the end was worth it. For anybody who asks, the reason why I haven't wrote out any of the languages and chose to do the bracket approach is because the actual ancient Egyptian language in spoken form is practically unknown. Also, because I don't have a keyboard that types hieroglyphs. As for the new language, similar problems not to mention I would still have to translate everything anyway. Anyway that's enough flap from me, lets get on with the story shall we?

This is TheFoolOfTheNoon signing off! Enjoy!

/

Ser-Ka's P.O.V.

("Why did this have to happen? I wasn't ready yet!")

I was pacing around in my room, restless after the body of…that man was taken from his tomb. I had to lie between my fangs in front of all of them and I feel so dirty for doing it! I need to tell the truth, to her…he would want me to do it, but she barely knows me. She would hate me forever unless I can bring her to understand me. She doesn't know it, but I know a lot about her thanks to him...that man. He changed my life forever, he helped unite this land, she deserves to know.

("So why is it so hard to tell her? Argh…")

I slithered my way towards the balcony. The morning light just beginning to rise past the horizon. I can only sigh as I knew what today would bring. The stress of it all is not what I look forward to. Still, better to be stress and fretting then be dead and leave the city in turmoil and confusion. That man, Ankha's new male mate Nacho, he saved me from certain death. That assassin slipped into our city security center without activating any alarms and I didn't sense them at all. Either age has finally caught up with me or they are simply that good. Regardless, Nacho saved my life and it makes me nostalgic of better times. He, that man, did the same thing in my youth.

I don't know why it reminded me of that time, it was the start of something I never could truly have.

/

Many years ago…

("Princess Ser-Ka, are you sure you should be out and about like this? Egyptapia is still divided and your mother and father told me it would be safer within the borders of the city.")

I rolled my eyes as I quickly spun around to look at my advisor in the eyes, ("So what? I been cooped up in that developing kingdom since I was a kid! I want to get out there and explore!")

("But my lady I-I really think.."

("Forget it! Besides I want to talk to that stranger that showed up a while back.")

("Ah yes…that man, he never told us his name, but he has proven to be a capable warrior.")

("Yeah, I know. He always seems to be a loner though; I want to know what makes him tick!")

("If you must, but please refrain from doing anything rash.")

We walked together until we found the little house my parents made for the mysterious warrior that appeared in out lands out of nowhere a few weeks ago. Since then he has proven himself useful to my parents in help training and fending off opposing armies. The man was a machine and was always training on his lonesome, waiting for the next battle. It didn't take us long to find his home. As expected the light skin man was wearing nothing as he trained under the shade, as I learned he was Greek so it should be no surprise that he trains in the nude or in some occasion wearing some form of lower garment.

I personally didn't mind as I got to see his ripe muscles as his sweat glistened off of them. I can also see the scars of battle on his body which showed he is a veteran of battle. He had a mess of black, starting to grey, medium length semi-curly hair that nearly reached his shoulders. Completing this is his beard which he hasn't shaven yet despite offers. He is certainly a prime example warrior, one of which that is already aware of us approaching.

("Is there another battle coming?") He asked.

Honestly, I was taken aback how quickly he answered without breaking focus of his pushups, ("Oh um…no…there is no battle coming.")

("Then why are you here?")

The coldness in his voice was apparent, he didn't care who he was talking to. Either it was something important or buzz off like a locust, ("Hmph, if you must know I came to see you. Being a alone out here is not good for the mind they say.")

("Are you supposed to be the better alternative then? Go away, come back if there is another battle coming along.")

("Let's just leave him be princess, he is clearly not in the mood to talk,") My advisor said nervously.

It would have been probably a good idea to just leave, but my personal pride made it impossible as he just insulted me, ("Excuse me? Did you just call me a nuisance?")

("Did I stutter? Leave now.")

He didn't raise his voice, which only infuriated me further, ("Listen here solder! I came out just to see if you needed company! The least you can do is show some common courtesy!")

He stopped his pushups and stood up. At first, I thought he was finally going to give me some attention and talk, but instead he began looking around. This only made me mad, ("Hey! Listen to me muscles! I am talking to you!")

He kept looking around until falling his gaze onto me. His green eyes looked at me with authority, but it didn't faze me one bit. Instead I just shot a meaner look at him, but when I did that, I saw his eyes widen. I was confused by this, however; all confusion was erased once he shouted.

("Get down!")

("Huh?")

It was the only thing I was able to say before he pushed me out of the way. This beast of a man pushed me to the side like it was nothing. I was first furious, but when I turned around to see why he pushed me to the side, I was shocked to see and robed man with a dagger being grappled by the warrior. He made it so easy, overpowering the would-be assassin with ease and bringing him to the ground. With a few swift strikes to the head, the robed assassin ceased moving.

("Sneaky bastard, using shadow magic to stay hidden. Are you okay?")

("I-I'm fine…thanks for that.")

("Good, I suggest you go back to the palace and tell your parents what happened here.")

("R-Right, I'll go do that,") I felt my heart quicken, but I quickly pushed it to the side as I took my advisor and ran back to the palace to tell my parents. Very quickly the robed man was arrested and brought to trial. After that, I grown a respect for the man, and gotten to know him better. We became good friends and he helped me find myself, eventually I grew to love him. However, that love was one sided, it was something I had to accept. Even after his death, I struggled with these emotions, especially after he gave me two children. Two children…that he will never know as his.

/

Present time

I couldn't help but cry as I recall the memory. He was a great man and there are things I wish I didn't do to him. With Ankha here, I just feel worse and worry what she would think if she found out before I tell her.

("I have to tell her…for her sake and my peace of mind.")

I looked over to the rising sun and began uttering a prayer. I know the gods aren't as strong as they used to be, but it brings me some kind of comfort. Once I was done with the prayer, I got myself ready for the morning.

/

Ankha's P.O.V.

A new day and already I was training my magical stamina. It was necessary thing to do, even with the current situation right now. Nacho, Isabelle, and the others are off looking around for any clues about the assassin. I was going to catch up with them once my short training is over. Azhum telling me to breathe slowly and clear my mind while casting spells. Use spells, pause and recover, rinse and repeat. It was very boring, but necessary if I am going to use more spells without tiring.

I been at this for an hour now, I was sweating, but I can feel my magical endurance grow better. Like some old muscles finally being flexed again.

"Done! You can stop now Ankha," Azhum declared.

"Whew…that was a workout, but I feel a bit stronger now."

"Good, it is a slow pace, but at this rate you should be able to cast more magic before tiring. With even more training, you won't have to be worried about tiring at all!"

"Now that's a goal worth working towards, but now with that out of the way we should help the others with the search for any clues on where the body may have been taken."

"Agreed, I believe you should talk to Ser-Ka for any updates. Good chance your lovers and the rest of your friends are already talking to her at this point."

"Alright, I just hope they don't mind seeing me in workout clothes."

"I doubt it, the smell could be another issue."

"No not really, I can change it until I get myself cleaned up."

"Right, fragrance manipulation. Awfully convenient isn't it?" Azhum shot me a suspicious look.

"Don't give me that look, I will never substitute good hygiene with my ability. I only do it in cases like this where there is no time to clean up."

"I sure hope so, because that would be disgusting."

I rolled my eyes, "Let's just get a move on, shall we?"

"Right, can't keep them waiting for long."

/

We walked out of the training hall as we made our way to the main command center. No surprise we found Ser-Ka, her children and the rest of the security team in there, but no Nacho, Isabelle or others. The serpent woman turned around to greet us with a smile as everybody else busily looked over data.

("Ah Ankha! So glad to see you, how was your training?")

("Went fine, has anything happened during my training?")

("No, unfortunately. There has been no new info, my security team couldn't find anything from the site where it happened. Your lovers, and the rest of your companions haven't found anything either. Whoever did this hid their tracks very well, but the burning question remains. What purpose would they have with the body?")

("The body of a legendary hero who is also your late husband. I can imagine a few possible reasons, but none seem to mesh well with the current situation. If it was ransom, then they would have contacted you by now.")

("Yeah…I sure hope it isn't anything sinster…")

I saw the worried look on her face and placed a hand on her shoulder, ("Don't worry, we will get him back.")

("Thank you, but um…there is something I need to tell you about him…something I should have told you about him since you first came here.")

I raised a brow at this, confused by what she meant by that, ("Tell me what?")

("Well…um…")

Looking beyond her, I can see her son and daughter visibly trying to egg her on. As to help her come out with this info she is trying to tell me, but before she could come out with it. A loud beeping blared out from her son's monitor.

["Ah! Mother! We just had a magic spike happen!"]

("What? Where?!)

"Magic spike? What's that?" I asked Azhum.

"A magic spike is a term used when a large amount of magic power was used at once. Either taken or unleashed at once. Usually it is a sign that a Magi-Beast has been created."

"So, a magi-beast just appeared then?"

"Most likely, but sometimes it is the sign of a very powerful magic user."

Hearing that gave me some concerns, but my concerns grew the moment Ser-Ka gasped.

("What happened? Where is the magic spike?")

She turned to me with wide eyes, ("It is located where that tribe of Felinmeow's are…")

("By the name of Ra…and the great creator…")

("We must get the others and tell them what happened.")

I nodded my head in agreement, Ser-Ka send out some of her guards out to find my lovers and the rest of my companions. I myself decided to quickly clean myself by running into my room and taking a quick shower. Putting on clothes that are best suited for the desert weather before returning back to the security center to find Nacho, Isabelle and the rest waiting for me.

"Heya Ankha, how was your training?" Nacho asked with a smile on his face.

"Have you gotten better with your mana?" Isabelle added.

"Yes, have you all found anything of interest involving our grave robbers?"

Nacho crossed his arms, "That depends on what you can consider interesting. The robbers frankly left no trace, not even footprints or a scent. How and why is the interesting part, they are too good."

"Hmm…interesting, what about the rest of you?"

"Same as Nacho, nothing!" Lucky answered, "Like they were simply shadows or something."

"Yeah…doesn't give me much confidence should we run into them," Diva added, looking a bit nervous.

I sighed, "Well we got some good news, I think."

"Good news? Which is…?"

("That we may have found where the robbers took the body,") Ser-Ka cut into our conversation as she slithered in.

"Um really? Where?" Isabelle asked as Azhum began translating.

Ser-Ka pointed over to the screen which showed an area covered in jungle that shows hints of buildings and structures, ("There, the area where we found that Felinmew tribe. The one that Bastet accidently made contact with. We detected a large magic spike the area a little while ago, frankly we thought it was a magi-beast sighting, but the magic energy seems strange. We took a closer analysis and found traces of necromantic energy. Which is…not reassuring…I'm not sure what it means for the body, but I can only imagine that it will be something terrible.")

"So, we need to check out that tribe then? See if we can find anything out of place in it?" Nacho inquired.

("Indeed, but since the tribe has remain elusive and kept to themselves. I suggest you prepare yourself for a journey. I want you all to be the ones to meet with the tribe as I don't think they will be quite happy to see my own emissaries. They wish to keep their independence, but even then I cannot guarantee that you will be met without hostilities. Especially since, from what I heard, they don't take kindly to Humes very well. That means you Nacho, I don't know the actual feelings overall, but I suggest you tread carefully.")

"Alright, thanks for the warning."

("When should we take off for the jungle Ser-Ka?")

("The next day, there is some preparations that need to be done before you head off to see them. Especially you Ankha and Diva, there are something very important that you two must have before leaving.")

("What? What is it?")

("Trust me when I say, it is only meant for you two alone. Ever since we were told that you were arrived by the gods, we were hard at work creating garbs that will fit your roles for the gods.")

("Garbs? Hmm…now you have my curiosity.")

("I said enough already, come meet me at night at the temple of Meretserger. She is our local goddess that we worship along with Wadjet, and Renenutut. The other cities do the same thing, we play our part in helping the gods. Hopefully, you can do yours without much difficulty.")

("Okay then, see you then Ser-Ka.")

"Yeah, see you then queenie," Diva added as the serpent ex-queen smiled as she left us.

Not much else was to be said so we were dismissed from the security room and allowed much free time since then. I joined Nacho and Isabelle back to our room so I can finally take a shower. Once done though we did some studying on our magic, doing some light reading before looking at our equipment. Still good so far, and really nothing but some good sharpening couldn't fix. I honestly wish I could have brought more lighter weapons with me, but I can only bring so much. Nacho is the only one of us that is carrying the heavier equipment, however, two swords is really all I need along with a bow. Old school, but it still works, I mean Nacho is still doing work with his swords and so does Isabelle.

Armor wise, again we kept it light as we didn't manage to turn everything into a leaf for easier storage, but we manage to get the main all-around armor from our last adventure. Not sure how much it's going to hold up against the Magi-beasts since they have proven to be a great threat. We may have to upgrade them in the future or get new armor, I mean with all this advancement in magic and technology there is bound to be some great armor to get. Although, I'm not sure how far we can get with the money we got from our previous quests.

Regardless, we make do with what we have. Perhaps we Ser-Ka can be kind enough to give us a general upgrade. Once nighttime fell, I told my lovers where I was heading and left the room dressed in warm clothes. Azhum was waiting for me and lead me to the temple Ser-Ka told me to go. It was quite a walk, but I got to see more of this beautiful city during the night. I wish I had time to explore and see everything it has to offer. However, I had to pass by it all, pass the people who look at me with wonder and awe. I find it cruel that I cannot attempt to connect with this version of my home reborn. I just want to experience the life here, but fate calls and I must answer.

After some more walking, I was able to see the temple in sight. It was quite grand and comfortably old school looking. We walked through the front entrance and was met with many priests and priestesses dressed in traditional garb. It felt like I was stepping back in time with all the torches and old tongue chanting. I looked ahead and saw Diva and Ser-Ka waiting for me in front of an altar. The serpent woman smiled when she saw me, I smiled back and gave her a friendly wave.

"Finally, we're waiting for you Ankha!" Diva playfully exclaimed as a smirk appeared on her face.

I saw Ser-Ka laugh and in turn I couldn't help but shake my head with a smile, "Well I can be fashionably late when I want to Diva."

"Heh, whatever."

I made it to the altar and stood next to Diva as the chanting came to a stop. Ser-Ka stood in front of us as she spoke, ("Ankha, Diva, you two have a great quest in front of you. Chosen immortals by the gods and emissaries of what they represent. Though it may sound simple, the journey to fulfill the task will test you. May your goddesses help you when you need it most and may Ra's light lead the way.")

*(Ho ha! Praise thee the gods!)* The priests chanted.

*(Praise thee as they watch over them.)*

I stayed silent as Ser-Ka looked over to the altar, which upon closer inspection had two gilded cases on top of it, ("Bastet and Heqet came to us one day to tell us of your arrival to this land. They also asked us, to create holy robes that best fit to your personality and style while staying true to your roles as priestesses. We had our finest warriors search out the finest materials, our best weavers create the clothes, our outstanding black smiths make the metal and our amazing jewelers fit the gems. With the blessing of the goddesses, we have made the finest holy robes fit for chosen such as yourselves. Ankha, Diva, step forward and open your case and receive your holy robes.")

She slithered to the side as Diva and I looked at each and nodded before stepping forward towards the altar. The chanting grew louder as we are finally in front of the cases. They are golden with hieroglyphs, which translated to; For the chosen on your journey may you go spread the message with peace and love. It was a bit cheesy, but it got the message across. We opened our respective cases and was suddenly engulfed in a bright light. I had to cover my eyes, but at the same time I felt something happen to me. The clothes on my body seem to disappear in the light and was replaced with another kind of garb.

It felt weird, but the light was warm, and it eventually had me let go of my worries. After a few seconds the warm feeling stopped, and I opened my eyes. The first thing I saw was everybody in the temple was bowing to us. Looking down I saw I completely changed outfits and now dressed in quite a fetching attire based on that my belly was exposed along with some of my under cleavage. However, I only really got a good look at my new attire when Ser-Ka stood up and cast a spell which created a mirror. I was completely awestruck by what I saw.

"By the gods…"

It was simply stunning, the outfit I was blessed with is a mix of white and gold. The first thing I noticed that I was wearing a black and gold mask that only covered the top part of my face, like a masquerade mask. On my hair there was these new accessories that complimented my uraeus, a hairband adorned with two gold circle with blue fan like decorations along with some gold beads on my front bangs. Drape on my shoulders is this hooded navy blue and gold cape with and red underside. Turning around I was saw it was decorated with the symbol of my goddess, a sistrum.

Turning back to the front, my top is a single solid white wrap that firmly supports and forms around my breasts. It forms well against the curve of my body as it reached around to my back turning around and moving the cape to the side, I was able to see it connected around my lower back. Giving an open view of the symbol of my immortality that is part of my being, my Ankh. Looking lower it looks to connect to my lower wear. Topping it all off, I had this metal like collar that neatly forms around my said collar and shoulders a bit. The base color being gold and the accents being red, green, and blue color respectively. Emblazoned in the front of it is an Ankh protrusion with an amber gem.

Looking to my bottom wear, I am wearing what I can best describe as a warrior's skirt with a wide covering to my backside that ends in a point that stop just below my knees. Covering the front is a front flap tabard that reaches just above my knees decorated with an Ankh in front. The main cloth material is color white and gold, keeping with the theme of the entire outfit. All of this is connected to a metal gold belt decorated with the same color of gems everywhere else on my new clothes. Looking closer I can see the brown straps that connect my top with my lower wear with golden connectors.

Looking at my arms, I was wearing navy blue bracers with golden accents and emblazoned with smooth emerald gems. Traveling further up both my upper arm reveals a second decorated arm band that comfortably sits without constricting my arms. Looking down at my foot wear, I noticed I was wearing very fashionable and comfortable brow sandals that snuggly hug my feet. Laying on top of those sandals and covering my blue bands on my legs are greaves of the same color scheme as my bracers that reach close to my knee.

"*Whistles* Damn Ankha, if Nacho and Isabelle can see you now."

I fought back the feeling of embarrassment as Diva's words directed my thoughts to my lovers. I have worn many outfits that had them glue their eyes to my body, even swimsuits and lingerie. However, I didn't think I would have to add this outfit to that list. Looking over to Diva, she was much more modest in comparison to me. Sporting a fuller robe that covered more of her body, save for the bust cut that showed off her Ankh marking above her lavender breasts. Like me, she also sported a hooded cloak and mask of her own. Jewelry and metal like decorations decorated her arms and legs, but the most surprising feature is that her robe is semi-transparent. Under the right lighting you can see her figure through the robes.

"Your one to talk Diva, you would like to give people a small peek at your body, do you?"

"Hey when you got it? Rock it. Besides my point about your outfit still stands."

"Touché…"

Ser-Ka made the mirror disappear as the crowd of worshippers began bowing. With another magic spell, the serpent woman created two small portals and reached inside of them. Pulling out two golden scepters stylized with Ankh's and the visage of the god we represent. Not too different from the Was-Scepter but seeing an item of such significance in front me. I felt unworthy in its presence.

("These will be your tools, chosen of the gods. Use them wisely,") Ser-Ka said proudly.

Diva bowed before taking her scepter, but I hesitated. I thought back to my current power and how I am lagging behind. Am I really worthy to wield such authority in the name of my goddess?

("I…I can't accept this…I don't feel worthy to wield it…")

Ser-Ka looked at me not with disappointment, but with knowing eyes. Like she expected me to say something like that, ("Ankha…you have already been seen worthy by the gods or else such an item wouldn't be bestowed to you. But, only when you fully believe in yourself can you truly unlock the power the scepter and you yourself have.")

("Believe in myself…") I took a deep breath, I still do not believe I'm worthy. Yet all these people are expecting me to take it. If I must then I shall, but can I really prove to myself that I am worthy?

I took a bow and took the scepter. Loud cheers came from the people and Ser-Ka herself beamed with a bright smile. Diva and I raised our scepters high as we took our next steps as chosen.

/

Lucky's P.O.V.

"Hmm? Ankha?"

"You feel it too don't you Lucky?" Amr said knowing the events taking place.

"Yeah, Ankha…she took another step closer to her destiny."

"So has Diva, but you seem worried Lucky."

"Is it wrong for a sworn brother to worry about his sworn sister?"

"No, it isn't, just as it isn't a problem for a chosen to worry for their guardian."

"Heh, yeah. Ankha worries for me sometimes, especially around fire. Does Diva worry for you a lot?"

Amr paused for a moment, looking down at his own body for a brief moment before looking at me, "Yeah she does, sometimes obsessive but she means well."

"Really now? How come?"

"A story for another time, for now lets just prepare for the next day."

"Right, I can only imagine what awaits us."

"Indeed…"

I looked on confused as Amr went to a sleep like state. I simply shrugged and did the same, yet just what awaited us the next day?

/

The next day came and now we find ourselves traversing the jungle on our way to find the missing remains of Ser-Ka's husband. It was a quite eventful goodbye considering all the events that came. Ankha's and Diva's new priestess outfits and the buzz they brought to night and morning. As they figured out how to store the outfits in their new amulets. It was quite hectic with the crowds of people who wished to see us off. Ser-Ka herself wanted to say something to Ankha but didn't get the chance. She looked quite sad as we left the city and took the quick express to the entrance of our destination.

Azhum took point as a man of his age knows his way around the world. It also helps that we were tracking the last magic traces left behind from whatever happened in the area. Despite the density of the jungle we kept true to a path thanks to Azhum. This is even better for me as humid places tend to cause me to stink if I am left too long in the heat.

Sometimes being a mummy can well…stink sometimes. Still it is something I gotten used to, plus some magic helps with that. We kept together as a group as we went through the jungle, me staying close to Ankha along with her lovers who are dressed in the Hunter's armor set. As for her she was dressed in more adventurous clothes mixed in with armor.

Once again, I was carrying most of the equipment, but I didn't mind.

"How much farther Azhum? We been hiking for a while, worse still I think we are being watched," Nacho cautioned.

"The area where the magic originated should be a few miles ahead," The talking tome responded.

"Well that's reassuring, but if I remember correctly. Don't these Felimew have a negative history with humes? Which in this world is what I am technically?"

"Don't worry Nacho, being surrounded by so many non-humes I think you should be fine dude," Diva said with her own way of reassurance. Honestly, I think she needs some work.

We kept walking until suddenly I saw Nacho, Ankha, and Isabelle stop in their tracks, "Huh? What's wrong guys?"

"Everyone be careful! I am feeling something incredibility dangerous staring us down," Nacho warned as he pulled out two swords.

"Is it the felimews?"

"No Lucky, it's something else…something powerful…"

"A magi-beast?" Azhum added, that was another possible explanation, but that wasn't it as Isabelle spoke out.

"A person! No two! W-Watch out!" She shouted in panic as much to my surprise an orb of dark magic was launched and exploded between us and the three.

"Ankha! Nacho! Isabelle!" I shouted as I try to regain my senses as the smoke cleared. I could hear the three scream out in pain as they faded into the distance. This only worried me before suddenly seeing a familiar face standing in front of us, holding Azhum locked in magic chains.

"Apologizes, but my master wishes to have time with the three by himself. You will be dealing with me."

I grew angry as I saw it was none other than Adofo, the lion guardian of Aten. I brought my weapon, "Adofo! You can't take the three of us on!"

"So, you say Lucky, but let's see how much those words hold."

"Whoa! We got your back Lucky!" Diva shouted as she got her magic ready while Amr got his weapon ready.

Adofo simply breathed before roaring as his sword ignited with dark fire, "Come at me! Show me your strength!"

I took a deep breathe before staring the lion man down. This was going to be messy.

/

Nacho's P.O.V.

I was angry, not only was I surprised attacked, but Ankha and Isabelle got hurt from it. My inner instincts were ignited in response as I recovered onto my feet as soon as we landed into another clearing. I do my best to keep my instincts in control as I looked around. I saw Ankha helping Isabelle up which gave me some relief about their condition. However, we all turned our attention to a dark portal that opened up and a hooded robed figure walked out holding a scepter of his own.

"Well hello you three, it has been a while, especially you Ankha," that voice I remember that voice. Hearing it only made it harder to contain my rage.

"Aten?!" Ankha said with shock.

"Who else love? Heh heh heh…I hope I wasn't too rough; I would hate to ruin your lovely body."

Ankha visibly shivered and I grew madder, "Back off, she already made it clear she isn't into you. Besides she's taken."

"Yeah! By the both of us!" Isabelle added fiercely.

Aten only laughed, "Oh Ankha Ankha…not satisfied with one lover but now you take two. This time a woman, I didn't know you go both ways my dear. However, you do know romance between an immortal and a mortal is only going to end tragically. How long can you truly love them before they become less than they were before. Time will take them, and you will have no one. Save yourself the heartache, and simply be with me, an immortal like yourself."

I only growled at this long-winded nonsense, but Ankha had something else to say, "What happened to you Aten? You used to be a kind man who found love again even when I rejected you."

"I simply opened my eyes Ankha, just a little pinch and it all became clear to me. Of course, you refuse to see the futility of your struggle against me."

"We beat you last time, we can do it again!" I retorted as I took my blades and adjusted them.

"Heh, yes I am aware, but I will admit I was not at my best during that. My…master helped me realized my obsession with you Ankha was hindering me. It was true, every time I saw you I forget my plan and go after you. However, I cut off loose ends and I improved myself, not to mention my master bestowed me with more power. So now my lovely Ankha, I can simply take you whenever I feel like it."

"What are you talking about? Who is your master?" Ankha shouted.

"Yeah and why did you cut off from Anubis?" Isabelle added.

"So many questions, so little time. I suppose I can bless you with an answer for Anubis, it is simple really. He is a liability, once he figured me out, he tried to find out what I was up to and put a stop to it. However, thanks to my master I was able to cut off from him and become my master's chosen instead. Heh heh heh…as for the first thing Ankha…well I am an even better choice as a consort for you my dear. As simply put, I am simply more powerful than them in addition to my previous point of being immortal. They cannot protect you from me…"

I heard enough and dashed in with my swords, "Let's see about that!"

I shouted as I was about to slash him with my swords, but to my surprise my blades just went through him. Before I could register what happened, I was hit a dark magic blast by his scepter. The magic attack winded me as I crashed to the ground and slowly got back up.

"Please, such barbaric methods of attack won't work on me. However, you just gave me reason to show Ankha just how powerless you are," I saw a smile underneath the hood as he immediately teleported to avoid a fire ball from Ankha.

What came next was simply an exhibition of Aten's power. We all try to catch Aten as he teleported around and launching dark magic blasts and homing shots. It was basic magic, but the power behind it actually kept pushing me back and breaking Isabelle's guard even when she used magic to increase the power of her shield. He was just toying with us, and to our surprise his physical combat skills were no joke as he effortlessly blocked attacks with his scepter and magic. Kicking and smacking Isabelle around while using his magic to blow Ankha back.

Seeing the girls get knocked around only caused me to grow angry. Something not helped by my animal instincts which I feel gnawing at the back of my mind. Telling me to murder this man for even hurting them at all. However, I can't go Apex or else I could be putting the ecosystem here in danger. So, I decided to use some of my new tricks I learned from Azhum.

"Gaia blast!" I shouted as I felt a surge of energy from the earth course through my body and into my hands. Aten just looked at me with a tilted head and just stood there as I fired off an orange ball of energy towards him. It flew fast and hit home; the attack got the man to grunt a bit as he was pushed back by the force of the attack. Not letting up, I followed it up with a kick to the ground with my heel which sent a wave of energy that trickled under the robed man before causing the earth under him to flip open and sent him flying.

To my surprise, Isabelle followed it up by summoning plant vines from the ground to grab Aten and slam him to the ground. He bounced into the air and as to add the finishing touch, Ankha shot out a pillar of fire that erupted from the ground to consume him.

"Ahhhh!" Aten shouted in what I assume is pain as the fire pillar stopped and a smoldering body hit the ground.

My mind is telling me to pounce with my swords and stab him here and there, but instead I simply looked at him along with my lovers. We were sure that he wasn't done yet, not after the display he did earlier. I faced monsters who played dead when things weren't going their way, but the problem here is that this one combo shouldn't be enough to take him down. It's like he let it happen. It wasn't long though before my feeling was proven right.

"Heh heh ha ha! Not bad, I almost felt that…" Aten slowly stood back up while dusting himself off. Showing no signs of damage from our attacks at all, "I must say I am surprised, I never expected you two weaklings to start learning magic," He pointed towards me and Isabelle.

"I get the feeling that's a back handed compliment," I replied as I stared him down, seeing his eyes that glow golden.

"Oh? Looks like the brute can learn new tricks," he said as he smiled at me, "You certainly hold more raw power last I remembered, but where is that now? You are clearly holding back, which isn't a wise move for somebody I consider an actual wall in my way."

"Wall? What do you mean?"

"Heh, perhaps he isn't as clever as I thought. Still I can see what would appeal to Ankha, such a righteous spirit and willingness to dive into danger. Kind as well, but that hardly matters when time is involved. Do you seriously think Ankha would still love you after many years will pass? I seen it many times, but she is better off without you."

"Hey! What gives you the right to say that! Sure I'm not immortal, but at least I make her happy! Not like you can do that after what you did!"

"Heh, empty words mortal, but I will admit you hold value. Unlike that pathetic canine over there," He pointed to Isabelle which actually pissed me off and I wasn't alone as Ankha looked angrier than me.

"What me? What do you mean?" Isabelle said in surprise.

"Oh, don't act so surprise you useless mutt. I cannot understand why Ankha would let you be her lover along with that brute. Compared to him you are simply a third wheel, utterly pointless, and just a burden. She probably made you her lover as a form of pity."

Isabelle was utterly speechless and looked like she was going to cry. Me, I wanted to strangle him for even saying such things, but I was beaten to the punch by Ankha who launched a ferocious fireball that sent Aten flying back.

"How dare you say such things about Isabelle!"

"Heh heh heh, such anger," Aten taunted as he got back up; still showing no signs of damage, "I had my fun, but I have much more important things to do. Before I go however, let me show you just how weak all of you are."

I got myself ready for his next attack as his eyes glowed. Very quickly I ran towards him, but his spell casting speed proved to be faster as he erupted in a powerful magic shockwave that sent us all flying. Making a bad situation worse, magic dark chains binded all of us, seeing this gave me flash backs to when Aten would try to kidnap Ankha. My protective instincts flared up as I struggled against the chains.

"You are wasting your energy brute, these chains are as strong as my magical skill. You can't do anything, you are powerless before me."

"Leave Ankha alone!" I roared, almost beast like.

"Y-Yeah! Leave her along!" Isabelle added, trying to sound tough but it was clear his earlier words affected her. Much to my rage.

"Of course, I will, like I said. I can take her anytime I want; besides I will never hurt somebody like her," He said as he walked over to her and picked her up until they were face to face. Ankha looked horrified as I assume, she got a good look at his face.

"W-What happened to you?" she stuttered out.

"I'm something far greater than I was before my dear," he said as he leaned in an attempt to kiss her. My inner animal was screaming out to stop him, but my body can't break through the chains. To no one's surprise though, Ankha's blessing by Bastet protected her from this unwanted kiss as a magic barrier appeared and blasted Aten away from her. I would feel relieved if it wasn't for the fact he began laughing, "Hahaha! I knew Bastet would protect her chosen well. I just had to see it for myself, but I'm not done showing this brute how weak he is."

"I'm going to murder you!" I shouted, my anger hitting an unnatural point that even in a part of my thinking mind I knew that it was kinda off.

"Heh heh, temper temper. I would be mindful of that if I were you, don't want to be spreading any diseases to a world that has no resistance to it. That would be bad, but what isn't bad is removing what is unnecessary," he said as he began walking towards Isabelle.

"Leave her alone!" Ankha cried out as the evil man put a foot right on Isabelle's neck.

The poor girl was crying and speechless. She would have beast triggered if she could, but she would have spread the frenzy virus if she did. Ankha was begging with Aten to leave our lover alone, but he only smiled and began pressing his foot.

"She is useless pointless trash and I am going to prove it right…"

"RRRAAGH!" I couldn't handle it anymore, something in my snapped as I beast triggered without activating it myself. My mind went blank and nothing but thoughts of murdering Aten and protecting my mates filled in the gap.

/

Ankha's P.O.V.

Everything that happened so far was one of my worst nightmares realized and I couldn't do anything about it. Aten was going to kill Isabelle in front of me and I curse my own lack of power to even try and stop him. However, hope appeared when Nacho roared and transformed. Becoming the familiar form of the Brachydios that he took on before. To my amazement he broke the chains binding him and began charging towards Aten.

"RRRAAAGHHH!" He roared as he charged at the evil man.

However, Aten only laughed much to my surprise as he took his foot off of Isabelle and faced Nacho head on. My male lover now turned monster began wildly attacking Aten with a flurry of punches and head butts. Aten just laughed as he easily dodged the attacks, it was predictable to him. He was toying with Nacho's instinct driven attacks and was responding in kind with his own magic based ones. Hitting him when he was open. I could do nothing as my magic wouldn't activate thanks to these bindings. To my horror, Nacho was being beaten effortlessly as each of Aten's attacks hit home.

"Nacho!" I shouted out in pure desperation as his attacks began to slow and more visible damage began to show on his body. It was horrible as I felt tears trickle down my face. Aten just won the fight and the bestial Nacho was on his knees.

"Heh, just a mindless weak brute. You transformed and even then you couldn't protect them," Aten just gave off another sinister laugh before charging up magic in his scepter and smacking Nacho with it, knocking him out and reverting him to normal.

"Im-Impossible…" I whimpered weakly.

"Oh it is possible my dear, now I must take my leave. Also, before I go…remember my words my dear. I can take you anytime I want, and your lovers can't do a thing about it. Furthermore, they are mortal so I cannot fathom to think why you believe you can have a happy life with them."

He opened another shadow portal, but before he left, he tapped the ground with his scepter. This caused the chains binding me and Isabelle to disappear, I scrambled on the ground to check on Isabelle and Nacho as he laughed. I held my poor canine lover as she seems to have frozen up in shock. I even tried to include Nacho in the hug as I did my best to keep myself together. I was so caught up in trying to calm myself down that I couldn't hear what I think was concerned voices before passing out myself.