Chapter 2

Disclaimer: I don't own Yugioh

A/N: Yes, I know this story hasn't been updated in literally forever. No, I haven't forgotten it. Just life seems to have gotten in the way big time. That and other more popular stories had taken priority for awhile. I have not discontinued this story and I really do hope you like this update. It'll be quite the doozy so prepare for another long chapter.

Some notes before we begin: Pharaoh Meryatem is Pharaoh Atem that you know from the anime. Not an OC as I mentioned in the previous chapter his name was changed to avoid confusion in the story with Atemu discussing Pharaoh Atem in my head leaving a ton of potential for an absolutely confusing mess. As mentioned briefly in the previous chapter Meryatem is in his thirties although his exact age is never outright mentioned and irrelevant. This is just for your general information.

Prince Kekhalfani (the god of darkness, Kek, will rule): Is the name of Yami's past incarnation, again not an OC. I just don't want to use the modern character Japanese names. He is Meryatem's son and heir. He is Aknamkanon's grandson. (again just to make things clear). I would say Kekhalfani was about 14 or 15.

Bakura: The king of thieves you all know and love. His name I'm not changing.

Maya is ancient Egyptian Mai and I have permission from Queen of Plottwists to use that name for her.

Ancient Egypt: I'm going to try and make this story at least SOMEWHAT accurate in what could have happened in ancient Egypt. Clearly I'm not going to be able to completely capture it (so in that sense look at it as an AU) but I'm going for more realism than fantasy. That being said, the poems you find in the funeral section and Seth's dialogue at the beginning are literally from the lamentations of Osiris. That is these were the real hymns. For anime references, I will be referring to the anime when I can however, I might be bouncing between the manga and the actual show with what I use as well as taking a lot of creative license. For research sake and general timeline I have randomly decided that this section is set in approximately 1400 BC, perhaps slightly earlier. (Random, I know but here me out.)

According to the American adaptation the Pharaoh was sealed in the puzzle 5000 years before the show. Which, based on simple math would be putting us at approximately 3000 BC which, for you history buffs would put the Pharaoh in the time of Narmer. Not doing that. In the Japanese anime the story proclaims that the Pharaoh had been sealed in the puzzle 3000 years before. This would then put us at approximately 1000 BC, which again doesn't work. In 1000 BC that would place us in the third intermediate period which was where the ancient society was on the final decline before they would ultimately be conquered by foreign invaders. Again, that doesn't work. So, that is why I have chosen approximately 1400 BC.

I would give this chapter a M rating. Its going to be dark. And not always pleasant. Be aware of that as your precede.

And with all of that officially out of the way (I hate authors notes but sadly sometimes they are needed)

Ring of Apep

There was an unnatural quiet in the Great House. Kekhalfani awoke before the rising of the sun as was normal but something about the quiet sent a shiver of dread up his spine. He could not put his finger on precisely what was amiss, only that he knew that something was.

He had not been awake for long before the door to his chambers opened revealing one of his servants who had come to help Kekhalfani prepare for the day but the servants whole posture was off, more reserved than was normal. Kekhalfani frowned. The feeling in the pit of his stomach that something was wrong was growing.

"What happened?" Kekhalfani asked as he watched the servant begin to fill his bath.

The servant was quiet for only a moment before finally speaking, "Pharaoh has begun his journey into the field of reeds."

Kekhalfani was shocked. He knew his grandfather had fallen ill over the last ten day. Priests of Sekhmet had been seen flitting in and out of his grandfather's royal rooms many times. Prayers had been offered as the priests did their best to aide his grandfather, a true warrior both in body and heart, in his battle against this...demon that had plagued him.

Never, not once had Kekhalfani doubted that his grandfather would be victorious in his fight. He had expected him to strike down this demon like he had his enemies in battle, trampling them beneath his feet.

"I see. And what of my father?" Kekhalfani lightly prodded as he slipped into the bath allowing the servant to begin washing his back.

"The Crown Prince has been seeing to Pharaoh's final preparations. Ensuring that once Pharaoh's body has been properly prepared we can begin our celebrations." The servant replied.

Kekhalfani nodded but then fell silent knowing that there wasn't any more information he would be able to gleam from the servant. If he wanted to know what was truly going on he would have to try and talk to his father, although given what had happened getting a moment alone to speak with him would no doubt be challenging.

Once the servant had finished bathing Kekhalfani and massaging oils into his skin Kekhalfani allowed himself to be dried off before he dressed in a simple white tunic with golden flecks and a golden belt secured around his waist. On his arms he slipped on golden bands and his heir ring was slipped onto his finger. He sat down at his vanity, glancing in the mirror and carefully lining his eyes while khol before stepping into his sandals and making his way out of the room and to his lessons, knowing that despite his grandfather's passing during the night for now business would be conducted as normal.

Kekhalfani didn't manage to get a moment to speak to his father until it was practically nightfall when he'd made his way through the hypostyle halls to his father's study. He found reading over a papyrus roll detailing what Kekhalfani could not possibly guess.

"Father." Kekhalfani whispered as he lightly knocked on the door.

Meryatem glanced up briefly to meet his son's gaze before his eyes once more drifted down to rest on the papyrus. "Kek, I was not expecting to see you. Is something the matter?"

Kekhalfani shook his head, not that Meryatem could see it. "No father, nothing is the matter. My day has been good." Kekhalfani replied evenly.

Meryatem sighed before he set the papyrus down upon his cedar desk, his tired ruby gaze once more coming to rest upon his son. "It warms my heart to hear that your day has been good Kek." Meryatem replied before adding, "However that does not explain why you have come seeking me out this late. Ra has already ventured into the underworld for his nightly battle."

Kekhalfani nodded, "Yes, I know its late father. But, I just...I wanted to talk to you about, well...what happened during the night. Sadly, I did not have the opportunity to do so before now." Kekhalfani said.

Meryatem's eyes widened in what Kek guessed was realization before once more becoming a neutral mask. "Ah. You wished to discuss your grandfather. I apologize for not having foreseen that. I should have sought you out sooner and not left you discover the news from a servant." Meryatem replied.

Kekhalfani shrugged, "Its fine father. I understand why. You were busy. I know there is a lot that needed to be seen to. It was why I waited until now to try and talk to you." Kekhalfani said.

Meryatem sat back, his hands lightly resting with his ring encrusted fingers interlaced atop the desk as he gazed at his son, "What is it you wish to ask me?" Meryatem said softly.

Kekhalfani swallowed awkwardly as he tried to find the words to ask his father what he wanted to. Why was it suddenly so difficult? Kekhalfani was aware that death is just another part of his grandfather's immortal journey and that he will ultimately spend the rest of eternity in the field of reeds. So, knowing that why then were the words catching in his throat?

"I..." Kekhalfani said softly, to his great shame his voice cracking as he spoke.

Meryatem frowned briefly before he quickly rose and rounded the desk within moments standing right in front of his son. He said not a word before he wrapped a powerful arm around his son's shoulders, pulling Kekhalfani close. Kekhalfani buried his face into his father's powerful chest and unbidden tears began to slip from his eyes.

"Why did the gods not aide him? Were our prayers and our offerings not enough? Why did they forsake him?" Kekhalfani sobbed into his father's chest.

Meryatem tightened his hold around his son's shoulders, "The gods did not forsake him. They would never forsake him. The gods deemed that it was time for him to leave this plane and to journey into paradise. He is a good man and the gods love him just as he loved and served them. It is only his earthly body that has died, and he will awaken once the rites have been completed in paradise where he truly belongs. Of that there can be no doubt." Meryatem whispered, his hang lightly rubbing soothing circles on his sons back.

Kekhalfani nodded before he slowly forced himself to withdraw from his father' embrace, his hand swiping across his face no doubt smearing the khol he had so carefully applied that morning. A clear sign to all who would see him of his weakness.

Meryatem sighed, "Wait here." He said before he slipped past his son and out into the hypostyle halls of the palace complex.

Kekhalfani was not kept waiting for long before his father returned carrying with him a small clay bowl and what looked a pitcher of water. He set the bowl on his desk before carefully pouring the water into it, making a concerted effort to not spill a drop lest he damage the pile of papyrus documents that still littered his desk.

Meryatem then carefully dipped a piece of cloth into the bowl before ringing it out and gently wiping his son's face, erasing the smeared khol and all traces of his son's tears. "There. That's much better." Meryatem said once he hand finished cleaning his son's face.

Kekhalfani gave his father a small smile. Meryatem nodded. "Now, my son. It is late. And you need to be going to bed. Go, and be at peace." Meryatem said.

Kekhalfani nodded, "Good night father." Kekhalfani said before he turned and made his way back out of his father's study and to his bed.

XXXXXXX

Seventy days. Seventy days had passed since the unexpected death of Pharaoh Aknamkanon. The preparations of his body were now complete and the time had come to finally lay him to rest. Kekhalfani awoke the morning just as he always did and quickly went through his morning preparations before he darted out of his chambers seeking his father.

His father, it appeared, had been speaking with the lector Priest, Seth, who would be presiding over the burial. Kekhalfani paused while he waited for his father to finish.

"Everything has been prepared. We will be ready to begin the procession shortly." Seth briskly stated, his blue eyes flashing his Anubis headdress resting atop his head.

Meryatem nodded, "Excellent. We shall begin the procession shortly." Meryatem replied.

Seth did not reply further, merely bowed his head to Meryatem before he turned and took his leave. Kekhalfani took this as his cue to approach his father. Meryatem glanced up just as Kekhalfani reached him. Meryatem was dressed in a simple white tunic concealed beneath a royal purple robe not unlike the one his grandfather often wore. Upon his brow was a simple golden headdress which signified Meryatem as the crown prince. The headdress which would become Kekhalfani's upon his father's coronation which was a four day ceremony that would begin following the interment of his grandfather. Once the coronation had been completed then his father would wear the crown of the two lands, or on most days the simple blue and gold Nemes headdress.

The only thing particularly strange about his father's appearance was the noticeable beard that he had grown in the last seventy days, since as tradition dictated men in mourning were not to shave. Meryatem nodded to Kekhalfani in greeting, "We must wait for your aunt and Mana and then we will be ready to depart." Meryatem said.

Kekhalfani nodded. He knew that Maya wouldn't leave them waiting for too much longer. However, as the only female relative of the late Pharaoh, it was left to Mana the apprentice of high priest and court magician Mahad, to fill the second vital role in the funeral. Kekhalfani really hoped that Mana didn't mess this up. Although, he knew that Mahad had no doubt impressed upon Mana the absolute importance of getting this right. The more Kekhalfani thought about it the more he thought Mana was probably petrified in fright. Maya and Mana were to play the roles of Isis and Nephthys during the lamentations of Osiris.

Sure enough Maya arrived soon her beaded wig hanging around her face. Her narrow violet eyes, very similar to those of her brother and nephew shown with the sadness that all were feeling although the men could not express such weakness as openly as she could.

"Maya." Meryatem greeted.

Maya shot her brother a wane smile, "Mery." Maya greeted in return before she turned her attention onto Kekhalfani, "And good morning to you as well Kek. I swear you look more and more like your father every day."

Kekhalfani smiled. "You look as beautiful as ever Maya."

Maya smiled brightly at her nephew before her gaze drifted back onto her brother who had his arms crossed tensely in front of him. She frowned briefly, "Is there something the matter Mery?" Maya asked.

Meryatem sighed, "Mana should be here by now. Of all the days for her to be late, today is not one of them." Meryatem replied briskly.

Kekhalfani bit his lip briefly, "I could go and look for her father. Maybe she's just running behind." Kekhalfani suggested. He really hoped that was the reason. She had to understand how important today was.

Meryatem shook his head, "No. You will stay here. As soon as she arrives we need to be ready to depart. Everyone else is in position to begin the ceremony." Meryatem said before he turned, his eyes resting briefly on one of the Medjay, "Hasan!" Meryatem called out.

The Medjay quickly straightened before turning and striding over to Meryatem and bowed, "How may I be of service my prince?" Hasan asked.

"Go and fetch apprentice Mana. She is late and we need to be departing for the procession." Meryatem growled.

Hasan nodded before springing to his feet, "At once my Prince." He replied before he turned and strode briskly out of the room to fetch the wayward apprentice.

Thankfully they were not kept waiting for much longer before Hasan returned dragging an ashen Mana behind him by the wrist. "The apprentice, my Prince." Hasan said before he tugged his arm forward and released Mana who stumbled forward practically bowling into Kekhalfani who rested both hands on her shoulders to help steady her.

Meryatem nodded, "Good. Now that we are all here we can begin." Meryatem said before he turned and began to lead the way to the palace entrance where Kekhalfani saw that servants were already waiting beside a cart hooked up to an ox.

Meryatem nodded and a servant began to lead the oxen forward, making the slow procession towards the barge which would take the entire procession across the river and to Pharaoh Aknamkanon's tomb. Following behind the cart walked Meryatem followed by Maya, then Kekhalfani and Mana as well as a number of priests as well as servants who were carrying Aknamkanon's worldly possesions. The road on either side was lined with professional mourners sobbing and pulling at their hair as they moved past.

Finally the procession reached the barge and once everyone had boarded the barque cast off to take the procession across the river. Kekhalfani finally turned to Mana, "Where were you this morning?" He whispered, being careful to not draw any attention onto their conversation.

Mana blushed. "I was hiding. In a pot." Mana mumbled.

Kekhalfani's eyes widened in realization before they narrowed in anger, "You knew how important this is Mana." Kekhalfani growled.

Mana nodded, nibbling on her lip. "I know Kek, that's why I was hiding. What if I mess up?" Mana said.

Kekhalfani briefly closed his eyes as he did his best to reign in his temper once he was calm enough to not explode at the girl and cause a huge scene he spoke, "You can't possibly mess up worse than not showing up at all. Just follow along with Maya. You've been practicing the songs, right?" Kekhalfani asked.

Mana nodded once more, "Yes, Master Mahad has been making sure that I've been practicing those every day since Prince Meryatem chose me to take part in the procession." Mana said.

Kekhalfani nodded, "Then you will do fine. You know the hymns. Plus, you won't be alone. Maya will be right there with you." Kekhalfani said.

Mana nodded, "Right. Of course." Mana replied, although in Kekhalfani's opninion she didn't sound nearly as confident as she should. Kekhalfani just hoped that he was right and she really wasn't going to mess up the hymns.

The barque finally moored on the western side of the Nile and the procession continued making its way to Pharaoh Aknamkanon's tomb. Once the procession had reached the tomb the sarcophagus was unloaded and placed upright beside the tomb.

Seth strode forward, "Recitation of blessings made by the Two Sisters in the house of Osiris-Khentamenti, the great god, lord of Memphis, in the fourth month of Inundation, day 25, when the same is done in every place of Osiris, at every feast of his: To bless his ba [soul], steady his body, exalt his ka [astral self], give breath to the nose of him who lacks breath. To soothe the heart of Isis and Nephthys, place Horus on his father's throne, and give life-stability-dominion to the Osiris Aknamkanon, born of Ahmose, called Aknamkanon, the justified."

Maya, who was playing the role of Isis stepped forward before she knelt in front of Aknamkanon's sarcophagus,

"Come to your house, come to your house!

You of On, come to your house,

Your foes are not!

O good musician, come to your house!

Behold me, I am your beloved sister,

You shall not part from me!

O good youth, come to your house!

Long, long have I not seen you.

My heart mourns for you, my eyes seek you,

I search for you to see you!

Come to your beloved, come to your beloved!

Wennefer, justified, come to your sister!

Come to your wife, come to your wife,

Weary-hearted, come to your house-mistress!

I am your sister by your mother,

You shall not leave me!

Gods and men look for you,

Weep for you together.

While I can see you I call to you

Weeping to the height of heaven!

But you do not hear my voice,

Though I am your sister whom you loved on earth,

You loved none but me, the sister, the sister."

Once Maya had finished her hymn a trembling Mana walked forward before she too bowed before Aknamkanon's sarcophagus and reciting Nephthys's part of the lamentations:

"O good King, come to your house!

Please your heart, all your foes are not!

Your Two Sisters beside you guard your bier,

Call for you in tears!

Turn around on your bier!

See the women, speak to us!

King, our Lord, drive all pain from our hearts.

Your court of gods and men beholds you,

Show them your face, King our Lord!

Our faces live by seeing your face!

Let your face not shun our faces!

Our hearts are glad to see you, King.

Our hearts are happy to see you!

I am Nephthys, your beloved sister!

Your foe is fallen, he shall not be!

I am with you, your body-guard,

For all eternity."

Maya was up next, continuing with the next part of Isis's roll:

"Ho, you of On, you rise for us daily in heaven!

We cease not to see your rays!

Thoth, your guard, raises your ba,

In the day-bark in this your name of "Moon".

I have come to see your beauty in the Horus-Eye

In your name of "Lord-of the sixth-day-feast".

Your courtiers beside you shall not leave you,

You conquered heaven by your majesty's might,

In this your name of "Lord-of-the-fifteenth-day-feast".

You rise for us like Ra every day,

You shine for us like Atum,

Gods and men live by your sight.

As you rise for us you light the Two Lands,

Lightland is filled with your presence;

Gods and men look to you,

No evil befalls them when you shine.

As you cross the sky your foes are not,

I am your guard every day!

You come to us as child in moon and sun,

We cease not to behold you!

Your sacred image, Orion in heaven,

Rises and sets every day;

I am Sothis who follows him,

I will not depart from him!

The noble image issued from you

Nourishes gods and men,

Reptiles and herds live by it.

You flow from your cavern for us in your time,

Pouring out water to your ba,

Making offerings to your ka,

To nourish gods and men alike.

Ho, my Lord! There is no god like you!

Heaven has your ba, earth your form,

Netherworld is filled with your secrets,

Your wife is your guard,

Your son Horus rules the land!"

Mana's turn was next as she recited the next part of the lamentations:

"O, good king, come to your house!

Wennefer, justified, come to Djedet,

O lusty bull, come to Anpet!

O lover of women, come to Hat-mehyt,

Come to Djedet, the place your ba loves!

The ba's of your fathers are your companions,

Your young son Horus, the sisters' child, is before you;

I am the light that guards you every day,

I will not leave you ever!

O you of On, come to Sais,

"Saite" is your name;

Come to Sais to see your mother Neith,

Good child, you shall not part from her.

Come to her breasts that overflow,

Good brother, you shall not part from her!

O my son, come to Sais!

Osiris Aknamkanon, born of Ahmose, justified.

Come to Sais, your city!

Your place is the Palace,

You shall rest forever beside your mother!

She protects your body, repels your foes,

She will guard your body forever!

O good King, come to your house,

Lord of Sais, come to Sais!"

Maya then speaks the final lamentation:

"Come to your house, come to your house,

Good King, come to your house!

Come, see your son Horus

As King of gods and men!

He has conquered towns and nomes

By the greatness of his glory!

Heaven and earth are in awe of him,

The Bow-land is in dread of him.

Your court of gods and men is his

In the Two lands, in doing your rites;

Your Two Sisters beside you libate to your ka,

Your son Horus presents you offerings

Of bread, beer, oxen, and fowl.

Thoth recites your liturgy,

And calls you with his spells;

The Sons of Horus guard your body,

And daily bless your ka.

Your son Horus, champion of your name and your shrine,

Makes oblations to your ka;

The gods, with water-jars in their hands,

Pour water to your ka.

Come to your courtiers, King our Lord!

Do not part from them!

Lo, He Comes!"

Following the lamentations of Osiris Maya and Mana both stepped back into their place in the procession. Mana's hand slipped into Kekhalfani's which she squeezed tightly as Meryatem stepped forward to perfom the opening of the mouth.

"Did I do okay?" Mana whispered.

Kekhalfani nodded as he squeezed Mana's hand reassuringly his locked on his father who accepted the ritual Adze was handed to him by the priest. Meryatem then turned and lightly touched the Adze to the stylized mouth on the sarcophagus. Then the eyes. Then the ears. Thus awakening Aknamkanon's senses once more.

Following the opening of the mouth a table was set up and the priests, led by Seth, offered prayers and performed spells in order to ensure that Pharaoh Aknamkanon would have everything that he needed while he was in the afterlife. A calf was also slaughtered and its leg as well as its still beating heart were offered up to return Aknamakanon's vitality to him.

Once this had been completed Aknamkanon's sarcophagus was then carried into the burial chamber. As this was done servants made quick work of setting up a table and a feast was served. Kekhalfani took his seat beside his father, with Maya sitting at his father's opposite side. Mana sat down on Kekhalfani's other side as they began to eat.

For some reason the rituals had further helped to reassure Kekhalfani. His grandfather was now at peace and with the rituals performed he was now able to be present with them as they enjoyed this feast in his honor.

Kekhalfani knew that next four days would be quite busy for now that the funeral had been completed it was now time for his father to undergo his coronation.

"So, Mana would you like to tell me now what kept you this morning?" Meryatem asked as he nibbled on the seeds of a pomegranate.

Mana flushed, "Well, my Prince...you see I was."

Kekhalfani didn't want the celebratory atmosphere to be crushed by his father's, albeit fully justified, temper. So, he decided to come to Mana's aide. "She was practicing. She didn't want to mess up so wanted to practice the hymns one last time before we departed."

Meryatem nodded his acceptance before he returned to his meal. Mana's hand lightly squeezed Kekhalfani's thigh. "Thank you." She whispered.

Kekhalfani snorted, "I didn't do it for you. This is a celebration of my grandfather. I did it for him."

Once the feast had been concluded all the pots and plates were smashed and buried beneath the sand in front of the tomb before the procession made their journey back to the barque to head back to Memphis.

XXXXXXX

Kekhalfani waited eagerly by the port for his father's ship to return from his journey up the Nile, where he'd stopped to make offerings and receive the blessings of each divine temple. Today was the day he was expected to return with the Pschent double crown atop his head symbolizing to all of Khemet that his father was now the divine ruler of the two lands.

"The ship! I see the ship!" A watcher cried up from his high perch where he'd been keeping watch for most of the day.

It took all of Kekhalfani's self control to not leap for joy at the news, since he knew that such behavior from him would be most unbecoming even in this time of celebration. Mana, who was standing beside him however had no such qualms and was jumping up and down like a lunatic. Although, she tried to argue that she was just trying to catch a glimpse of Meryatem's ship despite the fact they were standing at the front of the crowd and had a clear view of the river.

"I hate being so short!" Mana muttered as she continued to jump about supposedly to get a better look.

Kekhalfani snorted, "We'll be able to see him soon enough. His ship is going to be docking right in front of us."

Mana rolled her eyes, although at least she did stop jumping, "Aren't you the least bit excited?" Mana asked.

"Of course I am. I however, know that now is not the time to be acting like a fool. There will be ample time later for us to celebrate once my father has returned to the palace." Kekhalfani replied.

Mana opened her mouth, no doubt to argue the point however she didn't say a word. The reason for that was clear, Kekhalfani now had a clear view of the royal barque, the royal banner flapping in the wind. And there standing proudly on the bow of the ship waving to the people was Meryatem, the double crown upon his head.

"Per'ah! Per'ah! Per'ah!" The crowd began to chant as the ship continued to near the dock. Mana joining the crowd in their chant.

"Per'ah! Per'ah! Per'ah!" Mana shouted, once more leaping around as she chanted.

Even Kekhalfani found himself getting swept up in the palpable excitement of the crowd he also joined in on the chanting, "Per'ah! Per'ah! Per'ah!" Kekhalfani exclaimed.

And then finally, after almost six hours of eagerly waiting for Meryatem's return the royal barque finally reached the dock. The cheers of the waiting crowd were absolutely tumultuous as ship hands scrambled about quickly trying to secure the ship to the dock. It was then that Meryatem finally disembarked, confidently leaping over the side of the ship and nimbly landing upon the shore. His chest was bare save for the decorative golden wesekhs collar which was also bedecked in lapis lazulli. A royal purple cape hung from his shoulders, flapping in the wind. His white and blue Shendyt hanging to his knees, secured to his waist by a golden belt. His calves and forearms covered in golden bands.

The crowd was still cheering as Meryatem climbed into one of the waiting chariots. Kekhalfani grabbed a hold of Mana's hand tugging her over towards his own chariot. Mana had rode out with him to the docks it only made sense for her to ride back to the palace with him.

"Come on!" Kekhalfani hissed since Mana was still too busy screaming herself hoarse. After several insistent tugs Kekhalfani managed to get Mana into the chariot and grab onto the reigns just as his father cracked the reigns and took off down the streets.

"Hang on!" Kekhalfani hissed before he cracked the reigns himself taking off after his father as they rode down the crowd lined streets. It seemed like every person who resided remotely near Memphis had turned up to join in on the celebrations.

It didn't take them long at all before they had returned to the palace, Meryatem dismounting from his chariot. Kekhalfani brought his own chariot to a stop not far from his father's before he climbed down, with Mana following behind him. Out of the corner of his eye Kekhalfani noticed that several members of his father's court were also now returning from the docks.

Meryatem however did not pause to wait and instead strode confidently into the palace. Kekhalfani broke away from Mana and instead sprinted after his father into the palace.

"Father!" Kekhalfani called out.

Meryatem paused briefly, only long enough to allow his son to draw level with him before he continued on his way. "I trust that everything has been well while I've been away, has it not Kek?" Meryatem inquired briskly.

Kekhalfani nodded, "Yes father. All the preparations for the festivities have been taken care of. The people are most eager to celebrate their new king." Kekhalfani replied.

Meryatem nodded in acknowledgment before he turned and made his way back into the study that he and Kekhalfani had spoken in on the night following Aknamkanon's death more than two months ago.

"Before you and I greet our people at the Window of Appearances their is one more thing that must be done." Meryatem said.

"Oh, and what is that father?" Kekhalfani asked.

Meryatem pulled open one of the drawers on his desk and out of the drawer he withdrew the golden circlet that had adorned his head for Kekhalfani's entire life. The crown of the Kemet's crown prince. "It is time for this crown to pass to you, my son. For now YOU are the crown prince of Kemet." Meryatem declared.

Kekhalfani swallowed thickly. Deep down he knew this shouldn't surprise him. He had always known that once his father had become king that would then make him the crown prince. It made perfect sense but yet standing before his father who was holding out the crown to him it was suddenly a big shock.

"Before you take this crown, my son, you must first vow that you will always honor and obey the will of the gods. They will be faithful to you so long as you remain faithful them but if you become so full of yourself you can't hear their guidance. You must vow to always keep in the forefront of your mind the people of this kingdom, if something were to happen to me you would be the one that our people will turn to. You need to be strong and accept that responsibility. And lastly, if this great kingdom falls under attack, as it has in the time of your grandfather and great grandfather you must be willing and able to defend this great nation, even if it will cost you your life. Do you vow to do these things ?" Meryatem asked, his narrow red eyes locked firmly on his son.

Kekhalfani nodded, "I do so vow father." Kekhalfani swore.

Meryatem gave his son a small smile, his eyes shining with sheer pride, "Then kneel before me, my son." Meryatem said.

Kekhalfani knelt before his father and allowed Meryatem to place the golden circlet with the eye of Wajdet in the center upon his brow his hands gently arranging his son's golden bangs around the the crown. "Now rise my son. And together we will greet our people." Meryatem said.

Kekhalfani smiled as he rose to his feet before he followed his father out of the study and over to the Window of Appearances. The pair paused at the entrance and both could clearly hear the people chanting.

Siamun cleared his throat, "It is time my king." Siamun said before he stepped out onto the balcony. "Citizens of Kemet, it is my great pleasure to present to you Per'ah King of Ta-Shemau and Ta-Menhu, Amenhotep, Son of Re, Meryatem, beloved of Djehut, He who promoted Ma'at and He who smites his enemies."

Meryatem stepped forward to the edge of the balcony as Siamun finished speaking, Kekhalfani coming to a stop a half step behind his father who merely rose his hand in greeting of his people who at once all knelt before their divine king. The sun god Ra, chose this moment to peak of from behind a cloud bathing Meryatem within a light. It was truly a breathtaking sight and one Kekhalfani doubted he would ever forget.

Meryatem and Kekhalfani stood on the balcony for several minutes before the pair turned and made their way back inside. It was now official, Meryatem was the new king of the two lands. And now it was time to celebrate.

The celebrations were lasting into the early evening. Meryatem sitting upon his throne as dancers moved effortlessly around the room, their silks flowing freely around their bodies as the courtiers ate and drank while listening to the music.

And it was into this festive atmosphere the disaster first struck. The doors to the throne room were thrown open without warning as a horse and rider came barreling into the room. The Medjay within the room adjusted their grips upon their spears as they shifted subtly closer to their king and the music cut off at once and the dancers scrambled to get out of the horse's way.

"What is the meaning of this?" Seth growled at the intruder. Kekhalfani had no idea how he'd missed him to begin with since his eyes had at first been drawn to the horse and not the rider. The man atop the horse looked like a savage. Wild, white hair hung down to the middle of his back and around his shoulder he had draped a red robe, not unlike the robes his grandfather had often chosen to wear for the majority of his life. His eyes were wild like his hair, like a demon. His right eye was transected by a scar that reached to the man's mid cheek.

"It seems that someone left me off the guest list." The stranger called out arrogantly from his place atop the horse.

"Arrest this man at once. How dare he disturb our celebrations." Karim snarled from his position beside the throne.

The intruder merely cocked a brow, "Even though I come baring gifts?" The intruder mocked as he reached behind him and tugged on a rope sending its burden sliding forward into the room.

And Kekhalfani felt like his heart had literally stopped. There was a reason those robes had looked so familiar. Because they WERE his grandfather's robes. This piece of filth had dared to defile his grandfather's final resting place!

The thief smirked as he gazed down upon Meryatem and his priests, "You'll have to forgive me if a few pieces might be missing. Its been quite a long trip, dragging him through the desert aboard a boat before his trip through the streets of Memphis. But, he appears to be mostly in tact." The their taunted.

The Medjay began to move in, only to find themselves blown back by Heka of some sort. The intruder laughed, "If these are the best in the service of our diving Per'ah then its no wonder breaking into this palace was so easy."

Meryatem slowly rose to his feet, his narrow red eyes flashing. "How dare you disturb the tomb of my father you swine. You will pay with your life for your crime against the gods." Meryatem growled.

The thief smirked, "Oh, and I'd like to see you try Meryatem-khsy." The thief mocked.

Kekhalfani and several others in the room gasped in open shock as this intruder dared not only to address his father by his given name but called him a coward to boot.

Meryatem smirked, "The coward will be you because you shall quake in fear before the very gods that you have forsaken as you beg them for mercy that you will never receive." Meryatem replied.

The intruder shrugged before he lazily jumped down from atop his horse, "That's big talk for a man who has no guards to do his dirty work for him." The intruder taunted.

Meryatem's smirk broadened, "And since when do I require any man to fight in my place. I assure you I am more than a match for you, you insignificant worm." Meryatem replied.

"Then bring it on." The thief lazily challenged and as the thief spoke a dark heka enveloped him and soon in the middle of the room was a large snake light being, poised and ready to strike.

Kekhalfani had to hand it to his father he didn't so much as even flinch. "Is that pathetic monster the best that you can do? Pathetic." Meryatem scoffed.

The thief grinned, "Then let's see you take it down. Go my beast, rid this kingdom of this worthless speck of dust that is masquerading as a king." The intruder commanded. The large snake hissed, its fangs glistening in the light. Kekhalfani had an overwhelming urge to move forward, to protect his father. However Mahad caught him by his shoulder and shook his head.

"Stay back my Prince. Your father will need to focus. He can't do that if he is worrying about you. Trust him." Mahad whispered.

Kekhalfani nodded his eyes still locked on the monster that was still baring down upon his father.

"I would prepare if I were you, for you are about to experience the wrath of the gods." Meryatem called out. With that being said Meryatem was bathed in a bright light of Heka so bright that he was completely obscured from view.

"Mighty gods of Kemet, I call upon you to aide me in my time of plight. Allow me to smite this blasphemer like the lowly worm that he is. As the beloved sun of Ra, like my father before me I call upon Sekhemet to drive this evil from our halls." Meryatem called out.

And as the light finally faded before the still attacking snake a large lioness, its jaw dyed red with the blood of her enemies appeared before his father.

The snake struck at the lioness who merely stood calmly before Meryatem. The snake struck at the lioness and the entire throne room gasped in horrified shock. Only Meryatem seemed unaffected, merely crossing his arms in front of his chest. "Is that the best you can do. Pathetic. Show him Sekhemet." Meryatem commanded.

Only now did the lioness move pouncing on the monstrous snake driving it to the ground, the lioness powerful paws pinning the snake in place by its hood before she lunged forward, sinking her jaws onto the snakes head.

The invading thief howled in pain at the attack before the snake vanished and the lioness returned to her position before Meryatem. "This isn't over Per'ah!" The thief growled.

Meryatem smirked, "Oh, I think you will find that it is. Arrest him!" Meryatem declared lazily as the Medjay once more began to move forward towards the thief.

Heka once more enveloped the thief, obscuring him from sight, "Remember my name Per'ah. I am Bakura from the village of Kul Elna. And I will take everything from you just as your father has taken everything from me." Bakura vowed before just as the heka vanished, taking with it the thief.

For a moment the throne room was still silent however, they did not remain that way for long. Meryatem turned to his still seemingly frozen Medjay, "What are you waiting for, after him!" Meryatem growled.

The Medjay as one sprang forward, racing out of the throne room and after the thief. Meryatem bowed his head briefly to the Lioness before him, "Thank you for answering my call Sekhmet. I assure you, our prey will not escape our clutches for long." Meryatem whispered before she disappeared.

Meryatem then returned to his throne idly waving his hand to the dancers, "Let the celebration continue." Meryatem declared.

And so it did, although Kekhalfani could tell that his father was not satisfied with continuing the celebrations. He was angry. And his anger would not be satisfied until he had seen to it that the thief was no more.

The thief who can slide through the shadows has awoken the god warrior Horus, slayer of Seth. So mighty is his anger that my father vows to not sleep until the sand is painted with the blood of the thief.

XXXXXXXX

Weeks passed and with it life in Kemet continued on, almost as if the thief, Bakura, had never dared to disrupt Meryatems coronation. The priests had worked very hard on repairing the damage to Pharaoh Aknamkanon's body, something Meryatem had kept a close eye on before his father was reinterred. Kekhalfani had tried to ask on many occasions if the priests had been able to repair the damage however, Meryatem had never answered him. That in and of itself was worrying.

There were scattered reports of other tombs the thief had defiled. And even with Meryatem tripling the number of Medjay patrolling the valley of the kings the thief still managed to continue to pillage the sacred resting places of their forefathers.

But, as is often the case life did continue to move on. He and his father were enjoying dinner one evening when one of his father's medjay came racing into the room, "Per'ah!"

Meryatem paused in his meal, his blood red eyes surveying the Medjay before him, "Speak Hasan." Meryatem commanded.

"The thief, he's been spotted!" Hasan gasped out.

Meryatem frowned, "Where was he spotted?" Meryatem asked.

"The thief was spotted fleeing from Hut-ka-Ptah! The medjay are in pursuit my king." Hasan declared.

Meryatem slowly rose to his feet, "He has escaped from my medjay before and has already managed to wiggle out of facing the gods justice like the worm that he is. And now he has entered one of our sacred temples! No, I will deal with this thief. I will crush him beneath my foot and grind his bones into the dirt." Meryatem growled as he walked away from the table, "Have a servant ready my horse! The gods as my witness this is the thief's last night on this earth."

"I can go with you!" Kekhalfani called out as he also rose to his feet.

Meryatem paused only briefly, his eyes flicking over to his son before he shook his head, "No, I will deal with this thief and you shall remain here my son. Wait for me, I will return victorious." Meryatem declared before he strode out of the room, Hasan hot on his heels.

It was a very long night and Kekhalfani could not sleep. Every time he attempted to close his eyes all he could see was his father's broken body as the vile thief laughed. After a while Kekhalfani gave up on sleep all together standing on his balcony as he awaited his father's return.

But he didn't return come Ra's defeat of Apophis. Kekhalfani raced out of his room and into the throne room. Perhaps he had just missed seeing his father return.

The priests had gathered and they all looked grave.

"What happened? Where is my father?" Kekhalfani called out.

The priests were quiet for a moment as they all shared a look before it fell to Seth to answer Kekhalfani's question.

"The thief escaped once more." Seth said.

Kekhalfani clenched his fist tightly at his side at the answer, "That is grave news indeed. But we will catch him. Now, where is my father?" Kekhalfani growled.

"Your father fell in the fight my prince." Seth replied.

No. No. No no no, that couldn't be true. Kekhalfani thought to himself as flashes of his nightmares once more appeared within his mind. Kekhalfani forced himself to push those aside. His father was not dead. He couldn't be. This thief could not win. The gods would not allow such a thing.

"Unless you have my father's broken body to show me I refuse to believe that my father is dead. He may be wounded. I want the priests and the medjay to coordinate a search. I want my father found!" Kekhalfani declared.

The priests nodded, bowing their heads before Kekhalfani, "It will be as you have commanded my prince. We will find Per-ah." Karim vowed.

Kekhalfani nodded. Sadly there was nothing more that he could do.

It took two days. Two long, torturous days before the priests were able to find Meryatem. But, the gods above were faithful to their son. Meryatem returned to the palace riding upon his own horse. Alive.

Kekhalfani wanted nothing more than to race out and embrace the man he was so relieved to see that he was alright, however before he could give into the desire he felt a hand come to rest upon his shoulder. "Have patience Kek. I know you are relieved to see your father has returned but now is not the time to shame him with your tears. You will have your time to speak with him once he has been checked by Priestess Isis and has had his wounds tended to." Maya whispered to her nephew.

Kekhalfani nodded. As hard as it was to stay put Kekhalfani knew that she was right. He would speak to his father later. The gods had already answered his prayers. For now he would be satisfied with that.

Kekhalfani found his father hours later standing at the window of appearances looking out over the kingdom. For the first time since his coronation his father was neither wearing his Nemes headdress or his crown, his wild tri-colored hair blowing in the early evening breeze as he gazed out.

"Father?" Kekhalfani called out softly as he made his way onto the balcony coming to a stop beside his father.

Meryatem sighed before he turned and faced his son, "Kek." Meryatem greeted.

"Are you well?" Kekhalfani asked.

Meryatem sighed once more but nodded, "I am well Kek. Both in body and in spirit. My body may be bruised but I am fine. I have been injured worse before. I am still plenty fit to smite our enemy." Meryatem declared.

Kekhalfani was quiet for a moment, "What happened father? What happened when you chased after the thief?" Kekhalfani asked.

Meryatem sighed, "I had him. He got lucky. He won't be so lucky again." Meryatem declared.

Kekhalfani nodded, "I know he won't. He can only escape justice for so long. He will pay for what he has done. I know you will see to that." Kekhalfani replied.

Meryatem nodded, "I had chased him up onto a cliff that overlooked the Nile, with Ra baring down on his snake like creature to incinerate him. When the creature turned and instead of trying to fend off the attack of Ra turned and blasted the ground beneath my horse's feet sending the both of us falling. I remember tumbling before I ended up in the river. Then nothing. I woke up washed up on shore quite a distance from where the fight had taken place. I managed to drag myself into a cave while I tried to get my barrings and figure out what had happened. That was when the priests found me." Meryatem elaborated.

Kekhalfani hesitated for a brief moment before he strode forward and wrapped his arms tightly around his father's torso, "Never scare me like that again father." Kekhalfani whispered.

Meryatem rested his hands upon his son's shoulders at the two stood on the balcony. The moon was high in the sky. "I won't Kek. I won't." Meryatem vowed.

XXXXXXXXXX

"Crown Prince, your father wishes to see you in his study. He says that he has something important to discuss with you." A servant said.

Kekhalfani nodded before he nodded his head respectfully to Paser, his tutor. "I must go." Kekhalfani said.

Paser nodded, "Of course my Prince. Go to your father. We can continue your lessons upon your return." Paser replied.

Kekhalfani slipped out into the hypostyle halls and made his way to his father's study. He knocked lightly on the door and waited until he was bade to enter.

"Enter." Meryatem called out.

Kekhalfani walked into the room, briefly bowing his head in respect.

Meryatem smiled, "Ah, Kek. Thank you for being so prompt. There is something important that I wish to discuss with you." Meryatem said.

Kekhalfani nodded, "Of course father. And what would that be?" Kekhalfani inquired.

"I wanted to inform you that I have chosen you a bride." Meryatem said.

Kekhalfani rose a brow, "Oh. That is...good news." Kekhalfani said slowly.

Meryatem nodded, "Indeed. I have decided that you will wed Mana. The court has already begun planning for your wedding feast. You and her will wed at the end of the month, prior to that you and her will be meeting with myself and Mahad as we go over your wedding contracts. Everything has to be squared away before Mana moves in with you." Meryatem declared.

Kekhalfani sighed but nodded, "It shall be as you say father. Does Mana know?" Kekhalfani asked.

Meryatem sighed, "Mahad will be informing her later today." Meryatem replied.

Kekhalfani nodded. "That's great." Kekhalfani replied.

Meryatem was quiet for a moment as he stared at his son, "Its okay for you to admit if your a little bit nervous Kek. I was when I first married your mother." Meryatem said.

Kekhalfani shrugged, "Its not that I'm nervous. Its just, well. Its different. I mean, its Mana. She's my friend." Kekhalfani said.

Meryatem nodded, "Yes, I know she's your friend. And she will still be your friend. She will just also be your wife." Meryatem replied.

The month passed quickly and before Kekhalfani knew it it was the day before he and Mana would wed.

Kekhalfani went to bed as he normally did knowing that he would need his energy tomorrow because it was going to be a very busy day. There would be the procession where Mana would officially move into his home. The servants had already cleared out the room just down of the corridor from his own so it was all ready for Mana's things to be moved in. Then there would be the feasting and falling that come nightfall he and Mana were going to be sharing a room.

He knew he had no reason to be nervous. As his father had pointed out to him on many occasions Mana was still going to be Mana. She was still his friend. Her becoming his wife didn't instantly change anything. She would continue to be the one who he loved to cause trouble with. She would not also be the mother of his children.

Kekhalfani sighed as he rolled over. Why couldn't he sleep? He was worrying about this for no reason.

Kekhalfani frowned as he sat up. He could have sworn he'd heard what sounded like sandals scraping along the ground on his balcony. But that was ridiculous. Why would someone be on his balcony.

The thought died in Kekhalfani's throat as they landed on the figure that came walking in from his balcony. Bakura was in his room.

Bakura lazily made his way over to Kekhalfani's bed, where the young prince was still frozen in a combination of shock and to his great shame, fear. This thief was able to go toe to toe with his father and still escape. What hope would Kekhalfani have of defeating him.

Bakura grinned, "I hear many congratulations are in order for you young prince. Tomorrow is the day you take a wife. The entire kingdom is buzzing about it. And I couldn't help but think. It wouldn't be right if I didn't stop in to give you a present of my own." Bakura lazily drawled.

Kekhalfani swallowed around the lump in his throat as he starred at the thief. All he needed to do was scream and the medjay would come charging in and catch him. So, why couldn't he get his voice to work?

"I thought long and hard about what sort of a gift I could give you young prince. Long and hard indeed and then it hit me. What better gift could there be than to grant you the gift of understanding. No doubt your pretty little virginal bride will be in for quite the ordeal come tomorrow. I'm going to show you exactly what you'll be putting your little bride through." Bakura declared, his demonic eyes glowing with his malevolent intentions as he continued to stalk towards the bed.

Kekhalfanti dove off the bed intending to scramble towards the door. He had to get out of here. He just had to.

However, no matter how fast Kekhalfani moved. Bakura was faster and quick as a striking snake Bakura had slammed into the young Prince pinning him to the ground on his stomach. "Your quite right young prince. No reason to dirty your bed. Pressed to the floor is exactly where you belong. You dirty little bitch."

"No." Kekhalfani hissed as Bakura wrapped his hand around Kekhalfani's mouth, his other hand lifting up Kekhalfani's shendyt.

"I did warn your father that I would take everything from him. This is one more thing I can steal that he can never get back. Princey." Bakura growled.

XXXXXXXXXX

"Per'ah!" Hasan shouted as he burst into Meryatem's room without even knocking.

Meryatem shot up in bed all traces of sleep gone. "What? What is it?" Meryatem called out.

"The thief. We caught him. He's in chains in the dungeons now. Priest Mahad has him in magic binding shackles. He won't be escaping this time my king." Hasan declared.

Meryatem nodded as he rose to his feet, "That is excellent news indeed Hasan. Where was he apprehended from?" Meryatem asked.

Hasan fell silent.

Meryatem gave him a sharp look, "I asked you a question Hasan! Where was the thief apprehended from?" Meryatem growled.

Hasan sighed, "He was apprehended in Crown Prince Kekhalfani's chambers." Hasan said slowly.

Meryatem froze before he whipped around to face Hasan, his red eyes blazing with anger. "What did he do to my son?" Meryatem growled.

Hasan gulped, his eyes drifting to rest on the floor. "I do not know all the details my king. Just that Priestess Isis is tending to your son as we speak." Hasan said.

Meryatem said nothing more before he turned and stormed out of his room making his way to his son's room. His son was there, lying in bed on his stomach he had his face buried within his pillow and judging by the way his shoulders were shaking Kekhalfani was crying. Priestess Isis was seated on the edge of Kekhalfani's bed.

Meryatem strode into the room. "What happened? What did that thief do to my son?" Meryatem growled.

Priestess Isis sighed as she slowly rose to her feet. She briefly paused beside Meryatem, resting her hand upon his shoulder. "That will be Prince Kekhalfani's tale to tell. I will leave you with him. I have given him a potion for the pain. Other than that I'm afraid there is noting that can be done." Priestess Isis said before she made her way out of the room, pulling the door closed behind her leaving father and son alone.

Meryatem slowly made his way over to Kekhalfani's bed before he lightly sat down beside his still crying son and lightly rested his hand on Kekhalfani's back. "I'm here Kek." Meryatem whispered.

Kekhalfani swallowed thickly as he visibly tried to gather himself although he truly seemed to be struggling with that. Meryatem lightly stroked his son's back as his son continued to gather himself.

"I'm sorry father." Kekhalfani whispered.

Meryatem rose a brow, not the Kekhalfani was even looking at him. "And what do you have to be sorry about my son?" Meryatem asked softly.

Kekhalfani was quiet for several moments before he spoke again, "I couldn't get my voice to work. If I had screamed for the medjay they would have caught him sooner...before he...before he." Kekhalfani trailed off as his sobbing returned with a vengeance.

"Before he what?" Meryatem asked.

"Made me his bitch." Kekhalfani spat out.

Meryatem felt like his heart had stopped beating as his son spoke those words. "He did what?" Meryatem asked as he felt a rage encompass him like he had never experienced before. How dare that monster lay so much as a finger upon my son! Meryatem mentally growled.

Kekhalfani took another deep breath, "He said it was my wedding present." Kekhalfani said.

Meryatem took several calming breaths before he slowly rose to his feet. "I assure you Kek, he will pay for what he has done. He is currently in the dungeons. I don't intend for him to be there for long. I will personally see to it that he pays for what he has done to you and to our family and to this kingdom." Meryatem vowed.

Kekhalfani nodded, "I am sure that you will father." Kekhalfani replied.

Meryatem nodded, "I will deal with this thief and once I have finished I will be back. We will get through this together my son." Meryatem vowed.

Kekhalfani gave his father the barest of smiles. "Thanks father. That means a lot." Kekhalfani replied.

Meryatem said nothing further before he strode out of his son's chambers and made his way down to the dungeons.

His eyes soon landed on the thief bound and gagged within the cell. Mahad was standing next to the cell his eyes glowing with power as evidenced by the fact he was personally assuring that this thief would not be escaping again.

Meryatem starred down at the thief for several moments as the thought that death was too good for this lowly worm. Too merciful.

Meryatem felt a small sadistic grin slide onto his face as another thought drifted through his mind. This one spurred on further by the thought of his son's pained tears and the memory of his father's broken body.

"Drag that piece of filth out. It is time for him to face the Gods judgment." Meryatem growled as his hand slipped a simple golden ring off his finger. He pressed it into the hands of one of his Medjay.

"I want that ring melted down. We are going to create something new with it. Something far more fitting." Meryatem declared.

The medjay bowed before he raced off to rouse the royal jeweler.

"Not so confident now are you thief? Now that we have you, just as I always vowed that I would. You won't be escaping judgment this time." Meryatem taunted.

Bakura smirked from around the gag his eye shining with demonic glee. With a challenge. He had no fear of death. No fear of Per'ah. Meryatem bit back a chuckle. The thief didn't now. But he would. Meryatem would see to that.

The medjay dragged Bakura after Meryatem to where the goldsmith was working wit the ring, melting it down.

"What would you like me to forge my king?" The jeweler asked.

Meryatem smirked, "We'll be forging another ring. But first there are a few more ingredients that we need to mix with the gold." Meryatem declared before he strode forward drawing a dagger from a sheath at his hip he walked up to the thief and slashed the dagger down the side of his face, following the same line as the scar the thief was known for, coating the blade in the thief's blood before he turned to the jeweler and shook the blade watching as drop after drop of the thief blood mixed with the gold. "One last ingredient and then all that needs be done is the binding spell." Meryatem replied before he strode back and ripped a white hair out of Bakura's head and dropped that into the gold as well.

"You will never see the halls of judgment. For even allowing you to be devoured by Ammut is a fate that is too good for you. So, your spirit will be sealed within this ring. And you will be trapped unseen and unheard a soul trapped in a ring. A ring that will never be worn." Meryatem declared before he picked back up the dagger once more and for the first time the thief's eyes shown with fear although he was quick to hide it, but not quick enough. Meryatem had seen it.

He drove the dagger straight into Bakura's chest before chanting the words, "Follower of Aphophis. Bringing of Chaos and destruction. Enemy of Kemet. I Pharaoh Meryatem thus bind you forevermore to your golden prison. In your life you stole nothing but treasures that were not yours. So, for the rest of your souls unending existence you will be trapped with this ring fastened to resembled the evil god you yourself followed. So let it be written so let it be done." Meryatem growled before he wrenched the dagger out of the thief's chest and the medjay allowed him to crumple to the ground.

Meryatem spat on the thief's body before he turned to the Medjay, "Burn the body. And I want that ring once its complete." Meryatem instructed the jeweler.

"Of course Per'ah." The jeweler and Medjay responded.

Meryatem nodded once more before he turned and strode out of the the dungeon leaving behind the horrorfied spirit of the thief who could do nothing but watch as his body was burned as his soul was tied to the ring which would adorn Pharaoh Meryatem's chest on a simple cord, never worn but forever with him. His token for his victory over the wretched thief.

A/N: And its done. Chapter 3 will be our return to the present.