A/N: hehehe I'm back! First and most important of all Thank you reviewers!
Isn't this earlier than prophesied? Why? Cause after working on a project I
got coffee high and couldn't sleep (^_^!) so I decided, "What the heck
might as well write my fic..."
P.S: If you like to be the reporter to ask something you want state the question in your review and I'll answer them in my corner ^^
Warning: major spoilers of "Yugioh: Pharaoh's memories" in this chapter (and maybe the next...) ***
Previously on Saga of Chronicles:
Finally the true identity of 'Shimon' was revealed to be that of Atem, the young pharaoh of Egypt. Astonished by his charms Téa felt a special emotion toward him...love? But was this sudden burst of emotion real?
Saga of Chronicles: Ancient Egypt- Part 3
Sitting up Téa clenched the fine cotton sheet. Whoever said Egypt's night was full of life was wrong. In the semi darkness Téa could hear the steady beat of her heart. The moonlight shone across her upper body revealing a cheerless face. Giving a sigh Téa got up from the king sized bed and made her way toward the window opening. Putting her weight on the windowsill Téa leaned out to watch the sky.
"What am I thinking? I just met him today," Téa laughed at her naivety. "Love at first sight is just a childish fairy tale,"
Feeling the weight of love lighten Téa climbed back in bed. Before drifting to a steady sleep Téa made a wish on an anonymous star.
The great god Ra rose over Egypt. Waking his people with his warm arms. Sudden brightness awoke Téa without warning. Shielding her eyes from the bright rays Téa grunted as she opened them. Waiting to see Kashta's innocent face Téa was greeted by nothing followed by homesickness. Her memory of last night slowly came back to her as she walked around the grand room. Other than the bed there were a small table accompanied by two stools decorated with gold lacing, a dresser, a closet made of wood, and more than a dozen pots and sculptures.
"Kashta would be thrilled to see this!" Téa said as she touched the pots and sculptures with care. "I wonder..."
Running to the closet with excitement Téa found it filled with robes made of fine linen. Picking out one she quickly changed into it.
"This is much smoother on the skin than my old ones," Téa said admiring the quality of the cloth.
Standing in front of the dresser she modeled a bit. The dress was beautiful because of its simplicity. White fine linen robe pleated at the bottom Téa was content. She never fancied complex robes that take forever to tie every ribbon. She only used her red ribbon, her favourite in fact. A polite knock startled Téa.
"Come in," she said pausing for a second.
Shimon dressed in his usual attendant attire greeted Téa with a bow.
"Miss Téa the pharaoh has arranged breakfast and would like it if you would kindly join him," Shimon said.
"I'd love to," Though Téa was uncomfortable with the idea there wasn't much choice given.
"Come with me," Shimon said walking out of Téa's room.
Following him Téa passed hall after hall. Though physically she was walking mentally she was already having breakfast with Atem. Due to her clumsiness Téa knocked bread off the table and was sentenced to death. Shaking her head furiously Téa pleaded to him but no avail. The pharaoh's cold face showed no emotion at all.
"Please don't kill me!" Téa begged to no one in particular.
"Excuse me?" A strong masculine voice asked.
Back from her odd reverie Téa was standing in front of the handsome form belonged to the pharaoh. Cheeks flushed Téa apologized.
"No problem," He said kindly contrary to her interpretation. "Hungry? Let's have breakfast," Taking a seat at one end of the limestone table he smiled and gestured to the seat across from him.
Sitting down with a fake smile Téa felt very uncomfortable. Other than Shimon there were ten more maids who stood like statues. But her attention was quickly drawn toward the food. The smells were very tempting and setting Téa's taste buds in full gear.
Being anxious of the bread Téa went for the juice first. But before her hands even touched the handle Shimon shook his head lightly and snapped his fingers. Two maids came and did the job for Téa. Mouthed a thank you Téa proceeded to drink the juice. The juice was faintly sweet followed by a rich scent unrecognized by Téa. Fusing her eyebrows together Téa stared at the juice with suspicion. Not that it tasted bad; in fact it was the tastiest drink Téa ever drank. But the taste of it was something Téa never had.
"What's the matter? Is there something wrong with the food?" Atem asked with concern.
Worried that this might upset the pharaoh Téa laughed it off. "No it's nothing,"
"Lying to the pharaoh equals a death sentence," He said plainly.
"Really it's nothing," Téa said once again trying to sound casual. "It's just I've never tasted anything like this before...what is it?"
At that Atem broke into laughter. Offended by his behaviour Téa gave a childish pout.
"What's so funny?" Téa challenged.
"Nothing really," Atem said giving a chuckle. "That juice is made from top quality coconuts imported to Egypt. It's not a surprise that you've never taste it before,"
Téa was going to say something about the way he put down her rank but decided to remain silent. Besides what he said was true. Téa was low ranked compared to the people associated with the pharaoh. But she's proud of who she is and bare no shame of it.
"It's really nice," Téa said giving a smile.
"Yes it is," Atem said.
Téa put down the coconut drink. "It must've taken the servants a long time to make all these. But they look wonderful! I really don't know which one I should try first. Any suggestions?"
"Try some bread. It was baked this morning," Atem said signalling a maid to deliver a piece of bread.
Téa accepted the bread with a thank you. Being very cautious she tore her bread into small pieces and ate them one by one. The freshly baked bread was full of texture as it was chewy but soft. The pleasant aroma of wheat filled the air.
"It's delicious!" Téa said happily going for more.
"I'm glad you like it. I just hope you won't get sick of it,"
Puzzled by his remark Téa made a confused face since her mouth were full of bread.
"Since you are my honoured guest I hope that you could stay longer. Like I said the palace gets lonely and with you here I have a friend to talk to," Atem said giving a smile.
"And like I said of course we can be friends," Téa said happily reaching for an apple desert.
After the most taste satisfying, stomach filling, and wonderful breakfast Téa went for a bath. Unlike the village, the palace has a special room just for that. The floors were made of smooth stone squares and the walls were full of paintings. The water for the pool was diverted in from the outside. Stepping into the cool relaxing waters Téa closed the eyes and enjoyed the sound of silence.
"I'm glad your enjoying your stay here Miss Téa," A female voice said.
Turning around Téa found an elegant woman clothed in robes stood near one of the columns. Judging the amount of gold jewellery Téa knew she was no maid.
"Who are you?" Téa questioned as she warped herself in a towel.
Bowing slightly the woman answered politely. "My name is Isis, one of the six priests that serve the pharaoh,"
"I heard about the six priests," Téa said recalling a story Taweret told her. "The six priests hold six powerful items called Millennium Items which can fight off the darkness that may threaten Egypt. Am I right Isis?" Téa asked.
"Indeed you are," Isis said.
Seeing Isis made no other comment Téa begin to question Isis's real motive.
"So what brings you here Isis?" Téa asked with watchfulness.
"My Millennium Tauk can predict the future," Isis said.
"It can?" Téa knew there were mystical powers behind the items but not quite like this.
Touching her necklace Isis nodded. "Yes,"
"What do you see in my future?" Téa questioned coldly.
"I cannot tell you that," Isis said sternly.
"Then what brings you here? My senses tell me you are not here to just stand there,"
Taking a step forward Isis kneeled in front of Téa. Shocked Téa quickly went forward to help Isis up since Téa's low rank profile doesn't deserve such gestures.
"What's wrong Isis?" Téa asked after she made sure Isis was standing not kneeling.
"I know you are a kind spirit and never intended to do harm..." Isis started her voice was filled with woe. "But I beg of you...please leave the palace and go back to where you belong. It is best for both the Pharaoh and you,"
Confused Téa stared at Isis. Isis must've seen something to act this way Téa thought.
"What do you mean leave for the best?" Téa questioned Isis.
Taking Téa's hand Isis closed her navy blue eyes. Her face showed sadness.
"You've seen something haven't you...something horrid," Téa said.
"I don't know...the images were blurred, scattered, and completely random. But the atmosphere was definitely morbid," Taking her hand away she gently massaged her temples. "It's the most confusing vision I've had,"
Téa smile in empathy but still a question remained. "Why am I involved?"
"In my vision I felt a strange aura. A stranger's...I'm sorry if I offended you but this aura in my opinion represents you," Isis said. "But the decision is yours...to remain or to go,"
"Isis..." Téa knew this question meant sleep deprivation.
Bowing once more Isis bid Téa good day and left. Lingering a while longer Téa had an odd feeling. Sadness maybe?
"Why am I sad to leave. Isis was right. I don't belong here anyways," Téa said as she applied scented oils and got dressed.
On her way out Téa decided to take a detour toward the garden. Last night left a deep impression in her mind. She'd love to see it in daylight.
"I thought you'd come," Atem said with a sweet smile.
Bowing Téa greeted the pharaoh.
"What's the matter?" Both Téa and Atem asked at the same time.
Maybe there was something between them after all. Téa blushed and allowed Atem to go first.
"You looked worried Téa. What's wrong?" Atem said closing their distance.
Unable to find her voice Téa shook her head in strong disagreement.
"You wouldn't come to the garden for nothing..." Atem said gazing at the beautiful garden.
Téa did come for a reason, to recall the moments of last night and to find an answer to Isis's question. But she wasn't going to tell him that.
"It's nothing really," Téa reassured him. "What about you?"
Sighing Atem palmed a flower nearby. He looked really troubled.
"My father's tomb was robbed. I'm here to clear my mind before the court meeting. But the more I look at the garden the more I think of my father," Atem's voice was full of sorrow.
Wanting to cheer him up Téa decided to do the dangerous. Taking his hand she smiled.
"Let me teach you how to dance," Téa said warmly.
Confused Atem stared at her blankly. "Dance?"
"Obviously you don't know how. Let me teach you the one my village does at festivals," Téa said as she took his other hand and guided him toward an open area.
"It goes like this," Téa said as she taught him the footsteps. "One, two, three, left. One, two, three, right. One, two, three, back..." Téa chanted.
Never experienced this before Atem had a hard time keeping the tempo. But soon he got the hang of it. Instead of chanting the steps Téa begin to hum a melodic tune. It was a happy cheerful tune. The two danced their way through the flowers following Téa's tune. To them everyone faded from the garden. They're eyes and fingers locked together and maybe their hearts too. For the first time Téa knew her feelings for him were real. But did he felt it too? Perhaps he did. All was going too well until a voice broke their synchronized barrier from the outside world.
"Pharaoh it is time," Isis said bowing.
Reluctantly Atem and Téa broke apart. Both blushing they looked away from each other.
"I have to leave...feel free to explore the palace..." Atem said looking at the greenery instead of Téa. "And thanks for cheering me up...I hope we could dance again someday,"
"Your welcome," Téa turned and bowed to him.
Turning to Isis he signalled her to stand. "Tell the other priests to be on time," Atem said sternly and left.
Isis turned to Téa and sighed. "Fate...plays us all. The decision is yours,"
"You'll know my decision...soon," Téa said firmly with confidence.
"I'll wait for that," Isis said and left.
Téa turned to the flowers in the garden. They were much prettier than the wild flowers she often saw near the village. But Atem occupied so much of her mind that the flowers turned to black and white.
"I'll tell him that I've decided to stay and let the rest play out by its self," Téa said petting a nearby flower. "The only thing I have to do now is find where they'll be meeting,"
Everyone needed adventure in life. Téa was one of those girls that thrive on adventure. Taking risks, gambling everything, rebel against rules, you name it and she's probably done it. Such a small gamble on fate was the perfect entertainment for Téa. Knowing whatever Isis saw was going to come true Téa decided to stay and see how destiny set the pieces for disaster. Not that Téa wanted to see suffering, hell no! She'd never want to see war again, but she wanted to know how she was involved. And that is why she needed to tell Atem her decision to stay. However, that was easier said than done. The palace was huge! Completely lost Téa decided to rest. While examining the paintings on the wall two priests went by. Téa recognized one, the same tall arrogant looking priest she saw at the gala.
"We must hurry Mahado," he said to the other priest who resembled a magician.
Téa hid behind the corner squinting her eyes shut hoping they'll pass without seeing her. Just as they passed her mind got a beyond brilliant idea. Since the priest looked like they are in a hurry to something, which most likely is the meeting with the pharaoh, Téa could easily get out of the maze by following them. Grinning happily Téa stalked them like a cat. The benefits of this plan were more than offered. Not only did the priests lead the way but also chat about the current situation.
"What do you think the situation is Seth? It's been a long time since the court had a meeting with such urgency," The priest Mahado asked as they walked through the corridors.
Giving a grunt Seth doesn't look too happy about this meeting. "What ever it is I just hope it wouldn't end like the last war,"
The two priests and the unseen Téa showed different emotions toward the last war. Seth was obviously quite upset while Mahado showed sympathy. Téa on the other hand showed hatred and sadness.
"I hope for peace as well," Mahado said.
Soon they crossed the courtyard and came before another building. Guards stood at the entrance. This meant bad news for Téa.
"The pharaoh is waiting," The guards said and allowed the priests to enter.
Téa hid behind a bush. She was so close!
"I must find some way to get in," Téa said as she picked up a stone and threw it across the courtyard.
To her surprise the guards went into panic mode and left to find the cause of the noise. Seeing this was the perfect chance Téa sprinted toward the entrance.
"Success!" Téa said heroically as she skipped toward the end of the hall.
At the end of the hall was a set of guards again. Téa grumble and hid.
"What's with the high security?" Téa knew she had to find another way in.
Peeking behind the columns Téa finally found the solution to the guards' problem. The guards only stood at the main entrance. But there were in fact two more along the hall. Scampering like a scared mouse Téa entered one of them. A straightforward corridor with no windows leads the way. Téa followed it carefully making sure there were no traps. At the end of the corridor was the hall the meeting was held. But a strict set o columns meant Téa could not go anywhere near the pharaoh.
"This is where the audience stand I guess," Téa said as she looked toward the pharaoh.
There he was in his glory. Unlike this morning his face was stern. Accompanied beside him were the six priests. All of them looked pretty serious, something must be up.
"Are you sure Shada?" Atem asked sternly.
Bowing down Shada replied. "I am sure of it pharaoh. The royal tombs of previous pharaoh Akunumkanon has been robbed,"
"But don't worry! I've already started the plans of your tomb pharaoh. It's going to contain all sorts of difficult and deadly traps," Shimon said proudly.
A bit disturbed Atem placed his hand over his forehead. He must be having a head ach from all this. Suddenly the guards started to yell.
"What's going on," Seth shouted toward the guards.
A wild haired person appeared holding loads of treasures. He looked surprisingly young despite his white hair. Right off the bat Téa knew he was no good. Not only did he barge in the rudest fashion he also dragged a mummified corps along too.
"You who are you?" Seth demanded an answer from the intruder.
"I'm Bakura, the king of thieves!" he said with a confident smirk. "And I'm here to take your millennium items!"
"A mere thieve that's all. I won't hesitate to rip your heart out," Seth said just as confident.
"Thief Bakura! The millennium items are powerful and only obey those that are meant for it. If you know what's good for you then leave immediately or else your soul will be burned to pieces just by touching the items," The oldest priest said showing Bakura a glimpse of his millennium item, an eye.
Téa's stomach jerked at little. It must've been painful to put that thing in place of your eyes.
"Burning to death? Sounds painful...now you got me all excited what are you waiting for?" Bakura laughed.
"Don't worry. We'll kill you before you get burned to death by the items! Priest Shada will give you a taste of the power," Seth commanded a priest holding an Ankh.
"Millennium Ankh will see through the depth of your heart!" Shada said holding the item and pointing it toward Bakura.
Téa stood on the edge of her seat waiting to see what happens next. Seeing such confidence the priests showed the items must be something. Already seeing the power of the Tauk she wondered if the others were even more powerful. All of a sudden as if a force pushed Shada away, he stumbled and fell.
"Priest Shada!" Atem said with concern.
Getting up his face looked wary. Téa knew what that means. Bakura was no ordinary thief.
"This sealing stone is too small for the spirit being that resides within him!" Priest Shada said pointing to a huge tablet.
"How could that be?!" Seth was shocked.
"HAHAHA! Looks like the six priests aren't that tough after all. And for your information I do not have a spirit being. I have a spirit beast!" With each sentence a dark fog forged around him.
"A beast? How could that be? Is he that evil?" Mahado asked Seth.
"We're about to find out..." Seth said keeping his confidence but preparing for the worst.
***
A/N: That took me a long time ^^ hehehe remember to review and state any questions, concerns in it too! A cliffie ^^ aren't I nice
Author's corner:
KeikoGurl: Where is this going?
Me: will be revealed later on ^^ (hope that answers your questions though it most likely did not)
Reporter: First of all where is the triangle???
Me: *sigh* Like I said all shall be revealed soon...^o^
Reporter: What's with Téa's daydreams?
Me: I guess she got too nervous (heheh I sometimes do that if I'm nervous ^_^!)
Reporter: Are all the things about Egypt accurate? Pharaoh Akunumkanon? Did he really exist?
Me: This is based on Kazuki Takahashi's story so the people (except the gods) are all fictional. Anyways if you've seen the Pharaoh's memory arc (whether from Manga or Anime) you'll know what I'm talking about some of the stuff I use are basically what the Manga says soo...sorry for the spoilers. And the clothing and foods are based on the way Kazuki Takahashi's costumes but for Téa I had to do research and on food too...it was fun ^^
Reporter: Why are you researching about ancient Egypt anyways??
Me: Well it was a coincidence (not ^o^) that for my travel and tourism project I decided to pick Egypt (^^) and since I need to do research for that I might as well do some extra digging. Besides it was fun knowing all those extra info ^^ (Seth was a god too ^^ but he turned evil and killed Orsiris which was Isis's husband which were the children of Atum or Aten who was the creator...)
Reporter: O_O you must be bored -_-
Me: ...Nope I'm not bored I just like to research about useless information surrounding my interests ^^
Reporter *rolls eyes* sure... *cough nerd! cough*
Me: I heard that -_-
To be continued....
(P.S: Sorry for the spoilers)
P.S: If you like to be the reporter to ask something you want state the question in your review and I'll answer them in my corner ^^
Warning: major spoilers of "Yugioh: Pharaoh's memories" in this chapter (and maybe the next...) ***
Previously on Saga of Chronicles:
Finally the true identity of 'Shimon' was revealed to be that of Atem, the young pharaoh of Egypt. Astonished by his charms Téa felt a special emotion toward him...love? But was this sudden burst of emotion real?
Saga of Chronicles: Ancient Egypt- Part 3
Sitting up Téa clenched the fine cotton sheet. Whoever said Egypt's night was full of life was wrong. In the semi darkness Téa could hear the steady beat of her heart. The moonlight shone across her upper body revealing a cheerless face. Giving a sigh Téa got up from the king sized bed and made her way toward the window opening. Putting her weight on the windowsill Téa leaned out to watch the sky.
"What am I thinking? I just met him today," Téa laughed at her naivety. "Love at first sight is just a childish fairy tale,"
Feeling the weight of love lighten Téa climbed back in bed. Before drifting to a steady sleep Téa made a wish on an anonymous star.
The great god Ra rose over Egypt. Waking his people with his warm arms. Sudden brightness awoke Téa without warning. Shielding her eyes from the bright rays Téa grunted as she opened them. Waiting to see Kashta's innocent face Téa was greeted by nothing followed by homesickness. Her memory of last night slowly came back to her as she walked around the grand room. Other than the bed there were a small table accompanied by two stools decorated with gold lacing, a dresser, a closet made of wood, and more than a dozen pots and sculptures.
"Kashta would be thrilled to see this!" Téa said as she touched the pots and sculptures with care. "I wonder..."
Running to the closet with excitement Téa found it filled with robes made of fine linen. Picking out one she quickly changed into it.
"This is much smoother on the skin than my old ones," Téa said admiring the quality of the cloth.
Standing in front of the dresser she modeled a bit. The dress was beautiful because of its simplicity. White fine linen robe pleated at the bottom Téa was content. She never fancied complex robes that take forever to tie every ribbon. She only used her red ribbon, her favourite in fact. A polite knock startled Téa.
"Come in," she said pausing for a second.
Shimon dressed in his usual attendant attire greeted Téa with a bow.
"Miss Téa the pharaoh has arranged breakfast and would like it if you would kindly join him," Shimon said.
"I'd love to," Though Téa was uncomfortable with the idea there wasn't much choice given.
"Come with me," Shimon said walking out of Téa's room.
Following him Téa passed hall after hall. Though physically she was walking mentally she was already having breakfast with Atem. Due to her clumsiness Téa knocked bread off the table and was sentenced to death. Shaking her head furiously Téa pleaded to him but no avail. The pharaoh's cold face showed no emotion at all.
"Please don't kill me!" Téa begged to no one in particular.
"Excuse me?" A strong masculine voice asked.
Back from her odd reverie Téa was standing in front of the handsome form belonged to the pharaoh. Cheeks flushed Téa apologized.
"No problem," He said kindly contrary to her interpretation. "Hungry? Let's have breakfast," Taking a seat at one end of the limestone table he smiled and gestured to the seat across from him.
Sitting down with a fake smile Téa felt very uncomfortable. Other than Shimon there were ten more maids who stood like statues. But her attention was quickly drawn toward the food. The smells were very tempting and setting Téa's taste buds in full gear.
Being anxious of the bread Téa went for the juice first. But before her hands even touched the handle Shimon shook his head lightly and snapped his fingers. Two maids came and did the job for Téa. Mouthed a thank you Téa proceeded to drink the juice. The juice was faintly sweet followed by a rich scent unrecognized by Téa. Fusing her eyebrows together Téa stared at the juice with suspicion. Not that it tasted bad; in fact it was the tastiest drink Téa ever drank. But the taste of it was something Téa never had.
"What's the matter? Is there something wrong with the food?" Atem asked with concern.
Worried that this might upset the pharaoh Téa laughed it off. "No it's nothing,"
"Lying to the pharaoh equals a death sentence," He said plainly.
"Really it's nothing," Téa said once again trying to sound casual. "It's just I've never tasted anything like this before...what is it?"
At that Atem broke into laughter. Offended by his behaviour Téa gave a childish pout.
"What's so funny?" Téa challenged.
"Nothing really," Atem said giving a chuckle. "That juice is made from top quality coconuts imported to Egypt. It's not a surprise that you've never taste it before,"
Téa was going to say something about the way he put down her rank but decided to remain silent. Besides what he said was true. Téa was low ranked compared to the people associated with the pharaoh. But she's proud of who she is and bare no shame of it.
"It's really nice," Téa said giving a smile.
"Yes it is," Atem said.
Téa put down the coconut drink. "It must've taken the servants a long time to make all these. But they look wonderful! I really don't know which one I should try first. Any suggestions?"
"Try some bread. It was baked this morning," Atem said signalling a maid to deliver a piece of bread.
Téa accepted the bread with a thank you. Being very cautious she tore her bread into small pieces and ate them one by one. The freshly baked bread was full of texture as it was chewy but soft. The pleasant aroma of wheat filled the air.
"It's delicious!" Téa said happily going for more.
"I'm glad you like it. I just hope you won't get sick of it,"
Puzzled by his remark Téa made a confused face since her mouth were full of bread.
"Since you are my honoured guest I hope that you could stay longer. Like I said the palace gets lonely and with you here I have a friend to talk to," Atem said giving a smile.
"And like I said of course we can be friends," Téa said happily reaching for an apple desert.
After the most taste satisfying, stomach filling, and wonderful breakfast Téa went for a bath. Unlike the village, the palace has a special room just for that. The floors were made of smooth stone squares and the walls were full of paintings. The water for the pool was diverted in from the outside. Stepping into the cool relaxing waters Téa closed the eyes and enjoyed the sound of silence.
"I'm glad your enjoying your stay here Miss Téa," A female voice said.
Turning around Téa found an elegant woman clothed in robes stood near one of the columns. Judging the amount of gold jewellery Téa knew she was no maid.
"Who are you?" Téa questioned as she warped herself in a towel.
Bowing slightly the woman answered politely. "My name is Isis, one of the six priests that serve the pharaoh,"
"I heard about the six priests," Téa said recalling a story Taweret told her. "The six priests hold six powerful items called Millennium Items which can fight off the darkness that may threaten Egypt. Am I right Isis?" Téa asked.
"Indeed you are," Isis said.
Seeing Isis made no other comment Téa begin to question Isis's real motive.
"So what brings you here Isis?" Téa asked with watchfulness.
"My Millennium Tauk can predict the future," Isis said.
"It can?" Téa knew there were mystical powers behind the items but not quite like this.
Touching her necklace Isis nodded. "Yes,"
"What do you see in my future?" Téa questioned coldly.
"I cannot tell you that," Isis said sternly.
"Then what brings you here? My senses tell me you are not here to just stand there,"
Taking a step forward Isis kneeled in front of Téa. Shocked Téa quickly went forward to help Isis up since Téa's low rank profile doesn't deserve such gestures.
"What's wrong Isis?" Téa asked after she made sure Isis was standing not kneeling.
"I know you are a kind spirit and never intended to do harm..." Isis started her voice was filled with woe. "But I beg of you...please leave the palace and go back to where you belong. It is best for both the Pharaoh and you,"
Confused Téa stared at Isis. Isis must've seen something to act this way Téa thought.
"What do you mean leave for the best?" Téa questioned Isis.
Taking Téa's hand Isis closed her navy blue eyes. Her face showed sadness.
"You've seen something haven't you...something horrid," Téa said.
"I don't know...the images were blurred, scattered, and completely random. But the atmosphere was definitely morbid," Taking her hand away she gently massaged her temples. "It's the most confusing vision I've had,"
Téa smile in empathy but still a question remained. "Why am I involved?"
"In my vision I felt a strange aura. A stranger's...I'm sorry if I offended you but this aura in my opinion represents you," Isis said. "But the decision is yours...to remain or to go,"
"Isis..." Téa knew this question meant sleep deprivation.
Bowing once more Isis bid Téa good day and left. Lingering a while longer Téa had an odd feeling. Sadness maybe?
"Why am I sad to leave. Isis was right. I don't belong here anyways," Téa said as she applied scented oils and got dressed.
On her way out Téa decided to take a detour toward the garden. Last night left a deep impression in her mind. She'd love to see it in daylight.
"I thought you'd come," Atem said with a sweet smile.
Bowing Téa greeted the pharaoh.
"What's the matter?" Both Téa and Atem asked at the same time.
Maybe there was something between them after all. Téa blushed and allowed Atem to go first.
"You looked worried Téa. What's wrong?" Atem said closing their distance.
Unable to find her voice Téa shook her head in strong disagreement.
"You wouldn't come to the garden for nothing..." Atem said gazing at the beautiful garden.
Téa did come for a reason, to recall the moments of last night and to find an answer to Isis's question. But she wasn't going to tell him that.
"It's nothing really," Téa reassured him. "What about you?"
Sighing Atem palmed a flower nearby. He looked really troubled.
"My father's tomb was robbed. I'm here to clear my mind before the court meeting. But the more I look at the garden the more I think of my father," Atem's voice was full of sorrow.
Wanting to cheer him up Téa decided to do the dangerous. Taking his hand she smiled.
"Let me teach you how to dance," Téa said warmly.
Confused Atem stared at her blankly. "Dance?"
"Obviously you don't know how. Let me teach you the one my village does at festivals," Téa said as she took his other hand and guided him toward an open area.
"It goes like this," Téa said as she taught him the footsteps. "One, two, three, left. One, two, three, right. One, two, three, back..." Téa chanted.
Never experienced this before Atem had a hard time keeping the tempo. But soon he got the hang of it. Instead of chanting the steps Téa begin to hum a melodic tune. It was a happy cheerful tune. The two danced their way through the flowers following Téa's tune. To them everyone faded from the garden. They're eyes and fingers locked together and maybe their hearts too. For the first time Téa knew her feelings for him were real. But did he felt it too? Perhaps he did. All was going too well until a voice broke their synchronized barrier from the outside world.
"Pharaoh it is time," Isis said bowing.
Reluctantly Atem and Téa broke apart. Both blushing they looked away from each other.
"I have to leave...feel free to explore the palace..." Atem said looking at the greenery instead of Téa. "And thanks for cheering me up...I hope we could dance again someday,"
"Your welcome," Téa turned and bowed to him.
Turning to Isis he signalled her to stand. "Tell the other priests to be on time," Atem said sternly and left.
Isis turned to Téa and sighed. "Fate...plays us all. The decision is yours,"
"You'll know my decision...soon," Téa said firmly with confidence.
"I'll wait for that," Isis said and left.
Téa turned to the flowers in the garden. They were much prettier than the wild flowers she often saw near the village. But Atem occupied so much of her mind that the flowers turned to black and white.
"I'll tell him that I've decided to stay and let the rest play out by its self," Téa said petting a nearby flower. "The only thing I have to do now is find where they'll be meeting,"
Everyone needed adventure in life. Téa was one of those girls that thrive on adventure. Taking risks, gambling everything, rebel against rules, you name it and she's probably done it. Such a small gamble on fate was the perfect entertainment for Téa. Knowing whatever Isis saw was going to come true Téa decided to stay and see how destiny set the pieces for disaster. Not that Téa wanted to see suffering, hell no! She'd never want to see war again, but she wanted to know how she was involved. And that is why she needed to tell Atem her decision to stay. However, that was easier said than done. The palace was huge! Completely lost Téa decided to rest. While examining the paintings on the wall two priests went by. Téa recognized one, the same tall arrogant looking priest she saw at the gala.
"We must hurry Mahado," he said to the other priest who resembled a magician.
Téa hid behind the corner squinting her eyes shut hoping they'll pass without seeing her. Just as they passed her mind got a beyond brilliant idea. Since the priest looked like they are in a hurry to something, which most likely is the meeting with the pharaoh, Téa could easily get out of the maze by following them. Grinning happily Téa stalked them like a cat. The benefits of this plan were more than offered. Not only did the priests lead the way but also chat about the current situation.
"What do you think the situation is Seth? It's been a long time since the court had a meeting with such urgency," The priest Mahado asked as they walked through the corridors.
Giving a grunt Seth doesn't look too happy about this meeting. "What ever it is I just hope it wouldn't end like the last war,"
The two priests and the unseen Téa showed different emotions toward the last war. Seth was obviously quite upset while Mahado showed sympathy. Téa on the other hand showed hatred and sadness.
"I hope for peace as well," Mahado said.
Soon they crossed the courtyard and came before another building. Guards stood at the entrance. This meant bad news for Téa.
"The pharaoh is waiting," The guards said and allowed the priests to enter.
Téa hid behind a bush. She was so close!
"I must find some way to get in," Téa said as she picked up a stone and threw it across the courtyard.
To her surprise the guards went into panic mode and left to find the cause of the noise. Seeing this was the perfect chance Téa sprinted toward the entrance.
"Success!" Téa said heroically as she skipped toward the end of the hall.
At the end of the hall was a set of guards again. Téa grumble and hid.
"What's with the high security?" Téa knew she had to find another way in.
Peeking behind the columns Téa finally found the solution to the guards' problem. The guards only stood at the main entrance. But there were in fact two more along the hall. Scampering like a scared mouse Téa entered one of them. A straightforward corridor with no windows leads the way. Téa followed it carefully making sure there were no traps. At the end of the corridor was the hall the meeting was held. But a strict set o columns meant Téa could not go anywhere near the pharaoh.
"This is where the audience stand I guess," Téa said as she looked toward the pharaoh.
There he was in his glory. Unlike this morning his face was stern. Accompanied beside him were the six priests. All of them looked pretty serious, something must be up.
"Are you sure Shada?" Atem asked sternly.
Bowing down Shada replied. "I am sure of it pharaoh. The royal tombs of previous pharaoh Akunumkanon has been robbed,"
"But don't worry! I've already started the plans of your tomb pharaoh. It's going to contain all sorts of difficult and deadly traps," Shimon said proudly.
A bit disturbed Atem placed his hand over his forehead. He must be having a head ach from all this. Suddenly the guards started to yell.
"What's going on," Seth shouted toward the guards.
A wild haired person appeared holding loads of treasures. He looked surprisingly young despite his white hair. Right off the bat Téa knew he was no good. Not only did he barge in the rudest fashion he also dragged a mummified corps along too.
"You who are you?" Seth demanded an answer from the intruder.
"I'm Bakura, the king of thieves!" he said with a confident smirk. "And I'm here to take your millennium items!"
"A mere thieve that's all. I won't hesitate to rip your heart out," Seth said just as confident.
"Thief Bakura! The millennium items are powerful and only obey those that are meant for it. If you know what's good for you then leave immediately or else your soul will be burned to pieces just by touching the items," The oldest priest said showing Bakura a glimpse of his millennium item, an eye.
Téa's stomach jerked at little. It must've been painful to put that thing in place of your eyes.
"Burning to death? Sounds painful...now you got me all excited what are you waiting for?" Bakura laughed.
"Don't worry. We'll kill you before you get burned to death by the items! Priest Shada will give you a taste of the power," Seth commanded a priest holding an Ankh.
"Millennium Ankh will see through the depth of your heart!" Shada said holding the item and pointing it toward Bakura.
Téa stood on the edge of her seat waiting to see what happens next. Seeing such confidence the priests showed the items must be something. Already seeing the power of the Tauk she wondered if the others were even more powerful. All of a sudden as if a force pushed Shada away, he stumbled and fell.
"Priest Shada!" Atem said with concern.
Getting up his face looked wary. Téa knew what that means. Bakura was no ordinary thief.
"This sealing stone is too small for the spirit being that resides within him!" Priest Shada said pointing to a huge tablet.
"How could that be?!" Seth was shocked.
"HAHAHA! Looks like the six priests aren't that tough after all. And for your information I do not have a spirit being. I have a spirit beast!" With each sentence a dark fog forged around him.
"A beast? How could that be? Is he that evil?" Mahado asked Seth.
"We're about to find out..." Seth said keeping his confidence but preparing for the worst.
***
A/N: That took me a long time ^^ hehehe remember to review and state any questions, concerns in it too! A cliffie ^^ aren't I nice
Author's corner:
KeikoGurl: Where is this going?
Me: will be revealed later on ^^ (hope that answers your questions though it most likely did not)
Reporter: First of all where is the triangle???
Me: *sigh* Like I said all shall be revealed soon...^o^
Reporter: What's with Téa's daydreams?
Me: I guess she got too nervous (heheh I sometimes do that if I'm nervous ^_^!)
Reporter: Are all the things about Egypt accurate? Pharaoh Akunumkanon? Did he really exist?
Me: This is based on Kazuki Takahashi's story so the people (except the gods) are all fictional. Anyways if you've seen the Pharaoh's memory arc (whether from Manga or Anime) you'll know what I'm talking about some of the stuff I use are basically what the Manga says soo...sorry for the spoilers. And the clothing and foods are based on the way Kazuki Takahashi's costumes but for Téa I had to do research and on food too...it was fun ^^
Reporter: Why are you researching about ancient Egypt anyways??
Me: Well it was a coincidence (not ^o^) that for my travel and tourism project I decided to pick Egypt (^^) and since I need to do research for that I might as well do some extra digging. Besides it was fun knowing all those extra info ^^ (Seth was a god too ^^ but he turned evil and killed Orsiris which was Isis's husband which were the children of Atum or Aten who was the creator...)
Reporter: O_O you must be bored -_-
Me: ...Nope I'm not bored I just like to research about useless information surrounding my interests ^^
Reporter *rolls eyes* sure... *cough nerd! cough*
Me: I heard that -_-
To be continued....
(P.S: Sorry for the spoilers)