"Daughters of Isis"
By: Heikou & Janime
Treachery and Sacrifice
Manu stood on the second tier overlooking the arena. His eyes kept traveling from one set of double wooden doors to the other, which was across the sand-covered fighting grounds.
I can't believe Mosi challenged Khalfani, the younger twin thought. He can't keep his mouth shut.
He looked up when one of the doors opened. The brunette stepped out, two slim swords in his hands. The other part of doors opened. Mosi stepped out holding a spear with a deadly looking metal tip. Both looked at one another but didn't make a move just yet. They looked like they were studying one another.
"Manu!" He turned around and watched as the three young ladies ran up to join him. "Have they fought yet?"
He shook his head. "They just stepped into the arena."
Sadiki and Hanif soon joined them with Tumaini. The young child was clutching Hanif's hand when they entered, and then he quickly moved over to Peisimemne, grasping her hand. Smiling a little, the blue-eyed girl picked him up and settled him on her right hip.
"Please tell me it's not a fight to the death," Hanif whispered.
Manu shook his head. "Whoever disarms the other is the victor."
"Depends on the way they fight," Sadiki said as he looked into the arena.
Theliane rested her hand on her sister's shoulder. "Everything will be alright, Agalameia."
"I really hope so," she whispered.
Khalfani watched the other boy carefully, making sure he had a firm hold on his weapons. "I will beat you and prove myself to Agalameia," he declared.
"You haven't lived in the streets as my brother and I have. I didn't have someone to teach me to fight but I know I'll beat you," Mosi smirked at him.
"Is that so?" Khalfani spun his blades for a moment. "Then let us begin."
Mosi started to walk slowly along the wall of the arena. As he anticipated, Khalfani followed his step. He could tell the taller boy was very defensive, which was good but it was also an advantage for Mosi. In his many street fights, those who did play defense were easier to beat because they were predictable. They would use the same technique to guard themselves for an attack, which would also make them vulnerable for another unsuspecting blow.
He began to run towards him, holding the spear to the side he then brought it forward only to have it blocked so he spun in the other direction but it was blocked again, so he quickly crouched down and swept the other boy's feet out from under him.
Khalfani was taken by surprise as he landed on his back. He immediately sprang to his feet and went into an attack, bringing both his swords down. He was mildly surprised when the spear blocked it but it didn't matter. He jumped back and once again the two studied one another. "You're better than I expected," the brunette said.
"You sound like you're worried," Mosi taunted.
"You're the one who should be worried."
Mosi narrowed his eyes. Cocky noble-raised prick, he thought. We'll see who's better suited for Agalameia.
Manu flinched as his brother attacked Khalfani again only to be forcefully shoved away and landing on his backside. "Why are they doing this?" he said quietly.
"It's their hearts."
Everyone looked at Tumaini, still held in Peisimemne's arms. It was a little shocking to hear him speak when not being addressed.
"Tumaini," Agalameia touched his arm, "what did you say?"
He looked at the Daughter of Anubis. "They both love you, Agalameia. One will follow you without question. The other will do anything to keep you safe."
Her eyes went wide as she looked at the fighting young men. "Their hearts..."
"But at this rate it looks like they'll kill each other," Sadiki commented.
"How can we stop them?" Hanif asked.
Theliane leaned her hands against the stone railing, watching the two young men battle. This had to end and soon or they would certainly injure each other… or kill each other as Sadiki said, whichever came first.
"Well, what have we here?" Asim walked into the arena. His eyes widened at the display below. "That's interesting."
"Asim, you have to stop them, please," Agalameia pleaded with him. "All this fighting isn't worth it."
He watched as the two continued to fight but he could see they were beginning to tire. He looked at the other boy and nodded to him. "You're Manu, am I right?"
"Yes sir."
"Come with my. The rest of you stay here."
They nodded and watched as the Guardian and Manu left them alone. Although he didn't say it the older man had something planned.
-
Mosi was tired and as much as he hated to admit it, Khalfani was blocking all of his attacks and every time he tried knocking him off his feet he jump right back up. Still he was not going to give up.
I saved her from those bullies years ago, not him! he growled to himself angrily. I'm the only one worthy of her!
Khalfani raised his swords but he was pushed back slightly from the force. That was unexpected but he wouldn't let this street rat win. I don't care if Anubis likes him I won't let him take Agalameia from me! This time he charged, catching the other off guard and knocked him to the ground but he didn't stay on top for long. Mosi managed to throw him off and gained the upper hand but there was a minor problem.
The pale-haired young man had the deadly tip of the spear at Khalfani's throat but the brunette had both swords pressing on either side of his throat. The slightest movement and both would kill one another at the same time.
"I would call this match to a draw," came a voice from the shadows but neither boy relaxed. Asim entered the area and watched. They were both equally matched but still had a lot to learn. "Khalfani."
He risked looking at the Guardian but sighed and hesitantly, lowered his swords. Mosi smirked but removed the spear and stepped back as well. Neither said anything as they faced the older man, panting and sweating lightly.
"I think you both have proven yourselves worthy. Khalfani, I want you to lead Manu and Mosi so you all may get washed up. Once done come see me at the shrine." Though the temple was dedicated to the Mother Goddess there were three statues of the girls' fathers there as well. A constant reminder of their birthright.
Of course the blue-eyed boy looked ready to argue but a stern look from Asim kept him quiet. "Follow me," he growled and stormed off. The twins followed but the younger sibling seemed to be very upset at the older sibling by his expression.
Mosi ignored his brother as they followed Khalfani. He glanced up to the second floor tier. Agalameia was standing by herself above the doorway, looking at the three of them. She looked like a goddess on earth the way Ra's light enveloped her, the beams gently accenting her features and giving her a heavenly glow.
Mosi's pace slowed a little and he almost stopped had it not been for Manu grabbing his arm and pulling him through the open door.
Sadiki scratched the back of his head and sighed. "Ra spare us all from those two."
Theliane gave him a look. "Their fate is not my Father's decision. It belongs to Anubis."
-
"Are you certain?"
"Yes. I believe Anubis has led the boys to us to become her Guardians."
"My dream has also made me wonder but now I am sure."
Asim smiled at Zasida and watched as the boys come in. The twins were wearing the same outfits Khalfani and the others wore. Stopping before the Guardian and priestess, he bowed.
"Thank you, Khalfani," Asim smiled at the boy before turning to the twins. "It seems that your encounter with Agalameia all those years ago was meant to be."
Mosi and Manu looked at each other with mild confusion.
Zashida stepped towards them. "Anubis has chosen both of you to be Agalameia's Guardians."
All three boys mouths fell open.
She can't be serious! Khalfani's mind screamed.
Asim looked at the statue of Anubis and held his hands out as he began to chant. The base glowed and the light drained slowly upwards between the god's feet, and it turned into a solid object. Asim took the object and faced the twins. They could now see that the Guardian held a book that looked like it was made from black stone with hieroglyphs carved into the cover. It had a large clasp keeping the book close but Asim stepped forward and held the Book out to Manu who looked uncertain as he took it from him.
"What you hold in your hands in the Book of the Dead," he told him.
The poor boy's eyes nearly popped out of his head and his hands shook. "I-I-I'm not worthy!" he said trying to give the book back.
"Anubis has deemed you worthy. From this moment on, you are the Keeper of the Book. Only you will be able to open it."
"B-But I don't know how to read."
"You will learn," said Zashida. "We will teach you."
"However," Asim continued, "you are not to let anyone to ever take hold of the Book of the Dead-except for Agalameia if she ever asks for it."
Manu stared at the black metal Book in his hands. Anubis had chosen him, a lowly street-rat, to be the Book Keeper and Guardian to Agalameia.
Mosi was actually very happy for his brother but he was happier that he could be around the young woman a lot more. Looking over at Khalfani he smirked. The brunette looked ready to strangle him but he wanted to so badly stick out his tongue at him. Sure it was immature but he felt like he had won.
"And you, Mosi, it will be your duty to protect Agalameia no matter what," Asim told him then looked at all three of them. "When our time is over, she will become the next Daughter of Anubis and you three will become her Guardians. You must put aside your differences and work together. A day will come where she will need all three of you."
-
Hanif held out his hand to Peisimemne, which she took and stepped down from the cart. Garai, Dalila's Guardian and consort, handed the horses' reins to the stable boy. All three were had common folk robes over their attire to disguise their identities.
"Come," Garai said as he walked towards Karnak temple.
I haven't been here in so long, Peisimemne thought and gave Hanif a gentle squeeze of his hand.
The temple was in fine shape and looked to have been taken very good care over the years. There were some people praying or setting their offering on the altar for the deity. Offering their respects they moved to one of the halls to the side and walked down. They came to a closed room but that didn't stop them. Lifting his hand Garai gave a soft rap.
"Enter," come the voice from within.
The guardian opened the door an ushered Peisimemne and Hanif in before entering the room and closing the door behind him.
The prince stood from the chair he had pulled to the window. Shadi, his bodyguard, watched them warily. When they removed their robes he smiled and bowed to them. "I am glad you have arrived."
"We did not wish to raise suspicion, your highness. How have you been?"
"Alright, I guess," Lisimba answered. "A little lonely. No offense, Shadi."
"I understand, my prince," Shadi bowed his head, "you are young and need the company of others closer to your age. It's good for you that Thabit is here once in a while."
"Who is Thabit?" Peisimemne asked.
"His is the nephew of Priestess Bahiti," Lisimba explained. "He comes to the temple asking the gods to guide him to his destiny. His father is a weapons maker but his two older brothers are in training to take over after their father enters the afterlife."
"It's good to have a friend," the young Guardian smiled.
"Lisimba, something is wrong. The pharaoh... he doesn't seem to have noticed that you're gone or cares," the young lady said.
The prince sighed and his shoulders seemed to drop. "My father... has been possessed by one of the council members. Originally, father did wish our houses to join but he did not wish to endure the gods' wrath."
"Who was it?" Hanif asked.
"Nexeu," Shadi almost spat.
Garai looked like he was ready to run to the palace and kill the mention councilman. "I don't find it too surprising that he would do something like this to gain more power for himself," said the older Guardian. "But how did he ever gain the power to do such a thing?"
"That we do not know," Shadi said. "We are fortunate to have Prince Lisimba away from Nexeu so he does not fall prey as he father has."
"We must free my father," the prince looked at Peisimemne. "Your Father is Osiris. If there is anyway for you to speak on my behalf, please do it, I beg of you. I'll do whatever your Father asks."
Peisimemne smiled and nodded. "Of course. We will not let Nexeu get away with this."
-
Sadiki aimlessly wandered through the marketplace. He had to pick up a few things Theliane had asked him to buy for her if he had time. Of course he made the earrings his first priority rather than the inks and papyrus as Nathifa's Guardian Zareb had instructed. Sadiki had nothing against the Book Keeper, except that he became too engrossed with whatever work he had started.
And he gets boring very quickly, Sadiki sighed to himself.
But with the twins around life became more enjoyable. Manu was quiet and took his studying with seriousness that matched Zareb's but Mosi was always there with him when there was a prank to be made. The only reason he didn't join Sadiki today was Asim was watching him like a hawk, making sure he learned his lessons before the day was out.
His fault for always running off like that, he laughed to himself, looking around. What else... earrings! He wanted these pair to be very special, nothing was too good for the Daughter of Ra.
As Sadiki browsed the table displays of the jewelry makers, something blunt was lightly jabbed into his side. Jumping and ready to defend himself, Sadiki quickly turned and found himself looking into a pair of emerald eyes, rather similar to Theliane's. Only the owner of this pair was male.
"Deunoro!" Sadiki gritted through his teeth.
"Hello, Sadiki," the other boy grinned. "What brings you outside the temple?"
"Errands," he replied.
Deunoro looked at the earrings he had seen Sadiki eyeing. "Really? I wonder what kind."
"None of your business," he managed to say behind clenched teeth.
"When it concerns Theliane it is my business," the other replied smugly.
Though the green-eyed boy was a guardian in training it did not mean that Sadiki had to like it. The boy came from a noble house and was far more educated than he but the light blonde was more skilled in the arena. Deciding to ignore him he looked at the jewelry once more, trying to find the perfect pair for the young lady.
"Anything new at the temple?" Deunoro asked.
"Maybe if you spent more time at the temple you would know." Sadiki quipped as he moved to another display.
"You know my father is dying," Deunoro almost growled as he followed his friend, "and I am doing my best to make sure my brother and sisters inherit what should be theirs and not to that woman he replaced my mother with."
"She's still trying to take everything?"
"We've tried petitioning to the pharaoh but the council members keep throwing it out."
Sadiki looked around quickly then grabbed Deunoro's hand, dragging him into an empty ally. Making sure no one was around; Sadiki leaned close to the other boy's ear. "Prince Lisimba is staying at Karnak Temple."
Deunoro's eyes widened. "Why?"
"I won't go into detail out here but there is something going on in the royal house. Pharaoh Senusnet is acting strange as of late. He still hasn't preformed the ceremony that was supposed to be done moons ago at Karnak Temple."
"Is that why Lisimba is there?"
"Partially," Sadiki answered. "It's also to keep him safe from whatever is going on at the palace."
"What's going to happen?"
"Not sure but the Sisters of the Moon are trying to figure that out."
"What can we do?"
"Pretend we know nothing. We can't let anyone in the palace know what's going on and all will be for naught."
Deunoro slowly nodded his head. "I'll keep quiet."
"See that you do."
"And what's the supposed to mean?"
Sadiki glared at him. "Remember three years ago."
"Now, now, Sadiki," Deunoro held his hands up, "I swear to Ra I did not know that Nathifa was in the hallway."
The blonde looked at him then smiled. "Go to Karnak Temple and submit your petition to Prince Lisimba. He may not be the pharaoh of Egypt but he still may be able to help you."
"I will," Deunoro bowed his head. "Thank you."
Sadiki left the ally and went back to the table displays. "And now those earrings."
--
Nexeu paced in the empty council chamber, angry at the turn of events that had now taken place. With Prince Lisimba staying at Karnak Temple and Shadi protecting Egypt's future ruler, his plans were hindered.
Only somewhat, the councilor thought, that idiot can't protect the boy forever.
He had nothing to fear for the kingdom had been fooled, except the Sisters of the Moon. Not once have they returned to the temple and declined requests to come. Nexeu couldn't send in soldiers to invade the temple; he was not afraid of the gods but attacking the kingdom's protectors with the royal guards would further ruin his plans.
But they are still mortal women and mortals can be killed. He frowned as she stepped before the window, staring at the temple of Isis. Something had to be done, and he had a plan but it had to be done with the utmost care.
"I believe that it is time for the pharaoh to visit his son," Nexeu smiled wickedly, turning away from the window and left the room.
--
Nathifa stood just inside the doorway on the top floor balcony, staring at the palace. Something was wrong; she could feel it. Then the commotion in front of the palace entrance caught her attention. Four chariots suddenly raced out of the palace front gate and turned to the east, heading towards Karnak Temple.
The first chariot hosted Pharaoh Senusnet and one guard, the two chariots following had more soldiers, and one guard drove the last one with Nexeu as a passenger.
"You bastard," Nathifa said quietly. "We'll see who will walk away from this."
The Daughter of Ra stormed off the balcony and down the stairs. She stopped near the gardens, looking at Theliane as she and her Sisters tried to teach Tumaini how to play Hounds and Jackals.
She didn't know why, but Nathifa had the feeling that this would be the last time she would see her daughter.
She hated to leave like this but she had to hurry. Turning she hurried out of the temple and into the stable. She didn't have time to hitch a chariot to the horses; every moment she wasted would bring the destruction of Egypt.
"Nathifa! What are you doing!" Omari asked in surprise.
"Nexeu, the pharaoh, and several guards are heading towards Karnak Temple. The prince's life is in danger."
"You cannot do this alone; wait for the others, please."
"I can't. Pulling herself onto the horse's bare back she walked to the entrance. Leaning down, they shared a loving kiss. "Watch over Theliane for me."
The Guardian held her hand tightly but he couldn't stop her. He watched as they raced off, kicking up puffs of sand as they raced to beat the traitor to the distant temple.
--
Thabit finished his prayers and rose to his feet, placing the burning incense stick into the golden coffer before the statue of Osiris.
Standing next to a pillar far enough from where the boy stood, High Priestess Bahiti watched her nephew give his offering and prayers to the wondrous god. When he finished, he turned from the statue and walked towards his aunt.
"I know you are still confused," Bahiti gently spoke, "but you must have patience and trust in the gods. Then will your destiny be revealed to you."
He nodded slowly to her. "I understand... but, what could my destiny be?" he asked his aunt.
"What would you do with the life granted to you?"
"I wish to help protect Egypt and be worthy."
"You are worthy. Never let anyone tell you otherwise," she said, gently squeezing his shoulder.
He smiled but the smile was lost as he titled his head to the side. "I... can hear hoof beats," he said quietly. "From outside."
"Horses?" Bahiti frowned then her eyes widened from surprise at the thunderous noise. It slowly became quiet and moments later, Pharaoh Senusnet, Nexeu, and a few guards entered the temple. "Pharaoh Senusnet," Bahiti bowed respectfully.
"Where is my son?"
The high priestess looked up at the pharaoh. It may have been many moons since she last spoke to the ruler of Egypt, but the way his voice sounded gave her an uneasy feeling. "Forgive me, my lord, but I am unaware of his location."
"You do not know where the prince is?" Nexeu asked.
Bahiti narrowed her eyes at the advisor.
Thabit knew something was wrong but kept quiet. He could feel darkness in the temple and he didn't like it. He had to warn his friend but how could he without raising suspicion?
The council man frowned and looked at the pharaoh. "The prince must be here but he is hiding," he hissed.
"What makes you think the Prince is here, hiding of all places?" the priestess asked calmly.
Nexeu smacked the back of his hand against Bahiti's face causing her to stumble away. Her nephew quickly grabbed her arms before she fell. He looked at the advisor with an angry scowl, briefly catching the shocked looks on the guards' faces from what Nexeu had done to the High Priestess.
Pharaoh Senusnet never reacted to the display.
Nexeu looked at the pharaoh. "My lord?"
"Find my son," Senusnet spoke in a detached voice.
The guards looked at one another, murmuring to themselves but bowed and spread out, searching the temple for the missing prince.
"Aunt Bahiti, are you alright?" Thabit asked, casting his concern gazed onto her.
She nodded and stood straight but kept one hand on his shoulder to steady herself. "Yes. But the gods are not pleased."
"When the time comes the gods will fear me," Nexeu smirked but the pharaoh remained motionless.
Bahiti looked at the two men then to Thabit. She cast her eyes quickly to the hallway near them and he nodded. Thabit broke into a run for the hall.
"Stop!" Nexeu went after him, however Bahiti slammed herself into the man, allowing her nephew to escape. "Very foolish, priestess," Nexeu grabbed her hair and pulled her away, keeping his fingers wound tightly in the long dark tresses. "You will be the first to discover not to ever cross me."
--
Nathifa quickly jumped to the ground even before the stable boy reached the horse. The Daughter of Ra raced up the steps, the robes flying behind her like wings. Her hear slammed in her chest as she thought of what might have occurred prior to her hasty arrival.
Please, Father, don't let me be too late!
From behind a pillar, Thabit watched in heated anger as the pharaoh, Nexeu, and Bahiti entered Prince Lisimba's room. The four guards held their weapons up to prevent the prince or his present company from leaving.
Shadi stood before the prince, as the other man and shorter boy stood in front of a girl wearing a priestess robe decorated with red cord and several beads.
"Well, what do we have here?" Nexeu smirked, his hand still entangled in Bahiti's hair.
"Nexeu! What is the meaning of this? Release Priestess Bahiti!" Lisimba commanded.
"I don't believe you are in any condition to be giving me any orders."
"You bastard," Shadi growled, his eyes never leaving his.
"Such language in front of these ladies."
"You will not get away with this," the older woman said, wincing at a sharp tug on her hair warned her.
"Lisimba, you will marry Peisimemne and join the two houses," the pharaoh said in an even tone.
"Father…" Lisimba whispered.
"It is forbidden!" Garai shouted. "Isis said that none of her daughters would marry into the House of Pharaoh!"
"Isis is not my concern," said Nexeu. "I am merely carrying out the pharaoh's will."
"I will not marry the Prince of Egypt," Peisimemne said defiantly, "I will choose who I will marry; not my mother, not her Guardians, and certainly not you!"
The councilman frowned and nodded to the guards; two of them moved forward and grabbed her arms.
"Let go!" she struggled but they dragged her towards the pharaoh.
"Release her!" Garai yelled but the remaining guards pointed their weapons at him. "The gods forbade this union!"
"Father, I will not marry any of the Daughters! Please, do not do this," the prince begged, hoping to call his real father back.
But the pharaoh did not hear his son.
Nexeu pushed Bahiti forward. "Marry them."
"No," Bahiti said then yelped as the councilman yanked her head back.
"You will do as I say or you and your fellow priests will suffer greatly and none of you will enter the afterlife!" Nexeu shouted in her ear. "I will see to that myself!"
"I would rather have my soul wander for eternity than to encourage the wrath of Osiris by forcing his Daughter to marry."
"Is that so?" Nexeu shoved Bahiti away then grabbed Peisimemne from the soldier; pulling out a dagger, he held it to the girl's throat. "I however would not mind seeing him destroy Egypt. And it would happen should his Daughter perish. I believe that Dalila is past her ability to bear another, isn't she, Garai?"
Hanif's blood went cold. He started to run to his beloved but the pharaoh knocked him to the ground. Thabit glowered at the scene; his heart both in sorrow and anger at what had befallen his aunt, the prince, and the Daughter of Osiris.
The prince looked lost, torn between the safety of Egypt and of his friend he closed his eyes tightly. "Please forgive me, Peisimemne... but I could not live with your death on my shoulders..." he said softly.
"Your highness, you can't let him win!" Shadi protested.
"What else can I do?"
Thabit was worried but he knew it he tried to attack Nexeu the soldiers would hurt his friends. Patting his clothing he hissed softly when he accidentally cut his finger on a dagger he carried. He wasn't a fighter but he did have a good aim. Osiris, please grant me the eyes of a falcon, he prayed and holding it tightly, stepped from behind the pillar and hurled it as hard as he could.
Nexeu screamed at the dagger struck his forearm, causing him to release his own dagger and his grip on Peisimemne lessened. She immediately rammed her left elbow into his stomach, allowing her to escape and ran to Garai.
"Kill them," said the pharaoh. "Kill them all."
The soldiers looked at each other in fear.
"You heard him!" Nexeu shouted as he cradled his bleeding arm. "You would dare to defy your Lord Senusnet."
"Yes," one soldier threw down his sword, "especially when he demands the death of his own son."
Nexeu growled angrily as the other soldiers followed. "You will all pay for this outrageous insubordination!"
"I wonder who will be the one paying for failure to carry out orders," Peisimemne spoke. She closed her eyes and held her hands before her, thumbs, index and middle fingers pressed together as her remaining fingers were folded. "Horus, my older Brother, as you gave your eye to resurrect our Father, please lend me your sight to see the truth of this horrible act!"
A glowing eye appeared on her forehead, and the sound of a falcon crying out echoed into the room. A whirlwind surrounded Peisimemne and she opened her eyes, which had now turned red. With her Brother's sight aiding her, the Daughter of Osiris saw the dark smoke hindering around Pharaoh Senusnet, and a pair of dark glowing eyes behind Nexeu.
"Set!" Peisimemne shouted. "How dare you!"
The councilman laughed as did the glowing eyes. "I would have expected nothing less from the Daughter of Osiris."
The soldiers knew of the dark god and stepped back, suddenly fearful for their lives.
"Why are you doing this?" the prince ordered.
"How else would I destroy my brother then by having the royal house marry his precious daughter," he laughed.
"Anything so that you could destroy Egypt again," Nathifa walked into the room. "Respect is still graced upon you despite your betrayal, and you still won't learn. I pity you, Set."
"I don't need pity from a mortal!" Nexeu snarled. "I have been given a wondrous gift-a gift far greater than your pathetic excuse of a god you claim is your Father!"
"Pathetic excuse?" Nathifa repeated, anger clear in her eyes. "Because of Set, Nut had suffered when he punctured her womb! Osiris suffered because his brother would not make peace with him! Isis suffered when Set killed Osiris! Nephthys suffered because Set tormented her! Anubis suffered because he had to live his first years of life in hiding! Horus suffered when Set ripped out his eye! And Ra, my Father, suffered when Set nearly destroyed everything!"
Nathifa's power slowly began to seep out of her body in a golden aura, growing brighter with each word she spoke until she was almost as bright as a star in the heavens. "If there is any god that is a pathetic excuse, it is the one that you follow, Nexeu!"
"Foolish woman! You will not live to see the dawn of the rising sun!" he yelled. The councilman went stiff and from his robes a black serpent ripped from his chest. He gasped and the pharaoh fell.
"Father!" the prince cried out, running to the pharaoh. He was alive but unconscious.
The snake grew larger until it was the size of a small horse but the fangs were long and sharp as a sword. It hissed angrily, towering over the prince and fallen pharaoh. "You shall die first, your highness!"
"Leave them alone!" Nathifa screamed at him, her aura glowing brightly that it gave into the form of a beautiful angel dressed in yellow robes with six glorious wings sprouted from her back. Before the snake could strike the fairy flew forward, in her hand a golden specter which radiated such glorious power.
The snake's fangs sank deep into the fairy's arm. Nathifa fell to her knees feeling the pain her ka had received. She looked up, watching her ka fall to the ground and the snake turned to her. It reared up, hissing, and with incredible speed, aimed its attack on the Daughter of Ra.
--
The hound piece fell to the board with a hollow clatter.
Sadiki looked at his opponent. "Theliane?"
Her face was pale and she seemed to stare off to somewhere other than the garden where the two were currently playing Hounds and Jackals.
"Theliane, what's wrong?" Sadiki jumped from his seat.
Tears slowly ran from her eyes. "Mother…"
--
For a moment, time seemed to stand still. Nathifa didn't utter a sound, even as the snake sank its fangs deeper into her flesh. She could feel the venom coursing in her body but she would not give in. Raising her hands she grasped the vile creature and closed her eyes.
"I may die this day… but your plan has failed," she hissed. Golden light formed in her hands and slowly began to envelope the dark creature.
The snake hissed and struggled in her grip but she held strong. The holy power was ripping at him, slowly tearing him apart. "You may have won this time but I shall return!" he yelled at her.
"And our Daughters will defeat you, when the time comes… Be gone from this holy place!" Summoning the last of her strength she banished the snake. Everyone watched as it screamed in pain but vanished, leaving Nexeu gasping for breathe but he didn't not have time to run as the guards quickly grabbed his arms, anger evident in their eyes.
"Nathifa!" Peisimemne screamed, watching the Daughter of Ra collapse to the floor. She raced over to the fallen woman. "Nathifa…"
"Theliane…" Nathifa gasped out. "… I must… see…"
"Save your strength, Nathifa," Garai said as he quickly gathered her into his arms. "Hanif, stay with Peisimemne."
The young Guardian nodded and Garai ran from the prince's chambers.
"Father?" Lisimba knelt beside Senusnet, who had fallen to the floor after Nathifa vanquished Set.
"I'm dying," said the pharaoh and he looked at Bahiti, "aren't I?"
"Very slowly, my lord," Bahiti answered with much regret. "I am afraid that Set's poison was also keeping you alive. And now that he is gone…"
"I understand."
"How much time does he have?" Shadi asked.
"I do not know," the priestess answered. "There have been people who were affected by Set that lived for years after they were freed from him. I guess it depends on the person's spirit."
Senusnet turned to Lisimba. "Forgive me, my son. I was weak. You are strong and will become a great and wonderful ruler." He turned to the guards holding Nexeu. "Take him away."
They nodded and dragged the council man away, regret in their eyes for allowing this fool to take control of their pharaoh.
Senusnet's breathe became more labored. He looked at Peisimemne and bowed his head to her. "Daughter of Osiris... please accept my apology... I thought I was doing good for Egypt..." he wheezed.
She slowly shook her head, trying desperately to keep the tears from falling. "It was not your fault," she told him, resting her hand over his. "You only wished to protect Egypt, Nexeu was greedy for power, but Set was behind it all."
"Father... I don't know if I can rule Egypt," the prince said softly. "I still need your guidance."
"My son... you were able to see through Nexeu's schemes where I could not... and you will never be alone..." he weakly grasped his hand, smiling weakly. "You will never be alone..."
"It's true, Prince Lisimba," Shadi spoke then bowed his head. "I will continue to watch over him, my lord pharaoh."
"Thank you, Shadi… Please… I wish to return home."
Nodding, Shadi and Lisimba helped Senusnet to stand and they left the room.
Bahiti rose to her feet, leaving father and son to restore their bonds. "Thabit, come out."
The boy did as his aunt requested.
"So you were the one who threw that dagger," said Peisimemne. "Thank you."
He bowed to her deeply. "I am glad that you are alright, your holiness," he said softly.
"It was thanks to your quick thinking that we were saved today," Hanif said to him. "How can we repay you?"
"I only wish to serve Egypt."
--
Theliane ran towards the main room of the temple. Tears streaking her face, afraid of what state she would see her mother in. Sadiki was not too far behind her, the fear inside him caused his heart to beat against his ribs. As they neared the altar, Omari was kneeling beside Nathifa, holding a large cloth against her shoulder.
Sefu and Zareb stood off to the side; their expressions were full of grief as they watched their beloved Daughter of Ra slowly dying before them. Other priests and priestesses were standing along the wall, chanting quietly for safe passage of Nathifa's soul through the Valley of the Dead.
"Mother!" Theliane fell to her knees beside the litter she was laying on, gripping the older woman's hand with both of her own.
Nathifa slowly opened her eyes. "Theliane…" she smiled weakly. "Omari tell them… to go…everyone…we must be…alone now…"
Nodding gravely, the Guardian rose from his position. "Everyone out."
"But… our prayers," one priest started. "If we do not finish then her soul-"
"Out!" Omari shouted. "Now!"
Confused and fearful of the Guardian's actions, the priests quickly filed out of the room. Sefu and Zareb followed after giving Nathifa one last touch on her arm.
"You too, Sadiki," Omari took placed his hand on the boy's shoulder.
"But…" he began to protest but one look from the Guardian told him to obey. Sadiki looked at Theliane, and then followed Omari out of the room, closing the doors behind them.
Nathifa reached up and gently wiped the tears from her daughter's face. "I must go now, Theliane…" she struggled to get the words out. "It is time for you… to take my place…"
"Please don't," Theliane whispered. "I don't know if I can…"
"You can… You suffered so much before this life… I know you can."
Nathifa placed both hands over her heart. The golden glow surrounded her body but it was softer this time, giving a sense of love and comfort rather than the strong powerful and dominating aura that she had displayed earlier.
"The Heart of Amun-Ra…" Nathifa said. "Half of his heart. The half that holds his joy, his peace, and his love… The Daughters of Ra are to carry his heart… and to protect it… We suffered greatly before this life… so we are given his light…"
Theliane shook her head. "I don't understand…"
"You will, my darling daughter," Nathifa smiled at her. "I love you, Theliane… Remember that… I will always… be with you…"
Her eyes closed and her head fell to the right.
The tears flowed once more. Theliane looked at the Heart of Ra, and took it into her hands. "Father…"
There was a bright light, and Theliane could feel the love and comfort enter her body almost as if it was willing her pain away. Then next thing she knew, Sadiki and a young priest were holding her up and leading her out of the room.
"Are you alright?" Sadiki asked.
"Mother…" Theliane managed to say.
"She is gone, Theliane," said the acolyte priest. "Isis and Ra have called her."
"No!" the young girl broke from the priest's grasp and ran to the still form on the litter. "Mother! Don't leave me! Please!"
"Sadiki, get her out of here."
Nodding, the boy ran to his childhood friend and gently eased her away. "Theliane, please," he said quietly.
Numbly, she allowed herself to be led away from the chamber.
Outside stood her Sister, her Guardians, the remaining Sisters, and everyone else who served in the temple. No one said anything but the grief was easily visible on their faces. Agalameia stepped up and embraced her tightly. She wasn't sure what to say but she held onto her. Zashida and Dalia stepped forward and wrapped their arms around the girls.
"Nathifa gave up her life to free the pharaoh from Set's hold and saved the prince," Dalia told her as she gently stroked her hair.
"It hurts, that we know but you will never be alone," Zashida soothed.
Agalameia slowly pulled back as the two priestesses slowly stepped back, giving them room. "At least, she was able to see you before she left for the Underworld," she whispered.
Theliane nodded, wiping away her tears. I will be strong, she thought, I will protect Egypt. I will guard my Father's Heart just as my mother, and all who preceded me have done.
Authors' Notes
Janime: You know what?
Heikou: What?
Janime: I have 427 saved Ims that were with you.
Heikou: O.O That's a lot of Ims!
Janime: Yep but look at our progress.
Heikou: Hee I love our stories!
Janime: Me too! Only this one is being more difficult than our previous fics.
Heikou: I know. It's so hard not to write Seto or Bakura or anyone else's names where their past life names are.
Janime: And chariot instead of car.
Heikou: No running water or electricity.
Janime: Damn, how did they do it?
Heikou: I don't want to imagine. Thank god for technology!
Janime: No TV, no computers, no internet... no YGO DVDs!
Both: THE HORROR!
Heikou: Back to the fic. Now we see how Theliane (Keriam) became the next Daughter of Ra.
Janime: Not the most pleasant of ways either.
Heikou: I hate writing sad scenes. I end up crying.
Janime: Sometimes I cry.
Heikou: Real team player, aren't you?
Janime: What? I'm not totally devoid of emotion. I cried in two episodes of Ronin Warriors when it first aired in 1995: the episode where the four Ronins are telling Ryo to destroy Talpa and forget about them, and the episode when Anubis died.
Heikou: Oh that was sad. But the final episode made up for it.
Janime: Even if we couldn't see 'certain parts' it was good.
Heikou: (drooling at screen cap)
Janime: (gives Heikou napkins) See you next chapter!
Before we forget, here is what the names mean:
Order is as Partner, Guard, Book Keeper
Chosen of Ra
Omari, means "high born"
Sefu, means "sword"
Zareb, means "guardian" (it's really African but close enough)
Chosen of Osiris
Garai, means "settled"
Fadil, means "generous"
Baruti, means "teacher"
Chosen of Anubis
Ishaq, means "laughs"
Jabari, means "brave"
Asim, means "protector"
Janime: well that list is kinda off for Zashida since she's with Asim; it's more Meshkenet's list