Warning of language and adult themes!

A/N: I had no plan with this chapter, I just started typing and this is what came out! The next one will be a lot more composed and better put together so let's just consider this chapter a filler!

The Mummy's Curse

Ishizu's gaze shifted to lock upon the fair haired woman beside her, paying no mind to the conversations being carried throughout the room to instead take gently lower Kisara back into the chair behind her. Silence slowly fell in the room as they took notice of the two women whose gazes were locked. Solomon and Arthur shared in the confusion but they were the first to approach the pair with concern when both shivered violently. The lights above their heads flickered for several seconds before their bulbs shattered, the glass shards that should have rained down on those who were below instead coming to a halt several inches from making contact with any of them. The sun had set outside, meaning that they should have been plunged into complete darkness, but their beings were illuminated by the subtle glow coming from the platinum haired girl.

"His power is returning," they slowly chorused; Ishizu's lower timbre harmoniously mixing with Kisara's higher to create an almost ethereal contrast as neither looked away from the other's gaze. "Beasts and mankind beware, a curse once cast a millennium ago will soon be in full affect." In unison their heads pivoted until their eyes locked upon the Chinese visitor. "That sin which your bloodline carries will soon come to be paid in full. Take heed in these words, the pharaoh your ancestor betrayed shall soon claim all that you hold dear."

His eyes narrowed. "Are you saying some ghost is going to come after my other children?!" Horror filled his features as several incoherent words spilled from his lips until one of the diplomat's shook his shoulder roughly. "No, it's nothing more than a false legend! It was not our family's fault! The great Egyptian Pharaoh was once friends with our ancestor, why would he now be coming to claim the lives of my children when they are innocent?!"

"Debts made by generations past must be paid by those of future, for once a heinous sin is committed balance will not be found until it had been rightfully repaid." The women chorused, azure gazes hardening. "Betrayal such as that which was dealt is not so easily forgiven."

"I-it's nothing more than a mistake! The prince of that era, our ancestor, left several notes and family recounts of how they often spent several occasions sparing or sharing diplomatic conversations! They were on good terms-"

The floating glass shards came together to form a single mass, melting then morphing until they formed a single deadly weapon that caused all color to leave his face. With a slightly curved hilt, it appeared to be made of scale-like patterns that gave way to a roaring dragon's head at the base from which a blade with a serrated edge that looked sharp enough to cut through bone. "Behold the weapon responsible."

"No, that cannot be! That was a relic heirloom that was lost to our family in the ancient war eras!" His head shook fervently as Kisara's gaze cleared. "It was reportedly stolen from our treasury! This sin you speak of, our family is wrongfully accused of, was committed by another!"

She rose to stand, anger shining within her hardened eyes as a swipe of her hand caused the glass image to dissipate as if it were nothing more than smoke. "The emperor himself gave it to the prince, I saw it within a vision, so do not try to convince me otherwise-"

"I tell no lie!" Large tears seeped from the corners of his eyes as he fell to his knees. "I beg you, what must I do to save my children from this curse?! How can I break it before any more is taken from me?!"

"A curse such as this one will not simply be deterred by words alone." Ishizu moved to stand beside Kisara, her expression grave. "The perpetrator must be found and brought before the risen city to be rightfully judged to clear your family's name."

How was a crime committed a millennium ago supposed to be brought to light?

The Egyptian woman's attention fixated upon her companion as a fierce blush entered her fair cheeks. "Kisara?" She was pulled from the room by a trembling hand, the door closing with a snap behind them as the fair haired girl fanned her face fervently. "What is the matter?"

"It's started! I an't believe it's started, Ishizu, it's happening!"

"Kisara, you are not making any sense. This is hardly anything to be excited about, several lives are at stake as well as the relations between our countries, so I suggest you get ahold of yourself quickly before anyone mistakes your enthusiasm for something malicious." Her eyes narrowed suspiciously. "Unless the reason behind your display is…"

The answer she received was a hurried nod that caused her tanned cheeks to dust rose.

A knowing expression crossed Kisara's face as she invaded the other woman's personal space. "You want to know, don't you?" Her fingers took gentle hold of the other's chin when the woman looked away sheepishly, bringing it upwards so that their gazes met. "Naughty Ishizu for prying into the private affairs of others," she whispered lowly, full lips rising into a teasing smile when the usually stoic and calm woman became flustered when forced to take steps backwards until her back met the neighboring wall, "unless you are jealous."

"Enough of your games, Kisara," Ishizu broke the hold and glared at the fair woman as they began walking down the hallway. "There is much for us to do if we are to prepare for what is to come. In the meantime, you might want to focus that 'gift' of yours upon matters of greater importance."

"What could be more important than this?!"

. . . .

Cerulean eyes closely watched the Anubis soldiers as they marched past, their motions from breathing to strides in perfect sync. Last night's events were hazy, mostly a blur if she were to be completely honest, but there was no denying the alarm she'd felt when waking to find herself wrapped like an infant in an all too familiar cape then recalling the appearance of a rainbow colored snake making its way through the water towards her with wide open jaws. Skin and hair that had been desperately needing cleaned now felt light and were soft to the touch as she carefully brushed out any knots within her chocolate hair. Her clothing though was a different story. She needed to hurry and find something better than the towel or cape she was wearing.

"What the heck happened?!" The shriek that rose from her throat echoed within the air as the young woman stared at the carryon that housed all of her clothing and belongings to find every scrap of cloth torn or shredded beyond recognition. Leggings that once had been decorated with geode patterns now were nothing more than hole filled fabrics that would grow if she were to attempt to wear them; Blouses and simple tops were torn clean into threes as if they expected her to be in the mood to play puzzles to piece them back into one article. Even the spare pair of shoes she'd brought with had been spare, it looked as though they had been literally torn apart by claws she recognized from the slight impressions they'd left on her skin from her last meet with the soldiers who supposedly were meant to protect the city. The gryphon clicked its beak a few times while nuzzling her cheek but she was too distraught by the display of horrendous mutilation of clothing. "All of my outfits…even my bras and underwear…they're rags…" Blazing cerulean met the gaze of the mythical beast, earning a flinch.

Her temper was still fuming as she snuck around every corner within the palace on the hunt for replacement clothing. "I bought those clothes just last week," Anzu grumbled lowly while exiting what felt like the hundredth room empty handed. "Damn those dog-human jerk soldiers for destroying perfectly decent-" The rest of her sentence was lost thanks to a hard impact of her much softer being against something nearly three times as solid that sent her reeling backwards with a yelp.

Calloused hands quickly fell upon her shoulders to steady her before she fell or collided with any of the surrounding sandstone and decorations. "Pray tell, Anzu, what has you in such a worked up state so early this morn?"

Anzu stiffened as the warmth of his hands seeped into her skin through the cape's fabric, heat rising within her cheeks when finding that he had not only prevented her from falling to the ground but that he had also collected her within a half embrace that kept the young woman close enough to where if she decided to take a deep enough breath then their chests would meet. Dressed in the linen tunic with a decorative belt around his waist, the gold accent jewelry he donned looked even more polished than the previous day when she'd found him within the throne. The only things missing today were the long earrings and extravagant sandals whose straps reached halfway up his toned calves. As if today he was expecting more of physically laboring tasks. She was suddenly very aware of her naked form just barely concealed by the cape when a naughty breeze swept past that threatened to expose her to the pharaoh waiting for her answer. What was she supposed to say?!

Amused pomegranate met her frazzled cerulean as her lips parted then closed with no words or sounds coming from between them. Another breeze swept up, this time quite a bit stronger than the previous, and unconsciously glanced downwards in curiosity as her hands tightened their hold on the fabric so that it hugged her being more.

"Cape!" Azure eyes rolled in exasperation as she mentally berated herself when seeing one of his brows rise slightly. "I-I mean thank you."

The blush that bloomed within her cheeks made the corners of his mouth twitch, as if they were wanting to rise into a smile, but they remained steadfast in the neutral line they commonly donned. "You may keep that one, if you truly wish," he said while releasing her slowly so she wouldn't stumble, "I have several like it within my own wardrobe that one will not be missed terribly."

Her head shook. "I'll return it soon but I have something to take care of first."

"I insist."

The temper that had driven her to stomp about the vast palace dwindled beneath his unwavering gaze and words, simmering then extinguishing altogether when he adjusted the makeshift collar around her neck so that it settled better. Upon waking to find herself swaddled in the strange fabric she'd thought it was a bit on the coarse side but the longer it lingered around her being the more she found it comforting. It kept her bare form cool despite the blazing sun that was coming in through the windows or doorways she passed through, the dark violet coloring of it reacting opposite of the logic she knew since colors towards the black end of the spectrum absorbed light that caused that underneath to heat quickly, finding it instead to be light in weight as well as a breathable fabric that allowed her skin to feel unhindered. That had nothing to do with the lingering scents of sandalwood, various spices, and masculine musk that made her senses tingle.

Not. At. All.

"Anzu?"

She shook her head as if hoping to clear the fog that had settled within her head and blinked when finding him not where she'd last registered him to be but instead down on one knee with his attention fixated upon the cape pooling at her feet. "Sorry, what?"

"I asked if you were planning on wearing it for the time being." His fingers deftly straightened the cape, revealing the several inches that would possibly trip her if she were to walk without care. "Perhaps a few alterations are in order if you choose to do so."

Slender brows rose then furrowed as her lips quirked. "I don't mean to sound rude but something tells me you don't know how to sew, oh mighty pharaoh." A bright pink tongue appeared between her lips when his gaze shot upwards to meet her own but there was no sign of annoyance at her words, only genuine honesty as he confessed that she was indeed correct. A sigh slipped from between her lips as she looked around, noting a certain steed missing. "Where did feathers go?"

He rose to stand with a grunt, dusting his hands with a series of claps while also taking a moment to survey their surroundings. "Possibly off hunting." The pharaoh sighed while absentmindedly adjusting the cuffs around his wrists, noting how they were a bit tighter than usual. Was a storm on its way? Not only the cuffs but his diadem that normally rested snuggly upon his head was feeling a smidge small as well. If there was a storm brewing, it may be one to cause concern. Hopefully not. The city was still in the process of being rebuilt and the supplies within the palace were in desperate need of replenishing. There was enough for now but soon the soldiers would need to be sent out in search of crops. "Wasiaaslama would be more than capable of returning with game that we can later portion and ration for later consumption, so I suspect he will be returning soon."

"I think I'm going to regret this, but what could he possibly be hunting?"

"Gazelle roam freely in several herds around the city walls, along with jackals and several other mammals, and the neighboring Nile offers plenty of hippo, crocodile, and fish." The tip of his finger tapped against his chin as he thought for a moment. "Though I wouldn't be surprised if he brought along a beast or two."

Color drained from her face. "You mean like that snake?!"

Playful mischief filled his gaze as he heard her fearful tone. "Here in the desert, one cannot be picky with one's food. Shall I request some dishes to be made so you can better acquaint yourself with such tastes?"

"I think I'm good, thanks, maybe I'll just have some more of that fruit from the other day." Cerulean eyes widened when he crossed his arms. "Don't tell me that there are some creatures who disguise themselves like that!"

"Rest assured," he chuckled, "you have not come across one of that nature..."

Well that was reassuring with the "yet" hanging off of the sentence's end when he deliberately left it incomplete. Humming softly in thought and to acknowledge that she'd heard him, she glanced down at the cape when taking a step and perked. "If I had the supplies, I could maybe even make myself new clothes," she mumbled to herself as an afterthought while stroking her chin in thought. "Unless there are some lying around that I could borrow."

"Come."

The heat that had faded from her cheeks returned full force as tanned fingers entwined with her own without warning, the gentle but firm hold they had causing the fine hairs across her being to rise as he led her from the palace. Her protests were mere squeaks as several of the soldiers responsible for her current state of dress moved to intervene but they fell back with stern words from the man who led her by the hand. At least no one could see her sorry state, right?

. . . .

Suspicion filled Ishizu's gaze as it narrowed upon the fair Kisara who had fallen into a fit of giggles from where she was seated to read through various tomes. Curiosity threatened to rise when giggles turned into suppressed laughter but the stoic woman remained where she was combing through ancient lore. The book in her hands met the surface of the desk with a light impact when it finally became too much for even her to withstand. She made her way across the room, which were completely missed by the other woman, then came to a stop in front of the platinum haired girl. "You aren't prying into matters that do not concern you, correct, Kisara?"

"I can't help it! It's like a movie is playing in my head!" She crowed, hands slapping themselves over her mouth as another burst of laughter bubbled up her throat.

"Have you no shame?"

Kisara wiggled her eyebrows. "Don't you give me that high and mighty persona, Ishizu, I know that you're just dying to find out what's going on between them two." A wide smile lifted her lips as she straightened, hands falling to rest within her lap. "For instance: what do you get when a Twenty-First Century girl finds that all of her clothes are nothing more than scraps?"

The Egyptian woman's head threatened to tilt to the side. "Is that a joke of some sort? You know I dislike them."

"Your too boring! Come on, think! Use that beautiful brain of yours!" Azure eyes widened for a moment becoming glazed and what Ishizu could only call the goofiest grin in the entire world spread across the young woman's face, making her all the more curious and a bit weary of what was being seen.

. . . .

The warmth from his fingers seeped into her own then traveled up the length of her arm until it tickled her cheeks as they walked. His hold had become more gentle as her slender fingers that were initially stiff slowly relaxed so that their digits were more comfortable, earning a suppressed hitch of her breath when his occasionally squeezed her own as if to encourage her to allow him to continue whenever she hesitated. She'd found the palace much larger than her imagination could ever fathom so it was a bit comforting to have someone that knew their way around as well as he did. Which would make complete sense especially given who he was.

"I have a question."

Ruby pomegranate glanced over his shoulder at her, alight with curiosity as their pace dropped to a more pleasant walking stride. "I might have an answer."

"You don't have to, but you grew up here, right? Being prince and all you would've been born and raised in the palace."

He blinked then nodded. "Indeed I was."

"So you of all people would know where all the best hiding places or secret passages?" She couldn't help herself and giggled. "I bet playing hide-and-seek would have been a huge challenge."

A chuckle rumbled within his chest but it was clear to her it was halfhearted. "I am an only child, I am afraid to admit, and being born to such a family as this often is much different than most imagine."

She seriously wanted to kick herself as an expression of loss filled his features. Stupid, stupid, stupid! "Oh, no, I'm so sorry. I shouldn't have just jumped to conclusions or pried."

His fingers gave hers a squeeze as he came to a stop at a fork, fully shifting so that they were facing instead of him a step ahead of her. There was no anger within his gaze as their eyes met but there was a sorrow within them that caused her heart to clench painfully; she'd seen pain like that in her own reflection. "The late pharaoh and his queen, they were farther along in age then most when I was born. I never knew my mother but my father," a brief flash of pride appeared within his gaze before it rose to one of the nearby statues, "he ruled with such a strong individual with a mind sharper than a serpent's tongue. Several times he earned the respect and awe of stranger solely due to his just reign. Even though he was pharaoh, he still ensured there was plenty of time for him to venture among the people so as to put their worries at ease when troubling times were upon them."

The heart in her chest fluttered. So he'd grown up with a single parent as well. At least his father sounded like a decent guy compared to the one who raised herself. "I'm glad you had someone like him," she said softly, unconsciously removing her fingers from his hold to slip it back within the cape's interior where it clasped her other hand. "I can tell you learned a lot from him." Her head shook when his gaze returned to hers and offered a small sad smile. "I live with my uncle and his two adoptive sons; Seto is about two years older than myself and Mokuba is five years younger than me. Trust me when I say that moving in with Gozuburo and those two were quite the shock compared to what I was used to."

"Your uncle and cousins?" Understanding filled his amethyst gaze that was closely followed by sympathy.

"H-hey, at least I wasn't sent off to an orphanage or something when they died in the car accident." She forced a chuckle, leaning backwards until the sandstone wall met her back and slid downwards until she was sitting on the floor, ensuring that the cape was secured enough as her legs bent then rested off to the side. The hole in her heart that had formed a scab was threatening to tear itself off but for some reason the tears that she thought would rise never did as the pharaoh took a seat to her left. "Compared to what could've happened, I got lucky he decided to take me in. Though I gotta admit it was hard for a while since he and those two's method of showing emotion is about as good as the sun showing a smile." Her head shook when he made to speak. "I'm not saying they weren't human or anything, they just didn't like showing emotion is all…or giving it. It's still hard to believe that Gozuburo is my mother's elder brother since they hardly act alike."

His head tilted. "Oh?"

"My parents loved hugs so there would be often times where I would just find myself being swept up in a tight one out of nowhere or falling into a giggle fest because one would sneak a kiss or two on my cheek when I wasn't expecting it." A sheepish smile raised her lips. "That was dad's favorite game, to sneak as many as he can before I could escape his hold. Mom would always be waiting to snatch me up the second it did and they would both have at me as if there was no tomorrow. " She giggled softly, the smile fading into a deep frown as a breeze swept the chocolate bangs that had grown long enough to tickle her lashes to the side. "They were very open with their emotions so it was easy to tell them when I felt and what I felt but not my uncle. There were times when I wondered if he was a robot like the ones his company builds. Seto isn't much better but at least Mokuba often helps him remember that he's human every so often."

"This 'accident', is this why you are so driven to be a physician?"

Cerulean widened. "Yeah, you could say that." She watched his face closely while recounting the traumatic event that had stolen away her parents but never did it waver from the expression of admiration that had filled his features. Once finished, her jaw threatened to drop as awe filled his gaze. "Wait, so you don't think I'm crazy? Weren't female doctors a taboo or something back in your era or something?"

"For some, I would assume, but I find your motivation quite admirable, Anzu. There are few who would find great inspiration within such darkness as you have so do not be ashamed or allow what others think could your goal." That smile lifted his lips as he shifted so that his entire body was facing her. "I predict that they would be proud of what you have accomplished and if you hadn't, I would not presently be conversing here with you."

Shock filled her. He was absolutely right! If she hadn't pushed herself as hard, if she'd listened to the scholars and others who had said it was futile to reach her goal, then she wouldn't have been able to successfully perform the surgery that somehow saved his life! She's actually saved a life even though her training was incomplete!

The smile faded from his face as her wide eyes threatened to drift from his own. "So that was the cause of your deep rooted sadness I felt from you." Calloused fingers gently took hold of her chin, raising it so that their gazes met better as he came just a bit closer. His gemstone gaze held sympathy but there was no pity or deniable evidence that he was simply putting on a show for her behalf. There was nothing but genuine concern within their depths as his thumb brushed along the length of her jawline. "For one to have lost such doting individuals then find themselves surrounded by such polar opposites, Anzu, I can scarcely imagine how difficult that must have been for you."

The degree of gentleness within his voice and fingers brushing against her skin were almost too much for her heart that suddenly felt more like a butterfly trapped in a jar. Males of the Twenty-First Century were pompous, cold, devious down to the bone who sought to overpower those with their strength. Honestly she'd practically given up hope of finding someone worth more than a friendship, let alone dating them, but all those hesitations and doubts were fading away the longer she was within this lost city.

All because of him.

He was nothing like those "boys". This man was openly honest with her, genuine, protective but not to the point where it was borderline possessive, a smile that was rare yet kind, a gaze that was as confident and alluring as it was calming, his presence reminding her of the golden sunshine that was right outside these beige colored walls. As if that weren't enough he had just a bit of humor and mischief mixed in that helped her feel a bit more at ease with how he helped to bring down the mountain-like walls that she'd built up at her uncle's behest. Emotions that had been once taboo were now welcomed and encouraged the more she was with him. The icing and sprinkles on the cake was how damn attractive he was. Wild hair included, he had such extinguished features that she had to occasionally remind herself that he was indeed real and not a mirage brought on by the desert heat. Atem, this ancient pharaoh, that she'd somehow saved, was unlike anyone she'd ever met.

Realization crashed down on her as he withdrew his hand, the lingering warmth from his fingers creeping up to settle within her cheeks. "I think I'm in trouble…" she croaked, fighting to swallow the lump in her throat while hurrying to shake her head when his lips parted probably to question what she meant and stood with a smile. "N-never mind, forget I said anything. You were leading me somewhere that might have supplies for me to alter the cape, right?" A breath of relief that came out as a sigh slipped between her lips as he chose not to question her and instead rose to his feet as well.

"Indeed I was. Let us continue onward then." He had taken a few steps by the time she'd moved away from the wall but he didn't break stride as slender fingers brushed against his own, quickly lacing them without hesitation and offered a side smile when she fell into step beside him. He'd heard her words clearly and had a sneaking suspicion of what they meant since she was in no physical danger or situation that would result in punishment.

And it made the heart in his chest warm beyond what the sun within the sky above was capable of accomplishing.

Panic filled her as the palace's main entrance came into view ahead of them. Was he trying to lead her outside?! Besides the guards, it was only just them in the entire city. The cape was long enough to hide her being even if her grasp on it were to slacken yet the thought of stepping outside and out of the sanctity of the palace. Chills crept across her skin like tiny bugs as the voices of Gozuburo and several other faceless figures that appeared within her peripheral vision that whispered she was about to make a mistake, that she should retreat to what they thought was more acceptable than the course of action she was about to take, the crawling sensations giving way to invisible fingers that threatened to pull her backwards by force if she didn't listen.

"Anzu."

Hesitation and alarm almost made her falter in mid stride but his fingers giving hers a comforting squeeze spurred her onwards. As if to offer more encouragement, he took the first step outside of the shadow that was the palace's, giving their joined fingers a light tug, and couldn't help but nibble her bottom lip as he flashed the smirk that made her heart pound a little harder. Exotic ruby pomegranate met her azure gaze as she threw off the shades with a shake of her head. The young woman's feet carried her forward and into the sunlight until she had joined him on the step, uncaring that the sudden change in light nearly blinded her, and tightened her hold on his hand. "Let's go!"

This time a smile did raise his lips as the tension within her being visibly vanished. Whatever that had been hanging over Anzu like a dark shadow was finally beginning to dissipate and internally he raised a prayer to Ra as she followed unhindered when he descended another stair. The sunlight shinning off the highlights within her chocolate hair made them appear as if gold had been braided into her locks but it was her eyes that now shone brighter than any azure hued gem that the noble family possessed that he couldn't tear his gaze away from. They were practically shining like stars as she hurried to follow him whenever he moved. It was as she was a few steps from the bottom, their motions in perfect sync and strides matching, that he pivoted to face her.

So surprised was Anzu that she tripped but found herself being caught up within his lean arms as gravity and momentum carried her forward. Their hands still joined anchored her farther to him as the other reflexively wrapped around her waist, their foreheads lightly meeting as he accepted her full weight against his own. A wide smile lifted her lips as he lifted her a bit higher so that the breeze tickled her face but not so high that the cape preserving her dignity would flutter to expose anything. When was the last time she'd felt this light? She shook the question away as he brought her downwards, the arm that had freed itself from her shield wrapping loosely around his neck as their beings met.

"Shall we?" He asked once placing her on her feet, their hands finding one another's once again as he directed her attention towards the open road ahead of them.

She gave his fingers a hearty squeeze. "Lead the way!"

. . . .

A slender brow twitched as a high pitched squeal came from the armchair across the room, fingers rising to rub her temple. "Kisara, I swear to the ancient gods that if you don't stop that this instant I am going to-"

"They are too cute!"

Ishizu's usually slow building temper was fast approaching its maximum limit by the second, what with her friend's constant wiggling or high pitched exclamations that threatened to scare her to death, but she held fast even in the wake of this trial of patience. This had been going on for a few hours now but it only just recently got to the point where she couldn't concentrate upon the texts she was attempting to read. Standing, she walked to the door when a knock sounded and accepted the tray of food that was passed to her courtesy of an assistant but she was beyond surprised when finding not one of her brothers but both of them appearing from farther down the hall. "Marik, Odion," she called and earned bright smiles when they caught sight of her, "though I am glad to see you, I am curious to know what brought you here."

The eldest, Odion, slipped the tray from her grasp as they entered so that its weight wouldn't burden her while Marik focused his attention upon the fair haired beauty who peeked at them from overtop of the book in her hands. "We have been curious as to why you have not returned home in the last several days, Ishizu, we were worried."

"Now I see why." Marik flashed a friendly smile. "Longtime no see, Kisara. It's been, what, five years?"

Her jaw dropped as the book fell from her hands while standing. "No freaking way!"

Both Odion and Marik grunted as she threw her arms around their necks, nearly causing them to head bash each other, but neither attempted to break her hold as she grinned widely. "It's good to see you," they chorused, "we see that you're keeping sister busy as expected."

She released them with a gasp and began to bounce on her heels. "She's no fun so I'm so glad to see you guys! You won't believe what's happening!"

"It was our plane that went down during that recent storm, so I think we're all caught up on the curse and mummy and stuff." Marik chuckled.

"No, no, no," Kisara shook her head, "I'm talking about something much more important!"

The brothers shared a glance, shrugging or shaking their heads when neither could fathom what she was insinuating, "Don't got a clue.' They finally chorused after several seconds.

Azure eyes rolled as the descendant of the oracle line groaned, the tanned Egyptian woman giving them a . "Be glad you don't."

Slumping back in the chair, she mumbled lowly beneath her breath of how they were probably too thick skulled to understand anyway, but their attentions all honed upon the fair haired woman when her face became beet red and gaze glassy. Ishizu would have crossed the room in an instant if not for the tiny trail of blood seeping from Kisara's nose. "Both of you best be glad you have not had to deal with this."

"What is her problem? Her visions don't normally cause her to react like that-" Marik's question answered itself when his eyes widened. "Oh." A grimace overtook his features. "Eeeeew."

"Evidently she's seeing what is occurring between the two."

Odion's brows rose. "As in the resurrected pharaoh and the missing Japanese girl?"

"The very same."

Marik covered his ears while gagging. "Double eeeeeewwww!"

. . . .

The walk was short and by the time they came to a stop in front of a building decorated with fabric- honestly, how had she not noticed it in the first place since there were so many bright colors?! -that caused excitement to bubble within her being. Cerulean gazed about the space they stepped into with awe. Earthy tones were what history books and tenderized CGI of ancient cultures had portrayed but this was so much better that she for a moment became rooted to the ground.

Brilliant to pastel blues, rosy pinks that became vibrant reds, cooling violets neighbor to soothing indigos , there were even golden yellows that were similar to polished jewelry!

"Wow!" She gasped, moving to examine some of the warmer colors on the far side, their fingers separating as he watched with an amused expression. A surprised sound slipped up her throat when finding the cloths varying in texture from the silk she'd encountered within the palace to the linen that made up the tunic the pharaoh himself wore. Some were heavy, almost as if they were satin or thick wool, while others were light and almost see through chiffon! It was as if she stepped through the doorway of some portal to a dimension where every fabric in existence was on display for her! Slender fingers trailed over the hanging displays as she walked between the aisles until she found herself back at the entrance of the building where he was leaning against the doorway watching her. "This is amazing!"

"Trading has allowed us to experience far more than just consumable goods. I quickly found that fabrics used in clothing often helped in raising the spirits of my subjects." Pride was evident in his body language as he ventured farther inside at her behest, closely following the young brunette as she began walking amongst the various fabrics once more. He carefully watched and made note of when or where she would pause to better examine a fabric until they had once again returned to the entrance. "I couldn't help but notice how you favored the pastels, Anzu." The pharaoh's lips quirked in the corner. "Specifically the warm hues."

She blinked. "I did?"

"Several times you gravitated towards them even if we were on the opposite I sides of the room and your gaze lingered upon the chiffon or other lighter weight fabrics than the others." Ruby pomegranate met her azure briefly before they honed in on the four she'd paid extra attention to then proceeded to gather the fabrics, carefully laying them out across the bare table that was within the space's center so that a few yards were visible; crisp white chiffon, peachy smooth silk that glistened like water, rosy pink matte ribbon, and finally a sea foam satin.

The young woman was shocked at the care and expert motions of his fingers as he handled the fabric. Clearly he had not been one to simply sit on the throne and throw orders at servants; the lean muscles he sported told her he at least trained his physical body, so to see those same battle honed calloused fingers smooth out every wrinkle present within the cloths before him was like watching an artist before a canvas. "Something tells me that you've done something like this before." Sliding within the seat not too far from where he worked, she rested her chin upon folded hands that were beneath the cape still enclosed around her being. She didn't expect an answer, judging from the amount of concentration written across his face, but she blinked when noticing how every few seconds that the piece of white wax chalk that he'd picked up would still from over the fabrics his gaze would rise to dart across her being then return downwards as his hand continued. Cerulean blinked when a shift of her leg in the process of crossing over the other knocked into something and bent downwards to see that several cubbies were beneath the strange workbench.

He blinked when glancing upwards to find her missing from the seat he'd last seen her within, taking a moment to glance around, then continued his work when spotting a hand that held a threaded needle occasionally appeared from beyond the work bench's. Relief filled him knowing that she was near instead of out wandering, which he originally hadn't had a problem with since Wasiaaslama often spent most of it's time attached to her side anyway, but today the mount had decided hunting was necessary. The pharaoh could simply command one of the Anubis soldiers to be her guard until the gryphon's return however he was still a bit upset with them over their last treatment of the young woman.

No. This was the perfect opportunity he could take to hopefully remedy the lingering fear that he spotted within her gaze whenever they were approached by the soldiers. He would take today to personally guard over Anzu himself.

Patterns finished, he blinked as his mind filled with a blank. Very rarely did this ever occur to the ruler, if ever, but the chalk within his hand had stilled; its job of tracing the patterns was done. Ruby pomegranate rose from the fabrics to rest upon the young woman. "Anzu?"

"Hm?" Her soft hum went unanswered, causing her head to rise, and quickly bit her lip when finding him regarding the fabrics he'd laid out with narrowed eyes. It wasn't in hesitation, nor was it disdain, but it definitely was an expression she'd yet to see on him. "What's the matter?"

His Adam's apple bobbed, signaling a swallow, but he didn't speak as she straightened to stand.

The cape had been sewn in several places so that it would settle better upon her much smaller frame and had been trimmed so that she could walk without fear of tripping, even adding a hidden button or two within the inner seams so that she no longer had to hold it in place and use her hands freely. "Everything okay?" She asked while moving to stand beside him, surveying the outlines of waxy chalk against the fabrics. Still he didn't answer, though for a moment it seemed as though he was prepared to, and then it hit her as his pomegranate gaze that had been darting in every direction sheepishly met her own. "I think I get it. Well, you just happen to be in luck." Her lips lifted into a smile, earning a blink from him. "I'm not a seamstress but I took several home economic courses and just so happen to have some idea of where to go from here." A pair of sheers appeared within her hand as she made to start cutting the first outline but paused and looked to the pharaoh who watched with curiosity. "Wait, so you knew how to draw patterns but don't know how to sew?"

Pink slowly entered his tanned cheeks, almost too light for her to see, as he took her vacated seat. "Unfortunately, events occurred before I was taught beyond this point."

"You were more of a hands on person than one who just let others do things for you kind of pharaoh, huh?" Her head bobbed in a nod as she began slowly cutting into the fabric. "I personally like those kind of people most. Why rely on others when you are capable of doing things for the most part yourself?"

"A ruler who knows naught of their subjects's way of living is a bigger fool than he who willingly stumbles into the jaws of a ravenous beast." His head tilted in alternating directions, gaze following the movements of her hands as they worked. "I personally made it a mission to familiarize myself with their struggles and joys. It helped me develop a better understanding of what they required to prosper as well as perform and live happily to the best of my abilities. It also allowed me to become well versed in the crimes or underhanded dealings that were happening."

Her heart gave a lurch. "Like a black market trading or something?"

"Something of the sort, yes, along with illegal slave trafficking."

Warmth bloomed within her chest. "Such a generous and kind hearted king to take so much interest within the lives of his subjects," her lips rose into a sad smile, "I bet you got lots of attention from other empires and some people who thought you were crazy. I doubt you would've listened to their criticism though. You don't seem to be the type of person who cares what others think or say behind your back and that's something I wish I had." Her head snapped upwards, hands pausing in their motions, cerulean meeting pomegranate. "Sorry, don't mind me, just rambling a bit of nonsense over here."

He had moved from the seat almost too fast for her to comprehend but his fingers caressing her cheek as they drifted past to instead cradle the side of her head within his palm. "I believe one should express themselves without hinderance. You have struggled beneath the expectations that others have placed upon you but they do not apply here." The calloused pads of his fingers lightly teased the sensitive skin of her neck as they brushed against her being, his gaze seizing her own. "Do not fear or hide anything from me, Anzu, for I desire to know a person's true nature. Wasiaaslama has told me of your courage and resourcefulness when you found yourself within my sunken city, the music you played from your device soothing not only your own restlessness but his own as well. Though you were surrounded by darkness while within a strange place, you still held onto hope that rescue would come." His rich baritone deepened, the weight of the pharaoh's words growing with each that passed through his lips as gravity seemed to pull them closer to the point where their beings were lightly brushing and caused her body to reflexively shift to face his own. "Where most would have lamented or given up you thrived and strove to survive. You are unlike anyone I have had the privilege of meeting, Anzu, and I cannot help but find myself thinking about or yearning to be within your presence. I have not experienced anything like what I feel when you are near…"

Though his words had faded into silence, the pair found themselves transfixed by the other's gaze. A breeze swept through in this moment, bringing with it the hint of humidity that spoke of rain, and they slowly separated as a distant roll of thunder sounded. It wouldn't be long until they needed to return to the palace if they were to have proper shelter.

"A storm is brewing," he said softly while retreating a few steps to allow space between them, "I shall be right outside conversing with soldiers to prepare for it."

Shadows stretched across the ground as the sun's passage carried it across the sky, the young woman working quietly and diligently though occasionally taking a moment to gaze upwards during short breaks to find him within the doorway as he promised. Her heart was still hammering away as the words he'd spoken rang loudly within her ears that only caused Anzu's being to warm farther into what she was sure was a full bodied blush. If the pharaoh had noticed it, he didn't acknowledge it, but he was never without words of encouragement whenever she paused in frustration. Occasionally a smile was shared or a question was asked of where something would be that she required, to which he answered with descriptive directional steps to assist her search, then they would fall into a relaxed silence once more. The cell phone she'd resorted as to filling the air with music was currently back within her room where it was charging courtesy of a power bank since the solar powered one had been discovered with less than five-percent left.

This silence was different than that she'd become familiar with back at home were it was almost always just her and when finding herself within the city. It had been near maddening quiet to the point where her own blood pumping and the oxygen coming into her lungs were deafening. Now it was pleasant, calming, natural as the soft breeze that came in through the windows caused the surrounding fabrics to flutter and with subtle controlled breaths that were his providing the young woman more ease of mind knowing that she was not alone.

Pops sounded as she stood, arms rising to the ceiling in victory as she snipped the last string. "Finished!"

"Excellent craftsmanship." He commended while examining the pieces, head bobbing in a nod when noting the figure near the doorway he'd been standing within, the breeze that had been gentle now violent enough to cause alarm. "And not a moment to spare. Come, Anzu, we must hurry back!"

She glanced about the space. "What about-"

"It shall all be fine, the soldiers shall seal it up once we depart, now we must go!" The clothing were wrapped carefully but quickly within a spare package he'd spotted earlier, tucking both it and the young woman against his sides, then stepped out into the street.

A shriek rose up her throat as the ground disappeared from beneath their feet, her hold upon him tightening when the torrential wind that carried drops of liquid that were more like pellets pummeled and tore at her being. Almost a heartbeat later she was staggering from the sudden appearance of solid ground beneath her feet once more but he readily steadied her as the screaming of wind gave way to their quick breathing that was almost in unison as he drew her towards a hearth that looked incredibly welcoming right now since the cape was completely soaked with the icy rain that had come up as if from nowhere.

"Apologies, Anzu, there was no time for me to return you to your chambers. For now we can remain here within my own."

For a moment the words he'd spoken didn't sink into her psyche until a glance around revealed an extravagantly decorated space with the biggest bed she'd ever seen a short distance away that was surrounded by a white chiffon canopy. A freakin' giant could sleep in the dang thing! It looked so comfy though that her own back in Japan now seemed as appealing as the floor. The one here within her "chamber" was nice too but that one looked so inviting that she had to fight down the temptation to ask if she could lie down for a minute just to see if it was as great as it looked. On the floor were a few woven rugs with various hieroglyphic designs that matched a few paintings up on the walls that brought color to the otherwise beige room. Her head drifted back in his direction as a low chant barely above a whisper sounded. What was he doing now? Cerulean eyes widened as a few of his tanned fingers rubbed together, as if he were attempting to snap them, and gasped with awe as sparks danced across his skin for a few seconds before they took flight like butterflies towards the hearth where a warm blaze came to life.

He appeared to be just as soaked as she was. The tunic that had been loose fitting was now literally a second skin against his being, perfectly outlining the muscles that consisted of his torso and being and causing the faint memory of being in the hot spring with him flooded her mind. Somehow the wild hair atop of his head remained in its upright style, even back then it had done so as well, but it was as her eyes found the tiny little rivers trickling down from his hairline to carry her gaze farther down his being. "Soon you will be warm, Anzu, but until then you must shed that cape lest you catch illness."

Her attention snapped upwards to find his ruby pomegranate gaze sincere and full of concern, heat searing across her cheeks and bridge of her nose as the awe of the display of magic forgotten. "Are you telling me to strip?!"

The pharaoh was taken aback by the sudden exclamation but he remained diligent. "If you do not remove the wet cloth from around you, the chances of you becoming ill are greater, correct?"

"I-" she sputtered, recalling how he was being one-hundred-percent logical, but the sheer audacity of him asking to remove the only article of clothing that was shielding her dignity was almost too much! Her wide eyes blinked when he revealed the dry clothing that they had worked together to create. Hesitation filled her though when recalling the strange patterns. How was she supposed to put it on her body. "I…" the young woman swallowed the lump in her throat, unable to meet his gaze, "I'm not familiar with how those should be worn…I'm going to need…help…"

Ruby pomegranate blinked for a moment, unsure if he'd heard her right, then tanned cheeks filled with heat. He cleared his throat and quickly dismissed the soldiers and guards who were lingering nearby, the cloth within the nearby doorway falling still after a few seconds that signified that none were nearby, and took a deep inhale through his nose. "I give you my word that I shall-"

Her lips rose into a slight smirk as the rest of his sentence was lost in an incoherent noise when she deftly turned her back then shed the cape so that it pooled in a heap on the floor, the dancing flames exposing her full form, and shyly peeked at him from over her now bare shoulder. Another expression was on his face that she couldn't directly identify but the flare of womanly pride that rose when finding his gaze darkening with each passing second was just a foreign yet exciting to Anzu. He was looking upon her as if she were a goddess come to earth, as if nothing else in the world could compare to the sight before him, and it made her blood race as he met her gaze after several moments. It wasn't as if he was ogling or devouring her with his gaze alone, she knew full well what that felt like since there wasn't a day that went by when she was at school where such were a common occurrence, it had been respectful in every sense of the word.

What was that she saw within his expression and exotic colored eyes as he took the first step towards her?

The rug beneath their feet had quickly become soaked thanks to the water trailing off their beings, the areas that had been unaffected becoming dark and damp as he walked until coming to a stop no more or less than six inches from their being meeting. Near blissful warmth that had come from the hearth now felt cold compared that coming off of his form as one of his hands reached out towards her. She blamed the chill of the rain that had seeped into her skin but the moment he touched her was as if a spark was given birth within her veins. Every muscle within her being trembled then relaxed beneath his fingers as they drifted across her being until both of her arms that had been tucked protectively around her chest were spread, his other hand gently slipping first the right through what she suspected to be an arm hole of whatever garment he held then the left soon followed. The calloused pads of his fingers ghosted over her shining skin still lingering with moisture that was courtesy of the rain when they traveled to better situate the foreign fabric.

Sea foam satin was the first to grace her being. It reminded her a bit of a corset but it was left loose fitting on her upper ribcage while the bodice hugged and supported the mounds that had begun to protest from lack of support, which quieted once fully secured by ribbons that were tied by a knot resting upon the nape of her neck like a halter top. Though there was no boning, the placement of the ribbons were perfect to allow her free movement without fear of her chest slipping out of this strange but comfortable undergarment. The fine hairs across her body rose as his hands drifted down to rest upon her hips, fingers lightly tapping the muscles there in silent request for her to part them slightly once securing another piece of satin around the dip of her waist. Heart pounding in her ears and heat flushing her cheeks the young woman did as what was asked and blinked when not a moment later found the most sensitive part of her boy cradled within the fabric. It was so smooth and sturdy that there was no doubt it would hold well when she walked or moved. Just like the bodice it was secured by an almost garter belt-like contraption around her waist.

Overtop of them rested the peach hued silk. Satin was a somewhat thicker fabric where heat could often become trapped yet it somehow was pleasantly breathable with the addition of this layer. Silk in itself was smooth and figure forming by nature so it was no surprise that it instantly hugged the young woman's frame in ways that made her want to sigh with pleasure. It was just like the sheets that were on her bed back in the chamber, almost making her drowsy with how it caressed her skin as if attempting to lure her to slumber.

"Mmm…" Embarrassment filled Anzu the moment the soft moan had slipped through her lips but no retort or scold came from he who continued about his task. Her head had drifted to the side in reflex of the sensations permeating her body, the lids of her eyes that had closed opening hesitantly when curiosity got the best of her.

His hands remained steady but the shifting shards of rubies within his darkened pomegranate eyes threatened to hypnotize her if she looked too long. The hearth's flickering flames revealed an expression that was a mix of adoration, fondness, and something much more thrilling that lingered beneath the surface of his gaze when it met her own. Moisture was still visibly clinging to the tunic he wore, the outline of his torso not as pronounced but still enough to reveal the hidden power he held, heat slowly pooling within her lower abdomen when finding that he'd removed the diadem that had been upon his head and the cuffs around his wrists were gone; must've discarded them when reaching for the next piece of fabric.

Concern filled her when he fell still. Had she offended him in some way with that noise just now? The apology that leapt up her throat became a knot of words until only one managed to find its way to her lips. "Pharaoh?" Her voice was so breathy, less than a whisper, that she thought he might not have heard her.

"Anzu?" His tanned lips had barely moved yet there was no doubt that he'd responded by calling her name as his motions paused. Though all he had said was one word, there was the hidden inquiry of if she wanted him to stop or continue within his rich baritone that rivaled the silk's smoothness.

Her head slowly shook, lips rising into an assuring smile before facing forward once more; a sign for him to continue. Unbeknownst to him though that she found her gaze gravitating back to watch as he worked.

Rosy ribbons were tied around her wrists that connected the white outer layer of chiffon resting upon her shoulders. Honestly she loved this fabric more than the silk with how breathable and opaque it could be when layers. It made her think of the days when her family would take walks in the neighborhood park back when she still wore dresses and cutesy things that were more on the feminine side. Like a robe it was cinched around her being with a long slit on the right side that almost reached the hem of the underlying silk's shielding the apex between her legs. There was ample room around her legs to allow free movement and its high-low hem tickled the backs of her calves.

The young woman watched in awe as his expression, which had become one of concentration as his gaze followed the clothing's path. Time itself was lost to her as she was captivated by the way his hands threatened to carry her off into daydream land with their gentleness and almost teasing-like brushes while adjusting the fabrics in some places. The heart in her chest pounded louder and faster with each warm breath that came from him. Everywhere that he touched felt as though the sun itself was blessing her being but her gaze never wavered from his face as he enclosed her being within the clothing they had worked together to create. A shiver passed over her spine when his arms that had bypassed her own to secure a sash around her waist lingered after a knot secured it against her being, their faces inches from touching now being as he'd been forced to come even closer to do so, his chest that was rising and falling with its breaths lightly brushing against her back. Their difference in height wasn't out of the ordinary by any means but suddenly she was aware of just how much smaller she was compared too him.

All he had to do was lean his upper torso just a bit and his chin would be resting upon her shoulder, the side of his face nearly perfectly parallel with her own, the build of his body more more firm than her own, shoulders broader enough that made her think they could carry the weight of the world upon them… Everything about Atem, this pharaoh, pulled at her very heart and soul as if by the invisible red string of fate that she'd always thought was nothing more than a childish notion. The concept itself was bizarre, fantasy even, yet here she was unable to deny the allure this man had on her.

Cerulean became hooded as his breath caught and caused the sides of their faces to brush, darkened pomegranate glittering with ruby shards meeting her gaze. They were blazing brightly with a hidden flame that made her core warm then tighten with unfamiliar excitement as his being fully met hers. Now there was no space between her back and his front as one of his hands fell to rest upon her waist while the other rose to brush the somewhat dry chocolate hair over her shoulder. Her arms slowly fell to rest at her sides, one hand resting over his own as the other rose to cup the side of his face that was facing away from her.

They were now so close that if she turned her head any farther their noses would meet, their parted lips would be brushing…

All she had to do was move less than an inch…

Just a bit of pressure from her hand would be enough…

And suddenly she was facing him, the hand that had been brushing his own now finding itself trapped within its light but firm hold, their faces somehow even closer now as her being was brought flush against his own. Their gazes remained locked as his head lowered, allowing their noses to brush and foreheads to meet. "Anzu." Tremors threatened to wrack her being at his husky whisper that caressed her face with warmth, the strength in her legs unsteady as the hand that had been within her hair gave a soft tug so that her head craned backwards ever so slightly while the tip of his nose brushed along the length of her own.

Blood was racing within their veins…

Hearts hammering like synchronized drums…

Breaths becoming quick and gaspy…

Senses were teased with the other's scent…

A shout came from somewhere, causing the pair to instantly become alarmed when it was closely followed by an earth shaking bellow. Horus soldiers burst into the room, each with wide eyes that honed upon their king's. Clicks of their beaks were followed by his expression becoming hard enough to rival the paintings she'd seen in textbooks of wrathful entities or gods from legends and myths. It would have been frightening to the young woman if not for the way his gaze met her own, hesitation within them.

"What are you waiting for? If they need you somewhere, then go!" She removed herself from his hold, shaking her head when his lips parted, effectively silencing him by placing a few fingers against them. "I'm not going anywhere, okay? I'll be right here waiting for you."

"I shall leave some soldiers to guard over you in case I fail."

Her palm met his cheek in a light impact, earning a noise of anger from the soldiers who watched and a flash of surprise within his gaze. "Don't go jinxing yourself. You will come back because you made a promise that you would repay me for saving your life." The harsh tone she'd started out with softened, as did her cerulean gaze. "You're a king whose word is law. If it's one thing I've learned about you it's that you will do everything you can to come back to me even if it's to repay the debt you have." Shyness rose but before it could stop her, the hand shifted to the back of his head where it effectively pulled him downwards far enough that her lips met his cheek in the same place where her palm had lightly struck him. "Don't come back for that but for this," she whispered into his ear before withdrawing enough so that their noses brushed, "I will be waiting." She nearly laughed when he remained rooted to the spot despite her taking several steps away from him, those sharp yet exotic eyes of his wide and blinking as though he were blind sighted by her actions.

The soldiers she'd almost forgotten about suddenly surrounded her, their spears shining brightly within the hearth's firelight and expressions of anger. A snap in that ancient tongue flew from his lips with warning flashing within his gaze that for a moment broke from her own to lock on each who neared, then his expression smoothed over into one that was impossible for her to read as he stepped towards her. Another roar shook the ground beneath their feet and he still didn't look away from her as several more shouts came from the distance.

"Duty calls, Pharaoh." She encouraged with a nod. "And I'll be here to fix you up afterwards, okay? Just don't lose any limbs cause that I won't be able to help with."

With a nod, he took a moment quicker than a heartbeat to brush his fingers against her own as he walked past her, then we was gone from the room with the soldiers quickly following behind save for two who studied the young woman closely.

"Yup," Anzu sighed heavily, raking a hand through her chocolate hair as realization of her actions came crashing down like a tidal wave that left her being heated almost to the point to form sweat, heart racing and blood pounding loudly within her ears. "I'm in trouble alright."


Chao for now! See you next time!