Okay, few things before you read this chapter.
If there are spoilers, you've been warned.
And a rather boring blurb from a part of Larry's class (okay- to be honest, I'm just imagining Larry as a history teacher and how he can deal with a group of kids who (sorta... okay, could be like) older versions of his son).
Also... there is a very huge divergant. If you all haven't noticed back in Chapter 2 (which I hope you all caught. If you didn't... then... either reread it again or just be very shocked at what I did before ranting at me (PRIVATELY AND NOT THROUGH THE COMMENTS SECTION PLEASE) for it.)
*headdesk*
...oh, last minute (and really off topic); did you hear about King Tut's beard that snapped off? (I kid you not- look it up at the news.)
Otherwise, here you all go!
Chapter 4: The First Night (of his job or hell) Part 2
It made perfect sense as to why the president was here- the museum was made by Theodore Roosevelt, who actually was the one who founded the museum along with several others.
And actually, it would make even more sense that the President will be able to help him through that chaos that just threatened his life.
Larry smiles, taking the president's hand before shaking the hand that he now realizes is flesh and blood, "Larry Daley. I'm the new night guard." Then he sheepishly adds, "Though in reality, I'm a teacher. A... history teacher."
"Ah, a man full of knowledge... Lawrence, that's your name, is it?" Theodore chuckles as Larry nods, feeling a bit off being called by his birth name, "Call me Teddy- I find Theodore a tad too long."
"Teddy, huh?" Larry chuckles, "Just like the man himself wanted people to know. Then... I can't help but ask, why didn't you stay as president when you had the time? It wouldn't hurt to have helped the country a bit more."
"But where's the adventure in that?" Teddy responds with exuberance, "I did see the impact I made on my end when I was president. I believe what I did was enough."
Larry can't help but feel a bit giddy (he's talking to one of the most gung-ho of presidents) before knowing that he's still in the museum... and when he checked the time, it was now two in the morning (with all the chaos and the fact he was knocked down earlier, that could be understandable for the fast amount of hours that went by), "So- the museum being alive and all..." He gets confused, "Wait, aren't you all supposed to be..." He trails off, knowing that if he even utters it, he'll (at least) get mauled by a couple more exhibits.
"Dead?" Teddy finishes the sentence before sighing, his grin instantly changing into a frown, "Well, in order to better understand that, I believe I need to show you something."
"...where is- oh shoot!"
Teddy was surprised when the teacher immediately dashes off, recalling that one thing he did prior to taking a nap, "Lawrence?"
The guard doesn't listen managing to dash his way towards the one room he's completely forgotten about while he was stuck with the miniatures.
Shit shit shit shit shit-
He has just realized he has forgotten to ask who could be possibly strong enough to move the tank of a stone slab but still-
"DAMN!" Larry cries out as he manages to dodge the incoming spears from the Egyptian jackals and skidding to a stop, blinking in alarm.
The stone was back in place.
...and yet he can't help but wonder if there was something missing.
"...what the?" He was confused- wasn't everything supposed to come to life by now? He doesn't see the president walking behind him, but Larry sees him approaching him from the corner of his eye, "But- I thought the stone-"
"Someone," Teddy walks up to him, letting out a heavy sigh, "Had moved the stone earlier. I am not sure as to who," Larry can't help but gulp, not wanting to say that it was him since he didn't want to be at the wrong end of the president's anger, "But before anything else would happen, I had to call for immediate assistance into moving the stone back to where it is." Then he shouts to the strangely silent sarcophagus, "You can ignore me all you want- you're NOT getting out there this time!"
"But..." Larry was about to say that there should've been someone in there for the love of God, but he doesn't say anything. Instead he carefully states, "But there's someone in there, right?"I know," Teddy has a grimace, "But there is a fear among all of us in here- the mummy should set a curse if he rises."
The teacher frowns, looking down at the sarcophagus, before staring back at the president, confused, "...really? Who told you all that?"
The president frowns, seriously not used to someone doubting his word, "Why, the night guards who used to aid in securing some form of order in here!"
...of course. Cecil, Gus and Reginald. The teacher blinks before narrowing his eyes, recalling the last instruction on the letter that made no sense since there's someone trapped in the sarcophagus... hence the very moot point of the entire fifth 'rule' (his intuition will serve him correct).
His thoughts about those three guards seem to be more of suspicion than actual respect for having to deal with the museum exhibits- just what did they do while they were doing their job?
"Well, that explains that stupid as hell rule thing they wrote," Larry grumbles to himself, making a mental note to find out more about this particular mummy before glancing over at the glass case (he's really feeling sorry for the trapped guy that is doing a really good job of being quiet), "So, Teddy, tell me something," He looks over to the president, "What's really causing all of these things to come alive?"
Teddy turns around and gestures to the golden tablet that's positioned on the wall in the most secure fashion, "This... is the Golden Tablet of Pharaoh Ahkmenrah. The only reason why we've been alive since 1952."
This earns a stunned look from Larry, "...waitasec, what?" Then with a gape, "That... Tablet is making everything in the museum come to life?"
Teddy nods, "And ever since then, we've all been coming to life each night, after sundown everyday. Every time after sundown. But," The president grims himself, "We have to all return to our positions before daylight."
Larry frowns, wondering that the moon has to do with giving life to all things when it should be the sun before asking, "Why?"
"We all turn into dust," Teddy emphasized the last word, which makes the other man stare.
"Dust?"
"Dust," Teddy nods, "If we are not contained within the museum prior to sunrise, we will all be dust."
Earth to earth; dust to dust; ashes to ashes. The fact it has to come from a funerary service prayer out all things is too appropriate but oh so unusual at the same time. Larry thins his lips, his eyes narrow as he finally comprehends Cecil's warning:
"Don't let anything in... or out."
Though the in he doesn't get. Out, now he understands.
But for the rest- this is really giving him a mild headache.
Larry pinches the side of his head before closing his eyes, "...can I just try to get a grip on his for a sec?" When he sees the other man nodding, the teacher manages to sit down against the glass case. Thinning his lips, he leans against the stone slab and slightly edges it out when the president frowns, seeing the teacher's (trying to but failing at being subtle) action.
"I wouldn't advise moving the stone, Lawrence." The president then pauses, "But, I can allow you to think about it for a few moments to yourself if you would like. It seems a lot to take in- for a person like you who just came in."
Maybe a couple of minutes of just being himself would be good- especially since he could be developing a mild headache from dealing with Jedediah and Octavius earlier.
"...that'll be nice," Larry just needs to think about this, especially when he sees the president walking outside to a certain distance from the entrance and yet keeping an eye on him in case Larry does anything to the stone slab, "Don't- well, you know."
"As long as you don't make eye contact," Teddy chuckles, a wry grin at the indication that Larry doesn't want to be skewered by the stone Anubis guards before heading out the room, "If you need me, I shall be either waiting outside or be checking up on whatever's happening in the floor." The teacher just nods before looking down, trying his best to calm down (since there's a mayhem called the museum... ah well, what can you do on the first night?)
Yet the two don't see the two statues not reacting at all. In fact, the Anubis guards were the only ones who see the silent gesturing command from a bandaged-wrapped figure who was hiding behind one of the Egyptian-like stone columns to allow the president to leave the room without stabbing him.
It wasn't until Larry looks up at the Tablet, still amazed (in actuality, he was thinking along the lines of 'are you seriously kidding me' to '...this better be a seriously good joke' to 'what the fucking hell is going on here, really?') before groaning, bowing his head.
"...someone tell me this isn't magic. Because if it is, then I'd better be amazed if something did come back to life." Then he glances over the sarcophagus before warily asking, "You know, you are really patient for having to hear through all of that. Aren't you... suffocating in there? Since I- well, the stone was placed back and all, but I did move it earlier for some air for you to breathe in." Then he mutters, "...yeah, don't let anyone else know about that."
He doesn't see another figure silently walking from the columns that support the room (near the back wall) to see Larry sitting and leaning against the glass case before contemplating whether of not to alert him of his presence- still in the shadows.
"I mean... well, okay, maybe the stone being back there is... somewhat good- okay, not for you, but because it might've been like that when I came in." The teacher trails off before groaning in frustration, "Oh fuck it, what am I saying? I just began here- it's the first night of my job and I felt like I just stepped into a chaotic version of a zoo, but with people and animals." Larry sighs, leaning his head against the cool plane of the case, "Though so far, I am really not too good at it. After I shoved the slab away in here and hoped to get the chance to look further into deciphering some of the hieroglyphics written over here, I decided to look around and then I fell asleep. ...which I hope nobody finds out, by the way. Then I wake up around eleven at night when it should've been a fifteen minute nap... guess that didn't happen and then I find out what really goes on here at night.
"First, I just met that T-Rex statue by seeing him drink water before I threw the bone. I just got chased by Attila the Hun; the Easter Island head's calling me 'Dum-Dum' and asking for gum. Then I tried to free those three- Lewis, Clark, and Sacagawea so they can explain to me about a few things, but nooo, the Huns just had to chase me again. Then I finally meet... who I am going to assume is Dexter, that freaking monkey- wait, capuchin, it's a freaking capuchin- who swiped my keys and the lions before that damned mon- capuchin... gotta remember that- ripped the only thing that Cecil gave me. Then those minis- that cowboy and Roman general seriously have issues against each other- ambushed me and that wasn't... pretty. And then I was about to get ripped by Attila before I got saved by Teddy and I asked about how everything comes to life, which led me to here... That's pretty intense, for the first night of my shift."
He lets out a few more deep breaths, glad to be out of with that rant, "...can't I just get a quiet night for the first night of this job? This is much worse than dealing with kids."
The slight bandaged figure manages to lean (quietly) on the side of the case that isn't too far from the teacher, hearing another stressed sigh from the other man.
"...can I just- I'm really sorry for disturbing your sleep... Pharaoh Ahkmenrah!?" Larry pales when he reads the silver engraving that was on the glass case (finally) before groaning... again and burying his mortified red face in his hands, "Oh- oh... shit- oh man- Gnah, sorry for my language - sorry. Now I feel really stupid- you're a really powerful guy who commanded a large kingdom. ...damn. How come I missed that earlier? I mean- I know about the title 'pharaoh' and the relevancy now compared to back then and how we're no longer using it-"
If glares can kill, this could be it for him-
"-but you're really highly respected and even researched on- well, for me, anyway, and it's still... a relevant subject." Larry manages to calm down as he sags his shoulders just to ease from stress from him; he recalls how fascinated he was at researching the Ancient Egyptian kingdom, the pharaohs, the language, the way of life... A soft chuckle escapes him, "I really admire that. But seriously, first thing I'll do when I help you out from here is that I'll be apologizing for mistreating you just from talking like that earlier. Now I just feel bad. Remind me to actually treat you like a respected pharaoh when I do get you out from here."
And that makes the other person in the room surprised- How does this person know about the Egyptian kingdom so well? Despite that I am not the ruler anymore... why does he say that? This man wasn't there-
"...sorry, I think I lost you there." The teacher lets out a small smile, "I'm actually a teacher- well, a history teacher. And I'm taking this job because- well, in reality, three of my nosy students gives me this job." That part, he grumbles in ire.
...against your will? The other man frowns.
"But, now that I think about it... to be honest, I actually decided to do it because this museum... I visited it a couple of times in the past." He closes his eyes, recalling his excitement when his parents enter in the museum and the first thing he was wowed by the dinosaur skeleton, the real-life like figurines that presents the evolution and cultures of humankind, the animals that resided in the land, ocean, and air, and the planetarium... "That shaped the real reason why I became a teacher- well, one of them. I wanted to show how far history has gotten to us to this point. I really wanted to pass it down with the best of my abilities."
Then he lets out a sigh, "...honestly, I was hoping this job will help me out if the teaching job falls out- which I have a feeling it will... if it all goes well. I've been wanting to look back to the one place that helped me jump-start to appreciate history. And learning more things as I go along, you know? Maybe- and maybe, if I do get used to the mayhem in here... it'll probably keep me in shape."
The sounds proved it not too long ago, The silent man can't help but quirk a smile, recalling a series of screams and shouting not too long ago. But he doesn't want to say anything.
...Yet.
There was some silence and despite the fact Larry's not talking... face-to-face with an actual person, there was a slight awkward tension. So he decides to shift to another subject, this time when he looks up at the Tablet.
"So this is... your Tablet? That thing that's causing everything to come to life?" Then with an apprehensive grimace, "I can't believe I'm going to ask this," Larry mutters to himself under his breath, "But does your Tablet have... magic in it?"
"Yes."
"Now I'm getting really tired of that word." This time, he makes a good point by placing his head against the glass case with a thud-
-wait.
Larry's eyes snap open.
Did someone else just speak?
And was it just him, or did he just hear someone laugh too?
"...is anyone there?" Larry warily asks the room in confusion as he slowly begins to rise from where he was sitting before his eyes cast over to his left side. His right hand is itching for the maglite as the result of self-defense (and several times of being caught off-guard). Frowning, he tries to silently make his way towards the other side of the display, but he sees nothing.
"...seriously?" He can't help but quietly mutter before shaking his head and turning around, "Okay, I have to be hearing things-"
"You are not, I assure you."
If that wasn't for the fact that when he did turn around and did see a second figure (barely with the shadows bouncing all over this stupidly dimly lit room), only now Larry did freeze on the spot, speechless as his mind just registers that he's been talking to someone else (and overheard most of everything he has said.)
Then he manages to utter (as the result of his shock), "...please tell me I'm not seeing a ghost."
"And why... would you? I am real- flesh and blood," The other man chuckles, finally stepping out of the shadows into the slightly lit area where Larry is standing, "You are speaking to me right now. Am I not correct?"
The teacher blinks, seeing instead of what he was imagine, it was a face of an Egyptian man- around his late teens or early twenties, his dark brown eyes adjusting to the room. His slight messy ink black hair was lightly dusted with sand as the man looks around his new surroundings.
And holy crap, that guy- pharaoh, pharaoh... he's a pharaoh- Larry mentally reminds himself- speaks English (with a British accent)!?
"I thank you for releasing me from there. You cannot believe," Pharaoh Ahkmenrah glances down at the sarcophagus before facing his accidental savior, "How dusty and cramped it is in there."
Then Larry manages to utter (much to his shock and how is it that he's not freaking out?), "...you're speaking English."
That was when the Pharaoh chuckles, seeing the other man's reaction, "I was on exhibit at Cambridge for twenty years before coming here." His dark eyes glance over at the night guard in light amusement as he sees Larry echo that to himself before blinking over his slight dumbfoundedness before introducing himself in a regal manner, "I am Ahkmenrah, Fourth King of the Fourth King- ruler of the land of my fathers and those before me."
"Um." Larry then gulps, knowing that the pharaoh out of all people is expecting him to formally introduce himself, "I... um, I'm Larry Daley, son of... Milton, and I... erm- hail from Brooklyn, New York." Then with a pause, "...I'm the new night guard in the museum. Um... just so you get the idea."
There. He hopes to God that pushes down how hot his face is feeling (it isn't. At all. And he just realizes he's rambled through all of that supposed introduction to a pharaoh, no less.)
(And if his students were there, he knows most of them will be laughing their asses off before he utilizes his authority as a teacher to threaten them with a sudden pop quiz or a ridiculously hard essay. ...actually, he's done those methods before.)
Ahkmenrah nods as he manages to say the teacher's name (with accuracy despite him being an Ancient Egyptian pharaoh), "Larry Daley, thank you for- Are you all right?"
"I- Um-" Okay, since when did he suddenly get all speechless? Over seeing a revived and all-powerful ruler coming to life out of all things!?
(Well, that wasn't just it- Larry's talked to the pharaoh without realizing it before seeing the engraving. Now he just realized he's talked about lots of things that are mostly about complaints, his thoughts, and oh GOOD GOD he just remembered what he said much earlier in the day about wanting to decipher the hieroglyphs and also realized that he decided to release the pharaoh without realizing it and now he's acting like one of his flustering students and he mentally kicks his brain to get back into gear)
"...gah."
...That's all that his brain can settle for!?
That makes the teacher's face grow red with embarrassment.
The pharaoh lets out a soft chuckle, finding the reaction from the night guard really endearing. To the teacher, it just makes his embarrassed face redder by the minute.
"Sorry, sorry-" Larry manages to look up, finally beginning to calm down (Okay, you're talking to the ruler who was able to rule an empire that had a river flowing through it with an iron fist... calm down, Larry), "It's just- I didn't know the Tablet can..." He trails off, seeing the pharaoh's smile, "...um. Yeah. You get the idea."
(It's also a pretty bad timing when Larry recalls about a month ago when someone like that made a really good impression on him in his classroom- it was one of the substitute teachers that he had to admit- was pretty good looking and really brilliant- and left him dumbfounded
(because of one subject) and like he's acting now along with his shocked AP World History class before hearing one of his students ask much to his chagrin, "Are embarrassment and awkwardness your normal modes of existence, Mister Daley?"
To which his response was smacking his head against the palm of his hand.)
"...I understand," The pharaoh nods, seriousness replacing any traces of amusement... and there's also a moment of thankfulness in his face as he walks closer to them, "Larry- no, Guardian of Brooklyn. I thank you for releasing me. And for that, I am forever in your debt."
"...eh?" Guardian of Brooklyn? Debt!?
Can this possibly get even more embarrassing?
(As Larry will soon later realize- it does. Except it happens to him more frequently than it should.)
"In your... ah, right," the teacher did recall that-
"Guardian of Brooklyn," Ahkmenrah's calm voice stops any more rambling that is running through Larry's brain, "I know the times have changed."
The teacher stops his track when he realizes that they're in the twenty-first century and they're talking in the museum out of all things.
"...so you know what time it is?" Larry can't help but make sense of the fact that the Egyptian king knew that his former empire has fallen.
"I know this museum is in New York City, New York," Ahkmenrah looks over at the room again, "That I was transferred here before I woke up one night- being trapped in this case. Despite your initial thinking, I do know of the culture here."
Larry slightly nods before relaxing... a bit, "It's changed from the fifties, you know."
"I have heard," The pharaoh quietly muses before a sullen look replaces it, "...and I have heard of what they whisper about me in this museum."
"...huh?" Then it hits the guard about the last rule-
Muffle the mummy; He scares the others.
"Oh, right," Larry grumbles to himself, "So you know, huh."
Ahkmenrah doesn't respond, but he grimly nods, "Despite you freeing me, Guardian of Brooklyn, until these rumors and stories cease about my supposed 'cursings' upon my release in this building, I would much rather be here within the confines of where I am more comfortable." He steps down from the edge of the ledge that elevates the exhibit, his bandaged body still around him (despite it showing some adorned clothing beneath).
Larry can't help but feel sorry for the pharaoh. But he really can't say anything since he has no idea how it feels, and yet...
...to be freed by a stranger who was that curious to know what was under that stone slab, only to find out people have already made judgements on you just because you were feared from several fictional accounts from movies and horror stories and possibly from make-belief just to scare people to do what others want...
...it's really not fair.
He wants to do something for Ahkmenrah, but...
...in what form or way can Larry do?
I'll think of something. The feeling of awkwardness is there as he sees Ahkmenrah scuffling a bit, glancing down at his bandaged arms and more hesitant to take them out to reveal his actual form, Though... how can I say it without offending him?
"Going back to... my original track of thought," Larry glances back up at the golden Tablet and hoping to change the subject for the better (at least for the time being), "And now I can properly ask- that's yours, right?"
"Ah, yes," Ahkmenrah nods, his eyes narrowing to see the Tablet in another resting place, "...it's the Tablet I'm bestowed upon since I was pharaoh."
The fact that it's positioned too high up makes Larry relieved (and worried because of how open it is) about the possibility of it being stolen. ...though that's not to say about the chances of it being taken away.
"So it's something precious... to you?" The teacher guards his words since he has no idea about where the pharaoh came from, how it came to be and why did he get the role of handling the Tablet (which now that he thinks about it, it sounds more like an artifact of doom).
The Egyptian's mouth straightens into a thin line, "For the fact it has kept me alive for a long time, then it is more vital to me than... I would have enjoyed. But more people are after it for the reasons I would rather not state."
Power, gold, and possible attention from even having a piece of it? Larry grimly recalls that several times in history and unearthing even a small ancient artifact from the fallen grand empires can spark fame, glory, or even war for its value.
He's even taught that once in his class.
"Can anyone-" Larry inadvertently calls for calm in his class as the bell rang, "-tell me what happened to Egypt after Napoleon's reign fell?"
They are some hands raised- he chooses at the first student who he saw raised her hand first.
"One result was a cultural clash between the French, British, and the Egyptians," She responds, "The British defeated the French and gained control of the country."
Larry nods before selecting another student, "The Ottomans fell under a new reign of Arabic leaders."
"That's true, but what did that have to do with the Europeans that took control over the country?"
The second student responds (a bit carefully), "They... helped the Egyptians drive out the French?"
"They did," Larry can accept that, "But to a certain degree." He then chooses another student to respond.
"While there was some British occupation," The third student answers, "They've built the Suez Canal- oh, and the discovery of King Tutankhamen by the Carter exhibition!"
"Ah," The teacher nods (albeit reluctantly), "That doesn't happen until the Twenties, but at the time, British occupation was still there. But keep in mind what the result of most wars to do people- they can destroy things that aren't relevant to what they want. But, let's go on a slight off-topic for a minute." That catches the students' attention, "Which nation- European one- do you all think was the first one to actually publish records about the studies of the ancient Egyptian culture?"
There were murmurs from 'France' to 'Britain' from the class.
Larry grins, "Okay, let's try this again. Raise your hand if you think it's the British who first published anything on the Ancient Egyptians."
That was about two-thirds of the class.
"France?"
The remaining students who didn't raise their hands before.
"Well, to put it in a perspective, it was actually the French who published anything regarding the history of the Ancient Egyptians. In fact, Napoleon was the first who brought the idea to bring in scientists and artists to study Egypt's history- all under Description de l'Egypte. The reason most of you think of the British was because of the exhibition of King Tutankhamen- to be more broad, the 1922 discovery from Howard Carter and George Herbert. They were the ones who reignited the interest in Ancient Egyptian history, art, and culture, spawning the ideology we know of today."
He sees some of the students who votes for British look surprised at this- to some, it shouldn't be that new.
"So let me tell all of this before we get back to the actual lesson- which was Colonization and how it affected the world in general," Larry sits at his desk, still looking at his students, "We all have seen the artifacts and parts of art, tombs, artifacts that were once items people back then used as everyday lives. They are preserved- we are so interested in looking at something as simple such as a clay pot- something that was used to hold jugs of wine or water and could've been so menial to the people of that culture. The more interest a civilization gets to us as the modern nation today, there is a slight likely chance of us discovering something new about the ancient world and how they lived their lives.
"Consider the exhibition for King Tut's tomb; it was well-regarded back then, and even today we all know about the King Tut exhibition and the items found." The teacher pauses, "Yet in the end, while it did bring the fame back on both ends- to the people who discovered it and to the civilization that we no longer view as powerful- it did bring in consequences we might have either realized, prepared for, or were not really expecting."
Larry can see his students look at him in fascination- there were few reasons why his classes were more popular in the school; he was one of the teachers who have actually studied and even voice his observations to the students as opposed to talking about it straight from the book. While it is a bit unconventional, it was also refreshing to get another perspective- not just from written words or from the students.
He's learned that a while back when one of this students asked for his opinion about whether or not it was worth the trouble building a civilization from the two most flooded rivers from the ancient times: the Tigris and Euphrates (and from what came his opinion on why it was useful... and why it wasn't).
"Here's the thing I want all of you to think about regarding those items when you go to the museum. They are important relics, figures that have their own purpose and history- it might've been a point of contention between two sides. There were wars that started over a chair, out of all things!" That earns some chuckles from his students, "But what I want you all to think about is that maybe some things were worth finding and keeping or presenting- for fame, glory, fortune, or even just for knowledge and learning more about it. There are two sides to the story from the person who made it... and who discovered it."
Then he pauses, "Then there's the side where people don't want the item to be noticed yet others want it for those same reasons. If you all do go down the same road like I did, then you'll see how many wars, fights, and important events happen... from something that begins so basic such as a relic of the past, stolen or owned."
He's said this at his AP World Class five years ago.
Larry quietly responds, "...I know. (From reading books about uncovering past relics and the consequences of it) To be honest, I'm interested in the signs and meaning to the item rather than owning it."
He doesn't see the startled look on Ahkmenrah's face as he turns to the teacher upon hearing that. Instead, Larry still looks at the Tablet's engravings, signs of enigma flitting his mind, "Since I was a kid and I first saw that, I wanted to know what the Tablet can do. Screw the monetary value and gold part, I thought. I wanted to learn and see if I can get something from it- any history and what it's used for, the purposes of such thing, what consequences come from it? Both good or bad- is it worth the time and effort to research about this item and the people who handled it? Who discovered it and what was the result from it?"
Then he realizes his ramblings before being self-aware that he did all of that in front of someone who was looking at him in either amazement or just think that he's insane. "...sorry. Just..." He makes a few sweeping gestures to his mind, "My thinking for it's a bit different since I teach and... yeah, you must've heard me say that."
"It's fine," Ahkmenrah murmurs, his surprise changes into intrigue, "...so you don't care for the wealth had you discovered such thing?"
"Nah," Larry shakes his head, looking over at the decorations for the Tablet, "It's not worth it. Not for me."
The pharaoh gives a soft chuckle, his eyes softening a bit when facing the teacher, "It's unfortunate that most do not see the same way as you do, Guardian of Brooklyn."
"Huh?" Larry blinks in confusion.
"It's... nothing." Ahkmenrah shakes his head, "Despite all of what I understand the world has altered..."
The teacher frowns, recalling that the pharaoh doesn't even want to leave because of the stupid thing Cecil and the guards mentioned about the mummy- possibly as the result from other peoples' attempts to remove the stone? Or the exhibits? Or was it for another reason they wanted to 'muffle the mummy'?
That, Larry wants to know. And he wants to help the pharaoh to realize the truth. And for the exhibits to know that it's just a man who just wants to see the world and get to know the others better in the AMNH.
"Hey, one thing,"
He can't help but say this, but he's going to say it anyway.
Because, what other way is he going survive the mayhem of a museum?
"I'm going to get you out of there," Larry pauses, "And I'll show them that you're not cursing them or... anything to them. But know this," Oh God. He's going to sound like some outlandish moronic hero, "...and please keep this to yourself; I don't normally do this, but I'm doing this... not just because I want to see the person in here and I swear to God, I am going to find out more about the Tablet and see if there's any way to help you at all costs; but also because I need your help. I can't... I can't deal with the mayhem of a museum alone."
He lets out an exhaustive sigh, "So please. Be patient. I'll be back on my second day- I'll talk to you again." Then he pauses, "I'm going to visit you to make sure you're not lonely, okay?"
The teacher looks away for a bit, hoping that will at least allow the pharaoh to at least try and come out from the room-
"I will allow it."
Larry looks in surprise, looking back up to see Ahkmenrah, "...wait, you're fine with me coming in?"
The pharaoh nods, a beginnings of a soft smile lifting his mouth a bit, "Yes. This is because you have freed me from the sarcophagus."
"Huh," Larry muses to himself, knowing that at least he can be trusted-
"Upon one condition."
...was it bad to say that Larry was actually expecting that?
"As long as nobody else- not even the other exhibits can come in this room and discover my presence. For the time being." Then he asks, "Are you returning tomorrow?"
The teacher was about to respond when-
-waaaait, Larry really didn't get a good cementing in terms of his schedule, did he? He did ask Cecil about it before he left, but all the night guard said to him about it (while they were on tour of one of the floors) was, "You start off tonight, but tomorrow night's our last night as night guards. So prepare yourself then, Larry!" (He wasn't sure what the hell the old man meant. Now he knows. And now he wants to thank Cecil for FAILING TO MENTION ABOUT THE CHAOS AND WHY THE HELL DOES IT HAVE TO HAPPEN HERE AT AMNH.)
"...no, I don't think so-" He sees the pharaoh's expression change into a slight upset one, "-But! I'll be here the night after tomorrow- those three guys will be here tomorrow night for their last shift. I think then my schedule will be cemented then." He gives a reassuring smile to Ahkmenrah, hoping that he'll be at least fine with it, "Basically, I'll be here two nights from now, so- yeah, at least that'll be good, right?"
That definitely made the pharaoh relieved at the thought of meeting him again. Which...for some reason, instead of the composed teacher that he is, just what the hell is making Larry act like some high schooler who has suddenly has the worst case of stammering? (He swears that 's it's from actually talking to an actual living king or just that he's a real actual human being...which he is.)
"Will you keep to your word, Guardian of Brooklyn?"
"Ah, yeah..." Larry then weakly chuckles, recalling that other thing, "Okay, about that... title- I think... while it's pretty nice of you to call me that and all," (Honestly? It just sounds too awkward since it would be best suited for a hero from the comics and not for someone like him) "...I'd prefer Larry." He gives a small timid smile, "Just- easier and maybe a bit more manageable than 'Guardian of Brooklyn."
(Also because if his students (both current and former) even caught wind of his new nickname, he knows there will be never-ending teasing about it.)
The pharaoh is surprised to hear the humbling request before testing out the name with his tongue, despite him learning and understand English and all, "Larry. That sounds a bit..." Ahkmenrah frowns, "...ordinary."
...Well isn't THAT obvious!? Larry still keeps his grin in tact, but his mood begins to sour a bit at the blunt remark from the young king (scratch that, he's cringing), "Or Lawrence if you'd like-" Thank God got Teddy calling him that... for once.
"No-" And why would he- "It sounds too much like the Lawrence of Arabia," Ahkmenrah scowls, "Do you not like the title I gave you?"
The teacher gapes at him before groaning, "...no because it makes me sound like a hero and I really don't like being viewed as one and it's too embarrassing for me to even handle it since I'm not a guardian and the only thing I'm really guarding is a playground where I can't even control." Then he heaves a sigh before uttering with little mortification, "I'm... gonna be stabbedbyyourscaryguardsnow, aren't I?"
Ahkmenrah stares at the teacher with mild shock-
-before letting out laughter with a genuine smile on his face, which doesn't reach that far to the door (While the teacher is glad to see the guy smile for one, he's actually feeling more offense than happy- Which reminds Larry- where did Teddy go?) as Larry looks at the pharaoh in surprise before getting even more offended than he normally would.
"Okay, you know what?" Larry fumes, feeling his face growing warm, suddenly feeling massively humiliated and irked at the pharaoh before turning on his heels and marching out of the room, "Since it's apparent that I'm just a source of amusement for you right now (Lawrence of Arabia!? Like from that boring as hell movie Larry hated so much even IF it was a classic!?), I'm just going to go-"
Instead he just feels someone grab his arm and turns him around to meet face to face with Ahkmenrah, who suddenly looks apologetic (and yet is still chuckling with humor- he can see it in that grin).
"No, please don't go- not yet." (That guy even had the gall to implore out of all things!) "Just... can you stay a bit longer?"
"Then why did you just-" Larry doesn't finish the sentence, but even his most disrespectful students (did he even have any in all of the classes he's taught?) can give him better respect than that-
"I sincerely apologize- it's been a while since I've talked to someone else." Ahkmenrah's chuckles cease before he gently asks, "...do you mind if we talk for a bit longer? I... honestly want to learn more about how much the world has altered. About everything that has happened from the last fifty years I've been in there."
"Well," Larry then sags in slight defeat at the thought of leaving his post behind and wonders if there are any more chaos in the museum dammit (if there are... then well, the teacher's just tempted to set the fire alarm off and that'll get McPhee's attention in the middle of the dead night before seeing the hells he's going though), "...I want to. I really do." He lets out a slightly dreading sigh as he hears a faint roar from an elephant, "...then there's the zoo I'm calling the museum that I have to check up on."
"Do you not have companions that help you with this job?"
"...yeah, no, I don't," The teacher can't help but wonder why is it that Cecil has two other men with his job while it's just Larry by himself (...wait, it's just him? That's making him tick with suspicion but he'll be back on that thought later), "So it's... just me."
"...oh." The pharaoh frowns in disappointment, but he still doesn't let go of Larry's arm, "So for the time being, it's your responsibility to check on the confines of the museum."
The teacher nods, "It's stupid, I know. But... look, I swear I'll be back." Ahkmenrah looks at him hesitantly before Larry smiles, "I keep my word- I actually want to help you. I want to prove the others wrong about you- you're not that frightening or scary. You're just human. I actually want to get to know you better also- in case... well, if you need an ally."
There was a pause as Larry gently allows the Egyptian to let go of his arm before glancing at the exit with a heavy sigh (and dreading), "...I'm really not looking forward to seeing any more exhibits that try to murder me-"
He feels a hand grab his right hand; looking in surprise, he sees it from the pharaoh (and WHYYYY is Ahkmenrah grabbing onto his hand like that? He can feel his face red all of the sudden- thank God for the darkly dimmed room actually), who holds his serious gaze on the teacher.
"Larry," Ahkmenrah quietly asks, "Will you live to your word about what you said earlier?"
"I am and I will," The teacher nods, "I did say I'll be back, right? I promise I'll be back to talk to you... and besides," He knows too many times how it feels to be alone, "It sucks being by yourself in a room."
"Not just that," The pharaoh hesitates (though his eyes aren't wavering), "What you said as my ally."
"Yeah. I really do." Larry nods with a grin before running out of the entrance, gently letting go of the pharaoh's hand (for some reason, he wanted it to be there a bit longer buuut... he has a job to do), "See you in two days, Ahkmenrah."
Ahkmenrah stops himself from preventing the guard to leave (he knows Larry has a job to do) when he hears the running footsteps retreating into the hallway.
Despite how stuffy it is inside the intricate burial coffin before his release, he can't help but take in some slim comfort that the stone slab has some sort of pocket and how the lid was slightly opened to provide some air. It was thanks to those three betrayers that think it's a good idea to prevent him from getting the Tablet that he's supposed to guard.
Then the stone was gone one night and he was able to open it... after realizing that when he pounded on the lid once, he was able to breathe through new air and was able to take off his bandages from his face before getting out the sarcophagus. Then he heard the voices and upon realizing that if they see the empty coffin, Ahkmenrah does some thinking before jumping out the sarcophagus and closing the top before closing the glass case, silently commanding the Anubis guards to keep silent and guard the door until whoever came in has passed while he hid. (At the time, the room was really dark, which he was thankful for).
Then he hears some people shout soemthing before lifting up the stone slab; he silently winces at the loud thud that accompanied it- Possibly the people who wanted me trapped, he bitterly realizes before hearing them leave.
It didn't take until several hours later after Ahkmenrah was able to explore his new room and seeing the state of the Tablet that he hears two voices: one of them was that president Theodore (he knows the president means no harm).
But when he hears a new voice aside the ones he's been hearing for a long time (aside the voices of those three guards who he knows are up to no good- he mentally promises vengeance on those men if he does get free), he can't help but be curious as to who the new person was... and why was he more interested about the Tablet... before realizing that the new voice belongs to the new night guard.
Then he hears the new night guard realize that it was the cause of them coming to life (to be fair, Larry was on his first night) before bemoaning about the amount of chaos that amounted to his (and from what he understood) disastrous first night on the job.
It was slighty amusing... and somewhat made his day when the new guard panicked when he asked if he was the pharaoh himself.
It was then Ahkmenrah finally decides to reveal himself.
And then there was that promise he said-
"I'm going to get you out of there," Larry pauses, "And I'll show them that you're not cursing them or... anything to them. But know this... and please keep this to yourself; I don't normally do this, but I'm doing this... not just because I want to see the person in here and I swear to God, I am going to find out more about the Tablet and see if there's any way to help you at all costs; but also because I need your help. I can't... I can't deal with the mayham of a museum alone."
He lets out an exhaustive sigh, "So please. Be patient. I'll be back on my second day- I'll talk to you again." Then he pauses, "I'm going to visit you to make sure you're not lonely, okay?"
It did surprise the pharaoh when he hears the night guard say that.
Those three guards- Cecil was their ringleader- have somehow managed to make it known that he must not leave from his prison (as for why, it seems as if Larry has begun to catch on). For Larry to say this and make it as his promise, it sounds empty... at first.
But the fact that the guard did arrive to talk to him after flinging the stone slab away and- making sure he wasn't alone in his... suffering... was more comforting than being alone where his cries to be released weren't heeded (and somehow develops into an indifference to some of the exhibits).
But-
Why did you free me? He wanted to ask that much earlier (and there's a chance that question was answered by the... teacher? Night guard? ...though it seems as if Larry was more comfortable being known as a teacher).
And it seems as if the teacher made no attempt (or did anything) to force the pharaoh back to his sarcophagus, which actually made Ahkmenrah think Larry was serious in his promise.
...speaking of titles, Ahkmenrah notices how the other man reacts at the title he had just given the new night guard. Granted, it was an honor to have a title in his reign. The way that this man- Larry, was it?- was squirming over the title 'Guardian of Brooklyn', however was not the one he was honestly expecting. Instead, all he got was one of surprise... and now filled what seems to be a mixture of reluctance and some bit of humility.
He can't help but chuckle, earning a look from the guards as if they are worried about him for even a minute.
"I'm... fine." The pharaoh quietly assures them before pausing, "Do me a favor- do not let anyone know I'm here."
The Anubis guards nod as Ahkmenrah takes his place behind one of the columns that he knows the people during the day don't check as he knows what time of the day is approaching- he's too used to it.
But compared to the years and eons he's been alive-
I'm... looking forward to seeing the Guardian of Brooklyn again. Why?
Just what was about him that makes the pharaoh want to know more?
Something white catches his eye- when he slowly approaches it, it was a crumpled white sheet of paper with barely anything written on it. Somewhere near it was a small shaven pencil- someone must've lost it. The crumpled paper was a faded drawing that was eventually erased and thrown out at the museum.
A sudden idea overcomes the pharaoh before writing his message on the white paper- this is a good time to utilize what he's learned in writing while at Cambridge...
The entire talk between him and the pharaoh lasted far longer than it should- it's almost three-thirty and ooooh man was Larry screwed-
-there wasn't as much noise as before. In fact, he sees Teddy galloping on his horse when he sees the president return from another hallway (that was from the other side of the one Larry was in just now).
"Teddy, where were you?" He manages to ask when he (finally) catches up with Teddy, "I thought you were hanging out outside the hallway!"
"Eh, I figured it would be a while before the realization hit you," The president chuckles, seeing Larry feeling a bit better, "Are you finally up for the challenge?"
"...yeah, I guess?"
He's planning on not letting the president know that he was talking to the supposed pharaoh he accidentally released from his sarcophagus (for the next few nights to come actually- though he can't help but think that the president knows more than he should (Note: Teddy actually doesn't know) and he should've known better than to free a trapped man)
Larry was surprised that the museum was somewhat quiet and back in order with Theodore Roosevelt around before mentally kicking himself, reminding that it's named after him.
"I really need to brush up on my history more," The teacher mutters to himself before walking up the president, "Teddy, how did you...?"
"Ah, about that!" The President nods as he adjusts the saddle on his horse, "I just found these exhibits walking around and I have just finished reminding them about the time."
"The- oooohhh," Larry realizes the 'dust' condition and how it's about two hours til sunrise, "Right. Oh God." The teacher balefully groans, recalling certain exhibits that would much rather shank him than listen to him, "...I'm actually not sure on how to go about that."
"And why is that?" Teddy arches an eyebrow.
"...I was about to get ripped apart by the Huns and the miniatures almost killed me with a train and an army." Speaking of, why did the Huns want to murder him? He couldn't even understand Attila's threats (they are in a different language and the language barrier is just too great of a distance).
The president lets out a boisterous laugh as he sees Larry recalling that with slight misery, "Ah, those men. They know when it's about to be time- don't worry, if you can be patient with them, then they'll listen to you."
"Are they willing to listen to me though?" The teacher warily reflects on the many times he had to discipline his students to 'Shut up and listen or else', "It takes too many times for them to listen to the new guy."
"...I suppose for that, Lawerence, you do strike up a point. You've just begun, after all and what more than useful assistance?" The president chuckles, seeing some relief wash in Larry's face, "For tonight- just tonight, I'll help you restore order in this museum."
"I can't thank you enough," Larry nods, knowing that he's probably on his own after this, "I owe you, Teddy."
"But mark my words," That makes the teacher look up at the President, "It's the last time I shall ever do so. Is that clear?"
...the last time?
"Wait, why-" Larry then frowns, catching the slight disappointment from the President before sighing, "I- I guess, I mean, the thing is-"
"Yes or no? And no babbling!"
Well, at least he now gets the idea where Teddy's infamous temper comes from.
"...Yes, sir," Larry quickly snaps his mouth as he nods in affirmation (albeit a reluctant one since he really needs help badly).
"Good," Teddy then indicates to one end, "Start securing that end- I'll take care of the more troublesome ones."
It takes much longer than it should to secure most of the areas, but they were relatively easy to coax some of the exhibits to return to their rightful areas. Well, the reptiles were cooperative, much to Larry's relief. He's already taken care of the capuchin and the lions much... much earlier. It took a while for him to convince the Puritans and the English colonials (pretty much the ones who can understand him really) to go back to their places before explaining that he's new, in which case they actually took sympathy or pity on him and decide to do so.
Well-
"Okay, my side's done," Larry meets up with the President, who nods before placing down his binoculars, making the night guard slighty suspicious, "...hey, what are you looking at?"
"Ah, just tracking a few things, making sure they are safe and secure on my end," Teddy responds a bit too quick (later on, Larry will have a suspicion the president's hiding something) before facing the night guard, "So, it seems as if you got this done on time. Well, at least you have some preparation for tomorrow night."
"Yeaah... maybe," Larry lets out a slighty exhaustive sigh before taking a drink from his water bottle, "Arggghhh maybe I'll be more prepared then."
That makes the president a bit surprised before seeing how taxed the teacher is, leaning against his horse, "What's the matter with you, Lawrence? Winded already?"
Well, yeah. And the fact I'm also stressed that I accidentally freed a mummy without your knowledge... The teacher then sighs before looking at the president, "You remember how I told you I was a history teacher?" Seeing the other man nod, Larry continues, "Truth is, I'm only teaching two classes a day- in the mornings. The school board has been slightly harsh on budget cuts so... I've been trying different jobs if this teaching job doesn't come through next year."
"Do you have anything else that will get you on?" Teddy asks with concern, "Actually, let me ask you this; what have you done in the past? What did you do before this post aside your teaching?"
Larry bites his lower lip before sighing, "Too many failed side jobs, too many business commissions that fall through at the last minute... it's just too many roadblocks and problems. I mean, I'm not going to lie- initially, I wasn't even thinking about applying for this job until... well, it's going to sound stupid, really."
"I'm listening," The president continues (just how did Teddy develop this massive amount of patience Larry will never understand and will never cease to be amazed by).
"One of my classes has these three students I've paired up for a project," Larry can't help but chuckle, recalling the horror on every student when he assigned the Greek city-state projects to them and in the last expected groups as well (he knew most of them would normally never get along), "They... somehow got to know each other and maybe they're friends outside of school? I don't know. But the thing is, they were the ones who found the job for me and suggest I take it." He then looks up at him, "...please don't mention this to anyone."
"Your words are sealed," Teddy reassures him, "But Lawrence."
"Hm?"
"Be not afraid of greatness: some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them- like a task that never ceases to be completed until you take that chance to do so." Teddy nods, "You, Lawrence Daley... are one of them."
The teacher blinks before musing, "Shakespeare. Twelfth Night, Act Two, Scene Five." He then sees Teddy's twinkling in how Larry was able to memorize that before the teacher slightly blushes, "...I was Sebastian. That line was from Malvolio- one of my friends played him. We had to go read this play several times to memorize the lines."
"Ah," Teddy chuckles, "Perhaps you could be suited for this job."
"We'll... see," Larry then pauses, "Maybe. Let's see how I do tomorrow."
The president's eyes then turn slightly sharp before grabbing onto something that made Larry slightly flinch-
"HEY- Dammit lemme GO!"
Jedediah!?
"What the-" Larry then stares at the miniature cowboy who was dangling from Teddy's pinched fingers before dropping him onto Larry's sudden outstretched hand, "You!? How did you-"
"It took a while to catch up to ya- but I don't like being manhandled!" Jedediah groans, managing to grab onto his hat that fell on Larry's hand before standing up, "Seriously- you made me feel irritated! This ain't fair- you make me feel small and powerless!" Then he lets out a soft whine, "It... really doesn't feel good!"
Larry lets out a silent sigh before warily staring at the president, who just shrugs as if to silently say, ...well, it's like that for a long time. It's normal.
"...are you done being a brat now?" Larry quietly asks the cowboy, who just lets out a frustrated sigh before looking up at the teacher, "Because... to be honest, you're like an average person. Just..." He trails off, not wanting to say 'small', but the problem is- he is. The cowboy's itching to take out his gun-
"Also," Teddy can't help but note, "His pistols don't exactly shoot."
Larry stares at the cowboy, who grimly nods as he cocks his gun and clicks the trigger (which does absolutely nothing), "...so, back then, nothing was going to happen."
"Yeah," Jedediah grimaces, "Now you know my shame."
"Though- you really have a short temper."
The cowboy lets out a frustrated sigh before looking at Larry, "Just to let ya know, I hate it when I'm called tiny. Or small. Or anything!"
The teacher softly sighs, this time a sympathetic smile reaching to him- it's kind of like how he's feeling when he tried to voice out his opion to the other teachers and school board- his voice wasn't being heard as much.
"Sorry. I know- I'll be careful," Larry closes his eyes much to Jedediah's slight surprise, "I'll keep that in mind. Though-" He then pauses, "Is that all you have to say?"
"Well... yeah," Jedediah blinks before frowning, "Wait, you're not looking down on me or anything?"
"No." Larry shakes his head, checking the time, "Though you might want to head back before sunrise."
"Tch, fiiiine," Jedediah then pauses, "Wait a sec, you... are new, right?"
"Yeah...?"
The cowboy then nods before jumping to Teddy's hand, "...See ya tomorrow, then." Then with a crooked grin, "Though when ya pissed off Octavius, I think I'm starting to see you as my ally."
Larry wants to groan 'Oh Good GOD WHYYY I just said something that was historically accurate' when Teddy nods, "Come on, Jedediah- time's almost up."
"Yeah, yeah yeah..."
The teacher then sees the two before calling out to them, "So- I'll just- um... I'll just be on my way back up, okay?"
He doesn't hear the calls for him being back tomorrow as Larry runs back upstairs to make sure everything up there is fine.
It wasn't until midway through the miniatures exhibit did Teddy finally head Jedediah quietly ask, "...so he isn't part of it?"
"I don't think so," The president sighs raggedly, "I've been closing up the museum every since those guards came in and since the Tablet came. But never once have I seen someone else take the mantle of guarding the museum and be all right about it."
The small cowboy lets out a quiet 'tch' before, "I shoulda told him. Those three-"
"I know, but those three have planned this for a while... we have no power over in the daytime to stop them." Teddy then pauses, "He should be able to figure it out though... he seems to be the smart type- and the one who is able to do anything."
"...a history teacher, huh? I overheard ya'll's conversation. Sorry." Teddy doesn't say anything, but if he did, it would be to give that poor teacher some credit. The cowboy lets out a small chuckle as they reach the miniature hall, "Damn. I wonder what that Gigantor's got up in that brain of his?" Then he pauses,"...wait, that's what I'm gonna call him!"
The president can't help but crack a smile, "Already liking him, eh?"
"He seems decent," The cowboy shrugs, "First one to also made that damn Roman general pissed off on the first time instead of suckin' up before closing his doors. Which- wait, didn't Gigantor...?"
"No, which should mean he's more wary of this area," Teddy responds before letting Jedediah off at the diorama, "Remember your temper next time."
"Yeah, yeah, got it," The cowboy nods as he sees the president indicate his horse to ride back to his area before turning back to see his second in command waiting for him, "Ready to be back in the posts?"
"Um," Caleb then pauses, "About that, Jed. We've got a prisoner."
Silence. Then Jedediah asks with confusion, "...come again?"
The president lets out a terse sigh when he leaves the diorama room.
It's been about fifty or more years ago when the Tablet came and became the source of all sorts of trouble- mayhem, joy, shock, and... again, mayhem- to the museum. Aside the assistance of a few night guards (in reality, there is a minimum amount of aid from the three guards and Teddy has to admit- it was mostly work in his end), the president has to admit- he was getting tired of listening to whatever Cecil and his two men ordered him around.
He was the president that made reforms, for the love of God!
But the fact that they've hired a new guard meant initially the retirement story was true.
What he also knows (and has overheard) is that those three were plotting to make their mark known in the museum- not in a good way either.
As he makes his way back to his post where he joins Rexy, whose bone is placed back into position, the dinosaur skeleton glances at him, a low whine escaping it.
"Yes, I know," Teddy grimaces, "I don't like where this is going either."
Rexy shifts as it them turns to see Larry, who is trying his best to tell Christopher Columbus to return to his post... despite his language barrier. Teddy can't help but sigh, knowing that while the man is a teacher (which Teddy has to admire for a man like him taking on this job), he seems alarmed and rattled about the museum coming to life ordeal.
It was a slight surprise for the president when Larry showed up after brooding in the Egyptian exhibit for a long time- and seems that he's accepted the burdens of his job. And even mentioned he's looking forward to it.
Teddy lets a smile pass through him- there is something to the night guard that the president notices that the other guards do not have. When he mentioned the greatness quote, it seems as if the man was keen to listen. He even managed to subdue the part of the museum that normally would take more time than should.
But- that smile slowly changes into a light grimace- would Larry know about what those men were planning when he gets the chance?
"Be careful, my boy," Teddy quietly murmurs, watching Larry settle to his desk in the main lobby as he slowly returns to his position, "There are some things you should find out that I or the museum inhabitants are not able to tell you."
Because how else was he going to warn the new hire about those three men without them finding out?
It was around sunrise when Larry sees how the museum is now; the T-Rex skeleton has gone back to its original position and in the pose it's been at since he's first saw the skeleton. Teddy- his sword out and his horse poised with its rider.
"Thanks for the help, Teddy," Larry murmurs with a smile and a nod (and he swears the president winks in response) before checking the sky.
Sunlight immediately blooms the museum, letting the exhibits sleep in their positions. Larry, on the other hand, feels slight warmth from the sunlight. Then he feels his energy drain slowly as he feels himself sinking into his chair... as he checks the time and sees that it's around six in the morning.
Wow- I can't believe twelve hours ago it was... He glances back at the museum, which is now back to its silent self, ...chaotic.
The teacher lets out a small sigh before standing up to his feet, stretching before frowning-
-wait a sec. Who checked if the pharaoh returned to his sarcophagus? (Definitely NOT Teddy, that was for certain.)
Larry then lets out into an alarmed sprint to the upstairs and direction to the Egyptian exhibit room.
He barely slips through the floors of the museum (he was running, okay!? He catches himself before he loses his balance and falls to the ground) when he manages to reach the Egyptian exhibit-
-and immediately sees a slightly smoothed out white sheet of paper that was folded and laying top of that stupid as hell stone slab.
"...what the?" Larry gently takes it and mutters out loud inside of the now quiet room.
Not too long ago- this was the place where the pharaoh was talking to him.
And now?
"Larry- do not worry about me. I am hidden somewhere- those men will not be able to find me even if they ever tried. I will hope to see you on your next shift.'
The teacher lets out a sigh. So, there was a part of him that knew the king didn't want to be back in that coffin. But- where was he? (The columns in that room were far enough from the actual exhibit area so no one was able to enter in. But Larry really didn't know about it. That- and the museum is kept ridiculously clean...)
At least he can take comfort in the thought that the guards tomorrow night won't be able to find him (They didn't).
By the time Larry returns from the Egyptian room, he was about to heave a sigh of relief when he sees a certain curator, tapping his foot impatiently before seeing the teacher walk up the desk, "McPhee!" Larry was about to say that for once he was glad to see someone when he realizes the man doesn't look particulary happy. "...er, something the matter?"
"One... word for a minute," McPhee stiffly grumbles as Larry follows him.
When he reaches the miniature room, Larry can't help but think, Okay, that's one room I didn't even bother checking since that was Teddy's section. He frowns as soon as he sees the curator glaring at Larry in front of...
...the Old West diorama.
"What's wrong?" Larry can't help but ask.
"I'd suggest," McPhee calmly states, "You'd like to look near the sheriff's area."
"The- okay..." The teacher warily frowns before glancing to see Jedediah- okay, he's there and-
Oh FOR THE LOVE OF- Jedediah has trapped Octavius in the stocks!?
I thought everything was safe and sound! Larry mentally exclaims in horror in his head- how the hell could this have happened!?
Most likely case was that Octavius was sneaking into Jedediah's territory and was caught by his men... then he was imprisoned. And now because it's daytime, there's no way Larry can pry them back open without having to attempt taking apart the miniatures.
That- and he can see the ire curator waiting for some sort of explanation.
"...I'm... guessing there was someone who decided to have fun earlier?" Larry can't help but grimace at McPhee starting at him like he's about to shank the teacher. That's all he can do without giving the saying that the museum comes to life... because there is absolutely no way that curator can believe him (because he's not that type of guy to in convinced of anything. Except when it comes to his wife, which Larry will later find out about).
"...hilarious, Daley," The curator deadpans, "First warning. I hope this doesn't happen again."
"Got it," Larry nods- when he does come back from his day off from all of this, he'll have a word with Jedediah and Octavius... before reminding them whatever they are doing can possibly cost his job (in other words, he's going to teach those two assholes a lesson... not literally. Okay, maybe he'll be calmer to Jedediah but REALLY Octavius!?).
He lets out a sigh of exhaustive relief as McPhee walks out, muttering something about morons who are creative in making something like this. Then he shoots a glare at the two leaders before seething, "I am so going to kill you two when I come back! Especially you, Octavius- are you trying to make me lose my job on the first day!?"
Then he silently seethes to himself about how idiotically inaccurate they are going to mess people up ("This is exactly... why history shouldn't be screwed up like THAT!") as he marches to the locker room to change out of his uniform.
(It's later realized that Jedediah and Octavius did hear Larry- and those two ever since try their best not to piss off Larry. ...try being the key word (as those attempts will crash and burn at some nights).)
"Hey Larry!"
Larry stops in his tracks when he was just exiting the changing room and switched his clothing to the ones he wore yesterday. Then his eyes narrow before he storms up to a grinning Cecil, "You!"
"Ah, see that you survived your first night," Cecil is laughing in his mind at Larry right about now.
"YOU-!" Larry can't help but growl and trying his best to stop cursing at Cecil (he's actually keeping down at bay, actually), "You didn't TELL me about it all coming to life at night!"
"And if I would've told you right off the bat, would you have believed me?"
Larry was about to argue back before sighing, his shoulders slumping as any argument died at his throat. It would be the same as him disbelieving Nick as he and Erica would tell their child that there are no such thing as the Boogeyman or the monster hiding underneath his bed as most parents will tell their children.
Of course, the context of this situation was really different, but...
"...point taken."
The older guard chuckles, gently patting Larry's shoulder in sympathy, "You'll get used to it- the first time I worked here, it was... something different."
...like how you managed to survive while I barely got killed? The teacher's eye slightly twitches at the thought of Cecil surviving along with Gus and Reginald, Thanks for the vote of confidence, by the way- how come you three didn't get killed by the Huns while I barely escaped?
"One question though- are you hiring any more people anytime soon?" He sees Cecil slightly paling before chuckling, regaining some of his color back.
"Ohhh no. We figured one's good enough," The elderly guard shrugs, making the other man frown in slight suspicion (that thought's coming back to him... along with questions that have to do with what have they done before to the other exhibits before he came in that caused them to... try and react when he came in), "Though, one question. Did you enjoy the entire night?"
That made the teacher stop before staring at Cecil with an incredulous look.
"Ha!" Larry rolls his eyes before sighing, "Look, I just... suffered through a whole night and that's all you can ask!?"
"Yeah," Cecil shrugs, "Well, you did give the three of us good time to think about what our retirement plants are."
...and why would you need an entire night to do that? Larry can't help but mentally ask himself. Instead, he just responds with, "Speaking of your night-off - did you have fun?"
That makes Cecil grin a bit perversely, "Oh yes- a lot of fun with the guys and gals where we went for the retirement party!"
Well, at least that explains that stupid pink lei necklace Cecil's wearing. And- was that red lipstick on Cecil's shirt collar!? (At this point, it's best not to ask.)
"So, I'm guessing tomorrow's... your last night?" Larry warily asks, looking forward to rest for once, "Yours, Gus' and Reginald's that is."
"Ohh, that's right," Cecil pauses, "Your schedule- you just began. I think tonight was a trial run- don't worry! You'll get paid for it!"
The teacher rolls his eyes, but he grins, "Got it- any advice for someone like me to follow though- aside the letter I found?" The one Dexter that fucking capuchin RIPPED!?
Cecil nods, a concerned look on his face, "Yes- be prepared for anything that happens in here because at this point on, nothing will ever be the same every night. Will you be back to tackle it all then?"
"Oh, I'll be back all right," Larry sighs before giving a small grin to Cecil, who actually looks surprised, "I'll be prepared for tomorow night- make sure things are okay for me!"
What he doesn't see is a surprised look from the old guard's face as Larry goes back up the stairs, his slight relaxed look swiftly changes to a concerned and look of suspicion as his hand quickly reaches for the last item he hasn't taken out all night- a black notebook he's just found when he was changing his clothing.
I think something's up with Cecil, Larry's eyes narrow- he wasn't that stupid to realize that he was easily hired for any reason despite his... idiotically impressive resume (if he listed his entire job listings, it would be more than the max two page limit). Then his attention catches back to the stone slab that's sitting on top of the glass case. ...and that slab. That's really starting to bother me, especially since that's the only thing that was not able to leave the exhibit for fifty-two years. He can't help but think that the pharaoh either is still hiding... somewhere or was really in the sarcophagus- which can mean the Anubis guards must've done something to the slab and make it look like the pharaoh is still in there.
He looks up at the Tablet, looking back down at the black notebook before back up again to the Tablet.
There's something going on the museum- and Larry's willing to bet the exhibits have nothing to do with it.
Speaking of-
Those exhibits... how the heck was he going to deal with those? With the chaos going on from that night, the teacher can't help but have a slew of ideas as to how to deal with them.
But it'll require... help. And no, he's not going to ask Don or any of his coworkers (or friends that he does still hang out with).
"I think I'm going to need help," Larry can't but wonder if he's signing for a death wish on top of having to deal with the museum inhabitants.
TBC
So, notes for both parts...
Welp, there's some hint of that pairing. (Yes, I'm odd like that since for some reason, I like the pharaoh as the one taking the lead and Larry being... yeah, well, you can't blame the guy whose normal life is embarrassment and awkwardness.)I did make it so that Ahkmenrah is a bit (okay, maybe not a bit) socially awkward... initially (if you all catch that he didn't even exit out of the room). Think about it- he's been trapped in there for about fifty or so years and when someone released him (unknowingly and yes before a lot of you ask, I did that on purpose for the story), not only would he be really grateful to his savior, but he would be wary of meeting with the other exhibits (since they didn't release him at all) and even exiting out of his room thanks to that 'muffle the mummy' thing.
By the way, Rules 4 and 5 were actually what they are meant to be (I wish I was kidding, but that's what it said in the movie). The fact that there was an actual huge paper manual on how to handle the museum exhibits is just hilarious (and in common sense, pretty much useless).
...long ass hell note done.
Preview of next chapter:
"Soooo... let me see if I can get this straight," James was the first to speak, "You want us... to try to make this," He gestures to the photograph, "And have it ready for you by tomorrow."
Larry grins as he sees the three students stare at him as if he's grown a second head or something, "Just think of this as a thank-you for letting me have this job," The teacher grins, crossing his arms, "Do we have a deal?"
This makes Naomi, Porter, and James stares at teach other before balking back at their teacher. Then with the most suffering tone, Porter dryly asks, "Anything else you'd like to throw on us as payback for forcing this job on you?"