Chapter 1: Prologue
Chapter Text
"Bali! Are you reading your encyclopedia again?" The young mother's question reverberates into the playroom, directed at her one and only little girl. Said little girl looks up from the giant book to grin widely. Despite her age, the child is already a prodigal reader.
"Daddy says that there are tiny facts we miss when reading, so the more we read, the more we can find," Bali explains, carefully putting her princess bookmark in place and shoving the book from her lap.
"But I thought you've read it three times already!" her mother exclaims, amazed by her daughter's ongoing passion. Amazed... and terrified at what it means. Bali twirls around, too excited to keep still.
"Egypt's too cool to just leave it alone!" Young Bali has loved Egypt from the first time her father had taken her to a museum exhibit. Her parents thought that since she was a child, the interest would be fleeting, even with their background. They were surprised when they learned she had been asking her governess to teach hieroglyphics "like what the Egyptians wrote."
"I just hope... Ipray nothing bad happens to you, Bali. How about you let me tell you a story," her mother suggests, and Bali nods her head vigorously. She loves her mother more than anything else, even cats, even Egypt.
"This one has to do with a pharaoh a long, long time ago. You wanna know how long?" she starts out, pulling Bali into her lap and stroking her black hair.
"How long?"
"Thirty-five hundred years ago."
"Wow! That was, um… Three-hundred?" Bali calculates in wonderment. While her literary skill is astonishing, the girl is not similarly gifted in mathematics.
"Three-thousand, my dear. Anyhow, this pharaoh was a great sorcerer, using what was called 'shadow magic.' Now, under the reign of this pharaoh, Egypt was strong and united against many foes. With the Millennium Puzzle situated around his neck, he ruled with great judgment over his empire.
"One day, however, an evil man with his own great shadow powers challenged the pharaoh and his court, trying to gain control of the powerful Millennium Items. A great battle was held, and nearly all of Egypt was destroyed and the world taken by the evil man. But the pharaoh, who was brave and loved his country above all else, sealed himself and the evil sorcerer inside the Millennium Items.
"No one knows where these items are today, for they are protected by ancient forces. However, throughout the thousands of years since the incident, the desert winds utter whispers of the time when history will repeat, as per Egyptian belief. Do you think it will happen again, Bali?" her mother ends softly, slowly rocking her sleepy child in her arms.
"I don't know Momma. … Momma?"
"Yes, Bali?"
"What was the pharaoh's name?" Bali says her last intelligent phrase before sleep claims her. Her mother smiles sadly.
"I'm afraid I can't answer that."
-America, the year nineteen-hundred and twenty one-
Chapter 2: Bali
Notes:
This is likely the most Hollywood-esque that the story gets. No running from boulders though.
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
-Eastern Libyan desert, 1934-
"Bali, wait for me!" a short, stout, and distressed young man calls out. He is carrying his weight in supplies, an unwise choice for the broad desert he is in. His 'colleague' however, knows her way around their surroundings, and brought what she knows will benefit her most.
"Ambrose, I think I've found Dr. O'Connell's tipoff," the tall woman states, her voice full of mild arrogance. Having just completed many studies while earning an apprenticeship under a renowned doctor of archaeology, she feels she has a right to be proud.
"Already? How could you have known where to look?" Ambrose puffs, looking over the sandstone cliff beside Bali. The eighteen-year-old grins with the fire of mischief in her eyes.
"I just followed our friends down there. See?" she points out. An armed guardsman stands out front to watch his group's horses. Her companion hums at the revelation.
"Ambrose, you pitched the camels like I asked, right?" Bali asks, and Ambrose nods vigorously, ensuring his brilliant friend that he is to be trusted.
"This looks too dangerous, Bali," Ambrose says, squeaking when he sees the flash of a gun in the sunlight. Bali's grin grows as she draws out her own pistol.
"Who's to say who's dangerous these days?" Bali replies. She jumps down, firing twice. The guardsman drops to the sand, dead before seeing his assailant. Bali waves for Ambrose to come along while she watches for any retaliation from the cavern built into the sandstone. Once Ambrose is caught up, he shudders at the glazed eyes of the murdered man. Bali ushers him in, leading the way with heightened senses and gun at the ready. They come up to inscriptions that both recognize and she growls when they come to a hallway split.
"They're hieroglyphs! But we're so far from there…" Ambrose points out, and Bali grunts. She pulls out a flashlight, as sunlight is fading fast and there are no torches lit around them.
"This area was still part of the Upper Kingdom back then," she mutters.
"Can you read it?" Ambrose asks more, looking up at her angered expression as they stare at the sign before them. He's heard about Bali's genius proficiency in ancient languages, and even about her uncanny ability to decipher obscure Egyptian text.
"I hate Egypt," she states, her vicious tone poisoning her voice. Ambrose gulps. Everyone in their academic circle knows about her vitriol toward the ancient desert empire, but it remains a mystery as to why she entered the field despite it. He asks again.
"Yes, I can. What kind of apprentice would I be if I couldn't?" she snarls, making Ambrose step back. Bali is a terrible force to be reckoned with when angry.
"It says, roughly, 'a god's trial awaits a being who dares challenge the sun.' They either want us to sleep with Re or challenge him," Bali reads, snorting in disbelief at the end. She is here on business, with her teacher counting on her for some worthy find. She pushes on the expedition, moving past her disdain and skepticism. The two follow the footsteps of those ahead of them, mostly because Bali is curious about their motives and about challenging Re. Although still in denial, the seeming challenge to Re has attached itself into her mind. Perhaps it would hold clues to her own search in life.
The two young adventurers walk, stepping carefully and quietly, until they can hear voices from farther down the corridor. She motions for silence, and they tiptoe ahead, Bali pulling out a second revolver. She praises her luck on finding that their new group of friends are through a doorway, perfect for spying. Upon carefully gazing in and around, Bali recognizes the group insignia.
"George Corman, that black market bastard. Sent his stooges to soil a good and fascinating archaeological discovery," Bali utters under her breath, her gaze fierce in remembrance. Her teacher, Evelyn O'Connell, warned her extensively about black market bozos like these. George Corman is certainly no new face.
"'Ey sweetie. You lookin' fer someone?" a rough voice breathes behind them. Bali whips around in surprise, faltering in swinging her guns around. Immediately it becomes apparent it is no use to try and fight; the gruff-looking man has a partner and they both have guns. Bali drops hers and slowly lifts her hands, leering eyes never leaving that of her oppressors'. The man sneers and motions for both Bali and Ambrose to walk inside the room.
"Lookee 'ere, boss! We got ourselves some sneaky l'il rats!" their captor chimes, and the group of five within turn to face them. One man smiles too brightly when he sees Bali.
"Well, look what we have here: The scrawny know-it-all that woman took in. I remember the last time you and your teacher ruined my enterprises into history," says he, the very man Bali desires to murder second-most in the entire world. George Corman.
"You slime. You're just a looter with a lust for money," Bali seethes, narrowing her eyes at him while he walks up to her. He harshly slaps her face.
"So young and promising, and already with so many enemies. But you're wrong. Money isn't everything I crave," Corman starts, grasping Bali's chin to wrench her face back in his direction. Losing herself in her anger, she swipes him away with a snarl. Guns rise around the room. They inch downward on Corman's signal.
"I want power, my dear. I found a tablet in some dusty old collection that I bought off a… recently deceased client of mine," his dramatic pause and exaggerated smugness leads her to believe that Corman's client didn't die by natural causes, "You may be the best around at translating but you're not the only linguist out there, and when I received word that the tablet concerned this very temple, I resolved to find it. A challenge to the gods, promising power to match them upon success! Imagine the possibilities given the instability of our world today," Corman gestures as he talks, opening his arms wide. Bali remains steadfast in her disgust. Corman fakes wilting, putting his hands up in mock-surrender.
"Down to business, I see. I like that. You see, our last linguist was, well, unsuccessful in his attempt. Seeing as you're now the only one in this room who can read the ritual summoning and take the challenge for me, you don't have a choice of whether I kill you or not. Sound like a deal?" Corman offers, gesturing around at his men and to the raised platform with the inscriptions.
Bali barks a short laugh, full of contempt. "And why the hell should I care if I die or not? Who said I would be worthy enough for Re anyways? I'm not such a good little girl these days." She returns to her arrogant smirk to prove her point. Corman isn't angered at all, much to her dismay. If he loses his cool, he will be vulnerable. Even if she dies at the end of her planned assault, she knows she can take him with her.
"Ah, so you did read that sign from earlier. I personally believe that even if you say you're 'bad' because of that brat routine you put on to look cool, you're still just a doll who got the idea that hootin' about 'justice' makes her relevant. You've certainly proven it to me before. However, I believe I have proof of it. The last time we met, I noticed something on your wrist," Corman describes, grabbing Bali's wrist, getting past her feeble attempt at resistance. She has a leather wrist strap that he promptly rips off.
"Stop!"
"You've got the mark of a servant of Pharaoh, a medjay! Don't even try to deny this," Corman states, showing his men with a justified smile, her protests ignored.
"I HATE Egypt! All it's done is give me trouble and I don't care if you shoot me down, I'm NOT taking this ridiculous trial!" Bali snarls, taking back her wrist and hiding her tattoo. Corman settles into a withering stare.
"You do, do you? And yet here you are, an apprentice of a renowned Egyptologist, already making leaps in academia, with a tattoo symbolizing the ancient Egyptian police force. Seems your actions contradict your words."
Bali lets go of her wrist, taking a deep breath and defiantly jutting her chin out. "The tattoo was slapped on while I was in a drunken stupor my first few days in Cairo. My reasons for being here, however, are none of your goddamn business," she says. Inwardly she's already accepted the daunting fact that this mysterious desert temple will be her grave. The questions she has kept close for so long will forever go unanswered.
Something savagely shoves into her back, causing her to cry out.
"Bali, I'd do what he says. Otherwise we'll just take Dr. O'Connell instead," Ambrose warns, pressing the gun up further. Bali freezes in shock.
"What? But Ambrose, why?" she questions slowly. While unexpected, she can't bring herself to feel surprised at his betrayal.
"You've had everything handed to you your entire life because everyone loves crowing about geniuses, never mind that you're a woman. Even when someone finally exposed how vile you are, your father swept it all tidily away. Every day, I've dealt with being in your shadow. You graduated early. You got published. You got the apprenticeship with Dr. O'Connell that I was shooting for. Now you're getting what you deserve," Ambrose explains spitefully, causing Bali to cringe. Corman watches on in smug satisfaction.
"But, Ambrose… She's... Dr. O'Connell is helping you, too. Please don't drag her into this mess I've made," Bali begins, only to hiss when the gun nozzle stabs painfully into her spine.
"I guess that means you should get moving then," Ambrose answers coolly, making Bali look down at her feet. Her fists clench and release as a tense silence falls over the room. She rests the tension in her hands.
"Fine. But Dr. O'Connell and her family are to be left unharmed, do you hear me Corman?" she caves, walking forward to begin the trial. It isn't the first time she's encountered backstabbing, but Ambrose has been a close friend since university.
"Perfectly. Go right on ahead then. Best of luck," Corman encourages, his plan moving forward just as he wishes. Bali glares in his direction before stepping onto the platform. She stands above everyone else in the room, and with a glance around, she notices that they're waiting expectantly. She turns back to the ornate inscription before her, glittering in the torchlight of the room.
"'Those who can read it will get some. Those who write it will get all,'" Bali reads to herself. As she reads further, she realizes that the trial has begun.
"'Give praise, speak not. Ammut awaits,'" is the last part of the warning. Bali swallows hard, wiping the sweat from her nervous hands. She continues to read, keeping silent.
"'In this room your brightness shines, and all worship. O great Re in all your glory and might, show this mortal to morning,'" Bali finishes. The trial confuses her, and a part of her starts to panic. She has to say it, but the room forbids her from speaking.
She searches around the room for other clues. Corman's group follows in wonder. She refuses to speak, even when prompted. Her eyes widen upon catching sight of an empty stone tablet on the opposite wall. The wall is the mirror image of the one that holds the trial writings. Its resounding difference is the absence of the writings.
"You have to read and write! I understand now!" She gestures to a man holding a pack of small hammers, chisels, and brushes. Corman orders him to give her whatever she needs, of which she takes a hammer and chisel. Tools in hand, she jogs to the blank wall, still eerily silent to the other occupants of the room.
"Alright… 'In this room'…" Bali starts, carving out the hieroglyphs of the incantation. Corman moves to stare over her shoulder in wonderment. His men never would have thought of this, and possibly not even her teacher*.
" Prodigal," he thinks, not voicing his opinion so as not to break her concentration.
It takes her painstaking focus nearly an hour to finish. She steps back as the hieroglyphs glow with a golden radiance that makes everyone cover their eyes. The original inscription begins to shudder, then lowers into the ground. Behind, a formerly secret hallway reveals itself. Bali recovers first and bustles into the new corridor. Despite the circumstances, a certain excitement weaves its way into her movements.
"Okay, trial number two, here we go!" she thinks, steeling herself. There is a stone door at the end of the short passage, which Bali shoves back with little difficulty. She can hear the group coming up behind her, but she refuses to wait. She prefers no encouragement from scum like them.
Another tablet stands up from the ground, holding what Bali guesses is her next instruction. She squints to read the smaller text.
"'Look into the eyes of the Holy River's flood. Fear not. Let your joy not falter, for Ammut awaits,'" she whispers to herself, narrowing her eyes in confusion. Over the stone, she finds a large, blue-painted statue of a smiling fat man standing and waiting. The eyes of the statue are made of lapis, glinting in the flickering torchlight.
"Well, at least I get to blink," Bali muses to herself. She hears an amused snort in her mind, followed by a voice that encompasses crashing rapids and gentle ebbs saying, "smile." The voice, in all its powerful contradictions, hurts her considerably and causes Bali to clutch her head in pain. Once more she stares into the lapis eyes of the statue.
Into Hapy's eyes she gazes, feeling a trill down her spine at how alive they seem. She concludes that Hapy is the one responsible for the voice. She shivers again, knowing that the one word is the hint he has given her to overcome this test.
With a smile secure on her lips, Bali kneels before Hapy and leans in close to his eyes, beginning the second trial.
At first, only his eyes. Slowly, like a curtain over a window, her vision fades into an illusion. The first bite. Then another. Snakes are all over her, and it takes everything she has to not cry out in pain or let her smile falter.
The illusion moves on. Scorpions, locusts, scarabs, and mosquitoes. She smiles through it all, a miraculous will to endure the pain and disgust she feels. In Bali's mind, the torture goes on for hours.
"I don't know if I can hold out any longer, but I have to try! I can't let Dr. O'Connell get in trouble because of me!" Bali thinks fiercely, to which the visions abruptly cease. Without really meaning to, she pushes herself away from the statue, falling to the ground.
"What's wrong with her? She looks into the eyes for about a minute and then acts like it's been months," a lackey whispers to another, who nods in horrified fascination.
Corman ignores them and picks Bali up off the ground. She struggles to find her footing, but eventually regains her strength. He shoves a canteen of water into her wavering hands. Although it's from Corman, Bali takes it to drink greedily.
Once she takes her fill, she moves onward, heart still racing from the illusions. Who knew the god of the Nile flood, known as a kind paternal god, could put on a trial so cruel? The next hallway that appears is significantly different from the first hallway.
Peering in carefully, they can see the holes where poison darts and arrows wait to be triggered. There are fissures that hold hidden blades. Only close observation and gentle movement will allow them passage.
"Everyone should tread lightly. This corridor is full of traps that still work like new," Bali warns the group behind her, albeit begrudgingly. There are mutters of worry and resettling of guns.
"Well, show us the way Bali." Corman's order comes with a tap on her shoulder. She frowns deeply at the contact. Swallowing her retort, she regains focus on the dangerous task before her. A part of her figures that since there is no stone tablet, this is not a true part of her trial. No, the Egyptians just want to make her life miserable.
"I hate Egypt," she recounts, annoyed at the countless traps she weaves through. While a daunting task, Bali notices them all and their triggers as she goes, leading the rest with clipped instructions.
As Corman's group follows, a couple of his men trip on wire and are consequently sprayed with acid. Their screams of terror and anguish make her grimace, but she can only pity them. She settles back into focus. If she lets fear distract her, she will trigger her own fate as well.
The hallway continues on, and some maneuvers are difficult, but Bali's clever evasion works. The room they enter next lights up automatically with brilliant fire in torches along the wall. Bali finds the stone tablet that has the glyphs for her final stage of the trial. She bends down to read it and begins.
"'You must fight the goddess who discovered His Name. Fear not, for Ammut awaits,'" Bali speaks aloud.
"Who do you have to fight?" Corman asks breathlessly, leaping the last chasm.
"The Great Goddess… Isis!" Bali whispers to herself.
"Yes child, now pick up yonder sword and prepare for battle," a foreign voice chimes, a woman's that makes all slap their hands to their ears in pain. Too many sounds converge in that voice. Corman and his group do not understand the ancient dialect and are searching about the room for the source while Bali keeps still. While she also does not see the goddess Isis yet, she sees the sword sitting poised on a wall mount.
Bali takes hold of the smooth handle and hoists up the gleaming, golden blade. The moment she does, the room transforms. Instead of the dusty temple, a clean, present-time-looking room. It is bright, with fresh air and no villainous gangsters. Bali stares around in wonder until Isis appears.
The goddess stands tall and bright, her skin roiling molten gold and radiating heat. The pure white sheath dress she wears billows around her legs, adorned with a belt of gold and silver and ankh charms. Two silver cow horns rise up from her black, tightly braided hair. Small lotus flowers bloom throughout these braids, drawing together the vision of Egyptian culture that is Isis.
"Hello, young challenger. Are you ready to begin the final trial that will change the fate of your soul?" she greets, pulling out a slim, glimmering blade of her own. Bali cannot shake her stupefied gawk.
Isis is beyond beautiful. Rightfully so. Her ethereal presence sends shudders and goosebumps throughout Bali's body. It's the first time in many years that she feels true fear, the fear of a mouse cornered by a cat.
She takes a deep breath, accepting that her fear is here to stay. She nods soberly, a grim frown etching her face. How can she defeat a god?
"Simple," she concludes.
"I won't."
Notes:
FUN FACT!: All Fun Facts will henceforth be at the ends of chapters.
Every new year, the statues and idols of gods and goddesses would be taken from their temples and shrines and either placed on the roofs of their respective temples or paraded somewhere else to take in the sunlight of the first day of the year. In a sense, Egyptian gods are solar-powered, so methinks they'd be supportive of multiple renewable energy sources.
*Evelyn O'Connell-Carnahan (The Mummy '99) totally would understand the trial, this character is just a dirtbag
Chapter 3: Historic
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Upon Bali's acceptance of the duel, both women have their faces covered with simple golden masks. Bali is taken off guard, taking precious seconds to grope at her face. Isis wastes no time, taking advantage of her opponent's distraction. The goddess darts forward, lunging her sword inward.
"Whoa!" Bali shrieks, lurching herself out of the way. To her credit, Bali lands upright, but Isis is unfazed. She charges Bali again, and this time Bali brings up her sword to clash with Isis'.
Throughout the ordeal, Isis prods at her emotions with snide remarks and put-downs. It becomes increasingly difficult for her to remember that she can't give up or even think about giving up.
"You're just a spoiled child who has no right to that mark on your wrist!" Isis spits, moving easily while Bali grows tired, breaths growing deeper, movements slower. Sweat drips down her forehead underneath the mask.
"That doesn't matter!" Bali croaks, narrowly dodging a downward sweep. She has nothing to show for her exhaustion. She's landed no blows, while Isis has achieved several energy-sapping wounds.
"You're against me, a goddess. I am not even using magic, you are so weak! You will die here!" Isis yells. The goddess trips her, and she lands with a painful thud before rolling onto her back. Unable to stand, she stays put, keeping her numb sword arm down resting on the floor.
She flips the mask up onto her forehead. "I have to win. There are people I am defending, I will win," Bali rasps, chest heaving. Isis saunters over. Bali lowers her head to receive the final blow, watching the goddess' sword raise…
Isis is only inches away from Bali's skull when she stops. A presence as powerful and spine-tingling as Isis' explodes into their alternate plane. The amount of pressure from the energy sends Bali's mind into tingling nothingness, and her awareness fades.
"Re, this fight is not over. I must commence the punishment for her failure," Isis says icily, but a golden aura surrounds the comatose, open-eyed human.
"I wouldn't say so. So exhausted, yet with sheer willpower to protect her teacher, she glared up at you into unconsciousness. Unyielding. This one is worthy," the deep voice of Re points out, his falcon-headed figure walking up next to them. Isis crosses her arms and sticks her left foot forward to bow, Re doing the same for her, as a signal of their equal standing.
"If that is what you wish." Isis casts one last glance to Bali's battered figure and disappears. Re frowns and shakes his magnificent head at Isis' reaction. He too disappears, preparations ready for his Chosen, the one he's waited to meet for thousands of years.
Bali wakes up surrounded by Corman's men. The room is normal again. She's weak. Her wounds ache. Worse, she believes that she has lost the battle.
"Bali, why isn't anything happening? Don't tell me you failed!" Corman interrogates, shaking her violently. The young woman doesn't get over her dizziness and keeps her dazed expression on the floor.
"Ugh…" Her groan makes Corman throw her to the ground in anger. Nothing is happening and he's assuming that Bali is suffering whatever punishment is given to failures.
"This is ridiculous! Isn't anyone around here competent at all?" Corman fumes, snatching the gun out of Ambrose's hands.
"Boss what're you doing?" Ambrose squeaks. The sight of the gun pointing at Bali's head churns his stomach despite his grudges.
"I'm going to save her from whatever punishment those bastard gods have put her in," Corman sputters, his face a searing red. The trigger is almost squeezed when a bright, burning golden light bursts from Bali's body.
The men scream as a figure of molten gold steps from behind Bali, materializing from thin air. He steps in front of her, hiding her from view of Corman. The mob leader can hardly keep from quaking in fear.
"O-oh, hello. Sorry, I suppose it was a success. Ha- ah, would you like to talk? After all, the pest was doing this for me…" he stutters, the sight and eminence of the mysterious man with ram horns severely weakening his confidence. The Egyptian levels him a mighty glare, paralyzing the men in the room.
"A pest? You are the pests. Be gone!" Re commands, his anger flaring. Corman's group, despite the language barrier, knows trouble is on the wind. Before any of them can attempt begging for mercy, Re raises his hand and banishes them to the shadow realm inside the pit of Ammut's stomach. Earth-form Re takes in his work for a few seconds before huffing smugly in laughter.
"I love doing that."
"What happened?"
Her question echoes within the pleasant sacred realm that Re whisked her to. She feels physically refreshed where she is, though still feels the effects of the god's power up and down her skin. Seeing Isis before allowed Bali to get past the roiling golden skin to identify her savior as Re.
"I kept them from killing you and bothering your teacher," he answers, watching as she shakily stands.
"Right, thanks. So, I passed that trial then?" Bali asks, swallowing hard after putting her left foot forward, putting her right hand over her heart and bowing. Just because she believes this is a hallucination doesn't mean she couldn't be careful. After everything, she can't afford to be disrespectful to the wrong person, no matter how ludicrous the situation seems.
"Yes, you did. I have big plans for y–"
"–Excuse me?"
"What is it?"
"… I get your powers now, right?" Bali questions, head tilting curiously. Shepassed the ordeal, after all. It wouldn't be right if she did all that difficult work for nothing.
"No," Re replies winningly. Her jaw drops.
"What?" Again, her voice echoes around them, though this time at a roar. Re sobers.
"No."
"And why the hell not?" she fumes, though she dares not move. Re is still a debatable threat.
"You have said you hate Egypt one thousand twenty-eight times in your life. You've thought it even more. I'm a meticulous counter. As the protector of Egypt, why would I in my right mind give my gift of power to someone who hates Egypt?" Re recounts, dousing the flames of her rage with cool logic. At Bali's gobsmacked expression, he sighs.
"Bali, you cannot possess them now, not when even the mark of the medjay is misplaced. Your soul is not ready, not complete enough to accept the forces of Heka. There is much for you to regain that you have lost," Re explains further, his tone shifting lower in sadness.
"I doubt things can change," she mutters, crossing her arms and looking to the side. He throws his arms up in exasperation.
"One does not cross the Realms of the Dead to the Realms of the Living, Bali," Re reprimands, making Bali gaze at him sharply.
"Uh, if I'm not mistaken O Mighty One, you do that every night."
The feathers of Re's falcon head fluff out in aggravation. "I am a god, and I already know your next argument will refer to Osiris so do not waste your time. You are my chosen, and you must regain what you've lost."
"What if I don't want to? Lord knows I'm not doing well for myself in the way of friends and family, let alone the husband I'm supposed to be settled down with already. Find someone who meets your qualifications and leave me alone," Bali shoots back, forgetting in her anger who she is dealing with. Re freezes her motions with a wave of his hand.
"You do not understand; you have no choice in the matter. Destiny brought you here and now you're going to fulfill it! If you cannot prove anything in this time, then you shall go back to when my true descendants lived. Once you care for Egypt as I do, my powers will be yours. Deal with it," he elaborates, his almost paternal lecture incensing her to the point that tears appear in her eyes.
"You can't be serious. I must be having death hallucinations, because that's the goddamn corniest thing I've ever heard," Bali spits, her will overpowering Re's freeze spell as she turns to walk away. Re grunts.
"Very well. You'll be forced to understand." A small snap of Re's fingers is all it takes to send Bali to Egypt, to the reign of Pharaoh Akhnemkhanen of the Eighteenth Dynasty.
A time that destiny has claimed as her calling.
Bali is irate, furious, and generally perturbed. She woke up in the middle of an unfamiliar portion of desert and is now stomping through said desert. She puts the wind to her back and heads east, hoping she isn't where her gut tells her she is. She desperately wants to believe that her meeting with Re was some weird dream brought on by exhaustion, but there's no explanation as to why she's out in the desert other than him.
The sand dunes begin to lower to flatter ground and greener land. Soon enough, Bali comes upon the holy river itself; the Nile. Bali climbs down the dune cliff she's scaled and looks around. She thinks she sees a sail downriver, so she starts to follow the flow of the water. Being on the western bank is not ideal. By her logic, she figures that it shouldn't be overly difficult to find someone to ferry her across.
It takes forty-five minutes of crashing through reeds, avoiding crocodile nests and hippo colonies for her to reach what she had seen, that being a village with several boats adrift on the river before it. To her misfortune, this village is sat on the eastern bank. This didn't matter to her now.
Her answer is plain.
"No… I want to go home, this can't be happening!" Bali wails, dropping to her knees at the sight of the ancient village before her. She can see the streets bustle with activity, smoke rising from the temple in the middle of the cluster of buildings. A part of her clings to a shred of hope that this village is simply so far out that industrialization hasn't reached it. It's quickly dashed away by the river itself: no settlement on the waterway could escape western imperialism. Her thought process is interrupted by footsteps to her left. Bali glances up, standing hesitantly.
"Hey there miss, are you…?" An old man in a dirty patchwork white tunic that cut off before his knees with chin length tightly curled hair stands before her gaping, having trailed off. Bali doesn't understand his reaction, as she is also surprised at her ability to perfectly understand him. She hadn't even thought about communication with the long-dead language. Having her brain automatically translate it is disorienting, as she can still hear its stark contrasts from her first language English, and all the other languages she's studied.
The ferryman, as he happens to be, stays in awe through the awkward silence. He had pulled in to spy on her, but he never expected this! An obvious foreigner, dressed in no clothes he's ever seen, her shoulder-length hair is styled in near perfect waves. The crow black color of her hair is like that of a native Egyptian's, but her skin tone is too light for the fields. Nobility, perhaps? But the look in Bali's eyes is what causes him to speak again. Her eyes are an almost unnatural green, her expression imperious with chin held up, and she's just standing in the reeds… So many myths begin with earthly incarnations of gods emerging from the waters and foliage of the holy river…
"My lady, do you require passage across?" he asks carefully, this time using more formality to appease any offense caused by his appearance. Bali is still burning with turmoil, and barely restrains herself from taking it out on him. His gaze may be heavily curious and even afraid, but she can see the signs of more in-depth analysis. Despite this, she has confidence in her fighting ability should he decide to turn on her.
"I do. Please take me across," she answers, mouthing words she's never formed before. The strange feeling keeps her anger at bay, for now. The ferryman bows his head as he gestures for Bali to follow him into the shallows to a small boat. Bali climbs in, moving around the small sail to stand at the prow, looking out over the Nile as they speed along with the current. To the poor ferryman, she seems even more commanding and regal than before. Her skin glows in the sunlight. She keeps her balance perfectly. Every hair is kept in place.
It's at this moment that the ferryman decides: This woman must be a goddess, or some relative messenger at least, and requires an audience with Pharaoh in Thebes. It is definitely why he was sent here! He turns the boat to go completely downstream with the river current. Bali whips around for an explanation when she notices. Before she can open her mouth to demand one, the ferryman answers.
"Thebes, my lady. To Pharaoh." He puts his right hand to his heart in reverence. Bali doesn't catch that the hand is meant for her, and not for Pharaoh. She stares him down, eyes narrowing. All the while, she struggles to organize her thoughts to form any sort of logical plan.
" Being taken to Pharaoh Whoever might be a good thing, if he's even actually taking me there. It's all wet, guess I'll have to go with the flow literally and figuratively," she reasons.
"Good." She concludes her thoughts verbally and turns back to look over the river. The spray of water is refreshing against the desert's piercing heat. Bali mills over all the Pharaohs the current ruler could possibly be, any possible explanation for her appearance, and what she can possibly request of him to try and return home.
After an hour of sailing, Bali and the ferryman see road traffic on the shore, while the river begins choking up with the opulent yachts of dignitaries and broad working ships carrying building materials. Shoddy reed and brick residences appear, shrouding the road. Soon enough, Bali is taking in the magnificence of ancient Thebes. A grand palace stretches outward and upward as a boundary extending to a northern bend in the river and back toward the eastern desert. Trees shoot up between large complexes in the tiered city, with a distinct market district by the river. The closer to the palace the buildings range, the more grandiose the home. A stack of temples sits on the southern side of the palace, smoke wafting up from prayer services and jutting above all but the palace.
The ferryman, as Bali soon learns, is adept at river sailing and lands his vessel in a common mooring point in front of the market. While they begin their steady pace up to the palace, she hears several friendly voices greet the ferryman. Through this, she learns that his name is Hutsat. She follows the amiable man up through the busy streets, mind distracted from the beautifully busy bazaar surrounding her by the impending meeting at the looming palace.
The palace! Crown Jewel of this city full of life. Giant stone statues painted in vibrant hues, a grand reminder of the lengthy heritage each pharaoh has passed down. Obelisks covered in various grandiose deeds of the past. Guards standing at attention in simple and elegant tunics. Seeing it all in its prime causes Bali to pause as they stroll into an avenue that leads into the façade of the structure, having already easily passed through a guard wall. Hutsat turns back to her when he notices her reverent pause.
"My lady–"
"–Bali," she corrects, though still distracted.
"Lady Bali, the palace is even more grand on the inside," he states nervously. Almost too nervously. Bali gives him a curious glance.
"Has he been inside before?" she ponders, carefully running through possible scenarios for a simple ferryman to be familiar with such grandeur. Regardless, she keeps going, figuring that there are plenty of rumors about the innards of the palace going around. She follows as Hutsat diverts from what is a well-used road for merchants to a hallway deeper into the palace complex. Bali's nerves and doubts in Hutsat grow.
" This isn't right, I can feel it. But if it's a trap, wouldn't I already know it by now?"
"Who goes there?" a guard calls, he and another taking defensive stances as they enter a secured area in front of a grand gate. Hutsat bows, straightening before Bali can think to copy him. He saunters up to the more ornately garbed of the two. Bali decides he is likely a captain. Finally, Hutsat points to her and the guardsman has much the same reaction as Hutsat when he first met her.
"Go on ahead. I shall send forward a message to Pharaoh and his council to meet with you," he claims, raising his right hand. The guard beside the captain opens one half of the gate and allows them passage.
"Many thanks, comrade," Hutsat murmurs to the captain after a messenger is dispatched. Bali's eyes widen when she hears, her thoughts on Hutsat being more than he seems confirmed. She pretends to not hear. After all, he's gotten her an audience with Pharaoh, among his many other favors. He has to have some big standing around here, and must think she's no real threat.
Most stare as they traipse through the many halls of the palace. Their whispers swirl around, rumors about who she could be and her possible connection to the gods. Bali scrunches her nose at the immediate jump to that conclusion, but doesn't stop to correct it. Eventually the two come to the large doors of the throne room. Even though Hutsat tells her what room lays ahead, she can already tell due to the ornamentation of the surrounding hallway and the saturation of guards.
"Pharaoh, I really hope you can help me," sheprays, clenching and unclenching her hands in her nervousness. If she says the wrong things, she could be tossed into the Nile for the crocodiles to splurge. The doors open with a sweep and within moments, they've stepped in far enough for Hutsat to fall to the floor in reverence of his king.
Bali's mouth drops. All previous notion at being immediate in her etiquette to Pharaoh is lost as she beholds the throne room. The hall is cavernous and as splendorous in its colors and architecture as the outer façade. In the back on a heightened throne sits a man in a white tunic with a luxurious indigo coat and full of golden articles. The nemes crown sits on his head and a large, inverted pyramid-shaped pendant hangs from his neck. Around him stand six people, all dressed in white clothing with accents of blue and gold. All have their attention solely trained on her.
"Hutsat! Please, get off the floor and bring our guest closer," the king calls, and Bali glances in surprise at Hutsat.
"He really has been in the palace before! Pharaoh knows his name! Is he some type of spy?" She panics, now wishing she hadn't given him her trust. She hasn't exactly been acting respectful to anyone. Hutsat motions for her to follow him closer to the throne where Pharaoh sits. The six members of his court eye her warily.
"Now, who is this?" one questions, awe evident in his voice.
"She is Lady Bali, sent from the heavens to try our great land. I saw her emerge from the reeds myself," Hutsat introduces, the matter-of-factness in his voice making her snap her head between the surprised court, Pharaoh, and the enigmatic man.
"I never said such a thing!"
Intense regret follows her outburst.
"Then where do you hail from? Your clothes are of no foreign kingdom I have seen. I certainly would have heard of someone as strange-looking as you traveling my empire, but you appeared to us from the reeds," Pharaoh interrogates, leaning forward in his seat with interest glittering in his wizened purple eyes. Bali gulps, deciding to tell the truth and deal with the consequences of sounding like a lunatic.
"The great Re has sent me… To live among you to gain, uh… Experience?" Okay, so it's a half-truth, but one that garners strict attention from Pharaoh especially.
"How do we know you do not lie to us, Lady Bali?" Another of Pharaoh's court asks cautiously, and Bali feels herself start to panic. What can she do to prove herself? She has no chance to ask for a way back home, and a trial before Ma'at would be biased against her. Hutsat saves her from spiraling. He grabs her wrist and puts it on display for the court, much to Bali's interest herself. The mark has changed from that of the medjay to a symbol used ceremoniously for specific prayers involving Re.
"The mark of Re!"
"It's the Barque of Life!"
"But how do we know that she isn't committing blasphemy?"
Astonishment is replaced with cynicism as the oldest of the six court members steps forward. Bali winces when she sees that one of his eyes is a golden implant. He stares her down harshly, until Pharaoh sighs.
"Use your eye if you must, but the puzzle senses no treachery."
Her eyebrows furrow at this statement, trying to recall any significance behind a puzzle. The gold-eye priest takes a deep breath and bows to both the king and to Bali.
"...If none sense anything, then I must apologize for my rude assumptions," he drawls, clearly not putting meaning behind his words. Bali coughs awkwardly, merely nodding to show she isn't angry.
Pharaoh smiles.
"Lady Bali, you have proven yourself to be genuine and therefore are welcome in my home. Let it be known that a daughter of Re shall be a permanent guest in the palace! Prepare a room and gather the servants, for tonight we feast in honor of her presence, so let it be said, so let it be done," he decrees. A hurried bustle around the room begins. Sounds of shuffling feet and muffled yells could be heard in the hallways.
"Pharaoh," Bali begins, not enjoying the insinuation that she is related to Re. He holds up a hand and silences her.
"Address me as Akhnemkhanen, for we are of equal status." His introduction is as kind in tone as his smile. She can't help but return it.
"Just call me Bali," she replies. Unfortunately, she is reminded that Akhnemkhanen is a busy man, and Bali is shuffled away to her room. Upon arrival, she stands awkwardly silent, not knowing what to say to the servant who had shown her there. Before she could figure something out, they bow and scurry away. She heaves a sigh of frustration. She never got to question the deal with Hutsat either, but her resolve for a nap is growing greater than anything else. Reining in her confidence, she opens the door.
"Holy moly…"
It is a large spacious suite with windows facing the Nile, large luxurious curtains drawn around them. In fact, there are heavy curtains all about the room along with large cushions and lounge chairs meant for total relaxation. Her bed is low-lying, large and has near-sheer white curtains around it. The magnificently painted walls lead out to a deck facing into a courtyard garden where a few other rooms look into. Bali guesses that the largest she spies is connected to Akhnemkhanen's own room.
All in all, it is more than Bali would ever have imagined. There are bells to summon servants, statues of cats and various gods to decorate and bless the room. The floors are tiled with a smooth, cool stone, the walls alive with different stories and designs.
"My lady, we have come to properly dress you for the feast. We shall have your current costume cleaned for you. We are Mery and Su, your maids for everything you call upon us to do," a woman bellows from behind Bali, surprising her from inspecting the room. She turns to see two maids bowing, waiting for Bali to recognize them. One is older than Bali, though not by much, while the other is a teenager.
"Right. Now, what do you have for me today?" Bali asks anxiously, unused to the reverence. Both stand straight and glance at each other. They shift uneasily, afraid to speak up. Bali blinks, then realizes that her face has been pulled into a contemplative frown and shifts her expression to something friendly.
"It's alright, no need to be nervous. I'm not known for being cruel where I'm from," she assuages, crossing her eyes to make a goofy face. She beams as the two maids start to relax in response.
The younger steps forward first, getting over her hesitance. "We will color your skin and even dye your hair should you desire my lady, as well as bathe and dress you for the celebration," she addresses, stepping close to her new mistress and shamelessly looking her over.
"Though not in that order," the older adds sternly, making Bali's grin. She can tell that despite the status difference between them, they will be good friends to her.
And so, the preparation starts with Bali learning which is which and getting dragged to a washroom joined to her suite. Already prepared with a tub of steaming water, Bali gladly accepts washing the grime from her body. From then on, her mood lowers. Mery and Su do everything for her, even scrub her down. It takes all her willpower to not snap at the two maids, as the two are still wary of her possible cruelty.
After bathing and fending off a thorough debate on why shaving her head would be much better for her, Bali stands staring at the clothing she is to wear. She hugs her sheet to herself as she thinks about how demoralizing the clothing would be back home. Mery startles her, tearing off the robe with veteran expertise. She ignores Bali's yelp of indignance and continues her work.
Once done dressing, she is in a fine, long white linen skirt with intricate green beading around the hem. Belts of gold hang down strands of silver with the occasional jade piece.
"Can I ask for something to cover my chest?" Bali squeaks, flushing red when she understands that there is nothing laid out for covering her breasts at all. Mery and Su look to each other with confusion.
"Why? You look fine as it is," Mery questions. Bali scrambles her brain for an answer.
"If and when I move quickly, I don't like them to… You know…" she trails, biting her lip as she feels her cheeks get even warmer. She's never had to say something so embarrassing in her life! But Mery and Su seem to understand her concern. Su rushes to a closet and pulls out a wide strip of linen decorated with beads and feathers dyed green. Both maids tie the sash around Bali's chest in a suitable fashion, and Bali forces herself to be satisfied.
Next, they give her sandals and paint images on her arms. They put colorful detail around the Mark of Re on her wrist and once finished with that, focus on her face. Mery brandishes a brush laden with kohl while Su applies lip paint. Bali squirms, afraid of eye injury and flinching terribly. To her relief, Mery remains patient. After the face paint, a circlet of gold to adorn her head, following the theme of the belts and hanging down strands of silver and jade into her hair. Bracelets are slid onto her wrists, silver pieces clamped around her upper arms, anklets of gold are clicked on, and rings slid onto her fingers. They stop after putting jade earrings in their respectful place. The only correction Mery makes is an adjusting of the beautiful pectoral sitting heavy on her chest.
Her maids take in their work with awe.
"You were beautiful before, my Lady, but now…" Mery compliments quietly, and Bali looks to Su who is already gaping.
"You're the most amazing being I've ever laid eyes on," she tacks on, showing Bali to a mirror.
Bali hardly recognizes herself in the rich attire. Her straight shiny hair brushes her shoulders now, lengthened out of her usual curled hairstyle. The cosmetics don't appear heavy, and between the color scheme of her costume and the kohl, her eyes seem a more vibrant shade of green than before. The image of Re on the circlet causes her lips to twitch downward, but Mery speaks up to draw her away.
"The circlet was hard to find, as most women wear wigs, Lady Bali. We hope it pleases you."
"It pleases me. I understand that it'll be more difficult to maintain, but I really do prefer my natural hair," Bali confirms, nodding her head towards the two in approval.
"You have around an hour until the feast is to begin, Lady Bali. We advise that you stay inside your room. You should save your majesty for Pharaoh," Mery advises, and Bali nods, promptly looking about for something to do. Mery and Su busy themselves with cleaning up her washroom. Bali, having found nothing interesting, can't help but secretly listen in on their conversation.
"Oh Mery, she was so excellent! I wonder what Atem will think of her," Su giggles. Mery snorts.
"I doubt he'll be around tonight. He's been off gallivanting around so much, nobody knows when he's actually in the palace." Her response elicits more laughter from the younger Su. Any chatter drifts away from juicy details, so Bali leaves them at that.
"Atem, huh? Probably some kid servant who's a friend of theirs. Hope the guy doesn't get caught sloughing his duties. He'll be in a heap of trouble if he is," Bali thinks, wandering around her room. She's never found gossip fun, but she could at least get some information this way. After circling around to the balcony, she glances around and shrugs.
"Technically it's a part of my room," she declares, though not loudly to avoid being overheard. She steps outside to get a good look at the courtyard gardens she immediately desires to explore once an opportunity arises.
"I wonder if Re meant for this to happen. Because it's not funny," she ponders, disgruntled by the breeze blowing her skirt around. She stares around at the tranquility.
A sudden clatter echoes through the air from below. Bali peers over the balcony side to see the cause.
A cheekily grinning young man runs from two irate priests. He has strange, tri-colored hair in a spiked pattern that Bali couldn't fathom explaining to her teacher back home. His attire makes him someone of rank, also evident in the way he carries himself. But otherwise, he's just another troublemaker in her eyes. Bali sighs, too many ugly memories cropping up, and retreats inside. She's already noted every place she wants to explore anyway.
"Mery, Su!" she summons. A fumbling crash of some sort comes from the washroom and they stumble out to stand before her.
"Yes ma'am?" they drone in unison, attempting to ignore the obvious stain on Su's dress. Bali sits carefully on one of the lounge cushions and smiles devilishly. The maids gulp at the sight.
"Why don't you two tell me about yourselves," Bali suggests, knowing smugly that they can't refuse. Mery and Su share a moment of relief laced with confusion but sit on the bare floor before their mistress. Mery begins after clearing her throat.
"I've been working in the palace since my husband died of illness fifteen years ago. I originally come from a coastal village by the Green Lands, and I traveled here as a maid and midwife, eventually making my way up. I enjoy the palace and feel very at home here. Though sometimes I wish to visit my village, I suppress it with work in the palace," Mery explains simply, although her tugging at a wooden carving around her neck suggests she is repressing emotions. Bali guesses it had been her husband's before he died. Upon the downturn in mood, she now wishes she hadn't brought up such a painful topic. Bali can sympathize, after all. Thankfully, Su picks up her side of the story and expels most of the gloominess.
"I'm only fifteen, but I became an assistant to Mery when I was nine and she's kept me at her side ever since. I was born and raised in Thebes. Also, I have a friend who's training to be a magician here, and I wanted to keep in contact while she's in the palace," Su exclaimed, and Bali's interest is piqued at the word magician. It's no secret in her time that Egypt had people considered magicians, but what they do remains a mystery.
"Tell me more about the magicians. Do they have a leader?" Bali asks, leaning forward. Mery relaxes, her tension gone.
"There have been magicians for as far back as our history goes. Master Minodhma is the leader now, but the Millennium Ring will surely be passed down to his son Mahad soon," Su explains simply, shrugging nonchalantly. Bali is again intrigued at the mention of the "Millennium Ring."
"So the Millennium Items di- do exist!" Bali exclaims, a delicate hand to her chin as she revels over evidence from her time about the mythical artifacts. The maids peer curiously at her but respect her eccentricity and let her continue mumbling to herself after her strange outburst.
"This is just like the story of the nameless Pharaoh with the Millennium Puzzle," sheremembers, heart squeezing painfully in her chest at the memory that comes with the revelation. She promptly squashes the memory back.
Mery sees the sudden troubled expression on Bali's face and speaks up. "Yes, each of the bearers of the items are in Pharaoh's court, including Pharaoh with the Millennium Puzzle. They have defeated many enemies of Egypt with their power."
Bali inwardly smacks herself for not connecting the dots when she was in the court's presence.
"If only Dr. O'Connell could know about this. She'd go bananas if she heard," she muses, nostalgia of her teacher washing over her with a painful reminder that home is far away. "As long as I'm here and kept from my real home, I can't be happy. I want to leave Egypt so much. I will never forgive it for the pain it has caused me," Bali continues, hoping that her thoughts reach Re. She's just trying to survive now. Even if everything is so different so far from what she expected…
"You're just in denial." Re's voice rings in her head. Bali shoots up in anger. Mery and Su scramble to their feet after her, spooked by her sudden murderous expression.
"How dare you say that!" Bali screams back in her head, but a knock on the door makes her ditch the mental conversation.
"Mery! The feast is about to begin! I am here to escort our guest to the grand hall." The voice is deep and commanding. Intrigued, Bali goes to answer despite his address being for Mery. She pulls aside the door to see a tall, handsome young man with deeply tanned skin and enchanting blue eyes. If he is surprised by her presence instead of the maid's, he hides it effectively with a bold smirk. Bali completely forgets about her anger with Re at the sight of him and gives the man a smile.
"Might as well have some fun while I'm here." Bali sizes up the man in front of her, making it obvious that her eyes are roaming his figure. He's extremely attractive, and Bali can't help but let her smile grow at this fact.
"Hello." Her greeting is practically a purr. He reaches forward, takes her hand and slowly kisses it. His eyes never leave Bali's.
"Hello," he replies, carefully taking Bali's hand into his to guide her. The timbre of his voice makes her shiver in delight. They start off, while Mery and Su stare after her, forgotten.
Just by looking at the two, both can tell they were intrigued by each other, though it definitely doesn't fall under "love at first sight." Su snickers.
"Something tells me that one of these nights, Lady Bali isn't coming back to her room," she wagers, Mery pinching the cartilage of her ear a second later. The teenager yelps and jumps away from her older friend.
"That'll be enough of that. Physical attraction can be a dangerous thing, but it's not our business. Now, let us finish cleaning Lady Bali's washroom," Mery huffs, stalking back inside. The fifteen-year-old pouts, muttering under her breath about vicious people and Ma'at's feather. Before Mery can yell at her again, Su peeks out to catch a glimpse of Bali and the usually serious priest. She giggles into her hand and runs back to the washroom.
Notes:
FUN FACT!: A fun and less-oft talked about pharaoh is Horemheb, the last of the 18th Dynasty. He put his empire back on track after three decades of utter fracktastic chaos. Akhenaten really started a cauldron of boiling suck, and a couple generations later Horemheb (as his word was law because Pharaoh), slated a new code. Military got stronger, the entirety of the judicial system was slaughtered and replaced (I mean... what do you do when a toilet is full of crap...?), and he ensured that his harem definitely wouldn't plot to kill him, and that his own guards had extra incentive to protect him! He sounds paranoid, which he prolly was, but it was a chaotic time, and his slew of changes did work! A line of very capable pharaohs followed him, and he appointed his heir from the army as he had no viable, biological heirs. This appointment began the 19th Dynasty and the Rammesside Era. This is all greatly summarized, but look him up! Interesting dude. Deserves a mention.
Chapter 4: Discovery
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Bali doesn't have any tender feelings for this man, this she knows. But the physical attraction makes her nerves spark in excitement. His name is Seth, a newer priest and a genius for his age. He has no problem communicating this. She's peeved that she has nothing to brag about for herself, seeing as the Egyptians wouldn't quite understand her brand of archaeologist.
"Stupid Re and his stupid time travel…" she curses inwardly, but immediately puts her attention back to Seth as he is speaking once more.
"Lady Bali, how long will you be staying?" he asks quietly, for they've turned the last corner before the giant entrance to the feasting hall.
"Hopefully not for long…" she mutters, but Seth partially hears. His eyes narrow, the closest he could get to confusion.
"What?"
"Ah, nothing. But we're here, so I'll answer your question later," Bali recovers hastily, and he nods slowly, still suspicious but letting it go. Both straighten, their hands leaving each other. Seth knocks lightly on the door to signal for the servants to open.
The palace servants and Pharaoh's men have outdone themselves. The grand hall is lavishly decorated, with tapestries embellished with the mark that brands her wrist. The long, low dining tables are lined with fine cushions, with Pharaoh at the head. His court from earlier fill the seats surrounding him. All except for his right-hand spot. Bali assumes that this spot is reserved for her, given his earlier statement that he considers her an equal. Bali strides to Pharaoh and dips her head in greeting. Akhnemkhanen spreads his arms when he turns from talking to the man at his left side.
"Bali, my dear, you look simply marvelous! Sit, child!" he invites, Bali promptly accepting. She glances along the table to see where Seth is sitting, eventually finding him much farther down than she expected. He meets her gaze and shoots her a flirtatious smirk. Bali turns away feeling naughty. Feeling uncomfortable sitting with Pharaoh and his court, she keeps to herself. To be fair, his court only glances in her direction before continuing their former conversations. The woman next to her, Bali notices, has a golden necklace that makes her thoughts run a mile a minute. It's a Millennium Item! She's surrounded by legendary relics!
"Bali, how did you like your room?" Akhnemkhanen asks abruptly, drawing her attention away from gawking at the item. Her startled expression is met with one of kind patience. Bali huffs in laughter nervously.
"It's beautiful. I especially love the balcony," she answers, remembering the wonderful views of the Nile and the garden. This leads her thought process to the weird-haired troublemaker from earlier. She shakes it out of her head when the other high priests decide that, as Pharaoh has spoken to her, they might as well begin.
"How do you do, Lady Bali." The man across from her greets her with a bow of his head. Bali bows in return, uttering her well-being. This is the priest who earlier brought up that she might be a liar. While she can't blame him for his suspicious outlook, the Millennium Eye he has lodged in his skull makes him appear all the more scrutinizing now. She finds it creepy, but she keeps a calm, tactful face in front of all these powerful noblemen.
The analyzing gaze melts away into a small smile. "I am Akhenaden, bearer of the Millennium Eye and brother of our great king," he continues, eyeing his brother with pure amusement.
"Guess that's why we look so much alike!" Pharaoh jokes, throwing an arm around his brother who genuinely laughs at the action. Bali awkwardly smiles at the sight, glad to know that there seems to be no ill will between them.
" Unlike many of the Hamlet storylines I've come to know," she ruminates, chuckling a little at the thought. She never had a sibling, not even anyone close to fitting that image. It makes her feel a bit jealous. Moments later, Akhnemkhanen stands and opens his arms in welcome to gain everyone's attention.
"Hello, my good friends! Tonight, we honor a new and exciting guest here in our great land! Lady Bali, sent by our ever-loving, ever-protective Re, has come to live among us! I welcome her to my family and she has gracefully accepted our charity! Lady Bali, if you could grace us with some words, if you please?" Akhnemkhanen invites, reaching down and raising his chalice for a toast. She's caught off guard.
"A toast? Bembridge Scholars never said anything about making toasts at dinner!" she groans to herself but stands with her cup raised high.
"May the gods bless you as I do, friends," she bellows shortly, not knowing of anything else she could possibly say. In the few seconds hindsight, she cringes at how completely conceited it sounded. But it seems good enough as everyone drinks with a cheer, the feast starting with a fresh jovial atmosphere.
The feast is an excellent show of ancient Egyptian culture. The imported date wines and domestic beers are delicious, the variety of salted or broiled meats smell and taste wonderful. Bali eats several fruits candied in honey, reveling in the spread of food before her. Even the bread is out of this world compared to her time!
"Lady Bali, excuse me for not introducing myself earlier. I am Seshat and bear the Millennium Necklace." The sudden introduction from the woman next to Bali startles her from her meal.
"It's nice to meet you." Bali manages to swallow before embarrassing herself more, slightly awed by the fact that a woman has a high position in Pharaoh's court. She's never really read about any powerful female figures in Egypt, though Bali frankly believes it's merely because men have controlled the study for too long.
"My powers include that of seeing the future, Lady Bali. From what I can see, you're going to be very happy here," Seshat informs, gaining a soft smile on her face. Bali forces a polite smile but rolls her eyes once she turns away.
"I highly doubt that's going to be true," Bali thinks.
"I wouldn't be so sure, little kitten." Re's voice suddenly appears in her mind once again, making Bali jump. She doesn't forget to keep quiet, but a purely scathing expression mars her peaceful mood.
"Don't be so sure I'm not going to belt you when I see you next! And don't you dare call me 'little kitten' ever again!" she thinks back hotly.
"Whatever you say. Unfortunately, I have business to attend to. Behave yourself, little kitten," Re replies casually, leaving her to rage at him in her mind.
"Lady Bali, are you alright?" Akhenaden questions, seeing that Bali seems about ready to explode. She glances in his direction, finding that everyone is staring at her. She holds up her hands with an all-too-fake chuckle.
"Everything's fine here, just a random thought angered me a little because I pondered it too much." Her swath of company accepts her excuse, to her relief. All the while she swears revenge on Re. Most of the evening goes without a hitch, and without more godly interruptions. After the meal portion is done, servants take everything but the honeyed sweets and drinks away, leaving water bowls for washing. At this time dancers come out. Bali looks to her lap, unused to what they consider normal and freeing.
"This is uncomfortable," she thinks, twiddling her fingers around each other. The women and girls are in pleated cotton skirts decorated with colorful beads that twirl easily with them, their torsos and chests bare, something Bali is not used to being around yet. Seshat graces Bali's shoulder with a reassuring hand.
"Don't worry, it isn't my taste either. But the dancers are reputable," she whispers, and Bali sighs. Back home, she could refute such behavior. But here, it's normal. The gleams of pleasure in the faces of the men around her remind her that despite how hard these women are working, they are still trinkets. Men are superior and dancing is feminine. A prime example of this attitude comes strolling up to Bali with his ever-so-charming smirk.
"It would be pleasing to see you dance as well, Lady Bali," Seth brings up, and those in earshot agree. Bali begins to panic. She knows nothing of their dances. She, for what they believe, does men's work in the future. She's pretty sure they didn't waltz or polka, and she's terrible at even those.
"I'm sorry, but I–" she starts, Seth narrowing his eyes as he interrupts.
"–What kind of woman does not dance?" he asks with a sullen frown, a tactless comment in her ears. She shakily stands –the wine making her tipsy– and glares ferociously.
"My kind, you scuzz!" she roars, making the crowd of the room go silent and stare in shock. Such a large sound from a lady! Bali notes briefly in her drunken anger that whatever the word "scuzz" translates to was never meant to be spoken in polite company.
Taking her cue before Seth can respond, Bali promptly and savagely stomps down on his foot and flounces away in a flurry of rage. Akhnemkhanen calls belatedly for her to return, but she ignores his pleas. She wants out, she wants to go home, where she's free to be bad at the things she's bad at!
"I can never settle down here. I am a woman who deserves the freedom she worked hard for! Stupid, pig-headed men!" Bali declares in her mind, blindly making turns, not caring as long as she gets away from the feast. Not many servants are around to stop her at all: They're all at her welcoming.
She eventually comes to the Nile, a beautiful flow of water coming to meet masterfully built stairs and a small sanctuary. Bali plops down on the first stair, folding both legs up to hug them. She stares over the great river at the dregs of the setting sun. Slowly, tears begin their race down her cheeks. Her eyes squint to a glare and she squeezes her legs closer.
"I hate Egypt."
Atem smiles with satisfaction at his wonderful day. He's accomplished his usual mayhem, something especially needed given that the palace is busy welcoming an important guest with a feast.
He loves bothering the servants, playing pranks on the priests and generally causing trouble for the palace around him. "Why does the honorable Crown Prince of Egypt behave so badly?" Many have questioned, none find the correct answer.
It's simple: He is the honorable Crown Prince of Egypt. The only person who can call him out is his father, but he never does. So, Atem is blissfully free to cause as much turmoil as his royal heart desires. And boy, does he.
First, he released all the horses and camels from their stables, then galloped into town on his own horse to look for some fun amongst the commoners of Thebes.
What he ended up doing was ultimately satisfying. He's friends with many of the children in town, and there were two he proclaimed the leaders: One is a little girl named Mutnodjmet, who's outspoken and very feisty. Her co-leader is a boy named Sethi, a little calmer than Mutnodjmet.
Atem played several types of games with them for a few hours, racking up more wins and keeping his tally of losses at zero. Eventually, however, he decided that he was hungry enough to head back to the palace. When he got there, he stole into the kitchens and snuck some food, angering the cooks. They screamed when he threw a dead mouse, courtesy of his cat At, his reply to their angry yells and stern words. After his meal, Atem had wandered for a short time, but his teacher, Master Minodhma, found him and roped him into the magic lessons he usually skipped.
It was always "You need to learn to control the Millennium Puzzle!" and "Stop goofing around, you're going to be pharaoh very soon!" Atem hates it. He doesn't want to be so proper and perfect and think about what needs to happen for him to take the throne... Atem wants to be himself. The only upside to lessons is his two friends, Mana and Mahad. Mana's been his best friend for forever, while Mahad often seems more like an older brother. Mahad understands Atem's desire for rebellion and being nonconforming the most, as he's receiving similar lectures on the Millennium Ring.
Thankfully, Mahad distracted his father and Mana covered for him, so Atem snuck away. He must give a big offering to Hathor for gifting him with friends like them next time he thinks on it. Of course, it also means sneaking them some sweets from the kitchen, but… It's worth it. Not to mention incredibly easy.
When Atem made sure he was safe, he looked to the sky to determine what time it was. To his great pleasure, it was time for the priests to begin their prayers to the different gods of the region. The Great Flood was coming soon, making Hapy the main focus. He disliked the routine but was glad he rarely had to participate. Not yet, anyway. For today, he planned on an incense bomb to smoke the priests out and pay his respects at the same time. His plan worked of course, but what he didn't count on was a couple of the priests getting so angry that they chased after him.
He laughed and ran for the umpteenth time that day, leading them on a wild goose chase through the palace. He knocked down statues, pots and even servants in his oppressors' way. They finally gave up when Atem got to the private royal courtyard that all the balconies looked over, including his own. Hefelt eyes on him while he jogged away from the scolding priests. He searched up and around, catching a glimpse of a beautiful woman retreating into her room. He gaped, wondering who she was and why she was in a room that was built for family. His family.
And so, he set out to find out the answers to his questions. The best people to seek out for these things were, of course, the maids. The maids know everything that goes on in the palace. He headed to their quarters to get his information.
"Memnet! What is the news of this woman I saw?" Atem called, addressing the head maid once he got there. She looked up from mending some linen and shrugged.
"What woman did you see? There are many in this palace, my prince," she replied simply, not glancing back to Atem. He sighed exasperatedly and pouted.
"There's someone in my sister's old room. Now who is this guest?" Atem specified, and the old woman shrugged again.
"Hutsat brought a goddess to Pharaoh's table. I am told that Lady Bali is to stay with your honorable self and our gracious Pharaoh. And since you're so 'busy,' and as Itet is visiting your eldest sister, neither of you have met her. Mery and Su have been assigned to them. You should be pestering them for answers, not me. Now shoo!" Memnet explained plainly, wanting to get the prince out of her hair. Atem thanked her quickly, and headed swiftly for his older sister's old room, to find the maids in question.
"I haven't gone to A'a Herit's room since she was married and moved to that southern kingdom," Atem reminisced as he passed his own room to get to this 'Lady Bali's' room.
Mery and Su were just about to leave, having finished cleaning up her washroom. They saw him and bowed instantly in respect.
"It's fine, it's fine, now get up," he snapped impatiently and both maids stood straight. Su was smiling, while Mery made no attempt to hide her annoyance.
"Where is this Bali?" Atem demanded, and the maids looked at each other.
"She is on her way to the feast that was prepared to welcome her. Since I know you don't like many public events, you'll probably meet her later. Can whatever you're so antsy about wait?" Mery answered. This completely deflated Atem's excitement. He had to wait, something he did not like to do. But Mery was correct on the fact that he wouldn't go near the feast. He didn't care that much.
"I guess it will have to," he growled, disappointed with himself and the fact that he'd missed his chance to meet her in his own way. He didn't want to be crown prince. He wanted to trick her into thinking he was a servant. He wouldn't go to that feast if it killed him, so he swept off to his room to stew. Once he was alone, he started muttering to himself. Upon reflection, this had to be the worst part of his day.
All he had done was pace around and wonder why he wanted to see this woman so badly. All he could remember was that one image of the pale creature going back through the curtains. Even though he hadn't seen her face, she had enraptured him somehow. Hadn't Memnet said that she was a goddess or something? Maybe that was why. But during his waiting period, he had taken a nap, paced some more, set out a prank for a couple of servants he didn't like down the hall, read from a couple of books, paced more, slept more, and was generally bored out of his mind. It was around sunset that Atem finally snapped with impatience and decided to just show up late and call that his unruly deed.
He remembered how undignified the whole place looked when he got there. Priest Seth was nursing his foot, and Pharaoh looked ashamed while he lectured, Atem's uncle throwing in a few words as well. Because of the distracted scene, Atem decided to just get a servant to tell him what happened.
"Lady Bali was asked to dance for everyone by Lord Seth, and she screamed some foul language, broke his foot and stormed off. We do not know where she has gone, for Pharaoh has forbidden anyone to search. He is being cautious of the goddess' anger," the man relayed, trembling under his prince's gaze. Atem nodded and decided to proceed with a search of his own. After looking practically everywhere and finding out that there were some things the maids didn't know, he gave up. He stopped, started to relax, and looked back on his day to make himself feel better about his failure. He also started to plan tomorrow's events, which include a meeting with Bali.
This is where we find the prince now, walking around in the cooling air, thinking back on it and believing it to be quite productive. As he walks past a gate leading to a sanctuary of the Nile, he hears a sniffle. Atem stills to listen more intently.
"*sniff*" he hears again, his curiosity growing. He sneaks around the gate and keeps to the thick, bushy trees that line the wall. What he finds, sitting on the stairs, is the same figure he'd seen on the balcony.
"Finally, I've found you!" he whispers, pleased with his sudden fortune. He preens his hair and straightens his clothes to be somewhat presentable. Once satisfied, he confidently strolls out as quietly as possible. He sits down on the step a few feet away but keeps his eyes forward, despite his desire to get a detailed glimpse. Bali stays staring out over the river, kohl-stained tears running down her face. He notes the lack of sobs, wondering what she could possibly be crying over.
Bali recognizes the stranger as the same troublemaker from earlier. She's glad he hasn't said a word so far. She slides her eyes over to see him discreetly observing her from the corner of his eyes before shifting her gaze back to the moon. Soon after, Atem scoots a little closer. A few minutes pass, and he scoots closer. And closer…
Bali tries to ignore him, but he's starting to get on her nerves, so she stands abruptly to leave. She stalks off briskly, searching for any sort of information resembling a map. Atem follows, feeling accomplished at annoying her. Whenever Bali goes faster, he does too. Wherever she turns, he follows. She glances back every so often to find that he's still there. Finally, she loses her short line of patience.
"Why are you following me?" she snaps, rounding on Atem and putting her hands on her hips. Her frown deepens when her mean expression has no effect. All he does is grin cheekily.
"You never said I couldn't." His response makes her huff like a cornered bull.
"I never said you could, either. Now what do you want? You want me to dance for you or something? Because I won't!" She releases some of her internal struggle, flushing afterward at sounding so childish. Atem's eyebrows shoot to his hairline.
"No, of course not. I wouldn't expect you to dance," he starts, baffled. Her expression softens in confusion.
"Besides, you look far too clumsy," he states, Bali becoming furious once more. Atem keeps a beguiling smile as she ranges through several expressions before settling on staring at him like he's an alien.
"Who are you?" she demands. The whole palace believes she's a goddess, so why is he frustrating her? Why take the risk?
"Just the humble servant Atem, at your service," he replies, giving a sweeping bow. Bali snorts and he glances up.
"You're no servant; you're too well dressed for that," she points out. He grins with satisfaction.
"Ah, so you aren't completely dumb after all," he teases, Bali snarling in return and lunging forward. In an instant, he finds himself being chased instead. Atem, of course, knows she's lost, so he decides to take pity on her.
It doesn't take long for their speed to decrease as Bali's breath shortens.
"You know, you're awfully cheeky to one of Pharaoh's guests. Don't you know who I am?" she inquires. Atem slows to a walk, still leading her. She doesn't make to attack him again, to his immense gratitude. All the running throughout the day takes its toll!
"You're Lady Bali, some goddess Hutsat brought here, am I right?" he answers, spreading his hands out while walking backwards. Her lips quirk up at the mimicry of Pharaoh.
"Ah, so you're not completely dumb after all," she says, making him chuckle as he turns to walk forward again.
"Good one."
Bali isn't sure what to think of this guy. She wants to strangle him, but at the same time, he's the most intellectually stimulating person she's met. The ambivalence makes her question if she can trust him.
Atem, on the other hand, is quite pleased. Surprisingly, it's not because she doesn't know he's the prince, but because… She's fun. She's not like any of the foreign stiffs that typically stay around the palace. He expected a pompous windbag, but Bali has proven to be the opposite. He decides precisely at this moment that he needs to hang around her more often, and that he'll spare her from his usual mischief.
"You caused quite a stir at the feast, I hear. Last I knew, Priest Seth was getting a lecture from Pharaoh and the high priests," Atem comments, ending their short comfortable silence. Bali's eyes light up with some type of happiness.
"Serves him right. Jerk." Atem hears her mutter and grins.
"Is there some special reason you were so angry at Priest Seth?" he asks slyly, glancing at her and noticing a faint blush turn up under her kohl-smeared cheeks.
"What's with all of the questions? Anyway, I need to get back to my room, so if you don't mind–"
"–Not at all! I'll take my leave of you, but I promise I'll see you soon!" Atem cheerfully waves off, running down the hall too fast for Bali to call after him.
"What a jerk! He left me here before I could ask… directions…" she fumes, belatedly noticing as she peers around that he left her in front of her door. Feeling stupid for not discerning so earlier, she heads inside and rings the bells for Mery and Su. In prompt fashion they appear. Questions pour about why she left early and why she looks terrible, but Bali refuses to tell. She gets scrubbed off and put into a light tunic to sleep in.
"Good night, Lady Bali," they say after she relays her desire to sleep after such a troublesome day. She replies accordingly and tugs the thin blankets over her form. The bed is comfortable, with plush feather pillows and soft cotton sheets. Sleep doesn't evade her for long.
"I don't even know why he's in the palace…" Bali yawns, her consciousness fading fast. Little does she know, but Atem is down the hall, going to sleep early as well, and thinking about his own interesting meeting with Bali.
Notes:
FUN FACT!: Invoking the help of the Egyptian gods was a bit like building your own giant German word (where it's a bunch of smaller words smushed together?)
You would ask the help of those whose specialties you needed, particularly those whose cult centers were local, and then sometimes for a Big Problem you might even bring in someone universally powerful throughout the religion, like Re. Or, depending on the era, it made them more "powerful." This is called "Syncretism." You've seen it! Amun-Re is likely the one you've heard most. A prevailing theory in a lot of cases with syncretism in Ancient Egyptian religion is that two gods being linked together is to form a new, separate, third god(dess). Fascinating!
Chapter 5: Flowers and Poems
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
When she wakes up the next morning, it's still early and the air is cool. In fact, Bali rested so well that she must wait for her maids to get up. She reasonably expects she needs to be gussied up again, given her status. To her relief, however, Mery and Su inform her that last night was a special occasion, and dressing so flashy would be a pain to do every day.
"You can wear somewhat normal clothes today. A normal sheath dress should do the trick," Mery explains, and Bali nods with an enthusiastic smile. Last night's attire was so… open. Too open. A sheath dress isn't as comfortable as pants, but she can deal for now. Once dressed, she slaps her hips decisively. She wants to escape before the maids get to the makeup and the head-dressing.
"Well, might as well get going. I have a feeling Pharaoh will want to speak with me after last night. I'm sure you've already heard about what happened," she sighs, ashamed of her temper. But that priest had really pissed her off. Su nods, not quite awake yet but smiling none-the-less. Mery, all-too-awake, sees through the ruse and snags her arm around Bali's without any fear. Bali deadpans, giving up. She doesn't want to spook her maids away.
"Honestly, I am glad you acted that way, the palace has never been so exciting. I also heard you made it back here thanks to a clandestine meeting with Atem. What did you think of him?" Mery asks, gripping her mistress' arm firmly to keep her from fleeing. Both maids finished up on Bali's kohl and affixed a thin circlet around her head, less grandiose than the night before. Bali shrugs.
"He's interesting. From the way he acted, he's some snobby rich kid, although he tried to trick me into thinking he was a servant. Seeing as I'm not that gullible, I know he's of nobility. But there's something that needles me, besides the feeling that I get to strangle him. I also have a feeling that he'll be hanging around me a lot no matter what I say," she says, not moving while the maids do their work. The more she moves the longer they take.
"Yes, he's nobility. He's a bit of a trickster, and he stays because he's training as a magician, among other things," Su replies, and Mery grins despite herself. The two, earlier that morning, had been sworn to secrecy that they wouldn't tell Bali that he's the Crown Prince. It's a fun, harmless secret to hold, and the maids have no problem with it. Even they like a good prank when it isn't on them.
"Oh, that's interesting," Bali mutters, processing the information against her meeting with him last night. It seems correct, and she doesn't see any reason for the maids to lie. Once ready, she at last rushes for the courtyard to explore. If Pharaoh wants to speak with her, then he would have to send for her because she doesn't want to talk about it.
Servants and guards bow as she strolls the halls, going down some stairs and following her instincts. Thankfully, they lead her to the courtyard, the gardens appearing far more incredible up close. Leafy fronds provide shelter from excess heat, small trees and bushes in pots line the walls with birds trilling in them, and many, somany exotic-looking flowers bloom to meet the morning sun. Bali bends down to smell one such flower when she catches a glimpse of her Re mark. She leans back again, scowling. It's morning, which means Re could be listening in on her thoughts again.
"Yes, I'm here. Good morning, kitten. Enjoying my rebirth?" As if on cue, Re appears in her mind.
"It was good until you came in," she replies, making Re chuckle.
"At least you're letting me call you kitten. I promise I'll only butt in if I find you too offensive," Re says. Bali stomps her foot in frustration. Unknown to her, a figure sees this action while hiding behind a plant with large leaves.
"Then prepare to be offended, moron." She sticks her tongue out for good measure.
"What are you doing? Is the wine from last night's feast getting to you even after a night of sleep?" The person reveals himself, laughing when Bali jumps and begins searching for him. She glares when she sees him.
"No, I'm perfectly fine Atem. Now buzz off, I'm exploring," she snaps, turning to walk away, but Atem dashes and catches her arm.
"I was only kidding. Don't they have jokes where you come from?" he asks defensively with a laugh. Bali only returns an enigmatic stare, making him let go of her arm. He's never seen anyone give a look of that sort. It isn't necessarily angry so much as negative. Oh so negative. Her green eyes settled on him like that is unnerving!
"You're not here as a messenger for Pharaoh, are you…?" she asks slowly, suspiciously, as if interrogating a criminal. He blinks, realizing why she stared at him before.
"No, of course not. I don't see him very often," he chuckles, effectively dissipating the tension in the air.
"Then, what do you want? If it's not important, then please just leave me alone. I hear you're quite the mischievous one around here, and I don't feel like being a victim."
Atem throws his hands behind his head while rolling his eyes at her harsh statement.
"Weeeeeeell," he draws out, looking at Bali from the corners of his eyes. She crosses her arms with little patience. "I was going to be nice and show you around the palace and show you all the good hiding spots away from anything stressing. But you're in a bad mood, so I won't bother you. After all, knowing your own way around isn't that important. See you," he elaborates, nonchalant as he waves goodbye. She stares after him in surprise.
"Three... Two... One..." he counts in his head.
"Wait!" she calls, and Atem turns. His expression is pure satisfaction.
"Right, let's get going! First off, you know your way around the courtyard. That's fine for getting away from servants and the like, but you're missing all the best parts of the palace if you stay here," Atem begins, grabbing Bali's wrist to pull her along. She doesn't notice his eyes stray to her Re mark, which he doesn't point out anyway.
She groans, "Can't we go at a more reasonable speed? You're tearing my arm off!" He slows, growing impatient.
"There's too much to be seen for going slow! And who knows when you'll be free at the same time as me!" he shoots back, although he doesn't return to his excited haste. Bali furrows her brows.
"He's really weird, don't know if I like him yet. I do need to know my way around though, so I might as well take advantage of it. How does someone get hair like that? It's not bad-looking, but… How?" she ponders, still paying attention to what he's saying.
After a morning filled with getting acquainted with the palace and Atem, Bali grows hungry from the lack of a good breakfast. Her stomach growls obtrusively, and she stares at the sky in embarrassment as Atem laughs.
"I guess I should show you the kitchens next. I mean, you can ring for a servant to get food, but I like my way better," he says, leaving Bali to wonder what terrible things he does to the poor cooks. A few handy shortcuts and turns later they find the kitchens. Bali peers in a side entrance, amazed at how busy it is. She guesses it must be around lunch time for everyone because every cook and servant appears stressed.
"Now, watch and learn. Wait here." Atem doesn't wait for her response and darts into the mayhem. She winces. Yells and curses, not the best sign. Atem zooms past her moments later, arms laden with food. She blinks trying to comprehend before following.
"He was so fast!" she thinks, feeling pity for the kitchen people. After all, now they had to replace the food Atem had stolen. She can't say she enjoys running in this dress, however, as her legs have been hindered all day. Perhaps a few words with her maids later will find her in something more suitable for movement.
"You kept up with me, impressive. Here, I got different kinds because I don't know what you prefer." Bali takes his compliment with a grunt and selects a thick roll with fruits in it, sitting beside him.
"This is one of my escape spots. If you ever need to use it, you can," Atem continues, talking around a piece of melon. She rolls her eyes at his manners.
"And here I thought Pharaoh was the one in charge. Tell me: Aren't you worried that I might tell someone important about this little spot instead?" she asks, pointedly finishing her bite before doing so. Just to aggravate him a little. He turns to her with a blatantly fake nervous look.
"You wouldn't dare do such hostile things! Such profound words in light of my kindness," he declares, and the two give in to laughter at the theatrics. Bali finally decides that Atem is bearable. In fact, maybe he could be a tentative friend. If this is to be, she figures that asking some questions can't hurt.
"I heard you were staying in the palace to train as a magician. Is it fun at all?" she starts. Atem's face screws up in a sour frown.
"Fun? I don't think Master Minodhma has ever heard of the word," he mutters, frowning and shuddering a little.
"I'll take that as a no. But, do you have any friends here? I'd like to meet them if you do. You seem likable enough," Bali admits dryly, and he huffs in laughter.
"Thanks. Yes, I have friends, but they're busy today," he answers absent-mindedly. She wonders if he's telling the truth. There's no moment to pursue the matter however, as their meal is finished and he wants to keep moving.
The rest of the palace is wonderfully explained by Atem, who for whatever reason avoided contact with too many people. Bali figures it's because of his talents of getting into trouble. He shows her several hiding places that are suitable to wait in for long periods of time, the headquarters for servants and the separate wing for maids. Bali and Atem have a pleasant time at it all, with their last stop being the maids' wing.
"Memnet! Lady Bali is here to see you!" he calls, entering the wing's common space without care who hears him. Bali stares around in wonder. It isn't nearly as nice as the living spaces for everyone of higher rank, but the fact that it exists is inspiring. No commuting between the palace and the city every day. The maids live here, on-call twenty-four/seven.
"Ah, it is nice to meet you, Atem came tearing in here looking for information about you yesterday. I'm glad he found you, otherwise he'd be grumbling to me about his misfortunes," the old maid greets, bowing her head while fixing up a strand of beads. Bali subtly leans to Atem to beckon for his ear, which he obliges.
"Is she always so…" she whispers, and he nods curtly.
"Blunt? Yes, I'm afraid so. She's the head maid. I go to her when I have problems," Atem replies. Memnet snorts.
"Then you have more problems than the gods, you naughty thing. Lady Bali, it was nice seeing you, and I presume Mery and Su have served you well so far?" Memnet asks, and Bali nods before realizing that Memnet's attention is still on the string of beads. She coughs slightly to cover her embarrassment.
"They're excellent. Have they always acted like sisters? That's what comes across to me," Bali answers, recovering from her awkward behavior. Memnet laughs, making Atem's eyebrows shoot up to his hairline. Bali glances at him and guesses that Memnet doesn't laugh very often.
"Sometimes I wonder that myself. You're very perceptive, child," Memnet says, breathing out the last of her laughter. Bali crosses her arms.
"I should hope so. Atem tried to make me believe he was a servant." Memnet shakes her head in disappointment at Bali's statement.
"It's saddening to know such nobility acts so rudely, especially toward guests of Pharaoh," she replied, making him tap his foot and look away.
"Lady Bali, a message was sent for you! We heard from someone that you were down here with Atem!" The call comes from Su, rounding the corner with Mery in tow. They stop before Bali and bow to them both before continuing.
"Pharaoh finally found time to settle the… event that happened last night," Mery gasps, both breathing heavily from their run. Bali makes an egregious face while tilting her head down, showing her guilt at making the two run and for forgetting the former issue. After a few awkward seconds, she throws her hands up.
"Oh, alright. I'll go. Atem, thanks for the tour, it was enlightening," she says, giving him a mischievous, knowing smile, "Memnet, it was a pleasure. Wish me luck." Bali walks off, leaving everyone to stare after her. Memnet chuckles, and the two maids and the strangely quiet Atem glance back to her.
"Luck is all I could wish, child," she mumbles, and silence sets in once more. Atem sighs to break it. Now he's bored, and though he won't admit aloud, he's concerned about what could happen to Bali. Priest Seth can be nasty business.
"I wish you luck too, Bali." He stalks off to his room.
"Akhnemkhanen, I'm here." Bali greets, masking her mounting worries. Her outburst might have gotten her into serious trouble, and she doesn't like thinking about the consequences. When she does, the punishments tend to get gruesome.
"Bali, please come sit down," Pharaoh invites, as they are in a small meeting room with a low table. Pharaoh, his brother and—much to Bali's distaste—Priest Seth sit waiting. She sits down on her reserved cushion and stares at her hands in her lap.
For what seems the millionth time in Bali's day, she's embroiled in a tense silence.
"Priest Seth, have you anything to say to Lady Bali?" Akhenaden starts, and Bali snaps her head up to see Seth's scowl. She keeps a grin to herself and merely dons a regal raised eyebrow. She doesn't care if it's reminiscent to kindergarten, it's JUSTICE.
"I am sorry for any insolence I showed you last night. May the gods punish me if they are displeased." He apologized through gritted teeth, and Bali feels further delight at his obvious trouble in saying it.
"May the gods have mercy, for all is forgiven," she replies, putting on her most royal pain-in-the-ass act. Akhnemkhanen cocks his head in wonder.
"You forgive so easily. Is there a special reason for this?" he asks, and she sees that Seth is surprised by her answer as well.
"Some nobleman made me feel better, and if Seth hadn't been such an… ahem, bother, I wouldn't have met him. That is all," she explains, restraining herself from becoming too vindictive. Re laughs at the thoughts running through her head about Seth, but he quiets when Bali lashes out at him in her mind.
"Ah. Then this lifts many troubles on my mind! However, I believe Priest Seth still owes you for such grievances. Akhenaden and I have concluded that he shall teach you our ways of combat for when you are angered next. We hope that you should try something less inconvenient than a broken foot. The lessons shall begin tomorrow, should you agree," Akhnemkhanen proposes, and both Seth and Bali stand to protest.
"I don't think that's necessary!" Bali yells, but starts upon hearing Priest Seth.
"Teach a woman to fight? That is absurd!"
She rounds on him in an instant.
"How is there a problem in me fighting as a woman? I already KNOW how, and YOU'RE the one who couldn't handle being stomped on the foot," she shouts. The royal brothers still sitting sigh, exchanging a look.
"If you had stayed to face me, I would have put you in your place," Seth starts, forgetting his audience and the supposed lineage of the woman in question. "Perhaps I still should!"
"Then let's do it, ya wet smack. Bright and early tomorrow!" Bali replies hotly, fists clenching at her sides. The two exchange a furious two seconds of glaring before Seth huffs and storms off, briefly yelling his acceptance of the challenge. She watches him go and contemplates hurling her sandal at him, but he soon turns a corner and out of sight.
Looking down to the two men still seated she has the mind to briefly look apologetic.
"Sorry to say, but this time your priest is going to be worse off than a broken foot." With that, she fumes and snarls back to her room. Once gone, the two men again glance at each other and shake their heads.
Laughter.
"You will have to tell me the outcome, my brother," Akhnemkhanen wheezes, Akhenaden approving with delight.
"Such an interesting generation we have coming up."
When Bali finally gets back to her room, she doesn't feel like talking to anyone, not even Mery and Su. Not that the maids wanted to try, of course. Bali's wrath escalates with every word she utters, and they know better than to prod that hive of bees. They leave a couple scrolls behind and retreat to their chambers, leaving her to ramble.
"That damned arrogance! 'Teach a woman to fight,' please, what a scrub!" she growls, popping her knuckles. She can't wait to show him everything she learned from fighting off treasure-seeking thugs throughout the years. Maybe then he'd learn some respect. It takes half an hour of thoughts like these to finally slow, Bali getting bored as she leans back on a lounge chair in the sun.
"I wonder what the scrolls are for," she ponders, staring at them from her spot and deliberating whether she should be lazy or get up. Ultimately, her curiosity wins out. She picks up one of the scrolls, discovering that it's addressed to her. Opening it with some difficulty, she reads the untidy scrawl that is Atem's message.
"Bali, I went into the city because you were taking too long. I'll see you tomorrow! I had Mery and Su deliver these scrolls to you for your entertainment. Enjoy! –Atem." Is what she eventually makes out. She huffs a laugh, reading the short story within. Once finished and setting the scroll aside, she picks up another carefully, studying it for any tricks or traps. After discerning that the scroll is unrigged reading material, she begins to tackle it as well. Reading is far more disorienting with whatever magic Re cast on her than speaking is.
After reading the scroll through, she's thoroughly happy with the stories inside. Mery and Su peeked in on her every so often to make sure she didn't need anything, only to leave her alone to enjoy herself. One story read was about a trickster who stole from his lord's home to support the people of his village.
"So the 'Robin Hood' concept was in Egypt too, huh?" she muses, Re deciding to pipe up.
"Oh yes, of course! Egypt has a vast history, and not all of it is filled with the pious," he states matter-of-factly.
"Obviously, or this story wouldn't have been written. You seem a little dumber than I first believed."
" Be respectful! I could have just as easily dropped you on the doorstep of one of those nasty people, " Re reprimands, Bali reluctantly relenting. She must admit, she's glad there are mostly pleasant people at the palace.
Re leaves her in peace while she begins investigating another scroll. This one is rigged, and Bali snorts as she opens the paper filled with ridiculously drawn faces, and below them one of herself and even a couple making fun of Seth and his broken foot. She quickly closes it however, as the putrid ink he used becomes too much to bear.
" Had to make a good prank out of it ," she marvels, amused. She can't believe how light-hearted Atem is, considering he's a noble. Usually nobles are snobs who look down on newcomers and poor people. Things like that are generally true no matter what time period or culture, she knows that one for sure. But Atem behaves like a child. Not a completely spoiled one, but he certainly acts like he could get away with murder ("Oh, but he's not malevolent..."). The people of the palace certainly adore him. Bali shakes her head.
"This new friend of mine is so bonkers," she giggles, going on to the next scroll. This scroll is normal, and the story she starts is long. It begins with a description of the fearless and sly Isis. The poetic nature of all its details leave her tearing up by the end. Isis may have been uptight when they fought, but her story makes her think of other people in her life. People she tries to push from her mind far too often… She begins muttering things to the ceiling with a small smile.
"Oh, is she okay? I can't tell if she's sad or happy!" Su whispers, worried for Bali's health. Mery shrugs.
"Sometimes one must go a little crazy to be sane once more." Su gives her a weird look at the enigmatic statement, and Mery shrugs again. They eventually creep out to clean up her face and touch up her kohl. When finished, Bali begins giggling at her own helplessness.
"May I ask what is so funny?" Mery inquires, and Bali stops, looking sheepish.
"Just a really bad joke I thought up. No need to share. Thank you, ladies. If at all possible, I'd like to eat dinner here so I may continue reading," she requests, and the two maids bow, off to fetch her supper. Bali revels in the turnaround of her day. She's mostly forgotten her rage against Seth, and Re left her pleasantly to descend into the west.
"Let's see what this next one has," Bali says aloud, disliking the stillness. She picks up the final scroll. Inside are limericks about the gods and other deities. Bali finds herself fascinated with the praising terms she finds. What makes her eventually smile however is at the end, where Atem added his own about Bali.
"O Goddess so bright as moon,
You come to us with beauty envied,
A delight to Pharaoh but not to priests
For ne'er have their feet been so hurt."
Bali hasn't laughed so much in a long time.
"Atem has some way with words. It's not Shakespeare but special all the same," she gasps, rolling up the scroll. She breathes deeply to calm down, and sees a last scripture, a series of small tablets. "Heavy." Bali hefts the collection into her lap and scours the glyphs for what it could possibly be. A few lines in, she discovers that it's a spellcaster's book. She dives in eagerly, extremely curious about the palace magicians. Eventually she finds a papyrus note in between tablets.
"I hope you lightened up. Don't let Seth get to you. –Atem," is what it says, and behind, Atem had left a gift. It's the pretty flower Bali had encountered that morning before Atem arrived, popping to life from its flattened state when she picks it up. She can feel the magic buzz between her fingers, magic that preserves the flower and amazes her.
"It's nice to know they're not joking," she mumbles, smelling the flower and enjoying its scent. Mery and Su arrive with her dinner at that moment, only to join her in marveling at the beautiful flower she holds. Su sets off for a vase with water, afterward situating the flower near Bali's bed, where she could always see it.
"Thank you, ladies. For delivering Atem's gifts and my supper," Bali thanks, proceeding to eat the delicious-smelling delicacies.
"I guess Atem is officially a friend, then," she thinks, immediately mentally smacking herself. She can't be making friends if she wants to prove Re wrong and go home! But Bali can't tear her eyes away from that flower or her thoughts off her goofy new friend.
After she left to meet with his father, Atem decides that Seth is probably going to bring out Bali's nasty side. On returning to his room, he retrieves his personal spellcaster tablets. He doesn't need them anymore. Shortly after lugging them out, he sends a servant to carefully pick the flower Bali smelled that morning. When the servant returns, Atem dismisses him and sets to work. It takes an hour to get everything to satisfaction, upon which he sends for Mery and Su.
"You called?" Mery yells, she and Su bowing. Atem points to his finished project.
"Take those to Bali's room, but only set them out once she gets back. As for me, I'm getting out of here. Too much time in the palace and I promised my adoring fans that I would make an appearance in town today." The maids listen with little interest. Atem has a habit of thinking aloud, and sometimes it's annoying. Now that the two maids think about it, there's someone new in all their lives who behaves similarly…
The maids gather up the scrolls and tablets, leaving before he does. He can't wait to tell his friends Sethi and Mutnodjmet about Bali. He also can't wait to hear about Bali's reaction to his gifts, and what tomorrow will bring to him with his new friend.
"If she's anything like what I've caught of her personality, this plan should work," he muses, riding his horse into town and seeking out his young friends. He leaves his horse in a common stable and sets out among the smaller houses of the city, his feet carrying him steadily along.
"Mutnodjmet, Sethi! I have news about the guest staying in the palace!" Atem shouts into the home of one, but both predictably scramble out.
"Ooh, what about her? I've heard she's prettier than a cloudless night's moon, and just as pale!" Mutnodjmet exclaims, Sethi agreeing.
"She's really important out here already," he adds. Atem nods deliberately, the two children rolling their eyes at the behavior. Can take the prince out of the palace, but…
"She's very interesting. In fact, I happen to be acquainted with her," he starts, deviously interrupting the beginnings of their teasing. He tells the two everything he's figured out about Bali. By the way they react, they desperately desire to meet her. He scoots away as they begin to gang up on him. Other children have joined in as well, excited to hear of the interesting goddess, friend to Atem.
"I'll see what I can do, but she's going to be busy for a while getting situated. You'll have to promise to be respectful if I bring her someday. As I said, she can have a ferocious temper," Atem calms, hands up to ease them away. Thankfully his words settle them all down. He swears them to secrecy and jaunts off on another tangent when he pulls an apple from behind Sethi's ear. The crowd giggles in delight from his sleight-of-hand, Atem smiling smugly. He's effectively changed the subject. He continues to ignore the Bali issue up until he's alone again in his room at the palace. It's now nighttime, and the air is crisp. By the time he finished eating, weariness bears down on his mind. His eyes widen when he finally notices a piece of papyrus tacked to his door. He rips it into his hands and reads.
"I met a noble by the river,
Then in a beautiful garden,
He left me a story,
And a flower to make me smile."
He grins sleepily, knowing his plan was a success. He plans to have more fun with his new-found, unusual friend.
"Lady Bali, huh?" he asks himself as he changes from tunic to kilt. He puts the note among the papers of his desk, faintly chuckling over how bad the poem is. He mentally notes that it's perhaps something they could work on. He falls asleep soon after lying down, sure that tomorrow will be interesting, should all work out in his favor.
Notes:
FUN FACT!: Before Pharaonic Egypt, when the desert was still drying out and becoming the Sahara we know, people began moving rapidly into the Nile River Valley area and from there, three groups arose, led by three king-like leaders and their wealthy families. This is pre-written word. Two groups (Nekhen and Nubt) controlled valley roads that led to gold deposits and trade routes. One (Tjeni) controlled a stretch of the river, AND an area where trade routes from Nubia and Saharan oases converged. Didn't take long for them to start fighting for more wealth and power, as you can imagine. The one that stumbled was Nubt, eclipsed by Tjeni. Nekhen remained powerful due to proximity to the river. The first "true" pharaoh, Narmer, would also reflect in his tomb that Tjeni (historically) was far richer.
Also, in Bali and Re's conversation about Robin Hood stories, Re mentions that not everyone in Egypt's history was pious. This is in reference to Egypt being a theocracy, and as such, when one does poorly in life or breaks laws, they separate themselves from holiness. Be a good person and you're a pious person. Be bad, you're impious. It's what leads to the heart-weighing.
Chapter 6: Fight to the-!
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Morning.
Again.
Bali doesn't know what exactly to do to prepare this particular morning. Seth challenged her to a fight. She accepted. Now, while she gets dressed for said fight, she begins to reflect on this, only to wonder: " WHAT THE HELL AM I DOING?"
"The guy's maybe eight feet tall and he's Egyptian! EGYPTIAN! I DON'T KNOW WHAT THEIR STYLE IS!" are along the lines of the panicky thoughts that run through her head. She gulps down the agonizing groan she desires to release and uses the energy to calm herself instead.
" You fought Isis! Albeit you lost, but you never gave up hope!" Re tries to comfort, but Bali brushes him off. Any words from him only makes her feel worse.
"Damn temper of mine! Ah well, I'll show no mercy. Just go for the kidneys. GO FOR THE KIDNEYS." Bali's mantra has her staring into space, ending when she's shaken from her rapture by Mery and Su. Any and all prep work is done.
A knock sounds. Su goes to answer.
"Lady Bali, Priest Seth is at the door. He's ready to begin the, uh… 'lesson,'" Su relays after checking on the visitor. Bali stretches her face and gives herself a short breathing session.
"Um…" Su trails from behind her. Bali steps forward and turns to face her, looking more confident than she feels. Her maid beckons for her ear, and Bali obliges in interest.
"Uh… Well, to put it shortly, kick his butt, Lady Bali," she whispers, making sure nobody else can hear, especially the Priest of Egos outside the door. Bali swells with assurance. She strides to the door, putting on her regal airs and lifting her chin for effect. Time to open up. There Seth stands, glaring down at her like a bully out for her lunch money.
"You ready?" he asks shortly, bowing with a stiffness that relays his feelings of disrespect. She nods and Seth leads her through the palace. She's still thinking up ways to cause him pain, reviewing past experiences of any fights with someone relatively close to Seth's height and build. Unfortunately, back in her time those men were few and far between, and much less were belligerent toward her.
Their winding path leads them outside, Re wishing her luck as they proceed onto a large, wide platform. The chief sun god apparently has business to attend to, which makes little sense to her, as he clearly had time to razz her the past few days. Nevertheless, she's relieved that his distracting presence is gone.
Akhenaden joins them on the platform, expression set in a passive frown.
"Lady Bali, Seth, what are the terms of your match today? Remember that we are merely engaging where your skills and where your weaknesses lie, Lady Bali," he states, though all present know that isn't the true purpose. This is payback time!
"No magic, no weapons. Just our minds and our fists." Bali's request rings through the air, her eyes locking into a stare down with Seth. He nods curtly and both ignore Akhenaden's resigned sigh.
"I will decide when enough is enough. Now, you may begin the battle!"
Neither of the combatants move. Waiting. Waiting for the other to begin. Waiting for a possible opening. Bali cheers internally.
"I'll make him move first!" She takes a mere second to rethink her stroke of brilliance before acting. She twitches her foot in an extremely noticeable way. Seth takes the bait. He charges, fist ready for connection. Bali dives under, punching the open area he leaves at his back: His kidneys. Seth makes a coughing sound as she shifts away after her blow. Overconfidence washes over her.
"He left himself open so easily! Maybe this won't be so tough," she crows internally. Seth charges again, making the same move. Bali rolls her eyes and makes to intercept. Smirking at her mistake, Seth quickly slides down and sweeps her feet from under her. He gains the advantage as she takes the fall with a grunt. While rolling to break it, he continues his onslaught. After straightening he grabs the collar of her tunic, holding her out and ready to knock her face in. Akhenaden nearly calls the match, until Bali executes a mid-air abdominal crunch to kick Seth in the forehead. He stumbles back, releasing her.
"C'mon, aren't you going to do something?" Bali asks, promptly receiving a blow to the stomach and regretting her snark. He's closer than she previously thought. Now she can see Seth's anger. Fighting to regain her breath while dodging the barrage of attacks sent her way, she decides to keep dodging until he makes a mistake. While still exhausting in its own way, it saves her from some pain. Not long after, she finds his misstep.
"Ha!" Her yell fills the courtyard as she jumps onto his back and places him in a chokehold. He grasps at her arms, trying to get her to let go, hindered by her knees digging into his back. Seth then has an idea wash over him and he relaxes. He begins to fall backwards, Bali loosening in surprise.
"You fell for it!" he barks, catching himself at the last second and throwing her off. She lands a few feet away, taking a couple of seconds to get up. They both breathe heavily. Both Egyptians are astonished. The types of martial arts Bali employs, her stamina, and her determination are impressive even for regular warriors. They've never seen anything like it.
"You'll fall for this!" Bali breaks the rest with a hoarse yell, loosening her sandal and kicking her foot forward. It flies off and before Seth understands her motive, it hits him square in the nose. Bali grins and wipes the sweat from her forehead quickly. She makes to do it again, but Seth anticipates it. Dodging the second shoe, he is immediately slammed in the stomach, then in the back. Bali, who's putting every ounce of strength left into her blows, feels that strength leave her after a kick to his shin for good measure. Although she's done damage to Seth, he backhands her after she foolishly lets her guard down. She grasps her throbbing cheek and struggles to stand. Both glare once more, too tired to continue but unwilling to back down. Akhenaden sees this and takes the opportunity presented.
"Alright, that's enough! It is clear that you both need work in martial arts, even if Bali's is of a foreign nature to us. I congratulate you both on your endurance, however," he says, stepping in to stand between the two.
"Don't stop us now, Master Akhenaden! I was just about to finish the fight!" Seth complains, still leering at Bali. She leers back.
"Yeah, if you mean you're about to fall over!" she replies, gasping afterwards as the blow to her face stings more fiercely.
"Now, now, settle down. Both of you should go see Master Minodhma to be healed. He will not be pleased to see you asking for assistance again Seth, but you must be fixed up to carry out your duties. Go on, scoot!" the older priest orders. Both fighters grimace as they limp away from each other. Bali trundles back to her room to avoid spending more time with Seth, even for a healing.
"Lady Bali, you look terri–" Su starts, seeing Bali as she rounds the corner into the hallway with her room. Bali's look of frustration silences her. The falls taken had given her a lot of damage, especially so from Seth throwing her to the ground. After being helped inside, she is stripped from her tunic and a warm bath is called up from a palace magician to ease the growing bruises. Mery and Su hurry about preparing salves and ointments for when she finishes.
"Oh my god…" Bali breathes out in pain as she lowers herself carefully into the water, her side giving off massive waves of pain. Mery and Su gasp at the sight when they return from their errands. Bali's side is a massive collage of black, purple and yellow-brown bruising. Her face is swelling up, including her left eye. Her shin also radiates pain from Seth's trip-kick. Bali makes note of the damage, feeling better with the heat soothing her injuries. She's sure at least one rib is broken. She heard the sound and felt the appropriate pain. Her maids scrub her down carefully, treating her like a precious masterpiece made of glass. It's one instance when Bali doesn't mind being babied. Not that she can protest much anyway.
"You people are too good to me," she groans, words garbled because of her swelling face. Her maids wince through their smiles while helping her into a fresh plain tunic. They let her lean on them to her bed, a comfortable reprieve. Mery scurries out to get a master palace magician to heal her exhausted mistress.
Atem starts out his morning with a prank—broken sandal straps for the priests—and moves on to see what Bali is doing. If Seth gives her too much of a problem, he's thinking they can pull a giant prank on him together. There's always a few in mind, but he figures it's better to consult her right away.
"Mery! Is Bali here?" he calls, the maid walking up to him through the door to Bali's room.
"She's been gone for some time now. Didn't you hear that she challenged Lord Seth to a battle? I'm assuming she's still engaged at this point," she explains, her expression deadpan. His eyes widen in shock.
"Who thought a woman would challenge someone like Seth… She truly is odd!" he proclaims. Mery raises an eyebrow.
"I wouldn't say something like that to her; she'll challenge you to a fight as well," she warns, turning on the prince and shutting the door. Atem crosses his arms, feeling rejected. Then, a brilliant idea.
"Why not go see how Priest Seth is faring against Bali," he murmurs. He sets off at a brisk walk to find some information as to where the battle is happening. Upon finding the information from a passing servant, he hurries there. His arrival, however, is met with an empty courtyard. He stamps his foot in frustration.
"I took too long getting here! Maybe she'll be back in her room by now," he curses, jogging back the way he came. He's annoyed that she didn't tell him about this fight, annoyed by all the pointless running, and annoyed that somehow they both managed to miss each other while they were in the same area of the palace. He's itching to cause some mayhem, but he just has to know the outcome because curiosity's nagging as a hungry cat.
"Mery, I'm back! Is she here?" He doesn't mean to sound so snippy. Su opens the door, perturbed with a finger to her lips.
"She's asleep! Try and be quiet, the fight exhausted her!" Her expression changes when she realizes who she's talking to. "Hey wait, you can do healing magic right? Everyone else is busy right now," she exclaims, her face lighting up. Atem nods slowly, not sure if he wants to know why his considerable magic is needed. Su leads him in. When Atem sees Bali, he understands why the maids are on-edge.
Bali's face is puffed up, looking nothing like the beautiful goddess he just described to his child friends the day before. He strides to her bedside, drawing back the sheet covering her and grimacing. Her side is a concoction of ugly hues. He holds his hands out and begins the specific spells to help.
Bali wakes up to a cooling sensation on her side. It's extremely refreshing, a spectacular wonder she's never felt before. Her bruises and broken rib seem like far gone memories. She's been turned on her stomach, different from where she fell asleep. She slowly turns her head to thank her miracle worker to find Atem.
"What're you doing here?" she rasps, her voice dry. He cracks a small smile as sweat drips down his cheek.
"Not important. What did you do to yourself?" he inquires, strain evident in his voice. Bali notices. It clicks in her head that he's healing her with magic.
"Well, you might want to ask Seth about that," she replies, allowing a small smile. While he finishes up, her expression changes to relieved satisfaction. No pain, no soreness, just a good fresh feeling. She's never felt so good after a fight.
The calm is soon interrupted.
"He didn't ambush you, did he? I thought you were having a fair fight!" Atem whispers harshly, Bali cringing at his crossness. Gentle people tend to be scary when angry, she supposes he's no exception.
"Don't get so worked up. We had our fight, and we whaled on each other a little. I totally did way more than he did, though. Stupid," she counters, frowning at their draw. Respect is never won with draws or losses; only with wins.
"Ah, not so true, kitten. Isis and I respect you for losing in that final trial," Re chimes, only to be scoffed at.
"If you respected me you'd stay out of my head and call me by my real name."
Re snorts and stays quiet.
"Good to hear. You're probably still too tired to go out into the city today. Healings may make you feel better, but they take some of your energy too," Atem explains, drawing Bali from her mind. He makes to stand up from kneeling beside her bed and fails miserably, falling to the floor in exhaustion. Bali's eyebrow raises, despite her drooping eyes.
"Looks like it takes your energy too. Better get to sleep," she yawns, but Atem has already passed out. She's asleep not long after, and the long-forgotten maids look at each other with broad grins.
"The Crown Prince and a goddess, both out like candles in the wind!" Su laughs quietly.
"We'd better get his highness to his room. I don't think Lady Bali will appreciate it if we left him on the floor," Mery says, hurrying off to fetch Atem's own servants for some extra help. In the meantime, Su watches the two in their undignified positions. Bali's snores emanate from her face-down position in her pillow, while Atem is silent, his breathing soft with his arms spread from him and his face turned to the side. Drool drizzles its way out of his mouth, and she barely maintains her composure to not start laughing uproariously at the sight.
"I feel like I never even fought today," Bali chirps, her strength and energy back. Mery and Su scrub at their eyes sluggishly, nodding slowly. Bali tips her head to the side.
"C'mon guys, if you didn't want to be awake all night, you shouldn't have let me screw up my sleeping schedule!" she points out mock-sweetly, making the two maids sigh.
"We already said we were sorry, Lady Bali. We really are," Su moans through a giant yawn, covering her mouth to be polite.
"Lady Bali is just trying to get us to know that she has a regular sleeping schedule that… something or other… I don't remember what I was going to say…" Mery stutters, Bali finding great amusement in watching their heads tilt back and forth, sleep edging their eyes. It's a little after midnight, and she is perfectly awake. Being awake means needing entertainment. Su accidentally let it slip about the hilarious sight she made, so Bali is taking mild revenge in her strange, cruel way. Bali shakes her head and waves a nonchalant hand.
"Go to sleep, it's fine. I'll find something to do." The dismissal is heeded faster than Bali anticipates, the maids leaving so fast she could swear she saw fire left behind on their trail.
"Hmm… I wonder if Atem is awake yet? Well, don't wanna risk it. I don't even know where he sleeps anyway," Bali mumbles, plopping down on a cushion to think briefly about anything crossing her mind.
Atem, in fact, isn't awake yet, but is having a dream. He doesn't know if he likes this dream. Not yet.
… … …
"Who are you?" he asks. Though as all dreams are, he didn't really speak, he just willed his question out. Or did he? It feels more like something else pushed him to ask. There's no one around, just a dull void before him. Before long however, a figure appears. A tall, noble, strong-looking man with the head of a strange bird looked down on him, a golden gleam encasing his dark green skin.
"I am Osiris; I bring a message!" the figure replies, his voice the sound of chanting prayers, explosions, and the deafening silence of death. He disappears. Atem stands alone in the void once more.
"Atem, Atem!" A voice calls suddenly, a strangely familiar woman's voice. It's full of pride and joy and love and kindness as she repeats his name, but he can't discern who it is. These calls echo and surround him, growing louder and louder and LOUDER until Atem puts his hands to his ears. It's deafening, and just before he feels himself breaking under the pressure–!
"Atem, my little king! He's hunting you!"
Atem wakes up with a yell. Once his wits are about him, he's still breathing hard and sitting upright in his bed. Sweat drips down his face. He rubs his eyes from the shock of the strange dream.
"Or was it a nightmare?" he murmurs, but his two servants distract by barging in with concern at his outcry.
"I'm fine. Get a bath ready," he orders, and though they hesitate, they decide he's well enough and leave to do his bidding. Atem puts a hand to his head as he stands.
"Your Highness, your bath awaits!" one servant calls, and he nods to confirm. His grip on reality is returning to him now.
"It was just a dream, nothing more."
... ... ...
Bali purposely dozes off a few times to get a semblance of her sleeping schedule back. It works for the most part, as now she and her maids are all on the same page and well-rested mid-morning people. Well, Bali isn't exactly happy, as her time awake at night was spent in boredom, but she can't complain.
"Lady Bali, a message came from Akhenaden saying that Lord Seth is not available this morning for lessons because he is still recovering. Oh, and Lady Seshat and Lord Siamun have requested your presence at the stables. I think their message entailed something about getting you acquainted with a horse," Mery delivers the morning messages to Bali, who celebrates at the news. Seth is still out while she feels like gold!
"Do they need me now? I'd like to see if Atem is okay. After all, he kinda fainted because he was helping me. Moron should've known it was gonna happen," she says, though she's too chipper for it to come out sarcastic. Su agrees.
"He likes to say he's all that, but trying to stand after such an intense healing? Of course he'd be exhausted! Even Master Minodhma would be weak after such a thorough healing!" she exclaims, Bali nodding and logging the information into the back of her mind. Old habits of scholarly pursuits die hard.
"So, Atem's really skilled, not just some lazy rebellious weirdo. Good to know," she muses, bidding her maids goodbye to head out to the stables. She feels proud of herself for remembering the route and has a little hop in her step to show for it. Despite this, she still has a bit of nagging nervousness.
"I remember Seshat, but which one was Siamun? Guess I'll just have to play it cool and fly by the seat of my non-existing pants," she plans, thanking the guard that opens the door for her. Bali ducks her head shortly and flounces in. Four pairs of eyes await, all looking at her with different emotions.
The woman Bali sat next to at her welcoming feast steps forward with a warm smile.
"Hello again, Lady Bali. This is my daughter Isis, who I am proud to say will be taking over my duties as keeper of the Millennium Necklace," the—now that Bali really focuses on it—aging woman introduces, and the younger, spitting image of Seshat takes her cue to bow.
"I am honored to meet you. My mother has praised you a great deal," Isis greets, and Bali feels the corners of her mouth quirk up.
"Nice to meet you as well. And that leaves Siamun, keeper of the key?" Bali asks, nodding her head to a young man standing tall beside a short old priest. Siamun chortles and nods, his apprentice bowing with respect.
"Well, I was the keeper of the Millennium Key, but now it's Shada's! I was starting to get too old for the job, so I decided that it was time," Siamun explains, pointing to the key hanging around the young man's neck.
"Oh, excuse my rudeness then. Hello Shada, it's a pleasure," she recovers civilly, earning a small smile from the priest. "Now, I believe we're not here entirely for social hour?"
"Ah, straight to the point. We believe that everyone needs a way to travel about at their leisure. Your outburst the other night is proof, so Pharaoh has graciously gifted you a horse. You'll be able to ride away your worries whenever you wish," Shada explains, his smile growing at Bali's attitude. She crosses her arms and shifts her weight to her left foot.
"Awesome, send my thanks through the proper grapevine. So, where is this gratuitous creature?" she asks. Seshat turns and opens a gate behind the group. From what she can see and hear, plenty of horses wait beyond.
"Whichever one you want," Seshat states simply. Bali strides in, inspecting the different steeds that await. Stallions rustle their manes to show off, mares whinny for attention. It's an older-looking, hay-colored gelding toward the end, however, that eventually catches her eye.
He sits in his stall, staring with little interest. But when Bali meets his eyes, his ears flick forward, the only sign that he notices her at all.
"I dare you to choose me." His gaze says it all. She stares right back with a grin.
"That is Bit, a smart and sturdy but terribly stubborn former workhorse. Are you sure you want to deal with such a difficult animal?" Siamun asks, the rest staring in wonderment as Bali answers his question. The way Bit answers is truly remarkable. The horse steps forward to her hand, smells it, and lips it. He then chooses to stand back as if a deal is sealed, and he's admiring his work.
"He seems to want to deal with me. And if he can do that, then Bit is a miracle of a horse," Bali confirms with a satisfied smile. She declines an offer to ride, still concerned about Atem's well-being. She winks at Bit before leaving.
"I can tell we're going to have fun adventures together, Bit," shemessages with her mind, while Re decides to pop in and poke some fun at her for trying to send a telepathic message to a horse. She chastises him away again, pausing to regain her bearings in front of the stables.
"Okay Atem, you'd better be alive and awake, because I have an idea…" she mutters under her breath, grinning while glancing at the cattle barns.
"A good idea indeed…"
Notes:
FUN FACT!: Short one this time. Modern Cairo is a massive city, sixth largest by populace, and encompasses the ancient city sites of Heliopolis (Tell Hisn) and Memphis (Mit Rahina), both ancient capital cities in their time. Humans found a place and stuck to it, and who doesn't love consistency?
Chapter 7: Making Friends
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
It started with two different plans. Plans born from two different minds; both determined to see them through. Bali trying to find Atem. Atem trying to find Bali. They met up. All friendly toward one another at first, but…
It was only a matter of time.
"We can probably go back to the city after we're done! C'mon, if we go now, it won't be too late!" Bali pushes, stomping her foot. For whatever reason, Atem is being particularly stubborn and grumpy. It's aggravating!
"There won't be enough time at all! The people I want you to meet will be getting ready to eat supper and go to sleep by the time we're finished!" he argues, crossing his arms in finality. He figures that that is reason enough for his idea to be better. Normally a camel race sounds excellent, but the fragments of that weird dream dog him, and he didn't rest well at all. He'll admit he's a bit snippy today. Buther persistence isn't helping. In fact, her entire attitude is just so opposite to what he needs right now!
"The way I see it, you're too grumpy to talk to today anyway! Did you wake up on the wrong side of the bed or something, you're being a stooge," she fires hotly, poking his chest for emphasis. Atem snatches her hand and glares at her to be intimidating. Inwardly he knows it might not work like it does on other women: Bali is taller than him.
" I'm too grumpy? You run up to me and start fussing over me like I'm a child and then boss me around like a servant, and I'm too grumpy?" he replies, expecting some shock or maybe fear. But by now, he should know that Bali isn't the fearful type of person. No, she's the angry type of person, for she looks about ready to kick his rear into the far wall.
"First of all, I was checking on you to make sure you were okay after helping me out, Second, I recall some details about your plan being shoved on me before I even said anything, Third, you're being a jackass and not listening while I'm trying to peacefully compromise!" she shouts, stomping her feet and wrenching her hand back.
Atem winces. If there's anything he's better at than her in an argument, it's keeping his voice level.
"That's because we don't have enough time."
"We did before you started arguing with me! Camel races don't take that long if you decide where you're going and how far it is! But no, you're too flippin' bullheaded to listen to what I have to say, dammit!"
"Well, the day is wasted anyway, so why don't we just do what we want for ourselves."
"Oh, so now you're bowing out like a coward, huh? Figures, you know I'm right!" Bali snaps, but is taken aback by the sudden look of real ferocity in Atem's eyes. It's the first she's ever seen from him.
"I am not a coward." He advances on her, gaze locked onto hers. She doesn't flinch, staring back without reserve. She's confronted plenty of ebullient men in her time. Somewhere beneath her anger, however, she wonders if he really is just a nobleman.
"I'm assuming that Priest Seth only fought you in hand to hand combat. Why don't we see how you do with a sword," he growls, sticking the hilt of his own into her stomach. She opens her mouth to reply in kind when someone comes calling.
"Atem! Where did you go? You said I would meet Bali today– oh! Hey, Atem what're you doing?" The girl squeaks, running up the hallway. Both back away from each other, Atem with a slight pout and Bali curiously staring at the newcomer. The girl looks around their age, but she doesn't act like it. Instead of running up to Atem, she turns to Bali.
"Are you alright? He didn't do anything stupid did he? Sometimes he does stuff like this and I just can't control him! I'm Mana, who are you?" she says, speedy and bright with a huge grin.
"Ah, I'm Bali..." Bali is stunned by the overwhelming cheerfulness of this person, and the stark difference in atmosphere from minutes ago. Mana blinks twice, trying to recognize the name. Bali watches the metaphorical light bulb pop on in an instant.
"Whoa! It's so nice to meet you, Lady Bali! You really are very pretty!" Mana compliments, bowing quickly and flashing an apologetic smile. Bali nods her head with a small smile. Mana's bright personality is admittedly infectious, though she foretells that one day it'll be annoying beyond all get out.
"Thank you. So what relation are you to sourpuss here?" Bali asks, jabbing her thumb at the coolly staring form of Atem. He frowns deeply at the comment, but doesn't reply.
"We've been best friends since we were kids! We're practically family, and we study magic here in the palace." Her explanation is joined with her nudging Atem. He doesn't push her away, but still looks perturbed.
"Interesting. Are there many other people who are practicing magic under Master Minodhma?" Bali asks, apologizing sheepishly afterward for diving into an interrogation.
"Well, there's the other palace magicians, but the only other one who really matters is Mahad. He's Master Minodhma's son, and he's inheriting the Millennium Ring today– Oh right! Atem, that's why I originally came looking for you, we need to go now ! Lady Bali, you're welcome to come with us and meet Mahad! I think you'll like him a lot!" Mana announces, grabbing Atem's arm in a hurry and beginning to run off. Atem protests that he can run on his own as he's dragged away. Bali follows. His interaction with Mana gives her insight on more of his character.
She's never had a sibling, but she's seen plenty, and these two fit the bill.
"I wish I could wear something plain like Mana, but of course that's too drab for someone of my status. And some friend Atem is if he forgot about something so important! Calling me demanding, when Mana is dragging him around, the dummy has no sense at all," Bali fumes, but easily keeps up with her two friends. At least, she thinks they're friends. One is a bit on the fence.
"We're here! Oh I can't wait, Mahad is going to be our new teacher! Minodhma was getting dry as dust in his lectures," Mana breathes, excitedly pushing through a crowd of spectators at the ceremony. Bali grabs her shoulder and smiles reassuringly, stepping forward. People notice as she taps a few shoulders. Expressions go from annoyance to awe as they bow away with respect. Bali nods her head in thanks as she passes through to the front, beckoning Mana and Atem to follow her path. She doesn't notice the stares of surprised reverence toward Atem. She's both occupied finding a good spot and taking pride in her own praise. Once at the front, palm fronds are immediately put over their heads as protection from the harsh sunlight. Bali sighs, feeling rather pale in the crowd of desert people. Compared with others of her skin color back home, she had the opposite problem, her tanner complexion often attracting undesired rumors of her parentage. Bali shakes away the wayward line of thought.
Before she can turn and converse with Mana instead, the ceremony begins. Three men process up on the platform, Bali recognizing two of them. Pharaoh Akhnemkhanen, Master Minodhma, and a younger version of Master Minodhma who looks a bit older than she, Mana and Atem. Master Minodhma waves to the crowd, a light smile on his face as he speaks quietly with Akhnemkhanen, who seems jovial himself. The young man, whom Bali assumes is Mahad, looks ill.
"Yay! Go Mahad!" Mana cheers, Bali tilting her head as he responds with a small confident wave, despite looking like he's about to vomit from nervousness. Pharaoh abruptly decides his small talk with the master magician is complete.
"My magicians, welcome to the day we've all been waiting for! Master Minodhma will at last retire from his post, but leave us his legacy to cherish! Mahad, please step forward!" he addresses, making the crowd silent. Mahad edges forward to bow to Akhnemkhanen and to face his father. The ceremony is short, but the prayers and rituals done before the Millennium Ring is placed around Master Mahad's neck fascinates Bali to no end. After the auspicious moment, everyone cheers for the new master of palace magicians. Bali notes that even Atem's lightened up, smiling for his friend and his new teacher. Mahad waves to the crowd, finally looking healthy again. The crowd drifts away after Pharaoh's exit, but Mana mentions desiring to wait, so Bali and Atem do as well.
"Hello everyone. Thank you for being here today." A soft tenor voice floats through the air, and they all turn to see the new master himself.
"Master Mahad, we're so happy for you. Look look, it's the goddess, Lady Bali!" Mana points out, making Mahad look ahead from his position, his eyes landing right on Bali. He smiles softly, much to Bali's amazement. She's used to people frantically bowing their heads with thousands of apologies for any disrespect, but Mahad remains collected. He bows swiftly and joins their group.
"Well, I'm sure you know who I am by now. It's been busy around here and I'm sorry I haven't met with you before," he starts, a light conversational tone edging his voice. Bali nods, mirroring his expression. Mahad is obviously intelligent, and good looking, too. But since she had a huge fight already with another priest, she didn't fully appreciate the fact.
"It's an honor, and congratulations," she returns. Atem snorts from behind her. She snaps around with a slight glare.
"What's your problem, turning into a pig now?" Bali mocks, while Mana bursts into a fit of giggles. Atem retains his sneaky smirk however and shrugs his shoulders.
"Since when are you so cordial? Don't tell me you're going to act like you once did around Priest Seth, are you trying a different approach this time?" he shoots back. Mana goes quiet and frowns. Mahad follows suit, already knowing what Atem is referencing.
"Since when do you care? I'm not being a flirt, I'm being friendly. But of course, you're too full of childish jealousy to know what that means," Bali snaps, the battle beginning again. Mahad and Mana listen in as the two sling unpleasant names at each other.
Mahad, seeing that this will likely continue for some time, places a gentle hand on Mana's shoulder .
"Mana, why don't we let them work it out?" he suggests. Mana glances abruptly up at him, then back to the arguing pair.
"But they could start really fighting each other and get hurt!" Mahad shakes his head with a knowing smile.
"Atem needs a kick in the rear sometimes. No one here ever goes against him, and now we have a newcomer who does. It's an important type of relationship and both of them can learn something from it," he explains, as Mana listens attentively. She's never known Mahad to be so wise before, but she assumes that Pharaoh and his father have put him through a lot to be able to be the master of all magicians.
Master and student leave, talking about Mana's strengths and weaknesses in magic and how they will begin to fix them.
Atem and Bali run out of credible insults five minutes after. They stand glaring at each other.
"Why are you mean today?" Bali asks on a whim, wondering if the healing has something to do with it.
"Why are you always mean?"
"Atem, I'm being serious now." She walks over to a staircase and sits. Atem stays in his spot, thinking before answering.
"I'm not sure..." he trails, and Bali deadpans.
"You're not sure ? Did you have a bad dream or something? You can't just be angry all of a sudden, especially when you're only angry at me," she says, crossing her arms but dropping her pissy attitude.
"You're the one prodding at me," he complains, putting his hands on his hips and staring pointedly at her. She rolls her eyes.
"So freakin' defensive," she mutters under her breath, making Atem cock his head and look at her in suspicion.
"What did you just say?"
"I was taking a mental note about the way the sun hits your hair," Bali lies, letting heavy sarcasm weigh her voice. It's his turn to roll his eyes as he walks over to sit down next to her.
"Really? I mean, I know I have superhuman looks but I didn't think you'd be the type to care," he replies, looking to the sky as if pondering something. She grins wickedly.
"Superhuman doesn't always mean good looking. I mean, if you're superhuman then I can name a couple of people around here who are gods," she points out.
"Like me!" Re exclaims, so completely out of the blue that she flinches.
"Except people will think I'm crazy if I tell them about you, so be quiet!"
"Are you okay? You're acting like something surprised you," Atem says, looking concerned. Bali waves her hand nonchalantly.
"Just a weird passing thought. So, do you still want to have that duel or are you not angry anymore?" she asks, nodding her head toward his weapon. He smiles, still gazing at the sky.
"I'm not angry. Unless you want to fight–"
"No."
"Aaaalright, then."
"..."
"..."
"Is it just me or are you hungry too?" Bali's awkwardly-timed question gets Atem to finally laugh.
"That was completely out of nowhere! You are probably the strangest woman I have ever met!" he proclaims with delight, heaving himself up while she glares, a tad embarrassed.
"I'm hungry. Is that such a crime? Stupid, inconsiderate asshole," she mutters, following Atem to the kitchens. "Are we stealing again?"
"Why not?" he answers, looking over his shoulder to wink. She crosses her arms and returns a stern look.
"It's fun!" Atem defends, as if it's any justification. Bali shakes her head, but doesn't protest further. The cooks will let her get away with it, and she can probably get the mischievous young man before her out of trouble as well. She briefly thinks back on her time in school and the amount of trouble she got into.
"I don't know why I'm friends with you." Bali doesn't really know why she said it aloud, but it's not scathing. Atem pauses and turns around with a confused look.
"We're friends?" Bali's eyebrows furrow and her mouth opens in slight surprise. He begins to laugh and holds his hands up defensively.
"I'm just kidding! You're my friend... Gah!" he starts, but has to run to escape her threat to smack him upside the head. They race around, still keeping on track for the kitchens until they become too tired and hungry to continue.
"I'll get you when you least expect it. I promise you," she warns through puffs of air.
"I'll take that to heart. Anyway, let's get some food." Atem changes the subject, but she's glad he did. The delectable smells coming from the kitchen are making her stomach protest loudly. She straightens, recovered from the exercise with an eager smile.
"Right."
Bali's day goes well after that, even though Atem leaves her right after they eat. She asks why, but he refuses to say. Finding that there's nothing else she wants to do, she decides to go back to her room to relax. The exhaustion from fighting and running is at the edge of her mind, her eyes drooping and her gait lazy.
Once there, she settles on her favorite lounge chair and begins reading the Isis story again. Mery and Su bring her snacks of candied fruit and chilled juice, which Bali enjoys all the while. She refuses to take a nap, knowing her sleep schedule would once again be in peril. It will be evening soon, she could go to bed after dinner.
Night falls, and Bali finishes scanning the Isis story for the third time. She's somehow entranced by the story, but also wants to read something different. She doesn't know if the palace has any sort of library, and Mery and Su have already been sent off on break. Bali scans her room for something else to do when she peers closely at the walls.
"Oh lordy, why didn't I think of that before?" she exclaims. She hurries to the beginning of one wall to start reading.
She nearly completes a story about Osiris when her tired mind affects the magic Re imposed on her, and she comes to a hieroglyph she can't read or recognize.
"Nighttime must make the magic a little weaker... I swear I've seen this one before too, I know it," she murmurs, but someone crashes into her room in an excited flurry through her door to interrupt her thoughts.
That someone is Atem.
"Bali, quick come with me! Please!" he pleads, Bali staring at him like he's severely out of place. He repeats the need to hurry and she shakes from her stupor.
"Okay fine, but help me figure out this glyph. It's a bird... a-uh... stork!" she describes, imitating the image on the wall. Atem scrunches his face in confusion, before he catches a peek of it.
"Amenophus?"
"YES! Ha, you're a genius! Anyways, lets go wherever. It must be urgent if you came yourself," Bali cheers, excited that she successfully finished the story.
"Uh, right." Atem leads the way out. The torch-lit corridors fly past and Bali recognizes the area he's leading her into. They're going to the same place they had first met a couple of days ago.
Upon arrival, she doesn't see anything that would raise any alarm.
"Over here!" he beckons, trotting to a corner with plants surrounding it. Bali follows sluggishly, energy fading. She gazes past his shoulder to find two cats, one of them in labor.
"My cat At is the father, so I have to help him take care of his kittens. I want a goddess to be here to bless them because that's what they deserve. You'll stay and help, right?" Atem requests, his excitement irresistible. She immediately feels guilty because she isn't a goddess.
"Do not worry, I shall help you bless them." A new female voice enters her mind, a rumbling purr that sounds both affectionate and smug. Bali briefly ponders who it can be before an image of a golden-skinned, cat headed woman briefly flashes in her mind.
"Thank you, Bastet," Bali whispers.
The seven kittens make it out okay as do their mother. Bali successfully blesses them with Bastet's guidance, and now Bali and Atem sit back to watch the newborns suckle their mother.
"Thank you, Bali," Atem says quietly, so as to not disturb At and his lady.
"You're welcome. I still can't believe that kitten," Bali responds, referencing one whose coloring differs from its parents and siblings.
"Yeah, completely white. But At and Tiye are both black."
"It makes you wonder how stuff like that happens," she ponders, sitting back once again.
"Maybe he's a gift to you, for blessing them. He's pale because you are too," he suggests. She snorts, rolling her eyes.
"I'm not that pale."
"What will you name him once you can take care of him?" he asks slyly, knowing that she'll take him all the same. She shoots him a sour face but sighs in resignation before smiling.
Bali turns fully to Atem.
"Amenophus."
Notes:
FUN FACT!: Camels! Camels are a staple of any desert drama, amirite?? The specie specific to Arabia and areas around it, once domesticated, is the dromedary, or more commonly known "Arabian Camel." They gots one hump. The other species, the wild and domesticated Bactrian camels, have two! I used to think involving camels in anything within the eighteenth dynasty (which is when this story is set, and where the fifth season of YGO is) was historically incorrect, but it actually seems feasible. Camels were first domesticated on the Arabian Peninsula in the 3000-2000 BC range, and were used by nomadic peoples primarily as travel, clothing, and food sources. They grew to be large staples in the trade industry of the ancient world due to their sturdiness in harsh conditions. The eighteenth dynasty of Egypt began in 1539 BC, so camels are totally in! Yahoo!
Chapter 8: Grim Reality
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Bali sits on a cushion, dangling a string in front of her two-month-old kitten Amenophus. Nothing of real consequence happened after the kittens were born. Her lessons with Priest Seth continued, and while she's fitter and stronger, she'll die before she ever thanks him for it. She rarely sees Atem, as he admitted to her that he needed to buckle down and focus on his studies.
In hindsight, she wonders if something went wrong, but never asks.
"Kitten, do you still hate Egypt?" Re asks, a common question when he attempts to surprise her on random mornings. Bali can never sense when he's around, but after two months she at least got prepared for the question.
"It's trying. Too bad it can't give back what it's taken, isn't it," Bali replies, monotonous, her answer similar to every other time he's asked. Re sighs. She can't bring herself to say that she's forgiven everything that's happened. Her grief still holds deep and fast.
"Bali, think of your mother–"
"–Don't talk about her! You have no right!" she seethes aloud, spooking Amenophus into indignantly strolling away. She quiets, feeling guilty. Bali coos and scoops the animal into her arms to calm him down with soft apologies.
"Lady Bali, did you need something?" Mery calls, scooting into the room while Su springs in with unusual enthusiasm. Bali notices and makes a hand gesture to ask for an explanation. Mery gladly accepts Amenophus as Su bounces up and down.
"Princess Itet is coming home! Her visit with Princess A'a-Herit has ended and now she's coming back," she relays. Bali's head tilts. She never heard much about the royal family in her time here, given that no one particularly cared to talk about them, with only scant hush-hush whispers of a Crown Prince and then mentions here and there of princesses. Usually these families are huge, including several wives and even more children. Yet, Akhnemkhanen seems to have a tiny family. Not unheard of, but certainly strange.
"Is she one of your friends?" Bali ventures a guess, Su nodding.
"We met because of course I was serving her but she always treated me nicely and she has an awesome personality. She needed someone to talk to especially after A'a-Herit was married to a Nubian prince as a peace token," she replies, hopping from foot to foot.
"Oh. I nearly forgot about the Nubians. They're kind of important huh? What about the northeast? How are relations up there?" Bali asked, remembering that Egypt has neighbors in trade. Very important neighbors in trade.
"I actually don't think we're doing well with one kingdom at all. Pharaoh has tried many treaties and proposals to end the problem peacefully, but they aren't receiving them at all. In fact, the last emissaries to go deliver a message disappeared, and we think that the Eblans killed them–"
"–Su! It is not our place to say such things!" Mery snaps, her counterpart visibly wilts at the reprimand. Bali fills with concern at the information. Egypt is heading for a confrontation with a kingdom in the northeast, and she's been blind to it all. She doesn't know who the Eblans are or where the kingdom is, and she hates having no preconceptions on how the war will end. Bali understands that her presence has likely changed some of the story of Egypt already, but she's trying to leave it alone and not corrupt the future.
"Little kitten, you best go speak to Pharaoh and his court to learn more. I shall check on this myself, as I, too, became blind to the affairs of the mortal plane," Re suggests. He disappears from her mind as she comes to the grim realization that the princess is coming home because of this impending war.
But the only person Bali desires to see is Atem. In her mind, he's been so busy because he's also a soldier of some sort and must have been preparing for battle all this time. If true, then she needs to see him again. Fate forbid it, it could be the last time.
"Mery, Su, take care of Amenophus and clean the room. I'm... I'm leaving to meet with Pharaoh," she commands, the maids obliging without question. She strides off, worried about what war will bring for the country, and more importantly, her chances of getting back home.
"Stupid Eblans, acting like five-year-olds because they can't get everything that they want," she curses under her breath, speeding along to the throne room. She curiously never questions Egypt's motive in the conflict, as she still doesn't know who the Eblans are and what their story is.
She arrives, and the guards don't hesitate to let her in. When she lays eyes on Akhnemkhanen, they widen in terrible concern. Yet another thing she's been blissfully unaware of these past months.
Pharaoh is aging and growing weak. The many years of stress and troubles of being a man of power show in his features. Akhnemkhanen looks tired and sorrowful instead of the man full of life she'd first met. He was too busy for an audience with him every day, but now that she stands before him, she can see. She knows all too well.
"He's dying. Oh god, he's dying!" Bali thinks mournfully, and by the looks of his court, they are just as aware. Pharaoh is preparing to pass into the afterlife.
"Bali, did you need something?" Pharaoh addresses, his voice lacking its former strength, but still with every bit of its warmth. She walks forward to stand among his court, gaining curious glances from Mahad and Isis. Seshat stands in the background, having passed her Millennium Item on to her daughter but remaining as a source of guidance.
"Are we going to war with these 'Eblans?'" she asks point blank, the court drawing breaths of surprise at her audacity. They begin whispering to each other. Akhnemkhanen blinks a few times before sighing, causing a coughing fit that makes her heart nearly break in two. She recalls the last time she heard someone cough like that... how much she had cared for that person. Now, Egypt is going to take yet another. If Egypt goes to war, how many more will go? Hundreds? Thousands?
"Isis has seen grim visions concerning the Kingdom of Ebla. I have great faith in the people to rise up to protect their homeland if need be," he answers, the stark truth shining in his eyes. She can read it clearly.
" Yes."
Bali curses her fate at this moment and gazes around at the others of Pharaoh's court. Akhenaden looks saddest of all, with war on the horizon and his brother leaving him.
Mahad walks up to her, Isis following. Bali turns to receive them with as bland an expression as she can muster.
"Lady Bali, we are sure that your presence will help Egypt right itself again. Don't worry about anything that you don't have to personally get involved in," Isis says, attempting to give comfort. Something in her tone leads Bali to believe that Isis saw more about the war ahead than either of them would want to know. Mahad remains silent, but he nods after also taking in Isis' words. Bali fails at a smile she tries to force to her face. With nothing else to say from all parties, she leaves, gracefully wishing them all well as she exits the throne room. She can't bear seeing Akhnemkhanen in that state for much longer.
"Mother…" With thoughts spiraling fast into a depression, she hurries herself to the Nile sanctuary she's grown fond of.
Crown Prince Atem has been busy and has consequently hidden himself from Bali. He had been called to his father's room the night after the kittens were born. Atem had thought about ignoring the request, but the messenger had been Memnet, who was shedding tears. He feared the worst and hurried to the room, heart in his throat, only to take in a sight he never imagined he would see.
His father, always strong, lying weak in bed and gasping in unseen pain. He couldn't believe it. His days of being a goofball and a rebel and of sneaking away from the palace crumbled away and would now fade into memory. He must grow. His father is preparing for the afterlife, and he will take the double crown of Pharaoh! It seemed too soon.
"Atem, my son… Come here to my side." Akhnemkhanen's request is immediately complied with, Atem slowly walking over in shock.
"I have let you do as you pleased for these past years because you are free spirited, unable to learn in the traditional manner. But the time has come for you to mature and take up the responsibilities of your birthright. The Millennium Puzzle must be worn around your neck, to rule the people justly, to continue," his speech is interrupted by a series of wracking coughs. Atem grasps one of his hands desperately with both of his, inadvertently beginning a healing spell.
His father proceeds when the fit subsides. "To continue the legacy of our heritage, and to keep order as the commune to our gods. You will come every morning to learn everything you must know to become the bearer of the Millennium Puzzle, with Akhenaden and myself being your teachers. Now leave me." Akhnemkhanen struggles to breathe through his sentences, his son reluctant to let go. He doesn't speak, nodding his head dutifully. Atem squeezes his father's hand before letting go, glancing at the Millennium Puzzle glimmering on his father's chest. He sends a plea to the mystical object: " Give my father enough strength to last until I am ready, I beg you as your future possessor!" He thinks he sees the eye shine, but turns to leave before his father becomes upset. He jogs back to his apartments, avoiding contact with anyone on the way. Once on the inside of his room door, a tear streams down the prince's cheek.
Ever since that night, he's been making leaps and bounds in understanding everything about being Pharaoh, while becoming even more powerful with his magic. This magic included the use of summoning monsters of darkness sealed away in the puzzle's Shrine of Wedju, the "House of All Kas." There are hidden chambers inside and beneath the palace for this training, and Atem excels at it. He longs to gallivant around with his friends outside the palace, and to converse with Bali. Just to talk to her for more than a few minutes would be a relief from all the pressure.
It's this particular day after training that Atem nearly runs into Bali as she exits the throne room. He is still reluctant about revealing his true identity, afraid that she will view him differently. He knows she'll be angry when she learns, but now that his father will travel to the afterlife, it's only a matter of time.
"Crown Prince Atem, your father has something to discuss with you," a guard calls, seeing Atem approach from his hiding spot.
"I'm aware." The doors swing open to allow his entrance. He maintains a proud stride, the very vision of royalty. Akhnemkhanen smiles down at his son, who looks more a man than a boy after his serious training.
"My son, you are as old as you are and have not yet taken a bride. You must create an heir to the throne yourself," Pharaoh states, waiting to address him until he draws closer. Atem winces. He internally wishes that this discussion could be private, but understands that his father's time is stretched thin enough as it is.
"I've noticed." His tight response makes his father laugh weakly. Atem shakes his head slightly when a picture of Bali pops into his head. There's no way that she can marry him. They're friends, not lovers. It's wrong to think of such things.
"And yet, I did think about it. Damn, I must be under too much stress, and just need to talk to her, that's all," he thinks, distressed that Bali keeps showing up in his mind. There's no doubt that he's noticed her in more ways than one. She's quirky, and gorgeous, and strong, and so much more different than any woman he's ever met. But still, she's a good friend, as well as an outsider to the royal family.
Unknown to Atem, his father notices the expression change on his son, and ponders its cause. Akhnemkhanen knows his son is on amicable terms with the One-Sent-By-Re, Bali, but he never believed Atem would ever get attached to anyone, even her. Atem generally refrains from flirting around with girls as far as he's aware, though he knows of a couple dalliances. Akhnemkhanen can see the hardship of decision facing the Crown Prince: Itet has been his intended for years, especially considering their unluckily small family, but Bali is clearly first in Atem's mind, even if he is yet unaware.
Pharaoh sighs.
"I won't pressure you about anything just yet, but you must come to decision. I am also tasking you with leading a small party to meet up with that of Princess Itet's, to keep her safe. You will be in command, and upon your return, I will have another," he orders, Atem nodding as acknowledgment. On the inside, the prince dreads the mission. He isn't supremely fond of his younger half-sister, but she is family. It only solidifies his determination to talk to Bali at least once before he leaves.
"Bali, there's so much I need to ask you," Atem mutters, thinking about that evening months before. Bali had acted strangely about the character Amenophus. As a goddess, she should be able to read without fail. Yet, Amenophus escaped her. As he stewed over it, he began to realize that the whole time he'd known her, there was something off. Something not quite right, but he doesn't know what. He's sure that she means no harm to anyone in the Palace—perhaps with the exception of Seth—but still... He can't help but be suspicious of her alleged godly origins.
Bali lounges with her legs stretching into the cool waters of the Nile. Her blank stare and stillness invite fish to creep up around her toes in curiosity. On any other occasion, she would be interested, but this time she's too troubled to notice.
"I can't believe a war is about to begin. Egypt with all of its ridiculous power that everyone just has to have, I hate it! I don't want any of it, I just want to go home!" she snarls, frustrated with the matters at hand.
"Little kitten, I cannot believe you just said that. Don't you want to help Egypt?" Re asks, returning from his supposed investigation of Ebla.
"No. I hate it, remember?"
"You don't hate this kingdom, Bali, you're only saying that. You're still in denial. Not to mention that you're in da-Nile as well."
"Way to be serious."
"It was too good to pass up. I mean, you are in DA-NILE!" Re chortles, clearly enchanted with himself. She withdraws her feet quickly. There's a slight pause and a moment of peace.
"...Now your feet were in DA-NILE! Ha!" Re bursts out, continuing his abundant laughter at his stupid pun. She doesn't appreciate it but does appreciate that he changed the subject.
The hilarity ends when Atem appears at the entrance to the sanctuary. He makes his presence known to her with a nervous greeting, which she returns with pleasant surprise. She invites him to sit with her, Re going suspiciously silent. Atem accepts, settling next to her without another word.
A tense silence ensues between them, until...
"Bali, I need to talk to you about something," he declares. Bali hears the hesitation in his voice. She turns to politely allow him to say what's on his mind, but the words stop when she sees his expression.
At this moment, she feels a stone drop in her stomach.
Something is terribly wrong.
Notes:
"Syria" was not a thing until much later after the eighteenth dynasty of pharaonic Egypt (the setting of this story), but there is a Kingdom of Ebla in that region. There was no war between Ebla and Egypt during this era, it's a work of fiction, made up purely by me! I know, I know, and here you were expecting some grand historical insert! But the Ramses and Setis did more of that stuff in the next dynasties. The reason Bali doesn't know Ebla is because it wasn't discovered til 1974, forty years after her time. Does this constitute as a FUN FACT?
Chapter 9: The Truth
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
"Atem, what's wrong? You're not usually the type to be so down about things," Bali says, trying to joke around a little, but his grave face makes her mood fall short.
"I won't be around for the next week. I will be helping Princess Itet return to the palace. Before I leave, I have something to ask," he explains, shifting in his place. He takes off his sandals to dip his feet into the water. For him, it's the most relaxing thing to do. For her, it becomes an instant annoyance.
"DA-NI-" Re begins, but Bali cuts him off with her mind voice as loud as possible.
"WILL YOU SHUT UP ABOUT THE NILE? IT'S NOT FUNNY!" she screeches, and Re quiets, although she still hears incoherent mumbles.
"Bali, could you please focus? I have something really serious to say," Atem requests, having watched her focus change with exasperation. She resists the urge to check his forehead. This is not the carefree and fun young man she knows.
"Sorry. Please continue." Her apology leaks some of her internal annoyance at Re. Atem hesitates because of it, but asks his question forcefully.
"Are you really a goddess?"
Bali sits stunned. Her mouth opens and shuts, her heart hammering in her chest. Atem is cringing as if ready to be charged as a blasphemer and cursed by the gods. His gaze holds steady at her however, and she can't find the words to say.
"It's time, Little Kitten. I trust him, and I believe you do too," Re advises, serious once more. Bali drifts her gaze to her lap.
"No, I'm not," she admits, but it feels so relieving to get off her chest. She's never enjoyed the misconception much and felt guilty for deceiving people with such a horrendous lie.
"What?"
"I said I'm not a goddess. Not yet anyways," she repeats, remembering that far-off promise of Re's power from his trial. Re sounds his approval.
Unwitting to the gravity of her words, Re takes them as a sign of Bali's affections for Egypt returning. Atem continues to surprise by losing his temper.
"Why have you lied to all of us? You should be the one to be punished by the gods!"
Bali feels the telltale stab of guilt and indignance. She also can't help but feel a little hurt by his explosive reaction. Being yelled at by someone she's close to turns some switch inside of her and her thoughts begin to swirl.
"Hey, did you not hear my last sentence? I said yet , dummy. And all of you assumed that I was a goddess because of this," she starts, showing him her Re mark, "and by the fact that I said that Re sent me, which he did, and by the fact that I can read and write! It's true that I did lie to you, but I never even wanted to do it in the first place! So shut UP!" Thoroughly upset, and near tears already because of her mother, she stands to run away. And not just to her room, but far, far away where nothing will bother her again. Before she can slip away, he grabs her wrist and pulls her back to the ground.
"You're going to explain this to me, Bali. Tell me who you really are," he demands, firmly holding her shoulders to brace her. He dislikes seeing her so distraught, but needs these answers. She struggles, but it lacks any real strength.
"You killed her! You killed her…" she whimpers, sounding like a child, bowing her head and crying. It confuses him. He's never killed any women in his life. Had he unintentionally done something to kill someone close to Bali?
"What do you mean?"
"My mother is gone because of Egypt, and I'll never forgive it for that!" she yells, her head still down, keeping Atem from seeing her eyes.
"You aren't Eblan are you?" he asks in alarm, his grip tightening.
"No. I'm from a country that hasn't even been founded yet, in the future. I took a test against my will and passed. The test was to gain Re's power, but I'm not good enough. To gain his power, I must learn to love Egypt. I feel no love for it at all, so Re refuses until I do. That is the reason he sent me here. He wants me to gain his powers, but like a jackass, is too stubborn to get the fact that I hate this country," she seethes, her fists tightening around the hem of her skirt.
Atem is wide-eyed in shock. From the future? Her mother? Test of Re? But the most difficult thing for him to hear is of her hatred for his homeland, the one overarching thing he loves and is sworn to protect. As he watches in stunned silence as she continues to weep, as he goes over those words she splayed out for him, he begins to recognize that some of her hatred is not at all directed toward his kingdom.
"Don't hate Egypt! You're only saying this because you're upset, but please... Don't tell more lies," he pleads, softening his hold on Bali, his tone gentle.
"You won't listen. I'm not telling lies."
"Yes you are. If you hated Egypt, Re would have no hope in you. You would have committed serious crimes against us. You've made friends in the palace, and the people outside the palace respect and revere you, even if they don't know who you are. You don't hate Egypt, Bali, I can see it. I can hear it: Your hatred is directed toward yourself the most," he says, gently lifting her chin so she sees his sincerity. Her usually enchanting bright green eyes are red and puffy from crying. Although she screws her mouth shut in a frown, Atem knows he hit the mark by the way her mouth twitches and her eyes narrow.
"Tell me what happened to your mother," he says, soft and gentle as can be, letting Bali draw away and turn to the river. She stares and contemplates.
"Kitten, it will be alright if you tell him about your mother. You'll feel better," Re soothes, fading away as night begins to fall.
So she does. It comes pouring out, as if it had been sealed under great pressure for too long and finally released. Her loving mother, the surprise trip to Egypt as a child, the accident in the tomb… Even worse, she told him about her father. The politician, the businessman, the indifference, the anger after her mother died. Why did it all happen? All because of an obsession with this culture, and yet she entered into her field of study. Had it been her fault that her mother died and her father shunned her? Is she cursed?
When Bali finishes ranting, they sit staring into the slow flow of the river, processing. Atem can't believe it. But she didn't lie! A woman from the future, chosen by Re. A future where his civilization is… gone. Dead. So many questions boil up about her, about the fate of his kingdom, about anything from the future. And yet, he knows. He knows and understands and comprehends that the future is forbidden to him. Not his place. Not his time. He has no need to know, no right to know, as his concern is with the present.
It's something his father has been thorough about in his teachings.
"I don't doubt what you say, but you have to admit it's a little outlandish. I won't pry for details, although it does explain how strange you are sometimes, but... Bali, you and your mother shouldn't have been going through a tomb. It's forbidden and you'd be cursed by the gods," he scolds, but Bali shakes her head. Atem restrains the sudden desire to brush her hair from her face. Despite her heritage, her hair is the same color as that of his people, and it's gotten so much longer…
"Egypt is in ruins in my time, long gone. People study the remains to learn who they are, all over the world for various lost civilizations. Tombs count as remains, Atem. And while what you say is true, many tombs were raided already. Not everyone is reverent of the past, so archaeologists like me and my teacher try to preserve as much as we can and treat everything with respect," she explains, surprised at how well he's taking hearing about his culture. He nods his head in understanding with both the concept of archaeology and the tomb raiders.
"We have led excavations of earlier dynasties, for our ancestors have let them fall to ruin. Is Khufu's Horizon still there in the future?"
Bali gives him a pointed look, to which he brings his hands up with a defensive smile.
"I won't ask about anything more in the future, just curious."
Bali rolls her eyes.
"Yes, the Great Pyramids are still there. I'd like to see them now though. Hard to imagine that they're archaic to you as well…" She coughs awkwardly to interrupt herself. "Atem, you can't tell anyone about me being from the future. Or anything like that. It would completely change the fate of Egypt, and probably for the worse." Her warning garners a serious nod.
"I agree. You are not lying about Almighty Re sending you here?" His question comes out bitter. More so than he intended. Bali glares.
"Almighty Re, during the day, often appears in my mind to make nosy comments about the way I live my life and attempts to guide me. Make an offering and pray to commune with him if you must, but on Ma'at's feather I'm not lying about that. I can't promise that I'll never lie to you again, but I can promise that I generally only lie about trivial things," she states, her mouth twitching into a smile. Atem follows suit.
"So lying about being a goddess is trivial to you? I can't wait to see what else you'll hide from me, then," he teases, the atmosphere becoming lighter as Bali's smile grows. She rubs her face when a few tears of relief edge her eyes, which smears her kohl. When she looks at him again, Atem nearly loses it.
"You should probably go clean up. You look ridiculous," he comments, both standing up. After a small stretch, she puts her hands on her hips.
"Thanks for the compliment. Here let me make your face a little better!" Bali pounces at his face. He's too slow, earning his own silly face of kohl.
Servants all around stare at the two chuckling friends as they make their way through the palace. They seem to be having the times of their lives, however obscure the reason is. Near the entrance to the hallway toward Bali's room, they stop to give their goodbyes.
"Thank you Atem, for saying you'll keep my secret. And for everything else, I have a lot of thinking to do. I guess I won't see you for awhile," she says, feeling awkward acting so serious with their faces painted as they are.
"I guess not. I promise to stay safe for you, Bali. Almighty Re knows I'm the only person that keeps you sane here," he points out, erupting into more laughter when Bali smacks his shoulder.
"Don't push it. But really, don't screw up or anything. You're still one of my greatest friends, despite your bad attitude sometimes."
"Hey!"
"You know it's true."
"You have a bad attitude too!"
"I know that, but I appreciate mine. You just act like a spoiled brat."
"Bali..."
"I'm joking. Well, I guess we should both get some sleep. We're both going to be busy tomorrow. Good night!" Bali yawns, turning to her door. On impulse, he reaches out. He wraps his arms around her shoulders, pulling her back to him to put his mouth next to her ear.
"Don't hate Egypt." His whisper is accompanied by a light squeeze, before letting go and dashing away. She remains in shock, unmoving. He said Egypt.
He meant something else.
Her bedroom door opens.
"Lady Bali, are you alright? What happened to your face?" Mery asks, entering the hall and seeing her mistress.
She snaps from her reverie and scratches the back of her head in shame.
"Atem and I were messing around again." While she knows it's obvious she's been crying, she refuses to bring it up to anyone else, no matter how lovely her maids are.
"I'll say. Well, we better get you cleaned up so you can eat dinner. You've been invited to a meeting with Pharaoh and his court to eat and discuss Ebla," she relays, and Bali regains consciousness of her surroundings once more.
"Right... Egypt is going to war, but..." she muses, though she hesitates when thinking about willfully helping to defend the kingdom.
"Don't hate Egypt."
Bali sighs, her expression determined.
"Don't hate Egypt? I guess I'll have to help then," she mutters, and allows Mery to lead her to the washroom for a quick cleaning and change of clothes.
Notes:
FUN FACT!: In the Nile Delta region, there's evidence of certain towns in ancient days just pickin' up and moving. And not just the reed and mud ones, I mean like the big stone buildings. Why? The river changed course! So they just picked up and went to the river, which is like, so opposite of what I see today. People now are just like. "No, bring the water to me, fuck nature."
Hmmmmmm... Dunno where I'm going with this. Obviously other ancient cultures used engineering projects to direct water, like aqueducts and dams. But was it for the best? I dunno! Hmmmmm......
Chapter 10: Hutsat
Notes:
There is a ref to The Great War that Bali makes. She means World War One. To her, two hasn't happened yet, though she knows what Nazis are! Blech.
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
It's official: Egypt has returned a given declaration of war and there's nothing Bali can do about it. Atem has been gone for three days with the reinforcement party for protecting the princess. Bali wishes she could have gone with, but the boats are long gone. All she can do is wait in anticipation like everyone else. In that meantime, she's stuck with Priest Seth and the holders of the Millennium Items in planning strategies for protecting the palace and placement around Egypt's borders and major cities in the lower kingdom that lie under threat from advancing Eblan forces.
"My friends, the time has come again for we, the great protectors of Egypt, to use the Millennium Items to protect our land. Where shall we begin?" Pharaoh says, and Siamun commences with statistics about supplies needed and transportation downriver. Bali can't bring herself to eat the food in front of her. War. The Great War back home had ended when she was too little to remember, but she had seen the resulting devastation later all the same. Atem's words keep reverberating in her ears. She stays at the table.
The doors burst open, admitting a clean, well groomed-and-clothed young man. She perks up. Who is this fellow? He must be important somehow. Her mood lightens. She watches him stride in after showing proper respect.
"Pharaoh, we have just received word that the princess's party has made it to the checkpoint. They will arrive tomorrow. May I join the meeting?" he relays hurriedly, sitting down beside Bali without receiving the go-ahead. Akhnemkhanen laughs grimly.
"Thank you Hutsat."
Bali gapes at the man next to her, who notices and winks before turning his attention back to the talks. She only ever met one Hutsat, a complete mystery who had brought her before Pharaoh too easily months before.
"You?! You were that old man! What the hell!"
"Lady Bali, did you hear me?"
She flushes in embarrassment at being caught not paying attention and clasps her hands in her lap.
"Sorry, no. I was too busy wondering just who Hutsat is, as he was an old man last I saw him," she says, glaring at Seth and his too-smug countenance. He's across from her, obviously amused by her slip-up.
"Ah, our apologies. Hutsat is the head of a sect of our spy network, made up entirely of reformed criminals under the medjay. He reports directly to myself and Mahad," Pharaoh explains, Mahad taking over when gestured to.
"He was out watching for disturbances in the area by Pharaoh's order when you found each other months ago. The court had felt a powerful Ba in the region a day before, which we now understand to have been caused by you."
She doesn't show her puzzlement at his words. She didn't arrive the day before she met Hutsat, so was it really her? Unfortunately, it's something she has no time to pursue.
"If the lady wants to hear about my line of work, I'll be glad to tell her sometime after this," Hutsat adds, stealing a glance at her with a knowing smile. She meets it with suspicion, to which he gives a small shrug.
"Of course. As I was saying. Lady Bali, we are unsure where best your placement would be. There are some who are of the opinion that you should not be involved," Akhenaden says, bringing back the original topic of discussion. Bali sobers and narrows her eyes at Seth. She has a feeling that he's the one who so kindly voiced his doubts. He confirms this belief by smirking.
"Right," she rolls her eyes, "Priest Seth and Master Akhenaden have trained me well, but I feel I am not ready to head out with shield and spear to the battlefields." It's mostly true, but she said it because she has no desire to be out there.
"Akhenaden, your thoughts?"
"She is absolutely correct. She is not ready for the chariots or foot infantry. She is a well enough fighter in hand-to-hand, and her archery skills could put many Nubians to shame. I suggest a more subtle placement for Lady Bali." Akhenaden's input, while complimentary, only serves to feed Seth's smugness. She tightens her fists in anger under the table.
"How much you wanna bet he thinks that no woman could ever ride a chariot! Shit-eater!"she rages, her thoughts to herself due to the evening hours.
"Hey," Hutsat yells, making her flinch away as his hand shoots up. He garners everyone's attention as the young man finishes swallowing some of his meal.
"She can come with us. We need some firepower in our corner, as we humble informants aren't used to some of the work you're asking us to do, what with going behind enemy lines. She'll be great," he suggests lightly, ending his speech by biting into an apple. While the group murmurs over the prospect, Bali sits intrigued by this endorsement. Spying is not one of her strong points. She loses her temper too often, her teacher even said so once… But, if this is what it takes to prove Seth wrong and keep her promise to Atem, she'll do it.
She'll do most anything, now.
"Bali, you shall be put under Hutsat's order. Hutsat, please stay as we discuss more of the details. Bali, please get ready and rest. Your maids will not be able to go with you, so you shall be assigned a child servant," Akhnemkhanen commands, the finality of the situation cutting off all protests. She leaves quietly, but not before gleefully taking note of the look of surprise and... is that jealousy? On Seth's face.
… … …
"Lady Bali, we're going to miss you so much!" Su cries, both maids packing up different supplies from a list Hutsat left for them. Bali shrugs from her position sitting cross-legged on her bed.
"I can't just sit around. You two better stay out of trouble," she warns, a good-natured smile stretching on her face. It fades quickly, however, as her eyes are drawn to the flower Atem gave her. It still looks as beautiful as the day it'd been gifted. She spent some of her time with Mana, learning about magic. If ever they had time, she would also seek out Mahad and Isis. Despite these friendships, Bali still couldn't say she gets the same fulfillment as she does with Atem. He always understands what she's thinking somehow, and nobody's been able to do anything like that since her mother.
"Lady Bali, the servant that will be travelling with you is here. She's a good worker and I have seen her around the palace walls before. She is very likable for someone from her background," Mery informs, drawing her from her thoughts. Bali jumps from her seated position to see the girl. Mery and Su stand away from the child in masked disgust. Bali furrows her brows at first at the behavior, but upon a more thorough examination she understands why.
"Mery, Su! Get a bath ready for this girl and prepare some fresh clothes!" she orders, but the maids hesitate.
"But, she is–"
"Mery, the work I am about to enter requires me to be undetectable. I can't do that if I have a servant in this state following me around, the enemy will figure out something was amiss," Bali explains, crossing her arms and narrowing her eyes severely. While she only made up the excuse, she isn't in the mood for petty insubordination. The two maids still appear uncomfortable with the idea, but one more stern look from Bali gets them going. She turns to the girl, attempting to emulate her mother and her kindness.
"Hello, little one. What is your name?" she asks politely. The girl peers up in surprise, meeting Bali's gaze with giant, warm brown eyes. Her dirty brown curls shake past her face.
"Why?" she squeaks, and Bali chuckles as the girl backs away slightly. She looks to her toes in shame.
"I'm always polite to new people. Now, your name?"
"Naye, my lady."
"That's a pretty name. Mine is Bali. You have nothing to fear from me," Bali introduces, getting Naye to stand up from her bow. The little girl only shuffles, uncomfortable with the attention. Bali shakes her head with a frown. Naye is barely over ten years old, skinny and tanned from work in the fields. Why is she all the way up here? She's obviously not a regular palace servant.
"Lady Bali, the bath is ready," Su calls monotonously, and Bali slings an arm around Naye.
"Where are we going, Lady Bali?" she asks, freezing up at the gesture. Bali internally flinches, knowing what that reaction means.
"You're getting cleaned up properly. No servant of mine will look like this. Mery, Su! I'll take care of this little one myself. Go ahead and take a break for all of the trouble I've caused you," she says, her voice dangerously pleasant. Her regular maids have the good sense to appear ashamed. They meet Bali's eyes, reading her lips that they're dismissed for the time being. There's something up with this servant girl, and Bali wants to know what, but until she can figure it out, she'll have to watch over little Naye herself.
"You are very frightening, Lady Bali." Naye's words are as small and timid as she is. Bali winces.
"Back home I have a bit of a reputation, looks like it might start up again here too. I'm sorry for their behavior toward you Naye, but you've done nothing to warrant any anger from me. But enough of that, in the tub you go!" Bali scoops the girl up and dunks her in the water.
Atem is doing well in protecting his sister and leading the recovery party. Everyone listens to and executes his orders well, all goes smoothly, and no one is daring to attack them for their short traverses on land between boat rides. Within the next day they will be back within the protective embrace of the palace.
His patience, however, is suffering mightily. His younger sister is the thorn in his side, using most of her time to complain about anything she can find. He never really liked Itet, but he deals with her fairly, as his father taught him. Family is family…
"Atem, it's too hot! Why do I have to stay in this stuffy palanquin all day? Tell the soldiers to walk smoother, the ride is too bumpy! My throat is sore, could Ipleaseget some beer over here?" Itet's voice carries from her curtained carriage. Atem glares at it from his horse. He glances apologetically to the guards carrying her and nods his head. They're working hard and trying to focus even more on their walking will tire them out. They understand his encouragement and Atem promises them (to himself) that he would get them extra time off to be with their families. Even with the war coming on, Hutsat informed him that the Eblan forces aren't fully mustered yet.
The prince's mind wanders to Bali whenever he rides along with nothing to do. There are many questions he wants to ask, that he had wanted to ask since the very moment he'd found out the truth. He couldn't do it. She was too upset. He wants to know what her home is like, and how different Egypt is from the future. Atem figures she won't tell him much; she wants to keep the future stable. While he understands and agrees, he feels a bit frustrated. Bali is so interesting!
"Your Majesty, sentry report! There are two riders approaching from ahead! They are waving the flag of Pharaoh." The guard's report makes a trill of alarm shiver down his back. Atem tells the guard to fall in, then rides ahead to see who the riders are. He's immediately delighted to see Hutsat, along with...
"Bali! What are you doing here?" Atem calls, a grin spreading across his face as she approaches on Bit. He pulls up beside and tries to reach out, but Bit reaches out first to chomp his hand. He's promptly pulled back by his rider, and he retracts his reach.
"Whoa! Sorry about that, he's protective. Bit, he's Atem, my friend and your friend too. Quit behaving like an ignorant pony!" Bali scolds, Bit flipping his mane around defiantly. After another short lecture, he seems to listen and looks away. Satisfied, she looks back up to Atem cheerfully.
"I'm part of Hutsat's group now! It'll be my position for the duration of the war. If nothing drastic happens, anyway," she says, turning to get comfortable. He notices two small arms wrapped around her torso.
"Who is that?" The figure pops her head out shyly. Upon meeting his gaze, her eyes widen and she hides behind Bali again.
"This is my traveling servant Naye. She's shy, that's all," Bali explains casually. Atem frowns.
"She is not a palace servant," he says flatly, not understanding why this particular girl is being treated so well. Bali frowns deeply at his comment.
"Atem, everyone is having this same reaction to achild. She's not any different than we are," she defends, patting Naye's head fondly. He slides from his horse and beckons for Bali to do the same. She quietly orders Naye to stay and follows him to stand out of earshot.
"She is an expendable," he tells her, his whisper harsh. Bali shakes her head incredulously.
"What do you mean 'expendable?' She's a little servant, I'm sure she's not the only child servant in the palace. Mery and Su were acting weird about her too and she was filthy before, so tell me what this is about," she says, her anger evident in her eyes, her voice steadily getting louder. Atem puts a finger to his lips and shushes her. She crosses her arms. He grimaces at the amount of judgment there is in her stance.
"Expendables are those sold into servitude for the palace fields to pay off the debts of the parent," he holds his hand up before she can interrupt, knowing what her words will be. "They aren't slaves, they're paid the same as the rest. But they stay in the fields or are called to serve those going to battle. That's why she's here. They're considered… lower."
Bali is tight-lipped. Her hands grip her arms, fingernails digging into her skin. His expression morphs into a soft, apologetic look.
"I was wrong to ever judge them so harshly–"
"–So she's being judged for the sins of her father, is that it?"
He hesitates, but slowly nods. That's when he sees it flash across her face, before fury takes over it again.Empathy.He curses himself for his idiocy, for forgetting that Bali's father had sent her away. She had trusted him with that part of herself and he forgot.
"I will do what I can for her."
Bali unclenches her hands and drops her arms, staring evenly at him. Searching. He stares back.
"We both will. I know I can't change much, but I can handle one child." Atem can't stop himself from smiling at her confident words. He steps forward to put a bracing hand on her arm.
"Starting small might get you farther than you can ever imagine," he comforts, and her expression finally lightens. She nods.
In the time they stood talking, the assortment of soldiers carrying Itet joined them. Hutsat glanced their way several times but kept his distance, instead deciding to strike up conversations with the soldiers.
Bali and Atem step away from each other, the air between them pleasant again. They gaze back at the party.
"So, is the princess in that palanquin? I'd like to meet her," she mentions, casting a smirk to her friend before marching on ahead. Atem follows behind, face curiously warm while thinking about what Bali just said.
"Uh, Itet– Princess Itet–is in there, but let me talk to her first. She's pretty moody right now and might not want visitors," he replies, sprinting ahead to the palanquin. He opens the curtain with no decorum. Bali stands a distance away, arms crossed and weight on one foot.
"What is it brother? Why have we stopped, I want to get home!" Itet whines, but he shushes her frantically. Itet pouts, obliging to listen only because she's curious.
"Lady Bali has joined the party along with Hutsat. Don't tell her that I'm your brother, okay? Can you at least do that for me?" he asks, more demanding than pleading. Itet raises a delicate eyebrow.
"And why should I do that?"
"She's my friend for reasons other than the fact that I'm the Crown Prince. Now will you or won't you?"
"Well, only if she rides with me the rest of the way home. You don't get to talk to her atalluntil we get there. I think that's fair," Itet voices, a victorious smirk replacing her pout. Atem's mouth opens to protest, but he closes it immediately with a growl. She cheers quietly.
"Just know that she might have a job to do from Hutsat, okay?" he states, ducking out from the curtains. Itet waves him off with an eye roll. She waits, thinking about this "Bali." Her smirk fades into a large frown.
"This girl better not be after the crown! The audacity of it... Besides, only family members can become the Great Royal Wife! She poses no threat to me, if anything a second wife,"she muses, perking up when she hears the voices of her brother and another woman. She assumes it's Bali and puts a practiced pleasant smile on her face. The curtains part. Itet can't believe her eyes.
"Hello, Princess Itet. I'm Lady Bali, a... visitor from Re's palace in the heavens. How are you today?" Bali inquires politely. From the way Atem acted when he called her over with the okay, the princess must be in a sour mood.
"O-oh, I am wonderful, thank you. How are you so light-skinned?" Itet let slip, and Bali chuckles as she climbs up to sit next to the princess.
"Well, let's say that the desert sun isn't where I spend most of my time. Back home I am actually considered tan. Is it a bad thing?"
"No! I mean, no, it's just curious. I've never really seen anyone so pale. You are quite beautiful because of it," Itet compliments, restraining from gritting her teeth. The fact is a hard one to admit for the princess. To be from Re's palace in the heavens, and to have a noblewoman's elite complexion bolsters favor for Bali if she's aiming for a crown!
"Thank you. But you are far more beautiful than I am, honestly," Bali returns. She knows that the princess is likely spoiled but doesn't care. From her personal experience, if she can get past the brat routine, she'll find someone worthwhile. And she didn't lie when she complimented the princess; Princess Itet is startlingly gorgeous, a desert bloom that rarely springs to life for all to see. Like most of her status, she keeps her head shaved and wears an intricate wig with multicolored beads, gold, and precious stones woven in. Her skin is clear and smooth, with full painted lips and long black lashes that frame deep purple eyes. Bali bets that if she were a common girl, she'd be swooned over by many. Itet can't help but feel surprised by the kindness of the compliment, as she can see that the newcomer meant it.
"You're very kind. So what is a goddess doing here of all places?" Itet asks, breaking a silence that started due to the palanquin being picked up again. Bali shrugs. She secretly hopes that her added weight is no issue for the soldiers carrying them.
"Re sent me here for experience. 'To rule over the people, you must know what it is like to be one of them.' Just a little, anyway."
"I said no such thing!"Re exclaims.
"You probably would have eventually," she reasons, Re agreeing begrudgingly. Because of this, Bali doesn't notice the awestruck expression on Itet's face. The princess decides something as the "goddess" turns to ask if she's feeling okay.
"This woman... Is going to be my new best friend and inspiration! If only A'a could meet her,"she thinks gleefully, and truly smiles for the first time since she left Nubia."She must return to the heavens;my crown is safe!"
Itet goes on to converse with Bali about all sorts of topics. The woman in question takes it in stride, although she gets bored within the hour. She hides it well enough from the princess but wishes Atem could join them somehow. If there's one person who understands comfortable silences, it's him.
After stopping for the night and heading out early the next morning, the group finally arrives in Thebes. A parade of people in the city gather around to give praise and welcome to their princess and her safe return. Naye rode alone on Bit the entire time, the old horse protecting her from jeers by lashing out at anyone who dared to come near besides Bali or Atem. When they are back at the palace, Bali climbs stiffly out of the palanquin to see that Atem has raced off somewhere. She's disappointed, until Hutsat rides up with Bit following on his lead. She gapes at the sight.
"How did you get him to listen to you?" she asks incredulously, Hutsat shrugging with a casual air.
"I have my ways. Now, let Naye take care of everything while we go meet up with Pharaoh. Let's go," he commands, flipping off of his horse like a circus acrobat. She glares at being treated like a flunky but can't complain about it as he starts dragging her with him. Itet waves good-bye as if the occurrence is completely normal.
…
"Pharaoh, we've got news for you!" Hutsat yells as he bursts into the throne room. Pharaoh and his court look up from a map of strategic planning to gather in the sputtering Bali and the calm informant.
"What is it?"
"We're back," he answers simply, walking off. Bali falls to the ground in shock after being let go, as most of Pharaoh's court groans. She hastily gets up to apologize for Hutsat.
"No, he's always like that. But tell me: where is my daughter?" Akhnemkhanen inquires worriedly, before the doors open again.
"My Great Father, I'm home!" Itet squeals, racing up to embrace the Pharaoh with no cares for decorum. Bali smiles. She informed Itet of her father's condition and is glad that the princess is taking that into account before their status. She had gotten past the prissy show and got to know the princess a little. Bali can tell that she loves her father dearly and can't blame her. Akhnemkhanen often treats her as well as she believes a good father should.
"Her father will move on more peacefully knowing that she is safe at home,"Re states, and Bali nods.
"He's not going now, is he?"
"Not yet, but you know the time is coming."
"Unfortunately. Hey Re?"
"What, little kitten?"
"You aren't mad at me for saying what I did yesterday, are you?"
"Of course not, kitten,"Re chuckles.
"Of course not."
Notes:
FUN FACT!: Would like to point out that two months by our standard (~60 days) and two months by Egyptian standard are the same length! There are three seasons with four months each, and five days at the end of the year not technically included in the calendar but used as holidays (sort of). In this story, Flood season (beginning in roughly June, which is also the time of the New Year) is when Bali arrives, and now it's nearly emergence season (which starts around our October). Atem's birthday coincides with the Egyptian New Year, which is allegedly based on (in this era) the observance of Sopdet (Sirius) rising in the sky in Heliopolis (which is up by Memphis in the Lower Kingdom). Bali's birthday is in our October, so she'll actually be celebrating that soon technically. It's not an exact thing, but just to get an idea. Bali is eighteen currently, Atem is sixteen.
Chapter 11: Treacherous Thoughts
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
"Girls, where is Atem? Do you have any idea?" Bali asks hurriedly, watching her maids help Naye fill up her small pack effectively. Bali is in her old clothes from the future. She doesn't look remotely Egyptian in them, and thus it was agreed on for her to wear them to have more freedom when heading northeast.
"Lady Bali, why do you need to know? And why aren't you wearing proper war garb?" Mery shoots back sternly, looking up and down at Bali's strange attire. She flaps her hands in the air in exasperation.
"I'm leaving soon and I want to say good-bye, that's all! And I happen to have orders from Hutsat, we're strategizing around these clothes!" she huffs defensively. Mery strides over while Su continues to help Naye. They seem to have gotten over their bias against the small expendable for now.
"Last I heard, he was down in the maid's quarters and talking to Memnet."
Bali speeds off without another word.
"Gah!" She bumps into someone while turning around a corner. A firm grip on her arms keeps her upright.
"I know we're leaving soon, but what's got you in a hurry?" he asks, though not sounding necessarily amused and with a dull curiosity edging his tone. She glances up into the dark eyes of Hutsat, her "supervisor." She doesn't answer as he continues to stare with a neutral expression.
"He almost looks… bored." She peers at his handsome face. His eyebrow raises.
"Fine, you don't have to tell me." He releases her. Bali hadn't realized he'd been holding onto her until that point and staggered before catching herself. He begins to stroll away. He picks a long piece of some type of grass growing along the wall and places it into his mouth, making him look like some easy-going farm boy.
"Wait! Do you happen to know where Atem is?" she yells, hoping to get an updated report on his whereabouts. Hutsat turns slowly with the same bored face.
"No. I'm not always on the job you know," he says flatly, and turns back around at her frustrated look.
"Thanks anyway," she calls back, obviously trying hard to be polite. He listens to her run off grumbling to herself. Hutsat meanders a ways before smiling to himself.
"She's pretty cute."
"Atem, you're going to have to tell her at some point. She'll be angry of course, but who wouldn't be?" Memnet consoles, as the nervous prince paces about the room.
"What if she never wants to see me again though? What if she leaves? What if–"
"–What ifs could go on forever, young man. The question is whether or not you love her enough to try and keep her with you," the old maid interrupts. Atem's head snaps to her with a serious and collected look.
"I am not in love with her," he replies, but the "not" tastes sour on his tongue as he says it. Memnet glances up to meet the prince's eyes.
"You wouldn't be so distressed if you weren't in love."
His eyes widen and his hand gravitates to his chin in thought.
"But we've only known each other for a short time and she's not in the Royal Family! It can't happen, and I don't love her like that! She's just a good friend!" he counters, speaking more to himself than to Memnet.
He makes ready to leave in defiance, leaving her thinking: "That boy is so in love he's blind to it. Foolishness, I think. Both of them have grown up from being around each other, but they're too stubborn to see what is right in front of them."
Both maid and prince are quiet in their thoughts when in comes the "goddess" herself, a determined frown on her face. She visibly brightens at her fortune in finding Atem.
"I found you! I'm leaving soon you know, and I wanted to say bye," Bali informs cheerfully. Her head tilts in curiosity, arms crossing when he doesn't reply. Atem can't form words. Memnet's voice is still echoing in his mind:
"You wouldn't be so distressed if you weren't in love."
"Are you okay? You look a little flushed," Bali points out his reddened cheeks, which makes him blush more.
"I-I'm fine. When exactly are you leaving?" he coughs, fervently willing his blush to disappear. She stares for a bit in wonder before beckoning him to start walking with her.
"Whenever Hutsat calls for us to muster. We're heading straight for Ebla. Gonna try an awesome tactic that I partly came up with myself," she says, chin up proudly. Atem grabs her shoulders, stopping them both in the middle of the hallway.
"You can't! That's way too dangerous, you could die!" he cries, and her expression hardens.
"Ssh!"
Atem quiets, cursing under his breath for forgetting. Two servants pass by with their masters in tow. Bali sighs.
"Let's go to the sanctuary, and I'll explain everything." She leaves him no choice, grabbing his wrist and dragging him along. Atem can't help but wish that it was his hand in hers, not the unloving hold her hand has on his wrist.
"See? She doesn't feel anything for me because we're only friends!" Atem says to himself triumphantly, his mind accepting it. His heart however, does not. His heart is worried because of her terrifying assignment.
They arrive quietly and let themselves breathe in the privacy. Bali sits at the river and dips her toes in.
"I'm going to miss coming here. If I get out of this whole thing alive I'll be grateful enough though," she says, gazing into the water to comfort herself. Anxiety creeps up on her.
"What if this plan gets everyone killed? This is Egypt's preemptive strike to take the lead back from the enemy! If it screws up, we won't have any information to pass on, nothing to bring an advantage. Then, of course, the supposed 'goddess' is now dead. I don't think they'll give an honorable farewell to such a great liar,"she storms in her mind, wanting to spill everything to Atem all at once. She maintains control, as speaking all of her worries has never been a strong suit for her. Her tell-all with him about her parents was out of sheer pressure, and her adamant desire is for it to never happen again.
"Now what plan is this?" Atem asks seriously, his voice deep and concerned. It's changed in the past months, and she likes the sound of it. It's comforting. Resonant, even. Something about him, she notices once again, just helps.
"We're going to station a few of our members along the border and coast, but I'm part of the main group that will infiltrate Ebla. We're going to try and get to the capital to gather information on the conditions of the people and their resources. If the king is the only thing really driving these people to war, the people won't want to fight, so we plan on triggering a coup to at least distract and weaken government focus. It'll be dangerous, but effective if it works. I'll be especially effective because I don't look like I'm from the desert like everyone else. They won't think I'm suspicious at all and will let me in, but I just hope I can play my part well," she explains, Atem's eyes fixed on the lazy flow of water crossing their feet.
There's a silence as he processes her words.
"It's too dangerous for you." he says, a king's finality in his voice. Bali snorts in amusement.
"Please, I've done way more dangerous things in my life. Including the trial I had to endure before coming here. I can handle myself," she replies, leaning back on her palms. She's suddenly filled with memories of the late George Corman, unable to keep from smiling smugly.
"He went to whatever bad thing Re called it..."
"The Shadow Realm! The very pits of Ammut's stomach!"
"Right, and I got to live here like a flippin' princess. Is that karma or what?" sheasks herself, though Re takes it upon himself to answer her rhetorical question.
"See? Isn't it better than you first thought?"
"Don't push it feather-head."
"Feather-head? Where did that insult come from?"Re asks, hurt evident in his voice.
"When your people depict you in scriptures, you are oft a falcon, are you not? Thus feather-head."Re snorts, leaving her.
To Atem, it looks like she's changing expressions minutely while spacing out. He recalls a former conversation of theirs.
"Are you... talking to Re?" he questions, scooting closer in interest.
"Yeah. What about it?" she answers simply. Atem sits back, awestruck. Whether it's from her communication with the great god or her nonchalance about it, even he isn't sure.
"Is he always in your head talking to you?"
"Not always, but he likes to butt in when he feels necessary. Sometimes it's really annoying. He leaves at sunset, obviously, so I get my nights to myself," she explains, casually flicking a hand. A blush appears on Atem's face again. Thankfully, her eyes are trained on the fish around their toes.
He's imagining Bali. At night. Alone. Well... except for him.
From there, his thoughts spiral.
"Well, I have to go now, have some important business to attend to," Atem scrambles to his feet to flee, hoping that the lack of proximity would extinguish the dirty thoughts plaguing his brain. Bali glances curiously at his hurry, but shrugs, standing up next to him.
"I hope I see you again," she tells him, a new small confidence spreading its wings in her chest. Atem watches calmly as she steps ahead of him to leave, face normal, bad thoughts gone. He reaches out again on instinct.
"We will see each other. Good luck," he whispers in her ear from behind, holding her the same way as the night he found out about her mortality. Bali leans into it with a hopeless smile.
"You like giving these to me. And I promise to come see you first thing I get back," she says, patting his arms and pulling out of them. She saunters off, and while he watches her go, the moment passes, and his mind returns to its former state.
"Stop thinking about her, you've got more important things to do–"Another naughty vision at this comment appears. Atem smacks his forehead.
"Stop!"
"You ready new girl? I had to pull some strings to get that nice bow and quiver for you," Hutsat informs, hailing her as she rides up on Bit, Naye holding her torso tightly.
"As ready as ever. You're sure Eblan guards won't be suspicious of someone with a Nubian bow and quiver?" she questions, still concerned. Getting her cover blown before she even gets to work would be a disaster!
"Of course. They may be hard to get your hands on, but the Nubians and Eblans trade around too. They'll think you're one tough woman if you're carrying that around."
"My cover is that it was my father's and that I am travelling to Ebla to find an old friend of his. The old friendwillbe you right? You're awfully good at pretending to be an old man."
"What can I say, I'm a master of disguise." Hutsat shoots her a charming smile and wink before looking around once more to take a headcount.
"Jihan is still missing, but he's usually late anyway. If it's not me who's late."
"What an excellent leader you are," Bali replies sarcastically, pulling Bit away from Hutsat's horse. Bit was about to bite the mare's ear, and she felt that that would be a terrible way to start their mission.
"Lord Hutsat, I am here!" a man shouts. She assumes him to be Jihan, and Hutsat rides to the front of the pack.
"Alright everyone. We're going to have to play this one out nicely in order to really make this work. Help Lady Bali if she asks and/or looks like she needs it. Don't take that as an incentive to bully her though boys. You've no doubt heard about her dealings with Priest Seth. Now, move out!" he commands. Like leaves to wind they scatter. Bali stares with a bewildered look. She kicks Bit into gear to ride up to the grinning man.
"I thought we were travelling as a group?" she asks, intrigued by the smile on Hutsat's face. He stops smiling to raise an eyebrow in concern for her.
"You really are an amateur. Travelling as a group brings attention, which is obviously a bad thing. All my men and I are falconers, 'n it's how we send status reports throughout our ride. You'll stick with me because you're nota falconer, and I have orders from higher up to look after you. I don't want to get into that bundle of trouble."
Bali nods, glowering at the back of Bit's head for being foolish. Both start off slowly through the city, but once away they gallop their horses north. They'll be keeping near the river, and boats will only be for strategic parts of their journey. Boats leave too many opportunities for attack, but any they take will be their own under cover of night.
Hutsat sighs as the wind blows across his ears. He ruminates about his meeting with the four members of the Royal Family remaining in the palace.
"Hutsat, we all know you are capable of completing this mission with your men. However, as Lady Bali is assisting you, I implore you to be careful and to protect her. Not only do I wish that, but my brother and two children," Akhnemkhanen coughs, his brother and Siamun patting his shoulder for support. Atem and Itet glance at each other sadly. They had had more siblings, but war and disease had struck during their childhood. Itet is Atem's half-sister, whose mother died giving birth. Atem's mother had died mysteriously when he was young, and A'a-Herit's mother had been grievously ill. After the pain of losing so many wives and children, their father had decided to leave his marital life alone.
"Please Hutsat, she is like another sister to me. We haven't known each other for long, but she has grown important to me," Itet chimes, feeling that her father gave her permission to speak.
"She is an excellent student. She shows too much promise to be wasted on this pointless war," Akhenaden follows. Atem stands, keeping to himself. It is silent until he steps forward. He strides up to stare into Hutsat's face, fire burning in his violet-red eyes.
"If she dies, you should hope that she shows mercy to you in the afterlife, if you even get there. Because I will not. Understand?" he warns, his voice deathly quiet.
"Of course." Hutsat's face and tone of voice holds sincerity, and a sureness the man doesn't actually feel. Atem nods curtly and brushes past the informant captain.
"Protect her." Atem's final command cuts through the room before he leaves, the door slamming behind him.
"Yeah, I'm totally dead if we do something wrong,"Hutsat muses, not especially concerned. He knows Bali can take care of herself and possesses a strong spirit. In fact, he's grown to like that spirit much more than he originally anticipated.
"I have a feeling Crown Prince Atem wouldn't like if I made a move on her, either. Oh well. It's wartime, what can he do while we're surviving off of each other?"Hutsat lets a wry grin and glances back at her, her face scrunched in focus.
"She really is pretty cute."
Notes:
FUN FACT (revised)!: I'm not adding new ones but I'm revising this one. Ebla is a kingdom in modern day Syria, prominent in its geographical position as a trade center for the Mediterranean region. It had three phases, as it would either fall or be taken over by a different kingdom. Super neat-o.
*ALSO!! I changed a detail after getting curious and doing the approximate math. I changed the plan for them to never take boats up to Ebla. They will now, as if they don't, even if they had paved roads and the fastest trained horses, they'd take half a year. Lol nope.
Chapter 12: Seth Ascends
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Night has fallen across the great desert, and the empire of the Nile Delta is preparing to head to battle by morning. Leading this force would be the bearers of the Millennium Items, with their command coming straight from Atem. While he isn't Pharaoh yet, Akhnemkhanen is too weak to lead the army himself.
Atem is in his room preparing his gear for war. His father's welfare weighs heavily on his mind, unable to shake the events of last night's dinner.
… … …
"My son, I cannot go myself, and you shall lead Egypt's forces. Please… Take the Millennium Puzzle to guide and protect you," his father proclaimed, and the whole table gasped at the proposition. The passing of the puzzle meant that Atem was ready to take the throne, and would do so soon..
To everyone's surprise—Itet's in particular—Atem shook his head.
"The Puzzle must stay with you, father. I wish it to protect you and the palace more than me. Bali is not here to bless this place, but perhaps the gods will keep safe the haven of the puzzle and of Pharaoh." After his graceful refusal, he left the table for lack of hunger.
Everyone watched as the young prince walked out, mostly in awe.
... ... ...
Atem feels he just can't be king yet, and he doesn't want to be. He has a dark feeling in the pit of his stomach that the Millennium Puzzle is the only thing keeping his father alive. The country can't bear to go to war and lose their gracious king at the same time. Atem wraps his cape around him, deciding to walk about the palace. He finally dressed as the prince he is, and with Bali far away, he has nothing to fear about her discovering his true identity.
"Bali, I wonder where you are now, and if you are safe. I promise that I'll help protect Egypt like you would want me to, regardless of my background and of what you say,"he prays, thinking of his–
"Friend," he mutters, almost through gritted teeth. He doesn't understand why he keeps doing that. He's come to terms with the fact that Bali is attractive and that he can't help thinking about her in dirty ways every so often, but there have been other women who had brought about those thoughts besides her, and he hadn't loved any of them. So why should thinking about Bali like that mean he's in love with her? He put his train of thought to the side however as Mahad and Mana approach with gloomy smiles on their faces.
"We're going to war tomorrow."
Mahad's statement doesn't help the grim tension between the three.
"I have to stay here, which is stupid. I mean, I've been working hard on my spells and I've been practicing way more than the other students! Can't I go Master?" Mana pleads, moving to face Mahad by standing next to her princely friend.
"No, you can't Mana. I don't want you to get hurt. I already let one person I care for go into the middle of this and I won't let another go who doesn't have to," Atem replies, and Mana, instead of being discouraged, only peers up at him in curiosity. Mahad shifts nervously, his eyes meeting Atem's pointedly. The prince understands and braces himself. "Mana didn't know."
"Bali? She went to Ebla? Why did you let her go, she could get hurt, goddess or not!" she scolds frantically, and Mahad put his hands on her shoulders to keep her from swinging her fists forward at Atem.
"I tried to stop her, but she wouldn't listen to anything I said. I had to let her go," he explains quietly, looking to the sky almost as if in a trance. He recalls the confident, proud smile on her face while explaining the spy's tactics.
"And why not?" Mana snaps impatiently, putting her hands on her hips with a pout. Never has she seen her friend act this way or let his will be overcome by anyone. Her expression softens. Atem snaps from his reverie and blinks several times.
"She's... just a force to be reckoned with when she's angry, that's all," he covers, immediately bidding his two friends farewell. He wants to be alone, to think about himself, Bali, his father, and the war.
A frantic cry destroys this plan.
"Prince Atem, Master Mahad! Master Senenmut has been assassinated!" It's another of the newer members of the Pharaoh's court, Karim. He joins the group, gripping the Millennium Scale. Atem and Mahad follow him quickly to a smaller meeting room outside the throne room. Mana keeps up behind them, curious.
"Are you sure he was assassinated?" Atem asks, noticing that Mahad looks ill. The powerful magician is in charge of palace security, and something like this isn't supposed to happen. Karim shakes his head.
"We're not completely sure, but from the report it seems his patrol into the city is to blame for his being unguarded," Karim says, glancing to Mahad, knowing that it would bring at least some comfort. The group arrives in the meeting room, Mahad ordering Mana to stay outside. She does as told, but doesn't refrain from voicing her discontent.
Inside the room, the rest of the Item bearers sit, along with Siamun and Priest Seth.
"Father, do you have any idea what happened?" Atem starts, but it's Akhenaden who answers.
"I can see two beings... They're Eblan...? But how could Eblan assassins overcome Senenmut and his monsters? Isis, how could you not see this in your visions? How did the medjay not come to his aid, see these assassins in the city, Mahad?" The old master rounds on the two rookie Item holders, who look to their toes in shame. Atem is surprised that his usually calm and collected uncle is so worked up. It's Akhnemkhanen who deflects his anger.
"My brother, it is not their fault. They are still getting accustomed to using their Items, and so have not fully harnessed their powers. In time and with more training, they will be as formidable as their predecessors." Atem sighs in relief, in awe of the amount of control his father has of the situation, despite knowing that one of his closest friends has been murdered. Akhenaden nods in understanding, apologizing quietly to his two young colleagues. Both remain silent with expressions of shame.
"Senenmut did not summon any of his monsters, we only felt when his soul left this world. My understanding is that it was a complete surprise attack, and no one's fault but the assassin's. Mahad, you must redeem yourself by truly securing this palace and smoking out any intruders we have in the city. Priest Seth!" Akhnemkhanen commands, Mahad hurrying off to do his duty while Seth steps forward. Pharaoh hands the priest the already recovered and cleaned Millennium Rod.
"Though it is with great sadness and with no ceremony, I welcome you to the court. We are lucky that no matter the circumstance, this Item did not fall into enemy hands. The Millennium Rod was meant to be passed to you, and you shall protect my son soon enough," he says, handing over the Item with great care. Priest Seth appears sincerely grateful and bows his head in honest respect. He grips the Millennium Rod and prays for the rest of Master Senenmut in the afterlife.
After his dismissal, the priest turns to the prince.
"Crown Prince, I wish you luck in your conquests. I shall be leading a different set of troops in Master Senenmut's place," Seth explains, and Atem curtly nods, expression set in stark determination. Seth brushes past him after bowing. The rest of the Item bearers leave to attend to their duties and to prepare for battle. Only the Pharaoh and the prince are left, Siamun excusing himself to allow the king a moment with his son. Akhnemkhanen beckons for Atem to walk with him. He obliges, and they meander, no one daring to bother the royal pair. The aura around them deems that they desire privacy.
"My son, I know I am leaving for the afterlife soon, for Osiris has visited my dreams and told me so. I am pressed to say that I want you to marry, even if you are not yet in my place. I must be sure that your happiness is secure and that Egypt has a future. Now, I have noticed a bond between you and Bali grow strong. Yet she does not know of your true identity?" Akhnemkhanen asks curiously. Atem looks away with a flushed face. His father has brought upthatsubject again. And he has to answer.
"No, she doesn't know. I have been planning how to tell her, as I know I can't keep the fact that I am Pharaoh hidden," he admits, as much as he doesn't want to. He avoids the subtle prod at the "bond" they share. His father chuckles lightly.
"Have you thought about makingheryour bride? You seem very fond of each other," Akhnemkhanen points out, and Atem's face explodes red.
"Why does everyone think that? We're only friends, and besides that, there's Itet! What is she supposed to do? She's the one in the family who's meant to become the Great Royal Wife, I've not forgotten," Atem argues, the words seeming old and recycled. But the truth is the truth, no matter how tired he's getting of saying it.
"You can marry Itet too."
"Not my point, father." Akhnemkhanen has a bold laugh at this, and despite his condition doesn't go into a fit of coughs.
"I see your point. Bali does seem the type to want to keep the attention of her husband to herself."
"Still way off!" Atem defies, though his father's statement still seems true.
"Alright, I will drop the subject. However, you have my permission to marry her if you please. After all, she won't be tainting our family's godly blood becausesheis a 'goddess,'" he says, giving his son a sneaky smile and wink before leaving him behind to stew in confusion.
"The way he said that... Does he know Bali's secret?"Atem thinks rapidly, his face still flushed in embarrassment.
Bali and Hutsat are setting up for their fourth day in the desert. As it's too stressful for the horses to go on in the peak temperatures of the day, the two became nocturnal, resting in daylight and traveling by night. The tent is spacious enough, but Bali keeps to a completely opposite side from him. Hutsat had obliged to Bali's request of this arrangement, thinking it added to her cuteness.
"Bali, you fed Bit, right?" Hutsat reminds, and the young woman groans from her bedroll. She sits up groggily and eyes him warily.
"You seem awake enough and Bit likes you. Why don't you do it?"
"Ah, Mistress Bali, I have already done everything!" Naye chirps from her side of the tent. It isn't far from Bali, but she needed space after having Naye wrapped around her torso all night. Bali raises her hand and smiles, eyes still lidded.
"See? No need to worry, it's all taken care of. The little girl is reliable," she states, lying back down with an exhausted whump. Hutsat grins. He understands why the woman has put so much space between them.
"How cute. She doesn't want the little girl to be scarred for life if we happened to get a little wild. She could always just send the child out to sleep with the horses... Huh, maybe I should suggest that,"Hutsat thinks to himself, amused. Of course, he wouldn't dare force himself on Bali. She's a goddess graced with the will of Re. There's no way he wants to anger any of the gods. The mission would also likely be awkward from then on out. Hutsat traipses from the tent to set up a magic ward to make the campsite invisible in the slight chance that anyone passes by. If a message comes from his people, the falcons are magicked to see past the barrier.
Hutsat sits down to begin the spell with a rumbling chant.
Bali, unable to fall back asleep after Hutsat had woken her up, stands and stretches in frustration. She keeps quiet, to help Naye rest.
"Maybe if I walk around a little I'll get tired enough to fall back asleep. Boy, I miss having the palace to look at in times like this,"she muses, a gaping yawn stretching her mouth wide. Just the yawn tires her out more, but she knows better than to believe a simple yawn would set her to the path of sleep.
She trudges out into the blazing sun and shields her eyes. Her eyes fall to Hutsat, to watch him place the wards. She can tell when magic is around now; she had been hanging around Atem, Mana and Mahad to get to know it. A strange buzz always accompanies spellwork, and it's so slight at this moment that it almost feels like a hallucination.
"Having fun?" Hutsat asks suddenly, making Bali shake her head and pay attention.
"Not yet. How about you?"
"The same."
"Wow."
"..."
"..."
"Go back to sleep Bali."
"Okay."
And that was the end of that.
Notes:
FUN FACT: The northeastern kingdoms, city-states, and empires played important roles to Egypt as trade partners throughout the Mediterranean region and beyond into the far east. There are artifacts and remains that show that at one point wearing their hair up in a Chinese fashion became very popular. Trade routes are amazing, yo.
Chapter 13: Arrival at Ebla
Notes:
Hi! I made a note of it on the chapter in question, but I made a change to a detail concerning the mission and how Hutsat and Bali get to Ebla in chap. 11. They will now also be using boats. I did some math. Haha. Hahahaha....
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
After a few weeks combined of riding and boating, the Kingdom of Ebla is within reach. Bali might have celebrated more if she were comfortable and relaxed. Instead, she's dirty, exhausted, and in a heap of danger. There's a chance that the army could discover them, a potential catastrophic blow to the operation they are attempting.
"Hutsat, do we know the exact location of every army camp?" she asks as they saddle up for their final ride together. Their plan is to split up shortly into it so Bali can swing to the north and enter the city from that direction, another distracting factor for her cover. Hutsat will ride under a disguise from the east.
"Relatively." His answer doesn't comfort her. He shrugs at her grimace and swings onto his horse without much trouble. Bit however, decides to be mean at that very moment and walks two steps forward as Bali begins to jump herself up. Despite Bit's attempt to make her look stupid, she holds onto him in a desperate grab. He murmurs while she gets on properly with a grin.
"I know you well enough by now, Bit. Don't you dare try it again," she warns, as Hutsat shakes his head in amusement. She pulls Naye on, and once she's situated, the two horses speed off into the night.
The ride goes slowly, and Bali can't stand it. While they're going as fast as possible, it still feels like they're completely isolated from civilization.
That is, until it comes time for them to split up. Then, everything goes so fast that Bali almost forgets what she's supposed to be doing. Hutsat waves her off onto another path while he goes in the other direction. She waves back quickly and moves on.
"I hope this plan works,"she prays, pushing on with her thoughts until she realizes that there is no Re there to answer her.
Atem is asleep at the campground made for the night. He lies in his tent grumbling and shivering, despite having blankets to ward off the chill of the desert night. This time, his dream has more to it.
"Prince Atem, listen to what I say to you now." Osiris appears in the void, leaving Atem no choice but to listen, as he is unable to move. He can only be Osiris, given the pale green skin of the Underworld he is lord of.
"You are destined to save this land alongside the daughter of Re. By war's end, you will realize your fate. As my son took my place, so too will you take your father's. This is my guidance," Osiris says, his overpowered roar echoing throughout the void and making Atem flinch and stare in awe. As Osiris disappears, another figure comes in his place.
A child. A child with roiling, molten gold skin that glows with a radiant heat. A child whose form deviates from antiquated age, the shifting visions of him growing up into a hawk-headed man flurrying around him as spectral visions.
Horus.
"Young Prince, you have more to accomplish in your lifetime than those before you. You, my image, will carry on our will when we cannot. For this now, I guide you," Horus graciously announces, Atem finding himself on his knees from the painful sound of his voice. War, victory, prayers, cries of hawks, laughter of children! The gods themselves are entering this war, to guide him. To Re goes Bali, to Osiris his father, and to Horus he will go!
"As head of the commune of the gods, Re has allowed us to guide you, but your protection and victory relies on the strength of your spirit and your faith in your people. You must wake up now," Horus explains, unyielding. Atem does the best he can to bow his head respectfully in assent, before his vision darkens.
He wakes up and rubs the sweat off his face. He can't quite believe what he just dreamed. Horus is to guide him. Horus! The god said that he was meant to accomplish more than his predecessors… Atem isn't sure if he should feel optimistic or disturbed. The words are too ominous coming from a god so archaic and powerful. Gods are known to visit in dreams, and the timing of it all means it was no trick.
"I need to focus on the present," Atem mumbles, stretching his worries of the future away. Getting dressed and eating his share of rations, he steps outside to observe the packing up of the camp.
"Prince Atem, are you alright? You look more tired than when you went to sleep last night," Karim points out, walking up from his own tent nearby. Atem nods.
"I'm fine. My dreams were good. Egypt is very fortunate to have what it has," he states. Karim nods slowly, eyebrows furrowed in wonder at where the comment is coming from. In the next hour, the army is ready to set out again, Atem leading out front in his chariot. He turns his head for a moment to bellow his order: "Move Out!"
Bali is finally in Ebla. The mountains flattened down into a rocky desert region, but from what Hutsat instructed, that means she's close to the capital.
"Naye, are you okay?" she asks, having stopped to give Bit a break. A brook trundles by and Bali observes evidence of campfires from past travellers. Bit went straight to the brook to drink his fill, and Naye nods her head with a docile smile. The two go upstream of Bit and fill their canteens with water to take drinks themselves.
"I can't wait to have a bath," Bali groans, her hair already stringy and gross. She keeps it up in a bun so no one can see it so nasty. Despite knowing that most people wouldn't care, she can't help but feel picky. Naye giggles and splashes Bali playfully with water. She sits with an incredulous look before splashing her back with interest. A splash battle ensues, and doesn't stop until Bit wanders over to catch Bali's sleeve with his teeth. She glances at him, perceiving the annoyance in his eyes.
"Bit, you're no fun at all," Bali scolds, but picks herself up and wipes water from her face. She gazes down at the little girl.
"That was refreshing, wasn't it?" She's answered with a happy chirp, laughing more when Bali lifts her up into the air before setting the girl on her feet. For a moment, they revel in their genuine moment of peace before getting back up onto Bit.
Bali kicks Bit's rear into gear and they're on the road again. It takes two more hours to get to the capital, and though it isn't nearly as grand and old as Thebes, it's notably pleasant-looking and busy. The capitol castle there again has nothing on Egypt, but obviously holds the wealth given the ornate craftsmanship and intricate paintings. She slows Bit down to look around at the people and shops.
"For a country going to war, they don't look all that miserable,"Bali notes, watching as people begin to stare at her. She casts her eyes to the sky and tries to ignore them. Thankfully, it seems most of the men are gone anyway, keeping her from needing to deal with catcallers.
"I am wearing my clothes from home. I'd stare too if my civilization didn't have pants,"she defends their stares, but it's still unnerving. She turns onto a busy boulevard that leads to the castle gates. The safehouse that had been scouted out and bought is near the castle walls. Bali watches for any of the men from her informant groupies.
"Naye, watch for anyone from the informant squad. He should be flagging us down soon," Bali instructs. Naye promptly starts searching for anyone she recognizes. Bali is well along the road, getting frustrated as soon she'll need to double back from the castle gates. In a brief moment of frustration, she looks up from her search in the street, and glimpses something wheeling in the sky. She focuses on it and eventually sees that it's a falcon. It's staying in the same place instead of moving around like a normal hunter.
"That's our signal."Bali follows the falcon down a slim, emptier road that leads down to the edge of town, one street away from the castle. She watches a man wave the falcon down and spread his arms in welcome.
"Bali, long time no see! Welcome to the home of Makat," he greets, using Hutsat's disguise name.
"Is he home?" she asks, dismounting with Naye and letting her disguised colleague take Bit to the small nearby stable crammed in between two buildings. Bit is too tired to protest, which Bali is thankful for.
"Not now, but he shall be here by day's end. Come inside, and I'll tell you what is happening as of late." He gestures to the door, and all three head in while the falcon flies to the stable to perch himself on the roof. After the door closes, they sidle into an enclosed room lit by oil lamps and sit on the floor cushions.
"What's the news, Jihan?" Bali starts, sending Naye off to settle their belongings into their room. Jihan grins excitedly.
"You remembered my name! Anyway, it looks like everyone knows about the war, but isn't particularly bothered by it. I'm sure you noticed while riding through the streets. We haven't been here long so we can't say much, but I'd bet that we'll have to change to our second strategy. We'll have more details once the Captain is here to analyze the situation," he explains grimly, and Bali nods. She's disappointed to hear that the people of Ebla aren't engaged in the conflict like the people of Egypt. Even as the enemy, shouldn't they care a little more?
"You should check out the room I saved for you, it has an okay view of the castle," Jihan suggests lightly, shrugging his shoulders. There's nothing else to do except watch for Hutsat now.
"I'm sure it does. If you'll excuse me, I'm going to have Naye draw up a bath." She excuses herself and drifts back into the house to find her room. With the information that it faces toward the castle, it isn't hard to find.
"Naye, go get a bath ready. After I'm in, go get some food for the both of us. If the food is ready before I get out, eat quickly and take care of Bit," she commands, and the servant girl springs from her position to do her tasks. Bali sighs.
"I can take off the pants now. Riding around in anything else would have been torturous," she mumbles, rubbing her thighs. It felt strange to wear them after so long without. Bali recalls what she told her maids about her outfit when getting ready to leave.
"I couldn't tell them the truth, I mean seriously! They'd just laugh, and I can't have that." Bali reasons to herself, digging out the robe that is to be tied around her shoulder and fastened with a belt. It's higher quality than abject poor, but definitely not anything a noble or royal would wear here.
"I hope I remember what they taught me before I left. Putting this thing on is supposed to be surprisingly difficult,"she thinks, imagining herself screwing up tremendously and making herself look stupid. She scrunches her nose at the thought and grumbles incoherently.
"Lady Bali, the bath is ready," Naye chirps from the doorway, and Bali looks up confused.
"Already? That was fast." She had expected it to take a little while because the girl is so small and had to fill the tub herself. Jihan appears behind her.
"I figured you would want a bath, so I got a tub ready before you got here. All your little servant had to do is heat it up with some help from yours truly," Jihan explains, referencing the basic magic he uses. Bali thanks him and goes on her way to wash up. Naye travels to the kitchen to complete her second job. Bali ensures the door is locked before she undresses. Folding up her clothes neatly and setting them on the ground, she faces the steaming tub with a wide grin.
"I have been waiting for you," she whispers, easing herself in.
"I love magic."
Atem wishes, more than anything, to know if Bali is safe. Hers is the riskiest job of the whole war, and he can't stand to think of all the dire consequences. Even if he knows she doesn't really mean it when she says she hates Egypt, he doesn't want to lose her to the strife that comes with battle. He keeps poring over why he didn't stop her from going in the first place. He could have stopped her easily, be it by force or by royal command. But he hadn't been able to.
The monotony of his thoughts and the camp around him melts away.
"Prince Atem, we have received a message from the Eblan king!" Karim shouts, bringing over the scroll for the prince to read.
"We are waiting patiently for your arrival beyond the border. We have intercepted your spies, and are currently dealing with him and his group. We'll see how we can negotiate once you get here, if you don't turn tail like the cowards you are!" Atem reads aloud, and his eyes widen in panic. He prays desperately that the spies captured don't include Bali or Hutsat. He crumples the paper up in anger and throws it to the ground. Karim gives the paper a nervous glance.
"We need to move faster now that we've had contact. They have our spies and are willing to negotiate. I don't know if it is a trap, but Lady Bali is in danger all the same!" Atem snaps, answering Karim before the priest is able to ask. Karim doesn't argue, taking his leave of the prince to hurry around to all captains to warn of the threat and to give the order to go double time when marching resumes. Atem barks orders with a fiery rage now.
"I will never forgive you if you've taken her!"he seethes in his mind. His calmer side that has been full of deep sorrow adds another thought.
"I would never forgive myself, either."
Notes:
FUN FACT!: There is one canonical YGO name that bothers the cripe out of me because it's somewhat inaccurate but I won't change it (as it is canonical). Akhenaden (properly Akhenaten) is the name of an eighteenth dynasty Pharaoh (originally named Amenhotep IV) who worshiped a singular sun disk god Aten, beginning the short Amarna Period (called such for the movement of the capital to Amarna, which was abandoned later). For context, Atem is meant to be an eighteenth dynasty Pharaoh, but he is rightfully head of the cult center in Thebes (Egyptian religion is complex as all hell), and not at all worshiping Aten (obviously).
Chapter 14: Gone Awry
Notes:
Hello again, friends! This chapter has some of those hints of gore and torture that are in the warnings for the story. While it's not extremely explicit, war is war, and I'm still aware that there are people out there who can read it but might want a lil heads up for when it's comin' up. I'm one of those people, so no need to be ashamed! And a horse dies in a sad way.
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Bali is blissfully unaware that Eblan castle guards are about to get a message relaying that they must scour the city to find the Egyptian spies. She is asleep, finding it easily as the evening drags on, having ridden through last night only to stay awake through the day. Naye is curled up in her corner of the room, her body clean and belly full.
Jihan is still wide awake. Worried.
Beyond worried: Anxious.
"Captain Hutsat should be here already. Could we be compromised?" he murmurs, spurring himself to call his falcon to him with a small whistle. He scratches a small message and attaches it to the falcon's leg, sending him off.
"You better make it to the others, Er!" he prays, sending his feathered friend with his will. Jihan is well aware that he could have just made a fatal mistake by sending the message and giving away their position, but the situation calls for it.
The waiting continues.
Captain Hutsat's luck ran out when he separated himself from Bali. All was going well, and he was about to sneak past a large enemy camp and on into Ebla to go on with the plan. A snowball effect happened upon him from the moment he entered that rocky forest trail.
He had to navigate the trail slowly, so his horse wouldn't make too much noise or hurt itself. Unfortunately, Hutsat's horse was still disoriented and tired enough to slip. In the fall, Hutsat gets his leg crushed by the weight of the tumbling horse, the horse whinnying in pain due to its own broken leg. Hutsat, as much as he hated to do it, put down his steed with a slash to the throat to silence the creature and to end its suffering. In a moment of pure gallows humor, he mused to himself that he wished he could share the same fate.
Swallowing any desire to cry out in pain, he dragged himself into the bushes to attempt to keep hidden. He surveyed the damage done to his leg. Although a necessary action, he regretted what he saw. Blood seeped out of a laceration from sliding against the root-laden ground, the limb twisted and useless.
Circumstances worsened when Hutsat heard hurried voices heading in his direction. He sat trying to conceal himself as much as possible by breathing lightly and keeping still. It's apparent when they find the body of his fallen horse, but silence ensued afterward. Hutsat unsheathed his long knife. If a confrontation was coming, he would fight as long as he could. That's the way his life had always been. Lights dotted in and out of his view, illuminating the faces of the men following his trail of blood. He cursed his luck as the four peered slowly into the bushes. Two of them pulled the concealing canopy away. All four grinned.
"Another Egyptian spy? I guess they think that we're dumb enough to let them behind our lines. How insulting. So spy, what are you going to do now? We have fifteen of your friends, and we're getting a little tired of your antics," their leader sneered, reaching for Hutsat to grasp his collar. It's a bad mistake on his part, as Hutsat took the chance to lurch with his long knife and take off his hand. Blood spurted from the new stump, the man yowling and cursing in Eblian. The three others beat Hutsat senseless, stabbing him several times with their spears, but in places they knew wouldn't be fatal. These three spoke no Egyptian at all, and Hutsat blacked out to the sound of rough Eblian chatter.
Hutsat had woken up while being dragged to the enemy camp, and the definitive sight that greeted him made his stomach lurch. All of his men, except Jihan and Bali, dead with their bodies stuck up on poles. Their bodies ranged from recently dead to half decomposed, with birds gladly scavenging bits and pieces. They were made examples of, and it was his faulty plan that had done it. The only thing he was glad for was the lack of a certain female's body. His period of consciousness didn't last long however, as one of his captors realized he was awake and kicked him in the head. Hutsat went into darkness once more.
...
And now Hutsat sits, beaten bloody and half dead against a pole in the middle of the campground. It'd been weeks, with several moves. He can't tell the direction anymore. Whenever someone comes around, they spit on him and curse his country. He's been interrogated several times, but he refused to tell them anything. He'd been beaten more for his insolence, but he has a feeling that the worst hasn't come yet. He stares forward at the ground and thinks about all that had gone wrong, worried about his friends whose fates he knows not of. In yet another moment of even darker gallows humor, he wishes he had simply done himself in alongside his horse.
"I hope Bali made it to the safehouse. Jihan is probably there waiting with a nervous twitch. I guess he's going to be the new leader after this, if he gets out alive," he figures in his head, and gives a small laugh at the thought of Jihan being leader. It comes out more as a pitiful cough, but the two men who just walked up do not find it amusing.
"What's so funny, dog?"
"You'll have to tell us, as luckily you have plenty of time right now. We intercepted a falcon all the way back toward the capital. You Egyptians think you're clever, but your friends are about to be extinguished, and next will be your army. Now that your plan has failed, why don't you tell us everything you know that has been passed on already?" the man interrogates, kicking dirt into Hutsat's face to make it difficult for him to breathe. Hutsat rasps another small chuckle.
"Why don't you ask my friends in the army? I'm sure they'll treat you well," he croaks, looking up at the two Eblan officers with a spiteful smile. They turn red in fury, and begin kicking him. Hutsat only grunts, never showing weakness as he prays for death. Before the men can do anything more, they are joined by a third. This man grips his stump wrapped in bandages, grinning maliciously. The two men turn to see the intruder, stepping back in realization. Hutsat glares murderously. The man has his precious long knife, and he has a feeling he knows what's about to happen.
As the man sidles up to tower over Hutsat, there are no words or sounds exchanged.
Hutsat's agonized scream echoes throughout the entire camp.
Bali and Naye are awakened by Jihan a couple of hours after he sent off Er. Soldiers have lined the streets, checking everywhere for "Egyptian heathens" and Jihan had to get Bali out of the house and somewhere safe. He had been ordered by Captain Hutsat to protect her at all costs, by the will of the Royal Family. Jihan could see in his leader's eyes that that was not the only reason he wanted Lady Bali protected, but had no time to press the issue at that moment.
"Naye, just leave the clothing and all of that. Get Bit ready while I strap on my quiver and string my bow!" Bali orders, working through her packs to get out her weapons. Naye rushes outside, mulling over the emergency at hand. Bali and Jihan face each other once Bali is done with her preparations.
"I'll stall them here, my friend. You need to get as far away as possible. Make your way back to the palace, back home, or back at least to our camp," he implores. She immediately protests.
"I can't leave you here, they'll kill you! We'll fight together!" she argues, but he smiles wistfully.
"I won't be caught so easily. Our whole band of informants are reformed thieves, saved by Hutsat and the court of Akhnemkhanen, remember? I will distract them long enough," he pauses, thinking over anything else he needs to say. She is taken aback when he meets her eyes with a fierce determined smile. "Give my love to Su when you get there, will ya?" Bali stutters and fails to find anything to say in return, having been unaware of any connection between him and her maid.
"Go!" Jihan orders. She shakes her head and focuses, running from him to meet with Naye.
"Lady Bali, Bit is ready!" the girl calls, and Bali practically leaps onto the horse's back. Naye is quickly pulled up and off they race, taking a back road out of the city.
"My friend..." Bali whispers, willing Bit to go faster. Thankfully, Bit senses the dire situation, galloping forward with boundless energy.
Bali is interrupted from her racing thoughts by a hard smack on the back from Naye. She twists to see what's wrong. Her eyes widen and she gasps.
Castle soldiers have already caught up with her, and the cavalry is gaining on them. She has to make a split decision.
"Naye, take the reins! Bit, behave and be wise!" Bali shouts, strategically placing Naye in front of her while turning herself around. She reaches out her strung bow and draws an arrow. She breathes deeply to calm herself. Horseback archery is the most difficult, requiring all of her focus, all of her calm, and none of the panic.
"Here's for you, friend," she murmurs, releasing her Nubian-made arrow.
Atem can't stand it. Everything is falling apart, their spies now missing, and allegedly in Ebla's hands. His troops have to stop for a break from the double-time marching they had done. He's impatient; he wants—no, needs—to know that Bali is safe.
His intuition tells him that they are close to the meadows meant for the showdown with Ebla, as their scout had come back with another message and an arrow in his shoulder. The note had been one of impatience.
"Dammit! Karim, are they ready yet? We do not have time to lose!" Atem snaps, and everyone around him watches in awe. Crown Prince Atem is known for having a fair, gentle temperament, and his impatience is somewhat unprecedented.
"Your Highness, you must keep calm! The army must be fit to fight in case we must, please give them five minutes more, and we shall set out," Karim answers, emerging from another meeting with the captains. Atem growls, crossing his arms and shifting his gaze to the side. Karim, as his friend, dares to prod him more.
"My prince?"
"What is it?"
"Why are you so anxious? Surely it is not just Hutsat's welfare that worries you." Atem glances at him and sighs, leaning on the side of his chariot tiredly.
"She's there, Karim. I should have stopped her, and yet I let her go. It's all my fault," he admits and Karim's eyes widen at the amount of sadness in the prince's voice.
"Then why didn't you stop her?" The now age-old question is said again, and Atem smiles a little in frustration.
"I've been asking that of myself this whole time. I guess I've just been ignoring the answer for too long, but..."
"But what?" Atem's expression becomes a complex mix of relief and misery.
"I love her."
Bali is growing desperate as night begins to fall and her arrows run low. Bit is now exhausted, and their pursuers have been joined by more and more. She's picked off quite a few of them, but the situation is growing more desperate.
"Lady Bali!" Naye screeches, and she turns, only to be knocked off by a low-hanging, heavy tree branch. Her vision etches with black as Bit and Naye distance themselves. The hard hit and consequent fall leave her breathless in pain. Two horsemen continue after the horse while the rest stop around Bali.
"We finally got you, 'Lady Bali,'" one mocks, Bali unable to retort before receiving a blow to the head that knocks her out.
...
She awakes. Cold, wet, and hurting. Nothing is discernible wherever in the dungeon cell she occupies, except the ungodly stench of rot, mold, and filth. Her head is bandaged and pounding furiously while chains chafe her ankles and wrists.
"I am definitely not okay. Oh, Naye, please be all right," she groans, looking about the dank atmosphere with disgust. A rat looks at her mockingly from a corner of her somewhat large cell, easily slipping through the bars. Bali glares after it and pulls at the chains. They hold strong to her test. She gives up after a wave of pain and nausea shivers through her. She huddles her knees to her chest and wraps her arms around them. The warmth of the desert would be a welcome embrace right now.
"From riches to rags. Why can't I hear Re anymore? Is it because I'm not in Egypt?" she wonders, almost missing the guidance of the sun god. Bali also wonders how long she's been unconscious and in the cell, as well as what time of day it is and how the war is going. It plagues her more than anything because she can't get answers. Eventually, even this slips away from her in the darkness.
She keeps herself from crying in the silence, deciding instead to pray to her mother.
Her prayers go forsaken as a door in the distance squeaks open, flooding the hallway to the right of her cell with light. Two men trundle through, and she feels the hairs on the back of her neck stand up. They open her cell.
"No worries miss, we're not animals. Just giving you the standard punishment before your execution in a few days," one says, neither appearing to take any joy or satisfaction in whatever they're about to do. Bali decides to shoot her shot.
"Maybe we can just not and say we did? I'll be dead soon anyway, I'll never tell."
The two look at each other in grim amusement, but she is released and dragged out by one while the other watches. She remains quiet, the slightest quiver of fear keeping her from walking steadily. They lead her to a room with shackles bolted to the wall, to which she's fastened into with her back facing out.
The moment she saw it she knew her fate, and it takes every ounce of her courage to keep as much composure as she can as the first whiplash makes contact.
Notes:
FUN FACT!: Ramses II had around fifty wives and over two hundred children, and lived longer than like ten of his crown princes. He's a nineteenth dynasty pharaoh, prolly the most famous of them all (Tutankhamun aside). Why am I mentioning Ramses? Who knows.
Chapter 15: Keeping Promises
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Pain. So much, so blindingly more than she's ever felt before. She doesn't dare lean against the wall in her former position.
Now, chained to the floor, back flayed raw and bloody and exposed, Bali lies on her side phasing in and out of consciousness.
"Guess this is what I get for sticking my neck out."
Although rhetorical, she can't help but picture Re and Atem being on the receiving end of her words.
"Don't hate Egypt."
"We will see each other again..."
She falls into darkness, clinging to those words as her single lifeline from despair.
...
After one of her miserable feeding and watering times, Bali decides to settle into sleep on purpose to ward off some of her pain. Just as she closes her eyes, the tell-tale squeak of the dungeon door illuminates the hallway once again. Low voices echo throughout the walls, Bali opening her eyes to squint at the commotion. She listens.
One man, his voice intelligent and curious, is leading the conversation with the guardsman. Both are speaking their native tongue, one she's never heard, unable to translate. Re's magic either left her when she left Egypt, or it wasn't meant to extend to other languages. In either case, she can only use their tone to interpret.
The smoother voice says something curtly. They stand outside her cell, so she knows he must be investigating who she is. Her mind begins frantic work on coming to terms with what she believes is the time of her execution approaching. The cell opens. The oil lamp the inquisitive man holds casts shadows around them, into their faces, but the flame reflects in their eyes. Bali turns her head to get a better look, not caring if they realize she's awake. The inquisitor is dressed handsomely in jewels and cotton, while the other is a rough-looking man, easily forgettable in the sea of rough-looking men she's encountered. She doesn't move more than that. She can only narrow her eyes, anything else is too painful. The rich lord's eyes widen.
The young man proclaims something rather indignantly, and his uniformed companion nearly stumbles from his stance in surprise. Bali's face lessens from its ferocity.
The guard argues with the gentleman, though not for long as he is silenced with a bellow and a glare. It ends with the guard dropping to his knees in a bow muttering what must be apologies. Bali puts two and two together: This young man is royalty.
The prince utters one final threat, sending the guard tripping over his own feet and fumbling with his keys. He hurriedly releases Bali from her shackles, bowing away to allow his master to see her. The prince's face turns gentle, eyes flicking from her eyes to the wounds on her back. He carefully helps her up, an act she doesn't refuse. He doesn't seem to mind when she leans on him heavily.
"Lady Bali, you have been treated with shame and dishonor. I am Prince Ur-Minda, but you may just call me Min. Please come with me to get cleaned up, as the start of a lengthy apology on behalf of myself and my staff." The young man introduces himself in perfect Egyptian, briefly making her exasperated over how Re's magic seems to work. It doesn't take long for her fiery personality to catch up with his words.
It trumps her pain.
"You're the one behind this! I'm farther from home than you can possibly imagine and I'm in no mood for idiotic gallantry just because you find me attractive," she hisses, weakly pulling herself away from the prince and promptly dropping to her knees with a gasp of pain.
"Trust me when I say I know how you are hurting. Please come with me, I will explain," Min lures, but Bali doesn't bite. Despite this, he kneels down to help her.
"You're wrong, you spoiled sack! Go keep fighting your war, it doesn't matter what happens to me, you'll fail," she warns, speaking through gritted teeth and clutching at her arms. Min grabs her left hand and folds it in both of his tightly.
"Please... I cannot say more, but come with me. I don't wish to anger you further." Min maintains a calm beguiling demeanor despite the protests of his captain. One glance sends him into silence once more. As immense pain from her back continues to seethe, her head wound adds an atrocious pounding that cuts through the anger that clouds her mind to provide her logic's clarity. Lips screwed up in a disappointed frown, she slumps into the prince. He thankfully catches her without brushing against her injuries.
"I'll listen…"
Her grumble is met with a determined nod. He makes to carry her, but she shoots him down, only allowing him to throw her arm over his shoulder.
"That was a quick turnaround,"she thinks, audibly hissing as they shuffle through the door to the dungeon. It's clear and bright, but with a crisp chill. She assumes it's morning. The contents of the castle fly by quickly, as Bali is hurting too much to pay attention.
"Here is a washroom. The maids will help you clean up and we shall meet in my quarters so I can explain as promised," Min directs, pushing her in a room once he stops. Bali stands frozen as a horde of maids watch her with sunny smiles to match the weather, each one ready to serve.
"That's a little excessive," Bali criticizes, but she's unable to resist being pulled gently to a tub to wash off blood and grime. Special attention is given to her back, gingerly dotted at with several soft cloths. She finally finds relief as a salve is rubbed over her, muscles relaxing and pain mostly obliterated. Once clean, bandages are wrapped around her and changed on her head. The maids all chirp in Eblian as they put different choices of clothing in front of her for Bali to choose. She holds up her hands and shakes her head.
Knowing that they probably don't speak Egyptian, she begins gesturing to them as specifically as possible to tell them that they should choose. Bali never had much taste for fashion, the best she ever did was her hair and that's a non-issue at this point. The maids chatter among themselves, obviously trying to understand her meaning and taking guesses. Eventually, after one last point between them and the clothing choices, they alight with understanding. All look at each other in joy.
"By the amount of excitement, I'd guess they don't get this option very often,"Bali muses, bracing herself for the chaos coming for her. The maids gather themselves around the clothing, sometimes glancing back at Bali, who sits uncomfortably naked in the cold air.
Finally, one is brought forth, the lead maid holding it out proudly. All the girls obviously voted on the choice, so Bali nods and allows them to do as they need. The wrap around dress is decorated with green beads and green semi-precious stones, matching her eyes almost perfectly. She can't help but internally groan, as her Egyptian attire also tended to be green-themed.
"I should ask to be put in a different color when I get back."
She hides in the back reaches of her mind the fact that she nearly thought about calling the royal palace in Thebes "home."
After a couple accessories are put on her wrists, she is led by the head maid to Min's room. Their feet are bare, making slapping sounds against the cold stone floor.
The maid announces their presence before bowing out, leaving Bali standing there at the door. Bali watches her go, somewhat curious to what impression she made on the ladies until Min opens the door. He looks her up and down, smiling with a kind of satisfaction that she doesn't quite appreciate. He halts when he notices the disapproval that emanates from every bit of her, coughing to cover up the awkwardness of being caught.
"Much better than your earlier state, ahem. Now, I believe we have some things to discuss." Min gestures inside the opulent room, afterward offering her a seat on a cushion-laden floor chair. Bali sits, still careful of her wounds, and accepts a cup of wine.
"This had better be good." She retains a seriousness that erodes any good mood in the room. She prays that nothing disastrous has happened yet on the battlefield where Egyptian forces have met the Eblans.
"I am the prince of Ebla, I did not lie. However, my father is the tyrannical ruler to blame, and has put me under house arrest here in the castle. He has heard many stories of the magical wonders held by your Pharaoh's court and covets them," Min starts. Bali leans forward in concern and interest. A war for the Millennium Items? She also couldn't help but notice that there doesn't seem to be any magicians here in Ebla. Why that is, she can only hypothesize, as the future also has no magic. Min goes on to mention some news from the war front. She asks after it abruptly, satisfied enough for any reasoning of Ebla's king to start conflict.
She hasn't heard of proceedings at all since she left Hutsat. Min stares fixedly at his toes, tipping off that all is not well.
"According to one of my own loyal followers, sixteen Egyptian spies were caught at the border. A seventeenth was nearly caught in the city below, but was slain by an arrow before we could get any information."
The cold, the numb, the telltale sensation of emptiness seeps through from her chest and into her extremities, engulfing her mind. Min disappears. The castle, Ebla, the walls, the time... all leave. Her head falls to the cradle of her hands.
"Jihan is dead, and everyone else is captured..." she mutters.
"All but one of the spies at the border is still alive."
Bali snaps, fog gone. Only searing. Only rage.
She leaps forward with lion-like grace unbefitting her condition to snatch the collar of his robe, dragging him off his feet. The feat of angry strength visibly terrifies him, but he dares not speak.
Her wordless roar shatters the peace of the castle around them. Min is given no time to attempt dodging the punch to his face. Blood leaks from his nose, and he merely grunts as he hits the floor from being let go. Bali's body refuses to take the strain any longer, to which she collapses, breathing heavily. Sorrow, regret, grief… It all takes its place, her chest heaving in a pain her life has seen too much of.
"Dammit, I shouldn't be crying..." Her mutter is barely audible to Min, her form crouched over, her face hiding itself from his view. The prince finishes wiping the blood away, thankful that his nose is spared for now from being broken.
"You are lucky that I know that that was an outcry of grief. I could have you killed, you know," he warns in irritation, soon regretting his words. Her head snaps up, face pulled into a chilling snarl.
"You shut up! Every day I am here this place will curse ever having done this!"
"And how will you do that? Oh yes, you're a goddess. But aren't you a little out-of-bounds for your threat to take effect?" Min backpedals from once again shooting off his mouth, holding his hand up before she can yell more. "Lady Bali, I apologize for prodding you so much. I truly do not support this war with Egypt, though it is supposedly for me that this war is waged." He sighs, visibly wilting under whatever mental pressure he has. She sits upright, wiping her face and calming herself down to listen.
"What? I thought your father–"
"It is my father! So many stories of power and prosperity from the two united kingdoms of the Nile, led by a powerful man and his court with magic beyond understanding. We trade with them peacefully for years and suddenly he decides it is not good enough…! I thought it suspicious. He locked me here for my protests. You understand, yes?" Min rants, his anger for his father spilling forth in a waterfall. Bali listens, having cleared her head. She nods.
"Min, we have to go stop the war before any real bloodshed happens. I don't care if your father is restricting you here, we're going to sneak you out. You'd better gear up because you're about to be king," Bali orders, though she gasps shortly from pain. Min hurriedly calls for a physician and aids her back to the cushions.
"You are serious? By far, you are the strangest woman I have ever met!" he exclaims, but he does so with a smile. She smiles back, a memory popping up that makes her huff in laughter.
"I have a friend at home who said the exact same thing to me," she says, making Min's head tilt in wonder.
... ... ...
Bali and Atem had finally gotten a little time to spend between their training periods. They were just walking and talking throughout the grounds of the palace.
"I bet Priest Seth was jealous that you could shoot the bow so well," Atem joked, walking behind Bali at a comfortable pace. She snickered and agreed.
"He did turn a bright shade of green. I just have experience with a bow, that's all." She shrugged it off, but he disagreed.
"I heard that you shot the bull's eye from beyond our record distance! All the best archers are from Nubia to the south, you'd fit in well there with your skill," Atem praised, and again Bali shrugged it off.
"All it really takes is good eyesight– Whoa!" She stops short, holding her arm out to halt him as well. A long brown-black snake sat in their way. It bared its fangs and stared at them. They stared back, tense.
"Bali, that's an asp! Get away!" Atem hissed, but was too late. She lifted her foot and kicked the creature so far that he wondered if the snake ever really came down from the sky. After a few moments of comedic silence, he began to laugh.
"You just... kicked it, like it was nothing! By far, you are the strangest woman I have ever met!" he laughed, and she stormed off, leaving him stumbling behind, making fun of her courageousness.
... ... ...
"Oh Atem, I hope you're still safe by the time I get there. I need to talk to you or else I'm going to go insane,"Bali thinks, the memory a rather fond one of hers.
Bali and Min spent the rest of the day gathering a party swearing absolute loyalty to the prince and getting supplies ready. Luckily for them, practically every troop in the palace is loyal to Prince Ur-Minda, an error of the king's they were fortunate enough to find. Any opposed are thrown in the dungeons.
"Everything's going to come down to this."Her thoughts swirl nervously, as her last few strategies didn't pan out well. She's lying in a small room given to her, comfortably made up, with medicines at the ready should she need them. It would be days before they could leave, to ensure secrecy, ensure their plans, and most of all, to ensure her health. Min forbade her from joining him without letting her heal up some.
With the pain muted now, Bali's mind roams to her friends in the palace, and to her friend who is undoubtedly on the battlefield.
"I'm keeping my promise Atem, you just have to stay alive."
She fades off into a dreamless sleep, too exhausted for anything else. Her new focus has subdued her grief: There will be plenty of time to mourn once she's avenged the deaths of her team.
Atem and the Theban section of the army arrived at the chosen area, joining the faction from the lower kingdom that arrived beforehand, finally easing the prince's impatience. They camped strategically in a high ground with a steep wall to their backs, well enough away from the Eblan camp to avoid a catastrophe of enemy archers. Upon his arrival a flood of information was rushed to him. Only one thing put him to any ease at all, despite the circumstances.
"All of them but Bali, thank the gods!"he praises, sitting back with a sigh once he finds himself a moment alone. Despite this relief, the description of the informant team haunts his thoughts still.
"Prince Atem! King Ur-Mardu has requested an unarmed meeting in the land between the two camps! You may only bring one guard!" A runner reports, having received the message from a scout.
"Karim, take care of the camp while I'm gone. Fetch Guit and he shall be my guard," Atem orders, and his wishes are carried out accordingly with appropriate haste. Guit is a regular horseman with extraordinary talent. He stays low in ranks by his own choice, one of mystery but respected none-the-less. Atem knew him personally from being friends with his son, Sethi.
The two set out, and meet the King of Ebla as promised, he with only one guard. The king grins.
He's middle-aged, with graying curly dark brown hair and russet-colored eyes with a terribly arrogant gleam. He stands taller than Atem, though not by much, and wears leather armor typical of any soldier. The only marker of his rank is his maroon cape and the circlet around his head.
"So, all they sent me was the prince, eh? Where's your father, too scared to come himself?" the king mocks. Atem narrows his eyes but keeps his head.
"I am here because I am to take the throne and must prove myself to the gods!" he proclaims. The king merely nods.
"I see. So the old Pharaoh is dying, is he? To business, then: I have someone of yours back at my camp. A spy named Hutsat, I believe. Don't worry, he's refused to tell us anything, but as a prisoner of war and a spy, we haven't treated him with the utmost respect. What will you give to me in return for giving him back?" Ur-Mardu asks, his gaze sharp and unyielding. Atem has already known his answer, a decision he knows is right. Hutsat would endorse it, given how he must hate himself for still being alive.
"Nothing. If he is suffering as you say he is, he will be not much use to us once he comes back. And since you and your men are so intelligent, he will have nothing to tell us about your camp," he replies, voice low and cold in hatred.
"A very good answer for such a young and inexperienced brat. I'll keep him alive, for now. I believe I may find something else of value to bargain off instead." King Ur-Mardu turns to leave.
"Wait! What would you want in return, Ur?" Atem's question is met with a wildly discomforting expression. The feral look in the king's eyes makes the prince step back and subconsciously reach for the sword at his hip, only to grasp at air, having left it for this meeting.
"If my information is right, there are seven things I would gladly take in exchange," he responds, and sweeps away laughing. Atem is stunned, but Guit taps him on the shoulder.
"We must return, or I fear we will be open to attack," he urges. His prince nods absent-mindedly.
They return to the camp and hunker down for the night, and all captains, Karim, and Atem sit up late into the night discussing what they could do. They all leave to go to sleep with only small, purely defensive ideas that seem to have little hope. No one knows where Lady Bali is, for King Ur-Mardu would have offered her up as bait instead of Hutsat. He's grateful for this, but it doesn't stop him from worrying.
"Your Highness, wait!" Karim calls, catching Atem before he retires into his tent. His response is sluggish, but Karim doesn't hesitate from a confident nod.
"We've been lucky that only mere skirmishes have broken out so far, even from Seth's encampment. We'll find her. In fact, I won't be surprised if she finds us instead." The prince smiles weakly.
"Yes... I suppose there is truth to that statement," he replies, and goes into his tent after bidding his friend good night. He snatches up a few figs to munch on as he thinks about the encouragement.
"I need to talk to you, Bali. Not knowing where you are is driving me mad."
Once he goes to sleep, his dreams once again are filled with promises of glorious battle and a blooming destiny.
It's time. At last. Bali is rested as much as possible, and they are both determined to get to the battlefield by nightfall. With their small traveling party riding horses, it won't take longer. Min is well versed in the geography of the region, their planned route full of small detours that shaved off time. Bali is busy pondering the fate of her stubborn and beloved horse when a man appears by the door to her room.
"Lady Bali, we have found your horse, but unfortunately there was no sign of the little girl. The guards chasing you lost sight of them after your capture, he was found galloping back toward the palace. Now he's causing trouble in the stables!" the man informs quickly, and she hurriedly buttons her pack, gingerly swinging it onto her back. Next is her quiver, bow, and the oiled pouch of bowstrings. Once she's sure nothing will fall off, she runs with the messenger, finally wearing sandals again.
When they arrive, a group of men has surrounded the maddened horse. Bit is thrashing about angrily, lashing his legs to keep all of them away. Bali pushes them aside and faces her overprotective horse.
"BIT! I'm right here, stop it!" Bit's ears prick up and he settles down, taking a good look at her. He walks over, and she holds her hands out to nuzzle him until he lurches forward in a bite. She dodges, much to her amusement.
"Just because I haven't seen you for a while doesn't mean I've gotten soft, you old coot," she teases, and Bit turns away with a snort. She accepts an apple from a stableboy and presents it to him, which he begrudgingly accepts. The men around her mutter in amazement at her control over the horse.
"Are you ready Lady Bali?" Min asks, dispelling the group by coming up from behind on his own horse. Bali sweeps herself up onto Bit and nods, expression set in determination. Stopping a war is going to be difficult, but perhaps with their position advantage, they have a better chance at stopping King Ur-Mardu. She's already ensured she would talk with the Egyptian side of everything in the peacekeeping.
Despite any nerves and anxious thoughts of failure, the group sets out, racing to get to the front lines before any brutal fighting breaks out. The few breaks they will take will be short, and even if all goes well, they will arrive exhausted.
"Still,"she muses, glancing at the men around her, "tired hands are better than none. I'll find you after this, Atem. I'm keeping my promise!"
Notes:
FUN FACT!: The concept of Pharaoh being seen as god-on-earth is a little more complex than just saying he's divine. From what I've interpreted, it's more like he's the highest of high priests, of divine blood and capable of commune with the gods, but he himself didn't have any real divinity until he passed away. As in, he doesn't become a "god" until he dies. I mean, obviously it's as good as, right? But the subtle difference is an important distinction, I think. Pharaohs attached all sorts of fun titles and such to their names to cement the power structure with them at the tippy-top, as you do.
Chapter 16: Into Separate Camps
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
They hide in the hills overlooking the main Ebla camp. In the distance beyond it, Bali has her eyes fixed on the Egyptian army. Daylight still reigns, allowing them a clear view.
"I have to get there somehow. They know me, and they need to know our plan in case they have a conflicting plan of their own," she says, but Min shakes his head. His eyes never stray far from the Eblan camp.
"It is too risky to try and get down there without being spotted." Bali snorts.
"Whatever, I'm used to lines like that. I'll go alone. Even if I'm captured, they'll probably just try to bargain me off. Besides," she stands and brushes herself off with Min watching her with a stunned face. "I'll be in my home territory if they take me into their camp." The phrase is lost on him, but she doesn't allow him to ask. She starts her way down the hill, keeping behind cliffs and rock edges to stay somewhat concealed.
"You're crazy!" he yells after her, but she raises her hand in a nonchalant, confident farewell. Bali pauses to plan her next moves down the hill and grins.
"Because once I'm back in Egypt, even if I'm only slightly past the border, Re will be back," she whispers, continuing on her way with her mind set in determination. She's gotten good at being sneaky, so long as she avoids confrontation. Keeping her steps light and careful, she uses techniques learned from Hutsat on the road and from her lessons back at the palace. So far, none have spotted her, or even entered her sight.
"Guess I have to thank Seth a little when I get back too," she notes, pulling a sour face at the image of Seth's smug face. She shakes her head back into focus and shifts into a small wooded area, dense enough to offer further concealment. She creeps around with more attention to silence: She's close enough to the Eblan camp that she might be discovered by scouting parties.
Bali makes it to the edge, almost to a spot where she can run like hell for the Egyptian camp and arrive without getting pierced by watchful archers. But of course, voices approach, and they're definitely not speaking Egyptian. She curses her stupid luck.
"Dammit. Where can I hide?" A frantic search commences for a solution. A few present themselves to her in the form of trees. She takes the risk, scrambling over to the beginnings of the forest. Clamoring up one of the trees hurriedly, a sense of relief spreads through her from the safety provided by its foliage and thick branches. She makes it up to a favorable height where she can see but not be seen, then strings her bow and readies an arrow. The voices are coming from two men with baskets full of miscellaneous roots, berries and mushrooms, trundling in and out of her sight. She contemplates killing them, but a better idea pops into her head. An extremely dangerous one, and one that diverts from her original plan completely. But... Bali decides that carefully planned measures have repeatedly failed her, and now is the time for drastic, admittedly reckless action. She takes off her sandals and hides them, then hurriedly puts her bow and arrow away. She clears her throat.
"Re, I need your help. I can't speak or understand Eblian, think you can warp my brain like you've already done for Egyptian?"
His answer is immediate, flooding her with giddy relief.
"Of course, kitten. But you will only be able to use Eblian until you ask to switch back. Heka is not a god to cross."
Bali blinks, not understanding what he's talking about.
"Heka is just magic isn't it?"
"You can ask your friends later."
"Fine. I can rely on the Egyptian I've learned, just do the switch!"
Once again, Bali must push past the strange feeling of her mouth speaking words she's never spoken as it translates her phrases.
"Help! Somebody help me!" She winces, hating how good she is at sounding helpless and fearful. The two men gape, frantically searching around. Bali rolls her eyes and scoots herself out to a more visible point.
"Please, I'm up here! Those Egyptian scoundrels saw that I had a Nubian bow and chased me here! Please, I need to get it to my father! I've been up here too afraid to come down for days!" she continues, and the men finally notice her. Given their dumbstruck expressions, she guesses that her ploy is working.
"Don't worry, miss! You can jump and we'll both catch you!" the taller soldier calls up, his partner nodding vigorously in support. Both look strong enough for the task, so Bali shuffles out to where they're holding their arms out to catch her. She acts anxious, gripping the branches of the tree unsurely and quivering her lip.
"It's okay, we promise to catch you!" they reassure, and she leaps from where she is. Sure enough, they catch her, and words of apology and gratefulness spill from her lips. She stutters like she thinks she ought to. Both soldiers scratch the backs of their heads bashfully.
"It was nothing. Hey, we can give you food and shelter for a night at the camp. You'll be safe from those Egyptian bastards, and then you can set on your way to your father's!" they invite, and she thanks them for their kindness. On the inside, she's crowing in jubilation.
"I love village idiots sent to war." She grows more confident as a voice chimes his own commentary.
"Well played, kitten. Your gamble has worked,and you are back in my realm of Egypt!"
As time goes on Bali wants to curse out the two soldiers for being so talkative. Her hand nearly raises itself to smack them both across the head for being so loud and oblivious to anything, but she stops it by taking deep breaths. The only person who gets on her nerves more than these two is Seth.
"I'm sorry they're annoying you, kitten. The camp is up ahead and you'll be rid of them,"Re says. She sighs.
"That's a relief. I just hope they don't figure me out before I can do anything. Keeping up this dumb act is tiring, and I get irritated when I'm tired."
"I'd say you're irritated a lot more than that, or maybe you're always tired?"
"Shut up, I need to concentrate on my acting right now!" she scolds, and the god becomes quiet.
One of the two morons turns to her with a huge grin.
"Stick with us for a second and we'll get you into somewhere safe," he chirps, winking at her. She fights the urge to roll her eyes, but keeps cool, masking her frustration with a smile and nod.
They approach a small entrance to the camp made for food gathering purposes. The guard there takes a look at the food gathered and nods approvingly. When his eyes fall on Bali however, his guard raises, and he narrows his eyes at her.
"Who is she?"
Bali pretends to be intimidated and frightened, her gaze dropping to her toes as she shrinks away. Inwardly she thanks her past judgment of wearing Eblan clothing on this endeavor instead of her poorly patched up future clothes. She had thrown those into a fire back in Ebla, knowing they weren't worth keeping.
"Aw, she's just someone who got scared by those Egyptian bastards and was chased up a tree for her father's bow. Poor girl couldn't get back down because she got stuck. We helped her down and figured we could give her some peace of mind by letting her stay a couple nights," Idiot Two explains, and Bali nods along with the story, clasping her hands and bowing forward. The guard stands silent in thought for a second before relaxing.
"I'm sorry to hear that they treated you so badly. You'll be safe in here, and able to continue on your way when you're ready," the guard tells her kindly. She straightens herself and gratefully smiles, making the man turn sheepish before hurriedly waving them in. The two idiots cheer for their success. Bali follows them inside the camp. As they walk, men turn and stare at her, feasting their eyes on the appearance of a woman. She's grateful for her gender at this moment in time; she's underestimated, and might be able to gain some favors because of it. She's shown around, told where the kitchens and latrines are, and where anyone of importance resides. There's only one she truly pays any mind to.
"That over there," Idiot One points to a giant tent with the Eblan standard flying overhead, "is where King Ur-Mardu is staying. He's the greatest leader in the world!" Idiots One and Two cheer after the proclamation. Bali claps her hands in front of her, if only to distract them from her brief look of disgust if they happened to even see it.
"Truly he is! But if there is nothing else of note around, I would like to sleep. I haven't rested well in days!" she explains, yawning widely behind her hands to prove her point.
"Yeah, there's nothing else around. We have a tent over this way that's for storing supplies, but it has enough room for a cot," Idiot Two replies, and Idiot One waves farewell as she and his companion leave to the vicinity of the King's tent.
"This is going perfectly. I'm glad I stumbled on these two,"Bali tells Re, who agrees.
"I believe luck is on your side, kitten."
"Let's hope so."She finishes the conversation to take another scan of the area. The small clearing they're walking into has something situated squarely in the middle. Her eyes widen at the sight.
Hutsat is sitting chained to a thick pole, dangerously still. People around sneer and spit on him as they pass by, and it churns her stomach to see him beaten down and filthy. The stump he now carries worries her the most, as he will be dead soon from infection should they not kill him outright. The idiot notices where her attention is and pauses their march to explain.
"He's one of those Egyptian spies. Don't go near him, he smells bad," Idiot Two explains. Her anger once again flares up, nearly causing her to blow her cover by lashing out.
"Kitten! Do not lose control, you are not safe here! Just move on."Re's last-second order saves her, his words blasting painfully throughout her mind so she can't concentrate on her murderous thoughts. Bali winces, but nods to the moronic man and requests to keep moving. She sneaks one glance back at Hutsat and vows to get him to safety before any worse fate can befall him.
She finally departs from the stupid soldier when they get to her tent. Thanking him profusely, she bids him farewell as he leaves. Once settled in her tent, she takes position on the cot and rubs her forehead.
"How am I going to do this? There's no way to actually go unnoticed around here, seeing as I'm the only woman here apparently. Guess that means I shouldn't take too long," she murmurs, and lies back to rest her head. She can't believe she's gotten away with this much already. It makes her grin just thinking about it.
"I'm pretty good, aren't I?"
"Yes, you are. How about you use your femininity to catch the king's attention. You could attack him then,"Re suggests, and she ponders the feasibility of that course of action. It makes her nose scrunch in dislike, but it's the best, most viable option...
"I guess that could work, probably my best bet. Of course, I don't know what Min is doing. There's no way to tell him anything that's happened,"she says, twiddling with the hem of her robe.
"You'll have to play it by ear. I must leave you now kitten, it is growing dark." Re disappears. Bali is left alone again. She huffs out her anxiety and decides it's safe enough to fall asleep.
A small pair of eyes peek in through the entrance to the tent and widen at the sight of the sleeping woman. Off the little girl jogs, ready to report the news to her new master.
Atem hasn't received any word yet about a new offer, which buys him some time to figure out a plan of attack. It's been days, and while small skirmishes have been reported, he still refuses to storm the camp. No sign of Bali has occurred, but still he's hesitant to attack and put her in danger. He ignores the messages from Priest Seth brashly requesting to just summon monsters to wipe out the Eblan army, sending back strict orders to keep those powers at bay. While the Eblans are the aggressors, Atem believes the complete annihilation of these people would be inhumane. Had the army been marching through their cities, plundering and murdering and torching, it would be different. If news of Bali's death reached him, it would be different…
He refuses to relinquish the faith he has in her. She's still out there, making her way back.
"Your Highness, a messenger has arrived! He's Eblan, and waves a flag of nonaggression!" Karim's shout has Atem racing from his tent to see the new arrivals. The messenger is calm and noble-looking, wearing fine clothes. He bows his head shortly.
"Prince Atem, I am Prince Ur-Minda of Ebla. I come to you to extend my allyship in ending this war and defeating my father. I also come in hopes of begging for pardon of many of the Eblan forces; most are not complicit in the actions of the aristocracy that deploys them now," he introduces. Atem bows his head in similar fashion to Min.
"I, Crown Prince Atem of Egypt and general of this army, am honored to meet your request for allyship with acceptance. Our desires are one and the same. Prince Ur-Minda, follow me to privately discuss the matters at hand," Atem returns, using a powerful and charismatic voice to assert his status as he'd been taught. One short glance to Karim proves that the welcome is wise: the scales sense no treachery.
Once Min and Atem are settled with wine in their hands, Atem releases his burning question.
"Prince Ur-Minda, I must start with a question that is of the utmost importance," he starts, Min leaning forward to show his willingness to help.
"Do you know where a woman named Bali is? She is a spy that is still unaccounted for on both sides of this war. I ask you because she was bound for the capital city."
Min's eyes widen before he leans back with a reassuring air.
"Troops loyal to my father left in the castle captured her, and though she is still injured she demanded we hurry here. Instead of running here as she said she would do, she deviated into the enemy camp. I told her not to leave even before that, but she completely blew me off and didn't consider the danger at all. I believe her objective is to assassinate my father, as I have deduced that she is not a patient woman," Min explains, and Atem's heart leaps at the thought of her safety. Despite this welcome knowledge, the elation devolves into anxiety and frustration.
"She should have come here! She's already proved her courage and ability to fight! You should have tried harder to keep her away," he scolds, his voice loud but not at a full yell. Minda is surprised at the outburst, eyebrows raised.
"I tried my best, but I already know that she can defeat me in combat. She nearly broke my nose while still exhausted and hurting," the Ebla prince points out, keeping from being indignant to keep the peace. Atem peers at his face before smiling weakly.
"That's just like her." The fondness in his voice as his eyes divert away makes Min cock his head to the side with a slight frown.
"My plan will not work if he is too protective of her,"he thinks, but leaves it for later, as ending the war takes precedence.
Bali is dreaming a dream that she's never dreamed before. It's a variation of when her mother died in the tomb collapse. Sure, she's relived it plenty of times in her life, but in this instance she's seeing the ordeal from a different point of view, completely off to the side.
She watches helplessly as her younger self and her mother slowly explore the tomb, her mother gripping the torch in nervousness.
"Don't step there..." Bali mutters in warning, but of course, the next stone her mother steps on triggers a trap. She's seen this event too many times. She watches on, unable to move, unable to look away, as the passageway gives under her younger self, leaving her dangling from the edge. Her mother reaches out for her, only to end up falling and gripping the ledge next to her. This part always makes Bali wake up, but not this time. She must continue as her younger self goes unconscious from a blow to the head by a falling rock. Her mother sacrifices one arm from her grip to catch her. Bali places her hand over her mouth in surprise. A form has appeared, and is bending down to help her. He's glowing, as if a spirit, and wearing ancient clothing.
Bali knows him. There's no mistaking who it is.
"What was he doing there? This makes no sense!" She wakes up screaming. She wipes the sweat from her brow and shakes her head to clear it.
"What the hell was that supposed to be? Probably something my brain made up because he's always here,"she tells herself, but she can't shake the underlying feeling that that dream is what happened after she had gone unconscious as a child. She groans, rising from her cot to stretch. It's nighttime now, and she decides that a strategic stroll might be best to get the ultimate layout of the camp. That is, until soldiers barge in with spears and swords raised.
"What's going on?" Once again, her acting skills are on display. Inwardly, she panics.
"Maybe they heard me screaming?"she ponders, but given their expressions she loses hope in that option. The soldiers part to allow a man through that stands at about her height, wearing leather armor and a maroon cape. Though he's calm at the moment, Bali discerns that this man has something off about him from the look in his eyes.
"Hello, Lady Bali of Egypt. I am King Ur-Mardu, and you have just given me an advantage in this war. I thank you for that." His introduction is complemented by a few soldiers who snicker at her expense. She glares, pulling her chin up.
"Hey there. You guys aren't so sharp if you letmein here. Who tipped you off?" she growls. Mardu's face splits in a grin.
"See for yourself." In walks a small child. Bali feels her heart skip a beat.
Double-crossed, yet again.
Standing before her is her former servant, Naye. The little girl has no problem launching into her explanation for her betrayal.
"You gave me hope when you treated me like a normal person, like someone worthy of a good life! And then I hear that you will not save me from servitude and my hopes are crushed!" she cries, and Bali looks away. A part of her is glad that she's internalized and learned enough Egyptian to understand her words, but the feeling fades quickly in light of the situation.
"That doesn't mean betraying me will make it any better," she mutters darkly, but the girl stands up to her with the same defiant stance she'd learned from watching Bali.
"King Mardu said he would free all the Expendables if he could gain control of Egypt. If I helped him, he would let us be who we wanted, no matter our parentage!" Bali glares at her severely.
"You idiot girl! How do you know he wasn't lying? Promises are nothing to kings," she yells, unable to curb her temper. Naye flinches, the seed of doubt visibly showing in her expression. Naye hides behind the king, who has stepped forward to grab Bali's chin.
"What is it with bad guys and doing this?" she asks herself but makes as scary confident an expression on her face as she can muster.
"You would have made a fine bride for my son, Prince Ur-Minda. Ah well, that young whelp will take you as a hostage far more seriously than that half-dead spy," he mutters to her. Bali believes that the "young whelp" he's talking about Seth. She rolls her eyes.
"That guy hates me. Why would he want me back?" she snorts, smirking. Mardu steps away and makes to leave, taking her Nubian bow and arrows with him.
"I have a feeling he can't say no to you." His statement hangs in the tent to leave her in immense confusion. She keeps still as Naye files out after him, shooting her a grieved look. Bali stared after the girl before a soldier proclaims that she's now to be held prisoner in the tent.
"I figured that out, dumbass! Get out of here!" With nothing else to lose and her life technically not in peril yet, she lets her anger fly. The soldier jumps in terror of her resilience and bustles out with a small squeak. Despite herself she smiles in satisfaction before the full extent of what's happening dawns on her.
"I'm a freaking bargaining chip!" she groans, hitting herself lightly in the face for her stupidity and poor luck once again. After a short wave of self-pity washes over, she breathes deeply and sits down on her cot. She could tell that Naye was having second thoughts, and that the girl will likely help her despite her recent betrayal. She knows exactly what it feels like, after all...
"At least, I hope my gamble pays off."
With that, she sets to brainstorming about her next possible move.
Atem and Min receive another message claiming that the camp had a commotion at one point, with soldiers raiding a tent. When both Princes hear this, they know what must have happened. While Atem is grateful that Min had the wisdom to leave his group of loyal soldiers in the hills to watch and send information, he still feels it's useless as long as they're kept from aiding her.
"She was caught," Min says, clenching his fists in worry. Atem feels surprise and anxiety as well, but he hides it behind a hardened expression.
"Mardu is going to use her as his new bargaining tool. We must draw out time until morning… Yes, by morning, Bali will most definitely have a plan," he states. Min, Karim, and the messenger glance between each other.
"How are you so sure?" Min ventures, and Atem turns to him with a confident smirk and glittering eyes.
"She'll get a special visitor." He leaves it at that, keeping to himself that Bali's special guardian will surely help her.
"Almighty Re, I hope you make it in time,"he prays, and the two princes and Karim begin to plan their now imminent meeting with King Mardu.
Notes:
FUN FACT!: There are misconceptions sometimes on the makeup of dynastic Egypt that I read sometimes, so here I am saying something as I too reference the two kingdoms. The pharaoh was the wearer of the double crown, uniting two kingdoms (upper and lower). There were no two pharaohs at one time (although there were plenty of unstable times when someone would attempt to usurp). Theocratic society dictates that High Priests were probably the most common threats to any given pharaoh's regime, aside from invaders of course. Although, I think it was Ramses III whose son nearly assassinated him? Yikes. Just one instance too, most likely. Double yikes.
Chapter 17: The Warrior Returning Alive
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Princess Itet never completely enjoyed being the passive royal she was raised to be. While she has a comfortable life, full of making jewelry, clothing, music, dancing, anything a woman of her status and culture could desire, it's times like these where she wishes she were a man. If not a man, then a courageous woman such as Bali. In the weeks since Bali left, Itet has been gathering all the stories of the goddess' time in the palace, learning of the dancing fiasco concerning Priest Seth and the training… A small part of her is jealous, but the princess has long come to terms with her role in life, and it is no less important or noble than any fighter.
It doesn't keep her from getting any news sent back from the war front. She's gotten word that all spies have been captured, and that Bali is going to be bargained off from the enemy camp. The feeling of uselessness to her friends, to her kingdom and brother, to her ailing father, mounts heavier the more she thinks. It urges her to an audience with Pharaoh.
"Father, please let me go! I promise I won't be in the way!" she pleads, but Akhnemkhanen refuses his daughter's wish.
"Your role in this war is to stay here, Itet. Your brother will take care of everything that is happening, you must believe in him." The old Pharaoh's advice is coupled with a weak smile, his poor condition the cause. Itet quiets with an obedient nod and apology. However, there's something she has in common with her brother; she's a schemer, and she's not giving up.
Itet excuses herself to stride through the palace in search of the two people she knows can help her. No more waiting. Her instincts are screaming that she must join her brother. Finding the magicians will be simple, seeing as one trains under the other.
Entering the training chamber for magic users, she makes her presence known without hesitation. "Master Mahad, Mana, I need your assistance!"
Mahad pauses in his instruction to Mana, both looking to the princess with astonishment. Neither get over the surprise to show proper respect, but Itet pays no mind.
It's the master magician who responds first.
"Is there something wrong? Am I needed with the palace guard, is there trouble in the city?" Itet shakes her head.
"No, we are all well protected thanks to your efforts, it is good you ultimately decided to stay back from the war front. I need to ask you two for a personal favor. Please help me, I'm begging you," she says, bowing her head to show she's not pulling a prank. Both mages are stunned once more, but Mana gets up to put a hand on Itet's shoulder with a smile.
"We'll hear you out. It must be pretty important if you're coming to us." She and Mahad trade affirming nods as Itet peers up with watery eyes. She quickly swipes her hand across them, withholding her gratitude until she receives the help she desires.
"My father has refused to let me go to the front to assist and help our friend and my brother. I do not care how I get there, but I swear to the gods that I must go, I can feel it. You are the only two I can think of who can help me," Itet explains. The sorcerer's apprentice jumps on board immediately.
"Of course I'll help you! You and Atem and Bali are like family to me! Master Mahad, we have to help!" Mana exclaims, raising a righteous fist up. Itet praises her friend lightly before both turn with giant pleading and persuasive eyes. Mahad glances between the two with a grimace before sighing in defeat.
"I suppose I can help you. We'll have to go fast for me to cover you, and you will not go alone, princess. Mana, you'll stay here and make sure nothing happens in my absence," he says, and the princess cheers while Mana pouts. She stamps her foot.
"Master, you always get to do all the cool stuff," she whines, only to have Mahad ruffle her hair with a crooked smile.
"That's because I didn't slack off in learning my spells." Mana sticks out her tongue.
"I've been working!" she defends, but the group has little time for such a trivial debate. Mahad and Itet must leave the palace as soon as possible if they desire to help properly in the scheme of the war.
Bali sits impatiently waiting for dawn to arrive. She has a plan, but wants Re's opinion anyway, as he can see out far more than she. It's logically the best thing to do... But the night crawls. She's captured. She's a hostage. She isn't even thinking about the hubbub she's causing due to her detour.
"Dammit Re, couldn't your excursion go a little faster?" she groans, and puts her head in her hands. The tent starts to shift slightly at one little flap under her cot. Bali perks up to listen for it, and looks at the wall of her tent rippling from the movement.
Once it's completely still again, she takes a peek under her bed.
The bow and quiver of arrows. Bali smirks.
"Called it." She takes the weapon and musters up her courage. Strapping the quiver on and stringing the bow as quietly as possible, she creeps to the flap in the tent. A subtle look outside gives her two guards at the entrance. They don't notice, and she retreats before they can.
"Hmm… What to do…" She rapidly forms a strategy, staring around the tent to find something that might distract them. Her face lights up with an idea at the sight of her empty water dish. She returns to the tent flap, arrow at the ready in her fist.
"Hey, if I'm going to be successful as a prisoner of war, I need to stay alive... Could I get some water?" she asks lightly, almost in a friendly, joking manner. The guards roll their eyes.
"Hold on," one grunts, and Bali backs up so he can enter. She readies herself. He comes through with a jug of water. Bali leaps forward before he can react.
She jams the arrow into his eye, the guard falling over dead from the strike. The other guard hears the commotion and enters with his sword drawn, but is immediately shot between the eyes, as Bali had quickly drawn, prepared for the assault. She drags the bodies to be unnoticed in her tent. Afterward, she steals the hooded shawl of one guard and covers herself for at least some anonymity. She steps cautiously out of the tent, looking around. Nobody saw anything, the innards of the camp mostly asleep. She makes her way to the giant tent with the waiting king.
"It's time for a little payback, Mardu," she whispers, grateful that any guards around are sleepy anyway. She sneaks with light footsteps and cautious haste, careful of stepping into the light of torches and campfires. Due to the proximity of her prison tent, the tension is short-lived and getting caught becomes the least of her worries. She goes to the far side of the king's tent, noting the entrance and guards, as well as unguarded areas.
"If I enter here, no one will really notice until daybreak, which won't be for a few hours at least. I'd say that this is what I'm looking for," Bali figures, finding a dark area out of the line of sight of any possible guards. She lifts the tent to see if she would be leaving herself open while getting in. Fortunately, it appears that the area surrounding the space is storage for the king. She smirks.
"I love it when people do dumb, arrogant things without knowing it." She resists humming in pleasure, getting to work instead of sliding herself under the tent. It's slow progress, as any major disturbance to the walls will be easily noticeable. The process pays off. She crouches on the inside of the wall, clearing her mind of any doubts about assassinating the king.
"It's the option presented to me. I can handle this. This will collapse the war, I have to stay alive!"
Bali again keeps to the darker corners, listening for anything as she sidles along. What she hears is Mardu speaking loudly and proudly about giving his kingdom and his son the power that he's always deserved by taking over Egypt and their vast resources.
"Guess it couldn't be too easy, someone always burns the midnight oil," she thinks, licking her lips with little effect, as her mouth is dry.
With gritted teeth and fire in her belly, she moves around to find out whomever he's talking to. She catches a glimpse of Mardu. Her eyes widen slightly, before her eyebrows furrow.
He isn't talking to anyone, just himself.
"He really is crazy. Well, I'll put an end to that," she muses shortly, but her senses spike when Mardu ceases talking and stands from his seat.
"So you've gotten out already, Lady Bali. I know you're here, don't be shy," he calls, his voice pleasant and without command. Bali emerges from the shadows. He faces her with a grim smile.
"I figured you'd be coming soon. That little servant of yours thought she could outsmart me by taking the bow to you," he says, crooking his head to another part of the tent. She snaps her head to see what he means. There on the ground is the battered body of the little girl. With a tug at her chest and ill memories surging, she forgets her audience and races over. Turning Naye face up, she catches the staggered breaths that only imminent death brings. Naye opens her eyes weakly.
"You were never a bad mistress..." The hoarse whisper sends a chill through Bali. With a final shudder, the girl goes limp and her eyes glaze over, lids half open. Bali quakes.
"She betrayed you and then she betrayed me. People like that can't be trusted very well, so I disposed of her myself. Shouldn't you be grateful?" Mardu asks, coming up behind her and peering at the child in her arms.
"You had no right!" Bali roars, swinging her fist out backward to resoundingly smack his cheek before he can dodge.
"No need to be hostile, you've got quite the foul temper. Why don't we sit and talk like civilized people?" His prodding at her anger is successful, as she carefully lays the child down and stands. Her fists clench and unclench, one around the bow. She retrieves an arrow from the quiver.
"You are not civilized, there's no reason to talk. Get ready to die."
This time, the king takes her seriously and unsheathes the sword at his hip.
Neither side seems to be winning.
It's been minutes of back and forth, missed swings and circling and dodges, both successful and not. Bali is getting tired, the lack of rest and her yet unhealed injuries taking their toll. Though she's landed a few solid punches and kicks, and even a stab in the arm with an arrow, Mardu pays no attention to them at all. She begins to wonder despairingly if he can even feel pain. The king will soon gain an upper hand in the fight if she can't truly motivate herself.
"Such grand ambitions and yet you hesitate to strike definitively!"
She ducks from the swing aimed for her head. Her knees protest, her back burning and the wounds on her arms soaking her clothing.
"Remember your battle with me, child!" The sudden voice in her mind makes her wince, but Bali briefly falls back to that one tough battle where she had no chance of winning. Isis dropped in only to give those words of encouragement, but she feels its effects. She charges once more, energy renewed.
No sleep. Wait for dawn to come. Wait for an opening. Wait to sleep. Wait. Wait. Wait.
He can't rest. Atem absolutely cannot return to his dreams knowing that Bali is in that camp. His chest aches. His muscles are stiff from holding tension.
With nothing better to do, he calls for Karim and all of the captains to join him and Min in his tent to further discussions over plans, camp morale, and supplies.
They are swiftly interrupted in the deadest, darkest, most exhausted portion of the night.
A message from Min's followers left behind in the hills: a commotion down in the Eblan camp, the king's tent is surrounded with men, though none go inside. This information comes as a beacon. Their guard is down, the Eblans are distracted, and a raid has a superb chance of being successful.
"Karim, you will attack with a monster with the power of the Scales and lead two squadrons in a frontal assault. I will take one and go in the side, and Min, his men, and the other captains will surround the camp to ensure that no one escapes. Raise the troops quietly and quickly; we must take this window of opportunity that Bali is giving us!" Atem throws out orders and everyone sets out in a hurry to carry them out. Min shoots Atem a sideways glance.
"Bali? How are you sure that she's involved with this strange distraction?" he asks, stroking his chin for added effect. Atem huffs in humorless laughter.
"She's the only one who could get so much attention."
Min drops his hand and sits back with a mirthless chuckle of his own.
"You are right."
It takes mere minutes for the army to mobilize, the troops excited to help and finally try to end the danger to their homeland. They miss their homes, and as Atem walks among them he realizes he misses life at the palace as well.
"I won't go back unless it is with you, however," he mumbles, smiling sadly to himself. A memory of Bali's smile shines in his mind, giving him every bit of strength he needs to go through with his plan. He can't wait to see her again.
"Stay strong until I get to you!"
Atem is given the go-ahead for readiness, and once he joins the alert squadrons, he nods to all of them. He raises his hand and holds it there for a few moments. After a steadying breath and one final prayer, he brings it down, the silent signal for the troops to move out. The army splits in the field as Atem makes for the side entrance of the camp, the very same one Bali had entered into.
Too late do the Eblan guards realize that their sleepiness and inattention has been noticed. Yells of alert come too late to be effective, as arrows search them out with deadly precision.
Inside, the Eblans give barely any resistance, the Egyptians flooding the camp and drowning them out. Cries of battle crop up here and there, only to soon be put to rest. Atem leads his troops to the king's tent, where a battle already ensues. Many throw down their weapons in surrender. Those faced with Karim's Millennium Item immediately sink to the ground pleading for their lives. Atem has no opposition when heading for the entrance to the tent. No one has entered. He races through to check if Bali is still inside.
The final leap. The yell of exertion. Anger. Justice. Spite. Bravery.
He watches, mouth dropped as Bali heaves forward with a mighty bellow.
Blood. The sickening gurgle. His heart stops for one split second before Mardu's figure staggers, hands clutching at his throat that leaks red. He falls. Dead.
Bali lands on her feet but immediately falls to her knees, chest heaving.
"So much for a real fight." Her raspy voice is quiet, but audible enough to him. She turns to him, feeling his eyes. Atem can't move. "There she is!"
A weak smile. Her face drains of color rapidly.
He bolts forward as she falls to the side.
"Bali, no!"
He kneels beside her and delicately gathers her in his arms. Her back is streaked with dark red, her left side stained brightly and soaked. He shakily begins healing her, pushing through any of his exhaustion with sheer determination. He willfully diminishes the panic.
With closed eyes her lips quirk up. "This war is over."
He doesn't reply, keeping concentration on the multitude of dangerous wounds he senses with the help of heka.
"Gods, what a nightmare," he curses inwardly, strength depleting fast.
"I missed you." His heart lurches at the hoarse whisper.
"I missed you more, I'm sure."
She coughs, and he thinks it's meant to be a laugh. He keeps his right hand pressed into the wound at her side, her direst threat.
"I don't even think I can do this on my own!" His thoughts become frantic once more. His eyes are drooping.
"Your Majesty, the attack is a success, this camp has– Your Majesty, Lady Bali!"
It's Karim. His monster is gone, Millennium Scales held securely in his left hand as always.
Hope.
"Lend me your strength, Karim. Yours and the Item's!" Atem grits out. Karim obliges without hesitation, settling his free hand atop Atem's right on her wound.
Bali sighs with a shudder.
"No!"
The victory truly and wholly went to the Egyptians that night. Seth had felt the summoning of Karim's monster and surged his own troops forward in an assault on the second camp. His forces took the camp easily with the power of Seth's own spirit Ka, Duos. The Egyptian soldiers celebrate heartily in relief, for now they can go home, and they praise the gods for their good fortune. Messengers have been sent to every major city to tell of the great battle that ended with the victory of the Blessed Land of the Gods. Poets and musicians have already started composing, building prose for Pharaoh, his son, and for their hero, One-Sent-From-Re Bali.
None of that is really getting through to the Crown Prince or to the new Eblan King Ur-Minda. While they responsibly take care of their duties, their victory is muted. In any spare time they receive, they sit inside Atem's tent. Sometimes they are joined by Karim. More often they are left alone in silence. Waiting.
One day, finally, when the sun shines brightly and the winds offer a tousling to the sands and grasses and tents, a report.
"Your majesties, she is awake."
A race, one that Atem easily wins.
There she is, appearing half mummified from the bandages, a loose robe over her shoulders. Her head turns, black hair drifting over her shoulder as she does.
"Bali!"
"Hey Atem. I take it I ended things?"
He says nothing, dashing to her side and pulling her to him. He doesn't care if Min is watching or not.
Thankfully she's healed enough that his gentle embrace causes her no pain. She can feel his heart beating fast as she circles her arms around his torso. For just a moment, time pauses for her. For him. Just to be alive. Just to be near each other after so long…
"Pardon me," Min coughs, causing them to pull back from each other but not before they exchange a genuine look of fondness.
"You are king now, I hope? I don't think your father could survive what I," Bali is interrupted by a wave of nausea at the memory, gripping the sheets of her cot. She swallows, collecting herself but Min waves a hand to show she need not continue.
"Thanks to you, the war is over. My father and those loyal to him have been executed and burned in a pyre. We are fortunate that that number is few, and we are grateful for the forgiveness extended by Egypt."
Although it's said with his normal confidence, Bali and Atem sense a hesitance as he shifts from one foot to another. Min's gaze finally settles onto Bali and he steps forward to kneel, gently taking her right hand in both of his and causing Atem to shift out of the way. The crown prince grumbles in protest but watches on. Bali appears to have no idea what is happening anyway.
The young king glances to him.
"I only have one selfish request, Atem."
"What is that?"
Bali glances between them, brows furrowed.
"As I am now king, I need a bride. I must give my country something to celebrate, and attempt to cement ties with Egypt even more than what has been agreed upon. Lady Bali, you have impressed me greatly throughout the small time I have known you, and your stunning beauty has caught my attention." Bali snorts. "Please, become my queen. You will be given the freedom to visit Egypt whenever you wish. I assure you," Min proposes, and she silently reflects but not without a rather stunned expression. It's Atem who outright objects, standing angrily.
"The answer is no! She is going to stay in Egypt from now on!"
Min also rises to argue.
"You are not Bali, therefore you have no right to answer for her! The decision is hers!"
"I already know she's going to refuse, so drop the subject!"
"You do not read minds Prince Atem, you do not know what she feels!" The two go back and forth, Bali watching both with growing irritation.
"HEY!" she yells over both of them, and they both turn with innocently blank faces.
"Both of you SHUT YOUR MOUTHS! King Minda, I'm afraid that I must decline your offer. My fate is to stay in Egypt, and that is what the gods tell me."
"Absolutely," Re chimes almost defensively, and while she agrees she can't help but think about her dream and why exactly he sounds so defensive at all. Atem gives Min a victorious "I told you so" smirk before she rounds on him.
"Atem, stop being a twit. Anyway, Min, I really don't think you're my type anyway. Please don't take it personally. Someday you'll find the right woman who will gladly stand by you as your queen, it's better than forcing me," she finishes and while her words are polite she can't keep her annoyance from her voice. Min's shoulders sag.
"Perhaps this war is not quite over, then. Bali, I am determined to make you mine," he says, voice steely. Both Bali and Atem open their mouths to counter, only to be interrupted. Min's serious demeanor drops like a hot rock.
"Bali, you're safe! I'm sorry I couldn't be here to help like I wanted! We had to sneak out of the palace to get here and it takes so long to travel." The exclamation comes from the whirring form of a woman in a plain sheath dress and plainly ornamented wig. She pounces on Bali excitedly, pushing both men away. Atem turns from Itet to see Mahad standing at the entrance.
"Her Highness demanded that I sneak her here, against Pharaoh's orders. But with the situation being what it was, I saw no harm and was also personally curious. I will gladly beg for forgiveness should you desire it," he explains, his face pale with exhaustion. Atem waves him off as Bali grunts, trying to pry the princess off so she can breathe. As Mahad joins them standing, Atem turns to Min to introduce his magician friend only to stop. Min's face is a bright red, his mouth set gaping at his sister.
Itet moves away from Bali after enough protests and rights herself into a dignified position. She turns to Atem, nodding curtly in hello, then turns to Min. She smiles.
"Hello, who are you?" she asks pleasantly, and for once Min's at a loss for words. Itet giggles at his speechlessness. He stumbles into his own introduction and one sneaky glance between brother and sister has Itet leading Min away, deep in conversation. Atem sits next to Bali once more.
"'Determined to make you mine,' huh? What a fickle fool," he comments. Bali lightly smacks the back of his head.
"Storybooks call that love at first sight. We'll be here for a little while yet, so we can watch where this goes. Itet might end up as Queen of Ebla," she replies, and Atem frowns thoughtfully. If and when Itet gets married, he will have no one to take as a bride of his own, except for...
He grins.
"Yes, it is for the better," he agrees, and both sit in comfortable silence. Mahad excuses himself to go rest, having interpreted from Bali's glances at him that she desires privacy.
Once they are alone, she asks her burning question.
"So, when were you going to tell me you are the Crown Prince?"
Notes:
FUN FACT!: Polygamy and incest are hallmarks of royal lines across many cultures and many eras, and Egypt is no exception (as no doubt you've heard). Due to this, if we're gonna be honest, Atem shouldn't be nearly as hale, hearty, and handsome as he is (he's gorgeous; let's face it.) I personally don't believe all kings were pinnacles of genetic disaster, as noble and high-ranking priest families often entered the line as well and those offspring, being healthier, probably presented better as candidates for the double crown. In the lower classes, they married for the same reasons we do today, any you can think of, and were monogamous.
Chapter 18: This is Enough
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
That face. Ugh, thatface!So severe, so annoyed. Atem can't hold eye contact, feeling both shame and perhaps a slight hint of fear. At the very least, she doesn't look ready to rip his face off. He believes very thoroughly that she could manage to do so, even in her condition.
"I'd start explaining, Atem. I'm not furious." Her suggestion stirs him, as it's more of an order. The fact that she's "calm" doesn't help with his nerves. The light in her eyes contradicts her words, tone of voice, and facial expression. She is most certainly furious, just not boiling over.
"Yet,"he thinks, clearing his throat and finally meeting her eyes with the confidence he's scraped together for himself.
"I lied to you." Bali nods slowly, giving him a mocking shocked expression. He rolls his eyes. "But I did it because I thought that you might not like me anymore. In the beginning when we weren't close, I didn't tell you because I didn't want you to treat me like everyone else does, then as time went on, I was afraid to tell you because I didn't want you to get so extremely angry that wewouldn'tbe friends anymore. I promise I was going to tell you when the war was over, and even without the war I would have told you myself soon enough." He feels better after spilling the truth, but eyes her in apprehension for her reaction. Bali still has the same stern expression, but he notes in relief that the fire of rage in her eyes has disappeared. At last, she grins.
"Crown Prince Atem…" she trails off, eyes closing as if savoring a thought. "I can't be mad at you," she says, and although relieved he gives her a questioning look. She laughs softly, delicately. Despite the healings, she's still hurt.
"You know my secret, and I wouldn't want you to get so angry at me that you'd let it fly. Right?" she elaborates, giving Atem a wink that makes his mind go blank. Blood rushes to his face, but she doesn't notice as she's too busy attempting to stand. He calms his blush to stand first and help her.
"You know you shouldn't be getting up yet," he scolds, placing her arm over his shoulders and wrapping his arm around her waist. Bali's mouth quirks despite the wince of pain, clutching her still injured side.
"Now now, no pain no gain," she tells him. Atem huffs in laughter, unable to keep from smiling.
"That's an interesting phrase, I'll use it from now on. When we get settled back into the palace, I say that we should talk about your old home, and I'll tell you about all of my princely ordeals while growing up," he suggests, and she shrugs, expression neutral. She can't reveal much about the future, but she figures she can talk about the area, and describe the personalities of the people that were involved in her old life.
Entering the sunlight makes them both squint. Bali takes in a huge gulp of fresh air with an appreciation Atem has only ever seen from battle-worn soldiers. It bothers him. There are things about her past he knows, but he has a feeling that he doesn't know everything, and now an even more unknown weight is piled on her.
"I need to go to Hutsat." Her sudden mumble catches him off guard. He gapes at the sudden mood change, but he readily agrees. As they walk through the camp to the tent Hutsat rests in, Bali chuckles. She's glad she had Re switch her back to Egyptian, as she's not as proficient in the language as she wishes. Without it, she never would've quite pieced together his being prince, at least not while still stuck in her tent.
"I can't believe I didn't see it before. Of course you're the crown prince, you're the only one that fits the bill. I'm such an idiot." Atem joins in her laughter.
"I'm sorry to say that I agree. I nearly bumped into you at inopportune moments several times," he admits, and she shoots him a playful glare.
"I can still kick your ass, Atem."
"We'll see about that, Bali."
Love at first sight, a mere fanciful tale for gullible children. No longer. King Ur-Minda of Ebla is absolutely smitten with Princess Itet of Egypt. Her personality, her looks, everything about her matches everything he's dreamed of in a woman. To think that if they marry, they'll both be so perfect for one another, and the two kingdoms will be united! To think he had set his sights on Lady Bali, who now completely pales in comparison.
Princess Itet never understood the strange feeling that she needed to race to the battlefield until now. Her place in life, all she's been groomed for, comes out now with the Eblan king. The polite conversation, the looks of awe he gives her, the passive and gentle demeanor she meets him with, it all will lead to one thing. The one thing she can do to help her home, her friends, and her family. What stops her from openly expressing her idea is the fear that Atem will be left without an eligible marriage candidate. Already Ur-Minda has great interest in her, but she plays coy so she can leave him to speak with her older brother.
Personally, she has no objections to this fate. This king has proven to be intelligent, attentive and kind, and his attitude toward his kingdom and fixing it is admirable. She feels she could come to love him in time... but it is her duty first that leads her to this conclusion.
Itet has successfully drawn away to look for her brother throughout the camp when she meets up with Karim.
"Master Karim, have you seen Atem anywhere? I must discuss something important with him as soon as possible," she gasps, catching her breath after running back to camp from the nearby stream where she and Minda had been. Karim nods.
"Prince Atem and Lady Bali just walked past here a few moments ago. They are slow-going, so you should be able to catch up with them easily," he directs, pointing down a certain path through the tents.
"Thank you!" Off again to find her brother. Karim was right; she catches up with the two in no time at all. Atem supports the fragile Bali and both are talking about something rather unimportant in Itet's mind.
"Brother, I need to talk to you! Oh." Itet realizes her mistake, but Bali waves it off as the two turn to face the princess.
"No worries, I figured it out," she states, giving a pointed glare to Atem, who laughs nervously. But Itet's in no mood for any of that, as there are far more important topics.
"Brother, I must marry King Ur-Minda." Her statement is accompanied by her deep breaths from all of the running. Atem and Bali go still in shock, but glance at each other in recovery.
"You haven't known him long, Itet. What does your proclamation have to do with me, anyway?" Atem questions, resettling Bali around his shoulders. Itet stamps her foot in irritation.
"Stupid, who are you going to marry if I'm not there to marry you? You have to have someone in the family to marry and I'm the only one left!"
Atem grunts as he resettles Bali again and considers Itet's argument. Bali has a wandering gaze, feeling awkward, especially given her inability to stand on her own. She knows Atem certainly isn't comfortable.
"It will be taken care of, Itet. While father would approve of an alliance, surely you can't make this decision so hastily," he responds. The princess gives a smile that is serene in its determination, although Bali detects a sense of resignation as well from her next words.
"I am a princess, and while I'm no warrior or son, I can do what most cannot. I was told to come here for a reason, and I know that this is it."
The Crown Prince is still, mouth slightly agape at her wisdom. Should this happen, she will likely never see Egypt again. She sneaked from the palace... There had been no proper farewell to their ailing father, either.
It's a sacrifice he never expected from Itet. While he's still thinking things over, Bali garners the princess' attention.
"How do you know you won't hate it there? It's so far from your home," she points out. Itet shakes her head calmly.
"Whether I hate it or not isn't what matters, because this is what I was born for. I was raised thinking I would stay in my homeland forever, but it was never set in stone. This decision goes far beyond my personal fears and emotions, Bali."
The answer sends Bali into thought, a sudden striking need to reevaluate her desire to return to her own time. Atem glances between her and his sister, knowing the truth behind Bali's question. He shifts her slightly again to keep her up and sighs.
"Itet, I will not ignore your wisdom. You are right, and should King Ur-Minda propose before this army tears down to travel back home, I give my permission, as Crown Prince and rightful heir to Pharaoh's legacy, to accept as a means of familial alliance. Do not concern yourself with my taking a bride. There is a solution," he says, drawing Bali from her stupor.
"How can he have a solution to this problem?" Both ladies think, but Itet mentally steps back and looks at the bigger picture at that moment.
"Lady Bali... LADY BALI! Atem is in love with Lady Bali and wants to marry her!"she thinks, "Father must have approved if he's so sure it will work."
She sees the small look in her brother's eyes when he gazes at Bali. The more she watches, the more obvious it becomes. The small quirk of his lips, the admiration, the longing... Itet smiles giddily and giggles at the thought of the marriage.
"Those two will be such a comical couple on the throne! It's best that I keep my little discovery to myself, though."Itet dutifully thanks her brother for his time and waves goodbye to the two. After she runs off, Bali breaks the silence.
"So, whatisyour plan on this whole wife thing?" she asked, slightly annoyed at all of the resettling Atem keeps doing to her arm. There's something else in her chest, something nagging, that annoys her too. His answer is a growl of frustration.
"You know what." He scoops her up into his arms, making her shriek. "Deal with it."
Now satisfied and more comfortable, he begins walking again. She's heavy, but he can't carry her on his shoulders due to her injuries. Thankfully, it's those same wounds that keep Bali from flinging her limbs with as much force as possible in her indignant wrath.
"You jerk! I can walk, put me down this instant!" she yells, and he flashes one of his devilish smirks.
"Now you're starting to sound like one of my snobby sisters."
...
Meanwhile, Itet watches the scene from behind a tent. She wanted to get a glimpse of their real dynamic and is rather pleased with what she received. A wide grin spreads across her face at the sight of Atem carrying her.
"You know, eavesdropping is not a good habit." She jumps in shock, whirling around. Min has a witty smirk of his own, and Itet forgets her anger at being surprised to bow her head gracefully.
"No time like the present."
"My brother said I should wait for your proposal, and it may be forward for our just having met, but please accept my hand as a peaceful offering from my homeland. It is what I sought him out for, King Ur-Minda, and I realized when I met you that it is why I was meant to come here," she pleads, keeping her head low. Min's eyes are wide, face pink, and his heart beats fast. Perhaps women from Egypt are all just as direct as Bali?
"How did you know I wanted you to marry me?" he asks, and Itet straightens.
"I'm not like Lady Bali. Not a warrior, not a goddess, but Iama princess. This arrangement would be most beneficial for us, and for our kingdoms." Min can't believe his ears, can't believe his good fortune. While somewhere deep inside he's aware that her proposal isn't being made out of any significant fondness for him, he's still delighted. A beautiful bride to help lead him and his people from this catastrophe, what more could he ever want?
"I accept this proposal, Princess Itet of Egypt."
The air in Hutsat's tent is stifling. It's been deemed hopeless for the captain of the informants. When Bali and Atem arrived, he had just been checked on by Mahad himself, but Bali refused to hear how much time he had left. She can't deal with another death. Too many. Atem converses with the magician outside the tent while she slowly edges herself inside to Hutsat's cot. His stump is wrapped in fresh bandages, but it's severely infected to the point that he can't fight it even with magic's help. All any magician or healer can do is ease the pain. Her injuries are mere trifles to his. Bali sits on a small stool next to him and peers down. He coughs slightly and slowly opens his eyes, having heard her come in. His eyes are glazed, but they clear after a few blinks. His gaze meets hers.
"Hey Kitty." His greeting is hoarse, his mouth turning up to look rather relieved. She takes his one hand in both of hers and smiles back.
"Hey boss. We beat them, the war is over."
"Heh, I figuredthat outalready, even if I'm on my deathbed here." Bali's stomach lurches. She swallows the ensuing flood of emotions to stay calm and merely tightens her hold on his hand.
"Don't say that, they died for you Hutsat," she snaps, but stops short in concern as his hand raises from hers.
"No. They died foryou," he replies, poking her nose in emphasis. The action makes her blink in surprise. He laughs at the sight, only to devolve into coughing. She grabs his hand back and squeezes it, hoping that somehow her own life energy could help him live.
"Whatever. Just don't die, you're the only one left besides me," she scolds, voice growing forceful in her alarm. His grip is getting weaker. A tear rolls down her face as his breaths begin to grow ragged. She knows. How could she not, with as many as she's… That same weight grows with every slow, shallow rise of Hutsat's chest.
"All of them, even little Naye? You've got quite the charisma, Kitty, got everyone dying for you. Even me, and that's quite a feat," he explains, his smug countenance weak. Bali shushes him, unable to keep the tears at bay. Atem strides in. Upon seeing her hunched-over position, he hurries over. He takes in the scene silently, placing his hands comfortingly on Bali's shoulders.
"S-save your breath, Hutsat," she sobs, unable to handle everything. Everything she's done. Everything she didn't do. Atem moves to put his hands around hers, which still grip Hutsat's. The spy acknowledges him with a small nod.
"Ah, Our Eminent Crown Prince, here to save the day. Well, you know what? C'mere Bali, I need to tell you something," he commands. She shakily stands over him, but before she can turn her head to listen, he uses the last of his physical strength to capture her lips in a weak kiss. It lasts only one excruciating moment. Hutsat flops back down, looking satisfied. She sits, a stunned hand over her lips. Atem is just as surprised.
"I beat you to it, Atem. Well... See you... later..." His voice is barely audible, his last words ringing in their ears. Everything around Bali stops. The tears halt. Breath hitches. The weight crushes more brutally than before as Hutsat goes limp, his eyes fluttering shut. A deafening silence.
"No... Nonono GET UP, YOUASS!" Bali shrieks, Atem holding her back with tears trailing down his own face. She fights to get at the deceased spy, who lies with a peaceful expression on his worn face.
"BALI!" Atem yells suddenly, and she freezes as he turns her to face him. She crumbles into him, a mess. As she wails in absolute misery, Atem holds her close while praying for Hutsat's safe journey to the afterlife. Karim, Itet, Min, and Mahad enter in alarm at the commotion, surprised at the sight. Itet cries quietly, Min holding her close with a grave expression. Karim and Mahad bow their heads respectfully, their expressions showing that they too would miss the brilliant man.
Atem leads Bali out and carries her back to her tent to calm her down and allow for Hutsat's remains to begin preparation. None bother getting in their way.
He sits her down on her cot, thankful that she isn't sobbing anymore, but tears still stream. He sits next to her and turns her shoulders to face him. After, he gently cups her face with both hands, using his thumbs to wipe away her tears.
"Hutsat doesn't want any more of your tears, Bali," Atem says softly, leaning down to look her in the eye as convincingly as possible. She sniffles, but her head droops after. Her shoulders begin to shake, and he drifts his hands back to them to steady her.
"It's too much, Atem. I feel sick. He's not the first, he's not and it's all I can think about."
Once again, he finds himself at the receiving end of her burdens. A story of her past, the things she's done. Her first kill with a futuristic shooting weapon, and how much she vomited afterward. She made it impersonal afterward. She saw people die, in so many ways, sometimes it was her fault, sometimes not. Ur-Mardu was the first time she'd killed someone up close. Thinking about the blood, the sounds, the very vision of the life leaving his body… No matter who it is, her enemies, her friends, herfamily, she doesn't want to see it anymore.
He listens. He gently rubs her shoulders, not daring to let her go.
"You know… That little girl had the same attitude I did after my mom died and I thought…" she trails, choking up at the thought of Naye. Atem cups the side of her head, understanding painted on his face.
"You thought you could keep her from a similar path," he finishes, voice hardly above a whisper to keep her calm. Her panic attack is dying down, and he doesn't want to start it up again.
Bali nods.
Atem leans his head back, eyes closing, taking a long breath in to steady himself.
"Naye was failed by her parents, and then our system failed her. The best we can do is hold their memories and the lessons they taught us close. Then, we can work in the present to walk forward into the future. Growing and training to take my place opened my eyes to atrocities of this world that I eventually attempted to run away from, and it has had dire consequences. I promise, Bali. Start small, and it can lead to the greatest change."
He lets his hand drop, as she looks to the side in thought.
"You're right. I'm sorry," she sniffles, finally regaining some of her composure.
"You have nothing to apologize for. I know your strength, as it has often bolstered mine."
She peers up at him with a neutral expression, though her eyes search for something in his. Atem leans his head to the side slightly, a small frown on his face. Bali's hands drift up to his face and wipe away the tears still gathered there. She smiles, using a softness and gentleness he's never seen from her before. It makes his feelings thrum with contentment.
"He doesn't need any tears from both of us." At her words, Atem pulls her into a tight hug, which she gladly returns.
So much had gone awry, but they have each other now. Just this is enough for Bali to consider Egypt her home, once and for all.
"This is enough."
Notes:
FUN FACT!: From two chapters ago, I feel I should clarify: There were periods, called the Intermediary Periods (between the old, middle, and new kingdom eras) that had separate rulers. If we're gonna be technical though, two dudes claiming to be pharaoh completely misses the purpose of the title in the first place, as pharaoh is the uniter of the two kingdoms… So during intermediary periods, it's just two kings, they're technically not pharaoh, but that's one of those things that could always be up for heated discussion.
Chapter 19: Awkward
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Even though a week has passed since Hutsat's death, the camp remains. Proper preparation for the bodies of all the medjay informants had to be observed, and carpenters within the army had set to work on makeshift travel sarcophagi for them. Once they are finished, and all alliance records are set straight, the army will break camp and finally return home.
Bali relaxes most of the time, allowing for rest of her mind and body. Her breakdown moment with Atem had eased so much of her guilt, and although she can't fathom why his acceptance means so much in the first place, she doesn't bother thinking too much on it. Maybe, after such a harsh tell-all, she just wants to be around him more... He hasn't pushed her away, even while knowing so much of what she's done. His companionship is more refreshing than ever. He even pulled her into the treaty talks, insisting that he desired her input. She gave no resistance. It's peculiar. Typically, she wouldn't consider herself the type to glean wise counsel from, but when she's in those meetings it's interesting to her. Scholarly intrigue once again? Who knows.
At the moment, though, she sits in her tent, a poor attempt at embroidery in her lap. As Itet is roomed with her for the time being, the princess had insisted on teaching Bali after catching her staring while she did her own. Although proficient enough in sewing to fix her clothes in a pinch, the delicate stitching of embroidery, even the simple learner's patterns, results in lots of finger pricks and frustration for Bali.
"I'm not sure how a woman could have escaped learning to embroider properly, I could do better work as a child," Itet giggles, pausing in her mending of some soldier uniforms. Bali huffs, crossing her arms and glaring at the shoddy work in her lap.
"At least I tried," she mumbles, feeling a smidge of jealousy for the other woman.
"Of course, Lady Bali. More practice and you'll prick your fingers less and learn, just have patience. I'm guessing your mother wasn't very attentive in raising you, given how boyish you are instead," Itet replies, although Bali's sudden shift in mood doesn't go unnoticed. The princess furrows her eyebrows in concern as her friend clenches her hands.
"My mother died when I was young. Guess that could be a reason, yeah," she confides, to which Itet nods slowly. Although she understands, she decides it's not a string to pull on given the tension.
"Atem knows all about you, doesn't he?"
Bali meets her inquisitive gaze with one of her own, but answers.
"Compared to anyone else, yeah. I'm not exactly the type to open up, but there's something about your brother that makes me feel…"
Itet leans forward in interest... too much interest. Bali raises an eyebrow.
"Is there a problem?"
Itet fumbles for a response. Bali's other eyebrow raises, expression getting a bit too intense and multiplying Itet's nerves. To her great fortune, Mahad walks through the tent flap right at that moment, distracting them both and saving her from having to answer.
"Hello your highness, Lady Bali. Might I join you?" he asks, though does so with such a glum atmosphere that both women are immediately concerned.
"Did something bad happen?" both ask, trading small smiles when they realize.
Mahad settles on a cushion next to Bali, hunched over with one hand fiddling with the Millennium Ring.
"A message arrived from Pharaoh concerning my insubordination in bringing Her Highness to this camp."
Bali and Itet turn sympathetic, though not before looking at each other with resounding "yikes" expressions. They never believed that the princess' jaunt to the battlefield would go unnoticed for long, and it seems that Mahad is on the receiving end of most of the heat.
"You'll be fine when we get back. You were doing what you felt was right, they can't fault you for it, especially because you ended up doing us a huge favor by coming here. Both with the peace treaties, and with your healing magic. There's no way Atem could've handled healing me more than he already did," Bali says, unable to keep from laughing a little at her powerful magician friend and how despondent he is. He doesn't respond. He merely keeps tinkering with the Ring. She sighs, reaching out on a whim to catch onto his hand to still it.
"Atem isn't here to reassure you." With this thought in mind, she leans closer to him to keep her voice low and comforting.
Itet watches on silently, drinking in the exchange with unblinking attention.
"We will defend you, no matter what. I'll fight the whole damn court if I have to," Bali continues, squeezing his hand for emphasis. Mahad's other hand covers hers, a small grateful smile alighting his face.
Itet remains quiet as the two share their moment, but her head perks up when she hears the entrance flap moving.
"I'm finished for today on negotiating reparations. Be glad– oh."
Atem stops short, verbally and physically. Bali and Mahad have their heads snapped to him, hands still clutching, eyes wide, still close together. Itet holds her breath, gaze darting between both parties. She's unsure whether she wants to laugh or groan in frustration.
The crown prince drops his hands to his sides, face suddenly a mask to hide the turmoil washing over him.
"My apologies, I'll come back later."
As he abruptly turns and leaves, Bali feels a part of herself start to panic.
"But why? We're all friends, this is normal, isn't it? I was just doing what he would do."
Her thoughts race in confusion as she pulls away from Mahad, who in turn gets up to run after Atem. Itet returns to her work, eyebrows still raised at the awkward situation witnessed.
She's forced to glance back up.
"Itet… Did I do something wrong?"
The princess once again lays her work in her lap, sighing in slight annoyance at having to do so while preparing a proper response.
"It appears Lady Bali is denser than I first thought. My brother being a fool doesn't help,"she thinks, forcing a tight smile to her lips as she meets Bali's eyes. She can tell Bali is bewildered. The almost supernatural green color is usually unnerving in her stare, but now it's full of guilt.
"Lady Bali, you have nothing to be worried about, my brother is merely overtired and acting stupid. Master Mahad is one of his greatest and oldest friends and will resolve whatever conflict there is," she advises easily. Inwardly Itet is amused that this dramatic scenario is even happening.
Bali doesn't reply. She furrows her brows, still confused, and stares down at her hands clasped in her lap. The amount of humor Itet sees in the situation increases to the point that she fears she may laugh at her friend, and thus she hurriedly excuses herself from the tent.
Bali stares after her for a few seconds before settling more into her seat.
"What did I do wrong?"
… … …
His thoughts are in tumult. Despite all the serious business he attends to every day and the losses recently suffered, his general outlook has been soaring above the clouds. Bali is safe, and here with him, and he used every excuse he could to stay near her as much as possible. After all the trying meetings, the exhaustion always melted away in her presence. Joking around, sarcasm, deep conversation, it all makes him feel like a hawk catching the wind to freedom.
Seeing Bali, the very object of his affections, holding the hand and leaningso closeto one of his best friends…
No longer a hawk, merely some waterfowl, he was shot down on a hunt, his mind cruelly plummeting to the earth. Had he missed all the signs? Is he too late after all his denial? Everything is just spiraling throughout his head and body and it's tense and heartbreaking and…!
He feels betrayed.
"Your highness, wait!"
"Be calm. Be calm."
Atem halts for Mahad, using every bit of his patience to control his temper.
"What's wrong?"
He says it so civilly that he almost has himself fooled. Gods, his chest hurts…
"My prince, I come to you now as your friend, shedding all titles. You are clearly upset, but as to why I am unsure," Mahad says, unflinching when Atem turns around to face him with a poorly feigned look of indifference.
Atem doesn't know what to say. In fact, even if he does come up with appropriate words, he doesn't think he can physically say them. Mahad notices the hesitance, the unsurety and the hurt. It puts an idea in his mind.
"What Lady Bali was doing was ensuring that she would support me upon our return to court, Atem. I have been under the assumption that you are just friends with her, as am I," he states, giving the prince such an overstated stern expression that Atem couldn't possibly miss its implication.
Atem crosses his arms. Although bashful, he maintains strong eye contact.
"I was in denial before. I'm in love with her."
"Ah, so I was right!"
The men turn at Itet's mirthful exclamation. She saunters into the area, cheeks flushed from her laughter. She stops in front of her brother, calming down with a teasing smirk.
"You really think they'd ever try anything while I'm in the room? I know you're exhausted but this is just sad," she snarks. Atem grumbles, fingers clutching at his arms to restrain himself from starting an argument.
"Atem, does she know?"
Mahad's bluntness tears through the tension between the siblings easily. The trace amount, well-controlled annoyance of his tone makes Atem begin to realize just how badly he overreacted. He inadvertently pouts, gazing to the side.
"No…"
"I certainly did not, so getting angry with us won't help you."
Mahad and Itet share a look of triumph as the prince's stance changes.
"I am sorry for my actions, Mahad. You are both close to me, and I did not trust you," he apologizes, confident and poised. Itet nods, feeling it's settled. Mahad draws an even look with his friend.
"I forgive you, your highness, but I am not the one most hurt by your implications. If Lady Bali is unaware of your feelings and you continue to act so rashly, all you will do is isolate her in confusion and guilt. If you claim to be in love, I should hope you understand how cruel that would be."
Mahad's words stun the royal siblings. The magician strides away, soon followed by Itet. Atem reels. His mind is blank and everywhere at once.
It settles on inwardly cursing himself out for being so childish.
"Have I learned nothing? Dammit, what have I done?"
He manages not to have a verbal outburst, but instead retreats to his tent to think things over in solitude.
"I don't even know if she feels the same way."
It's nearing sunset. Bali hasn't seen or heard from Atem all day, but Itet had returned briefly from her excursion to advise waiting for him to approach her.
It pisses her off.
"Obviously this whole thing had to do with me, and I want to know why! This whole 'manly posturing' thing is a waste of everyone's time!"she seethes, ripping aside the tent flap to find and confront Atem. No more nonsense.
On her way to his tent she runs into Itet and Min. Both pause their conversation to hail her, which she complies to with a grumpy sigh.
"Lady Bali, you appear aggravated, but healthy. I am glad," Min greets, lips turning into a haughty smirk. His betrothed had gladly filled him in on the day's events. Bali leers at him.
"Not exactly the best thing to say to the person who killed your father and liberated you," she shoots back. Itet is grateful when Min shows he's only further amused by the veiled threat and takes over the conversation.
"I take it your patience is gone and you're looking for my brother? I think he's back by the meadow, probably to think. We'll show you there."
And like that, Bali is forced to rein in her nerves and follow behind the two. While glad that they are getting along swimmingly, she doesn't appreciate that they will witness what she imagines will be a throwdown between her and the prince.
Thankfully the walk to the meadow isn't long. Bali traipses up to stand next to Itet, who has paused alongside Min. The sun burns red in the western sky behind them, but the brilliant colors shading the sky as they face the east go unnoticed. Her companions fade away when she sees him.
What has her so entranced? It's just Atem. He's jogging, which is a normal activity. Keeping fit is important for him, so that makes sense. He's only in a plain kilt, none of his armor or adornments, a curiously natural appearance that she can't look away from. The lighting on his skin, his hair, that focused expression...
She feels her heart lurch.
Tearing her eyes away at the feeling, she looks to her toes to try and figure out what it is.
"What has gotten into me? I hope I'm not getting sick now after everything, I've never felt anything like that before,"she thinks, puzzled to the point that she wishes Re might give her some insight.
No luck, it's too late in the day.
"Lady Bali, call him over. You wanted to talk to him, right?" Min asks. Bali jolts, shaking her head to try and clear it from its sudden fog. Her anger is gone, forgotten.
"Don't bother, he's spotted us. Let's go, dear," Itet says, meeting Bali's eyes with some wicked sort of knowing before dragging the Eblan king away. He doesn't protest, allowing them to make a speedy getaway before Bali can protest. She can only stare after them, wondering what the hustle is for.
"Bali, is everything okay?"
She whips around, heart in her throat. Atem stands just out of her reach, but that's definitely close enough for her to freeze up. Her hands clench at her sides, finding it hard to swallow and breathe suddenly.
"Is this really an illness?"she ponders, heat creeping on the back of her neck as he tilts his head in confusion at her silence. His breathing is still a little fast from his run.
"This isn't like you, did something happen?" he prods again, stepping forward. This action jars her enough that she blinks rapidly. All at once she remembers her purpose for being here.
"You left me all day after whatever happened earlier. I'm a little angry at you because I have no idea what I did wrong."
Bali feels a certain satisfaction when his expression turns endearingly apologetic.
"I… I had a misunderstanding. Being exhausted is no excuse for what I did, it was completely unreasonable, and you certainly did nothing wrong," he says, but she could swear that he's far too nervous for it to be so simple. She doesn't know what to say, however, as he is also completely sincere. Her anger is gone, evaporated. She crosses her arms, disliking the mystery of what she's feeling at the moment.
"Just don't do it again. I was only doing what you would do if you were there," she grumbles, shoving away her questions about the earlier event in light of her desire to move on. Finally the weirdness dissolves somewhat between them as Atem smiles.
"I won't. I got quite the earful from Mahad, but I needed some time to think over everything that's happened and finally it got too stifling in my tent. Father usually makes me run the grounds before breakfast," he explains, gesturing to the meadow behind him. Bali winces. She too has had to run the palace grounds, but before breakfast? No thanks.
"We should probably head back, I'msolooking forward to our nightly ration," she quips, referencing the minor vegetarian meal that served a pitiful comparison to their usual fare in Thebes. Atem chuckles, holding out his elbow for her. Heat creeps back up her neck but she takes it, and both start back to camp.
Both are privately reeling.
"Why did I even offer, I'm sweaty and not even dressed properly to be in front of her!"
"He's gotten taller, when did this happen, when did he get so…"
Because of this, they remain silent up until they arrive at Atem's tent. She releases his arm to allow him to part, but instead he turns to her, taking in a breath to speak. Bali keeps eye contact to show she's listening, but his words won't come out. There's an awkward shuffle of feet.
"So, I'll meet you for dinner? Is that okay?" she questions, fists clenched at her sides once again. He nods.
"I'll join you in ten minutes."
"Good."
Neither move.
Despite the cooling breeze, the air is impossible to breathe properly in.
Atem takes a step toward her in concern, seeing the troubled look on her face, but she tears off at a run.
"Bye!"
The hasty retreat and the call back to him leaves him stunned.
"Her face was red. Perhaps I should ask Mahad to check up on her for any lingering illness from her injuries."
Bali's heart pounds in her chest, nausea settling in her stomach, and face unbearably hot.
"What is wrong with me? It's like…? But no, it can't bethat,it's too different. I hate this," she mumbles, pacing in her tent to release some of her energy. She's exceedingly grateful that Itet isn't there. Her only reference to the type of feelings rising up in her mind are to one of her darkest times and to her first night in Egypt.
"It can't be that, so what is it?"
…
Later, whatever had transpired had melted away. Bali concludes it must've been some fluke or passing bug, although as she sits next to him conversing as usual, she feels a minor form of it in the pit of her stomach. Atem thankfully doesn't bring it up. Even so, there's something in the way he looks at her that's different than from before the war started. Not only that, but Min, Itet, Karim, and Mahad are in on some secret. She notes that it can't be one of Atem's pranks, as he's completely unaware of the strange pauses and exchanges between the four.
"So, what do you think?"
Bali is pulled from her thoughts by Atem's question. She stares at his face and how the firelight affects the color of his eyes, how it brings out the red.
"Sorry, I wasn't listening. What am I thinking about?"
Atem laughs loudest of their group. Bali crosses her arms with a gratuitous frown. He calms enough to meet her eyes again.
"Only you know what you're thinking about," he snarks, his grin only serving to make her frown even more.
"I was spacing out, now just tell me what you said before I smack you," she warns. He holds his hands up defensively, although his easy-going expression shows he doesn't feel threatened.
"I was merely suggesting that you ride with me in my chariot as we make our way back. Bit was a workhorse, we need him for the medjay," he explains, face softening with his voice as he references her deceased friends. Itet sees his hand lift from his lap to reach for Bali's, only to stop and rest once again. Bali doesn't notice, but Itet rolls her eyes anyway.
"Right. If it's for them, I can't argue. You're sure it won't be too much?"
He shakes his head.
"No, Bali. With it being emergence, we will make our way to a point of the river south of Memphis to take boats upstream and get home. Negotiations are nearly complete," he nods to Min, who returns it graciously. "The journey home is all that's left, and having you near me after all that's happened would bring me the greatest relief."
No matter the emotions, no matter what sly way their friends mutter, no matter how independent she is…
A smile alights her face, feeling deeply touched by his words.
"How can I refuse that?"
With no war to hurry to and a procession of the deceased in tow, the way to the river through several gorges goes much slower than the race from before. Troops would split off where they needed to in their respective nomes, the numbers dwindling until only Upper Kingdom troops marched behind.
Bali got used to chariot riding easily, although having Atem behind her with his arms on either side holding the reins definitely took some adjusting. Both are wearing armor now, more for show than anything, and thankfully their movements are during the cooler parts of the day and into nighttime. Progress went without significant issues. The two would talk and then fall into comfortable lulls. All in all, a pleasant trip down to el-Hiba where the boats waited.
Bali's thoughts often wandered to Itet and her selfless decision to head north as Ur-Minda's bride. Both she and Min had gone back to the capital city of Ebla to begin their new lives as king and queen before the Egyptian army set off. Her talk with Itet before they departed had been quite the conundrum.
... ... ...
"Bali, I'm going to miss you so much! Please, take care of yourself and keep my brother in line for me!" Itet squeaked, choked with tears. Bali smiled and patted her shoulder.
"I will, promise. By the way, Itet, I wanted to ask you something," she started, and Itet nodded vigorously for her to continue. Bali didn't like that certain spark of interest that shone in her eyes.
"Atem... Does he really have a solution to finding a proper queen?" she asked, as curiosity had gotten the best of her. Itet's face brightens with a knowing smile.
"You'll see." The cryptic answer left Bali more befuddled. But before she can press the princess for details, the call for the Eblan group to move out was heralded, calling Itet to her fate. Before she ran off, she took up Bali's right hand in both of hers and gave her a serene smile that spoke utmost kindness.
"I hope you find happiness once more, Lady Bali," she told her, turning to board her king's horse that had approached them from behind. Min looked back for a moment. He waved a salute with his sword, and Bali returned the wave with her own. Min turned around and off the troops went on his command. She watched, alone, as they left. She peered down at the sword in her hand.
King Ur-Mardu's old sword, a spoil she had taken for herself.
She vowed, to the wind, the sky, the sun…
Never again.
She'll protect everyone.
... ... ...
Bali instinctively placed a hand on the hilt of the sword in memory of all of the people who died for the moment she had slain the crazed king. She does it often now, being unused to the weight at her hip. Re has been missing from her mind for days. A part of her wonders why, another part is glad, but a small part is also worried.
The war is done. Peace reigns. Is there something more coming their way?
She becomes preoccupied with these thoughts on the boat ride up to Thebes, the most relaxed portion of their journey so far. Atem stays close to her, a presence she has no desire to refuse. She's tired, and she knows he can't be faring any better.
"The first thing you need when we get back is a long nap, Your Princeliness," she points out, sitting back on her palms as they both stare at the stars above.
"There is still much awaiting me when we return. Bali," he begins, hesitant. She can feel his anxiety, and briefly wonders if it's to do with his solution to finding a bride.
"My father…" The words are choked, more than he meant. He clears his throat. Bali turns to face him, shifting so she lies on her side facing him. When he notices, he does the same. An emotion glitters in his eyes from the lamplight that she knows well.
"I know. I'll be there with you. I know what it's like."
He makes to reach out, but this time she catches the movement and snatches up his hand before he can decide against it.
They stay like this for another hour before separating to sleep.
Both stare at their hands once away from each other.
They miss the warmth.
Notes:
FUN FACT!: On the thread of games, have you heard of the Untitled Goose Game? Exactly what it sounds like if you haven't. Anyway, I am tying this in because, believe it or not, one core thread of creation myth in Ancient Egypt is that the Great Honker (a GOOSE) honked and started the world/universe/dimension/insert-name-of-whatever. So really, Untitled Goose Game. This, our reality, our lives, has all been UNTITLED GOOSE GAME. Ily Egypt.
Chapter 20: Forty Days
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Thebes is within sight, flags and banners flying and crowds gathered to joyfully greet them. Bali stands with Atem in his chariot once more as they lead the procession to the palace. Many gawk and point and call out, to which she can hardly wave. She can't manage a smile, her attempts resulting in a grimace. Atem easily handles the adoring public. From what she can tell, she's deemed the "champion" of sorts, with people chanting her name alongside words like "hero" and "great warrior." They don't exactly have those same terms as those in future medieval kingdoms, but the similarities make it somewhat interesting.
Bali doesn't think it's an honor, nor does she enjoy the insinuation any more than the perception that she is a goddess. At one point, the only thing keeping her from spacing out is bumping into Atem periodically.
Once up to the palace and away from the throngs, Master Seth greets them, having returned much earlier. Bali's immediately approached by him after she helps give Bit to a stable boy. She had separated from Atem to look after the handling of the medjay.
"What took you so long? Slowing down the troops like most women do?" he teases, but she only glares up at him.
"I'm in no mood, Seth. If you hadn't heard, we were laden with respect for the dead. Unless you want to anger the gods by brushing them off like it seems you've just done." Her cold reply makes him frown. She brushes past before he can say anything to the matter. In fact, he's actually concerned that she didn't stay for his further argument. She usually does, as the "love to hate each other" relationship keeps them close to one another. As close to friendship as they could get, in his mind.
He stares at her back as she retreats into the palace, crossing his arms with a deep scowl.
"More trouble than she's worth."
Atem went inside as soon as he could to see his father, only to end up sidetracked by different nobles and priests asking after him, the princess, and Bali. It's these conversations that make it occur to him that he can't submit any sort of report to his father without the heroine of the entire war.
He thought maybe she had gone to her room immediately, so went up that way first. No one answered the door, as Mery and Su probably weren't aware that Bali had returned yet. Atem next went to the Nile sanctuary, which of course turned out to be successful. Bali is sitting there, still in her own gear, stroking Amenophus. She hears the clink of his sword against his armor and twists to face him. As he approaches closer, the comforting sound of purrs reaches his ears. She doesn't glance up at him after twisting back. Her hand strokes the cat absent-mindedly, her gaze far off in the distance.
"I know I need to report with you. I just needed to come to terms with some things, and I thought only Amenophus could help," she explains before he says anything. He nods in understanding. Cats are guardians, after all. It must be survivor's guilt. No sign of tears. He's about to hold out a hand to help her stand when something rubs around his legs.
At and Tiye welcome him back with chirps and purrs, placing their forepaws on his legs. Atem smiles at the gesture, bending down to scratch their ears. Bali allows Amenophus from her lap to trot to his parents, who promptly begin to give him a bath. Atem laughs softly, standing from his crouch. He resumes his mission to help Bali up, and she takes his offered hand gratefully. His pull is a little too strong however, and the added weight of the sword and leather armor still has her unbalanced. A small whoop escapes her lips as she collides against him, both of them luckily not toppling in a heap.
"Sorry," she mumbles immediately, drawing back so that their cheeks are no longer touching. She meets his gaze and time freezes. There's something in his eyes, something so mysterious and important and shecan't figure it out!Bali scoots away from his chest, putting her hands back to her sides after raising them to catch herself. Silent. Tense. Bashful.
She hates how much she cannot speak.
"We'd better make that report," Atem coughs, summoning his courage to break the monotony. He leaves her to catch up, striding purposefully out and away from the moment.
As she jogs after him, she can't fathom what she's so embarrassed about.
… … …
Pharaoh Akhnemkhanen isn't in the throne room. The appalling news sends ice through Bali's spine and blanches Atem's face.
"Your Highness, Lady Bali, Pharaoh has become so weak that he cannot move from his bed. You must hurry to his side, he desires beyond anything to know you are safely home," Akhenaden directs, his voice grave. The shock and implication of such information roots both to the spot momentarily, but despite being exhausted, they break out into a run to Pharaoh's room.
Atem doesn't bother with the guard posted.
"Father!" He races through the luxurious apartments, Bali following close behind. She doesn't have time to look at the spacious, beautiful rooms around her.
Without hesitation, Atem takes up post at his father's bedside.
Pharaoh awakens slowly, breath rattling.
"My son… Bali… I am glad your journeys have brought you back home. You have saved this country, and for that, I am grateful," he starts, Bali stepping forward to kneel next to Atem at the bedside. "Please, do not worry about me. I may have little strength now, but soon I shall watch over everyone and protect them as I once did." Akhnemkhanen's whisper is deafening in this room. Bali can only stare sadly. Her throat is tight, but no tears will come. Atem already cries, quiet and attentive despite it. He is ready to hear any last commands, all final words.
"Atem… Your time has come. Take the Millennium Puzzle." Atem shakes his head.
"No, you just said you would get better!"
Akhnemkhanen's face molds into a stern look, surprisingly strong for his weak state.
"Be silent, Pharaoh speaks! You are my Crown Prince, my precious son, and one true heir," Pharaoh chides, the act collapsing in a harsh set of coughs for raising his voice. Atem's eyes are wide with fright, but his father's words ring true, and he lets resolve flow through him. He gently helps Akhnemkhanen lift his head to retrieve the Millennium Puzzle. Atem holds it out from himself in reverie before placing it around his neck. Akhnemkhanen smiles.
"I am proud of your growth, Atem. You will continue our heritage with that pride. As for you, One-Sent-From-Re Bali," he shifts his head to her. Bali still isn't crying, too drained from the many weeks of anguish. She flicks her eyes to Atem.
"He needs me."
"Protect our home. Our united kingdoms need you in more ways than one," he tells her. His eyes begin to cloud, but his face melts into an expression of joy.
"Ah, my dear Nedjes, you are here with me again at last…"
"Father!"
Forty days of mourning begin, but already it is true as the puzzle weighs heavily on his chest...
Pharaoh Atem rises.
Word is sent out throughout the two kingdoms, Ebla, Nubia,everywhereto tell of Pharaoh Akhnemkhanen's passing and the beginning of the mourning period. Preparations had already begun for Pharaoh Akhnemkhanen's journey to his tomb. Once the mourning period passes, it will be time for Atem's reign to officially begin.
Bali, Mery and Su were reunited once more, although it wasn't exactly a happy meeting. Su didn't take the parting message from Jihan well, immediately requesting leave afterward. The informants would be laid in a chamber of Akhnemkhanen's tomb to serve him as they did in life. If Bali weren't so drained, she would pay more attention to the prayers and ceremonies happening around her.
The somber mood of the city settled like a blanket over everything. The former victorious attitude had died with their ruler.
The sun still shines.
The sky remains bright.
The river runs strong.
It's been weeks, and the procession to the resting place is mere days away.
"Mery, I'm going to see Atem. You are doing wonderfully, keep it up," Bali compliments flatly. Mery's response matches in tone. The grief is too strong for her words to hold any form of happiness. It would be too false.
Unless he was needed to lead ceremonies and prayers, Atem keeps shut up in his new apartments. After his death, she tore herself away to alert the court. To give Atem space. To get away from the smell of death...
Bali attempted to see him every day afterward, only to be turned away by the guards at the door. She didn't fight to get in out of respect for his loss, but it sank her into deeper melancholy than she'd ever let on to anyone else. As it stands, she's acting as a veritable pillar of strength for everyone else that's too morose to function properly. At first, she was a tad surprised at the severity but dashed it away. Pharaoh Akhnemkhanen had been on the throne for decades, a benevolent example for his son and his people.
Before he passed, he told her that Egypt needed her in more ways than one. Those words rolled through her depression when she wasn't doing anything.
She arrives at the door at the same time as always, the guards immediately turning sympathetic. Bali steels herself.
"Step aside, gentlemen. I can't ignore this anymore."
The two start, but the higher ranking of them steps forward after seeing the determination in her stance, while also well aware of her reputation.
"My lady, we are also worried. Go in."
Both bow their heads to her, hands over their hearts.
"Thank you. I'll make sure you don't get in any trouble."
In she goes, finally back into the king's apartments. She briskly charges ahead, keeping an eye out for her friend. It's so still, the atmosphere thick with a dark emotion. Bali has to take pause to breathe deeply and be calm, knowing exactly what this pain is, what Atem is feeling right now.
She turns into the bedroom portion of the suite and sees his figure outlined under sheets, back facing her.
"You need to get up."
Bali makes a disgruntled scrunched face at how harsh she sounded.
Atem shifts but doesn't look at her.
Silence.
"I've had enough. You said Hutsat needed none of my tears, and your father needs none of yours! They both wanted us to be happy and to stand strong on our own!"she thinks, desiring nothing more than to blurt it out but finding it more difficult to do so as the seconds pass. She's not used to loss when it comes to other people as much, and starts wondering if she's ever come off as self-absorbed because of it.
"Atem, you need to get up."
"Stop nagging me Bali, I know you've been visiting every day." His reply is quiet, with no force and all exhaustion. Bali stomps over to his bedside and promptly rips the blankets off.
Despite the melancholy, his response is quick, as he turns over with a short yell to start a tirade at her.
His eyes go wide in shock and perhaps even fear at the severity of the look she's shooting his way. His words die in his throat.
"You are NOT acting like you should. Yes; your father is gone and a lot of grief has been spread for us for months. But it's been enough time. Think of the legacy they handed down to us, Atem! Follow through on your father's hope he placed with you. Everyone thinks you have so much promise, and you know what, so do I!" Bali rants, pulling him up by his arm to drag him from bed. After some stumbling, he manages to stand and she releases him. The aura of the room has changed. The fire in his eyes is back. Bali smiles as his posture straightens.
"You make quite the speeches. Are you sure you're not meant to be Pharaoh?" he replies, amusement evident in his voice. She calmly places her hands on his bare shoulders.
"That'sthe Atem I know. You've been making everyone worried, especially me. I came to kick your butt around and lo and behold, you're all better," she explains, clapping her hands lightly on his shoulders before retracting them to grab his hand. He protests as she proceeds with her intention of dragging him out of his room.
"Bali, ha ha, wait! Bali, I'm not dressed, and I need to take a bath!" he laughs, and she stops to look at him again. Her face morphs, expression curiously stunned as she realizes his state. It's not the first time she's seen him in a state of undress, but with wherethey are and howintensehis gaze is, it's causing her mind to blank and short and fizzle.
"O-oh, sorry! I'm just so energized by the fact that you're finally getting your act together. I'll be waiting with the guardians in the throne room," she stutters, hands clenching and unclenching as she keeps from looking at his face too much. Finally, she turns shortly to run and leave her ridiculous moment. She doesn't hear Atem call for her to wait, hurrying away to keep from completely overheating. Once she's in the clear and knows he isn't following, she finds a hidey-hole and takes a deep, back-hurting breath. Her face is hot, heart drumming in her ears quite clearly despite being in her throat.
"What is wrong with me? I've seen shirtless men before and they didn't affect me like this! Maybe I'm catching a cold. I'll have to go see a healer,"she thinks, feeling dreadful, and yet...
It kind of feels like something amazing.
Atem is still in place where she left him, in his sleeping kilt, wondering what exactly just happened. Bali had acted strange!
"Really strange. She looked flushed, I hope she isn't getting sick. I'll have her go see a healer,"he muses, but decides keeping her waiting after their "talk" would be unwise. He walks back to a special sanctuary with a giant pool of water, fed by the Nile, with reeds and lotus flowers concentrated at the far end. This is his new bath, meant to be purifying in its symbolism.
He doesn't like it.
"Who needs a bath this big? I bet the water is really cold too," he mutters, thinking not of the hot day but of the chilly mornings when most of his baths would occur. He grimaces. With a sigh, he undresses. Once he's settled, he finds the temperature of the water to be surprisingly tolerable.
"I guess that's what makes it the king's bath…"The reasoning for the size of the pool still eludes him, but he doesn't dwell on it for long.
Servants arrive with towels, clothes, oils and soaps almost instantly, so Atem bathes quickly. After all, making her angry for waiting wouldn't do him any favors. Still, he has to give his soaps some time to work, so he turns his mind away from the pensive thoughts of the funerary procession to begin planning his courtship of Bali.
He knows they're close. He's sure enough of that. But where is the line in the sand drawn for her? Ever since his realization that he has no clue what level of affection she has for him, doubts spring in his mind every which way. Oh, but when she's around… When they're together, all his worries drift from him. Or rather, any issues seem insignificant, his whole life ahead of him looks bright when he sees how comfortable they are with one another. Their jokes, their trust, their secrets…
She is his best friend. One-Sent-From-Re Bali, who has his father's approval, who never truly hated his country and its people… What a lovesick fool he's become after their time together. He knows she would be a great wife, a greatqueen, he can feel it with every fiber of his being.
"So much darkness in her life, I want her to see more light…"
He's pulled from his thoughts by his servants.
"Your Majesty, do you need help getting out?" The question comes as Atem finishes a final rinse. He glances at the ledge and decides he will likely injure himself if he tries. He takes one last incredulous glance around at the bath, wondering why there aren't any stairs or even a ladder. He makes a note to contact a stone mason and architect about the matter eventually.
He accepts the offer, holding out his hand. Once his feet are firmly on the ground, his vision is clouded by towels, a process he's been used to for ages as prince. Once dry and dressed, he retreats to a room to don his royal artifacts, a golden headpiece of the wadjet eye being the newest of them all. His outfit is complete once his supremely expensive, deep purple cape is pulled on and the Millennium Puzzle slipped around his neck.
Out of his apartments he strides. Whenever he crosses paths with someone, he's hailed with bows and mutters of condolences. Atem merely nods and keeps moving. The actions of them all make him miserable inside, no one could treat him like a normal person anymore.
He huffs in laughter at the thought. "There's one person who won't treat me differently than before."
... ... ...
Every time someone enters the room, she looks up expectantly, only to be disappointed once again. It drags out her wait time even worse. Bali is about to her breaking point when Atem arrives, receiving a double door entrance into the throne room. While glad to see him, she feels foolish for not remembering his status and what his entrance would warrant. All eyes are on him, but instead of walking directly to the throne, he diverts to her.
"Sorry I took so long."
Bali flippantly places her right hand over her heart and bows.
"Your special attention is apology enough," she replies, straightening with an expression full of snark. He raises an eyebrow at her disrespect, placing a hand on his hip.
"You're lucky I appreciate your humor and honor our friendship."
"I seem to remember a time when you liked to joke that we weren't friends just to rile me up, and now suddenly it's switched to you 'honoring our friendship?' Your sense of humor has changed," she remarks, and the underlying hint of jest and challenge makes him smirk.
"Many things about me have changed, Bali, but my sense of humor remains. I wouldn't want my kitchen staff to become complacent."
He marvels in her laugh, the way her head tilts back, how far it is from the coy giggles his sisters and other noble ladies use. Atem feels a swelling of pride for inducing this reaction. The members of his court watch on in stunned silence at their somewhat normal, happy exchange of words. Mahad and Karim exchange knowing smiles, their first genuine show of happiness in weeks.
"Your Majesty, Lady Bali, are you well?" Isis asks finally, causing the two to look at her. It visibly dawns on them that a few people in the room interpreted disrespect toward Atem's father by acting so cheerfully.
"We're excellent, and I have something to tell all of you guardians and my court that my father expressed to us in his final moments," Atem states, voice cutting clearly through the room. He gently takes Bali's hand and pulls her up to his throne. Her heart leaps to her throat for a moment before she forcefully pushes it back down. The weird feeling comes and goes, it makes her even more anxious for her health. She doesn't have the chance to analyze it as all turn to hear what Atem has to say. The new leader unwittingly still grips her hand.
"We are right to mourn my father, and have done so respectfully for the proper time. However, both Bali and I were at his side to witness his final wishes. My father, the eminent Pharaoh Akhnemkhanen, desires for us all to be joyous, to celebrate the days we all have with each other! Those who died in this recent conflict have wished the same thing for their sacrifices. Please, let us celebrate Pharaoh Akhnemkhanen's time among us, and celebrate his passing into the afterlife with happiness! He now watches over all of us with all the love he has always possessed. Rest your tears. My father does not need them." Some are moved to tears despite the subtle command, while others still smile as Bali does, in awe and even hope. She can't tear her eyes from the people in front of her. The optimism, the acceptance of being absolved of grief. Somewhere inside, she lets go of a piece of her old trauma. "Celebrate the days we all have with each other."
By the end, tears are gone, and all is well.
"Eloquently said, Your Majesty," Bali mutters, leaning into him so he can hear. Atem turns his head and shakes it with a small smile, rolling his eyes at the hint of mockery.
"I'd say it moved the crowds effectively." In a murmur, he imitates Ur-Minda, crossing his eyes while doing so. Once again, her head is thrown back in laughter. She calms enough for conversation, both engrossing in small talk until a question pops up.
"Your Majesty, Lady Bali, why are you holding hands?" Seth inquires, causing the two to snap their heads down and quickly release their hold. Bali glares at the priest, who smirks victoriously.
"I'm gonna get you, you pig!" she mouths to him, which everyone sees. Seth pretends he doesn't.
"Th-that was nothing," Atem covers, though it's too late to stop some amused mutterings. Bali is sort of glad he's pharaoh, even if he's not officially crowned yet. His authority will keep anyone from bringing it up again. The look in Seth's eyes tells Bali that he's going to confront her about it later, once she doesn't have Atem's protection.
She begins mentally preparing to combat him, even if it means a couple mean kicks to certain areas that shall not be spoken of...
Atem diverts the focus by taking his place on his throne, ordering for cushions to be brought in for the guardians, as well as a cushion next to the throne for Bali. Servants promptly appear with large, squishy pillows. Once all are seated comfortably, he begins a meeting with his court. Bali accepts her place next to his legs, wondering why she has to stay up there, and why quite a few of her friends look like they're secretly-not-so-secretly trading things around themselves. She narrows her eyes at the subtle movements but can't speak up about it.
"I am glad you are all coping with the sudden changes. Hopefully rebuilding and support in towns affected by the conflict has for the most part been dealt with," Atem starts, the end of his sentence lilting up like a question. Shada raises his hand to garner attention to speak.
"We have received messages from every village attacked: No more support from the palace or the military is needed, reparations from Ebla have already been put to use in Heliopolis," he announces, everyone muttering contentedly among themselves. Atem nods.
"Good. Is the barque ready to set sail yet?" he asks, referring to the vessel that will carry his father over the Nile and to his tomb. The rituals involved are most sacred, and everything must be perfect so Pharaoh can properly complete his journey.
"All barques are ready to sail. The ceremony will begin by this time tomorrow," Karim answers.
"The medjay is already set with tight security for the entire event, both here and at the tomb," Mahad adds, settling a hand on the Millennium Ring.
"Has crime outside the palace and throughout the kingdom risen since the passing of Pharaoh Akhnemkhanen?" Bali throws out, and the elders sitting with the court nod approvingly at her question. When she meets eyes with Siamun, the old vizier winks. She smiles in appreciation at the gesture.
"Fortunately, there have been no major uprisings. As you have brought up the matter, I shall increase my personal patrols with the medjay," Seth replies, Atem following up with allowing him to do so on the condition that he treats the people fairly. Bali cringes at the mention of medjay.
"Why did I have that mark in the first place if it was just going to turn into this?"she ponders, looking at the Mark of Re on her wrist.
"Look on your other wrist, Kitten,"Re says suddenly, although his voice sounds distant. Bali calls out to him but receives no answer. While aggravated at the random message after so much silence, she follows his direction to see that her old mark is appearing on her alternate wrist. Atem notices her movement and surprised expression, drawing everyone else's attention when he turns to her.
"Bali, what's wrong?"
Bali shows him her wrist.
"The mark of the medjay? When did you get that?" he asks further, and she notes the surprised expressions throughout the room.
"I'll speak to you privately later," Bali finalizes quickly, but the mystified glints in all their eyes don't disappear.
"Re, why the hell did you do that?"she growls, receiving no answer.
Atem settles everyone down and away from Bali's new mark, respecting her wish for privacy. The meeting goes on no longer than thirty minutes, the group adjourning to see to their separate duties.
"You have done well so far. I am sure that your father is proud, and glad you have decided to accept his passing," Siamun praises. Bali watches on as Atem visibly relaxes at the compliment.
"Thank you. If you'll excuse me, Bali and I have an important topic we must discuss. If anything of consequence happens, send one of the maids: They know everything," Atem orders, unable to keep from smiling as the old man laughs.
"Of course." Siamun places his right hand over his heart and bows with his left foot forward. Bali and Atem are soon alone in the large throne room.
"Our sanctuary?" she suggests. He agrees. They head out. Unknown to each other, they both make doubly sure to keep their hands to themselves.
Notes:
FUN FACT!: Again With This can't lift only one eyebrow! How about that for something useless? Jk here's a real thing for ya. The first artificially created dye was made in Ancient Egypt, aptly named Egyptian Blue. The dye has modern uses in forensics, as you can use it to find those dang ol fingerprints. Pretty sure there are other uses too, but that's the coolest one, as forensics is the only part of bio I was ever great at. Good on ye, Egypt!
Chapter 21: Procession
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Bali and Atem are in their normal spots at the river, their cats sitting in their laps, lending an air of calm and relief.
"Is there something wrong with having the mark of the medjay?" he asks, breaking the silence. She shakes her head.
"It's not like that. This is the mark I originally had, it was forced on me when I got super drunk my first few days in Egypt," she starts, a sheepish smile appearing at the raised eyebrow he's giving her, "The mark of Re replaced it when I was brought here, and I thought that meant the medjay mark was just a coincidence. But he's put it on my other wrist now, and I have no clue why. He's been gone for months now." Atem shows he understands, but seems thoughtful.
"You guarded Egypt, which means guarding my father and me. You were in the informant group, who were all medjay themselves. I'm unsure why you would have it before, but now it at least makes sense. You plan on furthering that informant group, don't you?" he inquires, and Bali wavers her hand.
"I don't know. I don't think I could train them correctly at all, given howsuccessfulour former ventures were. Besides, I don't think you want me galloping all over the country, given how worried you were when I finally came back," she points out. Atem blushes. It's the truth; he doesn't want Bali away from the palace. Away from him.
"Never again,"he thinks, breathing deeply to rid himself of the blush and fast-moving heartbeat.
"Don't worry about those things. The mark of the medjay is not misplaced. I can have you stay here and lead them alongside Mahad. Sound like a deal?" he suggests. She shrugs, giving a non-committal murmur of assent.
"Bali, are you okay? You look tired." The remark comes after she yawns widely.
"Yeah, I haven't gotten a lot of sleep these past few days. I don't have nightmares exactly, I keep waking up and staying that way just thinking about all of the stupid things I've done. You've done a lot for me, hearing all of it and apparently not caring…?" she trails off, unsure of the validity of what she said.
His smile is warm, an almost teasing glint in his eyes as he replies, "I wouldn't say I don'tcare, but it doesn't make you any less of a good person."
She rolls her eyes but feels somewhat giddy inside at his answer.
"It's been ragging on me so long that while I'm starting to heal from it, I can't let myself forget." She pauses her stroking of Amenophus, who still purrs loudly in his sleep.
"The next time this sleeplessness, this reliving of memories happens, come see me. I don't care what time it is. No one blames you for any of the deaths that have occured in your time here," he tells her, taking her hand up in his.
"I know that, but there are other things I've done, Atem. I've killed people before without knowing who they were or what life they had outside that one situation. I can't help but think of all that I've taken away, that I can never give back. Hell, even that asshole George Corman must've had someone special waiting for him at home, like a wife and children. Re is the one who took care of him, but in the end it doesn't matter to me. I've been bottling it all up, and after what happened in the Ebla camp, it brought back that initial sickening, horrifying feeling after I first shot someone. To be up close… I keep seeing those two men guarding my tent, and then Mardu."
Atem rubs his thumb across the back of her hand. She's grateful for the action, and for the tranquility it brings.
"Nothing I say will make you forget. Memories are treasures, all of them. To lose them is to lose yourself, to lose everyone in your life."
A lopsided smile.
"I never said I wanted to completely forget everything, but you bring up a good point anyway. I can't imagine you, with or without memories, being any different than who you are now," she admits, pulling her legs in close to hug her knees.
He leans toward her in interest.
"And who am I to you?"
Bali waffles, feeling heat creep up the back of her neck as her stomach flips. His voice is deep. So pleasantlydeep,has it always been like that?
"Uh… You're stubborn, but a different kind of stubborn from me. Where I'm bullheaded you're more… calm determination. You're wicked smart– emphasis on wicked– and you're funny, and somehow you managed to convince me to tell you about my multiple issues, and… Just," she finds herself mysteriously choked up, and turns her stare from their hands to his eyes. "Promise you won't forget about me, okay? Becoming the big-shot Pharaoh will change things, they already have, and–"
He interrupts her panicky garble by squeezing her hand firmly.
"I would never forget you. No amount of power could ever induce me to forget."
Another lopsided smile. Despite how strangely she feels, her eyes never watered. She's just… nervous. Nervous of growing apart.
"Kinda weird that you'd promise little old me that type of thing. There are far more important people in your life."
Oh, how much he desires to yell to the gods and all living things how untrue that statement is, but he doesn't. He's not ready, he can't. Not until he knows that she feels the same. He mirrors her expression and swallows the jumble of raw emotions in his mouth.
"Let's hope it never happens anyway. To forget everything doesn't sound pleasant. Instead, I have to ask who that 'George Corman' person was," he redirects, huffing in laughter when she makes a funny disgruntled face.
"He's the man that forced me to take the Trial of Re so he could gain power by threatening to kill my teacher. Seriously, my colleague who I thought was my friend betrayed me. I guess I somewhat deserve all the backstabbing from people though," Bali says, acting passive.
"Not at all, everything you've said is not true. You may have done those terrible things, but isn't that why Re sent you here in the first place? Not only that, but Bali, you've given all of my people pride and hope. You've saved them. And..." Atem rants heatedly. Bali stares at him in surprise, the passion in his response catching her off-guard. His face softens into a gentle smile.
"You've given me something better than anything else in the world."
"What...?"
"Bali, I lo–"
"YOUR MAJESTY! Your presence is needed to bless the barque!" a voice calls, though the person obviously has no idea where Atem actually is. He is forced once again to swallow his words, his moment ruined. He clears his throat and releases her hand, then plucks At from his lap to stand.
"Wait, what were you going to say?" Bali asks, standing and catching his shoulder before he can run off. Atem turns with a smile.
"You're my best friend! I wish I could elaborate, but apparently this is an urgent matter. I'll talk to you later," he covers. She has no choice but to let him go, staring at his back until he turns from view.
"I feel like he wanted to say something else. But, maybe he was just leading up to it, since I sort of did the same thing. That would make sense," she thinks aloud. At sounds at her feet. Bali is holding the still sleepy Amenophus in her arms, and she bends over to set the young cat down. At bumps heads with his offspring and both trot away into the brush.
"I swear, those cats are smarter than all of us." She watches on, amused; she loves cats, especially the palace ones. She's always loved them, even before her obsession with Egypt when she was smaller. Egypt had only enhanced her love for them, given their prominence.
"Things keep getting better about this place."
She jaunts off to her room, ready to confront her maid friends about their gloom.
...
Atem, on the other hand, can't believe he nearly told her how he felt.
"You could have ruined everything, you dolt! You can't say it until you know she won't say no!"he scolds himself. He turns into a hallway and slows to make an appropriate entrance, as his image as regent requires elegance. He strides into the throne room with grace, just as his father taught.
"Your Majesty! The barque is ready, all it needs is the proper blessing by your lead," Karim says. Atem nods to show he understands. Karim, however, can tell that his mind is elsewhere. He shoots him a curious look.
"Why didn't you bring Lady Bali along? I'm sure her presence would greatly help the barque in arriving at its destination," he adds. Atem shuffles his feet nervously. Only Karim and Mahad have confirmation that he's in love with Bali. The regent doesn't appreciate the priest's attempt at being sneaky, but Atem decides denial of being with her would be worse.
"How did you know we were together?"
"The maids know everything, Your Majesty. We'd best be getting to the barque, it seems that if we keep focus through the night, we'll be able to have the ceremony right on time."
"Oh."
Off they go to the docks on the river.
"I don't see anything wrong with you, Lady Bali. You are in perfect health. I'm sorry I couldn't help more." Mahad apologizes. Bali had finally given in and sought out her friend to check her health and now sits in shock over his unhelpful diagnosis.
"How can all of that happen without there being something wrong with me?"she asks herself, clenching and releasing her hands over and over.
"Thank you anyway, Mahad. I don't know if Atem informed you but we're going to be leading the medjay as a team. His suggestion," she informs, holding up her wrist. Mahad smiles.
"That's wonderful. You're very deserving, your strength is inspiring for many soldiers," he compliments, his sincerity warming the idea to her. She nods.
"I'm glad you don't disapprove. Well, I won't take up more of your time, thank you for clearing space!"
"It is no problem. Again, I wish I could have done something about those scars," he says, but she waves him off.
"Scars are fine, they tell stories. Don't worry about it."
It's not the first time she's had to wave him off from apologizing.
He sighs.
"If something happens, never hesitate to ask for me," he reminds her, giving in for the time being. Bali waves at him again without turning around to signal that she heard him.
She heads for her room, because she hasn't spent a lot of time in it. A nap sounds positively divine. Her talk with Atem made her feel much better, much clearer than before. Then again, her talks with Atem always make her feel better for whatever reason. Bali still can't fathom why he makes such a profound difference. In fact, she figures that if anyone else tried to talk to her the same way, she would blow them off.
"That's weird. Maybe he just has a way with words that I just pay attention to more. I don't know."She has a growing consternation for this problem. Not knowing what she's feeling is a special brand of agony. All these strange happenings around him where she feels sick, awkward, or embarrassed, it has to be something involving him.
"Wait a second... He's not trying to pull a prank on me, is he? If he is, that all-wet dipstick has another thing coming!" she grumbles, their former conversation about his sense of humor remaining intact popping up as an idea. She decides not to go tumbling after him now, as she's determined to have that nap.
"Kitten, you've settled many of your grievances with your past, but whenever you're angry you seem to be more intense than before. Are you getting ready to go on your monthly?"Re's out-of-the-blue question, voice at full volume, makes her jump.
"Your whole disappearing act and sporadic entrances today are really annoying. And no, I ended a few days ago."
She throws her hands up in frustration when he doesn't answer, once again gone from her mind.
… … …
Desert stretches before his eyes on the mortal realm below. Chaos.
The line of the river, the split into many to join to the Middle Sea. Order.
He, the one who crosses the sky each day, who fights the serpent each night, who created all mortal life.
Re is creating once more.
"It shouldn't be growing so rapidly. Eventually, Bali will have to learn to control it, a great task I'm unsure she can complete at present." He continues calculating his plans before someone springs from a flash of light.
"Honorable Father, when is Bali to join us here? I much desire to meet my sister, to know her domain," she says, her voice filled with the flutter of wings and the stillness of peace. The feather at the side of her head glows. If someone compared her with Bali, they would make an astonishing discovery. No living man has ever glimpsed her knowingly, and therefore nobody can see...
Re smiles.
"She will be here sooner than I expected. Now leave me, another of my sons arrives soon to test his heart," Re orders, and she bows her head with a brilliant smile.
"Of course, father."
The barque is ready.
Bali rises from her nightly slumber, memories plaguing her mind. She doesn't bother taking up Atem's offer, as she needs to be awake anyway. The sun has yet to rise, but dawn is on the way, and the procession begins soon.
"Lady Bali, here are your garments for the ceremony these next few days. Su and I are coming with you," Mery explains softly, guiding the as-yet sleepy woman to the washroom.
"You're awake a little later than usual, I am glad to say. Tell me; is anything going on between you and Our Eminent Regent?" the maid ventures. Bali shakes her head.
"No, we're getting along fine. Why, does somebody think we had a fight or something?"
Mery sighs with a small giggle.
"Well, I thought maybe you were lying awake thinking about something of that sort. That's all," she says, trying not to laugh at Bali's clueless behavior.
"Atem and I didn't fight, I was just awake thinking. Thank you for the concern though," Bali yawns. She quickly gets ready for Pharaoh Akhnemkhanen's journey to his tomb, engaging in small talk with Mery throughout. Su is present, but quiet, her heart still heavy from her loss. Before Bali—dressed in her costume from the feast of her arrival—ventures out to meet with Atem and the guardian priests, she catches Su's shoulder while Mery tends to a different task. She looks into the maid's eyes with a gentle smile.
"He protected me bravely up in Ebla, as I told you before. He was a good man, and he'll always want you to be happy," she whispers. Su nods, tears escaping her eyes.
"I know," she mumbles, pitifully smiling before starting to sob. Her legs lose their strength and she drops to the floor, Bali following to keep her steady in comfort. Mery strolls into the scene only to immediately take over.
"You need to go, Lady Bali. Do not worry, we will be on the ship on time." The older maid nods to assure her as she stands to leave.
She doesn't look back, knowing that it would pull her in and make her late. She travels to the very same entrance she used when she first arrived with Hutsat. Guards pull the doors aside, and Bali curses her luck when she sees that Seth is the only one there. His normal scowl deepens when he notices. She rolls her eyes.
"Going overachiever on being punctual?" She keeps her voice low to sound mean. While it has no effect, she never really expects it to anymore. This is their balance, after all.
"I wanted to talk to you about the way you've been acting around our Prince Regent, Lady Bali. I'm curious as to when you started acting like that, as I have been under the impression that you don't like acting as a woman should," he teases, a smirk easing onto his face.
"He needed support, and it was his doing, not mine. I wouldn't want to upset our eminent ruler."
"Fair enough, but why were both of you so embarrassed when I pointed it out? If he planned it, shouldn't he have been less surprised?"
"He probably forgot because he was making an important speech. I was surprised because he had forgotten, and embarrassed that we had to have such an important moment ruined by such a rude comment," she replies, leering up at the priest something fierce. Seth chuckles a little.
"I made that comment simply because it was distracting everyone from listening, somewhat. I didn't want His Majesty's words to be wasted."
Bali's mouth twitches as she crosses her arms.
"... Jackass."
Seth almost grins in victory, but their conversation is joined by Isis and Seshat.
"Good morning Lady Bali, Seth, do you mind if we join you?" Isis asks, smiling.
"Not at all," Bali answers, not caring if Seth has another opinion.
The group engages in small talk—with Seth even commenting every so often—and as time moves forward the group grows larger until it includes all of the guardians. Bali feels a sense of belonging she hasn't known much at all in her life. The only one missing from their conversation is the prince regent, and to her, the absence is stark.
Oh, but when he rides up on his horse…
"Good morning, my friends. Our procession from the mortuary temple to begin Pharaoh's journey must begin at once," he greets, regal atop his horse. His costume is far more ornate than his regency clothing, consisting of the whitest pleated kilt Bali's ever seen, his sandals inlaid with golden thread and colorful stones, while his chest remains bare except for the puzzle. It sits on his chest over a colorful pectoral, an equally white cape flowing over his back, though shorter than his rich indigo one, it still wafts in the wind that enhances his look. He still wears his regency crown of the wadjet eye around his forehead, the wings glinting at the side of his head.
She finds her throat dry as the wind-swept desert itself when his eyes meet hers. He beckons her over as the others disperse to waiting open palanquins. Bali shakes from her reverie to comply.
"Can I help you?"
Her attempt at sounding sarcastic is ruined as she can't keep from smiling, thankfully withholding a snort of laughter. He chuckles however, a sound that sends flutters into her stomach.
"You're always helping me, and today is no different. Ride with me in the procession," he says, his tone light to keep from making it sound like a command. She raises an eyebrow.
"First the chariot, now on the horse too? I'm speechless in delight."
Even with the faux-contempt dripping in her words, she lifts her right hand up to him. Atem grins, grabbing her and with combined effort she swings a leg around his horse. Once settled in front of him, she shifts to glance back at him.
"Are you sure you can see, shorty?"
The ghost of a pout appears on his lips.
"I've gotten taller, we're close enough in height that no one can tell anymore."
"You keep telling yourself that."
The next forty-five minutes are spent positioning everyone, from guards to the carts of belongings to be placed inside the tomb. Once the process is complete, it's time.
She and Atem will follow behind the sarcophagus of Akhnemkhanen, and the guardians will follow behind them.
It begins.
Bali feels awkward at first, watching the people of Egypt as their outpouring of affection and grief for the deceased pharaoh rings out in cries and drums and prayers. Crowds follow behind, joining the parade to the dock.
On arrival, the sarcophagus is carefully loaded onto the barque. The artistry and care the craftsman put into the vessel made it fit for such a king as Akhnemkhanen, and reflected the love of his people as much as the prayers chanted around them. Bali drinks it all in, unconsciously leaning against Atem's chest, too genuinely moved by the display to think of what her position is.
The prince regent sits dignified, calling out orders and waving directions if need be. So intense is his focus that his thoughts don't stray. Being surrounded by his people, hisfather'speople, and his father's and so on, is the most enveloping, amazing support he could ever hope for in acceptance of not only Pharaoh's passing, but of his own ascension to this archaic throne.
Once the great barque is finished loading, he allows his guardians to enter the boat first. As they do so, he turns his horse to look out over the crowds around him. Before he speaks, he leans his mouth to her ear.
"You can hurry away if you'd like," he mutters, noticing that her hands are clenching and releasing, her telltale sign of anxiety.
He's surprised when she refuses.
"Your father told me Egypt needs me in many ways, and one of them is to support you," she replies, twisting to give him a quick reassuring smile. Atem's throat nearly seals in the uprising of conflicting emotions, but clears it as she turns away again. There will be a time for personal grief and small talk later.
"People of the Black Lands, we are gathered to send off Pharaoh Akhnemkhanen on his final journey. He feels your love and hears your prayers, and shall take them to rest to give him strength in the lands of Osiris," he starts, his voice ringing through the air with a powerful persuasion. She's mildly impressed, as he's generally quiet and mild-mannered, despite being a trickster. As Bali stares out over the people, it's apparent she's not the only one entranced by his words.
"He really is suited to be king,"she muses.
The speech ends and enters into prayer, a song-like chant that causes shivers and goosebumps to run rampant over her skin.
"There's definitely more people here than the population of Thebes. They love Akhnemkhanen so much, and I bet they'll be just as loyal to Atem."
The ceremonial prayers end, and with one last heartfelt salute to his people, he trots his horse near the boardwalk onto the barque. He slides off first to offer his hand to Bali. She accepts it despite being perfectly capable on her own. She can't remember the last time she genuinely accepted gallantry like that, and somewhere deep inside she enjoys it immensely. No awkward falling into him or mishaps, no holding hands, but they both stride confidently up onto the boat.
The boardwalk is rescinded, and the boat cast off. It will take until morning to the mooring point near el-Medina, the village of tomb workers. Once out of the sight of Thebes, all but the priests are put to rest. The guardians, Atem and Bali are housed stern-side. Bali shares a compartment with Seshat, Isis, and all female servants. Atem, of course, has one to himself.
The prince regent stares over the side of the ship at sunset, having already settled into his room. Once night covers the land, he will join the priests in hours-long prayer to ensure safe passage. Bali emerges from below to join him. She leans on the railing in the same fashion as he. Nary a glance between them. The silence is a comfortable one, as she relishes in the cool wind of the Nile and the landscape passing by.
"I can't believe he's gone. I still can't believe he's gone." Atem's voice is just a murmur, a wistful smile spreading onto his lips. She looks at him, shifting to find a more comfortable position.
"We'll all get used to it. Sort of, anyway. You never stop grieving though, you just cope," she says, moving her gaze to the water below. "I eventually got used to having my mother gone, and having my father shun me before sending me to boarding school."
He shoots her a sideways glance.
"What is boarding school?"
"Basically a real-life Ammut's stomach, except with learning."
"Ah. Shouldn't 'learning' be part of Ammut's stomach?" he asks in amusement. She chuckles.
"Not in this case. Contradictory to the fact that my teachers were nasty and I graduated early, I did learn a lot from them. I wouldn't be here if I weren't smart enough."
"I thought you were naturally intelligent."
"You and me both. Now I realize that I wouldn't be here without any of those things happening, and I can't say I'm not grateful. I mean..." she explains, but stops to sort through her words. Their eyes meet. She smiles a most radiant, heart-stopping, mind-blanking, light-through-the-darkness smile.
"I have you."
Notes:
FUN FACT!: Although Atem's glorious hair is a hallmark of his design and the epitome of "Things You'd Never Expect to See in Ancient Egypt," the relationship the ancients had with hair in general could almost remind someone of today. Body hair, particularly facial hair, was generally seen as unclean. Being clean shaven was a sanitary must, both for beauty standards and to keep lil bugs from making nests. Priests would keep every hair on their bodies shaven, sometimes including their eyebrows. The character who most embodies this in YGO is Shada (and Shadi too). Technically all the priests should be like that, but whatever, fantasy lends inaccuracies, and we're talking about a series where monsters are real! More on that later...
Chapter 22: At Ease
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
His heart beats faster than he thought possible. Cheeks hot, back rigid.
"I mean, you're my best friend. I've gotten through so much with your help. Of course, I don't think many thought I would amount to much. I'm grateful to Re for giving me the opportunity of knowing you," she finishes, unaware of her effect on Atem's poor heart. Bali stares at his motionless form, curious at his sudden look of pain.
"Are you okay? Maybe you're the one who needs to see a healer," she says, staring at the water once more. It's getting relatively dark, and lamps will be lit soon for the priests to continue their prayers. Bali knows that her royal friend will have to join them when it happens.
"... I am fine. For a moment I believed you were going to say something else." Well, it's the truth. Atem gets over the agony quickly. When he thinks back on it, it makes sense that she considers him her best friend.
"Seeing as I told her that she was mine,"he thinks, not enjoying the embarrassing memory.
"Oh. Okay, if that's all. You know, I actually wouldn't mind learning how to dance. I wish I could teach someone something, Itet started me on embroidery and I've been getting military lessons," Bali complains, changing the subject to a less awkward one. He latches onto it with gusto.
"You can teach me a dance from your time," he offers, soliciting a huff of laughter from her.
"Your enthusiasm astounds me. Usually men would find dancing stupid."
"Ah, but that's where you're wrong. Dancing is natural, and we have many dances that include men. It just so happens that the tradition falls to women the most. Men still dance in your time, right?" Atem asks, hoping she isn't attempting to prank him.
"Yes they do, especially the ones I'm talking about. They take two people," she answers, the hint of suspicion flying over her head. He breathes a sigh of relief. She sucks up her courage for her next question.
"Hey, Atem? Have you pulled any pranks lately? You know, gone back to your childish self for a little reminiscing?" It's time to get around to the strange, sickly feelings that appear, even right in this current conversation.
"No, not at all. I promise, I've been very focused on everything around me," he says truthfully, taking her question seriously to avoid accusations of slacking off. Her shoulders droop. "He's not lying."
"Great, somethingiswrong with me," she grumbles.
"What was that?"
"Oh, nothing! Today has left me really tired, so if you don't mind, I'm going to get some sleep. You have prayers to get to," she wraps up, walking away with a nonchalant wave before he can protest. He watches her go.
Mahad strolls by on his way to the prayers himself, only to notice his old friend staring after her in a daze.
Atem's pining expression is almost… sad.
"Sad because you can't tell her how deeply you feel for her."The master magician sighs.
He knows the feeling well.
Bali gets into the compartment, closes the door and leans on it as she closes her eyes. With a sigh, she places her hand over her heart and tilts her head back.
"Is everything all right?" Seshat asks kindly from her cot. Isis sits next to her, helping her mother thread a needle for embroidering for the next day. Bali becomes alert again, trudging to her cot with another sigh.
"Yeah, I think something's wrong with me. Maybe I'm just tired," she yawns, getting ready for sleep. Mery and Su have left out her nightwear on her cot to change into before going to sleep behind the curtain bisecting the room. Bali believes it strange that she hasn't seen them much, but shrugs it off. She's too sleepy to pursue it. The few oil lamps that are lit cast hypnotizing shadows through the room.
"Lady Bali, have you been feeling... sick? As in, your stomach feels strange and your face heats up randomly?" Isis inquires. Bali's eyes snap to hers at the description of her strange illness. She walks over and sits next to Isis. Seshat smiles knowingly while she pretends to knot threads, but Bali pays her no mind. Isis faces her, placing her hands up around the Millennium Necklace, pretending to invoke its powers. The two priestesses, of course, are already well aware of what's happening to her. Both received the same vision.
"You're fine, Lady Bali. It will all make sense in time, and I promise you that you'll be glad when it is resolved. Unfortunately, I cannot directly reveal the future. You understand," Isis explains, inwardly struggling to keep a straight face. Bali nods with a grateful gleam in her eyes.
"Thank you, now I don't have to worry so much!" she chirps, only to yawn immediately after. She stumbles back to her cot.
"Good night, dear friends."
Within moments of lying down, Bali is off and away into a realm of rare pleasant dreams.
...
Early the next morning finds everyone awake and saying prayers themselves. They've arrived, and are now in the procession to Akhnemkhanen's tomb from el-Medina. He is carried in first, his possessions in life situated around him, and all the while priests sing praises and prayers. Once again Bali finds herself quietly impressed. The tomb walls are painted gloriously in a range of bright colors with stories of the people's fondness of him, of his triumphs, and of his offerings to various gods. It's apparent from her archaeologist's eye that he's a pharaoh that captured the true admiration of his people. She sneaks peeks around at anything every chance she can, her inner scholar still a rousing presence in her mind. It's during these perusals that she glimpses a story about the creation of the Millennium Items.
"If I ever get back to Dr. O'Connell, she'll go batty over all these details I've seen,"she muses, once again thinking of her old teacher. She feels a clash of homesickness and worry, which she buries. While she feels that Thebes is home, it doesn't erase the life she had.
After hours of careful and respectful filling of the tomb, all internal doors are sealed. Once everyone removes themselves from the tomb, mortuary priests chant through the hallways one last time before exiting themselves. Bali steals her last glances of the entrance before the priests and workers seal the tomb up with a great stone door covered in protective spells.
All in attendance keep their heads bowed with their final thoughts.
"Akhnemkhanen... You wait and see. Atem will be even greater than you were. No offense," Bali mutters, her final words as she places her bushel of strong incense-type herbs near the entrance and backs away so the others can follow suit. After one last prayer, the ceremony concludes with a ringing note from a ballad sung by priests. Atem smiles, taking a steadying breath to keep his tears at bay.
"It's time to return to Thebes. My father would not want me to be slacking off too long, and if that goes for me, that goes for all of us!" he cheers. Everyone choruses their agreement, mutters of preparation for coronation floating in the air. All head back to the docks where a different barque awaits them, as the funerary barque they arrived on was painstakingly loaded into the tomb as well.
At the last moment before becoming completely distracted, Atem notices that Bali stayed behind, still at the entrance to the tomb. She stares at the sky. He orders his guardians to continue on without him and begin preparation for leaving the tomb digger village. Once he's sure none are going to bother him, he lags behind and goes to her.
As he approaches, he notices her lips moving in inaudible words.
"Talking to someone?" he asks amused, though his expression shifts to one of empathy. She turns to him with a somber face.
"Thinking about my mom. Silly, I know."
"No, not really. You've been thinking of her all this time, and I'm sure going into the tomb just brought back memories. But you know what I think?" She shakes her head, but he feels gratified to see her lips quirk up. "I think that we need to focus on the here and now. Right?" He holds his arm out to her, which she accepts without a word. Their pace is slow. The wind tousles their hair, the otherwise reverent stillness of the valley around them lending a sense of peace.
Bali feels that pleasantly sick-type of grossness crop up again. Recalling Isis' words comfort her however, and she even starts to embrace it as something positive.
Both meander back to the ship at their own pace, a comfortable and companionable silence surrounding them with few interruptions. When near the ship, they see the guardians waiting for them to arrive. Seth gains that teasing look in his eyes once more. Bali glares in his direction but drops it when Atem addresses their presence.
"Is anything wrong?"
"No Your Majesty, we merely felt that you had more right than us to board the ship first," Siamun answers, bowing respectfully as he does so. Atem grins.
"How unnecessary, but quite considerate. Let's go up then, shall we?" His inquiry is mostly directed at Bali.
"I should have to say so. Harvest season is upon us," she replies, mimicking his astute royal tone. Atem chuckles and they both step off in sync, heading up into the opulent barque.
The guardians follow, all surprised that the pair aren't courting yet. Karim, Mahad, Isis, and Seshat are the only ones aware of any real emotions in the air, but it didn't take much for others to notice. Already, bets have been going around the palace on how long it will take for their marriage. In the meantime, they're treated to a mildly infuriating, hilarious display of romance. The two already act as if they're romantic partners.
Atem loves Bali. Bali loves Atem…? Siamun, Akhenaden, and Seshat reminisce on their own past romances whenever they catch a glimpse of them together. The true wildcard is Bali. It's apparent that she's blind to her own feelings, blind to Atem's, blind to how much she inadvertently looks at him with such ardent admiration in her eyes. To her credit, and the exasperation of his friends, Atem is also unaware of her affections. To think, both of them believe that she may have some type of illness!
All in all, they can't wait for the comedy to further unfold.
... ... ...
The return to the palace is uneventful, but full of friendly conversation.
Atem is caught up in conversation with Siamun and Akhenaden on matters of the state and his coronation, leaving him with no real time to spend with Bali. This is no loss, however, as she is in the same rut, continuing her study of Egyptian embroidery from Seshat and Isis. The time on the river passes quickly, as they now head downstream with the current. By the time they arrive back at the palace, her fingers have been pricked so many times that her hands seem mummified.
"Perhaps you are more suited to being a warrior than a housewife," Isis giggles. They are seated next to each other at a final meal to celebrate Pharaoh Akhnemkhanen. Bali stares at her hands, sighing in shame.
"I guess you're right. I'll keep practicing though," she directs towards Seshat, who nods approvingly.
"I thought you weren't supposed to be like normal women. Are you going to learn how to dance too?" Seth calls, having overheard the conversation. Bali shoots him a venomous glare.
"Shut up!"
All conversations halt to dissolve into laughter at the memory of the night Bali arrived.
Atem feels his chest swell. Everyone is together and happy. All conversation is in good fun, with no true qualms between any of them. They are his new family, and he's proud of it.
"You were right, father. I had nothing to fear in becoming pharaoh."
Notes:
FUN FACT!: Through recent studies done on remains of Pharaohs and their diets, it's been revealed that those ancient kings were hefty. Their diets had lots of sugars and fats from meat, bread, honey, and fruit, coupled with the beers and wines, and their lack of proper athletic regimen left them as rather obese. However, as we do not have the remains of ALL pharaohs (not even close, like at all), I refuse to believe all of them were that way. Blanket statements don't work well with a culture that spanned thousands of years (the only one that works is that they were located in northeastern Africa). In any case, don't let people mock your weight, just tell 'em you're emulating the great kings of the past.
Chapter 23: A Dance is in Order
Notes:
FUN FACT!: It was Valentine's Day when I was writing this, and when I originally posted the OG chapter. As such, I thought you'd all enjoy learning how to say "I love you" (in the romantic sense at least, I am unsure if it's for general use, like I dunno if you wanna say this to yer kids or parents) in the Ancient Egyptian language! If talking to a female sweetheart, it's "iu mery-i tchen" and to a male sweetheart, "iu mery-i tchu." If you're addressing someone who doesn't ascribe to either gender, I ain't got an answer for ya, so best I can say is use whichever one. Perhaps further research will uncover a neutral way (the last hieroglyphs used [en and u] are the gender modifiers, from what I can see.) I've not studied the language, but you see enough of words to kinda get a sense of how they work across the board. Perhaps someday people in this story will get around to saying these words to each other...
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
She watches.
It's not the first time, either, that she's secretly stood and taken in their practice in the recent days. The group doesn't notice.
Someone else does.
"I'm just saying, no one ever asked what she'd like to learn, they just put her in combat training and left it at that! It's not fair, Mahad."
The master magician heaves a deep sigh, pausing in his task of sorting a stack of papyri filled with harvest spells.
"Mana, His Majesty's coronation will be on the first day of harvest, and we have the Five Days and New Year after that. Everyone is busy,includingyou. If Lady Bali desires to learn how to dance, she has plenty of her own authority and courage to ask, I promise," he responds, turning to his best student and main apprentice. His frown deepens when he sees that her arms are still crossed in dissatisfaction. This is an easy stance to interpret.
"You are feeling cut off from your friends." His statement makes her pout, to which he nearly smiles. She hasn't changed much.
"Atem is in prayer most of the time, and if he's not there he's welcoming governors or nobilityorin meetings about harvest! This is supposed to be our biggest festival time, we should all be having fun. Lady Bali hasn't ever experienced it for herself and we're her friends, we should all be showing her more about us than battle techniques. You're heading the medjay with her, you should do something," she insists, flailing her hands in front of her to vent her frustration. He raises an eyebrow.
"True as that may be, you have more free time than I do at this point, don't forget I am a member of the court. If you want something done, do it yourself, find the time. Lady Bali probably needs your friendship the most right now, anyway." The last part of his phrase is muttered, but his apprentice hears it all the same. She tilts her head in confusion, but her opening to ask about its meaning passes by as Mahad returns to his former task.
"Go talk to her right now, I'll let you out of lessons this afternoon. Your mastery of transferring Ba deserves a reward," he grants, giving in to the tense stare she's pointing at his back. The flaring of her aura is enough to tip him off that she's not going to let up anytime soon.
"Better to solve this now before she goes barreling after His Majesty."
Mana doesn't wait for him to change his mind, racing from the room with an exuberant whoop that incites a small chuckle from Mahad.
… …
Bali watches the dancers once again, admiring their movements and the quality musicianship displayed by the instrumentalists. Over and over they practice certain routines, or certain sections of routines, making sure every detail is spot on. They're some of the best in the empire, employed by the palace for their remarkable talents and dedication to their craft.
She's gotten over her original culture shock. The little clothing the dancers wear, she's observed and learned and finally resolved, is perfectly normal. It's freeing. Wearing anything heavier would hinder them.
The realization has even relaxed her from her insecurities on nudity, much to the surprise and delight of her maids. Even now she stands in a skirt with a beaded belt situated right under her breasts, with nothing covering them. No one has given her a wayward glance. While Bali still needs to get used to following fashion, she's glad she's released her squeamishness on seeing anyone else barely clothed. Her status as a noble entreats her to wear fully covering clothes anyway, but she's part of this culture now. While it's partway unconsciously done on her part, Bali has been letting go of most of her western preconceptions.
All because of dancers.
"I wish I could learn. Messing up their important practice for Atem's coronation would be selfish though,"she thinks, resting an arm on the window ledge to put her weight on it. She sighs.
It's only been a week since she's talked to him last and already she misses Atem. She took the time with him on their journey home from Ebla for granted.
"Oh good, you're still here! Lady Bali, how are you?"
Startled, Bali turns from the window to greet the young lady greeting her.
"Mana, it's been too long. I'm surprised you have time off, I heard that Mahad has been doubling down on all the apprentices," she answers, raising her eyebrow in suspicion.
"He has, but because I'm his top student, I get the afternoon off today! I thought maybe we could spend some time together, after everything that's happened we haven't had any fun!" Mana chirps, chest puffed out in pride at her accomplishment.
Bali smiles, crossing her arms and settling her weight back on her left foot.
"It's been busy, hasn't it? I'm game."
Mana's cheerfulness turns into mischief.
"We're gonna go down and learn how to dance, right now," she says, confidently placing her hands on her hips with a daring expression. Bali noticeably twitches, eyes shifting nervously.
"Uh, Mana, that may not be the best idea, they're really busy and I'm–"
Mana wags a finger at her. "Nuh-uh, you're not getting out of this! You've seen how important song and dance is, and you never got the opportunity to learn before! Now's the perfect time to ask," she says, all determination.
Bali feels her palms getting sweaty.
"... I'm not really known for musicianship of any kind back home…" the warrior trails, thinking back on music classes in school. Her singing teacher once likened her to a yowling cat and she tripped and slouched so much trying to dance that she was given special permission to be exempt from the course.
Mana's warmth and beaming face outshine Amun-Re.
"I'm not either, but I've caught you staring down at them for days now and I know you wanna try, which means you won't be all that bad when you do! After all, when we dance, we're always meant to put our hearts into it, and that's what really counts in the end."
Before Bali is even truly aware of what's happening, Mana is leading her into the shady courtyard where the musicians and dancers are practicing.
While the young magician propositions the conductor, Bali finds herself praying to her mother for any shred of grace that never turned up earlier in life. She can feel the gazes of the musicians on her, some in awe, some in wonder, all guarded.
Mana's cheer of jubilation is followed by her dragging Bali closer to the group. They bow their heads respectfully as the conductor, Djosere, introduces them all to her. Everyone is polite, but Bali can feel the professional distance they're placing around themselves.
"Guess it wasn't such a great idea,"she thinks, gearing up for the backhanded compliments she usually receives when she does anything musical.
Djosere mutters something to a dancer before turning to the instrumentalists with instructions. The dancer glides forward with a thin smile on her attractive face. Her hair is kept tightly braided and dyed red in the last few inches, while her sheer clothing reveals tattoos of Hathor on her stomach that Bali knows are on her back as well. Her build is slim and fit, meant for acrobatics and light footwork.
"Lady Bali, it's a pleasure to meet you. Last I saw you was at your welcoming feast where I performed with a group of city women I tutor. If there's anyone on this mortal plane who can teach a warrior to be worthy of dancing for Hathor, it is me." Her words are full of luscious confidence while her stance shows she is guarded all the same. Bali can't fathom why, while Mana doesn't notice.
Bali forces her mind to calm down, thinking, "Best I can do to find out the problem is face it. I've fought in a war now, I can handle this!"
There is one small space of time, after prayers for raising the sun, within the coolness of morning, where he has the freedom of being alone. He doesn't have the time to seek out his friends or attempt any of his old tricks. While it's crossed his mind to do so, he finds the peace and solitude comforting. Once his coronation is complete, his routine will once again change, and he's not quite ready for the next few hectic months.
For now…
He can just think. Look out over Thebes. To the Nile. To the Red Lands. His heart still aches with grief, but he manages it, thinking over all the people who depend on him. Naturally for a young man in love, his mind often wanders to that of his heart's desire…
"It's been so long since we've talked, and she either hasn't had nightmares or refuses to take me up on my offer,"he thinks, sighing while shifting his head to rest on his left hand. He's disappointed. How can he even attempt to court her when he's so busy? Making her sit through prayers and meetings that don't concern her wouldn't be right, and it wouldn't be genuine interaction anyway.
He jumps when heralded from behind.
"Your Eminence, how glorious this morning is and yet your face tells of troubles!"
"O-oh, Siamun! Itisa fair morning. My mind is merely… elsewhere. While it can be," Atem admits, smiling weakly to the old vizier. Siamun joins him at the edge of the balcony to look out over the city. He doesn't let the breeze accentuate the silence between them for long.
"Your thoughts trail to the warrior woman, One-Sent-By-Re Lady Bali, do they not? Your father often spoke favorably of the match. It is, after all, highly unusual for a man your age and standing to be without a wife as it is, and such a capable candidate has surely caught your attention," he says, amusement and nostalgia steeped in his voice. Although Atem's face has flushed at being called out once more, he nods.
"His blessing was given before I knew my own heart on the matter. But," he clenches his fists and glares at his feet, "I can't seem to find the courage. Her life has been… tumultuous. If I were of normal status, not fated for this, my reservations would be fewer."
Siamun glances at the young regent in surprise.
"You think she is unfit to be queen?"
Atem shoots his gaze up in a panic.
"No, honestly it's not that, but… A queen has many roles that I know she may not be ready for, or expectations that she can't fulfill in the eyes of the governors or high priests."
His explanation is met with a thoughtful pause.
Siamun then chuckles, confusing Atem greatly.
"Your thoughts run on mere assumptions. This world of order, maintained by the gods, all rests on the shoulders of Ma'at. While you undoubtedly know this, it is imperative that each of us understand its importance in communicating with each other and allowing ourselves to trust in Ma'at as well. Your thoughts are chaotic. Bring Ma'at, bringtruthto them, and you will find the order you seek."
The old vizier doesn't turn to leave, instead waiting and watching as Atem processes the words. When he sees that the young man is still unsure, Siamun gestures gently for his attention again.
"Love is rare in the consideration of a marriage in the royal line, Your Eminence. I would not, and never will, dare to speak for One-Sent-By-Re and of what she appears to feel, but she is an extraordinary woman that has proven to be a most powerful ally and most cherished friend to you. She will listen. She will not fail you."
It is with these words that Siamun trundles away with a knowing hum.
"A subtle hint, and perhaps a toe beyond appropriate, but I am vizier for a reason! It is unfortunate, my old friend, that you parted ways before saving us this drama and ordering the marriage."
Siamun chuckles to himself as he exits the apartments that now belong to Atem, wiping a stray tear from his eye as he continues on.
Thebes is once again burgeoning as governors, traders, and every important figurehead in between arrives, servants in tow. More business, more faces, more colors, more excitement! The busiest time of year throughout the Black Lands has nearly arrived, but first a most important celebration must take place!
All throughout the city the medjay patrol, each group with one magician, keeping order in the flurry of activity. More people means more thieves, more opportunity for fights to break out, and a slew of criminals have already been caught for trial at a later date. The more serious offenders will face the entire high court and Millennium Items, while lesser criminals and first-time offenders will face priests of Ma'at, headed by Akhenaden and Seth.
Bali is part of it all now. She attends prayers and dinners with the incoming aristocracy, where her heart leaps into her throat and her mood soars at obtaining a mere glance of Atem. She is seated too far away for them to interact more than a subtle nod or smile. Once, she thought he winked at her. It's enough to reassure her that she isn't far from his mind.
It hasn't escaped her notice that there are an uncanny number of women joining their tables as well. Women of high rank are dressed as luxuriously as possible according to their status, although none seem to hold advantage over another when it comes to Atem's attention. He is always surrounded by his guardians and medjay, his audiences always with older men and women of rank. None pay her any mind, either unaware of her reputation or not caring. Seeing as their entertainment isn't her priority, Bali lets it slide.
But whenever she isn't doing the myriad other events she's thrown herself into, she dances. Bali practices with Djosere and the dancers, with Mana outside of lessons, with her maids in her room, and by herself in the sanctuary.
After a few hours her first day, her apprehension at learning melted away.
The lead dancer, Peu, was well aware of her training as a warrior and used it to their advantage. The footwork was similar, and maintaining proper balance was easier in this heart-felt, praising style. In fact, the only clear downfall Bali has after her bountiful practice is her attitude.
Try as she might, her enthusiasm doesn't encapsulate the proper spirit according to Peu.
"You have been in fierce battles, you are One-Sent-By-Re! You are already the inspiration for two war dances and several ballads, and yet you struggle to show your heart when you enter our sphere of expression. Every emotion should show in your movement, it is obvious that they do not."
Bali's temper flares as she finishes mocking the dancer in the solitude of her room. She's grateful for her lessons and the advice, but Peu is insistent to the point that both of them are getting too frustrated to maintain polite conversation. Now, back in her room for the evening, she heatedly wonders if that, despite being far and away better at this style of dance, it's a waste of her time.
"I concentrate and I put my mind to it, I don't understand what she wants from me, I'm enjoying myself!"
"Lady Bali?"
She turns from sulking on a lounge chair to greet Mana.
"Hey, this is a surprise visit. Did Mahad send you?"
A smile briefly flashes across the magician's lips as she shakes her head.
"Peu and I were talking and we both came to an agreement over something, and I don't like talking behind people's backs so I'm here to tell you what we talked about. It's sad when people don't take Ma'at to heart as much as they say they do," she rambles, taking Bali's stunned silence as an invitation to sit down next to her.
"Right, Ma'at… I know I've probably been difficult for you and the rest lately," Bali admits, throwing her an apologetic look.
"You haven't at all! I can tell you really like what we're doing and you're putting all of your might into what you're doing. You are enjoying it, right?"
"Well, yeah. I mean... " Bali trails off, unsure whether she can say her next words to Mana or not. Only Atem is aware of anything specific about her past. Mana has proven a trustworthy friend, hasn't she…?
Bali sighs.
"I'm not great at feminine tasks, Mana. It's not that I never wanted to do them, but the things I wanted to do sort of required that I be really good at men's work. My practice in things like music and embroidery and cooking took a back seat. But you were right to drag me into dancing, so thanks for that," she explains, deciding not to make it a pity party. It's still the truth, after all.
"I understand! Ever notice how many female magic practitioners there are?" Mana responds, finger up to enhance her matter-of-factness. Bali slowly nods, trying to think of any other magicians. While Isis and her mother can use the Millennium Necklace, neither practice general spellwork. She sits back and feels a whole new appreciation for the young woman beside her.
"It's just you, and you're the best of all the students too."
Mana scratches the back of her head sheepishly.
"Aw thanks, but it did take a lot of work to get where I am. I used to be teased a lot when I was first brought up here to learn because I'm clumsy and forgetful. Master Mahad and Atem helped me see that it's better to be myself and enjoy life instead of worry about being better than the boys just because I'm a girl. And here I am! I still have a lot of work to do to become truly elite, but if I'm not enjoying myself, I just don't see the point," she says, swinging her legs out.
"I think I see what you mean. But did you have something to say about your conversation with Peu?"
This question makes her friend squeak. Suddenly, Mana seems a bit too nervous. Bali raises an eyebrow.
"Mana…?"
"Well… We were talking about why you just aren't getting the right feel in dancing, and we talked about how you're great friends with all of us, especially Atem. And I guess she had it in mind from the start but the information just proved that you'll be, uh… performing for him at the coronation…?"
Mana peeks up at her friend with a meekness she's never shown before in her life. Although Bali has never once threatened her or gotten angry at her, the rumors of her toughness and rage aren't things Mana desires to see for herself.
Thankfully, Bali's face has instead paled and her hands are clenched at her sides. No sign of being mad.
"Perform… Perform?! How will that bring out my emotions into my dancing, if anything the pressure will just make me worse!"
For the first time in their friendship, Mana is amazed to see the often sarcastic, witty, straightforward woman complaining like a regular person. Instead of being disheartened, a small part of the magician can't help but think that it's comforting to know that Bali isn't so cold and perfect.
"Although her goodness and kindness were kinda proven when Atem decided to be friends with her in the first place. Master Mahad must know a lot more about her too,"Mana thinks, settling with herself that she will endeavor in the future to learn more about her.
"I'll be there too! We all know that Atem is super nice, even if you make a mistake no one would dare laugh at you. Everyone's heard the stories of your bravery in Ebla," she comforts, spreading her hands with a grin. Bali looks nonplussed.
"Peu is crazy. I don't see what difference it will make," she scoffs, frowning so deeply that Mana can't keep from giggling.
"Oh stop!" Bali snaps, but it only encourages her friend. The infectious sound chips away at Bali's bad mood and soon both young women are laughing, spurred on by each other.
Once both have calmed slightly, Mana wipes tears from her eyes and clears her throat.
"I dunno why that was so funny, but the face you made! I don't think you have to worry though Bali. I think thatyou'rethinking too much. Just let the chaos in your thoughts fade away and you'll get your heart into dancing. Think about how much it'll mean to Atem to see that you're enjoying yourself with something that isn't related to fighting!"
It doesn't take much for Bali to imagine. Atem will be thrilled. He liked hearing about her trials and mishaps with embroidery, so how could this be any different? Besides, she'smuchbetter at dancing than needlework.
On impulse, the warrior flings her arms around the magician.
"You're the best, Mana. Thank you. I'll make it work"
While surprised at the uncharacteristic act, Mana returns the embrace tightly.
"Anytime, Bali. I know it's rough not having Atem to talk to, but I'm always here for you, even during busy seasons."
The women draw back from each other.
Just as she observed between Atem and Mana when she first met them, Bali begins to see the same form of relationship between herself and the magician: A sister.
Notes:
My advice of Ma'at, that Siamun and Mana use, I truly extend to all of you. Communicate with your friends and family, and be passionate in what you do, and you'll find peace when your mind is erratic. Ma'at is not only a goddess, but a standard to live by.
All my love to you, friends.
Chapter 24: The Great House
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Getting up this morning is a main problem for Bali, as she's feeling extreme regret for getting drunk again. Her dinner group last night included Seth, and both, of course, argued over proper procedure of criminal justice to the point that it took both Siamun and Akhenaden to pull them away from each other. Lucky for them that most guests found it amusing. In her tipsy state, her bad mood faded away when she caught a glimpse of Atem with a knowing smirk on his face directed squarely at her.
"Lady Bali, it's time to get up! It's the first day of harvest, and you're too important to skip out! His Majesty has been in meditation and prayer for hours already for his coronation, the least you can do is look beautiful for when you dance later!" Su chirps frantically, having gone back to her normal self, with thanks to counsel from Mery, and the flow of time. Bali groans and sits up, rubbing her face slowly. Up onto her feet she stands.
"Right. Time to get dressed then," she mopes, and makes her way to the washroom. Mery intercepts her to push a tonic into her hands.
"From Master Mahad by order of His Majesty. He says it will help with your hangover," she explains, taking in her mistress' puzzled look. Bali doesn't need another word as she pulls the stopper and gulps it down. After swallowing, she gasps with a look of disgust.
"That was gross beyond all reason." Despite the lingering vile taste, however, she begins to feel better within minutes.
Washed up and outfitted in a new dress embroidered in gold thread with accompanying white stones set in her jewelry, Bali waits for her escort to the festivities to arrive. While hoping that it isn't Seth, she reads on a cushion to keep her thoughts calm just in case. A knock sounds. Before her maids can answer for her, she springs up and rushes to the door. The maids, at the entrance to the washroom, look to each other in surprise. They've never seen her so excited before.
"Perhaps she has jitters before her performance today? I'm surprised she even agreed to wear the outfit Peu chose for her," Su comments, keeping her voice low. Mery smiles.
"The story is that she was sent by the gods to learn. She's learning."
...
Crowds squeeze into the outer palace grounds, waiting. Soon they will see their new leader, the most divine king of the mortal plane, where his throne name and banner will be revealed. The double crown will rest on the head of a most beloved man, their savior, a magical savant, and their link to commune with the gods. Songs of praise and frivolity waft through the air, sometimes mixing together with the general murmur of the people. The medjay stand posted around, ready to keep the peace and protect should something go wrong.
Inside the throne room, the highest ranking of Egypt's aristocracy, the governors, noble representatives from allied kingdoms, and the guardian priests of the court all wait for the high priests of the Theban temples to arrive with the regent in tow.
To Bali, it's a scene she and her teacher had only ever dreamt about seeing before. To be engulfed in this point in time and be close to it all is a greater privilege than she formerly believed she could achieve. There at the front, standing with the guardians next to Mahad, her sword on her hip, a war hero and a friend to the throne…
" Mom, if you're still watching, I'm sure it's one hell of a show," she thinks, taking a quick deep breath to steady her nerves. Although she still has a few hours before her performance, the pressure has already been tearing at her mind.
Then…
Drums.
Four deafening blasts to silence the room before other percussive instruments join in to play a prelude beat. Sistra, tambourines, and varied sizes of hand drums all complement each other with a fervent excitement that matches the atmosphere of the room.
All watch on as a priestess processes in with a sistrum in her hand and a menit draped around her neck. The drums halt, and just as their echoing finishes ringing in everyone's ears, the priestess begins to sing. Powerful words, enforcing the magnitude of the event.
" He who created life
His son walks the earth in his stead
Son of Re, our lord and uniter of kingdoms in the great house…"
A chorus joins in of equally powerful voices from priests who have marched in, all lining up at the edges of the room.
Bali sucks in a breath, trying to calm the goosebumps she's getting from the singing.
" There he is!"
With eyes narrowed in focus, hair impressively tucked into the double crown, symbolic goatee strapped to his chin, and arms crossed over his chest with ceremonial crook and flail, Atem makes an impressive sight. Blue, gold, and white are the prime colors used in his clothing, all of his jewelry is gold and lapis, with the subtle accents of red throughout at hems and in the pectoral. He slowly makes his way to stand in front of the throne, and turns to face them all. His facial expression, one of serious determination, never wavers. His eyes stay up over the crowd.
Bali feels a sort of pride, seeing him stand above them all. She can't tear her eyes away.
Prayers begin. For safety. Longevity. Fortune. Victory.
Every possible praise of his bravery and poise and beauty and power.
Atem stands and hears it all without one flinch to betray any emotion beneath the surface.
He is as a statue, until the High Priest of Amun begins a recitation in which Atem powerfully responds.
"You, O Great House, divine of blood and spirit who walks this earth, uphold Ma'at for we of the Black Lands and all the world."
"To Ma'at I owe everything, and on her feather I swear loyalty."
"You, O Great House, divine of blood and spirit who walks this earth, uphold Ma'at in the image of the creator and those who walked before you as the sons of the creator."
"To Ma'at I owe everything, and on her feather I swear loyalty."
"You, O Great House Atem-Ma'at-Heka, shall invoke the sunrise each day and follow its light. The divine ones see your light and so recognize you as their family."
"I am Pharaoh Atem-Ma'at-Heka. The god-on-earth, the son of the creator. I take my place this day, the first day of harvest!"
Bali isn't the only one hanging onto every word that's said. The entire room is collectively still in awe and anticipation. The musicians begin again. The entire atmosphere erupts as cheers start and escalate into uproarious delight.
Pharaoh Atem. He stays still, and although his eyes are still held level above the crowd, his expression has softened into one of contentment.
She claps her hands to the beat, a wide grin spreading on her face. The strange sick feeling isn't really there, and is instead a deep warmth. The greatest friend she's ever had is now a king. Time slows around her as she wonders just how her life could become so beautiful.
Before he leaves them all to address the throngs of people outside, Pharaoh meets her gaze.
It is here that she begins to see…
"I shouldn't have agreed to this. How did you convince me to do this? Mana!"
The magician freezes in her place, a panicky smile on her face and hands up in feeble defense.
"Bali, you'll be fine! You've got everything down, even Djosere thinks so and he's a total party pooper of a conductor."
Bali, changed into an outfit similar to Mana's, messes with the hem of the short skirt. Her hair is tied back in ornamented pigtails. It's the perfect combination for Bali's status and for movement, chosen by Peu and expertly applied by her maids.
"What's this noise? You're almost loud enough for the audience to hear you."
Peu joins them with a severe hiss and glower that Bali automatically matches. Her sword may not be at her hip, but she seems just as dangerous without it to Mana. The magician watches with bated breath.
"You know, you never gave me an answer as to why I'm performing today. It'll reflect terribly on you if I mess up," Bali says, her tone as tight as the grip of her crossed arms. The dancer doesn't flinch.
"You won't. Once I set up this performance, your heart entered your dance, as I believed it would," Peu answers calmly, as if it's the most simple of things in the world. It only causes Bali to screw her face up in confusion. Peu waves her hand in dismissal.
"Don't waste your time on such negativity. Have confidence in your growth, if you didn't show you could handle the pressure I wouldn't have done it."
There are no moments left to question.
It's time.
… … …
Atem's day has been another trial in a series of trials of his endurance and sanity. With little downtime and sleep, he's relieved that soon the coronation celebrations will be over and he can focus on his reign, which includes his plans to court Bali. Siamun's advice didn't fall on deaf ears. The only thing that truly matters, bottom line, is that she learns how much he cares for her. Although a refusal of his affections would hurt, the truth is better for everyone.
He sips from his beer and staves back a yawn. A banquet in his honor is underway with the most exclusive of guests attending. Musicians are performing all night, and the atmosphere is jovial and straightforward. The roar of praise and applause from the general public earlier still rings in his ears, lending him a note of contentment despite his weariness.
The only person curiously missing from this is Bali. While she can't be seated near him yet, he still enjoyed at least seeing her and having their small interactions at dinner. But she's nowhere, and strangely none of his friends will tell him what's happening other than vague facts about her being busy. In fact, Isis and her hardly masked giddiness seemed most suspicious, and he wonders if his friends are in on some giant joke.
He tunes out the dull murmurs around him, staring into his cup before the drums start up again. He doesn't bother to look up until all conversation stops. He flicks his eyes around to see a general sense of awe. Finally he rests his gaze on the sole dancer taking the floor.
Entranced.
How can he be anything but?
His best friend, the one he's come to love, looks stunning and absolutely radiant as she dances. Each movement is perfect, but it's something more subtle that catches his attention.
The twirls, the hand gestures, the graceful footwork.
The scars. The tattoos. The body of a fighter.
Through the concentration and steady expression, he can see true happiness. He admires this spirit, this utterly feminine side of her that she's finally showing the world. Atem's smile subconsciously spreads on his face, to the notice of quite a few nobles who have turned to see his reaction. Most are now keen on figuring out who this woman is. Atem doesn't hear the small whispers, too enraptured.
Their eyes meet a few times, all of them igniting sparks within them both. He's so happy for her, and she enjoys every moment that his eyes are on her.
Then, with one last twirl and an artistic flourish of her arms upward, the dance is over. Applause follows, Bali keeping her final position for a few seconds before bowing to show respect and gratitude to her audience. When she lifts, her eyes meet his once more, searching for approval. He gives it in the form of a warm smile and a dip of his head in return, unwittingly tipping off to others in the room that the two share a bigger connection than ever established.
Mahad hears more than one wife turn to their husband to mutter in slight distress. He frowns slightly, already knowing exactly what they're worried about. His king is yet unmarried. Many high-ranking single women traveled to the palace in the hopes to change that fact, especially in regards to being made Great Royal Wife.
Peu appears beside him, arms crossed with a smug expression. The master magician glances down to her curiously. The dancer notices, smile growing.
"I have my favorite menit and wig riding on this working, you know."
Mahad huffs in laughter and focuses his attention back on watching over the room for threats.
The light background music of the harp begins again, and Bali leaves unaware of the stir she's caused.
She didn't join back on the feast afterward. Instead, citing that she's tired and that dinner is nearly over anyway, she washes up and changes into her sleeping tunic. Once she dismisses her maids, she creeps from her room with a small loaf of bread in hand. After making sure of being alone, she pads down the hall barefoot, unadorned, and relishing the cooling night air.
Bali relaxes more and heaves a sigh of relief on entering her favorite sanctuary.
The reeds rustle in the breeze, the sanctuary's way of saying hello. She can hear a few other rustles that make her lips quirk as she takes a seat next to the river.
"Amenophus, here kitty!"
The strong moonlight doesn't uncover her cat, so she gives up calling for him. With nothing else to distract her, she thinks about what she saw in Atem's eyes earlier.
" It was so reminiscent of how Dr. O'Connell's husband looks at her. I wonder why, though," she ponders, thinking back on her teacher and her rough-and-tumble husband. While an odd pair, he was a big softy. He's responsible for a lot of her former knowledge on winning fistfights.
"I'm glad you decided not to break someone's foot this time around."
Bali jumps, having been so lost in thought that the new presence startled her badly.
Atem laughs at her reaction, taking a seat next to her as she slaps his shoulder with the back of her hand. He's also dressed in a simple tunic, with none of his adornments or sandals. Except the mystical Millennium Puzzle, of course.
"Shouldn't you still be entertaining all your noble friends? They are the ones most likely to try and usurp you," she quips, shifting so she can look at him easier. He leans back on his hands with a coy expression.
"What a negative thing to say on my first night of being Pharaoh."
"Sorry. Force of habit to be cynical."
He grins.
"Or maybe you're just protective?"
Bali grimaces, but makes it over-the-top so he knows it's in jest.
"But in all seriousness," Atem starts, calming his chuckles. She straightens slightly, wondering if it's bad news.
"After your infamous altercation with Seth over dancing, I never thought I'd catch you doing so. Well, at least not performing for such a high-profile audience. What changed?"
Bali takes in his words and keeps from shrugging.
" What did change? Nothing really changed, did it?"
She peers at him as he waits intently for her answer.
" ... Did it…?"
"I told you I wanted to learn how to dance. I know it's been hectic but I know I told you. Peu just thought that I was good enough for something like this, I guess."
Even she feels a bit disappointed with that answer, even though it's the truth. Earlier during the performance, she had been the center of attention for a good reason, for something positive that she enjoyed.
"... I seem to also recall that you would teach me a dance from your time, because you wanted to teach someone something," he says, smirking in triumph at her confused frown. She tries to remember that part of the conversation, but Atem distracts her by standing and holding out a hand to her.
"We have time right now, and no one knows we're here. Teach me."
Just like most of their interactions, she finds she can't resist much and takes his hand. Once up on her feet, she clenches her hands and glances around nervously.
"Sort of hard without music, and I warn you that this type of dancing is what I'm terrible at so don't get mad when I accidentally step on your toes," she says, shaking out her hands before setting them out palm upward and motioning for him to take them. He does, nodding and assuring her that he won't get angry.
"So, I mean it can be danced like this but usually your right arm goes around my middle and it can be slow or fast or my hand is up on your shoulder," she rambles, words tumbling by fast. Atem tilts his head to the side wondering if people from Bali's time often have difficulties with something so natural as dancing.
"Bali, it's okay. Our hands are together. What's next?"
And so, she begins her attempt.
Her instructions switch between fuzzy verbal memory, frequently forgetting that she's supposed to be teaching him how to lead, and strange hops on her own to try and remember how it even goes.
After several minutes of confusion and bumping into each other, she gives in.
"Shit, and here I thought I could remember how it went," she moans, crossing her arms and placing her weight back on one foot. Atem chuckles.
"It's okay. I'm not surprised you can't recall it, it took being practically pointed out to you that I was the Crown Prince, after all."
"Your Divine Kingly Godliness, it's not very polite to insult someone after going so long without being around them," she shoots back, sticking out her tongue for good measure afterward.
"My apologies, then. However, I don't think I'm ready to give up just yet," he says, drawing close. She scrunches her face in question, but it immediately switches to shock as he wraps his left arm around her lower back and takes hold of her left hand with his right.
He makes sure to keep her gaze, finding it difficult. Her lips. Parted slightly in her surprise, they beg for even a moment's closer inspection.
"You were mimicking this stance while trying to remember. This is the correct position, is it not?"
All Bali can do is nod dumbly, closing her mouth that's suddenly gone dry.
"And I lead. Sometimes it's better to just go and figure it out along the way. You tend to do that with most things, like sneaking into an enemy camp on a whim," he teases, earning a glower.
"Hey, I saw a window of opportunity and I took it. Everything turned out okay."
He only rolls his eyes and counts them off.
A bit of stumbling, a couple curses from Bali, and a falter later, both find a rhythm and go with it. Laughter begins when they move in opposite directions, throwing them off balance. Bali steps on his feet. Atem steps on hers. They slow to a halt, too engrossed in laughter to keep going.
Leaning on each other and still teetering, both begin to calm with a couple deep breaths.
Atem rests his forehead on hers. Bali feels those strange jitters once again, but it's a good feeling.
"You are, without a doubt, the strangest woman I've ever met. Thank you," he mumbles. Before she can respond, he lifts his head and kisses her forehead. He draws back after a few seconds, so calm and gentle and completely unaware that her heart is roaring in her ears.
"We should get to sleep. You remember that you can come to me when you have nightmares or anything like that?"
The moon perfectly illuminates the stern look on his face, and she soothes her heart so she can look properly ashamed.
"They're not so bad, and you've been so busy that bothering you seems like a rather assholish thing to do," she replies as they turn to head back to their rooms.
"My offer always stands. Letting your troubles build up only to explode later isn't a great way to live, I've seen how it hurts you."
"But I can probably find someone else to talk to, still. I can't believe you even snuck out here to see me, I would've taken the time to catch up on sleep."
He huffs a little, lightly elbowing her.
"As important as you are to me, I didn't sneak out to see you. It was pure coincidence," he teases, and she returns his elbow with greater force.
"I'll never overestimate you again," Bali chides.
They continue in small talk all the way to her room, where he stops her from going in right away.
"Bali… You don't hate Egypt anymore?"
She shakes her head, grinning.
"No, I don't. Although," her smile fades, eyes cast to the side, "Getting back to my time, where I'm from, should still be my priority. I just don't think I want to anymore."
"Then don't go back. Obviously you were miserable there," he responds, a deep sense of dread settling in his chest at her words.
"I don't know what all Re has planned. I jumped headfirst into the Ebla conflict but that wasn't because of any directive from him, I was just impulsive. I don't know what I'm doing here anymore," she says, clenching her hands and looking guilty for bringing it up.
"I think he would've sent you back by now if you've fulfilled your purpose. So stay here, and don't think about going back anymore. Your home is here."
Her lips quirk up and she raises an eyebrow.
"Becoming Pharaoh has given you an extra air of imperiousness. Guess that's the easiest way of going forward anyway, and I deserve some simplicity, don't you think?"
He matches her expression.
"I agree. Now go get some sleep. At this point I'm wishing I did what you would have, and just gone to bed earlier," he snarks, deciding not to pull any impulsive stunts after already kissing her forehead before. He turns and begins to head to his apartments.
Bali, heart leaping into her throat and fingers tingling with nerves and mind blank of truly coherent thought, lurches forward and wraps her arms around his middle. She buries her face into his back.
"Congratulations, Pharaoh," she mutters, unable to say more.
More than hear, she can feel his small laugh.
"Thank you, Bali. Someday soon, I promise that you'll find a purpose here."
His words twirl around her mind all the way into her dreams.
Notes:
FUN FACT!: Dancing. Ahhhh dancing. Music and dancing were integral, wholly natural parts of Egyptian religion and daily life. Be they for war, interpretive, lyrical, symphonic, acrobatic, in prayer, or even just out of pure fun, Egyptians be dancing and singing all over the place. Symphonies (yes, symphonies) would be led by a conductor, called heset (a word that could also be used for "music", "dance", and so on.) Most dancers were women, but anyone could pursue it, and many dances required men too. Dancers never wore much in the way of clothing, as not only is it easier to move around, but it's strenuous work. Bodies weren't sexualized then (not in the same ways as today anyway), and generally upper class wouldn't strip down to dance as well because it was their nakedness that equated them to the poorer classes, and not because being nude was unseemly. There are records of Pharaoh dancing, of course.
Chapter 25: No More Secrets
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Women.
Lots.
Of.
Women.
All single, young, and from excellent families. All of them have a singular purpose in delaying their departure back home to visit the palace: Pharaoh. If one should somehow snag his attention, they could be Great Royal Wife. And even if he chooses one above the rest, he could take multiple wives, form his harem, or at least find favor with some for future relations of that sort. As in any competition, there are already forerunners. A couple ladies from the richest of noble families, a couple daughters of high-ranking priests, but the leader… The leader is a woman of the Lower Kingdom, daughter of a woman who could be a queen herself in more unstable times.
Hetepheres of Heliopolis, the beloved third daughter of Meresankh, stands as the next in her fabulously wealthy and dominant family to be married off. She is the favorite, being both beautiful and clever, with a knack for easily running her expansive household and lands her mother holds. No man has ever tempted her, and so marriage has been off the table the past few years of her adulthood.
So upper class is she, that she and her mother were in attendance at the feast where one singular dancer noticeably caught Pharaoh's attention. With her high priest father having passed on three inundations ago, Hetepheres always dreamed of doing her mother prouder than ever, and as the estate would be passed to her, it meant doing what her mother told her to do. Her mother raised her gently and kindly, giving her everything she always wanted alongside her siblings. As whispers grew of the eligibility of Crown Prince Atem, of his hesitancy to take a wife, the more her mother began to imagine Hetepheres as greater than just nobility.
"You must not give in just because of some dancer. Most likely he is wishing for a concubine, it is normal. You would be most suited of any woman here to be Great Royal Wife, as Pharaoh must marry a most noble line such as ours."
This is the consolation she received once the feast was done.
Hetepheres understands the desire her mother holds for her. Pressure is nothing new. But to attempt wooing the handsome, powerful Pharaoh himself when he's thus far forsaken marriage? It's a monumental challenge. Her only brush with royalty before was an invite to dance and sing with Princess Itet years ago. At the time, Itet often crowed about becoming Great Royal Wife one day, but that proved to be false.
"Is it true, Rere? The rumors about Pharaoh being enamored with a dancer?"
Hetepheres shoots her favorite servant a warning look, though it melts into a small smile when she looks apologetic for her mistake. Aasa has been her close friend for years, making it difficult for her to use her real name rather than her nickname.
"It is, but mother isn't worried. You know my opinion already," she responds, taking the offered cup of wine. Her mother already set off for home to oversee harvest on their lands.
Aasa rolls her eyes, saying, "You won't be heartbroken if you don't end up married, I get it. You're so smart and beautiful though, and all the ladies think thatyourmeeting with Pharaoh went the best. You've caught his attention for sure."
"It was one meeting, Aasa," she counters, exasperated, "There's another woman that the palace servants are talking about, the one from the stories about Ebla."
"You mean the One-Sent-From-Re? She's probably not even real, and those stories are always exaggerated."
Hetepheres shushes her friend urgently.
"You will get in so much trouble for saying things like that, she is seen as a goddess of victory, she is the reason we are at peace! I'm ready to order you to make an offering to her for being rude."
"Maybe I will! The palace servants all but adore her but won't point out who she is. Apparently it's supposed to be obvious," Aasa shoots back, refilling the wine cup as is her current duty.
"Then I'll ask for a meeting with her, how about that? I'll have you serve us for lunch and I can prove to you that One-Sent-From-Re Bali is walking among us," Hetepheres snaps, calling for another servant to deliver her message for an audience.
"Do you want to make a bet on whether she's real, what she looks like, or…?" Aasa mutters, grinning as she finally gets Hetepheres to laugh.
… … …
"So what you're telling me is… what exactly?"
Mery and Su exchange a glance, Su trying not to laugh.
"Lady Hetepheres of Heliopolis is an honored noble guest and extends an invitation to lunch, as I previously stated."
Bali sits back, confused. No one has really paid her any mind this entire time, mostly because she's been so busy. Now she's beginning to wonder if no one cared because they believed she was just another noble daughter visiting for the festivities.
"Why am I getting attention all of a sudden? If anything they should be vying for Atem's attention, he's the one who doesn't have a wife."
Mery crooks an eyebrow as Su turns away to hold in her glee.
"If you treated me any differently I would never dare say this, but Lady Bali you, too, are technically without a wife," the maid says, voice level.
"Oh you know what I meant. Fine, I guess I'll see this lady then. She's probably a lot like Itet, I can handle it. Go give her my acceptance."
Once the deed is done and Bali is gone to her mid-morning training, her maids sit and have a discussion over the unprecedented invitation.
"At least she's caught on that all these ladies are here trying to get Pharaoh's attention. I'm glad she's notthatdense," Su chatters, merrily scrubbing at a sheet in the maids' quarters. Mery is beside her mending clothes.
"And yet she is still so blind to Pharaoh's affections and to what she feels. He can't hold out forever, even Master Siamun's patience will cease and his marriage will be arranged. I wonder what happened to make her like this," Mery comments, and her young cohort glances at her curiously.
"What do you mean?"
Mery's fingers go up to the wooden charm around her neck, and Su's eyes fill with sympathy.
"We know she's had a difficult life before Almighty Re placed her here, but we don't know specifics. As smart as she is, Lady Bali must believe that no one will ever love her again."
"Again…?"
"It's just a theory." Mery drops her hand and snaps back into her work. Su shrugs, but furrows her eyebrows in thought.
After a few minutes of silent work, Su pipes up again.
"Maybe we should try and talk to her about it….?"
The idea, at first, sends shivers down their spines. While she's never raised a hand against them or threatened them, Bali's anger is now legendary. She hasn't been mad as often, but when she is, it's more intense than ever. She stubbed her toe on furniture just the week before and slammed the bowl of fruit she carried on the ground. Her yell had been guttural and nasty. She apologized for the mess immediately afterward, and looked strangely astonished at her actions, but what's done is done.
"If you try, I'd like to be there and watch to see what happens."
Every mental image Hetepheres came up with for Lady Bali turned out to be dead wrong.
Unsettling green eyes. Natural, long, crow black hair. Tattoos on the insides of her wrists of the medjay and Almighty Re. Minor scars dotting her skin. Major scars on her back.
And that's not even touching the fact that she'sstacked as strong as the pyramids themselves.
At first sight, Hetepheres earns a subtle surprised expression from Aasa, as the lady's jaw has dropped. While mumbling pleasantries and trying not to gawk, the noble feels heat rise to her cheeks. Pharaoh Atem had been polite and even charming, but even his good looks and manners hadn't elicited such a response. No man ever has.
"This is insanity!"she thinks, pushing away from the myriad of feelings rushing her.
"Miss, are you okay? You're not put off by this thing, are you?" Bali gestures to the sword laying beside her cushion.
"Oh no, not at all! To be perfectly honest it befits someone praised as a goddess of victory. You are entirely befitting, actually," Hetepheres says, inwardly cursing herself for becoming so suddenly awkward in front of such a powerful figure. But the midriff-baring outfit Bali is wearing shows off such a beautifully toned stomach, how does anyone evengetmuscles like that, and her arms are so–!
"Right. I've been told I have a couple of war dances now after the conflict with Ebla, and actually this sword is from the slain king," Bali starts, and rounds off into some vague details about her adventures, darting around saying Hutsat's name. Her conversation partner hangs onto her words, but not really because she's interested in the details of Ebla.
"Even if she weren't a goddess she'd still be a goddess." It takes every ounce of her training and well-bred mannerisms for Hetepheres to not crinkle her nose at her thoughts. Aasa leans in quickly while serving her some beer.
"Hey, are you okay? We've been here long enough to prove that Bali is real, you can leave if you need to," she whispers, but Hetepheres subtly shakes her head. Aasa leans back with a sigh.
Once Bali's rendition of the story is finished, the noble thanks her for it and decides to learn about the warrior woman in an attempt to quiet the strange new thoughts in her head.
"Lady Bali, One-Sent-From-Re, you are so obviously important and beloved here in the palace and yet I did not see you at the feast the night before last," she says, wishing she didn't sound so haughty. Bali pops a grape into her mouth and spits the seed to her other side.
"I was busy that night, and after being at so many feasts lately, I was sure Ate-Pharaoh would excuse me from at least one," she replies easily, taking no offense from the implication.
"Oh, it is too bad though. My mother and I are fortunate to have excellent lineage that allowed us to be present. She is very sure that I'm the best candidate as his future wife, as are several of our friends."
She didn't mean to sound so miserable when she said it, but it doesn't seem that Bali caught onto it anyway as she's suddenly choking on her beer. While she recovers, Hetepheres and Aasa glance at each other in concern. It seems too coincidental.
"Sorry, sorry! I'm fine. But you said you're the frontrunner?" Bali's tone has an edge to it that doesn't escape the two other women.
Hetepheres looks demurely down into her lap to act coy and evade having to see the intense stare of Bali's supernaturally green eyes.
"I was allowed a meeting with him some days ago, through some pulling of strings. We held a good conversation for half an hour, he was very pleasant. The others say he was fairly distant with them, although polite. We talked of Heliopolis, about the best time of year to visit, and about Queen Itet of Ebla. It seems he has designs to visit the Lower Kingdom once harvest has finished," she explains, glancing up quickly to attempt getting a read. After a few moments of staredown, Bali relinquishes to gaze out over the balcony and into the sky.
Bali is in turmoil. She's always known that, as Pharaoh, Atem needs a bride. In fact, he's even encouraged to have more than one. And a harem to boot should he desire! But it was all conjecture, there was no woman standing out before that was being presented to him. Itet had been the closest, but things were different back then.
"I just can't see him with anyone else but… anyone else… but…"
Bali's eyes widen at a small revelation, looking suddenly shaken, face paling.
"Anyone else butme!" she whispers, although it's loud enough for the other two to hear. Once again Aasa dips down to make sure her friend doesn't want to leave. Once again, Hetepheres decides to stick it out.
"Ah, well there is no done arrangement yet," she starts, and the warrior turns back to her, seemingly just remembering that she's with company. "At the feast the other night, he was enraptured with a singular nameless dancer that performed for us. My mother told me she's nothing to worry about, but it was still striking. Do you know of this story already?"
Both noble lady and servant are taken aback when the warrior gets flustered. Bali clenches her hands, peering around as her face becomes redder and redder. Her mind is still flooded with alarm over her discovery, and now this topic of conversation has added even more chaos.
Hetepheres secretly gushes at how strangely adorable the behavior is.
"Oh I…Iwas the dancer. I don't blame you for not recognizing me then," Bali peeps, feeling frustrated at her sudden bashfulness.
"Truly? You were marvelous, and now that you've said it I see the similarities…" Hetepheres trails off, the atmosphere turning tense and awkward.
Bali stands abruptly.
"My apologies for leaving like this, but I have many… many many troubles I need to sort through. Right now. Thank you for the meal, your service was excellent," Bali nods to Aasa with a wooden expression, "I hope the rest of your stay in Thebes is pleasant."
With one quick dip of her head, she marches off and away. Shaken by the whirlwind closure to their meeting, Hetepheres enjoys watching her go, and how her graceful, powerful legs keep moving as they do, and that's not to mention that amazing bu–
"Rere, will you stop staring? What's gotten into you? That was the weirdest thing I've ever seen," Aasa grumbles, interrupting the dream state Hetepheres has ascended into. She creases her brow and frowns from her dazed half smile. Suddenly, there are many… many many troubles that Hetepheres needs to sort through for herself. Aasa blinks when her friend sighs.
"I think I am now aware of why no man has been able to tempt me, Aasa."
Aasa's breath hitches, heart beginning to race. She's always had a feeling, ahope...
"It took seeing aliteralgoddess-on-earth, it makes sense."
Hetepheres looks up to her friend with nervous tears in her eyes.
"I want to go home Aasa, but mother will be furious that I refuse to continue on here."
Aasa kneels down with a gentle smile that reaches her dark eyes that are framed by such long lashes now that Hetepheres really looks… Her servant puts bracing hands on her shoulders that are more comforting than the shade at noon and lullabies on the wind and a spoonful of honey and Rere's running out of metaphors for this.
"Your mother loves you Rere, no matter who you are. There are plenty of women who love women, and men who love men. On the extremely low chance that she throws you out for abandoning your pursuit of Pharaoh, I will quit and stay with you," Aasa soothes.
"But I won't have anything to pay you, not unless I go to court against her, and I don't know if I could," Hetepheres protests, only to be shushed.
"I don't need pay. If staying with you was about pay, I would've already left for a more lucrative job somewhere else."
There's silence as Hetepheres mulls over the words. It visibly dawns on her exactly what Aasa is saying.
… As both board a northbound boat the next day, they hold hands tightly, unafraid of what the future may hold.
… … …
One-Sent-By-Re Bali has no such luck. Blunt and confrontational by nature, and yet still spectacularly out-of-sorts, she paces the halls wondering what to do.
Wondering why.
How.
When.
Even worse: Would he even want her after hearing of her certain inadequacy to beanyone'swife?
She can't keep that a secret from him. No secrets, none. This one has never come up before because…
Bali snarls at herself and goes back to her room after some passerby start whispering to each other.
Mery and Su are on alert as soon as she enters. Although much of her visible irritation melts away, she remains agitated by something. Finally, after they watch her circle the room waiting for a request, she sits on her bed and puts her head in her hands. She briefly glances up at the vase where the magicked flower still sits, pristine.
"... I need help…"
The two maids look at each other in surprise, and back to her.
"Help with what, Lady Bali?" Mery ventures.
"... Forget it." Bali sighs. Out the door she goes, her mind intent on retrieving Bit and going for a head-clearing ride.
The two maids remain in the room, wondering what exactly went so wrong at her meeting with the Heliopolis noblewoman.
It's evening. The dinner party has slimmed to a few nobles due to the urgency of returning to harvest, and most of the single women cut their losses and went home. All are ready to eat once the musicians finish the last dance. Now they play in the background, light melodies that won't interfere with conversation.
Bali sits down and away from Atem, her grumpy excuse being that she desires to talk to someone else for once.
"I see you're avoiding his highness," Seshat states point blank, causing the brooding woman to spritz her wine all over the person across from her: Priest Seth. Bali doesn't apologize and ignores the priest as she turns to the older woman on her right.
"I'm not avoiding anybody, I'm just talking to different people for a change!" she exclaims, but Seshat's stern look breaks the defense easily. If Bali were at full thinking capacity, she'd notice how amused the priestess is. Instead, the great One-Sent-By-Re sighs in defeat.
"Oh, I don't know what's wrong with me. You and Isis told me that everything would turn out to be fine but it keeps getting worse. I realized something today, and well… Even he doesn't know everything about my past yet," she explains, feeling ashamed for being unsure and anxious. Seth snickers, having overheard while wiping off his face.
"You know, you may act like you're smart but you have one of the thickest skulls I've ever seen."
She gets ready to throw a grape at him for his scoff until Seshat scolds him herself.
"Priest Seth, you leave matters like that alone! You can behave better than that," she says, looking every ounce the mother that she is. Bali stares up at her in awe as Seth sniffs and turns into a different conversation beside him. Seshat returns her attention to Bali.
"I have a feeling this is something you need to talk about sooner rather than later. Come, we can take a small supper later," she suggests, rising from her seat. Bali stumbles up after her, stuttering that it didn't have to be now but going along with it anyway.
Atem watches them leave from the head of the room.
"Siamun, is something wrong?"
His old vizier shakes his head, already aware that Seshat meant to sit Bali down and get her true feelings realized.
"Lady Bali requires a female confidant, and from the reports of her storming around the palace, I must say the problem couldn't wait. Seshat will resolve it, my king."
Still worried, but with a duty to stay as host, Atem returns to listening to his guests. Polite and now subdued. Siamun figures that Atem will learn how to put on an impeccable mask of indifference as his reign goes on.
Seshat and Bali are in the private gardens. Still silent as Bali collects her thoughts.
"Continuing to overthink things will not help. Tell me what has you distressed," Seshat prods quietly.
After a few more moments of looking completely unsure of what to say, Bali throws her hands up.
"I'm not even sure! A noblewoman from Heliopolis requested a lunch meeting with me, she told me she was frontrunner for becoming Atem's first wife or something, and I dunno, something in me just slapped me in the face. I know he needs to get married, but for some reason I thought at that moment that he's supposed to stay with me, but I'm just his friend, and he'll never get past everything that makes me ineligible as a candidate anyway!"
Onward she goes, no tears, voice raising sometimes, getting up to pace and then sitting back down. It's apparent to Seshat that this issue isn't traumatic for her, but worrisome all the same.
It started at fourteen, right about to finish her schooling as a prodigy and one of her teachers was soniceto her. At first it was praise of her work and then it was praise of her looks and there were gifts and then kisses and then more… It took seeing him with his wife and children one day to shock her from the dream she was in. No love, she wasjust fourteen. He threatened to get her expelled after she tried to leave, but her father had people everywhere looking out for her. Her teacher was dealt with, she doesn't know how. It was the only somewhat "kind" action her father ever did for her, although she knows it was only to keep from his political pursuits being sullied. From then on she focused on her work.
"I'm over it, it really doesn't cause me distress, but I know it's frowned upon everywhere I go so I never talk about it. I'm not a virgin, I never wanted to ever get married in the first place, I could have flings and that's it, but everything that's cropped up with with with Atem isnotjust a fling! There are times of overlapping feelings but it's just not the same and I don't know what it is and it frustrates and scares me!"
Seshat patiently sat listening to the story.
"My dear, you have a lifetime of hurt and I see even more why Almighty Re sent you here. Pharaoh is your best friend, and he will not fail you should you tell him what you have told me."
"Are you… Are you saying…?"
Seshat has no chance to respond as Bali sinks to the ground, eyes wide and mouth agape.
Hutsat's last words ring through her mind, "I beat you to it, Atem..."
Everything makes sense. She clutches one hand on her head and one on her heart, which begins to beat fast and throb in her chest. Her stomach wretches. Seshat rushes to put comforting arms around her.
"How could I be so blind? Oh gods..." Bali mutters, in total shock. Seshat gets her up to stagger and stumble to her room, specifically her washroom. Bali approaches the water basin shakily and splashes cold water on her face. She calms, as was her intention.
"I've told you all I can, One-Sent-By-Re. The rest is up to you," Seshat says, patting her shoulder and leaving. Once Seshat is gone from her room, Bali stands in the middle with her thoughts going at a more acceptable rate.
"What if he doesn't feel the same way? But then why would Hutsat say he beat Atem to kissing me? Dammit, how am I so stupid? Everyone was acting so strange, and Isis and Seshat... DAMMIT! SETH WAS RIGHT!" she ends up yelling, leaping forward to flop on the bed. After stuffing her face in her pillow, she promptly falls asleep, the mixture of intense emotions and date wine finally taking effect.
By the time Bali wakes up, it's nighttime and everyone is dispersed from the party. Mery and Su bring her a calming soup on Seshat's insistence, telling her anything of consequence she missed while away. Everyone apparently missed Bali's presence after she left, and her gut tells her that "everyone" is code for "Pharaoh Atem."
"Okay, you know what? No sitting in a stupid ditch like a wallowing pansy! If he doesn't want to know, then too bad! He already knows everything else!" she roars. The maids back away as she rushes out looking like a predator searching for something to rip apart.
"I have a feeling she just realized something in herself," Su whispers, in case Bali might still be able to hear. Mery chuckles.
"It's about time. If all goes well, I will have a new wig and menit by morning."
Atem is sitting and reading a status report on projected harvest totals when Bali charges in unannounced. She orders any and all servants to leave, Atem not saying a word as he sits surprised at the suddenness of it all. Once sure everyone is gone, she marches up to him. Atem can sense the spiking intensity of her ba like never before.
"We need to talk," she says flatly. Atem sits back in his chair with interest and slight concern.
"Is there something wrong?"
"Yes."
A pregnant pause.
"Well...?"
"I'm an idiot."
"...I can't say I can argue with that."
"Oh, shut up! I mean... Ugh, just bequiet, I don't know how to say this," she replies hotly, sliding her feet around. His eyebrows furrow. This is a stage of nervousness he's never seen.
"You're not in any trouble, are you?" he asks, only to have her brush off the question with a wave of her hand.
"I'm an idiot because I only just realized something tonight. Actually it was earlier today, but that's not the point!" she rambles. He urges her to continue, secretly entertained.
"Well, um... You see... fuck, I don't know how to say this! Okay, so you know how I've been acting strange lately? Like I'm sick or something?" She decides to lead into what she wants to say.
"I've noticed. I've been worried, Mahad said he didn't find anything wrong."
"RIGHT!" She points to him with a manic smile, "I know, and he's right. There isn't anything wrong with me, except for my exceptionally thick skull and emotional blindness because of my past but also I'm dense and I'm so sorry that I couldn't figure this out earlier and saved trouble and–"
"Bali!" he interrupts her, trying not to laugh, "You're rambling, get to the point."
His order is not one made of anger, as he's unable to keep from smiling at the hopeless state she's in.
"Well... I… I have come to the realization that I am in love with you," she squeezes out. She barely looks at him.
Atem can't believe his ears.
"Could you say that again please?"
"Dammit, I've already said it once! Obviously you don't listen so I guess you missed out!" she yells, unable to bear the thought of him mocking her and turns to leave with a rush of heartbreak.
"No! Don't leave, I heard you. I just couldn't believe it. Are you serious?" he questions, giddiness bubbling up inside his chest. His smile turns into a grin. Her eyes widen at the sight as she nods. Her face is on fire and every part of her is shaking.
"Do I look like I would lie about something like that?" Is her grumbly reply, embarrassed at feeling like a fool.
Atem stands from his chair and strides to her. Every inch of him is rejoicing, how long he's waited! He draws close to her, cupping her face in his hands and making her meet his gaze.
"You havenothingto be ashamed of," he tells her quietly. She doesn't stop him from moving closer, her eyes closing as his lips touch hers. Soft, tentative. She smiles and slides her arms atop his shoulders, her right hand running through his hair, deepening the kiss. They part after a few seconds, noses touching, seeing each other in an entirely new, wonderful light.
"I'm not sure how you could even stand it, how long have you felt this way?" Bali asks, sliding back some more to move her arms to be resting on his chest. The puzzle didn't exactly allow for being held close for long.
"I can't be sure, but I didn't realize it fully until the Ebla conflict when I was leading the army up to the battlefield. If you haven't noticed, I'm incredibly patient. I've been planning out how to court you for weeks, but you've taken the wind from my sails and made that a moot point."
He receives an apologetic smile, and a "My bad."
He kisses her shortly, sliding his hands down to grip her arms at her elbows.
"You're here with me now, everything in the air. That's all that matters. I was planning a visit down to Heliopolis and a stay there to take in the Lower Kingdom and Khufu's Horizon with a grand romantic gesture."
Bali raises her eyebrows in surprise before turning sheepish.
"I uh, was invited to lunch by Hetepheres of Heliopolis and she told me she had a great conversation with you about visiting and everyone believed she was the sure candidate to be your first wife because of it. I'll admit, it blindsided me, I didn't think you could've ended up with anyone but me," she admits, only to laugh as he wraps his arms around her and makes to squeeze her tight.
"Atem, ow ow, the puzzle the puzzle!"
He draws back, disgruntled, and takes hold of the pendant and lifts it over his head. He makes a show of stepping back and carefully setting it on his chair. He gestures down to his chest to show it is now hazard-free, earning laughter. She takes initiative before he does and draws him into an embrace, smushing her lips onto his.
They don't part again until rapid footsteps approach from beyond the entrance to the room. Both stand facing the same way to greet the person interrupting, Atem holding Bali around her waist with his right arm.
"Pharaoh! Have you read the report yet?" Shada's question precedes him entering, but he stops short once he sees the pair. Bali seems a bit embarrassed while Atem is happy to the point of looking proud. The subtle hint of lip paint on his face is all the indicator why.
"Oh, should I leave?" he asks, somehow managing to not appear awkward or put off. Bali inwardly praises the priest for his superpower.
"No, please tell me what else goes along with the report. Speak quickly though, I have many ideas to discuss with Lady Bali."
"Thank you, Your Majesty. As you've read, the slight disturbance on the westernmost border is troubling, but I believe that it is only a desert tribe from the Red Lands that barely crosses our border from time to time to stir up problems. Should we take definitive action?" Shada explains. Bali glances up to her new lover, concerned at the new information. Atem's face sobers, though he keeps a tight hold on her.
"Keep watching, but do nothing yet. Egypt needs to get into harvest and relish in the positive atmosphere we've finally achieved." His order comes after a few moments of careful thinking, and Shada bows his head.
"That is all I wished to speak of. I take my leave." He leaves.
Atem sighs once he's gone and turns to her.
"Tired?" she asks, already knowing that the pressure and responsibility weighs him more than he lets on. That's not even counting the exhaustion that comes from playing nice with his wealthiest subjects. He distractedly wipes some of her lip paint that smeared from her lips, humming in laughter when she reaches over and does the same to him.
Once finished, he answers her, "Yes, but not enough to keep from asking you something." He gives her a sly smile as he leads her to his chair. He hands her the puzzle and pulls her onto his lap, keeping his arms around her almost protectively. She lies her legs on one arm of the chair and rests to the side on his right shoulder, with his arm curled around her back. She slides her hand across the shiny pendant, secretly fascinated.
"And what might that be?"
"As I'm sure you're aware, I'm without a wife, without a queen, and there have been several eligible single women coveting this honor for weeks now. You have noticed, right?"
Bali huffs in laughter, closing her eyes and leaning her head to nuzzle against his. She knows what's coming, and she's ready.
"Despite being dumb when it comes to me and you, I did notice this. I suggest you congratulate me for my astounding observational skills," she drawls, and his arm tightens around her as he chuckles.
"Marry me."
There it is.
"That wasn't in the form of a question."
"I didn't saythatwould be a question. I already asked a question."
"True enough."
"So... Will you marry me or not?"
Bali shifts, bringing her head up and caressing one side of his face. His brows furrow in concern at her serious expression.
"You need to know, I'm not a virgin by a longshot and I know that would regularly be an automatic deal-breaker for lots of men, especially where I'm from. You'd be my first husband though, if that makes you feel better," she explains, searching his eyes for any sign of revulsion. Instead, his expression becomes even more tender and he smiles softly. He pulls her up and bumps his forehead with hers.
"Youare my queen, Bali… If it makesyoufeel any better, while I'm not married yet, you wouldn't be my first either," he jokes lightly, to which she rolls her eyes, unable to keep from smiling.
"You're not under the same pressure, but sure, it's comforting. If a little bit surprising," she says as they resume their former cuddling position.
"She and I were being silly and it just happened. It was never anything serious from both ends, she moved from Thebes not too long after with her family," he explains, resting his head atop hers. "Now that that's out of the way, will you tell me if you'll become my Great Royal Wife, Queen of all Egypt?"
"You don't have to put all the power-tripping titles in there, you know that's not why I'm here. As for an answer… I don't know, do you think I'll be any good at it?"
"Depends on what you mean by 'it...' OW!"
He puts his free hand to his stinging nose that she just flicked.
"Don't you go and get dirty on me! You know what I mean."
"Yes I know. You'll be fine, we make an excellent team, and most times I believe you could rule better than I."
"That's probably true."
"Watch it, Bali."
"You're the one who said it. But am I even really qualified for it at all, obviously all the other lords and ladies will have something to say about keeping the throne pure."
He squeezes her again.
"I believe that, as you're a goddess, you are able to marry me. It would make the royal blood even purer than it is now, my One-Sent-By-Re. If you still need to love Egypt to gain Re's gift of power, marrying Pharaoh, his son, out of love is likely to do good in his book."
"I'm impressed, you're sneaky with how smart you are sometimes. But I think I would've said it anyway."
"Say what?"
"That I'd marry you, dummy! Quit acting like my thick-headed self!"
"Oh. I see. Bali?"
"Yes?"
He kisses her forehead with a contented sigh.
"I love you too."
Notes:
FUN FACT!: As promised, the inspiration behind Atem's "throne name", which is one of Pharaoh's names that would be inscribed on his throne, on his seal, in certain ceremonies, and so forth. As previously stated, Atem is meant to be an eighteenth dynasty king, and so his throne name draws from that dynasty's pattern of attaching his name to Ma'at for order and justice. The other god I attached to him to invoke is Heka, god of magic (heka meaning magic in the language). I did so because Atem is ridiculously powerful in magic even without the puzzle (something that I believe is canonically true as well), and his connection with that god is more important than others. He's already seen as a Son of Re (being an earthly manifestation of Horus is a narrative from much earlier dynasties, and is not used in the eighteenth), so attaching him to Re or Amun or Atum or Horus didn't seem as perfect as Heka. Starting in the Middle Kingdom era, Pharaoh would have five names, but I'm not gonna list all of them. Atem will, as in the series, be the name he places in cartouche, the one he uses in his spell contracts and all that good stuff. Egyptian magic and its relation to names is super interesting, and you can definitely see where it influenced later cultures and religions with those ideas. "Atem-Ma'at-Heka" should technically be all one word (Like, "Ramses" is a throne name), but I dunno what word that would be because hehe... I'm not studied in that language.
Chapter 26: Guard Raised
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Hoy the messenger is up early, but he's always up early, he supposes. People rely on him to get news and proclamations out from the palace, when there is news. Of course, after the war and coronation of a new pharaoh, there's always news these days.
He trundles up to his normal station to receive any messages from the scribes. The scribe he works with bounds up excitedly, taking him by surprise. San is never a morning person, so the news must be of great fortune.
"Hoy, my friend, Our Great Pharaoh Atem is betrothed! And to One-Sent-By-Re Bali, no less!" San relays the joyful news while handing him the papyrus that he's to read out in the city. The messenger's sleepiness zips away, face glimmering with a smile.
"That is good news! Surely that is the only message to be strewn throughout the streets this morning?"
"Of course! Now hurry, so everyone may celebrate even more," San cheers, shooing Hoy hurriedly. He leaps off, running with a skip in his step at such wonderful news. He bounds faster than he ever did for anything else, because it's just so delightful!
Delightful, that is, until someone traveling the road opposite him catches him by the neck with a grotesquely large hand. Hoy chokes and scratches at the grip as the man brings him closer. Hoy keeps attempting to pry the man's fingers from their grip as the pressure builds, but to no avail. The man is brawny, appearing to give no effort in the assault. He's dressed in a regular tunic but is covered by a cloak and a hood that masks his identity. Despite being unable to see his expression, his tone of voice demands fear. Hoy can't help but give it as tears streak down his face.
"Why are you so annoyingly jubilant this morning?" The man lessens his grip for Hoy to answer. The messenger chokes as he struggles to tell his story. Prayers for help run through his mind.
"Pharaoh... Pharaoh Atem is betrothed to... One-Sent-By-Re Bali..." he gasps, to be immediately released to cough on the ground. The stranger's evil grin spreads negativity like an infection as he chuckles to himself.
"Good enough for me," he mumbles, lumbering off. Hoy is left feeling thankful that his life was spared. But, as a messenger for the palace, he can't just ignore his duties. But this time he goes through the city at his normal pace, hoping to avoid gaining attention from any more evil men.
Bali can't believe the events that have unfolded in the time she's been at the palace. She's getting married. Married! And to apharaoh.She can only guess that her mother never dreamed so much for her at all.
"It's too bad marriage isn't really all that auspicious here. Back home, everyone would make such a big fuss," she complains. She smiles, however, and reminisces on her experiences back home. Life may have been glum in that time, but there were some good people there, too. After all, she was born and raised there, it isn't something she'll ever throw away.
While she lies on her bed soaking in the lack of any engagements, Mery and Su burst in full of glee. Bali rolls her eyes at the overjoyed maids. She's been expecting this reaction since the news got out.
"Oh, the day is coming soon! We're so happy for you!" Mery says.
"I know."
"It'll be so fun being the maid of a queen! I never thought I would get so far!" Su adds with a twirl, and Bali shifts so her back is to them.
"Oh, and yourchildrenwill be adorable," they squeal, and she jolts up with red all over her face.
"Don't say things like that!" The maids only laugh at her bashful behavior. The two really mean it. Bali knows that there's no avoiding one of her important duties as Great Royal Wife: To create an heir.
It isn't that she's embarrassed at the idea of having sex, given her past exploits, it's the idea of having sex with Atem. The idea still seems alien, and she's almost petrified. Having children has never been in any of her plans, and here she is, marrying Atem with all the pressure of a dynasty to do just that!
But it's not like she's, well… not sort of lookingforwardto that stage… Heisvery attractive, after all. It will also be her first time with someone she knows truly loves her.
"Great, now you two have me thinking about awkward things!" she wails, shoving her face into a cushion. Mery and Su quiet down to sincerely apologize.
"It's okay, you two. I'm unsure about the 'birth an heir' part of this marriage, 'cause I've never wanted children, what with the violent life I lead. My mother always told me that a child's parents can make all the difference, and if I have children now I have to be there for them all the way, no handing off to you two to raise. I'm only tough because my mom died. My dad abandoned me because he hated me for some reason after she died," she rambles, only to realize that she's getting too off-topic for her audience. "I love Atem though, and I'm pretty damn sure of that!" After turning the rant back around, it still felt good to get those insecurities out of her head.
"Wow, that was so deep!" Su exclaims, rubbing her eyes at the sad plight. Bali shoots her a funny look, and the maid waves her hands in front of her.
"Sorry, just feeling sentimental! You've never really talked to us like that before."
"Yes. I must say that I'm beginning to worry," Mery chimes in. Bali nods slowly.
"I see. I don't like to talk or even think about my dad much, it just brings up bad memories. I don't want to keep thinking about why he scorned me."
"No problem with that. Now, why don't we get you prettied up? The whole kingdom is going to be buzzing with the news," Mery states, catching that the conversation isn't the right thing for the celebratory atmosphere. Bali sighs.
"I wish sometimes that Atem was an ordinary man, and not pharaoh. I can do some crowds, but for this sort of thing I'm out of my element," she admits, standing with a stretch. Unbeknownst to the three, there's a listener to their conversation. He shuffles from his spot in the doorway to make his entrance.
"I'm quite ordinary, thanks. I just happen to have an extraordinary lineage. I came to say good morning," Atem greets, Bali turning to him perturbed.
"Who said you could come in here?"
Atem reaches out and scoops her into a kiss.
"I did." His response is followed by a cheesy grin. She lightly shoves his face away with an open hand and an amused snort.
"You'd better get used to it, soon we'll be in the same room," he calls after as she saunters off to join her maids that scurried to the washroom.
"I know that! I was at least going totryand live up the little bit of independence I have left," she answers, a small splashing sound following from the room. He wonders what she's doing, curiosity getting the best of him as he sneaks to the doorway to peek through. He only catches a glimpse of Bali before Mery and Su draw a curtain around the bath.
"Pharaoh, it is not wise to peek in on a woman when she is bathing without her consent, even if you are betrothed," Mery scolds. He watches as Bali's silhouette sits up.
"No, it's fine. If he's going to act so arrogant about getting married and being Pharaoh, then he should come in here. After all, we're going to be sharing a lot from now on. How about it? Did the sneak peek you got seem to be enough or do you want the whole picture?" she simpers, not expecting him to oblige as the humor in her voice is prominent. Because her sight is obscured by the curtain, she's unaware that Mery and Su have been dismissed silently by Atem and that he's tiptoeing to her. Just one small look can't hurt, right?
He pulls aside the curtain to find!
… Bali fully clothed, soaking her feet in some water. His jaw drops in indignation as she begins laughing her head off.
"Th-the look on your face! You thought you were going to get something good! Is this good enough for you?" she chortles, lifting her left foot and wiggling her toes as a taunt. Atem crosses his arms, thoroughly embarrassed.
"That was mean," he mumbles dejectedly.
"Serves you right, perv. Besides, you've pulled plenty of pranks in the past."
"But we're going to be married anyway!"
"So? We're not married yet. Maybe I'm just shy," she coos, chortling afterward. He catches her humor and puts out his lower lip in an overdone fake pout.
"Don't look at me like that, it's so immature. Now go away so I can get ready properly," she orders, although she shoots him a wink. He smiles and winks back briefly before going back to being grumpy to stomp off with a faux-disappointed grunt. She watches him go, feeling her chest swell in adoration.
"Glad to see that he can still appreciate a good joke. Though I have to admit, it was a low blow," she mutters, but her words make her face turn red once she thinks deeper about it. For the next few minutes she murmurs curses at herself for diving into the gutter again.
Not long after, Bali appears in the throne room in a fine sheath dress with finer adornments than normal, including jewelry with combinations of citrine and lapis. Apparently being engaged to Pharaoh means she has to look like it too. Despite the luxury, a leather belt is still secured around her middle to hold the sword at her hip.
"Lady Bali, congratulations." Most people cheerfully greet her as such as she passes by them, and she nods her head in thanks to each one. Seth just has a big stupid smirk on his face, telling her that he knows he was right all along. Without hesitation she flips her middle finger at him. His expression instantly changes to one of confusion. All that matters to her is that he understands that it's a rude gesture. He crosses his arms, disgruntled as she tilts her nose up triumphantly in the air. Out of her eyesight, he is urgently heralded from behind by a runner.
She strides to the back of the throne room to take her place next to Atem. There's a spot made for her, right at the feet of the throne. She lifts an eyebrow, unimpressed.
"I guess I've been demoted to the floor?" she asks herself sarcastically, though quite a few people in the hall hear. A rumble of laughter permeates the air.
Bali approaches her beloved king, who sits on his throne smug as any cat for putting her place on the floor. She shakes her head disapprovingly at him.
"And earlier I praised you for being able to take a joke."
He grins and makes a show of getting comfy where he sits.
"I don't like to lose at any game I play," he responds, but the spark in his eyes makes her heart jump. She frowns comically and sits on the small gathering of cushions. It isn't all bad. She can poke his legs mercilessly to annoy him from here. She's not one for losing either.
Any further badgering is set aside when Siamun takes his place standing at Atem's right side.
"Pharaoh, when will the celebration be?" he asks. Atem glances at Bali with that same spark in his eyes.
"In two days. But tomorrow, she will move in with me," he answers. Her eyes widen.
"That quick?" she sputters, but she seals her mouth and looks down when they appear genuinely confused. She remembers where she is and shakes her head.
"Never mind. Weird thought, that's all. So... What's going on today?" she diverts. She ends up being prophetic as news pops in with a shout shortly after.
"My Pharaoh! A report has come with one of the messengers! Someone assaulted him and threatened the throne!" Seth bows shortly after running up and imparting his message.
"News from the border reports that there are groups of men gathering just beyond," Shada adds, having been on Seth's heels. Atem and Bali stand instantly, Bali's hand trailing to the hilt of her sword.
"We shall meet in my private conference room!" Atem orders, calling out over the murmurs of worry of the nobles gathered in the room. The two priests dash off with the other guardians in tow. Atem steps to Bali and takes her hands in his.
"Look after the medjay. It sounds as if an enemy is nearby and Mahad is going to need help," he requests, gaze imploring. She half-smiles.
"Of course. You have to at least send a scribe with a report about what's happening, though. Promise?"
"I promise." He kisses her swiftly and leaves for the meeting. She stays still in worry over the new threat.
"Itwould bethe perfect time to attack, I guess... What a mess," she mumbles, finally shaking from her pause to go command the medjay while Mahad is busy.
Mahad and Bali are speaking quietly about her adventures in Ebla and the possible connection with impending troubles when the messenger arrives. Mahad hadn't been at the meeting long, having stated that his usefulness was better suited in action with the medjay. They've both been waiting for this command from Atem. The messenger holds out the scroll to Bali, bowing at the same time.
"Thank you." The messenger merely dips his head again before speeding off to tend to something else. She opens the scroll, Mahad peering over her shoulder.
"Damn..." both muttered, causing Bali to glance at him in interest; she's never heard Mahad swear. They read on.
Security is to be tightened around the borders and the palace, with regular patrols heading out into the city. Orders for similar measures are being sent out to all other cities. The forces preparing on the western border are a threat proven by a sight from Isis, but with no timeframe. As for the attack on the messenger that morning, Isis couldn't see anything clearly about the event and what it might become, but she can feel that something evil is roaming the city.
"I knew it. They are masking their presence from me, but this morning I felt their malevolence with my Millennium Ring. Perhaps I, myself, should go out into the city," Mahad says, anxiousness vexing his words.
"I think I need to learn more about the Millennium Items. I won't hold you back from going out if that's what you think is best, but I heard about Master Senenmut and we still don't know who's responsible. If Seth weren't a paranoid egoist I would try and keep him from patrolling too. The items were the central cause of Ebla's attack. Maybe this issue is the same," she replies, slightly ashamed that she hasn't researched them more before this.
"Lady Bali, you're the one who must be cautious. Now that you are going to be queen you will be a target," he warns, but she snorts. He furrows his brows.
"Mahad, I think I'm a target anyway. I'm a war hero, aren't I? Besides, because of the Millennium Items, all of the court will be targets too, so don't worry too much about me," she explains. Mahad finally smiles, though in resignation.
"You are right. Are you going to the library?" He watches as she hands a background servant the scroll to discard. He maintains a steady calmness to keep from betraying his vow to Pharaoh Akhnemkhanen concerning the Items. Despite his steadfast loyalty, he still feels a small pit of guilt in his stomach.
Even someone so strong as One-Sent-By-Re couldn't fathom the true reason for someone to covet them.
"Yes. I'll see you later."
Bali bids him farewell, heading to the library to find information about the Millennium Items.
Notes:
FUN FACT!: The first pyramid type ever built in Egypt, a step pyramid, was a tomb commissioned by and for Pharaoh Djoser of the Third Dynasty. He appointed Imhotep (Hello fellow '99 Mummy fans, have you joined the Memehotep group…?), one of the world's first documented prodigies who, while obviously a successful architect, was more widely celebrated for centuries as a physician. While deified, he rose to particular prominence in the Late Period. The pyramid just recently reopened to tours after fourteen years of bolstering and work after a large earthquake damaged it. I highly recommend looking at photos posted online of the inside, it's fascinating and beautiful. Also look up the 4000 year old tomb of a high priest discovered in Saqqara as well, the periwinkle-blue paint used in the tomb is nothing short of dazzling (I realize time fades, but still!) Saqqara is a prominent archaeological site full of tombs near modern Cairo, as it was a cemetery for the elite when Memphis was the capital city.
Chapter 27: Forever May She Reign
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
She sits in the library studying any relevant text she's found as carefully as possible. Unfortunately, none speak much of the Millennium Items in a way that helps. After another paragraph of vague allusion to their awesomeness in battle, she slaps her hands down on the table she's sitting at with a frustrated grunt.
"Everybody praises them like they're gods themselves, so why the hell aren't they writing in-depth about them? This is crap!"
No one is there with her to hear her outburst, but Bali stills when she hears a footstep proving that fact false. She feels the presence sneaking around, almost as if the person never meant to make a sound.
"Time to go…" she mutters, putting a hand firmly around the hilt of her sword, silent as the shadows. Standing her ground, Bali waits for the presence behind her to get within the range of her sword. While she's never been able to do this before, it's no time to ruminate on why this ability has appeared.
They take their final step forward. Bali's grip on her sword tightens. She swallows the mounting fear and disgust of having to kill.
She swings around, pulling her sword along with a short yell.
All of her strength and practice halts her attack.
It's a well-dressed man, meaning nobility. He's uncommonly tall and built, long dirty blond hair pulled back into braided pigtails lined with beads and jeweled fasteners. He holds a scroll protectively but never once flinches.
She takes note of his calm reaction while sheathing her sword.
"Sorry about that." Her apology is met with an enigmatic smile.
"A bit nervous, are we?"
"I said I was sorry. If you haven't heard yet, there's some troubling activity occurring at the border and I've always believed in being prepared wherever I go," she replies, trying to sound somewhat indifferent. As a nobleman with access to the palace, he would be perfectly aware of all the recent security measures.
"I agree completely, and understand why you attacked me. I am Veut, visiting from a village to the west. I was hoping to test you, for I assume that I address the warrior goddess, One-Sent-From-Re Bali?" he inquires, his expression changing to a kinder smile. She doesn't trust it, even as he bows in due respect. Something tells her that he's not right.
"You are; nice to meet you. So why were you sneaking up on me?" She decides to waste no time. The nagging feeling is growing. She crosses her arms, keeping her gaze steady into his.
"I couldn't help but notice you were looking for information on the Millennium Items. This scroll should be able to sort things out for you. Now if you'll excuse me, I found the harvest recordsIneeded, and must return to the city. I hope to have the honor of meeting you again one day, One-Sent-From-Re Bali," Veut says, handing her the papyrus scroll. After bowing reverently again, he walks away. She waves after him in goodbye, standing in a stupor trying to figure out how he knew the subject of her search.
"Even with how quiet he was, there's no way he could've looked over my shoulder without me noticing,"she muses, shaking her head to clear it.
"Might as well take a read."Bali sighs, sitting once more to study. She scrunches her eyebrows more upon seeing the script is hieratic. "Interesting."
The scroll is most of what she's been looking for. It lists the function of each item, as well as when they first appeared and about the defeat of a foreign army with just those Items at hand, which includes the ritual summoning of monsters that have been torn from the hearts of criminals. She rolls the scroll back up after getting the gist of the information. After setting it aside, she puts her head in her hands.
"How did they make such powerful things though? It doesn't make much sense that they just appeared! And it cut off weird at the end, with no elaboration on 'god-like beasts,'" she mutters rapidly, her fingers tapping her cheek in frustration.
"LADY BALI! Are you in here?"
She snaps her attention to the entryway, responding immediately to the servant's question. Alarm makes her hand drift to her sword once more.
"Has something happened?"
"Lady Bali, Pharaoh and the guardians await you in his apartments! He stressed that you must hurry!" the servant boy gasps, Bali noting that his eyes wander erratically, as if awaiting an attack. She grips the hilt.
"Did he tell you why?"
"No my Lady, I swear I have told you everything he wanted me to relay!" he cries, panic making his voice break. She stands. The room spins for mere moments in which she nearly stumbles. When the strange feeling fades, she blinks rapidly to make sure her vision is normal before striding to the servant.
"I can't risk Atem or anyone else seeing this and taking it from me. The library has nothing like this, so there must be a secret behind the Millennium Items,"she reasons, handing the scroll to the servant.
"Take this to my room and tell Mery and Su to set it with the others. Dismissed," she commands sharply. The servant gratefully obliges with a bow and scurries off. She bounds out in a different direction, still wondering why Atem apparently needs her as soon as possible.
More guards appear as she goes along. While it makes sense with Atem's bump in security, she soon feels confusion for the relief they all exude when they see her. The guards outside Atem's apartments usher her in respectfully, commenting that they're glad she's safe. Upon entering the lavish sitting room, all eyes shoot directly to her.
"Lady Bali, you are safe!" Isis runs over to her with a wide smile with that same relief as the guards. Tension dissipates from the room.
"What do you mean, of course I am..." Bali replies, giving her a small breathy laugh. Isis frowns slightly in confusion, but the clamor that had risen at her entrance went silent. The High Priestess turns from Bali so both can see the reason. Atem. He stands, staring at her with more surprise than anyone.
All is still.
"What is with you people? You're acting like I–" Bali starts, but Atem dashes over to engulf her in a tight hug.
"–disappeared..." she finishes, blushing faintly due to the stares they're garnering.
"Lady Bali, the items briefly sensed an evil presence around the library where you were. Isis received no vision, there was nothing but that small spike of ba, and then your presence disappeared along with it," Mahad states, loud enough for everyone to hear. Atem kisses her forehead and draws away.
"What happened?" His tone is low, serious. She can see beneath the concern in his eyes for her, a tempering rage. Seeing that there, in this gentle man that she loves above all else… It gives her more anxiety on the emerging threat.
"I was studying in the library, looking for information on the items," she nods toward the puzzle, "Mardu wanted them before, I thought maybe this belligerent tribe had a similar motive, but I couldn't find any answers. A noble came up to me with a scroll, but..." Bali explains, everyone starting in surprise when they hear a noble was seen, but her words falter. An onset of the same dizziness from earlier wipes away her thought process. Atem steadies her in alarm as she sways. She puts a hand over her forehead.
"I... Can't remember his name, or even what he looks like. Damn, I'm sorry... I have the feeling that there was something off about him too..." she curses, the dizziness fading as she backs away from trying to remember. Atem shushes her gently.
"He must have put some sort of spell on himself so you wouldn't remember him. If he can sneak into the palace undetected, I'm not surprised he's able to pull off such powerful spells," he says, pulling her close with an arm around her waist.
She resists slightly.
"Atem, he didn't get in here undetected. You said you felt the evil presence for one moment, you know what that means?"
His brows burrow in thought for mere seconds before his anger grows at her insinuation.
"He can come here whenever he pleases, and get wherever he wants. That was his message."
Bali nods grimly, placing her hand over his. They turn to address the guardians.
"Everyone, be on guard for anyone who poses as a noble, all guests are now forbidden in the palace unless thoroughly examined. We must all be cautious, as this event was merely a warning. Take your leave, my friends, and go to rest. Your health is most important should the enemy decide to strike," Atem commands. The guardians all bow accordingly and follow the order, Mahad and Seth immediately setting out with conspiratorial whispers between them. Soon, the couple is alone.
"You have no idea how worried I was, Bali. You're staying with me tonight," Atem tells her, retracting his arm to face her once more.
"What? You can't do that!" She furthers her protest by stepping away. He merely settles his weight on one foot, crosses his arms and raises an eyebrow at her. She gets the hint and rolls her eyes.
"Okay, so you can. But why, I can take care of myself."
"All motives aside, he got into the palace undetected Bali, free to harm any of us! He even approachedyou, which I'm sure was no accident, thank the gods that he didn't try anything," he argues. Bali snorts.
"As I said, I could have handled myself. You're worrying too much," she states, only to be gripped at her shoulders and pulled closer.
"No, I worry just the right amount! I don't want you to be taken from me," he starts strong, but drifts off at the end. His eyes avert her gaze. She smiles, caressing his face with both hands. He looks at her again.
"You know, where I come from, you and I would be celebrating the night before away from each other," Bali says, deciding that changing the conversation is for the best. She has a feeling that she would stay in his suite anyway, but the part of her that is still rooted in how she grew up screams for a separate bed.
"Really?"
She nods. Both meander to a cushioned ledge and sit. She allows him to fiddle with her hands, finding it soothing.
"They spent it away from each other, hanging out with their female friends if the bride and male friends if the groom. I mean, it doesn't have to be right before the wedding, but it's before the wedding in any case," she rambles.
"Why would they do that? It seems counterintuitive to me. Wouldn't you want to be around them all of the time if you're getting married?"
Bali shakes her head sadly.
"That's not what it is. In my culture, for hundreds of years now, women haven't been treated the same as they are here.Ididn't even think women were treated so well here until I observed it, and the men I studied with would never believe me if I told them. To get a divorce is difficult for a woman to do, it ruins her image, and most times she'll be left with nothing," she explains, feeling a buildup of anger herself at what the future holds.
Atem grips her hands now, noticing her ba spike.
"With the way you explain your time, I'm not surprised you had no intention of marrying," he quips, smiling in satisfaction when she huffs in laughter.
"Yeah yeah, lucky you, you proved me wrong. But anyway, if a couple is marrying," she leads, and he nods in understanding.
"...Then they'll have the rest of their lives together, given that nothing happens."
"Correct. The parties are a strange mix of celebrating that last bit of independence and the marriage itself. Do you get what I'm saying?" she asks, hoping her feelings are getting through.
"Yes, I do. And it's... it's what you mean by wanting to be independent for one last time?"
She nods. He sighs, but before he can say more, Bali chimes in again, "But this isn't my culture back home. Iloveyou. If you want me to stay so you can make sure I'm safe, I'm okay with that. But I'm sleeping in a different room because–" She's cut off when the bright expression on his face dims. She knows it's from bringing up a separate room, and sighs in defeat.
"Never mind. No different room."
He leans in swiftly and kisses her. When he pulls back so their noses touch, his smirk is victorious.
"You're being so compliant, is there something wrong?"
His smooth simpering voice melts her on the inside, but her pride won't allow her to show it. For now, anyway.
"Not really. I just hope I have a violent dream so I can beat you up in my sleep."
"How mean!" he chuckles, but she stares at him with emphasis. After so many comments on her eyes, she's learned that her stare is particularly unnerving. His chuckle dies off.
"You're not joking, are you?"
"No."
It's late, and the two lie together in the darkness. Their faces close, their hands clasped, nuzzling close.
"... If you drool on my face I'm kicking you out."
Atem starts laughing at her comment, and she follows soon after.
"Only if I don't kick you out first for snoring too loudly in my ear," he shoots back. She pokes his bare chest.
"I don't snore."
"You do, my darling. You could keep the whole camp up during the war."
"You're lying!"
He answers by prodding her sides, earning a loud snort and flinch.
"You of all people are ticklish, what a wonder. And I wouldneverlie to you, sweet goddess," he responds, ending his barrage of tickles so they could settle down once more. Their hands take hold. Bali utters some veiled threats of revenge for his tickle attack, which he dismisses with amusement.
Finally, exhaustion takes hold of them both.
They close their eyes.
Their hands stay clasped.
It's morning.
Bali rolls over, refreshed from a good sleep. At first, she forgets where she is, only to remember yesterday's agreement with Atem (who is already gone) and recalls something else while she's at it...
"I'm getting married today."
"Yes My Lady; in fact, you're being presented to the people of Egypt as their Great Queen in an hour, so you must get ready!" Mery replies, and Su follows up giggling as Bali shoots up from the bed with a yelp.
"That soon? Dammit, why do things happen so quickly around here?" Staring around the chamber, looking for where she's meant to get ready.
"Just follow us. We know what to do and where to go. Don't worry!" Su chirps, taking one of Bali's arms and dragging her off in one direction.
"I have to bathe in this? It's so big!" Bali exclaims, taking in the river-fed pool Su led her to. All she earns is a stern look from Mery. Disgruntled, Bali disrobes and slides into the cool water with a shudder.
"How is this any better than what I got in my old room?" she mumbles, but gets to washing. After a thorough, loud questioning on what moron didn't build stairs or a ladder out of the pool, she's pulled up and set upon to prepare her hair with oils.
"Now I'm getting dressed." Her guess is met with concentrated nods. The maids lead her to another chamber where clothes lay waiting. Instead of her usual, more movement-friendly attire, Bali is given a floor-length, pristine white sheath dress, with the collar and hems lined with golden thread. Wings are embroidered in the same gold on the back.
"Next is the jewelry and paint."
Rings, bracelets, anklets, earrings. A small gold, lapis, and citrine pectoral is placed around her neck. Her tattoos are embellished, face painted lightly with a deep red lip paint and kohl. A new, plumed crown is placed on her head, the golden headpiece the cobra form of Wadjet sticking out in front. A matching belt is clasped around her waist, with the wadjet eye that is featured prominently on the Millennium Items. Bali can't help but snort at the thought of wearing it just to fit in with the bearers.
"All finished!" Su exclaims, jumping up after helping put sandals on.
"Extravagant as usual," Mery states. Bali shrugs.
"You're the ones who make it that way. Where do I go now?" she asks, having not gotten any messages from Atem yet. In truly divine prompt fashion, a messenger appears with her answer.
"Your Majesty, Pharaoh awaits you in the chamber linked to the balcony!"
Bali sucks in a deep breath, stomach roiling at the thought of facing so many people.
"I guess it's time for me to go. Wish me luck," she says, her lackluster attitude betraying her nerves to her friends. Mery pats her shoulder.
"You will be fine, besides being beloved by his people as a royal, he is also a good man. Oh, Su, before we forget! Our gift!" Mery gestures for her younger cohort to hurry, Bali watching on as Su bustles around the corner.
She returns holding something wrapped in a cloth.
"This is from Mery and I, as congratulations and as thanks for allowing us to continue being your personal servants," she says, handing it off.
"Oh, this wasn't necessary, but thank you for being my friends," she responds, gingerly unwrapping the cloth with her maids watching on expectantly.
In the cloth is a small amulet made of a smooth, dark stone. On it is carved a prayer to Isis for a happy marriage. The significance of the gift isn't lost on Bali, and she immediately ties it around her neck. Once finished, she takes up their hands, squeezing to emphasize how grateful she is.
"Thanks you two, for everything. I shouldn't keep Pharaoh waiting, I'll see you later," she says, giving their hands one last squeeze before following the servant to where her nearly-husband waits. Su turns to Mery with a big grin.
"You were right in ordering that charm two months ago when she was still only friends with him. Who would have thought that she'd be queen?" Su asks rhetorically. Mery answers anyway.
"I would, obviously."
Both giggle, leaving the suite to watch their new queen be presented officially to the people.
Having arrived to discover that Atem is not actually there, Bali now stands waiting nervously for him to appear. Alone with her thoughts… No Re, no distractions, meaning her thoughts are boiling over in her mind.
"Bali...?"
She turns, glad to see Mana standing in the room's entryway. Bali smiles and waves her over. Mana hops to it, making to throw her arms around in a giant hug when she's close. Bali yelps, causing the magician to halt with a small whoop.
"Oh goodness, I nearly screwed everything up, what with the paint and all! I can't believe you guys are getting married, it's so weird."
"You have no idea."
"And I haven't gotten to see you since you danced for his coronation! I feel so bad about that, but Mahad has been training me like crazy. That's what makes me his top student though," Mana titters. Bali waves off her apology.
"That's life for you, don't worry about it. We can find time to hang out later, I can't just hang out with Atem every day. Speaking of, he should be here any second, so you might want to find a spot so you can see me be the most awkward you'll ever see me," she whispers, expression changing to a lopsided grin.
"Oh, don't say that. You'll be fine, this stuff will be easy for you, especially since you won't be alone. Good luck!" Mana replies, dashing away before anyone can catch her being somewhere she's not supposed to be. Bali stares after her with a longing look. A part of her wishes she could be as carefree as Mana, but with the life she's led and the responsibility she's taking on, such a thing is now impossible.
"Bali, what are you looking at?"
Atem finally arrives, entering through a side passage. She turns to face him and reply. When she does, he freezes. Her shoulders droop in exasperation, forgetting to answer his question.
"What's wrong now?"
"You're stunning." His recovery nearly makes her cross her arms defensively, until she remembers the paint on her arms. He walks to her with a grin despite her unamused expression.
"I think this is maybe the first time you've ever complimented my looks. Everyone else has, it's usually the first thing they say when they meet me."
He listens and turns his eyes up, hand to his chin in thought.
"Hmmm, you might be right. You're clever, powerful, a savior to my people... I never would've guessed that the words you wanted to hear from me were about your looks," he responds, tapping her nose with a cheeky smile. Bali blushes, averting her eyes with a pout.
"That's not what I meant, I was just pointing it out."
"I know, but seeing you flustered brings me unbridled joy."
Forgetting the occasion, she lightly slaps his chest and feels her face grow hotter as he laughs.
"Our people await, my beloved queen. Are you ready?"
She lets him take her left hand in his right, fingers laced. She smiles, getting over the former conversation.
"Let's do this."
They walk forward, a herald announcing them.
"Presenting Pharaoh Atem with our new Queen; the warrior goddess One-Sent-By-Re Bali!"
The crowd is quiet as they take in the couple. Most are overjoyed despite the stillness in the air. Atem steps forward.
"Thank you for coming, everyone! Together, your Queen and I will ensure Egypt prospers with peace! I must also announce that Bali is the only one I will ever love, and therefore will be the only one I ever marry!" he announces, Bali gazing sharply at him in surprise. The crowd roars with cheers of exuberance. He steps back, satisfied with the reaction. He turns and pulls her to him.
"Your eyes are wide, Bali," he mutters to her, taking both her hands in his. While obviously moved by his proclamation, she still addresses him in worry.
"You can't make that type of promise, Atem, you need an heir, what if I can't–"
"Don't worry about that right now. This ismydecision, as a man and as a king. So let it be written, so let it be done," he cuts off, and kisses her sweetly when she shows she agrees with a quirk of her lips. The crowd becomes more impossibly loud. They step apart, smiling.
In the blink of an eye, a turn of a second, and one single heartbeat...
The cheers turn into screams.
Bali gasps, dropping to her knees, Atem grasping at her arms in alarm.
An arrow protrudes from her back.
Notes:
FUN FACT!: I touched on this in the end note of the last chapter, but the Great Royal Wife was generally the most powerful woman in Egypt. Pharaoh could have many wives, concubines, entire harems dedicated to him, but he had to keep his queen, the GRW, happiest foremost. Oftentimes she was related to him (sister, daughter [rarely], half-sibling, cousin), but her sons were considered Crown Princes before any other, she held sway over political decisions, and oftentimes had more diplomatic power than Pharaoh. Her power is subtle. Hatshepsut not only wrested control to become Pharaoh, but she was an effective queen before that. All the dudes who came after her are straight-up wusses for attempting to erase her existence. They didn't succeed, and when I make my harrowing journey to the lands of Osiris and test my heart I'll throw hands with those a-holes. Just make sure to feed my ka, wouldja?
Chapter 28: First Night, First Day
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Guards create an immediate shield in case the archer decides to strike once more. Bali is still conscious, breathing shortly, the arrow causing too much pain for normal breaths. Atem carefully shifts her into the safety of the indoor foyer, hurrying as much as he can as he does so.
"Bali! Don't leave me, it'll be okay!" His comforts become frantic at seeing her face contort in pain. She opens her eyes from being squeezed shut.
"I'm fine, you dummy! You've seen me worse, quit it," she hisses, sweat running down her face as she fights to keep from hyperventilating and passing out. He gulps.
"I know, but you just got shot!"
"You don't think Iknowthat?"
"Well..."
"Get this out of my back, dammit!"
"R-Right, right!... What should I do?"
"Stop panicking and heal me, are you out of your mind?" Bali sputters angrily. Afterward she gingerly receives help from him to lean forward. He breathes deeply to calm his nerves, taking firm hold of the arrow. The panic of being caught by surprise is fading, his fear lessening. He reaches into his ba to activate his magic which is now stronger than ever with the beneficial powers of the Millennium Puzzle.
"Okay, ready?" His mutter is more for himself than anything. He has to be slow, or else the arrowhead could detach from the shaft and require a surgeon, which would take time to ready.
"Just go!" She braces herself as he nods frantically. He begins to meticulously pull out the arrow, a healing spell activated to help it along without damaging her flesh permanently. She grits her teeth at the agonizing pace.
"JESUS CHRIST!" she screeches, Atem having pulled a little too much out at one time. He pauses, getting unreliably nervous once more. The strange thing she yelled doesn't help. "What is 'Jesus Christ?'"
"Are you okay?" he asks quietly.
"GET IT THE FUCK OUT OF ME!" she roars, pain making her more irritable than ever. He flinches a little, but breathes in to relax his nerves, reentering a calm mindset to continue.
"Just a little more, it's almost out." A few seconds later, out it comes. She releases a breath, but he can tell she's still in a good deal of pain.
"Sit still," he soothes, even though she's kept from moving to help him work quickly. He places his hands over the wound, concentrating. She begins to breathe more deeply, her shoulders sagging more and more. Once he's done, both are tired and sapped of energy from the magic use. She scoots to face him, both on their knees staring at each other. Her smile and drooping eyelids betray her exhaustion.
"Hell of a day, don't you think?" she yawns. Atem nods slowly in response, faring no better than her. Before succumbing to sleep, he shifts to pull her into his arms as she passes out, resting his head atop hers.
"Safe again," he mumbles, before he too drifts off to sleep.
...
"Atem! Bali! Where are you, are you alright? Oh goodness, how did this happen?" Mana squeaks, searching around for two of her best friends. She finds and sprints to a group that includes her master, knowing he has all the answers she seeks.
"Master Mahad!" she calls, only to be shushed by him.
"They are both fine, Pharaoh healed the queen, and both are now resting together. They're being carried back to their room, we don't want to wake them," he whispers to his student, who nods and signals childishly that her lips are sealed. Mahad huffs a bit at the action and draws her away from the scene to allow for better conversation.
"Master Mahad, how did this happen?" she asks, having received the go ahead to speak again. He stands glancing to the side, trying to figure out that answer for himself.
"I'm unsure. I had wards placed around the balcony for the sole purpose of avoiding something like this, but it was obviously ineffectual. It frustrates me that I seem to be doing more harm than good," he growls, and Mana steps back in offended shock.
"That's not true! If it was,everyone would be dead already. Right?" She grins, cheekily spreading her arms wide for emphasis. He responds with a mere empty smile.
"I suppose so." She drops her arms with a huff.
"Oh, come on! Master, you think too little of yourself! I'm sure Bali and Atem agree with me," she yells with frustration, stamping her foot down. She stalks away, fuming. Mahad watches her leave with slight amusement, as her version of being angry only comes off as a cute tantrum.
"I'm glad I have such a loyal student," he mumbles, feeling a certain warmth in his chest, only for it to fade. He returns to brooding once more on how he's going to fix everything that's happened.
"If they can even get past magical barriers bolstered by the powers of the Millennium Ring, then we are all in danger at all hours of the day. Avoiding a panic is all we can do now."
Bali wakes up before Atem, groggily opening her eyes.
"Hey wait!"she thinks, remembering that she was shot. She reaches around her back to feel for it, finding nothing. After scrunching her nose in puzzlement, she hears a sigh to her right in the bed and everything comes back to her.
"Yet again, I find myself mysteriously healed."She smiles at the slumbering figure of her... wait!
"Husband! Husband? Husband!How could I forget?" she crows inwardly, but feels a certain giddiness overcome her as she thinks about it more. Atem stirs and sits up, facing away from her and rubbing his face. She just watches, admiring his back until he straightens, shifting around to face her.
"Bali, you're okay!" he exclaims, gathering her up in his arms with lightning speed. She laughs quietly, wrapping her arms around him in return.
"You healed me, remember?" she points out. He leans back with a soft smile, staring down into her eyes.
"I believe you said it was a 'hell of a day,'" he replies, brushing hair away from her face.
"It was, other than our nap. We have something to discuss though, sir." She becomes stern, but still leans into him. He hums to tell her he's listening.
"You can't make that sort of promise to make me your only wife, not just for in the instance I can't produce an heir, but for diplomacy. Some kingdom will want a diplomatic marriage and not complying would be spitting in their face, it's not something we should risk. Especially with trouble stirring up again now," she lectures, receiving a lingering kiss on the cheek.
"You are worried about circumstances that aren't upon us and may never be. Even as leaders, we control very little, and we can only focus on what little we have."
She sighs contentedly as he moves to begin kissing her neck.
"Start small and all that… You're distracting me."
"Mmm."
He hits a spot that makes her twitch.
"I can let it slide, then."
He withdraws to look her in the eye with a victorious smirk. She feels her breath hitch as he leans in again to whisper against her lips, "I had a feeling you might. I win."
Morning. Bali sits up feeling sore, but altogether satisfied. Atem is already gone, tending to his various prayers and duties. She smiles in content as she wraps the sheet of the bed around her shoulders to keep the cool air from her bare skin.
"Arguably one of the better nights of my life,"she muses, stiffly getting up to fetch Mery and Su.
"You're awake earlier than we expected," Mery calls, Bali turning her head to see that both maids are already present, staring at her with glee.
"Please don't tell me you spied on us," Bali groans, embarrassment mounting.
"No Your Majesty, we were just walking to get dinner and we heard you yell. That's all," Su answers, a giant grin stretching her face. Bali has half a mind to order them to stop, but shrugs instead. They're her friends, what can she do?
"He's incredible, that's all I'm saying on that matter."
"I could believe that. Now hurry, you've got to get cleaned up for the celebration!" Mery scolds, pushing Bali along to the outdoor bath. She groans once more.
"It's cold, do I ha– GAH!" Su interrupts her whine to promptly shove her into the water. Bali rises to the surface sputtering.
"That was completely uncalled for!" she shrieks, the unpleasant plunge and shock from the cold making her teeth chatter.
"Lady Bali, just get clean quickly. It will take time to make you presentable with some of those marks you received last night," Mery says. Bali turns a pale pink. In her defense, it feltreallygood last night.
"Fine, the more I hurry, the warmer I get."
"Exactly."
Mery and Su have done an excellent job as always. Bali looks completely normal, although she can still feel some of what she had done the night before.
"I haven't been sore like this since my first time, but last night was worlds beyond. Everyone in the palace probably already knows," she thinks, taking a deep breath to embrace regality and ready herself to deflect any rude comments. She heads to the throne room in more splendorous garb, a golden wadjet crown on her head. She is queen. Guards bow and open the doors for her, the throne room going quiet as they do. All eyes are upon her, even as they bow respectfully. Her thoughts meander to Cinderella. Atem stands from his throne.
"You're awake," he calls over with amusement, his expression all warmth as she strides to him.
"I can't sleep forever."
Performers, servants, and even the guardians have stepped away to allow her an aisle of passage. He receives her with an embrace, which she returns. She pulls away and turns to face the crowd, hand joined with his.
"Everyone, rise and rejoice! Your new queen is well, and ready to celebrate!" Atem announces. Instantaneously, fast-paced, happy music permeates the air, allowing for the dancers to begin again, Peu among them as a central performer. Bali enjoys seeing them move with such emotion.
"Nowtheyknow how to dance," she comments off-hand to Atem, who chuckles.
"Certainly, it's why they're here. You are just as fine as them, in my opinion."
"You're obligated to say that Pharaoh," she shoots back, eyebrow raising.
"So I am, but it's still the truth. You enraptured everyone that night. I would ask you to now, but I don't want a broken foot."
She crosses her arms.
"Always with that... Hey, you think I could try and play a flute? I've always wondered if I still have the knack for it."
"Bali, you are queen. You can have whatever you wish," he replies. She shakes her head with a smirk.
"Being a spoiled brat is not excused by being queen. I want everyone to realize I'm decent enough, you know. Just because I'm a war hero doesn't mean I'm a tyrant," she explains, wagging her finger in front of his face condescendingly. He blinks in surprise.
"I'm certain no one sees you as spoiled or a tyrant, but you can still ask. I am curious to see if you still have the 'knack' for it as well."
"I hope you get pleasantly surprised," she grumbles sarcastically, unappreciative of his doubtful tone. She turns to go on her little mission.
"I was last night," he comments lightly, staring elsewhere as she twists back around with a small pout. He meets her eyes again, and instead of saying something mean, she smiles, winking. Despite everything, he still melts in his sandals.
"Fine then. I hope you get pleasantly surprisedagain." With that, she mosies off. He keeps watch over her, satisfied with the positive outcome after such a nasty event yesterday. She's safe, and now that they're bound together for eternity, he's sworn to keep her that way. Bali approaches the musicians, who stop playing to greet her. Even Djosere cracks a smile. Words are exchanged, and she becomes flustered at a few, but seems happy anyway. What she says next makes them all grin. The flute player in front of her stands and places her instrument in Bali's hands, helping her place her fingers properly. The whole place goes quiet as Bali starts to play. Atem and the court walk forward to hear better.
At first, only airy notes would come out, causing a frown, scrunched nose, and muttered curses as she pulls it away from her face. Atem is about to tell her something, but she nods to herself, resettling the flute. She plays a couple notes. These sound clear in tone this time. Satisfied, she eases her way into a song. The musicians pick up on the melody and play along with her, improvising beats and notes to go with her tune. Soon, the dancers are dancing again, the court staring on in wonder as Bali keeps steadily playing. Eventually, she quits, running out of stamina from years of no practice. The musicians stay on the song, the original flute player playing what Bali started.
"Your majesty, when did you learn to play?" Isis asks curiously, as no one would have guessed that Bali of all people could play flute.
"Oh, that's from a long time ago. I don't really play anymore, and I used to be hilariously terrible at anything more complicated. I was only wondering if I could remember," she answers modestly, the guardians sharing a chuckle at her sheepish expression.
"I take it you're feeling much better after yesterday's events, My Queen?" Siamun questions from behind, and the group looks to the old veteran as she replies.
"Of course. I never thought that getting shot by an arrow would hurt so much, but I made it through. To hell with whoever did it."
Mahad steps forward.
"A suspicious character was seen all around before the festivities and disappeared once the arrow took flight. Witnesses say that it was a nobleman, but they can't recall any defining features or a name," he says, the information dampening the mood. All are thinking to themselves on how they could let such a man slip past their detection. Bali notices the glum downturn in Mahad is deepening too quickly and makes to save the day.
"Don't worry, Mahad. I know that keeping each and every one of us safe is annoyingly exasperating and exhausting, but I appreciate the fact that it was only one arrow, and not a hail of them," she compliments, making the magician blush at the kind praise.
"Thank you, Your Majesty."
"Your Majesty, you're married now. I don't think it's wise to be flirting with someone in front of your husband."
"SHUT UP SETH!"
The day goes quickly and without incident. Bali had left the feast earlier, citing the need for space. She wanders the halls of her palace, taking time to examine anything she's never noticed before.
"My Queen, wait for me!"
Bali stops and turns to greet Isis, who jogs to catch up.
"Hello Isis. Is something wrong?" she questions, jumping to concern. People usually run to her when chaos is ensuing. Isis smiles softly and waves a deflecting hand.
"Oh no, not at all. I'm so glad you are well. My mother wanted me to give you this," she replies, taking out a bracelet charm. Bali takes it with a grateful smile and studies it to figure out what it's for.
"It's a pregnancy amulet," Isis tells her, making her yelp. Thankfully, she keeps from flinging the charm away in her flinch.
"Given the state of the royal family, having some form of help to bring about an heir would be wise. She also suggested that Pharaoh visit and offer a generous gift to Min's temple in Akhmin," Isis explains, shrugging off the awkward topic. Bali hangs her head, trying to hide her discomfort. She knew this would come up, but to think about getting pregnant so soon...
"What's wrong, Bali?"
She holds her hands up defensively.
"It's not that anything is wrong, and thank you for the gift, I just. Well, long story short, I never expected to ever have children, let alone get married. I'm not used to the idea, but I'll get over it. I think."
Isis nods in understanding. In fact, Bali thinks there's a bit too much understanding.
"I can no longer have visions concerning Pharaoh, as he possesses the Millennium Puzzle. Because you are both so close, it is difficult to obtain any visions concerning you as well. Beyond knowing you would be wed; the future is unclear."
"Don't be apologetic over that, life has a way of doing what it wants no matter how much you plan for it. I'll keep the charm close to try and help. I know that this is bigger than me."
Isis nods again, this time more cheerful.
"Few are aware that your wisdom matches your valor," she compliments. Bali snorts.
"I'm still the same woman, Isis, no need to suck up now."
"Your Majesty, I would never!"
Both begin to laugh, knowing it's all in jest.
"Know that my mother and I are here for you if you need any guidance. At least, my mother will be of help, as I don't have much experience in that field. We must all wait for the time to come, no matter what," Isis comforts, placing a friendly hand on her queen's shoulder.
"Thank you Isis. I'll put this on now so I don't forget." Bali slips the charm onto her left wrist. Memory of a scene earlier that day pops into her head. She smirks.
"Sooo... I saw that you and Mahad were standing pretty close together today... Any reasoning for that?" she asks slyly. Isis flushes red, stuttering while trying to deny any implications. Bali laughs, glad to be able to turn the tables on her. The two continue to walk the palace, discussing varying topics, with Isis making sure that Mahad isn't mentioned again.
Notes:
FUN FACT!: Marriage in Egypt was not the overcomplicated, complex mess of a religious ceremony it is today (or rather, that it is in a slew of cultures.) Marriage was just, basically, two people moving in with one another with the agreement to share all they had with each other and not cheat on one another. While virginity on the woman's part was sort of "prized," it wasn't a gigantic deal as women could get married as many times as they wanted. The two families would hash out prenuptial agreements, stating who gets what in case of a divorce, and wedding gifts for each family. Although the gifts were meant to be traded to families, looks like they went to the wedded couple instead, and with divorce they were just given back. There was no religious ceremony, nothing formal other than clearing documents according to the law for land, slave, and money ownership and all that. Still, as it's observed that this culture likes to celebrate everything they can, it's assumed that there were wedding parties and feasts in honor of the new couple. The higher up in status, the bigger the party (as you can imagine.)
Chapter 29: Alarm
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Veut sits back in his charm-filled room, built precariously to shield him from detection by the Royal Guardians.
He's never been a particularly popular man, despite having good status and great heritage. He couldn't fathom why Pharaoh Akhnemkhanen ignored him all those years, especially after he volunteered to crush a small rebellion in the lower class. And at his own expense! Instead, Pharaoh bargained with them, lowering the grain tax for that harvest season for the poorer farms. But hislands still had to hand over the same amount of grain for storage as before! Afterward, rumors spread of his desire for violence.
He resigned from then onward to find a way to overthrow Pharaoh and his monster-wielding guardians. The Millennium Items had to come from somewhere, and he began his spiral into finding a way to overpower their magic.
Many dead ends… But after years of searching, a solution! A forgotten temple, archaic ruins far into the Red Lands that were forgotten to time. A cult stood guard over it, their numbers few but loyal to a cause of chaos. He studied with them. Became strong. So strong, that even if the fabled "Chosen Pharaoh" were to rise against him with the immortalized beasts, he would prevail. Two of his own beasts against the two god beasts… But he is prepared. The only thing that could defeat him is neutralized now. Destiny encroaches.
Still. The cult had concerns, and suggested he see for himself if something else would hinder his cause.
"It is just as those men said. The queen has a gift from Re that she is obviously unaware of. Even if discovered, I doubt it could stand against this magic item I wield," Veut mumbles, finally smiling as a black-robed messenger comes through the door.
"Master, the tribe at the border is waiting for orders. They are anxious to begin the invasion," he reports calmly, standing at the doorway.
"Tell them to begin infiltrating in two days, on the moonless night."
"Yes sir."
Resna rests back in his chair with a scowl. His tribe is in a pact with a ruthless noble, one who guaranteed them all of Egypt's wealth should they help him conquer Pharaoh and his guardians. The desert tribe has no other choice but to turn to this way of life: they've grown too much to feed properly, and their home oases are showing signs of drying up. Should Egypt be taken however, a new dynasty would rise and allow for their integration into the rich delta region of the Nile.
He knows his tribe is a force to be reckoned with, having integrated two other tribes into their ranks over the past months. His men and women are sly and intelligent, able to successfully blend in with the desert and with any crowd.
He doesn't like it. He's a leader to all these people, and makes many decisions he dislikes, but this is one he knows will not end well. To go against the noble now, after seeing the magic he holds, would be suicide. To go up against the legendary magic of the guardians would be futile. On the fair chance his people are caught in between…
He shudders, shaking his head.
It's for the best that he does this. His tribe has wandered around this region of what the Egyptians call the Red Lands for generations. They don't know why, they just do, and now it is time for change.
"Lord Resna! We have new orders from Lord Veut! We move out in two days on the moonless night!" One of his men informs. Resna rises from his chair thinking of how they will infiltrate the empire without causing a panic.
"Those guardians know we're around, they just don't know why. We'll have to leave and send back a smaller group disguised as merchants. Send only two groups at a time, as we don't want suspicion to arise. They'll be taken off guard," he plans aloud, his messenger logging it away and leaving to tell all the different clan leaders. Resna sits milling over his plan, sighing in frustration.
"This is the only thing I can think of to do," he grumbles, as if someone is prodding him that he's too simplistic. All he's trying to do is be a good leader to his people, and if it means war, it means war. He needs to lose as few lives as possible, but with a nation as powerful as Egypt, it's obvious that not every tribe member would escape unscathed.
This is something that Resna has yet to fully accept.
Bali and Atem were successful in many things for the past month, with construction projects underway for new silos and temples, and excellent numbers coming in from harvest totals. Any surplus stocked away would help them should Hapy decide the next flood go poorly.
While all is good news, an underlying tenseness still pervades the palace.
The rogue noble has disappeared. The tribe at the border, too. It's that prompt timing that led Mahad and Bali to linking the two together and raising medjay activity in Thebes. Atem sent notices to the governors of the different nomes. It was all they could do for now.
There was also another held breath throughout the entire country: When will they announce that their queen is with child? Bali received several more fertility amulets, and Atem even followed through with advice for an offering to Min at his cult center. While it wasn't for complete lack of trying, worry nags at the back of her mind. But the morning is beautiful, and Atem has assured her confidently that it's too soon to give in to panic.
"Pharaoh, I received a letter from your sister!"
It's routine for her to visit the throne room to greet her husband before going to train with Akhenaden and Seth. Atem sits forward in his seat with a smile. He's received multiple reports from Ebla and Ur-Minda, but this letter is the first from Itet. Bali sits on her own new throne beside him and reads aloud. The Royal Guardians listen in.
"'My dear royal friend and Almighty God-King brother,
I write to you with great news! I am with child, and I am pleased to say that everything is going along well. The midwife expects the baby to be born within your Inundation. Ebla is peaceful and prosperous thanks to you. But I heard even greater news from our ambassador!
You two are finally married, sitting on the throne as Pharaoh and Queen! This excites me like nothing else! I do hope everything goes well in Egypt. I expect news of your royal family growing any day now. I miss all of you very much, and wish you all the best!
Sincerely with Love,
Itet, Queen of Ebla, Princess of Egypt'"
Everyone smiles throughout. Atem leans back, satisfied.
"It is excellent to hear that our dear princess is doing well, and they are not mistreating her. I'm glad you came and told us all, Bali. We've been concerned about her lack of communication for some time now," Siamun comments from his spot on the other side of Atem. She nods. She isn't as excited as she probably should be at the happy news. How long is it going to take for them to expand their family? For whatever reason, something in her gut is telling her that there is a reason their attempts are failing.
"Right. I have to go train now. Is that okay, husband?" she asks sarcastically, and he waves her off with a similarly humored look as she's giving him. She rises, leading the way to the training area with Akhenaden and Seth following at a respectful distance. They are required to do this, now that she is queen.
"My Queen, I would like to see your archery skills once more. Perhaps there is something we can improve on," Akhenaden suggests, though the three know what he implies. The old priest isn't concerned with her skill, but Seth's. He's hoping to get Seth to learn by example. She's more than welcome to the idea, much to Seth's unspoken dismay.
"Of course, Master Akhenaden. I believe that I can always get better. Practice makes perfect," she responds, but stops suddenly when she feels a wave of the feeling she's come to associate with magic wash over her. Something deep within roils and tumbles. The two guardians feel it as well, Akhenaden scanning the area with his eye for the source as she falls to her knees.
It soon becomes apparent that the magic is originating from her.
"My Queen, are you all right?" Seth asks, not daring to touch her yet. He isn't allowed unless in the most dire of circumstances. She shoves past him to a small gathering of plants and proceeds to vomit. The two guardians look at each other in confusion, but order a servant off to retrieve Mahad and Bali's two maids. The maids arrive first, saying Mahad waits in Pharaoh's apartments. Mery and Su help Bali to the room, stopping every so often to soothe her as she releases the contents of her stomach. She's exhausted by the time she finally lies back in bed, Mahad looking her over. Isis has appeared as well, though Bali isn't feeling well enough to tease about it. Shivers course through her, the roiling feeling of magic holding steady.
"My Queen, have you eaten anything– wait..." Mahad starts, but when he centers his hands over her chest he stops. He becomes silent, face scrutinizing.
"Mahad, what is it?" Bali rasps, Isis curiously coming up next to him.
"Bali... This is..." he fumbles slightly. She halfway wonders what it could be. If it were the one thing they've all been waiting for, wouldn't he be happy?
"He's definitely not happy, he looks… he looks scared."
"What is it?"
"I am not sure."
Gasps are strewn about the room as Mahad sends an urgent message for Atem to hurry to her side.
In the meantime, Isis allows Mery to help Bali sit up before dismissing both maids.
"So this doesn't bode well, does it?"
Isis gives her an unimpressed look for the nonchalant comment, but nods.
"I'll admit, it's not the news we were all hoping for. You must be scared."
Bali scoffs, "Me? Haven't you read the poems, I'mfearless.Whatever this is I'll deal with it."
If it weren't said to someone with Isis' discerning eye, she might've been truly convincing. Minutes pass in small talk with Mahad joining in before Atem arrives, breath quick from his mad dash.
"Bali, what's wrong?!"
He ignores the bows from his guardians and dashes to her side, eyes frantically searching for the problem.
"I don't know, Mahad found something strange after I got suddenly ill," she answers gently, secretly surprising her guardian friends. They've never heard that tone of voice from her at all. Regal eyes turn up to Mahad, who needs no further permission.
"The magic that made her ill did not come from the assailant responsible for the earlier attacks, rather it comes from inside her. There is something residing near her heart that I cannot fathom. With your gifts and the superior magic of the puzzle, you are the only one who may be able to see what it is, as I am unable," he explains, eyebrows furrowed, showing how perplexed he is. Atem wordlessly sets his gaze on his wife again, earning her go-ahead to use his magic to check.
Holding out his right hand, he hovers it over her chest, feeling for the strange source of magic within. It's a mass, highly concentrated… It mixes with her ba, but it isn't entirely hers as a Ka monster would be. It has to be the reason her ba had random spikes in past weeks. It has a distinct shape as well, a sphere… He releases from his observation and relates what he saw.
"With something so intertwined with her ba, it would be unwise to attempt pulling it out. All the same, it didn't feel like a regular spirit Ka in the first place. It's much different," Atem says, gaze flicking to Bali's with a quick comforting smile.
"With the amount of heka as well… I don't believe even the seven items could tear it free in the first place, My Pharaoh," Mahad adds, arms crossing.
"Well, it only made me a little bit sick out of nowhere, and I can handle that. I've never worked with magic, so maybe learning some control will keep it from happening again," Bali says, hoping no one notices how tight her fists are clenched at her sides.
"That does seem to be our best option for now. I will ask Siamun and Akhenaden for their opinions on the matter later. For now, Mahad, it's best that you begin with teaching. Perhaps bringing in Mana would be wise," Atem suggests, a smile creeping on his face at the thought of Mana's former attempts to meditate. Mahad smiles as well, flicking his fingers breezily to send out a short burst of sparks that zip away from the room.
"Your Majesties, with the rogue noble and now this strange occurrence within the queen, I feel I must retreat for an intense meditation with the Millennium Necklace. Any scrap of information I can find may tip the scales in our favor." Isis doesn't wait for a response, instead bowing quickly and hurrying away. Bali feels her lip curl up when she notices her glance at Mahad before leaving.
"You should get back to what you were doing. I'll be okay for now, the storm of magic has passed," she says, getting up from her position on the bed and stretching her back. Atem looks unconvinced.
"If you're sure."
She kisses his cheek. "Positive."
Bali doesn't notice that it roots him to his spot, instead starting a conversation with Mahad as they exit to wait for Mana to arrive at the entrance to the apartments.
He sighs, slapping his face lightly to exit the swirl of bliss.
"All will be okay, it didn't feel malicious. If I believe that, she will too."
Still, a seed of doubt and worry is sewn in the pit of his stomach. What could it possibly be?
"I already have enough to worry about with the story of that caravan from the south being robbed blind by a single man."
Resna and every member of the combined tribes are across the border, strategically interspersed with the people of Thebes. Resna emphasized on not raising suspicion in his orders. So far, the Royal Guardians are unaware, thinking any influx of population is because of harvest. The palace is focused on itself, raising security and watching for a rogue noble. Not poorer civilians.
"All main forces are here in the city, Veut. Give the word and we're ready," the tribe leader relays over dinner with the nobleman. Veut, in Resna's opinion, is truly an evil man. The noble can cast such terrifying amounts of magic through complex spells and incantations. All for conquest. Better for him and his tribe to not be in his path of destruction.
"Excellent. Dear, dear friend…" he says this so tenderly that Resna knows it's insincere, "I suppose I should tell you who I really am, for how can there be trust if you know nothing of me?"
Resna sits back in poorly masked alarm. Veut already cuts an intense image.
The noble transforms, shadows growing on the walls and moving as if alive. Veut grows even taller, becomes more muscular, his hair breaking from its braids to spill freely down his back. He now wears a cape, chest bare, and indigo pants bloused to brown boots. A blue pendant hangs from his neck, strangely reminiscent of Pharaoh's Millennium Puzzle. Resna is stilled with fear, gripping his chair, mouth sealed shut. Veut pins him with an evil look.
"I am Anubis." His voice is deeper, rougher. Resna swallows with difficulty. He dares not question this new identity.
"W-what is your pendant there?" he ventures, and Anubis' following laugh makes Resna cringe as shivers travel down his spine.
"This is the Pyramid of Light, the one thing that thatchildcannot stand against. But, my dear Resna, there is somethingelsethat I have discovered about our new queen," Anubis leads, Resna taking the hint.
"And what's that, sir?"
"She has a monster inside of her, and I believe it is agod." Anubis sits once more, his hulking frame hardly fitting in the cushions set out for him. His eyes stare unblinkingly at Resna. The tribe leader feels more uncomfortable than ever before.
"What, like the god beasts of the Chosen Pharaoh?"
"Exactly like them. My Pyramid of Light can repel those two monsters, my dear friend. When I shot her at the wedding ceremony, I felt the same sensation as when I met her in the library. I'm going to take control of the gods, adding to my own nearly invincible monsters. Thank you for being a part of this glorious revolution!" Anubis cheers, but Resna can only meekly raise his glass and take a sip of wine.
"What have I done?"he thinks in despair. He's made a pact with ultimate chaos. "The heirloom. Only the heirloom can help."
Anubis catches Resna's attention once more with his last order of business.
"Send the order."
Bali and Atem are cuddled together, sleeping peacefully when Mahad bursts into their room.
"Your majesties, Thebes is under attack!"
The royals snap up, any drowsiness fading immediately.
"Gather the guardians and defend! Hurry!" Atem yells, ordering servants to get him proper attire. Bali mirrors his orders. As Mahad goes, Atem stops to look over at her.
"Bali, you can't go."
"I'm not going to let you go out alone!"
"The guardians and I are enough to stop this threat, I know how battle affects you, you don't have to go through it anymore."
She shakes off being stunned by his words.
"It's my fight, I'll do what I have to like I always have whether you approve or not. I'll shoot arrows from the palace rooftops, I know my strengths and weaknesses better than anyone," she argues, her ferocity shocking him. With no time to fight more, he shakes his head in disbelief, smirking.
"Have it your way. So let it be said, so let it be done."
"So let itbe!" Her reply makes him bark shortly in laughter as both are hurriedly donned in tunics and leather armor. Before they part ways, she tosses her sword to him.
"I'm not going to use it," she states and races for the stairs leading to the rooftops with her Nubian bow and quiver. Atem ties the sword to his belt and goes on.
"Who is responsible?" Atem shouts, the guardians too busy helping people escape into the palace complex to answer. They stand at the entrance to the palace façade awaiting his guidance. Medjay and on-duty soldiers either await orders or are dispatched to the city by Seth and Mahad.
"It must be the tribe that we thought had resolved its problem. But they're being led by a strange man with a blue pendant not unlike the Millennium Puzzle," Shada replies quickly, deciding that someone must step up and inform their irate Pharaoh.
"Interesting. Shada, Isis! To the rooftops, help the queen!"
"Yes, Your Majesty!"
"The rest of you, protect Thebes with all of your power!"
Notes:
FUN FACT!: In the note at the end of the last chapter, I mentioned fertility gods. The primary male fertility god is Min, with his cult center and temple in the city of Akhmin. He was, in a sense, a big swingin' dick in the Egyptian pantheon of gods (I'm so proud of this joke, ngl) and offerings to him were for virility, and stood as a symbol for male sexuality. He's the main guy for that sort of thing, but there were likely smaller, more local gods in some towns and cities.
There are quite a few goddesses associated with various aspects of fertility and pregnancy (more than male because let's face it, women do way more work in that area), but I'll focus on female sexuality for now. Hathor, seen as a goddess of joy, friendship and love, is also THE goddess of female sexuality and femininity. Promiscuity wasn't frowned upon for women, their bodies never policed, their agency respected (cheating on a spouse was a crime though, heavily frowned upon.) BTW, there's evidence that men would take time off of work to help at home when their wives/daughters were menstruating.
For pregnancy, there are many goddesses, Taweret prolly being the most prominent of them. Generally these goddesses are linked with animals found within the Nile, as the Nile is the source of life and all that. Makes sense to me!
Chapter 30: The Shell
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Thebes is in utter chaos, with innocents fleeing for their lives, their only hope the stronghold that is the palace. Every apparent avenue of escape, however, is blocked by groups of tribal fighters, rough men and women who are all used to fighting for survival. Atem is at a loss for words as he reaches the end of the boulevard that leads from the palace out into the city. Fighting is broken out wherever he turns, screams tearing through the night. He finds himself glad that Bali is up and away from the sounds and smells of anguish.
"My Pharaoh, we must get civilians inside the palace! The enemy has not made their way here yet, and they will be safe under my magic!" Mahad yells, fending off different attackers with his Illusion Magician.
"Then make it so!" Atem calls back, pushing his heka forward into activating the Millennium Puzzle. A deep, bell-like tone reaches his ears as the wadjet eye on its front glows. He summons two monsters to his aid; one a fierce lioness cloaked in fire, the other a large glittering jackal with colorfully painted eyes. The two monsters disperse on his command, out into the city to guard those most vulnerable.
A group of armed men barrel through a wall, catching Atem and Mahad by surprise.
"It's the king! Get him!" one orders, and the gruff pack charges. Atem reaches for Bali's sword to meet them in combat.
In an instant, the group falls to the ground, slain with a slew of arrows. He releases his guard momentarily to look to the sky as Mahad fends off any other obstruction.
"Bali, thank you."
Bali stands proudly atop the palace, heart in her throat after seeing Atem's close call. She shakes out her hand to keep from getting jittery.
"You're welcome," she mutters. She prepares another arrow while Shada and Isis direct their summoned monsters to scout the perimeter of Thebes to assure no assailants approach from behind. Their mission demands all their concentration, making Queen Bali the ultimate commander of the league of archers surrounding her. All goes well, for a surprise attack. While she desperately desires to be fighting alongside Atem, she knows that sniping from above is almost all she can handle. A mantra takes hold to keep her from breaking into any hysteria: "Protect everyone. Protect everyone. Protect everyone!"
"Keep it up, archers, they're counting on continuous back-up down there! Stagger your shots so there's no lull in arrows!" she encourages, loosing a few arrows herself. She has the longest range of accuracy, which garners stares of awe from some as they reach for their quivers.
"It is true," they whisper. "The goddess of victory!"
"Resna, isn't it simply marvelous? The terror, the screams! When I gained my powers, I changed my name to honor the god who bestowed them to me. Such great fortune, and you helped to make it happen!" Anubis walks calmly through the destruction as if it's a field of flowers. Resna stares around in guilt and sadness, disturbed by how much terror his decisions have made, for both innocent civilians and for his people.
"Anubis, we should push on to the palace and get this over with, instead of depleting my tribe. I know the guardians hold enough power to overrun us if we let them," Resna musters, gathering any courage within him to speak out. Anubis pauses, frowning, the eye on the Pyramid of Light glinting in the light of a nearby fire. His demeanor changes once more as he screams with laughter while walking away.
"Foolish Resna, do you not realize? The death of your tribe is to feed my power, a part of my plan from the beginning!"
The tribal leader falls to his knees, unmercifully spared from the screeching bloodthirst of the madman.
"No..." he mouths, spirit broken. Anubis stops two buildings down the street, turning with a grin.
"But perhaps your idea has merit. There's a certain special monarch that draws my attention. Sit back and relax; enjoy this beautiful genocide I've created."
Resna huddles to himself, holding his head in shame, feeling every bit as evil as the man who meanders away from him. Screams ring in his ears. The once great leader of the combined tribes beats the ground in a torturous rage, tears streaming down his face, driven mad by his own mournful guilt.
"Gods damn me, but let Aasa come through! The heirloom is all that is left!"
...
Atem is tiring. Fighting the tribe is exhausting, as all are well-trained for combat. These fighters operate on pure offense, while he and the guardians are almost entirely taken up with protecting citizens from every sort of attack.
"Pharaoh! Take a rest, I will take over for you– ah!" Mahad calls, his loss of concentration comes with a lapse in guard, allowing his Illusion Magician to take a hit from a pitch-black javelin. Mahad kneels to the ground in pain.
"Mahad!"
"Well well, hello little king."
A voice from the smoke-filled wind. Atem has no choice but to leave Mahad to recover on his own. He glares around, waiting for an attack. He feels his monsters, wherever they are, are unable to move. One glance to the injured Illusion Magician proves that it is unable to move as well. Atem draws the sword as a giant emerges before him.
"Who are you?" he growls. The guardians in the battlefield return to his side on realizing that their monsters are paralyzed.
The man, with a gaze of malice and terrible grin that tells his pleasure for war, merely chuckles. His cape billows behind him, decorated with soot, dust, and blood.
"Lovely, isn't it, Pharaoh? All these years, I waited and honed my skills to perfection while you ran about being the ignorant child, and I played the loyal fool. This land, and all others, will fall to the power of my Pyramid of Light!" Anubis preaches, walking about with hands spread in praise for himself. Bali watches the scene from her perch, frustrated that he traipses right at the edge of her range.
"I will never allow you to spread your evil any further!" Atem says. Anubis only laughs more, causing brows to furrow throughout the group.
"I changed my own name to honor the god who gave me my magic. Only one thing can stop me, you fool, and it is already out of your reach! The only one who has the strength hidden inside to possibly oppose me is your dear, pitiful queen," Anubis states, looking up sharply and meeting Bali's gaze. She steps back in surprise.
"What?" Atem snaps, only to realize too late the warlord's true intentions.
Anubis waves his hands down toward his feet, disappearing in a cloud of smoke. The group of guardians glance around in wonder, taken from their shock when Atem curses loudly while running for the palace.
"Your majesty, where are you going?!"
"He's after Bali!"
... ... ...
She's face to face with the most vile person she's had the misfortune to meet. He smells of burnt and rotting flesh, his eyes providing a vision into every torture he desires to inflict.
"Hello, My Queen," he greets. Bali recognizes his voice.
"You're that man from the library..."
"So good of you to remember me. You must think I'm after you because of your status, but that would be a gross overestimation of yourself. Instead, there's something inside you that I wish to control," Anubis sneers. She steps back from the sheer amount of bloodlust he projects. It easily tromps on her fears.
"My Queen!" Shada calls out, he and Isis breaking their focus to try and fight. Shadows immediately grapple all onlookers to the ground with an uttered word from Anubis. They struggle, their bindings increasing in tightness as time continues.
"That's right; suffer! Your despair brings me power," he mutters with a gratified smile. Meanwhile Bali's mind churns over Anubis' information.
"He has to be talking about the sphere..."She grips her bow, drawing up her iron will while reaching for an arrow. Shadow hands catch hers and bind them in place. They burn horrifically, and she pulls at them more with yelps of pain.
"I don't want you getting away, this is a careful process. You and your lover will bear all of my wrath slowly and sweetly. The god inside of you will be mine!" Anubis crows. Bali gazes at him in surprise.
"God?" she coughs, wincing as another wave of agony radiates through her. Something inside her shrieks indignantly at the treatment.
"Yes, and unfortunately, this will kill you. You really are quite beautiful."
"Pig." She spits. He wipes his face, unaffected by her act of defiance.
"As you like." His hand glows.
Her fear mounts as he draws back.
He punches forward.
Aim is true for her heart.
She slams her eyes shut to brace for impact, a feeble prayer for Atem to stay strong leaving her lips.
Pharaoh rounds the corner onto the roof.
Anubis surges forward with a fist blazing with magic.
Dread. Horror. Fear. In seconds it all seeps into his very bones and he is unable to stop it.
Just as Anubis is to connect, the atmosphere around them explodes.
She disappears with a bright, golden flash of light. Atem starts forward once more, voice cracking in rage.
"BALI!"
She opens her eyes because she knows where she is, feeling a sensation she hasn't felt since she first arrived in Egypt.
"Kitten, are you awake? You scared me, I never thought that this would become out of control," Re admits, though to what Bali has no clue. He appears to her as a full man, dressed in gold and lapis with a crown of a hawk embracing the sun.
"What's happening?" she asks, regaining her composure to some extent.
"I rescued you from that monster."
"Thank you for the save after no communication for months, but I have to go back now," she states, arms crossing. Re draws back in shock.
"You can't be serious! He'll destroy you!"
"He said I have a god inside me. I need to figure out what he meant."
Re sighs, amber eyes hardening with resolution.
"If that's what you want to know, I can tell you. I'm the cause of this mess, ultimately," he replies, staring out over the horizon of the subspace, seeing something that she can't fathom.
"What." Her irritation flares. But a strange sensation builds inside of her as she does so, distracting her from glaring at him to put a hand to her heart.
"It starts with the reason for your existence," he starts, voice booming to keep her from interrupting. "There is a Chosen Pharaoh, given the power to wield two god-beasts once created to punish the evil of humanity. One is the embodiment of my role as creator of all mortal life, the other the embodiment of my flesh that I rejoin each evening when I descend into the underworld. What is missing is a third component, my ba. Evil approaches as I knew it would. A new weapon to fight humanity's darkness was needed."
He turns to look at her with such cruelly indifferent eyes that she feels her lip tremble on instinct.
"Heka is the god of magic, who has possibly been since before the light emerged from darkness.All magic, including those powers the gods possess. They are strict in their application, desiring balance. After an argument, a deal was struck between us to develop the god-beast that would be the embodiment of my ba, in the form of the sacred Benu, that reincarnates each day glorious and new. After thousands of years of building its form with the accruement of magic from Heka, it was finally ready to be planted in the heart of my chosen. To increase its strength beyond that of the other god-beasts, it needed a human's power, a combination of divine and mortal ba. By that time, our civilization had fallen to ruin, but a few remained loyal to the ancient ways. Your mother was from one such family."
Bali flinches at the mention of her mother. Is this how her obsession with Egypt came about?
"I found her, this poor woman, tied to an unloving man to protect a private collection of valuable artifacts stolen from our homeland. Our night together is not one I will forget. It is then that I gave the fledgling beast to the child that would follow. All that was left was to wait for the child to arrive at the temple, following its fate. Man or woman, it didn't matter. It had the beast I needed. But your arrival proved the beast needed more time, and you needed to prove yourself worthy for it to achieve ultimate power. Getting it to the Chosen Pharaoh at that point took precedence, so I did what I had to."
Her blood runs cold at every implication.
A shell. She's a shell, not created for her own life, not created to change the world, not created to love and be happy andlive.She is a shell born to create a monster.
Her mother knew. She knew she knew she knew sheknew.
"Before you spiral into hurt and frustration, things changed. You are my daughter, you are my child, and that alone links you to a love I have for all I create. The more I closely interacted with you, the more I felt how closely bonded the beast had become with your soul, how much it saw you as its progenitor and not me. Already you have the birthright to the heavens, and your maturity in your time here has put you within reach of your own divinity, both separate and intertwined with the beast's. I once cared nothing for your survival other than keeping the beast strong. Now I cannot bear to see you perish when you have surprised me with your growth. Perhaps this was Heka's intention all along," Re finishes, his expression remaining calm throughout the entirety of his speech.
The following silence is resounding.
"Everything… is it a lie? All the pain, the people who died–no, who Ikilled… Just for some convoluted plan to build a creature for," she halts, words caught in her throat. "Atem is this Chosen Pharaoh, isn't he. What is he 'chosen' for?"
Re doesn't answer. She moves on, hands clutching her head.
"You, you say you're my real father, right? Now I have two who never gave a damn,fuckme! Claiming you care about me now, and wanting to save menowis just a lie, it's still only about the the... whatever the hell is inside me!"
He bristles, stepping forward.
"It isn't true, you must trust me, I must protect you now. I no longer care about Pharaoh receiving this ultimate beast. All I want is for you to be safe."
"No, I don't give a flying shit what you want, send me back!"
He levels her a mighty glare that she doesn't scare away from returning.
"My plan is to do just that, to send you back to where you belong!"
He snaps his fingers.
It's dark on the wet street that Bali faces. She vaguely recognizes it, shivering from the cold she's grown unfamiliar with. The wind tussles her hair into her face.
"No..." she whimpers, gaping at the twentieth century work attire she's now clothed in. The sound of a door opening behind her startles her and she turns defensively, reaching for her absent sword. She faces an astounded Evelyn O'Connell, whose mouth drops open in shock. Bali begins to try and explain herself when she's enveloped in a hug.
"Where have you been? Rick and I have searched everywhere for you. Come inside and explain everything," her teacher soothes, pulling her inside the building. As they strut along, Bali peers around at the decorations owlishly, the European-themed lavish hotel unfamiliar to her now.
"RICK! I found Bali!" Evelyn yells, after securing the hotel room door behind them. Evelyn's American husband appears after a grunt of alarm. He jogs up to her and peers into Bali's eyes. She blinks curiously, in a daze of depression.
The change in demeanor doesn't get past him.
"Where have you been?" His mutter is rhetorical as Evelyn pushes for them to get comfortable first.
Bali is led to a room in the large suite, her teacher giving her a comfortable nightgown, afterward bringing her to a sitting room. Rick already sits with steaming cups of tea for the three of them. All sit, quietly sipping, waiting for Bali to begin.
With tea finished, she does.
Notes:
FUN FACT!: Y'all. Anubis. Prolly most well-known god (definitely the most loved today). NOT EVIL. NOT EVEN THE GOD OF DEATH. He's the god who presides over mummification and the process of getting you through the Duat (a journey-type land of afterlife that's traversed before heart-weighing.) He weighs a heart against Ma'at's feather. If heavy with sin, the heart is fed to Ammut. If light with goodness, the heart is granted access to the lands of Osiris. Osiris is a god of death and funerary rights as well, with a hand in fertility (or maybe not his hand, exactly…), and is one of the most important and pivotal gods in the entire religion. The afterlife is an involved process that changes depending on the era. In early dynasties, it was believed you only passed into the afterlife if you were useful and/or important in your life. That idea was phased out and any person could pass through if they were good and dutiful. Pharaohs passed into the godly realms automatically (or at least part of them did. It's a little weird.) But I want to stress: ANUBIS ISN'T EVIL. HE'S NOT EVEN A CHAOS GOD. HE'S A GOOD BOI.
Chapter 31: To Do What You Want
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Bali hates the tense silence that follows the end of her story. Rick and Evelyn can't find any words to say that would help. Their once boisterous apprentice is now silent and withdrawn.
"Bali, you should get some sleep. With some rest we can figure out a way forward," Evelyn finally says, shooting Rick a look to tell him to let her handle things. He disappears. Evelyn leads Bali out of the sitting room and to a large cushy lounge sofa, babbling that the furniture is easier to sleep on than it looks. After making doubly sure she is all set to get some sleep, Evelyn bustles to the master bedroom to start planning with her husband.
"We've got to get her back there," is the first thing out of her mouth, Rick sending her a stunned expression.
"What? How are we going to do that? Our last two adventures concerning freaky things never exactly went as planned," he replies, but she waves her hand at him in a brushing motion.
"No, that's not what I mean. Bali needs to get her spirit back, and I'll bet the answers are in the temple where she took the challenge of Re– her father. My goodness, if I had known who she was, I would never have sent her in the first place. And to think, Ambrose was swayed to that meathead Corman's side, and we didn't even realize."
"Hey, at least they're gone now… Uh, Evelyn, why are you staring at that book?" Rick comments, noticing that she's stopped paying attention to all but the giant tome in front of her.
"Rick, she's in here," she mumbles, but a bright flash of lightning crashes immediately after, with earth-shaking thunder interrupting her. Evelyn is unfazed, while Rick peers out the window in puzzlement. She continues reading.
"That sorcerer's name was Anubis, receiving his powers through a test much like the one Bali had to endure, but this man was evil. And so far in this history, he's winning."
"Well, there's definitely a reason for the sudden violent storm out there. Chicago doesn't get storms this bad this time of year," he answers, bracing himself against a bedpost when another peal of thunder rocks the building.
"Rick, she has to go back because she doesn't belong here anymore. She's the only one who can stop him now, and that's only if she can appeal to the fates enough to receive godhood and release this god-beast," she states, snapping the book shut and facing her husband.
"She has to get back to that husband of hers, too."
Evelyn grins despite the dire situation.
"Of all people, I never would have guessed Bali. But then again, destiny has a way of changing paths. Let's hope that Pharaoh and his priests can hold out."
Atem's heart is shattered. He's sunk to his knees in disbelief and sorrow. Seth and the other priests caught up with him, already realizing the worst had happened. Luckily however, Seth notices that something isn't quite right about Anubis' behavior either.
"If Queen Bali is destroyed, why does he look so confused?" he points out, disliking the thought of the snarky woman actually being dead. Indeed he's right; Anubis seems frustrated, unable to figure out what happened.
"This doesn't make any sense... That woman was no god, and yet... My blow didn't even connect," he mutters, pacing about. His concentration loosens enough that the shadow hold is broken. The archers, Shada, and Isis are now free, and rush over to Atem.
Atem stands with a burning glare, any sense of mercy gone from his mind.
"You... Anubis, what have you done?" he hisses. Anubis turns to him in a nonchalant fashion.
"I'll admit, I was about to kill her for the beast inside of her, but... She's gone. If you still want to fight, I'll be glad to. But that woman was your only hope, and now she is disappeared. So what is it going to be? Surrender, or die?"
"Never! I will bring her back!" It's a promise he knows not if he can fulfill, but a promise it is.
They've done it. Evelyn found an old script that, if read correctly, would allow them to "converse" with the gods, a commune prayer used by pharaohs.
"So where exactly did you get this and why didn't you tell me about it?"
"I wasn't done figuring out the context of this prayer, but now I think it's quite literal in its purpose. Don't be nervous, it could always not work."
"I'm not nervous, just a little hurt that you didn't tell me about this."
"Oh, I'll give a proper apology later, right now we need to stop the world from crashing down again," she comments with a smile, which he returns. Memories of their dear old mummy friend come to mind, a symbol of when they first met.
"Alright, so how do we do this?"
"Sit back and don't worry; leave everything to me right now," she says calmly. She inhales deeply before reciting the prayer. He watches a flame light itself in the middle of the floor, smokeless and scorchless. Light and heat, increasing in intensity as time goes on. A figure forms as Evelyn finishes the incantation. She stands, motioning for him to follow suit.
He appears as a man, dark-skinned in a white pleated kilt and a simple golden pectoral. Only a small golden glow emanates from this form. This glow combined with his outlandish height makes it obvious he isn't human.
"Hello, Rick and Evelyn O'Connell." His voice is quiet compared to his stature. Evelyn sticks her left foot forward and bow with arms crossed over her chest, elbowing Rick so he would do the same. Rick is surprised he's speaking English.
"What do you wish from me?" The man sounds again. Evelyn, despite facing Re, stands up strong.
"We are not who need attention. Bali must return to Egypt in the time you sent her, the time she belongs now, or else this world will be destroyed. You know that, don't you?"
Re stares straight ahead.
"She will die if she returns."
"Do you know for certain?"
"I do not, however; I am not willing to take that chance. Not after everything I've already done to her."
Evelyn snarls. "You're an idiot, if you don't mind me saying so."
"Evie–" Rick starts, but she puts her hand in his face to make him quiet.
"I can understand wanting to protect your child. I'm a parent, and any good parent would gladly stand up to you right now. When Bali came under my apprenticeship, she had a hollow personality, all she had was her own fire to keep her going. She found you, and you led her to an opportunity to be adored in a positive environment, even though it wasn't your intention. Now she knows you're her biological father, and the first thing you do is impose yourself on her even though you haven't been there for her for her entire life! Her real family is back in that ancient palace, back with her husband, back where she was meant to be born. If you truly want your child to find happiness and even try at being a good father, you put her back," she demands, her words making him go silent in thought. She glares him down, her conviction still present though not vocal. Re remains quiet, interpreting what he's been told by a simple human.
"No, no… Humans are never simple. Never have been,"he thinks. It's been millennia. Re sighs and bows low to the couple.
"I find you are correct. However, I know that she will not listen to me, not anymore. Only one person will be able to hold her attention, and I must borrow your strength to bring her here," he starts. Evelyn agrees ecstatically and listens to the god's plan.
...
Bali can't think of anything she desires more in this moment than to see her mother. Why the secrecy? What is her heritage? Where does her American "father" sit in all this? Sleep refuses to come, as emptiness fills her chest and thoughts of despair and betrayal run dominant. All she could keep a grip on is a persistent resentment of Re.
"I don't want to believe it but I have to. Would she have even told me if she was never taken away? And he knew from the very beginning, he made me do this, stringing me along without a care for me. As for that dream..."she argues within her head. Re isn't there to defend himself, but she's vehement in her belief that he's in the wrong. She remembers the dream she had in the Eblan camp.
Re saved her and let her mother fall to her death. He let herdie, yet claims she was his faithful follower, someone who risked everything to have an affair to save his nation. It makes Bali's anger grow more. Tears escape her eyes as she sits up quickly, shoving her legs over the side of the sofa and pressing her hands to her face.
"I've never been in control at all! Dammit!" she yells, shoulders shaking as sobs take control. She jumps when a hand gently lands on her shoulder.
Slowly, she pans her gaze up to see who it is.
"My little Bali, you're still as lively as always."
"Mom..."
There. In her favorite sundress, the one with the red flowers Bali used to trace when she was little. Hazel eyes. Lightly tan skin. Tightly curled dark brown hair. The smile, the voice, the way she stands, the way she is, the way she always was…
Bali stands, shaky, stepping away. Wiping her eyes. Disbelieving.
"Mom, this is impossible! Re said even gods can't bring you back, I–"
"Calm down, my dear, it's okay. I am here solely for your sake, your father asked a great favor, but it has its price. My time here is short, to spend consoling your troubles and to answer your questions. Oh, but you have grown up so beautifully despite everything you've been through. I hear you've even married," her mother says, turning playful and throwing an arm around her daughter's shoulders in a hug. Bali chuckles through the tears streaming out her eyes as they take a seat on the sofa.
"Yeah. I don't know if you've heard about him, but he's the best," Bali answers, grossly sniffing to keep snot from her upper lip. Both of them laugh after her mother scolds her for unladylike behavior.
"You always did like getting into trouble. When you took revenge on those neighbor boys for making fun of you by destroying their tree house, I didn't know how I would handle you growing up. I guess not much has changed since then," her mother says, and Bali rolls her eyes.
"They had it coming. But, mom?" she starts, tone turning somber. Her mother immediately calms, knowing what comes next.
"Yes?"
"Why did..." her words catch in her throat. "Why? Everything, why?" Tears begin again, the betrayal in her voice clear enough to make her mother flinch. She rescinds her arm and faces forward.
"Do you remember the story of the Nameless Pharaoh? I told it to you once."
Bali blinks.
"Vaguely. His tomb was discovered when I was a kid, but hasn't been touched since because it's so dangerous."
Bali's mother meets her eyes with a grim expression.
"I told you that story exactly once, when you were five. It was nineteen twenty-one."
When her mother doesn't continue, Bali goes back over her knowledge on the subject. Her eyes narrow when she catches an inconsistency.
"Are you sure? That tomb wasn't discovered until…" she trails off when she notices that her mother has looked to her hands, lips tight in shame.
"Until nineteen twenty-three. You didn't remember, wouldn't have thought it strange because you were so young. I'm from an archaic family that upheld a great secret of the Nameless Pharaoh and the guardians of the Millennium Items. Unlike some branches that remained underground to protect his tomb, we integrated with the world, ensuring that artifacts integral to the Pharaoh's return remain protected. My parents moved to America with my grandparents, following a private exhibit as… bodyguards, I suppose. The son of the owner of the collection and I were married, as I was educated and could easily scout more rare artifacts for him and, admittedly, his career would be bolstered with an exotic-looking woman on his arm." Her nose wrinkles in disgust, Bali feeling her anger rise. Just as she opens her mouth, her mother holds up a hand.
"Don't. It's done. It was my duty to protect the artifacts, and after I agreed to the duty given to me by your father, I had to protect you as well. I convinced Frank to take us to Egypt, to scout for artifacts and to let you see your obsession. I wanted to show you things that would help you… I thought it was time. I… Was wrong. The tomb we were in was one protected by one of the ancient families, and was similar to the Nameless Pharaoh's, more dangerous than any other discovered. When your real father appeared, I knew I had no place begging for my life. He saved you, saved the bauhe formed with Heka's assistance. There are yet still many things I cannot say, things that you will discover on your own in time, but you must continue on with your life to get there."
Bali takes deep breaths to calm herself, wiping her face, all the while turning the information over in her mind.
"All this time, I couldn't find any answers, I hated it. Now I have them and I still feel like garbage, like everything I've done was pointless because it was all for this." Bali places a hand over her heart. She can feel it. What she feels, it feels. The magic that washes over her only makes her mildly dizzy now.
"Bali," her mother grabs Bali's shoulders and wrenches them so the two are facing each other. "You have always been your own person, always been allowed to do what you needed for yourself, damn whatever Re told you. People do what they want, sometimes they just naturally drift to where they need to be, just as you did. You never accepted my death but you did move past it, you went into Egyptology, you made friends in the ancient past, you fell in love. Bali that was all you, good and bad choices, it led you to where you are, and you will go where you want in the future. Re knows this now, he sees that Heka meant all along for thebauto become attached to its host, for the host to become a god. You don't have to forgive him, but I encourage you to fulfill this role and return to your place, to fight off the evil plaguing Egypt. I know you have the strength, my dear. Your pharaoh needs you."
Bali sucks in a deep breath. The thing inside her… Thebau.It shrieks its approval of doing whatever it wants.
To do whatevershewants.
Finally, she smiles again. Confident.
"You're right, momma. If Re won't send me back, I'll get there myself," she responds. The feeling of a bird taking flight makes her spring up.
"I'm glad I was able to help after failing you so egregiously years ago. I hope you can forgive me," her mother says sadly, sitting back in relief.
"I do forgive you. Only you. I don't think…"
Her mother huffs in laughter.
"I know what you mean. Between us, he deserves it. Both of those men do. I'm glad you have snatched up the most decent man ever known."
Bali flushes, crossing her arms, mumbling, "It wasn't like I held a gun to his head."
Her mother rises and opens her arms for a hug, which Bali gladly leaps into.
"I have to leave now, Bali. I love you," she whispers, stroking Bali's hair as she begins to fade.
Bali drops her arms to her sides. "I love you too mom. I'll do what I have to."
After quickly wiping her face, she changes back into her day clothes she arrived in. She walks out of the room once finished, face set in determination.
"Dr. O'Connell, we have to get going!" she yells, using a strong and charismatic voice that she admittedly learned from Atem. Her call ends up being to an empty room, until her teacher pops up behind her.
"Good, because we're leaving."
Bali gets over being startled at the sound of "leaving."
"Wait, don't you have business to attend to here in… Hey, where are we, anyway?"
Evelyn pauses from packing her bag.
"We're in Chicago, our only business was trying to find you. We figured that–"
A knock interrupts her. Rick dashes to the door, Bali and Evelyn hanging back warily.
They hear him argue with someone, but eventually give in with a "Yes, she's here, we found her, she's inside."
Bali freezes in place when two men in dark suits enter with Rick on their heels, looking disgruntled.
"Bali, where have you been? Do you realize the idiocy I've had to deal with in the time that you disappeared?"
She frowns deeply, crossing her arms and settles her weight on her left foot.
"I know you're not my dad, and even if you were I don't particularly care. I don't need your cold indifference anymore, Mr. Harrison," she says, matching his cool gaze. He raises an eyebrow, looking impressed.
"I'm glad that burden is gone between us, then. Now where have you been, the press won't let up about your disappearance and it's making my senatorial race a nightmare."
"You wouldn't believe me if I told you. Did you ask your stooge to bring a camera so you'd have proof I'm not buried in the woods somewhere?" Bali nods to the other man beside Mr. Harrison.
"You argue like your mother, it's annoying."
The lackey doesn't pull out a camera, but steps forward with a small stack of papers.
"Sign these and we'll never speak again."
Bali looks to Frank Harrison in wonder, before she reads more closely at the documents.
"Finally disowning me, what took so long?"
She begins signing on the dotted lines as he answers, not bothering to read the fine print.
"You had promise, and to have ties to a genius like that is useful. The Crawfords were even offering a rather lucrative deal for you to marry into their family until they heard you were skulking around in Egypt. Seeing as you're not even mine, however, I don't care anymore. Be glad I didn't decide on a darker route," Frank answers. He hears Rick mutter curses and threats but doesn't respond. Frank Harrison runs Chicago, runs the state of Illinois.
"Fair enough. And thank you for the compliment earlier, I think I'm like my mother too. Glad I didn't end up being like you or my real father, you both have wet sacks for brains."
The lackey starts at the insult, but is calmly reprimanded from taking action. Instead, he collects the finished papers and stuffs them in his suit.
"Your mother ended up being a harlot and died a fool. If that's what you aspire to be, I won't argue. You're no longer my concern."
Frank Harrison looks them all in the eye, then beckons for his grunt to follow him back out the door. Once they've left, Bali Harrison breathes a sigh of relief.
"I didn't think that would go as well as it did. He used to yell at me when I mouthed off to him, I think he just wanted things done quickly. That's that, I guess this means I have nothing else to really tie me here." She immediately regrets what she says, putting her hands up in apology. "Except for you two, of course!"
Rick and Evelyn laugh her off and urge her to help them pack.
"Please hold out for me, Atem. I'm coming home!" she prays, but she turns to her teacher with a puzzled look. "Where exactly are we going?"
"Oh Bali!" Evelyn replies with a laugh, and Bali crosses her arms indignantly.
"It's not that bad of a question."
After two days of travel, they finally land in Cairo, where they immediately head to the museum to acquire help from old friends of the couple. They secure travel south and across the Nile, following Bali's directions toward the temple of the trial. It takes another day on camels to reach the vicinity of the temple in Libya.
"You sure you know where you're going? Everything looks the same around here, I'm surprised you even found it the first time!" Rick yells across to her. Bali laughs.
"I feel special now, thanks!"
"Stop fooling around you two, we've found it!" Evelyn cheers, pointing out a temple dug into a cliff covered with sand. Bali sucks up a breath, remembering all that happened nearly a year before. Once they clear the few hundred meters of distance, they pitch the camels and walk to the entrance. Bali leads. She can feel the excitement of the beast inside her.
"Oh, the body of that one guy is still here. Sorry about that," she thinks, stepping over it carefully while Evelyn and Rick glance at each other. They continue forward to enter the temple.
"Dr. O'Connell, I have no idea what to do now, but I'll take you to where it all started," Bali explains. Rick holds up his flashlight, as the sun isn't at the proper angle to light the cavern like before. When he does, Bali feels something inside her change, her instincts transforming.
"There's no need," she tells him, and just as Rick is about to question what she's talking about, Bali snaps her fingers. The area illuminates from no given source.
"Okay... that's freaky," he comments, earning a slap on the shoulder from Evelyn.
"I must be starting to get my powers. Well, here we are," Bali retorts, spreading her arms to introduce the room. Evelyn dashes to the sign where Bali's challenge was held before, but Bali goes to the empty stone slab. With only her finger, she writes the message she and her beast can feel.
"You, Father of All, are Father of Me.
Grant me entrance into the palace of the heavens."
The hieratic writing glows gold as her finger passes by. The stone slab shudders, and slides down into the floor revealing the passageway. Down the corridor she strides, not bothering to wait for her companions. She doesn't touch the door at the end, as it opens by itself. Walking through, she approaches the statue of Hapy. She grips the sides of his head, leaning down to look into his eyes. Rick and Evelyn catch up with her then, and watch with bated breath.
Bali, instead of falling into the illusion once more, projects her memories of every horrific detail in her life; her first kill, her crimes, her pain, the war. She went through it all, her terror and sorrow and guilt lacing into it. She stands as the next corridor appears. The rushing waters of Hapy's voice in her mind no longer hurt.
"Your strength will bring balance."
"Bali, how are you doing this?" Evelyn asks, following Bali as the developing goddess freezes and deactivates every trap in the hallway with a wave of her hand. She shrugs.
"I'm doing what I want. What I feel," she answers slowly, having paused to think. When they enter the next room, Rick and Evelyn jump in surprise when Bali disappears in a flash of light.
"Bali, wait!" Evelyn cries, but her voice echoes throughout the chamber.
Bali's light, however, has not faded.
"Hello, Bali."
"Hello, Isis."
"Are you ready to begin?"
"Moreso now than ever."
They bow. Bali's skin glimmers.
"Good. HYAH!" Isis lunges, a sword appearing in her grip as she does. Bali gracefully sidesteps, summoning her own sword, the one she used in her first fight against Isis.
The battle goes much differently. She is evenly matched with Isis, with her training and experience. Neither have time to fling comments at each other. Neither lose their intensity. They pause for a breather when they break apart from a small struggle.
"You have learned. Now go, protect your husband and good luck!" Isis commands, lips tilting up in a half-smile. Bali returns it, bows quickly, and transports herself back to Rick and Evelyn. At their startled inquisitions, she waves a dismissive hand. She is no longer in the practical pants and shirt she arrived in, but in a stark white tunic stitched with golden thread, a golden pectoral etched with a benu with wings spread around her neck, and a golden circlet affixed with a disk held by a scarab. Gold. Gold. Gold.
"Sorry about that, just another part of the trial."
She doesn't wait for their response and steps forward to a large statue of Re at the back of the room. She sets her face into a determined glare. Rick and Evelyn glance at each other when she calls out in Ancient Egyptian.
"Father, I have returned to accept my place in your palace!"
With a burst of flame and light, Re appears. Behind him is another woman. She holds an uncanny resemblance to Bali, though with dark eyes and dark skin, and a glowing white feather tied at the side of her head.
"You have come far. I apologize for everything that I've done to you, for my doubts, for my arrogance. Heka grants power to you, as he desires, to show me the error in my ways. Your sister Ma'at, myself, and your two teachers are to bear witness to your transformation. Come, Bali. Take my hand," Re orders, holding his hand to her. She steps forward stoically to take it, feeling a surge of energy when she does. It makes her grip Re's hand for stability. He squeezes back to reassure her. Once it's done, they step away from one another. Bali still stoic. Re still calm.
"My daughter, I am so glad to have you back."
"No thanks to you," she shoots back. Re remains calm, bowing his head.
"Someday I will beg your forgiveness properly, but now is not that time. Say your goodbyes."
Bali stares at him mutely before turning to Rick and Evelyn. She grins apologetically.
"I have a feeling I won't ever see you again, so thank you for everything. Make sure Alex grows up to be amazing like me," she thanks, bowing to convey her gratefulness.
"Of course Bali. Take care of yourself, and your family," Evelyn replies, choking up with tears, retrieving her handkerchief from her pocket. Rick swings a supporting arm around her shoulders.
"Go save the world and do us proud," he encourages. Bali gives him a thumbs up.
Re snaps his fingers and they are swallowed in flames, leaving Evelyn and Rick to their own paths of life.
"Bali, you are not full-power yet. You are only a part-goddess, and the beast is still inside of you. Your final task to become a god in the fullest sense is yours and yours alone to achieve," Re explains. She crosses her arms.
"No change there, really. This entire ordeal has been arduous."
"We cannot allow just anyone to become deified."
"Fair. Well, I've got our kingdom to save, so I'll be leaving now."
Re, despite knowing the road to repairing their relationship will be long, feels his chest swell in pride.
"You are the representative of the gods, Bali! Do not lose!"
Bali only smiles with a cheeky wink.
"That's quite impossible," she retorts, heart soaring. With a snap of her fingers, she returns.
Notes:
FUN FACT!: Later in this chapter, you'll see me use the word bau. Bau is a monster beasty scary punishment sent by gods when a mortal pisses them off. There were also eras where they ruled Egypt (after the gods, before the humans.) It's why you should be good to the gods. Just a short one today, after many that turned into paragraphs...
Chapter 32: Follow Instincts
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Atem faces Anubis alone, a barrier isolating them from any interference. Conjured by the evil sorcerer, the powerful blue pyramid blocks attacks from the outside, rendering the guardians powerless to help their king. Their monsters aren't able to even touch its surface. Pharaoh isn't faring well. The overwhelming sadness of losing his queen dilutes his anger, keeping him from reaching any raw emotional power. It is all he can do to keep his single monster lioness summoned. If the guardians and priests were not there for support, he would have fallen in defeat long before his current situation.
Then, all outside the barrier feel it: A monumental presence that is all too familiar to them. The High Priestess understands its origin before the rest.
"Your Majesty, please listen to me!" she calls out, everyone turning to her. Instead of watching on, Isis has been meditating, attempting to find any hope within the darkness of the future. She perceives Bali's ba, distant but undoubtedly strong with vitality. Atem crooks his head slightly to listen.
"Our queen is not dead! I have just sensed a notion of her presence, she suddenly appeared up north!" The information causes murmurs to circle the group, all agreeing that the ba is definitely Bali's. Isis smiles in relief as Atem's tired, slumped shoulders draw up again with strength.
"Are you sure?" he breathes out slowly, but she hears perfectly.
"I could never lie to you about this. Queen Bali is one of my greatest friends." Her reply is sincere, and Atem stands to his full height, the fire of hope returning to his eyes.
"Please... Let it be true," he prays, gripping Bali's sword. He releases the lioness to preserve his ba for now. Even Anubis is halted at the information, and a sign of its truth appears as the sword begins to glow, surging with golden magical power. It's strengthening, and Atem can feel that it is all his wife's magic. Wasting no time, he rushes forward in a charge at Anubis. The struggle continues.
Bali arrives in Egypt in a place she wasn't expecting to land. The sky is unnaturally dark, irregular clouds marring the normally spectacular view of the stars. The wind whips the sand about viciously, unfeeling and merciless. But this doesn't concern her as much as her location.
The pyramids, the temples that lay outside them, the expansive city that even stretches across the Nile from them.
"How did I end up in Memphis?"
The former capital city of earlier dynasties retains its cultural glory and prominence as a center for the Lower Kingdom. Khufu's Horizon sits undamaged with its limestone walls, painted, the jewels sitting at the tops glittering in the light of intermittent lightning flashes.
"Nothing about this screams coincidence or mistake. There has to be something in this area that I need to do," she says, feeling torn about the path she should take. To merely race down to Thebes would be unwise, as she is still unsure if she can defeat Anubis. Time, however, is of the essence. She knows her beloved cannot hold out against the mad sorcerer for long.
She brings her fingers to her lips and gives a sharp whistle, piercing through the boisterous gales around her. She smiles as her seemingly whimsical act comes through: Bit soon appears, plowing through the desert without an uneasy step. He stops before her and rears once to stomp on the ground. Bali greets him with her usual nose pat, glad that Bit hasn't changed.
"You have finally realized who you are?"Bit asks, the voice undoubtedly coming from him. She freezes as she starts to climb up. Leaning back, she looks Bit in the eye.
"Did you just talk?"
"It is more of a mind communication, my queen. Gods have connections with many animals, yours is primarily with horses and falcons, but you may talk with any should they desire to talk back,"he answers gruffly, shifting from foot to foot in impatience.
"Well excuse me, I'm new to this whole god business."
"Ironic, as many have believed you a goddess this whole time."
"That's true. How long have you known that all of this was going to happen?" she asks, gesturing around her at the storm.
"I am a creation of Re, meant to watch over you and keep you company. I am only aware that you are his daughter and have a destiny to fulfill,"he answers, proud of his minor superiority because of her lack of knowledge.
"Well la-ti-da! Let's go, I have to save everyone!" she urges, finally jumping up onto his back. Bit rears before charging full speed ahead down to the banks of the Nile at Memphis. Bali glances to a menacing swirl of clouds to the southeast. She assumes it's the palace.
"Atem, just hold out a little longer and don't lose hope!"
Her thoughts turn from her prayer to finding her instincts on what she needs to find in the city below.
Bali and Bit finally arrive at the Great River Nile, the storm getting more intense as they work their way along the riverbank.
"The city is so close, but getting across the river will prove the most difficult task of all right now," Bit worries. A shriek pierces the air from the sky. Bali cranes her head up to see what erupted such a noise, setting her eyes on a large silver-winged falcon flying toward her. She takes the hint and holds out her arm, grimacing at the impending unpleasant landing. When the falcon takes perch, however, she's relieved to find that its talons don't hurt her at all.
"It's been some time, Kitty... Guess I can't call you that now though, since you're a queen and all. Congratulations, by the way, knew Atem would get around to it,"the voice rambles. Her eyes widen, a grin splitting her face.
"Hutsat!"
"That's me. Don't ask how I've gotten here, but I saw what was happening and wanted to help."
"Naturally."
"You need to get across the river, right?"
She nods.
"There's a clan of hippos that'll help you across. Hopefully you can find what you're looking for after that,"Hutsat explains, taking flight with a push from Bali.
"Follow me!" he yells. Bit follows, understanding the order. It doesn't take long to arrive at the den of hippos, and she jumps off of Bit while Hutsat lands on a nearby tree.
"Now, someone you know should be in here... When I met up with her she said she was around to help you too. Ah, there she is! Hey, little Naye! Lady Bali is here!"Hutsat shouts. A great many hippos rise out of the water, twitching their tiny ears every which way. It's a smaller hippo that scampers up on shore in front of Bali.
"Lady Bali, you are safe!"Naye's voice cries from the creature. Bali kneels to the ground to embrace the former expendable.
"I'm so sorry about what happened to you," she whispers, but Naye pulls away.
"There is no need for that, I wanted to come here. All the adults will help you across the river, I promise!"she chirps, and turns to her new family. A large, mean-looking female joins them on the shore.
"You are the queen of the humans?" she asks, eyes narrowed in suspicion at Bali. She glances at Hutsat, who dips his head to urge her on.
"I believe so, ma'am."
"Ha! There is no need for that! Climb to my back should you promise to bring calm back to the waters! Your ground-runner will have to stay,"the female snorts, retreating into the water. Bali looks back at Bit with an apologetic expression, but he shakes out his mane.
"I will come whenever I am called." She takes to heart his simple reply, climbing atop the huge hippo. The smells would usually be atrocious to her, but the situation overrides any sense of disgust. Naye giggles as she follows through the rushing waters of the Nile. The boss female grumbles as she easily glides through the water.
"The waters are acting unusual as of late. All creatures can sense the evil, and I am only helping you because you have the power to stop it. I feel it."
"Thank you," Bali answers quietly, too distracted by staring up at the city looming ahead. The dark clouds still rumble with thunder.
"That Anubis bastard must be the cause of this, all the way up here. This is going to be a fun fight," she mutters under her breath.
"Just don't get cocky, Bali,"Hutsat warns, gliding by easily on a wind gust. She smirks.
"Me, overconfident? Never."
"Yeah, that's what I always thought."
Once ashore, Bali bows low to the hippos for the generous help. They brush it off, returning to the river. Naye stays longer to bump her knees affectionately with her head.
"I am happy now, my lady. You must make sure to stay happy too!"
"I will, Naye. Take care."
Naye returns, Bali feeling a sense of closure as she turns to the docks a few yards ahead. She hones in. Her chest reels, urging her forward, the beast agreeing with her instincts that what she needs is there. Forward she marches, heka at her fingertips trying to sense what calls to her, but without any formal training in spellwork, she relies on her gut feelings. Her senses keep her heading through the dozy nighttime docks. Hutsat wheels overhead.
"Aasa, I don't understand! Why do you need to get to Thebes so quickly all of a sudden, tell me what's wrong!"
Bali snaps her head toward the voice, recognizing its owner and the name. She veers to it, aiming for a ship now.
"Rere, you just have to let me go, I promise I'll explain later but Pharaoh is in trouble and I have what he needs!"
The two women are arguing, Hetepheres of Heliopolis holding her former servant's shoulders in concern. Bali steps up to them without hesitation, startling them. Aasa holds a small bundle to herself protectively.
"Don't worry, it's me. I know it's been some time, but I've been led here for a reason and I need to know what," Bali says, holding her hands up to ease their fears. They peer at her, until Hetepheres gapes in recognition.
"Your Majesty! Aasa, it's the queen! But how are you here, what is happening?"
Aasa shifts uncomfortably, unable to look Bali in the eye.
"It's a long story, but Pharaoh is in danger, and so is everyone else unless I can stop the evil man behind the attack on Thebes. Aasa, you are holding something I am drawn to, my heka pulls for it," Bali explains, watching as poor Hetepheres whips her gaze from her to Aasa in horrified surprise.
"I must get this artifact to Thebes, Your Majesty. It is the only thing that can stop the Pyramid of Light held by the sorcerer attacking." Her admittance makes Bali's heart race.
"I can take you there faster than any boat can, but how do you know all of this?"
Aasa finally meets her eyes, though flinches when she does so. Bali's stare is unnatural, more than before. They practically glow in the shadow-filled torchlight they stand in. When the lightning streaks above them, it may be a trick of the light but… Her skin glimmers! In their former meeting, while she's always been hailed as a goddess, she seemed normal. Now, Aasa sees what might make the legends true.
"I am part of a deserter clan of a tribe that roams the Red Lands with its center at an oasis. It is the very same tribe that attacks Thebes now. My parents were shamans, a generations-old tradition in my clan meant to protect this artifact until the time for its use came as a tool against the Pyramid of Light. We fled to the Lower Kingdom when I was very young, and I am told it is because a cult appeared in the temple of the Pyramid of Light. Our tribe leader was swayed by a nobleman to ignore the prophecy handed down with our heirloom, and had we not fled I'm sure he would've been convinced to slay us as well. My parents passed many inundations ago, and while I did not learn to be a shaman, I hid it away all the same," Aasa confesses, holding out the bundle slowly. Hetepheres keeps a comforting hand on the small of her back, eyes kept solely on her.
Bali takes the bundle and unwraps it to reveal a dagger with a leather wrapped hilt, dark blue pommel stone that emanated a subtle, mysterious, and undoubtedly archaic energy, and a flamberge-type blade with miniscule runes etched into it. She's no blacksmith, but she didn't think blades like this were even possible before medieval Europe. She can't even place the metal of the blade, as it is clearly not bronze, iron, or even steel.
"Please take me to Thebes, My Queen. I must be there to help you invoke the power of what we call the Dagger of Fate," Aasa adds. Hetepheres gasps at the plea.
"You can't go down there if all of this is happening! You could get hurt, Aasa, I couldn't stand waiting here knowing you could die!"
Aasa silently implores Bali for privacy with a pointed look, which she grants, turning from the two and taking a few steps away as they quietly argue. While she wants to hurry, she finds the situation of the two poignant. Hutsat shrieks in the distance.
"This will help, I can feel it. You just have to keep fighting!"
She turns to see if the two are finished, to see them pulling from an embrace, tears falling from Hetepheres' eyes. She steps forward, trembling.
"You'd better keep her safe, Your Majesty. She means everything to me, just as Pharaoh means everything to you."
Bali half-smiles.
"Your words don't fall on deaf ears, Lady Hetepheres. Take my hand, Aasa."
Aasa steps forward after one last glance, mouthing three words to her Rere before taking Bali's hand. Bali snaps her fingers, squeezing her eyes shut and hoping that her power would work its magic the way she desires. With all her focus, she wills for the difficult spell of transportation to be successful.
Atem spits blood from his mouth after taking a hit to his left side. He growls, breathing heavily with his left hand pressing against the wound on instinct. Blood leaks from between his fingers, staining his tunic and sending waves of blistering pain. Anubis sighs, bored.
"Ithought you would put up more of a fight, Pharaoh. I suppose I was sorely mistaken. No matter. I shall play with you a little while longer," the warlord insults, returning to a guarded position while Atem struggles to stay standing.
"This is no game, you fiend! I cannot lose, my people rely on me to keep them safe," he yells back, catching his breath afterward due to pain.
"And I must stay alive for Bali,"he adds internally, finishing up a minor healing spell to keep him from bleeding out.
Anubis rolls his eyes.
"Yes yes, we know. Let's have another go-around, shall we?"
...
Resna walks the chaos, entranced with sorrow. His melancholy state is produced by an overwhelming sense of guilt. All around him, the bodies of his people are mixed with Thebans, marring the once plain and peaceful streets into a nightmare reality. Still some cries of anguish and battle echo throughout the city, stirring the stillness. He does not stray from his path, slowly making his way toward the palace. Though he doesn't register the fact at first, the sound of a horse galloping adds to the quiet cacophony. It comes nearer... nearer, and nearer still... Until it halts right beside him.
"Hey, who are you and what are you doing here?" a woman barks, and in a flood of realization, Resna's emotions return. As he faces the woman rider, he sees the Queen of Egypt herself, along with...
"Aasa, is that really you?" he asks, hope entering his voice. Bali slides off her perch on Bit, leaving Aasa sitting with the dagger in her arms.
"You're the tribal leader, aren't you?" Bali says, no hint of a question but all the judgment in the world. She senses that Resna is no threat to her. His eyes fall to his feet as he answers.
"I am indeed the leader of the tribe that attacks Thebes. You must take the dagger and break the magic of the Pyramid of Light. I don't know of the legend as Aasa does, but of that I am sure."
Bali glances to Aasa, who nods.
"There is a prophecy handed down with it, I remember it well:
'The Eye sees what is to come,
And its vision cannot be evaded.
Only those of predetermined fates can stand against it,
Light and shadow shall perish in its wake,'" she recites. They watch as the blade sparkles, visible even through the wrappings, as if the prophecy was some sort of key.
"I am sorry that I am the one responsible for this. I was swindled by talk of prosperity for my tribe that I did not think," Resna states. Bali stares at him hard.
"I've had run-ins with this guy before he transformed into what he is now. He's capable of magic that can twist the mind without someone knowing it. The blame is his."
Resna stares up sadly, a ghost of a smile appearing on his lips.
"You are truly a most gracious woman, Your Majesty. As an offering to the gods as apology, I must give all my strength."
She scrunches her face in confusion, but Aasa gasps.
"You can't mean–"
Resna silences her with a raised hand.
"It is the only way I can make things right. Living would be injustice for those who have already perished, while dying would be a waste," he says. His words silence Bali to the core. She can't object. Aasa removes the covering from the dagger and holds it out in both her hands, face grim. Resna crosses his arms over his chest with a bow, his body glowing with a silver light. An orb withdraws from his body, flying into the blade of the dagger. The blade shines even brighter with the added ba. Bali stares at it, then at the soulless shell of Resna's body that now lies on the ground.
"Kitty, we've got to get a move on! We're close to the palace and I don't think we want to be late to the party!" Hutsat shouts, soaring overhead. Bali had brought him along to survey the fastest route to the palace. She holds her hand out to Aasa.
"It's time for you to get off, I made a promise to your lover and I'm a royal who takes those seriously. You only needed to recite that prophecy, right?" she orders, seeing the hesitance. Aasa, while unsure, gratefully takes the hand and slides off. Bali mounts her horse and accepts the dagger. It thrums when she makes contact, making her wonder about the line of the prophecy that said "those of predetermined fates."
"You're correct, it should be primed now. Please be victorious, Your Majesty. I never truly believed you were a goddess before, but now I see I was wrong." Aasa bows low in apology.
"Don't worry about that. The falcon will look out for you to make sure you stay safe." Without another word, Bali kicks Bit into a gallop to her home. As commanded, Hutsat stays back. Bit's speed allows for a short ride, and once as far as she can get on horseback she flies off and begins the sprint for an armory nearby.
Inside, she rushes about getting a bow, stringing it, and strapping a quiver to her person.
"Okay, now we can go," she says, racing along the familiar route to the roof. She leaps stairs, barges through doors and bounds over heaps of rubble, until finally she rounds up onto the roof. No one notices her emergence. Bali calms herself and scans the proceedings.
"Atem is inside the barrier,"she observes, seeing the bright blue rising above the crowd surrounding it. She retrieves an arrow from her quiver. The bow and arrow transform at her touch. Her clothing changes to golden armor as her battle spirit roars to life. Inside, the beast yearns to be free.
"I'm back," she states calmly, narrowing her eyes as she walks closer. Everyone turns, the soldiers and guardians, shock evident on their faces. Bali releases her arrow.
It sounds off with a golden stream of energy.
It smashes into the barrier.
The final battle begins.
Notes:
FUN FACT!: Onions were considered a divine food in Ancient Egypt. Short. Sweet. Eyes are tearing up just thinking about it.
Chapter 33: She Snaps Her Fingers
Notes:
FUN FACT!: Hippos! I said I would, and I am! Hippopotamussusses were indigenous to the Nile River, thus forcing Egyptians to work. Hippos are actually very hostile and destructive, and could easily kill off any human. In that aspect, the hippo was feared, but also worshiped. The goddess Taweret is depicted as a pregnant hippo standing on her hind legs. She's the goddess of fertility and childbirth, and pregnant women often wore her amulets to have a safe childbirth. Huh, and you wonder why she'll be making an appearance? They can also run on land at a top speed of thirty mph, and are the cause of hundreds of deaths in Africa each year. Hee hoo!
Chapter Text
She steps forward, watching as her arrow slips through the barrier to pierce Anubis straight on in his abdomen. The force sends him backward, sticking him to a semi-crumbled pillar from a former watchtower. He struggles against it but stays securely pinned for the time being. Bali frowns, for the barrier still holds. Those around her see light appear through the stormy clouds in the east, giving everyone a glimpse of hope.
"Bali, you've returned! Where have you been?" Isis questions, recovering from her surprise quickly to run to the queen. Bali smiles and takes Isis' offered hands in gratitude.
"Re, my true father, recalled me to tell me I am ready for my true potential. I may not be at my peak yet, but I've become much stronger," she answers smoothly, releasing her friend's hands. Isis steps back to stand in line with the others who gather around.
"Youare a daughter of Re? We believed he sent you, but that you have become so powerful..." Seth blurts, and his fellow guardians turn to him with miffed expressions, excluding Bali. A first!
"I can see you're as tactful as ever." She raises an eyebrow and crosses her arms.
"Never mind all that, my Queen, Pharaoh needs your help!" Shada snaps, refocusing the group. A thrill of panic comes and goes into Bali's system, her head turning to the blue pyramid.
"You're right, sorry. Step aside everyone, my king and I will handle this." She pushes through the group to approach the barrier. To Atem. Someone catches her arm.
"Your majesty, does this have to do with the sphere?" Mahad asks, the group mumbling in anxiety as well. Bali smiles and pulls her arm away gently.
"It does. Whatever this is inside me will come into the world soon, but I don't know how to bring it out. I will have to rely on my power alone," she replies, feeling the beast in question rumble and send a wave of heka over her. Now, it does nothing to impede. Bali returns to her task. The guardians all move to warn her as she gets close enough to make contact, but she stops short.
She scrunches her eyes shut. Snaps her fingers.
The guardians gape as she flickers out of existence, only to reappear on the inside of the barrier.
"This is like nothing we've ever seen. Truly, her absence was spent well," Karim chimes in. While his comrades agree, all they can do now is draw everyone away should the battle become explosive. They have a feeling that if Bali has her way, the barrier won't stand for long.
...
Atem watches her from afar, spaced away from the world. Before he can understand it, she stands in front of him, caressing his face with her sword-calloused hands.
"Atem, I'm home." He can vaguely hear her soft words, overflowing with affection.
"Wait… Bali, home? BALI!"He steps back in disbelief. "Is that really you?" he asks quietly, past events and exhaustion making him doubt what he sees. She places her hands on her hips and rolls her eyes.
"If you really thought I was gone forever, you're sadly mistaken. Some loving husband you are," she snorts, though Atem doesn't catch her amusement at first. His brow furrows, attitude returning.
"I'd say I'm very loving, seeing as–" he starts indignantly, but she stretches out her hand to squeeze his face—thumb on one cheek, fingers on the other—to stop the oncoming rant.
"I'm only teasing, and yes," she draws close to stare into his eyes, a grin spreading on her face, "It's really me."
She pushes her lips to his, releasing his face. His stupor broken, Atem holds her tightly to him, causing her to break away with breathless laughter, her armor saving her from the pain of the puzzle.
"Okay, I get it, you missed me–"
"I thought I lost you."
She calms herself, pulling from him with a serene expression.
"I thought I lostyou," she answers. He finally smiles.
"This is disgusting!" Anubis draws the attention of the two with a snarl as he pulls out the arrow. Atem becomes guarded, she does not.
"Oh, I forgot you were here. Sorry," she calls over coolly. Anubis' anger grows as Atem shoots her a strange look. She catches it and shrugs.
"What can I say? I have to admit; thanks to you, I've got a hell of a lot more power now. Prepare to get your ass kicked Anubis, because the second part of this dynamic duo has arrived," she warns, joining her husband in a guarded position herself.
"You little witch, how did you escape that spell?! You were meant to die!" Anubis spits, stepping forward while powering up with blue magic in his right fist. Bali notes that the focal point of his power is, indeed, the Pyramid of Light around his neck.
"Oh, wellexcuseme. I think I've figured you out, old man. For the most part anyway," she mutters under her breath, quieting as he charges.
"Atem, try to find an opening in this exchange and nab him with my sword." She charges after leaving abrupt instructions. Her fists glow with golden heka, guarding close to her body to take advantage of her speed and stature. Large men like him swing wide and leave openings, more often than not.
"I'm right behind you Bali!" Atem yells his support, dashing around as the two clash. He nearly loses his focus watching the two, as their ferocity is something unprecedented.
Bali catches Anubis' fist with both of her hands, cancelling out both energies stored up with a burning sizzle. While she holds his one fist however, he swings with his left towards her face. She gasps, dipping quickly, letting go of his right and shoving herself backward. She fails to land smoothly, but manages to hop to her feet without issue.
"Shit, that could've gone better. Okay, new plan!" she yelps, leaping out of the way as Anubis jumps at her with a renewed magical fist raised. Atem darts up to stand beside her.
"I have a feeling that taking him down is going to need some serious strategy. It won't be easy," he states, heart still in his throat after witnessing how close she came to serious injury. Bali sniffs, glaring in frustration.
"I know that! I'll just keep fending him off and you can come up with some brilliant plan then, genius!" she shouts, both parting ways as Anubis comes around after getting his fist unstuck from the roof.
"Like trying to catch gnats in a desert wind," Anubis seethes, and Bali smirks despite the situation.
"Of course. Say, while we're at this stalemate, could I ask you a question?"
Anubis doesn't respond, but pauses. Stares unblinkingly. She grimaces.
"Okay then. Your name is Anubis?"
"Yes, you wench!"
"Hey, be polite, it was a perfectly normal question. But you're wrong, your name isnotAnubis. You only like to think it is. Don't worry, I know why. Weactualgods know practicallyeverything," Bali taunts, wagging a finger in his direction. Anubis straightens, making everyone outside the barrier mutter in confusion. He's calm again.
"If that is true, then why is it that I do not know why you disappeared?"
"Simple really: You're not a god, nowhere close. I don't know what those cult people in that temple told you, but whatever powers you received weren't from Anubis," she answers. Those who heard murmur between each other. Atem returns to her side with his own questioning look.
"Bali, how do you know this for sure?" he whispers. She grins smugly and tells him to trust her. He returns her smile, nodding.
"Okay Anubis, or rather, not-Anubis! I know how you feel, having all sorts of brilliant magical powers and being able to flaunt everything, but you toed the line when you started calling yourself the Lord of the Dead and killed people for the hell of it," she yells, walking about like a lecturer for everyone to hear. Anubis takes the scrutiny with a murderous grin.
"And how does this prove me to be fraudulent? Your distraction is amusing but is only that: a distraction. When I received the powers of Anubis, I knew that the god had chosen me as his earthly vessel. I am him."
"No! If you were Anubis, you wouldn't be going on a bloody rampage! Anubis has no reason to do that, and even as a Lord of the Duat, he has an obligation to protect the good citizens of Egypt and the order we live in. The heart against Ma'at's feather–"
"Yes, we all know this," Anubis begins to interrupt, but Bali just forcefully continues, raising her voice more.
"I'm not finished! That's exactly what I am talking about! Anubis already has tons of work, he wouldn't go out killing everyone, and he's probably steaming mad at you right now. In fact, I'm surprised he hasn't shown up here to take care of you himself. You see, mister wannabe, he's a god of order. You are causing chaos. You're no god; you're a loser beginner in magic who stumbled on a ritual for some power. I can tell you right now, that power does not come cheap, and if you want to see the real thing, I'm standing right in front of you."
She halts, standing as tall and proud and fiery and furious as she can. Anubis is none too happy at the proclamation.
"You're saying I'm not a god?"
She rolls her eyes, crossing her arms.
"Did you not hear that speech?"
"I heard it, but it is trivial. I am a god, and now it is time for you to die for your transgressions." The sorcerer glowers, his form dazzling with sparks emanating from his pendant. Bali turns to Atem urgently.
"Stay out of the way, and take this," she starts, handing him the Dagger of Fate hurriedly. Her grandiose speech was just her way of buying time to think, and now she had more of an idea, at least.
"It will break his magic hold based on what its handler told me, and then we can defeat him, but we have to find the right opening. I'll try to find one with my sword." Atem shoves the sword into her waiting hands, swallowing any argument that she should stay back. Before they part again, Atem grasps her arm and pulls her close, catching her lips in one last moment. He pulls away, still gripping her arm.
"Be careful."
"You too."
Anubis stands with his hands over the Pyramid of Light, heka pulsing between them. Two large forms begin to materialize several feet in front of him, lion-like until their heads take humanoid shape. The monarchs gape.
"Sphinxes," Bali mutters, keeping tight hold on her sword. Gasps of terror are heard outside the barrier field.
"Just as those with Millennium Items summon creatures, the Pyramid of Light affords me these two unstoppable monsters of my own!"
The larger of the two is a dark brown male, its torso clad in shining dark blue armor, its mane replaced by a head of dirty blond hair pushed back by a colored headband. Its face is a mix of lionlike and human with a mouth full of impressive spiky teeth.
Its companion is smaller and female, with white fur and a luscious-looking head of blood red hair. Its face is more humanoid, face pale with amber-colored eyes and lips set in a red smirk. Neither one gives off particularly approachable vibes.
"I've never gone up against monsters before. Sphinxes are good at riddles, right?"Bali thinks, trying to find any apparent weaknesses. The male sphinx roars, flexing claws the size of small swords. She gulps. "I don't think these two are all about riddles."
She hears a deep, bell-like tone from behind her that comes with a surge of heka. A quick glance beside her reveals a ferocious lioness engulfed in fire and beyond it, what appears to be a tall bipedal creature with its figure obscured by a long white sheet. The sheet only exposes its large, human-looking feet and kohl-outlined eyes that are blacker than anything she could compare it to.
"Menhyt and Medjed will assist you, Bali. We cannot fail!"
She takes a deep breath and narrows her eyes, looking past the sphinxes and to their master. His arms are crossed, expression and pose confident.
The beast inside her rumbles with fury. A fresh wave of heka fills her as she growls in frustration.
"It would be more helpful if you'd just come out already!"she tells it, and she feels its rage grow.
It wants out. It wants out! "I want freedom!"
She sucks in a breath, hearing that voice of hawk's cries and war and dance and, above all, freedom. It's become enough to make words, instead of projecting its feelings.
Soon.
The female sphinx lashes out, pouncing at her as it senses her distraction. Bali barely jumps away in time, landing to roll away and bounce back up.
"Not soon enough, though,"she thinks. Atem commands his creatures to engage the male sphinx, leaving the female for her to face down. The sphinx eyes her with that same simpering expression, although its eyes flash in cold malevolence. Bali stays still, poring over any strategy she can. The silence drags on.
"You gonna ask me the 'what has four legs in the morning' thing or not?" The sphinx sneers, growl emanating from the back of her throat. Bali shrugs. "Guess not."
She charges, diving low to keep out of easy biting distance, aiming for its legs. The sphinx shifts, lifting a mighty paw with large claws ready to cut into Bali. Both take their swings. Bali manages to dodge the paw headed for her side, attempting to take advantage of that swipe and get a strike in. She doesn't connect but continues onward in the vicinity. The sphinx is fast, bouncing her hind around to keep track of Bali as she darts around. With a shriek, the sphinx pounces again, heavy paws bearing down in her leap. Bali hears Atem in the background but can't hear what he's saying, only that he's panicked. She sucks in her courage and focuses her strength. Switches to gripping her sword with both hands.
Timing, timing, timing, "NOW!"
With a bellow of exertion and weighty expenditure of ba, she slashes in a lightning-fast arc at the forelegs of the attacking sphinx. The sphinx screams, agonized. The two lower halves of its two legs fall severed to the ground as Bali rolls away from getting caught under the body. Sweat runs down her face from the use of energy and physical strain of the attack. Doing so after using the transportation spell so many times drains her considerably more than she anticipated. She breathes deeply, ignoring the cheers from beyond the barrier to look at how Atem fares in his battle, and what Anubis is doing. The sphinx she crippled still yowls and writhes in pain, its tar-colored blood beginning to seep out from under its body.
Atem and his two monsters that face the larger male sphinx pose a far more concerning scene. The lioness Menhyt is gone, though the blackened portion of the sphinx's flank is its lasting mark. Any movement on that corresponding left leg is weakened. Pharaoh's resurgence at her return is fading, his former exhaustion multiplying now that he has used even more of his power. His expression is set in a determined glare, but his breathing is deep and posture slightly hunched, as if pained.
Anubis…?
Bali searches around. "Where is he?!"
The search becomes more frantic, as he is no longer behind the male sphinx. He isn't in her area.
The beast inside her struggles against whatever chains it inside, begging furiously for its release.
Her heart stops when the sorcerer comes back into view. The barrier has now dissipated, its energy going to feed his fist, charged with a dangerous amount of electric blue magic. Anubis is sprinting, an attack in Atem's blind spot. She begins to charge forward instinctively, only to have her right leg jerked back to trip her face first into the stone.
The female sphinx's tongue is wrapped around it, holding strong.
Bali wrenches at it. The sphinx holds, it's gaping mouth turning up in vicious delight at her helplessness.
She watches as time runs slow, heart thudding in her ears.
The beast is trying to rip its way out now.
She needs power. More power.More!
Atem has noticed the now imminent attack, unable to call back Medjed as the male sphinx is attacking the monster.
Bali squeezes her eyes shut, drawing up the heka that washes over from the beast's attempts to get free.
She snaps her fingers.
The last thing she hears is her own breath being pushed from her lungs. That, and one tiny, horrified whisper from her husband as she appears in front of him.
Bali's body rolls several times before coming to a halt. She doesn't rise. Atem can't feel her anymore. No one can.
The pause of disbelief held by all parties at the death of the queen is interrupted by a ferocious, terrifying roar that accompanies an explosion of light.
The beast is free.
Chapter 34: Unquestionably Radiant
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Any inkling of utter despair held by the citizens of Thebes is dashed away by the glorious creature they see rising from the top of the palace. Dawn encroaches to encompass it in its warmth, in its light.
Huge. Brilliant. Unquestionably radiant.
The beast is divine, a blue jewel in its forehead, red eyes trained on the palace roof below it.
Atem darts for her body, leaving Medjed. Leaving Anubis and his sphinxes and the fight and the guardians and the gigantic beast in the sky.
She's gone. All that power, given up to save him when he should have handled the crisis himself. He kneels next to her and rolls her face up into his lap. Her arms flop. Her expression is blank. Her eyes are half open, clouded.
The tears begin. Or were they already there? His mouth is muttering words, but what words can he possibly be saying? Nothing can turn back time. No spells, no magic, even the Millennium Items are useless. He hugs her cooling form close, rocking back and forth, praying that it isn't real.
"You can't be gone, not like this, not after everything," he whispers, grief and anger causing tumult in his chest. This all came down to him. He is the protector, he is Pharaoh, he has access to heka and spells that draw comparisons to the times of the Scorpion King! But unlike the great legendary first uniter those hundreds of years ago, he couldn't protect anyone. Many of his subjects are dead, many more are injured. His father is gone. And now, because he didn't keep himself wary of Anubis' movements, Bali is sacrificed.
The beast roars behind him.
...There...
His shuddering breaths stop short in surprise when he feels it. The beast rumbles, lowering from the sky with intent to land on the roof. Its giant body will take up a large portion of it, causing the other people there to scramble. But that's not what Atem is thinking about. Instead, his eyes are on the great, shining, magnificent creature, feeling out with his ba. "There!"
Faint, but undeniable. It's Bali. Bali's ba, her essence, intertwined with the divine ba of the monster's. This was the orb inside her. The sphere. What's left of her resides with it now, with the beast. Atem gently sets her body aside, calming down to focus. He's still exhausted. Without the puzzle, he would likely be dead by now, his ba depleted. Bali's creature radiates with an intense energy he's never felt before, growing stronger as the seconds pass and the sun rises higher in the sky. It bends its regal head down to him.
"No,"he realizes. "It is to Bali."
The beast nudges her lifeless body with a surprising gentleness and inquiring chirp. For something so intimidating, it makes Atem's heart twinge with empathy. When she doesn't move, it rears back and roars, its grief and rage causing pulses of heat to sear through the air. Heka, bright yellow and burning, forms in its mouth as the arch at the base of its neck, going shoulder to shoulder, sparks. It blasts only one of these spheres and hits its intended target: the male sphinx is ashes in an instant. Anubis coughs, brought to one knee from the assault, blood leaking onto his chin as he glares up at the god-beast. The Pyramid of Light fizzles.
"I knew it, and now that I've killed its host, no one will be able to control it," he rasps, feeling a grin come to his lips anyway. Egypt is conquered, Egypt is completely destroyed; he doesn't care anymore. He's slain the queen, he's proven that his power is mightier and that she was merely too arrogant. He has what he ultimately wanted.
Atem turns to him, his tears subsiding as his expression turns to hate. Anubis narrows his eyes, watching as Pharaoh walks toward him, the god beast spreading its wings before craning its head forward to leer overhead. The warlord stands, recovering from the horribly painful annihilation of his monster. He releases the female, as her injuries render her useless. The king pauses, sucking in a quick breath when he feels something within him resonate with the god-beast. It's ancient. Bigger than any of them, bigger than himself. The dagger responds to it, blade shining to life. The god-beast crows. Atem doesn't know how, but he could understand the beast's words: "You are Chosen. You may command me.Shewould want it."
Atem knows whom it refers to.
The villainous sorcerer notices the change in the air. The united front that Pharaoh and the beast serve with the queen's body lying still in the background is unexpected. The Pyramid of Light can't give him much more without any ba to drain and feed on, as the queen's massive amount had simply disappeared. The god-beast hisses in his direction, heat waves radiating from between its silver rows of teeth.
Fear. Anubis feels fear for the first time in too long. The queen's powerhasn'tdisappeared. It's absorbed. Not by his mystical pendant, but by the beast she helped grow beside her heart. In death, she bests him. It's evident now that Pharaoh has control of it. It's evident now that, as he has control of it, Pharaoh Atem is fated to command the two god-beasts of legend. Anubis has no sphinxes. He knows the story behind the Dagger of Fate, and can see it now bursting with energy, a far cry from the dilapidated artifact protected by overly-superstitious shamans.
"She gave her life to protect me, and this creature is filled with her spirit. Your sphinxes are gone, Anubis. No," he shakes his head after the divine beast rumbles. "Your real name is Veut, the beast knows who you are. I can feel that your ba is too depleted to carry out much more. Give in," Atem orders. Veut sneers, glancing around as he hears the guardians summon their creatures once more. Even the simple spell for the binding shadow hands would be ineffective against such odds. He chuckles despite his prospects.
"I have been beaten, for now. Strike me down, Little King. I know I have at least taken happiness from you, and when I come again I will take everything else. I swear it," Veut says, face drawing into a hatefully manic smile. The smile halts when he feels a strangling hold of heka flood over his body. He can no longer move, can hardly even breathe. His eyes are stuck open, kept from blinking, kept from tearing his eyes away as Atem approaches swiftly. The dagger gleams with the promise of death.
It's this moment, the moment before his inevitable demise, that Veut sees the true darkness that lies within.
As Pharaoh Atem plunges the Dagger of Fate into the defeated warlord's abdomen, as it is viciously twisted to ensure he won't survive, Veut's lips turn up in a chilling grin. His life drains away as the dagger does its job of disabling the Pyramid of Light.
"You… Your hatred…burns."
His last words are hoarse, forced through clenched teeth. Only Atem hears them, but his face keeps placid. His purely crimson eyes show no hint of worry.
"The last utterances of a weak opponent," he mutters, but squeezes his eyes shut as he drops the body with the dagger still firmly implanted. He shakes his head and opens them again, looking to the great beast and his loyal followers as they breathe a collective sigh of relief.
Mahad approaches slowly, mouth set in both apology and grief. "You did well, Pharaoh. The queen…" he trails off, gaze dropping to the floor. Atem reaches and puts a placating hand on his friend's shoulder. The beast roars louder than before as the sun fully emerges from the horizon. Its ba becomes nothing short of awe-inspiring.
"I will take her to the mortuary. Tell the others to begin helping the city, our jobs are not done," he commands quietly, sliding his hand off and moving forward. Despite the orders, Isis stays on the rooftop. Her normally pristine face is smeared in tears as she kneels next to the body of her friend, whom she has arranged to lay face up with arms at the sides. The beast nears and hovers over them. Isis grimaces when Atem kneels down next to her. The beast lowers its head to coo mournfully.
"My powers are so useless to us, this outcome should have been avoidable."
Atem doesn't glare, but his priestess goes silent at his expression.
"I am what I am, the great bird that dies each night and is reborn each morning. She is me, and it is morning."
The "voice" of the beast makes Atem's skin crawl. What does it mean? Dies each night, reborn each morning, a riddle is something his muddled brain can't handle. All he can hope is that it's a hint that perhaps his beloved isn't as far-gone as she seems. He takes her hand, holding it to his lips as he prays, "Please come back to me."
Light blinds him and Isis as the divine beast shrieks, lifting from the roof with forceful wingbeats that push blasts of increasingly hot air at them. Atem grunts in pain as Bali's hand suddenly becomes blistering to the touch, retracting his hand before it burns up. He squints through the sudden brightness, frustrated that his eyes don't focus more quickly. The beast is now made completely of fire, its form changing to resemble more of a bird than its original form. Bali's body glows a sharp gold. The wind from her creature's wings becomes too much, knocking back Pharaoh and priestess. Atem hears one last peal of the flaming bird, the phoenix, before he is rendered unconscious by the next blinding flash of light.
He grunts as he feels a soft pressure on his left cheek. He can't feel the heat anymore, and no unbearably bright light leaks through his eyelids. After such a long fight and with so little sleep, it's taking too long for him to sort out the sensations. He's so groggy that his heart twists when he hears Bali's voice speaking gently to him.
"You need to get up now, we have a lot to do. I'm here," she says, that rare sweet tone she uses with no one but him. He slowly pries his eyes open, knowing he's still not prepared to see that she is still laying as cold as the stone beneath her.
Bright green eyes hover in his vision above him. He bolts upward, mind sent into sudden awareness. His head collides with someone else's, causing stars and darkness to briefly mangle his focus as he rubs at the forming bump on his forehead. Beside him, the once gentle voice is now rough and spitting every curse word he's ever heard in his life.
"I thought becoming a full god would make pain more of a non-issue but I see that was a shitty stupid thing to think," she growls, and he manages to recover enough to gape at her with growing excitement and perhaps even fear. She notices his attention and shakes her head at him with a mocking disappointed smile.
"You're just leaping and bounding for joy, sweeping me into your arms and showering me with proclamations of love and gladness that I'm not dead," she lilts, her sarcasm growing with each word. He feels tears burning at his eyes.
"Bali," he whispers, throat too constricted to say more. She scoots closer, kissing his throbbing head gingerly. The pain fades. She lowers to make her gaze level with him.
"I'm here. Anubis or Veut or whoever the hell he was told me I was arrogant and I thought the power I had was enough. It wasn't to fight him in that moment, but I could save you and give everyone else a chance with the power of the beast," she gestures up to the creature now returned to its original form, "and I guess that it was Heka's will that it be instilled with the power to bring me back. Only one shot though. If it happens again, I'm with Osiris in the Reeds."
He hears her explanation, but mostly he hears her voice. Sees the way her eyes shift as she remembers details, the way her nose scrunches, the way her lips move. She's beautiful. Her kohl is smeared across her face, eyes are rimmed in the red of exhaustion, hair is tangled into a few horrendous knots in a few places, but gods, she is unquestionably radiant.
Somewhere deep inside him, his anger spikes, then flares to the surface. His eyes narrow.
"You are never getting into a fight like that again," he says, but the emotion dies away. Her lips quirk up from their startled frown.
"Sorry. I was stupid, but you won like I thought you would. Isis is off telling everyone the good news. You need to go back to bed as there's no need for a sun raising ceremony today: I took care of that for you," Bali jokes, fingers twiddling with one of the knots in her hair. Atem, his joy restoring some energy, leaps forward. Bali yelps as she gets tackled back, arms circling around her and holding her tight as he smothers her face in kisses. She starts laughing, the actions hurting neither of them.
"This is what I was expecting from the get-go!"
He pauses, mere inches from her face to stare into her eyes seriously.
"Never,everagain, Bali," he chides softly. She pecks his lips cheekily, secretly enjoying seeing his purple eyes close up once again.
"We'll see what happens. But for now, I don't plan on it."
They hold each other for only a few minutes more before clambering up and heading for their apartments. Bali forces him to rest, stating breezily that she's not tired at all and will handle things for him as needed until he's better. If he didn't know that she was perfectly safe and normal, he'd refuse, but the comfort of their ultimate victory coaxes him easily to sleep.
His queen is alive.
Notes:
FUN FACT!: Both of Atem's monsters from the last chapter are based off of Egyptian mythology. Menhyt is a lioness goddess, lesser-known, linked with Wadjet in the Lower Kingdom although primarily worshiped in Edfu in the Upper Kingdom.
Medjed is as described in the former chapter, his name meaning "The Smiter," he is absolutely fantastic and shoots lasers from his eyes. He gon' GETCHA. Look him up if you've never heard of him, you will not be disappointed.
Chapter 35: Divine News
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Having fully recovered from his battle, Atem returned to properly running his empire beside Bali within days. Routine easily set in once more, from waking before dawn to welcome the sun to tending to everyday affairs. His roles and pressures are great and many, but not so much with a queen and his high priests beside him; they take on many responsibilities and solve problems before they reach him. For things to run so smoothly after such a catastrophe can only be a positive sign.
"Or so Siamun said last evening,"he muses to himself, glancing out over the imperial city in the early morning light. It is one of his few moments of rest, away from anyone else that he gives himself to look out, to think, to see the bigger picture and to even meditate over smaller details. He once used this time to pore over courting Bali, but that's no longer an issue…
Issues. Not everything is perfection. Damages to the palace and the city are extensive, as are the injuries. The death toll was not as bad as it could have been. Atem closes his eyes, seeing the instant of Bali's death replay before him once more in his mind. He sighs. While his personal life continues to march forward, his people suffered greatly. It could have been worse, but Thebes was still hit hard. His close friends, the High Priests, argue over proceedings with the losses to medjay and army numbers. Reports of a single thief terrorizing caravans in Egypt and their neighbors continue to come in. Commerce is crucial after a disaster, and merchants are getting anxious. Mahad and Seth in particular are touchy over what the proper procedure is, often devolving into nearly challenging each other to monster duels.
They don't, but only because he and his wife step in to stop it before it gets there.
The largest issue by far cries out over them all, its piercing call making the very earth beneath the palace quiver. No matter how many times he hears it, it still sends a shiver through his system. He can only understand the god-beast when it wants him to, and right now its desires are clear enough: "Where is the battle?!"
Atem shifts so he leans back against the railing, facing inward and away from the city. Bali has been too busy working with the remnants of the surrendered desert tribe and the proper sealing of the vile remains of Veut to deal with her divine beast. She promised him to take care of it. Multiple. Times. He has no doubt she will. He shudders at the thought of the winged dragon being forgotten on the palace roof. The dynasty might as well fall! A smile spreads wryly across his face despite himself.
"Though despite our best efforts it may fall anyway as we are still childless. At least she's too busy to be anxious about it,"he thinks, eyes glazing over as his mind meanders to such wonderful, pleasant, nightly processes. What a woman, his queen. With her around, recovery wouldnevertake long.
"Pharaoh!"
He snaps from his daydream to greet the courier, noting foremost that it can't be anything dire because the servant is fairly relaxed. He relates a message, oddly enough, from the rooftop:
"Queen Bali requests the presence of the bearers of all seven Millennium Items to, as Her Majesty put it, 'deal with her rooftop monstrosity.'"
Atem thanks and dismisses the servant, heading out soon after. He's both pleased and nervous at this development. He's heard mum about any process to "deal with" the creature, but he trusts Bali implicitly. She must have found a way.
He's the final Millennium Item holder to arrive. The rooftop remains in a state of disrepair thanks to the beast, the remnants of the former battle an unpleasant memory to behold again. Bali was the first to bar anyone from going up, even to leave offerings. Although none were springing to volunteer, there was a subtle sigh of relief throughout the palace, particularly the stonemasons.
"Thank you all for meeting me here! I know we are all busy with too many things, but with this volatile monster out of the way we will be much more unburdened," Bali announces, grinning broadly at them all but lingering on her husband. He returns her smile and nods for her to continue. The beast garbles indignantly, unappreciative at being talked about. Bali shoots it a glance, maintaining eye contact for a few moments before resuming. The beast doesn't interfere more. "I have conversed with my father about the idiocy of keeping a dangerous divine creature meant primarily for battle on the roof of a palace. He agreed that it was an oversight to not provide a space alongside its god-beast brethren," she explains, earning a couple of furrowed eyebrows because she speaks so breezily of Re that it could be considered disrespectful. She goes on to explain the need for a name for the creature to be allowed into the divine realms, that she needs the powers of the Millennium Items to seal it away there in the first place, and that she will seal it away using a chant to ensure only a chosen few will ever be able to command it in the first place.
"I'm trying to speed things along without making things confusing. People like Seth might mess up and explode if their thoughts are too muddled," Bali finishes, snickering as the priest in question gets riled up as intended. The rest watch on as she brings her hands up to waggle her fingers tauntingly at him with a silly taunting face as he yells at her, all wondering how their situation had seemed so dire and grim not too long ago. They also wonder how one of them is their queen.
"Bali, my love, we are in a hurry," Atem butts in, coughing at the end to keep from laughing. She drops her hands and bows her head.
"Apologies. The last few days have been spent eking out a chant that would work. I will recite it for you now. After that, I will go to perch atop beastie's head and it will be the real deal, where you will all concentrate your heka onto me. Here goes:
'Almighty Protector of All Beneath the Sun
I Beg Thee, Hear My Cry
Transform From Thine Orb and Bring Me Victory
I Beg Thee, Hear my Cry!
Grace This Fight, and Forever I Shall Sing Your Name
Re the Sun Dragon.'"
Bali finishes her recitation to some shuffles and murmurs. Her expression goes deadpan, eyes shifting between her friends.
"What's wrong?"
"That was terrible," Seth says, unafraid of being blunt. He's safe enough from her wrath. She sneers.
"I'm not a flippin' poet, this is serviceable. Now let's get into our places, he's getting impatient and I'm sure none of you want to be around when he throws a fit."
The guardians need no further instruction. Bali easily snaps her fingers and reappears high atop her creature's head. She briefly kneels, patting it fondly.
"I'm sorry there wasn't much more of a battle for you here, and no offense but hopefully you won't be called soon," she murmurs, but even as the words leave her mouth her gut twists. She knows that the god-beasts will be called upon, and by Atem. She doesn't know when, or why. Even the gods aren't fully aware. All she can infer is that it will be a nasty battle if those monsters are involved. If hermonster was created solely for that moment.
"Bali, are you ready?!" Atem's voice cuts clear up to her, pulling her from her anxious pile of thoughts and back to her present predicament.
"I will await the next battle with great anticipation. He is chosen. It will be monumental,"the beast replies smugly, catching onto her thoughts. She mildly scuffs his head with her sandal.
"Enough. You're being sealed away. Okay everyone, focus on me!"
She begins the chant when she feels everyone's heka settle like a shroud over her. The first is Seth's because he's impatient and an overachiever, then Karim's and Shada's and Isis'. They're distinct, each reflecting their personalities. Seth is a pillar of strength. Karim balanced. Shada calm. Isis vibrant. Then Akhenaden's, still powerful in its old age. Mahad's pours in next, and she can sense its training, its versatility and that it's somehow not all it's supposed to be, as if it has limiters on it. Then finally, she smiles at the familiar blanket of heka that outdoes the rest. Just like being wrapped in his arms, she nearly gets lost in the feeling of being safe with Atem, if it weren't for the one small-
She frowns.
"–RE THE SUN DRAGON!" she yells, banishing the distracting thought as she needs to finish the incantation. Her beast screeches joyfully beneath her at being allowed at least something different at last. He disappears beneath her in an epic blast of heka-powered light, and Bali feels her stomach lurch into her throat as the ground whooshes closer to greet her. There are gasps and cries of alarm, foremost from Pharaoh. Instead of the ground, she gets knocked into by a dark creature. On closer inspection, it's Mahad's Illusion Magician.
She's set down in front of her unimpressed husband.
"I would've been fine," she defends. He raises an eyebrow. A silence of exactly five seconds passes where she shuffles nervously. "I…probablywould've been fine. I'm divine now. I'm not outright immune to pain and dying, but I can take more than normal, I don't think that would've done anything."
Atem takes a moment from their argument to dismiss the guardians to their duties. He neither wants an audience, nor wants their various waiting chores to go undone for too long. All hop along as bid, knowing that the two would sort out their differences easily. The two are a beacon for married couples now, after all.
He turns back to her. "I got to watch you die, Bali. Seeing you endanger yourself time and time again with blatant disregard for how important you are to the people around you is selfish. I understand that you operate a certain way, but you are Queen of Egypt," he reprimands, Bali keeping her face stony. The air is tense.
"Yes, O Wise and Opulent Pharaoh Without Whom I Would be Lost and Lonely, Whom I Love Above All Others, and Shall Never Forget, and Shall Never Displease, Nor Deny, in Any Way, Which Includes–"
He shoves her, grinning, causing her to snort and laugh.
"Okay, I get it. I had to give you some lecture as Pharaoh, you know that. I don't want a coup on my hands because my queen thinks she's invincible," he explains, tweaking her nose. She bats lightly at his hand, missing completely.
"Don't you remember all the eligible young women from before? I'm sure you'll have no issue finding my replacement," she snaps back, whooping slightly when he whirls her around to hold her close. He kisses her deeply.
Drawing back, he whispers, "replacing you would be achore,Bali."
… … …
Weeks pass. Weeks have passed. Aasa has been sent back to Heliopolis with the heartfelt thanks of the royal palace, along with an invitation to visit whenever she and Hetepheres desire. To her surprise, Hutsat followed her back north. He cited that he would keep an eye out for trouble, but the edge in his voice made Bali a bit sad, if not irked. Seeing her happy with Atem didn't sit well with him. In any case, they parted amiably. Veut has been laid in a cursed tomb out in the Red Lands in the hopes he won't be disturbed. In the event that he is, measures have been taken to ensure that he can be stopped in the future. Bali made sure of it. She seemed a bit prophetic about the fact that sometimes, things laid to rest didn't stayat rest.
Later that night, they went to their sanctuary so she could explain.
That night. That particular night.
She's sure it was that night because that night was phenomenal.
Phenomenal? No. Outrightextraordinary.
The atmosphere, the moon was full, and the waters of the Nile were rushing for the perfect sound. The wind rustled the reeds so gently. Before long, they weren't talking, they were once again entangled in one another. But this night more than others it seemed so different. More sensual, more correct, more better…? Bali doesn't quite know what it was, only that it was the very greatest night of lovemaking, and that it was THAT NIGHT.
Ever since that night she's noticed that things have been a little off, although it hasn't been that long since that night. Food started to taste a little weird. She's felt nauseated more often but hasn't vomited yet. She sits and thinks about it one morning, waiting for a report from Isis about a supposed "thief king" that Atem won't talk to her about. It disappoints her to think that there's something he won't confide to her, but leaves it be for now. There might be a reason. Even Mahad hasn't approached her about it, and it's a medjay problem so he must've been ordered not to. Breakfast roils in her stomach. She hunches over, face scrunching.
"Your Majesty! Oh!" Isis hails her, then seems to realize that Bali isn't quite paying attention. The High Priestess drops any pretense and goes to her friend's side, hands atop her shoulders.
"You look terrible, we should get Mahad. Is this the first time you've been feeling this sick?" she asks, Bali shaking her head gingerly; any more movement and she fears spewing. Isis calls her maids and then leaves to get Mahad herself. If Bali were in better shape, she'd tease about it. The maids arrive looking harried, then gobsmacked at the state of their queen. Su fetches a bucket at a full-on run, with Mery goading her to hurry. She tries to hold it, but…
Su dives in just as Bali gives in to the pressure. Their queen grabs the bucket and vomits up the contents of her stomach, Mery rubbing her back gently. Su brings her a thin juice to wash her mouth out with when finished.
Mahad and Isis return, Mahad borderline frantic.
"My Queen, do not panic!"
Bali furrows her eyebrows but lies back on the bed.
"Sounds like I'm not the one who needs to hear that,"she thinks.
He takes a deep breath and begins muttering incantations under his breath, heka making his right palm glow as he sweeps it over her body. He stops short, incantations and heka fading away as his facial expression grows stunned. Then more stunned. Eyes wide, going between her stomach where his hand is still outstretched and her eyes. Isis and Bali both stare confused.
"Mahad, what's the deal?" Bali asks, but somewhere deep inside, with the evidence, with the reaction, she already knows.
"I… I must retrieve Pharaoh. At once!" Mahad leaves them at a run. No summoning sparks like he uses with Mana. No servant runners. He goes himself. Bali feels a bit underwhelmed even though she's pretty sure she knows.
"Women's intuition and all that. Hope this doesn't take long,"she thinks, disliking the idea of Atem somehow dragging in the whole court in time to see her barf. She reaches for the bucket again and has another go-round, feeling miserable. Thanking whatever goddess was doing her a solid, afterward the nausea subsides, and she returns to normal. Except for the nerves about waiting for confirmation. Isis takes a seat beside her.
"You know what it is, don't you." It's not a question.
"I will wait for Pharaoh to get here. He has to be here for any confirming news," Bali answers, though the look she shares with her friend tells her all she needs to know. Isis takes a deep calming breath to keep the cool, calm mask on her face. It wouldn't do to act giddy and excited now.
"Bali! I'm here, I heard you're sick!" Atem's voice rounds the corner before he does, but he speeds along without any mind for decorum. He kneels before Bali and takes up her hands, looking her over frantically. She smiles despite herself, at first thinking she would get annoyed.
"Mahad said he had something to tell both of us. We have to wait."
Once again, Isis is close enough to hear the marvel that is Bali's rare gentle, sweet voice, one she uses only with Atem. The priestess has a feeling it won't only be used for him in the near future…
"Your Majesties, I apologize for keeping you in suspense. It is fantastic news, news we have awaited," Mahad starts, voice breathy from the run. His face has the biggest smile Bali has ever seen. "Congratulations, it is a child! You are pregnant at last!"
Atem's hands squeeze hers. He says nothing, head turning slowly to look at her abdomen, where his gaze sits unblinking. Bali quietly asks for privacy from their friends. Once alone, she runs her fingers through his hair and peers down.
Tears.
"Atem?"
"I'm, haha, is this real? We're going to be…?" he sniffles, voice choked up. Bali feels her eyes mist up. A giggle tumbles out and she enfolds herself into his waiting arms as they weep in joy.
"We're going to be parents!"
Notes:
FUN FACT!: I mentioned the Scorpion King in a previous chapter, and I don't mean the one played most famously by Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. There are two Scorpion kings, I and II, and I (1) was the first true king of Egypt (Upper Egypt, most definitely) in the Naqada III era. His tomb was already plundered way way way way way before modern archaeology (which is just as well, as early modern Egyptology was just tomb raiding and they wouldn't've done much better) but it shows signs as his reign perhaps being the beginning of the hieroglyphic system of writing. His conquests, due to reference to towns in the Nile Delta, likely even spread into that area. Super legendary. His name is not based on or from Serket the Scorpion Goddess, as her popularity began later in the Old Kingdom era.
Chapter 36: Meet Your People
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
The ecstatic news swept through the empire with an unprecedented vigor. Pharaoh Atem's dynasty might not end! Although there's always a chance the baby could be a girl, everyone waged it would be a boy. They hoped it and breathed it at every turn. When it came to the expectant parents, they didn't care either way. Atem seemed to float on air the first week after the news reached his ears. Bali settled into it more soberly. She tended to her affairs as normal, but with one maid attending her at all times to ensure nothing went awry. With it being between Mery and Su, she was grateful it at least wasn't going to be a guard. She could still handle herself. Atem hasn't gotten overprotective... yet.
"You seem a bit subdued compared to the rest of us, Your Majesty," Seshat notes, supping at her wine afterward. Bali huffs a bit in mirthless laughter and turns her head to stare out over the garden wall and into the pale morning sky. Seshat agreed to take up residency in the palace once more to help Bali through her pregnancy, without her even needing to ask.
"You already know. I was never planning in my life for a family in the first place, and now everyone expects me to have a boy to carry on a dynasty. It's pressure I never expected or wanted," she says, tearing her gaze back down into her own cup of mild beer.
Seshat hums. "Certainly Pharaoh has had no qualms over it. Pharaoh Akhnemkhanen, may his soul become splendorous in the Reeds, was the same way during the births of his children. His time… was far more tumultuous. I am sure you will be graced with a crown prince eventually, if he is not to be your first."
Bali watches as she explains, and the way her expression turns sad when mentioning Atem's father and his children. It always seemed a bit of a mystery that no one wanted to talk about, a secret that the older generation dodged around telling.
"I know the function of each Millennium Item now, but not the process by which they were made. There are so many blank parts in a culture so dedicated to writing things down to be remembered, it's suspicious. I don't even think Atem knows, either,"she ponders, a sinking feeling in her stomach settling in when she remembers the small feeling she got from his heka. "It had been slight, but…"
"Queen Bali?" Seshat once again pulls her from analyzing what she felt the day they'd sealed Re the Sun Dragon. Bali shakes her head and smiles in apology.
"I'm sorry, what?"
The older woman doesn't flinch with any obvious worry from years of practice in pharaoh's court, but knows something plagues her queen. The warrior had already been forced to reduce her training activity. Perhaps the whirlwind of changes are weighing her?
Seshat smiles. "I merely commented that you should remember that you are the mother and know what's best in the end. It is still early, most of your normal activities will not be harmful," she clarifies, to which Bali shrugs.
"Those changes will bother me more later when I physically can't do any of them. There's…" she trails off, glancing between Seshat's eyes and her clenched fists unsure. Seshat places a comforting hand on her back. Bali swallows her words with a deep breath. "Just normal nerves. First time mom, here."
Both are perfectly aware that it's a blatant lie, but Seshat doesn't push the issue. Whatever it is, will come out when Bali is ready. The old priestess slides her hand up to pat her shoulder.
"Perfectly normal. I will be here with you every step of the way, because your own mother is unable to," she comforts, and Bali finally lightens up slightly.
"Thank you."
After months of fixing up and patrols to ensure the safety of citizens and merchants, it's been deemed safe enough: Bali is finally going for her first official stroll among the people. She agreed quite readily to it when the idea was posed to her, but as the day got closer the idea made her queasier and queasier. She's three months in, and not showing much at all. Seshat and midwives alike assured her that it was completely normal. Sometimes the biggest thing that reminded her that she was even pregnant was Atem treating her like glass.
But the morning of their walk came, and even he couldn't avoid handling her a bit roughly.
"Atem, I'm not a people-person. They won't like me," she states, stubbornly refusing to walk and making Atem practically drag her along. This is, of course, to the great delight of the onlookers who keep their respectful distance.
"They'll love you. They already love you," he comforts, repositioning his arm for a firm hold around her waist.
"Yeah, 'figurehead' me. They know you out there because of your princely days of sneaking out and being a brat. I think they'll disapprove," she argues, digging her heels into the stone for as much purchase as possible. Mahad and the medjay guards around them lurking nearby have to hand it to their Pharaoh; his strength against his formidable wife has gotten them to the gates.
"Yes, they know me. But because they know me, they also know that I'm actually very picky when it comes to women." She surprises him by moving forward and curling around into him, arms snaking around his torso.
"In other words, you're a snob. You finally admit it," she snickers, mood swinging slightly. Atem gets his hopes up despite the derogatory comment.
"If that's what you want to say, then that's fine by me. Just please go out there and show your people who you really are," he pleads, prying her arms from his back while holding her gaze. He puts out his lower lip slightly for an advantage-seeking pout. Slowly, he steps back from her and very gently kisses the tips of her fingers with ever-so-pleading eyes.
"I can't say no to that face. If you want me to try, I'll try. Besides, no one out there could be a bigger ass than Seth," she relents, turning from him and at LAST walking forward without fighting. Atem sighs, wishing to himself that she would get along better with his loyal high court member.
"I'm going to take what I can get," he whispers, trotting to catch up with her. He places his hand with hers just as they exit the last gates, guards following around at discreet but effective distances.
"Even if my emotions go wild doesn't mean I go stupid. I'm still capable of rational thought," Bali snorts, flipping her hair over her shoulder. He almost thinks she's hinting at something else, but they're interrupted by the presence of the large crowd waiting to greet them. The outside world beyond the palace walls isn't frequented by royalty, much less their Pharaoh and his Great Royal Wife. The immediate reactions of the people around make it evident. Many go straight to their knees in prayer and praise. Songs float through the air that make Bali's skin become gooseflesh. Both take in the praise, Bali with wide eyes. Her form stiffens, heart thudding in her head, mouth dry and her head cleared of every intelligent thought. Atem takes a moment to peer at her curiously.
"Relax, Bali. Don't be afraid. This is not an enemy horde; they're our people," he reassures, squeezing her hand. She takes a deep breath through her nose to calm her nerves. While thankful that she doesn't look like any of the greater gods, her maids and Atem did admit that there is an unnerving air about her now. While most around her got used to it, her attainment of godhood has changed some perceptions for good. She can only hope for now that the citizens who gaze upon her now won't fear her for what she is.
"I'm ready."
Atem grins at her firm declaration and leads her to the gawking crowds. One elderly couple who had bowed lowly onto the ground had difficulty even lifting their heads from that position, let alone getting back to their feet. Bali sees them from the corner of her eye and her smile lessens. She throws her head over her shoulder to get a better look. Taking her hand from Atem's, she strides to the couple while any in her way jump from her path. The couple shivers as the crowd watches in interest. In the back of her mind Bali knows this will be a defining moment in her reign, damn any ballads about her of heroism in war. Atem watches from where she left him, leaning back on one foot with his arms crossed. Something, Mahad noticed with a wry smile, his old friend picked up from his beloved.
Bali kneels down to one knee to gently steady the old man's shoulders with her hands. With wavering strength, he peers up. She smiles warmly, willing her divine ba to become as friendly as possible. It works, though unwittingly. They still require help getting to their feet however, as they only lift their heads and cease shivering.
"Please, let me help. It's the least I can do," she tells them, taking hold of the old man's withered hands. She snaps her head around and beckons to her Pharaoh. He looks around unsure in response, before Bali throws him one of her steely looks, tilting her head to the couple again. Atem gives up with a small unbelieving laugh under his breath and jogs to the trio.
"You may take care of her. Be careful, her back is strained," Bali warns, very carefully pulling the old man up so he can stand on his own. Atem does the same with the old woman, adding a healing spell for her back for good measure. Once the two are up again, the royal couple lean into each other in satisfaction. The old couple seem ready to fall to their knees once more to thank them for their kindness, but Atem speaks before they can.
"If it pains you so much to bow in such a way, you may not do so for us or any other noble. If they cause you trouble, we will know," he proclaims, patting both their shoulders softly. The two smile, still not uttering a word. With a glance, they seemingly exchange a thought. Before Bali and Atem can protest, the two retrieve a charm on a leather strap from a seller's pouch.
"Please, Your Majesties. We would do so for anyone who treated us so fairly," They confide. Bali feels her entire system spark while Atem's mind whirls. Time freezes around them. Both are unable to move, even with all of Bali's strength as a goddess. The old man presses the necklace into Atem's hands with a steadiness that seemed impossible from someone so frail.
"For your child. May they be blessed as you are," the old woman states, voice breezy and light then chaotic and powerful all at once. The royal pair can only stand in awe of the charm in Atem's hands. It is a sword, brilliantly shining and wonderfully crafted. The hilt was carefully made of lapis lazuli and the blade of silver, a rare component in jewelry. The crest of Amun and Re was etched skillfully into a tiny pommel stone. When they look up to thank the tricky gods for their gift, they have already left. Time has returned to its normal state. Bali folds her hands over the charm in his and squeezes.
"I may be a god, but I may as well be human to the great gods, like they must've been," she admits with a whisper. She was hoping for a normal outing with a bunch of normal people. Not… God stuff.
"Minor god or great god doesn't matter, we appreciate the gift and that's that. Let's continue on, Bali. There're some people I want you to meet that I meant to introduce you to a long time ago," Atem replies easily, taking her hand once more and tugging her in a certain direction. She stumbles to keep up.
"Hey, watch it! I've got fragile cargo!" she snaps, Atem laughing and pointing out that it's the first time she's used the baby as an excuse to be treated differently. Bystanders watch on as Thebes begins to return to its normal activities and they feel a strange new idea proposed by their behavior.
"Our royalty is..." a merchant in his stall whispers. His wife leans over, inquiring.
"What did you say dear?"
"Our royalty may be the best the empire has seen," he finishes, awed by the down-to-earth qualities of the Pharaoh and his Queen.
"Bali, this is Guit. He's served in the army for years," Atem introduces, the soldier in question bowing respectfully. Bali nods in return.
"I saw him around the campsite back in Ebla," she comments, but two shrieks of joy break the air and two smaller figures run around the soldier's legs in the doorway to pounce on Atem.
"Why have you waited so long to see us? You owe us honeyed treats!" one complains, pulling back and pointing an accusing finger. The other, a little girl, stands back as well, crossing her arms with a huff.
"Yeah, you owe us!"
Atem chuckles and squats down to be at eye level with them. Bali watches the scene with interest and wide eyes. This is the first time she's seen him around children!
"I know, I'm sorry. Being Pharaoh is a tough job, and I'm sure you've heard all about the adventures that have kept me holed up in the palace and beyond. But I brought the person I said I would bring," he explains, alluding to Bali. Both small faces turn up slowly and begin to analyze the queen. She feels slightly uncomfortable under the children's gaze.
"This is Sethi and Mutnodjmet, Bali. They are two of my greatest friends outside the palace," Atem explains softly while the two parties have a stare down.
"So... she's Lady Bali? Your acquaintance?" Sethi asks for clarification.
"She's a bit more than that," Atem laughs.
"The Queen..." Mutnodjmet mutters in finality, summing up her thoughts.
"Sheseemsto have the right air about her, but I don't know..." the two chorus, circling the monarchs.
"Trust me you two, if I wasn't sure I could handle it, I wouldn't have agreed to marry him," Bali says, letting herself get involved in their shenanigans. The tension dissipates and the children challenge her to a game similar to marbles at the side of the house. She emphatically agrees, asks for the rules, and plops against the wall to learn. Soon a riotous game is going while Atem and Guit watch fondly over.
"You have excellent taste, Your Majesty," Guit comments as Bali begins to argue with Sethi about a marble that had gone astray. Atem smiles crookedly at the scene. He never thought to teach her about this game.
"Yes, I suppose I do. I'm glad she has their approval," he replies, shifting from one foot to the other.
"She will be an excellent mother, I can already tell."
Atem glances at his soldier friend in surprise. Looking back to the trio he peers closely at what's happening. Baliis losing, but obviously on purpose. She settles a squabble between the children with such subtlety and in her own special way. He realizes that perhaps winning every single game and being Thebes' "King of Games" won't always work in his favor, and that Guit is correct.
"You yourself are going to be a wonderful father, as your father was to you. Keep her safe, Your Majesty. And for their sake," Guit continues, alluding to Bali and his child, "take care of yourself as well. A child with no memory of his father and a mother caught up in her own memories is a sight I see too often. Don't let it happen to you." The man squeezes his arms with regret at his own memories. His bulky and scarred arms are living proof of the battles he's survived. Atem sees them and knows that Bali's body is scarred in much the same way. A soft wind flows between the two men as silence rears the conversation.
A small cry for help cuts through the air, making Bali's head snap up.
"That was the sound of a little girl, I know it!" she says, taking Atem's offered hand up while Guit orders the children inside. Another shriek pushes her into action. She pulls away from her king and runs, using her instincts and her ba to guide her.
"Bali wait!" Atem bellows, making to follow, only to have Guit rest his hand on his shoulder.
"We must follow her, not call her back. Let's go," the soldier urges. The two chase after the queen immediately. Mahad catches up with them effortlessly.
"Where did she go?"
"Her ba indicates that we're on the right path, My Pharaoh," Mahad replies, and the trio speeds up. In their haste, they nearly speed past the alleyway she's in. Atem scoots to a stop and turns, Guit and Mahad on his heels as they run down the narrow street.
"She is your daughter, you pathetic excuse for a man!" Bali screeches, Atem approaching his furious wife carefully. The scene is of a man and a girl with his features; this girl is no more than ten years old. Bruises, cuts and scratches line her body as she lay on the ground looking hopefully up through her dirty hair to gaze at Bali. Her father spits on the ground.
"What do I care, she's undermyguardianship to do with as I please! This is why nobles are hated; they stick their noses into private matters." The man curses, then makes to kick the poor child, not realizing that he now addresses Pharaoh.
"Stop now!" Atem orders, his voice thunderous with anger. He gathered the situation quickly. Simultaneously, a hazy golden light surrounds the man, paralyzing him while Bali stands shaking with a vehement expression. The man finally recognizes who he's dealing with when he catches sight of Mahad, who patrols the city regularly with Seth.
"M-My King... Your Majesties, I–" the man fumbles for words, but Atem stalks near him, Guit following to take hold of the abusive father. Mahad draws level with Bali to ensure her safety, and to offer any comfort as her friend.
"You're done," Atem mutters in the man's ear. His voice holds a darkness and violence to it while being deathly quiet. Bali's eyes widen when she hears him, and the paralyzing effect from her spell ceases. The man faints, eyes rolling back into his head. Guit hauls the comatose figure onto his shoulder with ease.
"I will take him to Lord Seth," the soldier says simply, nodding to Mahad before trundling off with his load. The air remains serious until he is gone from sight. Atem sighs, releasing his tense anger. Looking to Bali, she seems exhausted, even anxious. He hurries over to brace her against him gently so she could rest. Using spells purely on instinct is draining, even, apparently, for goddesses. Mahad steps away and heads to the entrance of the alleyway to keep watch.
"I'm okay," she whispers. Atem kisses her forehead and turns his mouth to her ear.
"I know," he mumbles, and she stares up into his eyes, searching. Just as he's about to ask, she breaks eye contact and moves away from him. He's startled by the action. Is something going wrong? Bali instead kneels down to the little girl.
"What's your name, sweetie?" she coos, softly sweeping the child's hair out of her face.
"Nefertari," comes the simple reply. Her voice is strong and unafraid despite her experiences. Atem kneels down to join them.
"That's a nice name," he replies kindly. Nefertari sits up and crosses her legs in front of her. Her giant brown eyes flick from Bali to Atem.
"You're really the Pharaoh and his Head Wife?" she asks in awe. Bali rolls her eyes.
"I'm hisonlywife."
Nefertari giggles and sits back on the palms of her hands. Bali and Atem exchange a silent sigh of relief, but return to focus when the giggles subside.
"What exactly am I going to do now? My daddy is gone," she inquires, shamefully staring at her bare feet.
"Where's your mom?" Bali asks. Nefertari's expression grows gloomier, and she doesn't say a word.
"I see. How about you come to the palace with us?" Atem suggests, and both Bali and Nefertari whip their heads to him in surprise.
"Can youdothat?" Both chime. Atem jabs a thumb at himself and leans back with a smug look.
"Pharaoh,"he drawls, earning an eye roll from Bali as she ponders why she married him and an excited squeal from Nefertari.
"Memnet can take care of her," he states simply, before Bali gets the chance to ask. She closes her mouth and lifts an eyebrow.
"You seem to have everything sorted, don't you?"
"It's a good thing to have when you're the ruler of a vast empire."
"I don't appreciate your ego-tripping."
"I appreciate it."
"You don't matter." The two argue playfully, though they stop to look at Nefertari who has started laughing at their antics.
"You are really funny. I never thought that the Pharaoh and his Great Royal Wife could be like this," she points out, stifling her joy so she could talk. Both monarchs redden and look away in embarrassment. Secretly, however, both are glad that they're so entertaining.
Notes:
FUN FACT!: Day laborers in Egypt were paid in beer and grain, and if they didn't get their pay, would go on strike. Skilled workers started emerging in the Naqada eras, before Pharaonic Egypt, when ~luxury goods~ like furniture, decor and jewelry became a more heightened focus due to influx of population and hierarchy within society. With rich people comes rich people wanting sofas, right?
Chapter 37: When Talks Turn
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
When Bali returned to the palace with Nefertari, she parted from Atem to take her new charge to Memnet. The girl had kept quiet and respectful throughout their journey, from gathering her things from her small home up to approaching the palace. Atem promised to hold a Millennium Trial of her father, bypassing the other courts, and delayed it so Bali could be in attendance.
"He let a child this old grow her hair this long? That's cruelty in itself," Memnet says, sitting with her mending to the side. Mery and Su are bathing and shaving Nefertari's hair in another room as she and Bali wait.
"He beat her. I can't believe no one reported him before," Bali replies, arms crossed tightly. Frank Harrison never touched her, but still. Abuse runs deep.
"People pretend not to see, or mind their own business, or have too many reasons. It is why we are all still judged in death, Your Majesty."
Bali ruminates on the response. Ifanyone'sreaction to the situation surprised her, it was Seth's. While he takes his job seriously, she never expected him to be so… passionate about this in particular. He passed a message on to her actuallythankingher for catching "the worst of humanity." She's thinking about sitting down and having a conversation with him about it. A real one, no quips or banter or insults. Whatever their friendship is, she needs to know what the deal is, because High Priest Seth has never behaved like this before.
"She's all done! And feeling much better too, right?" Su chirps, leading Mery and Nefertari out from the washroom. The girl is now wearing a plain servant's dress with a sturdy leather belt, looking refreshed behind her neutral expression.
"This is all so much, I really can't thank you enough. I'm unsure why I am being treated so well when I am destined for the fields," Nefertari says, causing the room's atmosphere to tense up immensely. She looks around, unsure of what she did wrong and immediately huddling into Mery for support. Bali is frozen as all eyes turn to her. The Expendables are still a famous point of contention between her and the ingrained system backed by most of the aristocracy. With all their power and position, Atem and Bali are stalled: The Expendables remain. Swallowing a wave of anger and perhaps even tears, the queen smiles.
"You're not going to the fields. I did not rescue you from abuse only for you to suffer more out there. You will be my third personal servant when your training is complete. Su's been seeing someone new and needs more time off these days," she answers, easily turning her voice sly as she mentions Su's recent romantic exploits. The maid squeaks and turns to Mery, who looks dubious. The atmosphere turns silly in a heartbeat.
"You told her?!"
"I told no one, you desired privacy," Mery responds, to which Bali holds up a finger and taps her forehead knowingly. Memnet watches on desiring nothing more than to get back to her work and leave the foolish drama. When the old woman glances at Nefertari, however, she lets forth a tiny smile. The child is massively entertained.
"Su, I am theQueen. The Great Royal Wife! I have many duties, the greatest being that I watch out for my Pharaoh and for my people. Last I checked, you fall under that category," she simpers, over-the-top tittering behind her hand and showing her servants who know her all-too-well just how well and terrible her acting can be. But, as they look down to see how much Nefertari truly adores what she's seeing, they swing into it.
"Aaaas clever as she is beautiful, it's no wonder Pharaoh swore his heart to her alone, hahahaaa! You are most gracious for thinking of me at this time, and for helping young Nefertari in her hour of need," Su praises, clapping her hands together in an attempt to cover up her own horrible acting. Memnet finally gives in to her desire to resume her work with a snort as Mery rolls her eyes.
"Honestly, you and Mana are too alike sometimes. Speaking of magicians, do you have any workings with heka, Nefertari? It may be useful to you in your time here to develop them, and you'll be paid more if so," she says, rubbing the girl's shoulders comfortingly. The mood turns down once again when she starts shuddering.
"Please don't make me." She manages to force out those words in a small, choked voice before Bali kneels to the floor as she and her two maids soothingly and hurriedly assure her that they won't. Under the surface, Bali's blood boils.
"No magic training, I forbid it. I'm personal friends with the master magician, and he'll understand completely. Now go with Su to start learning your way around the palace," she orders, gently sweeping away a tear on Nefertari's cheek before standing. The girl sniffles. Blinks. Then slowly but surely breaks into a grateful smile as she places her right hand over her heart and bows.
"Thank you again, Your Majesty. Thank you!"
…
Figuring out a time to meet up with Seth isn't difficult, given their old training schedule. She approaches the grounds with her face set in such a fierce expression that Mery knows better than to speak to her. Guards and approaching servants swerve out of the way or make themselves scarce from her presence. It's the first time since the defeat of False Prophet Veut that Bali has been so angry. Seth waits for her as usual, though he is too wrapped up in his thoughts to focus on a proper workout routine. The moment she crosses the threshold, he stands. It's his duty and instinct to do so out of respect.
"Seth, we're not training today. Come with me, we need to talk."
No surprise shows on his face. He doesn't argue.
"Yes, My Queen. There is much to discuss."
She raises an eyebrow, but turns and briskly leads him back into the palace. Within a few minutes the two are settled with cold beers and a light smattering of foods in a small meeting room. Neither speak. The air between them is cool, and not because of its ample shade from the sun. Bali leans back, indulging in a hand gesture she's taken to in the past couple of months and resting her right hand lightly, protectively on her stomach. Seth notices, but remains silent.
"Your reaction to that criminal was abnormal," she states, curt and unyielding. There would be no poking fun at him today.
"Are you displeased?"
"Of course not. I'm curious, if not concerned. I know you were raised in poverty but there is something that goes deeper than that, Seth, I can tell."
He shifts, tearing his gaze away to the side. Although he frowns in hesitation, he keeps his arms settled at his sides instead of crossing them at his chest and closing himself off. Finally, he returns his eyes to her.
"We are not close friends, Your Majesty." Even as he said it, his mouth quirked, and hers did too. A lie. Somehow, someway, they trusted each other deeply.
"Say what you want to say Seth, I won't smite you," she replies dryly, relaxing from the serious air a bit. Seth leans back some as well with a grunt.
"I don't like bullies. Before I decided to enter the track to become who I am today, I saved someone…" he trails off, Bali tipping her head slightly to the side. After a few seconds of thought he returns to his recounting.
"She was being held captive by slave-trading brigands. As far as I could tell at the time, she had been kidnapped from her home and needed my help. I needed no more persuasion, and did what had to be done. After that, I became a priest and excelled. A small part of me wonders if," he says, drawing into a thoughtful mutter until he remembers he has an audience. He clears his throat in a rare moment of embarrassment. Bali smiles.
"If you'll somehow cross paths again. Who knows, Seth. Maybe you should ask Isis to look for someone with the same features," she suggests, keeping herself from teasing. The moment is too delicate and important for that. Her friend coughs into his fist, trying to hide his reddened face.
"You're blowing this out of proportion. I'm merely curious. But I suppose it is that moment that defined my true loathing for criminals. I pledged myself to order in this empire, and I intend to see it through at all costs. That little girl you saved deserves nothing less. I may not speak as openly, but your fight against The Expendables has my support," he states, even going so far as to place his hand over his heart and bow his head to show sincerity. Her eyes are widened at the declaration, as welcome as it is.
"That's… You're truly a most honorable man. But there's other things to discuss, such as the trial. This trial by the Millennium Items, will it be what he deserves?"
Seth leans forward, face set in a determined scowl.
"It is precisely what he deserves, and it will show that changes are needed. This will be the first you have attended, I assure you it will be taken care of."
Bali nods distractedly.
"Any of the child's holdings will remain in her name? He has no chance of taking them from her, does he?"
Seth barks shortly in cold laughter. "Should he desire to try after he is released from his prison sentence I will be appalled at his arrogance. No, her lands will be administered to by a city agent until she desires to deal with them herself. They aren't much, but they're still hers," he explains, decisive and confident once more. Bali sighs in relief.
"I hope it all goes without any issue. That girl has been through enough."
"There is no doubt in my mind that we will hand down justice as it is rightfully deserved, Your Highness. It is our sacred duty, and the criminal was caught by Pharaoh and his Great Royal Wife. He will have little to defend him."
"Nefertari—the little girl—she won't have to be present, will she? It's bad enough she's terrified to use her own magic gift, and I don't want to think why," she asks, brows creasing in worry at the memory.
"No. You and Pharaoh caught him, and the Items sense his darkness. His treachery is plain enough that we don't need his victim to face that monster again," he replies, and once again she finds herself somewhat impressed with how strangely compassionate he is for this child.
"You should meet her once this is over. She'll want to thank you for getting him out of her life for good," she suggests, laughing a bit when his eyes widen.
"That's not necessary. I'm not… It's merely my duty."
"Right."
A silence ensues between the two in which they partake in food and drink. Bali figures she should allow Seth to gather himself before attempting her final question.
"Seth… Pharaoh isn't…" she garners his rapt attention again but becomes uncertain. She can tell that he knows what she's about to ask him about. "There's nothing threatening us that he's keeping from me, is there?"
Seth sits up tall, expression stony.
"I can say with complete honesty, there isn't. The defeat of False Prophet Veut has brought about a solid peace, although there has been some of the normal thievery and town mischief. Nothing abnormal," he answers solidly, confidently, without any hint of hesitation. She scrutinizes him for a few more moments before sighing deeply.
"There's no way around it. I can't just hint it to Atem any longer either. Once this trial is done, I'm going to ask him why he's not telling me anything about this supposed 'Thief King,'"she thinks, resigning herself to what will be a difficult conversation with her husband.
"My Queen, months ago when you briefly left us after bravely saving Pharaoh, it affected us all more than you know," Seth says suddenly, making her peer up from staring down into her drink. She smiles lopsidedly.
"No, I'm well aware. I'm afraid our time has grown short, and no one must ever know that I was ever in a civil conversation with you. Get out before I decide to break your other foot for good measure," she says, standing with a stretch and a haughty flip of her hair. Seth smirks and rises to tower over her.
"You're out of practice from your performance at the coronation Your Majesty. I don't doubt that you could easily cause a disaster should you attempt to dance now," he replies easily, entering into a glaring contest in front of the exit. She crosses her arms.
"Don't push your luck, mister."
"Some of us don't require much luck, and rely instead on traits such as skill and talent," he shoots back, grinning when she rolls her eyes and throws her arms up in the air.
"Oh for the love of the blessed waters!" she yells down the hallway, causing him to snicker. Anyone around merely thinks they got into one of their usual spats. It's something that the palace has come to recognize as normal. For the two of them, that's the only way they'll ever want it to be.
Evening arrives and finds Bali lying comfortably up against Atem, his arm around her and the air around them content after a busy day. Their bed is especially welcome after the preparations for the upcoming trial tomorrow. Being able to simply lounge after a private dinner is perfection. But it is also a moment meant for conversation.
"Want to hear something unbelievable?" Atem, whose eyes had been closed, hums dazedly, his lips curling upward. "Seth and I had a civilized conversation today," she drawls, keeping coy as he snaps from his sleepiness. He shifts them so they now face each other, sliding a leg over hers. She taps his nose with her pointer finger.
"Don't tell anyone. I wasn't even supposed to tell you, but you're special."
He returns the tap on her nose, causing her to snicker.
"I expect nothing less from you, sweetest. Your secret is safe with me. It was about the trial tomorrow, wasn't it? You're worried?" he asks, rubbing her arm lightly before resting his hand at her elbow. She sighs, only a bit frustrated.
"I wouldn't say that, not after my conversation with Seth. I guess after everything I'm STILL not over having crappy parenting issues," she replies, lips screwing up in a tight frown afterward as she keeps her eyes pointed down at his chest.
"I don't think anyone would be over those types of issues, but you deal with them fairly, if it helps. I've noticed that your temper has eased up these past few months," he says, earning a small glare. "What, you know it's true!"
"In all honesty, the closer the Sun Dragon got to awakening, the more volatile my emotions were so I'm probably pretty tame now compared to that time. Doesn't mean I still can't pack a punch," she warns, albeit with a playful wink. He feigns shock.
"You? Tame? Bali, you could never! Lest we forgetwhyyou're the heroine of so many poems and songs these days," he chides, tickling her sides and starting her snorting cackle that he dearly loves. She swats him off eventually without much effort, tears at the edge of her eyes from laughter.
"You're so mean to me!" she whines, snuggling into him again. The feeling of his rumbling laughter brings her more comfort than ever.
"Am not. Don't worry about the trial. You've done your part, it's time for the High Priests to do theirs. Anything else you want to run by me?"
"Who says there's anything else on my mind?"
He draws back, an eyebrow raised as he makes sure to hold her gaze.
"Of all the things, I would expect you to have faith in my ability to pick up on when you're trying to find something out. You've been giving me this look, like you're waiting for me to tell you something, so what's the matter?"
Bali feels her gut wrench at the idea of bringing up the one troubling snag that's been kept from her for months. The "Thief King." They might argue, or even get into a full-blown fight. This moment has been so wonderful, and she could ruin it… He senses the unease and brings his hand up to caress her face.
"Bali, whatever it is, we will work through it. Before I am Pharaoh, I am your husband. Tell me."
She reaches up to place her hand over his, smiling slightly at his comfort before letting it fade.
"It's about… It's about the Thief King. I haven't heard any of the details because no one will tell me anything. I had a feeling you ordered everyone to keep me from hearing about it, but when it wasn't as harsh a secret a servant was talking about one of the latest attacks at that time. Isis was supposed to bring me details but got sidetracked and then likely got told not to and well, you know. What's going on? Do you not trust me with this?"
The air changes. Atem tenses up and scoots away from her to sit up. She follows suit, but keeps from saying anything as he puts his head in his hands while muttering under his breath. Eventually, he slaps his hands down in his lap.
"You weren't to find out."
She meets his perturbed look with one of confusion. The red is more prominent in his eyes again as he stares her down. His eyes have always been that strange mix but something's happened that's made them different. The combination of her heightened awareness and familiarity with his ba and heka have her forming an alarming hypothesis, and his eyes changing hues could just be a physical manifestation…
She shakes her head to focus once more on the issue at hand.
"You can't stop news and gossip, it's human nature, Atem. Don't punish anyone for it. Why were you keeping it from me, you're avoiding that question," she snaps, sitting with her fists resting clenched on her knees. He glances at them before meeting her eyes again. He doesn't flinch at her gaze. She always liked that he quickly grew to never find her eyes unnerving, and now she wishes they'd give her an advantage.
"When you snuck into the enemy camp, I'll admit that it ended up working but things were different then. You were just you. You had neither titles nor a dynasty nor any idea of how much my heart belonged to you at that time. Things changed, Bali, you died! You just jumped in front of me like it was nothing and you were gone, with no second thought!"
"Yes, it was a bit dumb in hindsight to parade around like I had enough power to handle the situation but it all turned out okay-"
"NO!" He grabs her shoulders, face coming in close. "Bali, it was NOT okay! It was a miracle the Sun Dragon decided it would side with me and avenge your death, and even bring you back," he hisses. Bali swallows her tears. She's never seen this.
"Was I supposed to let you die? I couldn't—You're Pharaoh, you're the one who upholds your dynasty, not me!"
Atem growls in frustration, sliding his hands off her shoulders and moving back.
"You don't understand. Veut did, in fact he was waging on it when that beast first got free. He believed it would be uncontrollable, because you, itsmaster,were already gone. We got lucky. If I were dead, fine. You would've brought me back, as we both know the Sun Dragon has its ability now. Gods, blame it on having no idea about its power all you want but I am doing what's best for everyone!"
She swipes her hands up in question. "Then what does this have to do with what's happening now?"
"I've been leery of allowing you to hear about certain situations that might be dangerous. Even someone as powerful as you has their limitations and now you're carrying our child. I ordered everyone to keep this from you because if you knew too much, you'd charge headlong into battle without a second thought like you tend to do," he explains, without hesitation or shame. His stare, it's crimson and detached. Bali feels cold. Hurt. She slowly looks down to her lap, then makes to stand.
"You… You truly don't trust me with this," she whispers. Refusing to let herself cry in front of him, she breathes deeply to keep any sense of calm within. He confirms, but his expression changes to concern when she stands tall.
"I will be sleeping elsewhere until further notice. I will see you tomorrow, My Pharaoh," she states, voice pinched as she places a hand over her heart and bows shortly. He reaches out belatedly, realizing too late that something about what he just said was truly, deeply wrong. He feels self-loathing grip him as he hears her run from their room and through their apartments, a sob echoing throughout.
"What have I done?" He lies back, arm covering his eyes. "Father, what do I do now?"
Notes:
FUN FACT!: There are depictions and murals of cats helping with waterfowl hunting by chasing them out of the reeds. The reasonable conclusion is that our Ancient Egyptian friends may have even trained their cats to go hunting this way. Also, I believe I read somewhere that they had pet cheetahs, which would've had to have been brought up from southern savannahs, but I haven't really taken the time to fact check that one. Also apparently giraffe spot patterns vary depending on what region they're from! I'm a few years from thirty and that one definitely popped the lid off my skull. You're never too old to learn!
Chapter 38: An Illuminating Trial
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Like the steadfast companions they've been since her arrival, Mery and Su catch on quickly to her distress and ready a chamber for her use. The servants they rouse to help utter not a word to show displeasure: The queen is distraught. Bali wanders off in the bustle. She can't go to the Nile sanctuary, nor to the gardens, nor anywhere within the palace. But leaving would be irresponsible. She scoffs, sniffling as another set of tears drop from her eyes. At the very least, her sobs have subsided for now.
"I'm already considered irresponsible, might as well leave,"she thinks scornfully, crossing her arms. She wanders the halls, briefly pausing at a window to stare up at the moon. It ends up being the place she stays as she leans up against the sill.
"Ha, and some say I'm all fierceness and valor in battle and here I am, staring at the moon and crying," she mutters, wiping her face uselessly. The tears won't stop. Maybe she hears the footsteps, small and timid, or maybe she doesn't. She doesn't react to them either way.
"Your Majesty…? Queen Bali, are you okay?"
Bali starts, wiping at her face more before turning to Nefertari. The sleepy-looking girl has her hands clasped nervously behind her, shifting from foot to foot. Bali forces a smile to her face.
"Nefertari, what are you doing awake, you should be resting!"
"Mery and Su got up in a hurry and I couldn't get to sleep after I heard that maybe you were in trouble. Are you in trouble? Can I help?" she asks, bringing her hands around to clasp them in pleading. Bali kneels down, placing her hands firmly on Nefertari's shoulders.
"No, don't worry about me so much. It's only… It's only a bump in the road," she smiles tightly, more to convince herself. "Are you getting along so far? I know it hasn't been long, and I don't want you to receive any backlash just because you're getting attention from me."
Nefertari's eyes widen as she shakes her head vigorously.
"Oh no, Your Majesty, everyone has been so kind! I feel there is no way I could ever repay that generosity. It seems too much," she clarifies, only able to meet Bali's eyes for seconds at a time as her cheeks heat up. Bali doesn't hold it against her, as it takes getting used to.
"I know it does. If I were in your place, at your age, it would be overwhelming, and you're handling it worlds better than I would have. Correction: You arehandling it better than I did."
Nefertari blinks up at her, dying to ask.
"There's no way you were ever like me, Your Majesty. All the stories say you are One-Sent-From-Re, that you emerged from the reeds," she says quickly, obviously restraining herself only to earn a short laugh from Bali.
"People say lots of things that get aggrandizing or downright strange. How about this: Let's relax up against this wall and have you tell me what you know, and I'll tell you what's real and fill in the blanks. I can't have a servant who thinks I might be hiding horns under my hair," she suggests, shuffling them both to sit.
"Are you?!"
Bali snorts. "No! Silly goose."
Nefertari blushes, but giggles despite herself. They both settle against the wall and begin their talk. Hearing the stories about her makes Bali want to cringe, somewhat. There's a rumor she can breathe fire, or that she's actually a Spirit Ka summoned by Pharaoh's Millennium Puzzle. She gives Nefertari the basics of her time in Egypt, leaving out her time travel and gruesome details of death and torture. It's about halfway through that Bali realizes that she's focused enough that the tears have been stopped.
"Wow, I never imagined! Why do people spread so many lies?"
Bali shrugs.
"It's just what people do, it's what they've always done, and they will continue doing it long into the future. Best I can say is to try not to give it too much power."
Nefertari turns thoughtful.
"So, all your scars… They're not from the fields? Where are they from?"
Bali places her gaze at a random point on the floor, a small grimace on her face. There's not much difference to her, in terms of cruelty. But she doesn't know that pain. Naye's pain. They are paid servants, but treated so harshly, all to pay overall debts. "Parents usually still pay penance" is the general excuse for the practice. Bali doesn't understand how anyone could stomach saying it. She unwittingly places a hand on her abdomen again, knowing that this particular fight will belong more to her children, and that someday her child will be asking her the same uncomfortable questions. She can already hear it in her head: "Mother, why do you have so many scars?"
"I was briefly taken prisoner during the conflict with Ebla. It was there that I received lashings, before I was meant to be put to death. King Ur-Minda—a prince at the time—stepped in and saved me and I joined his revolt. I have another large one in my side that you can't see now, from a near-fatal wound from King Ur-Mardu. I have other minor scars from fights like those, but those are the major ones."
"You did not choose to have them healed?"
"No. Some of these were too far gone for them to be fixed anyway, and I was never worried about my looks in the first place," Bali responds easily, glad to see that her young friend is taking the information well.
"Better to be honest, if I've learned anything from how my parents dealt with me,"she thinks, feeling satisfied with her handling of her answer. She kept it simple. No bloody messes.
"What about when Pharaoh was courting you? Surely you must've cared then. I would have," Nefertari mumbles, cheeks turning rosy as she stares dreamily upward. Bali sucks in a breath to hold in her upset, instead watching with a raised brow as the child practically swoons. Then she turns back to stare at the ceiling and think.
"I don't think I ever cared then, either. He never—" her emotions swell and catch in her throat. She sucks them down with a mighty breath, pushing away their fight and all of the hurt his earlier words caused. "—Pharaoh and I never properly courted, you could say. We just happened. I'm beginning to wonder if I moved too fast all those months ago."
Nefertari breaks from her rapture at her queen's sigh. After taking a few moments to reassure herself and gather her courage, she nods definitively.
"Pharaoh has to be just as kind as you are, really. Whatever is happening, I'm sure he will come through again. He's Pharaoh, and you're the Great Royal Wife, everyone knows that your happiness is foremost in the palace no matter what. Manu-Manu, who sells textiles and let me hide in her store, used to tell me that all the ladies in Thebes gossip about how Queen Bali would be the prettiest jewel in Egypt's crown because Pharaoh was so in love with her. That can't have been another lie, she was so sure!" Nefertari exclaims, the conviction in her voice aiding the rather victorious-looking smile on her face. Bali looks on, mildly amused.
"Yes, we'll see what happens. Maybe some time apart will remind Pharaoh that his most precious treasure has a mind capable of rational thought," she quips, waving off the following question about what she means. Their conversation ends when footsteps patter down the hall, belonging to Mery.
"The room is ready. Kiki, what are you doing awake, and bothering Her Majesty, no less!" she chides, bustling over. Bali turns a teasing smile to a flustered Nefertari.
"Kiki? Behaving so like a monkey that you got a nickname?"
"... I don't object to it, I do enjoy climbing…" she mumbles, making Bali laugh. Mery joins her with a few chuckles of her own.
"You'll see for yourself why she's earned that name, but for now you should both head to your beds. Tomorrow is a day none of us can be sleepy for," she adds, helping Bali stand as Nefertari springs up on her own. The three head back to the prepared chamber, one more cozy than Bali's grown used to, but still elegant in furnishing.
"Thank you for the pleasant company," Bali says, glancing up at Su to ensure that the maid takes Nefertari to bed and makes her stay there. Su nods almost imperceptibly.
"You're welcome, Your Majesty. It is still nothing close to all you've done for me." This response is coupled with yet another deep bow, hand over heart.
"Tomorrow is when I'll see if I've really done well by you. Now go to bed and stay there, Kiki," Bali orders, and she watches as Su leads her down the hall until they disappear from view. Mery comes up to stand behind her.
"I must admit to this as I am sworn by Ma'at as we are all: Su sent for Kiki, and I let her," she admits. Bali turns slowly, her tired expression begging for an explanation. Mery takes a deep breath to steady herself, but doesn't waver otherwise. "It would not do for you to stay awake and distraught throughout the night and then be unfocused for the trial tomorrow. Please, forgive me if I was mistaken."
Bali nods.
"No, I understand. In my position, this issue is bigger than me, and it's something I've championed for in the first place so I have no room to stumble. Thank you." She settles a hand on Mery's shoulder, instinctively allowing her heka to alleviate her friend's weariness. "Let's both get to sleep."
...
Pharaoh Atem, leader of the people of the Black Lands, wakes up before sunrise as he always does. It will be a more pressuring day than usual: A Millennium Trial will take place, requiring the presence of all the members of the high court. All, including the woman not sleeping next to him for the first time in months. Anger and guilt are roiling in his stomach. He hardly slept.
"My Pharaoh, I was hoping I could pose an inquiry to you before you go forth to raise the sun."
Atem turns tiredly to see Siamun standing at the entrance to the room, looking alert and the most perturbed he's ever seen. Atem has an inkling as to why but accepts the short bow and request.
"Go ahead Siamun, but make it quick."
"The palace is alight with rumors that the queen left here in tears last night. I'm unsure what to make of it, but I do know she is in a separate chamber. Is it true?"
Atem grunts as his servants ready him for his bath. Siamun follows them outside, unfazed.
"It is true. I made it clear to her that I did not trust her with information regarding the so-called Thief King, due to her inability to stop and think and not be reckless for once!" Atem answers, voice elevating as his anger rises up over his guilt.
"But My King, how can you not see? If she was already aware, then—"
"No, Siamun! I am Pharaoh, and I know what is best in this situation! Leave me now, we can discuss this more later," Atem commands, allowing his ba to flare fiercely in the hopes that Bali feels it. To show that he's still upset, too. Siamun remains calm and simply bows.
"I am but your humble vizier, Pharaoh. Later it shall be." Siamun shuffles away. Atem's anger fades only to leave more guilt. Somehow, he feels that he's only making things worse. Something has gotten into him lately, and he's unsure what. Usually, he would first talk to Bali about it.
"I must stand by this. She cannot go out and make the same rash mistakes,"he thinks, lowering himself into the cool waters of the bath. Moments later, a tremendous ba blasts like a towering obelisk from a point in the palace, the obvious disdainful answer to his earlier flare. He stares in the direction it comes from, his servants muttering that they feel sudden shivers and nerves."I've made it passive-aggressive. Perfect. Now Iamworried about the fate of the trial."
The members of the high court file in, from priests to aristocracy, all to witness a Millennium Trial. While a somewhat rare occurrence, the bearers of the Items are all experienced with its process. Atem already sits on his throne, dressed splendidly in a tunic stitched in gold and scarlet at the hems, his cape left off and replaced with a more grandiose pectoral than usual. The precious heirloom is brought out for trials such as these where his judgment, and his forefathers', would be needed. It depicts Ma'at upholding Re and the order of all the Gods and Goddesses.
He's not sure if the guilt or the pectoral weighs more on his chest. Bali only lanced her ba up once, and then he saw, heard, nor felt nothing of her. She has yet to appear to sit beside him. The general hum and murmur of the room does little to distract him. Siamun remains uncharacteristically silent in his usual place next to the throne. The guards at the back of the hall slam the butts of their spears loudly against the floor to herald the presence of an important newcomer. All eyes dart there, the large doors open wide for the event and cleared to allow all a clear pathway inside. Atem grips the arms of his throne at the wondrous sight before him.
Queen, Great Royal Wife, Goddess… Every descriptor works with how she appears right now. All except one. Her sword and her armor are noticeably absent. Instead, she strides forward wearing the matching splendorous white dress to Atem's tunic in its gold and crimson stitching. It is overlaid in a netting made of golden beads with white feathers at the shoulders that sit at the edge of a pristine, flowing white cape. The crowds bow as she approaches, her eyes forward and expression focused. Before she takes her place on her throne, she bows accordingly to Pharaoh and then ascends the steps. He can hear the trinkets and gems hanging from her elaborate headdress tinkling from this distance. She takes her seat with every grace and care, all poise and majesty. It's not the way Atem envisioned her entrance, or even her outfit, for this trial.
He's startled when he feels a hand brush his wrist. His eyes dart down, then follow her arm up to her face, bewildered. Bali is holding her hand out to him, still cool and neutral. But deep in those eyes of hers, outlined in kohl and ochre-colored powder, he sees the sorrow he instilled the night before. He hesitantly takes it, but soon enough their grip is strong. They nod so very slightly to each other, Atem banishing any of his lingering anger. This trial is so much more than their personal dramas. This trial means too much to her.
"And for her to not wear her sword, to something like this… It has to mean something,"he thinks, but Siamun clears his throat. Atem glances between him and Bali, who nods, finally smiling. It's a small one, but it's confident. He'll have to take it. He looks to the other bearers of the Millennium Items, primarily Akhenaden and Seth. They all signal they're ready. He raises his unencumbered hand to tell Seth he's ready.
Seth turns to face the crowd. "The Millennium Trial will thus commence! Bring in the one with massive darkness in his heart!" His bellow echoes well through the room, and on instinct Atem squeezes Bali's hand. He can't stay mad at her, he knows that. He said they'd work through this, he'd said he was her husband first and then he said those things last night, and then had the very nerve to not chase after her, and then he yelled at Siamun… She squeezes back.
It's the sound of medjay walking in with Nefertari's father bound between them that reins in his attention once more.
"Hamon of Lower Thebes, you were caught by God-On-Earth, the Divine Pharaoh Atem-Ma'at-Heka, and Great Royal Wife, the Divine Queen Bali. You were caught breaking order and raising your hand against your own child, abuse that defies the laws passed down to us from the heavens and from here in the palace!" Seth continues. Atem narrows his eyes at the lowly man. He's sure that Bali is doing the same beside him. The Puzzle around his neck can detect the presence of something inside the man, something festering and pestilent. Had the man been a humble thief, or some nonviolent offender, the beast hiding within him would have been torn from him and sealed away, for him to be released without the monster's evil influence.
But this is different. Violence is intolerable. This will be the first step to changing the system, freeing The Expendables.
"You will now stand trial before the Millennium Items before paying penance in the quarries. Your daughter is free from your tyranny and feels the mercy and justice of Ma'at at last!"
Shada steps forward, Key in hand. Holding it forth, the medjay all step away from Hamon as the Key activates with golden light.
"The Millennium Key will seek out the demon in your heart, do not try to hide it!" he calls out, his voice relaying no strain on his part. Bali's hand is in a death grip on Atem's. Akhenaden takes Shada's place.
"With the Millennium Eye, I will expose the true nature of the demon!" After the bright gold of the power of the Eye, black begins to ooze from Hamon's chest, spilling first to the floor before rising into the air. A myriad of shapes, all grotesque in nature, form and reform and reform over and over and over. Akhenaden grunts and Seth immediately steps up beside him, Millennium Rod already activated to help. The crowd murmurs.
"Atem, what's happening?" The whisper isn't in fear, but all the same Bali sounds concerned. He keeps a comforting hold on her hand and leans slightly toward her to answer. His eyes do not dare stray from the trial before him. While it's a very low chance, there's still a possibility that control could be lost, and his power needed.
"The monster has fully fused with hiska, which makes it much stronger. We can still seal it away, but Hamon will not be walking away from this room."
Bali doesn't reply.
The medjay place themselves protectively between the crowd and the action, on Mahad's orders. A large stone tablet is uncovered, having been hauled in the day before in preparation and merely covered with a sheet until the proper time. The monstrous ka screeches, fangs baring in a silvery gleam that sends chills down the backs of those less courageous in the room. Seth keeps a steady chant under his breath, holding the Rod out with a constant stream of heka flowing out to encase the creature. Finally, with a great amount of exertion, he swings the Rod to the tablet and the monster shrieks, its ever-changing form a blur as it slams into the stone. It flattens, then with the golden light of Seth's heka to push it through, molds into it. Finally, it disappears.
After a few seconds of tense silence, the stone tablet bears merely the monster's image. The crowd applauds, releasing a breath they didn't know they held. Atem also relaxes, until he notices that Bali hasn't joined them. He finally makes to glance at her, as her hand has not lessened its grip.
"My Pharaoh, it is my honor to inform you and Her Majesty that the evil has been successfully sealed. We shall lay Hamon of Thebes to rest, as is required of us. Shall we adjourn?" Karim asks, as Seth is too winded to perform court theatrics. Atem keeps from glancing at Bali and raises his hand.
"So let it be said, so let it be done. This Millennium Trial is over." As soon as the words leave his mouth, Bali's hand detaches from his and she whisks away from him again. He rises to chase after her only to be halted by Siamun.
"Pharaoh, I think it wise to continue our former conversation now. Her Majesty must wait until you hear what I must say to you."
"Your Majesty, you look really upset! Are you sure you're feeling well? Should I fetch a healer, or even try and get Master Mahad?"
Bali shakes her head and silently waves away Mery. Su is still helping Nefertari learn her new duties, and the maid helping Mery now is scurrying around helping as best as she can with a fretful expression.
"Just a little queasy, that's all. Probably baby stuff," Bali mutters. Mery immediately orders her cohort to fetch a bucket. They're in Bali's temporary chambers, easing her out of the precious outfit worn to get a point across in two arguments. Siamun himself had suggested leaving her sword, a last minute word of advice before the trial. Bali had seen his wisdom easily and had it put away.
The sick feeling started during the trial. A disgust she's never felt when the Millennium Items have been used before, a reaction that trickled in to become so strong she feared she would lose composure before it was through. Her heart is pulsing in her ears and her mouth has gone dry. While still upset about her fight with Atem, she had been feeling physically fit before the trial. It has to be a reaction to the Items themselves, and their use against the ka. With how things turned out, she's unsure if what was done was correct.
"We have the bucket, feel free to use it should the need arise," Mery directs, placing it near her before instructing the other maid to resume helping her with cleaning Bali's face. Bali hardly pays attention, too lost in whirling thoughts and nausea.
"They judged him themselves. We couldn't let him continue going, but doing that doesn't sit right either. People here aren't supposed to be deciding what's worthy of that type of judgment, now his ka is stuck in that stone with the monster!"she thinks, unsure entirely of what conclusion to make. She's sure that Hamon was a horrible man, but the purpose of mortal law is to keep him from doing more harm in this life. His judgment for his sins is meant to come from the gods. That's how it works. The greater gods deal with it. Not someone like her, and definitely not Pharaoh and his priests.
Her stomach finally gives in, and she grabs the bucket and lets loose. While Mery rubs her back, she also dryly gives praise.
"You're not getting any on your dress, which is impressive. It would be a shame to ruin something so exquisite."
Bali nearly snickers through her retching, at last distracted from her troubled thoughts about the Millennium Items. Maybe it's just a pregnancy illness. That's perfectly normal. When she's done, she's given a tonic to wash her mouth out. Mery finishes swiping away the face paint with meticulous care before deciding it's enough and daring to finagle the dress off. Eased of the elaborate costume at last, and with that onset of nausea fading, Bali trundles to the bed to sit and allow the maids to work. She brings up her right hand to stare at, mind moving on to her other cumbersome issue.
"I hope Siamun's idea worked, and it got through to him after all,"she ponders, eyes burning when remembering his hand in hers. "He wasn't even petty after making it petty this morning. This is confusing."
A bundle of fabric suddenly smothers her head, causing her to curse and scramble to get untangled from it. Once she pulls it off, she glares at Mery, who manages to keep busy accounting for and sorting every piece of jewelry Bali just took off.
"Your shift, for comfort. I know your strange ways, Your Majesty, and that you don't prefer to lounge about naked," she says, nonchalant and every bit of friend Bali needs. She puffs her cheeks out but puts the shift on, standing briefly to do so and plopping back down once finished.
"It's not so strange. I came from a colder climate where wearing clothes was a necessity. Also there's no need to throw it at my face."
"You were overthinking, and we're close enough friends. I thought it pertinent to exercise my rights to remind you that you need to wait for him to make his apology," Mery replies breezily, finishing up her counting and smiling. Bali returns it sheepishly.
"Okay, you got me. I may be less angry in general now, but I don't think I'm more patient. I really wanted to march to him and get into it again this morning when he pulled that ridiculous stunt with his ba," she admits, twiddling her fingers. Mery doesn't reply for a few seconds before setting down the jewelry to sit beside her. Bali turns to face her, questioning.
"It is wise that you didn't, even if you did reply in kind to show you aren't a pushover." Bali again grins rather sheepishly. Mery continues. "My husband died many inundations ago now. We were young when we married, had few prospects and came from poor families so there were few objections."
"Nowhere to go but up," Bali says, giving her maid some time to pause and think as she fiddles with the wooden charm around her neck. Mery huffs in laughter.
"Yes, that's definitely what he thought. But what made him irreplaceable was his ability to move past his anger, to help me move past mine and address our problems together. Pharaoh is young, but he is a good man, and a good husband. He will come to you with a proper apology, ready to address your problems," she says, settling her hand to clasp the wooden charm. Bali slides an arm around her shoulders and hugs her close.
"Thanks Mery."
...
"Siamun I really don't think this is the time, Bali—"
"Her Majesty is fine, I assure you. This conversation must happen now. I was your father, the Eminent Pharaoh Akhnemkhanen's Grand Vizier for twenty of his forty year reign. I am nowyourGrand Vizier. There is much I have seen and learned, and much wisdom I wield to serve you. It pains me to see you make such mistakes not just as Pharaoh to his queen, but as a husband to his wife," Siamun interrupts, voice stern and rough. His tone makes Atem's mouth clamp shut. It's been many years since he's heard Siamun speak that way to anyone, and to hear it directed at him, even though he is king, is humbling. Somewhere in his heart, he knows that his father is speaking through the vizier right now.
"I visited with the queen before the trial. It was a brief visit, but she was well enough and it confirmed my thoughts. Pharaoh, your orders to keep information about the thief king were well-intentioned and I saw no real harm in the end, as our information is scarce as it is. However, to learn that when you found out that Bali has known of him, that you told her it was all because you do not trust her not to go out hunting for him? My king, are you blind?!"
Atem feels the deep pit of guilt growing ever deeper as Siamun's passionate rant goes on.
"If she were so careless and irresponsible a queen… a person! As you believe, she would have gone chasing after him at first mention, or gone pressing anyone for details on him even with your orders for silence on the matter! But as we are both well aware, she did not, and months later she hesitantly brings it to you and you outright tell her you do not trust her. It is shameful. I am and will always be loyal and dutiful to this empire and to you, but it is from this loyalty and love that my anger comes," he bellows, unrelenting even as Atem sits in a chair with his head in his hands.
"I was so concerned with—Gods, I really didsay something wrong!"
Siamun grunts, satisfied, and then heaves a giant sigh. "All right, now that it seems that sense has entered you again, I suggest we start talking about what you'll do next," he says, voice back to his usual gentler tone. Atem groans, sliding his hands down but looking up.
"I have to beg. Gifts are a no-go, Bali's not that kind of woman, so begging it is. She'll never forgive me Siamun,Iwould never forgive me. I won't forgive myself," he moans, mind going back and inventing more and more awful scenarios and versions of the past and possible future. Siamun places his hands on his hips.
"You are not to beg, Pharaoh, Her Majesty does not want that whiny attitude. She wants an apology. A real one, so she knows you won't repeat this grievance. After that apology, you two can work through the original problem," he explains. Atem raises an eyebrow.
"Simpler than it sounds, isn't it?"
The old man deadpans.
"Your Majesty, I am unmarried for a reason, but your father was always in want of advice in his day. Now go. Making her wait any longer will make her begin to doubt."
Atem stands, taking a moment to breathe and calm his mind. No begging. No gifts. An honest apology.
He can do that.
Notes:
FUN FACT!: Ah, lettuce. How would we make our salads without you? Well, there's a certain type of lettuce plant native to Egypt that secretes a liquid that looks disturbingly close to… reproductive fluids, that the Ancient Egyptians wove into their mythology! In a popular version of the Horus versus Seth myth (entertainment value is high, but if you're squeamish about sexual assault, don't read it, Seth is horrid to… well, everyone actually), but Horus and his mother Isis spread Seth's "stuff" in a marsh to make him look like a liar when he says he laid with Horus (he tried) and Horus spread his own "stuff" on Seth's garden lettuce, as Seth would eat said lettuce and it would seem as if he bottomed for Horus (which would make him inferior, cuz domination.) Later, before the court of the gods, Seth is basically called out as a liar because he ate what my sister and I fondly call the jizz lettuce. I am cursed with knowledge that I must share. Seriously though, read up! Re-Horakhty is such a melodramatic drip in this myth. I'm reading from Shaw's The Egyptian Myths: A Guide to the Ancient Gods and Legends.
Chapter 39: Re's Words
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Bali is just about into her nap when a polite knock comes on her door. At first, it's so soft she thinks it's imagined and merely continues trying to fall asleep. Another knock, firmer this time, alerts her that it is very real. She grumbles and gets up. Despite her complaints, she hopes. Fixing her hair briefly, she plods to the door and opens it. There Atem stands, a singular flower in his hand. It's the same type as the first he ever gave to her when she first arrived. Both stand and stare at each other awkwardly before he clears his throat, seeing her glance at the blossom.
"Siamun told me not to get a gift, and I knew you wouldn't want one, but... I saw this one and I couldn't resist," he explains, slowly holding it out to her. She takes it. If Re were still in her mind he'd be yawning at how underwhelming her reaction is, she knows it.
"... Do you want to come in? We have a lot to talk about," she invites, stepping back to allow him passage. He accepts, brushing past her with a clear thanks. He peers around the room before she steps forward to catch his attention again. "Should I call for anything?"
"No!" He immediately winces at raising his voice, his hands raised as she stares at him, expression growing concerned. "There's a lot that I need to say, and I'd rather not delay because the more moments pass by, the more chance I have of losing you to my idiocy," he explains, keeping his voice as steady as possible. Bali tilts her head in interest. He gestures for her to take a seat on the bed, which she obliges, her shift flowing around her figure as easily as the water flows around the reeds and isles of the delta up north. How he's missed her in such a short time, and he wonders if she feels the same. He sits beside her, taking up her hand.
"Bali, I came to apologize. I have been clouded by pride, anger, and love that I oversteered in being protective and overlooked all of your own care and wisdom. I will admit that I had help in coming to this realization, but I knew when you ran out that I had said something wrong. However, my own anger kept me from trying to correct my error, and that is unacceptable. I promised you to be your husband first, and immediately betrayed that promise. You are my wife, and my queen. To keep anything from you, even if well-meaning, was foolish and disrespectful," he says, voice low and deliberate. She watches him, face unwavering as she listens. He bows his head at her almost judging silence, eyes closing and ready for her verdict.
Bali huffs in a breathy, near silent laugh. She sets the flower down in her lap to free up her right hand and reaches over to slide a lock of his hair behind his ear. Atem's eyes crack open at the action, willing to hope. Her smile grows.
"We have a lot to talk about, but that's a good start. I forgive you, and accept your apology," she whispers. They wrap their arms around each other after Atem pointedly moves aside the Puzzle, grateful to be on even ground with each other once more. Bali breathes him in deeply. The incense from prayers lingers on his tunic, the same from the trial. She draws back. "Couldn't even change?"
"Siamun was insistent that we talk. The most I could do was get all the jewels off, as I'm pretty sure the pectoral is considered more precious than I am," he replies, settling his arm around her waist to keep her close. She lets him, fingers curling around the stem of the flower to keep it from dropping to the floor.
"I think we have Siamun to thank for keeping us from falling even further apart," Bali says, before explaining his involvement in her appearance at the trial.
"It's true," Atem starts, shifting slightly. "I was horrible to him too, and he's known me my entire life."
"You owe him an apology, then. Even if, as I suspect, he tore into you when you talked earlier."
Atem leans back, mouth open to speak on his incredulous behalf but finding nothing to say at his wife's cleverness.
"Siamun is the type to become overly polite when he's seething with rage. I could tell you were about to get your butt whooped, as much as a vizier can do to his Pharaoh," she points out, poking his chest for emphasis. He shuts his mouth and turns stern. Bali merely snuggles into him, smug as the palace cats. He rolls his eyes, but both know they prefer this over fighting any day.
"So… Whatisthe deal with the Thief King? Now that we're both well aware I won't be going after him like a reasonable human being?"
Atem tenses up briefly, then ends up sighing. "We don't know much, only that according to reports a single man is stealing from entire merchant caravans. Sometimes it ends up violent, sometimes not. It seems he operates on a whim. First report was when Veut was our main concern, and now there is nothing else plaguing us. He hasn't gone near the tombs or temples, but Mahad and I believe it's only a matter of time."
He's glad to get it off his chest, to not be keeping it from her anymore. It even feels a bit silly in hindsight. Her silence is thoughtful.
"I'll have to help Mahad, and tell everyone they don't have to tiptoe around me anymore about it. Isis hasn't seen anything about him?"
"No. It's difficult without any description."
"That's the end of the discussion for now, then. Not much else to be done about it that hasn't already been done," Bali sighs, feeling rather useless after all. Atem squeezes her with a chuckle.
"Don't fret, we've just added another pair of excellent discerning eyes to the puzzle," he murmurs, blowing lightly in her ear to flirt. Her hands twitch, her face starting to glow.
"Stop that, we're having a serious talk remember?" Her reprimand is firm enough that he kisses her cheek and backs off.
"Yes, you're right. Apologies again."
"Accepted, again."
Both begin to laugh at themselves, any tension built up easing away. Troubling talks take the wayside to simple conversation. She brings up the rumors about her breathing fire and being one of his summoned monsters, which incites more laughter, and Atem trades her a story from his childhood and first hearing rumors like those.
"Sometimes I miss hearing things like that, it's interesting to hear how skewed the truth becomes," Atem coughs, trying desperately to catch his breath again after a round of teasing his wife about breathing fire.
"You know, makes you wonder what all makes it up here that's correct in the first place. Guess that's why there are so few trials in our presence."
"Speaking of trials, what happened?" he asks, snatching up the opportunity without hesitation. "You had a death grip on my hand and I had no chance to see what was wrong."
"I…"
Atem shifts her, hands on her shoulders so he can stare into her eyes and be as sincere as possible.
"There was something that bothered you. Seeing death, yes, but it was more than that. Please tell me," he pleads, readying himself. The same hesitation from the night before is appearing again in Bali's face. Her right hand comes up to cover his left on her shoulder. Deep breath.
"Ever since I became divine, you know that I've been extra sensitive to ba and heka. I think it was just a mix of pregnancy sickness that crops up and those sensitivities, and…" Her mouth thins out in a hard frown. "Well, you know how I am. I'm not going to pretend it was a fun experience though," she says, expression softening when she notices how much his face brightens at the mere mention of her being pregnant.
"No point in bringing up my opinion about the use of the Millennium Items. I'm not even sure that's what it was anyway,"she thinks, feeling uneasy in her half-lie.
"We haven't discussed names much." The sheer soft sweetness of his voice nearly makes her eyes tear up. He's busy staring down while she's enamored with his face, wondering how she possibly could have gotten this lucky.
"If it's our Crown Prince, we should name him for your father," she murmurs. He glances up, a bit stunned. She can see the family resemblance, though briefly wonders what his mother looked like.
"It would be traditional," he mutters, though Bali can see he already wholeheartedly agrees. She smirks.
"We have to give the conservatives something. And what if the baby's a girl?" Atem opens his mouth but she cuts him off, knowing his suggestion. "My mother's name is out of the question, her name doesn't exist in this time."
He visibly deflates, bottom lip turning out.
"So perceptive."
She raises an eyebrow before kissing his cheek.
"Who's the one who said I had discerning eyes?"
"And I was right, wasn't I? Back to name choosing."
Back and forth they go, Bali pointing out several times that they have time to choose something. Atem always counters that they're both so busy that it's better to decide while they're together. While difficult to contest, none of the names thrown out seem perfect.
"I can tell you why, My Children," Re's voice pops into their heads, both jumping at the sudden presence. Atem stares at Bali as her face screws up in the truest anger he's seen in months.
"Awful kind of you to drop by, did you decide that I was buttered up enough for you to try and apologize too?"
"Bali, I don't think-"
"I am not here to apologize. That will come another time. You, my Little Kitten, will bear a son. You have no need of another name,"Re interrupts, calm as can be inside their heads. She crosses her arms, still scowling deeply. Atem takes over.
"Thank you, for your clarification. It is a gift," he praises, earning a small jolt to the ribs from Bali's elbow.
"My Son, it is the least I could do for you. I came here to warn you both of a time coming fast where the gods may not interfere. The fate of Men lies in the hands of Men, and one such turning point will arrive and involve those within this palace. When the time comes, you will know. You will be ready,"Re states, voice fading until he leaves them with lead in their guts and hammering hearts. Bali peers at Atem, her eyes wide in realization and fear. He doesn't notice, as he's lost in thought over the ominous message.
"Chosen Pharaoh. Re said he was and I never got to grill him why. I forgot, like an idiot. Is that really all we're allowed to know, or is that all that the Ennead knows themselves?"she ponders. The weight of everything, from the tumult of emotions, the trial, the sickness, it all makes her sotired.Wasn't the war enough? Their fight with Veut, wasn't that enough to earn them all peace at last?
"Bali, calm down."
"Huh?"
His hands are on her face, wiping away tears because they're back. She's both far away and hyperaware of every feeling as she crumbles into sobs.
"I don't understand… I don't understand…!" she shrieks, the sound muffled as she's been pulled into Atem's bracing grip. He tells her to breathe, to breathe slowly, to remember that they're both still okay, that everything is fine, that they have all their lives together ahead of them. He knows that he must wait for her to calm down again.
Her breathing slows and aligns with his as he directs her to, which he encourages. A few more times and he knows she won't hyperventilate anymore. He loosens his grip slightly to allow her space to move away and wipe her face. She does so after a few seconds, unceremoniously using the collar of her shift to blow her nose. His lips tilt up at the action.
"Sorry," she croaks.
"Don't be."
Bali wipes her nose again, then gets up, laughing shakily as he gets up with her.
"Contrary to what my maids would have you believe, I know where everyday clothes are kept," she jokes, meeting his eyes for a split second before bustling away to find a change. He lets her, but stays mindful. After a few minutes, she holds another plain shift aloft with pride.
"Told you! Take that, Mery."
"Congratulations; you've proven to the one person it doesn't matter to that you can find a replacement shift," Atem quips, deciding she's recovered enough or at least needs the atmosphere change. She makes a face at him, sticking her tongue out.
"I dare you to find all your clothing when we get back to our apartments then. You never back down from little games like that, 'cause what did they call you down in the city?"
Atem rocks back on his heels, grinning. He loves this challenge because he's already won it.
"'King of Games.' Completely not my doing, by the way, they made it up," he points out, sitting back down on the bed and opening an arm up for her to join him. Newly changed, she fwumps down and jostles everything. He raises an eyebrow at her.
"What was that about?"
"It was about reminding you thatIhave calmed down." She sighs, sniffling. "Thank you. I hate when it happens. It just… flares up. Hasn't happened in a long time but I guess if anything is going to do it…"
"We have faced a war and a false prophet. This one has frightening language around it but there's nothing more we can do but face it the same as everything else. If I'm honest, when fighting Ebla, my dreams were visited by Horus. He seemed to allude to something like this, though far more vaguely…" he trails off. She remains silent, but calm. "Bali, my temper has gotten worse, hasn't it."
She tenses up. He doesn't know if it's because of his words or if it's because it wasn't a question.
"Atem, I'm hardly one to talk, you know that—"
"But I know I have been angrier. Is it merely stress? I started thinking about it and how easily my anger would rise, when I was taught to rule with patience and kindness. No, not just rule: to live. It reminds me of your discovery that Sun Dragon Re made you feel volatile for so long. I'm not the same, but you have to have noticed," he presses, at last letting on what causes his own anxieties. Bali clenches and unclenches her hands.
"... I have noticed. I'm not sure when it started, I only saw it really when we sealed Sun Dragon Re. It's your ba. Sometimes it has this intensity of darkness that I can't believe, but it's so small." She watches his expression, and how his face creases in worry. "It could be normal, Atem, it could be something explainable. All the rest of your ba is the same as it always has been, and you're always in control of it, it's not like you turn into another person when you get angry."
His frown lessens. "No, I suppose not. I'll need your help, Bali. Who knows where this sudden darkness could have come from, but I can't let it grow to consume me," he says, and she nods. Both contemplate quietly, before a loud yell is heard down the hallway beyond the door. Both stand, looking to each other in wonder. It's two familiar voices, both getting closer.
"...ou've gOT TO BE KIDDINGMASTER I'M KICKING HIS BUTT!"
There is no knock. A strange word is yelled and the door splinters away, revealing Mana. An irate, furious, terribly ferocious Mana. She marches in, honed in on Atem.
"YOU!"Her roar only enhances how small the room is. Bali is impressed. Mahad stands in the doorway, jaw dropped as his shoulders slump in defeat. Bali can sense a hint of pride under his responsible mask, however. Atem has his hands up, attempting to avoid instant death. Mana continues.
"I heard about what you said to Bali, are you OUT OF YOUR MIND?!"
Atem looks quickly, pleadingly, to his wife for help, but she crosses her arms with a coy look. He deadpans and returns to facing Mana, to receive his lecture.
"Mana, I-"
"Nonono NO, you LISTEN! We are CHILDHOOD friends. Ammut devour me but I don't care if you're Pharaoh, who SAYS something like that to their wife?! To someone they LOVE?!"
Atem doesn't say anything, knowing he's going to be interrupted anyway. Mana stares him down, leaning in and seeming suddenly dangerous. He leans back, hands still up to defend.
"Wha–" he starts. It's what she was waiting for.
"Despicable. And here you are, I can tell she's been crying more. We all learned how to apologize when we were little, did you forget how to recognize your own mistakes?"
"Ooookay, Mana. Mana!" Bali steps in before her friend can round into saying anything regretful. Mana blinks and peers at her in question.
"Mana he already apologized, everything is fine between us. I appreciate you coming to my defense, however delayed it was," she explains, laughing a little. Mahad joins them. Mana stares at Atem.
"Well Master Mahad had me stuck on this tricky spell and I didn't hear the specifics til now," she giggles, scratching the back of her neck sheepishly as Mahad looms over her.
"You create such a fuss, and look what you did to the door," he reprimands, and the group turns to look at the collection of wooden splinters on the floor. Mana begins to nervously giggle.
"I thought that was awesome," Bali says, but Mahad gives his apprentice a pressuring look. Mana's short second of pride deflates.
"I didn't mean to do that, it was only supposed to slam the door open…" she murmurs, twiddling her fingers in front of her. Atem begins laughing first, Bali and Mahad following. Mana flushes but grins and joins them. Soon after they all decide to leave and have an afternoon meal together. Atem makes sure that the rest of Bali's day is kept bright and positive.
No matter what he does though, both are forced to accept that Re's words are fixated into their memory:
"The fate of Men lies in the hands of Men, and one such turning point will arrive and involve those within this palace."
Notes:
FUN FACT!: There's a way I could ~Egyptify~ Bakura, and write it Baakhura, or "Ba of Ra's demon" (or monster, depending on context)" (which is… not totally correct but close) but I won't write it that way to avoid confusion. I will, however, be writing it Bakura and not Akefia. Whoop whoop! Also no, he's not here yet, but SOON.
Chapter 40: Threat
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Months have gone by. Bali is showing now, dressing in looser, draping clothes. Nefertari took news of her father's demise miserably, but Bali and Atem told her themselves and made certain she had support. Bali could empathize, somewhat. When Frank distanced himself after her mother died, her world crashed, and despite his cruelty, if he had died when she was still young she would've spiraled into despair. She expressed this to her young friend in vague terms, treading delicately to avoid confusion. It was a tense time.
But they got through it. Nefertari settled into palace life, attended to her queen, and made friends. She afforded herself a lovely black bob wig to wear, her property in the city is well tended, and the queen allows her to go to a palace Shrine of Wedju with Mana to feed her father's ka. Nefertari appreciates the queen's honesty about her father. She wonders if someday he could be freed from the monster that consumed him.
"Kiki, it's your free day right? Why are you up so early?"
Nefertari turns sluggishly to answer her older friend, who also looks like she'd rather be in bed asleep.
"Good morning, Mana. It is, but I have a gift waiting in the market for their majesties, and I think Mutnodjmet's family said they had a gift too. I thought I'd pick them up today," she explains, yawning afterward. Mana yawns sympathetically and grumbles.
"Doing work even on a day off. Master Mahad is training me on fire spells, which is great 'cause it's advanced but I have to get up early and stay late so we can travel out to the remote training grounds. My magic has a tendency to backfire when I don't have the proper focus and he didn't want to take any chances."
Nefertari tilts her head, curious.
"Master Mahad goes to the remote training grounds with youevery day?You must be very special, even if you require lots of practice," she points out, watching as Mana's face turns bright red. The spellcaster is suddenly quite awake.
"Kiki, we're not going out alone, you're too young to have your mind go that way! Sheesh…" she defends, but Nefertari's learned much in her time near Bali. She decides to poke a little more, just for fun.
"I never said anything about that, your mind went there itself. Her Majesty the Queen would say that's a sign, you know," Nefertari chirps. Mana takes a deep breath to argue, but is cut off when a splash of sparks in midair zip through the hallways toward them and stop before her nose. They fizzle and pop in a dazzling array before disappearing. Mana stamps her foot.
"Ooh, I'm running late already! Don't spread any rumors, that's just rude Kiki! Leave it be!" she orders, breaking off at a run in the direction the sparks came from. Nefertari smiles at her indulgence in being tricky.
Setting off at a leisurely pace, she waves to guards and passing servants she knows well enough to warrant a greeting. Everyone at the palace knows she's practically under the guardianship of the queen, but none seem to care. Apparently, the Great Royal Wife is too off-putting despite being merciful and gracious. Nefertari doesn't let it get too complicated in her mind. She has peace and routine, and that's what she's always wanted most. Spoiling it now by asking questions could get her in trouble she doesn't want.
The city changes in appearance when approached from the direction of the palace. One medjay halts her with a kind smile on the grand boulevard leading directly down to the river, asking if she would prefer an escort as a servant of the queen. Nefertari declines, although holds up her wrist to show the special ivory bracelet with a carved and polished green stone set in its center. The medjay releases her with well wishes, telling her to be careful and to call for help without hesitation. As she continues along, she's inspired to hum to herself at the friendly encounter.
The bracelet had been a gift from Bali. Mery and Su also had them for their excursions to the city. Due to her increasing need to stay at the palace for safety and because of her duties as queen, Bali asks them to get her trinkets from the market, things she would find interesting. The bracelet serves as a token to show where the merchants may send their bills. It was not an uncommon practice for elite families. Nefertari knows it has a second purpose to keep them safe as well: wearing a sign of the queen would ward off potential attackers.
With it being early morning, some merchants are still opening up for the day, while the food vendors are in full swing. Bread smells dominate, filling her with even more anticipation for a lovely day. She's already nabbed breakfast from the palace, but nothing beats the myriad scents of the market. She swings away from that district toward an outer ring, where more residences reside. Those out on the street don't recognize her, and no one even gives her a passing glance. That suits her just fine. She's on her way to the soldier Guit's house. His gift to the unborn prince is definitely ready, he sent a message saying so. Messages came and went a lot for Bali specifically, with no middlemen oftentimes.
"I hope Hutsat comes back in soon, hearing the queen talk to him as if he can talk back is funny,"she muses as she catches sight of different birds wheeling in the sky. Hutsat is the queen's falcon, a creature with seemingly above-average intelligence that she summoned from its normal hunting grounds in the Lower Kingdom to… Well, Nefertari isn't quite sure why Bali summoned him, only that it was important and that he's still around somewhere.
She arrives at Guit's home and knocks politely at the door. "Excuse me!"
The burly soldier answers the call after a few seconds, his shoulders relaxing when he sees her. He glances around.
"Ah, Miss Nefertari! Does Her Majesty have a reason for you to be here, and alone no less?"
"It's my day off, but I received your message about your gift for the baby and I thought I would retrieve it. Her Majesty is so busy that she keeps forgetting to send someone out to get it officially," she replies, dipping her head in greeting. He invites her inside.
"Wanting to keep busy even on your days off is something I can appreciate, but you should be careful. Our peacetime is still pervaded by plenty of bold thieves," Guit mentions, taking one last peek around outside before closing the door. Nefertari shuffles her feet, clasping her hands behind her.
"I know, but the city is my home. I know what places and people to avoid," she defends, but the soldier merely shrugs. He walks to a sturdy wooden table that holds several components of his gear. From the pile, he picks up a long wooden case.
"There are many who believe that war bows would be better left for the crown to fetch from the south, but the prince will need to learn first. I believe our queen will find great satisfaction in teaching him herself with this one here," he explains, settling the case in her arms carefully. While sturdy, it's lighter than she expects.
Nefertari beams. "I'm sure she'll be delighted with this! You are very thoughtful, I will ensure this is delivered safely."
He pats her shoulder with a fond smile, handing her a honey treat.
"I'm sure you will. Remember my advice about the thieves. Calling out and asking for help aren't things to be ashamed of," he says, before she sets off from his house in the direction of the market. While she's always been aware of the dangers of the market, it's a bit of a mystery why there's so many warnings lately. The case she carries now is plain, unadorned, and no obvious catch for a criminal. Is there a crucial detail she's missing?
"No guard was forced on me though, so maybe not. Perhaps I shall walk all the way up to the richer district next, I don't think Master Hoten will be open yet,"she plans, and positions her sandaled feet in the direction of an upper portion of Thebes, where the richer merchants reside. Mutnodjmet's father is an important merchant and as wealthy as one can get without noble status. The type of people out and about change to reflect where she is as the houses grow finer around her, as they are hidden behind gardens and gates and trees. The house she looks for is surrounded by sycamores that guard well-tended flower beds, with servants passing by on clean dirt paths. They only cast her a passing glance before carrying on their duties. She keeps on to the front door, where a guard stands. He regards her warily. She wilts under his gaze. When she'd been there before, Bali had been there to whisk her inside without any second thought.
"There is no one expected at this time. State your purpose quickly, girl," he demands, eyeing the case. Nefertari squeezes it, both for protection and for some sense of comfort.
"I am here for something from this family, as they are noted friends to Pharaoh and his Great Royal Wife."
"Is that so?" The drawl proves he doesn't quite believe her, and she starts moving the case around to show off the bracelet to prove herself true. She nearly drops it, she's shaking so badly.
"Please just let me get this!"Her thoughts run frantic, tears threatening because her father always used to say that she was slow on the uptake. Her father was right. In that moment, he's back again. She can hear him again. He's returned. How he got out of that stone she doesn't know, butwhy is it taking so long to show the bracelet?!
"Damas, stand down! It's Nefertari, a maid that serves the queen and a friend of my daughter's. She's been here before." A sharp female voice cuts clear through the air, stilling Nefertari from her fumbling. The guard heeds the order as the lady of the household steps out of the building, face pulled into such a disappointed frown that the guard keeps his eyes on his toes. Nefertari still feels shy under the strong gaze of Layasa, Mutnodjmet's mother, when it turns to her.
"Come in and sit. I must apologize for the rude behavior, especially when you're so close to Her Majesty," Layasa says kindly, a grin spreading on her face that reaches her lively dark eyes. She places a gentle hand on Nefertari's back and guides her inside.
"Th-thank you ma'am."
The woman chuckles. "No need to be nervous, I am only stern with my own staff and children. If there is anything you desire, you have only to ask," she says, before barking out orders for refreshments. The two go to sit comfortably on cushions in the gathering room while house servants bring beer and fruit. Nefertari accepts a cup of beer, at least. Her appetite hasn't returned from her breakfast quite yet.
Layasa lounges easily with a watchful eye on her guest. Nefertari admires her in glances. Bali and Layasa met months ago on a visit about something medjay-related, and Nefertari noticed they got along well. They're both striking in different ways, in her opinion. Layasa has unblemished dark skin, currently wears no wig, and is famous for opting to wear colorful clothing native to her homeland Nubia from time to time.
"Mutnodjmet had the worst of times thinking of something to give to the queen for the coming child," Layasa says suddenly, staring to the side. Her chin rests casually on her hand propped on one knee. Nefertari decides then that it's safe enough to look outright at her. She smiles and nods when Layasa slides her eyes to her to confirm that she was heard.
"She tried to keep it secret, but her foul mood matches mine. We could tell there was something plaguing her. When we finally got her to tell us what, we couldn't believe our ears! Her idea was almost outrageous, but as it was for the queen… We have managed well in the peacetime Pharaoh and his Great Royal Wife have brought to Egypt and Ebla, despite any rise in thievery." Layasa gingerly holds out her other hand for Nefertari to see the object.
It's a delicate glass hair charm of the Eye of Horus, meant to be clipped at the end of a braid. Nefertari squeaks at the sight of it. She's never handled glass before, even less ever been trusted with something so fragile.
"How did you find someone to make it?" the girl asks while Layasa places the charm inside of a padded wooden box and seals the lid.
"We searched through all my husband's merchant connections to find a man who could do what we asked for all we offered. In all honesty, we were lucky." She scoots the box to Nefertari. The maid takes it and places it in her lap with as much grace as she's achieved in her ten inundations.
"You're so generous! Glass of this sort is so rare—" Nefertari starts, but Layasa holds up her hand to silence her.
"Save your praises, for that duty belongs to your employer and not to you. We are grateful for the peace and protection of the palace. Pharaoh has also always been one of my daughter's greatest friends, and that alone is reason enough for extravagance. Please, tell Queen Bali that my family prays for a healthy birth," Layasa relays with a steady pleasantness as Nefertari stands to leave. A servant pops beside her with a traveling bag for the gifts.
"Thank you for your hospitality!" Nefertari calls, belatedly remembering to bow to her hostess at the door. She carries on with an amused reply ringing in her ears, fixing her gait to make sure the bag doesn't bounce around. Breaking the charm would be devastating. Even with so many in the palace who are adept at magic of all sorts, it's best not to cause a problem in the first place.
"Always better to not use magic, just have to be gentle. Hoten should be open by now, hopefully he's already done with my gift,"she muses, making her way back into the market. Now that it's a bit later in the morning, people are beginning to enter the streets to crowd and color them. More stalls are open now, the fabrics, the beads, the spices, the meats, everything from south to north, foreign and domestic that anyone could want. Already she feels at home again hearing hagglers going at it with shopkeepers. Hoten's shop is generally visited by priests and scribes, so it's on the very edge of the marketplace.
In a moment of pure misfortune, Nefertari knocks into someone while rounding a corner. She quickly mutters an apology, keeping her eyes demurely down, but he doesn't let her leave. Her eyes widen, jerking up to take in the tall figure blocking her way. His wild white hair contradicts his deep brown skin, while his dark eyes glitter with mischief as clearly as the cloudless sky. A scar runs down from his right eye to his chin, adding a hint of roguish charm to an already handsome face. After taking a few seconds to take in the sight of her, he grins wolfishly at her tiny form and, she guesses, the bag she carries. Nefertari doesn't realize that her bracelet is on full display.
"What could a little girl like you possibly be doing with such a nice bag like that?" he asks, leaning on the side of the building to appear casual but towering over her to keep her cowered. He makes doubly sure he's quiet enough to not draw any attention. She shivers.
"I am not stealing, if that is what you mean."
The man laughs, crossing his arms over his bare chest. Nefertari isn't sure what the joke is. Her palms begin to sweat as her unease grows. She's considering yelling for the medjay.
"Not with that bold strut you aren't. I can see you're from high up. While that little bag of yours is interesting, I must admit you have some information that could be useful, information about how to get into the palace, say," the man suggests, voice silvery and smooth with barely masked malice. Nefertari backs away fearfully. She shakes her head in defiance as tears form at the corners of her eyes. The man follows her step for step, eventually backing her into what feels like a dark corner. He leans forward, his mouth next to her ear. All confidence. All predator.
"I'm not afraid of doing whatever I must, little girl..." he whispers wickedly, his hand gripping her shoulder. Nefertari thinks of her brave queen and summons her courage, every bit of it. She struggles against his hold.
"No! Help! Anybody! This man is assaulting a servant of Pharaoh Atem and his Great Royal Wife Bali!" she shrieks. She can hear people gasp and begin to walk in their direction. Murmurs are heard between some and others shout for the medjay patrolling the streets.
The man growls briefly, but smirks at her all the same while drawing away. "This isn't the last that you'll see of me, little girl! The palace won't protect youoryour beloved royal pair forever!"
He sneers, then traipses off, blending with all present shadows as if he were born there. The medjay push through the crowds to ask the shaken maid where her assailant went. Nefertari points in the direction the man melded into seeming nothingness. While the crowd watches as most go searching for the offender, Nefertari hears an unexpected comforting voice.
"Kiki, are you alright? Queen Bali and Master Mahad got some medjay work so I never got to go out today. Master Mahad sent me out with patrols when Her Majesty heard you were unaccounted for," Mana calls, waving her staff around while tumbling through the crowd. They part for her, as they notice that she's either clumsy or important and they desire to avoid finding out which one it is.
"Mana! I was so scared!" Nefertari cries, hugging the older sorceress around her middle once she's close enough. Mana grunts in surprise, but recovers to pat her head. She stares around, frowning. The crowd is still discussing the strange event, but is already thinning. Seeing and sensing that there's no further threat, she returns to comforting her small friend.
"Don't you worry! I'm Master Mahad's best student and I won't let anything happen to you! Let's get back to the palace, the queen is worried," she proclaims, leading Nefertari away by her shoulders. The maid takes time to calm down, but the man's cruel warning still rings clear in her mind.
"'The palace won't protect you forever!' What did he mean?"
...
"Nefertari, is everything okay? I heard that you were attacked, anything you need to talk about?" Bali interrogates, staring at the girl in worry. She sits comfortably on a cushioned ledge with Atem, who shares in her concern.
"Please, if we can help you we will," he adds, squeezing Bali's hand so she won't try to jump up. She's simply too round in the stomach to do that anymore.
Nefertari bows deeply, with her left foot forward and a hand pressed against her heart.
"I am grateful for your concern, I truly am. But I will be okay. It was a simple attack by a hopeful thief. He wanted my bag which bears gifts from Guit's Family and Babi and Layasa's Family," she replies, avoiding that the man desired entrance to the palace and would've committed heinous deeds to get that information from her. She feels no need to sound the alarm for something so trivial. Plenty of thieves would adore a run at the palace. Atem and Bali share a wary glance but decide together that Nefertari will talk on her own time. They smile.
"Is that so? Let's have a look-see then!" Bali chirps, changing the subject and leaning back against the wall to shift from her former support, that being Atem. Pharaoh rises and gently takes the bag from Nefertari's shaking hands. He ignores them, as pointing them out would only cause her to regress in any trust they have. He goes back to sit next to Bali and pulls out the bow case. When they open it, Bali's face lights up like dawn over the desert. She turns it over in her hands, cooing at how small it is and how perfect it is while Atem agrees in amusement as he only watches her.
Nefertari never gets tired of observing them. They are strange to her. While in such positions of power, they remain kind and relatable to everyone around them. Even more, the way they look at each other, the way they talk about each other even when the other isn't around, is something she's not seen between two people. Happy marriages she's seen, but not… not this balancethey've achieved. They argue, and they had that big fight months ago, but it's obvious that they work well together. In some ways, she wishes that her parents had been the same. Her memories of her mother are foggy and few. Her father had troubles. She only hopes that the Crown Prince will appreciate how much his parents adore him.
"Thank you for going to get these for us. I'm sure that Guit, Babi and Layasa already know how grateful we are for their generous gifts. This charm is amazing, it'll make Amen look like a proper prince," Bali states, using the nickname they've already given their son. Atem passes his thumb over the charm before kissing her cheek.
"And he will love learning the war bow from the greatest archer in the world," he adds softly, making her beam. It isn't difficult to see how much she's been glowing lately. Nefertari heard from Mery that pregnant ladies always have a certain look about them, and she wonders if this is what she means. It brings back the dark threat the man had imparted to her. Pharaoh and Bali have stayed together through war, terrible magic, and even the dark realms of death. Is there any way for them to be split apart? A simple thief couldn't possibly pose any real harm, could he?
"No,"she thinks, gaining permission to be excused and leaving the two to their croons and whispers."They will never fall, and they'll never let anything happen to the people they care for. That man's threat is as empty as his heart. May Ammut devour his soul."
Feeling fierce in her newfound courage, she makes her way to the maid's wing. She has a new proposition for Memnet and needs her input before all else.
The gang of ruthless thieves turns as their king ambles into the hideout with a confident smirk. They stare up from their tankards of beer as he strides to his throne, a special spot where he can see and hear everything that goes on in his home. A slender form stands from a throng of other women and walks over as chatter begins again.
"Bakura, what did you do? The medjay told me you threatened a direct servant of the queen, and we've never been so brazen," the woman voices, expression exceedingly stern despite her youth. Her midnight blue eyes glimmer with concern but the infamous Thief King Bakura brushes her off.
"They've been looking for me for months now, even with their queen's supposed divine power! A bunch of fools up on that hill, and I was right under their noses. Don't you worry, my darling Ebony. Soon we will be the ones hunting." He laughs, snaking an arm around Ebony's waist. She rolls her eyes but doesn't resist him as he draws her close. He kisses her lustily before she could say anything more, groping her with his other hand all the while. Breaking away, he leans to her ear while her lips begin to swell.
"My bedchamber, sweetling?" he whispers, voice hoarse with desire, nibbling on her ear afterwards. She nods.
"Of course, Master Bakura."
The room watches as the two retreat farther down into the depths of the hideout. A thief turns to his fellow next him.
"The King prefers Ebony, don't he?"
"Yeah. Some people say he only does it 'cause of her powers, but they've known each other fer a long long time. He saved her, if I remember right," he replies, taking a swig of his beer. The telltale sounds of pleasure echo out into the barroom, causing the place to bust out in rowdy cheers. Bakura preferred it that way, as a sign of his kingship. That's what the thieves told the newbies, anyway.
"I wish I had a lady like that," the first says longingly.
"Whatchu talkin' about, there'replentyof whores 'round here that would gladly wrap their legs around ya, buddy!" his friend retorts, guffawing afterward as the other snaps back at him angrily.
Outside the hideout, a group of men in black cloaks dismount their horses and approach the posted guards.
"Please let us in, we are here to see the one called the Thief King," their leader says, calm and entreating. The guard lowers his staff and nods dazedly, stepping aside. His cohort waves them in with a lazy smile. "Many thanks, friends. Do not worry, my own men will ensure that we are not discovered by any who would ruin our fun."
Notes:
FUN FACT!: Okie, let's talk about… Seth! No, not the high priest of this story, the God he's named after. I'm gonna leave a few things out cuz I don't want to start a fight over religion here, but Seth many thousands of years ago killed his brother Osiris to gain control of Egypt. He's got his own animal, literally just called the "Seth animal," which has squared ears and a sloping, droopy, canine-type jowl. He's generally a chaos God of the desert, and his birthday is seen as an unlucky day (not quite sure how it was observed because my source didn't say, but maybe it was like April Fool's Day or Halloween.) It was a common practice to make wax figures of Seth and then destroy them to make sure none of his misfortune would befall whatever event, lol. Hardcore. Horus never would've beat him without his helicopter mom tho, true fax. Despite all this, he's a pretty ambivalent character throughout Egypt's history, of which he's been a part of since Naqada times. He can be seen teaching pharaohs how to use a war bow, stuff like that. Can kinda see how Takahashi used the myth to fuel the high priest's, and Kaiba's by extension, whole character scheme. Let's also not forget he apparently likes to get up in the middle of the night to eat lettuce…
Chapter 41: Those in the Shadows
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
"I don't get it, I really don't."
Atem pauses in the middle of the sentence he's reading and looks up as Bali walks back in from the balcony, expression pulled into a tight frown. He furrows his eyebrows.
"What?"
She sits in a chair across from him, careful to keep balance. With a few scoots to get comfortable, she sits back with a sigh.
"I just talked with Hutsat again. Nefertari's attacker is nagging me, it's so out of the ordinary and I know something about him bothered her that she wouldn't say. I had him make a sweep of the city, and he saw nothing. I'm not surprised, but it'd been months. The attacks on merchants stopped. The tombs and temples were untouched. I feel like there's a big oversight we're taking and I don't get it," she explains, hands clenching and unclenching in frustration on the arms of her chair. He settles the report to the side, glancing thoughtfully upward.
"I understand what you mean. Her attack today was unusual, considering that her bracelet marking her as your servant was fully visible, and they were in a well-populated area. The man was untraceable in midmorning, and the resemblance is uncanny to the merchant attacks. But what could he have wanted from her? Not the gifts, surely," he says, moving to rest his cheek on his right hand. A few voices from outside the room interrupt their thinking process and cause them to perk up. Both manage to get themselves looking regal as their guest requests entrance.
"Your Majesties, I bring a letter from King Ur-Minda of Ebla."
Atem's shoulder's sag slightly in relief at Shada's words, but they straighten again at the intense look on the man's face.
"Shada, what is it?"
"The message was deemed urgent, and there was a request from Queen Itet that it be read aloud to the bearers of the Millennium Items," he answers, though the hint of underlying curiosity in his eyes tells them that he hasn't read the full message himself yet. Atem orders for the guardians to meet in the larger hall of his apartments, with Bali adding on that this supersedes any other current task. When messengers are gone off bearing the summons, the three decide to wait for them in the hall. Bali settles in a seat, while Shada and Atem remain standing nearby her. The three stare at the letter now held in Atem's hands.
"This will either be illuminating or frustrating." Bali's comment earns their attention, and she mumbles something more under her breath before continuing.
"It's not anything like a spy report, sent to be read before it could possibly be destroyed or anything like that. It's less… It's obviously serious though, if we're all meant to hear. I can't think what it could be about, other than our current troubles. So if it's about that, it'll be illuminating. If it's more trouble, a different trouble, then it's frustrating," she explains, sighing afterward as Isis enters the room. As the minutes pass, the rest of the guardians arrive, as does Siamun. Once Seth joins them, they begin.
"Thank you for your haste. I have just received a letter from King Ur-Minda and our princess Itet. They deemed that it be read to all of us, urgently. Listen:
'Divine Pharaoh of Egypt, My Brother, I have recently unearthed dire news of conspiracy. In the time that has passed since the war, peace and stability have taken priority in my kingdom. To ensure it, measures have been taken to define the exact causes and supporters for the former king's sudden ludicrous desire for conquest. It took some weeks, but at last an alarming confession!
My father was visited by men swathed in black, telling him and his counselors of mystic treasures held by seven people in the court of Egypt. According to this confession, these cloaked figures had little issue in swaying all these rational men, including the king, into building up the military and throwing everything into gaining the Millennium Items. War with Egypt was their means, and once the stone was rolling down the mountain, the figures in cloaks merely vanished. I am unsure of their whereabouts now, but they are not here.
If they are not here, given the information of recent troubles, I can only assume that they must be in Egypt. Be cautious! Whatever it is, whomever they serve, they want the Millennium Items and have once started a war to get them. I have no other information for you, but be wary of any figures in black cloaks, as I fear they may wield sorcery that rivals your own,'" Atem reads, loud enough to fill the spacious room. The occupants remain still in thought after he is done. Too much to process. Too much being realized.
"The Eblan War… It was all a—someone's—design. Then…" Seth trails off, before taking the Millennium Rod from his belt and staring down at it. Bali catches his meaning, having heard of the details she missed while she was gone helping Hutsat and the spies. By the grim looks on their faces, Atem and Siamun are also aware.
"Senenmut's murderer, or even murderers, may not have been Eblan, but these figures in black. If they're wielding powers that are so dangerous he could have been taken by surprise. That said, if they want the Millennium Items, why not take the Rod, then?" Bali asks. No one answers as they take to pondering the question themselves. Siamun garners their attention once again.
"If they are responsible for the war, then there is no reason to believe that they are unconnected to Veut as well. Do we know any details regarding the False Prophet's origins?"
All eyes turn to Bali, as she had been in contact with Aasa and the tribal members the most during those times of tumult. She nods, turning her gaze to the ceiling while trying to remember. Atem's hand lands on her shoulder. Bracing, comforting. Whether it's for her or for himself, no one is quite sure.
"Hmmm… I heard from Aasa, I think. A cult moved into a temple in the Redlands nearby to their ancestral oasis where they center their nomadic lifestyle. She didn't give any specifics beyond that, but apparently Veut appeared some time after that and swayed the tribal leader to join his cause because he had something that could overcome the power of the Millennium Items. We never really learned where that temple is, or who he learned his spells from, or any of those details. We know why Veut himself turned against the empire, but not the how. This might be a pertinent time to find out," she says. A part of her pangs in disappointment and frustration at knowing she can't go herself.
"Shall one of us go, then? We can seek out Aasa to lead us to this temple. We can take a portion of the Lower Kingdom's forces there should the need for battle arise," Seth suggests. Atem shakes his head immediately.
"That's not wise. Even if this cult is the same as the one that triggered the Eblan War, it would mean they have already likely disappeared from that temple anyway. Leaving the safety of our group, of numbers, would only be putting a target on your back. Senenmut is proof of that," he replies. Seth crosses his arms but concedes a nod. His scowl, however, proves that he'd enjoy arguing over its plausible wisdom more.
"Perhaps, then… We merely ask this Aasa to go," Akhenaden adds, saying something before Seth can change his mind. Bali frowns.
"I can't ask that of her. Who knows what they've done to that place in the years since she's been there? It's too high risk to send anyone there at this point. I'm probably the only person who could go in without a worry one way or another," she responds, looking up to Atem with a wry smile. "Not that I'd dare go anyway."
He returns her smile briefly before facing their friends again.
"I think Veut's means will remain a mystery, but operating under the assumption that his benefactors and teachers were the same as those responsible for starting the Eblan War would be the best course for us to take. As such, it means that they are out there right now waiting with something new to throw against us, and all we can do is wait to see what it is."
Atem's words, while confident, don't instill much hope. They've overcome so many trials, but could they keep doing this? Turning away attackers is exhausting and disastrous, it expends a toll on the people… But if they can find the people in the black cloaks!
"We must return to our duties, and watch for these black cloaks. Now that we have this valuable information it's only a matter of time before we bring them to justice," Seth barks, before bowing shortly and marching away. The rest stare after for a few moments before turning to the royal pair who shake their heads in dismissal.
"He is right. Manners aren't as important at times like these. Get what information you can, but be discreet and don't let the public know. Our black cloaked friends might get wind and take measures," Bali assures, and watches as her friends take leave with focused expressions on their faces. The new determination makes her want to contribute as well, but she has to wait for the return of Hutsat. She groans, knowing that waiting will be agony. Atem sits next to her, stretching an arm across her back.
"I know what's bothering you, but it's for the best. You can depend on us to handle the situation, you and Amen," he comforts. She leans into him. He takes the silence as acceptance but deep down, holding back affects her. While she's done nothing stupid or careless… She's beginning to get impatient with how long pregnancy lasts.
"Amen, if only you could get here safely so I could be where I'm needed. This is not the best situation,"she thinks, her instincts alarming her that the timing couldn't be worse. The Thief King whose whereabouts are still unknown and now a strange group of powerful influencers in black cloaks.
"Why do you think they haven't attacked us directly?"
"Hm?"
Atem's question catches her mid-thought, but she can't help but smile slightly. Their minds are similar these days. He pulls away so they can conspire face to face.
"These people in black, they seem to have power of their own, heka and spells, but they don't truly attack us. They manipulate others into attacking. The only reason I can think of for that is that they'd lose if they did confront us head on," he continues. Because they're alone, he allows her to witness how troubled he finds the current predicament. She sets her mouth in a grim frown. False cheer has no place in this conversation.
"Then we look for them, and we take them on. It's the last thing they want so they'll make themselves difficult to find but now that we know they exist, it won't take long for them to pop up. I'm certain of it," she states, squeezing her hands into fists at her sides. The royal pair retire farther back into the apartments to rest, their talks lulling and waning. Even the topic of the stairs to their bathing pool being discovered in the overgrowth of reeds had lost its luster. A quiet meal. A quiet procession to evening prayers. Quiet.
The Thief King hates interruptions but these fellows in dark cloaks have some interesting airs about them. He's noticing his followers have become strangely idle in their maliciousness toward strangers. Some of the most cutthroat men and women in Egypt reside in this building, people he's always wary of for any sign of mutiny, and yet… All are compliant to any wish of these intruders. As far as Bakura can tell, it's sorcery, but as long as he has Ebony with him, he knows he's safe. As such, he keeps her on his lap, a strong arm curled around her middle. She's kept nude. Bakura would never pass up a chance to show off what's his, and what he'd much rather be doing.
The man he's faced with has drawn back his hood while the others keep covered. It doesn't reveal much information. A thin face, tanned from the desert as any from their region. Pointed nose. Full lips set in a neutral line. His eyes are covered by a thin black cloth tied at the back of his shaved head. If anything, his lack of wearing a wig and shaved eyebrows would make Bakura think this man is a priest, but what kind of priest would look like this?
"My apologies for barging in so late. It is critical, however, for me to introduce myself and an idea to you," he begins, voice high, clear and articulate. Bakura leans his cheek on his free hand, which is balled into a fist. Already he can feel something swaying through the air, emanating from this man. Ebony plays her part and continues to comb her fingers through his hair. The man shifts when Bakura doesn't say a word.
"Might the lady find some comfort somewhere else?"
Bakura growls, holding her tighter to himself. Now they both know something is amiss with this man, all the more reason for Ebony to be there.
"She stays. You are here on my generosity, don't waste it!"
The man keeps still, before the odd feeling dissipates.
"Fair enough. I am Korket, the leader of these disciples. We have been working in your favor for this precise moment, Thief King Bakura. Your hatred for the holders of the Millennium Items, and for Pharaoh runs deep. I can help you act on it," he introduces, unbothered by Bakura's temper. Ebony glances at her king in worry. She dares not look at Korket.
"Don't take him too seriously, this is all too much!"she thinks, willing for him to read her mind. Instead, Bakura leans back in his chair.
"That's quite the preposterous statement, but interesting nonetheless. I'll listen to your swill and judge if it's worth my time."
Notes:
FUN FACT!: The Temple Complex of Karnak in Luxor is a Solstice Temple, built to catch the sun in a specific way on the summer and winter solstices. Crowds gather every year to watch the sun pass through the temple. There are videos out there if you search for them, it's pretty neat to watch! Makes sense, with their reverences. A lot of different cultures built things like that, pretty neat how humans come to these same conclusions on their own. It's one of the best parts of anthropology.
Chapter 42: A Trap is Set
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
She must find him. No matter how long it's been, no matter if he's forgotten, no matter if she's considered a monster. Only his safety matters now. She can sense something on the horizon… a danger of unprecedented force. Not like the war. Not like the false prophet.
"Oh Seth, where did you go? Is the capital truly the only place I can begin my search?" she sighs, leaning on a rock outcropping next to the road to take a breather. She wipes the sweat from her brow and sweeps strands of her exotic white hair from her face and out of her crystalline blue eyes. She dreads returning to a populated area. But for him, for Seth, she will face anything.
Her name is Kisara.
Ebony can't fathom being anywhere but where she is. Her days as a rogue have always aligned with Bakura's, and it's always been that way. It always will be, in her mind. As long as she possesses her power, Bakura will keep her by his side no matter what. The meeting with those newcomers the night before was proof enough of that.
She sighs, resting her arms down from setting oils in her dark braided hair. Her image stares back at her, tinted by the copper used to make the high-quality mirror. She knows she has unblemished skin, unscarred, and without a natural-born tan. She knows she's from a foreign land, but all those types of questions would remain unanswered. Her parents abandoned her. Pharaohexiledher. But Bakura doesn't care, so neither does she.
"But to think he entertained what that man had to say. We're thieves, not conquerors," she mumbles under her breath. She shakes her head and reaches for the brushes to paint her face.
Korket and his band strike her as dangerous. Her survival instincts haven't led her astray yet, it's how she's sitting where she is today, and how Bakura is where he is. It worries her that even one word of vengeance against Pharaoh's regime could sway him into believing that he could tear down an entire empire. Even with her powers on their side, they have to be careful. Stealing a Millennium Item would require a supreme amount of risk, but they had it planned out already, they didn'tneedoutsiders.
Once she's done, she stares at herself once more. She knows Bakura won't accept any of their offers without her consent, and that he can't be swayed by them. Ebony hums, standing and walking decisively out of her room, and out of the hideout. Being inside doesn't help, and Bakura is out scouting for clues on getting into the palace anyway. The hideout doesn't need heka, doesn't need a myriad of traps or an army of guards to keep it hidden. Instead they rely on an illusion of the cliffs and a play of the light and shadows. The entrance is a natural cave with a local superstition attached to it, and it keeps other people away from it so perfectly it's almost too good to be true.
"And yet, here it is. My home, for far too long, it seems,"Ebony thinks, striking out from the cave after ensuring she isn't being tailed. She trusts none of her thieving friends. Worse, Korket might still be around. As much as she doesn't like the newcomers, she will do anything to protect Bakura.
Anything.
And so, she sets off for Thebes.
Things did not go as well as Korket desired. He had not swayed the Thief King. His spells had effect on the rest of the regular buffoons in the pathetic lair, but Bakura remained unaffected. And so, it seemed, did the woman he kept close to him. The foreign beauty, Ebony… No words were exchanged between them, but he could tell. She distrusts him. She has a power that can deflect his own. Should something like that be under his control, it would be monumental, but after years of mistrust for others, she had grown to be suspicious of others on instinct. To change her power's allegiance now would be an undertaking…
"Perhaps weshouldhave snatched the rod when we had the chance?"
Korket twists his head toward the follower who commented, but shakes his head.
"No. The purpose was not to gain the sealing power of the rod, that was made clear to me. Our master has watched from the shadows as Man and Gods alike have attempted to sway fate in their favor, and we have followed his directions to meet that fate they fear so wholly. The woman is useful, but not as she is now. She will do anything for Bakura, and she's a thief."
There's a silence as his followers contemplate the meaning behind his words. Grins spread on faces as it becomes clear. Korket hears them move away, sandals tearing up the dust in clouds. He breathes it in with vigor.
"I am not one to wait for you to become a bigger trouble. My apologies, dear lovely thief, but today you must die."
... ... ...
Ebony strides the streets with veteran expertise. Thebes is an achievement of architectural beauty from the viewpoint of those on high, but to those left in the poor districts it is merely another place to be miserable. She was not born here, but it is where she practiced her "trade." Thievery. Her best kept secret, known only between her and Bakura himself, is what planted her in it in the first place.Everythingis because of her gift. Her sentimental thoughts on the past are dropped when she passes an alleyway that reeks of sewage. Turning her nose up in justified disgust, she speeds past to get away from it.
"Ugh, the lower side of the city. There's never anything really interesting that happens here," she grumbles, only to stop short at the sound of tumult nearby. While those in this district didn't carry much money or anything of worth, a distraction is a distraction, and her instincts are tingling. After so long of listening to her king ramble about vengeance against Pharaoh, perhaps a simple round of picking pockets would do her some good. She shrugs, inwardly already doubting that something so simple would make her feel better.
"Might as well see what's going on."
She pushes her way through the crowd, not bothering to check for any loose trinkets. The people here recognize her, and the entire atmosphere is wrong. They're all fearful of something.
"What's going on?" Her casual act works wonders on the man next to her once she's at the front. The man crosses his arms and spits toward the woman lying beaten in the street. Long white hair peeks out from beneath her ratty hooded tunic. Ebony hates the way the woman's various cuts and bruises stand out against her pale skin, and how she is making no effort to defend herself.
"There've been rumors from cities down the river that there was once an entire bandit gang wiped out by a white dragon that appeared from a girl with pale skin, white hair and blue eyes. There's also mention of that Thief King somehow runnin' around and wipin' out entire caravans and she's as foreign as they get. She's here on some ruse, but we saw through it, by the guidance of Wadjet," he explains, earning corroborating jeers. Ebony feels white hot wash over her. Anger, guilt, and remorse mount faster and faster.
"She's not Bakura's accomplice, you idiots!"she thinks, for a split second pondering the absolute worst and unleashing her secret.
"All of you, get out of here! The only ones who can pass judgement are the gods!" she chastises, running out and standing at the ready to defend herself. The crowd hesitates. Usually a phrase like that works well. No one wants to upset their chances of putting Ma'at's feather out of balance with a sin. A standoff ensues, until…
"What goes on here?!"
The people cringe and wince as they part to let through none other than High Priest Seth and High Priest Shada, bearers of the Millennium Items. Ebony's heart skips a beat as she feels the world around her begin to spin. She needs to leave.Now. Seth is stopped, talking to peasants who flung themselves at his mercy to tell their side of the story first. Every second they take is her precious time to escape. Her palms grow increasingly sweaty as she begins to notice that all avenues of escape have been cut off by medjay already. She swallows with difficulty as her mouth begins to run dry. She might have to fight her way out.
"Thank…" The tiny voice from below barely reaches her ears. She takes a few seconds to register its source before looking down in surprise at the beaten woman. The woman, who can't be any older than Ebony herself, musters a grateful smile despite her pain.
"Thank you, kind stranger," she rasps, before giving in to her exhaustion and passing out. Ebony's thoughts on running and fighting stop. She is defeated, as any release of her power now would likely hurt this woman and she just couldn't bring herself to it. Perhaps she could find a way out, or Bakura could get to her before judgment was called on her by Pharaoh. There is always more than one solution.
"Still,"she thinks, fingers twitching, "something is amiss. Two Millennium Item holders, and they automatically surrounded the crowd with medjay. Why?"
Murmurs grow as Seth loses patience from listening to the garble of panicky citizens. He shoves through them, Shada following, to stand in the clearing where Ebony stands on guard with the unconscious woman.
"You must save us, Lord Seth!"
"That woman on the ground is the white dragon!"
Seth halts, emotion flickering over his face before he regains control of himself. He looks between Ebony and the unconscious woman. When Shada reaches his side moments later, the recognition begins.
"You! You're—" he starts, but Ebony interrupts him with a snort and casual flip of her hair.
"Yes, one of the most wanted thieves in Thebes, right out in the open. You got me," she states, sounding calm and casual as possible. The air is tense between her and the guardians. Seth is watchful, waiting for some sort of trap or ambush. When nothing happens, Ebony smirks.
"I told you, you got me. Quit prolonging this and help her, she's in rough shape," she chides, crossing her arms. Seth hesitates and trades a look with Shada before calling for medjay. They take Ebony into custody. Seth approaches the woman on the ground to get a better look.
"Please Lord Seth, you must seal her away!"
"The white dragon will destroy us all!"
He growls at the yells from the crowd around him and turns, Millennium Rod out and glimmering in the sun.
"Silence, all of you! I will have each of you placed in chains if you utter another word! Leave!" With his reputation and absolute knack for following through on threats, the people immediately begin to disperse for fear of their livelihoods. Shada steps forward with his Millennium Key activating, curious about the claims of the white dragon. He promptly drops to the ground, overwhelmed by blinding power.
"She's… She's too strong, Seth. There's something truly incomparably amazing within her, and her heka is beyond measure," he grunts, forcing the words out through gritted teeth. A member of the medjay steps forward to help Shada stand again as Seth thinks over the information rapidly.
"If what he says is true, then…!"
"Kisara, is that really you?" he questions quietly to himself, before turning to his troop of medjay that aren't handling Ebony.
"This girl needs to be escorted back to the palace and given a room at once! Get her cleaned up and fed!" he orders, and they easily hop to their new task. Seth looks to Shada to inquire if he's recovered, to which he affirms. They watch Ebony, knowing they will have to escort her back to the palace and the dungeons personally to be safe. They were tipped off that two people with immense heka were surrounded by a crowd, and if the unconscious woman is one, then the other must be Ebony.
"It's a shame such a beautiful girl has such rotted soul. We will most likely need Akhenaden's assistance once we return to the palace," Shada comments, strength returning steadily. Seth shrugs and perches himself on his chariot.
"It's no concern of mine whether they are ugly or not: If they commit heinous crimes against the kingdom they will be punished," he replies, and both priests ride back up to the palace with their prisoner in tow.
She saw them. Before they dragged her away, everything came together because she saw their cruelly smiling faces. Those men, those Disciples that follow Korket that brainwashed her entire hideout! They did this, and now she's trapped. It's only a matter of time before the guardians return to her and seal her away into stone along with her powerful Ka, her one secret that she shared with only one man.
While angry, seething at being tricked into a setup, she settles down to the floor and begins the process. The last thing she can do before…
Ebony completes her arduous task and almost sighs in relief, but she feels so empty. So tired. She tore herself apart, and now they're coming for her.
"You'll never get what you want from me. Until the end, I remain free,"she thinks, about to smile in her victory until the door opens. It isn't a guardian. Her eyes widen as metal glints in the light of the setting sun streaming through the thin slit of the window.
"No. You desired to be Bakura's allies, why do this?"
The man in the black cloak doesn't answer, and she's just… too tired to move.
"... I see. If it has been that way for so long, then we got lucky. Akhenaden, you made sure it was her?" Atem asks, sitting at the head of a smaller meeting room. His uncle shakes his head.
"Not yet, but we're sure it's her. After this meeting we plan on using the items to search for a Spirit Ka and seal it away," he answers, referring to Seth and Shada who stand beside him. Atem sits back in his ornate chair. He dislikes ordering for death penalties, but Ebony is a violent thief with an entire life spent causing disorder in the capital city. If she has been using a Ka to help her commit these crimes, it is all the worse for her case.
"Do what you must. Let no word of this reach Our Great Royal Wife, she has enough on her mind. So let it be said, so let it be done," he orders, and his guardians bow in acquiescence. Before they can turn to leave, a soldier bustles into the room. His face is pale and expression harried as he drops to the floor to prostrate himself.
"Pharaoh, my lords, there was an intruder in the dungeons! We did not know until the prisoner Ebony's body was discovered," he reports, stilling his superiors in their tracks.
"What?!" Seth yells. He darts off without waiting for further instruction. Atem stands, ready to leave and protect Bali from any potential assassin.
"Has Mahad been informed? Is the intruder still within the dungeon or roaming in the palace at all?" he berates, and the soldier presses his head to the floor even more, not daring to look up.
"Yes, Your Majesty, and he has secured the palace at large while the dungeon is on lockdown."
Atem clenches his fists at his sides, mind racing.
"Why? This is strange," he mutters, and dismisses the soldier so he can talk with Akhenaden and Shada. The two guardians remain calm and watch their king as he thinks. Finally, it becomes obvious that staying put isn't doing them any favors.
"Go, be with the queen. We will go and ensure the safety of the palace and the dungeons. If there is any more to this assassination, we will find it," Akhenaden states, bowing deeply. Shada follows his lead, and both wait for formal dismissal. Atem nods, waving a hand distractedly.
"Yes, go. Report back as soon as you can."
Notes:
FUN FACT!: Cairo and the Egyptian Government recently opened the largest archaeological museum in the world! I recommend looking it up, it's absolutely beautiful. The Grand Egyptain Museum is located on the Giza Plateau, only two kilometers from the Great Pyramids, and is built to line up with their points perfectly. They had a grand procession in special hearse-like vans to transfer the mummies to the museum, and all artifacts will now be shown there. Given its placement, I'm sure it will make tourism shift there. I want to go, but I sort of wish it wasn't so popular because I hate other tourists because they're generally so… well... (I live in a tourist destination.)
Chapter 43: How a Man Becomes a Curse
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
It won't be long, is what they all say. Bali can't wait. She's terrified, excited… What will happen when Akhnemkhanen (II) enters this world? She can't even say for sure that the ominous event foretold by Re has anything to do with the birth of her son. For now, all she can do is rest, walk, and tend to what duties are possible of her. Yes, do all that, and worry all throughout.
"My Queen, what story will you have from me today? Sometimes it seems as if you've never heard some of these," Seshat points out, settling down in a chair at Bali's bedside. The queen chuckles nervously to avoid giving a straight answer.
"She probably wouldn't enjoy hearing that I actually haven't. I wish I could ask about some I've heard of, but I'm not even sure when exactly I am in the timeline of things… Like the Nameless Pharaoh. That would be the best to hear about, but I don't know if he's even reigned yet,"she muses, telling her friend in the meantime that she merely enjoys stories. It's the truth, after all.
It's become their ritual now that Bali is due any day. She walks the palace and ferries news and dictates orders, but stays off her feet more. Nefertari became her nimble runner, always fetching her knickknacks she can't reach herself or massaging her feet. Then, in the early afternoon, Bali would lie back and relax and allow Seshat to recite stories to her. Most often it only ended up being one story because the queen would fall asleep. Between worrying about the Thief King and her own discomfort physically, the naps are becoming her lifeline.
"Kiki likes the one about the seven scholars from the south. You should tell that one again. I can already tell I'm going to fall asleep early today," Bali yawns, making her young maid shuffle her feet bashfully from her station. Seshat laughs lightly, nodding. As Bali said she would, with the soft words lulling her away, she closes her eyes and begins to snore. Seshat drifts from the story as Nefertari tiptoes to stand beside her.
"Her Majesty is exhausted, isn't she?" she whispers, and the old priestess nods.
"Our Crown Prince sits happily for now, and she has never been one for patience. That she has weathered this well means that she will be a great mother," Seshat answers, tone akin to reminiscence. When the maid takes a glance at her expression, she sees sadness. Just as she opens her mouth to change the subject to make the mood happy again, footsteps from outside the chamber entrance interrupt the silence. Seshat stands immediately as Pharaoh enters the room, while Nefertari cowers away in a bashful bow. He waves off their formality and joins them at Bali's bedside as the queen remains blissfully asleep. He, too, looks weighed down. Tired.
"My apologies for interrupting; I just wanted to see her," he says, keeping his eyes on Bali's face as he kneels down beside her.
"We were just about to leave, My Pharaoh. She needs her rest," Seshat says, beckoning for Nefertari to follow her. Once they're gone, Atem takes up his beloved's hand and presses it to his lips. His gaze never leaves her peacefully sleeping face.
"I love you."
Bakura trudges through the desert, his face caked with dirt, cleansed only by the tears that serve to dehydrate him. Everyone is gone. One night! His mother, his father, the merchant woman next door who always complimented him… Every kind soul he grew up around has left him. Has been taken from him. Destroyed. He knows who did it. It was Pharaoh. Pharaoh who brought peace to Egypt, Pharaoh the benevolent.
"Whydid he do it?" he asks himself repeatedly, his small hands shivering in emotions too powerful for his size. How could everything be turned upside down so suddenly?
He resettles his small pack, stuffed with anything he could scavenge from the ruins of his village. He can't go back to Kul Elna. He would die there. But... he doesn't know if he will survive anyway. All he knows is that he will get his revenge someday. He will tear down Egypt brick by brick if he has to.
Days pass, and his supplies dwindle.
One desperate day, near the time when Re begins retreating into the west, Bakura collapses, too tired to carry on.
"No… Not here. Not until..." he whispers hoarsely, determined and frustrated. Weakness overpowers him and he stops. Tears no longer spring in his eyes. Even if they could, he would refuse to let them. As he lies there, he wonders despairingly if he'd ever move again. Grief turns his mind to his late parents. His mother was a small-time magic user, a doctor who helped the sick and injured in the village. She gave him his wide brown eyes and his sense of mischief. He didn't inherit any magic skills, but she always said the magic was passed on to daughters in her bloodline. Bakura never got the chance to see if he'd be an older brother one day. His father was a tall, strong-willed man who believed in protecting his young family above all else. He never got to know what his father did during the day, but why should he care when his father was always kind and played with him when he got home in the evening? Bakura had inherited his particular color of tan skin and shaggy black hair. Now Bakura's hair is snow white, from crown to tip, ever since that night.
"Pharaoh and his court… I can't die here, I have to tear them all apart for what they did!"
Bakura closes his eyes to welcome the sleep at the edge of his mind as the racing thoughts become too much.
"Help me!"
At first, he believes it to be a mere illusion or memory from that terrible night and continues to doze. He'd heard young girls scream like that, and worse. He grumbles, feeling pain behind his eyes where tears should be.
"Shut up, little girl! Pharaoh's court ordered us to leave you here, and that is a judgment handed down by the heavens!" a man shouts, and Bakura hears the distressed wails of the little girl grow louder. He forces his eyes open and painfully drags himself to a sitting position. He waits until the men are gone, and until the only voice he can hear is the little girl's. Then, he gets up and stumbles toward the sound. At last,at last,he crests the sand dune, and peers down to see a black spot at the base that he assumes must be a head of hair. Bakura carefully shuffles down the dune to reach her quickly, only to trip after his knee buckles painfully.
Once his harsh tumble ends, he allows his head to stop spinning before finding her again. He crawls toward her now, standing is too much. She hears the scrapings across the sand and his desperate breaths and looks up with dark blue eyes ringed in red. They widen as he realizes she's caught sight of him, and he freezes. Without hesitation, she unfurls herself to run the short distance to him.
"Are you okay? How did you get out here?" she asks with a giant sniffle to draw up her sobs. The excitement at seeing another human being is not lost on Bakura.
"I am... Bakura. My village was destroyed by Pharaoh... I... have to get back at..." he rasps, his eyes squeezing shut to hide his lingering grief from this girl. She stares down at him while processing his words. His eyes peek open when he feels the mouth of a water skin pressed against his lips. He glances at the little girl to see a kind smile on her face, although she still sniffles.
"Don't worry. Those soldiers who dropped me here left me with some supplies. You can drink as much as you want." Her offer isn't refused, and she helps him sit up to drink. While he partakes greedily, he makes sure not to empty it. Water is too important to waste at this point and time.
"Thank you. Why did they drop you here, uh..." he trails off and the girl giggles.
"Ebony. My name is Ebony."
Bakura thinks the name is perfect for her and blushes a little at her cuteness. She continues with her explanation as she repacks the water skin.
"My parents and I were living peacefully in Thebes when men broke into our house claiming we were under arrest for treasonous acts. But all my parents were trying to do was protect me," Ebony explains, her eyes beginning to leak one more. He scoots forward in interest. It sounds a lot like what had happened to him.
"Protect you from what?"
"Pharaoh proclaimed after the war when the Millennium Items were made that any and all monsters known to anyone should be reported so that they can be sealed away. I was born with a really powerful one and my parents knew that if it was sealed away, I would die. And now I still might die. The soldiers dropped me here because Pharaoh couldn't bear to see a little girl sealed off. The Crown Prince is my age, after all."
"How old are you?"
"I'm nine inundations."
Bakura pouts. She's two years older than him.
"Pharaoh and his court ordered my village destroyed and sacrificed for some weird ritual. I'm the only survivor," he says, deciding that he should probably give his story too, to be fair. Her face contorts into pity.
"That's terrible. Pharaoh hasn't done well by us, has he?" she whispers, gaze lowering to her lap and wringing hands. He glowers to the side.
"You've got that right. You sound really smart," he addresses, recognizing her well-mannered way of speaking. She beams.
"I was part of a scribal family," she admits, and he sits back impressed. Scribes are important. They're useful, too. From that moment onward, their lives revolved around each other, and around their plans to tear down Pharaoh's regime.
After wandering a few more days in the desert, a desert tribe of bandits found them. Finding them pitiable in some ways and useful in others, they were taken in. Their anger grew. Their knowledge of thievery flowered. Both learned how to fight, the many ways of trickery, and Ebony and Bakura grew closer to each other as the years went on.
"Ebony, why don't you ever use that monster inside of you? It could really help with our goal," Bakura grumbles, taking her by surprise one day during their noon meal. The desert bandits, with the help of the two children they rescued, found an oasis to reside at for a base. Seasonal herdsmen learned quickly not to return there, trespassers are killed immediately, and Thebes and Dendera are tolerable rides away.
She places a hand over her chest, where she knows her Spirit Ka resides.
"The monster inside me is the cause of my pain in life, be it because of Pharaoh or not. I don't know how to use it, and I don't think anyone could tell me how to use it. I don't want to hurt anyone, especially you," she answers, growing bashful when he keeps his intense stare squarely on her. He tilts his head in concern.
"Why would you hurt me? Anyway, I don't care about anyone here. The only thing that matters is our goal." He sneers, spitting to the side. He can't see, but Ebony stares down sadly at the few meager blades of desert grass that managed to thrive in the harsh environment. He has forgotten peace; everything is consumed by his grudge. He is set to fulfill everything he wants in life. She can't see things quite the same way.
"Bakura, what will you do if youdomanage to take down the court? What happens then?" she asks, a slight edge to her voice.
"I'll rule this world. No one will dare go against my new regime."
She shakes her head.
"That's not what I meant! Don't you want to have a family again?"
Silence ensues as she believes she said too much. Now he would know how much she wanted to settle down with him. To achieve their goals and show the world what true compassion is.
"A family would slow me down and distract me. I will choose a child I see fit and train him to take over when I leave this world," he responds calmly. Her chest feels hollow as her heartbeat drops after going so quickly.
"I... I-I see. That makes sense. Where do you think I will go when you take over?" she asks more, trying a different approach.
"Wherever you want. You'll be the freest person in the world, Ebony. You'll have everything you want," he answers. Then he smiles, a rarity when it's genuine and he only ever directs it toward her. As much as Ebony loves that smile, she shakes her head in frustration once more and tears dart from her eyes.
"All I want is you!" She slaps her hands over her mouth after her outburst, ashamed of her lapse of judgment and moment of weakness. She hadn't been raised this way, and he'd made it clear, after all... Bakura stares at her with a neutral expression before gently prying her hands away and kissing her.
This was the beginning of their physical relationship, at the ages of sixteen and fourteen.
He thinks back to all the times Ebony held back and soothed him. He knew everything about that woman, how she belonged solely to him. All their secrets, their trust, their history. Now their vengeance lies on his shoulders alone.
"Ebony, you must help me! Your soft heart let them get you, and now you're gone!" he yells into the night, tears streaming down his face and dripping to the desert sand. He needed her. Bakura never once considered tearing Pharaoh and his court asunder without her help, without her to enjoy the fruits of their years of joyless labor leading the brainless lot of thieves that rove the desert. Any sense of honest love he held for her turns to purest madness as old wounds from that terrible night are torn open anew. Ebony is dead.
No. Ebony wasmurdered.
"Bakura..." The wind whispers, and the thief king snaps his head up to listen. Before his eyes, light blooms as does the lotus of the Nile in tales of the world's creation. Then… she appears. Floating above him in a startlingly bright vision, she comes to him as a last visage.
"Ebony!" he chokes, not able to move in his awe. Her expression is one of somber determination.
"I do not have much time left to talk. Take my power," she says softly, her gaze not shifting one moment from his. He jerks, realizing he's not sayinganything.
"Ebony, wait, don't go!" he pleads, only for it to be too little, too late. She crosses her arms, closes her eyes and fades away, only to be replaced by another figure. This creature has the head and torso of a man with a snake for a lower body. Bakura has seen him in the past only when the two of them were desperately on the ropes. It was the secret of how a "single man" was wiping out entire caravans.
"Please take care of him,Diabound," her voice orders faintly. The creature jerks his head down to stare at Bakura before hastening toward him. Other men would flinch, but the Thief King knows what is about to happen. He welcomes it.
Diabound flies into him. As the monster joins into Bakura's soul, he screams, his thoat tearing as the pain grips his very soul. The creature grows mightier with the dark power of his new master's righteous hatred and justified desire for change. Slowly, the pain subsides. The Spirit Ka has been fused.
"...I swear Ebony... I will kill them all. You have given me the means to finally begin!"
His shout is followed by furious laughter as tears continue their course down his face.
He is approached by that group again, the one that offered their assistance in taking on Pharaoh's court. Ebony was able to ward off their spells, and now he would be able to with Diabound as his Ka. Their leader steps forward, a dark strip of cloth still tied around his eyes.
"You have no doubt received the regrettable report of your consort's demise. My men were in the city and observed the folly of Pharaoh's men. They did not hold a trial," he says, tone conversational. Almost toying. Bakura is already aware of the details, having gotten the news from one of Korket's snivelling followers and then corroborated through his own network.
"If you do not get to the point, I will kill you. I am not one for distractions," he snaps, but he saves his boiling rage. These are not the people. This is not the time. Korket stops in front of him and unties the cloth from around his eyes, and his followers do the same. Bakura's eyes narrow at the sight of blood red eyes that meet him.
"I have not been entirely forthcoming in my identity and that of my group's," Korket starts, the chaos of Man's sins reflecting in his eyes. Bakura remains silent. He continues.
"We work in compliance with the Ultimate Lord of the Shadows, his will is done through us. I am his conduit. All chaos done this past year has been through our sway, using magic to persuade Eblan nobility into violence, training a foolish sorcerer magic beyond his means, and now the path has led us to you. Our Lord desires us to assist you in any way you desire."
Bakura wants to laugh, knowing it would be dry, bitter and scornful, but doesn't. No need to show any of his hand yet.
"And here you are to make me your own mere senet piece like the rest. I do what I want, and will get my revenge for my own reasons," he snarls, turning away to leave.
"Ah, but that is what youshould do. By no means are you bound to any of Our Lord's wishes. However, myself and these gentlemen behind me are. We have been told to assist you in whatever way you see fit, with no ulterior motive. To spread chaos is our very nature, and you are the harbinger that will topple the greatest power in Egypt. You wouldn't want to let them get away with that heinous assassination of your trusted mistress, would you?" Korket explains lightly and poignantly, and Bakura pauses to glower at him, calculating every bit of the man before him. Nothing in Korket's stance tells Bakura that the man is hiding anything. Even with Diabound's added power of scrutiny, nothing is off about the man. Satisfied, Bakura places his hands on his hips and grins, his eyes glinting with maleficence.
"That sounds dandy, as my former crew has lost their usefulness," he says, voice rumbling as the winds pick up around them. Something inside of him, the last shred of her that desperately wanted him to tear away from his obsession and run, shrivels away. Korket nods, looking mildly impressed.
"Yes, we came upon your hideout. Your reaction to the confirmation of her death was quite… messy. I have nothing but respect for the decision, they would have hindered us in the end," he mulls aloud, only to hear a snarl in return.
"I'll warn you once:Get in my way and I'll kill you,"Bakura clarifies, his gaze boring into Korket's. The leader of the disciples easily stares back, before bowing almost mockingly.
"Consider us warned. What do you wish we servants to do first, master?" Korket inquires, and Bakura turns toward the direction of the sun, rising soon after Re's long path through the underworld. Despite Korket's question, he ignores everything around him to stare into the eastern sky. Ebony's final radiance is there when he closes his eyes.
When he opens them, she will never be there again.
"Pharaoh, I will take away everything, everything! Suffer!" he hisses quietly, and with all the fierceness of the greatest curses their world has ever known.
"Augh!" Atem yelps as he sits bolt upright in bed. Re would soon rise, and Atem grips the sheets as cold sweat leaks down his face. He gasps for breath as if he's been sprinting for his life. Bali stirs beside him and puts a concerned hand on his arm.
"Hey, are you alright?" she yawns, too sleepy to comprehend his true state of being. He swallows his fear and forces a small smile.
"Just a strange dream, nothing more. Keep resting, my love," he soothes, and her eyelids flutter closed after giving him a small smile. He decides to get up for the day ahead, dread in the pit of his stomach.
"Something is wrong... Someone is coming for me..." he mumbles, placing a hand to his head and distractedly walking out of his chambers to allow Bali to rest while he ruminates on the ominous feelings he received from his dreams.
Notes:
FUN FACT!: In case you didn't know, the Pyramids at Giza are not four-sided, but eight-sided. For a good picture, you can easily look it up, but it's true! Each of the "four sides" are actually concave, so that they have eight sides. It's really cool! Those ancient architects were a bunch of math nerds for sure.
Chapter 44: Long Awaited Meeting
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
"He's going to be here any day now, Bali. I have no idea what he's waiting for," Seshat announces, hands on hips as she stares at Bali, who is lying on her back.
"I wish he'd just decide already. I mean, childbirth doesn't sound fun but I hate this state of limbo more than anything," she replies with a groan. Even more than that, she knows that a great darkness looms, even her senses as a goddess are buzzing now.
"Trust me, I'm not too keen on waiting any longer either," Atem states from the entrance to the room. Seshat and the surrounding servants immediately dip into the proper respectful bows required of them as he strides in. Bali shifts her head around to roll her eyes, making sure he sees it.
"You have nothing to worry about, love. I'm the one going through the discomfort, not you," she says flatly. He puts his hands up defensively.
"I'm not going to argue with that. I just can't wait for our family, that's all."
"Good. He'll be here soon, I promise. I won't let him stay any longer than necessary," she grumbles, poking her giant stomach with a pout. He takes up her hand and kisses her on the cheek, muttering his fondness for her that he knows would embarrass her should anyone else in the room hear. Her face reddens but she smiles, squeezing his hand and leaning toward him.
A commotion from the hall interrupts. The royals turn their attention to the entrance of the room, alarm thrilling through their veins. This could be it.
"My Pharaoh! It's terrible, absolutely horrible!" Isis cries, entering the room first, followed by the rest of the guardians.
"What happened?" Atem stands, and Bali lifts her head in wonder and worry.
"There are mutilated cats strung up around the city and there are three corpses stuck on poles near the entrance to the palace at the boulevard," Mahad answers, paler than usual. The bodies were nearly beyond recognition, with their hearts missing.
"Who are the three?"
"They were men who guarded in the prison, their last assignment was to look over Ebony's cell. They were strangely forgetful when interrogated about her assassination, and now this... It may be the Thief King, as a retaliation. He must believe that we were responsible for her death, I heard from a tipoff that she was one of his favorites," Seth says, gritting his teeth. First the strange assassination, and now this utter show of blasphemy. Already his mind is setting about increasing the span of his patrols.
"Something sounds like a setup to me," Bali comments. Everyone jumps, having forgotten she was in the room. They look at her in surprise.
"What, did you forget I'm here too?!" she questions, throwing her hands up to show her incredulousness because sitting up isn't worth the effort. The group winces as Pharaoh bends down to remedy the situation. Her golden skin, the Heka of the Gods has become more prominent, and that means she's in no mood to hold back.
"You shouldn't trouble yourself over this, Bali," he mutters for only her to hear, but she easily shoves him away.
"I'm pregnant, not braindead! I can't go off gallivanting, but I can help solve things; I thought we settled this a while ago!"
The collective flinch at her furious response is followed by a not-so-subtle cough from Siamun, signaling that Atem should swing the focus back to what really matters.
"I know, and I apologize for all of us here. I was only thinking of your well-being and need for rest, but you're correct. It is no coincidence that Ebony should be killed in our prison when the reaction is this horrific. Be it covertly or otherwise, find the one responsible as quickly as possible! A crime of this magnitude cannot go unpunished," he orders, waving his hand out in grandeur. His guardians all bow hurriedly and rush away. He turns back to his queen to kneel down at eye level with her. He notes that her ire has turned to worry.
"My hope is that we can get this incident safely taken care of," he says. She nods slowly, brows furrowing. He's about to ask her for her thoughts when a screech resounds through the halls.
"It's Hutsat, he's finally back!"
She holds out her arm for him to land, as she has no patience left to wait for him to find somewhere else. He does so and shakes himself out anxiously.
"You won't believe this, after all the recent happenings," he starts, already hesitant. Pharaoh and Queen glance at each other as she translates for the hawk.
"Does it have to do with the Thief King?"
"Not much of a king without subjects. His name is Bakura, and I found his hideout. Where's Seth, I can lead him there."
Instead of going directly on patrol himself, Priest Seth went directly to visit the woman with pale skin and white hair. His mind has been on her for so long and at last he can confirm in person, for himself, everything that's plagued him for years.
"There's something so familiar about you," he mutters, watching her sleeping form. She has yet to wake due to her utter exhaustion. When healers assured him that it was best to allow her to awaken on her own, he found himself pacing more often. But now, she stirs! His heartbeat jumps and he kneels down close to listen to her quiet words.
"Seth, is that you?"
He knows that voice. Everything is confirmed. He would smile outright if he weren't still outright curious and worried about why she's suddenly appearing in his life again after so long.
"Kisara, is it really you? Why now after all this time?" he asks rapidly, hands pressing on the edge of the bed as she groans.
"I need..." she trails off, barely conscious.
"What? What do you need?!"
"Uhn..." Kisara drifts off once more, answering none of his questions. He pounds the ground with his fist in frustration, looking to the side with clenched teeth.
"Why isn't there anything I can do?" he questions himself, standing and leaving the room. His pacing will have to continue. As he leaves, a pair of mismatched eyes scrutinizes him from the shadows without his knowledge.
"Seth, why is this woman so important to you? What secret does she possess?" he ponders in a whisper, stepping into the room for himself and looking down on the girl. His one normal eye widens when Kisara manages to utter one final word:
"... Danger..."
...
When Seth left, he made for the outdoor training areas, for he felt that if he trained, he could clear his head. Upon arrival, space is cleared immediately for his use. He chooses one of many swords in the nearby armory and tests its weight. Then, a few simple warm-ups. Before he starts into more advanced sword dances, Bali interrupts him. He notes that her expression is grim before changing into her usual annoying arrogant smile. Overhead in the outdoor training area, he hears a hawk cry.
"Lovely day for some practice, right?" she calls, and he jolts ever so slightly just from being too tense. He drops to one knee and bows his head.
"It is, my Queen," he answers, only to have her snort.
"Please, you don't have to do that crap with me. We've known each other far too long for that. What say you we go around?" she offers, drawing up her own sword. Seth stands with an incredulous look that makes her more infuriatingly smug.
"You must be joking! You are due at any moment!"
"I finally got away from everyone and now I've got you hounding me? Anyway, I'll be fine. I'm going to stay right here in this spot while you have the toughest time with my new fighting ability," she taunts, effectively getting on Seth's nerves and jabbing at his pride.
"Fine, I accept your challenge then. You may make the first move."
"Such a gentleman.En guarde!"she yells, letting her sword go. While he's first confused by her little flourish of foreign garble, the sword floats forward and glows gold. He has no time for confusion when a spar has begun!
The sword lunges toward his face, which he meets with a sharp dodge to the side. Soon, he is completely engrossed in a sword fight with Bali, without her being in danger at all. After a few rounds of him beating his frustration away, she calls her sword back and ends the fight.
"Giving up already, my Queen?" he taunts with a smirk, only to have Bali turn it back on him.
"She's the one, isn't she? I happened upon her room on my way here dodging the entourage. She's sweet, and she's been searching for you. You need to go see her, without being a High Priest," she informs, watching as he stands with a strange gawp. By the time he regains his composure, he sees that her expression has changed. This has nothing to do with Kisara.
"There's something else, isn't there? You came here for some other reason," he points out. She becomes entirely serious, and whistles two short notes. Within moments, the hawk that is Hutsat Reborn screams to her arm.
"Hutsat has found the Thief King Bakura's hideout and will lead you there. Had it been up to my husband, you would be off already, but I could see you were troubled and clouded in your judgment and now I see why." Bali smiles briefly, sadly. "Your meeting must be brief, and then you will put yourself in danger to go to this hideout. Bakura may attack. Shada and Karim will accompany you."
Seth nods. There are no words, and he knows she desires nothing. He bows anyway as she dismisses him, and he races from her presence. Kisara is at the forefront of his mind as he runs to her room to finally meet her once again, not as a High Priest or Guardian, but as Seth.
...
Bali wishes Seth luck. She can feel it now, she can feel the ominous hands of fate in motion. She thinks back wistfully on her meeting with her most recent friend...
"This is ridiculous. Something is up with Seth, and I can walk just as fine as anyone," she grumbled, carefully sitting up and swinging her legs over the edge of her bed. Looking around to make sure no one was going to sound the alarm, she got going on her quest to find the high priest with a simple smile on her face.
"Why have I never thought of going for a walk when no one is watching me for my nap?" she questioned herself, only to have the answer shot back by her conscience."Because you are usually more tired than you let on,"it echoed, and she blew a strand of hair from her face in exasperation.
After meandering awhile, she called Hutsat to search for Seth, as it wasn't long after the talk with Atem and he was stuck in tax meetings. She'd managed to halt his immediate order to send for Seth, but he then told her to stay and rest! "As if."It's from Hutsat that she got the directions to head for the training grounds. She'd be bearing hefty news and a terrifying mission, but maybe she could weasel his woes out of him in the process.
But as she passed an extra room that was supposed to be empty, there was a groan and sounds of movement from inside. The guard posted outside the door was stock still in nervous attention as Bali turned her head toward him. She briefly mused that this is probably the first time he's been close to royalty.
"Do we have a guest in there? It's okay if you're under orders not to tell, just inform me if they're a prisoner or something," she told him with a friendly shrug. The guard swallowed with difficulty.
"Sh-she is a guest of Priest Seth, my Queen. I am here to protect her," he stuttered, and she patted his shoulder.
"Alright, you're doing a fine job of it then. I have a feeling Seth doesn't want my Pharaoh to know of our little guest here, but that doesn't mean anything to me. Don't worry about Priest Seth. If he gives you any trouble about this, I will take care of it. I broke his foot once," she stated, flashing him an amiable smile. The guard relaxed automatically, though he didn't dare laugh at her joke. While she understood, it disappointed her.
"Thank you, my Queen. You are gracious."
"I know. Now let's see here..." she trailed off, and entered the room slowly. There wasn't much to it, just the bare essentials. There was, however, a beautiful vase of fresh flowers that made Bali snicker.
"Seth, you must like this person... Oh, excuse me!" she apologized, a grin spreading on her face when she saw there was someone cowering under the blanket, staring at her with wide eyes.
"Don't be shy, I promise I only yell at my husband," she joked, but nothing seemed to change. Another failure.
"Being Queen does not make me evil. What's your name? I'm Bali. If you don't mind, I'm going to sit down. Akhnemkhanen might be my pride, but he is still a bit of a burden at the moment," she said, sitting on the bed next to the woman. The beautiful young lady slowly dropped the sheet and her blue eyes blinked in wonder.
"You are truly the queen?" she asked meekly, though the glint of fascination glowed in her eyes. Bali nodded.
"The one and only wife. So far it's gotten me a late-term baby and feeling nostalgia for when I could sleep on my stomach," Bali snorted, poking her stomach in irritation. She felt a wash of relief when she finally got a giggle out of the woman.
"My name is Kisara. Seth– Priest–HighPriest Seth saved my life and he was so kind to me when others were not. I came to warn him of danger and– oh... ah..." Kisara started, but grew embarrassed, her cheeks glowing red. Bali laughed.
"And you just plain wanted to see him again. No worries, I'm good at keeping secrets, especially from him. We're pretty good friends, though at one point we could have happily murdered each other," she commented, causing Kisara to gasp and bring her hands up to her mouth.
"That's terrible! But I suppose you get along now. I know this may seem a little personal of me, but there are stories that you have a powerful beast within you. How do you live with it?" Kisara asked shyly, twiddling with a strand of her long, pure white hair. Bali blinked, and made sure not to stare hard at her. This was not a question borne from pure curiosity.
"Yes… Not many are aware, but I perished in battle against the False Prophet," Bali began, to which Kisara gasped in horror. A gentle hand alighted itself on Bali's arm, and the queen smiled at the friendly gesture.
"Due to certain circumstances, I became a full divine being and a God Beast was born unto the world. He's massive, and because of the purpose of his being he resides in the domain of the divine, with the other God Beasts. I sometimes feel a bit hollow without him around, although all he wished to do was battle, and by battle I mean all-out war. If he was still within me I would be unsure of anyone's safety," she admitted, and Kisara, to her surprise, nodded knowingly. From there, without too many details unraveled between the two, they discussed their lives before they came to sit where they sat now and found themselves as kindred spirits.
"Why don't you stay here and eat; I'll send Seth your way. If he's treating you so nicely and you have the history you say you do, he must be dying to talk to you," Bali suggested, hauling herself up and making her way out. She knows she can't stall much longer.
"Thank you Queen Bali! For everything, it really helps to have yet another kind friend in this place," Kisara thanked, bowing her head slightly.
"Don't mention it. I like having new friends just as much as the next person. I'd better go though, I bet the palace servants are squealing because I've wandered off somewhere. I should be able to fend them off long enough to get Seth to you. see you later!" Bali chirped, hands on stomach and a careful stride afoot.
Kisara looks up from the last of her meal to see a heavily breathing Seth. There's a pause between the two as they stare each other down before he genuinely smiles.
"Kisara, I have missed you," he admits quietly, only to have thin arms thrown around his neck in a strong hug.
"I missed you too, Seth."
Around the corner, the ever-so-sneaky Bali has managed to keep herself hidden while watching the interaction. She begins to turn and leave before her companion stops her teasingly.
"You're going to leave now? I thought you'd want to watch the whole show," Atem chides, but Bali loops her arm into his and dragged him off with her, so they could walk in the glory of what peacetime they knew they had left.
Notes:
FUN FACT!: If ya haven't seen the news yet, then yee haw, here I am! The ancient golden city of Luxor that was abandoned by Akhenaten (Amenhotep IV) has been unearthed! It's thirty-four hundred years old, features nine foot tall brick walls (a rare feature), and serpentine walls (that look RAD!) Look up pictures. There's pottery. There's skelemans. There's architecture. Tutankhamun revitalized the city and returned work there, when he abandoned Aten and Amarna (back then called Akhenaten.) Also, Akhenaten's big religious move? All politics. Has absolutely nothing to do with true piety or his actual beliefs or whatever. It was more fascistic than you likely realize. Like. It was a total dick move. Proof? His momma supported the move, and Queen Tiy would NEVER do anything that wouldn't solidify power for her or her family, haha.
Chapter 45: Evil Takes His Path at Midnight
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
It begins in her dream.
"Bali, listen to me now: You will go into labor at midnight tonight, and your child will enter the world only when Re has made a full cycle through the Underworld and returned to bring morning. You must keep hidden and stay safe through this time. You will be vulnerable," Isis barks authoritatively. Bali grumbles in her sleep but nods. Her dream ends with a fade. Her eyes snap open. It is still dark outside, in the early morning. She remembers and knows her more powerful goddess visitor was no passing figment of her imagination.
"Atem, wake up," she urges, putting a hand on his shoulder.
"...Is there something wrong?"
"Isis visited me in my dream. I will go into labor at midnight tonight."
"What?!"
It began there, and continues on, as now everyone twitches with the knowledge that midnight would be the time at last. Feeling relatively calm over the situation, Siamun decides that the tension would be better eased than anything, and calls to attention an idea.
"My Pharaoh, we know that your child, our Crown Prince, is to join us at last. We should have a celebration in honor of this glorious occasion," he suggested and Atem, in his distracted state, gives acquiescence. Siamun sighs.
"In any case, it will help to calm down the people around the palace and in the city. Bakura's attack was brutal, and of course we know of the slaughter at his hideout."
Atem blinks, shifting in his seat. Hutsat had led Seth, Shada and Karim out to the Thief King's hideout that had been found at long last. Their accounts upon return were less than fruitful. Even Seth admitted that his stomach turned at the state of the massacred thieves. No sign of Bakura. They couldn't even assume that he was responsible for it.
"Your wisdom is sound, Siamun. Send out the order. So let it be said, so let it be done."
Word bleeds out quickly from the palace and into the city of the grand celebration.
At a small tavern on the outskirts of Thebes, a runner hears the news and skulks back to a dilapidated building where the rest of his fellow disciples are located.
… It's in a small room connected to a bedchamber that overlooks the river where Bali finds out.
"YOU'RE HAVING A PARTY?!"
Six of the seven bearers of the Millennium Items take steps backwards. Servants wince, their trained stoicism faltering. Atem eases his way forward with a weak, reassuring grin. His hands are raised defensively.
"It's just to ease the tension for everyone! I will be waiting the entire time without having much fun, and you know it," he says, voice soft and convincing. She keeps her frown but crosses her arms and mutters "whatever."
… … …
Korket has quite the opposite reaction.
"You are sure that this celebration is taking place in the palace?" he asks for clarification. The runner nods with an assuring smile.
"It has practically been screamed throughout the streets," he responds, causing a collective snicker throughout the room.
"Lord Bakura will be most pleased to hear of this. It will be the opportunity he's been waiting for to interrupt the Pharaoh's cushy lifestyle." All stand, laughing at the idea until a loud bang signals the entrance of their current "master."
"I'm back! Now what have you twits been doing all day?" Bakura bellows, traipsing in with a load of stolen funeral relics, draped in fancy clothing and jewels, and dragging a mummified body from a rope around its neck.
"We have received news that the queen will be going into labor at midnight tonight, Lord Bakura. It will be the perfect window of opportunity for you to destroy Pharaoh and take the Millennium Items, as the goddess will be unable to fight," Korket informs. A wicked grin spreads on Bakura's face.
"I have such brilliant timing. Here I thought I'd have more trouble with paying them a visit, and they open the doors for me. I even decided to bring a special guest! Gentlemen, say hello to the former Pharaoh Akhnemkhanen!" he laughs, tugging the rope harshly. The group chuckles along, but some nervously shuffle their feet. After all, defiling a pharaoh is defiling agod.
"Very amusing, Lord Bakura. Do you wish us to do anything of assistance?" Korket asks with a jibing smirk. Bakura grunts, his amusement drifting away.
"Don't get in my way."
"As you wish."
The celebration begins as Re descends to the Underworld. Although spirits are high, the focus on Queen Bali and her welfare is still far too powerful for anyone to join fully into the jovial atmosphere.
Atem sighs, resting his head on the palm of his hand. Bali has to stay in a prep room until the time comes, and he isn't allowed to see her due to this damn celebration he agreed to that didn't even end up working.
"Your Majesty, I know it is exhausting and disappointing that you can't be at the queen's side now, but erm... think of the joy that is to come at the end!" Siamun comforts, and the bearers of the Millennium Items smile in agreement. Isis steps forward.
"My Pharaoh, never forget that she is the Daughter of Re; she will most assuredly be graced with the presences of all the goddesses of labor," Isis comforts, giving a slight incline of her head to show respect. Atem tries to take those words to heart as much as possible as the others agree.
"Thank you everyone. I will try to lighten up, I–" he starts, but is accidentally interrupted by a distressed messenger jolting through a side passageway.
"Lady Isis, your assistance is needed with the honorable Queen Bali. I was sent by your mother Lady Seshat." The messenger drops to the floor when he realizes exactly what he's done, but Pharaoh doesn't care. He waves Isis away to race off toward the birthing antechamber Bali waits in. The messenger dutifully follows on her command, saving him a world of hurt from people like Priest Seth, who get bored easily. Siamun curses the timing, however; this circumstance only proved to get Pharaoh into a more anxious mood than before. He watches as the young man fails to hide his troubled thoughts.
"Is something wrong? Is she giving birth now? Has she been attacked with some illness?"All these questions rumble through his head with no one to answer. Little did he know that his glorious, most beloved Great Royal Wife, One-Sent-By-Re Bali, is worrying him for absolutely nothing.
"Why can't I just go sit out there until the time comes?! It's my party to enjoy too!" she grouches, trying and failing to heave herself up to join Atem in the great hall.
"My Queen, you need to rest for now! You will get to enjoy the festivities that follow the birth of the Crown Prince, I promise you!" Seshat appeases, keeping a firm hold on Bali's shoulders to keep her lying back. She heaves a frustrated sigh.
"How much longer until midnight, then?!" She slams her hands onto the lounge chair she sits on to accentuate her impatience. Seshat could only shake her head as Mery, Su and Nefertari shrug. They are prepared, it's all waiting from here. Isis runs in panting.
"Is something wrong?" she asks between breaths, walking straight to her mother.
"Oh no, the Queen merely wished for company," she replies, earning a frustrated glare from said queen.
"I see. Trust me Bali, the festivities are not at all fun. Pharaoh is much too focused on you to try and act cheerful."
"Good," Bali grunts, gaze wandering out the window. She feels… something. But it has to be nerves. Excitement. Everything would go well, she knows it. They've all been waiting so long!
Isis feels a tickle in the back of her mind, and blinks.
"This feeling…"
Her eyes widen in alarm. Without alerting the others, she catches her mother's attention and without a word, it's understood between them.
Something terrible is on its way.
"You're sure you will be able to handle this alone?" Korket asks from atop his horse, warily watching the determined Thief King. Bakura glares from his own horse.
"I hate those who underestimate me. Either you follow my plan or I kill you now."
All of the disciples look to Korket, who bows his head as always. Cool, calm, and infallible.
"So you've said before. We will be waiting on the outskirts for any signal to action," he replies, causing a few members to sigh a bit in relief. The madman is Chosen, and if he wants to kill them, the Shadows desire their sacrifice. Korket only knew the full and true will of the Ultimate Lord; the rest could only trust in their design.
"Move out, then! I want to make my appearance just before midnight!" Bakura cackles, spine-tingling and mirthless. With Bakura dragging the mummy behind on his horse, he sets out for Thebes to give Pharaoh his declaration of war.
...
Atem is jolted awake by a somewhat extraneous shriek of laughter from a drunk noblewoman sitting at the low tables before him in the vast throne room. Siamun creeps up next to him and shakes his head disapprovingly.
"Even with your status my Pharaoh, it is not wise to fall asleep at a party like this."
Atem carefully and covertly stretches and rubs at his eyes without messing up his kohl.
"I apologize, the stress must have driven me to sleep. What time is it?" he asks, sitting up and peering at the warm, noble-filled hall. Even the entertainers are drooping. The bearers of the Millennium Items are alert, although they seem unimpressed with the night as a whole.
"It is nearly midnight, Your Majesty." Siamun's answer has him straightening out even more and his eyes widening.
"Is Bali alright? May I see her at least once?"
"You know how birthing goes as I do, my King. Your father, May He Flourish in the Realms of Osiris, was the same way with all of his children, particularly with you. We must wait the labor out with the people and let the gods do their will. She is one of them in every sense, not stuck in an earthly vessel like you," Siamun says, chuckling as Atem's shoulders sag. He growls in annoyance. Spending all this time away from her, when a normal man would be able to tend to his wife! It feels despicable to him. Perhaps this horrible excuse for a celebration is the form of balance Ma'at is showing him.
"What's this?!" Mahad's exclamation changes the drowsy atmosphere in an instant, as the Millennium Ring begins to act abnormally.
"Evil has entered the palace grounds, and there are raiders attacking Thebes! I can see them; they are shrouded in black!" Isis yells as she returns, sounding an alarm among all of the people gathered in the room.
"Where are the guards? They should be stopping this intruder!" Seth bellows.
A callous laugh follows from outside the main entryway.
Atem grips his throne, narrowing his eyes at the door. Slowly, agonizingly, it tips open. A tense silence rules the air as calm, deliberate footsteps echo through everyone's ears. At last, the shadows of the doorway relinquish a man drenched in funerary relics. The rich red coat he wears flutters as he walks, allowing glimpses of the desecrated mummified body he drags behind him. His tan skin contrasts deeply with his snow-white hair.
Atem's expression becomes deadly. He needs no introduction to know who this man is now.
"Bakura."
He earns a loud, patronizing laugh.
"I see Our Mighty Pharaoh knows the humble Thief King! How good for him!" he calls out sarcastically, his voice easily filling the hall. His free hand sweeps out and he looks to the people huddled about the room, talking to them as a performer would. Having gotten no satisfying reaction, he turns his attention to the hand that holds a satchel. Hefting it from over his shoulder, he promptly dumps its contents on the floor and relishes in the clatter as the nobles flinch. Atem's steady glower remains.
"Here, I found these in Akhnemkhanen's tomb, as I knew I'd need a gift. You don't honestly think those traps were any good, did you?" He sniggers at the gasps of horror he draws from the crowd. His gaze goes from side to side, face turning into a sneer.
"Look at all the fat little mice; now that they're threatened, they don't act so haughty!" he seethes, causing some whimpers.
"Enough! What did you come here for besides parading your blasphemous behavior?" Seth asks, voice thunderous to cut through the misery as he steps forward from the guardians. A stare down ensues until Seshat rushes in, unaware of the dire situation.
"Her Majesty is in labor!" She stops short when she sees the scene. Everyone snaps their gazes to her, but her eyes are drawn only to Bakura's. His face splits in a nasty grin as he steps forward.
"Ah, the true shining star of this wretched palace, the queen! What I wouldn't give for an audience," he chirps. Seshat takes a fearful step backward at his murderous stare. Before anyone else can make a move, a knife flies through the air, slicing through Bakura's shoulder before thudding into a wall behind. The Thief King grunts, following the trajectory up to the throne.
"DON'T YOUDARE GO NEAR BALI!" Atem clenches his fists in outrage, having risen to his feet to prepare himself for battle. His ba spirals around him. The knife had been a gift from his beloved, and for it to be used now of all times...
"I see that I finally got you up off that seat. I was hoping that you'd get down here once you saw I dragged your father here but this I can accept," Bakura says cloyingly, causing Atem to start. Before he can readily accept the challenge however, Seth steps in his way.
"Leave this petty thief to us, Pharaoh. He shall pay for everything he has done, I swear it!" he vows, turning to face the plight before them all. The evil character gives a sweeping snarky bow.
"Why, I'mhonoredto face you little priest, but I'm afraid you're mere dust in the wind to me. I'm here to destroy Pharaoh and take the Millennium Items, not play around," Bakura replies, laughing at his own malicious humor.
"Please, Pharaoh. One-Sent-By-Re the Queen is one of my greatest friends. I would be disgraced should I not try and fight him," Seth adds over his shoulder, bowing his head somberly. Atem breathes slowly to calm himself, to think, before nodding.
"Go, Seth. I am going to get my father back." His response is just as quiet. Seth maintains his cool demeanor, but again he bows slightly.
"I will do my best to distract him."
Notes:
FUN FACT!: The actual name of Thebes, in Kemet, is "Waset'' or "Uaset." As I've said, I haven't been using the Kemetian names because explaining their modern equivalents just to be a pedantic snootypants is stinky imo (wastes time). It's why I don't use too many Ancient Egyptian words, either. The key to researching for relevant information to this story has been to stick to what's in YGO (lol) and what was accepted and around in the eighteenth dynasty. That's why Atem is more associated with Re as pharaoh, not as much with Horus (which would be older dynasties.) Gawd, wouldn't it be fun to have a timetravel fic for Atem where he goes back thousands of years to the Naqada eras, where there were no pharaohs, and kingdoms were starting to form in the area? Ah, the thought of it makes me swoon!
Chapter 46: Justice Tested
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
"Galest Goras, I summon you!" Seth lofts his Millennium Rod above his head, pouring his ba into it and drawing awe from those unaccustomed to the sight. After a bright beam of light pours from the rod, a behemoth dragon appears, its red-orange scales glimmering in the torchlight. Its roar makes the room rumble, filling the people with hope at the sound of such strength. Akhenaden places his hand on Seth's shoulder and leans in to whisper.
"Be cautious and keep a calm head; that man is hiding a tremendous Ka within him!" The urging is only shrugged off. The old priest steps back, but his face remains grim.
"He will be no match for my power. He cannot summon anything that can take down this monster!" Seth brags, sure that this "Thief King" is nothing more than amazingly stupid. Much to his and everyone's enormous surprise, Bakura begins to howl with laughter. Seth's arrogant smirk disappears at this unexpected reaction.
"To think that the one you unjustlymurderedwill see her revenge so quickly! Taste the wrath of our god: Diabound!"
Bakura's ba encapsulates him, a momentous amount of power blasting out as another form that matches the dragon's size begins to take shape. The guardians watch with mouths agape. They've never seen anyone other than a Millennium Item bearer summon a creature so strong.
Seth doesn't dare bring up Kisara, of course. And even if he did, he would never put her and her precious Spirit Ka before this chilling monster. Its gray scales reflect the torchlight to resonate from a deep stormcloud color to nearly frost white. While its top is that of a humanoid man with his arms crossed, the torso melds down to become the head of a vicious serpent that gladly hisses and spits at anything it senses nearby. Shaking off his surprise, Seth regains focus on the task before him.
"Hah, so it appears youcanput up a fight after all! But let's see how well you can control your beast!" he challenges, moving quickly to begin their duel as his king watches for an opening. Bakura doesn't seem to catch on that Atem means to recover his father yet. Seth has no plans to let him.
"Diaha!"With this declaration, the duel begins.
The large sizes of the two monsters pose a problem for Seth outright. If he acts too recklessly, he could destroy the palace, hurt bystanders, and even take himself out with one fell swoop. A chagrined voice in the back of his mind is cursing his choice of monster. He's drawn out of the analytical standoff by Bakura calling over.
"You pulled that monster out of a sinner, yes? Do you honestly think that something like that can be a match for my Spirit Ka?!" he rumbles, the very picture of confidence. Seth is unfazed. He too is a confident and arrogant man, and now he has even more to protect in his life than before.
"When I defeat you, I'll make sure that your guts are put into a larger canopic jar," he jabs in return, only to receive another rough hand on his shoulder.
"Be careful, that is no ordinary beast! My eye sees that it is not built from a malicious spirit. It isn't evil!" Akhenaden's advice is loud enough for everyone to hear.
"How can that be possible? Bakura is a criminal, just a thief!" Karim replies, speaking the thoughts of all in the room besides the subject in question.
"H-hahaha! I guess you'll have to fight me to find out for sure, won't you? Let's have it, Priest Seth! Don't tell me that you're going to back down after that little fact was revealed. I thought you were much more formidable by far!" Bakura taunts once more, finally earning an angry growl from Seth, whose eyes narrow into an icy glare. Atem watches on, stays quiet, becomes calm. He must be invisible to the situation. If Seth could engage in battle and properly distract this intruder, he would have a chance to rescue his father's mummy. All he has to do is wait. It will happen, with his priests blocking Bakura's view of him, with the fight about to happen, it has to.
"Let's get this over with!" Seth barks.
The monsters spring into action. Per Seth's will, Galest Goras snaps its jaws forward at Diabound, the ground shaking with each of its monstrous steps. Any bystanders nearby look to the ceiling in worry as dust and small pebbles trickle down on their heads.
Galest Goras lunges for Diabound's neck, but Diabound swerves. Bakura grins, until the dust settles to show that the massive dragon has caught the arm instead. The two grapple against each other for minutes, pushing with all their strength at the goading of their masters. Finally, Diabound wrenches its arm away. The two monsters part again to await an opening, a lull in focus, anything! It's an attempt at misdirection from Diabound and its tail that begins the action. Seth swells with confidence as Galest Goras, upon his command, catches the snake-tail and slams its opponent hard into the stone ground.
"I'll end this in one move!" Seth shouts, taking in Bakura's grimace with excited anticipation. His audience gazes on, captivated, hoping this final attack will work. The behemoth dragon flies its hulking mass up and charges the stunned monster on the floor. Seth grins in anticipated victory. Atem believes in that split second that he can get to his father at last.
"Stomp him flat!" Seth orders, as if the dragon needs any further urging. Everyone watches with small smiles as the dragon lands heavily on Diabound.
"It's over..." Seth indulges himself in a gratified grin. It's wiped from his face when he sees that Bakura has replicated it.
"Are you sure?" he asks, and the dust clears to show Galest Goras standing alone. The room collectively gasps at the sight, a few moans of despair mingling in.
"How can that be? Did it return to its host?" Seth asks, brows furrowing in confusion. Bakura snickers, his voice silencing everyone.
"No! I activated Diabound's special ability..." he starts, causing a chorus of surprised outcries. Once he gets in his fair share of listening to them, he continues his explanation.
"When a person has a Spirit Ka, it develops the powers that the host wishes they had. My Ebony and I had the same desire throughout our lives as thieves. When she tore her soul in half, she gave me Diabound, she gave me the special effect of moving through stone!" he snarls, mocking and spiteful.
"His Ka can go through walls?!" A spare guard shouts, utterly terrified as the Guardians search around helplessly for the monster.
"Glad to know you heard me right, you idiots! Anyway, that's not the only thing... I hear that destroying the stone slab from which a monster came will also destroy that monster." Bakura watches on as his opponents continue their frantic hunt. Seth jumps when Akhenaden yells for him to protect the stone slab. He turns. Too late. The image of Diabound appears on the tablet, cracks appear, and more cracks, and more and more until the slab bursts apart for Diabound to return to the battlefield. Galest Goras roars its death knell before vanishing. Seth growls deep in his throat at losing. Diabound slides to his master's side.
"That was boring! I want to fight Pharaoh now!" Bakura's complaint is paired with a pointed stare at Atem. Upon noticing, the guardians close ranks immediately before him, forming a barrier. Atem narrows his eyes but remains silent.
"Priest Seth, even Galest Goras was beaten. We're all going to have to join the battle to protect Pharaoh and the queen!" Shada argues. Seth mutters a curse under his breath at his failure, but doesn't keep his fellow guardians from stepping forward.
"I told you fools from the beginning that you're too small to beat me. Now come, Pharaoh, fight me! I promise to give you my head should you win, however; should you lose, I desire the riches of this empire, the Millennium Items, and the lives of you and your family," Bakura taunts breezily, trying to get the same rise out of Atem as before. Although he hears, Atem makes no move, and utters nothing. His thoughtsdorace.
"Steady heads prevail in a situation like this. I will not allow Bali to suffer for my inadequacy as protector ever again!"
"How dare you speak like that to the God-on-Earth?! You will be given the most severe of our curses, you murderous tyrant!" Akhenaden yells, his younger cohorts agreeing without hesitation. Atem shakes from his thoughts to step forward, earning the attention of everyone in the room.
"Why do you desire the Millennium Items to this degree?" he inquires, his severe expression matching his voice that cuts through the air. He can't continue on without knowing, because no one from the original generation of Millennium Item bearers had been forthcoming on their origins. Bakura might be the key to everything.
"Hmph... Why don't you ask your dear old father Akhnemkhanen?" Is the sour reply. He drags the mummy of the pharaoh up by the rope around its neck and stomps on its back, causing a sickening crunch sound. The entire room gasps in disgust and rage. To have someone treat a great king so poorly… Ammut would feast well when the gods lay their curse on the evildoer. At least, that's whatshouldhappen.
"You dare-?! I'll flay that foot to the bone!" Seth chokes, anger muddling his words. Bakura ignores him and gladly continues.
"After all, the former king is the one who made them. I wonder why he didn't tell even you, his precious son and crown prince, the true horror and dark magic of the Millennium Items." His leer, his accusatory tone, it alarms Atem the most. But before he can say anything more, Akhenaden steps forward to answer.
"My brother created the Millennium Items to create peace in the land and passed them on to maintain that prosperity in Egypt. AMillennium of Peacefor this crisis-ridden country was his greatest wish when he created them."
"I know this story! The Millennium Items were created with the holy power to destroy evil and bring righteousness and justice!" Seth continues, but again Bakura scoffs.
"Yes, we can see how wellthathas held up! Though I suppose that you have learned how to defend yourself well, ever since your warrior queen showed up it's been one thing after another, hasn't it?" he points out, again trying to bait Atem into battle. Pharaoh's glare reaches new depths of fury as he tightens his fists and bites the inside of his cheek. Bakura senses the rising tension and decides to pour more oil on the fire. Pharaoh is beginning to crack.
"Bah, you idiots know nothing of the truth behind the Millennium Items! They are not meant for justice at all; no, they are artifacts of darkness and black magic! If one were to own all seven at once, he could reach a contract with the dark spirits of the underworld that exists in Ammut's stomach!"
"Dark spirits of the underworld?" Mahad mutters, the information making his thoughts reel.
"Have you ever heard the name of a village called Kul Elna?" Bakura asks, any trace of levity leaving his face. Akhenaden's one regular eye widens in recognition, but his face is hidden from the rest of the Guardians by his hood. He doesn't speak up.
"The village is a ruin now, but it holds the shrine of the Millennium Tablet, to which if all seven Millennium Items are returned, then a contract can be made with the evil god of the underworld, Zorc Necrophades! Perhaps that's the reason why your king made the items in the first place, to take control of that evil power just like me, to rule the entire world! He wanted everything to spiral into darkness!" Bakura's insane laughter fills the room after his incredibly heinous accusation. Atem can take no more and shoots his hand out to point imperiously.
"Get away from my father and shut your filthy mouth,now." His order is, like all else thrown at Bakura, ignored. The Thief King only grins with pleasure at crushing Atem's cool demeanor.
"I finally got some more anger out of you. Was beginning to think you didn't care," he snickers. Before Atem could do more, his guardians stop him by subtly standing before him again. Atem breaks from the blindness of complete rage as Siamun grips his elbow to keep him from rashly joining the fight. Pharaoh stares down at his vizier. The short old man nearly shudders at the young man's nearly blood-red gaze, so much different than the gentle young king he's overseen since his birth. Siamun says nothing, only bowing in apology, before removing his hand. Atem blinks and thanks him quietly. He then watches on as the guardians summon their team of monsters to take the fight to a new level.
It is now that Siamun's words reach his ears.
"...I served your father for many years as his grand vizier, and as his dear friend. I can tell you with the utmost certainty that he was a good man and wished only for the well-being of his country and his family. He dedicated his life to ending the strife plaguing his people and to making an everlasting peace. He would never make any such evil contract!" he says, indignant, tears welling up in his eyes at the thought. Atem listens on as the guardians gear up for their first team attack on Bakura and Diabound.
He's done waiting. No more of this nonsense.
Atem strides out, expression unreadable, his eyes fixed only on his father's mummy. Memories from when he was still a boy carrying him past the dangerous clash just to the right of him. He looked up to his father more than anyone. His kindness. His fairness. The love with which he ruled. Atem will protect that at any cost. Siamun, too startled and fearful, balked at what he saw.
"Sire, please return to the throne, the Ka of the priests and Bakura are battling! It's too dangerous to be out there without protection!" he cries, but Atem marches on. Alongside the battlefield, he hardly notices as Shada's creature is snapped in two by the powerful jaws of Diabound's tail. Shada doubles over in pain.
"What power..." Mahad grumbles through gritted teeth, handling his own pain bravely as his creature is tossed aside.
"Don't give up, we must keep our ba strong!" Akhenaden encourages. Bakura's cackle easily lofts through the air.
"You're no match for my Diabound, and you know it!"
"Move."He's quiet. For all of Bakura's crowing and boasting, he's thoroughly taken by surprise by Pharaoh appearing beside him. There's no reacting before he's shoved aside, the mummy coming free from his grasp. Paying the attacker no further mind, Atem gingerly picks up the mummy and gazes sadly down. His father, these ceremonial remains of his earthly vessel, are beaten and tattered and torn. This is no way for anyone to be treated, king or otherwise.
"An emotional reunion, eh pharaoh? I warn you, some pieces may have fallen off on the way here, heheheh," Bakura titters. Atem's seething glare returns, but he doesn't glance away from walking back toward the throne. Bakura's mouth twitches down in surprise.
"Stay right there... I'm going to destroy you."
The words float deadly and striking over Atem's shoulder. Bakura shrugs. He'll get what he wants.
The guardians protest, but they've never seen their leader so enraged before, even against the False Prophet. Tensions mount as Atem passes his friends by for the throne. Knowing that their words fall on deaf ears, the bearers of the Millennium Items instead choose to make sure that Bakura makes no motion to attack. He doesn't.
Atem sets the mummy of his father down before the throne, where Siamun falls to his knees in reverence and sorrow.
"Oh, Pharaoh Akhnemkhanen! Your return to the palace wasn't supposed to be like this! I apologize a thousand times over, My Pharaoh, the tomb for your father was designed by me and I accept full responsibility for this travesty!" he wails, weeping over the body of his old friend.
"You shouldn't cry over a tyrant, old man!" Bakura's voice is sing-song and irreverent, sliding over the heads of the guardians. At the heckling, the priests bristle and start muttering between themselves for the next assault.
Atem had knelt down with Siamun over his father gazing blankly at the poor state the mummy was in. His father… Powerlessness and guilt are not what his father wanted for him before he passed on, but here he is burdened with them all the same.
"You are not at fault, Siamun. That black-hearted thief is to blame. I just don't know how I can..." Atem trails off, his grief after his father's death returning and hauling uncertainty with it. What can he do? Are the Millennium Items truly evil? Questions are numerous, answers are few, and Bakura looms with a seemingly unstoppable Spirit Ka.
"There's no way I can—"he thinks, head turning down in doubt. If only Bali were here… But a strong, booming voice in his head interrupts his downward spiral.
"Unleash your power as the one Chosen by the Divine Beasts. Expel the evil from the palace with their justice, my son."His father… It's his father! One new command that makes Atem gasp. The Millennium Puzzle hums and memories of wartime dreams visited by the god Horus flicker behind his eyelids.
It's here he remembers, the two names of the original God Beasts. They add to the third, final, and strongest that is linked to his beloved. Atem releases his held breath and stands. His doubts are gone. He can protect everyone. He is the Chosen Pharaoh. Only he can summon and command the Divine Ones and expel evil. He walks forward, past his court that all lie stunned from their latest skirmish. He plants himself in front of the group, garnering weak protests from them as they struggle to even stand.
"Pharaoh, do not bother yourself with this," Seth pleads, but Atem holds his hand up for silence from all, staring forward into the murderous grin of their opponent.
"It is my duty to protect my people and my family." His response is followed by a deep bell-like tone as the Millennium Puzzle activates. All but Bakura watch in awe as his ba flares like a firestorm.
"Bakura, this is the fight you've been waiting for! You seem to think that your monster is an all-powerful god, but you have forgotten that there are monsters more powerful thananythingsomeone petty like you could ever dream of!" Atem calls out, his form glowing as his spell to summon begins. Bakura's amusement grows.
"We'll see about that. Summon your powerful creature so I can promptly smash it, Your Highness. I can wait." He crosses his arms, unconcerned, acting cool on his stage of unbridled terror.
Atem finishes the summoning, the pressure of the vast amount of heka he's using making the room shudder.
"Come forth, God of the Obelisk, embodiment of Re the Creator!"
All of Thebes quakes. The Millennium Puzzle becomes a piercing golden light as the god beast forms in, and mostly above, Atem. Bakura's smile disappears. A mass of blue towers above them all. A growl resonates through them, deep and menacing, and two piercing red eyes appear at the head of the mass, making its grotesque, snarling expression all the more petrifying.
"I can't believe it... The legends are true about the Chosen Pharaoh being able to summon the gods! You are the one…" Siamun trails off in awe, those within earshot gaping more at the news. No matter their reactions, though, Atem and Bakura are zoned into their own world. They hear and see nothing but what is before them, and the battle about to ensue.
Even if she weren't in labor, Bali has a feeling she'd be a prisoner in this palace birthing chamber. Contractions are as yet a non-issue, she feels fine… But it's those around her that tip her off. Her human friend Isis left her in a hurry. Seshat came back after announcing the beginning of her labor with only a mask of calm.
How she managed to keep that mask upon seeing the goddesses that appeared is beyond Bali. In fact,everythingis beyond her. She can't feel beyond the walls of the chamber. Her husband isn't at her side. Her maids skitter around. Seshat is barely composed at her bedside as the goddess Isis, appearing as a normal woman, stands watch over them.
"What's happening? Where's Atem, he can at least dump that party for a few minutes to see me, right?" she ventures, taking a cup of pure water from Taweret, also in human form.
"Don't worry about Pharaoh, dear. All you need to think about is you and the Crown Prince," the goddess answers, voice gentle. A frog sounds from somewhere to the right and both Taweret and Isis chuckle, though the latter wryly.
"You make an excellent point, Heket. Why are you only a frog tonight, dear?"
Another frog sound.
"Ah. That's fair."
Bali could understand Heket… wherever she is, but from the look on Nefertari's face, she desperately needed some comforting. Anything to latch her to reality, at least.
"C'mere, Kiki. I know magic isn't your thing, and you deserve the world for sticking it out like this. Heket just said something about violent drunks and how she didn't want to uncomfortably crowd the room," she translates quietly, taking the child's hand and squeezing. Mery notices from across the room and swallows her own fear of the goddesses around her to join them. She plants her hands on Nefertari's shoulders.
"We are all safe, Kiki. I'm sure that once Her Majesty's labor gets intense we will hardly notice," she comforts, to which Bali snorts and rolls her eyes.
Nefertari briefly cracks a feeble smile. She peeps and darts her eyes down when a cat twists around her ankles.
"Come sit with me and scratch my back, young one. I'll teach you that goddesses shouldn't be so overbearing,"the cat purrs, gray tail in the air as she bunts her head against the girl's shins. Goddess Isis narrows her eyes, but doesn't comment.
"Umm…" Nefertari waffles, but Bali squeezes her hand again.
"You know how to sit with a cat, Kiki. Bastet is perfect company right now."
The little maid follows the tiny cat to a corner of the room. Shortly after, a rumble from somewhere nearby shakes everything.
"What was that?" Bali asks, swinging her legs over the side of the bed. Goddess Isis and Taweret are there in a flash, hands pushing her back down.
"It doesn't concern you. Lie down."
Faced with greater power than her own, and with her child on the way, Bali is forced to comply. She glances at Seshat, who subtly shakes her head.
"Just because I'm stuck in here doesn't mean I have to like it,"she thinks, and begins to focus on a most precarious spell.
Obelisk rumbles, Pharaoh and the Thief King entering their own stare down. Bakura's mind races. He didn't calculate for a monster like this. He knew of the queen's monster, but had correctly gambled that Pharaoh wouldn't dare summon it while she's in labor. But to be Chosen by the Divine… Can he fight what he once thought was a myth…?
"Truly, truly you are the one? Oh, your father must be smiling on us from the Afterlife," Siamun whispers. Everyone around is too awed to speak.
"Well! Myoriginalplan was to kill you and take the items, but I see that you've gotten serious and decided to bring out a damned god. It changes nothing! I'll destroy your god and we'll see who therealgod is!"
Atem takes a deep breath and shakes his head.
"These items were created from my father's dream for freedom and peace. I will never forgive anyone who threatens to steal them."
In a twist, Bakura seems to sober up and stands tall, dropping any sort of guarded stance. The Guardians murmur about the change in demeanor.
"The Millennium Items are made of good and evil. Spouting pretty words like 'freedom' and 'peace' is simple enough when you understand nothing. They are a double-edged sword. When they taste one inkling of darkness inside your hearts, they will latch onto it, and you will be consumed by that power."
He shifts, putting his hands on his hips casually, chuckling a bit.
"Then again, being consumed by power is all you people do, isn't it? You love to crow about justice as you sit up here with your riches and that 'Divine Right to Rule' bullshit that everyone goes along with for some reason. You punish those who stray from what you deem as right, kill what you fear, and call it an unfortunate execution when truly it'smurder!" He spits at them. Diabound glows as hatred oozes from his every breath. "Are the Items the true compass? You say only your gods have the power to truly discern between good and evil but here you are, making those decisions every day. That's not justice, it's evil itself! You're no better than I am, a bunch of criminals!"
"Enough!" Atem interrupts, memories of the latest Millennium Trial coming to mind. Nefertari and her abusive father, and how Bali didn't exactly voice her approval… Had this been why?
"Ha! You know I'm right. Look at your priests behind you, I bet one of them covets more power, even up to your own throne right now! 'Freedom and peace' if I ever saw it!" Bakura berates, earning his desired protests. Atem listens on, a small part of him wondering how this is even happening.
"This is just one man. How can someone from such petty origins come here and fracture so much work in so little time?"he ponders, sweat lancing down the side of his face.
"Your arguments are as feeble as you are. All the more reason to destroy and take over as Pharaoh myself. I'll show the world how the Millennium Items are truly supposed to work as I rule on high!" Bakura declares, striking a grandiose pose and shifting Diabound into an attacking position.
"So you speak of justice, but from where I stand I see nothing but a grave-robbing thief and murderer! No matter what grievances have been committed against you, there is no excuse for the heinous crimes you've committed Bakura!" Atem's declaration has Obelisk growling, ready for any onslaught.
"Then it's time to see whose justice is correct! Diabound, kill his god and show them what true power is!" Bakura feels as confident as he sounds, pointing forward and commanding Diabound to prepare its most powerful attack. The creature obeys, forming a ball of glowing pale blue ba between its hands. Atem watches on without immediate retaliation as slowly Diabound raises it above its head, the sphere too massive to hold properly out to the front. Once fully charged, Diabound holds an unbelievable amount of ba, enough to make the people around twitter in fear, even with the presence of Obelisk.
Bakura revels in the deadly pause, before—
"H-hahahaha, so long Pharaoh!Die!" he commands, his laughter playing accompaniment to the blast heading straight and true for Obelisk.
"Obelisk, show him what a true god is capable of. Protect everyone in this empire." Atem keeps his voice low. His will heard, Obelisk brings its mighty fists up and crosses them over its chest, protecting itself from the inbound assault. Bakura retains his victorious grin at first connection, but it quickly fades as the ba dissipates.
"What?!"
Obelisk stands unscathed.
"The Spiral Wave didnothing?!"Bakura grimaces, not feeling great about his odds and rethinking his strategy. Atem gives him no room to recover.
"Allow me to show you how flimsy your justice is, with the crushing hand of a god!"
Obelisk roars, heka sparking around the Millennium Puzzle as ba courses through its fists. It swings forward at a speed normally unthinkable for a creature its size. The devastating blow that follows leaves a cavity in Diabound's chest, an impact that causes Bakura to go flying with blood spraying from his mouth. The attack had taken most of his ba already, and to lose more in battle would be fatal. But, Thief King as he is, he calls his Spirit Ka to him, dipping into his ba one more time to use its special ability. Atem glares, trying to discern his movements as the guardians gasp.
"He still has power left?!"
"That was a direct attack from a god beast, and he still has the audacity…" Seth trails, desiring nothing more than to run out and finish the thief off. Without Pharaoh's order, and while being low on ba himself, it would only land him in trouble. He… hehatesit.
Diabound engulfs his master protectively and both immediately meld into the wall behind them. The High Priests, exhausted as they are, shout commands to lockdown the perimeter and push their legs as fast as they can to try and catch up, but all they and their king are left with is Bakura's chilling message:
"You and your gods are better than I thought! But be warned, Great Pharaoh: My hatred only grows, and with growing hatred comes growing power."
Atem stands. And thinks. About the threat. About his father. Aboutwhy.About Bali. He thinks rapidly for a few sluggish seconds until he doubles over in agony, exhaustion fogging any further thought. Summoning Obelisk, who disappeared in a flash, had taken a toll on his ba. Pursuing Bakura would be impossible in his current state, and no amount of willpower would change that. Even with his vision swirling, he attempts to step forward, vaguely seeing that his court is gearing up for the chase.
"No, wait!" he manages to call, but his knees give out. Two arms from either side easily catch him, two voices identifying their owners. Mahad and Seth assure him that they will not leave the palace while the royal family is vulnerable.
"My Pharaoh, rest after summoning the divine beast. We guardians will secure the palace and ensure every guest returns to their quarters safely," Akhenaden suggests urgently, but he had no reason to worry about any resistance; Atem could only nod before falling into a deep slumber.
Bakura stands atop a cliff outside Thebes, looking at the city with a bloody, menacing grin.
"One thief will start a war! This is the end of everything, Pharaoh. I can't wait for our next battle!" He yells into the night, ignoring his exhaustion, his pain and his defeat. He turns, climbs atop his horse, and gallops away with Korket and his disciples in tow.
When Atem awakens, it's still nighttime, though he can't tell how much time has passed. His cape and finery are gone, leaving him in a tunic and the Millennium Puzzle. He immediately calls for a servant to remedy his knowledge on the time, to learn it's only been an hour since his duel with Bakura. He's still so tired, but resting more is out of the question when all is not well in his empire. He dismisses the servant, who goes despite looking concerned for his health.
"I need air..." Atem mumbles, having watched to make sure the servant left. He walks to his balcony that overlooks the city, although Bali weighs heavily on his mind, and going to look at the private garden is just as alluring. Its comforts would do him well. But…
He glares out into the early morning, knowing that Bakura is still dangerous despite being driven from the palace in defeat. Re will rise in a few hours. The search will be easier then.
"My Pharaoh, you're awake." Siamun comes up behind Atem with Mahad in tow, both bowing in respect. Atem turns with a weak smile.
"So I am, and so are you. Has there been any sign of Bakura?" he asks, smile disappearing and turning into a scowl at the negative shake of heads.
"We come bearing different news, and I believe it would be a relief for your heart for you to go to your poor wife, Pharaoh. The queen is unaware of the attack on the palace, and as I hear it from Lady Seshat, the goddesses in her chamber will not allow her to leave," Siamun addresses tactfully, watching Atem's expression change drastically.
"Bali! I didn't forget, but I—"
"We will continue to secure the palace and search for Bakura. Queen Bali needs you," Mahad interrupts, a tired, friendly smile spreading on his face as Atem's shoulders droop.
"Thank you. Everything is happening at once, it's frustrating. Should anything happen, come get me at once!" Atem orders, and trots off as fast as his tired legs would go. Mahad watches him leave, smile dropping from his face, clenching his fists. He ducks his head. Siamun glances up at him, but already knows the young man's plight.
"The Millennium Ring has been acting strangely and it is difficult to sense when evil approaches. It is my fault that the tomb was raided and the palace attacked," Mahad states, shame coursing through his veins. At first, there is silence between them. Siamun stares around the old walls of the palace. He once believed, many years ago, that the unrest that plagued Egypt was gone for good. He had made so many choices back then… So many choices. All of his generation did.
The old vizier sighs. The new generations are the ones with the power now.
"Young Mahad, you are the most powerful sorcerer the Black Lands have ever seen beneath the Gods themselves. When you inherited the responsibilities of the Millennium Ring, you were ready. It's time for you to see that fact for yourself and prove it to the world."
Even in his weary state, Atem can feel the power radiating from the birthing chamber as he approaches. He stopped jogging, but keeps up what he thinks is a hurrying pace, at least. He knocks when he gets to the door. No amount of goading or pride would entice him to barge into that room, not with great goddesses in there. Seconds pass, and part of him fears that he won't be allowed entrance, until it opens and Seshat appears.
"Ah, Pharaoh!" Her exclamation is followed by an indiscernible sound from inside that sounds like Bali. Seshat smiles wearily at it. "It's good that you're here. She attempted a spell to survey outside the room and got caught by the goddesses. I'm not sure how much she saw, but she's worried. Seeing you will ease her anxiety."
He's allowed in.
"That's why I'm here. It's been a long night," he says, following her back further into the chamber where Bali waits. He hears a frog croak in response. His head buzzes with heka.
"You'll get used to it, Pharaoh. Here, she is resting back here," Seshat points out, turning a corner and gesturing over to her left. Atem rounds the corner and sees an unexpectedly comical sight.
Bali is lying back on a bed, where she will be until she is ready to give birth, a large green frog with glittery gold markings on its back sitting on her chest. A tall woman with thick black braids with lotus flowers tucked between them stands alert and menacing over the bedside, and a different woman, who is also pregnant, putters around gracefully getting the chamber ready to her liking. Atem guesses that, because the maids steer clear of her at risk of angering her, the woman is Taweret. Bali's expression changes from annoyed fatigue to bright curiosity, though. That's enough for him, to see her smile again.
"You're okay! What's happening out there, and don't try telling me it's nothing, it obviously isn't," she rumbles, reaching forward for his hand. He takes it. And although he knows he needs to answer and speak and cajole, he doesn't yet. He just holds her hand. Strokes his thumb across the back of it. He takes in her presence.
"A single man led me to summon a God. Not an army. Not a rival nation.
Just one person and his hatred."
How does he tell her, while she's meant to focus on their son, that someone so dangerous is on the loose? That this man attacked? That he threatened—no,promised—to kill them all, because of some heinous injustice that was committed against him… It had seemed an easier, more organized explanation in his head when he was walking in. Now he's facing Bali and the words are scattered.
"Bali, we handled it. The attacker got away but no one was grievously harmed, I promise. You should keep focused here. On Amen. He needs you," he says, keeping details noticeably vague. Too much so, she catches it and leers.
"It was the Thief King. What did he do? What didyoudo, I could feel… something. From you."
He feels a shiver at that information. She has to be talking about his summoning of the God of the Obelisk.
"I summoned God of the Obelisk to drive him out. His Spirit Ka is powerful, more than we've ever seen," he answers quietly. So, so quietly. The admittance he never wanted to make to her is one he never wanted to make to himself out loud. Bali furthers it.
"And he survived."
He nods. She breathes deeply, clenching her free hand at her side. Taweret hums approvingly at the type of breath, Heket croaks. Atem cracks a dim smile despite everything.
"I'm still here, and we will be a family when this is all over. I have all sorts of tricks and spells with the puzzle the world doesn't know about," he reassures, but her expression, her eyes, her entirety changes even if she physically remains the same.
"The Millennium Items are dangerous. Those spells are double-edged. Don't use them," she warns, skin radiating an unnatural heat. Heket chirps again, disgruntled, but doesn't move. Atem reels from these words. Words that are reminiscent of Bakura's.
"I will do whatever I have to, should the time come that I must protect my family and my people. That is my role in this world, Bali."
His visit has to be short. Bali bites her lip, nails digging into her palm as he kisses her forehead in goodbye. She doesn't have the energy or the will left to argue.
She can barely keep her eyes from welling up in panic. For whatever reason, maybe it's the goddesses and their demeanor, the story of the Thief King's attack, or Atem's absolute solemn promise to protect everyone no matter the cost to himself.
As he walks from the room and away from her, she knows that was the last time.
Notes:
FUN FACT!: Frogs are great. Heket, who appears, is a goddess who appears starting Middle Kingdom era, as both a frog and as a frog-headed woman. She watches over the formation of a child in the womb through to its birth, and there are amulets made of her up through the New Kingdom. Her main cult center was in Herwer (possibly modern Hur according to my source), but she appears in the temples of other gods too. Makes complete sense, frogs in the Nile, Nile gives life, therefore frogs overlook life somehow. I like frogs.
Chapter 47: True Power
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
After his visit, Atem gathered reports from across the palace on the search for Bakura. Yes, he did indeed escape the palace and Thebes proper. Some wayward companions of his even provided distractions by setting fires in different districts. Eyewitnesses claimed that the men responsible were wearing black cloaks. They've even got a moniker now, with the people going around calling them the "Ones-in-Black." Not supremely inventive, but it was sufficient enough to catch on.
But with the immediate danger gone and the Guardians weary, he didn't need any further advice from Siamun. He ordered them all to rest. Yes, all of them must sleep… Most heeded his command, of course. On the return to his apartments after one last look out over the city, Mahad joins him. He begs forgiveness for the breach in security, the raiding on Pharaoh Akhnemkhanen's tomb, and the lack of control he's had on the Millennium Ring lately. Atem remains quiet, knowing his old friend is frustrated.
"Mahad, please. Ensure that my father is securely reinstated, and we will all work together on fighting Bakura," he says at last, feeling a wash of grief yet again. He will not be able to attend the reinterring of his father, and all mourning over the circumstances have been ripped away from him. His anger rises as a vision of Bakura enters his mind.
"Yes…" Mahad trails off. A sound from a nearby decorative pot jolts both of them awake. Mahad steps in front of his king, defensive and ready. "Stay behind me!"
Both watch on as seconds pass by, until movement! Both gasp as the figure jumps out with a cheerful, mischievous shout, arms spread wide for a hug. Atem is immediately entrapped, but neither of them fight the figure off. It's only Mana, after all.
"Heeeey!" Her salutation is cut short when she's pulled off by her collar, courtesy of Mahad.
"Aww I was only congratulating Mr. Father-to-be, here. Feels like forever since we've gotten together and played around," she points out, crossing her arms sulkily as her master sets her on her feet.
"Mana, you choose the oddest of times to act carelessly. The palace was attacked earlier and Pharaoh needs his rest after the battle," Mahad chides. Mana hums.
"Yeah, I know. Why d'you think I'm even up and about in the first place? You really think your top student would be sleeping when an evil so bad is walking around? I got worried about Atem, so ta-da!" She spreads her arms wide with a wink, but her gaze is placed solely on Mahad. Atem smiles, knowing what she said was only a half truth.
"But to pop out so recklessly, we could've attacked," Mahad argues, and Atem laughs, placing a placating hand on his friend's arm.
"It all turned out fine, didn't it? We would have sensed evil intent in the first place."
Mahad shakes his head, lips twitching as he tries to hide a smile. "You are right, Your Majesty."
"Ooooh, so it's actually a good thing you came along. So I got bored spying around in this pot and I was practicing spells and if you're wondering what happened to the guards in this sector, they're frozen," she admits, though not without a hint of pride.
"Mana!"
She holds her hands up to defend, while Atem tries not to laugh.
"At least I'm practicing! My magic has gotten way way better, I mean look at them all!" True to her word, one look around and they can see that men are magically frozen against their will, some midstep in their rounds. Mahad turns on her, disbelief at her foolishness making him terse.
"We need them to guard the palace. Gods, Mana, Queen Bali is giving birth to the Crown Prince!"
Mana wilts, but recovers quickly, taking a deep breath.
"Right! I'll get 'em going again!" She plants her feet firmly as she's been taught and dips into her ba, transferring it into heka, and speaks the release. A short glow is emitted from the frozen soldiers, but none begin to move.
"'Way way better,' as you put it?" Mahad asks, unimpressed. Atem coughs, crossing his arms and sticking a hand over his mouth. He's supposed to be serious right now.
"Ahaha… Guess why I said it's a good thing you came along, Master Mahad?"
"I can't believe you."
Mana and Mahad discuss some more about the proper usage of the spell and how to dissolve it. As Mahad fixes the issue, Atem soaks in the moment and stares at the stars.
"I hope Amen will have friends like this. I will do everything I can to make this world peaceful and safe for him, to give him the legacy of light started by my father."
Mahad turns his head to speak to him, but pauses at the determined expression he sees, knowing his friend is currently deep in thought. Seeing this strengthens his resolve further. Mahad knows. Beside them both, Mana watches on, face dropping into an uncharacteristically dim frown. They'd all faced terrible trials in the past. She knows they're all strong. But for some reason, she has the feeling that this "Thief King" and his hatred would spell the end for them all.
Seth could not sleep. Not yet. The sting of failure keeps him awake, his pride even disallowing him from visiting with Kisara. Instead, his tumultuous mind takes him to the Shrine of Wedju, the House of All Kas, to stare up at the carvings of the divine creatures. The Queen's own, Sun Dragon Re, is the most recent obvious addition. They now perfectly surround the carving of the puzzle, truly the work of fate.
"A Spirit Ka as powerful as Bakura's that could only be turned away by the Chosen Pharaoh of the Divine Beasts… Is there no other way to fight it?"he ruminates, sight growing hazy as he tries to focus on memories from long ago. Back when he first met the girl with the white dragon Spirit Ka. He knows she's been through enough in this life. Enough turmoil, enough battle, and enough hardship, all thanks to her Spirit Ka. He wishes nothing more than to keep her from seeing more danger.
"Seth, here you are!"
He is snapped from his foggy recollections by Akhenaden, but he doesn't dare show he's taken off guard. He nods at the older priest as he ascends the shrine steps.
"I've just come from the latest scouting reports."
Seth already knows what the reports will be, but gestures for his old mentor to continue anyway.
"He and those with him—civilians are calling them the 'Ones-in-Black'—are not in any of the valleys, his old base, nor at Kul Elna."
Seth takes the information without expression, before almost shrugging and turning to face the divine beasts again.
"We are frantic, but he will be caught sooner or later. It's his will that he does battle with us in the first place," he says, maintaining a stoic demeanor despite his racing thoughts on the matter. "That man's Spirit Ka poses a terrible threat to us all, Master Akhenaden. We can't let him live and wreak chaos with it much longer."
The old priest agrees, though carefully. He keeps a level gaze on the young man. The young woman that's being kept in the palace harbors a great secret he sensed with his Millennium Eye. He also knows that she's tied to his past in some way. What does it all mean? When should he talk about it?
"The monsters in this shrine, all torn from sinners we've caught in the past. There's no standing up to Bakura's Diabound with the filth in this shrine when Pharaoh has the gods," Seth remarks, craning his head around at the walls full of sealing tablets. Akhenaden looks around briefly.
"It is true that the six of us, with all our kas, would have been killed had Pharaoh not stepped in. But what is your point?"
"My point is that with what we have now, we are weak, and we are useless to Pharaoh and his family. These monsters are all parasites, never meant for anything strong."
"And yet, Bakura isalsoa sinner, and he bears his Spirit Ka that grows with his hatred. If he is so evil, why would his ka grow?"
Seth remains silent.
"The mere strength of his hatred? Or perhaps its source? We can't be sure, and if we can't be sure, how can we properly combat it?" Akhenaden persists, fists clenching as memories of decades past spring up fresh. "Eminent Pharaoh Akhnemkhanen, my brother, had the items forged as holy relics to acquire peace and prosperity for our empire at last. Few know of the evil that lurks within them, but this Bakura does. With all of his knowledge, he will know how to oppose us should we fight how we always have."
Seth draws back, startled.
"He was speaking the truth? The Millennium Items can be used to make a contract with the dark spirits that have been banished to Ammut's stomach?"
"We cannot let Bakura have them. It would mean the end… The end of Egypt, of everything…" Is Akhenaden's solemn reply. Seth grits his teeth and leers at the ground. The older priest starts in surprise when he hears a bit of dry laughter.
"Master, I have an idea," Seth says, and immediately Akhenaden feels a sense of dread. Something in Seth's eyes… Nothing good will come of this.
"There must be others in the city with powerful ka with hidden abilities of their own, don't you think? We should capture them and develop them ourselves to turn them into incredible weapons! If ka gain power through hatred, we can torture them, make them fight each other until we have an army of unstoppable monsters. No one can stop us, as we are the highest authority under Pharaoh."
Akhenaden can't believe his ears.
"That—! You can't be serious, Seth! To propose such a plan, to use the medjay for a manhunt in these dire times when the people are full of fear! Pharaoh wouldneverallow something so egregious and abusive! Her Majesty the Queen would be irate!"
Seth crosses his arms but seems no less confident, turning away slightly. Part of him is vindictive on behalf of Kisara. Let the rest of the world hurt for the pain they've shown her...
"It is not a man hunt, but aka-hunt. Pharaoh and Queen Bali need not know about it, as they would be forced to stop it. As Pharaoh's loyal followers, we will gladly carry this out for his benefit. We are his shadow in these dark times, Master. I accept that duty with pride and understand its responsibilities fully!" He points to the Divine Beasts. "I will create a ka to surpass the Divine Ones!"
Akhenaden, now speechless, only watches as the young man leaves.
"If Bakura is truly a survivor from Kul Elna, then his hatred will be bottomless. If Seth sees this plan through, so many more will suffer! It will be a repeat of my mistakes, it will be the end of all I sacrificed for!"
...
Later that morning, with the sun safely in the sky, the palace on lockdown, and some rest gained, Atem meets with the other Millennium Item bearers to watch over a training session. If there's anything that the night before showed him, it's that the teamwork between his guardians was sorely lacking. Any training, even with the short time they are allotted now, would be better than nothing.
They stand in a designated chamber for their battle, a training ground of sorts built by his father when the Items were first forged and brought into Egypt. Atem had used it in his days as a mere Crown Prince, learning the ultimate magics of the puzzle from his father. Each of the others had also used it when learning their individual summoning powers. But this is the first time all seven gathered here, even if Atem wouldn't be an active participant.
"Guardians, you are gathered and split into two teams of three! You are allotted one stone each, and allowed to summon one ka, be it from the stone or your own Spirit Ka. The team that defeats all the opponent's ka monsters wins!" Siamun explains, having stepped forward from his place beside Atem to do so. Atem sits at the head of the room, in a smaller throne. He will be watching for anything,anythingthat would serve to bolster the strength of his High Priests.
Akhenaden, Seth, and Shada form one team. Isis, Karim, and Mahad the other. All six nod their understanding of the rules. Siamun looks back to Atem, who assents.
"BEGIN!"
"DIAHA!"
Without hesitation, Seth steps forward with his hand out, his Spirit Ka Duos appearing in a flash above him.
"I summon Duos, mirror of my soul! Let's go!" The Millennium Rod glitters in his hand, the summoning second-nature. Shada steps forward with the key held up, heka already swirling as the stone slab behind him swings upward.
"Monster ka Zerua, come forth!"
The other team immediately retaliates with the summoning of Mahad's Illusion Magician and Isis' Spiria. Akhenaden and Karim remain silent, though heka mildly swirls about them. Their plans are much more subtle. Siamun chuckles, having posted himself back next to Atem.
"Interesting already, I see. Two summoned monsters on Akhenaden's team, one personal and one from the sanctuary, while Mahad's team has two Spirit Kas. With that team making no use of their three stone tablets, I know Karim must be hiding something tricky in them…" he mutters. Atem would smile if this training exercise were more routine, rather than a desperate attempt to become stronger.
Seth attacks. Duos flings itself forward on his command, only to be bound by a crackling circle of heka: Illusion Magician's special ability to entrap attackers. Or at least, that was Mahad's aim. Instead, Akhenaden springs to action, at last summoning a ka from his stone slab.
"I summon Dark Ushebti, to take the place of Duos in the entrapment!"
"Now Duos can continue his attack!" Seth yells, urging his ka forward after he ensures that the summoned sacrifice substitute has indeed taken its place in the trap. Mahad glares in frustration, but Isis takes the lead without faltering.
"I won't let you, take this Seth! Spiria, use your Rainbow Barrier to deflect the attack!"
Seth is taken aback yet again as Duos is diverted from its directive. Siamun chuckles lightly.
"Mahad's team has excellent teamwork thus far, wouldn't you say? Each time Seth attempts to brute force his way to victory, they overcome him with special abilities and help each other," he mutters. Atem doesn't reply. There is still much his High Priests could do, but he already has an idea where the main problem lies within the group. He wonders what Bali would think if she could only be here…
"No. This is our fight.Myfight. I will never let her suffer for my weakness again,"he reminds himself, and watches as the team duel continues.
"I will handle this Seth! Zerua, dispel magic! Use your special technique to destroy Spiria's barrier!" Shada commands, his monster crossing its arms and glowing with heka. Isis gasps as her barrier crumbles, their defenses once again lowered.
"Ha, I've been waiting for this! Trap monster!" Karim suddenly shouts, one stone slab jolting up and unleashing a gigantic spider. "Desert Trapdoor Spider, capture Zerua!"
Sticky webbing shoots from his monster, encasing Zerua. Shada cringes, as now only Seth's monster can move. Atem narrows his eyes when Seth grins.
"Thank you, my friends, for this opportunity. Duos, attack Zerua now!" Duos turns and slashes to the side, cutting easily through Zerua. Shada grasps shortly at his chest from the pain of losing his summon. "Ha, yes! When Duos makes a sacrifice of its allies, it doubles in strength! Now I will destroy Dark Ushebti to increase that power and wipe you out!" Seth declares, giddy with the rush of imminent victory.
"You go that far?" Mahad growls, but he can do nothing to stop Duos as its now tripled Aura Sword heads for the three monsters of his team. With an easy fell swoop, Illusion Magician, Spiria, and the Desert Trapdoor Spider are eliminated. Mahad, Isis, and Karim drop to their knees from the pain. Only his oldest friend sitting up on the throne notices that Mahad is seething with anger and only just containing it.
"All right Seth, that's enough. You win," Siamun calls, though his tone is flat.
"Mahad, what have you been doing these past months?! Your Spirit Ka is nothing, and your ba is weak! It's no wonder that we have security issues both here at the palace and at the sacred tombs," Seth chides.
"I will admit our defeat Seth, but how can you accept your victory? Sacrificing your allies to win is not a balanced path," Karim replies, recovering quickly. Pharaoh hasn't stepped in yet.
"Victory is victory. War is not won with the number of soldiers, nor with words exchanged. I'll listen to you when you've become a worthy opponent."
Seth begins a dismissive walk from the platform.
"Priest Seth!"
A pin could be dropped in the room as Seth turns to face his king. What he sees is not anger, nor judgment. Pharaoh and his queen are two different people toward him in that regard. But if he was addressed as "priest," it means Pharaoh has an issue with his words.
"Yes, Your Majesty?"
"A strategy that relies solely on power and on strength is shaky at best, with unforeseen weaknesses that will lead to eventual disaster," Atem explains, his lips quirking up even if times are dire. He learned this lesson the most brutal way anyone can, after all. He will never let Bali face battle again.
Seth smirks.
"Is that so?"
"True power can never be gained by trampling on your own allies and friends. Do that, and we become exactly what Bakura says we are," Atem replies, growing serious. Seth's demeanor doesn't change.
"Ah. Then what is power? Would you care to instruct us, instructmeon what it should be? If I'm not presumptuous in asking, My Pharaoh," Seth says, drawing protest from Siamun. Atem stands, silencing his vizier.
"Very well, I don't mind." He joins Seth down on the training platform. The area has been cleared for their duel, the room suddenly tense with anticipation. Seth's heart thuds in his chest at the thought of facing the God-Beasts.
"I thank you for this opportunity to face the Divine Ones," he mentions casually, but Atem shakes his head.
"I will not be summoning any of the God-Beasts for this duel. I will need only one tablet," he states, heka minutely swirling around him as the stone rises behind him. Seth arches an eyebrow.
"No God…? And only one ka monster against my Spirit Ka. My Pharaoh, are you sure?"
Atem smiles.
"I'm ready to begin. No more stalling."
"Diaha!"
Once more, Duos pops out, Seth's obvious choice for summoning.
"And this is the ka I choose!" Atem yells, shifting his hand back to the tablet as an image begins to form. The guardians watch on in wonder, only to gasp in utter confusion.
"What?!"
"That tiny thing?"
Seth glares, clenching his fists at the sight.
"Is he making fun of me?"
"I will destroy that stone slab before your ka is even summoned! Duos, attack that pathetic creature with your Aura Sword!" he commands, voice far too bitter to be healthy when he's facing Pharaoh. His face lights up as the tablet is destroyed, spraying into chunks of stone going every which way. He won such a simple duel, and yet… Pharaoh isn't stunned. He's calm, and now that Seth is really looking… Pharaoh is quite pleased that Seth attacked. The reason why becomes apparent quickly.
The monster. The tiny pathetic ka. It begins appearing on every bit of stone blasted from the tablet.
"This ka has a special power, in which destroying its summoning tablet allows it to multiply! Attacking thoughtlessly means an instant loss," Atem explains smugly, before straightening. The bell-like tone of the puzzle echoes through the hall. "I summon my monsters now!"
Innumerable furballs with claws and eyes pop from the stones, encasing Duos and its sword. More and more and more continue to pile on until Seth's Spirit Ka becomes smothered. He bends over in pain as finally, the pressure becomes too much and Duos is defeated.
"See, Seth? Power is a fragile thing. Just as the Millennium Puzzle is simply many small parts formed together for the mighty pendant, even the smallest force can achieve amazing victory."
Nefertari rubs her eyes for perhaps the twentieth time that morning but continues her work. She's been relieved from the birthing chambers now, and it's all the better: She can make better use of her time. Her Queen was in no danger, and true labor hadn't begun yet. The goddesses and heka swirling around Queen Bali was just too much.
"But Master Mahad was right, I need to get used to it if I'm going to work," she grumbles, setting her charcoal down to relieve her aching wrist. She has a feeling Master Mahad will also make her develop her heka. With what her endgame entails, she probably won't get around it…
Months ago, after her attack in the marketplace, she had gone to Memnet in search of advice. Nefertari will forever be grateful for her queen's protection and help, but after feeling fear again… She couldn't rely on others. She needed to learn to defend herself, to protect others, to be what Bali is for her. Memnet had sat, stony-faced, as she related her thoughts and feelings and doubts about training to be a medjay.
"Women aren't common, but not unheard of. You should be asking the leaders of the medjay, not me," had been her brusque reply. Nefertari had nodded gloomily at first, thinking it meant she had been foolish for asking, but caught onto the Head Maid's true meaning. She had bowed and rushed off to talk to Master Mahad. And as it had turned out, she didn't talk to Master Mahad that day, though she did get steered his way eventually. No, her fateful meeting had been with High Priest Seth, the one who made absolutely sure her father would never…
She picks up the charcoal again and gets to work, face set in a determined scowl.
"I won't let my past define my future. I'm going to learn to write, whether Master Seth believes I can or not," she mutters under her breath, continuing on with her exercises for beginner scribes. Once finished, she'll track down either Mahad or Seth for corrections and the next assignment. There are those she could go to that aren't as high up, but she doesn't want either of them to forget her. She doesn't want to fade into the grind of the regular medjay workforce.
She'll do whatever she can to ensure that the pathway to her goal doesn't end because of them.
Notes:
FUN FACT!: There's evidence that one of the Ancient Egyptian tax systems was based on grain production (which makes sense, given it's a mostly agrarian society), and each year the amount taken to be stored away would be based on how much was harvested. So, there was no set tax rate generally. Also, the decision to go into battle would depend on the surplus, the time of year, and the overall quality of the harvest. If they could help it, they wouldn't go off fighting when there's no food to be had for everyone (or rather, no army runs on air.) Of course, I can only imagine this was the norm for only a couple dynasties, as there are a few eras in which there was a lot of chaos and disorder.
Chapter 48: Birth of Dark Magician
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Midafternoon comes. The queen is still kept in the birthing chamber. The palace is secure, with each bearer of a Millennium Item doing everything they can to keep the peace and find any trace of Bakura. Isis stays in constant meditation with the Necklace, attempting even some glimpse of the future. She eats and sleeps little, knowing that any hint could be the vital clue their existence hinges on.
Mahad is setting out for the tombs. None are aware of the plan he's set down. Mana might keep staring at him, but he didn't even divulge to her. The few medjay needed to implement the plan are some of his most trusted and loyal, and they will not be fully aware of the scope of it until it is laid in motion. He's had enough of waiting, of apologizing, and of hearing that more and more people are in danger.
He'd just left a brief meeting with Pharaoh and the others. It was merely to say that preparations are complete, that the tombs are fortified, and that he will be leaving to oversee the rest of the work. His king continued to be gracious, forgiving him and allowing him to keep his status. Seth had more cutting words about his failures, but he couldn't deal with him right now. He had to keep his strength for the battle ahead. Knowing that Isis can only see darkness with the Millennium Necklace, Seth kept any of his own ideas to himself, handing out snide comments for anyone who asked. Something is taking his concentration away from scouring the city once more, leaving Mahad with his window of opportunity. Pharaoh can only wait for the enemy to come to him. With the tense air around the palace only furthering his friend's stress, he calls for the medjay and begins.
He can feel him now, after all. Skittering in and out of his range of awareness, Mahad feels the Millennium Ring around his neck quiver. He knows that the thief is doing so to infuriate him. He wonders what Bali's advice would be. Ever since their fearsome queen had gone into labor, darkness peeked around every corner. Did Bakura wait for her to be away like this, was it planned? Or was it purely circumstantial?
"No, it must be Re's warning. This is fate," Mahad mutters under his breath. The group of men behind him await his signal to move out. He will do his duty to his king, one way or another. The march begins. It seems that the parade down the boulevard to their awaiting boat drags much longer than usual. Mahad doesn't dare look around, keeping focused instead on what lies before him. That is, until he hears his name called from behind.
"Mahad! Mahad, please wait!" Isis bounds up. Even her immaculate application of kohl can't hide the exhaustion in her eyes. When she catches up, he has a feeling that she doesn't bear the best news.
"I just received a fragment of what will happen! You can't do this, I can't let you go alone," she gasps, placing a hand on his shoulder. Without a word he gently clasps his hand over hers and keeps it there for just a moment before releasing. Isis slides her hand off to place it over her heart. Her head drifts down to hide her anguish.
"This is something I must do, no amount of persuasion can keep me from moving forward. Pharaoh has been too kind in letting me waste time here. I am the greatest in the Black Lands at sorcery, and it's time I prove it."
Isis darts her gaze up, ready to protest.
"You can't mean that everything that Seth said has gotten to you! It isn't true, not at all!"
He takes a deep calming breath, before smiling wryly. He stares directly into her eyes with an air of regret. Isis reads his expression perfectly and protests once more.
"No! You know, but you're going to—"
"Isis, I already told you. This is something I must do. I will have truly failed everyone, and myself, if I don't," he states again. Tears leak from her eyes as she steps away.
"I know... I know."
"I am curious, however... You are unable to see the futures of holders of Millennium Items... How did you come to see even a glimmer of mine?" he asks with a sidelong glance. Her face reddens.
"I... I tried focusing on Mana, and she gave me the smallest detail." The admittance makes him laugh, even the smallest bit. He turns to get back to his mission, to turn away from his home at the palace for the last time.
"Know that you do return to the palace, Mahad," she