The Unexpected Chapter 2 (The Mummy Fic)
The Unexpected Chapter 2 (The Mummy Fic)
~After some quiet time, the Med-Jai seek the O'Connell's help in keeping dangerous secrets from the wrong hands.~
*Any comments are appreciated.*
***
Rick and Evie both packed for their Egyptian adventure. However, neither of them was completely sure how long they will be. But they knew to pack light, as they would be traveling quit often. As soon as they were loaded into the car, Jon came in a cab and loaded his things. They then went to Aunt Sue and Dr. Bey’s. Evie started to cry, she hated this. Aunt Sue comforted her and reminded her of what she was doing was for Alex. Rick said his good bye to Alex, as did Jon. Rick had to pull Evie away before she changed her mind. Once they got back into the car, she turned to her husband.
“I feel like the worst mother in the universe,” Evie said to him with tears still stinging her eyes. Rick reached over and squeezed her hand.
“We are doing what we have to do.” Evie shook her head in agreement, knowing her husband was right. Rick started the car and they were off to meet Ardeth.
***
Ardeth was waiting at the field with Roland. Rick was still a little astonished to see them together. He had known Roland for many years, but never knew he was an accomplice to the Med-Jai. Then again, Roland did not know Rick was a descendant of one.
“Well, here we are again, gang. Ya know, I think you are all just using me for my plane,” Roland winked at them. Evie smiled to herself, it was nice having a friendly face on this dangerous journey and having another capable pair of fighting hands. The five warriors got into the plane.
Rick took to the cockpit with Roland, as Jon sat between Ardeth and Evie. He hated being in the middle. Ardeth was not so pleased at being near the window; he was not a fan of heights. Ardeth closed the small curtain to the window before he spoke to his friends.
“As soon as we land Yon and a few others will meet us and take us to the village. Then we will discuss a plan of action.”
“A plan of action, eh?” Roland asked over the hum of the airplane.
“I personally like going in and kicking ass.” Ardeth smiled at his preferred plan.
“The only problem with that is we are not entirely sure who is responsible. Some of our scouts have seen various individuals near the supposed sight of the temple of Anubis, but we are not sure who they are. I am hoping when we return we will have more insight.”
“So, we are basically chasing no one?” Jon asked annoyed.
“There is someone, or some people, we just do not know who exactly as of this moment.”
“Well, when we find them I will personally enact my rage. I was supposed to be in a hotel with my wife for our anniversary,” Roland furrowed his brow.
“Sorry, man,” Rick told his friend.
“Ah, well, it gives me something to look forward to,” Roland winked at Rick who laughed at his friend. If Rick had a brother, he would have wanted him to be like Roland.
“I should have brought a pillow,” Jon said as he squirmed in his seat.
“Why don’t you use your jacket?” Evie looked over at her brother.
“See, sis, you are the brains of the family,” Jon said as he took of his jacket, squirming even more until he had it off.
“I, for one, will not argue with that,” Ardeth said aloud. Rick and Roland laughed as Jon frowned at the Med-Jai warrior.
***
“It looks good,” Amed told her. She looked at herself in the mirror he held. Her red hair was now black as the night. She had to disguise herself so those awful Med-Jai would not recognize her.
“A disguise is a disguise,” she told him as she buttoned her shirt. Amed had saved her not long ago from the grips of quicksand. The Med-Jai had left her to die. All she wanted was the gold, so she could enjoy a nice life. She lost her brother in the attack. Well, it did not hurt her that much. He had been an annoyance. However, she personally blamed Evelyn O’Connell for that. If her husband had not come for her, he would still be alive. As soon as Amed had pulled her from the deathly sand, she hatched a new plane. Amed had been the only one to survive the attack. Sarie stepped out into the night and saw her newly formed team around various camp fires. She walked over to the tent guarded by three burly men. They parted when they saw her coming. She entered the tent and saw the black book of the dead still in the box she put it in. She knelt down and caressed it. All they needed was the key to open it. Then she would raise the army of a pharaoh to enact her revenge. Her first target was the O’Connells. She had a feeling they were already on her way. If she knew the Med-Jai, she knew they had found out about the disturbance in the underwater temple. Who better to help them then the all knowing Evelyn O’Connell? Sarie smiled at what she wanted to do to Evelyn.
***
When the plane landed right outside of Cairo, Jon bolted awake. Evie glared at him as she noticed the drool he left on her shoulder. He had leaned over on her and pinned her in. Rick offered to move him, but Evie just let him be.
“Sorry about that, sis.”
“Next time you can sleep in the cargo section,” Evie said as she motioned for him to follow Ardeth to get out of the plane. They all descended the stairs. Ardeth smiled at his Med-Jai warriors waiting for him atop their horses. He has also instructed them to bring horses for the O’Connells. As Jon looked around, he now felt out of place among the black and silver robes adorned with swords. His group looked like they ransacked an army store with their dark clothes and boots. Rick gave everyone their bag as they all bowed to the Med-Jai and went atop their horses.
“We will ride for awhile until we reach the village. Then we will determine our plan.”
“Your village?” Evie asked.
“Yes. It will be safe there until we have a plan and then can set up camp closer to our destination.”
“I have never seen a Med-Jai village,” Evie smiled.
“Does everyone wear black? I may feel out of place,” Jon frowned at his green khakis. Rick shot a look at Jon. Ardeth laughed as he motioned for the horses to move forward.
“No. Only the warriors and leaders do. The woman’s clothing is quit colorful actually. However, you do make a valid point, Mr. Carnahan. Perhaps I will find some clothes for you four to better fit in.”
“I will warn you, I look good in black!” Jon told him.
“We will restrain ourselves,” Rick added. The team made their way across the desert to the Med-Jai village. After several hours of riding, Rick was beginning to think they were not going to reach it before nightfall. Then, it seemed, out of nowhere- it appeared. The village looked large. It was surrounded by what appears to be a large moat- several miles long. Ardeth explained to them as they grew near it was a small river from the Nile itself. Several bridges were heavily guarded around the village. As they drew near, Evelyn could see various parts of the village. There appeared to be a training camp for the warriors, parts of town where houses were together, farming areas, shops, and even what appeared to be an arena. Evie chastised herself for thinking the Med-Jai were not capable of having such an extraordinary village. They crossed the bridge as several of the heavily armed guards bowed to Ardeth, who nodded back at them. Ardeth lead them through the village to the stables. Several of the townspeople glanced in their direction at the outsiders. It was rare for them to have outsiders in their village, especially Americans. Once they reached the stables, Ardeth lead them to a stone house nearby.
“This can be your house while you stay here during this journey. I am going to meet with the commanders and come back soon so we can all meet,” Ardeth told them.
“Thank you,” Evie smiled at Ardeth before he walked off towards the direction they came. Evie and Rick entered the stone house followed by Roland and Jon. It was one large room with four hammocks, a fireplace, and a small table with chairs.
“What the hell are those? Hammocks?” Jon asked.
“Thank you, captain obvious,” Rick replied. Roland sat down on one of the hammocks.
“Hey, not bad! And I have a feeling these will be a welcomed relief after days in the desert.”
“Excuse me,” came a voice from the door. They all turned to see a young girl holding some clothes.
“Hello,” Evie smiled at the girl, who could not have been more than twelve. She wore a bright blue dress and her black hair hung down to her shoulders. The girl smiled when Evie talked to her, as the big men with her seemed a bit scary. “Ardeth Bay told me to bring these to you,” The girl held out the clothes to Evie.
“Thank you,” Evie told the small girl as she skipped away. Jon looked at the black and silver clothes Evie held. Evie figure the top one was hers, as it was more of a dress. She let the men fight over the others.
“I have to wear a skirt!” Jon exclaimed.
“It’s a robe. There are pants for underneath,” Roland explained as he examined his own clothes.
“Anything that looks like a skirt is a skirt,” Jon told him as he put his hand on his hips.
“So, you’re a skirt?” Rick asked, noticing the way Jon was standing. Jon immediately crossed his arms instead.
***
After Evie and Rick changed, they waited outside for Jon and Roland. Rick smiled at his wife. She looked rather nice in her black dress. It hugged her curves in all the right places, while the silver on the belt and sleeves made her look like a warrior.
“What are you smiling about?” Evie cocked her head at him.
“The robes fit nicely,” he said.
“You don’t look bad yourself,” she commented as her eyes roamed his black robes, pants, and the silver that adorned his sleeves. Roland emerged and had almost identical robes on as Rick. Then Jon emerged with his robes, which looked rather odd on him- especially since he wore a scowl on his face.
“I feel like a Halloween costume,” Jon said as he joined the others.
“That doesn’t make any sense,” Rick told Jon.
“You don’t make any sense,” Jon said back. Evie sighed. Jon seemed like he was younger than Alex sometimes. Rick was about to say something back when Ardeth walked over with the sun setting behind him. He smiled at his friends.
“All I need to do is give you all swords and you’ll be warriors,” he told them.
“I’m wearing a skirt!” Jon threw his hands up.
“It is a robe,” Roland glared at him.
“It’s a part of the skirt family!”
“I think we are ready to go with you, Ardeth,” Rick started walking toward him as he glared at Jon over his shoulder. Ardeth began walking in the opposite direction they came. Evie took in the town and the people. Since night was almost here, men and woman were closing down their shops. She noticed everyone but the warriors wore black. She saw some of the prettiest colors on the dresses of woman and young girls. A few of the younger girls smiled at Evie, and she smiled back. Ardeth lead them to a large tented area. As they walked inside, four other Med-Jai warriors stood talking around a small fire. Evie noticed one of them was a woman. She had never seen a woman Med-Jai warrior before. She had long black hair held back in a ribbon and a sword on her hip. She looked as regal as the other warriors.
“Yon, Tarib, Abed, and Raina- this is Evelyn, Rick, Jon, and Roland,” Ardeth introduced them. Everyone exchanged a courtesy bow. Jon felt like he should curtsy.
“It is good to see you well, Evelyn,” Yon told Evie.
“Thank you, I am honored to be able to assist you after you assisted me,” Evie smiled.
“Please, everyone have a seat. We have much to discuss,” Tarib gestured with his large burly hands. Jon noticed how fit and muscular these warriors were, he felt if he said the wrong thing he may get beaten up. While he is a ladies man, he was not going to even attempt to flirt with Raina. As they sat down, Tarib passed everyone some wine.
“This is my kind of party,” Jon commented. Rick nudged him in the ribs.
“I am aware Ardeth has explained why you are all here and the urgency of the matter. We hope to visit the sit of the fallen temple at tomorrow’s first light. Our scouts reported no one in the nearby area, so we should be safe for now,” Tarib told everyone. “Our scouts also reported the party they had seen nearby a few days ago moved onto to the east towards the Valley of the Kings. We are assuming now they are looking for an army to raise.”
Jonathan raised his hand to ask a question; Rick rolled his eyes and put Jon’s hand down.
“Question?” Ardeth asked.
“Yes,” Jon glared at Rick.
“Why don’t we stop them now, before they raise the undead? Could solve the whole problem!”
“We cannot invade a party when we do not know their true intentions or they do not directly attack us. They could just be looking for things they never will find. We are not even sure if these particular individuals have the book of the dead. None of our scouts have seen it yet,” Tarib answered Jon.
“They will also have to have the key to open the book. Do we know if that has been taken?” Evie asked.
“Our hope is that they have not found the key yet. One of the reasons we are going to travel to the sit of the fallen temple. We hope the key still remains there and we can take it before they do. That could solve the problem,” Tarib told Evie. Rick glanced at Jon, who was too busy with his wine to hear Tarib’s tone in the last statement.
“If the temple is underwater, how will we expect to find the key?” Roland asked.
“The whole temple may not be underwater,” Evie added- remembering the legend she heard from her parents many years ago. “It was written-”
“Why is everything written? Isn’t that how we get into these situations? People read shit!” Jon exclaimed. Rick had had enough. Rick leaned into Jon’s face.
“Shut up, or I will see to it you shut up.” Jon gulped and nodded.
“Anyway,” Evie gestured with her hands. “This legend said Anubis felt his priests were not giving him the praise he deserved, so he caused an earthquake to take the temple. However, Isis wanted to protect the Egyptians from death. So, in the middle of the earthquake she stopped it. However, part of the temple went into the water, and the other part did not. Anubis was furious but decided to let it go since most of the priests perished and would now serve him in the afterlife.”
“So, maybe we can find the part of the temple on the land and find the key,” Rick added.
“I was unaware of those details; I had only hoped we would find clues to where it was in the underwater city, and then perhaps find a means to dive in the water. However this plan sounds more efficient,” Ardeth thought aloud.
“Agreed,” Raina chimed in. “I prefer not to test my ability to hold my breath under water.”
“Evelyn, can you tell us anything further that you have heard or read in regards to the temple of Anubis?” Tarib asked.
“Only the horror of the priests drowning and trying to save their own lives,” Evie said with a gentle sadness in her voice. The tent went quiet as everyone pondered what Evie just said.
“So,” Raina interrupted the silence, “we meet at first light on the west bridge?”
“Yes,” Ardeth said as he stood. The other followed his lead. Rick had to force Jon up, as he was in the middle of a drink of wine. “I would also like to invite you all to the feast tonight,” Ardeth said to the O’Connell clan.
“We always have a feast before a perilous journey. We would be honored if you would join us.”
“Of course,” Rick smiled.
Ardeth lead them all out to the arena they had passed when they arrived. Men, women, and children were all over the place. Food was being served and music was playing. Some were even dancing towards the musicians. Evie could not help but smile at this simple gathering of the Med-Jai. The only thing that was missing was her son. She missed him, but knew he was safer where he was. Rick must have read her mind as he held her hand as they were lead to the food. Jon practically sprinted towards it.
***
Evie found herself seated next to Raina as they enjoyed the feast. She had a thousand questions for this interesting woman.
“It’s Raina, correct?” Evie asked trying to start the conversation with her.
“That is correct, Evelyn,” Raina smiled.
“Are there many women warriors?” Evie asked excitedly. To hell with being polite, she was curious. Raina laughed at Evie’s curiosity, she was brimming with it.
“Not many, I am afraid. I am the first in over thirty years. My father died in a great battle, and my mother died not long after of an illness. I found one of my father’s swords and never let it go. A past leader saw the fire within me and encouraged me to become a warrior. It was hard to get past the sneers and rejection of some of the tribesmen. This just made me work harder. I killed more evil men in my first battle than any of the male warriors,” Raina smiled at the memory. “That was many years ago. Now, the leaders seek me for journeys such as the one we are embarking on tomorrow.”
“That is amazing,” Evie said in awe. She wished she had pen and paper to write down Raina’s story and ask more questions.
“Well, thank you,” Raina laughed. “It was a difficult journey to obtain the respect I know have, but well worth it. I am happy again. I get to destroy the evil that took my father, and-“, Raina’s eyes roamed to Tarib who was speaking with Rick, “I am to be married soon.” Evie saw Raina’s gaze and smiled.
“Oh, congratulations!” Evie’s not sure why, but she hugged the woman. Raina was a bit taken back but returned the hug before Evie released. Evie was amazed by this woman and what she accomplished. She felt a sisterly connect with her, Evie was usually the sole woman but not this time. She had someone to connect with, even though she barely knew her.
“You’re an interesting woman, Evelyn. You could have been a warrior in your own right,” Raina told her as she sipped her wine. Evie smiled.
“Any warrior skills I have will have to be because of my husband. He taught me to defend myself when needed,” Evie glanced over her shoulder and smiled at Rick, who was in deep conversation with Jon, Roland, Tarib, and Ardeth.
“Smart man,” Raina replied.
***
After the feast, the O’Connell party headed to their stone house. Evie and Rick choose the two hammocks next to one another, while Jon and Roland choose the others. Rick was about to blow out the candle next to him when he saw Jon fighting with the hammock.
“Are you about done wrestling with the hammock?”
“This is ridiculous! How did you all get in?”
“Just hold it down and lay down. It really does not require a genius,” Roland told Jon with irritation in his voice. He was tired and they had a long day ahead of them.
“You do realize who you are talking to?” Rick asked Roland. Jon took Roland’s advice and flopped down on the hammock and fought with it a little more before finally grabbing his blanket and becoming still.
“I think I got it!” Jon said proudly.
“Congratulations,” Roland said as he closed his eyes and Rick blew out the candle that only left the room with a soft glow from the fire. He leaned over to kiss Evie good night; she sleepily smiled at his touch.
“What if I have to pee?” Jon asked quietly.
“Then grab a flashlight and go,” Rick mumbled.
“What if there is a snake?” Jon asked again.
“Then run the other way,” Rick mumbled again.
“What if-” “Shut up!” Rick and Roland said in unison.
“Fine,” Jon pouted. They all eventually fell asleep inside their stone house in the middle of a Med-Jai camp.
***
“Just do it!” Sarie screamed at some of the diggers in front of a tomb several miles from the Valley of the Kings. One of the diggers had told the others it was extremely dangerous to open tombs of former Egyptian royalty, and now they all were scared. Sarie had no patience for this. They could only dig at night so they would not get noticed. During the day she studied maps and thought of plans while hiding in an old warehouse not far away. These diggers were going to break open the tomb, even if she had to kill one to show how serious she was. Amed stood close by, ensuring no harm came to Sarie. She had made him a guard on her previous expedition. She found him in a bar and his muscles caused her to ask him about the job. While he was a man of little emotions, he felt he owed her for saving him from a life as a bouncer in bars.
“Amed, why don’t we show the diggers how serious we are?” Sarie turned to him with a sneer on her lips. Amed walked over and picked up the man who started the discussion about opening tombs. Amed could lift him by one arm and held out his knife with the other to the man’s throat. The man squirmed in Amed’s strong grip. “If someone does not start digging right now, his throat will be slit with the blood on your hands,” Sarie stated calmly, as if she was discussing the weather. The other diggers stood there wide eyed while the man squirmed and cried out to be put down. One of the diggers began hacking on the tomb entrance while the others followed. Amed dropped the first digger, who scrambled away to join the others. “Thank you, Amed. Sometimes insolence needs to be taught a lesson.” Amed gave an evil smile to her and then resumed watching the diggers chip away ancient stone.
***
~After some quiet time, the Med-Jai seek the O'Connell's help in keeping dangerous secrets from the wrong hands.~
*Any comments are appreciated.*
***
Rick and Evie both packed for their Egyptian adventure. However, neither of them was completely sure how long they will be. But they knew to pack light, as they would be traveling quit often. As soon as they were loaded into the car, Jon came in a cab and loaded his things. They then went to Aunt Sue and Dr. Bey’s. Evie started to cry, she hated this. Aunt Sue comforted her and reminded her of what she was doing was for Alex. Rick said his good bye to Alex, as did Jon. Rick had to pull Evie away before she changed her mind. Once they got back into the car, she turned to her husband.
“I feel like the worst mother in the universe,” Evie said to him with tears still stinging her eyes. Rick reached over and squeezed her hand.
“We are doing what we have to do.” Evie shook her head in agreement, knowing her husband was right. Rick started the car and they were off to meet Ardeth.
***
Ardeth was waiting at the field with Roland. Rick was still a little astonished to see them together. He had known Roland for many years, but never knew he was an accomplice to the Med-Jai. Then again, Roland did not know Rick was a descendant of one.
“Well, here we are again, gang. Ya know, I think you are all just using me for my plane,” Roland winked at them. Evie smiled to herself, it was nice having a friendly face on this dangerous journey and having another capable pair of fighting hands. The five warriors got into the plane.
Rick took to the cockpit with Roland, as Jon sat between Ardeth and Evie. He hated being in the middle. Ardeth was not so pleased at being near the window; he was not a fan of heights. Ardeth closed the small curtain to the window before he spoke to his friends.
“As soon as we land Yon and a few others will meet us and take us to the village. Then we will discuss a plan of action.”
“A plan of action, eh?” Roland asked over the hum of the airplane.
“I personally like going in and kicking ass.” Ardeth smiled at his preferred plan.
“The only problem with that is we are not entirely sure who is responsible. Some of our scouts have seen various individuals near the supposed sight of the temple of Anubis, but we are not sure who they are. I am hoping when we return we will have more insight.”
“So, we are basically chasing no one?” Jon asked annoyed.
“There is someone, or some people, we just do not know who exactly as of this moment.”
“Well, when we find them I will personally enact my rage. I was supposed to be in a hotel with my wife for our anniversary,” Roland furrowed his brow.
“Sorry, man,” Rick told his friend.
“Ah, well, it gives me something to look forward to,” Roland winked at Rick who laughed at his friend. If Rick had a brother, he would have wanted him to be like Roland.
“I should have brought a pillow,” Jon said as he squirmed in his seat.
“Why don’t you use your jacket?” Evie looked over at her brother.
“See, sis, you are the brains of the family,” Jon said as he took of his jacket, squirming even more until he had it off.
“I, for one, will not argue with that,” Ardeth said aloud. Rick and Roland laughed as Jon frowned at the Med-Jai warrior.
***
“It looks good,” Amed told her. She looked at herself in the mirror he held. Her red hair was now black as the night. She had to disguise herself so those awful Med-Jai would not recognize her.
“A disguise is a disguise,” she told him as she buttoned her shirt. Amed had saved her not long ago from the grips of quicksand. The Med-Jai had left her to die. All she wanted was the gold, so she could enjoy a nice life. She lost her brother in the attack. Well, it did not hurt her that much. He had been an annoyance. However, she personally blamed Evelyn O’Connell for that. If her husband had not come for her, he would still be alive. As soon as Amed had pulled her from the deathly sand, she hatched a new plane. Amed had been the only one to survive the attack. Sarie stepped out into the night and saw her newly formed team around various camp fires. She walked over to the tent guarded by three burly men. They parted when they saw her coming. She entered the tent and saw the black book of the dead still in the box she put it in. She knelt down and caressed it. All they needed was the key to open it. Then she would raise the army of a pharaoh to enact her revenge. Her first target was the O’Connells. She had a feeling they were already on her way. If she knew the Med-Jai, she knew they had found out about the disturbance in the underwater temple. Who better to help them then the all knowing Evelyn O’Connell? Sarie smiled at what she wanted to do to Evelyn.
***
When the plane landed right outside of Cairo, Jon bolted awake. Evie glared at him as she noticed the drool he left on her shoulder. He had leaned over on her and pinned her in. Rick offered to move him, but Evie just let him be.
“Sorry about that, sis.”
“Next time you can sleep in the cargo section,” Evie said as she motioned for him to follow Ardeth to get out of the plane. They all descended the stairs. Ardeth smiled at his Med-Jai warriors waiting for him atop their horses. He has also instructed them to bring horses for the O’Connells. As Jon looked around, he now felt out of place among the black and silver robes adorned with swords. His group looked like they ransacked an army store with their dark clothes and boots. Rick gave everyone their bag as they all bowed to the Med-Jai and went atop their horses.
“We will ride for awhile until we reach the village. Then we will determine our plan.”
“Your village?” Evie asked.
“Yes. It will be safe there until we have a plan and then can set up camp closer to our destination.”
“I have never seen a Med-Jai village,” Evie smiled.
“Does everyone wear black? I may feel out of place,” Jon frowned at his green khakis. Rick shot a look at Jon. Ardeth laughed as he motioned for the horses to move forward.
“No. Only the warriors and leaders do. The woman’s clothing is quit colorful actually. However, you do make a valid point, Mr. Carnahan. Perhaps I will find some clothes for you four to better fit in.”
“I will warn you, I look good in black!” Jon told him.
“We will restrain ourselves,” Rick added. The team made their way across the desert to the Med-Jai village. After several hours of riding, Rick was beginning to think they were not going to reach it before nightfall. Then, it seemed, out of nowhere- it appeared. The village looked large. It was surrounded by what appears to be a large moat- several miles long. Ardeth explained to them as they grew near it was a small river from the Nile itself. Several bridges were heavily guarded around the village. As they drew near, Evelyn could see various parts of the village. There appeared to be a training camp for the warriors, parts of town where houses were together, farming areas, shops, and even what appeared to be an arena. Evie chastised herself for thinking the Med-Jai were not capable of having such an extraordinary village. They crossed the bridge as several of the heavily armed guards bowed to Ardeth, who nodded back at them. Ardeth lead them through the village to the stables. Several of the townspeople glanced in their direction at the outsiders. It was rare for them to have outsiders in their village, especially Americans. Once they reached the stables, Ardeth lead them to a stone house nearby.
“This can be your house while you stay here during this journey. I am going to meet with the commanders and come back soon so we can all meet,” Ardeth told them.
“Thank you,” Evie smiled at Ardeth before he walked off towards the direction they came. Evie and Rick entered the stone house followed by Roland and Jon. It was one large room with four hammocks, a fireplace, and a small table with chairs.
“What the hell are those? Hammocks?” Jon asked.
“Thank you, captain obvious,” Rick replied. Roland sat down on one of the hammocks.
“Hey, not bad! And I have a feeling these will be a welcomed relief after days in the desert.”
“Excuse me,” came a voice from the door. They all turned to see a young girl holding some clothes.
“Hello,” Evie smiled at the girl, who could not have been more than twelve. She wore a bright blue dress and her black hair hung down to her shoulders. The girl smiled when Evie talked to her, as the big men with her seemed a bit scary. “Ardeth Bay told me to bring these to you,” The girl held out the clothes to Evie.
“Thank you,” Evie told the small girl as she skipped away. Jon looked at the black and silver clothes Evie held. Evie figure the top one was hers, as it was more of a dress. She let the men fight over the others.
“I have to wear a skirt!” Jon exclaimed.
“It’s a robe. There are pants for underneath,” Roland explained as he examined his own clothes.
“Anything that looks like a skirt is a skirt,” Jon told him as he put his hand on his hips.
“So, you’re a skirt?” Rick asked, noticing the way Jon was standing. Jon immediately crossed his arms instead.
***
After Evie and Rick changed, they waited outside for Jon and Roland. Rick smiled at his wife. She looked rather nice in her black dress. It hugged her curves in all the right places, while the silver on the belt and sleeves made her look like a warrior.
“What are you smiling about?” Evie cocked her head at him.
“The robes fit nicely,” he said.
“You don’t look bad yourself,” she commented as her eyes roamed his black robes, pants, and the silver that adorned his sleeves. Roland emerged and had almost identical robes on as Rick. Then Jon emerged with his robes, which looked rather odd on him- especially since he wore a scowl on his face.
“I feel like a Halloween costume,” Jon said as he joined the others.
“That doesn’t make any sense,” Rick told Jon.
“You don’t make any sense,” Jon said back. Evie sighed. Jon seemed like he was younger than Alex sometimes. Rick was about to say something back when Ardeth walked over with the sun setting behind him. He smiled at his friends.
“All I need to do is give you all swords and you’ll be warriors,” he told them.
“I’m wearing a skirt!” Jon threw his hands up.
“It is a robe,” Roland glared at him.
“It’s a part of the skirt family!”
“I think we are ready to go with you, Ardeth,” Rick started walking toward him as he glared at Jon over his shoulder. Ardeth began walking in the opposite direction they came. Evie took in the town and the people. Since night was almost here, men and woman were closing down their shops. She noticed everyone but the warriors wore black. She saw some of the prettiest colors on the dresses of woman and young girls. A few of the younger girls smiled at Evie, and she smiled back. Ardeth lead them to a large tented area. As they walked inside, four other Med-Jai warriors stood talking around a small fire. Evie noticed one of them was a woman. She had never seen a woman Med-Jai warrior before. She had long black hair held back in a ribbon and a sword on her hip. She looked as regal as the other warriors.
“Yon, Tarib, Abed, and Raina- this is Evelyn, Rick, Jon, and Roland,” Ardeth introduced them. Everyone exchanged a courtesy bow. Jon felt like he should curtsy.
“It is good to see you well, Evelyn,” Yon told Evie.
“Thank you, I am honored to be able to assist you after you assisted me,” Evie smiled.
“Please, everyone have a seat. We have much to discuss,” Tarib gestured with his large burly hands. Jon noticed how fit and muscular these warriors were, he felt if he said the wrong thing he may get beaten up. While he is a ladies man, he was not going to even attempt to flirt with Raina. As they sat down, Tarib passed everyone some wine.
“This is my kind of party,” Jon commented. Rick nudged him in the ribs.
“I am aware Ardeth has explained why you are all here and the urgency of the matter. We hope to visit the sit of the fallen temple at tomorrow’s first light. Our scouts reported no one in the nearby area, so we should be safe for now,” Tarib told everyone. “Our scouts also reported the party they had seen nearby a few days ago moved onto to the east towards the Valley of the Kings. We are assuming now they are looking for an army to raise.”
Jonathan raised his hand to ask a question; Rick rolled his eyes and put Jon’s hand down.
“Question?” Ardeth asked.
“Yes,” Jon glared at Rick.
“Why don’t we stop them now, before they raise the undead? Could solve the whole problem!”
“We cannot invade a party when we do not know their true intentions or they do not directly attack us. They could just be looking for things they never will find. We are not even sure if these particular individuals have the book of the dead. None of our scouts have seen it yet,” Tarib answered Jon.
“They will also have to have the key to open the book. Do we know if that has been taken?” Evie asked.
“Our hope is that they have not found the key yet. One of the reasons we are going to travel to the sit of the fallen temple. We hope the key still remains there and we can take it before they do. That could solve the problem,” Tarib told Evie. Rick glanced at Jon, who was too busy with his wine to hear Tarib’s tone in the last statement.
“If the temple is underwater, how will we expect to find the key?” Roland asked.
“The whole temple may not be underwater,” Evie added- remembering the legend she heard from her parents many years ago. “It was written-”
“Why is everything written? Isn’t that how we get into these situations? People read shit!” Jon exclaimed. Rick had had enough. Rick leaned into Jon’s face.
“Shut up, or I will see to it you shut up.” Jon gulped and nodded.
“Anyway,” Evie gestured with her hands. “This legend said Anubis felt his priests were not giving him the praise he deserved, so he caused an earthquake to take the temple. However, Isis wanted to protect the Egyptians from death. So, in the middle of the earthquake she stopped it. However, part of the temple went into the water, and the other part did not. Anubis was furious but decided to let it go since most of the priests perished and would now serve him in the afterlife.”
“So, maybe we can find the part of the temple on the land and find the key,” Rick added.
“I was unaware of those details; I had only hoped we would find clues to where it was in the underwater city, and then perhaps find a means to dive in the water. However this plan sounds more efficient,” Ardeth thought aloud.
“Agreed,” Raina chimed in. “I prefer not to test my ability to hold my breath under water.”
“Evelyn, can you tell us anything further that you have heard or read in regards to the temple of Anubis?” Tarib asked.
“Only the horror of the priests drowning and trying to save their own lives,” Evie said with a gentle sadness in her voice. The tent went quiet as everyone pondered what Evie just said.
“So,” Raina interrupted the silence, “we meet at first light on the west bridge?”
“Yes,” Ardeth said as he stood. The other followed his lead. Rick had to force Jon up, as he was in the middle of a drink of wine. “I would also like to invite you all to the feast tonight,” Ardeth said to the O’Connell clan.
“We always have a feast before a perilous journey. We would be honored if you would join us.”
“Of course,” Rick smiled.
Ardeth lead them all out to the arena they had passed when they arrived. Men, women, and children were all over the place. Food was being served and music was playing. Some were even dancing towards the musicians. Evie could not help but smile at this simple gathering of the Med-Jai. The only thing that was missing was her son. She missed him, but knew he was safer where he was. Rick must have read her mind as he held her hand as they were lead to the food. Jon practically sprinted towards it.
***
Evie found herself seated next to Raina as they enjoyed the feast. She had a thousand questions for this interesting woman.
“It’s Raina, correct?” Evie asked trying to start the conversation with her.
“That is correct, Evelyn,” Raina smiled.
“Are there many women warriors?” Evie asked excitedly. To hell with being polite, she was curious. Raina laughed at Evie’s curiosity, she was brimming with it.
“Not many, I am afraid. I am the first in over thirty years. My father died in a great battle, and my mother died not long after of an illness. I found one of my father’s swords and never let it go. A past leader saw the fire within me and encouraged me to become a warrior. It was hard to get past the sneers and rejection of some of the tribesmen. This just made me work harder. I killed more evil men in my first battle than any of the male warriors,” Raina smiled at the memory. “That was many years ago. Now, the leaders seek me for journeys such as the one we are embarking on tomorrow.”
“That is amazing,” Evie said in awe. She wished she had pen and paper to write down Raina’s story and ask more questions.
“Well, thank you,” Raina laughed. “It was a difficult journey to obtain the respect I know have, but well worth it. I am happy again. I get to destroy the evil that took my father, and-“, Raina’s eyes roamed to Tarib who was speaking with Rick, “I am to be married soon.” Evie saw Raina’s gaze and smiled.
“Oh, congratulations!” Evie’s not sure why, but she hugged the woman. Raina was a bit taken back but returned the hug before Evie released. Evie was amazed by this woman and what she accomplished. She felt a sisterly connect with her, Evie was usually the sole woman but not this time. She had someone to connect with, even though she barely knew her.
“You’re an interesting woman, Evelyn. You could have been a warrior in your own right,” Raina told her as she sipped her wine. Evie smiled.
“Any warrior skills I have will have to be because of my husband. He taught me to defend myself when needed,” Evie glanced over her shoulder and smiled at Rick, who was in deep conversation with Jon, Roland, Tarib, and Ardeth.
“Smart man,” Raina replied.
***
After the feast, the O’Connell party headed to their stone house. Evie and Rick choose the two hammocks next to one another, while Jon and Roland choose the others. Rick was about to blow out the candle next to him when he saw Jon fighting with the hammock.
“Are you about done wrestling with the hammock?”
“This is ridiculous! How did you all get in?”
“Just hold it down and lay down. It really does not require a genius,” Roland told Jon with irritation in his voice. He was tired and they had a long day ahead of them.
“You do realize who you are talking to?” Rick asked Roland. Jon took Roland’s advice and flopped down on the hammock and fought with it a little more before finally grabbing his blanket and becoming still.
“I think I got it!” Jon said proudly.
“Congratulations,” Roland said as he closed his eyes and Rick blew out the candle that only left the room with a soft glow from the fire. He leaned over to kiss Evie good night; she sleepily smiled at his touch.
“What if I have to pee?” Jon asked quietly.
“Then grab a flashlight and go,” Rick mumbled.
“What if there is a snake?” Jon asked again.
“Then run the other way,” Rick mumbled again.
“What if-” “Shut up!” Rick and Roland said in unison.
“Fine,” Jon pouted. They all eventually fell asleep inside their stone house in the middle of a Med-Jai camp.
***
“Just do it!” Sarie screamed at some of the diggers in front of a tomb several miles from the Valley of the Kings. One of the diggers had told the others it was extremely dangerous to open tombs of former Egyptian royalty, and now they all were scared. Sarie had no patience for this. They could only dig at night so they would not get noticed. During the day she studied maps and thought of plans while hiding in an old warehouse not far away. These diggers were going to break open the tomb, even if she had to kill one to show how serious she was. Amed stood close by, ensuring no harm came to Sarie. She had made him a guard on her previous expedition. She found him in a bar and his muscles caused her to ask him about the job. While he was a man of little emotions, he felt he owed her for saving him from a life as a bouncer in bars.
“Amed, why don’t we show the diggers how serious we are?” Sarie turned to him with a sneer on her lips. Amed walked over and picked up the man who started the discussion about opening tombs. Amed could lift him by one arm and held out his knife with the other to the man’s throat. The man squirmed in Amed’s strong grip. “If someone does not start digging right now, his throat will be slit with the blood on your hands,” Sarie stated calmly, as if she was discussing the weather. The other diggers stood there wide eyed while the man squirmed and cried out to be put down. One of the diggers began hacking on the tomb entrance while the others followed. Amed dropped the first digger, who scrambled away to join the others. “Thank you, Amed. Sometimes insolence needs to be taught a lesson.” Amed gave an evil smile to her and then resumed watching the diggers chip away ancient stone.
***