#priestess mana | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

ashtarels-archives · 2 months ago

Text

The Mysteries of Elunite Ore

- Headcanon Speculations -

Elunite Ore, a rare mineral considered blessed by Elune Herself, is one often sought after; and yet shrouded in mystery. As many priests, priestesses, templars, and other devotees of the Goddess may strive to incorporate Elunite into their armaments and regalia, the quest for obtaining and fashioning this material is one that has spanned many lands and generations. This is a compendium on the nature of Elunite from various geologists, theorists, and researchers across Azeroth.

Earthly Origins

The origin of Elunite’s terrestrial formation is not entirely understood by Sisterhood scholars, nor by lithic experts of the world. One of the oldest proposed ideas is rooted in the ancient legend of Elune and the Well of Eternity: that she once dwelled in its depths during the day, and rose into the sky as the moon each night. Due to her strong former connection to this font of arcane power, it is surmised that Elunite may actually be crystallized remnants of the great well; whose leyline rivers once nourished the planet. One theorist believes that because all modern moonwells contain traces of the Well of Eternity, and are damaging to demons and scourgeblight, this could explain the similar holy properties of Elunite. However, others claim that it finds its beginnings as a simple, mundane ore embedded within the earth, which is eventually augmented with Elune’s blessings once it is exposed to the surface and directly shone upon by moonlight. More mythical sentiments say that any ore can become Elunite if the goddess wills it, and that finding it is an extremely rare and divine auspice. It is believed that processed Elunite is a multi-faceted metal whose properties can change depending on imbuement from various moon phases and other major lunar events, such as eclipses. While some think it is ever-shifting, varied accounts of miners and blacksmiths with the remarkable ability to shape Elunite describe that its qualities are determined by the state of the moon on the exact night that the ore is extracted from the earth. Either way, this is a succinct list of their observations:

Full Moon Properties: Bolsters the wearer/wielder’s healing capabilities, and is often inlaid into staves and suturing needles. Full Moon Elunite is also highly damaging to demons and the undead; therefore anyone on a demonic or undead purgation mission may seek out a weapon of this influence to aid in expunging corruption.

Waxing Moon Properties: Becomes a material which houses additional mana, that can then be tapped into for a small increase in magical reserves until recharged beneath the next waxing moon. Those who carry moonwater or the liquid fire of Elune may opt for this particular metal to house these sacred substances.

Quarter Moon Properties: Contains a natural abjurative energy which is typically used in the creation of Elunite shields, talismans, librams, wards, and armor for those who exercise a more defensive combat style, or wish to protect themselves magically against unholy forces.

Waning Moon Properties: Often the choice for Elunite accessories and other ephemera, which are usually crafted with the eventual intent of Elunarian sacrifice. When an item of waning moon Elunite is offered up, its physical form is completely consumed in exchange for a singular blessing, protection, or spell. Lunar liturgical glyphs or words of power are typically engraved on these accessories with particular spellwork in mind, although a priest/priestess may sacrifice a blank slate piece and incant one spell of choice with a greater potency.

New Moon Properties: It is said that New Moon Elunite is magically similar to the blessing of shadowmeld, allowing for easier camouflage into surrounding environments and quieter movements. Those who wish to make use of the protection offered by chainlinks or armor plates, while still retaining obscurity, may seek to have their regalia crafted with this semi-noise-dampening material. This offshoot of Elunite is additionally often sought after for the creation of arrowheads, shurikens, and other projectiles; as its magick may be utilized for brief invisibility before it dissipates and its physical counterparts reappear.

Solar Eclipse: Solar-eclipsed Elunite is often chosen in the creation of rings (such as archery thumb-rings) that are usually beset with moonstones and other blessed gems, whose imbuements can strengthen one's physical or magickal attacks.

Lunar Eclipse: Lunar-eclipsed Elunite is typically the choice material for divination tools: such as pendulums, scrying mirrors, and spirit-speaking quills. Some also craft ritual daggers with this material for the purpose of collecting flesh to be offered in Elunarian flame sacrifices.

Artisanal Knowledge

Another unknown characteristic of Elunite is how an artisan attains the ability to gather and shape the ore. It seems that precious few across Azeroth have this exceptional privilege, the two most prominent having once resided in the boughs of Darnassus. Elanaria and Mathiel have not been seen since the Burning of Teldrassil, but much can be gleaned from the stories of those who once worked with them. Many miners and blacksmiths are incapable of grasping the techniques surrounding Elunite, which poses some intriguing theories. The simplest is that the secrets of this ore are strongly protected, and seldom taught to others. Another that some have posited, is that the way to gain the privilege of crafting with this mineral requires proving oneself by performing an act of protection or preservation in defense of the goddess’s domain. She then assumedly rewards this deed with the artisanal knowledge of Elunite, or it then becomes malleable to that specific person. Elanaria supposedly tasked her trade partners and trainees with sacred missions such as slaying satyrs actively corrupting moonwells, and ending the suffering of oathbound shades. The late, self-cursed Captain Elura was said to wear a precious medallion, though we do not know if it was of Elunite make. Some theorize it was simply requested as a physical token of proof for the task; while others believe it was Elunite indeed, which is why Elanaria wanted it retrieved. If the medallion was shaped of this hallowed ore, the fact that Elura still wore it even in death may speak to its deep reverence, a spiritual binding property, or a partial immateriality.

Because of its sanctity, and the profound cultural respect for it among Kaldorei, crafting with Elunite may be more common among the Sisterhood of Elune; but still heavily guarded from the rest of the world. It could be that there is a sect of the Sisterhood devoted to sacred artisanry such as this; or, the Sisterhood may commission lay craftsmen who possess the means to Elunite. This material is also said to be utilized in profession tools such as sewing needles for mooncloth tailoring, quill nibs for lunar inscription, and rune rods for Elunarian enchanting. Hippogryph riders of the Sentinel Army, as well as individual riders, may commission blessed Elunite hoofshoes for fortified hind leg attacks, periods of extended wear on the back legs, when the creatures grow old, or are unable to fly; as some claim that they ease pain. Additionally, some equip saber, owl, and chimera companions with Elunite armor, claw/talon caps, and adornments just as they would wear regalia themselves.

In regards to metalworking with Elunite, some theorize that cold working (shaping metal at or below room temperature) may be the superior method as opposed to the extreme heats used with common minerals. Byproducts of Elunite smithing, such as the coal that is left behind from this process, may be used within braziers. It is said that Elunite coals, and the flames that burn from them, are resistant to water quenching; and as such are often used in settlements or outposts with heavy rain and snowfall. The most prevalent theory as to how these fires continue to burn posits that the coals themselves must be open to the skies, as the flames are “kindled,” so to speak, by the energies of the moon each night. Members of the Sisterhood are said to carefully wrap and gift Elunite coals to patrons on various holidays for people to place within the hearths of their home as tokens of spiritual protection and good will. Communal events organized by the order additionally use Elunite coals in cooking fires as an added method of blessing food stores; which some claim temporarily defends against illness, strengthens the body, and fortifies the spirit.

As of today, it is unclear whether or not Elunite can be alloyed. It could be that those who are able to work with the ore simply refuse to do so for fear of dampening its sacred properties; or, its inherent magick may be rendered useless or significantly weaker when alloyed with other common metals. In matters of corrosion, Elunite proves particularly mysterious. It would stand to reason that the goddess’s ties to water might strengthen the ore against rusting and deteriorating over time; although, there have not been any ancient Elunite artifacts recovered as of yet, perhaps implying that the material cannot withstand the elemental ravages of the eons. One possible argument against this is that because the ore is tremendously sacred, there may be ways to reshape or reuse the material; and that is why no timelost Elunite relics have been recovered.

Lore and Legend

Ancient, yet unsupported stories, say that Luminarian was one of the first to uncover the mysteries of Elunite; his name supposedly a pseudonym of sorts to commemorate his luminary works, and the ability to shape this luminous ore. While Elunite was fabled to be the reason for his rise to prominence, many speculate that he eventually abandoned the craft in favor of arcane creations; hence his lasting fame as a magesmith, and as the creator of mythical weapons like Felo’melorn and the Prismatic Blades. It is also rumored that the legendary Ta’Kierthan Songblades may have been forged of Elunite, considering they were crafted by a renowned Kaldorei priest: many of whom employ music and singing in their devotions and spellwork. The art of bardic weaponry seems to be an elusive one, perhaps completely lost to the ages, but nonetheless a technique that Elunarian scholars still seek in the ruins scattered across the lands of Azeroth. Those who traveled through the Dark Portal nearly forty years ago, as well as Draenei refugees, have noted a striking similarity between Elunite and some regalia found on Draenor, as well as others bequeathed directly by the naaru. No one is certain where these pieces are originally from: some claim that they once belonged to adventurers and were merely traded through many hands, while others are convinced that Elune and her blessed ore could have connections to the naaru, and that the ore may be on other planets throughout the cosmos. Elunite-imbued leggings were also recovered from the forest troll stronghold of Zul’aman; though how they got there is anyone’s guess. A commonality between all of these items is an increased critical strike chance, as well as greater potency for both damage and healing via magical spells. Two of the three also provide a passive mana restoration over time (much like moonwells), perhaps owing to the nature of Elunite’s inherent power.

#elune #night elf #nightelf #kaldorei #world of warcraft #wow #headcanon #roleplay #rp #blacksmithing #elunite #speculation #long post #sisterhood #profession

34 notes · View notes

pendwelling · 3 months ago

Note

Hi!! :)) Sorry to bother you, but can you tell me more about Romeo and Juliet (TWSB)? I haven't started reading the novel yet, but I'm really curious to know more about them :(((

I beg you..

(Sorry for my bad English..)

Ooohhh Romero Riester and Juliette (Julite Statia) are definitely both interesting characters in TWSB, as they are, in some way, almost a cautionary tale for our current generation and cast of characters.

In summary, Romero and Juliette (which was the Riesterian/French pronunciation of her name that she loved a lot) were lovers, and since this was three generations ago when the Riester Empire and the Divine Kingdom of Venetiaan were not at war, people of the opposite countries could fall in love and marry each other.

Emperor Romero actually loved Priestess Julite, a daughter of the Venetiaan Count Statia, so much that he built her her own palace (he had actually been recorded to have tried gifting her a total of three lmao), which was placed directly behind Romero's in a symbolic declaration of how he would always be there to protect her, and how wanted to be the shield of his lover for life. It should also be said that Romero was a military and sword fanatic, so him being so adamant of wanting to protect Julite was indeed very romantic haha.

Simultaneously, knowing that Julite was from the Divine Kingdom of Venetiaan, Romero actually built a mana portal that would lead directly back to Venetiaan, so should ever Julite feel homesick and/or left to Venetiaan, she would always be able to go back and easily return to him.

This love for her, however, was also his downfall, as Julite was actually secretly manipulated by her birth mother Queen's of Venetiaan. As an illegitimate child, Julite has always wanted her mother's approval, and as such followed her orders of seducing and betraying so that her mother, Queen Lilianne, could infiltrate Riester with the goal of capturing its divine items for a certain goal (and this one is a whole other can of lore worms to unpack haha). As such, one day, when Romero was happily waiting for Julite to return, he was instead greeted on all sides by the Venetiaan using the very portal he had made out of his love for her. This incredible betrayal was the start of the war against the two countries, and Emperor Romero, being someone who has always paid attention to his country's military, was able to respond to the war in full gusto. At some point, he even gained a number of notorious titles and even became known as the "Tragic Lover Slayer"—Julite died around the age of 30.

The love story between these two in-universe is actually very (in)famous. Many historians and writers take an interest in Juliette/Julite Statia for being both a heroine of a grand tragedy, yet also its very villainess. Romero genuinely loved her a lot, and Julite also cared for him, but ultimately the manipulation of her mother led to the waging of war between both countries.

Bigger spoiler territory, but we actually get to see more of both Romero and Julite further into the novel. It's very complicated because the politics and lore of TWSB is just.... HAHA, it's a LOT and very complex and so so interesting, but anyhow Romero actually becomes a sort of.... ghost? guardian of this metaphysical almost after-life space where wandering souls gather ("White Space/Pure White Interstellar") and linger around. At some point, he even meets the MC Yeseo and friends, and even interacts with his great-grandson, Cédric, whom he counsels to not become a monarch like Romero did, and to make his mother proud by becoming a good ruler. Romero was an infamous war lord and magic swordsman, but after death, I think it's clear that he was in some way a decent guy deep down, just that the betrayal by Julite affected him so very much, and he even acknowledges his own actions (or at the very least feels regretful for how his actions ended up affecting the entire continent, but I think he, in after-death retrospect, realizes he wasn't a great Emperor for his people). His personality is kinda like Cédric's, but, well, all members of the Riester bloodline resemble each other in some way hahaha—only, after Romero's generation, they were all quite level-headed and firmly anti-war (unless direly needed) because of how much the Warring Era affected the continent. Cédric's mother, Frédérique, for one, is especially disdainful of her grandfather's reign.

As for Julite Statia... (oh it's so complicated. TWSB as a lot of lore wkdjdk) but basically even after death, she still seeks out the recognition of her birth mother, even if just once. She does, however, recognize that she hurt a lot of people who genuinely cared about her, and for that, she admits she can't and shouldn't be forgiven. She herself has even admitted to being an undeniable war criminal and traitor. Julite is definitely a tragic character, who, even after coming to her senses in death, still yearned for the love of someone who only manipulated her. Personally, I do believe she loved Romero, too—it's just that she also desperately wanted her birth mother's love and acknowledgement, as well. It's quite sad... Romero later acknowledges that Queen Lilianne was a horrible personal who would do anything for the sake of her goals, and while I can't quite remember, I think it is implied that he came to understand in death why Julite betrayed him.

But back to how these two are a bit of a three-generation ago cautionary tale—the original ML of the story, Cédric Riester, ends up occupying Romero Palace since he is the heir to the Empire. In turn, Juliette Palace, after Julite Statia's betrayal, has now been considered a Cold Palace instead of the future Crown Princess/Consort palace like it's original intention implied; and at the start of the novel, it is currently being used to house the political hostage Prince Jesse Venetiaan from the Divine Kingdom of Venetiaan, (who our MC Jung Yeseo transmigrates into).

A lot of the story actually put a lot of emphasis on the parallels between Emperor Romero and Julite State, in contrast to Cédric and our MC Jesse/Yeseo.

Julite Statia, the unacknowledged illegitimate child of a previous Venetiaan Queen, managed to worm her way into the heart of Emperor Romero and ultimately betrayed him for it. Similarly, Jesse Venetiaan, also an illegitimate child (though an acknowdged one) of the current Venetiaan Queen, also managed to worm his way into Crown Prince Cédric's heart. A recurring theme in TWSB is actually "history repeating itself", "sins of the past affecting the present", and a whole narrative of wanting to fix the mistakes of the predecessors for the sake of the current and next generation. So there's definitely tension that is instilled in the reader upon realizing the constant drawing of parallels between the characters' ancestors/predecessors and the main characters themselves, as they adjacently navigate life in ways reminiscent of the people before them.

Will Cédric be betrayed by Jesse? Can a diplomatic hostage from the Divine Kingdom be trusted? What will come about the relationship between two people when previous examples have ended so tragically? I believed the way Romero and Julite have affected the plot despite having been deceased for decades already by the start of the novel is so so so very interesting hehe. I'd definitely recommend you read the novel if you haven't started already! One of the greatest joys is slowly being able to piece together the parts of the novel's lore and discover how much depth there is in this world 🥹👍

Hope this was insightful!!!

#asks #twsb #twsb asks #twsb analysis #SORRY I YAP A LOT WHEN IT COMES TO TWSB LMAO

24 notes · View notes

tgrailwar-zero · 4 months ago

Note

I get it, Saber. Oh boy, do I get it. But we do have that whole whale out there still, we might need you to sharpen up, at least so you can impress the pretty lady. I mean you NEED to score her flame pad address here.

MUSASHI: "Come on, when am I not sharp? I'm the Flower Swordmaster of the High Seas with this Mystic Code on, I'm basically unstoppable!"

After that comment, and some intense deliberation, you decided it'd be best to take the PRIVATEER's offer. The price put a bit of a dent in your pockets, but 1000 PPT and a bottle of wine doesn't seem too bad.

PRIVATEER: "Good deal! Pleasure doin' business! Come aboard!"

MUSASHI: "Thank you! Glad to be part of the crew, Captain!"

As MUSASHI helped you up onto the deck, the PRIVATEER gleefully took the wine, and 1000 of your hard-earned PPT. She snapped her fingers, and a few figures materialized on the ship. The crew, most likely. Some of them seemed ethereal, like ghosts. Others, however, seemed more solid.

PRIVATEER: "Alright, you bastards! Now we've got ourselves a whale to bag! Let's remind that whale exactly who he's messing with!"

SKELETON PIRATE: "B-But ain't you afraid it's gonna eat everyone up, Admiral?"

ADMIRAL: "…Do I look like krill to you? I'm the Admiral of the god-damn Solar Cell, so let's show that bloated ball of blubber what's what! Now, do any of you lily-livered suckers want to hop off now, or do you want to show the Solar Cell and the Moon what you're actually made of? You joined 'cause you wanted to be pirates, right? 'Cause you were bored of that hoity-toity Solar lifestyle, right?"

CREW: "Of course, Admiral!"

ADMIRAL: "Then are you gonna run scared from an itty-bitty whale!?"

CREW: "Of course not, Admiral! We're ready to sail!"

ADMIRAL: "That's what I like to hear! Now let's get to our stations and hit the seas! I catch any one of you slacking, and our guests will get a first-hand showing of what it looks like when someone is keelhauled out into monster-infested waters!"

The crew shouted in affirmative unison as they scattered about, and the ship began to hit the seas. The ADMIRAL leaped up onto the helm, taking the wheel. You felt a harsh ocean wind begin to rush against you as the vessel picked up in speed, splashing against the ocean waters.

MUSASHI: "Woah, talk about charisma... even I'm starting to feel pumped up!"

The Captain's excitement is infectious! MUSASHI gets an extra Mana Charge for this fight!

JAGUAR MAN: "And the crowd goes wild! Shrewd fighters don't get to see her in action, but this should be a treat even for our newbies! You know her, you love her, can we get a resounding cheer for our Admiral!"

DURYODHANA: "Hah! 'Love' is a strong word, especially for a disgraced woman like her… but she's a proven Servant. Summoned as a prospective General, instantly got a big head before she even got her Trigger Key and snagged several Solar Cell Zones practically unopposed, and then held them ransom! 'Course, the payout was monumental, but it's not like you can stay on the Council after a stunt like that. I'm surprised she still has a title, frankly."

ADMIRAL: "Uh-oh, are they gossiping about me? Don't forget the part where I held the Priestess at gunpoint!"

Considering what you knew about the Solar Cell, that seemed like an incredibly serious crime, but she was using a tone more akin to how a teenager might talk about throwing eggs at someone's house.

There was a quiet splash next to the ship, as one of the pirates waddled out of the water and over to the captain.

SHARK-PERSON(?): "...cap'n."

ADMIRAL: "Yes, Jawsica?"

JAWSICA: "......we've got incomin' projectiles seven cables away an' quickly closin' in. lookin' to be 'bout three in total."

ADMIRAL: "Haha, really now? Well, ain't that sweet! Moby's sendin' presents our way, and it's not even my birthday! Hang on tight, you scallywags!"

As the shark-headed pirate scampered off, the ADMIRAL gripped the ship's wheel with both hands, spinning it heavily as the ship tilted away. You saw three flashes of blue light shooting through the water, before suddenly detonating.

MUSASHI: "Woah! Masters, look out!"

The ship rocked violently as several eruptions in the water, the motion and the explosions knocking you off kilter. The wheel was spun again at the helm, as the ship steadied itself. You heard the ADMIRAL behind you let out a loud, excited hoot as she raised a fist in the air, cackling like a madwoman.

ADMIRAL: "Woo~ooh! Don't you just love the thrill of danger?! Alright, I've got my hands on the wheel, but you're the fighters! I'm followin' your lead!"

Alright. Now was the time for you and SABER to engage the enemy.

You're currently far away from MOBY DICK. You know the vague direction it is, helped by following the line where the projectiles came from. You can see the faint outline of a shadow in the water, but that's about it, and the shadow itself seems to ebb and flow.

See this post to see SABER's actions!

MUSASHI STATS:

ENDURANCE GAUGE: [X/X/X/X/X/X]

MANA CHARGES: [ X ] [ X ]

COMMAND SPELLS: [ X / X / ]

#thgw story #endless whispers #main post #thgw: chapter 6 #flaming bout match

19 notes · View notes

thecornwall · 4 months ago

Text

Cornwall's Random Card of the Day #1026: Norwood Priestess

Norwood Priestess is a rare from Portal Second Age.

So, green can get things onto the field circumventing mana cost. But you gotta be careful with that effect. Too cheap, and you've broken the game. Too expensive, and it's unlikely you have anything to pull out by the time you can cast it. This guy is a bit less expensive than the going rate(bout 5 mana), but needs to live to activate it's ability. So the opponent has a window of opportunity to kill a 1/1 before all hell might break loose. Which is a fine way to balance a card.

#mtg

15 notes · View notes

empressofthesunwriter · 4 months ago

Text

The Queen's Gambit: The Story

The most powerful piece in chess is the queen.

When this piece joins the game of Duel Monsters anything will change.

With two dragon sisters, a magician and her descendant, the queen will take her rightful place.

As it should have been.

Before we start, here is something that has always confused me.

When Yugi and his friends go to the hospital to see if Grandpa Muto is awake, they all wear their school uniforms and Grandpa is already up and running.

In the next scene, they all go home together.

We know it takes at least a whole night to reach Duelist Kingdom and patients who have been in a coma need at least a few days to return to forces.

So how the heck is this working?

That's a plothole, so I decided to fill it realistic.

Enjoy the chapter!

Chapter 18: The Legendary Heroes I

Afya looked with loving eyes at Sehrazat and Amira.

Thankful Pegasus had indeed held his promise to free the trapped souls and after a few days of recovery, Amira was back home with them.

Sehrazat clung to her mother, not leaving her side, she even slept with her in the same bed as when she had been a child.

This was right now the scene Afya watched.

Mother and daughter sleeping soundly in a bed together.

A bittersweet feeling arises in Afya.

It felt like she once had been the daughter and also the mother.

How little she remembers of her life as queen.

Yes, she had found Yami again and their love was as new ignited, but...she felt so bad how she didn't remember her children.

Yami and she had at least one child for sure, a daughter who had founded the Faizan Family, sadly her name was lost in the passage of times.

The former queen had lost so much.

It hurt.

She signed and caressed both Sehrazat and Amira's hair.

This was her and Yami's flesh and blood, maybe it would be enough to love through them their daughter.

Their daughter who has been dead for 3000 years, while she and Yami roamed the world as spirits.

No parents should in any way survive their children.

It was unnatural.

Afya closed her eyes and tears fell down her cheeks.

She just wished for a moment, just to see a glimpse of her children.

Sadly nothing came to her.

With a tearful sign, the former queen of Egypt retired back into her Millenium Fragment.

She needed time alone.

(*)

Yami felt the exact moment when Afya returned to their mindscape.

He could feel the sorrow of his queen like it was his own.

So he stepped out of his Soul Room and knocked on hers.

"Come in.", she called quietly.

The pharaoh found her sitting on the stairs of her palace, looking thoughtful.

"Love.", he said and sat down beside her. His arm wrapped lovingly around her. "Talk or just hold you?"

As an answer, she embraced him tight and cried on his shoulder.

She needed comfort before she could talk and Yami would give her this.

They stayed for quite some time like this, but Yami didn't pressure his wife. He would gladly just hold her till she cried all her tears, even without telling him what was wrong.

When she felt ready, she would say so.

After a while, Afya took his hand and led him to her bed chambers.

She still didn't tell him what was wrong but asked him to make love to her.

"Are you sure?", he asked, caressing her cheek.

"Yeah...I just need to feel your love, please darling."

Well, Yami could never say no to her.

So they made sweet and tender love.

When Afya reached her orgasm she cried again and Yami kissed her tears away.

They lay naked and spend in each other arms and slowly Afya told him what was wrong.

"I understand you fully, my love," he told her and kissed her forehead. "I thought about this, too—about us, our life, our family...I also log in to know more and to even have a glimpse of our child."

The royal couple talked long into the night, till they fell asleep.

Their hearts are a bit lighter to have shared this pain with their spouse.

Maybe the gods would be so kind and give them some vision one day.

(*)

The next day Yugi's group and Sehrazat's group had together lunch in Domino High.

They were surprised that they went to the same school, yet only had met at Duelist Kingdom.

Life was crazy.

Currently, Yugi and the others told their friends, who weren't there yesterday, how the American Champion Rebecca Hopkins wanted Grandpa Muto Blue Eyes, even calling him a thief before her grandfather saved the whole situation.

"She sounds like a brat.", said Maja, slurping her ramen. "And you just gave her your Ties of Friendship card, Yugi?"

Anzu answered her: "Well, in the end, she was just a little girl, who misunderstood something and Yugi showed like this how he forgave her."

"Yeah, but she's still a brat.", agreed Joey with Maja.

"If we are talking about cards, I could use some new ones for my deck.", told Kihana, drinking from her water bottle.

"You guys can come with us to my family's Game Shop.", said Yugi smiling. "Grandpa wants to meet you all."

"It would be nice to meet your grandpa officially and get some new good cards.", found Sehrazat.

So it was decided that Sehrazat, Kihana and Maja would come after school to Yugi's family Game Shop with the others.

Sadiye had already made plans with her school friends and would join them another time.

Grandpa Muto was a sweet old man who told the three girls to call him just Grandpa and helped them with making their decks stronger.

Right now Grandpa showed them new cards, as the door to the shop opened.

All turnend around and saw...Mokuba?

"Mokuba-Chan!", called Kihana worried and kneeled down beside the rain-wet child. "What's wrong what are you doing here?"

"Kihana-Nee...Nii-Sama..."

Kihana took Mokuba and all helped him get inside Yugi's house.

They were now in the living room, Mokuba with a warm blanket and a cup of warm milk as he explained what had happened with his brother.

"Kaiba is trapped inside an adventure game world?", shouted Yugi surprised.

"And if you lose, you can never leave?", said Anzu.

"That's scary as impressive at the same time.", added Sehrazat.

Kaiba Corp was really the most high-tech industry in the world to create something like this!

"Yugi, please save my big brother.", pleaded Mokuba.

"But since Kaiba Corporation's executives are involved, this will be difficult.", warned Grandpa Muto.

"My big brother's dream is to build Kaiba Lands around the world to make children happy.", confessed Mokuba.

This surprised anyone.

Kaiba seemed so cold and yet he had such a noble dream.

Kihanna felt a mix of emotions.

She didn't know Seto Kaiba, the only interaction they had was when they stared at each other like in a dream, however, something inside her felt this was the true nature of Kaiba's character.

Where she knows this she wonders herself.

"That's really Kaiba's dream?", spoke Jonouchi aloud what the most thought.

"It's true.", answered Mokuba. "That's why he devoted his whole life to Kaiba Corporation. He never had time to relax."

Kihana stroked the younger boy's hair gently.

"Don't cry Mokuba-Chan, we will help you save your big brother. Right guys?"

Of course, all agreed and so they followed Mokuba to one of the closed Kaiba Lands.

Apparently, they had Virtual Reality Seats there too.

As they stepped inside they saw the capsule and Mokuba checked if they were functional.

They were!

Now they could enter the Virtual World.

There was only a small problem.

"I see four capsules and we are eight.", pointed Maja out.

"Well that's a no-brainer.", said Jonouchi. "Me, Yugi, Sehra and-"

"Me."

"Mokuba?"

"Mokuba-Chan are you sure?", worried Kihana. "If you lose, you can never leave the game. I don't think your brother wants this, I should go."

"Kihana-Nee, there's no point living in a world without my big brother! You understand, right? Could you live in a world without Sadiye-Chan?"

Well, he got her there, so she let him.

So Sehrazat, Yugi, Joey and Mokuba enter the capsule, while Honda, Anzu, Maja and Kihana wait and protect them if necessary.

"You have to come back, or I will find a way to drag you out myself, I swerve by Ra.", told Kihana with Anzu and Maja nodding in the background.

"We will, Kihana. Just only to not face your wrath.", joked Sehrazat half-heartily.

In truth, she was kinda nervous, but she loved video games, so she hoped her experience as a gamer would help her.

With this Honda pulled the lever and the four in the capsule were transported into the virtual world.

(*)

Sehrazat and the boys walked around a forest.

The girl had to admit, all looked, felt and sounded real.

Incredible.

"I wonder if this world has a connection with Duel Monsters.", shared Yugi his thoughts as he looked at the Deck Holder on his arm. It had a place for Duel Monster Cards and a display which showed the number 2000. "We don't know the rules of this world, so we need to be careful."

The other agreed with him.

They stopped on a cliff and looked down.

A cemetery was under them.

Slowly they made their way through it and Yugi pointed out how they surely would pass through it scot-free.

"I've seen this place before.", mumbled Jonouchi.

"Where in Silent Hill or Resident Evil?", asked Sehrazat. "For me, it looks like just a creepy cemetery."

Suddenly they heard Jonocuhi scream that there was a ghost.

It was not one ghost, but three zombie Duel Monsters.

"Clown Zombie, Armored Zombie and Dragon Zombie?", said Joey their names surprised. "They're Duel Monsters. In that case..."

He drew a card from his deck and then didn't know how to summon it.

Sehrazat, Yugi and Mokuba fall down anime-style.

Then the Zombie Horde raced towards them to attack!

Mokuba drew a card, held it up and called its name.

"Go, Rude Kaiser!"

Yugi and Sehrazat followed his example.

"Come out, Dark Magician!"

"Let's do this, Dark Magician Girl!"

The three monsters appeared in a flash of light and attacked the zombie monsters.

The zombies were destroyed, however, they came back.

Since Joey knows now how to summon a Duel Monster he called for his Flame Swordsman.

"Oh no! Stop your attack, Jonouchi!" shouted Yugi as he noted that the zombies' attack points had increased.

But it was too late.

Flame Sword man attacks Dragon Zombie, only for it to return and destroy Joey's monster.

Yugi explained how Zombie Monsters gained attack points every time they resurrected since they were immortal.

"This reminds me of Jonouchi Duel in Duelist Kingdom!", gasped Sehrazat and drew a card. "So this will help! I activate the Magic Card Shield & Sword to swap their attack points with their defence ones. Now we can attack. Dark Magician Girl! Dark Burning Attack!"

Dark Magician Girl destroyed all the Zombies and they were safe.

For now.

"Good reaction, Sehrazat-Chan!", praised her Yugi, while she smiled shyly.

Duel Monster cards appeared before them and they picked each one up.

"There's a picture of gold coins.", wonders Mokuba.

"It's probably this world's money.", guessed Sehrazat.

Meanwhile, Joey looked at his Life Points and was shocked that he didn't get them back. He was now at 1820.

"I see. This represents our life.", said Mokuba.

"Damn! What happens if it reaches 0?", shouted Joey.

Sehrazat made a face.

"We better don't find out."

All agreed.

That's when Joey noted a cute little fairy hiding behind a gravestone.

The group stepped towards it.

"Aww, she is so cute.", cooed Sehrazat.

"In video games, fairies give hints.", told Jonochi.

At that moment, the little fairy flowed away and our group of four ran after her.

If Joey was right, then they must follow her.

Sadly, they lost sight of her but found a desert city.

Maybe there someone had a clue where Seto Kaiba was?

So they enter the city.

"I'm getting Assassin's Creed vibes from this town.", mussed Sehrzat looking around. "You can parkour here amazing."

"Hey, guys look at this!", called Yugi.

There was a market stall with ultra-rare Duel Monsters cards!

Jonouchi wanted to buy them all, but Mokuba pointed out how pricey they were. With their 5 gold coins each they could buy nothing.

After this disappointment, they decide to split up to find clues about where Kaiba could be.

They meet up at the big fountain in the middle of the town to share what they found out during their investigation.

"Did you learn anything?", asked Yugi Sehrazat who shook her head.

"Sadly not."

"Me too!", said Jonouchi, while a dog was biting down his jacket.

"I learned a lot of stuff!", said Mokuba and led them to the border of the desert town. "This morning, someone transporting a person inside a cage went to Owess Temple."

"Could it be Kaiba?", wondered Joey, as they all looked at the huge desert before them.

"Probably!", chorused Yugi and Sehrazat together.

"In order to get to Owess Temple, we have to cross this desert.", explained Mokuba.

This made alarm bells ring in Sehrazat's head.

"You don't want to go on foot, Mokuba! That's dangerous, we need a camel or a horse. Going on foot is suicide!"

But Mokuba didn't listen and ran into the desert.

"No, Mokuba, wait!", yelled Sehrazat and ran after him, followed by Yugi and Jonouchi.

It seemed they walked for hours in the desert and then also a sandstorm formed.

Just awesome!

"This is impossible!", shouted Joey.

"I told you it is suicide to cross a desert on foot, listen to the Egyptian girl!", grumbled Sehrazat.

"Let's go back, Mokuba.", begged Yugi.

"Be quiet!", shouted Mokuba back. "I have to find my big brother."

Of course, a sand tornado raced right up to them and enclosed them.

Then all went dark around them.

Sehrazat didn't know how long she was knocked out, but she heard how Yugi gently shook her awake.

She opened her eyes and sat up.

"Yugi-Kun...what happened?"

"We are back at the desert town."

Mokuba had his back all turned to them, no one knew what they should do now.

Maybe really find a camel like Sehrazat had said?

Out of nowhere, they heard an old man laugh.

"Do you wish to cross the desert?"

They run up to him, Joey asking him if he knows a way.

"You need a Niwatori card to cross the desert.", was the answer.

"What? That card that looks like a Chocobo from Final Fantasy?", said Sehrazat with a raised eyebrow. "The Big Five are totally ribbing off Final Fantasy VII! Is Sephiroth also here or what?!"

Yugi patted her shoulders to calm her down.

"There, there, Sehrazat-Chan."

Sehrazat pounds but calms down, so Yugi turns to the old ma asking him where they could get a Niwatori card.

And that's when they finally encounter the first bug in the game.

The old man just repeated his two lines to infinity.

Since this was a dead end, the group decided to split up again to find the Niwatori card.

(*)

In the real world, Honda and Anzu leaned on the control panel, while Maja sat down on the ground and Kihana stood beside the capsule with crossed arms.

"A lot of time has passed already.", pointed Anzu out.

Maja looked up to her. "Some games take weeks to finish them. Who knows how long they have to stay in this one."

"I really hope not for weeks.", said Kihana worried. "They will waste away and die surely."

"Ah, don't say such a thing Kihana.", begged Anzu.

She couldn't and wouldn't watch her friends just die before them!

"Now, girls, let's calm down.", said Honda. "To pass the time, I'll tell you all a special story. The title is 'Hiroto Honda's First Love During Middle School'"

The girls deadpanned at him.

"We definitely don't want to hear this story!", said Anzu for all of them.

"Really? How about my elementary school graduation speech about wanting to become a pilot?"

"Do you seriously not realize the danger we're in?", gritted Anzu out.

"I would throw a pillow at you if I had one right now!", added Maja.

"Honda, be serious!", chested also Kihana. "We're not playing a funny game for fun this is a rescue mission."

That's when they heard how people entered the building. They looked out the door and saw a man in a suits, probably the Big Five security people.

"Okay, guys, I think it's magic time.", told them Maja.

They closed the door and watched how Maja held her arms up and chanted something in Arabic.

The metal door flashed in gold.

"There, this should keep us safe. They can't enter from the other side."

"Awesome Maja-Chan!", praised Anzu, which made Maja all bashful.

"It's still so bizarre to see real magic, but yeah, awesome!", agreed Honda.

"How long will the spell last?", asked Kihana.

"I have enough energy don't worry. I can't at least hold up the barrier for another three hours."

Kihana nodded and looked at the capsule.

"Then let's hope it will be enough time for the others."

(*)

How many video game references can you put in one chapter?

Tell me if you caught them all! *Pokemon Theme Music plays* XD

5 notes · View notes

bougainvillea-and-saltwater · 3 months ago

Note

NYEHEHE! HELLO. IT IS I. For the firsts ask: 8, 23, G, T, 🥹 and 💀!!!!

HELLO SENU BELOVED!!! WELCOME AND THANK YOU FOR THE ASKS!!! 🥰

☀️ask game!☀️

8. First time they took a risk, or the biggest risk they've ever taken

The very very first time Jia took a risk was when she went to kill the Glenmoril Witches in order to cleanse Kodlak’s spirit in the afterlife. She was grief-stricken and out of her mind back then, honestly. Seeing her adoptive father killed cost a portion of her sanity quite a lot: she just took her bow and daggers and went straight to their coven. She. literally wiped those witches out. I think it was the first moment when she went completely feral, maybe her Dragonborn powers unconsciously manifested too? This question put me in Thoughts…👀

23. First display of their powers or abilities

Jia had… an interesting childhood. Her Dragonborn power did not fully manifest until she absorbed her first dragon soul at the age of twenty, but glimpses of it were certainly there all along. First of all, Jia had visions when she was a child—visions where she was falling into a trancelike state and murmured the prophecy of Alduin’s return, among other things… She was often aloof and spoke in riddles. The Companions had frequently taken her to the Temple of Kynareth for it, and the Priestesses explained that Jia was certainly marked by the Gods, though they couldn’t really tap into what kind of power resided in her. Sometimes, when she was angry and shouted, the air around her whistled or got eerily hot. She ran while spreading her hands as if wanting to take flight and she literally used Whirlwind Sprint without knowing it... A Creepy Little Kid...

G. First time seeing the other one sick/injured

When they got out of Apocrypha, Jia was… she was Badly Injured, to say the least. Miraak was the first to rouse, so that was the first time he saw her in this state. He was equally exhausted and almost devoid of mana, but he utilized every bit of his magic to heal her while she lay unconscious. I think it stirred something in him, her broken view—something that maybe had to do with him bringing her back to life Miraculously when she was still a newborn babe, though he couldn’t consciously remember this at that point…👀

As for Jia, I’d say she hasn’t seen Miraak in A Terrible State (yet. . .), but she nurtured him when he completely emptied his magicka pool to heal Gregor. He was in Bad Shape admittedly, ready to pass out, his nose bleeding, his head spinning, so Jia held him through it, cooked for him, brushed and braided his hair… I can’t wait to write more scenes like these though… >:)

T. First time dancing together

answered here!

🥹 - First time describing strong emotions, and how you've improved since then

This is the part where I Laugh, because. [Screams]. I have improved A Lot. A Lot. I’m not even trying to self-praise, the first time I wrote my fic I described zero (0) emotions. And it’s so weird because I’m a person who loves reading what’s going on in a character’s head, always have been… Anyway, I think the first time I described strong emotions and I was satisfied with it was in chapter 15, Mea maxima culpa. It’s the chapter where Jia opens up to Miraak about her trauma. Still, I think I have improved even more since that chapter, even if I’m happy with how it turned out…

💀 - First time writing character death, and how you felt about it

I HAVEN’T WRITTEN A MAJOR CHARACTER DEATH. YET. BUT. [RUBBING MY HANDS TOGETHER LIKE A FLY]. I think I’ll greatly enjoy it. 😼 Pain. <3

#ask game #oc: jia #miraak x ldb #otp: twin flames #the priest and the dragoness

9 notes · View notes

himevampirechan · 6 months ago

Text

Vanishipping Fanfic: Duat Chapter 1

Hi. It's wonderful to be able to take the time to post on Tmblr!

Life keeps moving forward and, honestly, it's been dragging me down like an old rag; because of that I've decided that, for the sake of my mood, I must force myself to fight my writer's block. I was happy to receive feedback on the ‘prologue’ of this fanfiction, although slow it is one of the stories I am most excited to continue writing and for that I thank you deeply.

Before continuing with the first chapter, I would like to point out that this story is set after the end of the series; it even takes place AFTER the events of the movie: ‘Yu-Gi-Oh: The Dark Side of Dimensions’.

Atem is NOT in the past, nor has Anzu travelled back in time; Atem is in what, for the Egyptians, exists at the end of life. I understand it can be a bit confusing but, as the story progresses, it gets better explained; don't forget to check the notes at the end of each chapter!

IMPORTANT: Tomorrow, I will upload the English version of this chapter; likewise, I plan to upload later this week chapter 3 of my other REVO fanfic: ‘Part Time Job.’

Enjoy!

(...)

Chapter 1

Dawn surprises Atem outside the room where the hekas and nuns are checkup to Anzu. Between giving instructions to the guards and being interrogated by isolated members of his council of priests, the young pharaoh has refused to leave.

Hours before and after discovering the identity of the young woman, the pharaoh left the temple struggling with hysteria. After summoning his horse with a whistle and covering the girl's nakedness with the riding sheet, he had hurried back to the palace for help.

`As soon as I entered the palace´ he thinks, watching from his position the movement of the servants going in and out of the room. `Siamun and Isis brought her into this room. ´

They had taken her from his arms, and the thought of getting away from her had hurt so much that Mana had to restrain him from slamming the door in anguish. Suddenly exhausted, Atem sits on the floor with his back against the wall, hiding his face behind clenched fists.

“I've been waiting all night and I don't know…” He whispers, staring at the door as if he can tell what's going on inside. “I don't know if she's all right.”

The sound of footsteps brings the young man out of his thoughts, standing up he watches several people leave the room, one after the other. In their arms they carry vases, bottles, linen bandages and sheets; his anxious heart leaps as he notices that a few are stained with something than looks like blood.

He takes two hurried steps towards the door as Isis and Siamun are in sight. Atem stands firm on his feet, staring at them with a thousand questions in his crimson eyes; the old man takes his forearms in a fatherly gesture.

“She is fine, my pharaoh,” he says, trying to calm the young man's anxiety, the old man's words lifting an invisible weight from his shoulders. “She doesn't seem seriously injured, she's been checked and is asleep.”

“Thank you," he whispers.

Siamun smiles at his gesture, affectionately stroking the boy's cheek with the palm of his hand. After a few seconds the pharaoh's eyes shine with determination, he straightens up and takes two steps into the room; no one notices the smile on Isis' face who, stepping sideways, steps between the door and the boy.

“You can't come in, Pharaoh,” says the brunette, her face serious, her gaze piercing him. Atem looks at her in surprise.

“Why?” asks the young man, his eyes darting from the priestess to Siamun in confusion. The old man slowly shakes his head in a resigned gesture, sensing a growing irritation in the ruler.

“The lady needs rest,” the priestess replies with a sympathetic smile on her face. Atem opens his mouth to complain, but the old man again taps his shoulder paternally.

“It has been a long and intense night for all of us, my pharaoh," he says once Atem looks at him. “It would be best for you and your friend to regain your strength. Besides, I think you need to go to the throne room and clarify the situation with the members of the royal council; especially if your plans involve the girl staying as a guest inside the palace.”

Atem frowns as he analyses the old man's words, after a few seconds he lowers his face in resignation, knowing that even his concern is overridden by his duty as the Pharaoh of Kemet.

`We still do not know what really happened in the temple of Osiris. And Anzu, who is the only one who possibly knows, needs to rest´ Atem reflects, knowing that he cannot afford to risk Anzu's recovery by showing the council a poor choice of priorities.

Isis and Siamun stare at him as he thinks, can't help but feel a pang of pride as they see him stand tall and strong like the ruler he is; Atem looks back at them, his scarlet eyes full of confidence.

“Siamun: Meet with Seto, see that the saru are complete in the throne room, including my father. I need his presence during the meeting.” The old man smiles and bows before leaving to carry out the order. “Isis,” continues the boy with a more serious expression. “Considering the nature of the situation, we must be discreet: I need you to wear the millennium necklace, because you and Mahado to double security inside and outside the palace until we can figure out what happened tonight. After that, sends someone for Mana: I need her to look after my guest for the duration of the meeting.”

They stare at each other for a few seconds, a slight smile creeps across the woman's face, Atem returns the gesture with confidence. With a nod, the priestess bows and walks down the hall.

“I'll see you in the throne room," Atem whispers, watching her walk away, unable to take in the woman's mischievous look and the sudden gleam of the millennium necklace.

A few seconds pass before Atem notices that he's alone in the place; he resolutely starts walking towards the throne room, but an anxious feeling fills his stomach. He looks over his shoulder at the entrance to the room where Anzu is.

`It's not an illusion´ he thinks firmly, trying to convince himself. “It's not a dream.”

The desire to see her becomes unbearable, closing his eyes he remembers the warmth of her skin, the feel of her silky hair, her smell. Anzu is in there, a few steps away, and for a few seconds, the young ruler considers the possibility of entering the room. The memory of Bakura's manic smile flashes through his mind.

"She is safe," he shakes his head, trusting the words of Siamun and Isis. Bakura is gone and the appearance of her friend from the future must have a logical explanation; it's something they need to find out, but to do so he must be able to keep the girl safe in the palace. Anzu needs to rest, regain strength and he must prepare to lead the meeting with the council.

Atem looks one last time at the door of the room over his shoulder, taking a deep breath he begins to walk down the hallway.

"Wait a little longer, Anzu," he thinks, clasping the chain hanging from the millennium puzzle around his neck in his right hand. “I'll keep you safe.

(...)

“...Witnesses mention that the light fell directly on the Temple of Osiris; however, we have found no damage to the building, and no injured people among the civilians. Neither Hem netcher, nor the Sem noticed anything strange before it happened and only understood than something was happening when they saw Pharaoh Atem arrive at the sanctuary.”

Glances and whispers are exchanged among the council members. Atem, seated on his throne, listens intently with a serious expression.

“This is strange” he thinks, watching the council members exchange questions and gestures. “Shada mentioned that the speakers were inside the temple, but I didn't see anyone on the premises.”

“Was there any damage, unrelated to the event in the city?” asked his father in an attempt to lessen the restlessness in the room. “Any sieges, injuries?”

“There were none, Your Majesty,” replies the man in charge of notifying the measures taken during the early hours of the morning. “Regardless of the confusion, we can be sure that the people of Kemet are safe.”

There are whispers again among the people present. Mahado glances slyly at Atem, who nods in return.

“You are discharged” the priest says with a wave of his hand; the military captain nods and, taking three steps back, heads for the exit.

"Despite its intensity, the glow was harmless.” Immersed in his thoughts, Atem ignores the gazes on him. What was its function? Where did it come from?

The doors close, snapping Atem out of his thoughts. The council watches him intently, and he can feel the tension in his father's body; he can be sure that most of the people in the throne room are as confused as he is.

“Priestess Isis,” Atem calls after a few seconds, startling those present. She takes a step forward, kneeling in front of the throne, "Did your millennium item alert you in advance to the situation we found ourselves in?”

“No, my pharaoh," the young woman replies, her eyes fixed on the ground. Surprised murmurs rise in the room.

“Priest Seto," he continues, watching his cousin mimic the brunette's position “Same question.”

“No, my pharaoh," the brown-haired man replies, taping the golden sceptre to his chest. This seems to surprise the members of the council even more. The question is also put to Karim and Siamun, the refusal is absolute; new whispers fill the room.

Atem stares at them in silence and exchanges a glance with his father, who nods his head in a gesture of confidence. The young ruler takes a breath before standing up to speak.

“It is obvious that we do not have all the information we need about what happened last tonight," he says confidently, the council members watching him carefully. “However, that the millennium items showed no alteration from what happened is a clear proof that the kingdom is not in danger. Still, we must continue to look for evidence, in case another unexpected event should occur.” His deep, rich voice echoes in the silence with authority. “Shada!”

“¿Yes, my pharaoh?” replies the priest, kneeling in front of him.

“Mobilise more soldiers to increase security inside the city; please be discreet, we don't want to create panic among the people.”

“Yes, my pharaoh," exclaims Shada before quickly leaving the room followed by the senior military leaders.

"That will keep the civilians safe, but it doesn't rule out some internal danger," Atem thinks sternly. Lifting his gaze, he meets the piercing scrutiny of the wielder of the millennium eye. “Ankhnadin!” Atem continues, confident that his uncle knows his concerns.

“¿Yes, my pharaoh?” The old man takes several steps forward without kneeling. The boy does not take his gesture into account, the betrayal by the older man is in the past.

“I need to you, Karim and Mahado to check the other temples near the area where the light fell. We must rule out any other occurrences during the night.”

Several voices whisper in the room, Atem can sense their hesitation with a decision that seems unnecessary. The three priests begin to stir as an idea occurs to the pharaoh.

“One more thing!” he exclaims, the priests pause to listen to the rest of the order. A dark, authoritative smile creeps across Atem's mouth, startling some of those present. “Questions the speakers of Osiris again.” A few surprised gasps are Heard “I leave it in your hands Ankhnadin.”

A terrifying tension fills the throne room, filling the council members with chills; Atem sees, out of the corner of his eye, his father's approving smile. The message has been sent and it is clear: Interrogate them, see into their minds and verify that they are not lying. If they lie, they must be punished.

“Yes, my pharaoh," replies the bearer of the golden eye with understanding and a satisfied smile. The three priests return and head for the exit.

Mahado watches the young pharaoh out of the corner of his eye as he walks away, Atem's cold expression turns to a pleading look; the wizard nods. So many years of friendship have given Mahado the tools to know his concerns perfectly.

He leaves knowing that his childhood friend and ruler will confidently wait for the priests to return with the answers they need.

As the door closes, not a single person dares to speak. Ignorant of the young pharaoh's doubts and worries, those present wonder whether the changes that night signal a shift in the balance of the Maat, and how the orders taken by the ruler might affect them.

“The rest of us..." Atem continues after a few seconds, "will wait.”

Expressions of surprise flood the room, Atem squares his shoulders and surveys those present in a gesture that leaves no room for doubt.

“I refuse to take action without some clue as to what is happening. I will not put my kingdom at risk until I see the entire game board!” There are whispers in the room. Mostly from the weaker parts of the council: nobles, scribes, priests and sons of military men who, even in the afterlife, do not cease to question his authority.

“Pharaoh," one dares to speak, Atem observes him, having a bad feeling about his conciliatory voice. “Maybe if we force her to speak, the woman from the temple...”

Atem interrupts him by standing up and slamming his fist hard against the throne, the metallic clang of his rings on impact forcing those present into silence. The nobleman cringes under the young ruler's furious gaze.

“KEMMET'S SAFETY IS OUR PRIORITY!” he exclaims in a voice so full of anger that its sound reverberates off the walls. “I will take no further action until the city and the people are safe. THAT IS MY ORDER!”

Feeling the oppressive tension in the room, Atem sits back down with both arms firmly at his sides and one leg crossed over the other; a distinctive gesture that makes him exude authority, elegance and confidence, yet his angry face makes several present feel the need to run away.

“Yes, Your Highness," the nobleman whispers, ducking his head. After a few seconds, Atem glances sideways at Siamun, nodding his head. The vizier nods slightly.

“all of you are discharged" the old man orders as usual. Silently the people begin to leave, some whispering among themselves and watching with interest the distant, shadowed gaze of the young ruler.

Soon the throne room is empty. Atem drops his head, wearily massaging the bridge of his nose.

“Well done, my son," Aknamkanon whispers, approaching the young ruler, Atem lifts his head back with his face unhinged in concern.

“Thank you father," he whispers with a frown. “But we haven´t another choice right now.”

Only the two rulers, the priest Siamun and Seto, remain in the room. Atem closes his eyes, dizzy, breathing irregularly.

“Pharaoh, are you all right?” asks Siamun in a low voice, looking at him with paternal concern.

“Hai, Daijoubu Oji chan," he whispers in a trembling voice without looking at the old man; realising his mistake, Atem feels his chest tighten with an emotion that makes him want to hide his face. “I'M FINE!” he corrects embarrassed. “Really, SIAMUN, there's nothing wrong.”

The old man looks at him with a confused look on his face at his strange words. Atem looks away from the others, biting his lip in a clear sign of stress; a voice in the back of his head reminds him that Anzu is a few rooms away and that he should go to her before the girl wakes up, alone and confused in that unknown place.

“Pharaoh Atem," a curt voice calls out to him. Atem comes out of his thoughts with a start, turns his face and looks at his cousin who glares at him with his cold blue irises.

“What's wrong, Seto?” he replies, watching the chestnut with a raised eyebrow, aware of the unspoken meaning of his penetrating gaze: Seto wants answers and immediately.

The priest hisses in annoyance with a tense jaw.

“ I think it's time you told us about your host and her relationship to what's happening" he exclaims coldly, taking two menacing steps towards the tricolour.

“SETO!” cries Siamun, scandalised by the priest's tactlessness towards his king; however, both young men ignore him and observe each other in a long and silent discussion.

It is no secret that the council finds interesting the mania of both boys to challenge each other in duels of will; always ready to push the other to the limits of his reasoning.

Being both young and talented they seem to positively strengthen each other using their born rivalry. However, there are rare occasions where there is real annoyance during these interactions and Seto's sudden aggressiveness seems to show that he does not completely agree with the decisions made by the young pharaoh.

“This is the second time I've seen that expression on his face," thinks Atem. “The first time was shortly before I sealed my soul inside the millennium puzzle."

Atem sighs, looking away resignedly and losing his battle with the brown man.

“You're right, Seto. I will tell you everything, however, there is one person I need to visit first” The young pharaoh looks up to meet the serious face of his father, who looks at him, aware that his son needs to speak to him alone.

“Siamun," says Aknamkanon, keeping his eyes on his son. “Inform us when the priests return from their missions, and we will meet you in the strategy room when that happens.”

“Yes, Your Majesty," the old man rasps, bowing and hurrying out of the room. He can't help but glance over his shoulder at the three men remaining in the room.

“Seto," Atem calls, rising from his throne. The chestnut, still wearing an annoyed expression, takes a step in his direction. “Send one of your servants for Mana and Mut-nisut Nubet, i need them to be present in the strategy room when everyone returns.”

After a few seconds of surprised silence, the chestnut nods at the young ruler's command; with a resigned smile, Atem places a hand on the chestnut's shoulder.

“I trust you will find someone to keep her safe, on her way to the strategy room," the pharaoh whispers, watching him with a deep, gentle expression. Without looking away, Seto deciphers some of the emotions his cousin is trying to hide: confusion, anguish and fear.

“Yes, my pharaoh," he replies, returning his gaze confidently, his gesture seeming to reassure the tricolour; after bowing, the chestnut-haired man makes his way out of the room.

The rulers, father and son, watch him leave without exchanging words. Once alone, Atem can feel his father's curious glance upon him; for a moment he feels again like a small child who has been caught playing where he shouldn't be.

The sun has risen across the sky on a bright morning, the light inside the room reflecting off the walls and dazzling the boy's sleepy eyes. A young adult who refuses to look at his father.

“Your mother is not part of the council, to let her be part of a meeting in the strategy room is against tradition. You know that, my son," Aknamkanon reproaches calmly, watching his son's serious face finally return his gaze; the crimson eyes, so much like his wife's, seem to stare into the void with deep concern.

“I know," the boy whispers, clenching the millennium puzzle around his neck in his fist, "but I think that perhaps she and Mana are an important part of what is happening. Just like us.”

Aknamkanon's chest sinks with pessimism. Ah! Then his son is indeed hiding things and seems to be suspicious about the arrival of the girl from the temple. What can be going on inside the young pharaoh's head to have such concern in his eyes?

Aknamkanon has never seen such desolation on his son's face. Since his arrival in the fields of Ialu, Atem had enjoyed a time of peace and contentment; as if, after millennia of darkness and loneliness, he was trying to make up for lost time in the land of his birth.

The reunion between him and his mother had been so emotional that most of the inhabitants of the palace had been unable to hide their tears. Atem's arrival had made a great impression on everyone; the serious but kindly man who had entered at the end of his maaty had filled those who waited patiently for him with pride and admiration.

After the reconciliations the young man's character had come to the surface, and as time passed it had become recurrent to find him in the garden, dozing peacefully under the shade of the papyri, safe and sound, as if nothing else mattered in the world.

He rarely spoke of his experience in the world of the living, but when he did he was so nostalgic that, by night, they had grown accustomed to seeing him sitting by the river, speaking softly to the stars; whispering things to them that only he could remember.

Feeling a hint of sadness, Aknamkanon takes the boy by the shoulders with both hands, bending down to look directly into his face.

“My son, what are you thinking?” asks the older pharaoh with genuine interest. Under the weight of his hands his son feels small, yet when Atem lifts his face he has the cold, determined look of a ruler who has fought in war most of his life.

“A part of me suspects that the millennium items are related to what happened tonight,” he replies, staring at him. Aknamkanon's sudden surprise at his words quickly changes to analysis of the situation.

“And your guest?” He asks again patiently “Is his arrival also related to the millennium items?”

“I don't know yet, but I'm afraid it's related to the final duel” adds Atem, nodding at the curiosity and understanding on his father's face. The man notices his son's body trembling unconsciously, and with deep surprise Aknamkanon watches as the young man, sinking into his thoughts, seems to become a dark version of himself.

“I will not allow Anzu to be harmed” Atem whispers, his jaw clenched, staring at a distant point in the room with deep, spiteful eyes. “I will destroy anyone who tries to harm her”

Overwhelmed by his dark essence, Aknamkanon releases the boy's shoulders, forcing him out of his thoughts with a blink; Atem watches him in confusion for a few seconds, a shiver running through the older man as he realises that his son was unaware of his words.

“Why would anyone want to hurt her?” he asks, trying to understand his son's emotions. The boy's breath hitches and he silently averts his eyes, trying to find the best words to explain the situation.

Aknamkanon looks at him tensely, while Atem meditates; after a few seconds the young pharaoh lifts his illuminated face with a tiny crooked smile.

“Because I'm in love with her.” he confesses quietly.

NOTES ON THE CHAPTER

Kemmet: Egyptian name for the Pharaonic Egyptians.

Heka: Sorcerers.

Sunu: Physicians.

Saru: Local council of nobles

Hem netcher: Prophets.

Sem: Priests who acted in the ceremonies of resurrection rites.

Maaty: Term for the justified in the judgement of the Maat at death.

Fields of Ialu: Egyptian paradise.

Mut-nisut: Mother of the king.

#fanfic #atemxanzu #vanishshipping #revolutionshipping #anzu mazaki #yami yugi #Duat fic #pharaoh atem

10 notes · View notes