Chapter 14: Let's Escape a Hospital

• 𓎬 ☼ 𓋹⋅☾𓂀 ☽⋅𓋹 ☼ 𓎬 •

Larry XXXII

2014 - London

He blinked his eyes open, adjusting his sight with the bright hospital light before he stretched his arms out with a yawn. Towards his left, he tilted his head to find a figure sitting in the chair – eyes focused on the laptop perched on his knees.

With those dark circles under his eyes, Larry didn't need to deduce that his son hadn't slept again. Why didn't he and Rebecca go and spend some time outside instead being cooped up inside? Even if they were on some form of business holiday, he knew Nicky was busy with college applications whilst Rebecca was sorting some work for the museum.

But seeing him here made his heart clench and flutter.

"Hey...Nicky," He weakly said followed by a rasped breath before reaching his hand out.

In a stuttered motion, Nick inhaled in surprised and placed his laptop down on the side-table, almost dropping it in the process. Larry couldn't help but chuckle at his son's antics. He might have been asleep for almost three days, but those three days have been the longest for him and everyone that he cared for. He felt detached to the real world at those times, trying to relay the moments and struggling to get off the nightmares.

So, seeing his son by his side was something he needed.

"Dad, I'm glad that you're awake," Nick said, relief in his voice when he grasped Larry's hand.

It took him a moment not to choke up and realise the sudden interaction. Remembering the last time his son had held him was when he was bleeding on a bridge.

The room went slightly chilly, though not as long as he presumed when his eyes spotted Rebecca stand up from her seat. She went over to the end of his bed, a soft smile that filled him with warmth. She didn't appear any better, dark circles and tense shoulders as she sat back and always diverted her eyes anywhere but his torso. And despite all that, she was here and breathing – with the beauty and clever eyes he loved.

Guilt struck a chord in him once he dwelled on the thought of them. They had through so much because of his recklessness; because he did what he thought was right. Now it seemed all like a mistake.

'Maybe I was wrong.' He thought. 'Maybe I shouldn't have done it.'

Of course no once couldn't truly go to the past and change things. No magic – even the Tablet – could do something as going back to the past (unless there's more to the Tablet's magic...). Even now: Larry began to think about what had happened. Did his family see it? His parents and cousins and uncles and aunts? What would they think of him now?

And the exhibits? If they saw him there and then on the hospital bed, he would not hear the end of it from every one of them.

Rebecca spoke quietly, "I'm sorry if we woke you up."

Larry sat up, groaning in slight pain whilst he adjusted his position. He cracked up a joke, trying to remove the feeling of pain both from guilt and physical pain.

"It's fine. I've been asleep for over a day now." He held his hand up, waving it to his son and fiancée to show the needle and tube which connected to the drip. "You've got to thank the doctors here for the free health care."

He nudged his chin to where Nick placed his laptop and quipped about being able to probably understand the coding his son did after waking up.

"You're drug talking, Larry." Rebecca wryly replied, but there was an underlining tone of concern.

Larry carefully thought what to say next. He did feel fine, and even if he were in pain, no living human could be this lively after going through a surgery. "No. It's not the morphine." He reassured the two of them. "I feel fine, actually."

An unimpressed look shot towards him, and with Nick almost seeming more suspicious. He should have known that his son would pry, even if he did not need to speak about it. Though, what do you say to people what you might think you are?

'Oh, guess what? I might be like Rowen! I died but some goddess helped me bring myself back to life. Oh, and I met a four-thousand-year-old queen who was Ahk's sister-in-law apparently and I witnessed her, and her son gets murdered by people.' Larry sarcastically thought to himself. 'That's a perfectly normal reason as to why you're alive and not dead.'

If they did believe all the rambling he would say, what would they think? That he wasn't himself anymore?

Wait no. Of course, he was himself. Except for the ageing part and the odd thrum of his heart-

'What if I won't die...'

Larry stopped himself and shook his head.

He didn't want to even ask that question.

'Nope, not gonna answer that.'

Instead, he shuffled in the hospital bed, carefully pulling the cover off his body. When he pulled up a part of his shirt, where he had been shot, all he got was a sharp intake of breath.

Nicky was the first to speak, "What? But there should be..."

In the exact place where a bullet hole should have been, was nothing by a raw scar. The bullet wound should take weeks to heal. For him: only a few days. Perhaps it was what saved him more than the goddess, his body had fixed itself like he was Wolverine that it almost scared him.

He pulled the shirt down and looked at the two with a hefty sigh. "Look. Nick. Becca..." Guilt rose in his voice. "I don't think I've been honest with you two for the past few months-" Larry's voice trailed off once his attention grew to the screams from in front of him.

His eyes wandered towards the television placed on the far wall, the news playing out as the reporter called out.

Written on the bottom was a simple sentence.

A skeleton dinosaur is rampaging through London

He leaned forward, forgetting that he was bedridden that he had to backtrack. Nick stared at the screen with wide eyes whilst Rebecca's hand fell over to her open mouth. They watched a shaking camera show a skeletal stegosaurus tossing a car like a toy.

The live footage gave him another shiver of cold feeling.

"What the heck..." That was all Larry could say.

The air in the room could not get any tenser as he tried to concentrate on the TV.

"That's not possible," Rebecca's mouth was open wide, her eyes transfixed to the screen.

He replied simply, "No, it's not."

And somehow it was.

Nothing could possibly replicate something reckless and chaotic as a real dinosaur. Back in New York, they have always brushed off the possibilities as 'special effects' to those who questioned Rexy and the Maori head they possessed. However, that was inside the museum. Rexy was tamed by them and didn't chuck (wait, is that a Vespa?) anything towards civilians.

"But...it's daytime!" Nick pointed, stammering in incredulity. "The sun should have turned it to dust."

While his mind was elsewhere, he watched his son's eyes fly over to his laptop and scroll somewhere whilst Rebecca had a phone pressed next to the ear. But every call was left her making a noise of frustration, and Larry could only assume their historian friend was busy.

The first thing which he assumed was the Tablet, the only magical artefact that he knew was in the city, and probably the only thing that could bring something to life. But those words which Teddy once told him that first night resonated in his head, Larry had to fear the worse as well as be confused. Only the Tablet could bring something to life during the night. Sunlight turned them nothing but to ashes.

So why didn't the Tablet turn the dinosaur to dust?

Larry subconsciously removed the blanket and began to sit up. "I know. Come on-" But before he could even shuffle his body to the edge, an arm clamped against his own. His eyes darted upwards, finding the flare of annoyance in Rebecca's eyes. A warning that if he moved a muscle, she could probably sprain one back in retaliation.

"Hey," She spoke boldly and ordered: "You sit your ass back down again."

However, that only fuelled his own frustration and anticipation back, lowering his voice. "Becca, people are in danger." Larry flashed his eyes, breathing sharply. "They are in danger! I can't just lay here and not do anything!"

Furrowed eyebrows nestled into a scowl as Rebecca said, "No, Larry Daley. You just got shot for crying out loud!" Her voice wavered, a mix of anger. "I'm not letting you out of this place until you're better."

There was then a knock on the door and Larry quickly rested his back over the pillows down.

He tried his best to relax and refrain the indignation that was bubbling in his chest. He knew that Rebecca knew who would be in danger, and yet she wouldn't let him do what he can. Larry was perfectly fine (apart from the wound in his stomach) and was fine enough to get up and make sure they're fine. He was their nightguard for god's sake, and he had the right.

Though some small part of him did feel guilty lashing out so suddenly. Perhaps it was because of how long he'd spent in bed – getting more restless as the world outside turned upside down when he couldn't do anything about it. Even so, Larry was determined to get to the museum no matter what.

The two figures entered the hospital room. The first one had been familiar; Larry recognised the short cut brown hair and tall figure with the rectangular black specs. He wore a white coat over light blue hospital scrubs much like the other. The second figure was shorter, perhaps a nurse in his speculation. Her light brown, almost gingery hair was tied back in a low neat bun, her dark eyes glancing over to the window before walking over to the drawers of medicine.

Rebecca had composed herself, looking less disgruntled. But he could tell by her clenched fists and the blank look she was doing her best to refrain some propriety. He could sense the vexation that radiated off her. She was mad at him.

'Technically, she has the right to be angry,' A part of his mind tutted and Larry shooed it away. He didn't need this right now.

Larry turned his attention to the first when Rebecca greeted the doctor politely, "Dr Jones."

"Good morning," Dr Jones flashed a curt smile and nodded to Larry. "We're just here to check up on you, Mr Daley."

Whilst the nurse was taking several things and checking his drip, Dr Jones thanked Rebecca and Nick for space and asked him if he could see the wound. Somehow, there was some resistance in his mind, telling Larry that he shouldn't. However, he nodded stiffly and decided to push the blanket down and show the exposed skin.

Dr Jones peered down and inspected the marks. Larry was sweating with worry. What would the doctor say if he saw that it was almost healed?

But what he didn't expect as he watched the doctor look made his throat tighten like a knot.

Larry's heart grew cold.

On the back of the man's neck was the same symbol that he had seen from Cecil.

The Snake and The Sha.

'He's one of them,' He realised but another voice in the back of his mind refused to admit aloud.

"How is he, doctor?" Rebecca cut him off his frozen state, sitting by his side as the doctor stepped back and allowed Larry to put his shirt down carefully.

Writing down some things on his clipboard, Dr Jones looked up to Rebecca. "His wound is healing well, though he will need to be here a little longer."

He flicked a glance at Nick and Rebecca, who stayed quiet as the doctor checked his drip and file. Larry said, a hint of hope in his voice. "Oh, I was hoping I'll be fine in a few days."

The nurse had passed something to Dr Jones, who muttered something back. Blank eyes from the nurse looked over to the doctor before nodding silently. Afterwards, Larry heard those words which echoed in his head.

"Sudden movement will potentially rip the stitching. Especially when travelling, it may need to be tended if an accident occurs." Dr Jones informed them, "A couple more weeks would be able to give time for it to heal."

In his mind, Larry should agree with the suggestion. But those suspicious eyes and the tattoo of the Order was giving him a pit in his stomach. This man knew; he had to know after what happened to Trench. And he wanted Larry to stay here because of his injury was far from the truth. Larry could not breathe. He needed to leave, escape with Rebecca and Nick before they could get them.

Instead, Dr Jones was proceeding to leave the room.

"I'll stay to give them the details." The nurse informed the doctor to which he nodded.

"Thank you." Dr Jones smiled though it never reached his eyes, "Nurse Anna will let you know alternatives on the arrangement."

As the door shut, there was a second of stagnant silence before Larry saw the short figure quickly rush to where his drip was and snatched the bag off the hook.

Wait what.

Panic rose from Larry, and he didn't need to look at Rebecca at her horror as she stammered, "Wait, what are you doing?"

The nurse stared at them, before locking eyes at him.

"You all need to leave." Her accent immediately changed, lingering into an American one. "I have someone already prepared at the parking lot to take you to a safe house."

He was knocked back in surprise. Who was she? And what did she mean about a safe house?

Rebecca had stood on the other side of the bed, glaring daggers at the woman as she continued to pack several small bags of medicine and his own bag of clothes.

"Who are you, and what does he want from me?" Larry demanded.

To his luck, Anna (or whatever her name was) appeared to know what he meant and nudged her chin to the TV, which was still playing the news. She knew something about the dinosaur, and she didn't seem fazed by this at all.

'Like the man in the London Underground...' Larry remembered.

Anna zipped the bag open, laying out a shirt and his jacket on the bed. "I see that you've seen the news. The Ennead has granted something which they have never done unless it was our last salvation."

The Ennead granted what- Larry could hardly believe his ears. No one but their resident Ancient Egyptians mentioned that name, and he quickly felt his suspicions rise. How did this woman know about them? And what did she meant that they granted them something?

Dark eyes met his own, and Anna spoke. "The Order is hunting you down. All three of you. They knew where you were once Garret Trench was killed."

Whilst he changed his hospital gown for his clothes with the aid of Anna, he heard Rebecca sharpen her breath and he glanced over to his fiancée. Larry had told Rebecca about them, but he had not been truly honest. The day he met Ian Winterson, he had been so distraught that he never got around to tell her or Nick.

Larry realised the number of times he has been in the Order's grasp.

And this time: they wanted him. This time, they wanted him for something he didn't have but for something he could get.

He breathed, "He's one of them. They want the Tablet, but I don't-"

Anna interrupted him, narrowing her eyes that indicated him to be quiet. "You know what your importance is to them, Mr Daley. I am here to make sure you're all out." She looked at her phone, and hurriedly zipped the rest of his things and pulled the wheelchair to his side. "Quickly, we have five minutes."

Larry looked at the wheelchair and gritted his teeth. And with a quick breath, he lugged his feet to the edge of the bed and sat up. He tried his best not to stretch, carefully placing himself down into the seat with his son's help. He thanked Nick, before taking his backpack of clothes and medicine and hovered his gaze over to Rebecca.

She was not on board with what the woman was on about, more concerned of Larry's and Nick's safety than to leave unexpectedly. But she was fighting, knowing well that they had no choice but to follow this nurse (to which Larry now doubted if she really was) because of Dr Jones.

Nick pushed him towards the door, leaving the room in a mess after they packed their belongings whilst Anna panned her head outside to make sure it was clear. Once she nodded to them, Larry took a deep breath for assurance.

They made their way down the corridors, passing nurses and doctors who seemed unfazed by them. Larry didn't spot any other Set follower, feeling the heat cool down as they entered the elevators. However, his heart was beating a million times a second – afraid that it could burst out of his chest if something else occurred.

This was so wrong in so many levels, and yet he could feel his own body running in adrenaline (and possibly morphine). His hands grew numb, shaking in anticipation as the elevator descended pass several floors.

As the door shut, Rebecca asked the nurse quietly, "How about security?"

There was a moment, the woman looked at her and contemplated. Larry also wondered this as well. Nobody in the hospital reacted and cameras have always integrated into the lives of the modern world.

"I disabled it long enough for you to escape." The enigmatic woman looked over to Rebecca and said with a soft tone, "Ms Hutman, you must cooperate. You can trust me enough to ensure your escape."

If he had the audacity to snort right there and then, Rebecca would have whacked him in the head. This woman had no clue who she stood next to, and Larry and Nick seemed to know by their faces to each other that they felt the tension grow between the two. Rebecca was already mad at him for suggesting going out, so this was just the icing on top.

Larry heard Rebecca mutter next to him, "You remind me of someone."

He furrowed his eyebrows, curious as to why his fiancée commented. Though it didn't take a second to agree with her statement. The woman looked familiar indeed – but where has he seen her before?

"They say I blend too well, an advantage for a spy." In the corner of his eyes, Anna smiled back before finding Larry's gaze and those lips tightened to a thin line. "You shouldn't trust me. You shouldn't trust anyone."

"I don't trust you," Larry spoke quietly, and to his surprise found her not reacting in annoyance. At least they were all on the same page despite knowing that they will be going into the fray with a blind eye.

The corner of her mouth lifted slightly. "I assure you; The Guardians and Ms Carter are safe. They will join you shortly with your companions." The elevator doors opened, and she said to the three, "Now, let us go."

They arrived at the ground floor, and what seems to be more endless corridors and hallways. Whilst Anna strode first ahead along with Rebecca, Nick pushed him behind and continued down the path. There were some glances to him though it didn't seem too much to be concerned about. People were too busy with their own agendas, and Larry thanked the busy weekday and hallways to hide them.

Just as the made it to the end of the corridor, splitting to what seems to be the front entrance, Rebecca and Anna halted before Larry and Nick arrived.

"What's wrong?" Rebecca questioned, eyeing Anna.

However, the woman's eyes panned to one end. There was a discomforting feeling rising in Larry's heart the moment he focused on several people wearing suits and doctor overalls coming from the right corridor. They hadn't noticed them yet, but he could tell eventually they weren't the usual bystanders.

"I believe we have some company," Anna murmured and ushered them to the left, exiting the main hall. "Come. We'll go this way."

Rebecca turned her head over her shoulder and relaxed slightly to find him and Nick. He then told Nick to follow them and continued down the hospital, not before Larry glanced back at the figures behind them.

The group of doctors and suited business people went down to where they exited and he couldn't help but skip a beat of breath. 'If you didn't leave, they probably would have gotten you, Daley.' He said to himself. 'Also, how the crap can I sense their people now all of a sudden?'

Once they arrived at a quieter exit, Anna and Rebecca held the doors for Nick to roll him through.

"Who are they?" Larry asked, looking over to the spy.

Anna shut the fire exit, clamping it shut before guiding them into the car park. She answered briefly with shallow breaths, "Order spies." A curse left her mouth, taking her phone out. He heard her let out a noise of annoyance before adding, "Damn Paladino and his entail."

Whilst the wound through the car park, they spotted a black vehicle parked between cars, blended by the colours. A person exited the driver's seat, nodding to Anna before rushing to open the passenger doors.

The fake nurse explained that the driver would take them somewhere safe, to which Rebecca could only nod before aiding Larry off his wheelchair. He took another deep breath, before pushing every bit of his strength into the car. After sliding in, he wavered a bit as he felt the adrenaline reduce. Nick slipped into the side with their bags and he thanked his son.

However, once everyone was in: the only person that stood outside was Anna herself.

Unrolling the window, he questioned to her, "Where are you going? Aren't you coming with us?"

The woman turned to him and stepped close to the window. Her sharp dark eyes boring into his that. Anna answered, "They will soon know who led you out, therefore, they will be looking for me. I am only a courier and a spy." She glanced back, before nodding back to him and back to Rebecca. "Your journey begins at the British Library. There you will get your answers."

He opened his mouth to retort, and to tell the woman to get inside. Though, he knew well enough not to get into the spy's way. Whoever they were and whatever the reason they did this, Larry realised that this was how it was going to come. And despite the hostility and the short time, Anna had done her job.

So, Larry caught her attention with a cough, his last parting words filled with gratitude. "Anna, or whoever you are. Thank you."

There was a look of pride and emotion in the woman's face as she nodded her chin curtly. She spoke several words, though Larry could only guess to be either Mandarin or Cantonese.

"May you go in peace, Guardian." Anna's last words back in English before placing her palm over her chest. "Good luck."

The engine ignited whilst he and the rest caught the nurse disappear in the sea of vehicles – the enigmatic woman who saved them and possibly kept them alive. Larry leaned back in the back seat, trying to settle his heart. He could only hope where they were going, his friends would be there.

• 𓎬 ☼ 𓋹⋅☾𓂀 ☽⋅𓋹 ☼ 𓎬 •

Ahkmenrah XX

2014 – London

Ahkmenrah had his fair share of existential crises. Though, nothing from the previous mental breakdowns could replicate this.

No. This was something else entirely.

'This must be a dream,' He told himself, staggering away from the Tablet. 'A very vivid and realistic dream that I cannot wake up to...'

Though if it was a dream, he wondered why the blonde-haired woman was pointing a hammer at him. (If he recalled several months ago, it did remind him of the superhero movie with the blonde-man with the large metal hammer).

Her presence immediately cut him off his head, standing rigidly in position as he watched the British night guard block the entrance.

"Stay back! Tell me where the body is!" She cried the widest eyes that easily showed her fear.

Ahkmenrah winced at the loud voice echo back before sighing. It would seem Tilly had found his sarcophagus in the other hall and found it open and empty. Hence why he was in this predicament having to deal with the nightguard.

He should probably mention the other nightguard who he scared as well.

Questioning behind him, Ahkmenrah's father gave a confused gaze. "What is wrong with the girl?"

There was a little part of him that wanted to answer back to his father, but he knew they wouldn't get anywhere unless he calmed the nightguard down. He held his hands up, a signal of surrender as he tried to find her eyesight.

"Tilly...Tilly, it is me." Ahkmenrah slowly spoke, taking a step forward.

But that had been a mistake, making her step back – jabbing the hammer back at him once more. "No it isn't!" Tilly shook her head, "The real mummy would be dead during the day!"

He inhaled sharply before replying coolly, "Something happened, Tilly." Ahkmenrah assured her with honesty, "Believe me, I would have explained it mere seconds ago if I knew."

That had clicked gradually in the nightguard's mind, her arm lowering down before stepping forwards and facing him with a gaping mouth.

"Oh my god." She breathed, "You're actually alive." Tilly took a step back, flickering her eyes from him to what seemed to be at his parents' direction.

Before he could speak, he spotted several figures in the distance. His head looked up, a mixture of relief and more confusion when he found his friends stride up to the Egyptian exhibit with more confused expressions.

Tilly noticed that his attention went from behind her and she turned around with her jaw still slack. And if Ahkmenrah wasn't impressed at himself for being calm and collected, he would share the same shock as the nightguard.

Teddy was the first to exclaim, "Good heavens, my boy! What happened?"

Even in this situation, the president's exuberance couldn't help make Ahkmenrah smile, relief put on his shoulders. "Thank Ra you're here, Teddy, Sac, Attila. I am glad it is not just us awake."

Eyebrows nudging upwards with mirthful eyes, Sacagawea spoke. "You should see the rest of the exhibits; they're wondering why they're awake too and scaring the day guards." The Native American turned to the woman beside Ahkmenrah and added, "I think it's best to assure them that it's alright, Tilly. You could probably stop your co-workers, screaming down the hall too. Might prevent them from scaring the other exhibits."

Ahkmenrah raised an eyebrow at the three, to which Sacagawea gave him a look of questioning and acknowledgement and he silently bit his lip from smiling. How she knew it had been him that resulted in a frightened nightguard was hard to comprehend. Ahkmenrah just thanked her for at least lessening the guilt.

Nodding, Tilly followed on with the plan and awkwardly hid the hammer behind her back. "Right...I'm going to go." She then pointed a finger at him and his friends before speaking with an orderly tone, "Don't you leave, you got me?"

Ahkmenrah watched the rest nod whilst he followed suit. Before long, Tilly rushed out of the exhibit with a hammer in tow – hopefully, to stop the other security guards startling the exhibits.

Whilst the sound of clicking leather shoes disappeared, his own sandals slapped onto the marble as he rushed back towards the Tablet and carefully took it into his hands. The moment his fingers touched the golden material, it felt like a tsunami of heat fill his entire body. The last time he felt revived was when the Tablet was restored.

But this time, it was like running on sugar. He felt alive, his skin tingling as he grazed a finger over the panels.

Even weirder – there was a sort of connection between him the Tablet. Not a voice or an irritating noise but a soft hum that thrummed inside him. Ahkmenrah was startled by the change that he jumped the moment a hand fell on his shoulder.

On his left, he turned to find his friends stand around him with Teddy asking him, "Dear boy, do you know how it came to this?"

Ahkmenrah replied, "I'm not so sure. The Tablet seems to be functioning well." He then paused slightly and peered to where Attila's hat laid on his head. To his surprise, he could not see Jedediah or Octavius at all.

"Where is the tiny cowboy and the Roman?" Shepseheret was the one that left the question out of his lips, looking at them with curiosity.

He was next to give them a questionable gaze.

Sacagawea answered solemnly, hiding something in her lingering tone. "Dealing with the dinosaur outside. Lancelot's with them."

With a brow raised, Ahkmenrah responded: "Somehow I doubt what you're speaking of, Sac."

The president, the Native American woman and the Hun leader glanced at each other – the three knowing more than he did. What on earth could the two miniatures be doing that made the three secretly laugh back?

Teddy smiled, commenting: "You'll be surprised."

Attila said in Hun, "I was to go with them and help. But they were insisting to do it on their own."

Ahkmenrah gave each of them a confused look, wanting to get some answer but it seemed they wanted to hold it back. 'Fine then, as long as they are alright, I will question it later.' He placed the Tablet under his arm, heading to where his parents were standing by the side.

They looked to have been talking, whispering to each other. It seemed something he should be concerned by how his mother's face was littered with worry and nerves – so unlike herself. On the other hand, his father was pondering, staring at the wall of hieroglyphics as he held his staff by his side.

He wasn't sure if he was ready to speak to his father after what happened days ago. Ahkmenrah wasn't ready to forget nor definitely forgive anything that he had done to him and his brother. The disappointment was still there whenever he felt his father's presence.

However, Ahkmenrah knew he had to know if Merenkahre had some inkling knowledge of this. So, he walked carefully to him, standing by his side as he stared at the wall. The writings spoke of how their souls were delivered to the afterlife – pretty ironic how they were still here.

He then took his chance and asked. "Father, tell me what's going on." Ahkmenrah turned his head to his right to him, "Why are we awake? Not that I'm against it but-"

"Tell me, do you feel different?" His father cut him off, panning his head to him.

Confusion fell on him. He didn't feel any different as before. He could see and feel his skin. The beating of his heart-

Wait.

His heart.

His hand pressed over to where the organ was once placed and felt a gentle thrum. Ahkmenrah sharply inhaled and focused on the beats. Blinking many times, he turned to where his father was – who looked at him and waited.

"My body. I'm complete. How is this possible?" Ahkmenrah asked him, "The Tablet can't possibly bring everything back to its original state. Unless..." He trailed off, the realisation eventually arriving.

Merenkahre stared back at him and murmured, "I think you already know how I would answer that."

His gaze returned to the wall, pursing his lips as he could feel himself blinking away watery eyes. Was it true? Could he possibly be alive again...

Ahkmenrah's thoughts were halted when he heard the clanking of metal armour and the growing voices from the entrance. He gave a silent glance at his father, before spinning back around to where his friends were and strode back over to them.

"Did you see me, Tavius? I was riding that monster like a bull at a rodeo!" He heard Jedediah's voice coming from down the hall, whooping a noise.

"Yes, you were. And you were going to break a bone if I hadn't caught you in time!" The next voice was Octavius, chiding his partner.

He twitched his lips at the two voices. At least some things have stayed the same.

Whilst he thought of the two miniatures, his ears perked up in curiosity when he heard them, "Do you two just bicker all the goddamn time?" It was American and high pitched, and he finally remembered who it was.

It was the exact same time that he found five people enter the room, his eyes immediately went to the petite woman leading them.

Rowen continued speaking, "You'll get used to it." Though paused as she met his gaze. She said, "...Ahk."

His feet automatically led him to her, grasping her into a tight embrace. Ahkmenrah inhaled, eased by her familiar perfume and a small figure in his arms. Gods, he thanked for her to arrive in time and silently prayed she was well. Stepping back a bit, he stared down at his love and pressed a kiss on her forehead.

Ahkmenrah began, "Rowen...I-"It felt like something tied a knot in his throat as he gave a double-take behind Rowen.

"Jedediah? Octavius?" His eyebrows rose in awe as he cried, "What in Ra's name happened to you?"

And his exclamation was clearly an understatement. He spotted two figures that now stood beside Lancelot appeared to be the same ashes two friends – but just a dozen times the height. If he had to admit, they might even be taller than him to his displeasure.

Jedediah flashed a grin at him as Rowen went to his side. "Aw, Ahky boy's in the same sticky situation as Gigantress here." The cowboy eyed the petite woman down and continued, "Well, sounds pretty weird calling you that. Never thought you'll be this-"

"You finish that sentence, Jedediah: I will not hesitate to toss your hat into a fire." Rowen snapped, warning the now tall man in front of them.

At this point of view, Ahkmenrah should be amused – watching Rowen go against Jedediah no matter the height or consequence.

"Hey! Give this cowboy a break." Jedediah pouted, before grinning and gesturing to himself. "He's bathing in the reality of the big world, which seems pretty small actually."

Octavius, who stood by the cowboy, hummed in agreement. "I'm not as surprised, though I do admit, everything does seem quite quaint."

At that moment, their familiar capuchin clambered up to the Roman's shoulder and made a noise of what seemed to be agreement. Dexter had arrived on time, apparently waiting for the miniatures (he must find another name for them) and Lancelot after their quest.

Slipping a small smile, Ahkmenrah was glad there was some happiness in this time. For the moment silence befell them, Rowen had caught him back to the subject at hand.

She asked, looking at him with concern, "Ahk, what's going on? Is this the Tablet's magic?"

His lips pursed and his mind was reverted to the thoughts he previously had. Though before he could tell her, his father was the one who stated it out loud instead.

Merenkahre spoke ominously, "The End has come."

"Husband...What do you mean?" His mother stared at him, placing a gentle hand on his father's.

However, Merenkahre's gaze was focused on Ahkmenrah. "The prophecy has resurfaced," He answered.

"There is more?" Ahkmenrah narrowed his gaze, approaching his father. A tint of betrayal surged in him.

Merenkahre tapped the bottom of his staff, motioning for Ahkmenrah. However, it soon quietened down, causing all eyes to dart to the elder pharaoh. He thought his father would glare at his friends, ordering them to let them speak. But instead tightened his jaw and turned to Ahkmenrah.

"I don't know of much of it further. Only you can know more about it." Merenkahre said with conviction. "My son, you need to take the Tablet. Find the Ennead. They will help guide you to what you need to do."

"The Ennead, but they're gone." He furrowed his eyebrows. He had not heard of them in years, and he hardly had much love for them – especially after he discovered Khonsu choosing him as Guardian. "They've abandoned us since Khufu came to power. How can I find them?"

Merenkahre didn't respond, only flickering his eyes passed his vision. When his father's attention changed, Ahkmenrah rotated around to discover who entered the exhibit.

It was a man, dressed in fine garments that reminded him of Richard McPhee's clothes. Though in this case, there was a lack of patterns and a bowtie. Instead, there were dark blue, buttoned in the centre. His clean-shaven face staring at their direction before it fell to the person in front of him.

Rowen strode hurriedly through Jedediah, Octavius and Leslie and said icily, "Antonio."

Ahkmenrah's mind clicked. So, this must be the former museum director and the man that had taken her back to London. He'd heard of him before, mostly Rowen speaking of her job and the museum. The same man which faced the Guardian of Cambridge with a hesitant expression.

That confused him.

Antonio took a step forward, holding a hand up. "It's alright, Rowen. I know what's happened. I'm not here to take the Tablet."

Come again?

He must have heard the man wrong, or did he just clarify that he would not take the Tablet? Also, he seemed too comfortable seeing several exhibits alive.

A flicker of anger simmered under his skin, much warmer as he felt his heart pump blood, as he glided towards them with the Tablet tucked under his arm.

Meanwhile, Rowen answered the historian, "Prove it."

Just as he was about to get to them, he was stopped by a hand. He found Attila shake his head before nudging over to Sacagawea.

The Native American woman explained, "He was the man that got us out of the crates." She assured them. "Don't worry, Rowen – if he helped us out, he would have kept us caged."

He eyed the rest of his friend, who all shared nods and hums of agreement. When he caught Sacagawea's eye, she gave a look of truth and it was there he slightly relaxed his hostile composure.

Though it didn't mean it stopped Ahkmenrah catching the historian's attention as he questioned, "Why do you think I will follow you?"

Antonio: "The Lady of Knowledge has granted you, Rowen and your friends' presence. I would not have revealed my intentions if this weren't urgent."

His breath hitched, followed by his mother. Hardly has he ever heard of them ever walk the mortal world. 'If she was here, this must be something larger than we believe it to be.' Ahkmenrah noted.

The Lady of Knowledge was much like The Ennead, hardly gracing the realm of mortals unless it was important. She was, however, the most known to the people, but like all gods: she had a façade which kept her secret. Not much for her own protection, but perhaps for humans instead.

So to hear that this man told them that the Lady granted them a meeting, it was unheard of. It seemed too easy now that the reason they were awake and Antonio telling them about the Lady was linked.

Shepseheret asked from behind him. "What does she seek from my son?" Words filled with concern sent him turning back to her.

He began, "Mother-"

"We cannot idle long. The Order is closing in to gain the Tablet. We need to head to a safer place." Antonio warned them all, and both Rowen and Ahkmenrah sent each other looks of wariness.

It would seem that this name won't leave them soon enough.

He didn't need to speak to his love what they both agreed on, hearing her sigh in confirmation.

Rowen agreed, "Alright. We will come with you." Her voice was lined with much more threats that he heard the red-haired woman sharply inhale. "But you must swear you will not harm any of them."

The follower of the Lady of Knowledge bowed his head, placing a hand over his chest. "I swear under my oath, amica."

"Good." She replied, and Antonio sighed in relief.

After Rowen and Antonio went over to discuss what was about the museum's protection and their plans to contain the exhibits, Ahkmenrah heard the return of murmurs and conversation between his friends. He wasn't sure if he made the right decision, doubt beginning to crawl into his mind. When he looked over back to the man, something irked him which he could've sworn it reminded him of something.

What intrigued him was the small silver chain which hung around his neck. Ahkmenrah could sense something there. A protective spell itself? The Tablet seemed to not mind it, humming as its own devices under his grasp as he watched Rowen walk over to him with more weight on her shoulders.

But when she looked up to him, her face changed to a tired smile making him frown. He knew that face, and he feared that he had agreed to something they both not want.

He started, "Rowen."

Her hand carefully went to grab his free one, reassuring his worries. "Hey, at least we are together. We've got each other's backs."

By Sacagawea, Teddy commented: "Indeed, Ahkmenrah. Do not worry. As long as we are together, we will protect the Tablet at all costs."

Ahkmenrah could feel his chest swell, shaking his head. He did not need them to risk themselves. "You need to stay here, protect the museum." He spoke, but from all of his friends' faces – it would seem they would not be swayed by his order.

"No. If the Lady insists you all then you must go." Merenkahre stated, glancing at the woman by his side. "I will guard this place if you will allow me, Joanna Bates."

Rowen nodded silently.

"Mother..." Ahkmenrah began, but his voice trailed when he found her shaking her head.

Shepseheret spoke, "It is not our destiny, my child. It is yours."

Those words caused him to falter his steps, his knees going weak.

It was then that the sudden realisation hit him like a desert sandstorm. He was thrown back to memory when news of his brother's death travelled to him.

'No...they must be lying.' Ahkmenrah thought. 'He...she...they can't believe I would leave them. Not after so many years away.'

A sense of guilt mixed with regret made things worse for him.

"Mother, come with us." His voice went hoarse, pleading to her. "You will be safe."

Her mother only shook her head. "My place is on your father's side. When I first heard of what I was prepared to overcome, I couldn't imagine not ever seeing my sons ever again." She then continued in their native tongue: "But remember, my Ahkmen...we must follow duty. And the mortal world's safety is on your shoulders, I'm afraid. I wish this was never yours, to begin with."

Ahkmenrah's small voice breathlessly answered, "I never had a say in anything. I should be used to it. It's not your fault."

"No. Not this. I regret I never spoke of where your father went. I had every moment to tell you the moment Osaze told me how aware you were of the world. You were always so attentive, so curious for your own good." Shepseheret shut her eyes, her voice tightening. "And then our deaths happened, and I watched you every night waste yourself away – longing to go out and see the world."

Was this what his mother thought of every second since their death?

"That wasn't your choice. We had to hide it." Ahkmenrah gritted his teeth, wanting to stop them from continuing forward with these words.

And instead, it was Merenkahre who answered him: "No. It was mine." He stared at his son and continued, "You could have spent the next four thousand years seeing the world change. Instead, we chose a path that locked you out from striving better. You have a choice now, my son."

"...Father."

He wanted to reach to them. To his father specifically. Because even after what his father had done to them – to him – Ahkmenrah began to understand why his father had to do it. Maybe he would never come to accept his parents' secrets from him, but he would try his best to understand.

His final words to him hit him like an arrow. "You are still my son and I always cared for you."

"You speak as if I will never see you again," Ahkmenrah whispered.

Merenkahre spoke, "We'll be with you always."

Ahkmenrah nodded, as he finally shook out the truth and spilt it with emotion. "I love you both."

With that, a shadow knocked the air out of his lungs. His mother hugged him tightly, tensing before he relaxed and wrapped his arms around her.

Shepseheret whispered in his ear, "My boy. My beautiful son." She cupped his face and stared at him, continuing. "May the gods protect you."

Ahkmenrah muffled back his tears. He would not cry because he could not bear to admit their parting. It had been only several days since he was reunited with his family. Again, he had no choice but to leave them once more.

Maybe he could stay, let Rowen take the Tablet; find Larry and make sure it was safe. The Tablet was his, to begin with, but it never meant he would choose willingly to protect it. However, his sense of duty and morality swayed him. If he can protect his family by choosing to accept his fate as well as his own, then it was the best course.

As they stepped back, he noticed Shepseheret pan over to the small figure standing a few feet away. She then gestured for her to come to her, her arms falling to her sides. Shepseheret stood tall and proud, willing to face the Guardian of Cambridge.

To his surprise, Shepseheret's façade fell.

His mother, the Queen of once Kemet: pleaded before Rowen Bates with grace and confidence. Because before she was a ruler, she was always a mother first. "Joanna Bates, keep him safe, will you?" Shepseheret asked, tears glistening the rim of her eyes.

Rowen's expression was filled with determination. The same face he had watched face them when they first met. "I promise you, your majesties. I will make sure he comes back. I swear it."

His father approached her, ushering her to him. Ahkmenrah in instinct wanted to rush over in defence, but he spotted his father's look, signalling him that he would not dare to harm her. And in reluctance, he waited: cautiously eyeing Rowen as she faced his father.

She asked, "What is it, your majesty?"

His father stood before Rowen, placing something in her small palm. When Ahkmenrah glanced over towards them, he felt his chest tighten.

There in her palm was his mother's amulet. He had heard stories of it, how his father went all the way down to Nubia during his quests and discovered the beautiful jade. It was then crafted into a beautiful golden amulet for Shepseheret as a courting gift – a sign of their love.

Merenkahre, in turn, gave Rowen the symbolised jewel. Ahkmenrah was too far to know what they were speaking about, but he could tell it seemed important by her attentive gaze and determined look as she clasped the amulet in her hand. His father in turn, only looked down at Rowen with a curt nod, offering a solidifying hand on her shoulder. A sign of respect.

Ahkmenrah was relieved, that his father had settled some differences with the Guardian of Cambridge, despite this last notice. Though he knew that what his father promise was something he would keep.

Rowen bowed her chin, answering politely back. "Thank you."

His parents then hovered away from their odd little group as Ahkmenrah felt Sacagawea's hand place over his shoulder. He thanked her, appreciating the small gesture of kindness until he was sent to look at the extra company with them.

It was only now he was able to notice the red-haired woman, surprised to find Leslie Carter amongst them. Why on earth was she here? And from the woman's hesitation and spot far from them, something must have happened for her to arrive along with Rowen.

"I guess I am staying here?" Leslie grumbled, folding her arms as Rowen went to her.

He watched the two interact – one more hostile than the other. Even from this distance, it wasn't a secret there was something between the two. "If you want to. But where we're going will perhaps give you more answers than this." She sighed, and added: "It's your choice, Les."

The doctor made a gesture before huffing, "Seems like I don't. But I'll come anyway."

It was agreed, and to Ahkmenrah's opposition, that Sacagawea, Teddy, Attila, Dexter, Jedediah and Octavius would accompany them with him, Antonio, Rowen and Leslie. Whilst they went with Antonio, he would be leaving his parents with the museum alongside Lancelot and perhaps Tilly (who was the only other known night guard they trusted).

Whilst he tucked the Tablet in Rowen's satchel, they hurried out to the back entrance of the museum, winding through corridors of exhibits that were just beginning to adjust to their lives. He and the rest of the exhibits knew from their slowed paces that they wanted to stop and help the confused exhibits, but their time was running short.

As well as that, his mind was still reeling from his last conversation with his parents.

His last.

'Stop thinking it will be the last time.' Ahkmenrah told himself. 'You will come back, and you will see them again.'

From eavesdropping his father's words to Rowen, it almost felt like a final goodbye. Did his parents truly feel he will not come back at all? If so: what would stop him? They were just going with Antonio Paladino to the Lady of Knowledge, one of the smaller members of the gods he once learnt of. If a goddess was offering a hearing, perhaps it meant asylum for them.

Somehow, Ahkmenrah felt that wrong as well.

The last thing he could derive from his parents' farewell was that he or they could die.

Suddenly, he felt sick a dozen times over.

"Are you alright?"

He stared to his left, finding golden eyes look at him. Rowen's own face seemed to fall into wonder, entranced by his expression.

With a heavy sigh, he answered truthfully. "No."

Watching her features soften, she stopped them just as they arrived at the door and pulled him into her arms. He released the racking tension that has been inside him since he woke, hands lingering to her hair as he combed through with his fingers. Even alive, everything seemed different – like a whole dampening cloud had been lifted from his heart and mind. He could sense her warmth, her chest heaving in and out. Her heartbeat beating with his own.

Long has it been since he felt this. To feel connected to the living for so many years.

Sooner or later, they pulled back and he kissed her temple once more. Her fingers graced his face as he muttered to her. "But wherever you go: I know at least you are safe mer ek."

Rowen looked at him, a small smile on her lips. "Do you think I was right?" She asked him, "That we'll finally find the answers we've been searching for all this time?"

He glanced over to where someone coughed – finding both Roman and Cowboy gesturing for them to hurry up. Ahkmenrah gave them a look before they rose their hands and began heading outside. Before they could move, Ahkmenrah cupped her face and wiped a small tear that fell over her cheek, kissing the tear away.

"Perhaps," Ahkmenrah recalled, before holding her hand and the two continued.

Despite such a small thing, it was hard to look beyond the door in front of him. He could sense the rays of light escape inside, and the sounds of cars and people. Life. Society. It was all there before him and through those double doors.

And yet, why was he afraid? Afraid to feel what he had not felt for centuries?

He then remembered who he was beside, and who in turn was waiting in the big open world. He had left his parents behind, in the museum similar to the place he has been kept for many years. Now: he was given the chance to be free. To finally see the day.

Ahkmenrah took a breath. He then followed through the doors and out of the building.

The first thing he recognised was warmth. The warmth of the sun shining down on him as he relaxed his body. At this point, he hadn't opened his eyes – taking every step at a time to introduce his senses. Because the past four thousand years, the light which he knew of involved lamps and fires and lights of Manhattan. The light of the moon was cold and eery.

But the sun, it was foreign to him.

So, as he fluttered his eyes open, he greeted the light as an old friend.

Ahkmenrah shuddered a breath and took his surroundings. Everything was the same and yet so different. The trees were so green as the wind rustled their leaves. Vehicles such as cars and trucks were the same colours as the ones he saw in pictures. The buildings were not looming blocks of darkness, instead: they were ornate and ordered.

And the sky.

It was blue as he remembered it had been. The sun peeking out of the clouds as he gazed up before landing them back down to the ground and found himself staring at his hands.

A hand caught his own, and he looked at its owner to find them smiling back. Had he never seen the Guardian of Cambridge's eyes so golden.

"...Breathe, amicus meus." She reminded him, but then stopped and added: "Ahk?"

He blinked several times, finding himself taking a huge breath before answering. "I am fine," Ahkmenrah revealed, choking as he felt his throat tighten – tear threatening to pour out. "It's just... It's difficult to comprehend that I have finally tasted this all after so many years."

He wanted to laugh and cry.

For the rest of the journey, Ahkmenrah could not grasp the reality he was in. Years he had believed he would never set his eyes in the sun again. And yet here he was, seeing the sun after over four thousand years.

____

A/N: Welcome back. It has been a long time since I've updated. 

This chapter, not the best part on Larry's side in my opinion but I tried to make it seem more lighter than needed. As for Ahkmenrah's view, that probably has to be the more dramatic and sadder part of the story.

I wanted for Ahk to not fully reconcile with his parents, mostly still hating them but knowing well enough that time isn't much at all given now than it was before. He doesn't want to yet believe that there was a risk that he wouldn't come back, but his parents somehow is still lying to him for his own good heart.

The Lady of Knowledge will come next chapter and it will be the ending of Part 3. Gods it has been a long part to write, and it's just been because of uni work and all. Whilst 2020 I was able to get through two parts in just under 9 months, I barely scraped a part in 4. That and because chapters are longer and more well thought out.

Next Chapter: heading to the British Library and our gang finally together...after what happened to Larry.

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Written: 25/01/2021

Edited: 26/01/2020