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MMD Miku and the Egyptians - PART 1

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INTRODUCTION
This is a work of historical fiction that puts Miku, Neru, IA, Gumi, Meiko and Luka into a story that is built around real historical events. It covers the period at the very beginning of the reign of the Pharaoh Thutmose III and the events that led up to the Battle of Megiddo in 1458 BC. This is a long story simply because the story's time line covers events that occurred over a period of months.

I have received quite a few 'complaints' from some of my watchers that some of my MMD 'skits' are too long. Well, this one is the longest one that I have written yet and to be perfectly frank, this is not a story for 'everyone'. Because of the complexity of the background history it was necessary to lay a proper foundation for the characters to function in.  But at the same time, this is not a history lesson, and the story does take some liberties with the history simply because it needed to be 'entertaining and fun'; so there are some comedic moments and elements of pure fantasy. The story is long as it was necessary to 'build context' so that the characters and the historical background could be properly woven together so that it all makes sense.

Due to the length and as Deviantart.com has certain constraints with the size of text documents, it was necessary to present the story in two parts. Part 1, which is presented here in this section, lays down the foundations for the characters so that they are credible within the context of the history of the events that are described in Part 2. Part 2 focuses on events immediately prior to the battle, the Battle of Megiddo itself and what the characters did and why.

It was a lot of fun writing this and I really hope at least some of you will read it and enjoy it. At the end of the day, this is an 'adventure story' built around an epic historical event, but it is woven around the antics of some of our favorite MMD characters. Word of warning though; they're not necessarily presented in the way that they are normally seen, but as characters within the historical landscape in which I have placed them.

Cheers.


Trackdancer     2014

Mature Filter applied as some segments are not suitable for children.


PART 1


EGYPT, THEBES 1458 BC - Evening at the Royal Palace



The Pharaoh was dead and lying in state in the Death Chamber watched over only by the Royal Guards.

[Commander of the Guards] *Bowing* High Priestess. Will there be anything else?
[High Priestess Luka] No, you may go. Just make sure that we are not disturbed whilst we perform the ceremony.
[Commander of the Guards] *Salutes and takes his leave, taking the guardsmen with him*

The High Priestess was attended only by two of her most trusted attendants.

[High Priestess Luka] Are you ready?
[Priestess Meiko] Yes High Priestess.
[Senior Temple Maiden IA] Yes Ma'am.
[High Priestess Luka] Begin the prayer chant.

The Senior Maiden begins to sing a sad, melodious and ancient requiem whilst the Priestess walked solemnly and slowly around the corpse,  burning frankincense and sprinkling lotus scented water. Satisfied with the proceedings, the High Priestess begins uttering a powerful spell that immediately darkened the chamber and sent a chilly, eerie wind out in all directions. This sends a shiver of fear down the spine of the Senior Maiden and alarms the stoic guardsmen on duty outside the chamber.

[Commander of the Guards] *To his guardsmen* EYES FRONT - and no matter what you do: DO NOT LOOK INSIDE THE CHAMBER!

There is a flash of darkness as the body of the dead Pharaoh sits up in a most unnatural manner. The Senior Maiden, alarmed at what she sees, faints and falls to the floor.

[Priestess Meiko] Hmmm ... I guess she wasn't ready for this after all.
[High Priestess Luka] *Glaring at the prostrate body of the Senior Maiden in disgust* See to her.
[Priestess Meiko] *She simply bows and does as she was commanded*

[High Priestess Luka] Your Majesty, what is thy command of your most humble servant?

The dead Pharaoh opens her eyes; it is filled with sadness.

[The Dead Queen Hatshepsut] High Priestess, is that you?
[High Priestess Luka] *Bowing* Yes, your Majesty I am here as promised to accept your last commandments.
[The Dead Queen Hatshepsut] It is so cold ...
[High Priestess Luka] Priestess Meiko, bring a blanket.
[The Dead Queen Hatshepsut] No, that won't be necessary. That will not help nor can I stay long anyway.

The High Priestess Luka waves the Priestess away; the latter being only too pleased to comply.

[The Dead Queen Hatshepsut] Great danger lies ahead my dearest Luka ...
[High Priestess Luka] Your Majesty, what is it that you have me do?
[The Dead Queen Hatshepsut] Take from me a part of me and make sure it goes with my people to a place where they will meet their greatest danger. It will protect their destiny as a people. If they should fail, then nothing will matter, as the Gods would have passed their judgment and Egypt would be no more. If, however, they succeed, then return that part of me to my body so that I will not be forgotten by future generations.
[High Priestess Luka] *Nods solemnly* Your will is my command, my Queen!

Hatshepsut smiles at her old friend as best she could; a difficult thing to do given the current condition of her body. It was at this point that the Senior Maiden manages to come around and upon gazing on the horrible visage of the dead queen, she promptly faints again. The High Priestess glares in disgust at her hapless attendant.

[The Dead Queen Hatshepsut] *Pointing at IA* Her, have her take my relic to where it must go.
[High Priestess Luka] ?
[The Dead Queen Hatshepsut] My friend ... it's getting harder for me to talk ... don't argue. I know fully your loyalty to me, but these will be dangerous times and you must attend to the needs of your Temple. That child is blessed and also, my relic must travel with my people in secret, and no one will pay much heed to that girl. I cannot explain to you why, but in the years ahead you will understand.
[High Priestess Luka]As you command, your Majesty.
[The Dead Queen Hatshepsut] Now lie me down to rest again and do that which I have commanded.

The High Priestess gently helps the dead queen resume her state of rest and begins a new spell that had an even more foreboding ambience.

[High Priestess Luka] Priestess Meiko!
[Priestess Meiko] Yes, High Priestess?
[High Priestess Luka] Go get a pair of forceps from the Guard Captain.
[Priestess Meiko] Forceps?

In response. the High Priestess Luka glares harshly at her Priestess, who withers under her stern gaze and quickly retreats to find the Guard Captain.

[Priestess Meiko] Hi ...
[Commander of the Guards] Meiko, can we meet after?
[Priestess Meiko] Shhhh! Can't; she's watching. I need a pair of forceps. Can you get a pair for me?
[Commander of the Guards] Forceps? Yeah ... sure there should be a pair in the barracks. Guardsman, you heard her. Go get a pair and make it quick!

A Guardsman salutes and runs off as ordered.

[Commander of the Guards] What are you going to do now, Meiko? With the change of regime, you know that things are going to change.
[Priestess Meiko] Yes I know, but I can't leave the Temple now ... not just yet.
[Commander of the Guards] You know my offer is still open, right?
[Priestess Meiko] I never turned you down, remember?

[Guardsman] Eh, Sir ... the forceps ...
[Commander of the Guards] Hmmmm ... thank you ... Priestess Meiko, the forceps.

Meiko stands on her toes, gives the Officer a quick kiss on the lip and a lover's glance. She takes the forceps and turns back into the Death Chamber without another word.

[Priestess Meiko] The forceps, High Priestess.
[High Priestess Luka] Thank you. You might not want to be seeing what I need to do next ...
[Priestess Meiko] I will be fine High Priestess.

The High Priestess looks at the corpse of the dead queen for a moment then opens its mouth and after a few moments she manages to extract one of Hatshepsut's molars. She places this in a small jeweled box and wraps it up in a piece of fine linen. She closes the corpse's mouth, washes her fingers in a bowl of lotus scent water and then says one more prayer over the corpse.

It seemed to the Priestess Meiko as if Hatshepsut's body finally relaxed, but she dismissed it as simply a trick of the light.

[High Priestess Luka] We're done here, Priestess Meiko. Wake her up, we must return to the Temple of Isis as quickly as possible. There is a lot to be done.


Outside the Guards Barracks at the Temple of Isis that same evening



There is a small crowd of off duty Temple guards and servants watching a wrestling match between a large burly guardsman and a diminutive slave girl with long blond hair that was tied into a single pony tail that was offset to one side of her head.

[Sargent of the Guards] Well any more bets? No? OK, Neru ... he's all yours!
[Crowd] *CHEERS and JEERS*
[Burley Guardsman] Go on girl - I'll be nice and give you the first shot - go ahead, let's see how hard you can hit!
[Crowd] *CHEERS and JEERS*

The slave girl, whose name was 'Neru', knocks out the burly guardsman with a flying kick; sending his body limp across the yard ...

[Crowd] *Total silence*
[Sargent of the Guards] OK, people pay up ... thank you, thank you ... have a great evening! He he ...

[Neru] Did I do good Papa?
[Sargent of the Guards] You sure did, girly! Anyway, it's getting really late. You better return to your mistress.
[Neru] OK, Papa. I'll see you soon!

The Sargent of the Guards gives Neru a gentle but firm pat on her head eliciting a wide grin and then the blond haired slave girl runs off to find her mistress. The Sargent counts out the evenings takings and separates the monies into two equal piles. One pile goes into his own money pouch and the other pile into an urn that he kept hidden under his bunk. He wasn't really the slave girl's father. She was an orphan, but he had watched over her for a long time. It was also him that taught her how to fight being a former wrestling champion himself. He was saving half of the winnings from these matches for her so that she could either purchase her freedom with it or he would give it to her for use as a dowry when it came time for her to be married. But, neither of those things, he thought, would happen any time soon.


At the Temple Stables a little later



[Neru] Mistress, I'm back!
[Neru's Mistress] I told you not to call me that whenever we're alone ...
[Neru] Oh sorry, I forgot, Miku.
[Miku] Help me groom down the horses. We're going hunting tomorrow so I want them to rest properly tonight.
[Neru] OK, I'll get to it right away. Where are we going?
[Miku] I don't know, probably to the edge of the desert. We can get some impalas there and maybe we can swing by the Nile and catch some fish.
[Neru] That sounds good; we can swim in the Nile for awhile. It was so hot today.
[Miku] Yes it was, Neru. Anyway, let's finish up here quickly. We need to get some rest ourselves.

About an hour later, the two tired girls head up to their bed in the Temple dormitory where Miku had her own room. Miku was the bastard daughter of a nobleman and a courtesan. She had never known her mother, but she was the youngest of her father's children, and also his favorite. However, he had other wives and children and it was impossible for her to stay at his estate. So from an early age he had sent her to the Temple of Isis to be raised as a Temple Maiden.

At the moment the girls were preparing the chariot that Miku's father had purchased for her. Chariots were the privilege of the nobility and it was unusual for one to be operated by women. But Miku (and Neru) were tomboyish by nature and Miku had badgered her father to get one for her so that she could 'visit him more often'. And so he had purchased one for her together with the horses to pull it. It was the only chariot at the Temple and Miku was very proud of it and used it every chance she gets. She has Neru drive it for her, something that Neru did not mind doing at all and she was extremely adept at the reins.

Primarily, Miku and Neru used the chariot to go to the edge of the desert beyond Thebes to hunt and they regularly supplemented the meats served at the Temple dormitory with their kills. They also took the chariot to the Nile to catch fish. Both girls had a great love for the 'great outdoors' and much preferred to be out hunting and fishing than to stay within the Temple grounds as they found the environment there stifling and the rules restrictive.

Neru was purchased at an early age as a slave by Miku's father and given to Miku for companionship and to see to her needs. So Miku and Neru grew up at the Temple and have been together for a long time. Rather than a mistress and servant relationship, they were more like sisters, and for the most part were virtually inseparable.

[Miku] Come to bed already will you?
[Neru] But I have to fold up our clothes ... Mistress ... eh Miku.
[Miku] Never mind those, we have to get up early anyway. I'm cold!
[Neru] Let me get undressed first ...

[Miku] That's better!
[Neru] HEY! Where are you touching!
[Miku] He he ... come on, cuddle up and let's get some sleep.
[Neru] *snuggle* OK, Mistress ... I love you ... good night.
[Miku] *kiss* Good night ...

They also slept together, something that they had done since they were very young.


In another room at the Temple Dormitory



[Senior Maiden] Help me get ready for bed.
[Her slave girl]  Yes, Mistress. Did you have a good evening at the palace?
[Senior Maiden IA] No ...
[Her slave girl]  *Keeps quiet and helps her mistress into her night clothes*
[Senior Maiden IA] *Getting into the bed* Leave the light on till I'm asleep.
[Her slave girl]  Of course Mistress.

Her slave girl knew that her mistress was scared of the dark. She had been with her mistress for a long time and knew all her quirks and moods. She was also her mistress' only friend because her mistress had a tendency to offend all of her peers. Her mistress was  actually a princess from one of the Royal Houses, but because she was an albino, she was raised at the Temple since it was believed that she had special powers.

The slave girl was sent along with her to cater to her needs. They were about the same age, but had very different personalities. Almost opposites. Where as Princess IA was elegant and delicate, her slave was 'well built' and was also trained to serve as her personal bodyguard. To this end, the slave girl was armed with a large bronze knife that she carried on her at all times. But the slave girl was also genuinely fond of her mistress and spared no effort to see to her mistress' every need ... and so she removed her own clothing; takes her mistress head gently and allowed her to suckle and nuzzle against her ample bosoms.

When her mistress finally fell asleep, the slave girl covered up her mistress then gets into her own night clothes and settles down to sleep on a thick rug at the foot of her mistress' bed. She makes certain that her knife is within reach before closing her eyes. She will be up early to prepare her mistress' breakfast and to attend to her morning toilet. The slave girl's name was 'Gumi'.

[IA] Are you still awake, Gumi?
[Gumi] Yes, Mistress ... just about.
[IA] Come into my bed, just for tonight ...
[Gumi] Yes, Mistress ...
[IA] Thank you ...
[Gumi] You're shivering! Are you ill? Cold?
[IA] No ... it's not that.
[Gumi] You've had another 'vision' didn't you?
[IA] Yes ...
[Gumi] About the future?
[IA] Yes.
[Gumi] Go to sleep, Mistress. I'll watch over you as you sleep, so just get some rest. We can talk about this tomorrow if you like ...
[IA] There will be no time tomorrow, Gumi.
[Gumi] ?
[IA] Our world will change tomorrow when the Sun rises ...

But Gumi had a way to put her mistress to sleep. It was their 'little secret' and not something that the two girls did often. Understanding the implications of what her mistress had disclosed to her, Gumi had a hunch that her beloved mistress would need all the rest that she could get ...

[IA] Gumi, what are you ...? Don't ... be gentle, please ...
[Gumi] Of course my beloved, Mistress. I would never let anything bad happen to you. Now just relax, let me help you sleep ...


The following morning ...



[Priestess Meiko] High Priestess!
[High Priestess Luka] What is it Meiko?
[Priestess Meiko] I'm sorry to disturb your morning prayers. There's a delegation from the Royal Palace. They're demanding an audience with you!
[High Priestess Luka] Already? Well send them to my office. I will be there shortly. Send for my staff also.
[Priestess Meiko] Very good, High Priestess. I will see to it immediately!
[High Priestess Luka] Meiko ...
[Priestess Meiko] Yes, High Priestess?
[High Priestess Luka] Please compose yourself. Don't forget your station.
[Priestess Meiko] Yes, High Priestess ... I'm sorry ...

A little later ...

[High Priestess Luka] And how can we help you?
[Court Official] We are here by order of the Pharaoh. His most magnificent majesty, Thutmose III.
[High Priestess Luka] *Shrugs* And ...
[Court Official] He is ordering this temple to answer his Call to Arms. As you know, High Priestess, the Canaanites are in rebellion in Palestine ...
[High Priestess Luka] Yes, I am aware of that. But this is the Temple to Isis, so what does he expect us to do?
[Court Official] Well ... eh ... the Pharaoh is assembling an army to meet the threat and so we will need troops, and of course stores and funds.
[High Priestess Luka] *She coldly stares hard at the Court Envoy and his delegation but takes note of the fact that the Commander of the Guards was amongst those assembled* Priestess Meiko ...
[Priestess Meiko] YES, HIGH PRIESTESS!
[High Priestess Luka] *She gives Meiko a hard stare; Meiko again withers under her gaze* Have 1000 taels of silver sent to the Royal Palace and one third of whatever food we have in the stores. See to it immediately, but stay here. I have further instructions for you.
[Priestess Meiko] Yes, High Priestess ...
[High Priestess Luka] Sargent of the Guards.
[Sargent of the Guards] Yes, High Priestess?
[High Priestess Luka] We have a hundred guards here is that correct?
[Sargent of the Guards] Yes, High Priestess!
[High Priestess Luka] Choose ten of your best men. Have them ready to join the Pharaoh's army. You're a veteran yourself, correct?
[Sargent of the Guards] Yes, High Priestess.
[High Priestess Luka] Right then, you will go with them.
[Sargent of the Guards] Yes, High Priestess! It will be my pleasure to serve!
[High Priestess Luka] Priestess Meiko, send for the Senior Maiden and the Maiden that has that chariot. What was her name again?
[Priestess Meiko] Miku ... but ... never mind. I'll get them immediately.
[High Priestess Luka] Have them sent to my private chambers, not here. Be there yourself.
[Priestess Meiko] Yes, High Priestess.
[High Priestess Luka] *Turning back towards the Court Envoy* Will that be sufficient for the Pharaoh's need?
[Court Official] Eh ... you have been most generous High Priestess, his Majesty would be most pleased.
[High Priestess Luka] Very good. But I will also be sending some Priestesses. After all, we need to attend to the spiritual needs of the Army as well don't we?
[Court Official] YES, OF COURSE! You are most wise, High Priestess.
[High Priestess Luka] You may go, but please leave that officer. I would like to speak with him in private.

Taking his cue, the Court Official bows and leaves with the rest of his delegation. The High Priestess' own retainers leaves with them to see to the details of the transaction. They leave the Commander of the Guards, who calmly awaits the High Priestess' pleasure.

[High Priestess Luka] You are in love with my Priestess Meiko are you not?
[Commander of the Guards] ... Yes Ma'am ... why?
[High Priestess Luka] Very good. If you should both survive this insanity, she's yours. You can take her for your wife.
[Commander of the Guards] !
[High Priestess Luka] Say, no more. Just keep her safe and happy. She's an important friend. You may take your leave; may the Blessings of the Goddess go with the two of you.

A little later in the High Priestess' private chambers.

[Priestess Meiko] The Maiden's that you sent for are here.
[High Priestess Luka] Very good. Now listen carefully for you three have been selected to carry out the Will of the Goddess. These are dangerous time. This will either be a new beginning for Egypt or the beginning of her end. It all depends on what happens in this coming war. Maiden IA, take this Holy Relic - do not open this box and guard it with your life. You will accompany the Pharaoh's army bearing this relic. It will protect the destiny of the Pharaoh and his Army, but you must never let the Pharaoh know that you have this. Also, I can spare no one to protect you, but are skilled in your arts and you have a good bodyguard; so I'll leave you in her care. If you survive to return here, you will immediately be promoted to the rank a full Priestess and take over Priestess Meiko's role. Do you have any questions?
[IA] *Taking a small box wrapped in linen from the High Priestess - she knew immediately what it was* Understood High Priestess, I will not fail you.
[High Priestess Luka] YOU ...
[Miku] Me?
[High Priestess Luka] Yes, Maiden Miku. You will go with the Pharaoh's Army with your slave and your chariot. You have a special role in the events that are about to unfold in the months to come. You two are to be the 'Eyes of the Goddess' and may the Blessings of the Goddess with be with you - don't mess this up! And in the unlikely event that you should survive and return here, I will grant you the position of  'Priestess of the Hunt'. That will give you the freedom to travel that have always been seeking. Do you understand?
[Miku] 'Priestess of the Hunt'? You mean I can go out and explore the world to my hearts content and still come back here for dinner?
[High Priestess Luka] Yes ...
[Miku] OK! I'll do it!
[Priestess Meiko] That was an order, not a request! Properly, thank the High Priestess! If it was me ...
[High Priestess Luka] Never mind that Meiko. More importantly, you're going too.
[Priestess Meiko] ME ... GOING TOO! But ... why? Don't you need me here? Especially with all the changes and ...
[High Priestess Luka] Priestess Meiko, if you should survive. You will not be returning here.
[Priestess Meiko] Huh ... ?
[High Priestess Luka] I gave you to the Commander of the Guards as his bride. May the Blessings of the Goddess go with you my dear friend. You have served this Temple well for many years and it is time that you find your own happiness. So go with my blessings too and find all the happiness that you deserve. Now all of you go. I have other business to attend to.

[Priestess Meiko] ...
[High Priestess Luka] Why are you still here?

Without another word, the Priestess Meiko goes up to the High Priestess and falls to her knees sobbing.

[High Priestess Luka] Did I do something wrong? I thought this would make you happy. You and that soldier have been seeing each other for years behind my back ...
[Priestess Meiko] No, High Priestess, that's not it. It's just that I've never been more happy in my life and I just do not know how to express my joy. And then the thought of leaving you ...
[High Priestess Luka] Don't thank me yet. The future is not set in stone. I can promise you no happiness in the future short of what I am doing now. For now, just live for today, as we do not know what tomorrow will bring. Now, please compose yourself Priestess! Until you are married, you will remain a Priestess of this Temple and I expect you to carry out your duties properly!

The Priestess Meiko, gets up. Dries her tears and not withstanding the High Priestess' last instructions, she quickly gives the High Priestess a kiss on the cheeks. Then turns to leave without another word as she knew she would not be able to keep back her tears again.


Later that day in the Temple Stables



[Miku] Is everything packed?
[Neru] Yes, Miku. But we can't take much as the chariot can't carry that much.
[Miku] That's fine, we just need our bedding and weapons. The rest can be carried in the wagon with the supplies.
[Neru] Where are we going?
[Miku] To war, Neru. Are you scared?
[Neru] Well, I suppose. I've never been to a war ...
[Miku] Neither have I. Well anyway, it's not like we have a choice. Let's get on the chariot. Take the reins.
[Neru] Yes, Mistress. Where are we headed?
[Miku] According to my instructions, we're to ride on ahead of the Temple delegation. We're going to Fort Tjaru.
[Neru] Where's that?
[Miku] Not sure, it's somewhere in northeast Egypt near the Sinai Desert. Just follow everyone, I'm sure we will find it.

[Gumi] HOLD UP YOU TWO!
[Neru] What do you want Gumi?
[Gumi] Can you take IA with you?
[Miku and Neru] ...
[Gumi] You know how frail she is, she can't be walking that far.
[Miku] We don't owe that person any favors ...
[Gumi] Please?
[Miku] This chariot is built to carry two, plus it's already got our gear. Besides which, it isn't exactly that comfortable of a ride.
[Gumi] I'll carry your gear for you, if you can take her.
[Neru] Isn't she going to be carried in her litter?
[Gumi] No. As you know, there's only the guards that are going and the Priestess Meiko. And she's riding in the supply wagon. I'm OK with the walking, but there's no way that my mistress can walk all the way to Fort Tjaru.
[Miku] She's got money right?
[Gumi] Yes, of course!
[Miku] Well in that case we will take her as far as the market. Go get her and you come along, too.

Miku was right of course. The chariot was an uncomfortable ride especially since it had no suspension, so the occupants felt every bump on the road and by the time they reached the market, IA was already stricken with motion sickness.

[Miku] Gumi.
[Gumi] Yes?
[Miku] Go buy your mistress one of those asses. They're strong animals and she can ride on that and you can lead it. It'll also be able to carry some of her gear, but seriously, I think you're taking too much!
[Gumi] My mistress is a Princess! She's needs to keep up her appearance and ...
[Miku] But, we're going to war; not for a picnic on the Nile! If I were you, junk half of what you're carrying and travel light. Even you can't carry all that stuff all the way into Palestine!
[Gumi] *sigh* Thank you anyway. I'll go buy an ass ...
[Miku] Neru, go with her. Make sure they don't get overcharged. That one over there looks like a good one. Check it out.
[Neru] Yes, Mistress. Come on Gumi, that one there does look like a good choice!

So Neru haggled with the seller for about a half hour whilst Gumi did her best to keep IA out of the sun. Miku stayed with the chariot making sure to keep the horses in the shade. But it took the Sargent of the Guards when he caught up with them to finalize the deal, and he got them a very good price as no one ever wanted to argue with the Sargent of the Guards. He also made IA buy sandals for Gumi as he said that it was important for a young girl to protect her feet. After all, he said, it would be a long walk to Fort Tjaru.

The party made camp early that night. And whilst the camp was being set up, Miku and Neru went off on the chariot to hunt. They managed to bring back an impala which Meiko had the girls prepare and roast for supper. The party only had two tents and they were modest affairs. Meiko slept in one and IA in the other. Gumi slept outside, keeping a careful guard over her mistress. Not once did she remove her knife from her side. Miku and Neru slept in the open next to their chariot, but they were used to it as they had done the same thing on many occasions during their hunting trips.

It would take them a week to reach Fort Tjaru and around that fortress was assembling men and supplies from all over Egypt. It was a highly organized operation. The Pharaoh's army would eventually number 20,000 strong and needed 14 tons of grain everyday just to keep everyone fed.

Miku and Neru would not be able to supplement their party's table with game meat as once they arrived, their training regime began.

Meiko was more fortunate, as she met up with the Commander of the Guards again. He took her under his care and she was able to eat off his table and they had better fare than most. IA and Gumi were sent to join the medical corp, and being specialist the medical corp enjoyed better facilities and food than the rest of the troops also. Miku and Neru found themselves under the command of the 'Commander of the Chariot Forces' who reported directly to the Pharaoh himself. They soon found themselves immediately thrown into a rigorous training regime - this was to be no holiday camp.


The Training Begins



Their trainer was a large man, a veteran of many campaigns. His first task was to assess everyone's skills and then to bring them up to the standards that the Pharaoh's army demanded. Finally he was to train them to fight as a unit. The Egyptian army of the Middle Kingdom, was a thoroughly professional organization even though the bulk of its soldiers were peasant conscripts.

The trainer was impressed by Miku's weapons skills and Neru's ability to handle their chariot. He wasn't impressed at all by their total lack of respect for authority.

[Trainer] WHEN I SAY NOW, I MEANT NOW, NOT TOMORROW!
[Miku] No, you don't understand. We didn't join to fight like this!
[Trainer] And what's that suppose to mean, young man?
[Miku] I'm not a man, I'm a girl!
[Trainer] You're no girl, just because you're dressed like one doesn't make you one! I'll make a man of you yet!
[Neru] I'm a girl, too!
[Trainer] OK, you two, if you claim to be girls, then prove it!
[Miku] And how are we supposed to do that?
[Trainer] You can start by taking off those ridiculous tops! Sheesh, young people these days ...
[Miku] OK Neru, I guess we have no choice. Take off your top.
[Neru] Why me?
[Miku] Because I'm telling you to; remember who's the mistress here!

And so, blushing like mad, Neru takes off her top.

[Miku] Well, do you believe us now?
[Trainer] And what's that suppose to prove? So he's built like a board. We'll soon put some muscles on him! Now get your top off, too!

And so, blushing like mad, Miku takes her top off also. She didn't fail to notice the tongue that Neru stuck out at her.

[Miku] Well, do you believe us now? Just look at these!
[Trainer] You look like a boy to me too, so both of you give me 100 push ups and after that run 30 times around the camp!
[Miku] We're not running anywhere or pushing anything. We not here to fight, we're here to be the 'Eyes of the Goddess'!
[Trainer] YOU'LL DO AS I SAY OR I'LL HAVE YOUR HIDES WHIPPED!
[Miku] YOU CAN'T WHIP MAIDENS OF  ISIS - IT'S PROHIBITED!
[Trainer] YOU DON'T LOOK LIKE MAIDENS OF ANYTHING TO ME SO GET HOPPING!
[Neru] Can we put our tops back on ... everyone's looking at us ...
[Trainer] NO YOU CANNOT - THOSE GARMENTS ARE NOT A PART OF ANY UNIFORM!
[Neru] If I can beat you at wrestling will you let us put our tops back on?
[Trainer] ARE YOU SERIOUS? I'M A HEAD TALLER THAN YOU - YOU THINK YOU CAN BEAT ME BOY-YO?
[Neru] Yes.
[Trainer] HA HA - GIVE ME YOUR BEST SHOT - I'LL EVEN BE NICE AND GIVE YOU A FREE PUNCH BOY-YO!

And so Neru decks him and the other charioteers laugh and cheer. This draws the attention of the Commander of the Chariot Forces.

[Commander] What's going on here?
[Trainer] These two boys are refusing to comply with the training program, SIR!
[Miku and Neru] FOR THE LAST TIME, WE'RE GIRLS, NOT BOYS! THESE ARE BOOBS YOU KNOW!
[Commander] If you two were girls, wouldn't you two be blushing by now?
[Miku] Oh, we got used to it, besides it's hot like hell. But I can prove we're girls.
[Trainer] And how so? No girl can hit as hard as that boy!
[Miku] Neru, take off your bottom.
[Neru] I CAN'T DO THAT! I'LL BE TOTALLY NAKED!
[Miku] JUST DO IT, I'M GOING TO DO IT TOO!

And so they do ...

[Miku] So do you believe us now?
[Trainer] ...
[Commander] *Without even flinching* Please put your clothes back on ... We believe you.

And so they do ...

[Trainer] So what am I supposed to do with these 'girls'? I mean ...
[Commander] I'll take care of this, continue training with the others. You two come with me.
[Miku and Neru] YES SIR!

When they were out of ear shot of the others ...

[Commander] Who are you and why are you here?
[Miku] I'm Maiden Miku from the Temple of Isis at Thebes and she's Neru, my servant. We're here because our High Priestess told us to come and serve the Pharaoh as his "Eyes of the Goddess"!
[Commander] "Eyes of the Goddess"? Do you two even know what that means? That's a term that hasn't been used for decades ...
[Miku] NO IDEA, SIR!
[Commander] I didn't think so as normally, the "Eyes of the Goddess" would be a lot older. At least back in the old days. Well, what it means is that you are the eyes of the Pharaoh's army. You will join the reconnaissance forces and ride on ahead of the main army and scout out the enemy and their dispositions and report your findings; back to the Pharaoh himself personally. Are you two really up to the task? It's extremely dangerous and your reports must be absolutely accurate. After all, Priestesses of Isis are prohibited from telling any lies, right?
[Miku] Truthfully, I don't know how to answer that. We've never done anything like this before, but Neru and I have been hunting with our chariot for over a year now and we do pretty well on our own even in the desert. That's also how we got to wear this leopard's skin. We killed a man-eater about 6 months ago and now we're wearing it's pelt. But we've never been to war and we've never killed people.
[Commander] Well, if you do your job right, you won't ever have to kill anyone. All you need to do is to see the enemy, before he sees us and not be seen yourselves.
[Miku] Oh we can do that! We've had plenty of experience sneaking out of the Temple Dormitory at night and we've never been caught!

The Commander of the Chariot Forces looks very hard at the two girls without saying anything else. Then he arrives at a decision.

[Commander] Very good. I'll believe you. From now on you will take no orders from anyone except from me. Further more, you will move from wherever you're camped now into my part of the compound. Go get your chariot and gear. I'll have a tent set up for you, Now move.
[Miku and Neru] YES SIR!


Elsewhere in at Fort Tjaru



[Gumi] Are you alright Mistress?
[IA] No ... this is not where we're meant to be, Gumi.
[Gumi] ?
[IA] The Goddess did not send us here merely to tend to wounds. That is not her purpose for us.
[Gumi] But this is a safe place for you, Mistress. Plus you now have a better tent and the food is much better!
[IA] I'm going to see the Pharaoh. My place is by his side!
[Gumi] We can't just march up to the Pharaoh! He's got guards and ...
[IA] Don't forget, I'm a Royal Princess ...

And with that IA marches off towards the main fort where the Pharaoh was staying. To gain access to the Pharaoh, as it turned out was a lot easier than Gumi had thought. All IA had to do was to seek out the Commander of the Guard who did not hesitate to arrange for her to meet with the Pharaoh.

[Commander of the Guard] Your Majesty, the Princess IA is here to pay her homage.
[IA] *Prostrating herself in front of the Pharaoh* Your Majesty, I am here to pledge my service as instructed by my Goddess.
[Thutmose III] Rise my lady, speak your mind.

The Pharaoh Thutmose III was a young man of 20, and already he had the demeanor to rule. Even though he was untested in War and his generals were unsure of his capabilities, the Pharaoh extruded an air of confidence and authority. He was also, quite handsome and IA found herself blushing when she first raised her head and gazed upon the Pharaoh. But he ignored her discomfort.

[IA] Your most humble servant ... *was all that she was able to utter*
[Thutmose III] And you are?
[IA] Princess IA ... I'm a ...
[Thutmose III] Priestess of Isis judging from your attire?
[IA] Eh ... I'm not yet a Priestess, your Majesty ... just a Maiden ...
[Thutmose III] So, even in death, my Aunt seeks to overlook my actions? (He is referring to Hatshepsut who was the previous Pharaoh and ruled as a regent in his stead until her death recently).
[IA] No ... that's not why I'm here ...
[Thutmose III] And what skills would you be bringing to my court then?
[IA] I'm a seer - I can see into the future.
[Thutmose III] Really now ... ? And so Maiden IA, what do you see in Our future?
[IA] *Without hesitating for even a moment* Choices to be made my Lord.

The courtiers gathered around chuckled, but the Pharaoh remained stern and silent.

[Thutmose III] Tell me what I don't already know ...
[IA] I cannot, because that has not been revealed to me yet my Lord.

More chuckles, some of them derisive, but the Pharaoh remained silent.

[Thutmose III] Attend me tonight in my tent. I will want to speak with you in private. See to it that she is quartered here. You may go. I will send for you later.

Someone spoke: "Well at least she's good for 'that' ..."

[Thutmose III] SILENCE! I'd rather have a seer that tells me the truth than a charlatan that tells me lies. The rest of you can go. My commanders, attend me. I want the latest reports ...

And with that IA and Gumi were ushered into a future from which there would be no return.


That same night at the Pharaoh's quarters



[IA] Stop fussing, Gumi!
[Gumi] But ...

[The Pharaoh's Chamberlain] His Majesty will see you know, milady.
[IA] Lead the way, Sir. I am ready for his pleasures.
[Gumi] Oh, I wish you wouldn't put it that way Mistress ...
[IA] You may go Gumi, this may take awhile.
[Gumi] But ...
[IA] Just go! I'll be fine ... and thank you for caring.
[Gumi] Yes, Mistress.

And so the Chamberlain leads IA to the Pharaoh's private chambers. He was all alone seated at a writing desk. IA immediately prostrates herself and the Chamberlain bows reverently before taking his leave.

[Thutmose III] So, do you have any new revelations for me?
[IA] *Without getting up* No my Lord.
[Thutmose III] Then why did you bother to come?
[IA] Because you commanded me to, my Lord.
[Thutmose III] Get off the floor.

And she does. He looks hard at her for a long moment. She did not flinch even though every part of her told her to run out of there as quickly as possible. She also tried her utmost not to blush when she realized that Gumi had dressed her in a garment that did little to hide her body and as was the custom of the time, she had nothing on beneath her dress.

[Thutmose III] What was your name again?
[IA] IA
[Thutmose III] Why are you really here?
[IA] Because the Goddess wills it ... I don't know ... I just know that it is my duty to serve you with all that I can do ... even if it is just with my body ...
[Thutmose III] But aren't Priestess supposed to remain virgins? If that is compromised, then what is to happen to you?
[IA] But, my Lord, you are a God and I am but merely your humble servant. So whatever you choose to do with me would be the Will of a God. Is that not correct, my Lord?
[Thutmose III] Can you sing?
[IA] Yes, my Lord. Is that what you want me to do?
[Thutmose III] Please do, I like the sound of your voice.

And so she does, and he never took his eyes off her and yet, she did not feel uncomfortable as she sensed that he wasn't looking at her in 'that way'. Then all of a sudden he interrupted her with the same question.

[Thutmose III] Why are you really here? This time don't lie to me. Why is it that you cannot tell me the truth?
[IA] Because I was ordered not to ...
[Thutmose III] By?
[IA] The High Priestess of my Temple.
[Thutmose III] So why did you come here? Specifically 'here'.
[IA] Because I am meant to serve by your side, my Lord.
[Thutmose III] To warm my bed?
[IA] ... if it comes to it and it is truly what you want, yes.
[Thutmose III] What I really want is the Truth, but you can't tell me. You claim to be a seer, yet you offer me no portents. So what will you have me do with you?
[IA] I don't know my Lord. All I know is that I am meant to be here. To be by your side and to serve you in whatever capacity you want me to fulfill. It is the Will of my Goddess.
[Thutmose III] Very well then. Can you play chess?
[IA] Yes ... but I'm not really good at it ...

He looks at her again for a moment. Then lets out a deep sigh and relaxes for a moment.

[IA] May I touch you, my Lord.

He simply nods. She cautiously approaches him and begins to massages his shoulders. She could feel his tension melt under her touch.

[Thutmose III] *speaking only to himself* What is my enemy doing?

IA suddenly stops her massage treatment. She stands stiffly and her eyes begin to look strange. Her arms cross over her front in a sacred pose. The room darkens around where she stood and then she speaks in a voice that Thutmose knew was not hers.

[Possessed IA] You must send "My Eyes" to see. And you must do it soon. Know that your enemy is not idle.
[Thutmose III] "My Eyes"?
[Possessed IA] Yes, there are two amongst your servants who were chosen to serve as "My Eyes"; they are known to one of your most faithful commanders.

And when she finished speaking IA collapses and Thutmose summons her maid servant, who was faithfully waiting just outside his quarters to come fetch her. But, that was only the beginning of their relationship. Now that he knew how to trigger her power to glimpse into the future, he kept her close at hand and occasionally he would order her attendance at his quarters in the nights, and they would just repeat the same routine every time. However, he knew better than to lay a hand on her. She was a sacred messenger that was sent to him by the 'Gods' and he earnestly believed that he would be cursed if he treated her improperly.

But her first vision was probably the most important as it sent Miku and Neru, 'The Eyes of the Goddess', on a perilous mission into Palestine and what they would find there would change the course of the war.


The following morning ...



[Miku] You sent for us, Commander?
[Commander] Yes, I have a job for you two. And it's a dangerous one.
[Miku] What would you have us do, Sir?
[Commander] Go into Palestine and find out exactly what the King of Kadesh is up to and where he is, and bring that information back to me. Also, it is best that you not be spotted as we don't want the enemy to know that we're snooping around. Do you think you can handle it?
[Miku] I have no idea, but we'll give it our best!
[Commander] Right then. Get whatever supplies you need and be off with you. Don't come back until you have some information for us and do try to come back unharmed.
[Miku and Neru] YES SIR!

And so Miku and Neru rode forth. Traveling first through the Sinai and then through Gaza they then headed inland to a land that would later be known as Israel. Their chariot was light and they only carried only what they needed, supplementing their food supply with whatever game they could find along their way. They stayed clear of settlements and kept careful watch over their surroundings and tried their utmost to remain undetected. To this end, they had also removed anything on their chariot and especially horses that would allow them to be easily identified as being Egyptians from a distance. It took them about a week to travel into Palestine.

Eventually, they found themselves in a well traveled narrow pass at the end of which lay the city of Megiddo. And around that strategic, fortified city, they found the enemy. They had concentrated and encamped around the city and the two girls were able to count their numbers as well as to scout out in minute detail the surrounding country to find the best approach routes. They were even able to make a record of all the different standards that they saw in the enemy encampment, and this information would be invaluable when they returned as it would allow the Pharaoh's intelligence service to identify who the leaders were; as it turned out there were over a hundred Canaanite princes and chieftains gathered in the hills immediately around Megiddo.

Once they were satisfied that they would not learn more, they then headed back south again as quickly as they could back towards Fort Tjura. While they were gone, based on another vision that IA had, Thutmose had ordered that the Egyptian army to march up to the still loyal city of Gaza so they were able to cut their return journey short. Immediately they gave their detailed report not just to the Commander of the Chariot Forces, but to Thutmose himself. Although other scouts were sent out, none came back with a report as detailed as theirs and Thutmose took note of their effort as well as to their claim to being the 'Eyes of the Goddess'.




The story is continued in PART 2: fav.me/d805x1k
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