Ch.27 Back to Egypt the journey with General Setka Part 1

For forty days and nights, this tale we've spun, A story unlike any under the sun. With hidden depths and meanings profound, A journey where twists and turns abound.

The nomad's tale, a masterpiece unique, Not just a novel, but truth it does speak. It's filled with plots, both twisted and grand, Foreshadowing secrets of humanity's hand.

From the history of ages to mysteries untold, In this enchanting story, they shall unfold. Each chapter reveals a hidden treasure, A tapestry woven with infinite measure.

So dear reader, delve into this world profound, Where the unknown is found and knowledge is crowned. Open your mind to the secrets it unveils, For the nomad's tale, it never fails.

Back to Egypt the journey with General Setka Part 1

In Egypt, a new day dawned, the sunlight bursting through Jack's room window. The vibrant red curtains swayed gracefully in response to the gentle morning breeze, carrying with it the bustling sounds of the Theban Market.

Jack groggily pulled the blanket away from his face, still half-awake. He shifted to the other side, attempting to find comfort once more in his cosy bed. However, his peaceful slumber was abruptly interrupted by a persistent knock on his door. Startled, he jolted upright, realizing he was running late for today's expedition with Commander Setka. Hastily, he made his way to the door, its worn brown surface emitting a creaking sound as he swung it open.

At the door, it was none other than Ramon, fully dressed in Armour with a spear in his hand, ready to embark on the impending battle.

"Hey Jack, aren't you ready yet?" Ramon inquired, observing Jack still clad in his night attire.

"No, I overslept a bit," Jack replied, realizing his delay.

"Well, get ready quickly. We need to eat and then head to the meeting grounds for the mission," Ramon urged, a sense of urgency in his voice.

"Okay," Jack responded urgently, closing the door to hasten his preparations.

Opening his wardrobe, he retrieved the clothes that Marcus had provided him. Among them, he chose the heavy silver armour and proceeded to don it over his clothing. However, as he fastened the armour, he realized his spear had been broken during the previous encounter with an intruder. "Oh no, I don't have a spear," he murmured in disappointment.

Feeling a chill in the air, Jack decided to wear his old brown coat, which had been draped over his chair. It provided him with some warmth as he made his way out of the room. Stepping outside, he found Ramon standing, gazing out at the bustling city.

Ramon signalled that he was prepared to leave by turning to face Jack and pleading with him to move quickly. They moved quickly along the towering marble hallways as the air around them grew cold.

Jack questioned Ramon about the distance to the Chronotex's location as they moved forward.

Ramon pondered for a moment before replying, "I think it's a full day's journey, with a possible break. We'll find out soon enough. But first, let's go and eat. I'm starving."

"Okay," Jack agreed, his own hunger becoming apparent.

The duo arrived at the grand dining hall, where the number of people casting annoyed glances at Jack had diminished. Jack couldn't help but wonder why and how this change had occurred. It seemed as though he was gradually fitting in and becoming more accepted.

Jack and Ramon enjoyed a satisfying meal of meat, bread, and tea. The flavours were delicious, and it provided them with much-needed sustenance.

With only 25 minutes remaining before they were scheduled to meet General Setka for the expedition, Jack suddenly remembered his broken spear.

"Oh no, Ramon, I just remembered that my spear is broken. I need a new one," Jack exclaimed.

Ramon chuckled and jokingly replied, "Why are you telling me this now, Jack? It's a bit late, don't you think?"

Embarrassed by his forgetfulness, Jack rubbed the back of his head and smiled. "Sorry, Ramon. I completely forgot. Is there a temporary spear I can use for the expedition? We can then head to the armoury to get me a new one."

Ramon nodded and reassured him, "Don't worry. There are always spare spears and swords in the corner of the dining hall. Soldiers often leave them there just in case. Let's go and find you a temporary one for the expedition, and then we can visit the armoury to get you a proper replacement later."

Jack nodded in agreement and followed Ramon through the grand hall. The vastness of the ceiling seemed to stretch on forever, making their journey feel longer than it actually was. But finally, they reached the corner where the spare weapons were kept.

Ramon expressed disappointment, saying, "Oh, I guess there are only two left here."

Jack looked at the remaining spears and noticed a brown one. Ramon suggested that he choose that one, and upon closer inspection, Jack saw that the wood was light brown, indicating its newness. In contrast, the other spear had a darker wood colour and appeared older. It was also less sharp, with visible ridges and bumps along its surface.

Jack reached out and grabbed the light-coloured spear, feeling its weight and balance in his hand. It felt solid and well-maintained

"Hey, you! That's mine!" a commanding voice from behind Jack shouted.

"Huh?" Jack turned back, simultaneously looking at Ramon.

"I said this is mine," Kasib asserted in an authoritative voice.

"Oh, Kasib, how are you?" Jack asked.

"Be quiet! That's my spear," Kasib said firmly.

"Then why was it here?" Ramon inquired.

"Hello, Ramon. Well, I left it here for a bit so I could go and do something. I thought it would be safe here, but my guess was wrong," Kasib explained, looking at Jack.

"Oh, here you go then, Kasib," Jack said, handing the spear back to him.

"You fool! Think before you take something valuable" he said mockingly as he turned around, holding the spear in his hands and making his way out.

"Well, I guess you're stuck with the old spear then, Jack," Ramon said.

Jack let out a sigh before saying, "Well, I guess everything happens for a reason. We'll see."

Jack proceeded to grab the old, dark brown spear. It felt heavy, and the texture of the wood itself was rugged and rough.

"Okay, let's head out, shall we, Jack?" Ramon suggested.

"Yes, I guess so. Let's go," Jack replied.