[Yuna's POV]
As the sun rose, Kisara finally loosened her embrace, setting me free. I couldn't help but gaze at her with a mix of curiosity and confusion, but Kisara seemed unfazed. With a carefree smile, she turned her attention to the food I had brought, happily indulging in it as if nothing unusual had transpired.
"By the way, Yuna, now that we're free. What will we do?" She asked and took a big gulp of water.
"Well, I took some money from the slave traders, so I think we should go to a city first." I replied, "Thankfully, we got a horse, so it shouldn't take too long."
Kisara nodded in agreement, finishing the last bite of her breakfast before effortlessly climbing onto the horse. The journey ahead was calm and uneventful as we rode quietly across the desert sands. To pass the time, we engaged in lighthearted conversations, chatting about anything and everything, even if the topics were trivial.
What made the ride truly enjoyable was the simple pleasure of having someone to talk to. For reasons I couldn't quite explain, I felt an unusual sense of comfort around Kisara. Her presence put my heart at ease, making our seemingly meaningless banter feel meaningful in its own way.
Eventually, after a few hours of travelling, we arrived at a village along a river. Entering the village, we were able to purchase some information and secure a rough map. As swiftly as we arrived, we left the village and continued our journey to reach the city.
"So the capital is called Memphis..." Kisara muttered and stared at the hieroglyphics on the papyrus."
"Kisara, you can read?" I uttered in shock while examining the unintelligible symbols, "I couldn't even understand a single word..."
"Fu fu fu," Kisara laughed, and her nose twitched, "So even Yuna have something she can't do."
Suppressing my urge to pinch her cheeks, I smiled nonchalantly, "Besides that, when did Kisara learn to read anyway?"
"Well, an old grandpa taught me when I was extremely young..." She explained with a hint of nostalgia in her voice, "I can't remember much about him, but the old grandpa said that it's a pretty common skill, so I should at least know this much."
"I don't think it's common at all..." I muttered blankly, recalling that only a handful of people can count, let alone read, in this day and age...
"But still, that must be very impressive!" I praised wholeheartedly, and Kisara blushed at my flurry of compliments, "Kisara is really a genius!"
Of... Of course!" she said with a mischievous grin. "Praise me more!" Our laughter filled the air as we rode off, Kisara's enthusiasm propelling us forward. "Now, where were we? There's no time to waste!!" With that, she urged the horse into a swift trot, and we continued our journey with haste.
Three days later...
As we reached the top of a hill, Kisara's eyes widened in amazement. "Wow... So that's Memphis..." she breathed, taking in the vast cityscape that unfolded in front of our very eyes.
Before us stretched a sprawling city, its vast expanse marked by endless rows of buildings that seemed to merge with the horizon. Enclosing Memphis were colossal limestone walls, their surfaces gleaming under the intense sunlight.
Beyond the city's walls, countless farms and lush green fields dotted the landscape, adding a surprising vibrancy to the sandy terrain. Yet, what truly captivated us was the Royal Palace, standing majestically at the heart of the capital. Constructed from the finest marble, the palace embodied luxury and grandeur, its gleaming facade a testament to the wealth and power of the Pharaoh.
"To think something like this existed..." I muttered in admiration at the sight as Kisara eagerly nudged her horse.
"I will race you there!" She exclaimed and rushed down the hill.
"Ah, Kisara, wait! This girl, really..." With a small sigh, I frantically chased after Kisara and she sped down the road...
Soon arriving at the gate, Kisara was swiftly stopped by the guards, "Halt!" One of them said and approached her, "Please state your identity."
Intimidated by the spear in his hand, Kisara stammered awkwardly, "Ah, I'm just visiting..."
"I see," The guard nodded, "However, you must first pay a small fee to enter."
"Would I have to pay again if I leave?" Kisara questioned, and the guard shook his head and showed her a copper bar in his hand.
"Once you have paid, you will be given this item, which proves your identity, and you can use it to enter or exit the city at all times." He explained.
"Then I will pay..." Kisara muttered and handed the guard several coins. When he finished counting, the guard happily gave her the copper bar and moved out of her way.
Gently guiding her horse, we finally entered the city and held our breath. The road was bustling with life. There were dozens of street stalls on both sides of the road, creating vibrant colours and various delicious smells that made us feel like we were in paradise.
"Do you have anything you want to do first?" I asked Kisara, who was quietly watching the moving crowd.
*Gurgle*
At the rumbling sound, Kisara blushed and rubbed her stomach in embarrassment, "Someplace to eat would be nice..."
"Sure, you have only been eating plain bread for a while now. You should treat yourself." I agreed, and her face lit up with joy.
Fortunately, it didn't take long for us to spot a small tavern nestled along the street. After securing the horse to a nearby wooden post, we made our way inside and settled into a cozy corner. To Kisara's delight, the food arrived shortly after we placed our order. Her eyes widened in wonder as she gazed at the plate of fish set before her.
With a hint of hesitation, Kisara picked up her fork and carefully cut a piece of the fish. As soon as she took a bite, her eyes grew wide with astonishment, and tears began to well up. After days of bland rations, this fish was like an unexpected gift from the gods.
"K... Kisara, calmed down." I muttered as we began to attract some unwanted attention.
Wiping her tears, Kisara swiftly devoured the remaining food, not leaving a single bit behind. When she sighed with satisfaction, she made an ah sound.
"I should have left Yuna some..." She mumbled apologetically, and I chuckled.
"Don't worry about me, and I don't get hungry anyway." I explained with a small smile, "Besides that, now that we're in Memphis, we have to figure out our plans for the future."
"We first have to find a place to stay. While we can still sleep outside, it's about time we at least secure a comfortable shelter. Luckily, I'm pretty sure that this inn can lend out rooms, but at some cost, of course."
Kisara; "But..."
"But what about our money, right?" I took the words out of Kisara's mouth, and she nodded worriedly, "Unfortunately, we currently don't have a way to get money.
"Then should I find a job?" Kisara proposed, and I stared at her frail frame with concern.
"I'm scared that anything too labour-intensive might be dangerous for you..." I muttered worriedly and affectionately patted her head as she bit her lips in frustration, "It's not your fault, so don't be upset."
"Yuna..." She mumbled, and I hurriedly stood up.
"Enough of that troubling thought. How about we go on a walk?" Without waiting for her answer, I left through the door. Letting her chase after me.
Despite not showing directly, Kisara's uncertain future plagued my mind. Wandering through busy streets, I occasionally noticed Kisara glimpsing at the food stalls. However, knowing our financial situation, she could only walk past them with a heavy heart. Watching this scene, I could only clench my fists, frustrated at our current situation.
"It's okay, Yuna..." Suddenly, Kisara grasped my hand and muttered affectionately, "You being here is enough."
Feeling guilty, I squeezed her hand with a sad smile, "I should be the one taking care of you. I promised that Kisara would always be happy."
"But I am happy!" Kisara argued, "In fact, I'm having the happiest time of my life!"
"Because I know that I'm no longer alone. I also know that you will always protect me. Who couldn't be happy about that?" Kisara laughed sweetly, "I can safely say that nothing else could beat this moment now!"
"You..." I slowly extended my hand...
*Tap*
"Ouch! What was that for?!" Kisara winced when I suddenly flicked her forehead.
"Don't declare that so carelessly. You should save it when you get married." I chided, and Kisara stuck out her tongue.
"I'm fine without marriage! What's so good about it anyway?!"
"How is it not?! Marrying someone you love is really great, you know!" I argued back, and she frowned.
"What makes you say that?! Don't tell me!" Kisara gasped and stared at me with trembling eyes, "Yuna is ma... married?!"
"No, I'm not!" I blushed profusely as she continued to attack.
"Then Yuna must also have someone she likes, right?! Or else, all that talk about marriage and stuff has to come from somewhere!!" Kisara yelled, and I visibly stiffened.
"Th...That" I averted my gaze, finding myself unable to lie.
"Who is it?" Kisara sulked. "Whoever it is, I won't allow it!" She huffed and crossed her arms, unaware that the very person she was rebelling against was the modern reincarnation of her lover.
"E... Enough," I exclaimed and covered my face, "Don't change the subject! So don't claim that this is your happiest moment so carelessly. There's definitely going to be a moment in the future that will be better than this!"
Still pouting, Kisara walked ahead of me as her cheeks inflated like a chipmunk. Laughing quietly, I followed behind her with an amused smile, "Is perhaps Kisara jealous?"
"Who's jealous?" She sulked, and my smile widened even further.
"Come on, don't be upset. Kisara will find someone she loves in the future; should I also be jealous then?"
"Hmph! I won't fall in love! Ever!" She declared confidently, and I sighed.
"Well, I'm not so sure about that..." I muttered. Smiling wryly, we swiftly forgot about her previous conversation and resumed our exploration through the city. It was more enjoyable than I had expected, mainly because these were things that I would never get to see in my present life.
As the sun began to set, we finally stopped outside of the giant palace. A flight of long stairs made of smooth sandstone ascended towards the tall building as if it were a stairway to heaven.
"Apparently, this flight of stairs leads to a temple," I explained while eavesdropping from the nearby, "The palace is built behind it."
"That's where the pharaoh lives..." Kisara muttered in awe, "If it looks this majestic from the outside, I wonder how beautiful the inside actually is."
"Then should we go see?" I asked and pulled Kisara by the hand.
With my assistance, we quickly ascended the stairs and found ourselves standing before an awe-inspiring Egyptian temple. The grand entrance left us momentarily speechless, its sheer size and intricate details overwhelming. The walls were adorned with vibrant carvings etched with meticulous precision. Massive statues acting as pillars lined the walls, their towering forms supporting the vast ceiling above.
As we stepped inside, we entered a spacious room filled with the soft glow of candles and ancient scriptures. The air was thick with reverence as countless people knelt in prayer, creating a serene and sacred atmosphere.
"This is the public area, and the palace should be revealed deeper inside." I hypothesised, glancing at the soldiers guarding the doors leading further into the temple.
"Then I guess it can't be helped..." Kisara sighed exasperatingly, "Should we just go back?"
Staring at her disappointed expression, I felt determined as I took her hand. Going outside of the temple, I led Kisara all the way to the back, where there were fewer people.
Finding an area along the walls, I suddenly embraced Kisara, "We will definitely see it." I declared as we began to float.
"Y... Yuna!" Kisara yelped nervously, "We will get in trouble!"
"Don't worry, let's have a small peek," I replied, my curiosity surging, wanting even to fulfil a little bit of her desire.
"We... really shouldn't be doing this..." She mumbled, but her excited expression betrayed her.
As I carried Kisara to the top, I carefully let go, and she landed gently on the temple rooftop. Thankfully, there seemed to be nobody in sight, and we were able to relax our guard momentarily.
Moving closer to the edge, Kisara and I both gasped. In the distance, we could see the Royal Palace in its entire glory. At the front was an expansive vacant courtyard filled with luscious greeneries, and further were giant buildings constructed purely made of white quartz, giving it a divine appearance. Even if we couldn't see the interiors, this much felt more than enough.
Smiling, I glanced at Kisara's dumbstruck face and laughed, "See, I told you it was worth it."
"Yuna..." Kisara muttered, "Do you think we could ever step foot in there?"
"I don't know." I answered honestly, "But who said we can't try?"
"Well, if we do, let's do it legitimately." Kisara chuckled, "It wouldn't be good if we get arrested."
"That's true," I agreed with a nod. Kisara stood up, her eyes locked on the Royal Palace in the distance. "Just wait! I will definitely see what's inside!" she declared, her voice full of determination. "That is my promise!"
With a confident gaze, Kisara placed her hands on her hips and smiled, the sunlight reflecting brilliantly in her crystal-clear eyes. For a brief moment, we were so caught up in the intensity of her vow that we completely lost track of our surroundings.
Suddenly, a voice interrupted our thoughts. "You know," it began, "you can't just get in there on empty promises."
Swiftly turning around, Kisara and I spotted a boy with a bald head and sharp features. He was dressed in a delicate white linen robe, and several golden bracelets adorned his arms. Observing Kisara calmly with his bright blue eyes.
"W... Who are you?" Kisara questioned nervously.
"I should be the one asking that question." The boy frowned, "How did you sneak past the guards? This is a restricted area, you know?"
"Ah..." Kisara squirmed and averted her gaze. Eventually, her eyes wandered to the edge of the roof, "I... climbed.... up here..."
"You climbed..."He made a stupid expression, "I find it hard to believe. Fine, even if you really did somehow climb all the way up here, you still haven't answered my question. Who are you?"
"Ki... Kisara," She introduced herself.
"From your appearance, you're commoner?" The boy grapsed his chin, "Like I said, this is a restrictive area, and you shouldn't be here."
"Ho... Hold on!" Kisara interrupted him, "It's common etiquette to introduce yourself too..."
Caught off guard by her statement, the boy froze before laughing in disbelief, "You really are a weird one. Fine, my name is Shada, and I am Shimon Muran's apprentice, who's one of the six Sacred Guardians!" Shada smiled proudly, and Kisara tilted her head.
"Sacred Guardians? Who are they?"
As if lightning struck, Shada froze in shock and stared at Kisara as if she were the strangest person in the world, "Do... Do you really not know?" When Kisara innocently shook her head, Shada sighed, "Alright, there's no point in explaining. If you don't even know, just follow me, I will escort you out..."
"Wa.. wait!" Kisara stopped Shada while glimpsing at the palace, "You said that I can't get into the palace through empty promises. So please tell me how!"
Turning around slowly, Shada observed Kisara's sincere expression, "So you're really serious about that? Well, it's not like it's impossible..."
"First, you could become a royal servant who cleans the Royal Palace. However, that doesn't seem to work since you looked fragile, but if you really did climb all the way up here, then it might be possible."
"But to even become a royal servant, you needed trusted backing, or you couldn't even remotely get close to the pharaoh or anyone important." Shada continued, and Kisara frowned.
"Is there any other way?"
"You can also be a priest, but that takes years of learning and religious rituals." Shad explained, "From the looks of it, you wanted to have a fast way, right?"
Seeing her hesitant nod, Shada sighed, "There's only one way then: become a scribe for the Pharoah."
"A scribe?" Kisara tilted her head in confusion.
"It's like you record and write important documents," I explained quietly, "They're basically civil servants..."
"But that's also very difficult." He continued, "You must know how to read and write thousands of different hieroglyphics. Then, you must also learn how to calculate mathematics and use accounting skills. However, they could be learned later on if you're chosen, that is."
"And that's why it's also the fastest way!" Shada stated with a smile, "Every year, an exam will be held that will select new apprentices from hundreds of applicants."
"Can anyone participate?" Kisara asked, her eyes gleaming at this opportunity.
"If you have enough money, then yes." Shada nodded, "We can't just have anyone participate since ink and papyrus are pretty expensive, after all."
"I have personally passed this test!" He bragged, "It's true for me to say that it's a very difficult test and out of two hundred people that participated last year, only ten passed!"
"Then Shada must be pretty amazing..." Kisara mumbled, clearly impressed.
"That's why you should show me more respect!" He grinned, "Since you're such a good listener, I won't tell anyone about today if you just leave here now."
Hesitantly, Kisara glimpsed at me in the corner of her eye. Seeing me nod, her shoulders briefly relaxed, and she obediently complied with Shada's terms. On the way down the roof, I asked several questions through Kisara, and Shada answered all of them, clearly happy that someone was showing so much interest in their job.
With Shada's presence, we were quickly able to pass the guards, and soon, we arrived at the Temple's entrance, "Just don't do something so reckless again. If you hurt yourself, no one could be able to find you."
"Don't worry, like I said. Next time, I will go in legitimately. It's really nice meeting you, Shada; I will see you next year!" Kisara waved, and we began to descend the stairs.
"Yes, see you... Huh, next year? Wait, don't tell me you're really serious about participating in the exam?!"
"Of course, why would I promise something if I'm not going to do it?" Kisara tilted her head as if it were the most obvious thing in the world.
Leaving Shada stunned, Kisara ran down the street. I could feel both our hearts beating with anticipation, "Yuna! That exam, we're definitely going, right?!"
"Yeah!" I nodded, "Such an opportunity. How could we miss it?!"
At that moment, our hearts were perfectly in sync, united by a shared determination. I vowed that through the upcoming exam, I would make Kisara's name known to the world.
With the fire of our resolve burning brightly, time seemed to blur, and before we knew it, an entire year had flown by...
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I hope you enjoy it! I apologise if this chapter went a little fast. I wanted to finish Kisara's back story in a few more chapters so we can also get into the official World of Memories arc.