The Files of Art. Inc.: The Hunt for the Lost Scrolls: Chapter 116 (01.04.2024) (FFFF/FFF/ MM/F)

[Nainur]

most intense in many aspects. Most inense.
But what's striking me again is the respect to a fallen foe, when all has ended, so must hate. Very touching.

[LunaDog]

You really ARE a complete MASTER storyteller. And what makes this even more impressive is that you're not writing in your own, natural, language. TOTAL RESPECT, SIR!

[Caesar73]

most intense in many aspects. Most inense.
But what's striking me again is the respect to a fallen foe, when all has ended, so must hate. Very touching.

Thank you @Nainur - I find that an important quality in a hero in any human being. The Respect for an Enemy or an opponent. That Anna is able to do that, after all what transpired between her an Anck-Sun-Amun, sheds light on Anna´s Charakter. It was a duel to the death - but in the End both Opponents respected each other. The High Priestess´ final request and Anna´s reaction show that clearly.

@LunaDog

You really ARE a complete MASTER storyteller. And what makes this even more impressive is that you're not writing in your own, natural, language. TOTAL RESPECT, SIR!

That is high praise my Friend. Thank you!

Now the stage is almost set for the ultimate confrontation between Pharaoh and Chris.

[wolfman]

A grand conflict resolved. The battle was visceral and its aftermath almost beautiful. This is one of the best tales on here for the nuance of the characters and power of your storytelling.

I am speechless.

[mrjones2009]

Another great entry into the story.

Anna vanquishes her foe but it true warrior fashion takes no pleasure in it.

Can our intrepid heroines foil the dastardly plans of The Pharoah? Hopefully we don't have to wait to long to find out.

[Argentum]

Just one word: *sigh*

[GreyLord]

An inspired creation, @Caesar73. Seeing bitter mortal enemies find peace at the final moment is poignant. And Chris has had her moments of testing also. But will she have a final magnificent challenge?

[Caesar73]

Dear Friends! @Argentum @Nainur @GreyLord @LunaDog @mrjones2009 @wolfman - thank you all for your insights, your comments on this latest Chapter of the Hunt. I appreciate that way more as I can say!

Now that Anck-Sun-Amun has departed into the West two Questions remain, you poised them already:

1. Will Kirty´s Team arrive in Time to demolish the Sun Ray of Amon Ra?

2. Will Chris finally battle Al Mansour in Person?

Chris has been so focused on the latter, that she did not pay attention to the battle in the Arena. So she has still no Idea Anna is alive.

The Enemy though is not defenseless - he still has some Asses up his Sleeve as we will see in due course.

One Explanation to Anck-Sun-Amuns last Wish: The Egyptians believed that the Dead could only continue their Journey to the West, with the Body intact. In some Ways Destruction of the Body was worse than Death. This Explains why the proper Mummification was so important to the High Priestess.

I cannot promise anything, but maybe I might write a short Vignette - showing Anna returning to Egypt for the Funeral of her Arch Nemesis - but we will see.

[Argentum]

I cannot promise anything, but maybe I might write a short Vignette - showing Anna returning to Egypt for the Funeral of her Arch Nemesis - but we will see.

Would be a nice touch

[Caesar73]

I cannot promise anything, but maybe I might write a short Vignette - showing Anna returning to Egypt for the Funeral of her Arch Nemesis - but we will see.

Would be a nice touch

The more I think about it ... Consider it done

[LunaDog]

@LunaDog

You really ARE a complete MASTER storyteller. And what makes this even more impressive is that you're not writing in your own, natural, language. TOTAL RESPECT, SIR!

That is high praise my Friend. Thank you!

There's a reason for that. It's been thoroughly EARNED! Believe me, i'm NOT a bloke who chucks praise around 'willy nilly!'

[Beaumains]

I really liked the first perspective of this chapter. It was completely unclear to me what the intentions were of the Grand-Vizier. It clearly could (can?) still go both ways.

[slackywacky]

The more I think about it ... Consider it done

Stop thinking about it, you could have finished it already

[Caesar73]

The more I think about it ... Consider it done

Stop thinking about it, you could have finished it already

I am not yet there, but on it As usual the small Vignette will become a bit longer Anck-Sun-Amun will get a Funeral befitting her rank and status.

[Caesar73]

@GreyLord @Bandit666 @banshee @Beaumains @Bigballgag1 @Trammel @wolfman @mrjones2009 @slackywacky @Nainur @Shotrow @TightsBound @Pantyhose971 @TayDay95 @NotSeen @Fandango @LunaDog @Argentum @h6hlh6h @algebrauk

Chapter 108



The Final Battle IV



“The Sands of Time”



The second Courtyard:

Kirsty looked down at the dead body of the Egyptian Soldier on the floor. A precise short burst had killed him. Her gaze wandered around the courtyard. She counted 20 dead bodies on the limestone plates. Mostly Egyptians – but three more Medjai too. Her plan had worked. From the roof of the second Pylon the selected rifle men of the Medjai had provided covering fire, which had forced the enemies to keep their heads down.

Kirsty had led the charge at the head of her detachment. That mix of hardened desert warriors, a lawyer, and an investigator. To know that Hayley got her back had given Kirsty strength. The ensuing close quarters fight had been short and brutal. The enemy had not asked for pardon and no pardon was given.

Since Afghanistan Kirsty had never killed an Enemy with the Combat Knife again. The Egyptian had stormed at her with a guttural scream, wielding a curved dagger – she had run him through, whirled around only to see that Sophie dispatched of an Enemy with a precise stroke to the Larynx.

With a gurgling sound, his hands clutched around his throat the Egyptian had crashed to the floor. In this moment Kirsty´s and Sophie´s eyes met – and the battle-hardened Briton saw a steely resolve in those cat-like green eyes. And then, for just a second, a small smile curled the Lawyer´s full lips. Kirsty did not have time to return the gesture because the next Opponent stormed at her ….

Kirsty assembled her Team around her and counted heads: Five Medjai had been killed, Hayley blooded from a graze shot at her left shoulder but smiled at her Companion. Sophie looked cool and composed. From the Gate of the second Pylon Evie ran at her “Sophie! You are alive!” the Egyptologist shouted and threw herself at her lover. Sophie hugged her.

The Briton smiled – then she bellowed in her best Drill Sergeant Voice “Attention!” Evie and Sophie froze and wheeled around, both women blushing slightly. Kirsty had to do her best to keep a straight face “Ladies! This is serious business! You can fraternize later!” She just couldn´t help herself “Professor Callahan! If you have finished, are you prepared to lead the way where we must go next?” The Egyptologist blushed even more “Of course Kirsty” she muttered.

Kirsty knew the way, but this was just fun, they had to pass the third Pylon, then enter the Narthex …. The unmistakable sound of automatic guns interrupted them “After me!” Kirsty commanded and took the lead “Ever lead upfront!” she heard the voice of her old Drill Sergeant Montgomery Cliff in her head.

The Briton hurried along.


The Corridor to the Palace:


Hiram Al Mansour strode along followed by the last of his Immortals. An ominous smile curled his lips. Minutes ago, they had heard the sounds of an exploding grenade “No” he corrected himself “Several Grenades” and his was sure that those explosions could only mean one thing: Chris von der Marwitz and her friends had met their well-deserved end. He fumed. How had the blonde made it through the desert? That she and her little band of friends and those Medjai – yes, he was absolutely sure that the Pianist had had help of those pesky desert warriors – had disrupted his carefully laid plans.

How could they! But that was just a nuisance. The Sunray of Amon Ra would destroy these vermin, obliterate it, smash it! And then? He would finally marry his soulmate. He was sure that Anna Romanova would beat Anck-Sun-Amun. Anna ….

Well, he would have to break her in, she would have to learn her place. Al Mansour loved her indomitable spirit – within reason. He was sure that he and Anna Romanova would be a wonderful pair. She would learn to love him. He would teach her to love him. With her he would build a new dynasty – as it was foretold!





The Corridor to the Palace some hundred Metres behind:


That had been close, Chris thought, this time the trap had been a booby trap. Natasha though had spotted the thin, almost invisible string across the way “Down!” the Russian had ordered “I will take care of it” Natasha had thrown a small stone at the string, which had been enough to spring the trap. A hot wave of shrapnel had riddled the air. They kept their heads down for a little longer. Then Chris´ absolute hearing caught the sounds of swift steps ahead of them.

A grim smile curled her lips as she rose “The bastard is not far away! After him!” She strode along, perfectly untroubled if the others followed her or not. She knew they would. Her mind was fixed. Was fixed on Al Mansour. He was not far away; he was within reach. He would not get away!

A familiar voice in her head stopped her in her track “Patience Christine-Sama, the hasty stroke will go astray!” Automatically Chris replied “Hai Sensei!” “What did you say?” “I didn´t talk to you Natasha!” the blonde returned curtly “I will explain later”.

Sarah McKenzie cut in “Lead the way, Chris!” The Pianist had not been aware she had spoken aloud “Right” Chris nodded – and strode ahead: Tall, erect, her two blades in her hands – driven by one purpose only: To avenge Anna, to get at Al Mansour.

Sarah McKenzie watched at the blonde´s back as she strode along: She understood Chris only too well. The Pianist just had to do this – to find some closure. And the Canadian was sure that Chris was entirely focused, she wouldn´t make the same mistake twice: Not watching her back, allowing to be consumed by her thirst for revenge as in the Desert. Al Mansour would regret to have crossed Chris´ ways – soon.

Of that the Black Lady was certain.


Inside the Palace:



Hiram Al Mansour and his Guards had just left the secret Corridor. He registered the sounds of quick steps in the far distance. “Too bad!” he cursed inwardly, obviously the many traps had not stopped von der Marwitz and her friends.

Al Mansour turned to his guards “You, you, you and you!” he pointed at four of the Immortals guard the Entrance to the secret Passageway and let nobody pass, understood!” The four Soldiers saluted crisply “Understood o Son of Horus!” took up their positions at the lower end of the stairwell which led to the Exit.

The God King turned to his remaining Immortals: “You three!” he pointed at three other Guards Men “With me!” He addressed the Commander of his Guard Detail “You block the Corridor with your Men and let nobody pass!” The battle-hardened officer stood to attention and delivered a crisp salute and bellowed several commands. Al Mansour went to the large, massive door which shielded the vault. The locking mechanism was complex. Several steps were necessary to open it.


The Corridor to the Vault:

Kirsty´s nerves were taught like a taut bow string. Around the next corner, after 30 Metres should be the Entrance to the secret Vault. Chris had informed them about the conversation with the Grand Vizier. She stepped around the corner and took cover again quickly: A rain of bullets riddled the air where she had just stood: The Corridor was blocked.

“What?” Evie whispered, “The Corridor is blocked by the Enemy!” Kirsty explained “We cannot break through – we would be targets on a shooting range!” The friends looked at each other “We need a distraction” Sophie surmised “Yes” the Briton nodded “If Chris attacks them from the rear, we have a chance “But where is Chris?” Hayley looked at her companion.


The secret Passageway: The stairwell to the Exit:


A grim smile curled Chris´ lips: The stairwell was blocked by four of Pharaoh´s Guards. Their shields raised, forming a shield wall – one of the oldest tactical formations since antiquity. Outdated, but perfectly suited for the situation at hand. The Egyptians spears glittered in the bright light of the LED Lamps.

“What do you have in mind Chris?” the Canadian pressed the blonde. The Black Lady knew Chris well enough to know that she had already a plan. Natasha and Kate looked at each other. The Russian and the American smiled. They both had seen that smile too – and they knew what the Pianist was capable off. Kate had seen Chris´ in action often enough to know that the blonde was up to something.

Sergeant Pentaur looked at the blonde with the two curved blades – and her grim smile made him freeze. The Egyptian was no Coward. He was a battle-hardened career Soldier who had earned his place among the Immortals through dedication, loyalty, and bravery.

Pentaur had faced death many times. But what he saw in these cold hard emerald, green eyes made him shiver. It was the absence of something. The absence of emotion. Sergeant Pentaur had the feeling to stare in death´s face.

What had his old Drill Sergeant told him “When death smiles at you, you can do only one thing: smile back!” And Pentaur did that. He smiled at the blonde. And to his ultimate surprise, a small smile curled the blonde´s lips:

Ominous, devious – and cool as an ice cube. He gripped his spear tighter. Its gleaming tip did not quiver. Their eyes met …. “Hold fast Men! She is no Deity! She is no Saint! She is only a woman!” he encouraged his men. But they all had seen the blonde devil wreaking havoc among their comrades. He never had seen such swordsmanship, such speed and accuracy …

What seemed like minutes had been only seconds.

Chris blades pointed to the floor, the over hundred times folded steel gleaming in the light. She felt entirely calm. Those Soldiers stood in their way to stop Al Mansour. They had to go. It was as simple as that. She had noticed the small smile of the Guards Man in the centre. The blonde turned to her companions “Leave that to me” her voice cool and controlled. Natasha was about to argue – but a stern look of Sarah McKenzie gave her pause.

Chris strode at the shield wall. Her blind rage which had almost cost her life – it had gone. She was now all purpose, entirely focused on one thing only. Stopping Al Mansour and avenging Anna. Those four Soldiers were an obstacle. No more. No less. She broke into a run and charged.

Thought and Act were one: Two metres before the gleaming spear tips she hurled herself in the air, a move which caught her adversaries by surprise, too late they raised their Spears. Chris landed behind them.

Her two Katanas fell like a Guillotine. Again, again – and again.







The Corridor to the Vault:


Kirsty supressed a curse. The enemy’s fire was much too accurate for her taste. But to attack across this Corridor would be suicide. Pure and simple. She risked a glance around the corner. A short burst missed her barely “Chris now would be a good time!” “What now?” Hayley whispered, “We have to wait” Kirsty shook her head “To attack now would be suicide – and I do want to marry you, you know!” Kirsty smiled. A warm feeling filled Hayley, despite the bullet´s screeching around them, she loved Kirsty!”

Sophie interrupted them “Listen!” There was another sound now. The gun fire had suddenly stopped. Instead, there was another sound, a sharp cry “Kiaiiii!” Followed by a scream of pain. The sharp bang of an automatic pistol. Kirsty smiled. Chris had come!

She turned around. Looked at Sophie, Evie, Hayley and the Medjai. Looked each one in the eye “Charge!” she commanded “After me!” Kirsty sprang to her feet, her rifle at the ready and sprinted down the corridor, firing short bursts. She did not look back. She sensed the presence of the others behind her.

Before her she could make out Chris: Chris, Kate, Sarah, and Natasha. Chris blades moved with incredible speed. Fell down again and again. Kate pulled the trigger of her HK 23 the shot hit her opponent right between the eyes. Sarah rammed her combat knife through the chest of the Immortal attacking her. Natasha´s roundhouse kick sent another Soldier flying and crashing against the floor. With a sickening crunch his skull broke.

Kirsty attacking simultaneously did the trick. Their remaining enemies were confused. One of the Soldiers was aiming at Chris´ uncovered back. Kirsty´s short burst hit him in the chest and head. His head seemed to dissolve in a cloud of brain and tissue and blood.

Chris battled the commanding officer: With her right Katana she pushed her opponents’ blade aside, which broke above the hilt, so much power had been behind the stroke. The Egyptian stumbled back. Chris had caught him on the wrong foot.

With a powerful backhand stroke of her left blade, she severed his head from his shoulders. The head flew as if in slow motion before it landed with a sickening squelching sound on the granite floor – and rolled a few yards. Unseeing eyes stared at them “Poor Yorick” the Black Lady quipped.

Another shot. Then silence “Good to see you!” Kirsty smiled at the blonde “You too!” Chris smiled back. She looked around: On the floor lay the sprawled bodies of their opponents. The Immortals had made the final sacrifice “The Immortals are not that immortal as it seems” Natasha smiled “Nobody is perfect” the thief chuckled.

Chris looked at the heavy door which blocked their way to the vault. In there was Al Mansour. Chris and Sarah´s eyes met “Your turn” the Pianist smiled “Your expertise is needed – but do try not to bring down the house completely”.

The black-haired thief smiled back “I know” “That´s why I said do not bring the House down completely” The Pianist smiled “I gave my word”.

“In that case ….” The Thief smiled …

[LunaDog]

You NEVER dis-appoint us! Utterly magnificent as always. But still a few questions to be answered, so we'll just have to keep watching out. Which will be worth it, i'm in NO doubt about that.

[Nainur]

Intense! Gripping! Good pacing! Brilliantly done.
Again I had to re-read passages to do those lines justice.

How a pianist, a professor and a lawyer - amongst other - stand to the task is a marvel. And I am looking forward to the moment of re-unification!

[Caesar73]

Intense! Gripping! Good pacing! Brilliantly done.
Again I had to re-read passages to do those lines justice.

How a pianist, a professor and a lawyer - amongst other - stand to the task is a marvel. And I am looking forward to the moment of re-unification!

I am deeply honoured my Friend. The stage is set now for the ultimate Clash between Good and Evil. Who will prevail? When Chris drews her Katanas they do not return in their Scabbard without tasting blood.


@LunaDog

You NEVER dis-appoint us! Utterly magnificent as always. But still a few questions to be answered, so we'll just have to keep watching out. Which will be worth it, i'm in NO doubt about that.

Thank you my friend. The next Chapter will answer most defenitely one Question, one very important: Will Chris be able to stop Al Mansour. I don´t exaggerate when I say a Duel of Homeric Proportions awaits you. Think of Achilles avening Patrokolos - and you get an rough Idea.

[Caesar73]

@GreyLord @Bandit666 @banshee @Beaumains @Bigballgag1 @Trammel @wolfman @mrjones2009 @slackywacky @Nainur @Shotrow @TightsBound @Pantyhose971 @TayDay95 @NotSeen @Fandango @LunaDog @Argentum @h6hlh6h @algebrauk

Chapter 109



The Final Battle V


“The Angel of Death”



Inside the Vault:

The Vault was a large room with massive walls and an equally massive ceiling. Solid enough to withstand most conventional weapons his engineers had told him, even a GBU 28. A 16 massive Lotus Columns carried it. Al Mansour cursed again: Von der Marwitz, the blonde devil, as his men called her had thoroughly ruined his well laid plans. Had he underestimated his Opponent? His thoughts wandered back to the Conversation he had with Anna at the Evening of her Recognition by the Royal Court.

What had she said back then? He couldn´t remember her words exactly, but his future Wife had warned him about underestimating Christine von der Marwitz. He had to admit he had not believed her. But obviously Anna had been right. Somehow the Pianist – and Al Mansour had to admit that he admired Chris Artistry as Pianist – had not gotten only through the desert but assembled a formidable fighting force.

He straightened himself and a cruel smile curled his lips. This would be the last time the blonde and her little desperate band of desert warriors would interfere with his plans. Al Mansour had planned to use the Sun Ray of Amon Ra for the first time differently. But this opportunity was as good as any to prove the power of this weapon.

He would obliterate the Pianist and the Medjai. No, the Gods would obliterate them. He was just the Vessel of their Power.

Confidently he strode to the centre of the vast room. There, on a Podium stood an apparatus which looked like a gun of the Age of Sail. A roughly 14-foot-long thick bronze barrel, 16 Inches Calibre his Scientists had told Al Mansour. After two thirds of the barrel there was something, which looked like a very large diamond, a crystal, shimmering in violet.

Like the Guns of the Age of Sail the barrel was mounted on a gun carriage with four Wheels – but not made of wood, wood was too fragile – but of Titanium Alloy and high-quality armour Steel.

To activate the mystical weapon, one had to press the Amulet of Horus on a pad behind it the Crystal. Only the Amulet would unleash the devastating power of the Sun Ray. The Amulet he wore around his neck. To get it meant to kill him. And nobody would kill him. He was the God King after all.

Al Mansour strode to the Podium … in the same Moment a tremendous detonation shook the ground. The vault´s massive door flew out of its hinges. The Blast hit Al Mansour fully in his back and threw him on the floor.

He, the God King, groaned – and struggled to get to his feet.

Like any ordinary human hit by a bomb blast.



Outside the door minutes before:




Sarah McKenzie inspected the massive door carefully. She had to admit whoever had installed that door knew his business. A smile curled her lips: The Black Lady knew her business too. And so far, she had picked every look and found her way through any barrier. That one was – from a professional standpoint – a challenge. A serious one, but she loved a challenge. The Canadian grabbed her things.

Chris watched as the Thief made her preparations. She had to keep her impatience in check, the blonde chided herself. Behind that door was Al Mansour. Behind that door was the Sun Ray of Amon Ra. Sarah McKenzie sensed the Pianist´s impatience “I am already there Chris” she said – without turning her back.

“She knows me too well” the blonde mused – and despite the situation at hand a small smile curled Chris lips.

The blonde forced herself to keep her focus, to keep her temperament in check. She trusted Sarah with her life. She turned to her friends and the Medjai “When this door opens Al Mansour is mine, and mine alone” The blonde looked each and everybody in their eye “Evie! You will disable that Sun Ray of Amon Ra!” The Egyptologist nodded; she should not escape the mesmerizing power of those emerald, green eyes “I will!”

Chris faced her other companions “You will watch her back – always!”

The Pianist turned to McKenzie “Are you ready Sarah!” The Thief smiled “As it happens oh Mistress of the Swords I am!” The Thief pressed a button on a small remote control. The door to the vault exploded with a crashing bang, which shook the Ground.

“I love Fireworks!” the Black Lady smiled.


Inside the Chamber:


In shock the Egyptians starred at the place where the massive door had been there just seconds ago. A cloud of thick acidly smelling white smoke swirled into the vast chamber. Like a Ghost, a tall blonde woman in black body armour stepped through it: Her two gleaming Katana´s pointing to the floor. Blood dripped from both blades on the black polished marble floor. It was the blonde devil – and Death followed in her wake.

Everybody sensed it: The moment the blonde stepped out of the smoke, the temperature in the Hall fell several degrees. The Room fell silent as if the chatter had been cut off by a sword. Death had come to the Chamber and his High Priestess with him. She would not leave without a proper sacrifice. Everybody felt it: Waves of Power radiated from the tall blonde as she strode forward, purposefully, confident.

She radiated Waves of Power and Waves of Icy Coldness.

Anybody who knew Chris well would have told her enemies that the Pianist was most dangerous when she radiated this icy coolness. At Aswan and in the Desert her rage had been red. Red and raw – and it nearly killed her when they waylaid their Attackers near the deserted Outpost of the Foreign Legion.

Now her rage was pure: Pure and white and grim, and cold and even more dangerous. Not the wild rage of a hurricane, but the silent cold fury of a blizzard.

“You are the Weapon Christine Sama. You are the arrow that will pierce the heart of your enemy!” Sensei Nakamura had said to her, not long ago. Finally, Chris understood fully what her old Teacher had meant: Her Swords were a part of her body. They were additional limbs.

Her Concentration had almost reached a level where all that existed was her and her Enemy. She heard with unnatural awareness, her sharp eyes where those of an eagle spotting a moving rattle snake deep down in the sand.

Since early childhood she had trained kenjitsu, honed her skills under the direction of her Sensei. Had trained every day since then. She was 34 Years old now but had trained since she was five years old. Her resolve was ironclad. She would not end Al Mansour quickly. She would use any weapon in her impressive arsenal to repay him for all the suffering he had caused. And no. She would not adhere to any code in the world. Not today. Not in this hour.

Her finest hour.

Long before she would cleave his head in two, she would give him plenty of opportunities to regret what he had done. She would make him suffer, suffer long. When she was through with him, he would beg her to end him. She strode forward, slowly, and deliberately, beginning the battle in her mind before he ever saw her. Her steps sounded almost unnaturally loud in her ears. The perfect Hearing of the great Musician she was.

Chris felt like in a tunnel now: All other sounds diminished into nothingness. At the end of that tunnel stood Al Mansour: Tall. Smiling. Arrogant.

The Blonde was all purpose, all determination. She gripped her two blades with an easy grace that belied her training. This was it. This was the time. Al Mansour would pay for all his misdeeds. Anna was dead. But Chris had sworn to avenge her friend and to end Al Mansour once and for all. She strode at the Man who considered him God King, who had caused so much pain.

“Al Mansour!” Her challenge rang like a silver trumpet through the vault “Do not think you escape me! Too often you have hidden behind other people, let them do your dirty work! Too often! Too long! The time for your proxies has passed, it is just you and I. Face me! Or skulk in the sewers where you belong! Stand and face me! Or was this little blast too much for you to handle?”

Hiram Al Mansour scrambled to his feet. Chris von der Marwitz was coming at him. Her Eyes, her face, her face promised death and ruin. The Angel of Death had come “My swords!” Al Mansour bellowed at his Adjutant. He smiled arrogantly at the Pianist “So you have finally come! I thought you wouldn´t make it!”

“I had to clear some obstacles” Chris smiled coldly “Some were less competent than others” Her smile got more ominously “The Commander of your Guard was good” She paused “He did his duty. He took the blame for you” Chris looked at her blades then back at her opponent “He was very good” she conceded.

A grim smile curled her lips “How good are you, Hiram?”

Her smile grew icy cold.

"I have cut a swath across the world, hunting you. While you cower in your hole. I am the predator, you are prey." She called out coldly, loud, and clear. Every word sharp and precise hitting like a whip.

“Are you” The blonde did pause again “Are you” she mocked him “A Coward?” Chris registered that her foe was fuming with rage. That was good “You know” she said almost conversationally “If I think about the people you send against me?” Chris paused “They did not hesitate, they put their lives on the line for you.” The Pianist waited “While you hide away, in your hole.”

Chris Smile grew stone cold “Are you a Coward? Little King?”

Al Mansour´s Adjutant interrupted them “Your Swords oh Son of Horus!” He bowed deeply. Al Mansour took the two blades. Two Khopesh´s as Chris noticed. The blonde smiled coldly “Are you any good with those?” She nodded at the two swords “I doubt that”.

Her absolute disdain was palpable. The Egyptian wanted to mock his opponent, hurt her but he couldn´t. For the briefest of Moments, he felt doubt. There was nobody he could order to step in line for him. This was between him and von der Marwitz.

Death had come and he would not leave. That he sensed. But it would be the death of the blonde pianist. He did not really fear her. His destiny was to rule the earth. This surety filled his core. Von der Marwitz was a Nuisance. Nothing more. Insignificant.

Chris´ friends had followed the exchange with rapt attention “What is she doing?” Evie whispered nervously “Distracting the bastard” Kirsty stated calmly “But what if …” the Egyptologist whispered back “Do your job” Sarah McKenzie interrupted her calmly “Chris distracts him. For you”

Evie looked at Chris and Al Mansour and back at her friends. She pulled herself together “Right, let us go then!”

In the meantime, Pharaoh´s guards had recovered from their surprise ready to face the onslaught of the most unlikely group of fighters this Place had ever seen. Chris´ friends fanned out, ducking from cover to cover as the Egyptians opened fire. Precisely and accurate.

One short burst missed Hayley barely. But she felt no fear. She knew Kirsty was with her. Her own burst hit one Egyptian precisely in the breast. Three red dots appeared on his white tunic. He screamed and fell to the ground. She followed Kirsty.

Chris´ Team had split up. The Dark Lady planned to flank their Enemies. The Thief´s Orders had been clear: Kirsty would lead the left wing, Sarah the right one “Under no circumstances will you let Evie out your sight." she had commanded Sophie and Natasha “Of course Mistress” Natasha bowed mockingly – but the Thief knew the Russian well enough by now: She was an absolute Professional and this was her way to deal with Stress so the Thief just nodded “Just do your job” “I will” Natasha said sincerely. And Sarah had no doubt she would do.

Chris had sensed the moment of Al Mansour´s doubt. As brief as it was: Her opponent was not as sure as he wanted them to believe. This was all she needed. She strode at her enemy with long strides.

Al Mansour awaited her, his blades in his hands. Ready to fight. He was taller than Chris. Over seven feet. Might possess even more raw power, but his blades where only Weapons whereas Chris was the Weapon herself.

Her centuries old blades were Part of her body, Part of her Mind, Part of her Soul. An evil smile curled her slip. She did not bother to salute her opponent. This SOB was not worth it. A Wolf doesn't bow to the Sheep. No more. No less.

Chris did not have to think. She just acted as if some invisible force was guiding her. And maybe someone was guiding her. She felt it. She stormed at Al Mansour. She did not waste any time with formalities. She knew exactly what she would do. Her first strokes were lightening quick: A blizzard of hundred times folded hardened steel.

Al Mansour parried it. Just barely. And Chris sang, sang with joy, sang the song of battle. She unleashed the powerful Kiai, focusing her Chi into her voice, to chip at his soul, before her blade would pierce his soul. She sang a war cry, centuries old, with the clash of their blades keeping time. She sang and she struck.

Steel clashed against steel.

She was the Warrior Princess of the North. She was Odin´s Valkyrie. She was the High Priestess of Death. A hurricane of blows rained down on Al Mansour. Hard. Precise and incredible quick. Whenever the Egyptian thought he could launch an attack himself another quick combination of strokes forced him back. He hit with all his Power. But the Blonde deflected any of his strokes effortlessly. She said nothing, she just smiled – and did not even sweat.

Death had come.

Chris stepped swiftly aside with the Grace of the trained Dancer. Al Mansours powerful stroke hit empty air. His Khopesh´s hit the polished marble plate. Sparks soared through the air. The Pianist charged again. Al Mansour parried. Moved back. Another attack. Relentlessly, effortlessly. Chris kept the doors to her dark side firmly closed with good reason. But not now. But not today.

She felt a stream of energy cursing through her veins. It was as if she could foresee the future, knew what would happen. So far, no blood had been spilled. But not by accident. Chris waited for the right moment. She wanted her opponent to suffer. And he would suffer.

Left hand stroke, right hand stroke. Right backhand stroke. Left overhead stroke. Sparks flew as the blades collided.

The Egyptian felt the immense power behind the strokes. And Chris sang and she rejoiced. The surprise in his eyes was a pure aphrodisiac to her. Her left blade cut into the Egyptians left shoulder, cut deep. Chris´ Katana opened a deep cut. The first and surely not the last. The Blonde forced her Opponent through the hall. Away from the Podium where the Sun-Ray-of- Amon-Ra stood. Giving him no time to think. Giving her friends time to act.

He did not want to, but Al Mansour had to give ground. He could not believe it: The blonde had forced him several metres back: Away from the Sun Ray of Amon Ra. The Pianist did not heed the bullets screeching around them, as if her fury was so fierce, it prevented any outside force from interrupting their conflict. Al Mansour had opened a Door. A Door to Chris´s dark side. And Chris did not care. She smiled grimly “Your fault”.

She was totally oblivious to the bullets screeching around them, ricocheting from the polished black marble walls, but evaded them easily. She engulfed herself in a bubble of gleaming, shimmering steel.

And she sang. A song of death and ruin on her lips. And Hiram Al Mansour felt something. An emotion he had thought to have vanished. Nothing he tried worked, no strike landed, no feint distracted. In that moment, he knew the futility of King Canute. In this moment, Hiram Al Mansour felt fear. Simple pure primordial fear. A powerful and precise backhand stroke hit is body, drew a red and precise line. From his left hip to his right shoulder.

And Al Mansour looked up, looked up into the Face of Death. It was a beautiful Face: The beautiful serene deathly features of Chris von der Marwitz. And he saw no emotion there: Only a promise. The Promise of Death.

The blonde charged again. Her green eyes blazing. Her two Katanas glistening. Blood dropping to the floor: His blood …. the blood of a God – he paused: Gods should not blead …


The Katanas and the Khopesh´s collided …




In the Meantime:


Kirsty took cover behind a column and the fire burst did hit limestone instead of its intended target. She looked to the left and allowed herself for a second to watch the Duel of Chris and Al Mansour. Kirsty had seen Chris fighting and training often by know but this was different. If possible, her skill had grown since she had seen her fighting the first time – one year ago.

The Briton had been concerned since Chris´ return to the living after Anna´s death. The blonde had seemed off balance. Not the well-oiled fighting machine she normally was. But since they had arrived at the Medjai´s stronghold something had changed – obviously the Pianist had managed to channel her grief and her rage. The Briton had seen her today, leading the charge, fighting – the blonde had been a force of nature. But never lost control, never lost her target out of her sights. She had stayed focused.

On the other side her eyes met Sarah´s: They had made no significant progress since they had launched their two-pronged attack. Their enemies used their positions well. So far it had been impossible to break through the defence. “Stalemate” Kirsty thought.

Something happened:

Natasha Bolkonskaya had enough. She wouldn´t hide behind this column any second longer. From her combat gear she removed two grenades: one hand grenade and one flash bang grenade “What are you doing?” Sophie whispered, “Having fun” the Russian whispered back “But Sarah said ….”

“Cut it Sophie!” Bolkonskaya hissed “I know what Sarah said and I know what I am doing!” She pulled the security pin of the flash bang grenade, took aim, and threw it at their enemies. Her aim was true. The detonation shook the chamber. The Russian pulled the safety pin of the hand grenade and lobbed it at the enemy. It detonated with a blinding flash. Screams told them the dark-haired woman had hit the mark.

“We will have words later!” Sarah McKenzie hissed, but the Russian ignored her, jumped to her feet, and stormed at their enemy’s position, firing short and precise bursts. The Thief supressed a Curse and followed Natasha “After her!” she commanded, joining the charge. On the other side of the Hall Kirsty reacted swiftly to the changed tactical situation – and charged too, followed by Hayley, Birte, Kate and Shahada.


The Duel:


Neither Chris nor Al Mansour heeded the Mayhem around them. Both had thrown themselves to the ground as the Grenades detonated. But both fighters were up on their feet at soon as the dust had settled. The blonde was quicker on her feet and charged again. Al Mansour was still scrambling to his feet as von der Marwitz attacked again.

Her left-handed backhand stroke hit Al Mansours left blade right above the hilt and her opponent almost lost his grip. Her right overhand stroke forced the God King to parry. The Egyptian stumbled backwards, almost losing his footing. His wounds obviously distracted and irritated her opponent.

Al Mansour had no Idea. This was only the beginning. The bastard was in for a though ride. Even if he had not realized it yet. Chris smiled at her adversary and charged with a combination of backhand and overhead strikes. Swiftly, hard, precise.

The pure force of her attack forced her Opponent back. With the Song of Battle on her lips she pressed the attack. The tip of her right blade left a bloody trace of Al Mansours right cheek. Shaped like a half-moon “You can compare notes now with Anck-Sun-Amun” Chris hurled at him.

Al Mansour´s eyes flashed like burning coals! “I will disembowel you and dance on your grave!” The Pianist just smiled. Her answer was another attack which forced the Egyptian another step back. And for the first time Chris sensed something “Fear” – which was just what she needed. That feeling? To Chris it was like a drug, a potent aphrodisiac.

With a battle cry the blonde sprinted at the Egyptian. A sharp precise jab with her left blade. The Steel buried itself deep in the perfectly sculpted biceps of Al Mansours left arm. Chris pulled her blade back. Blood spilled out of the deep wound, it had to hurt like hell.

By now the Pianist had forced her opponent so far back that he stood with his back to the wall. Blows rained down on the Egyptian. Hard, precise, relentless. He could only parry now. Chris had her nemesis where she wanted him to be. She was the weapon, she was the blade, she was the arrow – which would pierce her enemy’s black heart.

Her right blade hit the black granite right above Al Mansour´s head. Sparks flew. Her left blade smashed against the corresponding Khopesh of the God King. The two blades clashed together. Chris felt the power of the impact surging through her arm right into her shoulder. But she felt no pain. With a screeching sound her enemies blade broke above the hilt. The broken blade clattered to the floor. Al Mansour´s eyes widened in shock.

Chris step back and watched as the imagined God King grabbed his remaining blade with both hands. The wound in his left biceps must hurt – and impede him. But the blonde was not yet ready to end him. That would be an act of mercy. And she felt anything but merciful right now. She smiled at him. Cold and hard. Her right-handed overhand stroke forced him to shield his head with his blade. One opportunity Chris did not let pass unused.

Like an attacking snake her left blade bit into the Egyptians muscular thigh. Cut through skin, through flesh like butter and left another gaping wound. Al Mansour´s left leg quivered; blood gushed from the deep wound. Obviously, her Jab had pierced an artery,

“You don´t give up already?” Chris taunted him. Al Mansour smiled, but it was a forced smile “I cannot tell you how much I enjoyed the pictures of you after Romanova´s death: So, broken, so forlorn!”

Chris smile was as cold as the North Pole “Not you cleverest Idea, killing Anna. In some ways you did me a favour: You and your High Priestess helped me to realize finally what I am and who I am”.

Her left-handed backhand stroke came out of nowhere. Both blades connected. Chris rammed her right blade through Al Mansours perfectly sculpted abdomen above his right hip. The Katana cut cleanly through, and its tip hit the Granite Wall behind Al Mansour. Chris pulled her blade back and stepped back. The Wound was not deadly the blonde knew, but it must hurt like hell. The Pianist stepped back and smiled that cold infuriating smile again “Come” she said simply.

And Al Mansour charged. He felt no pain. Thanks to the Adrenalin and a Concoction his Personal Physician had prescribed him. He felt rage. He saw red. With a guttural growl he charged. But his mobility was already impeded, and Chris evaded him with the Grace of a Ballerina.

Christine von der Marwitz danced, she danced, she sung, and she laughed. Easily she sidestepped another attack. The blood loss would get to her enemy soon. That he must be on drugs somehow was clear to her. Another wild stroke: Effortless Chris avoided the brutal overhand stroke.

The next attack she parried easily, and her left blade left a deep cut across his muscular chest. She danced on the balls of her feet like a boxer. He had not suffered enough. Not yet. Not yet. Her Foe bled from several deep wounds and cuts. A grim cruel smile curled her lips.

She knew exactly what she would do next. The power of her strokes forced Al Mansour to hold the Khopesh with both hands. She knew every blow, every stroke he parried must hurt him – and weaken him. She could have ended this fight long ago.

But Anna´s Soul demanded more she felt. Chris intended to offer Anna´s Soul every ounce of Al Mansour´s blood on the Altar. Chris was the High Priestess of Death after all. A quick combination of both Katana´s forced the so-called God King to raise his remaining blade with both hands.

She saw the pain on the Egyptian´s face as her right blade connected with his. The left Katana though …. cut through flesh, through bone – and severed Al Mansours left hand. He lost grip and his blade clattered to the floor. His eyes widened in shook he starred at the bloody stump of his left hand. Only realizing slowly what had happened.

The jab of Chris´ right blade hit his right thigh. The tip of sword hit bone. Chris stepped back. With clinical interest she watched as Al Mansour sank slowly on his knees. He pressed his arm stump under his right arm pit. The blonde towered above him. Blood dripped from the tips of her blades. Chris waited, took the moment in.

Almost unnatural calm filled her.

“You cannot beat me!” The Egyptian pressed through clenched teeth “I am a King! I am a living God!” And Chris laughed, laughed cold and hard “Newsflash Old Boy I have beaten you fair and square” Her left-handed backhand stroke came out of the blue. Cleanly and precise the incredibly sharp blade cut across her Opponents muscular abdomen, leaving a precise thin red line …

With an elegant fluid and swift motion, she put her left Katana back into its scabbard. Chris watched coolly and detached as realization dawned on Al Mansour´s face: The Pianist had gutted him – like a fish.

He tried to press his intestines back with his remaining right hand. Chris waited “End this” Al Mansour demanded, his face a mask of agony and pain “Why should I?” The blonde shrugged. She felt nothing. Coolly she watched “You murdered Nabiah. You murdered Anna to hurt me” Something strange happened: Al Mansour laughed. It was the laugh of a Maniac “Yes, your precious Anna. That Russian Whore”

Now it was Chris who laughed “You are so predictable, I won´t kill you in rage so you get a quick exit” Al Mansour´s pain and agony were a soothing balm for her wounded soul “Christine Sama, you are a Samurai!” she heard the Voice of her Sensei. It broke the spell “Hai!” the blonde replied curtly.

Chris gripped the Katana Sensei Nakamura had presented her with so long ago firmly with two hands. The tip of the blade touched the floor. She intended not to do the Egyptian the honour of ending this fight the way the Code of Honour she followed demanded of her.

Chris swung her Sword high above her head. This time the blade did not weaver a millimetre. Time stood still, frozen to ice. “Kiaiiii!” her war cry cut through the Air. The Katana cut with a sharp hiss down like a flash of light. It cleaved the Egyptians head cleanly in two.

Never in her life Chris would forget the look of his stone-cold obsidian black eyes and his last words before the blade hit him:


“Death is only the beginning”.


It had sounded like a Prophecy.


A Prophecy handed down by the Gods of the Underworld.

 

[LunaDog]

WOW!

What more needs to be said?

[GreyLord]

At least @LunaDog could say WOW! I am speechless. I will return later and try to say something meaningful about this.

[Argentum]

WOW! EPIC!

[Nainur]

WOW!

What more needs to be said?

exactly!
Am stunned...

[mrjones2009]

EPIC

[wolfman]

And that is how it's done

Round of applause and standing ovation from the crowd