Mission 15 - Part 3

Mission 15 - Part 3

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Part 3 Prologue

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The march to the tomb had been long and tense. Despite the urgency to move quickly, it was perhaps easier said than done, considering the state of the desert. No sandstorms blocked their path, and there was a distinct lack of ghosts, especially considering all they had been told about their danger… but the threatening clouds blocking the stars from sight in the ink black sky overhead did little to ease their journey, and the desert air was thick with tension, heavy and oppressive without a hint of a breeze, chilled or otherwise.

‘Like the breath before the plunge,’ Alaric had mused aloud, half to himself, as they finally reached the end of the Valley of the Kings. Gawain had grumbled something far more colorful involving a Camerupt’s arse, but Matteo and Cecil merely hummed noncommittally, keeping pace with Menes rolling just in front of them. The Aetherians behind them surged towards the misshapen rocky tents that held their companions, likely wanting to learn more about what had happened to the other group. Waiting for them near the impromptu camp was Husani, eyeing their approach like they were trinkets he was hoping to hawk off on some unsuspecting chump.

: Roll on ahead, Menes, take a load off before the party begins.

The Sandshrew nodded thankfully before dashing off in a tight ball, and the Krokorok gestured for the others to follow him, beginning to trudge up a tall sandy hill leading to the tomb’s front entrance.

: Nice to see you again, Gawain, though not quite in one piece, eh?

: Stick it up yer–

: No need for that, I’ve heard it all before, and as much as I’d like to continue this scintillating back-and-forth we’ve got, I’d like to know where our mutually green spiky friends have gotten to.

: Hager an’ Osmund stayed behind. I went t’ pursue Yubel wit’ th’ others.

: Has anyone here seen Yubel recently?

: … For a moment there, I thought I was seeing a mirage. Why in the sands are you here?

: Just… answer th’ question.

: Fine. Yes, from what I heard, she gave Mert ekert the slip, she’s very pissed about it, I’d recommend staying away from her.

: So she did make it inside the tomb…

: Anythin’ of note happen after?

: Besides it feeling like we’re about to walk into a trap, complete with the roaming dead and an unnaturally darkened sky? No, nothing at all.

: Really, I’d complain about it being a boring camping trip, but I’m not willing to jinx us.

: When did the sandstorms dissipate here?

: That happened soon after we activated the pillars, which was a good while before Yubel showed up…

The others exchanged concerned glances, and Husani’s eyes narrowed.

: I get the feeling I’m missing something here. What were you expecting to happen, an attack on us right here on his front lawn? Guy’s probably waiting for us to make the first move.

: So he’s waitin’ for us to enter, to ambush us.

: That seems rather obvious, doesn’t it?

: We’ll explain once we get to Ptolemy–

: Well, he’s right ahead.

They had reached the top of the hill, and Alaric followed Husani’s point towards where Ptolemy stood alongside Mert ekert and Menes, all three of them glaring up the sandy steps leading to the tomb’s entrance. Moving onward, Matteo cleared his throat before speaking.

: Has Sa’Perah Ah arrived yet?

: Not yet- which is great, because now that you guys are here, I don’t have to be a buffer for the fall-out between her and you-know-who over there.

: Or it means Jendayi failed to persuade her–

: She persuaded you guys to do exactly what she wanted, didn’t she? I’m sure she managed… but if she didn’t, there’s no need to worry about that either, because then none of this will matter and we are definitely all going to die.

: Lovely.

The shadow cast by the tomb lay thickly on the sands around them as they reached Ptolemy. He nodded to the Rhydon and Sandshrew rebels before dismissing them with a flick of his wrist, then turning towards the others, a hard glint in his eyes.

: Well, there he is, in all his stoic glory–

: You are late.

: We–

: (holding up a claw) Menes explained, but I can also see for myself. The extra manpower is not unwelcome but…

The Tyranitar appeared to be trying to keep a lock on his emotions, anger and frustration battling for supremacy against the calm fury currently dominating his face. He then directs it towards Gawain (who does his best not to flinch).

: He also told me what you’ve said happened in the oasis with Yubel, what you supposed she’d do- what it means for the city–

: Save your anger for Nakht-pa-Aten. It could not be helped: if Gawain and my warriors had done nothing, we would be waiting forever for Sa’Perah Ah to arrive and she never would have.

He shifted to position himself between Gawain and Ptolemy, stretching so he could look the dinosaur in the eye and draw his attention from his captain. He’d be damned if he was going to let Gawain be attacked-

: You misunderstand.

: What else is new, though frankly, this time I’m also confused.

: While the perhaps yet ongoing attack angers me greatly, the alternative had they not acted would have meant the same fate would befall all of Khetmaat…

: Gawain, is it? I want to thank you and your warriors for protecting the Pharaoh, and thereby our chances of victory for… rescuing the rest of Khetmaat.

Though his gratitude was sincere, the Tyranitar seemed deeply saddened too, a melancholic gloom settling about him as he bowed a head in thanks towards Gawain. The Charizard grunted an uncomfortable acknowledgement, from one warrior to another, and readjusted to stand beside Alaric, subtly pushing his lord to a non-protective stance.

: All part o’ th’ job, Ptolemy. Only wish we could’ve done more–

: Glad we’re not at each other's throats, but could someone offer a quick explanation?

: We believe Yubel’s report might have caused Nakht-pa-Aten to assume Sa’Perah Ah found out about his involvement with the rebel activity, causing him to start his assault on the city now in order to get the book.

: Oh.

Husani’s demeanor quickly matched Ptolemy’s sullenness- though his also involved a long string of curses, many of which were very creative and thematic to their environment. When they finally ran out, he huffed darkly, half muttering to himself.

: With the amount of loyal guards, as well as our people there, already having to deal with the Claws… He’ll likely tear the place apart to find it before we can…

: So instead of us preventing this whole invasion… just like that, Aw Ibek is lost…

: Are the numbers there really that much against you? Is there no chance they will hold out?

: The invasion was close at hand, most of the “guards” there are Claws. Even fighting just them, the odds were against us.

: We can only hope he’ll focus everything on the book over the citizens, but as for our allies there in the palace…

Husani ground his teeth, spitting out another expletive that somehow summed up everyone’s mood, the gravity of the situation hanging heavy in the air- until suddenly, a small ghost appeared in their midst, popping the feeling.

: It might not yet come to that.

: Jendayi, where’s–?

: She should be here any moment. I went ahead to announce her arrival, but I did not know how to speak up in light of such dire news.

Before they could question her earlier words, wind suddenly whisked past them, ruffling the sand in mini-storms around them and rustling their clothes. Far away - now closer - growing in volume - came a strange singing noise, one that caused Ptolemy to stiffen.

: Sa’Perah Ah…

Moments later, two Pokémon touch down some paces away, a Flygon and a Vikivolt. The latter buzzed back into the air to approach the group while the pharaoh stood as if rooted to the spot with her back towards them, staring at the tomb’s entrance as if willing it to disappear.

: Mesprit be with you- and well met again, Ptolemy. I had truly wished but doubted there would be a day in my lifetime where I would speak those words to you… Though I had hoped it would be under less dire circumstances.

Ptolemy inclined his head in respect towards the priest: but his eyes remained on the pharaoh, transfixed, and Matteo murmured softly to the priest, like he was afraid to break the spell.

: The Tome of Iah?

: The Pharaoh has it.

The Pikachu nodded, relieved, before joining the Tyranitar in staring at the pharaoh. If Sa’Perah Ah could feel the heat from their gazes, she didn’t let on.

: (obnoxiously loud) Jendayi. What did you mean?

: (jolting) What did I–? Oh!

: Before we left the escape tunnel from the palace to outside the capital, Sa’Perah Ah sent Shani to Wahdj and instructed her to recruit both the Aetherians there- (She frowns at Gawain.) - as well as the Claws.

: Th’ Claws?! Th’ same ones who were goin’ to kill her–!

: -And who you stopped in time.

: Yes… Shani was also instructed to go to Hed-byah to make an attempt at an accord with Merneith for aid at the capital. Just in case our actions here would cause Nakht-pa-Aten to order his attack to commence.

: Though I didn’t anticipate the situation with…

She peered sharply at Sa’Perah Ah, and Matteo caught the look.

: The “messenger.”

: Right- (under her breath) Perhaps we shouldn’t… I’ve not been able to, it’s a bit of a delicate situation…

Her words fade, and Baal-hamon, sensing a lull in the conversation, took control once more.

: Well, regardless, I was under the impression your warriors were still there, but seeing as Jendayi had mentioned a Charizard captain–

: Just a handful of th’ troops remained, Osmund an’ Hager.

: It doesn’t matter that you’re not there. If the Claws were to help…

A toothy, smug smirk returned to his face.

: Then there’s a chance. They have the numbers, a lot of them are nothing to sneeze at, and if I know Merneith - and considering the number of family reunions I’ve been to, I do quite well - she won’t let the city fall.

He shot Ptolemy a look, and the Tyranitar finally broke eye contact with Sa’Perah Ah’s back to snort affirmatively.

: She’d fight. Even if she was utterly alone, she’d still fight. Always has.

: But why would the Claws help?

: Besides many of them believing in the justness of their cause? Lot of them were part of Ptolemy’s ranks, remember, they also want what’s best for Khetmaat. Though they might not totally agree on what that is, they’d all agree that it isn’t-

& : Him.

The Tyranitar went rigid as Sa’Perah Ah finally approached, sparing him an unreadable glance before turning to the rest of the group.

: That’s what I’m counting on anyway. Whatever happens after is of less concern. Whether or not I can return to Aw Ibek, as long as the city remains and his filth is purged from Khetmaat–

: That is all I care about.

: Sa’Perah…

The Yamask looked like she had more to say but fell silent: and the quiet seemed to stretch on, despite hardly having been more than a few breaths.

: (eyes flicking to Ptolemy) So. You truly are still alive.

: I… am.

Silence reigned once more, and the others shifted in place uncomfortably, unsure what to do to break the tension, until Husani abruptly snapped his claws.

: Well, glad we’re all back on one side–

: (quick on the uptake) -But let’s get moving, or it will be the losing one.

: Well said. My pharaoh, the Tome, if you please.

With obvious hesitation, Sa’Perah Ah brought out the saltstone box from where it had been tucked under her arm, nearly hidden from sight. She held it delicately in her hands, reluctantly passing it into the Vikavolt’s waiting arms before hurriedly stepping back.

: So this potentially calamity-causin’ book is in tha’ box?

: These kinds of boxes- I’ve not seen one recently as they are hard to come by nowadays. But I suppose it makes sense your family would be in possession of one, if not more…

: It-It’s hard to describe… It feels nearly impossible to focus on… If I didn’t know you were holding it right now…

: While it’s inside the box, our foe likely remains unaware of its presence here. However, in order to be able to use it to sever his anchors to this plane of existence, I need to be able to focus and we cannot risk outside interference from his followers.

: Which means, before we can take the Tome of Iah anywhere near the main chamber, I will need it to restore the secondary rites and barriers within the temple since, judging by the fact that ghosts are able to enter and form in the tomb, they are currently not working.

: Wait, what barrier? I thought the barrier to keep Nakht-pa-Aten in the tomb was already activated–

: That is a very specific seal, attuned to the particular soul in the chamber and one that is not so easily dispelled.

: An’ you’ll need to take tha’ book outta tha’ fancy box in order for ya to form th’ new ones–

: How else’s he gonna read a book?

: So he’ll know it’s here the moment it is removed–

: (ignoring the darkening faces around him) Once the rites have been renewed, none of his outside forces should be able to enter the tomb, and the ones already there will become unable to leave.

: We have Ghost types amongst our people. What will happen to them?

: Hmm, fair point… I can temporarily lower the barrier once we have completed our objective so they can leave, though I will have to raise it again after. I do not know what has transpired inside the tomb… With so many restless spirits, it’s possible other entities have formed in the malice, and we cannot risk those escaping either.

: Other entities?

: Merely a precaution, let’s not worry about that now.

: I swear, if my shadow starts to strangle me or grows a bunch of eyes–

: There is also good news–

: I’m not sure I trust that in this context…

: Since I’ll be using the Tome, the barrier might be strong enough to weaken his connection to his ghost army so he cannot give further orders–

: (holding up a leg for calm) Before you get too excited, though- unfortunately, I cannot guarantee it will completely render his control obsolete. It’s possible the ghosts will not come to their senses till the objects that bind them are destroyed.

: Wha’ makes ya say tha’?

: I suspect that in order to control all of these ghosts, he’s keeping a token of their essence in his presence.

: Like what?

: (looking at Jendayi) Like a Yamask’s mask.

: (clasping her mask close to her body)

: Even if we erect the barrier, that connection will likely remain since it’s a part of them.

: But it should still aid those fighting his forces in the capital. Without his direct command, and hopefully without the Claws, there shouldn’t be much thought or intention behind their attacks.

: Also, if he recalls part of his force to his location once he knows the book is here, they should be kept out once the seal is in place, correct?

At Baal-hamon’s nod, Husani cracked his knuckles with a grin.

: Alright, so the sooner you start, the better chance the people at Aw Ibek have?

Ptolemy’s head lifted at Husani’s words: this was something he could focus on, that he could fix. He turned towards Baal-hamon, listening intently as the priest continued his instructions.

: Now, the way this tomb is structured, there are several points I will need access to in order to properly perform these rites. If I understand correctly, you still have one of the tomb’s builders with you– since you activated the path?

At this, Ptolemy felt something shift inside his hood. He reached back over his head, dug around, and pulled Paki from his hiding spot, amazed that the bug had managed to sleep through everything that had been going on. Nestled in Ptolemy’s palm, the Rellor blinked in a daze, apparently unfazed by the strangers in his midst.

: The darkness beckons…

: Paki, you will need to accompany Baal-hamon through the temple.

: Y-You want to go in there?

: You are the last of the builders. From what I remember of this temple in particular, many of the innermost chambers are behind doors that can only be opened from the inside- by your kind.

: That is true, Paki’s people are well skilled in going through the secret doors…

The Rellor nodded shortly to himself before hopping from Ptolemy’s hand onto Baal-hamon’s head, both bugs steeling themselves for what’s to come.

: Once he is cut off from his back-up forces and you’ve hopefully weakened him–

: Perhaps even determined what possession of his could be the profane artifact–

: I will come with the Tome to undo what empowers him and break his anchors.

: Wha’ about this artifact? How’r we gonna know wha’ t’ look for?

: You will know, I have faith in that. It is likely among the funerary offerings gifted to him for his final journey. And while it could be anything from the innumerable treasure buried alongside him, there is no doubt he will be actively protective of certain objects–

: There may well even be multiple artifacts in his clutches that endow him with such strength–

: And– although I find it abhorrent to even suggest such a thing– it would be… beneficial to destroy as many of them as you can, as they contribute not only to his power, but also his sense of self.

: However, the main artifact you must seek is likely on his person, safeguarded from any form of harm.

: Could it be the casket itself?

: No, that I would have noticed when I performed his initial ceremony. Whatever it is, I imagine it would be a personal item: something potentially small that someone could have snuck in behind my back but that no one would be suspicious of.

: Knowing that guy's obsession, at least I think it's safe to say it's made of gold. Which again, there will be a lot of.

: Well tha's just great- ‘cause in tha’ same way, tha’ will make it like searchin’ for a needle in a haystack.

: Forgive me that I am unable to identify the artifact. May Shait guide your hands in this coming conflict.

: Speaking of conflict– it’s likely that not long after we enter, we will be assaulted by his ghosts already stationed inside the tomb… That means some of us will have to stay behind to keep them from interfering with our confrontation with Nakht-pa-Aten–

: I’ll do it.

Sa’Perah’s head swiveled towards Ptolemy, shock momentarily breaking through her facade. He would willingly give up a chance to face Nakht-pa-Aten, the one who had ruined both of their lives?

: I will also help. My moves are particularly suited to this.

: Guess I’ve got no choice in the matter…

: Perhaps it would be prudent for me to join you, Baal-hamon. Should you become low on energy due to using the Tome for such an extended period, I can offer my electricity to assist you.

Baal-hamon gave his assent with a bob of his head, and Matteo turned his attention to the Aetherians, pointing at Gawain’s tail.

: I suspect that light will be a precious commodity within the tomb, perhaps offering a glint of hope against our enemy. Might I suggest staying near to the captain’s side– or, I suppose his tail– when confronting the former pharaoh?

: Yeh, guess tha’ makes sense, in a potentially detrimental t’ my sanity kind o’ way.

: Then I shall go as well to ensure it does not come to that.

: … The fact that you do not see the irony of that statement is uncanny.

: Sa’Perah, I insist that you stay outside the tomb–

: I do believe it may be wiser for Sa’Perah Ah to accompany the Aetherian king and captain to face her foe.

& : What?!

: My Pharaoh, if this Pikachu speaks true and light is a key to defeating Nakht-pa-Aten, then your presence will be most invaluable. The gods saw fit to strengthen your will to call forth the sun’s light– as it has for all of your ancestors. And with this gift granted to you by your bloodline, yours is a light that is uniquely suited to drive back a darkness far deeper than mere shadow.

: …

: In that case, I must go too, to be with my pharaoh-

: That would be unwise. Though you may still have your mask– likely a factor in how you were able to break free in the first place– it is best that you not get too close to him. You may be able to overcome his will… but you also may not. There is no guarantee in the inevitable chaos that you would be able to remain free of his control, and that is a risk we should not take.

: B-But…!

: He’s right.

: Sa’Perah…?

: (taking a deep breath) Baal-hamon is correct. I can face him– I must. It is my duty as Pharaoh of Khetmaat, one that I have long since put aside, and I will face him–

: For all of us.

The Flygon didn’t look at him; there was no need; he already knew. With her fists clenched at her sides, Sa’Perah Ah turned to face her nemesis’ lair. The others stood alongside her, ready to face the unknown (except for Jendayi who lowered her head and peered sadly at her mask).

: Perhaps then… I shall return to the palace, see how our allies are getting on…

: (kindly) A fine idea, Jendayi.

: (pounding his fists together) Well, now that we’ve got our roles, let’s show this arsehole how to stay dead.

The deep echo of the tomb greeted the hapless alliance, their presence fracturing an entrenched silence as their numbers filed into the pictograph-etched crypt. Halls branched in all directions from the large antechamber, their many corridors seeped in an intense shadow, breathing with chilled gusts of stale wind drawn forth by the Aetherian’s movements. Lamps long drained of their light-sustaining oil lay strewn about in the cobwebs and sand of the unkept floor, calling back to a time when once this place was respectfully cared for. That is, save for one hall blocked by a stone door, where a flickering flame danced upon the lip of its wall brazier amid the murky dark that threatened to swallow it up. Twisting like a temptress’ finger with the faint breeze, it beckoned to all who looked upon it to delve deeper into the tomb.

Ptolemy’s forces, along with Cecil, fanned out into the harrowing chamber, taking up defensible positions near and around the doorway harboring the obvious invitation. Paki, beginning to incessantly babble directions at Baal-hamon and Matteo, led them to a short passage ending with a flight of stairs at the far end of the room. They gave a wave before heading up and into the hall, sparking up instantaneous conversation between the two in a very clear attempt to not focus on the yammering scarab guiding them. As the shadows began grabbing at their forms, the two electric types let off a pulsing glow, piercing the gloom with a continuous discharge of energy.

Lazily leaning against a nearby wall of the chamber, Husani watched as the sparks from the Electric types disappeared into the distance. Uneasy silence began to rapidly flourish in the room once more, until it was just as quickly uprooted by a grumbling snort from Gawain, pushing his way to the forefront of the Aetherians to count heads. The Krokorok waited for Cecil to pass by before grunting, drawing the dog’s attention as he cocked a thumb towards the stairs Matteo, Baal-hamon, and Paki had vanished up.

: Are we sure the rat is enough back-up for the bugs? Pretty sure the enemy’s going to realize the barriers are going up, especially since there’s more than one spot to restore, meaning we’re only working with a partial barrier until it’s finished.

: Baal-hamon seemed sure of it. He didn't go into specifics, after all, just our job to deal with the ghosts so they don't have the chance to go for him. Worse comes to worse, Matteo can handle some stragglers.

: Hey, I'm not complaining. I think I'd rather fight off some ghosts than listen to Paki for an extended period of time…

Nearby, Mert ekert and Menes shot Husani a look that spoke volumes about what they thought of having to listen to him for extended periods of time, Meritites and Umayma sighed deeply like the exhausted mothers they were, and Fadil merely smiled in their usual, slightly-unhinged way.

As the King’s Eyes rebels readied themselves, Ptolemy stood next to the stone door, eyes darting towards the shadows, perched on a razor’s edge, waiting for the attacks to begin. Sa’Perah Ah lingered nearby, her own mood matching his, though she had a great deal more practice hiding her unease, and the two of them suddenly turned towards each other and spoke at the same time–

& : Are you sure about doing this?

: … I am.

: Some things have been… revealed to me. Certain truths that I hadn’t known about what happened fifteen years ago…

: All this time, and you don’t–?

: As much as I would like to… It’s like before. When Jendayi killed him. It doesn’t matter what I want, as long as he’s gone.

: By remaining here, I can make sure nobody gets through. My place is here with my men.

: (edging slightly closer) Just… be careful in there.

: (huffing) I’m not the same as you knew me before. Do not think of me as weak.

: I do not. Just don’t give him an in. Whatever he might say… he’s hurt you enough.

She felt a chink in her armor- just a sliver, cut through by Ptolemy’s sharp eyes burrowing deep- and she hurriedly repaired the damage, affixing her gaze forward.

: … I can handle it.

: Good, ‘cause we’re goin’ in. I got th’ light, so follow close.

The Charizard barged between them, Alaric hot on his heels (much to the Charizard’s annoyance, judging by the flaring-up of his tail).

: Why do you think nothing’s happened yet?

: From wha’ I heard of this guy? Seems like he’s waitin’ for ‘im to enter- (He jabs a claw over his good shoulder towards Ptolemy and Sa’Perah.) -or th’ pharaoh, if he’s aware she’s ‘ere. If so, he’s probably hopin’ to talk to ya ‘bout tha’ book.

: We are sure opening this door won’t trigger a trap or release him?

: It just opens the way for us. The rites are not on the door itself.

: An’ I know enough ‘bout Khetmaatian burials tha’ I don’t want to know where they are, thank yeh.

With that, he used his good arm to push the door open, Alaric helping him at his side. The bottom of the door scraped along the floor, an eerie noise that raised a few hackles, but it moved easily enough, revealing a darkened passageway continuing deeper into the tomb. As both Alaric and Sa’Perah Ah made to move forward, Gawain grumbled and quickly cut ahead into the passage.

: ‘Scuse me, yer highnesses, but I’m goin’ first, again-

Tail held aloft, he gave a nod to the pharaoh and his king, his movements and mind tinged with uncertainty as his eyes met the Serperior’s. Alaric returned the gesture, with perhaps far too much confidence painted on his expression than anyone should have for their predicament (though it might be a bit forced, hard to tell these days). With a brief moment of hesitation, Sa’Perah Ah gave a subdued incline of her head, signaling the fire dragon to begin his advance towards their objective. Putting as much gumption as he can muster into his exhausted steps, Gawain pressed forward into the lit hallway with a column of murmuring Aetherians not far behind.

As the Flygon pharaoh followed behind Gawain, she paused briefly in her step to address Ptolemy, clutching the door jamb, white-knuckled–

: You be careful too…

Before following the light of Gawain's flame.

: Do not tell Paki I said this, but–

: This place isn't really what I'd expect of a pharaoh's burial chamber?

The murky, claustrophobic hall spat them out into a large chamber, littered with various golden and painted trinkets. The abundance of the glittering treasures seemingly increased the further they drew into the tomb, all while the effort of the etched walls ebbed. Finely smoothed stone rapidly gave way to an uneven, gritty surface, the remains of those selfsame blocks that once formed all sides of the tomb now lay broken to chunks and scattered about. On the room’s far side, the mouth of a foul cave opened wide…

: Seems even th’ bugs really hated this guy.

: For someone with this much gold, it's kind of ironic to be buried in–?

: –A clammy, ditchy cave? (kicking at a nearby treasure pile) Seems they dumped all o’ his gold in wit’ him too– kind o’ a waste.

: Maybe they thought it was cursed, since it was gotten by ill gains?

: It's certainly cursed now, if it wasn’t ‘fore; I don't want to see wha's hidden among it, wit’ all this– well, hopefully "water" drippin’– an’ this smell? Somethin's "cursed," alright.

: If you choose to chatter this much and be this "observant"–

The Flygon reached out to place a claw on the wall close to the cave’s mouth, scratching the surface with her talons.

: This is limestone. This tunnel wasn’t part of the original structure that we left five minutes ago. I know what his chamber looked like… This wasn’t here before.

Gawain walked over to have a closer look– and as the flame approached the wall, more marks could be seen on its surface, extending far into the passage with alarming frequency. Sa’Perah Ah retracted her hand like it had been burned.

: T-That doesn’t look like it’s been made by Rellors…

: … Let’s get a move on.

Not too far ahead, the tunnel opened up somewhat – and the amount of gold seen in the passage before paled in comparison. The room seemed nearly stuffed with golden treasures that would make the presence of the golden coffin appear nothing more but yet another material possession of whoever's greed lined the walls of this crypt with things whose material value cannot truly benefit those who have passed along the last river, and whose heart’s so heavy with their avarice that it would be consumed with just the slightest feather touch on the great scale.

Despite the threat that lay before them, it was impossible to tear their gaze away as a feeling of dread and wrongness filled them… for in the dim light of the room, the gold stared back. Countless faces - motionless Yamask masks - littered the room, piles as far as the light could reach and no doubt well beyond. A force that far surpassed Khetmaat's defenses…

And the one who had amassed them floated gleefully above his "wealth." Untouched by his horrible deeds, sneering at the intruders, most of all the Flygon whose steeled expression had morphed from horror to pure disgust, the first to tear her gaze away to cast it to the Cofagrigus before them as if they were the single most vile thing to exist: a sentiment shared by her companions who followed suit.

Once all eyes were on him– for he loved nothing more than a captive audience– the coffin dropped slowly to the center of the room, his voice a low, sonorous buzz that settled deep in their stomachs.

: Well, if it isn’t the Aetherians and their dimwitted king I’ve heard much about, creeping in like the vermin they are! Where is that wretch that sent you here? Is he afraid to come in himself? No matter, I will soon be free to find him myself.

: And you– what a pleasant surprise to have you cowering before me once more! I seem to recall many scenarios similar to this occurring throughout our courtship– though you did not sneer at me so back then, now did you?

Sa’Perah Ah spat, and Nahkt-pa-Aten chuckled, the sound vibrating through the room. He spread his shadowy tendrils, throwing them wide as if to encompass all of the gold around him, a wide grin stretched across the coffin’s face.

: How do you like my army? I have spent a lifetime collecting it.

: You have no right to do this to these souls!

: Oh but I do. See, I killed many of them at the Vermillion Grasp during the War of Will and Fire, as well as during my reign. They are my spoils of war–

: Silence. I am not the naive youth you groomed anymore. You will never rule again, the souls you’ve ensnared will be freed, and yours shall be damned forever in the afterworld!

: Oh, are we trying to act strong? … I know that you are not.

: I can smell it. That same fear you have held onto for decades, clutching it to your heart without even realizing that it is strangling you. It has you in its grip, tightening, squeezing, blinding you to what is happening in my kingdom– and you dare to think that you deserve to sit upon the throne!

: Why, you even did not know your little Yubel was a spy for me~

: … I suspected she was a spy for the Claws, but–

: But you still kept her by your side? My, that is extraordinarily foolish, even for you.

: I had hoped to have been able to help her– after the incident when she lost her family. I understood that. You never could–

: Sa’Perah Ah. Don’t engage him.

: Oh? Does the outsider care for this one?

: Does he find it endearing? You, trying to save that little child, despite her being such a troublesome thing– never shutting up. You used to be such a quiet little one, too… but then you became quite like her, you know– wanting to become pharaoh, going against my wishes, doing rebellious things–

: You–!

Gawain spread his good wing in front of Sa’Perah Ah as she suddenly jerked into motion, as if to storm the coffin, and Nakht-pa-Aten’s laugh rolled over them once more.

: See, you come here claiming that you are different, but they do not seem to agree, now do they? What are they protecting you from, my words?

: (blowing a Flamethrower towards Nakht) At this point, I’m protectin’ all our ears from yer words– an’ perhaps you’ll be a little more pleasant to look at once my fire has reduced ya to a puddle of th’ gold ya like so much!

: Nah-ah-ah, I would not do that… unless you want to turn poor Yubel to ashes?

: Yubel to– (eyes widening with horror)

: She’s inside?!

: H-He’s bluffin’...

At his words, a rumbling-like banging echoed from inside the casket.

: Am I now?

: No, w-we cannot risk that…

: So… Where were we? Oh yes, which one is it? Who is your latest interest, my dear? Could it be both? They did appear out of nowhere to help you– or are you being used again?

: The Library of Thales, yes, that is what you are after– did you ever find it, o king of serpentine? A truly fanciful little nursery rhyme you have inherited, by the way… But do tell me of the library– you will tell me eventually– I know many of whom would pay handsomely for that kind of information…

: (gesturing to the gold) Have you not amassed quite enough of that?

The Cofagrigus stared at Alaric like he was insane for suggesting such a thing, then turned back to Sa’Perah Ah.

: Then again– really, it could be you who is using all of them. As usual, you cannot stand up to me by yourself- and you thought you could rule? As we speak, my forces are no doubt decimating yours! Khetmaat has become weak under your rule, your father would be ashamed.

: So, which is it? The snake? You certainly match. Or the dragon?

His eyes jumped from Alaric to Gawain and back again, squinting suspiciously, like a child jealously guarding his toys… then his tone smoothed, calmed, starting in a whisper as he spoke venomously, barbed and poisoned from a forked tongue-

: They both seem a little broken, though, physically– and mentally, so I have heard? I think I preferred Ptolemy. That I could understand, even if he has Gailamiran blood. At least he is whole.

: But then– you do like broken things, do you not? They make you feel less broken yourself, all alone, making a mess of things. You could not stand to live in my shadow– even though it was you who let me down, you who could not fulfill your duty! Yet you thought you had the right to betray me– just to feel less miserable about yourself.

: To have kept Yubel around despite your suspicions… I would call it naïve if I did not know how desperate you were.

: … Did you ever tell Ptolemy? No, I imagine you did not. He has one of his own already, no expectations there–

: Still, it is only fair that you tell them. It is something a lover deserves to know– before they bed something arid.

: Let. Her. Go.

: Or what? I am willing to make a trade- are you? You must know what I want?

: …

: She blamed you for their death, you know– her family. After all, you ordered them to come here. It was easy for her to come to that conclusion… It is funny, Yubel has been in here to many times, yet she never noticed–

His tendrils slid over the ground, pulling out various masks… and Sa’Perah Ah recognized them, her stomach dropping at the sight. The impassive faces of the golden masks depicted several members from the Kirlia line.

: Are those…?

: (dissolving into a string of curses)

: I like to put them in different places, a little game with her as the unknowing participant. (He lifts up one of the masks, tauntingly holding it over his face and shaking it, pitching his voice higher:) “I’m over here, Yubel! Wonder if she will see this time!”

: (dropping the mask) … But she never did see. I told her I would bring back her family if she brought me the Tome of Iah– but they were here all along, unable to tell her a thing, how I killed them! Do you not find it amusing?

: Whatever you told her, or did to her, I shall free her from you-!

: Oh, will you? I would certainly like to see you try.

The coffin opened with a crack- and something wrapped tight in dirtied bandages stumbled out from its depths. It took jerky, uneven steps– one, two– tripping over its limbs that bent and twisted in opposite directions– then lifted its head, casting its ghastly blank stare over the horrified crowd who identified the being with sickening realization.

:

: Is she–?

: Tha’s–!

: !

: Ahahahaha! Cat got your tongue, Sa’Perah? Wherever did that one disappear, anyway? I think I did see her here before, serving me as she was meant to. I must have her face somewhere around here– would you like to see it?

He rummaged around the piles of Yamask masks with one arm while one of the others brought Yubel to his side, holding the mangled body close to his face as if about to embrace it.

: Odd… Well, I wonder if you kept that mangy beast around because you hoped it would win you favor with Bastet… Though, seeing what has happened to poor Yubel here– it is probably for the best that she never blessed you.

: What do you think, Yubel? (twisting Yubel’s head to face his with a horrid crack) Do you agree?

:

: Yesss, I quite like her like this~

: (quietly, in a hushed breath) H-How could you…?!

Nakht-pa-Aten’s laugh came cruel and quick, cutting to the bone. He pulled Yubel away from the coffin and sent her twirling haphazardly around the room, invisible strings twitching, dragging, spasming in a danse macabre that drew their attention like doomed moths to a putrid flame.

: Simple. She failed me. Besides, I think this makes her a more fitting bride for me, preserved as she is, following my every command. Though, in the end, I might have been a tad unfair: she did bring you here, saving me the trouble of tracking your corpse down and instead granting me the pleasure of killing you myself.

He dipped Yubel into an unnaturally-crooked bow, as if taking credit for her unintentioned success, and his audience’s silence gave him permission to keep gloating- for truly, what hope did they honestly have?

: Once I learned of your actions from Yubel, I launched the invasion on the palace early– did you know? While you are here, wallowing in fear, my forces of the dead shall take the throne for me, just as they shall defeat those pathetic Claws who have foolishly and uselessly betrayed me.

: Meanwhile, I will get to take my revenge and swap places with you, Sa’Perah Ah, ascending my throne once more, leaving you to be buried alongside your Ptolemy, together.. And, as an added bonus, I will even kill this ridiculous prophetical king for even more reward!

: Though no need to fret, my dear: nothing will measure up to my vengeance on you!

He stared hungrily at Sa’Perah, annoyed to find her staring equally hard back at him.

: Do you not see yet? You have lost. My reinforcements should be here soon, and I will take the book, stop delaying the inevitable–

: Do you not see yet?

Nakht-pa-Aten fell quiet- and Yubel’s body collapsed in a heap as he released her to run his arms around the edges of the room, feeling about.

: What? I do not–

: No reinforcements are coming. It’s inevitable indeed, you’ve lost–

: Ptolemy can deal wit’ wha’ever is already in this godforsaken place–

: And I will finally deal with you. The only thing the Tome of Iah will be used for is to free us from you.

No. NO. These fools, these– IDIOTS! A snarl ripped from the Cofagrigus as tendrils of darkness shot out towards the ones who would dare keep him from his destiny – but he flinched as a miniature sun blossomed out from the low ceiling, held aloft by Sa’Perah’s claws, an orb teeming with light, and the shadows retreated to whip around him.

: Give it to me– NOW! I will NOT be trapped here any LONGER! You stand no chance against me! Not without your Ptolemy to finish the job again–!

: No, actually, tha’ was Jendayi. Guess ya don’t know everythin’.

: The handmaiden?? She is the one who killed Sharifa?

: “Sharifa”?

: She’s the one who told Sa’Perah Ah about your return as well-

: Impossible! (casting an arm through the Yamask pile frantically) I had the mask right here– somewhere–!

: It must be hard to keep track of so many things.

: Or maybe yer just not as powerful as ya seem to think–

: Impudent WORMS!

The spectral darkness flared up around the golden coffin as his arm slithered back to his side. His gaze shifted, fixating on the Serperior king and his Charizard guard.

: Are you truly fool enough to believe you will triumph – that mayhap being the subject of prophecy bestows you some modicum of protection!? That the gods have imparted you a greater role to play in this world?!

: Well then– o king of serpentine – allow me to divine you one last prophecy–

Thick, miasmic darkness began seeping from the former pharaoh's very being, forming unnatural pools of gloom and threatening what little light still persisted. A faint but unsettling droning sound picked up as it spread, reverberating and itching at the back of the Aetherian’s minds. Tendril-like appendages rose from the deep shadows that had formed around the room, their languidly hanging hands twitching ever so slightly.

: I will break you and drown your souls in the bleakest depths of the void – till not even the faintest FLICKER of who you once were remains!

The shadows moved once more, striking out, and Alaric and Gawain were split apart, forced to jump in opposite directions. Sa’Perah Ah dodged backward, still pressing the sunny orb in her claws, watching as Nakht-pa-Aten flung himself towards an elevated dais at the back of the room, crouched in front of four canopic jars-

: Now– bear witness! I shall show you all power beyond your comprehension and DELIGHT in tearing your FLESH from your BONES!

: The jars!

: Wha’ ‘bout ‘em?

: They must be part of what’s empowering him!

: (noticing something sparkling in one of Nakht’s arms) But–!

: Ah!

Alaric ducked as Yubel’s body flew over his head back to Nakht-pa-Aten’s side, landing in a wide stance with arms akimbo. Red and purple eyes began to manifest from within and along the darkened surfaces of the crypt. Two of the Cofagrigus’ arms crossed over the front of the coffin, each gripping a unique scepter, and the ghost displayed his most fearsome grin yet.

: COME– join me in DEATH!

Subdue Nakht-pa-Aten!

Click the app to see move descriptions and itemized information

Trapped at the back of this desecrated tomb, you’ve no choice but to defend yourself against the former pharaoh. The low light and a perpetual stream of small ghosts phasing in from the walls to assist their master will do anything but make this easy to accomplish. What’s more: a profane puppet of a departed friend is dancing about in the chaos. While in his current state, you are unsure if Nakht-pa-Atten can even be beaten without Baal-hamon completing the rites somewhere else in the temple.

So, your best chance to make it out of this alive is to wrest the treasures from the grasp of the Cofagrigus’, removing his control over his minions and depriving him of the extra power they grant him. Bereft of his treasures, he should quickly fall and be vulnerable enough to whatever it is that Baal-hamon and Sa’Perah Ah plan to do with him–

But something - something feels horribly off…

Basic Rundown

More detailed information can be found under this section. You can also click on any "Check Details" buttons to be moved directly to the specific section.

The cave you're in is rocky, wet, and completely littered with gold. But there's something else that's clinging to the air in here. It appears Nakht-pa-Aten is somehow creating a sort of miasma that is making the room darker and making your head buzz. It seems to grow worse in areas without much light. (Check Details)

The buzzing will strip away your will to fight by dragging out feelings of despair (guilt, loss, fear, hopelessness, etc.). If you allow these feelings to weigh on your mind for too long you may collapse into a listless state and be unable to move or fight. So be careful, especially if you are a ghost or psychic type!

Light is as important as Matteo presumed it would be. It drives the shadows back, removes the effects of the miasma, banishes some of the ghost minions, and forces the hands away. Because of this, Nakht-pa-Aten will strive to snuff out or destroy any lightsource he can. Keep what little light you have safe and use it wisely; your sources of bright light are not infinite!

You need to survive long enough for Baal-hamon to finish reinstating the tomb's rites, you'll probably be able to hear his wings when he is on his way. Either fend him off till the priest arrives, or make an attempt to defeat Nakht-pa-Aten, but he must be weakened first if you want to try! (Check Details)

To defeat Nakht-pa-Aten, you'll need to steal the items he protects to weaken him! Each one seems to grant him access to several moves and abilities, so the more you can get out of his hands, the easier he will be to deal with.

He guards his important treasures close to himself. Breaking or stealing them will remove the various abilities they grant, though he may try to steal them back before they can be broken.

Nakht-pa-Aten has many ghostly minions phasing in from the walls, floor, and ceiling that are very aggressive. Each of them have key weaknesses to defeat them fast, except one. Yubel, a now mummified puppet for Nakht-pa-Aten, will dance around the battlefield causing chaos and rush to the defense of the former pharaoh's treasures. (Check Details)

Six large hands can sprout up from any of the shadows in the room as long as they connect to Nakht-pa-Aten's. Drive the shadows away and break their link to send any arms retracting back to its master. You can attack them normally as well, but it only seems to stagger them.If they are not dealt with quickly, they can snuff out precious light sources or they may attack!

The hands will either try to swipe at anyone around them, or try to grab and crush you! Getting grabbed will send a numbness all through your body before the hand tosses you away or slams you on the ground. While numb, the miasma will be more effective and a smaller hand can appear out of your own shadow to cause problems. Use light to stave off the effects!

Backing you up is Gawain, Sa'Perah Ah, and Alaric. They each have strengths and weaknesses in this confrontation that will help you survive against the ghostly horde and vast darkness. (Check Details)

The Crest of Emotion is... Somehow on your person! Huh... Well, however that got here, it is a welcome comfort. Apart from giving off a gentle glow that reduces the effect of the miasma, in a pinch it may prove to be truly invaluable! (Check Details)

Detailed Information

The Area

You are trapped in a large cavern with a somewhat low ceiling that has been carved into the limestone at the back of the tomb. The footing is haphazard at best, the floor a mess with random piles of treasure along with rocky protrusions scattered all over the sandy ground and low ceiling (boulders, outcroppings, stalactites/stalagmites). What’s worse, it’s weirdly damp in here, leaving the surfaces of any exposed rock rather slick. (man, you really hope this is water)

At the far end of the cave is a raised, sandstone dais, framed by substantial piles of gold, with several Pokémon headed jars sitting on top of it, depicting a Monferno, Lucario, Charcadet, and Hawlucha. Upon several shelf-like stone outcroppings around the cave are oil lamps and dishes, their small flames offering little in the way of light and instead casting the room into a mire of long, shifting shadows. Besides the few short rocky mounds about the room, there isn’t really any true form of cover to hide and recuperate, so you may have to rely heavily on your companions to back you up.

Finally, Nakht-pa-Aten’s very presence appears to be affecting the area in a detrimental way. There is a harrowing gloom ever hanging in the stale air, the weight of this sensation growing heavier where the room becomes darker. Slowly, you can feel yourself disconnecting from the situation, mind succumbing instead to a monotonous buzzing in the back of your head that drags out feelings such as hopelessness, regret, fear, and loss. This emotional miasma suffocates the will out of anyone who remains in the dark for too long, eventually leaving those afflicted in a state of listlessness and unable to act.

!! While everyone is stricken with this growing dread, characters with a Ghost or Psychic typing will feel their malady clawing at them more aggressively. This means that the sensation will grow much faster for them, since both these typings rely heavily on their emotional states. !!

There is hope, however, in light. Like a candle in the dark, being within a strong enough source of light will help you stay anchored or even pull you back to your senses. Sticking close to a light source will keep the heavy thoughts at bay for as long as you remain there and will linger for just a little bit afterwards if/when the glow dims. Unfortunately, no strong sources of light will be tolerated by Nakht-pa-Aten, as he will actively attempt to snuff out or drive back these beacons. So do your best to defend your luminescent tethers from the persistent assaults by the former pharaoh and his minions, as your supply of strong light isn’t infinite.

Back to Rundown

Your Opponent(s)

Nakht-pa-Aten
While he is your only true target, attacking him with any intent to KO would be incredibly futile currently. Any time he appears to even get slightly low on health, he simply steals more from his minions (or you, if you’re unlucky). It’s not a bad idea to distract him by attacking, however, just watch out for his Mummy ability!

He will always try to hang back in combat, mostly sending his ghostly horde to do his bidding, but he won’t hesitate to take potshots when he sees an opportunity and will generally be annoying with enfeebling moves. He likes to keep the pressure on his opponents, using commands and abilities to his tactical advantage. He prioritizes trying to keep his enemies away from his treasures over getting out of harm’s way, he will just steal that health back after all, but if he feels overwhelmed he will skitter away to a better position using his shadow arms.

Yamask and Lost Souls
Seems that, even though his more powerful reinforcements have been cut off from reaching this chamber, lesser ghosts are still able to slip in.

The Yamask here will be the same as the ones some of you encountered back in the sandstorm move wise, but under Nakht-pa-Aten’s control, they act more aggressively. They will prioritize attacking moves over encumbering ones and completely ignore using defensive ones, unless instructed otherwise. As before, destroying their stone tablet will banish them.

The lost souls here have taken on a different form, now appearing as Duskull and the occasional Dusclops. They are in the same aggressive state as the Yamask, with the same move priorities outside of direct instruction. It appears that they can be banished outright if exposed to a powerful light source for long enough.

!! If Nakht-pa-Aten loses control of the ghosts, the constant invasion of spirits will cease and cause the ones still present in the chamber to either fade away or leave them in a stupor. And, while they are still under his influence, any more that appear will no longer directly obey Nakht-pa-Aten’s commands and will use moves randomly. !!

Yubel
Poor Yubel has unfortunately become a puppet of Nakht-pa-Aten. Bound head to toe in wrappings, you can likely see by the way that she moves that she is tragically beyond helping. Under the former pharaoh's control, she will unnaturally dance her way around the cave and use the moves she knew, taking advantage of her lithe form to slip past obstacles and opponents alike. His primary use for her is to guard his 4 canopic jars, making her fiercely attack anyone who gets close enough. If his jars aren’t being threatened, he will use her to cause chaos by having her attack random people. Her ability appears to have been replaced by Mummy, so attacking her may not be the best idea (also why would you want to??).

Attack quick list:

• Shadow Sneak
• Dazzling Gleam
• Telekinesis
• Psychic
• Recycle
• Taunt

!! If Nakht-pa-Aten loses control of Yubel, she will collapse to the ground and be permanently out of the fight !!

Shadow Hands
Nakht-pa-Aten has one more trick up his sleeve, being capable of reaching through the large swaths of shadows that blanket the cave. As long as there is a connection between his own shadow and one somewhere in the room, up to 6 large arms can sprout up from any connected shadow to attack and/or attempt to snuff out a light source. Using a strong enough light in a shadowed area can break the connection and force any proxied arms to retract back to the Cofagrigus.

Should one manage to grab you, the grip of these phantasmal appendages is both physically powerful and soul chilling. Before you are inevitably tossed and/or slammed to the ground, a fast spreading numbness will overcome you, leaving you sluggish and more susceptible to the effects of the miasma for a short time. Additionally, as long as the numbness persists, a small amount of the hand’s energy is still clinging to you. This can potentially allow a smaller hand to use your own shadow as a sprouting proxy and cause all sorts of problems. As before, light can banish both of these lingering effects, but it really goes without saying, just avoid getting grabbed. Smaller arms are also able to sprout outside of this effect from fainter shadow, though they only seem capable of snuffing smaller lights and maybe tripping opponents by grabbing their leg.

!! The amount of large arms that can sprout up can be reduced by half by stealing the Shenu band !!

Back to Rundown

The Plan

The key to defeating Nakht-pa-Aten is to steal or break the items he protects. Each one does something different and removing it from the equation will weaken the ghost. Keep in mind: due to the nature of artifacts, you unfortunately won’t be able to benefit from the effects of any item you steal. But really, it’s more about these things not being used on you!

Artifacts: Sovereign Sceptres
A pair of unique and intricate staves. Carved of ivory and decorated with faience and gold paints, they represent a pharaoh's power and command of their land and its inhabitants. An imperious and imposing force harshly radiates from these objects, like being under a sweltering midday sun.

Breakable!
Sceptre of Dominion
A Was sceptre. A long, rigid staff topped with a shape reminiscent of a jackal and ending in a two pronged fork. Allows the use of the moves Embargo and Nasty Plot while having the effect of the ability Pressure.

While in his possession, this artifact grants Nakht-pa-Aten full control of his ghost army, allowing him to easily direct their movements and draw them quickly into the tomb. If you disarm Nakht-pa-Aten of this relic, the flow of ghosts into the room will lessen greatly and any more that appear will act more haphazardly in their attacks and movements.

—

Breakable!
Sceptre of Command
A Sekhem-sceptre. An oar shaped wand, with several symbols embossed into the gold plated paddle and sitting upon a papyrus patterned handle. Allows the use of the moves Instruct and Defend Order while granting the effect of the ability Infiltrator to the wielder’s subordinates.

While in his possession, this artifact grants Nakht-pa-Aten full control over the mummified Yubel, giving him a truly loyal servant to guard his canopic jars and a source of chaos. If you disarm Nakht-pa-Aten of this relic, his control of Yubel will be relinquished, incapacitating her completely.

!! If Nakht-pa-Aten is in possession of both of these artifacts, they allow him to use the moves Stored Power or Power Trip. Removing even one will eliminate this capability. !!

Shenu band
Stealable!
A ornate bangle embellished with a gold cartouche as its centerpiece, the shape encircling an etching of the old pharoah’s name. This item appears clasped about the wrist of one of his many shadowy arms. While in Nakht-pa-Aten’s possession, it grants him the use of his former body’s abilities: Tinted Lenses, Speed Boost, and Frisk. Too pliable to break

Canopic jars
Breakable!
These contain the remains of a deceased’s organs, placed inside so that they would have them in the afterlife. Somehow, having bits of himself nearby is allowing Nakht-pa-Aten the ability to use moves that his old body knew. Destroying the jars should break whatever connection is there and stop him from using these attacks.

Monferno headed jar - Allows Nakht-pa-Aten to use Defog
Lucario headed jar - Allows Nakht-pa-Aten to use Ancient Power
Charcadet headed jar - Allows Nakht-pa-Aten to use Air Slash
Hawlucha headed jar - Allows Nakht-pa-Aten to use Bug Buzz

!! Keep in mind that the more of them you break, the more aggressive the defense of the remaining ones will be !!

Back to Rundown

Allies

While many of your allies are being kept busy with other tasks (like keeping the bigger angrier things out of the tomb), several are here to assist you in the battle.

Gawain
Strong and usually able to take a punch, Gawain can be a powerful ally in this fight. His tail is a mobile and continuous light source, making it a great place to gather your strength or expose some lost souls to dispel them. In addition, Gawain also has access to the move Sunny day, though his is far less powerful than Sa’Perah Ah’s and is completely stationary once active.

Unfortunately, Gawain’s injury from the battle at the Wahdj oasis means he is unable to fly (flying typing has been negated) and his stamina isn’t what it usually is, not to mention he is bone-tired from everything that’s happened. Due to this, the intensity of his tail flame will weaken over time as he grows more exhausted, not even being invigorated by Blaze or Sunny Day eventually. He can recuperate a little if he falls back and has someone to defend him, but it won’t be a lasting solution.

Attack quick list:

• Sword Dance
• Sunny Day
• Flare Blitz
• Solarbeam
• Outrage
• Dragon Claw

Sa’Perah Ah
The Pharaoh of Khetmaat is very tactically oriented, giving her an edge when it comes to managing this large crowd of enemies in such tight spaces. She also possesses a boon to her Sunny Day, creating a much more powerful light source that can easily banish lost souls, while additionally being able to grab and physically move the light. The boon increases the effect of Sunny Days benefits by an additional 50%, but reduces its longevity from 5 to 3. Sa’Perah Ah’s Crest of Emotion also acts similar to, albeit weaker than, a light source in terms of being able to drive back the miasmic effects. The crest can also be used to heal someone out of the listless state, but she must stop to focus for this effect to work.

Due to her own size and the low ceiling, Sa’Perah Ah’s mobility is limited and she will be unable to effectively fly and may have trouble using Bug Buzz if there isn’t enough room to use her wings. Additionally, she will avoid getting too close to Nakht-pa-Aten (who could blame her?), actively dropping her current action to reposition herself should he or one of his arms come too close. Because of this, she is much more focused on dealing with the invading ghosts rather than attempting to attack or disarm Nakht-pa-Aten.

Attack quick list:

• Sunny Day
• Scorching Sands
• Dragon Claw
• Solarbeam
• Bug Buzz
• Superpower

Alaric
Your king is here- and you’re really not entirely sure this is a good thing…?? Hhhhhhh–!

Potential feelings of extreme apprehension aside-! Grass type moves are Alaric’s forté, giving him an edge against the particular type of Yamask you’ll be facing. Not only that, but he can use Light Screen to help mitigate some of the incoming damage by the enemies across the entire group, but most especially from Nakht-pa-Aten. Apart from reducing damage, when initially used and subsequently struck with a special move, the Light Screen will flare up with a momentary flash of light and while not enough to completely banish any spirits, it will stun or disorient them. If he notices someone falling to listlessness, he will actively drop what he’s doing and attempt to rescue them, pulling them away from the dark with his vines and/or tail and getting them close to a light source. He will have a similar reaction should he notice someone get grabbed by Nakht-pa-Aten’s hands, first attacking with Dragon Pulse before attempting a rescue.

Unfortunately, Alaric is also a complete and total liability. His still fragile mental state leaves him far more prone to the effects of the miasma, which will take hold very quickly if he is away from light. Additionally, if Gawain falls back to recuperate from exhaustion, Alaric will drop whatever he is doing to foolhardily place himself in harm's way. He will actively use his own body to protect the Charizard and will not move till his captain is able to take up his sword again. This can and will make Gawain cut his rests short, diminishing his recovery.

Attack quick list:

• Leaf Storm
• Coil
• Leaf Blade
• Giga Drain
• Light Screen
• Dragon Pulse

Back to Rundown

The Crest of Emotion begins emitting a small, but soothing light
Now how’d that end up on your person? ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ ... Whether through fateful serendipity, bear shenanigans, or some foresight you just happen to have forgotten about, characters who have completed the Trial of Emotion have and can utilize their crest they received from the trial for this battle. The gentle glow from these emblems help mitigate the effects of the miasma for anyone who holds one (can be given to others), slowing the spread of the addling feeling.

In a tight spot, you may be able to draw out a warm, radiant glow from this item. Much like Sa’Perah Ah’s own crest, this will allow you to forcefully drive away any amount of listlessness from one character (you or an ally). Unlike the pharaoh’s though, any character that has this effect used on them will be temporarily immune to the effects of the miasma and gain the effects of the ability Scrappy for a short time. This effect can only be used once.

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Final Notes

If you find yourself completely and utterly done with all the ghosts and ghost related nonsense, this will be a wonderful outlet to take out your frustrations. For a bit of a tl;dr: Fight coffin boy and his ghost horde, do what comes natural and steal/break his stuff, try not to get grabbed :) , light is friend, light is life, and have fun with crippling depression aura.

You just need to beat up the former pharaoh till he’s weak, but you can try to KO him, just not kill. Not like you could anyway without Baal-hamon finishing the final rites (plus, you know, already kinda dead), but Sa’Perah Ah has plans for this jerk. So just get in there and teach this old man a lesson.

As usual, if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to send in a group note or poke us on Discord, we are always more than happy to help. Since we’re not really doing time limits anymore, just expect us to start putting out the next part some time in either January or February, with maybe some meanwhiles peppered in. (good chance it’ll be later though, the next part miiight take a bit) Just remember that completing all the parts is how you get to claim your final reward(s). We look forward to seeing your battles!

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Part 3 Prologue

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