In the Royal Palace's great hall, Seto was at a loss when the Pharaoh asked him. "I would not dare overstep my bounds."
"Go ahead. I need someone to help shoulder the burden."
Simon understood what Atem was thinking and joined in. "If you refuse to speak, that would count as disobeying orders."
"All right. I think we should... then... next... and finally..."
"Excellent. Just what I would expect from our strongest Priest. Make the arrangements as you suggested. As for Aknadin, there is no rush to condemn him. Let us see what he intends to do."
"Simon, how is the unsealing coming along?"
The little old man replied respectfully, "We are halfway through."
"Then keep at it, and make sure my father is settled in properly." Atem paused and looked at everyone. "I am announcing that the banquet will begin early."
"But that goes against protocol, does it not? Please reconsider, Pharaoh," Simon urged, startled.
"Urgent times call for simpler measures. Let us finish quickly, then go deal with the villain."
"Yes, we understand." The Priests hurried off to prepare.
"Please wait here for a little while, everyone. You are also welcome to look around. I will have someone notify you." After the Priests left, Atem's expression relaxed, and he smiled as he instructed the servants to prepare seats for everyone.
"All right. Let me know when it starts." Kaiba was the first to leave. He had no interest in sitting around waiting.
Maximillion Pegasus and Madara left with him.
Mai stayed glued to Tetsuhiro's side, while Yugi and the others went over to chat with Atem.
Time passed quickly, and the Priests returned to report that preparations were nearly complete and the banquet could begin.
Once those wandering outside had been called back, the banquet officially began!
Atem