Guardians of Time (GoT)

The Tutela, a sturdy medium-sized vessel, docked smoothly at Alexandria Port. Its Latin name, meaning "protection" or "guardianship," suited its purpose: safeguarding excavation staff and equipment.

As Ryan stood on the dock, luggage beside him, he gazed out at the bustling port. The rising sun cast a golden glow over the chaotic scene. Workers scrambled to unload and load cargo, their calls and laughter filling the air.

A deep, soothing voice interrupted Ryan's reverie. "Good morning, Ryan."

He turned to face Dr. Hassan, the expedition leader. The Doctor's bald head gleamed in the morning light, his short beard and warm, brown eyes exuding authority.

"Good morning, Doctor," Ryan replied warmly, smiling.

Dr. Hassan's eyes twinkled as he surveyed the bustling doc. "Ready for the King's Valley?"

"Absolutely," Ryan confirmed. "The equipment's being unloaded. We'll be set in an hour."

Dr. Hassan's face lit up. "Excellent! Let's fuel up on some local delights."

Ryan chuckled, knowing the Doctor's insatiable appetite, which surprisingly didn't match his lean frame.

"Yes. Beatrice will come and hand over our things before we depart. I'll inform her to come to where we will have breakfast."

Dr. Hassan nodded. "Alright."

***

They navigated through Alexandria's Port's chaotic streets. Porters and vendors rushed past, offering luggage services. The duo politely declined, weaving through the crowded alleys.

Finally, they arrived on the cafe, ordered some shawarma (juicy lamb sandwiches) and umm ali (sweet pastry).

Over steaming cups of ahwa (Egyptian coffee), Dr. Hassan asked, "Invite Beatrice to join us. We need to get our stuffs before we depart."

Ryan nodded, sending a quick text to Beatrice. "Done."

Beatrice is the logistical coordinator for Dr. Hassan's archaeological team in Egypt. She's responsible for organizing transportation, equipment, permits and clearances. Fluent in Arabic and English, Beatrice navigates Egyptian bureaucracy with ease. Her efficiency, cultural expertise and friendly demeanor make her an invaluable asset to the team.

She arrived promptly, smiling. "Morning, all. What's the agenda?"

Dr. Hassan gestured. "Please, join us. We're finalizing today's logistics."

Beatrice sat, sipping her ahwa. "What's the priority?"

Ryan outlined, "Equipment checks, transportation, and—"

"And confirming KV5's security clearance," Dr. Hassan added.

Beatrice nodded, scribbling notes. "Equipment's packed, transport's arranged. Security clearance granted. Anything else?"

Dr. Hassan leaned back. "That's all. Thank you, Beatrice."

Beatrice smiled, standing. "All set. Good luck today!"

With a nod, she departed, leaving the group to finalize their preparations.

***

An hour and a half later, they were departing.

As the convoy traversed the Desert Road, golden sunlight spilled across the endless dunes, casting long shadows that stretched like outstretched arms. The sky transformed into a brilliant blue canvas, dotted with scattered clouds.

Ryan gazed out at the familiar scenery, nostalgia washing over him. He had traveled this route 3 years ago, as a staff member of Records, studying the Valley of Kings' ancient tombs.

Memories of meticulously documenting hieroglyphics within Tutankhamun1's majestic tomb resurfaced. He recalled the thrill of uncovering secrets within Pharaoh Horemheb2's intricate tomb.

Two hours into the journey, Ryan dozed off, lulled by the hum of the engine.

The five vans and two double-cab trucks carried the team toward the legendary Valley of the Kings, 674 kilometers south of Alexandria Port.

***

Night began to fall as they arrived at luxurious private villas, strategically chosen for their proximity to KV51, the mysterious tomb of Ramses II2's sons. The vehicles encircled the villas, disgorging personnel and equipment. 

Ryan stepped into his cozy room, refreshing himself after the long journey. He unpacked his modest belongings, mostly research papers now stacked neatly on his desk.

Settling onto his bed, Ryan pored over the KV5 layout, committing every detail to memory. Yet, a nagging unease persisted.

Outside, ominous clouds gathered above KV5, their unusual presence sparking concern.

A desert storm seemed improbable, especially during winter's mild temperatures (10°C-20°C). But the air felt thick and heavy, contradicting the season's expectations.

Ryan entered the elegantly decorated dining area, filled with the savory aromas of Egyptian cuisine. Soft lighting cast a warm glow over the room.

He joined the lively gathering, exchanging warm smiles and handshakes.

"Hey, Ryan! Finally refreshed?" asked Dr. Hassan, sipping mint tea.

"The journey was exhausting, but this feast revives me!" Ryan replied, sampling koshari.

Dr. Rodriguez, an expert in ancient mythology, leaned in.

"Ryan, have you reexamined the KV5 layout? Any new insights?"

"I've been obsessing over it," Ryan admitted. "The solar disk symbolism seems inconsistent."

"Perhaps it's intentional," suggested Dr. Ali Abdullah, a young archaeologist. "Ramses II's sons might've employed misdirection."

Meanwhile at the other side of the room, Ahmed, their driver, regaled the other staff group with tales of desert adventures. "I once drove through a sandstorm for hours! Visibility was zero."

Chats and laughters filled the room.

As dinner concluded, team members began to disperse.

Ryan retreated to his room, feeling fulfilled. He then methodically sorting notes and diagrams, briefly checking messages from colleagues. 

After all done, he was losing himself in "The History of Ancient Egypt."

As the clock struck 11 PM, Ryan closed his book and marking the page. He switched off the lamp, and soft moonlight illuminated his room. 

With a contented sigh, Ryan drifted into a peaceful slumber.