Chapter 11 – A MAP
The soldiers marched Tako, Koto, and Makio into the throne room. King Batharzar sat tall, his crown glinting in the torchlight.
The King's deep voice echoed. "Why did you trespass into my pyramid?"
Tako bowed slightly. "Your Majesty, forgive us. Our cat ran inside, and in panic, we followed to catch it."
The King stared at him for a long moment, then suddenly laughed. "A cat? That's the reason? Very well, I'll accept it."
Koto smirked, leaning forward. "Since you're generous… may we see the full map of the pyramid?"
The King raised a brow. "Curious, aren't you? Very well." He signaled a servant, who brought a massive scroll. The parchment unfolded across the table, filled with detailed sketches of corridors and chambers.
Tako pointed to a section. "What about these stairs? They're drawn, but they don't seem to lead anywhere."
The King chuckled. "Those? Construction errors. They lead nowhere, just empty stone. Forget them."
Makio frowned. "Strange…"
But Tako wasn't done. He looked straight into the King's eyes. "Tell me… did you build this pyramid completely by yourself?"
The King's expression shifted. "…No. When I was born, it was already half-completed by my father. But when I was twelve… he disappeared. I searched everywhere, but I never found him."
Tako leaned in. "What was your father's name?"
The King's voice lowered. "Kajun Uma."
Koto quickly covered. "Then, Your Majesty, can we go inside the pyramid whenever we want?"
The King smiled warmly. "Of course. You are my guests. Go as you please."
As they bowed, Makio whispered to Tako, "He's kind… but did you feel that? He's hiding something."
Cliffhanger: king is hidding something