Time. Time does not stop for any one person, it simply marches onwards. Not caring what happens to those in its wake. Sometimes a moment may seem to slow down to the point of freezing.
He felt like the everything had hit that point where the world was going in slow motion, watching the Seal close in around them, smashing through the barrier with the puzzle, and pushing Yami out of the way felt like it took forever.
As it engulfed him Yugi felt a searing pain like he was being ripped apart, then nothing. A black, empty, void surrounded him.
He couldn't tell how much time passed in that horrible place, he recalled the last few terrible moments he had spent locked away from Yami. He had been unable to stop him from making that fatal mistake. His thoughts wandered on as he worried about the others who supported him.
Would they truly understand that the Yugi they know is gone? Was Rebecca's grandfather alright? Would they make in time to stop Dartz? Was he ever going to see the light of day again? Would Yami blame himself for Yugi's sacrifice? Would they be alright?
As these thoughts and worries passed through his mind Yugi began to reflect on the meaning of true friendship. A true friend was someone who would willing give up anything no matter what, they wouldn't tire of helping you through the tough times, and if you were ever in trouble they'd bail you out.
Yugi smiled as he realized that he was surrounded by true friends Yami, Joey, Tea, Tristan, Duke, they were all there for him when he needed it. Light began to surround him as hope began to grow, they wouldn't leave him in the dark forever. No they'd come for him, and get him out of this horrible place.
All he had to do was wait until they came for him, and until then he would continue to believe in the strength of true friendship.