Disclaimer: I do not own Yu-gi-oh! or its characters
Chapter: 4 "Reassurance"
Author's Note: Thanks again to all who reviewed! I now have over 460 hits and 230 visitors to this story (If only some of those people reviewed…I'm sulking slightly). Thank you to TimeandRhythmDoesIndeedSleep, Fire-blossom19, Kaaki-Shaman, Angeldrkfire, PhantomBrat, RyouandBakuraforeverfor taking the time to review my third chapter! I was in a rush to update so I made a lot of errors again and so I'm sorry :( I just wanted a distraction from my history project. Allow me to clear something up though: There will be no Pyschoshipping in this fiction. I'm sorry if I confused anyone! I just mentioned them last chapter in my A/N because seeing Marik pounce on Bakura in my head is extremely sexy hahaha, like the image is really sexy in my head. And I also heard a lot of you guys really liked the vision part :) That's good for me because I worked really hard on that part! So thank you again for your kind words :) There's no need to post the ages and mind link thing anymore right? Yeah, I thought so too. I have a total of 21 reviews so far! What's ironic is that like six years ago when I first started posting fanfiction when I was twelve, I got on average 20+ reviews just on the first chapter. Actually maybe now I just fail….
Fire-Blossom19: SHIT'S 'BOUT TO GO DOWN hahaha
Kaaki-Shaman: Don't cry! :( This chapter will cheer you up, no worries! And is it Zorc, I wonder? Hmm…maybe, maybe not :) We shall see! And P.S your hugs made me smile hahaha
Angeldrkfire: It's a nice change to see the lights being evil for once :)
RyouandBakuraforever: Not going to lie but I look forward to your reviews hahaha. And I adore you even more, can we be friends? Hahaha :) I changed the summary a bit after I read your review so now it better reflects the plot so thank you for your thoughts! And I do hope biology studying goes well when you do it :)
My history project is now finished so I worked hard to get this chapter out for all my loves (10/14), and just a side note, is anyone else liking the alliteration in my chapter titles? OH SNAP IN THE NILE. Hopefully I can keep up the alliteration, it makes my story seem cooler than it is.
"What do you mean she's busy?" Kaiba shouted as the grip on his phone tightened. He was getting extremely agitated as he could not reach Isis over at the Domino Museum and the only person he could reach was one of her irritating staff members.
"I'm sorry Mr.Kaiba but Ms.Ishtar is unavailable at the moment."
"I don't care!" He screamed harshly. "I need to speak with her right this instant! This is an emergency!" Kaiba was gripping the phone so hard that his knuckles began to whiten. He looked towards Marik, Bakura, and Yami who were all watching him with stern eyes.
"Mr.Kaiba, Ms.Ishtar is extremely busy preparing for the new exhibit we have opening in a few weeks. Perhaps you could call at another –"
"This is getting ridiculous! I am Seto Kaiba! I could have the museum shut down if I wanted!" He cut her off and she quieted down. "Oh you wouldn't want that would you? That wouldn't be good at all, think of all the people that would be out of jobs." Kaiba reasoned in a taunting manner. It was common to see Kaiba bring out his cold demeanor during business transactions for he knew that in the corporate world, intimidation was very important. He let a sadistic smirk cross his face and raised an amused brow. "Well? You wouldn't want to have that on your conscience, would you?"
She began to falter slightly, her voice hesitant, "W-We can't have that, sir! That would be terrible! But please sir, try to understand, Ms.Ishtar is extremely busy..."
The blue eyed man opened his mouth to retort when he suddenly heard a female voice in the background and heard the distinct sound of the phone being pulled away. He waited in slight annoyance until he heard someone pick up the phone.
"Mr.Kaiba," Isis began in a formal, professional tone. "I would greatly appreciate it if you did not threaten the members of mystaff." Although her voice was sophisticatedly professional, her tone was aggressive. "Now what is this 'emergency' you speak of that compelled you to bully a member of my staff?" She inquired.
"I need you and Rishid to report to Malik's apartment right away! There is something you must know; I viewed the contents of Millennium Necklace to gain insight into the future and I'm afraid it doesn't look bright. It is imperative that you come to Malik's apartment now!" Kaiba told her earnestly, his fingers threaded themselves through Jou's blonde hair involuntarily. He watched with concerned eyes as Jou turned to look at him and the CEO mentally choked at seeing the glazed look in his lover's amber eyes. They looked misty, unfocused and greatly disheartened.
"Certainly it can wait –"Isis began to reason when she was suddenly cut off.
Marik had snatched Kaiba's cell phone from his hands and brought it close to his ear and lips. "Sister!" he called gravely. The Egyptian knew that if Isis heard his voice, she would come immediately. The woman would probably assume that his presence would mean ultimate and impending doom – how amusing!
There was a pause on the phone when she stopped speaking; the only sound audible was the sound of her gasps before she recovered furiously. "You are Marik!" she cried angrily. "What have you done to Malik, you monster! Answer me! What have you done?"
Had the situation been different and not so dire, Marik would have loved to torment the woman but he knew in his changed heart that he shouldn't cause any unnecessary problems. "Sister," he said again, "It is not I who has harmed Malik. It is as Kaiba says, we have glimpsed into the future and it does not look promising. You must bring Rishid and come at once." With an afterthought and blink he added an uncharacteristic "Please" and waited for her response.
Over on her side of the phone, Isis' sapphire blue eyes tensed as she bit her lower lip. She ultimately knew not to trust the hated side of Malik however even she could not deny the sincerity in his voice. Weighing the pro and cons in her head, she concluded that although it could be a trap for her and Rishid, the possibility of her brother being in danger greatly influenced her decision. Kaiba seemed to also be there so perhaps it would be alright.
After a few minutes, Marik grew impatient as a low growl sounded from his throat. "Sister, make haste! What say you, will you come or not?" Lilac eyes lowered quickly to look at his silent other self and they grew hard at seeing the lifelessness in Malik's identical eyes.
"Very well, Rishid and I will be there within half an hour." Isis said, clearing her throat slightly before speaking again. "I trust that you will do no harm to us."
Marik nodded against the phone. "Yes, you have my word." He said sincerely and with that, the line disconnected. He turned to look at the phone in his hand before calmly handing it back to Kaiba's outstretched hand. "She says she will come within the mid hour." He told, eyes connecting with Kaiba, Yami and Bakura's.
"For now, as we wait, we should try and console them." Yami wisely said, indicating with his eyes at Yugi, Jou, Malik and Ryou who all looked depressed and lifeless. They all shared the look of despair and sadness that only came from the witnessing of the vision.
Together, they nodded, respectively turning towards the boys in their arms.
Kaiba leaned his face down and peered into Jou's eyes. He frowned once he saw them. Letting out a sad sigh, he stroked his thumb against the blonde's cheek to get his attention. Although still not all there, Jou reacted to his touch and let out a small whine. Leaning down even more till their noses touched, Kaiba nuzzled his lover affectionately. "Jou, wake up." He called, threading his fingers through Jou's.
The blonde looked up at his lover sadly. "Seto?"
"Why so sad, pup?" Kaiba asked, pressing his lips to different parts of Jou's face as he kissed the skin lovingly. His lips travelled everywhere; Jou's temple to his forehead, the tip of his nose and the corner of his lips before directly hovering over Jou's mouth.
"You saw it," Jou began brokenly, eyes watering slightly. "I looked like a monster… And my Red Eyes! My poor Red Eyes!" he cried softly. Tears began welling up in Jou's eyes and this caused Seto to wipe away the tears with his fingers. He only sobbed harder when he felt Kaiba press his mouth against his.
Kaiba kissed him passionately, pouring his heart and soul into the kiss. He needed to reassure his lover and the only way that he knew how was to kiss him with everything he had. His lips pressed lovingly against Jou's as he pulled the blonde in his lap closer to his chest. At that moment, it was like only people that existed right now were him and Jou; he barely even registered that Yami, Marik, and Bakura were watching them intently.
It seemed to be working as color warmed Jou's face and the blonde reacted by bringing his arms to loosely wrap themselves around Kaiba's neck. His fingers grasped at the fabric of the brunette's white collared shirt in desperate need to which Kaiba responded in kind. A small whimper escaped Jounouchi's lips once he felt Kaiba pull away.
Kaiba smiled softly and kissed his lover's forehead before leaning down till their foreheads resting on one another. Looking down into the eyes of his lover, Kaiba's heart swelled at seeing the warmth evident in those honey eyes. "Katsuya." He whispered tenderly.
And then, Jounouchi smiled a genuine smile. It worked! Kaiba had gotten through to Jou! He let out a laugh and tackled the brunette, knocking them both over so that now Jounouchi hovered over Kaiba. The CEO couldn't help but join in the laughter as he wrapped his arms around his lover tighter, loving the feeling of Jou snuggling up to his chest. It seemed that all it took to get through to Jou was Kaiba's affection; it broke through the darkness and despair that had clouded Jou's heart upon seeing the vision. "Sorry, Seto; I let that piece of shit vision get to my head." Jou goofily grinned.
Jou was back to his happy self again and that was more than enough to warm Kaiba's heart.
The three Egyptians turned away from the couple to look at each other. They sat there and stared for a few minutes before nodding their heads in agreement. Perhaps if they showed some sort of affection or just some more stimuli to Yugi, Malik, and Ryou then maybe they would awake from their stupor.
Not one to show emotion in front of others, Marik wordlessly grabbed Malik's elbow and pulled him up to a standing position. He watched as Malik effortlessly stood up and stood there motionlessly, eyes casted downwards. Letting out a small hum, Marik led his other self to his room by the arm with Malik following silently. Bakura and Yami watched as the once spirit of the Millennium Rod closed the door behind him once him and Malik reached the bedroom.
Malik fumbled slightly as he clumsily sat down on the side of his bed, his back was bent and his head was too with his elbows resting on his thighs. His eyes were blackened by the shadows of his bangs. He looked so lost and confused that it was beginning to make Marik feel the same but Marik's will was great – he knew that he couldn't let Malik's intense emotions of pain take over him. He needed to be the stronger of the two. Marik stood in front of his other self, his arms crossed and eyes centered on him. "My weaker self," He called but to which he received no reply.
No response.
His hated form twitched somewhat annoyingly, a vein appearing on the lower half of his face before he sighed. He knew not to get angry because that would only mean that he was the same as before; he didn't want to be known as just a being that hated or caused pain. Marik wanted to learn how to live a life without hate and so he opted for another approach. "Malik." He tried again.
This evoked a small reaction in the boy for Malik let out a small sob, his shoulders trembling slightly. He wrapped his tan arms around himself, refusing to look up at Marik. "Go away." He ordered, eyes shutting in shame. "Don't get near me, don't come any closer!"
Marik hadn't replied, he simply floated over to sit behind Malik. His chest pressed against Malik's back as he towered over the smaller boy, his chin hovering above Malik's head. When the college student made a move to get away, Marik calmly grabbed his wrists from behind and steadied him. The hated form held Malik's shaking wrists until the boy calmed down and simply lowered them in submission. "What is troubling you?" Marik asked.
"I looked like a fiend in that vision."
"Ah, but you are no fiend." Marik soothed uncharacteristically. "Had there been a fiend, I am quite sure it would be me." At his darkness' haunting response, Malik made a move to turn his head but the soft thumbs stroking his wrists told him no. Marik then grabbed the hem of Malik's sleeveless blue shirt after taking of his vest.
"W-What are you doing?" Malik cried out in confusion, trying to break away again but only to be stopped by Marik.
Again, Marik hadn't replied. He lifted the shirt up off over Malik's head and his lilac eyes stared hard at the Egyptian scriptures on the boy's back. Malik struggled uncomfortably and Marik hummed, "Stop moving. Relax, I won't do anything." He said in kind and Malik believed that. Marik's eyes wandered all over the tanned back – from the beginning scriptures to the end ones. "Does it still hurt?" he asked somewhat timidly.
"No, not all the time." Malik replied easily. It was true; Malik hated his father for carving the words into his back during his initiation as a Tomb Keeper however once Malik learned to hate less – it didn't seem as painful anymore. And after the events with Marik and Battle City, Malik had learned to accept his fate as a Tomb Keeper.
"Mine still do." Marik replied truthfully. It was understandable, for Marik, he was the embodiment of Malik's hatred and so he would always feel the pain and burns. "Mine always do."
Malik turned to look at his darkness with sympathetic eyes before a fire raged within them. "Why are you doing this, Marik? I thought you hated me! Aren't you supposed to feel my intense emotions – hate me like I hate you! Why can't you just hate me too?" He looked away. "You should stay away from me! You saw the vision; I looked like something out of the Shadow Realm!"
/I hate you so much! Why don't you feel the same?/Malik thought angrily.
/Perhaps it is because you do not hate me as much as you say/
Marik's eyes tensed and Malik shut his eyes. Knowing he wouldn't get any further words from his other self, Malik let out a small sigh and angled his head to look at his darkness. "I'm sorry." He said softly, referring back to the pain Marik felt in his back.
A low chuckle emitted from Marik's throat. "It is as it should be." He replied simply. What he then did shocked Malik's very core. The spiky haired blonde leaned down and touched his lips to Malik's shoulder before traveling across his bare shoulder blades. His lips were soft as they parted slightly and puckered before gliding gracefully across the tanned skin as he kissed it. Marik let out a growl as he paused at the center of Malik's back where the Tomb Keeper's Initiation scripted out Malik's destiny. "Fuck our father for doing this to you. This wasn't the life meant for you."
Malik let out a small whimper of distress once he felt Marik's lips leave his skin. It terrified him how he found comfort in his darkness' touch. "I was born into a Tomb Keeper's clan and it was my destiny to guard the tomb of the Pharaoh. And I fulfilled it." He said somewhat diplomatically.
"Yes, but don't you know you were destined for so much more?" And with that Marik kissed lower, his lips resuming its journey across Malik's skin. At that moment, Marik was learning. He was learning compassion and understanding in regards to his weaker self's suffering. He was learning how to comfort. Marik didn't know it but he was also learning how to love and care for another. All in all, the change in Marik's heart and mind was concrete; he was a changed man now. "Share with me your pain and allow me to burden it so I may grow stronger for you; for us."
A gasp escaped from Malik's parted lips as tears trailed down his cheeks freely. He had never seen this side of his darkness before and it was shocking. He had only ever known of the twisted and sadistic side of Marik that took over his body and tormented his friends – So how was Marik comforting him right now? Who was this Marik? Whoever it was, Malik now realized that he wouldn't mind finding out. "You've changed." Malik said, a small smile tugging on the corner of his lips as his spirits were lifted.
He felt Marik smile against his skin as he continually kissed the scarred back. "Ah, so you finally believe it? Learning isn't so bad, is it?" He then wrapped his arms around Malik's waist from behind, pulling the other boy to his chest in a comforting embrace. "Allow me to learn from you and I will allow you to learn from me. Teach me happiness and I will in return, teach you strength." His words were sincere and a small smile appeared on Marik's face. "I am not my own, for I have been made new (1)."
It was clear to Malik now that he and Marik were really two parts of one heart. Everything Malik was not, Marik was and everything Marik wasn't, Malik was. Smiling happily, Malik casually leaned back against his darkness, looking up as Marik looked down. Identical lilac eyes locked. It was also clear that the two of them needed to learn to understand one another as one whole being. "Please don't let me go; I desperately need you (1)." Malik let out a contented sigh, enjoying the comforts of his darkness' embrace, "It'll take time but I know we'll begin to understand one another. Friends?" He grinned weakly.
Marik let out a genuine laugh devoid of any malice, "Agreed."
A silence befell Yami and Bakura as the shared a look. Bakura cleared his throat and nodded in his direction, "If you'll excuse us, Pharaoh, we'll be taking our leave." The thief formally said to which the King nodded back.
"Good luck, my friend." He encouraged before turning back the light in his arms.
The gray haired boy didn't respond to be called Yami's "friend" but he made no comment. Turning towards Ryou, he picked up the boy easily in his arms with one arm under his back and the other under his legs. He carried the artist in a bridal style fashion, walking briskly to Ryou's room. The Thief King's eyes watched with sympathetic eyes as Ryou let out a small sob, raising a pale hand to clutch at Bakura's robe. The door had been left open and once they were inside, Bakura closed the door shut with his foot by kicking it.
"Can you stand for me?" Bakura asked, leaning down to look into Ryou's eyes. The chocolate brown eyes that had always been so childlike and full of life were now dull and lifeless. They looked gray and not at all like Ryou's usual eyes. "Ryou, stand for me." Bakura said again, lowering the boy to the ground.
The painter nodded numbly and slowly got out of his darkness' arms. Missing a step, he stumbled slightly and almost fell had it not been for Bakura's steadying his frame. Bakura had grabbed Ryou's forearms so he wouldn't fall.
"Don't let that vision fool you," the taller man said, "Nothing will happen."
The white haired boy didn't look convinced as tears began streaming down his face. "It hurts." Ryou pitifully cried, wrapping his arms around his shaking torso as more and more tears trickled down his cheeks. Chocolate eyes shut painfully as he began to shake violently, his hands tightening to fists around his side as he clutched the fabric of his shirt.
And Bakura simply watched with hard eyes as his light broke down in front of him.
"It hurts so badly!" Ryou said hysterically, dropping to the ground on his knees, covering his face in shame. "What did I do to deserve a future like that? I didn't even look human! What if I hurt someone? What if I killed someone? There was so much darkness and hatred! I almost looked –"
"Like me?" Bakura filled in, looking downwards at Ryou. He wasn't angry; he was more concerned about his hysterical light that was currently breaking down in tears. Bakura's hands were soft and warm against Ryou's skin as the once spirit of the Millennium Ring leaned down to touch his lips to the top of Ryou's head. His lips brushed against the soft white locks of his artist and the Thief King closed his eyes. "Tell me what hurts." He ordered.
Ryou pulled away slightly and looked up into light blue eyes while his shined with glossy tears. He reached up with both hands to cup at Bakura's cheek and Bakura mentally flinched at the coldness emitting from Ryou's hand on his scar. It was unnatural and unlike what Bakura had previously felt when Ryou touched his scar. Usually when Ryou would touch his scar, it brought immense comfort and warmth to the marred skin but right now, it only brought him coldness and pain.
The Diabound user shot his face backwards away from Ryou's touch as he looked down at his light, only pulling away so now that we were within arms length as oppose to the close proximity they were before.
Seeing his darkness pull away like that, Ryou only sobbed harder and tried to break away from Bakura's hold but the Thief hadn't let go. "I knew it, you're disgusted by me! You want to get away from me, don't you?"
"Tell me what hurts, Ryou." Bakura demanded again, his voice stronger than the last time he asked.
Ryou clutched his torso again, shaking his head. "You don't care, you don't care at all. You never cared! You never cared about me! All I have ever been to you was a damn vessel!" Ryou screamed, uncharacteristically. It almost seemed like something evil had entered his heart for Ryou was never this aggressive. "Just go away, please. Things were so much better when you were gone." Ryou sobbed.
Bakura's eyes hardened for he knew that this wasn't Ryou; Ryou would never act like this no matter how much torment Bakura had put him through all those years ago. Letting out a small grunt, Bakura leaned his face close and began licking away the falling tears with his tongue. He licked away the droplets of water while he watched with slightly amused eyes as Ryou froze in surprise. The Thief King's pink tongue darted about it, licking away the tears.
"W-what are you doing? S-stop that!"
Bakura fell silent as he lowered himself to the ground so now his knees rested on the ground and his head was leveled with Ryou's chest. He remembered seeing Ryou clutch at his torso and he knew what was hurting his light. Wordlessly, he lifted up Ryou's shirt despite his light's protests and looked at the five puncture wounds on Ryou's chest.
Ryou's creamy, pale chest had five holes in them from when Bakura had stabbed him with the Millennium Ring's ringlets many years ago. "Is this what hurts?" he asked, eyes raking over the wounds. Feeling the younger boy tense in front of him, Bakura closed his eyes in apology. "I'm sorry I did this to you."
Ryou looked away. "It's alright, it happened many years ago."
A few minutes passed in silence before Bakura swiftly opened his eyes and at that moment, he knew what he needed to do. His face moved to the left most puncture wound and then Bakura kissed the torn skin. His lips met the emptiness of the wound in a tender fashion as tan hands moved to hold Ryou's hips so that they boy would not move.
"Bakura! What are you doing!" Ryou screeched in embarrassment as his face flared up like a volcano. "Stop it! Stop it, please!" He tried to push Bakura away by his shoulders but the Thief King had a secured hold on his hips. Seeing how Bakura wouldn't budge, Ryou let out a defeated whimper and simply watched his darkness.
What then happened astounded him; when Bakura moved away from the skin he had kissed, Ryou was shocked to see that the punctured hole had closed up, cleanly. The skin that had once held a blackened hole was now filled with soft, pale skin. It was a remarkable sight to see, it was as if Bakura was healing him. The gray haired man's lips then traveled to the next wound and he too kissed the mark. Without a word, Bakura repeated this process; kissing every punctured part of Ryou's skin as he continued from the second mark, to the third, fourth and finally the fifth and all Ryou could do was watch in amazement as one by one, the punctured wounds had all disappeared. "How are you doing that?" Ryou asked breathlessly.
Bakura only shrugged, not wanting to answer.
"I hope this helps; I don't want you to feel any more pain." Bakura said as he stood up to his feet, his figure towering over Ryou. The white haired boy gasped upon realizing that when Bakura was kissing his skin, the pain subsided and all Ryou felt at the time (besides extreme embarrassment) was warmth and virtually no pain.
"Yes, thank you." Ryou softly replied with a blush. "But you didn't have to do that…"
A pained growl then emitting from Bakura's throat as the Thief King let out a harsh Egyptian curse. His tan hands clenched into fists as his body shook slightly. Bakura's face contorted in agony as more and more curses left his lips. Ryou looked alarmed as he hurried to grab Bakura's forearms to steady him.
"Bakura? Bakura, what's wrong?"
"Fuck!" he swore loudly, throwing his head back in pain as he shut his eyes tightly. His chest was throbbing painfully but he wasn't surprised for he knew that he had brought this on himself. He didn't want to show weakness in front of his light but the pain was so unbearable that he couldn't help but growl and curse because of the painful feeling in his chest. Bakura's breathing was coming out in quick pants as his eyes snapped back open.
"What's wrong? Bakura let me help –"Ryou cried out hysterically, disliking the sight of his other self in pain. He then let out a yelp of surprise as he covered his mouth with his hands. He watched in horror as a punctured wound appeared on the left side of Bakura's chest, right above his abs. The hole blackened as the tanned skin was stabbed, blood trickling down the skin.
"You're bleeding! Let me find some gauze!" Ryou told him as he made a move to leave Bakura's side but a tan hand shot out to hold Ryou's wrist. "Bakura, you're bleeding! I need to get something to help stop it!"
"Stop - Just, just stay here with me." Bakura replied back whilst gritting his teeth. The pain was so harsh on his skin but Bakura knew not to complain for he knew that this was the exact pain that Ryou had felt when he impaled his light with the ringlets of the Millennium Ring. "Just stay, please." He added weakly once he locked gazes with Ryou.
It pained him to see his darkness in such pain but Ryou nodded in understanding. Bakura had asked him to stay and so Ryou knew that he should for he did not want to leave the Thief King when he was in pain like this. The painter simply watched, albeit still horrorstruck, as four more punctured holes appeared on the King's skin followed by more trails of blood. Ryou's heart clenched painfully at seeing his strong darkness in such a weakened state. "I have caused you pain for so many years and this was the only way I could repent."
"You idiot…" Ryou affectionately called him as he rushed forward to wrap his arms around his other self's waist, not even caring that Bakura's blood soaked into his shirt. "You're such an idiot; you didn't have to do that. I forgave you when you reappeared or did you forget?" Arms tightened around Bakura's waist as he spoke.
"This was the only way I knew how," Bakura replied with a scoff, "My blood for your blood." And with that, Bakura circled his arms around the boy's shoulders and hugged him close. "If anything, you're the idiot."
Ryou let out a happy laugh, closing his eyes as he did so before breaking away. "Now let's get you cleaned up, we wouldn't want you to die again from something as small as blood loss now would we?"
Bakura rolled his eyes. "You need to shower too or at least change." He pointed out, referring to the red lines on Ryou's shirt. He then crossed his arms with a huff, "Besides, I can't die; if I did, who is going to protect you from the Pharaoh and his mini-me?"
"His name is Yugi and I will accept your attempt at making me feel better." Ryou said with a roll of his own eyes. The two seemed to have forged a friendship in the two days that they had been reunited and Ryou could honestly admit that he was happy about Bakura's return. Although the spirit had tormented him throughout his childhood, the man who now stood before him was a changed man with a changed heart. Ryou enjoyed Bakura's company.
Ryou didn't know it but Bakura enjoyed his light's company as well.
The only one left that needed comforting was Yugi and Yami was determined to bring the life back into his partner's heart. Paying no mind to Kaiba and Jou, Yami gathered the fallen boy into his arms in a tender embrace. His chin rested on the tri-colored mass of Yugi's hair as the boy cried in his arms. "My partner, whatever is the matter? It was only a vision and we both know that we can change the future." Yami comforted.
Yugi dug his face deeper in to the cloth that covered Yami's chest as his eyes dampened the fabric. His hands clutched at Yami's shirt as he desperately held on to the Pharaoh. Yugi was in a state of severe sadness as he cried harder and harder with every second. "What happened to me in there?" Yugi whispered brokenly.
Yami let out a low hum and made an attempt to lift Yugi's chin but the boy refused to move. Tan fingers closed over Yugi's chin and he gently tried again. Seeing that Yugi wouldn't move, Yami leaned down close so his lips nearly brushed Yugi's ear. "Do not be sad, little one. I know you and I know your heart, you will never fall to the darkness like that." He comforted.
Yugi's sniffles were heard as tears wouldn't stop falling down his face. His eyes shut in shame, "How do you know?"
"Your heart is pure." Yami replied simply. "There is so much joy and love in your heart that I'm quite sure no amount of darkness could ever penetrate it." To further convince the boy, Yami hugged him tighter. His fingers caressed the chin of the King of Games, "Look at me, Yugi. I want to see your eyes."
Amethyst eyes slowly and it pained Yami to see that they still held must sadness and despair in them which signified that the boy was still not convinced. They shook as they tried to search for an answer in Yami's crimson ones. The Pharaoh began to panic, his mind desperately searching through ideas of way to comfort his light. A realization then hit him – Kaiba and Jou! Cupping the boy's face in his hands, Yami leaned his face in close till their noses brushed against each other's.
"Yami, what are you –"Yugi's words when then cut off as he felt Yami crash his lips onto his. Yami's lips were soft as they earnestly puckered against his. Crimson eyes shut as Yami poured his entire being to that kiss so that he could help Yugi break through the darkness. Tan arms encircled around Yugi's waist tighter and pulled the boy closer.
To say that Yugi was shocked was an understatement but the comforting feeling of Yami's lips made him forget about everything else in the world till all he could do was sit there and feel. A few seconds passed and light began returning to Yugi's eyes. Throwing his arms around the Pharaoh's neck, Yugi pressed back against him and kiss him back with just as much passion. The kiss was more of a reassurance than one out of romantic love as Yami knew that affection was the only way to bring Yugi out of his stupor just as Kaiba had done to Jounouchi.
The longer and longer they kissed, Yami was confused as to how much he particularly enjoyed kissing his light. When he felt Yugi part his lips slightly in invitation, Yami wasted no time and delved his tongue into the wet caverns of Yugi's mouth. The boy let out a small groan as his tongue caressed Yami's.
Out of the lights and darknesses, Yami and Yugi were the only ones who could physically touch one another like this and it wouldn't be seen as awkward to them. They held hands twice; once when they awoke Timaeus and then once again when they viewed the vision. Physical touch between them was natural and so this kiss didn't make each other feel weird at all. It was a kiss out of necessity and reassurance – not one of romantic love. It simply needed to be done.
Yugi pulled away breathlessly, needing to fill his lungs back with air. His cheeks were flushed and he panted slightly as he looked at Yami with wide eyes. He too looked slightly flushed but a smile was on his lips. "And that Yugi, is why I know you will not fall victim to the darkness. When I kissed you, I felt all the happiness and love in your heart so please do not let this vision cloud your pure, beautiful heart."
The boy without yellow spikes in his tri-colored hair smiled back. "Thank you, Yami. You really are my most precious friend." He told him, hugging his darkness once again as he nuzzled his cheek against Yami's.
The Pharaoh laughed and nuzzled back before moving to kiss Yugi gently on the forehead. "Do not fret, little one, for I will always be here to protect you. I promise."
"It's a promise." Yugi agreed.
"Woooo!" a voice whistled, causing Yami and Yugi to look behind them at Kaiba and Jou. The blonde was sitting in Kaiba's lap with a grin on his face while Kaiba just looked amused. "Not going to lie but that was pretty hot." Jou teased, reaching over to ruffle Yugi's hair who then in turn blushed and burrowed his face in the crook of Yami's neck.
"Yami," Kaiba then called. "Isis should be here any second. Perhaps it would be wise to get the other four."
The tanned boy nodded in agreement and made a move to stand but he truly didn't want to. He loved the feeling of Yugi in his arms; it brought him a sense of comfort. If it was up to him, he wouldn't get up at all. Thankfully, he didn't need to because at that moment, Marik, Malik, Bakura and Ryou all emerged from their rooms.
They all bore equal expressions of happiness – or rather Ryou and Malik were beaming and Marik and Bakura simply looked content. They gathered together with the other four boys so that they all sat together in the center of the living room.
"Nice." Marik commented once he saw Bakura's puncture wounds.
"Thanks; I call them my battle scars." Bakura replied back proudly as he caught Ryou's eye and winked. Ryou only giggled softly, covering his face to muffle his laughs.
"We all good?" Kaiba asked out, indicating to all of the lights and Jou. They all replied with a swift nod and Kaiba crossed his arms when Jou leaned forward in his lap. "Isis should be here soon."
As if timing couldn't be any better for them, a knock was heard from the door. Malik gleefully jumped to his feet and ran to the door. The other seven watched amusingly as Malik threw open the door with a big smile on his face. Isis and Rishid stood side by side outside the door with smiles of their own. "Sister! Rishid!" he cried happily. The blonde took them both by the hand and led them insides. "Come inside, please! It is so great to see you both!"
"Yes Malik, we have missed you so." Isis warmly replied back, seeing Rishid smile from the corner of her sparkling blue eyes. The three exchanged small talk as Malik led them to the living room. Rishid and Isis stopped dead in their tracks as they saw all who had gathered in the living room while Malik came to sit beside his darkness. The blonde casually leaned against Marik's side while the darkness had his arms crossed and his expression, solemn and waiting.
Upon seeing Yami, Isis and Rishid rushed forward and bowed their heads. "My King, it is good to see you again!" Isis formally told him, closing her eyes and then reopening them when she looked up while Rishid mirrored her and did the same. "You have come back to us."
"Welcome, my Pharaoh." Rishid greeted once he looked back up.
Yami curtly nodded, "Yes, thank you."
Rishid then turned his head towards Marik and he glared angrily. "You." He acknowledge with a scowl. His yellow eyes were hard as they regarded Malik's other form with hatred-filled eyes and clenched his fists. "How dare you show your face to me and Malik?"
Marik simply stared back wordlessly.
Malik looked from his brother to his other self before biting his lip worryingly. "Brother please, he is a changed man. Don't worry about me, I am fine!" he told Rishid, eyes looking towards Rishid so the other man could see the understanding in Malik's lilac eyes. "You'll behave, won't you?" Malik asked his other self once.
"Yes." Marik replied back.
Not completely satisfied, Rishid let out a grunt and scoffed before turning away. "If it is what you wish Malik, than I will too." He then turned back to glare at Marik, "I will be watching you; do not think for one second that I believe this façade of yours."
Marik let out a dark chuckle as he smirked back, welcoming Rishid's challenge. "To each their own."
"I think it'd be wise to focus on what we called you here for." Ryou wisely spoke up.
The two newly arrived Egyptian nodded and they sat back and listened intently as Yami filled them in on what had happened. He told them of his mysterious reappearance and they listened silently. Bakura and Marik also had recounted the events of their return to them. Yugi also mentioned the vision that the first six had seen with the Millennium Ring and Kaiba then cut in and told them of how the vision affected him and Jou as well.
Yami continued and told them exactly what happened in the vision and how after it, Yugi, Malik, Ryou and Jou all fell into a state of depression and despair.
Isis looked thoughtfully as she listened. "How very interesting, perhaps there was a prophecy we have overlooked. And you are sure that what you saw was the Shadow Realm?"
"Yes." Marik and Bakura replied in unison as they shared a look. They had both known the Shadow Realm well enough, having been and sent people there countless times before.
"Perhaps we can investigate the Shadow Realm." Rishid reasoned.
Bakura shook his head. "Not everyone can venture into the dark abyss of the Shadow Realm. And those who are not strong enough will fall victim to the darkness and their minds will forever be trapped within the shadows should they succumb to the darkness."
"I'm sure we can handle it." Malik offered.
"No," Marik shook his head firmly, "The Shadow Realm is not a place for the faint of heart. For those that underestimate the true horrors of the Shadow Realm, a faint befalls them in which they are consumed by the darkness if they are not careful." He turned to his light who sat beside him, "I'm sorry Malik, but I cannot allow you to venture into the Shadow Realm; it is too dangerous." Malik opened his mouth to retort but then -
/I can't protect you in there…/ Marik told him miserably and Malik's eyes softened at Marik's words before nodding in understanding.
"I cannot allow Yugi in there either." Yami agreed.
"Nor Ryou. Or even Kaiba and Jou for that matter." Bakura added.
"Then what do you propose we do?" Kaiba asked, somewhat impatiently.
Bakura and Marik locked gazes. "The Thief King and I will investigate what has befallen the Shadow Realm; we do after all know it best." Marik diplomatically said and Bakura nodded in agreement.
"Yes and I can still open a portal to the shadows." Bakura mentioned.
Yami cleared his throat to get the attention of his fellow Egyptian darknesses. "Allow me to accompany you two." He offered. "I can be of great help."
Marik should his head. "It would be better for you to stay here, Pharaoh. When Bakura and I are away in the Shadows, they," he said, indicating towards Jou and the lights "Will be vulnerable to attack. You and Kaiba should stay to protect them."
The Pharaoh nodded in agreement and understanding. "Very well."
"Seto and I can still do our part to help." Jou spoke up with a determined look on his face. "We can help Isis study any hieroglyphics since Seto can read ancient Egyptian. Maybe he can find a prophecy that we have overlooked. It's not much but it'll help." Jou offered, looking around the room and grinning sheepishly when they all nodded.
"What can we do?" Ryou asked, timidly. He felt Bakura shift beside him and was relieved when he felt the Thief King's arm around his waist with his hand resting on his hips. "I want to help, please. Is there anything I can do?"
"We need to stay safe." Yugi wisely said. "Whatever happened to us in that vision wasn't by our own doing, we didn't even look ourselves in that vision. I'm positive that something or someone is behind all this." He locked eyes with Jou, Ryou, and Malik. "We just need to stay safe because if we get hurt, it'll only put Yami, Marik, Kaiba and Bakura at a disadvantage. It wouldn't do them any good if we got hurt."
Everyone fell silent as Yugi's words sunk it. They all knew that something truly evil was upon them and what horrified them all was that they had no idea what it was or what it could be. They didn't know who it wanted to hurt or who it wanted to kill. That truly was a terrifying thought.
Kaiba then stood up, causing Jou to fall off his lap in a clumsy matter. The blonde looked annoyed and turned to punch his lover before Kaiba fixed with him a knowing look. Jounouchi just rolled his eyes and retracted his fist. "I think the most practical thing would be for you all to stay at the Kaiba Mansion."
There was no response as everyone looked at him confusingly.
"It'll be easier if we're all close together. My mansion has more than enough room to accommodate you all. If something were to happen, we'll all be together and we can face it all together. We'll fight as one. So please Bakura, Marik, Yami, Ryou, Yugi, and Malik, come stay with me and Jou till we figure this shit out."
"The Priest makes a good point." Bakura agreed. "Whatever this thing is, if it attacks one of us, we'll know the others are close behind. Help will come fast and swift."
"What about school?" Malik asked.
"We've got limos." Jou grinned, folding his arms behind his head. Even in the midst of a serious situation, Jou knew how to have fun. He was the carefree of the bunch and his relaxed manner brought immense comfort to everyone in the room. "They'll take us to DU." He then nodded at Ryou, "Of course they can drive you to DSAD too. We got it all covered."
And with that, a mutual understanding filled the room.
"Alright everyone, gather your things and we'll leave at once." Yami voiced and with nods all around the room, everyone began moving to gather the things they needed for their stay at Kaiba's Mansion.
After Malik and Ryou gathered their necessities of clothes and school supplies, they both shoved it all into a large duffel bag for each of them. They then returned to the living room and nodded, signifying that they were ready. Ryou also grabbed the Millennium Ring and gave it Bakura who wore it proudly around his neck while Malik gave Marik the Millennium Rod who held it tightly in his hand.
"Are we forgetting anything?" Ryou asked Malik with a raised brow.
"I don't think so."
Marik and Bakura shared a look and nodded as they drifted off into the room so their respective lights only to reemerge with decks in their hands. Although they had all abandoned Duel Monsters many years ago upon hitting college, they had all kept their decks for sentimental reasons.
"Just in case." Bakura shrugged as he pocketed his Diabound Deck (2) and Ryou's Occult Deck (2).
Marik nodded and placed his Immortality Deck (2) and Malik's Burn Deck (2) in his side pockets.
And with that, they all went downstairs to Kaiba's limousine so it could take them then to Kame Game Shop so that Yugi could gather his things. He grabbed his essentials and told his grandfather that he needed to stay at Kaiba's Mansion and although Kaiba was quick to offer the same to Sugoroku, the old man laughed good-naturally and declined. Yami drifted off into Yugi's room to grab his Dark Magician Strategy Deck (2) and Yugi's Inner Toy Deck (2). After giving their grandfather a loving embrace, Yugi and Yami returned to the limo so that they could all be taken to Kaiba's Mansion.
As they emerged one by one from the sleek black limousine, Kaiba cleared his throat and turned around to look at his friends. They all stood on the marble staircase that led to the main entrance of the Kaiba Mansion and watched him in wonderment. Bakura was currently carrying Ryou's bag with Marik and Yami doing the same for their lights and the gray haired man shifted his weight to the other foot. "Something the matter, Priest?" he asked.
Kaiba merely shook his head and turned towards the door. Entering in a code to the security panel, the large wooden doors opened gracefully and the eight boys began to walk in the direction of the main hall in the Kaiba Mansion. Marik hatefully glared at the security panel again once he passed by it on his way through the doors. Upon entering inside, the six of the boys reveled in its size and beauty while Jou grinned knowingly and Kaiba rolled his eyes.
The interior of Kaiba's Mansion was absolutely beautiful and break-taking. The main hall alone had beautiful carpets and its interior decoration suited that of a king. Two staircases rose high from the ground to that led to both Left Private Wing and the Public Right Wing with a joining floor in between the staircases. The hall extended out further to many doors which could only lead to more of the mansion's luxuries. The most impressive was the life size crystal statues of a Blue Eyes White Dragon and Red Eyes Black Dragon that stood proudly in between the staircases.
'Dragon fetish' Bakura sang out in his head to which Ryou poked him for being rude.
"Jounouchi and I occupy the left wing of the Mansion so you all can take the right wing. There are more than enough rooms for each of you to have an individual room but it is ultimately up to you if you so wish to share rooms." Kaiba informed as they all walked forward to come and stand in the center of the main hall.
"Kitchen is over there," Jou spoke up, pointing with his finger towards the back of the main hall. "Pool's out there." He pointed this time to the left most door on the first floor. "There are bathrooms are all over the place. Game room is over there. Living and sitting room are over there and there. And there are pretty much a bunch of random rooms that you can find out on your own." Jou recited as he pointed to each of the different locations and amenities in the Mansion.
"What's going on?" A new voice spoke and the eight boys turned to look at the top of the left staircase. There stood Mokuba Kaiba. He was sixteen and a sophomore at Domino High School and he was currently still in his blue uniform with the buttons left open. His raven hair was as long as it had been when he was younger, albeit still tamed and layered. "Seto, how and why are they here?" He referred bluntly to Yami, Bakura, and Marik as he walked down the stairs.
Tired of having to retell this story over and over, Kaiba rubbed his temples. "I'll tell you later. Long story short, they'll all be staying here for the next couple of weeks. Treat them with respect and welcome them into our home." Kaiba strictly told his younger brother.
Giving his older brother a pointed look, Mokuba raised a brow in confusion. He saw Jou give him a thumbs-up before looking at Kaiba. Seeing the tired and worrisome look in his brother's eyes were more than enough for Mokuba, "Alright then. Welcome you guys, make yourselves at home!" He said with a grin.
They exchanged pleasantries and good conversations before the lights and their darknesses excused themselves to the right wing of the Mansion. They walked through the hall of the wing and looked at the impressive doors that led to the guest rooms.
"What are you doing about rooming assignments?" Yugi asked Ryou and Malik. Since the past spirits were too much in awe of Kaiba's wealth and money in his Mansion, Yugi opted to talk to Malik and Ryou.
Malik shrugged. "I'm fine with whatever, I suppose."
"I don't particularly mind either." Ryou agreed.
"I think I'll stay with Yami." Yugi smiled. "That way if something does happen, I know he'll be there to protect me." He looked up as he felt Yami's hand on his shoulder and his eyes were met with a smile that belonged to his darkness.
"Come Yugi, you're staying with me." Yami told him and with that, he pulled the smaller boy by the shoulder into one of the guest rooms. Yugi turned around and waved enthusiastically, "Goodnight guys! See you in the morning!" The door opened and closed and the two tri-colored boys disappeared from sight.
"Malik, do you want to share a room?" Ryou asked his best friend. Before the blonde could reply, Ryou sharply looked behind him with a scowl on his face. "Bakura! No stealing from Kaiba's Mansion! He's our friend!" He scolded.
Light blue eyes glared at him before putting the shiny dagger that was hanging on the wall back to its original spot. He had tried to steal it by quickly stashing it under his robe but he knew better – Ryou shared his thoughts and would know of his actions. "Fuck off, Ryou." He swore.
Turning apologetically to Malik, Ryou smiled weakly. "Sorry Malik, I need to keep an eye on Bakura." The blonde only laughed and nodded.
"Come Ryou, we're leaving." Bakura ordered as he pushed Ryou into the next guest room. Taken by unsurprised, Ryou let out a yelp and wasn't able to bid his two friends goodnight. He extended a hand in a wild wave before the two disappeared behind the door without another word.
Malik turned to look at his other self who was currently leaning against the wall with his arms crossed, watching him intently. "Will you stay with me?" he asked softly, suddenly feeling shy. He watched with shy eyes as Marik let out a small chuckle and unfolded his arms before walking towards him.
"Yes, this way, I can protect you." Marik opened the door to the next guest room and stepped in through the entrance with Malik following. "I wouldn't have it any other way you know, I find that when you sleep beside me, I sleep more peacefully." He told his light honestly as he put Malik's duffel bag on the dresser at the far end of the room.
Malik's face burned slightly and he shook away the blush with a shake of his head. "Don't be ridiculous, Marik. Come on, let's go to bed." He said, climbing into bed. He faced away from Marik once he felt his darkness slip into bed beside him.
"I will protect you, Malik. I won't let anything happen to you – If either of us should die, it should be me. That way you can live a life of happiness with no more darkness clouding your heart and mind." Marik said as he stared up at the ceiling with his arms folded behind his head as a pillow.
Malik turned his body around to face his darkness. "I don't think I'll truly be happy if you disappear. The more and more time we spend together and the more and more I see you for the changed man that you are, it makes me realize that I need you in my life. One half cannot live without the other." Malik told him and with that he closed his eyes and drifted to sleep.
Marik's eyes softened as he watched his other self sleep. What had been forged between them were the beginnings of a friendship between two individuals whom had once hated one another. Marik found that he was becoming more comfortable and at ease when he was by Malik's side. He still needed to learn of course but he felt that he was okay with that – he was learning how to feel things and function again. Learning how to live is difficult but learning how to live for another was a whole new thing for him. The spiky haired blonde knew that his less spiky haired counterpart wouldn't admit it, but Malik needed Marik in his life. Marik was Malik's strength that was born from his suffering past while Malik was Marik's source of happiness and joy to keep him away from the pain and suffering.
"I will protect you, I promise." Marik said softly as his lilac eyes closed. He slept peacefully beside his other self, dreaming of a better world for him and Malik.
"What do you make of all this, Seto?" Jou asked as he tossed his shirt off and slipped into a comfortable pair of loose sleeping pants. He climbed into bed and watched as his lover threw off his shirt and threw on a pair of comfortable silk boxers.
"You know I don't believe in that magic shit." Kaiba told him as he slipped into bed. He then laid down on the bed with Jou snuggling up to his side. Kaiba wrapped an arm around Jou's strong shoulders and kissed his pup's lips softly. "But I won't let anything happen to you. I promise. You are my world, Katsuya, I love you."
Jou let out a content mew and wrapped one around Kaiba's neck so he could snuggle up closer to him. "I love you with all my heart, Seto. Nothing will ever change that. We'll face this thing together as a team and plus we have all of our friends supporting us."
"I will protect you."
Jou leaned up to kiss the corner of Kaiba's lip. "And I will protect you."
They two lovers bid each other goodnight and both closed their eyes as they fell asleep. Kaiba's Blue Eyes White Dragon duel spirits all curled around the left side of the four-poster bed by their master's side while Jou's Red Eyes Black Dragon rested by the right side of the bed. They watched as their masters slept peacefully in each other's arm.
Blue eyes met Red eyes and the dragons lowered their heads in suspicion. They couldn't quite explain it but they felt an odd feeling emitting from their home in the Shadow Realm.
Ryou fluffed his pillow contently as he crossed his legs in bed. He watched with amused eyes as Bakura paced around the room impatiently in thought. Running a hand through his snow white hair, Ryou let out a sigh. "You're going to give yourself a headache."
Bakura sent him a small glare and ignored him, pacing faster.
"Bakura, stop that and come to bed. It's late." Ryou ordered.
"I have too much on my mind to sleep."
"If it's about all that has happened today, try not to think about it. We'll deal with it again tomorrow in the morning with the others. For now, let's go to bed. Besides, we'll need our strength for tomorrow." The painter wisely told his darkness.
With a defeated growl, Bakura threw off his red robe and climbed into bed beside Ryou. "Fine, let's go to bed." He laid down on the bed on his right side, his right arm bent as he rested his head on it. He watched with amused light blue eyes as Ryou closed his eyes and clasped his hands together in a slight prayer. It reminded Bakura of an angel. "What are you doing, Ryou?"
A few minutes passed before Ryou moved. He smiled softly to himself and settled under the covers, resting on his left side so that he could look at his darkness. "I'm praying, Bakura. I'm praying for all of us. I don't want you or any of our friends to get hurt."
A tanned hand reached out to run its fingers through Ryou's soft locks. "I will protect you with my life. I swear it."
Ryou nodded slightly and leaned forward to kiss the Thief King's scarred right cheek before closing his eyes and succumbing to sleep. Warmth spread throughout Bakura's face and he was relieved to feel that. Earlier when Ryou touched him, his scar burned with cold and pain. Feeling the warmth brought on by Ryou's lips lifted his spirits and it wasn't long before Bakura fell asleep by his light's side.
They two found comfort in each other's presence; even though their previous history had been tainted by pain and suffering, Ryou felt happiest when he was around Bakura. The Thief King provided him with so much security that made Ryou feel stronger and stronger every day. Knowing that his darkness never had any happy memories to himself, it made him so happy when he would see Bakura smile at him. Knowing that he inspired those types of happy feelings in Bakura made Ryou's heart swell with pride and warmth. Bakura was truly handsome when he smiled genuinely. They already established a friendship the first night they were reunited – perhaps more could be forged with each passing day.
Yami and Yugi settled into bed together and both were lying on their backs, eyes looking up at the ceiling. The Pharaoh let out a content sigh and shut his eyes briefly before turning on his side, away from Yugi. "Goodnight little one, sleep well."
"Goodnight Yami, pleasant dreams." Yugi replied back, his eyes still opened. A burning question ran through his mind ever since he was back in Malik and Ryou's apartment. As shy as he was, he knew he needed to ask. He made sure to block out Yami from his mind whenever he thought about this question for he wanted to ask Yami himself.
"Yami?" Yugi called, in a small timid voice.
The sound of rustling was heard as Yami turned back around to face Yugi. He opened his eyes and was met with curious amethyst ones. "What is it, Yugi?" When he saw the a faint tinge of red creep onto his light's face, Yami reached out with a tanned hand to lay it against Yugi's forehead. "Are you sick? What's wrong?"
Yugi only blushed harder. "Can I ask you something?"
"Of course you can Yugi, what is your question?" he asked back softly.
Working up the courage in his heart, Yugi smiled weakly. "Why did you kiss me?"
Yami hummed in response. "It was the only thing I could think of doing at the time. You looked so lose and hurt and it pained me to see you like that. When I saw how Kaiba's kiss woke Jou up from his despair, I knew I should do the same to you. My heart clenches at the memory of how sad you looked." Yami asked answered truthfully as the hand that had previously been on Yugi's forehead now rested on his cheek affectionately.
"Oh I see, well, did you like it? The kiss, I mean." Yugi asked, looking embarrassed.
The ancient Pharaoh let out an amused chuckle. "Yes, I enjoyed it. And did you enjoy it, little one?"
Yugi nodded against the hand on his cheek. "I did, I liked it a lot." He replied honestly. Feeling more courage enter his heart, he leaned his face close and lightly kissed his darkness' lips. "This is my thanks to you now. Goodnight Yami." Yugi snuggled closer to Yami's chest and closed his eyes in sleep.
Color flooded Yami's cheeks at his light's actions. Tentatively, he touched his fingers to his lips. He would be lying if he didn't enjoy that second kiss. Although it was innocent and simply Yugi's thanks for comforting him, Yami felt himself wishing for more of the feeling of Yugi's lips against his. The two had always been close but this was a new territory for them both. The tanned skin man viewed Jounouchi as a close friend but he would never think to kiss him however with Yugi, Yami felt it almost came natural.
The spirit of the Millennium Puzzle knew that he harbored no romantic feelings for his partner and he knew that Yugi didn't either but then what was that second kiss really about? Yami's crimson eyes softened to a dull ruby as a thought came to him; being in a relationship with Yugi wouldn't be as bad of course. Yami already loved Yugi and Yugi loved him as well but this type of love was purely innocent however this new type of love that could develop was one of romanticism and not of friendship.
The Pharaoh knew he didn't love in his partner in that way but he felt as though he could grow to loving him in a romantic sense if given the time and the right moments. Letting out a small sigh, he closed his eyes and drifted to sleep.
Author's Notes: Its 4:00 in the morning. I'm not too tired but sleep would be much appreciated. I read through the chapter so hopefully there aren't too many errors this time. If there are, I'm sorry. It's late hahaha. I just really wanted to get this chapter out since I finished my history project. I actually really enjoyed writing this chapter – it gave me the opportunity to dig deeper into the developing relationships between the Bronze/Puzzle/Tendershipping couples.
1. Owl City – Meteor Shower lyrics (I don't own the song at all; I just found the lyrics fitting. You should listen to it if you haven't already. It's a nice song)
2. These are the names of the decks listed on Yugioh Wikia.
If anyone's confused as to whether or not they're moving too fast or something, I can explain. They each feel their own individual comfort for their respective pairings and so this feeling of relaxation while among them allows for kisses to be shared. Just remember that these kisses have all been out of necessity; like they do it to comfort their lights. No romantic stuff yet but there is the mentioning potential for romantic love to grow. I've never written an 11, 000 worded chapter before…
Read and Review please! It makes me happy :) Which comfort scene did you enjoy the most? Tender, Puzzle, Puppy, or Bronze? Tell me :D
Final Words: 11k
Final Characters: 50k
Final Pages: 18