Adelianna: Hi! Sorry this took so long, but I've been real busy. And to make things worse, I have this nasty flu. Ugh. Reviews will make me feel better, though. ^__~ hint, hint. Anyway, I finally finished it. It's another long chapter, making me again wonder if I should have chopped it in half. Oh, well. Thanks for being patient, all of you! Also, in my bio, I posted a whole bunch of links that you might find helpful. One of them includes how to download Yu-Gi-Oh episodes from mIRC. They have almost all of them, so I downloaded episode 95 dub, and sub. Now, here's my ranting:
A/N (Adelianna's notes): I can't believe the dubbers changed so much of episode 95, which is mostly of chibi Marik. They gave Yami Marik this really distorted voice (which reminds me of the devil) opposed to the normal voice they gave him in the Japanese episodes. They made Marik's father semi-nice, since I guess it was to violent to show Marik's father lashing Rishid with a whip as he did in the Japanese episodes. Instead of wanting to kill Rishid, Marik's father (in the dub) said he would throw him out. In the sub, the elder Ishtar wanted to murder Rishid, as well as whip Marik for disobeying him. Then, when Marik went Yami, they didn't even show the dagger Yami Marik used to kill the father in the Japanese episodes. Instead, in the dub episodes, they made Yami Marik send the father to the Shadow Realm instead of killing him. Then in the Jap episodes, Marik screamed, and cried when he saw his father dead. In the dub, he screamed and cried because Shadi appeared. *Sighs* Well, I'm going after the Japanese episodes for my story, alright? So, don't be confused when it comes on the WB, and it's different from my fic.
A/N: Also, found out Marik was 10 when he received the scars on his back, but was 11 when his Yami murdered his father. *Note to self. Change the age on previous chapters*
A/N: Well, I added a few things in the previous chapter. Here they are:
1. When Jared was talking on the cell phone, he said I'll be there, and headed for the stairs, so Janessa knew that he was going somewhere.
2. Janessa thought to herself, quote, "Janessa needed to know what her father was being so secretive about, and if he did in fact betray her by stealing Slifer. She had no idea where he was going, or what Jared was so frightened of, but she aimed to discover the reason." I put that so the reader will know why she is following her father.
3. Marik told himself, after he had that dream, quote, "Marik would never feel for anyone as he had in his startling dream, the Egyptian told himself. Especially not some annoying, clumsy girl as Janessa." I put this so the reader knew what he thought of the dream, and Janessa.
4. I didn't add anything by this, but I just wanted to let you know that Marik and Janessa had the same dream because Marik unknowingly connected their minds when he thought of Janessa, and therefore had the same dream. After he woke up, I put that the Millennium Rod flashed slightly. I wrote that in the original chapter because their minds were connected.
A/N: Okay, bet I didn't make any sense. Anyway, *big anime tears start to fall from the corners of eyes* Sorry if the previous chapter didn't make any sense. Remember *now pointing dramatically* blame the spiders. LOL. Speaking of spiders, the next morning their was like a few of them in my bathtub. Big, hairy arachnids crawling creepily around. *Shivers* Ugh.
A/N: Anyway, now have the flu. The older one of my two brothers was so nice, offering to get me coke because I was sick, and thirsty. *Thinks for a moment* Or it might have been because I helped him beat a level of his nintendo game. Oh, well. Speaking of my brother, he started an account on fanfiction. His Pen Name is Ro-boy (doesn't come up in the search), and his story is titled, No Idea. I was wondering, if you guys could review his story. He wouldn't let me help him with it, and he's kinda down right now because our neighbors were making fun of him. So, it would really boost his self-esteem if he got reviews for his story. Speaking of stories, these are great also:
Dancer Among Dragons, and Soul Binding of Shadows, by River-Star. She has some other stories also that are excellent!
Love or Revenge, and Bright Nights and Stary Days, by Boy Crazy Magician Chick.
No Idea, by Ro-boy.
blink182sbaby has some great fics of Buffy, and Gilmore Girls. They're not Yugioh, but they're good!
The Collectors, by Peggi. She also has a lot of other great stories!
Sing Along With the YuGiOh cast, By Kuria.
Seeking the Light, by Crystal Light.
The Brightest Star, by silver swan.
Life's A B, and Then Ya D, by EVIL IS MY NAME MWAHAHAHA
Survivor: Egypt, by Rnij and Mysterious A. Rnij and Mysterious A have some other stories that are excellent.
The Millennium Bracelet, by sPrItZ
The Sound of Silence, by Card-Master
Life as an Ishtar, by ally2-23
MarikzAngel has some great Card Captor fics.
A Yami's Tale, by Queen Ali B
LacrimasArgentum has some great Escaflowne fics.
The Quiet Waterfall, by Angelgirl
Ask Evee and YGO, by Evee Goddess Of Light
Forever, by Sk8tErGuRl
Sakura in Egypt, by firefly of hell
Fire Assault, by Lilo
Let's Duel, by Sailor Taichichi Vegeta
And thanks to everyone who reviewed so far:
*River-Star *Kuria
*Firebird *Crystal Light
*Muah *silver swan
*Peggi *Yuko
*heh *aQUA
*blink182sbaby *The Poisonwood Bible
*KawaiiElf *?
*la la land *EVIL IS MY NAME MWAHAHAHA
*Chantelle *Squished Banana
*Chantal *Maximilion_pegasus
*elven princess9 *Boy Crazy Magician Chick
*Cassie *ally2-23
*Princess *Rnij and Mysterious A
*Nazgirl *Person who really likes chocolate
*sPrItZ *Card-Master
*Me *Queen Ali B
*Tomoyo-chan *LacrimasArgentum
*Saj *keikochan
*Angelgirl *Eevee Goddess Of Light
Crystal Lite: I really like your story, and thanks for the review. Um, Marik didn't crash to the ground though. Janessa woke up because her mother slammed a bedroom door. And thanks for getting rid of the spider for me. =)
Squished Banana: Thanks for the comments! I liked the dream scene also. *Giggles* Oh, and you're my 100th reviewer. *Fireworks start to explode* I just never thought my 100th review would be about Marik getting his pants pulled down, but, oh well. That's a funny idea though. And have him wear pink boxers (kidding).
ally2-23: That's neat that Janessa's and Kevin's relationship is similar to yours and your brothers. I actually based Kevin on my younger brother Timothy.
Yuko: Thanks Yuko-san! I guess being an only child does have its advantages as well as its disadvantages, as does having siblings.
MarikzAngel: Like the name, and thanks for the review. I really appreciated it!
Boy Crazy Magician Chick: I feel honored that you consider me to be your favorite fan. And, you're getting a lot more reviews on your story now.
aQUA: I didn't put what the words mean, because Janessa didn't understand what they said, and it was from her point of view, but sadik means: friend. Za'og means: boyfriend/husband, and ann eazinak means: sorry/excuse me.
Sk8tErGuRl: I really enjoyed your review. Thank you so much for them!
*cough* blink *cough* 182s *cough* baby*: I enjoyed writing that part, also. Yes, and thank you for the kiss.... dream.... thing. Thanks also for the review!
Queen Ali B: Really enjoy your reviews! Kevin is modeled after the Evil One, and yes, that was a waste of a really, nice dress. *Mumbles* Stupid soda....
Me: Hiya! It is funny picturing Marik buying a girl a dress. As for why spider live *shakes head* I don't know. Oh, *pats Me on back* sorry that they kissed. I'm sure you hold a special place in Marik's heart.
firefly of hell: Thanks for the reviews! I really appreciate them! As for my brothers, will do. *Smiles evilly*
River-Star: Hiya friend! *Grumbles* What do you mean I don't know how to count! I do too know how to count. See *starts counting* 1, 2, 5, 13, 8, 7, 51, 6, 4, 24, 10. See, *sticks out tongue* told ya so! Oh, and great sequel to Dancer Among Dragons!
Card-Master: *starts giggling* Me? More experienced? I haven't kissed anyone in my entire life! Also, thanks for the review!
Kuria: Hmm, looks like Kaiba escaped for now. Sadly, this is a Marik centered fic, so the other cast of YGO won't make much of an appearance, but if you read my other story, Passed Down Through Time, I have all the YGO cast in there.
Lilo: Hope you received my e-mail, and that it helped you with KaZaA. And thanks for the review!
sPrItZ: Thanks for the review! *Rubs hands together* This chapters a shocker! *laughs evilly, then chokes*
elvenprincess9: I really appreciate your comments! I think the dream thing was a nice touch also. Everybody seemed to want them to kiss.
Sailor Taichichi Vegeta: *Shudders* Hate bugs! Anyway, I think my story did get on your favorites. And thanks for the review!
LacrimasArgentum: Thanks! Yeah, I tried to get the dream thing to be unexpected. Glad it was! Thanks for the review!
M-Mon & Marc: Thanks for the review. I really appreciate it!
Bakura'sBabe: Thanks for all your wonderful reviews and comments! I really appreciate them all! My favorite romance stories are also the type where two people hate each other, and then fall in love.
Person who really likes chocolate: Your e-mail is safe with me! And I'm crazy also *looks at all the chocolate wrappers on desk* Hmm, wonder why. Anyway, remember this: Crows are white and I wander constantly. =)
_____________________: I am right here, with a flu! *Sniffles* Anyway... *looks startled for a moment* Where is here? *looks around* Oh no, I'm lost! *Cries* (Thanks for the review)
*I apologize if I missed anyone
Okay. And I'll post the winner next chappie. River-Star and I still haven't decided. *Looks sad* Sorry! And now, with no further ado, chapter 7!
Disclaimer: Do not own YGO. Repeat: Do not own YGO (hope I made myself clear)
*~*Chapter Seven*~*
~*~Blood That Binds Us~*~
Moonlight filtered through the atmosphere, attempting its best to illuminate the darkness that shrouded the land of the Pharaohs. Stars in the dead of night shone brightly, twinkling merrily in the black sky as a cool breeze blew across Egypt, sighing its sweet relief to the world.
The maroon car drove smoothly down the charcoal, concrete street, yellow headlights beaming eerily through the darkness that hung like a thick shadow before them. The mahogany machine occasionally passed other vehicles, who gave the impression of medium sized monsters driving quickly on the road, gleaming yellow eyes shining spookily through the black mist.
Janessa was curled up on the fuzzy, grey floor, the vibration of the vehicle causing her to tremble slightly. She ran a slender finger over the bristly, charcoal carpet, busying herself as she listened to her father's heavy intakes of air. The girl inhaled the pine scent of the car deeply, made so by the air freshener that hung crookedly on her father's mirror in the form of a dark green tree.
Janessa could tell Jared was nervous by the cloying stench of his sweat, even though the night was freezing. She felt a sense of dread upon her, as though a black fist were squeezing itself viciously upon her heart, overcoming every other emotion except for fear. The redhead brought her knees to her chest, hugging herself tightly as she shivered, the vibes of the car having nothing to do with her trembling.
The teenage girl didn't know why, but she was afraid. Something was causing her father to moan in fear, the person whom she always believed was strong enough to protect her from anything. Janessa clenched a tanned fist, willing herself not to utter any words of solace to grant him comfort.
The redhead then felt the car take a sharp left. Bracing herself so she wouldn't move, she leaned against her back pack, its reassuring weight comforting her. The once smooth ride became bumpy, as if they were no longer on a street. The green-eyed girl heard sand crunch beneath the weight of the black tires, as the vehicle drove quickly through the desert.
Janessa closed her eyes tightly, wanting more than anything for her father and her to go home, to their nice house that they have barely begun to make use of. She imagined Victoria and Kevin, their faces full of sorrow as they learned something had happened to Jared. The teen knew her mother would never forgive herself for quarreling with her husband, and would always blame herself for Jared's fate.
As the maroon car began to slow, gradually coming to a halt, Janessa steeled herself, determined not to let anything happen to her father.
The motor died down, leaving an uncomfortable silence in its wake. The only noise to be heard was Jared's heavy panting, as he waited a few moments in the car, gathering up his remaining vestiges of courage. Slowly, the Rare Hunter gripped the black handle, and with a click, opened the car door and stepped out.
Muffled footsteps reached Janessa's ears, thumping louder on the ground as they drew closer to the car. The green-eyed girl imagined figures treading menacingly on the beige sand toward her father. She curled up even tighter, trembling violently. The teen began to hyperventilate, hiding her head in her brought up knees, the silky emerald material calming her slightly. Janessa couldn't explain it, but she felt a malicious presence drowning her in fright, washing dread over her quivering form.
"We've been expecting you," a voice hissed threateningly.
"Need we remind you of how foolish you are, requesting a discussion with our Master?" another person said, his statement reverberating throughout the desert. This voice was harsh, and reminded Janessa of gravel.
"I-I don't believe it is any of your concern," Jared stammered.
"Fine," a third voice grunted. "Check him, and the vehicle, for anything unusual."
Janessa's heart skipped a beat, as her breath froze in her lungs.
"I'll check the car," someone volunteered. Janessa heard steps ease up to the machine, bringing with a form of panic that overwhelmed Janessa.
"I'm actually hoping you mess up Jared," the Rare Hunter conducting the search on the maroon vehicle mocked, his voice purring evilly. "I've been itching to kill someone with my new dagger."
Janessa gasped, and bit her bottom red lip. She sucked in a deep breath, her thoughts jumbling together as horror plagued her mind, disabling her.
Through terror-stricken eyes, Janessa saw a light slice through the darkness of the car, transforming the back window into reflective glass, allowing the curly redhead to see the front of her father's vehicle.
An ominous figure stuck his head through the open door, his face concealed by a dark, amethyst hood attached to a robe of similar color. Clenched tightly in his fist, a sharp knife gleamed wickedly as moonlight reflected off the silver blade. With his other hand, the Rare Hunter shone around a flashlight, revealing hidden crevices of the car that otherwise would be shrouded in darkness.
Janessa closed her eyes again as the light ceased shining into the rear of the car, the reflection of the back window fading away as it did so. The girl heard rummaging in the front, as the man searched for concealed items.
"Hey, Gibbs!" a voice shouted, startling Janessa. Her breath quickened, barely audible moans starting to form in the base of her throat.
"What!" the Rare Hunter in the front seat yelled.
"We're headin' inside, 'kay?"
"Fine," snapped Gibbs. "I'm almost through here, anyway. I jus' need to check the rear of this car."
A shiver ran down Janessa's spine, as darkness seemed to close around her. What would happen if they found her? Taking a deep breath, Janessa opened her eyes, but this time with determination shining in the depths of her green pools. Fear wouldn't aid her father. In fact, if she were discovered, it would only bring pain and death.
Redoubling her efforts to calm her nerves, she began to formulate a plan when the light gleamed again at the back window, this time accompanied by hands clutching the back of the front seats, a hooked blade seized in one fist.
Janessa jerked quickly against the passenger chair shivering uncontrollably, her resolve momentarily forgotten as panic engulfed her. The Rare Hunter continued to shine the light around the rear of the car, muttering under his breath as he did so. Slowly, the glare inched toward her, illuminating the charcoal carpet on which she sat. Shuddering as the light revealed, the tips of her toes, she looked fearfully at the dagger that oscillated wickedly in front her face.
"Gibbs!" The same voice suddenly rang out again, shattering the stillness of the night.
Gibbs flinched and dropped his knife, mumbling curses. "What now!" he snapped, trying desperately to reach his dagger. "Thought you went inside."
"Jus' thought you'd want to know that Jared's gonna get punished!" the man shouted gleefully.
"Really? Our Master gets all the fun. Lemme jus' get my dagger."
"Hurry up. The fun's startin'." The sound of running footsteps slowly faded, telling Janessa the messenger left, no doubt to witness her father's torture. Tears stung her emerald eyes, as she watched Gibbs fumble around the floor for his knife.
The sadistic man grunted as he reached for the blade, groaning as he tried to squeeze through the seats in order to acquire it. Janessa gazed hypnotized as the farther Gibbs fingers went, the closer the beam of the flashlight moved toward her. She trembled, the glare drawing closer as she breathed hurriedly, trying to remain quiet.
Just as the light reached her, Gibbs groaned, jerking the light away. Swearing, he held his shoulder, which he obviously sprained. He threw the battery powered lamp beneath the dashboard in frustration, climbing out the driver's side door.
Gasping deeply, Janessa hurriedly stood up and climbed quickly to the front. Just as she was about to reach the dashboard, though, something pulled her back. Turning rapidly around, she discovered that the strap of her navy backpack was caught on one of the grey armrest of the passenger seat.
Janessa whimpered as she saw the darkened silhouette of Gibbs outside the backdoor. She yanked futilely at the dark blue strap, trying to disengage it, when the car door was suddenly jerked open.
The redhead stopped struggling, eyes open with fright as she gazed at a man clad in purple robes, hooded face turned in her direction.
A few seconds passed as they both stared at each other, Janessa's brain seeming to freeze as she peered fearfully at the Rare Hunter. Gibbs then reached a pale hand up to his lavender hood, and with one fluid motion, tugged the covering off his head, revealing a sinister face. The man's lips were twisted in a sadistic smile, his eyes narrowed in savage pleasure.
"Well, well," Gibbs whispered demonically, as he bent down slightly to retrieve his dagger. He was outlined against a pitch-black sky, white stars sparkling tauntingly down at Janessa, so far away from her predicaments.
The moon gleamed off the blade, bathing Janessa's face with moonlight as she flinched, fear rising in tremendous tides within her.
"And here I thought I wasn't going to kill anyone tonight." Gibbs advanced slowly, crawling on his knees towards her in the restricted space of the car. Janessa shivered, the feeling of déjà vu creeping throughout her body.
Just as Janessa clenched her fists ready to ward him off, he lunged at her, blade pointing down at her throat. The redhead shrieked and held his fist, trying to keep the weapon at bay. No use. He was far too powerful, using all his strength to propel the dagger down upon her tanned neck.
She whimpered loudly, then screamed as she kicked him, trying to stop the deadly decent of the knife. Her muscles were weakening, as Gibbs pushed down hard on her, sliding her backwards. With a rip, her navy backpack split open, dumping many of its contents unto the seat.
Janessa kicked him again, this time inducing a groan to escape from the Rare Hunter's lips, as he eased the force on the dagger slightly.
Removing one strained hand from Gibb's wrist, she picked up her CD player, and propelled it with all her strength at the malevolent man's face. Crying out in pain, the Rare Hunter clutched his bloody nose, streams of curses and death threats flying from his mouth.
Scooting back slightly, Janessa's hand made contact with the fuzzy, gray floor underneath the dashboard. Feeling around for the rubber handle of the flashlight, she picked it up, and with another severe thrust of her hand, struck Gibbs as hard as she could across his brown head.
Janessa felt something shatter through the vibrations of the blunt object, as Gibbs crumpled lifelessly on top of her.
"Oh no," she moaned, struggling out from underneath him. The green-eyed girl opened the door, and scrambled out.
Breathing hard, she peered at Gibbs, hoping that she hadn't killed him, even though he deserved far much worse than death.
To her relief, he uttered a hoarse, shaky breath, blood running freely from his broken nose. Hesitating slightly, the green-eyed girl grabbed her torn book bag, and peered at it. It was ripped near the top, at the start of one of the navy straps. If she shoved everything toward the bottom, though, nothing should fall out.
Janessa nervously placed her contents inside her book bag, peering at Gibbs fearfully as she did so. Slinging her bag across her back, Janessa gazed at her surroundings, shivering uncontrollably from the after effects of her near death encounter. Jared's maroon car was parked in front of a massive red cliff, shadows covering the face of the mountain. Beige sand stretched for miles around her, sparkling mysteriously in the moonlight. Stars, unaware of the girl's troubles, continued to dance merrily, bringing her an odd sense of comfort in the darkness.
Breathing deeply, Janessa squinched her green eyes at the base of the mountain range, where she could barely discern two stone statues. Walking slowly to them, she shivered as a cool breeze blew across the desert, whipping Janessa's red hair about her.
The monuments were sculptured to resemble Egyptian guards, with piercing red eyes glaring down at her. Wickedly curved scimitars were grasped in each hand, crossed against the monument's bare chest, a headdress and loincloth their only attire. In between the two statues, a pitch black cave made its appearance, seemingly to invite trespassers to certain death.
Glancing nervously at the two Egyptian guards, Janessa reluctantly stepped towards the opening of the cave. She shivered as she neared it, feeling as though a chilling wind were blowing from the cavern's mouth. Instead of gusting against her body, though, it seemed as if the draft seeped through her skin, freezing everything it touched from the inside out. Hesitating slightly, she reached out a tentative hand, shadows crisscrossing the tanned skin, and slowly breached the entrance of the cavern.
Janessa gasped, feeling the darkness close around her hand like liquid, shielding it from view. Gulping slightly, she walked through the barrier, iciness penetrating her body as ebony shadows covered her. Then she was through, again feeling normal as air drifted slowly across her. The girl looked back, seeing nothing but darkness, not even the light of the moon penetrating the black void. It was as if Janessa had passed through another world, a realm made of darkness, before preceding into the cavern.
Shivering irrepressibly, Janessa gazed at her surroundings. She was at the beginning of a long flight of stairs that headed deeper into the cave. The teen closed her green eyes tightly, drawing lines across her clammy face. She needed to find her father, and discover what he had been concealing from his family. The redhead was worried, though, that by the time she encountered Jared it would be too late.
Opening fearful eyes, Janessa started her long descent. Torches attached to the rock walls on either side of her gently licked the air, the crackling fire leading her slowly down the steps. The light gloomed eerily through the darkness, clawing through the blackness as it distorted her senses. As the girl passed in front of each blaze, the gleam that shone on the opposite wall wavered, shadows invading immediately at the reduction of light. The heat from the flames warmed Janessa slightly, drawing a pink flush to cover her cheeks.
As Janessa reached the bottom, she breathed deeply, anxiety building up inside her. She walked slowly down a long corridor made from stone, torches still clinging to the walls. The hallway branched out, revealing chambers and different passages to choose from.
Leaning her head against the rough, hard wall, she closed her emerald eyes, perceiving a palpable sense of evil flowing throughout the catacomb. As she willed her tense muscles to relax, Janessa felt drops of water spill from the ceiling, streaking down her cool face leaving a trail of liquid.
Breathing hard as she removed herself from the stone wall, she continued down another corridor, half expecting to encounter guards. Janessa met no one, though. Frustration welled up inside her as she took another turn, which led to more grey stone passageways.
Suddenly, a short cry rang out through the cave, prickling the back of Janessa's neck. Quickening her pace, she followed the sound, hoping that it wasn't Jared.
Again, a yell sounded through the immense cavern. This time louder, informing Janessa she was following the correct path. Rounding the next corner, the shout that emitted came from a huge entryway in the middle of the corridor, hieroglyphics carved around the entryway.
Fearful of what she would witness, Janessa slowly made her way to the entrance, and peered into an enormous atrium. Marble pillars rose magnificently to the darkened ceiling above, supporting the structure. Numerous torches hung on the walls, clawing at the sky with long, fiery fingers as they illuminated the chamber. In the middle of the room, a solitary table was placed, an imposing gold eye painted on one of the sides gleamed brightly. But what ensnared Janessa's attention the most was her father on hands and knees, panting for breath on the cold, stone floor. Figures in amethyst robes stood still against the walls, watching Jared quiver in fright. Their hooded heads were bowed, hands clasped in front of them in a submissive manner. Black boots rose up their legs, the edge of their dark, purple cloak brushing against the grey laces.
A mocking chuckle sounded then, filling the room with a terrifying presence. "Had enough, slave?" sneered a voice full of malice.
Janessa froze, every fiber of her being in shock. Time seemingly stopped, as the girl turned her head to trace the familiar sound. There, sitting on a gold throne placed on a white platform, a figure covered in shadows could be seen. Janessa knew who it was though, as she remembered the voice of the platinum-blond boy named Marik from earlier.
"Plea-Please Master Ma-Marik, I-I–" her father stuttered.
"Y-You w-what, slave?" mimicked Marik. "If you're going to grovel and beg, make certain I can understand your pathetic pleas."
"I-It's ju-just tha–"
"I don't believe your minuscule mind understood my commands. Perhaps another punishment is in order?" Marik taunted, as his Millennium Rod suddenly lit up, chasing the shadows away from the Egyptian teen.
Janessa trained her eyes away from her father onto the now revealed Marik, gazing in numb shock at his change of appearance. He wore the same dark violet robes as his followers, covering the whole of his masculine body. A gold chain was hooked right beneath his throat, his neck covered by golden chokers. He wore the same pair of earrings, his platinum blond hair falling over them to lightly graze his shoulders. Across his tanned forehead a gold diadem with a millennium eye engraved in the center made its appearance, right above his maliciously narrowed amethyst eyes.
"No, Master. I-I, please!" Janessa's green eyes shifted back to her father, who was pleading on the cold ground.
Marik just chuckled, as he pointed his Millennium Rod at Jared. The eye on the staff gleamed brightly, causing Janessa to raise hand to shield her eyes. She could still hear, though, as her father screamed out in pain, and agony.
The howls died down, leaving her father crying softly on the hard ground. Tears streamed down Janessa's own face, as helplessness filled her being. What could she do to help?
Marik put his hands on his knees, leaning forward slightly with a smirk twisting his features. "Yes Jared. Weep in submission, like a good slave."
Janessa's father lifted his head, glaring at Marik with brown eyes. "No. I am not your slave anymore. I want out!" he yelled in sudden determination, and rebelliousness.
Marik's violet eyes flickered as he leaned back against his gold throne, once more covered in shadows. "Well, I must say Jared. Your sudden defiance is most amusing. I wouldn't have suspected such profound display of temerity from a coward such as yourself."
Jared's hands curled into fists, most certainly imagining them throttling Marik's gold-covered throat. "If you would just leave my daughter alone, I'd–"
"You mean Jenna?" Marik smirked, raising an eyebrow in the shadows. "You belong in my possession, as does your family. Whatever I determine shall happen to them will rise into existence. Besides," Marik's simper grew wider, "I do believe she has a certain infatuation with me."
Janessa was burning with rage, but it was nothing when compared to her father's furiousness. "You snot-nosed little brat! You were only using her to infuriate me!"
"How very perceptive," the teen mocked. "Though, she does possess certain traits that I find intriguing." Marik knew exactly what buttons to press to rile, and outrage his servant.
Ferocity overrode Jared's common sense, and with a growl of fury, lunged at Marik. Marik just laughed, once again pointing his Millennium Rod at Jared. Janessa's father stopped in mid-hurtle, brown eyes glazing over as Marik controlled his mind.
"Jared, I commend you on your denseness. Just when I believed you could not be more slow-witted, you astonish me with your imbecility. Perhaps another form of punishment is required?"
Marik stood and walked down the dais, Millennium Rod held out in front of him. Reaching the bowed form of Jared, Marik smirked as his scepter flashed with gold light. Janessa's father was blown back, landing heavily on his spine.
Marik chuckled at Jared's helplessness, then snapped his fingers. "Rishid. I believe a few floggings are necessary for my contumacious slave."
"Shall I fetch the lash, Master Marik?" A cloaked Rare Hunter trudged from the line of motionless minions, head bowed slightly.
Marik snorted. "Of course Rishid. Why else would I make that statement? Surrounded by these ignoramuses is enough." He jerked his head toward his other Rare Hunters, standing so still they could be statues. "I don't need you to follow in their footsteps."
Rishid remained wordless, tattooed face still submitted in obeisance. He then turned quietly and left, during which time Marik taunted Jared further. Janessa scowled, digging her nails into her palms in frustration, so intent on her thoughts that the teen didn't realize she was drawing crimson blood.
After a few minutes Rishid returned, lash in hand as he approached Jared. A buzz of excitement stirred through the crowed of Rare Hunters, but quieted as Marik glowered at them.
"You are here to witness the consequences of deviating from my ranks," Marik snapped peering at his slaves.
"Yes Master Marik," the Rare Hunters mumbled as one.
One slave stepped forward, though. "Master Marik," he bowed. "May I be so bold as to ask that I be the one to deliver this worthless underling's punishment?"
Marik glared at his servant. "Or perhaps you'd like to join him for insubordination, Holtz?"
Holtz stepped back slightly, hands shaking. "My apologies, Master. It wasn't my place to ask for such a request."
Marik smiled and straightened, as if he were absorbing his slave's weakness and transforming the impotence into strength. His grin turned wicked, as he gazed at his trembling servant. "But then you have manifested loyalty since you were recruited. Consider this a reward for faithful service."
The Egyptian teen grasped the brown whip from Rishid and tossed it to Holtz, who deftly caught it with outstretched hands. Using his rod to manipulate Jared into lying on his stomach, Marik watched with crossed arms as the Rare Hunter prepared to bring the lash down hard.
Back in the corridor, Janessa hugged herself tightly, sobbing silently into her knees. She was sitting against the cold wall, in torment with herself. What was she supposed to do? How could she help her father?
Shuddering as she heard the whip whistle through the air, she strangled a cry as a sickening whack sounded. Janessa shook her head as she raked her fingers through her red tresses, trembling as she heard her father cry out in pain.
Again he yelled as the whip nauseatingly sounded, smacking against his back. Hearing Jared scream, something in Janessa suddenly snapped, as a twig breaking in two. With no forethought of the consequences, Janessa stood up and ran to Jared, past the startled Rare Hunters on either side of the entryway.
Her bare feet slapped on the stone floor as she reached Jared, throwing herself on top of his crimson back. Janessa flinched, seeing Holtz's shadow raise a hand with the lash tightly clenched in his fist, bringing it down swiftly.
She braced herself, ready to feel the sting of the whip. It never came. Shakily raising her head, Janessa gazed at Marik's incredulous face. Around his tanned fist was the end of the lash, which had been mere seconds away from striking Janessa. In his other hand, the Millennium Rod was clenched, glimmering from the light of the torches.
Marik glared at her, then threw the whip harshly back at Holtz. The slave cringed as it stung the side of his face, a red whelp marking his cheek that hid underneath his violet hood.
"What are you doing here?!" Marik roared vehemently.
Janessa didn't answer, trembling violently as she glanced back at her mind controlled father. The girl was frightened after everything she just witnessed, wishing to be anywhere but the dreadful place she currently resided. The Rare Hunter's gazed at her from under their hoods resembling the messengers of Death, terrifying her completely.
"I asked you a question!" the Egyptian demanded, threateningly pointing the Millennium Rod at her.
"I-I," Janessa stammered, at a loss for words. Glancing up at Marik, she saw that the usual sneer, and mocking demeanor were replaced by furiousness, and rage. She knew that he would not be lenient with her, having a reputation to withhold in front of his slaves. Janessa closed her green eyes, shutting out the person who frightened her the most as she waited.
"Janessa, I grow weary of your silence. Perhaps the screams of your father will loosen your tongue?" Marik nodded his head to Holtz, head hidden by his violet hood, who raised the whip again.
"No. Please Marik," she begged, emerald eyes beginning to fill with tears.
Marik raised his hand as a sign for Holtz to cease his actions, as the Egyptian boy glared down at Janessa. It was the first time she had called Marik by his name, the sound of it rolling across her tongue filling the teenage boy with unease. That isn't exactly accurate, Marik thought as he remembered Janessa uttering his name in the vivid dream his brain had conjured earlier that day.
Marik had just grasped her smooth shoulders, caressing her gently. The gasp that escaped Janessa's mouth filled him with desire, as she turned around and stared up at him. Recognition had dawned on her face, as the girl said his name in surprise, "M-Marik."
Back to the present, Marik shook his head of these disturbing thoughts as the Egyptian boy continued to glower at Janessa. Her attire consisted of silky, emerald pants, and a white shirt. Beneath one of the sleeves, white gauze could be seen wrapped tightly around her upper arm. With an unfamiliar pang filling his stomach, Marik gripped his Millennium Rod harder, as he remembered the jagged cut he had been directly responsible for.
Meanwhile, Janessa was staring up at him with enormous, green irises, pleading with her eyes for Marik to cease punishing her father. The Egyptian shook with indecision, willing his heart to harden toward the redhead girl before him.
Smiling cruelly, he bent abruptly forward and grabbed Janessa's red locks. She screamed as he yanked her up, gripping his hands which were clasped firmly around her hair. White hot pain seared through her scalp, as she closed her green eyes tightly in an attempt to will away the pain.
"Do you actually believe I will cease my punishment on your father just because you, a vexing, ungainly girl, pleaded with me too?" Marik whispered into her ear from behind.
Janessa didn't say anything, and instead focused on unclasping his strong fists from around her hair.
"Hmm? I asked you an enquiry, Janessa." His pull tightened, causing the girl to wince slightly. "Though I do wonder how you were able to pass unscathed through my Shadow Realm barrier, considering only my Rare Hunters and I are able to clear it."
Janessa bit her bottom red lip, remembering the dark void she had crossed when she entered the gloomy cave. "I don't know," she volunteered an answer, in hopes he'd loosen his grasp.
"Is that so?" Marik's grip hadn't wavered in the least, as he turned his amethyst stare on Holtz. "Perhaps her father is cognizant to the answer? Do see if you can persuade him to comply with my wishes."
"No!" Janessa tearfully yelled. "Please Marik! Just please don't!" As Holtz raised the whip to strike her mind controlled father, she increased her attempts to free herself from Marik's grasp. Shuddering as the whip slashed down upon her father's back, she let out a strangled cry. Tears were now running a silent river down her now pale cheeks, despair etiolating them.
Marik snaked his arm around her stomach, his hand still grasping his gold Millennium Rod, as he tried to restrain Janessa who was struggling violently. Uninvitedly, memories surfaced in his brain, swimming around his mind's eye.
Eleven year-old Marik ran hastily down the long corridors of the catacomb, flames crackling menacingly around him. He heard his sister's light footsteps behind him, barely audible over the boy's heavy breathing. Suddenly, a scream rang out through the tomb, urging Marik on as it chilled his already frightened heart.
"Rishid!" he had cried, tears forming in his amethyst eyes as he neared the yells. Running into the primary chamber of the catacomb, Marik gazed in horror as his father whipped his adoptive brother.
With a groan, bound Rishid fell to the floor. Blood began to pour from the injured teens back, and as it did, tears began to flow from Marik's eyes as well.
"Rishid!" he yelled again, tears choking his voice. This was his fault, the young boy realized as he cried.
"Master Marik," Rishid groaned, calling the younger boy by what Marik's father had forced the teen to state whenever addressing the Ishtar family. Rishid then closed his brown eyes, letting his head drop to the freezing stone floor with a bang.
Marik barely registered the gasp that his sister emitted when she caught up to him, believing Rishid to be dead. The coldness that encased his body melted, as boiling rage swam through his insides. It clawed out from the pit of his stomach, raking its way through him.
He yelled, and clutched his head as the furiousness blinded him, whispering enticing threats in his ears. Ishizu's soft touch on his shoulders, and the gust from the whip his father hurtled at him were the last things he felt as rage completely overtook him.
Back in the present, a frown flickered across Marik's face. Unknowingly, his arm tightened around Janessa's stomach in anger, cutting off her cries. With disgust at himself, he realized he was performing almost the exact same acts as the elder Ishtar had.
Seeing blood trickle from crimson, streaked beads on Jared's back, he signaled Holtz to cease his actions. Making certain to express no remorse, Marik released Janessa from his grip. "Perhaps," he mused out loud, "whereas the same blood that runs in your father's veins, flows so strongly in yours, it allowed you to pass unscathed through the barrier."
Janessa jerked away, glaring at Marik with hatred evident in her green eyes as she bent to her father's side. Jared was still under Marik's control, mumbling incoherently when Janessa whispered his name. Hushed jeers rippled through the Rare Hunters who stood at attention by the walls, as they watched the scene unfold in front of them.
An amethyst glare from Marik silenced them immediately, as he grasped Janessa's fragile wrist and yanked her to him. The teen girl was livid with rage, and was preparing to launch an attack on Marik.
"I wouldn't attempt to gain revenge against me, Jenna," Marik whispered. "One thought, or word from me, and your father will meet an untimely death."
Janessa willed herself to calm down, though her muscles still trembled with hatred. "What are you going to do?" she hissed.
Marik cocked his head, earring jingling slightly at the movement. An idea bloomed in his head, developing beautifully in his mind. He hadn't tested his newly composed deck to discover how well Slifer played with it, and the former owner of the powerful card was right here in front of him. It was too good an opportunity to pass.
"I'll make you a deal," Marik started, grinning smugly. "If you succeed in winning against me in a duel, I'll release you and your father. You will be liberated to carry out the remainder of your lives however you wish." He glanced at her navy bag. "You do have your deck with you, have you not?"
Not waiting for an answer, he twisted her around, and dug his hand in the tear on her backpack. Feeling around for the firm stack of cards, he drew out the deck and placed it in one of her soft hands.
Janessa breathed deeply, yanking out of his grasp. "I'd rather just go home with my father."
Marik continued to smile. "Examine it from this angle, Janessa. You don't have a choice in the matter."
The redhead glowered at him. "I didn't think so, you–"
"And if you lose, your father will remain my slave," Marik cut her off. He narrowed his eyes slightly as he pondered. "As will you," he vehemently stated a moment later. Now that he contemplated the issue, Janessa very well could become an excellent Rare Huntress, if trained properly. And with her family to use as hostages, her only decision would be to comply. "Remember, Jenna, you don't have a decision in the affair."
Janessa's green eyes widened, as his words repeated themselves perpetually inside her head. "Why do you want me as a slave?"
Marik chuckled. Deciding to rattle Janessa more than she already was, the Egyptian took a lock of her red hair, and twisted the curly strand around his vigorous finger. "I have my reasons."
The teenage girl gasped and stepped back, mouth seemingly to form soundless words. Marik smiled, amused to see his words, and actions disturbed her.
"Shall we duel, then?" He arched a blond eyebrow, waiting for a response.
Janessa closed her eyes, breathing deeply. "You have Slifer," she whispered as she opened her green irises.
Marik clucked his tongue, and shook his head in mock exasperation. "Girl, how many times do I need to explain that I don't possess any card by that title?"
Liar, Janessa thought as she gritted her teeth. Marik was right, though, she had no choice in the matter. The idiot before her could easily overpower her alone, not to mention the numerous slaves at his beck and call that could overwhelm Janessa also.
"Fine," she stated through her clenched jaw. "I accept your challenge."
Marik smiled triumphantly. "I knew you would. As I stated a few times before, everyone sees it my way."
Janessa clenched her fist. That phrase was becoming really aggravating.
"Holtz," Marik suddenly snapped. "Take the girl to our holographic simulator. And as for you, Rishid, make sure her father is there as well. I'm certain he wouldn't want to miss his little girl join slavery because of his actions." The young Egyptian glared at the remainder of his minions. "The rest of you will spectate the duel also."
With that said, Marik turned his back to everyone, walking toward the solitary table in the center of the chamber. Janessa was left confused by Marik's words, puzzling over what had been said. As far as she knew, KaibaCorp was the only company currently planning on distributing holographic devices for Duel Monsters, or so she read. The highly anticipated invention wasn't out on the market, yet.
Janessa glared at Holtz as he walked over to her, staring down at her beneath his hooded face. "C'mon," he snarled, grasping her upper arm hard, his finger digging into her flesh. She refused to give any indication that he bruised her, glad his digits weren't biting into her other arm, where her wound from earlier stung numbly.
Dragging her through the archway, he pulled her down a long stone corridor. Janessa's father walked by her side, held up by Rishid. Obviously, Marik had released Jared from his mind control, for he gave Janessa a weak smile.
His daughter didn't return it, and instead stared straight ahead, shaking inwardly with apprehension. As they turned a corner, their shadows stretched out in front of them, the whispering flames behind their backs.
They passed through another entryway, into an enormous atrium. Janessa gasped in wonder at what met her green eyes. In the center of the chamber an immense holographic simulator was situated, sapphire and silver the dominant colors, with an Egyptian eye painted in the middle of the device. On opposite sides of the machine, metallic platforms were lowered, waiting patiently for opponents to engage in battle.
"Shall we?" Marik mocked from behind her, deck clutched in one tanned hand, his Millennium Rod grasped in another.
As Holtz loosened his grip, Janessa just scowled, following Marik to the simulator. He stepped onto the lowered platform on the left, as she treaded slowly upon the one to the right. She wobbled slightly as the horizontal surface lifted, bracing herself on one of the cool, metal bars.
A swishing sound filled the air, as Janessa glanced toward the entrance where Rare Hunters lined up against the stone walls, beneath the crackling torches. Anticipation overwhelmed her, as her breathing began to escalate. A common game would decide her future, one of the choices being a life she didn't want to live.
"Ready?" Marik asked her, placing his deck to his right.
Janessa snapped out of her thoughts, nodding as she followed his lead.
"Then draw," he replied smoothly as the life point counter on the side of the holographic simulator beeped, setting their life points equally at 2,000.
Janessa shakily reached for her deck, closing her eyes tightly to calm her taut nerves. Instead, panic seized her as she opened her emerald irises, breathing in short, quick gasps. Hoping to find comfort in her father's warm gaze, she peered down to where he stood with Rishid, by the machine she was dueling on. Seeing her eyes on him, Jared lowered his brown ones, not meeting her gaze.
Her father's rejection startled her, leaving only dread to claw its way across Janessa's trembling body. Closing her eyes again, she drew her cards.
*~*
Hmm. I wonder who will win? LOL. I hope it's not boring or anything, since everyone knows the outcome of the duel (If you read the summary). Okay. I'll try to get the next chapter up soon. I also added a title to the Prologue (it looked so lonely by its lonesome). Anyway, please review! And could you also read and review my brother's story, No Idea. His screen name is Ro-boy. Thanks, and ja ne!
