Hi there reader
LeafeonLover here back with another chapter of SS
Yes I know I'm late!
I know I said before the end of the month but hey I'm lazy and there's been a few issues
Just be happy I'm here now okay?! *crosses arms with a huff*
moving on...
now just for some forewarning this chapter is relatively short and kinda filler
I'm not completely satisfied with it but I did want to update so good enough right?
*crickets chirping*
thanks
Anyway, before you read just a couple of things
I used a new term in this chapter that I haven't before
and I just want to make sure everyone knows what's up with that
okay so everyone already knows I change some terms when writing about Egypt's past right?
well I would hope you know...
harvest=year
moon=month
and now
decan=week
according to my research Egyptian calendars had twelve months like outs of 360 days with five extra at the end of the year
each months was 30 days made up of three decans
decans being like weeks but with ten days instead of seven like today
okay so everyone understand?
good!
Now without further ado
ENJOY!
Chapter 20
Do Not Fear (Episode 29)
I took in a deep breath letting the sweet scent of blooming flowers wafting about enter my nose and soothe me. I was in the garden doing my usual daily activates, pruning bushes, feeding the fish and harvesting any ripe fruits from the trees.
I felt the soft edge of one of the flower petals humming a nameless tune as I tipped some of the lake water from a clay pot near its roots. I picked off any dead branches or leaves and arranged them at the plant's base as well. After all, once something becomes dead that doesn't make it useless.
Dead parts of the plant continuously provide nutrients for those still growing and make for good soil cover. I mused to myself remembering those simply lessons my mother had taught me. It was quite a large garden to be the only one that tends it.
I knew that was because it is a very special place though, especially for the prince. Only a few people were granted access to it, so no regular servant could tend it. That's where I come in. I winced accidentally pricking my finger on the thorn of a rose bush. When a presence suddenly made itself known in my mind.
It was odd how I could sense his aura before I could hear his remarkably quiet footsteps. It probably didn't help how the lush green grass was like padding underfoot that quieted all movement. I frowned down at the rose bush letting a droplet of blood fall into the jug and dilute into nothingness. This was not good.
The one time when I did not want to see the prince was now. The Ka in my vision had attacked on a full moon -which was tonight- and I couldn't let myself get distracted. Of course I was never very good at hide and seek. That was the one game I would admit to being terrible at. It was my own fault really.
If I hadn't wanted him to find me I should have hid in a better place. Somewhere he wouldn't think to look. But if I had learned anything from the games of our childhood, it was that no matter where I hid he would always find me.
To truly be alone and away from him, I would have had to have hid somewhere outside the palace. Even then I couldn't count on Bakura not popping up somehow. Besides I wasn't about to neglect my responsibilities to go hide somewhere. That would be cowardly.
I rose slowly from the ground with a jug half filled with water still in my hands.
"My pr-ah **** what brings you here?" I questioned eyeing him cautiously.
I fought the urge to be formal and bow. I did not like bowing to people, kneeling before them. I never bowed to the prince when we were alone -something my mother scolded me for because we were friends . Equals, but only in each other's eyes.
Still I had my mission and in order for me to complete it, I had to act like there was nothing askew. Unfortunately from the look in his eyes, I was certain the prince was already suspecting something was wrong.
"Shouldn't you be having some kind of lesson right now?" I gave him a reprimanding look.
In fact I was certain he was supposed to be practicing combat skills right now.
"I decided to take a break." he told me calmly.
Break that was code for, I snuck off while no one was watching, but no one could stop him really. He was the prince after all. There were very few people who could order him around. It wasn't an unusual occurrence for the prince to sneak off.
When we were younger it happened quite often –I'd usually have to help- but we were older now. It has been a long time since the prince had abandoned a lesson. He had made a point to be more mature and sit through them recently. No matter how boring he found writing and literature lessons he still stayed put.
Which made this all the more odd. Combat lessons were some of the most interesting ones the prince and I took. He and I had never missed them, not even one and now he was…
"I was looking for you actually." he informed me striding closer.
I blinked at him innocently resisting the urge to step back and make a swift run for it.
"Oh and why would that be?" I questioned making a point to avoid his gaze.
I couldn't help but look at him though. A playful look ghosted onto my face as I tried to convey how if he was hiding then I wouldn't be helping him this time. The prince seemed to ignore my attempt to sidetrack him though.
"I thought it, odd. I haven't spoken with you in days. I've only seen you during magic lessons but you seem to disappear afterwards before I can converse with you." he noted aloud giving me a pointed look.
He wasn't buying it. My grip on the jug of water grew tighter. I really should have been more careful.
"I'm sorry you had to find someone else to entertain you, but I can't escape my duties so easily." I scoffed lightly.
I was silently hoping that the prince might get mad at me and leave. That would have made things so much easier, but he didn't. Instead the prince smirked slightly, crossed his arms and raised an eyebrow looking at me quizzically.
"It feels more like… you're avoiding me." Well that was probably because that's exactly what I was trying to do.
Was it really that obvious? I wasn't doing so well at it so far though. It is increasingly difficult when you have to avoid the person you would usually go to for advice.
"And why would I do that ****? Do tell me." I asked like it was the most absurd thing I'd ever heard.
I really didn't want him to think that… even if it was the truth. It would only be the truth for the rest of the day though. Then things would go back to normal or so I hoped. I wasn't really sure what would happen but I could only pray everything would turn out okay.
I glanced at the prince for a moment before staring into his eyes if only to show that I wasn't avoiding him. Hurt . It was shadowing his eyes, flickering in and out so a person who didn't know him wouldn't notice. Could my absence really hurt him this much? My chest twisted sharply, my heart ached but I shook my head slightly.
It was probably something else . Besides the prince had Seto, Mahad and even Mana to keep him company. So why would he want me? I inwardly scolded myself. I shouldn't delude myself into thinking I was somehow special.
After all, it was highly unlikely the prince would have any deeper feelings for me when he could have practically anyone . We were friends and this was just the prince's concern for a close friend . I averted my gaze trying to distract myself from the pang I felt in my chest at this thought.
It was like a thorn from that same rose bush was now slowly lodging itself in my heart in an attempt to cause me as much pain as possible. "I don't know why you'd do that, but that's what I came to find out." His stance was now more relaxed less like he was interrogating me.
I could feel a strong aura of determination now flowing from him like a waterfall.
"There is nothing to find out ****. I have been busy with lessons and my duties. There is always something I must do." I responded fluidly.
I was never one to complain much when it came to work and I wasn't about to start now as a cover-up. It wasn't really my chores I was thinking of when I said that last part. It was my dream. I scowled to myself for even alluding to something of great important I had to do. The prince smirked in a challenging way.
"I thought you were much better at evading your mother than that." I glared in his direction before taking a deep calming breath.
He was trying to bait me to get me to tell the truth, which I had been gingerly skirting around the entire time. I wanted to tell him the truth, I really did, but knowing all the things that were involved with that, I just couldn't. However, it wasn't a very good idea to lie to the prince either.
He was very good at telling when people were lying. So lying wasn't an option, but I didn't know how he'd react to the truth either. Would he even want me around afterwards? The best thing I could do was say nothing at all.
When I didn't reply angrily shouting -like I normally would-about how I could get away from my mother anytime I wanted.
The prince looked at me seriously. He spoke softly to me "****, if someone has done something to hurt you… If I've done something to hurt you, please tell me. I can take people being angry at me, my father, my teachers, anyone, anyone but you."
It was as if he was apologising for something he hadn't even done. I gritted my teeth and cast my eyes downward.
"****..." All I saw was my reflection wobbling on the surface of the water in the jug.
I was torn. Why did he have to be so earnest? He shouldn't care about me this much. It didn't make any logical sense to me. Sure we were friends, but this felt… different.
"You have done nothing." I assured him quietly.
I watched as blood from my pricked thumb trickled slowly into the water. It only served to remind me of the smell of blood and death from my vision. The problem was not anything the prince had done but what I have to do that worries me.
"****?" My grip on the pot loosened as I saw the prince's reflection in it, meaning he was very close.
I dropped the pot to the ground splashing the water on our feet and echoing a hollow sound. I felt fingers caress my cheek cupping my chin to lean my head back so I was forced to meet his gaze. It didn't feel forceful, as it wasn't a jerky movement but smooth and gentle. Like he had rehearsed this moment over and over again.
I was surprised by this action to say the least and was having a strong conflict within myself. My head told me this was wrong. That the prince should not even look -let alone touch- a servant like this. On the other hand the pain in my chest was long gone. It felt… good .
"Tell me, please." He spoke it like it was an order but the phrase, made it sound almost like he's begging.
I have never seen the prince come even remotely close to begging. Though he can't seem to get rid of the authoritative aura that hangs around him. My heart thumped in my chest louder and louder. I-it's not proper. My mind screamed at me the beating the only sound I could hear.
This shouldn't be happening!
My heart was racing.
He shouldn't look at me this way!
I stared into the prince's eyes my cheeks heating up. Was it from embarrassment, shame or was it simply because it was the prince? It was him.
"****." I sighed wearily pulling myself away with some effort.
I was tired of keeping secrets. These were the kind of dark secrets that ate you from the inside out. They slowly corroded everything inside you until there was nothing left of who you were. I- I couldn't tell him. Not just yet. I just knew he'd try to stop me.
But the town is my home and I wouldn't stand by while it got destroyed. I looked away from his eyes. Red eyes . Yet another reminder of the blood that will be spilled tonight if I don't stop that Ka. I tilted my head slightly smiling weakly as I pressed my lips together.
"I can't tell you. It wouldn't be a secret if I did." I stated closing eyes to just breathe before opening them again.
I could tell the prince was about to jump into a heated protest. So I put a finger to my lips teasingly as if I was going to shush him like a talkative child. "But I'll let you in on it very soon." That seemed to console him at least somewhat. It was then I felt another presence entering the premise.
I looked at the ground a moment concentrating on it. It only took me a second to figure out who it was.
"I'm sorry. I can't… keep my promise." I mumbled my voice descending to less than a whisper.
I heart aching again at those words leaving my mouth. How I hated this.
"**-"
"PRIIIIIIIIIIINCE~! Where are you~?!" Mana's loud voice reached my ears.
I stepped back from the prince knowing if Mana saw us even this close she'd… jump to conclusions . I most certainly wouldn't be adding any dried grass to that fire.
"I…I must go." I bowed my head to the prince brushing past him.
I couldn't stop now. If I did I might crack.
"Wait ****!" the prince called outstretching a hand to grab my wrist but I had already moved it out of reach.
He would have gone after me but he stayed in one spot seemingly frozen in place. I stopped moving standing still. Perhaps , I thought, I should give him at least a little guidance.
"You should send more guards into the village tonight." I advised him keeping my expression serious.
I didn't miss the look of confusion and disappointment in the prince's eyes. I gave a farewell smile before turning, my hair fluttering in the soft breeze and swiftly exiting the luxurious garden. This way at least if I failed someone else would have the chance to succeed.
I made a silent promise and knew that this one I would keep. If I survived tonight I would tell the prince everything .
-3 rd POV-
"There you are prince. Mahad and I have been looking all over for you! Was **** just here?" Mana chatted away completely unaware of the tension in the air.
Then again she usually was pretty oblivious.
The prince nodded solemnly "She was but… I think something's wrong."
Mana looked around the garden to check no-one else was there, then back at the prince with a worried gaze.
"You noticed too huh? She doesn't stay in one place very long and I haven't seen you two together in ages . Something must be wrong with her. She's been acting strange for about two decans now." Mana whispered to the prince behind her hand, as if she were telling a secret.
The prince blinked at this new information.
"Decans?" the prince repeated to himself.
It seemed as if she'd been acting strange for longer than he'd realised.
"Yeah she's really worried about something, but she won't tell me or Mahad what! So it must be pretty big. Did you get anything out of her?" Mana questioned.
The prince was silent for a moment as he contemplated this.
"Maybe… I'm going." The prince retreated in the opposite direction with narrowed eyes.
Mana was left standing there dumbfounded before walking after him.
"Hey wait! Where are you going?!" Mana yelled to the prince.
She had just found him and now he was running off to Ra knows where else.
"To see the captain of the guard." The prince answered shortly.
Mana didn't even question the response instead choosing to scold the young prince.
"You're supposed to be having a lesson now!" Mana cried running after the prince.
Not that she could really talk.
-.-.-.-
I blinked my eyes my sleeping state leaving me as sunlight streamed in through the window. I moved my eyes around the room that had been provided for me in Pegasus's castle. Sitting up I noted how I wasn't in my pyjamas nor was I under the covers of the bed.
Instead I was just lying on top of the sheet still in my day clothes. This I found peculiar. I didn't remember going to lie on my bed last night. I remembered meditating and doing some training on the sofa and then… and then… nothing. Okay. That's more than peculiar, that's downright weird.
I should remember going to bed but I just couldn't. There was a big blank in my memories right after training. I rubbed my temples as a headache sprang up and started pounding my head like a set of drums. Maybe I had pushed myself too far? Perhaps I had fainted while I was training, but then… how did I get to my bed?
For that to have happened, someone would have had to carry me over. A picture of Yami carrying my unconscious form and laying me gently on the bed popped into my head. I could feel my face starting to heat up so I shook my head furiously to banish the thought.
No.
Nope!
That couldn't have happened, not again, I told myself. The one time that had happened was embarrassing and enraging enough. I didn't want anyone thinking I was weak like that. If they did I would be sure to knock that thought right out of their head.
I could feel my own rage at the thought, took a deep breathe to calm myself and clear my mind. I was very absolutely positively certain I had locked my door last night. So, unless a person had a key they couldn't get in. The idea of fainting when I had only lifted some pillows and lamps was preposterous.
I was surely capable of much more. I narrowed my eyes angrily. I dearly hope Pegasus isn't the cause of this. None the less, it was morning and the final duels would start in an hour or so. I had to get ready. After a shower and a change of clothes I was all bright eyed and bushy tailed.
I glanced at the digital clock on the bedside table watching as it blinked the time at me. There is still some time to go before the duels start. I looked at the door and decided to go see what Yugi was up to. His match with Mai was the first one of the finals and I knew he'd be nervous.
There was a scheduled breakfast so I assumed everyone else would be in the dining or their own room. Yugi would probably be in his room fussing over his deck and driving himself mad. He probably needed a break.
Rummaging through my backpack I found what remained of my food stash, a few granola bars and packs of biscuits. I grasped the food tightly like it was gold or precious gems. No way was I letting Joey get his hungry hands on these or he'll eat all of them.
It was also possible that the food Pegasus served last night was drugged or something. I couldn't put anything past Pegasus. However, no matter how evil and crazy Pegasus was, he seemed like a gracious host. Well for the most part.
I don't think Pegasus would do such a thing when it's so much more fun to toy with us in person. Drugged food was very low on the possibilities list but still a possibility none the less. I hid my bag under the bed where it was out of sight then left the room.
The hall was empty all the doors to my companions rooms were closed. Mai and Tea were probably doing their daily make up routine. Joey and Tristan would be still dead to the world, or stuffing their faces with food yet again. I don't know about Ryou though something told me he was awake.
I could feel his presence moving about in his room getting ready. It was kind of ironic how even though he isn't participating in the finals he was awake and Joey was not. Thinking about what Ryou was doing seemed to trigger my head ache. It came back with a clawing vengeance too, that's for sure.
I shook my head to clear my thoughts which diminished the pain considerable. I shook my head of these thoughts. I had come out to see Yugi. What the others were doing wasn't a concern right now. I tip toed across the hall stealthily hoping I wouldn't disturb anyone.
I'm sure Tea would have a harsh word or two to say if she caught me. I stopped in front of Yugi's door for a moment standing quietly in recognition. There was something about sneaking around in Pegasus's castle like this that felt familiar and once again made my mind throbbed.
It felt like I'd done it before... Shaking my head I thought, not the time to be going off on tangents. I knocked on Yugi's door with a rhythm.
"Hey Yugi are you awake?" I whisper shouted keeping a cautious eye on the hall.
Hopefully Tea hadn't heard me.
"I am. You can come in Keiko." I heard a muffled reply from inside.
I smiled wondering how he had known it was me, when I could barely recognise his voice through the door. Of course he probably also knew by the way I knocked. No one who had anything serious to say would knock like that. I opened the door taking a quick step inside closing it silently behind me before straightening up.
I turned to look at Yugi who was over by the window desk putting his Millennium Puzzle on. I smiled seeing this. It was reassuring, however slight that reassurance may be. I know Yugi was probably still frightened but, having the Millennium Puzzle on his person assured me he'd be fine. Yami would protect him.
I was certain for that seemed to be all Yami wanted to do. Protect people, his friends.
"Good morning Yugi, did you sleep well?" I questioned cheerily.
There was no need to act worried. That would only serve to make him more nervous. If I act carefree as usual, it will make it seem like there's nothing to worry about.
"To tell the truth, I had a bad dream and didn't get a wink of sleep after that." Yugi yawned.
He was still bleary eyed with slight dark circles under his eyes to confirm his statement was true.
"That's no good; even champions need their sleep." I tsked before moving on "But it can't be helped."
It wasn't anyone's fault when things like this happen. I had long since learned to cope with bad dreams and visions by myself. It was slightly troubling though. There weren't many things in Yugi's life that would cause nightmares. He was still innocent, like a child that needed a nightlight in a dark place.
I just hoped that bad dream had nothing to do with Yami. I smiled in a warming way which seemed to relax Yugi as his shoulders dropped a bit.
"No worries, I don't think Mai slept at all. She'd be too busy shaking in her Prada boots waiting for her match with you." I joked.
Yugi smiled chuckling softly though it sounded a bit forced.
"How did you sleep Keiko?" Yugi queried politely in return.
I plopped down on the soft couch leaning against it.
"Pretty good." I sighed stretching.
It wasn't a complete lie which may be why –for once- Yugi didn't pick up on it. I did wake up feeling well rested, even with no idea what had happened the previous night. So I must have gotten at least as much sleep as I usually would otherwise Yugi would have noticed.
"Those beds are so soft compared to how we've been roughing it. It was hard not to fall asleep." I shifted closer to where Yugi stood.
Honestly I hadn't really noticed how soft the beds were but I imagined anything would be better than solid dirt.
"Yeah that's true." Yugi chirped taking a seat next to me on the couch.
I shifted a little hearing a strange CRUNCH from my pockets as I did so. Yugi tilted his head looking at me quizzically.
"Oops I forgot." I sweat dropped.
Digging all of the little snacks I'd brought with me out of my pockets.
"I brought some snacks with me!" I declared showing off the partial crushed snacks.
Well as long as they were still edible it was fine.
"I thought you'd rather skip out on the breakfast Pegasus has ready for us." I spoke knowingly.
Yugi's gaze flickered about somewhat nervously as he nodded in agreement.
"I wanted you to have first dibs before Joey got his hands on them." I explained.
If I were Joey I don't think I'd want anything for breakfast after the amount he ate last night, but since it's Joey he most definitely will.
"Take your pick." Yugi blinked at the food I held out to him.
He probably wasn't feeling hungry but he knew better than to refuse. There was no way I was letting him go out there without eating something. It was for his own good after all. Besides, if Tea got wind of it she'd probably cram the crackers down his throat before the duel begun.
We wouldn't want that to happen now would we?
Finally coming to this conclusion Yugi smiled gratefully and took some "Thank you."
I nodded happily at his gratitude. Yugi looked like he was trying to work something out slowly nibbling on his granola bar. I didn't want to disturb him and cause a train wreck of his thoughts. I ate my own bar in silence happy to just observe.
I set to checking out the room at first with my eyes to see if there was anything askew. There was nothing out of place. It was an exact replica of my room. I laid my head on the back of the sofa and closed my eyes.
This way it would look like I was just dozing but really I was scanning the room aurally to see if there were any dark presences. I didn't find anything expect the wisps of Yugi's yellow aura around the room. There was some around the bed but most strongly around the window desk. I opened my eyes looking at the desk.
On it sat some cards, pens and paper all unused. Presumably this was for strategizing but Yugi never was one for strategizing and nor was I. He and I share the 'work best under pressure' trait I suppose. Which here means not thinking of anything until you're in the actual situation.
I looked back to Yugi who was –to my surprise- watching me. He seemed to realise he was staring becoming flustered and looked away swiftly. I smiled softly at this; it was kind of… cute.
"Yugi, are you nervous ?" I questioned with a teasing smirk.
I knew he was. It was pretty obvious at this point.
"N-nervous!?" He exclaimed glancing back at me a rosy colour dusting his cheeks.
Oh yes because you look so confident.
"About your next duel?" I clarified tilting my head at his reaction.
What else would I have been referring to?
"O-oh. Yeah, I suppose I am." Yugi replies with a sigh his shoulders sagging.
It seemed like the weight on his shoulders that had been shortly lifted was now back.
"Don't worry everything will turn out fine. I'm certain of it." I reassured tussling Yugi's hair.
Yugi huffed jumping away from my hand.
"I hope your right." Yugi mutters.
Yugi stared blankly ahead rubbing the corner of his Millennium Puzzle with a thumb absentmindedly.
"Don't get all worked up about it or you won't be able to think straight." I advised.
Really I wasn't one for being comforting. Being mother goose was more Tea's job but she wasn't here right now. As Yugi's friend it was my job to help give him confidence and keep him calm.
"Let's do something to take your mind off it. I'll… show you a magic trick!" I decided clapping my hands together determined.
I noticed how Yugi visibly perked at the mention of this idea.
"Okay." He agreed happily.
He really was like a child. I went over to the desk taking the cards that were resting on it. They were simple playing cards.
"We can use these since Pegasus was so kind as to provide them." I gripped the pack of cards tightly.
If the pack of cards had been a juice box I probably would have popped it and spilt juice everywhere. I sat on the couch opposite to Yugi and took the deck out of its box.
"Okay then, now I'll shuffle this deck and spread it on the table." I told doing just that.
I then pointed at Yugi with my index finger.
"Now pick a card and look at what it is, but don't let me see it." I instructed smirking mischievously.
Yugi gave me a sideways glace plucking a card from around the middle of the deck. He held it out in front of him looking the card over before holding it against the chest.
"Now what?" he asked curiously a spark of delight in his eyes.
I smiled to myself, like a kid at a carnival.
"Now, I try and guess the card you picked." I divulged.
Which was the customary trick.
"How will you know?" he asked with wide eyes.
Did he really expect me to tell him so easily?
"I'll tell you after." I chuckled.
If I told him now that would kind of ruin the surprise after all.
I gestured at the card he was holding "Look at it twice to make sure you have it right."
Yugi eyed me suspiciously; guarding his card like a dragon guards its treasure. He took another tentative look before hiding it again.
"I know what it is. It hasn't changed." he stated.
Of course not. I wasn't going to use real magic.
"I wasn't going to change it, but now I know for sure the card you have is, the King of hearts."
Yugi's face scrunched up as he tried –and failed- to figure it out how I could tell.
"But you never saw- how did you… are you a mind reader?" he stammered.
I laughed nervously side stepping an answer to that particular question.
"That's not how it works. There is no mind reading involved. The trick is you have to look into the other person's eyes. That will give you the answer." I told.
Yugi stared at me looking completely confused.
"See the light up there is very bright and illuminates the white surface of the card." I explained pointing at the ceiling light.
I then shifted attention away from the ceiling and back down again. I pointed toward Yugi next almost touching him on the nose. The table in between us was only very small after all.
"When you look at the card a reflection of it is shown in your eyes. It's much easier if the person is wearing glasses… but, your eyes are a light colour that makes it relatively simple to see what the card is." I finished with a pleased smile.
Yugi stared so at my finger pointing at him making himself cross eyed as I retracted it. I smiled at how childlike Yugi was. It was quite endearing.
"That's so cool! Can I… have a go?" Yugi questioned excitedly.
I gestured with a wave at my own eyes.
"Well I don't have any glasses on me, but my eyes are a light colour too. That should help." I nodded in affirmation.
I picked a card, positioning it so the light reflected from its surface and looked at directly at it. In my peripheral vision I could see Yugi leaning closer in an effort to see the reflection.
"Emerald green…" Yugi muttered something incomprehensible.
I did a double take not sure if I had heard him correctly.
"What now?" I faltered looking up in surprise.
Yugi jolted backwards "Ahhh- I said, I think I see something, but it's too small to make out."
I gave Yugi a scrutinising look before letting it slide.
"You must have practiced a lot to be able to see it." Yugi sighed disappointed.
If he had something important to say I was sure he'd tell me.
"Not really." I answered simply.
It made me sound quite unusually modest.
"I'm glad though, you don't look nervous anymore." I pointed out.
Yugi scratched the side of his face pink powdering his cheeks once again.
"Um yeah, I guess your distraction worked." he noted averting his gaze.
Yugi stood up suddenly skirting around the couch and moving toward the door.
"It's almost time for the duels to start we should, get going." he decided speedily.
How he knew that without even glancing at the clock I didn't know.
"Hold on a sec! Before we go I have to give you something special." I posed sassily with a hand on my hip.
Only after having grabbed the marker pen off the window side table.
"Give me your hand." I commanded him.
Yugi looked at me hesitantly before holding his hand out to me. I flipped it over and scribbled a drawing on it. Yugi seemed to calm as recognition of this action registered in his eyes.
"You remember? When I did the same thing before you duelled with Seto, right?" I prompted smiling warmly as I cover his hand with my own.
That time seemed so long ago but I was happy it was in the past now.
"Of course I remember." he stated smiling slightly and choosing to stare at the ground.
"Well this is the same thing, only I decided to draw something different this time." I informed him.
I opened my hand to show a backwards six that almost looked like a flame. It was drawn in black ink already drying on the back of his hand.
"It's the sign of the Guardian Magician, my favourite card." I enlightened.
And I prayed it would protect him, no matter what.
"If you're nervous or scared just look at it and remember I've got your back, okay?" I told squeezing Yugi's hand in assurance.
Almost like a real guardian.
Yugi nodded slowly "Thank you Keiko, for everything."
I smiled in return "No worries."
I'll always be there no matter what. It was that moment the door slammed open.
"Yugi! Come on the duels will start-"
Both our heads snapped to the doorway where Tea stood unblinking. A shiver went down my spine as her weight shifted and a tick formed on her forehead. I could feel her gazing pointedly at Yugi and I, at how our hands were joined. I gave a lopsided smirk tussling Yugi's hair once again.
"Time to go~" I sang dropping Yugi's hand.
As I passed through the doorway I mirrored the look Tea was giving me. Believe me I like Tea, consider her a friend, but the friendship speeches and dirty looks are endlessly irritating. There was a bright flash of light and a wind stirred up suddenly even though we inside. In a heart beat Yami was standing in Yugi's place.
I stared over my shoulder at him and he looked at me sideways. I gave him a smile –which he returned- and reassuring nod.
"Let's do it!" Yami agreed confidently.
I'm glad he's so confident. It will balance out Yugi's nervousness. Yami marched toward the doorway so Tea and I moved out of his path quickly. As Yami walked past he clasped onto my hand gripping it tightly and beginning to drag me along with him. I almost fell on my face from surprise before I got in step next to him.
I looked back at the rest of the gang half of whom were shocked and half –cough Tea cough- had a neutral face most likely of passive aggressiveness.
"Well don't just stand there gawking. Get a move on!" I ordered the rest of the group.
That seemed to snap them out of their daze. We all followed as Yami lead us down the halls. Some of us, following more closely than others. I peeked at Yami every now and again. Maybe he was anxious. Not that he'd ever admit that. He was just better at hiding it than Yugi.
In a short time –that in a very cliché felt like a long time- we came to fork in the hall.
"We'll have to cheer you from the balcony Yugi. Only duellists are allowed on the arena floor." Tristan informed us.
That was assumedly so none of us could interfere with the participating duellists.
"Good luck to you three." Tristan wished us well as did the others.
Tea ignored me doing her usual thing saying she was very proud of Yugi and Joey she was. She really was motherly. All the non-challengers left us to go to the balcony. I glanced at Yami's hand grasping mine tightly. He has quite a grip, I noted.
"I've gotta go too guys. My challenge isn't until later so I'll be on the balcony as well." I remembered disappointed.
I was slightly disheartened at this fact but I tried not to let it bother me.
"It's okay we can survive without you." Joey gave me a one eyed thumbs up.
This made me smile. I rolled my eyes at his statement.
"Sure you can Joey, sure you can." I patronized patting him on the shoulder slowly.
Joey looked slightly miffed which made me laugh.
"I know you'll both do splendidly but remember if you lose, you'll have to answer to me." I pointed to myself with my free hand.
Joey shuddered at the thought.
"Remember how scary she was the last time you lost. I don't want to see that again." he told Yami in a quiet tone.
Joey then shook his head waving before going into the duellist waiting room.
"Yami." I called getting his attention which no one seems to have really grasped thus far.
I don't think it was because he was completely uninterested.
"I don't want Yugi to be afraid of you… so make sure you think before you act this time, alright?" I lectured with my arms crossed.
It was probably just because he had a lot on his mind right now.
"But of course." Yami answered smirking.
He grinned like someone who thought they could do no wrong but in actuality was a cocky little demon.
"Don't get cocky now. You don't even have a strategy for your duel against Mai." I scolded trying not to smile while doing so.
Like I said earlier, neither I, nor Yugi or even Yami apparently came up with plans beforehand. Which probably wasn't something to be proud of.
"I don't need one. I know what I'm doing." Yami stated seriously staring at the wall to his right intensely.
It was almost like he was trying to reassure not only me but himself. I studied him my eyes half closed in thought. Yami's eyes were penetrating and yet anxiety swam in their depths. I knew on the inside, Yami, you're just as frightened… that you might hurt someone… someone you care for.
Yami had done much for me in the time I had known about him. I wanted to return the favour. Do for Yami what I had done for Yugi. Only, I wasn't sure what I could do or how I would go about it. Well I knew what a person did when they wanted to be comforting but could I do that.
Just when I thought I probably would never be of any use. I looked into Yami's eyes again and before I could mentally prepare myself my body moved on its own. I didn't really know what I was doing just that I had to do something. That was until I had finally embraced him. I hugged Yami.
I don't know why I thought it would helpful but that's just the problem I didn't think. For once in my life I didn't think it through. I just wanted to offer something that no one else could. For no one else knew Yami existed. I wanted to show that I knew, that I cared and that I trusted Yami. It was quite unusually really.
I never usually to go around hugging people. In my family it was quite rare. My parents were never very touchy feely affectionate and as their daughter nor was I. So I braced myself for the distance to return, like it inevitably would, from a soft shove or a step back. Only it didn't.
All the thoughts that whizzed in my head suddenly went quiet. It was like someone had pulled the plug on whatever was powering my brain. It felt so strange. To have someone wrap their arms around me -around my back and waist- without hesitation that I nearly stepped back in surprise.
My brain sputtered trying to switch itself back on and return to cognitive thinking. If Tea catches us now, all hell would break loose. No, I'd just tell her Yugi was nervous. Besides friends hug all the time and this is no different. I've hugged Yugi before anyway. But this was different. This wasn't Yugi.
It was someone completely different -no matter what anyone else says- it was Yami. I was comfortable with Yugi. I could hug him because I knew how he'd react. How could I possibly know how someone a lot less cuddly and a lot more intimidating would react?
I fought to control the blush that was slowly making its way onto my face.
"Sorry… I shouldn't have done that.. so suddenly." I mumbled looking at the ground to hide my embarrassment.
Why did I feel like this?
"It's… fine." Yami was looking right at me I just knew he was.
Yami's gaze was blazing into me, but he wasn't angry. He didn't mind, he wasn't even fazed. It was a bit enraging. I wish I could be like that. Act like it was nothing. Nothing unusual, even when something told me it wasn't. There was a feeling of familiarity in my chest at the occurrence.
Even so I shook my head dispelling whatever air was between us. Just forget it and move on I commanded myself. I looked up with slightly narrowed eyes from determination.
"Don't worry Yami, you'll definitely win! I know you will…." I trailed.
There was a long pause as we stared each other in the eyes.
Yami nodded in affirmation "I will."
I smiled, then without another moment to spare, I flipped him around and gave him a good encouraging shove toward the waiting room.
"Now go kick some butt!" I shouted grinning and waving enthusiastically.
I saw Yami's expression quickly change to a small smile as he gave a serious nod. I stood very still and watched very quietly in the same spot after he had gone. I put a hand on my head and silently prayed to whatever gods were up there.
Yugi, Yami please help each other.
I let out a loud sigh dropping my hand. I did a one-eighty turn and waltzed off down the hall toward the balcony. Even as I walked my thoughts continued to trail back to that moment. I shook my head, what was wrong with me.
-3rd PoV Yami-
Yami stood in the hallway thinking shortly of what was to come. Mai was a formidable opponent that much was known. He also knew that she could be beaten, as both Keiko and Joey had demonstrated. Yami tilted my head back slightly closing his eyes.
He could feel the presence of his host, Yugi, drifting in the back of the mind. Yugi was still not fully aware of what went on while Yami was in control. However, Yami knew he'd be keeping a tight rein on things during the duel. After what happened last time… Yami didn't blame him.
He let out a deep breath, this time things would be different. If they weren't, the little trust Yugi and his friends had in him would be destroyed, as was their fickle nature. He was lucky they had forgiven him last time. Yami chuckled inwardly, what was he thinking. Yugi hadn't forgiven him, not quite yet.
Not until he knew it wouldn't happen again. Keiko, she had been the only one to forgive him. She was the one who had truly stopped him, broken him out of the trance. The black, hate and vengeful place Yami had been stuck in. A place Yami felt like he knew all too well.
It was a mindset Yami slipped into whenever anger or rage clouded his thoughts. Keiko didn't like it when he was like that. Yami knew, it probably frightened her like it did everyone else. The thought of frightening Keiko made him feel sick to his stomach.
Ashamed.
He was ashamed that such a darkness existed within him. But for all the darkness in him she saw the one spot of light. Keiko knew when he was in control she could see Yami and knew him. An image flashed in Yami's mind of how Keiko had embraced him only a minute ago. He felt a heartbeat loudly in his chest.
Yami put a hand over the spot where the heart was located. He could feel it beating at an irregularly fast rate.
Odd.
Yami shook his head and continued on down the hall joining with the other duellist. Keiko trusted him to protect her friend and help him win.
So he would.
-Keiko's PoV-
I turned a corner sharply bumping smack bang into something very hard. Glancing up I saw snow white hair. Odd I thought Ryou had gone to the balcony with the others. Even after bumping right into him Ryou didn't move an inch and I was stuck rubbing my sore nose. Man Ryou was a lot stronger than he looked.
He can really be solid when he wanted to. Ryou looked over his shoulder his gaze cold as ice for a split second, before he turned toward me with a sheepish smile.
"Sorry Keiko! Y-you took a while so I came to see if you got lost." he explained stammering nervously.
My eyes scanned Ryou's form before I forced a smile. Something was very wrong here. I quickly skirted around Ryou so that he wasn't blocking my path.
"That's nice of you, but I don't get lost. The balcony is only a short distance, and I have a good memory when it comes to these things." I informed him swiftly.
I shifted past Ryou taking quicker than usual steps but Ryou had no trouble keeping pace with me.
"I know." he responded cheerily.
I stopped suddenly my eyes widening slightly in realisation. Yes, I've told Ryou that before. When did I tell him that before? Was it last night? Like that my headache re-emerged. It was so painful it felt like my head was going to split in two. I couldn't help a small groan escaping my lips as I gripped my head with one hand.
"What's wrong?" Ryou asked worry flashing in and out of his eyes, yet he still smiled sweetly.
I was finding it hard to focus so I wasn't sure if I was seeing things correctly.
"I have… the worst headache." I moaned clutching my head with both hands.
It was too much. Things were fluttering in my sight. Black spots were dotting my vision. I tried my best to breathe deeply even though my chest constricted tightly. I squeezed my eyes shut trying to block out the light. It was far too bright and hurt too much for it to be a vision.
"Is that so… then let me guide you?" Ryou sounded rather unsympathetic.
He placed one hand on the small of my back in an attempt to guide me forward. His touch sent a jolt of electricity through my body causing me to snap my eyes open again. It was like a bolt of lightning had struck me then and there and my vision swam.
My perception of the world around me wavered, like ripples of unsteady water. It was a stark similarity to how I my body felt at the moment pain flew over it in wave.
Trapped.
Something was trapped in my head. It was pounding in my head like a large eagle trapped in a small cage thrashing to be free. And suddenly it burst free and my vision went to completely white. All the memories I'd forgotten replayed in my mind. All the things that had happened the previous night.
I was finally able to remember them. Now it all made sense. Something had been blocking the memories from me. So the things that would usually have triggered a memory only triggered a headache instead. I got the sense whoever did this had meant to erase them completely but hadn't been able to.
The best they could do was hinder my ability to recall them. But who would do this? I searched the memories looking for the cause of this. Finally it snapped into place the last memory I had before it all went blank. Bakura! He was the reason I couldn't remember.
My eyes flew open and came to realise I was lying horizontally on the carpeted floor. I blinked pushing myself up slowly until I was sitting up straight. Ryou was hovering over me looking panicked as hell. He clearly had no idea what was going on or what to do about it.
"Keiko are- are you alright?! I-I think you fainted." he announced too loudly for my liking.
I managed to stop myself from glaring at the snowy haired teen harshly. I was positive it was Ryou right now and now one else. But that didn't stop me from imagining lunging for his jugular and choking that thief to death. Ryou offered me his hand in an attempt to help me to my feet.
This time though I could see a slight flicker of lavender in his eyes.
"YOU!" I shouted angrily.
I slapped his hand away rage taking over my actions.
"I don't need your help Ba-Ku-Ra!" I snapped narrowing my eyes.
Of my own accord I got to my feet shakily using the wall rather than the person next to me for support. There was a noticeable spike of dark aura changing from an ocean blue to inky black. Ryou's eyes narrowed considerably turning lighter a few shades and the lavender colour being more prominent.
A toothy malicious grin erupted on his face. The Millennium Ring appeared around his neck, shining as a non-existent wind stirred his hair.
"So you remember, and after I went to the trouble of making you forget. How bothersome." he sighed brushing some hair from his face.
I growled at the spirit of the Ring balling my hands into fists.
"You shouldn't give me reason to hurt you Bakura, because I'll take great pleasure in smacking that smirk right off your face!" I warned completely and utterly serious.
Bakura seemed to pay no attention to this threat at all. He tucked his hands into the pockets of his pants sneering back in the direction I had come.
"You and Yugi seem to be quite close, no?" he queried continuing to smirk.
It was a question which seemingly had nothing to do with the current conversation and it caught me off guard. Yugi was the first one to be genuinely nice to me. Of course we were close. My defensive stance softened with fondness when I thought about it. Everyone else who had approached me that day wore fake smiles.
I knew what they thought; they thought I was stuck up. Just a pretty face or that I was too aggressive. They just wanted to use someone to further themselves. Yugi didn't think that and he never would even though I had been a random girl who shouted at a couple of bullies.
"That is none of your business!" I hissed pushing past Bakura roughly.
I glared at him over my shoulder "Don't think 'cause Yami's busy with a duel that you can get away with anything. I'll be watching you."
I alerted pointing at my two eyes then at him. A worldly known 'I'm watching you ' gesture.
"I'd be honoured to have the attention of a lovely young lady such as yourself." Bakura quipped.
I gave him a distasteful look.
"Don't kid yourself." I scoffed.
If it were someone else I would have hit them over the head. Unfortunately I knew Bakura was dangerous and I didn't want to provoke him while Yami was duelling. I didn't have time for his escapades. I moved forward onto the balcony with the others.
The duel started and it was hard for me to concentrate on what was happening while keeping an eye out for Bakura. From what I did see though, I could tell Yami was having a hard time. Presumably Yugi was so busy worrying about what Yami might do he wasn't focusing on the task at hand, which was defeating Mai.
I hoped they would work things out soon. If they didn't it would mean trouble for the both of them. Now that Yugi was very much aware of Yami that could make it more difficult for him to help. Especially since Yugi didn't seem to trust Yami very much at the moment.
The other half of my attention was devoted to keeping a close eye on Ryou and his actions. Bakura seemed to be residing in the Ring for the moment, as Ryou's aura was the same as it was usually.
"Keiko why aren't you saying anything! Yugi's in trouble!" Tea shrieked at me breaking my train of thought.
I gave her an irritated look before letting it slide. She was right though. Yami's life points were severely close to zero. On top of that Mai had a number of monsters -including Harpy Lady triplets and their Pet Dragon- out on the field. Yami was frozen where he stood like an ice sculpture, totally unsure of what to do.
This seemed to happen often to people in our group for obscure reason.
"I can't just snap Yugi out it. He's letting his fear get the best of him. No-one can convince him not to be afraid, that's something he'll have to do himself. All we can do is encourage him to get over it." I sighed at Tea.
Why did she think I could do something anyway? I wish I could do something more to help Yugi not be afraid right now. Like he did for me… Perhaps all he needed was a bit of a reminder.
"Come on Yugi get your head in the game!" I shouted from the balcony.
Yami sluggishly turned his head to stare at us on the balcony. The rest of our group yelled various cheers in hopes of reaching him.
"You can win!" I mouthed mimicking what Yugi had done for me in my duel against Mai.
Finally I pointed to my right hand getting Yami to in turn look at his own right hand. The one I had drawn the Guardian Magician's symbol on. He stared unblinking for a long time before nodding a silent thank you in my direction. Yami then made his move. Even if Yugi didn't trust Yami, Yugi trusted me and I trusted Yami.
I trusted he would win no doubt about it. And when he did I couldn't help but smile, because as always Yami came through. My happiness as this win was short lived as I had failed to notice Bakura appearing. Once I did though he just smiled at me. It wasn't the sickly sweet smile he had been wearing before.
In fact it was quite the opposite. It was a smile that read, I hate you and I'm going to destroy you slowly and painfully. My heart stung at receiving such a look even if it was from Bakura. I wondered quietly to myself.
What could I possibly have done to make Bakura hate me so much?
YAY!
And so concludes yet another episode of-
*cough*
I mean- that's the end of this chapter
before you go off to read other fanfics elsewhere just a few things
I'm not sure when my next update will be
this is due to a few things such as christmas, laziness and the fact my laptop is being removed from my possesion *sheds silent tear*
so in case it's not before the end of the month
I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
also thanks to my awesome beta reader
Your the best Chibi-chan!
AND
a happy birthday shout out to a special follower
HAPPY BIRTHDAY HINATA-CHAN!
and that's it
THANKS FOR READING!
LEAF OUT!
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