Sorry for the delay, but finally, I am back with a chapter dubbed: The Dangerous Musings of a Zealous Fangirl. Read on and you'll understand why . . .
Warnings: Potential plotholes (ignore them!), a devious Marik, Orangeshipping (sorry, Purpleshippers, but there's hints of Purpleshipping) and smut ahead, please proceed with caution. This chapter is roughly proofed so any errors incurred will be corrected at a later date. Meanwhile, please bear with it.
Disclaimer: I do not own Yu-Gi-Oh!
The music vibrated through the air, the tension manifested with each note played.
The player was oblivious to the aggression in which he was plucking the strings. The slender form was chaos and turmoil personified.
The sky casted over as storm clouds threatened above, but Osiris ignored them. Too engrossed in expelling his anger, his frustration . . . his pain, he ignored the sudden flash of lightning and the distant rumble of thunder—a warning of an approaching storm. The storm brewing in his heart was greater than anything he was experiencing externally. Nothing could compare to the violence from within.
He ignored the first drops of rain as it fell from the darkened sky; his hands continue to sweep frantically across the strings. The sound emitting from the instrument was low and filled with sorrow . . . his sorrow . . . his grief.
Obelisk . . .
The rain masked the tears that fell unhindered down his face, the sound of the heavens opening and lashing down around him drowned out his cries of anguish. His fingers were raw from the abuse; it bled on the strings tainting it briefly red before the rainwater washed it off. Still he continued on, his usual grace was replaced with an unrestrained frenzy that rivalled the raging storm. The intemperate behaviour magnified the turbulence in his heart. Dictated by the movements of his hands, his soaked body swayed in a trance-like state.
Initially, the melody sounded like stream water running over pebbles, light and gentle, then the sound became bolder . . . harsher . . . like a waterfall cascading from great heights, tumbling furiously into the depths below with a mighty crash.
But Osiris did not stop there.
He continued to conjure up a storm with his music, one with massive waves that rose to the skies like oceanic titans who repeatedly smashed against one another.
So absorbed with his performance, Osiris did not notice the person behind him.
Soft, tanned hands covered his own, the long tapered fingers curled over his fingers and stilling it. At first Osiris resisted, his breathing hitched and staggered as he tried to tug his hands free, but the grasp remained steady. It pulled his hands away from the instrument and brought them to his chest. Then strong arms folded around his wet torso and held him, a firm chest pressed into his back as warm breath ghosted over an ear.
"That's enough, my Tempest . . ."
Osiris stiffened, but acceptance soon sunk in and he closed his eyes, allowing his body to melt into the embrace— surrendering it to the authoritative, yet persuasive voice.
Nothing mattered anymore.
Nothing . . .
OoOoO
Ra swiftly carried the trembling prince to his quarters. Upon reaching the royal sleeping chamber, he savagely kicked open the door with toes of his boot and slammed it shut with the heel.
Making a beeline for the chair, he sat down with the trembling form across his lap and began peeling off the wet clothes. Osiris wore a loose, lilac silk robe with a high collar. Ra cursed the complicated hooks that fastened collar, but was relieved that the rest of the elaborate garment was tied with silk ribbons. With only one hand free to remove the garment, he moved with clumsy grace. The heavily soaked clothes made slow work of his efforts, but eventually it lay in a sodden pile on the floor alongside the socks and boots. The pants and undergarment soon followed.
Slowly, he rose with the unresponsive male in his arms and made his way to the large bed, gently depositing Osiris on the surface before dashing off to the adjoining bathroom for a towel. In his haste, he did not stop to appreciate the expanse of pale, flawless, naked skin.
Quickly returning to the bed, Ra applied the towel over the shivering body, drying the damp skin and hair. When he was satisfied with his handiwork, he dropped the towel on the floor and pulled back the covers, placing it around Osiris. Then, slipping an arm under the latter's neck, he pushed out the wet tresses from under the body so it spread out around his head like a fan of moonbeam.
Stepping back, Ra took in the beautiful sight, too entranced to remember to discard his own wet clothing. A faint whimper from the repose male broke the spell and he hurriedly began shedding everything and abandoning it on the floor by his feet before climbing into the bed.
Slipping in between the satin sheets, he slid his body next Osiris' cold one. Lying on his side with his head propped up in the palm of his hand; Ra used his free hand to pull Osiris' body towards himself, turning it sideways so the other's back spooned against his chest. He could feel the small tremors coursing through Osiris. Whether it was from the cold or grief, Ra wasn't sure.
Leaning down, he attempted to comfort Osiris with hushed words, planting soft kisses on the slender neck and bare shoulders, and trying to coax the rigid body to relax with light caresses over the cold, silky skin. A smile flashed across Ra's face when Osiris pushed backwards. Greedy for warmth, the smaller male pressed closer to Ra until there was no space between.
Encouraged by the move, Ra's touch became bolder. Each stroke along Osiris' body increased his desire and fuelled his lust. Fingertips that were content to brush along the upper torso soon moved downwards, sliding across the upper thighs and groin, and eliciting a soft gasp from Osiris. Ra eagerly drank in the sound, just as his lips and tongue eagerly lapped the skin exposed to him. His hand continue to fondle the body beneath him, earnestly kneading and squeezing the supple flesh, as he pressed closer to the compliant form. Moulding his front against the other's back.
In his aroused state, he ground his hardened length against the Osiris' buttocks. The contrast between soft and hard flesh made him groan with anticipation. Osiris responded with a shaky inhale, prompting Ra to seek out the other's cock.
Wrapping his palm and fingers around the semi-erect appendage, Ra teased it with firm tugs. A low moan from Osiris encouraged Ra to increase his pace whilst sliding against Osiris and moving to the rhythm of his strokes. Judging from Osiris' breathing, Ra knew the younger was nearing his climax and he was willing to coax it out of him . . . Until a cold hand grabbed his and stilled the movements.
"Take me," Osiris' voice was raspy, his breathing harsh.
The whispered command rendered Ra motionless, his breathing paused in mid-breath. "What?" he finally breathed out, wanting to make sure he heard Osiris' words correctly.
"I said, 'take me'," Osiris repeated firmly. "Take. Me. Now." Impatiently, the youth rubbed himself against Ra's groin. His intentions clear as the mighty sound of thunder that clashed outside.
Ra chuckled and began to unwind from Osiris and pull away.
The movement startled Osiris, who grabbed the withdrawing arm in panic. "What are you doing?" he demanded rudely.
Successfully prying Osiris' fingers off his arm, Ra sat up and peered down at the agitated male. Osiris had turned around and was on his back glaring at him. Brushing his knuckles along a sculptured cheek, Ra said, "I need to get something to prepare you with."
"I don't need it," Osiris retorted angrily. "Just take me now."
Swift as a flash of lightning, Ra's face darkened. He knew what Osiris wanted to accomplish. He knew Osiris wanted physical pain to overcome the mental pain and anguish he was feeling. It was the reason he was allowed to take liberties with Osiris' body. The knowledge made Ra's anger flare up.
"And you think I will simply indulge in your request while knowing full well how it will hurt you?" Ra sounded very offended.
Osiris pouted and remained silent.
"Fine!" Ra scoffed, throwing off the bedcover and swinging his legs over the edge of the bed. "Go and find someone else to satisfy this kink of yours. I am out of here!"
"No!" Osiris sprung up and clung onto the retreating man. Frantically locking his arms around Ra's chest and pressing his cheek in the space between the shoulder blades. He felt the other tense up. "Please, don't go, Ra," he implored. "Please . . . don't . . . I-I don't want to be alone."
Ra, once again, tried to pry Osiris's arms off him. He was still fuming, but Osiris's desperate plea quelled some of the rage. He bit back the urge to sigh.
Turning his face slightly to the side so he could catch Osiris's image from the corner of his eyes, Ra stated tersely, "I refuse to be a substitute for another person and I refuse to allow you to pretend that it's not me whom you are with. Remember, if I were to inflict pain on you, it is because I will it and not because you wish it, do you understand, Osiris?"
Chastened by the reprimand, Osiris closed his eyes briefly and nodded.
"Good, now release me."
Reluctantly, Osiris complied. Ra turned and cupped Osiris' face with both hands and said, "Tell me what I can use to prepare you with."
Catching Ra's gaze, Osiris' eyes slid to the bathroom and said, "Inside the bathroom, in the first drawer, there is a small vial of scented oil that I sometimes use for my bath. You can use that."
Rewarding the prince with a chaste kiss, Ra got up and headed towards the bathroom, unaffected with the fact that he was stark naked. Unable to tear his eyes away from Ra's tall, athletic and naked form, Osiris blushed to the roots of his hair. It wasn't until Ra reappeared did he look away.
Ra slowly sauntered towards the bed, appreciating the image the other conveyed. The sight of Osiris— sitting on the bed with the lower half of his body modestly covered with the bedcover and his hair spilling over his body and pooling around him—was breath-taking. Noticing the tint of colour on the other's pale cheeks, his lips twisted into smirk.
When reaching the bed, Ra climbed onto it and knelt in front of the waiting male. Placing the vial next to Osiris, he took the latter's face in his hands once more and leaned down to capture those alluring lips. He forsook gentle as soon as Osiris' lips parted to allow his tongue to slip in. He pressed hungrily onto Osiris as he devoured the other's mouth.
Osiris responded in a similar manner. Tilting his head to the side, he pushed his tongue against Ra's; the desire to feel and taste him grew with each thumping heartbeat.
Eventually, they broke off and Ra gently pushed Osiris down on the bed. His body fitting snugly between the latter's parted legs as he hovered over the reclined figure. Wearing a pleased smirk on his face, he ground his arousal against the one beneath him and savoured the reaction with relish.
"Who you want?"
"You."
"And who am I?"
"Ra."
Satisfied with the answer, Ra sat up and reached for the vial of oil. Pouring a small amount in the palm of his left hand, he smeared the three fingers of his right hand thoroughly before coating his erection with the excess. Garnet-hued eyes watched with fascination and dread. The expression Osiris wore resembled that of a scared, skittish animal.
Leaning down, Ra captured Osiris' lips once more. The kiss was to calm Osiris' nerves and to relax him. He was pleased when he felt the tension melt away and Osiris responding eagerly.
Seeing it as his cue, Ra detached his lips from Osiris' and began working his way down Osiris' alabaster skin with feathery kisses, his hands trailing slowly along the torso. On reaching Osiris' arousal, Ra licked the underside of the stiff appendage and kissed the weeping slit before submerging it in his mouth.
The sensation caused Osiris' body to tingle and awaken. He gasped and bucked his hips up towards Ra.
"Nnggh . . ." The sound was extracted from Osiris' throat in a long, drawn out moan. Slender hands ruffled and fisted the short curls as the golden head bobbed up and down on his cock. Closing his eyes, he let the experience consume him, his willing body moving to the other's wicked ministrations and pausing only when he felt Ra circle his entrance with one slickened finger.
Memories of his tryst with Obelisk flooded back to him, but Osiris willed them away. Far from the drunken and clumsy endeavours of Obelisk, Ra was skilled and cautious. His attention was wholly on him, Osiris. His mind wasn't on someone else.
Forcing his body to relax, Osiris felt the long digit slide into his passage and stopping when the knuckle pressed against his rear. The intrusion felt uncomfortable, but it hadn't hurt like his first time.
"Relax, my Tempest," Ra coaxed, his hot breath gliding over the glistening, wet cock as he carefully moved his finger in and out of the opening. "I don't wish to hurt you."
Slowly breathing in and out, Osiris urged his body to obey; it helped when his cock was being devoured once more. Not long after Ra slid another finger in. The digits parted and spread inside him to loosen the tight channel. Once he got used to the feeling, Ra began rotating his fingers inside him, rubbing his inner walls with the pads of his finger. The suction he applied on his cock had lessened somewhat and the overall sensation was less gratifying.
Osiris opened his mouth to protest when a sharp feeling exploded from his groin and up his spine. He arched his back and shrieked Ra's name. Ra chuckled, the vibration from the laughter reverberated around his sensitive organ causing him to groan in pleasure.
"Ahhhh . . . Ra . . ."
Ra continued to tease the cluster of nerves inside Osiris, enjoying the way the younger male's passage twitched and clench around his fingers. Pulling in his cheeks, he began sucking hard on the rigid length in his mouth while carefully inserting the third finger and final finger into the writhing body.
Unfortunately, it wasn't enough to distract Osiris. He twisted and tugged on the gold locks, and hissed aloud.
Ra sucked harder and faster, trying to increase the pleasure for Osiris to compensate for the pain. Thankfully, it was working and soon Ra could feel the other's tension dissolve. Shortly after, Osiris was thrusting his hips up to meet Ra's mouth. Soft moans emitting from his parted lips.
Not wanting to end it so soon, Ra released Osiris' cock and pulled out his fingers. The abandonment provoked a whimper of protest and a glare from the neglected male to which Ra softly chortled.
"Patience," Ra purred as he sat on his haunches, pulling Osiris' lower body towards him and manoeuvring his body between Osiris' open legs once more. With one hand, he stroked the inside of Osiris' thigh while the other held his arousal at the slick entrance. Keeping his eyes on the spread-eagled male, he gently nudged the tip of his erection into the stretched opening and carefully eased his way in.
Osiris closed his eyes and bit down on his lips to stop the cry of pain from escaping. Though it didn't hurt as much as his first time with Obelisk, it still hurt. Ra must have sensed his pain because he stopped once he was completely sheathed within his body. Both were panting slightly. Both were covered in a light sheen of sweat. Osiris could feel the throbbing of Ra's cock inside him. It mirrored the fierce pulsations of the passage where said cock was snuggly nestled in. It in turn, reflected the rapid beating of his heart. He knew Ra was waiting for his body to get used to the initial burn of entry. For someone usually arrogant and selfish, the man was surprisingly considerate and tender.
It was nothing like . . .
Shaking his head, he tried to dispel the train of thought before it could take root in his mind. He knew better than to dismiss Ra for Obelisk. The man had already shown how possessive he was of Osiris' body, he didn't doubt it were true with his mind as well. Ra was never contented with half measures; it was either all or nothing.
Warm fingers pinching his flesh shook Osiris out of his reverie and brought his attention back to Ra. The nobleman was watching him intently with a raised brow and a quizzical expression.
Osiris responded with a tiny smile and small shake of his head. It's nothing, the gestures said. Devoting himself to Ra once more, Osiris wound his legs around the other's hips and dug his heels into the lower back, giving permission for Ra to move.
And move Ra did. Slowly, he withdrew his cock from the moist furnace, but not completely pull it out. With the same amount of care, he slid back in again, loving the way Osiris arched and moaned to the action. The other's reaction spurred him on, making him alive with desire and need.
Repeatedly, he pulled away from the slender body and pushed back in again. Each time Osiris rose to meet him. Going far as dictating the speed with the surge of his hips and the clench of his legs.
Obliging the impatient male, Ra increased his pace, driving into the waiting heat with long, hard thrusts. It was a far cry from the slow lunges he began with. Amber eyes trailed slowly over the pale body underneath him, hands casually caressing it and driving Osiris mad with lust. Smirking, he thumbed the rosy nipples, which peaked from the attention. The temptation to lean down and lick them was great, but it meant breaking their established rhythm. Looking at the way Osiris was thrashing about, he didn't think the sullen royal would appreciate it.
Instead, Ra's hands skimmed down those long trim legs behind him and gripped them by the ankle. Drawing them away from his back, he pulled them to the side and held them spread out in his grasp. Holding Osiris in that position, Ra began plunging faster into the writhing body, slamming his hips, cock and balls into the other's soft and taut flesh as he sought out Osiris' pleasure spot. Each time he dove back into the slick channel, he made sure to change the angle slightly. He wanted the stoic male to lose control again. He wanted to watch Osiris' restraint crumble and disperse into thin air as he wailed his name. After seeing what Osiris was capable of exhibiting, he wanted nothing more than to induce it again and again. It was what he strove for . . . and he was duly rewarded.
"RA!" The scream ricocheted off the walls around them, causing said man to grin ferally. He loved the way Osiris screamed his name. He loved how vocal Osiris was.
Osiris was delirious with pleasure. Clutching tightly to the sheets by the side of his head, he thrashed and squirmed under Ra's thrusts, the white head tossing and turning in ecstasy. He was so close to his climax, his arousal bouncing on his stomach only heightened the sensation.
Bringing a hand down, it snaked its way down his belly and inched towards his cock. Fingers ghosted over the hardened flesh before it was batted away. Ra looked sternly at him.
"Ra . . . " Osiris croaked out. The voice sounded strained and raspy to his ears, and his eyes held a hint of reproach in them. Osiris was about to complain when Ra placed the right leg he was holding over his shoulder and with the free hand, enclosed it around Osiris' cock. The dominating male's rhythm never faltered as he delved deeper into the burning core.
It wrenched a half growl and half moan from Osiris' throat. The fluttering feeling in his lower regions soon built up in pressure, amassing in his groin in tight coils, and waiting for release. Pumping his cock firmly and steadily, Ra was bringing him closer to completion. Like an ignited fuse moving towards the keg of explosives, Osiris felt his climax draw near. Hands, limbs and digits fondled, groped and stroked him. It stoked the fire that fuelled the raging inferno that was burning him up.
"Y-yes . . ." he gasped. "Yes . . . Yes!" Osiris was at the end of his tethers.
"Call my name, my Tempest!" The demand was harsh and brusque. "Call out to the one who is buried deep within your body. Call me!"
Osiris arched his back off the bed. Grunts and gasps were torn from him as he tried to call out to the one who was stimulating him beyond anything he'd experienced before. He swallowed in an attempt to wet his dry throat. His body lifts up on its own accord as he starts his ascent. He was mentally and physically climbing higher and higher with each stroke and thrust.
"Ngh . . ." Osiris licked his lips. With Ra jabbing those sensitive glands inside of him and making him incoherent, he struggles to concentrate on the one thing that's asked of him.
"Osiris?" The predatory growl snaps Osiris out of his disjointedness and the intense stare Ra gave him made his breath hitch with raw anticipation. Ra, he thought lucidly, his fogged mind clearing up enough for him to acknowledge the person was sending sharp spikes of pleasures through his body.
"Ra," he panted. He was so close . . .
Grinning triumphantly, Ra quickened his movements ensuring he pushed hard into the prostate with each thrust whilst his hand worked diligently to bring forth Osiris' orgasm.
"Ra." A whimper was dragged out of Osiris as his body rocked back and forth from the force of Ra's pounding.
"Ra . . ." This time the name was an octave higher, indicating the impending climax.
Enjoying the power he had over Osiris, Ra increased his speed. "Come, my Tempest. Come for me. Let me hear you call my name with your release." With a brutal shove, he buried his cock into the erogenous part of the swollen passage and rocked his hips to massage and stimulate the glands. It produced the desire effect.
"RA!" Osiris screamed Ra's name to the heavens as he came. The tense body jerking from the orgasm as his release leaks out of Ra's hand and splashes over his chest, coating his heated skin with its tepid stickiness.
Taking advantage of Osiris' descent from his high, Ra threw the leg that he was holding over his shoulders and lifted Osiris' lower body higher off the bed thus allowing deeper penetration. He could still feel Osiris spasms contracting around his cock, which meant the latter was going to be blissfully oblivious to all else. With the knowledge he needn't hold back, he slammed furiously into the shuddering body, coaxing his own climax to surface.
It didn't take long. Coupled with his Osiris' twitching and contracting passage clenched painfully around his length and sucking it hard. It wasn't long before he came with Osiris' name spilling from his lips as his seed spilled into Osiris. The greedy orifice milked his cock for all it's worth.
Sighing with contentment, Ra collapsed on top of the smaller male before gathering him in his arms and rolling them over so Osiris was lying on top of him with their limbs entwined loosely around each other. Pushing those damp pale strands away from the flushed face and smoothing them down, Ra pressed a chaste kiss on Osiris' sweaty temple.
"Are you alright?"
The weary male hummed a drowsy response to the question, a smile curling around those swollen lips.
"Then rest for now."
Ra bathed in the warm aftermath of their lovemaking, his hands idly roaming Osiris' languid body. The latter needed rest to recuperate. If there going to be more bouts of lovemaking later, Ra wanted Osiris well rested to endure it. The evening was still young and he should continue to take advantage of Osiris' grief and goodwill. No doubt, once the sun rises, his sweet Tempest's heart and mind will once again belong to another.
Ra inwardly snorted at their predicament. Osiris' love, similar to his own, remained unreciprocated. They both love another who did not love them back. How ironic!
So, after a long night of comforting each other, Ra departed at the crack of dawn, leaving behind an exhausted prince deep in slumber. As Ra predicted, when they met again in the Council Chamber, Osiris refused to look him in the face and meet his eyes. Watching Osiris wallow in remorse and guilt, Ra's only consolation was Obelisk suffered the same treatment. Tempted as he was to goad the guilty male there and then, Ra decided to confront Osiris after the meeting.
But Obelisk beat him to it.
Gritting his teeth, Ra could only watch as Obelisk dragged his beloved away. Anger and jealousy furled around him, enveloping him in its poisonous coils. Only he deserved Osiris' love. Only he respected the strength and the wisdom, Osiris possessed. Only he appreciated the tempest that swirled beneath that seemingly aloof and stoic princely façade. Osiris would one day be his, even if it meant he had to remove all those who held Osiris' affection and stood in his way.
Without another glance at the retreating pair, Ra turned his back and stormed off in the other direction. Memories of their night together were still fresh in his mind. The forbidden feel and taste of Osiris only made Ra more determined to have Osiris by his side. To overcome that violent tempest, he must first become stronger and wiser. Only then, he'd be able to capture and tame that beautiful turbulence.
Ra looked forward to the day when he'd be able to rid or cripple his rivals. Without anyone opposing him, Osiris will belong to him . . . and him alone. He loathed sharing.
O-o-O-o-O
Standing behind the store's counter and leaning on the surface, Anzu tapped her pen on the orange notebook and reread what she wrote. She was rather happy with how the scene had worked out in the end. Hopefully, through her words, her readers would agree that she managed to capture the essence that's Orangeshipping and would love the pair as much as she did.
After seeing Marik and Yami together at the press conference and hearing them play out the Broken Bonds scene, she was more convinced than ever that they were truly meant to be. The way Marik looked at Yami and the way he teased him revealed to the world how he felt about him. One could discern the Egyptian was extra playful and flirty with his kouhai than usual. It was as if he wanted Yami's attention all to himself, and for that, she could not help but love the couple more. There was something so cute about them. Anzu practically drooled over the possibility of a real life romance between the voice actors of her OTP.
Clicking her pen several times and then twirling it between her fingers and thumb, she continued to let her muse distract her. It was four in the morning and business at the store was dead. Anzu suspected it might have something to do with the bespectacled guy with the bowl haircut the store manager employed. Weevil Underwood was creepy as the bugs he professed to love. It made her want to grab a can of bug spray from the household aisle and apply it directly to him! If that didn't work, there was always the fly squatter!
Moving her feet slightly, Anzu shifted to a more comfortable position although she continued to lean on the counter. Luckily, most of the chores had been completed and her shift partner was on his break, which left her to deliberate in peace. In an hour's time the deliveries will begin to trickle through and the rush hour will begin at six.
She missed Yami very much. She longed for the carefree time they shared before he shot to fame. Pre-Broken Bonds, or pre-BB as she nicknamed it, held fond memories for her. There were advantages of being an anonymous actor; it enabled them to have quality time together without being interrupted. It wasn't like that she loathed sharing Yami with others, she was happy that people were beginning to recognise Yami's talent and take an interest in him. However, where anonymity provided peace and solitude for Yami, fame brought about chaos, squealing and harassment.
Now everyone wanted a piece of Yami.
Anzu chewed the top of her pen and sighed. Most requests—the videos and photos, autographs and the odd sound clip—where harmless. Yami bore those with the dignity of a martyr. A quiet, suffering martyr.
Being a big fan herself, Anzu could understand the others enthusiasm perfectly. She could even relate to their disappointment when Yami turned down a request. But some things irked her more than others and Anzu knew what they were. It was those personal and intimate questions that made her seethe in silent rage. She hated the way strangers and colleagues alike would try to intrude on Yami's private life, giving no consideration to his privacy and personal space. Suddenly, everybody wanted to be his friend. Suddenly, he was interesting. It triggered the protective side of her. Her colleagues called her "Mother Hen" because of it.
Huffing quietly to herself, she doodled a little at the bottom of the page, writing "Orangeshipping FTW" in her neat, flowery hand, and decorating it with little hearts and kisses.
When it came to Yami, Anzu couldn't help being protective. The guy was one of the most caring and selfless people she knew. The fact that he doted on his little brother only made him nobler in her eyes. Why she wanted him to be with someone like Marik was beyond her. Why she would want to pair her friend with another man instead of a woman was completely illogical especially when he never showed any inclination he leant that way. Admittedly, she was sure it had a lot to do with those BLCDs Yami did. As horrible it may sound, she somehow could not imagine him being intimate with a woman. It felt wrong. Anzu cursed her yaoi fangirliness.
Despite Yami's inner strength and steadfastness, she could see he was crying out for love. For all his sacrifices, Yami deserved to be loved and protected. It was why she and Yuugi hen-pecked him so much.
If Anzu were honest with herself, Yami would be perfect with the likes of him. He was influential and fearless. He protected Yami from afar. She studied the press conference video enough times to see how defensive he was of Yami. Those small gestures and expressions were easily overlooked if one were not looking for them, yet they were all too obvious to see if one looked closely. It was more apparent after the fan greet-and–meet event. Thinking no one would notice, his eyes kept sliding towards her friend. Call her over-imaginative, but Anzu wasn't sure if Kaiba was being protective of the newbie—his latest investment—or if there was something deeper. She hoped it wasn't the latter.
The Orangeshipping versus Purpleshipping video did nothing to allay her fears. Anzu studied it enough to see there was something more meaningful . . . more deeper lurking beneath those actions and words. If she didn't love Orangeshipping so much, she would have converted to Purpleshipping instantly. How could Osiris resist such provocation—such sexiness? Kaiba made a convincing wooer. No wonder Yami melted to the core. She teased him for the scene. Asides denying there was anything between them; he refused to speak of the matter. Whatever passed between him and Kaiba in that performance remained a secret.
Anzu felt indignant for Marik though. Had he known it was all's fair in love and war, she was sure he would have upped his game. Marik played a very convincing and sensuous Ra, but Kaiba was well, Kaiba. He was all seduction and temptation. She often wondered how much of that performance was acting and how much of it reflected real feelings. It only deepened the mystery.
Marik's intentions, on the other hand, were very obvious; everyone could see he adored his "Yami-chan". It was amusing how his fans now refer Yami as "Yami-chan" too. It was rather endearing. Needless to say, Yami got asked if he was dating Marik repeatedly. It was funny to see his horrified reaction and the ensuing blushes from the teasing. The poor guy was so unused to the attention that he begged Anzu to help him.
With unrivalled fanaticism, Anzu dug through her cosplay props and came up with the perfect disguise . . . well, initially she wanted Yami to cross-dress—that would have been the ultimate disguise—but Yami wouldn't have any of it! She distinctively remembered him crossing his arms on his chest and glaring at her!
Pouting, Anzu was a little miffed with her failure. She was so close to accomplishing it! She even had the colour scheme worked out in her head.
In the end, she had to be content with stuffing Yami's spiky hair in brown wig and shove that wig under a large beanie hat to keep it all in place. Green contact lenses were used to disguise the colour of his eyes and glasses with thick, black-rimmed frames were added to throw people off. She wanted to make him wear buckteeth as well, but he stubbornly put his foot down, saying he was tortured enough without having to look goofy on top of it. Much to Anzu's disappointment, she reluctantly agreed to forgo the teeth.
Persuading their manager to agree was an easy matter. The countless amount of people milling around Yami and not purchasing anything was exasperating. Not to mention the staff wanting to swap their day shifts with the night ones when they discovered the nights Yami worked. It was complete and utter chaos. With the approval of Sudo-san, Yami became the part-timer, Miyazaki or Miya-kun as Anzu called him. It was an anagram of Yami.
The disguise was an instant success! None was the wiser when it came to the latest nerdy employee with the girlish nickname, and certainly no one spared him a second glance. Luckily for Yami, being a voice actor came in handy and he was able to fool everyone with a change of voice. He only spoke to Anzu in his real voice when there was no one was around to hear him.
Anzu hugged herself. She felt privileged to be an active apart of Yami's life and she hoped they would remain friends after he's left his job from the store. Regardless, she'll continue to be a staunch supporter of his no matter the outcome. She was even in cohorts with Yuugi on establishing a fan club for Yami. Both agreed that Yami could do with the exposure. They were debating on how far they could go with the childhood pictures and embarrassing stuff without Yami slaughtering them.
Yuugi being the techno savvy was in charge of the web design and stuff whereas Anzu was in charge of contents. Both were the administrators for the site though Yuugi will be working under the alias "Aibou-chan". He didn't want fans to get personal if they knew he was related to Yami. Overall, things were going swimmingly and the site was going to be ready before Broken Bonds was aired in a fortnight's time. It was a pity Yuugi couldn't make it home for that. The show was going to be aired on Wednesday during Golden Time* and he was back in Domino City on Friday night. Both brothers were very vocal about their disappointment.
Anzu was going to suggest to Yami to watch the opening show together, but Yami mentioned something about the Broken Bonds cast wanting to do something together for the event. Her friend couldn't understand why they were fussing over a forty-minute show. Nothing was set in stone yet, but according to Yami, the event was going to take place at either Marik's house, Kaiba's house or at Otogi's restaurant. Anzu was immensely jealous of the fun the cast were going to have. Their camaraderie was enviable and she was happy Yami was a part of it. He certainly earned his place amongst the stars and she hoped he would continue to shine amongst them.
Sighing forlornly, Anzu turned her attention to the brightest star of all and a deep blush crept along her face. After meeting the Ice Prince in person, she couldn't help but feel affected by it. Kaiba Seto had unknowingly left a memorable impression when he unwittingly exposed a softer side of him that made her ache with longing.
It wasn't hard to fall in love with Kaiba Seto. The fact that he was sexy, cool, handsome and so unattainable made him more desirable. It was a common reaction to those who've met the man and Anzu was no different. It was strange coming from a person who tends only to focus on fictional characters and not real people. Now, she's member of his official fan club plus another three unofficial ones. She grudgingly had to admit that life was about to get very hectic for her. With the addition of fanfiction, Marik's fan club and Yami's fan club, it wasn't going to be easy to juggle all these interests and deal with real life.
Was she biting off more than she can chew?
Tapping a random beat on her notebook with the top of her pen, she huffed aloud. Yami was leaving by the end of the week; his last shift was on Saturday and he had Sunday off. They were going to meet up and have an early dinner. Yami insisted it was his treat. It made Anzu happy to think Yami thought of her; it was very rare for him to get the time off. According to Yami, he had to beg, grovel and sell his soul for that break. She thought it was really sweet of him.
Suddenly, an idea popped into her head and she instantly brightened up. As impossible as it may be, perhaps Yami could pass a letter to Kaiba for her? The chances of anything resulting from it are slim as her shipping Obelisk and Kisara, but it was worth a try, right? It wasn't like she anything to lose.
Inwardly nodding to herself, Anzu straightened up and jotted a word down in her notebook before shutting it.
The word she wrote was a name.
And the name was . . . Seto.
O-o-O-o-O
"Yami?"
Yami looked at the smiling brunette opposite him and he felt his heart lurch forward. He had been edgy and nervous the whole day because of this "date". He wanted everything to be perfect and had been meticulous with his appearance and had booked a table in advance at this Japanese restaurant he read good reviews for. The prices weren't overly exaggerated and the place was clean and modest. Of course, it wasn't anything like that wonderful Italian place Kaiba took him. That was still out of his league for the time being, but hopefully, if all things work out, he'll be able to take Anzu when he gets paid in a fortnight's time.
Tilting his head slightly to one side, Yami looked at his companion and returned her smile. "Yes?" he replied.
"You know how you are close with Kaiba-sensei, right?" Anzu sounded anxious when she spoke up.
Yami's smile twitched and froze on his face, his brows knitting together in a bemused frown. "Well, I wouldn't say we are close," he began, which technically correct since they had returned to their "professional" status after that moment of man-to-man hotness in the Otaku Monthly interview. It bothered Yami that Kaiba could resume that cold and aloof front after mind-fucking him with those words and gestures.
Marik, on the other hand, was completely the opposite of the frosty man. If that man quoted, "Come with me . . ." one more time, Yami was going to kick him in the nuts!
Yuugi had teased him mercilessly over phone regarding the video. Recalling the conversation made him cringe . . .
"Wow, Nii-chan, who'd think your Osiris would be that popular? Kudos for having two hot men fighting over you!"
Yami rolled his eyes. "You mean fighting over Osiris, Yuugi, not me."
An airy laugh floated through the handset. "No, I am pretty sure it was you the pair was fighting over."
Closing his eyes and massaging his temple, Yami sighed exasperatedly to his brother's declaration. "It's clear you've misinterpret the situation. We were acting, Yuugi. You know, pretending to be the characters from the anime."
A rude snort was heard over the line, which made Yami grimace. Yuugi was preparing to counter him.
"Since when did Ra become lewd and flirty with Osiris?" Yuugi retorted cheekily. Yami could hear the laughter in his words.
"Since the interviewer challenged Marik and Kaiba to play Ra and woo Osiris to the dark side!"
"And you went along with it?"
"I didn't exactly have a choice in the matter!" Yami huffed peevishly. "The whole thing warped into some kind of piss-war between two extremely egoistic males, egged on by one over-zealous female BL fan! I can assure you the decision had nothing to with me. I was a victim caught between the crossfire!"
"They were molesting you, Nii-chan."
"They were using all means necessary to persuade Osiris to join Ra."
"Sure looks like molesting to me."
"It was acting, Yuugi!"
"Well, seems like Marik-sensei and Kaiba-sensei were putting their hearts into those lines. The girls at university can't stop squeeing about it. Now they all want to know you."
"You mean Osiris?"
"No, you, Nii-chan."
"We were re-enacting a scene!"
"Well, you can tell them that! You're like their idol now. I'd watch out for fanfics if I were you," Yuugi snickered. "I have a feeling there's going to be a barrage of BL porn involving you and a certain voice actor or actors."
"I can't believe this!" Yami groaned, palming his face. "We were acting! How does a few lines lead to such preposterous assumptions? Are people that gullible?"
"Oh, I don't know. You all look rather convincing and that's what fuelling everyone's imaginations, I guess."
"We were acting!"
"Sure, Nii-chan, you keep telling yourself that. I don't remember Ra getting all touchy-feely towards Osiris . . ." there was a pause, "nor do I remember Osiris looking all googly-eyes when Ra made that proposal in the manga either."
"I am sure canon Osiris wasn't being pressured by two hentai—one male and one female—and a Ra pretender who happens to be one's boss, at the time either," a disgruntled Yami defended. Yuugi's ribbing was irritating him. "I was an unwilling participant!"
"And your reaction at the end to Kaiba-sensei's performance . . . where you leaned towards him, certainly screamed 'reluctant victim' to the world . . . not!" teased Yuugi. "I am glad you only voice act because if you had to really act, your 'unwilling participant' wasn't going to fool anyone. You were practically swooning."
" . . . "
"If it were any consolation to you, the scenes were awesome! It's managed to attract a lot of attention to the Purple and Orange cause and gained you a few followers."
"That's not what I wish to hear, Yuugi," Yami groaned. It was true; he didn't wished to be renowned as the dude who Kaiba and Marik were flirting with. It was bad enough with his BL history; he didn't need to encourage more unsavoury publicity.
"Then would it make you feel any better if I said that you were hot with Kaiba-sensei and Marik-sensei?"
"Yuugi . . ." Yami warned.
"Alright, alright," Yuugi soothed gently. Yami exhaled a relieved breath. A change of subject was thankfully on the horizon . . . or so he thought.
"So, Nii-chan," Yuugi began merrily, "are you shipping Orange or Purple?"
Yami headdesk the table.
Coughing lightly to cover his annoyance, Yami cleared his throat before replying to Anzu. "We are merely acquaintances and nothing more." The frown deepened as suspicion began entering his mind. "Why? What do you wish to know?"
Anzu licked her lips nervously and played with her napkin. "You know we are close . . . like siblings . . . Well, um, I was wondering if . . ." She paused, turned and started rummaging through her handbag. Moments later, she pulled out a pink envelope, placed it on the table and slid it towards him. "Do you think you can give this letter to Kaiba-sensei for me?"
Yami lost the rest of the conversation after the "we are close like siblings" part.
Siblings? Like brother and sister?
He stared unseeingly at the envelope with the name "Kaiba-sensei" written on it, the bitter feeling of jealousy and disappointment raining down on him and making him numb.
What the hell! Siblings? Not boyfriend and girlfriend, but siblings?
"If it's not possible, then it's no big deal. I can continue to worship Kaiba-sensei from afar."
Anzu's voice cut through Yami's frustration.
Picking up the letter and placing it in the inside pocket of his jacket, Yami mumbled some appropriate reply that seemed to appease his suddenly crush-turned-sister. However, internally he was in turmoil. He was a wreck. Looking back, Yami wondered if this was what Kaiba felt when he said he was going to pursue Anzu. Was this how it was like to have his hopes crushed and expectations grounded to dust? The date that he painstakingly planned, the silver necklace with the heart-shaped pendant he was going to give her after her acceptance and the romantic walk in the park afterwards, it was never going to happen. And seeing how happy Anzu was babbling about her idol, Yami didn't have the heart to ruin the mood.
Seriously? Siblings? That's not how he felt about Anzu, but he wasn't about to say so. It was hard not to fall prey to someone like Kaiba. Even he wasn't immune to the man's charisma and magnetic presence.
Putting on a brave face, Yami clasped his trembling hands under the table and prayed for the meal to be over.
O-o-O-o-O
"Now, let's see what Yami-chan is doing on his day off," Marik quipped as he whipped out his cell. He hummed happily to himself as he dialled Yami's number.
Kaiba was busy peering at his phone as if there was something of immense interest to him. He glowered as he listened for Yami to answer. It was the latter's day off and Kaiba had a rough idea who he was spending it with. It made him restless and jumpy the whole day.
"Yami-chan!" Marik cooed, shortly. "What are you doing? Did you miss me? Did you, did you, did you?"
The ecstatic male's meaningless prattle grated on Kaiba's nerves.
"Wait, what happened, Yami-chan?" Marik's sudden sober tone caused Kaiba to suddenly look up and be on alert; it wasn't like the playful man to be addressing Yami in a serious manner. The fact that he was, indicated something was amiss. "Wait, are you drunk by any chance?"
Kaiba was now all ears; his earlier indifference disintegrated at the mention of "What happened . . .?" and "Drunk". He wasn't even pretending to be preoccupied and seemingly not eavesdropping anymore. He was staring at Marik, wearing an inquisitive look on his face.
The latter's furrowed his brow as he listened to Yami. "Look, where are you now?" he enquired. "In Domino Park. Okay, where in exactly in Domino Park? Any hints or landmarks, a playground, perhaps? O-kay . . . there are trees . . . Um-hmmm . . . lots of them . . . " Marik nodded his head gravely.
Kaiba palmed his face in exasperation. The direction of the conversation was pathetic, to say the least, and he itched to snatch the phone off the idiot and demand for Yami's exact location.
"I tell you what," Marik interjected after a while. He was vexed he wasn't getting a satisfactory or coherent answer from the intoxicated man. "Remain where you are and don't go anywhere. Since you are completely plastered, it is not safe for you to be wandering around in that state. I swear, for the trouble you are causing, I am so going to have my wicked way with you when I find you!"
Kaiba arched a brow at the lewdness.
"WHAT!" Marik cried out in astonishment. "I can do whatever I want!"
Kaiba's eyes widened to saucers.
"Now listen very carefully, Yami-chan. Do not move from the spot and do not talk to or follow strangers no matter what they offer you: money, candy . . ." The blond paused and then rolled his eyes, "No, not even takyaki—especially takyaki! Your chastity is mine, Yami-chan! So don't go anywhere, you got that?"
What the fuck?! Kaiba glared at his lecherous companion.
"Yeah, I am coming to fetch you now, okay? Stay put. Good. See you in a mo," Marik hung up and began to make a hurried exit.
Kaiba caught the Egyptian by the arm and stopped him. "Not so fast, Marik!" he hissed menacingly, his long fingers gripping the slender arm tightly. "What the fuck is going on with Mutou?"
As much Marik loathed informing Kaiba of the situation with Yami, he knew he would not be able to get away if he didn't. With a lot of reluctance, he said, "Yami is completely shitfaced and is loitering somewhere around Domino Park. It sounds like he got jilted by some girl and got piss drunk over it. Now, if you'll excuse me, I had better go and rescue him before someone takes him to a love hotel and do naughty things to him." He detached himself from Kaiba's grip and strode to the door.
Kaiba promptly followed suit.
"What you coming as well?" Marik asked, glancing over his shoulder. Then with a grin, he added, "Wanna take advantage of Yami-chan's intoxicated state?"
"Not everyone's as fucking depraved as you, Marik!" Kaiba growled, quickening his pace.
"Say what you like, but Yami-chan said I could do whatever I like when I find him so . . ." The leer that accompanied the words made Kaiba almost break out into a sprint, leaving the pervert behind to eat his dust. "I'll tell you what Kaiba, let's have a wager. Whoever gets to Yami-chan first, claims his prize. How does that sound to you?"
"Yami is not a prize, you dirty-minded bastard," spat the taller man as he stepped out of the building. In his haste, the slip of the name went unnoticed by Kaiba, but not Marik.
"Yeah, yeah . . . Whatever," Marik chuckled, waving his hand dismissively. "May the best man win!" With that said, he went in the opposite direction.
Kaiba practically ran towards his car.
O-o-O-o-O
Footsteps approached the unconscious figure lying sideways across the park bench. With each tread, the gravel crunched beneath his feet noisily, but the figure did not hear nor did he stir.
Stopping short of the wooden seat, the man dropped to his haunches. Gentle fingers gently pushed the golden bangs away from the still face. Bending forward, the man placed a light kiss on the slight parted lips and then pulled back, a triumphant smirk gracing his handsome face.
"Found you, Ya-mi-chan."
~To Be Continued~
O-o-O-o-O
Author's Note: Firstly, yes, it's a horrid, horrid place to stop, and yep, it's mean of me but I have always intended to stop here when I wrote part of the last scene back in November 2011. However, since I have a Thor fic to complete (Chibi's kicking my ass!) and Enslaved to update next on my schedule, I don't know when I'll get the time to update Voices again.
If I were honest with myself, I found this chapter lacking, but, at the same time, I am unwilling to keep hanging on to it in hopes that it will improve. With persistent headaches due to the pain in my neck and shoulders, I found it had to concentrate. At the mo, my head feels like it's been stuffed with cotton wool and its hindering progress. Please forgive me if this chapter is disappointing. Hopefully, the next chapter will be better~.
Secondly, I have made a poll for Orangeshipping and Purpleshipping so get voting. It'll be interesting to see which pairing is more popular.
Thirdly, I would like to introduce everyone to the Yugioh Fandom Awards site where " . . . the purpose of the Yugioh Fandom Awards is to recognise outstanding fanfiction for Kazuki Takahashi's Yugioh through awards, and to operate a fanfiction database to aid the discriminating readers the best fanfiction and fan art."
Every quarterly, readers/members will be able to nominate stories that they believe should be recognised for it's outstanding quality and be awarded accordingly. It gives readers an opportunity to share their favourite fics (subject to meeting certain conditions, of course) and allow the author recognition in the process.
It is unfortunate I couldn't manage to update before the closing date for this quarter's entries, but I hope to see more Prideshipping stories nominated in the next quarter in three months time. Do check out the site, the link is on my profile page.
O-o-O-o-O
*Golden Time: Prime TV hours between 19:00 – 21:00.
Replies to unsigned reviews, which will be removed to my dA account once it's been read:
Kendal:
Wow, thank you for your encouraging words! You have no idea how happy it makes me feel when readers take the time to let me know their thoughts on the fic/chapter. It's really motivating. Oh, another Purpleshipper added to the fray, it'll be interesting to see who ships what. I did that poll now, so cast your vote. Thank you for your review. It is deeply appreciated. *bows*
~Ariana:
Happy New Year to you and I hope you have an easy 2014 with your studies.
Hey, who wouldn't want to be reading fanfics and sleeping? Ah, that would be bliss for me. Lol, I checked out that vid you suggested and I can't see that happening with the Orange and Purpleshipping. We have two of the most dominating females in YGO spearheading rival shippings, do you think it'll ease up? It'll only result in more hilarity (for readers and Marik), pain and suffering (for Yami-piggy-in-the-middle) and crazy animosity (Anzu and Rebecca). What could possibly go wrong? *evil grin*
Yami is biased because of his feelings for Kaiba, so yeah, he's a Purpleshipper . . . and a closet one because he'll offend Anzu otherwise. Mind you, after this chapter, I don't think it matters if the truth came out. He'll only piss off Marik, right?
Boo, to no kitty references and yay, to your kittens! Awww . . . your kittens sound adorable! Poor Yeti and your poor shoes! I bet they'll miss them when you go back to uni. Oooohh . . . "evil little minions of doom"? Bwahahahahaha, Marik should use them to win over Yami's heart. I mean, who wouldn't love cute fluffy white kittens, right? Especially if one has blues eyes . . . Mwahahahahaha . . . Kaiba's eyes . . . oops, that plan just backfired! *snickers*
Yes, all hail active plunnies! X
~Shiroi no Yami:
I am so pleased you enjoyed this chapter.
I have to agree with you about canon!Yami's wardrobe. It's rather nice to depict him in something other than that blue outfit of his, though in saying that, at least it's a sexier version of Yuugi's. I'd cry if Yami had to wear Yuugi's version of that uniform.
Lol, I think it's funny that "fish" reminds you of taiyaki/Tamishipping. It's mentioned in this chapter too, so there's more reason for your sister to be worried for you and fear for your insanity! *grins*
Awww . . . I am glad you liked the ribbon BB scene. That ribbon will remain one of Osiris' most treasured items and bane to Ra's peace and happiness. Because of Osiris' attachment to it, Ra gets very jealous.
Marik actually does possess maturity, but one has to dig deeper to see it. He can't help being a pervert and lewd because he loves teasing Yami. The latter's reaction tends to goads him into behaving worse than he is. The same can be said for Kaiba. Marik loves fighting with him too. It pleases him to no ends to ruffle Kaiba's feathers and he does that by teasing/baiting/tormenting Yami. The reaction he gets is priceless, so bear that in mind when you're reading the dialogue between him and Kaiba in this chapter.
I did have to think hard when choosing the trio's favourite scene. I had to consider why the scene was their favourite and decided to go with the ones that held sentimental value to the characters. Yami's one was a no brainer. He fell in love with Obelisk's lines from the moment he heard them. It is about wanting that protection and unconditional love that was offered. Looking at his background, it's no wonder he desires that stability and security so much. Besides, he's such a closet romantic!
Kaiba, like you pointed out, loved the teasing aspect of his fave scene. It also reminded him of the moments they shared before and after it. Yes, I agree that he can see the similarities between him x Yami, and Obelisk x Osiris when applied to certain situations, and he can certainly relate to that tantalising relationship they share as well. Furthermore, Kaiba loves the complexity that is Yami, who like Osiris, can be rather unpredictable. *cough-explosive-temper-cough* Plus, both can be bribed with sweets!
Ah, I actually hadn't thought of Marik wanting someone to pursue him when he strayed . . . it's like wanting an anchor to his drifting boat. I like that notion very much. Well done, you~! *hugs*
Yay! I delighted the wooing scene made you happy! Trust me, I loved writing it just as much! I think Himekoji-san just about reacted the way we all would have. And yes, she a total fangirl. I enjoyed portraying her. I think there's a little of us in that eager BL fan. As for the way she asked your question, that's how I imagined you to be when you wrote it. I am sure you were basking in the knowledge that it was going to cause some kinda controversy, if not trigger some form of awkwardness for the men. Poor Yami thought it to be suicidal because to say he didn't like anyone was a lie and people would be mad at him. To admit he liked Kaiba would mean he'd have to put up with the other's superior smugness AND Marik's "why-you-no-love-me" whining, the latter would be the death of him. And finally, for Yami to say he liked Marik more would also be a lie and Kaiba would glare him to death, so yeah, suicidal.
Kaiba's denial is basically covering his ass and Yami's too. We don't want Amelda to get all touchy about the subject again now, do we? *grin*
Oh yes, I would love to do that Osiris cross-dressing scene just so the others (cast) can tease Yami about it. Also there'll be Obelisk teasing Osiris too . . . *waggle eyebrows*
It'll be interesting to see the results of the Orangeshipping vs Purpleshipping poll. I know there are quite a few Orange fans out there and I can see you are smitten with it. I hope you liked the Orangeshipping scene and that it gave you something to squee about in this chapter.
Incidentally, the Yami and Yuugi scene was a last minute thing. Initially, it wasn't there in the first draft. I added it in when I was proofing it. I thought everyone would appreciate a little more Yami-ness in this chapter. I like depicting a cheeky Yuugi; it shows how close the two are when they can talk to each other without inhibitions and restraints. Lol, Yuugi as "Nii-chan's virtue protector" is hilarious. Don't you wish he were around now? *wink*
To answer your question: yes, Yami saying "except Kaiba" would make Kaiba even more conceited and we can't have that. *evil laugh*
Anyhow . . . wow, look at the length of this reply. I always look forward to hearing from you. It doesn't matter if it's late. I am glad you are able to read this; to read your thoughts is a huge bonus for me. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for the effort. I truly appreciate it. *clings and huggles*
~rininlightblue:
Hey, it's good to hear from you again! And no, I haven't forgotten you since I sometimes look back at the past reviews for inspiration. I am glad you're still following the story though. At least, I know I haven't done something awful to drive you away. When I think I might have upset readers that they've stopped commenting, it makes me insecure. But, it good to know it isn't the case. Hooray!
Hahahaha, I think all of us were reacting like Himekoji-san. It's the fangirl in us!
For some bizarre reason, I couldn't help but think that every time the name "Yami" was mentioned in the interview, Marik would comment on it. He is obsessed with "Yami" very much.
To be honest, I am one very impatient reader. I check the fandoms I follow daily and with every chance I get, in case there's an update that I am unaware of, so I understand the feelings of the followers of this fic. I'd be grumpy if my fave fic didn't update for two months, which is why I keep apologising and post super-long chapters when I do update. I hope it makes up for the fact I've not updated for so long. The next chapter could take longer to update because I need to complete a Thor fic plus update my Casteshipping fic too. I hate doing this to my readers, but as of late, I find myself struggling with writing. I can't seem to find the time to indulge myself like I used to. It's a shame really.
I hope you overcome your writer's block. It's a pain to suffer from it. I don't tend to have that problem since the ideas are there; I just need time and energy to get them out of my head and onto a document.
Good Luck with your writing and thank you for you lovely review. *hugs*
~Sameh:
I hope this chapter provided you with some consolation . . . or maybe not. *flees*
Well, we finally get a glimpse of what Yuugi thinks of this fiasco and I enjoyed writing his reaction very much. Yes, I couldn't agree with you more, it is definitely poor, poor Yami when he's being "shoved and pushed" out of the closet, LMAO! He can't deny and hide now, mwahahahahaha . . .
Lol, I am surprised you think my cliff-hangers are good. Most would think them evil . . . like the one in this chapter. *cackles* But seriously, thank you very much for your encouraging and sweet words. It's better late than never, so don't feel you need to apologise for being late for reviewing. Your efforts mean a lot to me and it's deeply appreciated. It's everybody's inspiring words that keep me going and I never tire of reading them. So thank you~. *glomps*