Alia: Right. I'm sorry. There's nothing else to say, but I had work, other stories, and a difficult decision to make. But I've updated and that's all that matters.

VITAL STORY INFORMATION: Though my readers are brilliant, I blame myself for not properly expressing a few things that probably haven't been clarified over my absence (Busy with Shadow Illusions) so let me explain a few things.

1) MISSED CLUE: I'm a bit startled that everyone misinterpreted the information Bakura blurted out to Yami. Here's my quick and dirty explanation: Bakura and Atem were brought back with souls damaged thanks to the Shadow Realm. They have bad control over darker urges (ex. Atem randomly kills someone that pissed him off.) They have to pray for better control (You'll learn more later). Less praying = Shitty control. As for Atem especially, he was brought back before the duel with no clue that he'd snap at the drop of a hat. So put him and Yami in a situation where emotions are running high and something unexpected happens... Think on it.

2) Atem's Awakening: Why not yet? A. Something huge happens first. B. Readers will be horrified how he wakes up. C. I want to live longer.

3) My OC, Halima, has a big part to play. You may not see it now but it's necessary for the future. Please remember this is monarchshipping. As for Akefia, well, I needed to reveal info on Bakura and Atem!

4) Just as a footnote, the real-life 'Goro' from last chapter transferred because his co-workers kept going around asking him, "Show me your dick, Tim!"

About this chapter: This chapter is a Not-Flashback and the ULTIMATE reason why I waited so long to update. I had problems with Episode 52: The Past is Present because I didn't want to deal with Kaiba and Ishizu. However, I HAD to do this episode for maximum monarchshipping. So I decided to cheat. I cut off half of Seto and Ishizu and kept our boys.

To make up for that, I added episode 53: Steppin' Out. Please don't hurt me.

MAJOR THANKS:To all of those who reviewed last chapter. I should be trying to answer everyone right about now. Thank you so much for the support and all attempts to get me to continue this story. (Even those that were begging in my Shadow Illusion reviews.)

I apologize for not doing this chapter proper justice but I did try.

Enjoy.

Title: Hope Hates Reality

Author: Alia D

Part 21/?

Rating: R

Pairing: Atemu/Yami eventually, former Atemu/Anzu

Spoilers: YGO series

Warnings: Het, Yaoi, Language, OOC, Violence, hints of Gore, Mature Themes

Disclaimer: I do not own Yu-Gi-Oh anime series, or the game.

Summary: An ignored love and a destructive friendship have left Yami weary and heartbroken. Could Yami rise to the occasion when a special, little someone needs him most? And can Yami possibly find a happy ending at the same time? Monarchshipping.

Author's notes: Let me say this... American v Japanese YGOs? Japanese every damn time. Stupid editors! (How unfair that Jap. Kaiba sounds sexier than Ame. Kaiba. Stupid dubs.) Anyway, most of this follows the Japanese version. Because the characters just aren't that stupid this way.

Hope Hates Reality 21

Episode 52: The Past is Present (The Lost Memory of the Pharaoh)

With her security following her into the airport, Ishizu breathed a small sigh of relief at being off the airplane. It had been a long ride on Egypt Air, and now she was finally in Domino, Japan. Unfortunately, because of the circumstances, Ishizu couldn't appreciate the new location or culture. Not with Destiny staring silently and breathing down her neck.

Ishizu gave a polite smile to the small group of gentlemen that waited to greet her. The tallest of the three men gave an equally polite smile. "Ms. Ishtar! We thank you on behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Thank you for coming and choosing our museum for your collection."

She offered a short nod to the official. "You're welcome."

"We also wanted to thank you for the care you put into this exhibition."

Ishizu spoke instantly. "We must be responsible for history."

The man nodded. "This is why we are taking such great care in the transportation of the items."

Ishizu dropped her head almost shyly. "Yes. The exhibition is rather popular in Egypt right now. We sincerely hope the items will be equally successful here." As she turned and walked away, she spoke kindly over her shoulder to the museum official. "And just to let you know. I approve of the idea with the dump trucks."

The startled trio watched the young Egyptian walk away with her guards.

Despondently, Yami slowly tread down the street, away from his school and towards home. He was silently contemplating as he walked down the street, letting his shoes scrap the concrete as he passed the food stands and other stores. Ever since he'd left the hospital, his mind had been stuck in a different world. If Yami was honest though, it wasn't another world his mind was stuck in. Yami's thoughts were drifting through the very recent past.

Yami's memory flowed through his mind in vivid detail. He still remembered the darkening warehouse and arena. Even walking down the street, Yami could sense the blistering heat from the rising walls of flame racking over his skin and teasing his clothes. He recalled the feeling of hot black smoke rushing through his mouth into his lungs, making every breath clogged and painful. The sickening feeling that he was partially responsible for the situation continued to sit heavy in his stomach.

Mostly, Yami visualized the shattered Millennium Puzzle in his shaking hands as he desperately resolved the Egyptian item.

Yami reached the corner of the street and gathered enough awareness to take care even as the crossing sign lit up. But the moment he was safely across the intersection, his mind had taken him away again, causing him to miss the loud cry of his name over the busy traffic.

"YAMI!" Watching her best friend tread slowly down the sidewalk, Anzu's shoulders slumped. She could see that Yami's mood hadn't changed from earlier that day. He was so sad. He'd grown quieter and withdrawn in ways that made Anzu very uneasy. The young woman was thankful her friend hadn't reverted to previous behavior and completely shut down, but it didn't ease Anzu's worries.

She knew Yami was still thinking about the theft, the duel, the attack, and the fire. Anzu had hoped to spend a bit of time with him and keep his mind from darker thoughts. Unfortunately, it didn't seem that would happen today. "Oh, Yami."

"Miss Ishtar is the director of the Bureau of Archeology in Egypt. And the foremost scholar in the research of Egyptology who will be opening a new highly anticipated exhibit at Domino Museum." Turning to watch the news broadcast through the glass of the electronics store, Anzu briefly thought about Yami's puzzle. It was, after all, of Egyptian origin. She wondered what Ishtar would say about the ancient artifact.

"It's an honor to be organizing the exhibit here in Domino."

"What are the contents of the exhibition, Miss Ishtar?"

Kaiba glanced over at Mokuba, who seemed nearly entranced by the news interview. He had a horrible prediction of exactly what his brother would say later and how annoyed he would be. Seto had other more important things to do than walk around a museum bored out of his mind.

"For this special exhibition, we've brought a portion of a mural that depicts the 18 dynasties. This is the first time that these artifacts have toured abroad."

"Amazing! Any other interesting revelations on the collection?"

Ishizu smiled on the screen. "Yes. Gamers may find it interesting that the exhibit will host artifacts chronicling the history of games in Egypt. Ancients, from royalty to pleasantry, played the games for land, wealth, and power."

Mokuba's eyes widened as he heard the description. Not only was the collection a first time exhibit, but they have artifacts on Ancient Egyptian Games! The younger Kaiba looked over at his older brother with a small smile. Maybe that would be interesting enough to get Seto to take a break. "Seto! It's a first time exhibition about games! Ancient games! That sounds pretty awesome right?"

Kaiba kept his eyes firmly on his laptop. He didn't once stop working on the sales data he was downloading. "No, Mokuba. I'm busy and completely uninterested in archeology."

"Aww! Looks pretty interesting to me. I figured you'd at least be curious about the games." Shrugging, Mokuba turned back to the television, hoping to catching something else about the museum's new collection.

Typing corrections into the information on his screen, Kaiba continued with right hand and picked up the phone with his left. "What?" He snapped indifferently to his secretary.

"Sir, Miss Ishizu Ishtar of the Bureau of Archeology is on the phone."

Kaiba stared at the screen and raised an eyebrow. "Ishizu Ishtar?" The genius paused. Where had he heard that name? Had it been from Mokuba? His mind quickly realized he'd heard it not from his brother but the television.

Blinking in surprise, Kaiba turned to look at the flat screen, but more specifically, the woman being interviewed on the news.

"This is the only time this mural exhibition will be held in Japan. I encourage everyone to visit."

Kaiba continued to stare at the image of the Egyptian woman. "Transfer her to me."

Stepping out of his limousine, Kaiba tightened his hand over the handle of his briefcase. The young CEO didn't bother glancing in the chauffeur's direction while giving his command. "This won't take long. Wait here. I'll go alone."

"Yes, sir."

Striding up to the doors of Domino Museum, Kaiba momentarily wondered what this woman's real purpose was. Ishtar had given some nonsense about a private viewing, but as he'd told Mokuba and Ishtar, he wasn't interested in archeology Kaiba cared little about the past, including his own. He didn't even try to remember what his family name was before the adoption.

But here he was late at night to see a boring museum exhibit. Really, Seto thought, Kaiba Corp was running too smoothly as of late, especially with so many new products debuting.

Kaiba couldn't, however much he wanted to, ignore Ishtar's invitation. Rare Duel Monsters cards were too much of an enticement for a die hard duelist like Seto Kaiba. Hopefully, this wouldn't be a complete waste of his time.

Walking through the sliding glass doors, Kaiba didn't acknowledge the large mural along the museum wall. The duelist walked straight for Ishizu Ishtar and her two guards with a determined, and slightly greedy, gleam in his eyes. Stopping in front of the Egyptian, Kaiba raised an impatient eyebrow.

Ishizu gave the younger man a polite smile. "Welcome, Seto Kaiba. It's a pleasure to finally meet you. I've heard many good things about Kaiba Corporation."

Before Kaiba could respond to the greeting, A guard from left spoke. "Director! All entrances have been locked and secured."

She nodded. "Thank you."

Kaiba stared at her. "Paranoid, much? If you're this worried about me, I can leave." The businessman turned to do just that.

For a moment, Ishizu honestly appeared worried. The last thing she needed was for the CEO to walk out. Not until he receive the card from her. Certainly not until he learned a few ancient facts. "Please, Kaiba-san. I apologize for the inconvenience, but please understand our situation. Lately, we've had to deal with battle with thieves that want to steal the artifacts. We must be cautious."

Kaiba raised an eyebrow with an amused smirk. "Battle?"

(Alia: We all know what happened after that point. I refuse to go further.)

It was quieting around the Kame Game Shop. The sun had set and the sky continued darkening to a deep blue black. The surrounding neighborhood grew silent as businesses and homes settled in for the night. Occasionally, a pedestrian or driver passed through the practically empty streets to disturb the night's peace.

Sleeping deeply and snoring loudly, Solomon had gone to bed early for the evening. Exhaustion had over come the older man with his work in the shop and his continued concern over his solemn grandson.

The young man in question was in his room while shadows and dim moonlight flickered over his bedroom walls from the skylight. Yami sat silently, curled up on his bed, with his knees to his chest. Lost deeply within his thoughts, Yami gazed solemnly at the treasure situated inches from his socked feet.

His mind drifted back in time. Distantly, the duelist remembered his shaking hands holding the unraveled puzzle as he desperately tried to revive Shadow. The heat remained blistering even in Yami's thoughts. The roaring of flames tempered and ignored for the soft clicks of correctly positioned puzzle pieces.

Yami's arms tightened around his legs as his worry grew. He was glad, so very glad that his bond with his other had renewed with the puzzle's completion, but a hint of fear and growing worry kept his full relief at bay. He didn't expect a new enemy to come after him, mou hitori no boku, and his puzzle. Yami had thought that after Pegasus, things would just continue on without new problems.

He hadn't expected to be so wrong or to hate himself for being incorrect.

Shadow slowly materialized next to his friend. He was pleased that he was still able to do so. He would never admit being frightened when the puzzle had shattered. The thought of being alone again, trapped inside the puzzle was horrible. However, it had been the thought of leaving Yami alone that had truly terrified Shadow.

The spirit decided not to think on the unpleasant thoughts. He had something more important to do. "Yami, thank you. Thank you for putting the puzzle back together in the fire."

Yami's eyes remained locked on the Millennium Puzzle. His words were soft, almost indifferent as he replied, "It was Tristan and Joey. They saved us."

Shadow nodded with a small smile toward Yami. He hummed softly. "We have good friends in them."

"We do."

The ancient spirit watched his friend closely. While Yami was no longer as emotionally closed off as before, he appeared to many people as distant. Those who knew the duelist better understood that Yami gave a growing number of cues as to his emotional state. Currently, though Yami's face appeared contemplative, his rose madder eyes gave him away.

Shadow wondered what it was that made Yami so sad. He leaned in toward his solemn other half. "Yami? What are you thinking?"

Exhausted, Anzu dropped her head gracelessly onto her folded arms. She was slightly behind in her homework but tired from her earlier chores at home. Her eyes ached as Anzu closed them. The brunette dropped her pencil down onto her desk and relaxed. She'd only close her eyes for a minute.

Upon opening her eyes, Anzu found herself in a deep open canyon. Towering high above the Japanese girl were thick walls of rock and stone. The winds blowing by were heavy and thick with desert heat, but Anzu didn't miss the clean smell of feel of the air around her.

Anzu's real attention, however, was caught by the massive Egyptian ruins before her. The great ruin stood as tall as the canyon cliffs around her. Around an amazing stone staircase that seemed to continue forever, Anzu eyed the massive stone statues, each with the head of an animal and the body of a man. The statues were intimidating and silently powerful. They appeared to stand guard over an unknown treasure yet warned off anyone brave enough to take the stairs.

From what Anzu could see, someone she knew well was challenging the silent stone sentinels without fear.

Walking calmly with determination up the stone passage, Shadow continued up the stairs to his unknown destination.

Blinking in surprise, Anzu called out to her friend. She didn't understand where he was going. "Yami!"

The young man paused almost in surprise, before turning around. Shadow looked down at Anzu curiously.

"Where are you going, Yami?" Anzu asked quickly, seeing that she had his attention. She was upset when seconds later, Shadow turned and continued on his way. "Yami! Wait! Don't go! Yami!"

Anzu's heart fell as she watched her friend walk toward a grand, open doorway. She reached out just as the doors began to close. "Yami! Come back! Yami!"

With a muffled cry broken into a gasp, Anzu leaped back into her chair from the desk. She struggled to ease her breathing as her mind flashed back to her dream.

Shifting on the bed, Yami turned his eyes toward Shadow. The spirit of the Millennium Puzzle stood at the food of Yami's bed, watching him with barely concealed concern. "Other me, I wanted to know." Yami paused, suddenly hesitant, but continued, "Who are you? Really?"

Shadow startled a bit at the question. Of all the things his friend could ask, he hadn't expected Yami to ask that one. Especially as it was not an easy question to answer. His eyes focused more upon Yami as he asked, "Why? Why do you want to know?"

Yami blinked. He didn't know why Shadow's reply made him feel foolish. Especially as Shadow's response itself was rather ridiculous. "You're asking me why?" Yami felt a hint of amusement and a flash of frustration. All he wanted was an answer. Problem was even Yami couldn't give an honest answer as to why he wanted to know. His eyes lowered to the bed.

Staring at Yami for a long moment, Shadow sighed silently and slid on hand into his pocket. He closed his eyes. "I don't know."

Yami straightened in surprise, his rose madder eyes darting up to look at the spirit.

"I don't know anything." Shadow looked stoic, but the slump in his shoulders told Yami how despondent the knowledge made him. "I knew you'd ask me one day, but I don't know where I came from." The spirit gave Yami a small broken smile. "Before you, I have no memories. I don't know who I am."

The words were heartbreaking. Despite Yami's own past, he wouldn't want to lose his memories, even the ones that still gave him occasional nightmares years later. His memories made him who he was. It gave him a sick feeling that his friend didn't have that.

Moving, Yami turned to sit on the edge of the bed with his feet to the floor. He wanted to stand and comfort Shadow, but instead, he pulled the Millennium Puzzle into his lap. "I'm sorry. I shouldn't have mentioned it. I did not mean to upset you."

Shadow moved to lean against Yami's desk. He knew his other didn't mean to bring up such a sensitive topic. It was Yami's right after all to know the truth about the spirit often inhabiting his body. "It's fine."

Seeing that Yami looked rather regretful, he said, "There's one thing I do know for certain. As long as you have the Millennium Puzzle, I'll be with you."

Yami's eyes darkened with something Shadow didn't quite understand. His voice suddenly hoarse, he whispered, "That's enough."

"So I will-,"

"I said enough!" The command was cool, harsh and desperate.

Shadow went silent as he stared at Yami with surprise and concern. The duelist's eyes were to the floor, but Shadow could see the struggle in his friend. The one thing clear to him in Yami's stifled stream of emotions was fear. It shouldn't have warmed Shadow's heart, but it did. Yami feared losing him. Shadow would have to make sure it never happened.

The spirit smiled, his eyes warm and happy even if Yami didn't see. He walked over to stand before the younger boy. "I-I want to be with you always." Shadow caught Yami's startled look as he lifted his head. "Even if I never regain my memories, I want to remain with you."

After a long moment, a small Mona Lisa smile appeared over Yami's lips, making an odd feeling deep within Shadow soar. "Me too." Yami stood and took a few steps to stand before his darker half. "Forever."

Yami cupped the Egyptian treasure in his hands and held it out before him. He stared down at the Millennium Puzzle, not ready to meet Shadow's eyes any longer. "Good or bad, you can... you can share all of my memories."

At that moment, Shadow realized he would do whatever it took to stay at Yami's side. He gently cupped Yami's hands as much as his incorporeal body could and smiled down at his friend. "Thank you."

Episode 53: Steppin' Out

Finally finishing with her outside shoes, Anzu walked out the front door of the high school and stared out at the heavy downpour with annoyance. What use were weathermen when they gave bad information? Wasn't it suppose to be slightly cloudy out? The dancer hadn't even known to bring her umbrella.

"Just great! Is it ever gonna stop raining?" Anzu wondered how she'd get home without getting soaked. "I hate weathermen."

Partly distracted by the two nice pairs of legs walking down the hall, Joey let his mop roll over the dim linoleum floors. He whistled as he scrubbed the old floors. If Joey and Tristan were lucky, the rain would hopefully have settled after they finished their turn on cleanup duty.

Bored, Tristan looked over at Joey curiously. Joey had been so obnoxiously happy lately, it was driving Tristan and their friends up the wall. Yami and Anzu spent most of the day trying to keep Joey's attention on their teacher. "I don't get you, Joey! We're on mop duty. What are you so happy about?"

Joey turned to his friend with a huge grin on his face. "Well, if you really want to know. My sister, Serenity, is getting her eye operation thanks to Yami and the money from Duelist Kingdom!" And sure, Joey hoped he never saw Pegasus or that island again, but that adventure certainly helped his baby sister. "So, with that specialist doing the operation, she's finally getting her sight back!"

"That's great!" Tristan smiled. "So when can we go visit?"

Joey's smile faded and he shrugged, turning back to his bucket. "I don't know."

"Huh?"

Sighing, Joey soaked the mop in the dirty water and explained. "My parents divorced when I was seven. Serenity and I grew up separately with one of our parents. Ever since then, my mom and I haven't really seen eye to eye." Joey didn't know if the woman would really want him around. His mom loved him, but apparently she worried that behavioral issues Joey used to have would rub off on Serenity.

Joey choked as Tristan threw an arm around his neck and grinned. "Ah come on! I'll go with you! Besides, the real concern is whether or not Serenity likes me."

"No way are you coming. Don't get any funny ideas, pal."

Tristan leaned his weight into Joey. "Hey, Serenity is cute! You should introduce us. But hey, just tell me what hospital and I'll go visit sweet Serenity alone. Since you can't go..."

Filled the anger of a hundred over protective older brothers, Joey kicked aside his dirty mop bucket, ignoring the spilling water, and glared at his friend. "You... Tristan!" He grabbed his friend into a wrestling hold yelling, "Oh I'll send you to the hospital!"

"...help..."

Staring out, Anzu wondered if she should make a run for it before brushing the idea aside. In her contemplation, she nearly missed seeing Yami silently arriving at her side.

"Hey, Anzu."

She smiled. Anzu had no chances of speaking to her friend today as she'd been distracted by work and keeping Joey out of trouble. "Hey! How's it going, Yami?"

Yami tilted his head with a small frown. It made Anzu both curious and happy. While the brunette wondered what bothered her smaller friend, Anzu was happy that to visibly see the emotion on Yami's face. It seemed like years ago when he'd been this living robot that was empty inside. Now, Yami was so different than before it was startling when she thought back on his previous behavior, or lack thereof.

"Is everything okay?" Anzu asked.

"Anzu, are you free this weekend?"

Surprised by the question, she nodded. "Yeah! Why?"

"I need a little help. It's about my other. He's been in a poor mood lately, ever since I asked about his past. He doesn't remember anything." Yami turned his eyes out to the downpour. "Honestly, he's been rather quiet since then. I think he's depressed."

Anzu bit her lip. Though Yami looked stoic as usual, his voice seemed to soften. It was obvious the spirit of the Millennium Puzzle inadvertently hurt her friend's feelings.

"I thought perhaps a day out would make him feel better."

"The other Yami?"

"Yes," Yami replied. "However, though we are close, it's not possible for me to hang out with him and take him around Domino."

Anzu nodded. The spirit was sharing a body with Yami. Then she startled with understanding. "Oh! So you want me to take him out?"

Yami nodded, his frown transforming into that small sweet smile. Anzu blushed a little seeing it. "Yes. I think a day out with a friend with cheer him up."

Anzu smiled at her best friend. "Then, I'll do my best to help."

"Thanks, Anzu. Meet me at Domino Station at 10." Quickly opening his umbrella, Yami dashed off into the rain. "We'll see you tomorrow."

Freezing for a second, Anzu turned to yell after Yami. "Hey! At least walk me home!"

"I think this is better than so much black." Looking over his now cluttered bedroom, Yami turned his gaze from the clothes laying everywhere to the mirror at the end of his bed.

The wild haired youth looked at his current wardrobe. He sported a pair of dark sneakers, faded ash black jeans, a thin purple t-shirt and a black vest. His only real accessory was a belt, two black wristbands Shadow encouraged, and the Millennium Puzzle. "It's rather warm out, even with yesterday's rain. I don't think so much black would work."

"Aibou?" Shadow sat on the bed, wearing the same clothing as his friend. "What's this big surprise?"

That small smile crossed Yami's lips, but Shadow swore he saw a hint of something else in his hikari's face. It looked like mischief. "If I told you, it wouldn't be a surprise."

Shadow gave a huff of laughter and smiled at Yami. "I suppose you're right, Yami. Very well. I'll be patient."

"Thank you." Yami looked over his clothes again to make sure he was ready. As Yami straightened the puzzle over his chest, he paused and looked at Shadow. "Other me?"

"Yes?" Shadow stood and came to stand behind Yami. Much to the young boy's amusement, Shadow had a reflection.

"Is it odd that you call me yami?"

Shadow looked confused at the question before realizing what Yami was implying. He laughed at the playful almost joke. "I suppose it is odd that the dark spirit of the Millennium Puzzle calls you dark." He smiled. "I suppose I'll just have to find a better name for you, aibou."

Shaking his head, Yami walked around Shadow and headed for the door.

Domino Station was busy as always, but Anzu managed to find a clear spot where it would be easy to locate Yami and for him to locate her. She fidgeted, nervous about the upcoming outing. The brunette hoped she really could help Yami's other. Though, rather than an outing, it felt more like date.

Anzu blushed at the thought.

Yami walked briskly across the square after seeing finally spotting Anzu. He stopped a few feet away from the distracted girl and looked down at the puzzle. Here was his hope that this day out would brighten the spirit's day. There was a small smirk on Yami's lips. He called for his friend to take over. "Other me?"

The transformation was instant, but Shadow immediately felt something odd. His eyes widened and he started shouting at the Millennium Puzzle. Yami hadn't merged with him. He'd gone to his soul room instead.

"Yami! What did you - You can't - This isn't a duel! What..." Shadow paused to see a bemused Anzu standing in front of him. With an embarrassed cough, Shadow straightened and waved. "Hello."

Sitting in the Domino Coffee Shop, Anzu observed Shadow and the absent look in the spirit's eyes. She could finally see what Yami meant. The other Yami seemed distracted. There was obviously something important on his mind. Anzu didn't know how to bring it up though.

Anzu did promise Yami that she would try though. So Anzu would give it her best try. "So!" She started, catching Shadow's attention. "I searched for something we could do and I found this!"

Shadow watched Anzu pull a magazine from her purse and display a page with an ancient stone. The stone in the glossy photograph was very familiar.

"This is the Ancient Egypt Exhibit!"

He stared at the brochure. "It does look rather interesting."

Anzu smiled. "Yes! And look! The stone is the same mark as your Millennium Puzzle, and the puzzle is connected to Egypt, right?"

At the implication that they could learn something about his past, Shadow stared at her blankly.

Anzu looked concerned. "Was it something I said? We can do something else." She didn't know how she'd explain to Yami if she'd made things worse.

"No. It's not that. You must forgive me, Anzu. Realizing how many memories I lack, I'm constantly trying to find some knowledge of myself. I'm just not sure if the exhibit will help."

Biting her lip, Anzu confessed, "Yami is worried about you. It's the main reason for this day out."

"He's worried about me?"

"Yes."

Shadow frowned. "I am not the one he should worry about. Like me, Yami has a difficult road at his feet. We both don't know who we really are and what our futures hold." The spirit sighed softly. He hadn't meant to trouble his aibou. He often worried about Yami though. Between Yami's emotions and Shadow's memories, it was amazing they hadn't driven each other crazy. "If it helps, Yami and I know that my origins as that of the Millennium Puzzle are in Ancient Egypt."

Without thinking, Anzu said, "I wonder how you ended up inside a puzzle?" She immediately flinched, not intending to speak aloud.

Shadow smiled bitterly. "I don't know. Sometimes, I do believe... I believe that something, maybe destiny, brought the puzzle into Yami's hands. If nothing else, I can be grateful for that."

Anzu watched him and silently promised that she'd help Yami find something out about the spirit. Both of them were her friends and she wanted to see the spirit happy. "Well, you are Yami aren't alone."

Shadow looked at her curiously.

"We're all the same. I've told you my dream is to dance. I want to go to America right after graduation! Even now, the dream is coming closer to me. Time is going so fast."

"I know you can realize your dream, Anzu." Shadow spoke with confidence.

"It certainly won't be easy, but if there's even one chance, then I want that chance to make my dream true." Smiling brightly, Anzu hopped up from her seat. "Let's go out! There's got to be some fun out there for us today!"

"Where are we going?"

Anzu shrugged. "Who cares? But how about I give you the Domino Experience?"

Shadow had to admit that he was having a rather good time. Sure the pigeons were extremely annoying, but he'd gotten new duel monster cards, listened to new music and watched a new movie with plenty of explosions. All in all, it was a good day out with a friend. He was a little sorry that he didn't have his own body so he and Yami could do this, but he was grateful to his hikari for giving him the day out.

Currently, the two friends were in the Big Web Arcade trying to find a good game to try. Anzu looked around at the huge game floor. She felt a overwhelmed. "This place is huge! What do you want to play?"

Before Shadow could answer, they heard a large commotion to their right. A huge group of people surrounded the Dance Dance Revolution machine. Two guys were currently battling and one was definitely outdoing his opponent.

"That's amazing! He won again!"

"Johnny Steps is the best!"

Standing proudly over his game machine throne, Johnny Steps looked arrogantly out over the crowd. "Alright! Anyone else want to challenge me? Who's next?"

"A dance game?" Shadow asked. Looking at Johnny, he thought the guy was way too arrogant. And way too serious about a dancing game.

"It looks like fun." Anzu had heard of the game but never had the time to try it out.

"Hey!" Johnny Steps called out to Anzu of all people. "Wanna try your luck? How about a game?"

"Just ignore him." Shadow offered. "Let's find another game."

"No way!" Anzu exclaimed. "I won't turn down a dance challenge! No flashy moves are going to scare me away!" Excited, the brunette removed her coat and tossed it to Shadow as she jumped on to the machine.

Catching the coat, Shadow stared down at the material before turning to Anzu and Johnny. "What are you doing, Anzu?"

"It's okay!" Moving into place, Anzu faced her opponent. "It's nice to meet you!"

Johnny snorted. "You're pretty brave." He looked Anzu up and down. "And you're kinda cute!" Shadow looked outright bored as Steps waxed on. "Do your best! I'll go easy on you."

Anzu scowled at him. All she wanted to do was have fun. Did she have to deal with terminally stupid too? "No need. I'm fine."

Johnny smirked in a way that made Anzu wish for different clothes like a nun's habit. "How about this? If you lose, you have to spend the night with me!"

Shadow paused and wondered if this idiot had propositioned his friend.

"But that's probably why you're playing, yeah?"

Anzu sneered and turned to her screen. "What a jerk."

Shadow nodded. It's was such a shame Yami forbid him from Mind Crushing people anymore. A moment later, the spirit of the Millennium Puzzle watched closely as Anzu and Johnny Steps started on their game.

As the two combatants began their game, Shadow couldn't help but think they were really too into this for a game that concentrated solely on your feet. He shrugged. No matter his opinion, Anzu was obviously having fun.

"Wow!" Someone in the crowd exclaimed. "So far, both of their steps are perfect!"

"Looks like Johnny's met his match!"

Shadow smiled as Anzu continued to match Johnny Steps move for move. He had to admit, she was good at it. From the look on Anzu's face, she was also having fun. No wonder her ultimate dream was to be a dancer.

Anzu was matching the steps when suddenly Johnny's leg lashed out at her. The brunette was stunned at the moved that was quickly followed by an arm and elbow.

Shadow sneered as another spectator yelled at Steps. "What the hell? That's low, Johnny! What's your problem?"

"Go for it, girlie!"

"You can do it, Miss!"

Shadow really wondered if Yami would mind him breaking that whole Mind Crushing Rule. For Anzu, his hikari would probably allow it. He muttered softly, "You're good, Anzu, but be careful."

Swallowing a cruel snicker, Shadow watched the shock on Johnny's face as the words 'bad' and 'miss' flashed across his screen. The fool had been so determined to cheat Anzu out of her win, that he wasn't paying attention to his own steps!

"Wow, she's good!"

"Ha! Johnny'll lose!"

"He can't keep up! Look!" Someone cried out just as Johnny Steps slipped on his pad.

"Oh no!" Johnny slammed down to the dance pad as his screen flashed signs of his failure.

Anzu on the other hand kept going without extra obstacles, such as Johnny. A few steps later, her screen lit up with a win.

The crowd cheered. "Johnny lost! She did it!"

As Anzu clapped with her success, Shadow shook his head, totally proud of her.

Leaning over the railing at the peer, Anzu was full of energy and practically bouncing next to an amused Shadow. "That was great! It's funny that a 100 yen game can put faith back into my dream."

"True, but you can keep your dream even if you don't go after it."

"Huh?" Anzu exclaimed in surprise. "You really think that's a good idea?"

"Oh yes." Shadow stared out at the glorious painted sunset. "I want to know about myself! Where I have been and where I should go." He watched the glistening water. "But if I keep things the same, I'll always with be Yami. I believe he wants it this way as well."

Silently, Anzu hoped the other Yami would always remain as well. "There may be two hearts in my old friend, but there is only one you're facing. No matter what happens, try to be true to yourself."

"Hey!" The duo turned to see cocky Johnny Steps behind them. "You aren't getting away that easy."

Shadow glared. "You have got to be kidding."

Anzu groaned in disgust. "Ugh! The game is over already! What do you want?"

Johnny smirked. "I want a duel!"

"A duel? Duel Monsters?"

"Yes! My leg was cramped earlier. That's the only reason you won, babe." Johnny eyed Anzu. "If I lose, I'll give up. If I win, you'll be my girlfriend!"

"Are you seriously that desperate?" Anzu rubbed her head.

Shadow smirked. "How about I play with you?" Because who could say no to putting this idiot in his place?

"Hey! Stay out of this! You just want to be macho in front of her?"

"Right." Snorting, Shadow turned to Anzu. "Do you mind if I destroy this idiot for you?"

"What the hell is that suppose to mean?" Johnny roared.

Anzu was surprise but nodded. "Sure!"

"Very well." Shadow stared down Johnny. "If I win Duel Monsters, you don't bother Anzu ever again."

The taller man scoffed. "Whatever, because if I win, the babe has to go on a date with me."

Shadow tried not to laugh. Like this idiot beating him would ever happen.

As Shadow and Johnny prepared to duel, Anzu had to wonder if Steps recognized Yami at all. Seriously, her friend had beaten Pegasus, Kaiba and a number of other renowned duelists. Did Johnny never watch the news?

"Before we begin," Shadow called out across the arena. "May I ask why do you dance?"

Johnny sneered at the presumably stupid question. "To be popular of course! And to pick up girls."

"I see." Shadow nodded. "I thought you were a jerk earlier. Now I can see you're just desperate and pathetic."

By that point, Johnny was irate. "Shut up and duel, shorty!"

"Let's Duel!" Both men shouted while Anzu wished Shadow good luck.

"I'll start first in this show!" He put a card face up. "I play Sonic Maiden in attack mode! This will end the match!"

"So you say. I summon Celtic Guardian. Guardian, attack and destroy Sonic Maiden with Steel Sword!" Shadow watched Celtic Guardian tear through Sonic Maiden. He looked at Steps only to find a confused look on his face.

Johnny brushed off the destruction of his monster and the loss of point. "It looks like you got lucky!"

Anzu discreetly smacked her forehead. Obviously, Johnny didn't pay any attention to the people point at her friend in awe on their way to the area.

"But don't let it go to your head!" He regained his cocky stance. "This duel just started." Johnny picked up a new card and grinned. "My beautiful lady in attack mode! Water Omotics!"

As the naked monster took the field, Shadow and Anzu both held different thoughts.

Shadow: "What? Those are just fan cards, but they're all about dancing. How does he intend to win?"

Anzu: "I should have known he wasn't just desperate. He's perving on his duel monsters, too!"

"So you discovered it!" Johnny called out to Shadow. "Be careful! If you underestimate them, you have a loss coming! I'll show you my unique duel. Watch!"

Shadow's eyes narrowed. Perhaps, things would become interesting. "Very well, Steps. Let's see it." Shadow pulled a card. "I'll pass this turn."

Johnny snickered as if that was his plan all along. "Spirit of the Harp in defense mode! And a magic card! Chorus of Sanctuary!" He laughed. "My little cherub increases the power of a defense monster by 500 points! It's music to my ears."

Shadow pushed himself a bit more seriously into the game. Apparently Johnny Steps wasn't as hopeless a duelist as he first perceived. He honestly believes in his deck. Shadow straightened as his gaze sharpened on Johnny. Because while Johnny was playing better, he'd made a big mistake. Shadow had even intention of making him pay for it.

"Alright, Johnny Steps. It's time to face the music. I summon Curse of Dragon in attack mode! Incinerate Water Omotics with Dragon Flame!"

Johnny groaned as he realized he'd forgotten to switch Water Omotics into defense mode. He watched his life points drop before jumping back into the game.

"Alright over there?" Shadow taunted.

Johnny sneered. "It's not over yet! I'm tuning up for the Grand Finale!" Pulling out a card, he grinned. "And here's my surprise guest. I play Witch of the Black Forest in defense mode!"

Shadow thought that finally Johnny was getting serious.

"And in addition, I active my Polymerization card fusing Witch of the Black Forest with Lady of Faith to create the Musician King! Musician King! Attack Celtic Guardian!"

Shadow made a sound of disgust as he watched the musical attack strike and destroy his Celtic Guardian. His life points dropped but he didn't appear particularly worried.

"Guess, your guardian wasn't a fan of the electric guitar." He threw longing eyes at a sickened Anzu. "Though I promise the music will be much more romantic on our date, Anzu-chan."

Anzu wanted to go home and shower immediately.

Arrogantly, Johnny pulled out a card and smirked. "I place one card face down and end my turn. Make your move shorty."

Shadow knew the face down card was a problem, but like all problems, he had to face it head on. "Curse of Dragon, attack Musician King!"

As the flames roared across the field toward Musician King, Johnny burst with victorious laughter. "It's so easy! You fell right into my trap."

Shadow said nothing. He had known something was coming and attacked regardless.

"Time to crank up the volume with Metalmorph, which transforms Musician King into Heavy Metal King! And now his attack and defense points climb all to the top of the charts!"

Shadow scowled at the change in attack and defense points.

Unfortunately, Johnny wasn't done yet. "Musician King, play the dragon a few rips!" The sound attack, familiar yet stronger, burst from Musician King's guitar and blew through the fire attack and Curse of Dragon. Steps laughed. "How pathetic. You're nothing but a one-hit wonder!"

Anzu looked a bit stunned. She didn't want to believe that Johnny could actually win!

Shadow, however, wasn't as concerned. He played a new monster. "I play Giant Soldier of Stone in defense mode. I end my turn."

"You can't really expect that boulder to stop my Heavy Metal King, especially not with Metalmorph. It increases his power with each attack!" He laughed mockingly. "Heavy Metal King! Attack Giant Soldier of Stone."

Shadow watched stoically as Heavy Metal King's attack points jumped to 2700 as it destroyed his Giant Soldier.

Anzu gasped as another monster was destroy. "Oh no. The Giant Soldier too! The spirit is in trouble!"

"Ha! Why don't you just give up loser? None of your monsters came jam with my Heavy Metal King!"

Shadow looked amused. "Oh really. I summon Dark Magician in attack mode!" Shadow watched as his most trusted card appeared on the field. "Dark Magician, attack Heavy Metal King!"

Johnny laughed. "The fun never ends! With Metalmorph's affects, Heavy Metal King's attack strength is greater than Dark Magician."

The look on Shadow's face still looked amused but also rather pained. "Are you kidding?"

Johnny looked taken aback. "What?"

"Another critical mistake! Dark Magician, Dark Magic Attack!" One solid flash from the Dark Magician's staff shattered Heavy Metal King into pieces.

"What!" Johnny roared. "That's impossible! Metalmorph raises Heavy Metal King's attack points!"

Shadow sighed in annoyance. "That's true, but you forgot one thing. Metalmorph does increase attack points, but only when YOUR monster is attacking. But since my monster attacked, there was no power bonus for Heavy Metal King leaving his attack strength smaller than Dark Magician's. You were careless again."

"I-I don't believe it! It's not fair!" Johnny shouted across the arena at Shadow. "Who are you? What's your name?"

Shadow nodded. "Please call me Yami."

"Yami? Where have I heard that name?" Johnny Steps froze. "Wait. You're not the same Yami that defeated Pegasus at Duelist Kingdom?"

"It is your turn, Johnny." Shadow smirked at the recognition of Yami's name but didn't remark on it.

"No way! I quit. I'm a dancer not a duelist." Johnny gathered his cards and turned from his dueling station only to run into an upset Anzu.

"Yami takes a lead and suddenly you give up! Do you always run? If you have so much time to chase girls, why not spend more time on what you do best?"

He shifted away from Anzu in surprise. "Take a bet on dancing? What?"

"You're better at dancing than dueling by a lot." Because while he was good, those rookie mistakes had been painful for Anzu and Shadow to watch.

"What do you know?! I know what I'm good at. Dancing as a professional?" He scoffed, but his face looked pained. "It's nothing but a faraway dream."

"Have you even tried any auditions?" Anzu snapped.

"Y-yes." Johnny stuttered, pulling away a bit more from the angry female. "Of course."

"How many?"

"Uh... One."

Walking toward Johnny and Anzu, Shadow sweatdropped. He decided to let Anzu finish tearing into Johnny.

"One? ONE! You seriously gave up after one try?" She couldn't believe it.

"You don't know what it feels like to be a failure!"

Anzu snorted. "I've failed more than a dozen times."

Shadow wondered if she meant the cookies she'd baked last week. In various places in Domino, Joey and Tristan shivered in horror. In his soul room, Yami paused from his puzzle and grimaced.

"But I never gave up because running away doesn't solve the problem! You have to face yourself so the future will open up for you!"

"Yes, you too." A little shell shocked, Johnny slowly walked away before pausing. "I-I guess I'll try again."

"Awesome!" Anzu grinned as Johnny walked away and Shadow stepped up next to her. She giggled. "I think I spoke too much."

"No. No you didn't." He shook his head. Everything that Anzu said was the truth. Shadow would never give up Yami, but it couldn't hurt to search for his dream, now could it? "Anzu?"

"Yes?"

Shadow smiled. "Let's go to the Ancient Egyptian Exhibit."

Her eyes widened. "What? Really?"

"Absolutely."

Shadow stared up at the Domino Museum with trepidation. He knew that clues about his past could be inside thanks to that symbol in the brochure. He needed to see the exhibit, but it didn't make him any less worried.

"Are you alright?" Anzu asked hesitantly. Her friend stared at the museum like it was a sleeping monster.

He smiled warily. "Yes. Part of me is hesitant to enter. I'm almost afraid to learn the truth, but I need to know. And I can't let my fear of the future prevent me from learning of the past." Shadow nodded. "Let's go!"

"I'm with you all the way!"

Smiling, the two walked confidently up the museum steps.

Alia: Yes, more dueling but that's what the show was about. Anyway, there is a new chapter in the making. It's already about 75 percent done. I should have it up in about 2 weeks.

But because I wait so long, here are hints for the next chapter: Family, Morning After Pill, Closets, and Shots.

Questions and comments?

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June 28, 2013