Chapter 24
"OH!" A duplicated exclamation dropped into the air, Yugi's and Mana's gaze gleaming with excitement as they inclined over the ship's rail, watching the majestic view of the mighty Kas soaring above their heads.
The skies reflected a perfect tone of cerulean color, not a single cloud veiling the luster of Ra as the cry of the giant eagles reverberated above the heavens, elite casters riding over their backs as they patrolled the river-trail.
Previously that morning, the traveling party was summoned before Ra was reborn on the skies, the prince still half asleep as the servant girls fixed his appearance, leaving on an empty stomach as they took the sedan carriage.
Shimon smiled softly along the ride, appreciating the charming sight of the prince resting amid the girls, Kisara's delicate face laying by the dancer's shoulder while Mana's snoring grin drooled over his lap.
They forcibly woke up as they reached the harbor, the teen nearly messing the cosmetics in his eyelids while attempting to rub the exhaustion off.
It was customary to have a parting ceremony during the sovereign's departure, their presentation before the citizens justifying the elaborate costumes as they headed for Nubia.
The royal guard was expecting them as they reach the docks, the humid air receiving them as they stepped off the carriage, Yugi's tired expression elucidating an illustrious semblance as he walked toward the magnificent ship.
A rich scent of Lebanon cedar wood hovered among the breeze, the transport procuring a simple yet elegant appearance by the ruler's instruction, the inner chambers, on the other hand, contrasted with lavish luxury. Such a spacious interior was constructed to house all royal party, crew, and horses, the deck presenting a lounge area with splendid furniture for the member's enjoyment and meals.
The Pharaoh rode over the wood plank, his horse climbing onboard and the members of the council following after him; the troops saluting while all working hands prepared for departure.
Both sovereigns bestowed themselves on the imperial thrones under the splendid pergola, a warm reception received before entering open waters at first light, multitudes of subedits praying for their safe return from the docks, young girls dropping petals and flowers over the dark waves.
Once away from civilization, servants procured casual garments for the Royals to dress, the prince's rich frock replaced by loose pants and soft sandals, a long vest of cobalt blue hanging over a sleeveless shirt of cotton. He woke up thoroughly after washing his face, the complex hairdo replaced by his signature hightail while wearing gold bands on his wrists and legs.
"Yugi, look!" Mana pointed, wearing her customary robes as she signaled the massive statues and temples at the foot of the mountains.
The dancer's heart leaped with joy as Ryou's features reflected a tranquil aspect, waving a salute from his spot with a full grin on his face, a soft smiled conveyed in the servant's lips as he returned the greeting.
Jonoh observed carefully under the shadow of the deck, crossing his arms while sparing a look toward the heiress, some tension still evident between the councilor and himself.
"Don't lean too far over the edge, Kisara!" Seth called from his spot across the Pharaoh, both men enjoying a game of Senet as servants cooled their frames with feathered fans, the staff arranging a late breakfast as they replaced the thrones for a long table.
"Of course, father!" She answered with a smile, her lovely voice drifting on the wind.
"How long are you going to keep treating her as a child?" The sensual ruler questioned discreetly, moving his piece over the board with a tranquil expression.
"Have one of your own, then you'll see." He answered with a countermove, his chin resting elegantly against his long fingers.
"Trust me, cousin, I'm doing my utmost effort." The pharaoh raised an elegant eyebrow, enjoying the carefree sounds playing over the deck.
Shada closed his eyes, casting a flushed aspect over the monarch's comment, Malik cleared his throat with a closed fist over his mouth while Shimon boasted a peal of thundering laughter after almost choking on the wine he was indulging.
"Oh! To be young again!" He snorted, Seth's sharp eyebrow rising amid his frown.
"Pray the Gods, our lineage is secured." The counselor expressed sarcastically, a soft laugh breaking from the sovereign.
"I wonder what would have become of me if I had married my lovely niece." The monarch wondered comically, Seth's cold smirk his sole reply.
Shimon requested a refill from a nearby servant, commencing a round of early drinking while watching his former pupil engrossed over numerous documents.
"My boy, although I admire your commitment, you'll look older than me in a few years if you keep working that much."
"Forgive master." Shada excused, rising his eyes slightly from the papers, finishing the corresponding instructions that his Ka would deliver that present day. "I'm afraid there's much to review before we arrive."
"As expected of my prized pupil!" He answered jovially, his drunk state pronouncing on his roseate cheeks.
"There!" The young girl exclaimed, watching the faint outline of a school of fish moving over the tranquil waters, a strong breeze sailing the magnificent transport smoothly.
"It's a shame we can't have a closer look." The princess regretted dimly, the silver cascade of her hair fanning over her shoulder.
Mana conveyed a confident grin, a dubious look portrayed in her amber eyes.
"Who do you think you are dealing with here, my dear." She mentioned with a drop in the tone of her voice, doubt equally reflected in her friends' expressions.
Rising her index, the girl performed what seemed an uncomplicated spell, nothing apparent happening as they continued to wait for the pupil's pretentious results.
Eventually, something gleamed over Yugi's orbs, the boy turning his attention to the source before voicing his excitement.
A dazzling sphere of clear water floated among the trio, a pair of fish swimming inside the bubble as the light reflected a glass-like sparkle over their colorful scales.
"They are beautiful." Kisara whispered with fascination.
"Watch this." Mana instructed excitedly, extending the shape of the water with flowing motions of her arms, the transparent liquid streaming around the heiress' body and afterward over the prince.
"Mana you are amazing!" She exclaimed as both watched the young dancer raise his arms around the liquid appearance, the pupil moving her hands in contrast to Yugi's steps as he danced among the deck.
All eyes eventually noticed the monarch's marvelous display, emulating a stunning vision of a mythical nymph while a dazzling smile escalated on his angelic face.
Atemu remained fixed as his flaming eyes gazed into his lover's performance, his heart skipping a beat at the alluring display of his expression.
"He can truly captivate the hearts of others." Shimon whispered, a warmth spread among his chest, Isis' revelation exclaiming anew the gentle power the prince possessed over those around him.
The monarch smiled affectionately in accordance, the soft searing of his scarlet gaze enhancing his bold features.
Unexpectedly, a splashing sound broke through the mystic atmosphere, Yugi's body turning stiff with a remorseful expression. All eyes noticed the dripping look of the former captain, a fish jumping out from the sphere and crashing straight into his head before plunging over the edge.
Mana's complexion faded as she lowered her arms, dropping back the remaining fish into the water while facing the still glare of the soldier.
"I hope you can swim." He whispered dangerously, his arms still crossed before his chest as water dripped from the edge of his locks and mandible.
"I swear that wasn't on purpose." She excused with a shaking voice, a cold drop of sweat slipping through the girl's neck as she sought refuge behind Kisara's back.
Laughter permeated the air as the soldier ran after the wild apprentice, his quick speed inefficient against her elusive movements, the impressive jumps and flexible body slipping through his grasp.
"Sorry to disturb you, your grace." Shada approached respectfully toward the Pharaoh from his immediate spot, offering a document as the monarch glance into it. "I need your signature here."
Meanwhile, Ryou observed with a quiet template into the peaceful atmosphere unfolding before him, never once witnessing such cheerful look in his master's face.
The servant remained unaware of a lilac stare in his direction, Malik's attention fixed over the enticing figure of the quiet boy, the pin in his shoulder reflecting his position as the 'Queen's' personal servant.
Yugi smiled as he enjoyed the present development, glancing toward the horizon while appreciating the ceaseless road before them, the caress of the wind filtering through his hair.
'We are going home.' He reflected, wondering what transitions he would confront as he returned to the capital, unwilling to let remembrances of his forced departure resurface. 'Everything will be fine.'
The current circumstances of his new life broke through the nervous strokes inside his chest, a new future awaiting them, together.
The desert air blew softly in the thick of the late hour, the hasting sounds of various horses carried through the distance.
The thief rushed at the head of the group, pushing his beast to the brink of collapse as foam emerged from its broken mouth, the latest report of his spy imparting a group of Egyptian forces heading for their base.
Something evoked a peculiar emotion at the mouth of his stomach, the golden opportunity of a Millennium Item coming on its own accord far too astounding.
Eventually, the entrance of the forgotten temple appeared amid the foot of the mountain, the road barely lightened by the sheen of the night skies.
Without stopping, he pressed into the dark entrance, a vicious smirk displayed over the edge of his mouth.
'They backed themselves into a corner.' He thought to himself, riding into the entrance as the shadows of the premises obscured his frame.
A massive tremble was felt through the cliff of the peak, master and subordinates divided by a collapse of immense boulders, the followers just able to brake their horses before crushing under the fatal smash.
Egyptian soldiers moved from atop, succeeding on their strategy as they prepared the stone tablet of the stolen Ka for its capture, moving into an offensive line of attack against the enemy forces.
Bakura dismounted from his own ride, covering his nose and mouth with the edge of his robe after dust enveloped the narrow corridor, examining the blocked entry with no alternate route available as he fell into the enemy's trap.
'Clever bastard.' He sneered, leaving the horse behind as his eyes adjusted to the somber hallway.
Soon, a mighty force dimmed his steps, the heavy tension of power felt through his skin as the sole figure of a man stood between the chamber, his sharp eyes opening as he faced the approaching opponent, an aura of violet hue enveloping his build like dark flames.
Mahado faced the thief with a stoic expression, the ring among his chest vibrating with an akin resonance of the bleak surroundings.
Bakura's eyes gleamed with delight, his snake-like smile apparent over his severe features as his steps haltered before the warrior.
"What do we have here?" He asked, the cold timber of his voice echoing on the stone walls.
"We finally meet, officially." The priest greeted from his spot, lastly discovering the source of Isis' inquietude, never believing the notorious King of Thieves to lay behind such masterful tactics, determined to extract the real brain behind the operation.
"Spare me the formalities, Pharaoh's mongrel!" The dangerous man exclaimed excitedly, more than willing to put his new powers to the test.
"You threatened my King, endangered the safety of this country." The conjurer's deep voice conveyed the hatred behind his words, rage filtered in his ancient gaze. "You will settle your crimes with your life."
Bakura sprang toward his opponent with soundless speed, Mahado's sword clashing against the sharp weapon, the blade averted at the nick of time as it aimed directly for his core.
"You fool, you threw away your only chance when you sealed that exit." The bandit whispered, over the crossed edges. "I will rip that Millennium Ring from your cold neck."
Mahado clenched his teeth with force, one of his hands releasing the handle of his sword while invoking a spell, the cast pushing the thief away as he avoided the impact. He broke the fall with a roll on the ground, landing on his feet and noticing part of his robe smoking at the contact of the magic, his eyes facing his opponent again.
"I will finish you before you have the chance." The conjurer threatened, the former blaze of his aura rekindling and invoking a sharp gale that cut through the atmosphere.
A hole in their dimension opened behind his proud frame, Bakura's jaw tensing as he witnessed the summon of an ominous entity emerging from the shadows, black lightning cracking through the surrounding stone.
The white in Mahado's eyes disappeared as his gaze acquired a spectral hue, throwing his arm to the side while voicing his command. "Dark Magic attack."
The being dashed into the criminal's direction, rolling its staff in a single hand, a sphere of onyx energy surfacing from the end.
In mere seconds, the magician's eyes retrieved their normal appearance, smoke dispelling from the extensive attack, certain the hit collided directly on its target.
Among the massive dust, a burst of cold laughter resounded over the chamber, tension escalating against Mahado's back as he brazed for a counterattack.
The massive head of a snake sprang from the opaque air and aimed for the priest's creature, the familiar avoiding the attack over the air before returning to its master's side.
The warrior's eyes shook with rage as he witnessed the presence of the missing Ka behind the thief's body, the man unharmed from the latest attack.
"You don't seem surprised." He mentioned serenely, no answer evoked from his opponent as the atmosphere cleared, revealing an unusual form of Diabound's presence. The creature acquired five times his standard size, its broad torso expanding menacingly while its wings roughly brushed the ceiling.
'Not even against Pharaoh Aknamkanon did he acquired such form.' The man pondered, the only explanation behind the demon's massive appearance connected to the grim darkness lurking inside his enemy's soul. 'He is no mere human.'
Once more, the snake attacked with its razor fangs, the hit aiming for the priest before the familiar pulled between them, mustering an imperceptible shield with the rise of its hand.
Although the creature collided with the defensive move, the thief aimed for a direct attack behind Mahado's shoulders, the perceptive man blocking the weapon with his own as he evoked a second creature, its form lurking in the shadows waiting for its owner's command.
Unaware, Bakura's mind link summoned Diabound's bite against the wizard while dealing with his enemy's blows, the hit missing its target as a ghoul jumped from the wall, its shark claws cutting through the demon's jaw before vanishing into the surface anew, the dark magician's blast overthrowing its opponent.
The winged demon fell over the stone ground, lifting a wave of dust whilst roaring furiously to its enemies.
"So, even the Pharaoh's faithful mongrel has a trick or two up his sleeve." The thief growled, concealing the massive pain from the recent struggle behind a smirk.
"You are finished." The priest whispered over the clash of his sword, his eyes darkening again while the veins around the optics reflected a violet gleam, the man fusing his own energy with his cast.
The familiar dashed against the demon, a more powerful enchantment manifesting from its staff as he launched the immense spell to the ground, its force tripled by Mahado's doing.
The assault managed to shake the entire mountain, the conjurer's somber eyes expressing his disbelief as the shadow missed its target, Diabound's form dodging the attack with unpredicted speed.
"I won't fall for that trick again." Bakura muttered as his hand pulled a hidden dagger from his robe, the edge missing a vital organ but still sinking into the priest's side, unable to dodge the hit completely.
Mahado's eyes retrieved their normal aspect, the orbs shrinking while clenching his jaw against the excruciating pain, his ghoul aimed for the thief's neck as he jumped away from the attack, blood soaking the man's robe as he pressed his hand to stop the flow.
The perceptive fiend managed to capture the slick shadow before it could vanish into the wall again, crushing it easily under the grip of its claws, a piercing shriek resounding over the chamber before the creature vanished into a pile of ash, blood spilling from its master's mouth.
"If this is all the prized summoner of the Pharaoh can offer, I will enjoy taking my time while killing your sovereign." The criminal marveled, raising the blade on his hand as his tongue licked the stained blood from the sharp edge.
Mahado's fury manifested in his glare, ignoring his own torment as his right hand conjured a red glow, drowning the sharp pain behind his clenched teeth as his palm burned through the open wound, the bleeding stopped behind the scorched flesh above his hip.
"Oh?" Bakura raised a sharp eyebrow, commending his opponent's grit as he stood from the ground.
"I won't let you near him!" He roared, the sharp lines tattooed under his eyes acquiring a new shape around his face as he summoned his powers, the floor around him trembling under the pressure of his aura.
The thief's orbs trembled over his petrified body, unable to lift a finger while sharp thorns sprang from the ground.
"AH!" He screamed in agony as the curse enveloped his body, multiple spines sinking into his flesh.
The wizard concentrated on the pressing spell, pursuing some time to recover before attempting to fuse his energy anew, cold perspiration slipping from his neck and temples.
"WHAT HAVE YOU DONE TO ME?" Bakura raged, recovering the movement of his limbs but unable to escape the lethal prison.
"Even if I must surrender my own life, I will protect the Pharaoh from the likes of you!" The conjuror swore, closing his extended fist as he pressed the thorns closer to its prisoner.
"AHHH!" The agonizing scream was unnerving, true rage filtering through his berserk expression. "YOU WILL NEVER CONTAIN ME!"
Diabound's disappearing form manifested behind the priest's back, the maneuver taking the man by surprise as the shadow defended its master from a lethal hit, the interruption releasing the thief's body.
Among the pain, the burglar commanded an attack without delay, a wave of electric shocks pushing his adversary's frame against the wall, his numb figure unable to raise while the familiar absorbed the full blast from the beast, a strenuous thunder shaking the premises.
In the intervening time, the soldiers outside the temple were losing their ground against Bakura's band, the warriors hardly keeping up against the enhanced strength fed from their master's power.
Mahado's creature was currently kneeling over the ground, smoke pouring from its mauve armor, the present manifestation of its form hanging by a thread.
"I'll make you pay for what you did." The thief threatened, holding his arm against his side, the anger sustaining his sanity against the agony, dragging his feet while pulling his dagger.
Mahado raised his head forcibly, his broad shoulders shaking from the struggle, unable to fully grasp the control of his limbs.
"No matter how much you beg, I will make sure you suffer the most painful of ends." Bakura murmured, Diabound's form standing behind him.
'He stole the ability of my ghoul.' The man speculated, lifting from the ground, the previous injury at his flank reopened.
"I… pity you." He whispered, the pain filtered through his drained voice.
"What did you say?" The thief paused his advance, his sharp eyes conveying his rage.
"I don't expect someone like you, to understand what loyalty is." The great caster faced the enemy, the endeavor conveyed in the ascending motions of his shoulders, the keen fire of his fortitude blazing in his ancient eyes. "I made a vow…to protect the Pharaoh, and I will not waver… no matter what becomes of me."
The remembrance of his days as an apprentice flashed through his mind, Mana's small frame attempting to reach a hanging apple from one of the numerous trees in the oasis, Atemu's arm able to take it with ease as he handed the fruit to the small child, both unaware of the viper camouflaged under the thick leaves.
His legs moved out of their own accord, screaming a warning toward the oblivious pair, pushing the prince's form out of harm's way as a sting punctured through his arm, the flow of the venom plunging into his body before the vermin slipped away, easily disappearing behind the bushes of the palace's gardens.
The effect of the poison ran fast, the ringing of his ears unable to conceal Mana's frightened sobbing, his weight surrendered as his legs faltered, massive nausea felt at the pit of his stomach.
"Mahado!" Atemu called as he kneeled beside him, watching the young boy hold his arm while cold sweat slipped through his slender face.
The sharp monarch spared no second as he took hold of the injured limb, pressing his warm lips over the wound as he sucked into it, spitting both blood and toxin into the grass before repeating the action.
"Your grace, you mustn't!" The apprentice attempted to pull back his arm, unable to break the firm hold as the prince pressed closer.
"Don't move." He commanded, continuing his current motions before lastly cleaning the edge of his lips with the edge of his thumb, his closed eyes opening as he faced his friend's gaze with fortitude.
"You shouldn't risk your life for someone like me, your highness." The boy apologized as he sank his head in reverence, holding his arm close to his side while covering the punctures with his hand. "You are too important for the future of this country."
"I know you would do the same for me, Mahad." The young prince answered gently, the realization of his words lifting the apprentice's eyes. "We are friends after all."
A deep warmth spread among the teen's chest, unable to hide his bewilderment as the monarch pulled his arm over his shoulder, helping his companion rise and holding his balance against him.
"When I become Pharaoh, you will be there by my side." He offered calmly, guiding the apprentice back into the palace to seek treatment. "I wouldn't have it any other way."
"Then you are a fool!" Bakura stormed, the caster's awareness returning to their present confrontation. "And I will not be pitied by a Pharaoh's mongrel!"
Blind to his own pain, the thief rushed into the rooted form of his enemy, the man making no attempt to evade the incoming assault.
The priest brazed for his ending move, no glimpse of fear nor hesitation present in his undaunted features.
Bakura pulled his arm amid his spring, aiming for Mahado's heart into a final attack, the conjurer's tranquil profile opposing the bandit's strike.
'My Pharaoh, I will finally repay my debt.'
Mana awoke startled from her restless sleep, her shaking form filled in perspiration as she noticed the gentle motions of the ship.
There were no windows available as she struggled for air, unable to settle the anxious trembling of her body.
"Something is wrong." She thought out-loud, her heart jumping frantically as the face of her mentor appeared amid her thoughts.
She rose from the bed incapable to remain still, her light camisole hardly protecting her from the dropping temperature inside the ship.
Without hesitation she headed for Kisara's cabin, ignoring Jonoh's look as he saw the incoming figure of the apprentice, noting the haunted expression in her face. He returned to his light rest while the girl slipped soundlessly into the room, finding the sleeping heiress under the sheets of her bed.
"Huh?" The beautiful girl hummed as she felt something against her body, recognizing Mana's scent as she clung to her.
"Mana?" She called, the doze still in her tone as her arms embraced the shivering girl. "What's wrong?"
A pause extended among the silence, the sound of the waves cracking the wood of the ship.
"Nothing." She mumbled, her arms clasping behind Kisara's waist. "Just a nightmare."
Without a need for further explanation the princess caressed the girl's chestnut locks, letting the tranquil motions of her breathing settled the girl to sleep, Mahado's face still vivid among her thoughts.
Yu-Gi-Oh! Is the property of Kazuki Takahashi and is not Maiko's intellectual property. This is for entertainment purposes only. No financial gain was made from this nor will any be sought.