Darn it! Deadlines and me really don't go together!
Anyways, I can't not leave a special thank you to tinyetoile and Dan G. Panterita for making super-dupper-mega-awesome fanart of my story! You guys have no idea how much that flatters my ego! Thank you so much!
Enjoy!
"Why do I have to carry him?" whined Tristan, adjusting the passed out white-haired boy on his back.
"Cause ya're the one who did the less work, buddy," replied Joey. "It's just fair. Besides, we're kind of busy here."
Yugi glanced at the real Bakura as the group was now heading back towards the temple. Kisara had judged wiser to put him to sleep since he was panicking and thinking of them as kidnappers and explaining it to him would've been too long. They didn't have time for that. Her eyes then turned back to the Pharaoh. All of their wounds had gradually faded after they'd stepped out of the water... except for Atem. The second they'd started walking, the ancient king had started feeling dizzy. So much that he was holding on to Joey for support and he looked like a ghost. It was nearly time. And he wanted to be left where he'd been found; his resting place. He'd warned them that it was going to be like that. But that didn't keep Yugi from feeling sick. The near death experience had left her so confused that it was easier to focus on the present. She felt compelled to ask.
"Are you okay, Pharaoh?"
"I'm fine," he replied, smiling at her through the strain he was putting on himself. "In fact, I am a bit excited. I have waited five thousand years for this."
She shook her head at him. "How can you be so calm? You're about to die..."
He kept on smiling. "No, little one. I'm about to be freed for good."
"Aren't you scared at all?" She asked remembering Zorc's breakdown when he processed that he was going to bite it.
"After being trapped in the Puzzle for so long and having faced the darkness again, this doesn't seem so threatening."
Really? Because she sure as hell would still be scared even after all of this mess.
"Besides," continued Atem. "I will not be going alone."
Yugi followed his gaze to Kisara who'd been quiet this whole time and the white spirit smiled back. Unlike her king, she showed no sign of weakening. It was probably due to her spirit-self keeping her strong. Or maybe it was because she was occupying Kisa's body. Either way, they'd have to say goodbye to her too. They seemed genuinely happy, and it was understandable. They were finally going to join their friends and family after so long. But she couldn't seem to feel happy for them. Maybe the last few weeks had given her a permanent state of worry. Hello, therapy.
"Good riddance," said Kaiba, pulling her out of her thoughts. "The quicker you two are out of our hair, the sooner we can go back home."
"Kaiba!" snapped Joey and Yugi in unison.
"Oh please, don't tell me anyone wants to stay here more than they have to."
Yugi took a breath to give him a piece of her mind, but Atem's chuckle stopped her.
"I think it's about time we all return home."
That line silenced everyone and the group moved on. The only sound they made was the one of their wet shoes hitting the ground. Strange. Out of everyone, Yugi was definitely the quietest. But there was always someone to start a conversation. Tea and Joey were the type to keep the chat going. But both of them were also very quiet. Another wave of guilt made her bite her lips in frustration. She'd seen them get hurt, she knew that they'd visited their own personal hells in the Shadow Realm. Even Tea and Tristan, who'd forgotten what they saw, were unusually pensive. And her brunette friend stuck abnormally close to the pointy-haired boy. Walking side by side, looking at the ground, occasionally glancing at each other and exchanging fake smiles... Like they shared something bad. Memory or not, they hadn't come out unscathed.
Joey and Kaiba were both looking straight ahead, like warriors on a mission. They couldn't look back to see what they'd lost. Just how much had they broken themselves trying to get to her? She wanted to say something, but no words came to mind. In the end, she was just as broken as them, wasn't she? What could she possibly do?
Her eyes found Joey again. There was so much pain in his life already. His father, the Scarlet Wolves, living in Hoshu, fending for himself... Why did he have to go through all of that as a sick bonus? Thankfully, she got distracted before she could start crying when they arrived at the temple. To her surprise, the sarcophagus had been brought back on the platform. But the spots where the Millennium Items had been were empty. On the stairs leading to the platform, were Marik and Odion. Both of the Tomb Keepers had miserable looks on their faces. When they saw them, they kneeled.
"Pharaoh," greeted Marik. "The Items have disappeared. Is it over?"
"Stand, Tomb Keepers," replied Atem, letting go of Joey to stand on his own. "The Dark One is no more. I assume the souls of Kul-Elna have been released."
He sighed in relief but still no joy showed in his eye. "At last."
"You have my condolences for your loss, Marik."
Yugi looked around, but though a large blood stain still tainted the platform, the priestess's body was nowhere to be seen.
"Where is Ishizu?"
"Our sister has been buried alongside our ancestor," said Odion, reading her mind. "Pure One, we have no right to ask for your forgiveness, nor do we expect you to give it to us. We were blinded by our faith in the scriptures, and you've suffered the consequences of our ignorance. As penance, we will accept any punishment you see fit. Even if what you demand is our lives."
It took her a moment to register what she was being told. Her mouth moved to say something but nothing came out. These people were the reason her life had been turned into a nightmare. They had almost killed her. But how was she suppose to react? Helplessly, she looked at the ancient king for advice.
"I will not stop you," said Atem. "You are owed too much..."
"Are you serious?" interrupted the young billionaire. "Living underground like cavemen your entire life doesn't give you immunity for kidnapping and attempted murder. Not to mention the trail of dead bodies you've left behind. You freaks deserve way more than a quick death sentence for what you've done. I can make sure you're put in a maximum security prison in the middle of the Californian desert in solitary confinement for the rest of your worthless lives."
"Kaiba, stop it," said Yugi, throwing him a pleading look.
He was about to start arguing with her too, but when he saw the pleading look she was throwing him he rolled his eyes in annoyance but backed down. She eyed the two men in front of her.
"I... I know you did what you did for a reason," she began, scratching the back of her neck nervously. "In the end, you're the ones who lost someone. I think that's punishment enough."
Odion and Marik's eyes widened in surprise. If she'd looked to the side, she'd have seen the ancient king smile.
"All of us... we've been manipulated from the start. Baku... I mean the Thief King played us all like puppets. But... I can't forgive you. I-I don't think I can. Not now at least."
That was true. She'd never forget what was done to her, here or back home. These people... their faces would haunt her for the rest of her life. She'd need time. A lot of time.
"Then please," said Marik, "accept this one promise. You will never lay eyes on us again."
An awkward smile made its way to her face. "I can take that."
Kisara took a step closer to Marik. "Would you be so kind as to open the spirit gate one more time? I must release my spirit-self in order to pass on."
Marik and Odion immediately stepped onto the platform to repeat their chant and the spirit gate opened at their command. But the instant the bright light filled the room, a large black shape flew out of it and headed straight for Joey. The blond boy let out a cry of shock and fell on his butt when the shape hit him. Yugi's jaw almost hit the floor when she saw the black dragon growling furiously at him.
You reckless fool! Returning to the shadow realm after nearly getting killed by divine fire... Have you lost your mind? Do you have any idea the danger you were in?
Once the initial shock passed, the blond boy flashed a smile at the giant creature. "Sorry, Red-Eyes. I had somethin' important to do."
The spirit shook her head at him before touching foreheads with him.
Protecting you from malevolent spirits is my duty. Don't make that impossible for me by going to unholy places like that.
He kept on smiling and pet her on the head like she was a big dog growling at her owner for being late. "Don't sweat it. I ain't goin' back there anytime soon."
"Uh , Joey..." let out Yugi, wondering if she should be worried.
"Oh right." Joey stood back up. "Guys, this is Red-Eyes. She's my... uh, guardian angel, I guess."
"You have a kindred spirit too?" asked Yugi, unable to take her eyes off the creature.
"Most humans do," commented Kisara.
Wow. That was... wow. Joey had something like that watching over him? Kindred spirits kept malevolent spirits at bay according to Atem. For some reason, it made her think of how amazing of a person Joey had turned out to be despite his environment and upbringing. It was crazy but maybe it was because Red-Eyes had protected him from corrupting creatures. Amazing. She thought of her little furry companion who'd been devoured by Zorc. Was she left vulnerable without him? Well wasn't that comforting.
"It's time," said Atem glancing at the white spirit.
Kisara nodded back. Her white light surrounded her and a ghostlike shape stepped out of the body. There were now two of them. Kisa had finally regained control of her body stared at her other self. Kisara shun brighter and morphed into her dragon form.
I'm ready, Pharaoh.
Atem stepped closer to her and placed a gentle hand on her cheek. His eyes had a sad expression to them, and they weren't due to the extreme exhaustion. "I promised I would get you out of here and protect you. But in the end, all I did was put you in more danger. And you have saved me three times now. I'm indebted to you."
She shook her head. "No, you're not. You may not remember but you saved me too," she said remembering the Burger world incident and the time at Pegasus's mansion. "I think we're more than even."
Atem chuckled and took his hand back. "You're far too kind, Pure One. Be careful. That kindness might betray you someday."
It had already. Multiple times actually. "Is it wrong to be kind?"
"No, but it's good to be aware too."
Muffled snickering reached her ears and she rolled her eyes, knowing that the rest of the group was laughing at her. How many times had they told her that? Two warm arms suddenly wrapped around her shoulders from behind.
"Don't ya worry, Pharaoh," said Joey. "That's why she's got us to look after her! Right, Yug?"
Too close. Too close. Way too close! Her face flamed up and she was certain steam was coming out of her ears. Atem laughed at the display. "Well, it seems I leave you in good hands. Few people would do what your friends have done for you."
That put a smile on her face and she glanced at the rest of the group. "I know."
"Farewell, Yugi. Thank you again for lending me your soul."
Her smile faded and she a lump in her throat. How was it possible to have gotten attached to the Pharaoh in such a short amount of time? Her watering eyes answered that question. Quickly wiping them, she forced a smile.
"Goodbye, Atem."
The ancient king eyed Kaiba. "I trust you'll have them return safely."
"You don't have to tell me, old man. It's what I came here for."
The Pharaoh added nothing and stepped onto the platform before taking place in his sarcophagus. As he did that, the white dragon turned towards the young billionaire.
It seems like destiny does some things well. I was happy to meet you, Seto.
"Can't say the feeling's mutual," he replied crossing his arms on his chest. "But you did help us along the way. For that at least, I'm grateful."
"Only ya can make that sound like an insult, moneybags," said Joey. "But I guess that still counts as progress for ya."
"Shut up, mutt-face."
The white dragon shook her head before coming closer to Kisa and touching foreheads with her. The class rep's face showed surprise and when the spirit pulled back, she smiled at her. But Yugi didn't miss the sad expression in her friend's eyes.
"I know," said the class rep. "I'll be fine."
I bid you adieu, heir of mine. May fate be kind to you, Kisa Yamato.
With a few flaps of her wings, Kisara was besides the sarcophagus. So this was it? Those two were finally going to where they belonged. It was very strange but relieving to see them so peaceful. But Yugi's stomach tightened. Atem had been her other half for a moment. Her soul had been recovered but it still felt like she was losing something important. Every muscle in her body was tensed up, like she was holding herself back. And she had a hard time keeping her eyes off the ancient king. He must've been barely older than them when he died. He never had a real life. And there he was, heading for the final destination. A low growl pulled her out of her thoughts. The black dragon was looking at Joey.
I suppose this is when we part ways, Joey, said Red-Eyes. It is unlikely you will see me again.
"Oh. Well, uh," replied the blond. He scratched the back of his neck nervously, as if searching for what to say. Then he smiled awkwardly. "It was nice meetin' ya, Red-Eyes. Also, thanks for watchin' out for me. Guess ya finally get a break from that."
Don't be a fool. People like you attract malevolent spirits like blood flies to a fresh cut.
"What do you mean 'people like him'?" asked Yugi.
That is not for me to tell, Pure One. Joey, you will not see me. But I will be there. Always, my reckless human.
Yugi could only guess how strange the blond boy felt. She'd felt plenty weird when she found out she had a kindred spirit. But as usual, he didn't seem to overthink it.
"Guess I have to start prayin' more often, don't I?"
Mind the blasphemy, Wheeler. The dragon joked, hitting him in the shoulder with her tail. Do try to keep yourself out of trouble with your kind. I can only do so much.
The face he made would have people thinking he ate something bad. "Ya sound like Mai."
We essentially have the same job. Farewell, Joey.
Instead of replying the blond through her a salute sign and the black dragon disappeared out of sight. By the time, Yugi turned back towards the platform, the Pharaoh was nowhere to be seen and when she ran up the stone stairs to see, in the sarcophagus only remained dust. No way, he was already gone? But then, why was Kisara still here?
"Kisara?" asked Yugi, uncertain.
"It's not her," said Kisa. "Not really. She's gone. At least, her human-self is."
God knew how she knew that, but she did. It was over. Both were gone. That was too fast. Too smooth. But it was for the best. That was the moment she finally stopped trying to fight the emotion and two tears streamed down her cheeks. She'd really lost a friend, hadn't she? She must've stayed there too long, because next thing she knew, someone grabbed her hand and pulled her away from the platform.
"Come on," said Kaiba. "We're out of here. Whoever doesn't want to be left behind better keep up."
"Your friend is right," confirmed Marik. "We all must leave. We will guide you out."
"Wait a minute, are you going to leave the gate open?" asked Kisa.
"The last fragment of the white dragon will take care of the rest," said Odion, grabbing a torch from the wall. Now that the darkness has finally vanished and the Pharaoh has been put to rest, our role as Tomb Keepers is over. We are no longer welcomed in this sacred place. It must be forgotten."
"But...isn't this your home?" asked Yugi.
The platinum blond Egyptian let nothing show on his face and simply turned around to lead the way out. "Follow us."
These people really sacrificed everything for their duty. In a way, it was admirable and she couldn't help but feel sorry for them, taking it all without flinching. The group followed Marik and Odion through the dark hallways in complete silence. When they stepped out, it took a moment for Yugi to get used to the sunlight. She'd been underground far too long. It was morning. She wished there was fresh air, but the heat was suffocating. Still, being outside felt good. They all got into the jeep-van, squeezing at the back to fit everyone. But they still remained quiet.
A few hours of silent driving went by. When they arrived in Cairo, the damages done by the storms and earthquakes were extensive, and the locals were hard at work clearing up the streets. Marik and Odion dropped them off at the hotel Kaiba told them about before driving away without so much as a final glance. They had every intention of leaving everything behind. That much Yugi was certain of. And it was better this way. In fact, if possible, it was what they should all do.
Bye Pharaoh, bye Kisara. *Sniffle* So, who's ready for a bit of shrink work next chapter?
This chapter ended up being a lot more expositional than anything else, but i had to squeeze that in somewhere. Sorry about that. BUT...DON'T PUT THOSE HANDKERCHIEVES DOWN JUST YET! Next chapter will most definitely pull on your heartstrings on different levels. Better safe than sorry!
PLEASE REVIEW