Man, Thank you all again for your reviews! I'm dead. I wrote too much in too short a time. Blahhahha!

A special thanks to those that took the time to type out a review!: angiembabe, Guest, lloyd-forever, Lady Kaelas, Guest 2, and Some-Helping-Hands-of-Fire.

That's all I have to say. I'm tired. I'm dead. I'm posting. Cheers!

"So… I'm guessing they're not supposed to be here," said Joey.

Seto didn't answer, keeping his face forward as he walked with the group back to the palace. After being ignored for the past five minutes, he'd have thought the spirit would have gotten the hint that Seto was not interested in talking to him. Apparently not.

"Wait a second," continued Joey. "He's a councilman! Dat's where I've seen that emblem. You and the other priest are wearing them too. Is he not supposed to be here for a festival?"

"Sprit," said Seto, finally snapping. "Please cease your useless chatter. It's giving me a headache."

"I'm just asking some questions here! It wouldn't kill you to answer me."

Seto looked at the spirit, then nodded toward his companions. Karim, Marik, and Mana were all watching him, concern evident. Even if they knew Seto was talking to a spirit, watching him talk randomly to open air had to be strange. Not to mention the passing citizens. They moved well away from the group due to their size and rank, but their conversations could be overheard easily.

Seto returned his gaze forward, tugging on his horse's reigns. To his irritation, he noticed that the spirit had perched on top of it.

"Sheesh, I get it," grumbled Joey. "I'm just excited to finally have someone to talk to. Well, at least someone I know isn't going to throw me to da afterlife at any second."

He must have been talking about Atem. Apparently, he'd fled soon after talking to Atem out of both impatience and in fear.

"I wonder where Serenity went," continued Joey. "I hope she didn't get into any trouble."

Seto deliberately closed his eyes tight before opening them again. If the spirit wasn't going to shut up, he might as well find out some more information, even if it made him look crazy.

"You are very dutiful to her if those feelings have kept you here," commented Seto.

"Of course!" said Joey, perking up. He seemed happy that Seto was responding. He jabbed a thumb toward himself. "She's my sister. I'm da only family she's got left. Our parents disappeared years back an' I had to raise her all myself."

"What happened then?" said Seto. "Why did she join the Rare Hunters?"

Joey wilted. "Dat… was my fault I think. I told her to stay somewhere while I went out on a…ah. A job."

"You were on a heist."

"Hey! You can't punish me since I'm already dead. But fine, yes. I had to keep us fed somehow."

Seto had heard those words before. 'It couldn't be helped.' 'I have a family to feed.' It was no excuse for their lawless and barbaric behavior. If lands could be ruled by sentiment alone, there would be no order.

Joey saw the disapproval, folding his arms defensively.

"I ain't going to apologize for it," he said. "It didn't work anyway. They were ready for us and well…"

"You were killed," said Seto. "That was punishment enough."

"Hardass," ground out Joey. "I don't understand. How can you be such a jerk to me and yet say you want to help my sister?" His eyes narrowed. "You're not just using me to find their base, are ya?"

Seto didn't answer. Why was he extending any sympathy toward Serenity? He didn't even know exactly why she'd joined the Rare Hunters. He knew that she'd suffered cruelties that had driven her to choose the path of destruction, but…

"She thought you abandoned her," said Seto suddenly. "That's why she's given up on the world. Because if no one wanted her, then she didn't want the world either."

Joey's silence was answer enough.

"I completely let her down," he said, voice low. "Everything she's done. The people she's hurt. It's all my fault."

Watching the despondent form of Joey, Seto felt an uncharacteristic amount of sympathy. How cruel was if for this spirit to continually witness the fruits of his failures without the ability to change anything? Seto would have gone mad from the torture.

"Your sister will still have to pay for her crimes against the monarchy," said Seto. "But I don't plan to let her continue in the delusion that this world holds nothing but cruelty. I've seen light from the saddest of smiles and hope in the most desolate of people. There is something in this world for her to live for, I'll show her that. You have my word."

Hope shone in the spirit's face, the first full expression Seto had seen from it. Despite not having tears to wipe away, Joey rubbed at his eyes with an arm.

"For a stuffy priest, you an't dat bad," chuckled Joey.

"Stuffy priest?" Seto was flabbergasted.

Karim raised his eyebrows at Seto, his face threatening to quirk into a smile. That's right. The others were listening to his side of the conversation.

"Yeah, sorry," said Joey. "They weren't too kind to me an' Serenity when I was… well, yah know. Not dead."

"No offense taken," said Seto dryly. It wasn't the first childish insult he'd had to endure, though it was to first he'd heard to his face in a long time.

A giggle made him look back. Mana had a hand over her mouth, beaming brightly at him.

"Ah, I wish I could hear the spirit as well," she cooed. "I wonder what kind of person can get those sorts of responses from Priest Seto."

What responses was she talking about? He made to exchange a look with Karim but noticed that even the priest looked intrigued.

"Indeed," said Karim. "Perhaps once we've learned what caused you to see the spirit, we can all meet him."

"I find that situation unlikely," said Seto dryly. "And Mana, I wouldn't be so gleeful if I were in your situation. Mahad will not be lenient to you for disobeying his orders."

The girl's glee turned sour as she grumbled at Seto. Her companion stayed silent, Marik keeping his head high as if he was not returning to be reprimanded. Though his position on the council was recent, he had the dignity of a long-time member. At least… when he wasn't arguing with Mana.

They reached the palace steps, where Karim stopped to part with them. He gestured to Seto to talk with him. Letting the other two go ahead, Seto stopped, the spirit following him as well.

"If you learn anything else, be sure to let me know," said Karim. "We've gathering all sorts of information that may be useful. If Serenity is out there, we will find her. And of course… in regards to our other query."

He was talking about the pharaoh's behavior. The whole reason they had set out on this afternoon adventure. It gave Seto little joy in the knowledge that he'd discovered what had caused the change in the pharaoh, mostly because there was nothing that could be done. The man was the Yami, and Seto now knew that was not an evil position to have. That said, no one else knew either point and so it was useless to pursue this topic.

"Of course," said Seto. "If something should come up, I'll let you know."

The spirit gave a confused look, unable to follow the trail of their conversation. Seto was about to leave when Karim stopped him again.

"Priest Seto," said Karim. His expression was complicated, as if his words were hard to speak. "I believe I owe you an apology."

"For what reason?"

"For me attitude toward you," Karim shifted, looking uncomfortable. "Since the day you joined the priesthood, I've spent much of the time regarding you with nothing but resentment and conceit. I've come to realize that my hasty judgment of you was both wrong and unfair."

Seto waited, wondering what had brought this up. He'd already brushed aside the priest's previous attitude and accepted him as a true ally. Maybe a friend if it was a good day.

"For years I've thought you were nothing more than a reckless, prideful child who sought power for his own purposes," continued Karim. "And I'm ashamed to admit that it was only recently those notions have been refuted in my mind."

Joey gave a snort. "Nah, I'd say the prideful part is still true. Nose stuck in the air, this one."

Seto ignored him.

"Your apology is unneeded," said Seto. "It is already passed and done. Though if I may ask, was there a special reason for your resentment toward me? There were many more proud and reckless than I."

Karim grimaced.

"If you must know, the day you arrived, Isis had a vision," said Karim. "She said I'd one day hold you in high regard and trust you with my life."

Seto raised a brow.

"I can see why that would interfere with your assessment of me," said Seto dryly. "Though I believe that prophecy may still yet be unfulfilled."

Karim gave a chuckle, shaking his head. "Perhaps, but I do not believe it is far off." Karim clapped Seto on the shoulder, eyes kind. "You care deeply for those things you love, Priest Seto. Egypt is lucky to be cared for by a man such as yourself."

Seto's frown deepened. He didn't know how to respond to that.

"I must continue my patrol," said Karim, lowering his hand. "I'll see you at the ceremony."

With confidence and a final wave, Karim left to join his men.

Seto watched, his mind mulling over the words Karim had left with him. It was against Seto's principles to be interested in anything he didn't deem worthy of his time. The fact that he'd been interested in Karim's attitude toward told him that he didn't put Karim in that category. Nor Joey, Serenity… even Mana and Marik. He'd found himself engaging with the others as he had never done before.

Perhaps it wasn't Karim's assessment in him that had changed. Perhaps it was he who had changed. His ability to care for things other than his pride, Egypt or the pharaoh.

A warm sound came from within him. It was the Blue-eyes, stomach reverberating in a strange hum, agreeing with his thoughts.

If I have changed, it is because of you, Seto thought, eyes softening as he thought of Kisara, a woman who had shone despite the darkness. There was no one like her, nor would there ever be. She may be gone, but she had left a bit of herself for him to watch over. In turn, it gave him the strength to expand his arms. To expand his heart.

"So… are we gonna go?" said the spirit, pointing to the stairs. "'Cause I know you wanted to talk to da Yami… Or do you just want to go back out and search for my sister?"

"We're going," said Seto, marching up the stairs. He could see Mana and Marik at the top, waiting for him. He could now identify the feelings within him. His absence of detachment from the world.

No, it wasn't your assessment of me that changed, Karim, thought Seto. It was his heart that had changed.

Atem slowly circled the chamber, eyeing the effigy his priests had put together. They'd managed to make a snake's head look menacing and grotesque, the sight offense to all who saw it. Different talismans representing the god Apophis rounded the base, binding it metaphorically in place. Tomorrow the defacing would begin, and Egypt would offer their prayers to the gods.

"There are only a few minor details to be hashed out before tomorrow's ceremony," said Arkana. The priest was walking alongside Atem, giving his report. "A few talismans jostled free during the trip and one of the priests had to be replaced. He was bitten by a snake on the way here and though it was not poisonous, we felt it would be an ill omen if we allow a man who—"

"He's not here either," came Yugi's voice, drifting into Atem's head.

The pharaoh nodded appropriately to Arkana as the priest prattled on, concentrating most of his attention to his partner. "Do you think he left the city?" sent Atem. Yugi had been looking for Bakura since last night with no success.

"I doubt it," said Yugi. "If anything, this proves that he's switched side. That, or gone so deep he can't have casual contact with me anymore."

Atem stopped, arms folded as he gazed at the effigy. There was a strange aura around it, a sickening brown that made Atem's nose wrinkle. The effigy was indeed doing its job of absorbing the ills of the world around it.

Though Atem now knew an offering of this nature was pretty much useless in the long run, it was important for man to continue giving their respects. To contribute even this little ceremony to the imprisonment of Apophis. In the least, it showed the gods that their efforts weren't forgotten or unappreciated.

"The effigy seems to be particularly potent this year," said Atem. "Any reason for that?"

Arkana scratched his chin in thought. "Perhaps it's responding to the Valley of the Damned. I've heard it's been acting up more than usual. If there is more chaos in the air than it makes sense that there will be more evil for the effigy to attract."

Atem let out a hum in his throat.

"Any thoughts on what's going on?" said Atem. "There are not many spells in my knowledge that can block our magic. At least, not before I read the Book of Thoth. Who else would know those spells?"

"A select few," answered Yugi. "One of them is Arthur, but I doubt this could all be done from him unless he was behind it. If someone had the ability to get information from Arthur then they already knew about our magic."

The thoughtful equivalent of a tapping pressed through their bond softly. Yugi's outward emotions were calm as he silently thought, but there was an undeniable glumness to them.

"What is it?" said Atem.

"It's a friend," said Yugi. "I had Bakura try to contact him earlier and he didn't succeed. I calculated the chance that he was involved in this but… I haven't been able to find him either."

"And he knows about your powers."

"In some detail, yes. At this point, it's very likely he's turned against us."

"Then it might be possible he was the one that switched Bakura to the side of the Rare Hunters."

Red throbbed from Atem's side of the link. He really did not like the idea of people betraying Yugi, especially when the lad trusted so rarely.

"You're worrying your poor priest, by the way," said Yuugi with amusement.

Arkana's concerned face came into focus. He was wringing his hands, obviously distressed.

"Is it not to your liking?" the man said. "We can get some of the stones moved. Position it so you can have an even better view as we-"

"It's fine," said Atem, forcing his frown to dissipate. "Just make sure it's finished by tomorrow. I have other things to take care of."

"Of course, my pharaoh," said Arkana, bowing.

Atem walked out abruptly, turning heads as he passed. He didn't have time for niceties. Based on the souls he'd sensed entering the palace a few minutes ago, he was about to have even more work in his hands. And there was still so much he had to make sure was in place before tomorrow… He resisted the urge to sigh. This was why he had wanted to wait until tomorrow to have these discussions.

"Trouble in paradise?" offered Yugi.

"Always with those two," said Atem. "I shouldn't have been surprised, though you might be interested. It seems they brought an interesting spirit back with them."

"Oh? What sort of spirit?"

"One without a Ka."

It had taken Atem the night to mull over what had been strange about the spirit he'd passed in the city. Apart from being without any corruption, he'd also been able to wander around the city. Most spirits were earth bound, unable to leave the place where they'd died. The distance Joey had been able to cross had been unusually large. It hadn't made sense. Atem'd been reading through the Book of Thoth when the realization had come to him that he hadn't sensed a Ka near Joey. It must have been bound to someone or something else.

He felt Yugi give an appreciative whistle. "A spirit without a Ka? Now those always have interesting stories. Make sure you get it before you send the poor thing away."

"Don't be insensitive. He's looking for his sister."

"How do you already know that?"

"Not all of us take three-day beauty naps, partner."

Peels of delight flew through the link. Yugi was laughing hard if Atem had to guess. What was so funny? Was it something he'd said?

"I think he's amused that you called his meditating a 'beauty nap,' " offered Celtic suddenly through the bond. "We all refuse to call it that. He insisted for like, ten years before he finally let it go."

Lips twitching at his partner's infectious laughter, Atem rounded the last corner, spotting the group before him. It comprised of Mahad, Mana, Marik, Isis, and Seto. The last person present was the spirit Joey, hovering close by Priest Seto's side.

This time Atem didn't resist the breath of frustration that left him. Based on the glares, raised voices and furtive glances, this was going to be a very long conversation indeed.

Now, if he could just get Yugi to stop laughing…

Out of everyone present, Isis appeared to be the most upset. Her nostrils were flared, shoulders back and head high as her eyes bore into Marik. The two of them were also the most vocal to the point that everyone else was watching their exchange.

"You were explicitly told to stay in the capital," Isis said. "Why have you come here and disobeyed the pharaoh's orders?"

Marik sneered. "As if they were the Pharaoh's. I know full well that you were behind that assignment, sister. You had no right to dictate my actions."

"I am your elder sister, I have every right."

Seto let his attention shift, watching the pharaoh approach. The rest of the group hadn't noticed him yet, still caught up in their own tiffs. Because he was watching for it, he saw the pharaoh's focus concentrate on Joey for a moment, expression quirked into a smile. Then it slid away as he got closer.

"Do not let your sentiment blind you, sister," Marik was saying. "I am a member of the council, same as you, and as such have no obligation to listen to your commands. The one I serve is the pharaoh and he gave me permission to stay."

At this, every head turned to Atem, who stopped just short of the group. Isis pushed to the front to stand before him.

"Is this true?" said Isis, her emotions held back. "You gave her permission to come?"

"I gave him permission to stay," said Atem, without a hint of apology. "As I did for Mana under the promise they would come seek your both out tomorrow. I see that date has been pushed forward, though I am confused as to the reason for this."

"That would be mine and Karim's doing," said Seto. "They stumbled across us when we were investigating the city."

Mana grumbled something about being pushed, not tripping. Isis's expression flashed with betrayal before smoothing as she addressed the king.

"My Pharaoh," said Isis. "You understand why I did not want Marik to come,"

"I do understand," said Atem. "But I also understand Marik's freedom of choice."

"But he doesn't understand the path he's chosen!"

"And what is it I don't understand?" said Marik, standing before Isis, feet wide and arms folded in a powerful stance. It was obvious he didn't plan on faltering. "What could possibly give you the right to deny me the ability to save our brother's Ka?"

"Because you'll die if you stay here!"

Silence filled the hall.

Marik's mouth had opened a fraction, staring at her. No one else spoke as they waited, watching for Marik's reaction. Seto was satisfied as he watched the man's face harden, mouth closing into a sneer.

"My brother died to save me," ground out Marik. "And you dare try to deny me the same gesture?"

Isis stopped, hesitation entering her expression for the first time. "That's not it," she said. "I'm just trying to protect you. Father, Mother, Odion… you're the only family I have left."

"That's not true,"

It was Atem that spoke. He smiled warmly at her, gesturing to the group around them. "You have a family here Isis, though we do not share blood. I cannot and will not deny Marik's desire to fight. To do so would be to deny him as a soldier and subject of Egypt."

Pools of moisture swam in Isis's eyes as she looked to Atem. The woman who, even in her distress radiated dignity, was to overcome to speak. She lowered her head, backing away from the group. Then without another word, she turned and left.

"Isis…" said Mana in sympathy watching the priestess go.

"Can't say I blame her for worrying," said Joey, "I'd probably have done the same thing with Serenity… but how does she know that Marik dude is going to die?"

Seto was about to answer when the spirit's expression cleared.

"Oh, dat makes sense. I've always wondered what those millennium thingy's are supposed to do."

Seto looked to the spirit, then in understanding, he looked to Atem. The pharaoh was currently talking with Mana and Mahad, but he was the only other person that could have possibly answered Joey. Now that Seto thought about it, he hadn't seen Atem speak in the precession, yet Joey said they had conversed. Perhaps they were able to speak through their minds. It would make a lot of sense, even if it seemed strange to be able to do that with another spirit instead of a Ka.

Seto barely listened as the group now turned their attention to Mana's presence. She didn't have the same power as Marik did in her decision as she was still a pupil under Mahad's instruction. Their discussion separated as Mahad took Mana aside to speak to her privately. It was a much more tactful move in Seto's opinion than to openly discuss everything as Marik and Isis had done.

Seto waited as Marik spoke with Atem, exchanging thanks and words of caution. Whatever he thought of Marik, Seto could respect a man who was willing to give himself for the sake of helping a loved one. The Ka was a shadow self of the soul. Unless the Ka found peace, the person whose soul it had originated from would always feel a sense of unfulfillment. As if they were missing something.

The other three finished their conversation, Mana walking away with her nose in the air despite Mahad's strong words toward her. Seto seriously doubted she'd go home unless Mahad physically made her.

"Now," said Atem, coming to stand with Seto. His eyes slid to Joey. "We need to talk."

"I won't bite," said the pharaoh

"Nah, you'll just send me away," said Joey. "I'd rather stay here on earth, thank you!"

The spirit was staying close to Seto, despite the large space in front of them. They'd all moved to a closed room where they could have a private conversation. Seto still hadn't said anything, hoping the pharaoh would offer up some information first. There was a long list of things he wanted to ask, but only a few vital ones that needed to be answered. He'd gratefully take anything the pharaoh offered before fighting for clarity on certain things.

"So…" Said Joey, scratching his head. "Are we going to get his help or what? I don't want to waste any more time trying to find her."

"You've solicited Priest Seto to help you with your sister?" said Atem, curious. "Do you ask just anyone that can see you for their help?"

"Hey, you and this priest are da first ones that can see me," said Joey, jabbing a thumb toward Seto. "I'm desperate here, man."

"And you've agreed to help him?" said Atem to Seto.

"I have," said Seto. "Mostly because his interests align with mine. His sister, as it turns out, is one of the Rare Hunters that stole Ka from the Hall of Shadows."

"You're speaking of Serenity," said Atem. "Karim told me about her. She's a lost child, isn't she?"

"So, you know my sister too?" said Joey, amazed. "Wow, small world here."

"I know of her, but I have not met her personally."

Atem crossed the room to sit in one of the chairs, leaning back with a sigh. It was evident to Seto that the man was tired, even if he still radiated more majesty than should be humanly possible. Which, he wasn't human anymore so it made sense.

"Are you thinking of having Joey help you find her and then the Rare Hunters?" said Atem.

"Essentially," said Seto. "If we find Serenity, we find the Rare Hunters. She appears to be closer to the top than the other gofers we've encountered. Joey can sense her presence most of the time but she's is currently hidden from his view. We thought you may be able to help."

Atem raised a knowing brow. There was a teasing, challenging quality to that expression. "Oh?" said Atem. "And what makes you think I can do better than you, Priest Seto?"

"Because you're the Yami."

Not even a blink in response. Atem just stared, completely unsurprised. It made Seto uneasy, for in that moment, he felt as if he didn't know the man before him. As if Atem was a stranger.

"Oh good! That means I can come out now."

With frantic scuffling, someone crawled out from under one of the tables. It was the Hikari, dusting himself off as gave a wide smile to Seto and Joey. "Hi again!"

"Yugi!?"

That exclamation had come from Joey. Seto was even more surprised when the spirit darted forward in glee, attempting to hug the smaller lad. He went straight through of course, but that didn't stop the two from laughing as they chattered away like old women.

"I can't believe it's you and, holy crap! You're the Hikari. No wonder you were so strange."

"That's just me, it has nothing to do with my Hikari powers," said Yugi. "And look at you! You're dead. I thought I told you not to go on that heist."

Everything had just gotten a whole lot nosier. Seto's eyebrows twitched in irritation. He'd despised Joey's ceaseless chatter earlier and he definitely didn't appreciate it now. He opted to leave the two be, concentrating on his king for some sort of distraction. The man's attention was focused on the other two, smiling softly.

"Were you going to tell any of us?" said Seto, meaning the council.

"Eventually," said Atem lightly, eyes still on the two hyper kids. "Isis already figured it out. The others think something's strange but they don't know the truth." He nodded to Joey. "I'm assuming he's the one that ratted me out."

"Yes."

"Then I'm lucky no one else can see him."

"I don't think seeing him is the problem. It's hearing him."

"I heard that yah stuffy priest!" shot out Joey, pointing a finger. "Man, if I didn't have to, I wouldn't stay with you a second longer."

"You may not have to," said Yugi, waving his hand. "Am I right in assuming that your sister bonded with your Ka?"

"How'd you know?" said Joey.

"Lucky guess!"

Yugi bounded through the room, stopping right in front of Atem. He peered straight into Atem's face, a hope and plea outshining the sun. They were so close it was downright disrespectful. Partners or not, a peasant like Yugi should not peer into the face of his pharaoh so close, nor so intently.

"You're too close Hikari," said Seto sharply.

The only response he got was the half inch Yugi moved as his heels lowered to the ground. The two were still locked in some sort of silent exchange, Atem's face flickering through a range of emotions. Finally, it settled on exasperation.

Yugi suddenly threw his arms up in excitement. "Yes, yes yes!" The Hikari took a lap around the room.

"Joey," said Atem, who was now pointedly ignoring Yugi. "Serenity being bound to your Ka is what allows you to sense her location, correct?"

"Yup," said Joey.

"Then that's where we'll start."

Yugi jumped up to Joey, arms behind his back as he rocked back and forth like a ship at sea. "This is perfect. We'll find her Ka, find Serenity, and find whatever else is going on."

"Wait a moment," said Seto. "You are not going anywhere with Joey. I promised to accompany him to find his sister." He'd also made a promise to help release her from her inner turmoil. It was a promise Seto had every intention of keeping.

Yugi's rocking stopped mid sway, looking as if he'd been let down. Huge eyes turned their might to Seto as Yugi pouted.

"Sorry, Priest Seto," said Atem, saving Seto from those unnerving violet eyes. "But it will be safer if Yugi sets out to find her. If he discovers anything, he can relay a message back to me and I can let you know their location. As it is, you're needed her at the palace for the next few days. The ceremony is tomorrow, and we don't have many people I can trust to make sure it proceeds smoothly."

Seto opened his mouth to protest but was interrupted by the Hikari, who clapped his hands happily.

"That's settled then!" said Yugi. "We'll keep in touch and you two can have your chat! Come on Joey, let's go find some bad guys!"

"You mean my sister."

"Oh posh, they're the same thing."

The two left, though not through the door. Yugi's mode of exit was through the window, jumping down as the spirit followed. Very unconventional and completely unnecessary. This whole encounter had been like that. Quick, high energy and spun completely out of his control. Seto's irritation was only just now catching up with what had happened.

There was still one person in the room to receive that frustration. Atem still hadn't left his seat.

The pharaoh placed a hand against his cheek, the first two digits pressed to his temples as he leaned his elbow on the armrest. He gazed at Seto, expression unreadable behind ruby eyes. While Seto was used to the pharaoh's scrutiny, he wasn't used to feeling so small under it. How could the other nobles not see how much Atem had changed? Not feel his aura?

"So," said Atem evenly. "Are you disappointed?"

"In what, my Pharaoh?" said Seto.

"That I chose to bond with Yugi."

Seto considered. "I'm more confused than disappointed," said Seto. "Why would you choose to become the Yami? Why add that extra burden?"

Atem smiled as if Seto had said something amusing. "What about you, Priest Seto? Why bond yourself with a deeply corrupted Ka like the Blue-Eyes-White-Dragon?"

"I do not see the Blue-Eyes as a burden," said Seto sharply. It was his light. A source of strength he'd find nowhere else.

"There's your answer," said Atem with a nod. Then he tilted his head, considering Seto. "Yes… I think I agree with Yugi. Had circumstances been different, you and Kisara could have been a very powerful pair of Yami and Hikari."

A Yami and Hikari pair… Seto knew the comment was meant to be a compliment, and it almost felt like one - save he hated the idea of Kisara putting more burdens on herself.

It was here that he realized he no longer felt animosity toward the position of the Hikari and Yami. They were no longer faceless monsters of legend. They were people he knew. A force that was on their side. He believed that they were demi-gods assigned to protect Egypt and the different realities.

Though Atem had obviously changed, it wasn't in any way that mattered. He was still Seto's pharaoh, as well as ally, rival, and friend.

"Has it helped?" said Seto. "Becoming the Yami?"

Something relaxed in Atem's stance, though Seto couldn't identify what it was. The pharaoh gave a shrug. "It's helped in that I now understand a lot more of what's occurring, but I now carry a lot more responsibilities. There's more to this fight than the council is aware."

"Then it's as we suspected, it does involve the Hikari."

"It's not a suspicion," said Atem, his voice low. "I'm afraid it has everything to do with Yugi… and with the power we're supposed to keep contained."

He fell silent. Then suddenly he snarled.

"Of course…" said Atem. "It's not just the items. It's Him as well."

Atem's face darkened, and Seto was sure the pharaoh had forgotten he was still present. The man's gaze was distant, in another conversation with Yugi through their bond. It was refreshing to know that the king was not losing his mind, but it was not pleasant to be here standing, waiting at one side of the conversation without any context to pass the time.

Seto tried to be patient. It didn't work. Whatever epiphany the man had, he obviously didn't plan on sharing it with Seto.

"My Pharaoh," said Seto, snapping Atem's attention back to him. "I think we both need to go back to work,"

Atem let out a sigh. The edges of his bearing had lessened. "You're right. There is still much to do. I'll let you know the second Yugi and Joey find anything."

"When this is all over, I hope you'll tell me more about the Yami and Hikari's role in this."

"Certainly." He stood, crossing the room as he stated; "By the end of all this, I'm hoping to change the history Yugi rewrote a hundred years ago. It's about time the Hikari and Yami to become recognized as the heroes of Egypt they once were."

Everything was proceeding as Bakura predicted. There had been a few bumps in the road, but overall his plan was still working. Now, if he could just get the last piece to fall into place it would be smooth sailing from here.

He skirted the edge of the large room, watching from the shadows as men in cloaks moved about. In the center of the room stood two twisted obelisks, Ka and spells sealed within. It was the fourth one he'd seen. Another summoning circle to aid the coming of Zroc.

They were all finished at this point, silently waiting to be fully activated. Each were connected through certain spells and totems, combining their strengths to produce the power they'd never achieve alone. Even then, it wouldn't be enough. They'd require one big push to get it all started. It was insane the amount of magic that went into this thing and even if it failed, the backlash alone would tear the city to pieces.

He watched dully as between the obelisks, darkness sparked, revealing a small slit into the shadow realm. It disappeared a second later with an audible hiss.

One man cursed, waving his arms about as he ordered the men. It looked like no matter where he commanded, Aknadin's temper was as bad as always.

"Not bad," said Bakura. "It's a little rudimentary, but that's to be expected considering who was in charge of this section."

Aknadin jerked his head around. As Bakura emerged from the shadows, his tension left, looking unsurprised. The millennium eye had a dark luster to its glow, light from the obelisk reflecting from its surface.

"Bakura," Aknadin sneered. "I heard the rumors you were now with us, but I almost didn't believe it. You've surprised me. I thought you were the Pharaoh's dog."

"No more than you were, I assure you," commented Bakura. He walked past Aknadin, peering up at this latest obelisk pair. This close, the hairs on his arms stood up from the magical energy in the room. It felt positively electric. He could get very used to this.

"Magnificent, isn't it?" said Aknadin, eyes on the structure. He must have noticed Bakura's admiration, also regarding it with open delight. "With this and the others, Zorc's power will be unleashed. Nobody can stop us. Not the pharaoh, the council. Not even that little Hikari."

"Oh? Are you sure about that?" said Bakura. "I heard Yugi gave you some trouble the last time you met."

"As if you have room for criticism," snapped back Aknadin. His admiration left as he turned to Bakura. The man had always hated him, even when they'd been on the pharaoh's council. "I received word that you failed to lead the Hikari to the Valley of the Damned."

"It couldn't be helped," said Bakura calmly. "The Hikari won't be led anywhere that easily. I wouldn't worry too much about it if I were you." He raised a hand lazily, palm to the ceiling as he grinned. "Duke's not too happy with your progress here. He sent me to pass a message."

Aknadin's stance changed, fear and caution evident. It just made Bakura grin harder. Seriously, it was so easy to manipulate this man when using Duke's name. That was the power fear had on people.

"He assigned you to send me a message?" said Aknadin slowly. "Why? You've only joined recently."

"True, but I've also proved more useful to him than most. He's assigned me to watch over you."

"What?"

It was evident Aknadin didn't believe him, at least not fully. A small whisper of doubt made the man hesitate and it was that doubt Bakura planned to take advantage of.

"That's impossible," said Aknadin. "I don't believe he would trust you that quickly."

"You doubt me?" said Bakura. "Then by all means, go to him and ask him yourself. Demand to know the list of failures that have placed you below me. Just be prepared to face the consequences for wasting his time."

Aknadin didn't move.

Bakura's grin sharpened. "Smart choice. Another inconvenience would not put you in a very favorable position,"

Aknadin swallowed. "T-then, what would he have me do?"

"Step it up," said Bakura. "He's disappointed with how little you've managed to get from our captive." Bakura pointed to his own right eye. "It's a shame how useless you've been, even with that millennium eye. He's thinking of reassigning it to someone more capable since you seem to have a problem using it."

Aknadin ground his teeth "You…"

"Don't worry," waved Bakura haughtily. "Duke was kind enough to give you another chance. He'd like to avoid changing things right before the event after all. But it can't be delayed much longer. Retrieve what we need to know from Arthur, or it will be assigned to someone else."

"There's nothing else to gain," protested Aknadin. "We've gotten all that we could from him. If we press any farther than—"

"He's not interested in excuses," snapped Bakura. "You've got only a few hours before the ceremony starts. Before then, Duke expects some results."

Bakura turned on his heel, hands stuffed in his pockets as he marched from the room. He ignored the swearing behind him, his grin spreading. That had been easier than he had anticipated.

The light from the chamber dimmed as he entered the badly lit connecting corridor. On the edge of this light, he stopped.

A woman stood there, eyes hard on Bakura. It was adorable how such a sweet face thought she could be intimidating to someone like him. Her cheeks still held signs of youth, an innocence in her misdirected anger.

"You must be Aknadin's little experiment," said Bakura. "I've heard a lot of things about you. A delusional child, following blindly after Aknadin."

"I'm not blind," said Serenity, immediately flaring up. Her spirit was agitated, which wasn't surprising. He'd heard she was bound to a corrupted Ka. Even if it wasn't fully demonized, Bakura knew firsthand the effect that sort of darkness could have on a soul. He didn't envy her situation.

"Of course, of course," said Bakura. "You can see just fine in the dark. No need for any torch to light your way."

He suddenly darted close, making the girl flinch. Her back hit the wall, eyes wide as she stared at Bakura.

"Stay close to him," said Bakura. "Don't leave his side. This plan cannot be achieved without you."

"W-what do you mean?" said Serenity, her struggle to find ground obvious.

"Nothing for you to worry about."

He removed himself, walking away and leaving her in confusion.

It didn't matter what he said. The girl would stay by Aknadin's side. After her encounter with Priest Seto and Karim, her resolution had been shaken. Bakura recognized the look she'd held while running from the fight. Following Priest Seto and Karim from the palace had been a good idea. It had led him to eventually finding Yugi as well. That had been dangerous, but well worth the information he needed.

He kept walking through the halls, letting himself slink into the darkness. People passed without noticing his presence so he continued unhindered.

Once at his destination, Bakura stopped. A short pillar stood before him, rows of spells woven into its structure. It pulsed with a soft red light, protecting them from any magic that sought to seek them out. He recognized this magic, the same spell inscribed into the band he currently wore. It was a gift from Duke. An item that let him wander through the streets of Cairo without being found by the Hikari.

They all really trusted him too easily.

Bakura knelt before the pillar, palm pressed to the ground. The band on his wrist activated, covering up his magic as the shadows swarmed around him. They bled into the floor, assembling into intricate patterns of destruction. Then they sank, disappearing completely into the ground.

Bakura stood, smiling in satisfaction at his work. By the time his spell went off, he'd be long gone from the scene. He didn't plan to be anywhere near here when the Hikari arrived.