[manga aligned]
Kaiba Seto isn't sure why he decides to reroute his trip to Cairo. He had just wrapped up a business trip and was on his way home to Mokuba. But Ishizu had alerted him to the Pharaoh's final days here on Earth, and it was too curious of a situation to not entertain. It wasn't everyday such a phenomenon was said to take place.
Further, this had been his rival for so long now. He'd obsessed over not only Yugi's deck but the strengths and weaknesses that influenced him as a player. He hadn't taken into account that the Spirit was the one behind Yugi's confidence, but was the best explanation after what he'd seen aboard the KC blimp during Battle City.
Yugi was stronger for Atem, that was clear. And as much as Kaiba sometimes despised the idea, the fact that there was an ancient connection between him and his Blue-Eyes White Dragons, aroused curiosity enough. And if it were true, he too wished to say good-bye.
So, it was somewhat unfortunate to find that he'd missed the Pharaoh's passing to the afterlife. But he did find Yugi Mutou there, sitting knees pulled inwards, facing the Pharaoh's tomb. His name was Atem as it turns out. And Yugi tells him of a woman named Kisara, who's Ka is that of the Blue-Eyes White Dragon. And Kaiba listens, not because he necessarily cares too much about what's said, but he can tell Yugi is in distress.
The others are off sightseeing but Yugi decided to stay behind. This was unusual for the friends so dedicated to each other, but Yugi had been separated from his hosted Spirit, this must be upsetting.
So Kaiba listened until it was time for him to go, and he wondered if he should ask after Yugi.
"Did he have any final words?" he asks instead.
"He wished us well, including you Kaiba," Yugi responded, eyes still downcast.
And Kaiba knew he had to ask. Yugi was looking more distressed than he'd previously assessed.
"Then what are you still doing here?" Kaiba inquired.
Yugi looked up then, a bit surprised at the question. Then he turned his eyes downwards again, whispering "I miss him. I wish we'd had more time together."
And to that, Kaiba didn't immediately know what to respond.
"I can get that. But you have to move on. He had his time here."
Yugi nodded still looking somewhat sullen.
Then Kaiba continued. "I still plan on beating you in a duel Yugi, since you were the victor of the two of you," then he paused, "I too came to say my farewells, but it seems I was too late," and there was something like regret in his voice.
"I never expected myself to be tied to something so ancient. I wanted to come and see for myself. And I suppose thank him for making me a stronger duelist."
Yugi was looking intently now at Kaiba.
"I pride myself as a duelist Yugi. And Atem was a great one. He gave you what you needed. If his memory meant anything to you, you'll move on. I doubt he'd want you to linger here while he's at rest." he finished.
A small smile crossed Yugi's lips. He looked a little less sad now.
But instead of thanks, he nodded, raising his right hand in a thumbs up, a soft look overtaking his features.
Satisfied, Kaiba turned to leave, whispering his own farewell to the Spirit of the Millennium Puzzle.