Hey all! How are we? *smirk* My my, we had a lot of people enjoy that last chappie ^_^
Well, first of all, I a couple of detail related to last chappie. Fistly, as a small reference point, 'Sekhet-Hetepet' is basically the egyptian equivalent of heaven. Secondly, one reviewer raised the point that slaves weren't overly badly treated in egypt. I felt it fair to bring this to you attention, as well as two other errors thus far:
1) Homosexuality wasn't frowned upon in Ancient Egypt
2) I refer to pillows in a couple of chapters, which didn't exist in egyptian times. They would instead used solid carved wooden headrests, which were actually more comfortable and heathier than pillows.
I included these errors since they work well for the story - after all, who could honestly snuggle down into a lump of wood???
Also, a good friend of mine has recently started a new ficcie, which is actually rather good (especially since it's his first fic!) I'm asking as a special favour that you people go and take a look - he says all constructive criticism is welcome, and flames shall be used to heat the brimstone he rains down upon you. Just go have a lil lookie - for me?
https://www.fanfiction.net/read.php?storyid=1549757
To give you some idea of his mentality, he's the only straight guy I know who's got a bishie - it's Bakura, if anyone's interested ^_^
Now, on with the reviews!
To 'Kayu': IT WAS SHORT??? *collapses* Geez, what does it take to please you people? But as for that plot bunny... you'll have to see ^_^ I've resolutely stuck to my original storyline throughout though ^_^
To Shadow-specter: I can use Azizi? WAIIIIII!!! *tackle-glomp* Here's your update ^_^
To Queenofgames2: Hey, you're forgiven for calling me a female ^_^ And just think of Hyfen as my muse, if that's easier for ya XD And let's be honest... if Set wasn't gonna be a bitch, why would he be here?
To Yuki KIKI: Sick of hearing it? NAHHHHH! *huggle* And hey, as for the Malik thing... you'll see how it goes ^_^
To Wolfspeaker1: Thankyou ^_^
To Serendipity84: Here ya go ^_^
To Yami Yami Yugi: Here ya go ^_^
To Taddybear: I just bought the clothes one piece at a time, and eventually realised they worked ^_^ I'll have to take some piccies some time. Anyhoo, I love that idea... I might make a seperate ficcie out of it
To Dami: *huggle* Thankyou ^_^
To Kiawna: As it happens, I have an active Jou\Seto fic running alongside this ^_^ It's called 'One Last Breath', go check it out in my profile ^_^
To Youko Demon: *smile* Thankyou ^_^ *hands you a super-fluffy mat* There - just wrap the sandpapery stuff in this! ^_^
To Chaotic Bystander: Thankyou ^_^ And don't worry, as long as you don't try to hurt Yugi, you'll turn 18 one day ^_^
To loki-reincarnate: *passes the hugs on to everyone* See that? He gives a hug to all of yas! XD Don't worry, when have I ever let 'Kura down?
To Hijiri Hitokiri Battousai: O.O Another yaoi-guy??? *tackle huggles and kisses* *blushes and stands up* Sorry... just I was so alone... but now ^_^ Glad you liked it, hope you like this too!
To silver-fox20: Better every chappie? Wowsers... hehe, thanks ^_^ Hope this lives up to standards!
To Nanashii no Miko: Well, in the UK bein 18 means you can buy alcohol (cigarettes and sex bein legal at 16 and driving at 17) so it's pretty cool ^_^ That and I'm now legally an adult and can tell my mum to go stick it if I wanna ^_^
To Yugilina and Bakuraslildiscipleofevil: Thanks for the song ^_^ *huggles to both* Hope you like this chappie!
To 'Darkwolf193': Here ya go ^_^
To Emriko: Yes, bow down! *takes a dramatic stance* The almighty lord of fluff is here! *looks at miniscule following* ...okay, maybe not lord yet... but some day! *pulls plan out of pocket and makes a few modifications*
Well, here's the latest chappie, which sees yet more of my trademark rollercoaster action!
*~*~*~*~*~*
Tinged pink by the dawn sunlight, two boys lay in the Pharaoh's bed, the smaller clinging to his lover with a content smile on his face and the elder with both arms around his kitten, a look of peaceful bliss adorning his regal features. With no-one to disturb them, the two lay there, uncaring of anything but eachother, each willing that each precious moment last just a moment longer, for their love to go undisturbed for eternity.
Unfortunately, even love cannot prevent the sun rising, and a ray soon entered the room, striking the far wall and slowly moving down as the sun rose further. The smaller boy shifted slightly, the sudden brightness disturbing him, but was soon calmed by a sleepy murmur of protest from the boy in his arms, settling down and sighing happily as all was made right simply through hearing his love's voice. And still the sun rose, beams carving through the half-light in the room mercilessly, banishing the darkness with a single touch. One of the beams eventually came to rest on the Pharaoh's bronzed face, and Yami gave a small growl of annoyance as his eyes screwed up tightly, trying to keep the sunlight out. Inevitably, it was a losing battle, and the Pharaoh stirred slightly as the sun wakened him. With a sigh, Yami began to stretch, tensing his body and arching his back.
From his side, Yugi gave a small moan and clung on to Yami tighter, nuzzling his face into the Pharaoh's chest as deeply as he could, silently pleading that he stay a bit longer. With a quiet laugh, Yami relaxed again, opening his eyes as they adjusted to the sun's harsh presence. Smiling, he gazed down at Yugi, who shifted slightly closer to the Pharaoh, Yami sighing as more of Yugi's skin brushed against his own. Yami brought one hand up to Yugi's face and stroked it softly with the back of his fingers, a warm feeling running through him as Yugi murmured happily, his soft breaths rolling down the Pharaoh's collarbone, a little river of feather-soft caresses. Yugi left a chaste on Yami's chest as the hand wandered through his hair, and he pushed himself up the bed with his feet until he could feel the warmth from Yami's face against his own, where he rested his head against Yami's neck.
With a smile, Yami kissed Yugi on the forehead, and a beautiful pair of amethysts slowly fluttered open. Gazing at the Pharaoh's crimson eyes, Yugi returned the smile, reaching up to caress Yami's cheek. Yami gently pulled Yugi in closer, rolling over slightly so that their chests were flush against eachother. "Morning sleepy," he whispered.
With a cheeky grin, Yugi stuck his tongue out at Yami in reply before nuzzling his nose under Yami's chin, sighing and murmuring "Morning." Yugi giggled as Yami twitched suddenly - evidently Yugi's nose had hit a ticklish spot - and began slowly running his tongue up Yami's neck, making the proud Pharaoh slowly arch his back, squirming in pleasure. Reaching Yami's chin, Yugi changed his course, tracing Yami's jawline and placing a gentle kiss on his cheek as he completed his path. Allowing his lips a petal-soft contact with Yami's skin, Yugi leaned across until his lips were directly above Yami's, their hot breaths intermingling. Yami felt Yugi's fingers softly running up his side, tracing his collarbone before running up his neck and cupping his cheek. Yami's lips parted slightly and he closed his eyes, awaiting the little one meeting him.
With a playful giggle, Yugi suddenly pulled away and prodded the tip of Yami's nose with his finger. The Pharaoh's eyes shot open in surprise, and Yugi made a little 'Nyee' sound, prodding Yami again and giggling once more.
With a growl, Yami flung both his arms round Yugi and flipped the two of them over till he was on top of his love, holding himself up with an arm either side of Yugi's shoulders, a knee either side of Yugi's hips. "That," he whispered, slowly leaning down, "was unfair." Smiling impishly, Yugi leaned up to meet Yami as the Pharaoh finally claimed his kiss, his tongue slowly tracing Yugi's lips as his own moved in, savouring the taste of the little one. Slowly he applied more pressure, Yugi doing his best to fight back. His and Yami's tongues already entwined, Yugi slid a hand up Yami's back and buried it in his hair, gently humming into the kiss. This time it was his turn to arch his back as Yami's fingers gently stroked and tickled and teased his sides, his fleeting touches mapping a tingly path all down the younger boy. Grasping on to Yami's body, Yugi pulled himself up into his love, moaning as their bare skin came into contact once more. Slowly, Yami leaned further forward, till he and Yugi were in the pillows once more, one hand around Yugi and the other caressing his cheek, never once breaking the kiss.
As seemed to be becoming a tradition, there came a sudden banging at the door. With a growl of exasperation, Yami finished the kiss, smiling down at Yugi before rolling off him. "Yes?"
"Oh mighty Pharaoh, I apologise for waking you," - at this Yami and Yugi gave eachother a little glance and smiled - "but an official from Luxor has arrived. He says he bears an urgent message for your ears only."
Yami flumped back down into the pillows with a loud sigh. "I'll be there soon." Hearing footsteps walk away, Yami looked across at Yugi. "You can wait a few minutes, if you like."
Yugi nodded and wrapped himself in the sheets quite happily, snuggling down into the pillows, determined to enjoy every moment of the bed that he could. Laughing slightly, Yami climbed out of the bed and walked away to dress in his Pharaonic attire.
A short while later, he returned only to find Yugi asleep once more. Shaking his head and smiling, Yami walked around the bed to him and spoke gently into his ear. "Yugi, time to wake up." As the little one stirred and sleepily opened one eye, Yami gave him a kiss. "I have to go now… but I'll see you later, okay?" Yugi nodded in reply and stretched, cat-like, readying himself to get up, and Yami kissed him fondly once more before walking away to attend to his duties.
*~*~*~*~*~*
With a final tug, Yugi made sure his rope 'belt' was tied tightly before reaching down for his top. As he slipped it over his head, he noticed peripherally the door opening. With a smile, he turned to face it, expecting Yami to walk through…
And froze mid-turn. At the door was High Priest Set Nebkheprure and two guards, an evil smirk across the High Priest's face. "Dear dear me," Set began, slowly walking forward, a menacing edge in his stride. "If I knew it took this long to give the Pharaoh some grapes, I'd hire a permanent member of staff for it. After all," he hissed. "We can't have slaves missing their duties or playing up, can we?"
Yugi's eyes grew wide, and he felt himself begin shaking in fear. Involuntarily, he took a small step backwards, away from the priest.
"Or are you here for another reason? Come to help yourself to a couple of rings, perhaps?" Set's smirk became a frown. "Well?"
Yugi gulped. "I… the Pharaoh… I… we…"
Set suddenly stopped and clasped a palm to his forehead, rolling his eyes mockingly. "Oh, of *course!* You wanted to see the Pharaoh!" At this Yugi nodded slightly, still shaking, and Set scowled, looking ready to spit on Yugi. "I know all about you two and your disgusting antics, and it sickens me. It's all wrong."
Yugi shook his head defensively. "No… we… we love eachother. It isn't wrong, because we love eachother. It can't be!"
Set smirked. "You're here because you love him?" Again, a nod, and Set's smirk became an evil grin. "That's all I needed." Set took another step forward. "He doesn't love you, slave. How could he?" Yugi opened his mouth to protest, but Set cut him off. "When has he ever told you he does?"
*~*~*Flashbacks*~*~*
"Pharaoh… is it true?"
"Yes, Yugi… it… I…"
"Oh, PHARAOH!" Yugi cried in delight, diving into his arms. "I love you too Pharaoh! I love you with all my heart! I love you!"
Yugi lifted his head up and looked at the Pharaoh, a huge smile on his face even as the tears began to flow. His voice came out as almost nothing more than a whisper. "…really true, Pharaoh?"
"My little angel."
*~*~*~*~*~*
Yami felt Yugi start sobbing again, the tears falling down Yami's chest, and simply stood and hugged him, stroking the back of his head comfortingly.
"I love you Yami," Yugi whispered.
Yami didn't reply, but simply held Yugi tighter, letting his actions speak for him.
*~*~*~*~*~*
Yugi snuggled even closer to Yami, his head resting halfway between Yami's shoulder and chest, and nuzzled his face against Yami's bare skin, causing the water to lap against them lazily.
"'ove you, Yami," Yugi whispered, sighing deeply.
Yami gave a vague murmur in agreement, hugging Yugi tighter.
*~*~*~*~*~*
"Thankyou…" he whispered. "I wanted to know too. I love you."
Caught off guard by the little one's sudden change of mood, Yami paused for a brief moment before hugging Yugi back, gradually leaning the two of them down into the pillows.
*~*~*End Flashbacks*~*~*
Yugi's eyes began filling with tears. Yami had never said those three words. So many times, Yugi had said it, and *meant* it… and Yami had never said it in return. "Pharaoh…" Yugi whispered.
Set smirked once more, satisfied. "I knew you'd see it my way." He turned around and addressed the two guards. "You witnessed it. This slave was found alone in the Pharaoh's bedroom - a high crime indeed. Arrest him."
Looking up at the two burly guards, one on each arm, Yugi knew resistance was useless. As if it mattered.
"You know the law, slave. A thief loses a hand, a rapist loses his genitalia… you remove whatever caused the criminal to sin. You came here because you love the Pharaoh?" Set smiled almost innocently, taunting Yugi. "Well, we know what causes love, don't we?"
A tear rolled down Yugi's face. As far as he was concerned, the punishment had already been carried out. It certainly felt that way.
"Take him to my special cells."
Crying, crushed and defeated, Yugi was led away.
*~*~*~*~*~*
A white-haired figure perched atop a rocky outcrop, watching the procession from a distance. A priest, a slave and two guards, all making their way across the desert sands. There had to be a reason, and he was determined to find out what it was. Especially since Set had possibly the most valuable slave in history apparently captive.
Ah, yes. A hidden building. Very good.
The figure leapt down, hurrying to this new location.
"If he has Yugi in there, maybe he has Malik in there too. It wouldn't hurt to look, at any rate…"
*~*~*~*~*~*
"He was… what?"
The guard eyed the Pharaoh curiously. He seemed to be somewhat more upset than would usually be expected. "Your grape-slave can't come because he was arrested. He was found in your bedroom, unscheduled and unattended."
Yami felt a sickened feeling hit him like a fist. Yugi had really been arrested? Because they'd spent a night together? He couldn't believe it… His only hope was to find Yugi and free him as soon as possible, if not before that. "…where is he now?" Just open the cell door, abdicate the throne and walk away. Simple.
"I don't know, oh Pharaoh. He is not in the palace cells or his quarters."
"I… see."
Yami turned and walked away to his room, staggering slightly. He didn't want to go there - not to their last happy place, which had been tainted now. But he had to be alone. Away from prying eyes. Away from everyone. His one and only true happiness had been taken away… and he, the almighty Pharaoh, ruler of the mightiest nation in the known world, couldn't do anything to change that without jeopardizing the one he loved. Closing the door behind him, Yami fell onto his bed, where their last moments together had been. This thought tore through him like a barbed arrow, and, his head rested on one arm, he began sobbing, choking on his ragged breaths.
"Yugi," he whispered, tears streaming freely from his eyes. "Where have they taken you?"
Yami loved him. Gods knew, he loved him. Yami would do anything for Yugi. But he couldn't. There was nothing he could do.
"It's so unfair!" Yami sobbed, each one racking through him.
"I know," came a voice.
Yami's tears stopped abruptly, almost instantly. Not only had the voice surprised him, but he'd just let someone see his weakness. Yami cautiously raised his head. "…who's there?"
"I want a word with you, Pharaoh."
*~*~*~*~*~*
*blink* So... who's first to wanna kill Set? Who's cheering for who? And how many of you aren't feeling an urge to ram this chapter down my throat for doing that?
Please review! ^_^
Well, first of all, I a couple of detail related to last chappie. Fistly, as a small reference point, 'Sekhet-Hetepet' is basically the egyptian equivalent of heaven. Secondly, one reviewer raised the point that slaves weren't overly badly treated in egypt. I felt it fair to bring this to you attention, as well as two other errors thus far:
1) Homosexuality wasn't frowned upon in Ancient Egypt
2) I refer to pillows in a couple of chapters, which didn't exist in egyptian times. They would instead used solid carved wooden headrests, which were actually more comfortable and heathier than pillows.
I included these errors since they work well for the story - after all, who could honestly snuggle down into a lump of wood???
Also, a good friend of mine has recently started a new ficcie, which is actually rather good (especially since it's his first fic!) I'm asking as a special favour that you people go and take a look - he says all constructive criticism is welcome, and flames shall be used to heat the brimstone he rains down upon you. Just go have a lil lookie - for me?
https://www.fanfiction.net/read.php?storyid=1549757
To give you some idea of his mentality, he's the only straight guy I know who's got a bishie - it's Bakura, if anyone's interested ^_^
Now, on with the reviews!
To 'Kayu': IT WAS SHORT??? *collapses* Geez, what does it take to please you people? But as for that plot bunny... you'll have to see ^_^ I've resolutely stuck to my original storyline throughout though ^_^
To Shadow-specter: I can use Azizi? WAIIIIII!!! *tackle-glomp* Here's your update ^_^
To Queenofgames2: Hey, you're forgiven for calling me a female ^_^ And just think of Hyfen as my muse, if that's easier for ya XD And let's be honest... if Set wasn't gonna be a bitch, why would he be here?
To Yuki KIKI: Sick of hearing it? NAHHHHH! *huggle* And hey, as for the Malik thing... you'll see how it goes ^_^
To Wolfspeaker1: Thankyou ^_^
To Serendipity84: Here ya go ^_^
To Yami Yami Yugi: Here ya go ^_^
To Taddybear: I just bought the clothes one piece at a time, and eventually realised they worked ^_^ I'll have to take some piccies some time. Anyhoo, I love that idea... I might make a seperate ficcie out of it
To Dami: *huggle* Thankyou ^_^
To Kiawna: As it happens, I have an active Jou\Seto fic running alongside this ^_^ It's called 'One Last Breath', go check it out in my profile ^_^
To Youko Demon: *smile* Thankyou ^_^ *hands you a super-fluffy mat* There - just wrap the sandpapery stuff in this! ^_^
To Chaotic Bystander: Thankyou ^_^ And don't worry, as long as you don't try to hurt Yugi, you'll turn 18 one day ^_^
To loki-reincarnate: *passes the hugs on to everyone* See that? He gives a hug to all of yas! XD Don't worry, when have I ever let 'Kura down?
To Hijiri Hitokiri Battousai: O.O Another yaoi-guy??? *tackle huggles and kisses* *blushes and stands up* Sorry... just I was so alone... but now ^_^ Glad you liked it, hope you like this too!
To silver-fox20: Better every chappie? Wowsers... hehe, thanks ^_^ Hope this lives up to standards!
To Nanashii no Miko: Well, in the UK bein 18 means you can buy alcohol (cigarettes and sex bein legal at 16 and driving at 17) so it's pretty cool ^_^ That and I'm now legally an adult and can tell my mum to go stick it if I wanna ^_^
To Yugilina and Bakuraslildiscipleofevil: Thanks for the song ^_^ *huggles to both* Hope you like this chappie!
To 'Darkwolf193': Here ya go ^_^
To Emriko: Yes, bow down! *takes a dramatic stance* The almighty lord of fluff is here! *looks at miniscule following* ...okay, maybe not lord yet... but some day! *pulls plan out of pocket and makes a few modifications*
Well, here's the latest chappie, which sees yet more of my trademark rollercoaster action!
*~*~*~*~*~*
Tinged pink by the dawn sunlight, two boys lay in the Pharaoh's bed, the smaller clinging to his lover with a content smile on his face and the elder with both arms around his kitten, a look of peaceful bliss adorning his regal features. With no-one to disturb them, the two lay there, uncaring of anything but eachother, each willing that each precious moment last just a moment longer, for their love to go undisturbed for eternity.
Unfortunately, even love cannot prevent the sun rising, and a ray soon entered the room, striking the far wall and slowly moving down as the sun rose further. The smaller boy shifted slightly, the sudden brightness disturbing him, but was soon calmed by a sleepy murmur of protest from the boy in his arms, settling down and sighing happily as all was made right simply through hearing his love's voice. And still the sun rose, beams carving through the half-light in the room mercilessly, banishing the darkness with a single touch. One of the beams eventually came to rest on the Pharaoh's bronzed face, and Yami gave a small growl of annoyance as his eyes screwed up tightly, trying to keep the sunlight out. Inevitably, it was a losing battle, and the Pharaoh stirred slightly as the sun wakened him. With a sigh, Yami began to stretch, tensing his body and arching his back.
From his side, Yugi gave a small moan and clung on to Yami tighter, nuzzling his face into the Pharaoh's chest as deeply as he could, silently pleading that he stay a bit longer. With a quiet laugh, Yami relaxed again, opening his eyes as they adjusted to the sun's harsh presence. Smiling, he gazed down at Yugi, who shifted slightly closer to the Pharaoh, Yami sighing as more of Yugi's skin brushed against his own. Yami brought one hand up to Yugi's face and stroked it softly with the back of his fingers, a warm feeling running through him as Yugi murmured happily, his soft breaths rolling down the Pharaoh's collarbone, a little river of feather-soft caresses. Yugi left a chaste on Yami's chest as the hand wandered through his hair, and he pushed himself up the bed with his feet until he could feel the warmth from Yami's face against his own, where he rested his head against Yami's neck.
With a smile, Yami kissed Yugi on the forehead, and a beautiful pair of amethysts slowly fluttered open. Gazing at the Pharaoh's crimson eyes, Yugi returned the smile, reaching up to caress Yami's cheek. Yami gently pulled Yugi in closer, rolling over slightly so that their chests were flush against eachother. "Morning sleepy," he whispered.
With a cheeky grin, Yugi stuck his tongue out at Yami in reply before nuzzling his nose under Yami's chin, sighing and murmuring "Morning." Yugi giggled as Yami twitched suddenly - evidently Yugi's nose had hit a ticklish spot - and began slowly running his tongue up Yami's neck, making the proud Pharaoh slowly arch his back, squirming in pleasure. Reaching Yami's chin, Yugi changed his course, tracing Yami's jawline and placing a gentle kiss on his cheek as he completed his path. Allowing his lips a petal-soft contact with Yami's skin, Yugi leaned across until his lips were directly above Yami's, their hot breaths intermingling. Yami felt Yugi's fingers softly running up his side, tracing his collarbone before running up his neck and cupping his cheek. Yami's lips parted slightly and he closed his eyes, awaiting the little one meeting him.
With a playful giggle, Yugi suddenly pulled away and prodded the tip of Yami's nose with his finger. The Pharaoh's eyes shot open in surprise, and Yugi made a little 'Nyee' sound, prodding Yami again and giggling once more.
With a growl, Yami flung both his arms round Yugi and flipped the two of them over till he was on top of his love, holding himself up with an arm either side of Yugi's shoulders, a knee either side of Yugi's hips. "That," he whispered, slowly leaning down, "was unfair." Smiling impishly, Yugi leaned up to meet Yami as the Pharaoh finally claimed his kiss, his tongue slowly tracing Yugi's lips as his own moved in, savouring the taste of the little one. Slowly he applied more pressure, Yugi doing his best to fight back. His and Yami's tongues already entwined, Yugi slid a hand up Yami's back and buried it in his hair, gently humming into the kiss. This time it was his turn to arch his back as Yami's fingers gently stroked and tickled and teased his sides, his fleeting touches mapping a tingly path all down the younger boy. Grasping on to Yami's body, Yugi pulled himself up into his love, moaning as their bare skin came into contact once more. Slowly, Yami leaned further forward, till he and Yugi were in the pillows once more, one hand around Yugi and the other caressing his cheek, never once breaking the kiss.
As seemed to be becoming a tradition, there came a sudden banging at the door. With a growl of exasperation, Yami finished the kiss, smiling down at Yugi before rolling off him. "Yes?"
"Oh mighty Pharaoh, I apologise for waking you," - at this Yami and Yugi gave eachother a little glance and smiled - "but an official from Luxor has arrived. He says he bears an urgent message for your ears only."
Yami flumped back down into the pillows with a loud sigh. "I'll be there soon." Hearing footsteps walk away, Yami looked across at Yugi. "You can wait a few minutes, if you like."
Yugi nodded and wrapped himself in the sheets quite happily, snuggling down into the pillows, determined to enjoy every moment of the bed that he could. Laughing slightly, Yami climbed out of the bed and walked away to dress in his Pharaonic attire.
A short while later, he returned only to find Yugi asleep once more. Shaking his head and smiling, Yami walked around the bed to him and spoke gently into his ear. "Yugi, time to wake up." As the little one stirred and sleepily opened one eye, Yami gave him a kiss. "I have to go now… but I'll see you later, okay?" Yugi nodded in reply and stretched, cat-like, readying himself to get up, and Yami kissed him fondly once more before walking away to attend to his duties.
*~*~*~*~*~*
With a final tug, Yugi made sure his rope 'belt' was tied tightly before reaching down for his top. As he slipped it over his head, he noticed peripherally the door opening. With a smile, he turned to face it, expecting Yami to walk through…
And froze mid-turn. At the door was High Priest Set Nebkheprure and two guards, an evil smirk across the High Priest's face. "Dear dear me," Set began, slowly walking forward, a menacing edge in his stride. "If I knew it took this long to give the Pharaoh some grapes, I'd hire a permanent member of staff for it. After all," he hissed. "We can't have slaves missing their duties or playing up, can we?"
Yugi's eyes grew wide, and he felt himself begin shaking in fear. Involuntarily, he took a small step backwards, away from the priest.
"Or are you here for another reason? Come to help yourself to a couple of rings, perhaps?" Set's smirk became a frown. "Well?"
Yugi gulped. "I… the Pharaoh… I… we…"
Set suddenly stopped and clasped a palm to his forehead, rolling his eyes mockingly. "Oh, of *course!* You wanted to see the Pharaoh!" At this Yugi nodded slightly, still shaking, and Set scowled, looking ready to spit on Yugi. "I know all about you two and your disgusting antics, and it sickens me. It's all wrong."
Yugi shook his head defensively. "No… we… we love eachother. It isn't wrong, because we love eachother. It can't be!"
Set smirked. "You're here because you love him?" Again, a nod, and Set's smirk became an evil grin. "That's all I needed." Set took another step forward. "He doesn't love you, slave. How could he?" Yugi opened his mouth to protest, but Set cut him off. "When has he ever told you he does?"
*~*~*Flashbacks*~*~*
"Pharaoh… is it true?"
"Yes, Yugi… it… I…"
"Oh, PHARAOH!" Yugi cried in delight, diving into his arms. "I love you too Pharaoh! I love you with all my heart! I love you!"
Yugi lifted his head up and looked at the Pharaoh, a huge smile on his face even as the tears began to flow. His voice came out as almost nothing more than a whisper. "…really true, Pharaoh?"
"My little angel."
*~*~*~*~*~*
Yami felt Yugi start sobbing again, the tears falling down Yami's chest, and simply stood and hugged him, stroking the back of his head comfortingly.
"I love you Yami," Yugi whispered.
Yami didn't reply, but simply held Yugi tighter, letting his actions speak for him.
*~*~*~*~*~*
Yugi snuggled even closer to Yami, his head resting halfway between Yami's shoulder and chest, and nuzzled his face against Yami's bare skin, causing the water to lap against them lazily.
"'ove you, Yami," Yugi whispered, sighing deeply.
Yami gave a vague murmur in agreement, hugging Yugi tighter.
*~*~*~*~*~*
"Thankyou…" he whispered. "I wanted to know too. I love you."
Caught off guard by the little one's sudden change of mood, Yami paused for a brief moment before hugging Yugi back, gradually leaning the two of them down into the pillows.
*~*~*End Flashbacks*~*~*
Yugi's eyes began filling with tears. Yami had never said those three words. So many times, Yugi had said it, and *meant* it… and Yami had never said it in return. "Pharaoh…" Yugi whispered.
Set smirked once more, satisfied. "I knew you'd see it my way." He turned around and addressed the two guards. "You witnessed it. This slave was found alone in the Pharaoh's bedroom - a high crime indeed. Arrest him."
Looking up at the two burly guards, one on each arm, Yugi knew resistance was useless. As if it mattered.
"You know the law, slave. A thief loses a hand, a rapist loses his genitalia… you remove whatever caused the criminal to sin. You came here because you love the Pharaoh?" Set smiled almost innocently, taunting Yugi. "Well, we know what causes love, don't we?"
A tear rolled down Yugi's face. As far as he was concerned, the punishment had already been carried out. It certainly felt that way.
"Take him to my special cells."
Crying, crushed and defeated, Yugi was led away.
*~*~*~*~*~*
A white-haired figure perched atop a rocky outcrop, watching the procession from a distance. A priest, a slave and two guards, all making their way across the desert sands. There had to be a reason, and he was determined to find out what it was. Especially since Set had possibly the most valuable slave in history apparently captive.
Ah, yes. A hidden building. Very good.
The figure leapt down, hurrying to this new location.
"If he has Yugi in there, maybe he has Malik in there too. It wouldn't hurt to look, at any rate…"
*~*~*~*~*~*
"He was… what?"
The guard eyed the Pharaoh curiously. He seemed to be somewhat more upset than would usually be expected. "Your grape-slave can't come because he was arrested. He was found in your bedroom, unscheduled and unattended."
Yami felt a sickened feeling hit him like a fist. Yugi had really been arrested? Because they'd spent a night together? He couldn't believe it… His only hope was to find Yugi and free him as soon as possible, if not before that. "…where is he now?" Just open the cell door, abdicate the throne and walk away. Simple.
"I don't know, oh Pharaoh. He is not in the palace cells or his quarters."
"I… see."
Yami turned and walked away to his room, staggering slightly. He didn't want to go there - not to their last happy place, which had been tainted now. But he had to be alone. Away from prying eyes. Away from everyone. His one and only true happiness had been taken away… and he, the almighty Pharaoh, ruler of the mightiest nation in the known world, couldn't do anything to change that without jeopardizing the one he loved. Closing the door behind him, Yami fell onto his bed, where their last moments together had been. This thought tore through him like a barbed arrow, and, his head rested on one arm, he began sobbing, choking on his ragged breaths.
"Yugi," he whispered, tears streaming freely from his eyes. "Where have they taken you?"
Yami loved him. Gods knew, he loved him. Yami would do anything for Yugi. But he couldn't. There was nothing he could do.
"It's so unfair!" Yami sobbed, each one racking through him.
"I know," came a voice.
Yami's tears stopped abruptly, almost instantly. Not only had the voice surprised him, but he'd just let someone see his weakness. Yami cautiously raised his head. "…who's there?"
"I want a word with you, Pharaoh."
*~*~*~*~*~*
*blink* So... who's first to wanna kill Set? Who's cheering for who? And how many of you aren't feeling an urge to ram this chapter down my throat for doing that?
Please review! ^_^