Disclaimer: tosses the ownership of Yu-Gi-Oh out of the window where it is promptly run over by a snowplow
Due to the constant annoying of my hikari, I have changed the spelling of Selena's name to what it should be. seethes
Yami stared in confusion and awe. This was no longer his Guardian. This was a new monster entirely. Still, it possessed Dark Magician's thoughts and emotions. Where did Seito go? Yume! But this new body wouldn't respond. Chaos silently walked through the battlefield and over to his master. The remaining monsters on the field stopped their quarrels to watch the final duel.
The pharaoh was still skittish of this new and powerful mage. But Chaos seemed to smile for a moment and gave him a thumbs-up. Yami was startled for a moment, but then smiled back and nodded. The two turned to face their opponent. Heishin was confused at the even that had just taken place, but he quickly recovered as his second Meteor Black Dragon arrived by his side.
"So it comes to this, boy. One final match for the ruling of Egypt and the power of the Millennium Items."
Yami's eyes narrowed. "I will show you no mercy in the duel, Heishin. My father trusted you and you betrayed him. You chased Bahku away, turning him into an entity of darkness and you've even corrupted your own pupil. Anubis will not give the warmest welcome into the next world."
The High Priest smirked. "You portray such a piety of confidence. But I can sense you trembling from here. You've never fought a Shadow Game with such high stakes before. Will your emotions get the better of you in the realm of shadows? Additionally, all your hope rests on a monster you don't even know." Yami's eyes flickered to the Chaos Mage. "Well, if you're so eager to leave this world, let's start shall we, hm?"
The stone walls seemed to fade and waver. The blood-slicked floor seemed to drop out beneath Yami, causing his stomach to leap to his throat. Now fully immersed into the Shadow Realm, Yami could see the tendrils of magic surrounding him and Heishin and curling strongly around Chaos. The Meteor Black Dragon roared out a challenge, sensing a worthy opponent. Chaos stayed silent but clutched his black and crimson staff. The darkness of this dimension had already given him a 500 point field power bonus, however his attack was still 200 below that of the dragon's.
"A single monster duel," announced Heishin. "Whoever's monster survives is the victor."
Yami nodded. "Fine."
"Let's begin."
Chaos leapt into the battle arena and took up an attack stance. The Meteor Black Dragon stomped to the center with a guttural roar. The battle began.
Selena ran through the halls, terrified by the sights she had seen. I just hafta find Yami! Turning the corner, she arrived at the royal chambers, where the doors were wide open. She held back a scream as she came upon the carnage. Bodies of both monsters and people lay sprawled around the room, the stone walls covered with claw marks and blood. Selena turned away at the sight of the motionless bodies of the Celtic Guardian and Black Luster Soldier. It was then she spotted Dark Magician Girl in the corner. "Dark Girl! Are you alright?!" Selena ran to her Guardian's side. "Please be okay. Please…"
There was a groan and DM Girl moved slightly. "…wha…?"
"You're alive!" Selena hugged the groggy mage around the neck. DM Girl smiled and rubbed her back in comfort. A realization hit her. "Where's Calypse?! And Yume?!" She bolted to her feet, frantically trying to find her husband and child.
Selena raised an eyebrow. "Who's Calypse?"
"Dark…oops." DM Girl shook her head. "That doesn't matter now. Where is everyone?"
The princess bowed her head. "I don't know where Dark or Yume are but…Celtic and Luster…"
DM Girl looked over at the battlefield and understood. "The others must be in the Shadow Realm. Or at least I hope so."
"What about Yami?"
"Him, too." On a hunch, DM Girl walked to the center of the room. She raised her staff and then struck an invisible target. A large sphere of dark energy appeared. "A vortex to the Shadow Realm. The duel has begun."
In the dark dimension, the duel was well underway. Fighting with physical attacks as well as magic, Chaos was barely staying on top. His black leather outfit as already torn in many places where the Meteor Black Dragon's sharp claws had nicked him and the blade of Chaos' staff was splashed of his opponent's blood. The dragon was weakened but still prepared to go on for the remainder of the match. With this new surge of will, Chaos had to double up his efforts just to avoid the gigantic monster's furious attacks. Leaping into the air, Chaos slashed the dragon's face with his staff. Meteor Black Dragon roared in pain as it was blinded. Chaos landed a couple of yards away. Having a moment to catch his breath, he kneeled down to catch his second wind.
"Good job, Chaos!" yelled Yami from the sidelines. The mage opened crimson eyes and smiled weakly back. Suddenly, Yami caught view of the danger looming behind his Guardian. "Move!!" he yelled.
Chaos whipped around but Meteor Black Dragon was already atop of him. The black mage yelled out loud as dagger-like claws ripped into his unprotected side. He fell to the ground in a heap, his staff rolling out of reach. Raven black hair gained indigo streaks and clothes back into tattered robes. "Dark!" Yami ran to his injured Guardian. From across the shifting plane, Heishin recalled his monster. "It's over, boy. You've lost."
Why is everything so desolate? thought Malik as he pushed the palace doors open. There isn't even any guards. The whole situation was quite eerie. Shaking the sand from his cloak, the teenager stepped into the hallway. A startling sight awaited him. Bodies of monster, soldiers, and servants alike littered the hall, deathly quiet. Well, I found the guards, he thought, disgusted. He ran to the nearest body. There was no sign of life nor from the others around. What in Ra's name is going on here? Standing once more, Malik ran down the hall in a desperate search to find someone alive.
"What's happening? Can we get in?" asked Selena, looking up at DM Girl. The mage just shook her head in frustration as she stepped back. Both jumped at the large mass of dark energy suddenly faded. Painstakingly slowly, the figures inside the sphere became visible. "Yami!" Selena shouted. "Calypse!" DM Girl rushed to her wounded husband's side. She gently took his limp form from Yami, who turned just in time to receive a jumping hug from his little sister.
DM Girl kneeled beside Dark. "Wake up, please…" With a shaking hand, she brushed his dank hair out of his face. It seemed darker and she could've sworn she saw traces of black in the long strands. The blonde held back a gasp as she saw the gaping wound in his side. She gingerly rested a hand on it in a futile attempt to pause the bleeding. When she made contact, there was a groan from the mage and sapphire eyes slowly opened, still somewhat unfocused.
"…'sura?"
DM Girl smiled weakly. "Yeah. It's me."
"I'm glad…you're here before--"
"Don't you dare say anything like that, mister!" she snapped back, eyes hard. "You're not going anywhere. Not if I can help it."
Across the room, Heishin had had enough as he stepped forward with a declaration. "You've lost, pharaoh. Now you pay the price of a Shadow Game."
Yami hugged Selena close once more and then pulled away. "Fine. As a duelist I'm ready to face the consequences."
"No! Yami!" Selena grabbed her brother's cloak. "No. I'm not letting go." However with a reassuring pat to the head, he did pull away.
Suddenly the young pharaoh was slammed back into the stone wall by a strong magical force. "Enough talk," sneered Heishin.
Malik dashed into the room. What he saw took a moment to comprehend. Yami was slumped against a wall across the room, cracks spiderwebbing the stone. Dark Magician Girl, who was kneeling next to a still Dark Magician, was grabbing her charge by the arm, trying to stop her from charging at the High Priest. Okay….what'd I miss?
Groaning, Yami struggled back to his feet, using the wall as support. As he looked up, the pharaoh spotted a violet cloaked figure by the entryway. Malik? Suddenly, his body was seized once again by a force. He couldn't move nor struggle at all as he was lifted into the air and thrown to the floor in front of Heishin. Gasping for air, Yami crept to his knees. He was pushed back firmly on the ground as a foot landed on his back.
"Stay there. It's where you belong, boy."
Slowly opening an eye, Yami made eye contact with the other ruler across the room. "Malik! Get Selena out of here!" he yelled.
"What?!" exclaimed Heishin, whirling around.
At the doorway, Malik started then quickly dashed into the room and to a surprised Selena. He grabbed her arm. "Let's go!"
"I can't--"
"NOW!" yelled Yami, superiority ringing out in his voice He tackled Heishin to the ground as the priest raised the Rod.
"One must live," whispered Dark Girl.
Celena shook her head. "No!" Growling in frustration, Malik grabbed the princess around the waist and threw her over his shoulder. "No! Put me down!!" she yelled, beating on her fiancée's back with all her might. Malik ran back to the doorway then hesitated and looked back. Two shades of violet met as he made a silent agreement with Yami. The pharaoh nodded and gave a quick smile. The pale-haired teen turned and ran out to the abandoned hallways.
"Good luck," whispered Dark Girl.
"Have you finished him yet?" came a new voice. Seito appeared from another doorway, a struggling Yume in hold.
"Seito! Let him go!" cried Dark Girl. "He has nothing to do with this!"
But the priest just shrugged and pulled the mage child in front of him in a more secure grip, his arm around Yume's neck. Dark Girl shook her head. This was all so hopeless.
"Dad!" Yume cried, seeing the Guardian's fragile condition. In response, Dark's eyes slowly fluttered open.
"Seito! You were in on all of this the entire time!" yelled Yami. This scene was getting all too familiar to him. He temporary daze was shattered as Heishin threw the pharaoh to the side again. Across the chamber, Seito smirked at the accusation. "Don't take it as anything personal, pharaoh. It's just business."
"Enough talk," interjected Heishin. The High Priest bent down and snatched the Millennium Puzzle from Yami. "I have claimed my prize…and now for you. I've had enough of a kid ruling the throne. I should be Pharaoh and King of Games! And with the help of the Millennium Items, I will gain that power." Heishin raised the Rod in the air. "You will live forever, trapped inside the Item that granted you power. To forever live in darkness. If somehow the gods grant you another chance at life, you will remember nothing. Nothing of this time or place. No allies, friends, or family." With this he brought the Rod level with Yami. "Farewell Yuugioh."
"No! Let me go! MALIK!" Selena yelled, pounding on the Egyptian's back. "We gotta go back!" But Malik just somberly shook his head as he ran through the gates of Cairo. "That would not wise." "So?!" countered Selena, starting to wear herself out. Malik didn't bother answering for it was a losing battle. Logic had no effect on this girl. Anyway, he had other things to worry about. The desert storm had whipped up again, as if its fury was echoing with that of the remaining survivors. He pulled the covering up over his face and set Selena down, shielding her from the harsh sand blasts. Pulling out his Guardian's card, he hoped Ra would be recovered enough to complete his task. Focusing his energy, he summoned the god card. The golden dragon appeared before him, looking better than their first encounter. /You need to get out of here now./ It looked over at the princess behind Malik. /I know all that has happened./ Ra crouched closer to the ground. Picking up Selena, who didn't protest, Malik climbed on and the two royals headed back to the oasis of Faiyum.
"Yami!" yelled Dark Girl as the pharaoh disappeared into the Puzzle. But it was already all over. The female mage whimpered as she held her partner close. "Yami….what happened?" gasped Dark, clinging to consciousnesses. "I can't…feel him." The sacred mark on his right hand burned in silent answer. "He's gone," whispered Dark Girl, a tear running down her cheek. She leaned her head against Dark's soft hair as Heishin turned to them.
"Ah, the two loyal Guardians of the royal family." The High Priest circled them like a vulture after a prize. Dark Girl just glared at him, teary emerald eyes radiating anger and loss. "Do whatever you want with us but please just don't hurt him." Both priests knew whom she was referring to. Heishin glanced to Seito, who still had Yume by the neck. The silver-haired child was nearly in tears himself but was trying to stay strong in his enemies' presence. With a smirk, Heishin turned his attention back to the two Guardians.
"What to do? What to do? Such an opportunity." He tapped the Rod against the floor as he walked, pondering. A pained yell behind him caused the priest to whirl around. Seito held his bleeding hand as Yume scampered away, wiping his mouth.
"Get him you fool!" yelled Heishin. Gritting his teeth, Seito surged forward to obey but young mage easily evaded him, crimson robes fluttering. "Mewet! You and Dad get out of here!"
"Yume, you can't do anything on your own!" Dark Girl protested.
Yume dashed forward and grabbed his father's fallen staff from the floor. "I'm gonna try anyway," he replied, stationing himself between Heishin and his parents.
"But…"
The child looked over his shoulder and smiled. "Don't worry. Everything will be alright."
Dark Girl hesitated a bit, but her son's confidence stirred something within her. She stood, putting Dark's arm around her shoulders. With a last look to her son, she tuned and fled the royal chambers.
Yume sighed in relief as he sensed his parents' presence leave the room.
"How courageous," sneered Heishin. "The child giving himself to save his parents' lives."
"Oh, I don't think I' 'giving' myself as you say. You need me alive."
In a rare show of surprise, Heishin's eyes widened. "How did you know?"
Yume twirled the staff and stopped in an attack stance. "Just call it a hunch," he replied with a smug smirk.
Heishin was taken aback at the young monster's confidence in the situation. "What chance do you have against the two of us, fully trained in the dark arts and with the power of the Millennium Items?"
"That doesn't matter now." Yume's eyes suddenly turned blank but just as quickly were back to their soft shade. "It doesn't matter," he repeated softly. Yume straightened and dropped the staff to the floor where it echoed with a finality.
"What is the meaning of this?" demanded Heishin, thoroughly confused.
Yume smiled as he closed his eyes. "Everything is set. The shadowed path is ready to be tread."
Dark Magician Girl struggled through the dark streets, narrowly avoiding the priest mages that prowled the streets no doubt in search of them. "We…have to go…back…" panted Dark, his voice weak near Dark Girl's ear. "There's nothing we can do," she protested gently. "We can't let his sacrifice be in vain," she choked out. The mages entered an old abandoned building. After gently laying Dark on the faded woven rug, she pulled the door shut and barred it with a broom. It wouldn't hold long if someone really wanted to get in but it still made her feel more secure. Turing back to the room, her eyes softened at the sight of Dark. The blonde-haired monster searched the room and found a small well in the corner of the house. She mused momentarily the oddity of an interior well, but then filled a small bowl with the fresh water and headed back to her partner. Dark's eyes wearily opened as she knelt by him.
"Hey sleepy-head," she teased gently. Dark smiled weakly in response. Dark Girl carefully propped her husband up against her side as she set the bowl down. "I have some water here and you are going to drink whether you want to or not."
"Yeah…sure."
Dark Girl gently rested the bowl's rim against his lips and slowly he drank, even that small effort seeming nearly impossible. After a few minutes, the dark Guardian's strength gave out and he leaned back against Dark Girl. She looked down at him worriedly. "As soon as you recover, we'll get out of here."
"I'm not going…anywhere."
"Well we can't stay here!" exclaimed the female, exasperated. But Dark just looked at her with tired eyes. "Yume…"
Dark Girl looked away, a thread of pain panging her chest. "He predicted something would happen. Why didn't I listen? He knew…" She looked up again smiling. "At least we know all is right in the cosmos." However at her cheery words, Dark turned his head away, memories of his charge and comrades flooding his mind. I failed all of them…
In his mind's eye, an image of Celtic appeared, flashing him a thumbs-up. Amber eyes still shined with mischief. "Sorry, Calypse. Take care of the rest for us, okay pal?" Luster appeared behind the elf, back to back. He shook his head and closed his eyes, fiery strands falling over his shoulders. "We've done all we can. I sincerely hope it will be enough for all of you." Then a shadowy image of Yami appeared in front of them both, arms crossed. "I did what I had to. I'm sorry I put you through so much." A faint smile crossed the pharaoh's features. "You were always there for me. My Guardian…take care." The three turned away, slight forms disappearing even more.
"No…wait…" cried Dark weakly. Dark Girl looked down, concerned, at him.
There was a sudden crash at the door, the violent noises making Dark Girl jump. Then another. The guards had found them. Dark Girl closed her eyes briefly and her mr close. Then she grabbed her staff and stood facing the only barrier between herself and the murderous masses outside. She could see and hear the old door slowly giving in. The mage gathered her energy, ready for an attack. There was a horrendous creaking and screaming of wood as the door finally gave in. Instantly, Dark Girl unleashed her attack. There was a pained cry from a Silver Fang but the one monster was quickly replaced by the numerous forces. Within minutes, Dark Girl had her back to the wall, gasping for a shred of breath. Her magic was gone. Calypse, I'm sorry…
"Need some help?"
Dark Girl whirled at the sarcastic voice. "C-Calypse?"
But there was only a low chuckle in response as the mage sat up, ignoring his injury. When he opened his eyes, blood-red orbs framed an evil smirk. Afraid, Dark Girl backed away as the mage stood, dark tendrils of magic caressing his body. The haze deepened and the Guardian's form was lost. When the magical fog dissipated, a new monster stood in his place. Chaos flicked raven-wing black hair over his shoulder as he formed his staff.
"Calypse?" whispered Dark Girl, holding her short staff against her chest. If this new monster attacked, she would be defenseless. She flinched as the black-clad figure turned to her, ageless eyes emotionless. But the monster did nothing but lean against the wall, arms crossed. Confused by his calm actions, the guards hesitated, not sure of what to do.
Chaos turned his head away from Dark Girl. "'Fraid you got the wrong person. I don't have a name. I'm simply known as the Magician of Black Chaos."
At the doorway, some guards shrank back at the name. There were legends from eons past of a so-called 'Dark Sorcerer.' The tales told of a powerful black mage who called upon the powers of chaos and destruction to unleash unstoppable attacks. It was even said the Chaos Mage was the one who had killed the heaven's creatures, servants of the gods sent to earth long ago, when man still walked on all fours. This monster fit those sketchy description of man's ancestors had passed on. A few of the guards even broke and ran, thinking it was better to face Heishin than the murderer of the gods' sent ones. But one soldier, the seemingly leader, stepped forward, his Zoa creeping up behind. "Are you going to fight, monster?"
Chaos lazily opened one eye and scanned the competition. "Perhaps I should be asking you that question."
"You're the one who's injured," the soldier pointed out.
For the first time, Dark Girl noticed the crimson, a dark stain barely noticeable. Exactly where Dark had been hurt. They're one in the same, she realized in awe. Chaos took the guard's comment in stride, however and he just shrugged. "Don't worry. It won't hassle me in the bit. I'll still have some fun with you all." Another smirk covered the pale features as he looked the guard in the eye. "You'll need much more than that to defeat me." He could see he had rattled the guard with his bluff. True, Chaos was powerful, but the injury affected him more than he let on. It was the main reason he was against the wall anyway. Since the transformation, the blood loss had been causing increasing problems with his sight. Everything was spinning. Still, he had confidence in his strategy. It seemed to as the soldier stepped back, unsure of what to do.
"What are you imbeciles doing?!" yelled a voice over the crowd. Seito appeared in the group, pushing aside the debating guards. His sapphire eyes narrowed as he spotted the two monsters. His gaze especially focused on Chaos. "The Black Magic Ritual activated by a monster alone? Amazing." Chaos just glared right back, neither one wavering. Then the priest sighed. "Very well. Lord Heishin wants you both dead." Seito revealed his Blue Eyes White Dragon card. Genji appeared, looking more than slightly flustered. He had been trying to block out all the carnage with a nap. He was surprised to see the two mages. "What's going on?"
"Kill them," ordered Seito. Genji started. "I--" A glare was his response. But the dragon shook his head. "No. I've had enough of this. All this…murder and corruption must stop. Egypt will not stand long under tyranny."
"What do you think the pharaoh was?" hissed the mage priest, furious at his Guardian's disobedience.
"That was different," protested Genji, his still healing wings drooped behind him. He turned his back to his furious master and helped Dark Girl to her feet. He nodded when he saw she was alright. "This has gone on long enough," the young dragon said softly. "Peace is the best for the kingdom and its people. I will no longer take part in this massacre." He turned back to Seito, eyes dropped to the ground.
"You see," stated Chaos. "You might have the numbers to defeat us, but not the power."
But despite the situation, the priest just laughed, earning a look of confusion from the mages. "Perhaps not. But the tactical advantage is to my hand."
Genji grabbed Chaos from behind, a dagger leaping into his hand. He held it to the Black Sorcerer's throat. "What are you doing?!" exclaimed Dark Girl. Genji bowed his head. "I'm sorry…but I have chosen my side. I've sworn to protect my master and that is what I have to do. I'm sorry."
"You traitorous coward," hissed Chaos, who remained perfectly still. His voice was laced with venom.
"I'm sorry."
"Do it," commanded Seito.
"No! Don't!!" Dark Girl yelled. She dashed to her partner's aid.
"Stop!" warned Genji. But the female mage tackled him, reaching for the blade. The crystal dagger nicked Chaos's neck at the abrupt motion but it was a minor scratch. He whirled as the two other monsters fell in a tangled heap on the ground. Something warm trickled down Genji's hand and down his wrist as he recovered his senses. On top of him, the blonde mage's eyes were clouded. Crying out, the dragon leapt up. His dagger was embedded in Dark Girl's stomach. In shock, he tried to stop the bleeding as the female's limp weight fell against his chest, his robes stained crimson.
"What…"
Genji turned to the black mage. He was perfectly still, eyes wide and hands clenching the air. "What did you do?!" roared Chaos.
"I--I didn't…"
"Good job, Rane," crooned Seito, a smile on his face. "Now take care of the wretch's mate."
"No...but I--"
The white-clad monster didn't have a chance to finish before Chaos rushed him and forced him to the ground. "What have you done?!" he yelled, black gloved hands tightening around his new enemy's throat. Through the haze that was starting to block his vision, Genji was shocked to find tears in the emotionless garnet eyes. He grabbed Chaos's wrists and dug his claws in an attempt to get away. The desperate maneuver worked as the sorcerer flinched slightly, just giving enough for the dragon to roll away.
He leaned against the wall, coughing as he tried to catch his breath. When the dragon opened his eyes again, Chaos loomed over him. He backed up against the wall as the mage advanced.
At the doorway, Seito decided Genji had received his just punishment. After all, Guardians like the Blue Eyes didn't come around everyday. "Slace." The middle Blue Eyes crouched on all fours by its master. Seito motioned to Genji. "Go rescue him." Grateful, Slace rushed into the room to aid his sibling, roaring as he charged in. The dragon caught the other monster off guard as he swatted the mage aside and to the ground.
"Tsuki!"
The elder Blue Eyes regarded the humanoid with a smile in his eyes. Then he positioned himself in between Chaos and Genji.
"Tsuki, you can't hurt him!" yelled the dragon in disguise, grabbing Slace's front leg.
/It's what must be done/ he answered solemnly. He arched his neck and nudged Genji, who refused to move. Slace affectionately nuzzled his sibling, trying to stop that sobs that wracked his body. "No more, please…"
/There, come on. Be strong. Don't be a baby./
"I'm not a baby," the other replied weakly.
Slace gently moved Genji aside with his other claw. Exhausted, it didn't take much to move the younger monster. The elder dragon heaved a sigh. If only Kisara was here. She could always handle him best. Kisara had been the fourth and eldest of the mystical dragons. However, she had never returned from a routine scouting mission. The brothers, at the urge of Heishin, had considered her deceased. /But we cannot change the past, sadly enough./
Slace raised his head to regard Chaos who was now back on his feet but leaning against the wall heavily, clutching his side. Weakened he slid back to the ground, a red smear trailing behind him. As Slace and Genji watched, lighter streaks appeared in the mage's raven black hair.
"Calypse?" Genji started forward, but a large claw stopped his advancement. The white beast shook his head. /Wait a moment./ Genji looked up at Slace then back over to black-clad monster, worry obvious in his eyes. When the spellcaster finally opened his own eyes, they were nearly as blue as the ones watching over him.
"Kill me…now," he whispered. "Before…he comes again." Everyone started at the sudden change in identity. "We can't," Genji replied softly. "It would…." Dark motioned for the dragon, the small effort seeming almost impossible. His ebony-gloved hand dropped to his side once more. Genji stepped forward again, casting a look of reassurance to Slace who reluctantly let him past. All eyes present were on the dragon in disguise as he slowly crossed the small room and knelt in front of the dark mage. "What can I do?" Dark placed his staff in Genji's hands, the scythe-like end glistening hauntingly. "Finish me."
"No. I won't hurt anyone else."
"Do it," growled Dark, eyes flashing crimson briefly.
"Rane." Genji flinched at Seito's voice.
"Please…"
"No." Genji shoved the glaive back in Dark's hands, stern expression set.
Frustration stirred Chaos to the surface once more. "You little lizard…" With new-found strength, the glaive swung. Genji cried out loud as the blade cut across his face and he fell to the ground. Slace roared in anger as lightning fizzled to life around him. The ball of white energy hit the mage full contact. He hit the wall hard and fell to the ground beside his fallen partner. He didn't get up.
"No! What happened?!" yelled Genji, his vision blotted by blood.
/Genji! Hold still! Stop moving!/ commanded Slace, trying to check his brother's injuries. He gently pinned Genji between his two front claws. /Let me see. Move your hands,/ he growled.
"It hurts," the younger whimpered.
/Stop acting like a baby./
'I'm not," he retorted automatically. Genji slowly pulled his hands away, the sharp stinging instantly returning. There was such a mess of blood, Slace couldn't tell the source. /Master Seito!/ The Guardian craned his neck around toward the priest, who was calmly leaning in the doorway. /Can you help him?/
"Tsuki! I can't see anything!'
"Don't rub your eyes. It will make it worse," stated Seito. "Let's return to the shrine. You can tend yourself there." Seito turned away and left the old building, ordering the guards to dispose of the bodies. As it cleared out, Slace crouched. /Get on./ "I'm fine." Genji stubbornly headed toward the doorway, hands in front. With a mental sigh Slace wrapped his tail around the white-haired teenager and dropped him on his back. Silently grateful, Genji lay down, his body urging his to rest. Then Slace turned and walked on all fours back to the shrine and away from this day's, and not the last day's, bloody and torn tapestry.
Genji promptly awoke as he was dumped in a tub of water. He came up sputtering, a mess of hair, robes, and wings. "Tsuki!" /Clean up. We need to see how bad you're injured./ Pulling long wet strands of hair out of the way, he gently cupped the warm water in his hands and gingerly poured it on his face. He winced at the fiery pain, especially the area near his left eye. He repeated the process once more, then resettled himself. He pulled his knees to his chest, robes heavy around his body. Calypse…I'm sorry, dear mer. I couldn't save you. Genji choked back a sob. I won't let anything like this happen again.
/Are you alright?/ "Yes…fine." He wiped his face in his already soaked sleeve. "I'll go on."
/What?/
"Is it gone?" he questioned, not wanting his brother to hear.
"Yes."
Genji froze at Seito' voice. "Here, give me your hand." Slowly, he obliged . A cold hand took his and helped his out of the now lukewarm water and guided him to a bench. "Keep your eyes closed," commanded the priest. Genji obeyed. Strong fingers seized his chin and tilted it up. "There's a cut along the upper part of your face," Seito explained. "It will heal. However…" his voice trailed off. "Open."
The dragon in disguise obeyed or tried to. His vision was fine in the right but the left was dark. Automatically, he rubbed it, wincing and hearing a sound of protest from the human. "Master, I can't see out of my left eye. Did I miss a spot?" Seito frowned at this as he examined his Guardian's face. Both bright blue eyes were open. With further scrutiny, Seito noticed the cut seemed more severe along the eye. However, there was no direct damage. "Odd," he whispered to himself. He held a hand to the left side of Genji's face. "Can you see this?" "What? No, not at all!" he exclaimed, sensing something wrong. Distressed, Slace shifted in his spot. The priest stepped back and crossed his arms. "You've been blinded in your left eye. It's useless."
"What?!" /How? There is not direct damage?/ "It's the truth," said Seito calmly.
Genji bowed his head. Seito regarded him with narrowed eyes. "But I believe there is a way for your vision to be restored. I surely cannot have a handicapped monster as a Guardian." Brushing the last comment aside with new hope, Genji leapt up. "Really?" /How?/
Seito walked to the opposite side of the room in thought, violet robes whispering. "Yes…Kepura was too much of a coward to even try to harness its potential. But perhaps…" He turned and looked over at Genji, who had curled against Slace's side, the elder's tail wrapped around him. "I must speak with Lord Heishin first. Just wait here."
"Wait!" Genji bolted up and stumbled forward. "Please let me come! I don't want to stay here." "Slace will be here to watch over you." "Yes, I know but still….!" Seeing his youngest Guardian in such a state stirred something nearly buried in Seito. He gave way. "Fine. Stay close." "Yes, sir." The tall teenager looked over at Slace. "You coming?" /Yes. I'm right behind you./ The priest mage started through the door, the two monsters following closely after.
Next up, back to the happy couple of Malik and Selena!