FYI: In this chapter we call Yami Seti. Seti was a real Pharaoh, so we
gave him that name. We are going somewhere with it
HP= Harry Potter YGO = Yu Gi Oh ET= E.T. JR =JOLLIE_RANCHER SS = Severus
Snape MV =Mysterious Voice JW= Joey Wheeler RW =Ron Weasly
YB =Yami Bakura HG = Hermione Granger
HG: Wh-where am I?
HP & RW: Runaway! Runaway!
HG: Wh-what?
YB: Hehehehehehehehehehehehehehehehehe! Another victim!
HG: AAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!
ET: QUIET!
SS: Much as I hate to admit it I agree. Silence!
ET:-_- Some one shoot me.
JR: Okay. BANG
ET: Thanks, that feels much better.
ME: You guys are ssssoooooo weird.
JR: Oh, look who's talking you have me shoot you all the time.
ME: You're clouding the issue with facts.
HG: You shoot each other?!?!?!?!
JR: Not exactly, usually I just shoot her. It's rare that she shoots me.
ME: No, I was told not to anymore.
HP: We warned you that you should have runaway.
YGO: Shouldn't you do the disclaimer now? ME: Good idea! You must be a genius!
RW: ( rolls his eyes)They don't own Harry Potter, Yu Gi Oh, or anything else in this fic. Fortunately.
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Into The Mists
By:Faith_Kitty and Jollie_Rancher
Chapter Eleven: Friend or Foe
Yami stared out the window trying to rationalize what he was about to do. It was so wrong and yet he could see no other way. He turned his head ever so slightly as he heard Estel come through the door with the owl on her shoulder. "Is this right?" he asked her. "Is this what we need to do?"
She studied him for a moment before answering. "Yes, we're doing the right thing. It doesn't always seem like it, but it is the right thing. As long as you keep asking if you're doing the right thing, you know you're doing what's best for everyone."
"How can it be what's best? He whispered in a strained voice. "As soon as that young man walks through the door I'm going to send his soul to the Shadow Realms. How can that be best? How can I do something like that?" He turned to look at her.
Estel stood stroking the snowy white owl's breast feathers. It was several moments before she could answer him. "Yami," she finally replied, "I can't answer that. I don't know if this is the best way. But it is the only way I know of. It is horrible, but think on this, my lord. What will happen if you don't do this? How many more will be hurt if this isn't done. I don't like it anymore than you, and Professor Dumbledor would like it even less. The boy will be here in a moment, and if worse comes to worse I will duel you for his soul. I assure you I will make sure he is freed." She paused to smother a small, tense laugh. "I don't think you could keep anyone trapped in the Shadow Realms against their will. It's your greatest weakness love. You care to much." She stood perfectly still as Yami sized her up to determine whether or not she was telling the truth. He almost believed her. Then he noticed a mischievously gleam in her eyes.
"What are you up to?" He asked her, his deep voice layered with suspicion.
"Nothing," she said. Her lovely alto voice seemed to flow over every syllable making the single word speak volumes.
"Oh, you're up to something. I know you are, I've heard that tone of voice from you before. You are up to something now what are you up to."
"I love it when you get mad. In all seriousness though I." She never got to finish because at that moment the door opened and a sixth year wizard slunk into the room.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
He entered the room wondering why he had been summoned. He hadn't done any thing.
Bakura watched through the student's eyes as they walked into the room. He sneered inwardly as he saw the happy couple standing together.
"You wanted me?" the student asked, keeping his voice carefully neutral.
"Yes," Yami answered. "I need you to do something for me."
"What." Before the student could react, Yami sent him to the Shadow Realms, forcing Bakura out of the mind. Then the Pharaoh turned to Estel.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
He felt himself being ripped from his body. He was plunged into darkness, it was cold and he was more alone than he had ever been in his life. He didn't have his wand and he realized he was completely helpless. 'If this is even half of what Harry Potter feels when he faces You-Know-Who I'm going to have to look at him differently the next time I see him, if I ever see him again.' Terror suddenly griped him as he realized there was no escape noone had ever faced magic like this before. He tried to scream but the sound was swallowed by the darkness surrounding him.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"Did it work?"
"Yes," she replied in a strange voice. "I'm here."
"Good." Then he took the white owl from her arm and set it quietly in a cage. "Estel, I., I need to talk to you., alone." His betrothed nodded once, then left her hikari to deal with their visitor.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
The two yamis stood facing each other in Yami Yu Gi's soul room. Estel's hair and dress were quivering as if blown by a gentle breeze. Yami Yu Gi's hair and jacket were doing the same, but in the opposite direction. "Estel," he started.
"Yami, no." She interrupted "The boy will be fine. I will not listen as you blame yourself for matters beyond your control." He hung his head for a moment, and then smiled to himself. How did she always know exactly what he was about to say?
"That's not the only thing that's bothering me."
"I know." She whispered regretfully. "But you can't help it. Shadow Magic is terrifying. Soon the student's will have seen the ultimate use for it. They will be scared, but far better to learn such a cruel lesson from you than from say, Marik."
"But it is still a lesson I wish they would never have to learn."
"A lot of good wishing is doing you, Seti!" She snapped with unusual forcefulness. "I refuse to sit and listen to you pitying yourself!" Yami looked up startled at the use of the strange name.
"Why are you being so savage?" He demanded defensively.
"Do you know how long it's been? How long I've waited? I lived for you, ya know!
"Well so did I!"
"I don't have to up with this! I'm outta here!" With that she disappeared. The ancient Pharaoh's head dropped in defeat. How was it he always managed to upset her so easily? It wasn't fair. Why did women have to be so difficult!
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Estel sat in her soul weeping. Why did he have to be so wonderful? Why was it she couldn't keep her head when he was around? It wasn't fair! Why did she have to be in love with the one man in all the world who couldn't remember that he was in love with her?
Just as she was starting to give in to a good, long, well deserved cry, she heard a slight tap at her door. Not thinking she dashed the back of her hand against her eyes and called for the guest to come in. Instead of her hikari, Ryou stood on the other side of her door.
"Have I interrupted anything?" The British man asked timidly.
"No," she said wiping her eyes. "Just a pity party."
"Is there anything I can do?"
"Not really. Not unless you can turn back time or give Yami his memory back."
"Is that what's got you so worked up? Well, I do say, it's not entirely his fault. Though I do see where your coming from. Perhaps if you and some girl friends had a sort of girl's night out...or..in...or...something. You and maybe your hikari and some girl students could sit and talk about all the guys and how dumb they are." Yami Estel couldn't help but giggle at the funny look on his face.
"Maybe your right. I'll talk to Dumbledor and get permission to take Hermione and Ginny to Hogsmeade for a weekend. You know, maybe we could have a sleep over, or something. Maybe I should get out of here for a day or two." She heaved a sigh and stood up. "Thanks Ryou." The dancer said, with a sad smile gracing her lips. She started to leave her soul room, but stopped at the door. "Hey, Ryou?"
"Yes?" "How long were you with that student?"
"Quite some time actually. Why?"
"Could you do me a favor?"
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"Perhaps... Professor Mouto...will know...what's...going on!" Hermione gasped, as she, Harry, and Ginny pounded down the hall to their Defense Against The Dark Arts class. Neither of them answered. As the three turned the final corner Harry barreled over someone.
"Sorry." he said without thinking. Then he looked up at who he had run into. "Malfoy." He sneered. The blonde didn't grace him with a response. Harry watched as Malfoy's lip curled into a sneer. Then the Slytherin turned and walked into the classroom, leaving Harry standing in the hall wondering at the mild encounter.
Just as Harry was about to follow Draco into the classroom Professor Mouto stepped out. "Have you seen Estel?" he asked in a slightly worried voice.
"Have you seen Ron?" Harry asked at the same time. The small teacher just looked at him for a moment before repeating his question.
"Yes, she's planning a trip for the three of us." Hermione said indicating Ginny as the third party. "Now, have you seen Ron?"
"No, I haven't." He answered taken aback by her abrupt manner. "I'm sure he's just late." He added rather distractedly and hustled them into the room.
"I'm sorry I'm late Professor." Ron panted as he came running up. Hermione sighed in relief then hit Ron up side the head.
"What do you mean disappearing on us like that! We were worried!" She whirled and entered the class leaving the others to follow. As they entered the class Harry spotted Hedwig.
"Hedwig? Professor why do you have Hedwig?" Harry asked in confusion. Then he noticed that Hedwig did not so much as flutter one feather. "What's wrong with her?" he demanded rushing forward only to be stopped. Suddenly before him rose a warrior of impossible measure. The green and brown clad Guardian swung his sword from the sheath at his side and into his right hand. His brown gaze pierced through Harry Making him freeze. Then the elfin warrior held up his free hand in warning.
"My Celtic Guardian will not let you pass Harry." Professor Mouto said regretfully. "It is best you not attempt it. Now please take your seat without anymore rash behavior."
Harry took his seat and noone so much as dared to breath hard. Something was up and they knew it. Estel entered the room and appeared beside the Professor. Malfoy suddenly got up and walked to the front of the class with a sad expression on his face.
"I guess it's time old chap." He said in a most un-Malfoy like manner, while patting the professor on the shoulder.
"Yes, it is my friend." Professor Mouto said returning the affectionate gesture. "As you can all undoubtedly tell this is not truly Malfoy who stands before you. Malfoy has, regretfully, been banished to the Shadow Realm, much to my displeasure." He held up a card with a black swirling vortex in the background and Malfoy's face frozen in fear in the foreground.
The class stopped breathing at this point as they did not know how to react. Most did not like Malfoy but this sounded worse than any thing even he deserved.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"Well, I suppose you will need an explanation." Yami Yu Gi said, with tears gathering in his eyes. The class just looked on in horrified confusion.
"Yu Gi, how much did you tell them? Don't they now about the Shadows?" Yu Gi looked down for a moment then looked back at his old friend, and shook his head.
"No, Ryou. I could not tell them. How do you explain to innocents the horrors of a magic that thrives upon souls? I did not have the heart to tell them. Now, the army of Sahkmut is at my gate, and by Ra, I've no one to guard the door."
"I'm sorry old chap. I knew it was bad. Well, you've E.T. standing at your side. And I know you've Slyther and the Winged Dragon of Ra on your side."
"I thought Marik had the Winged Dragon!"
"No, he lost it shortly after he helped my yami to kill that girl using my body. I've no idea who she was, he never let me know."
"How could you not know about something like that!?!"
"Unlike you, my Yami is very secretive. Anyway, after he killed her some strange duelist challenged him and during the duel picked it from his pocket.I remember because Bakura was picking their pocket for Obelisk. When Marik found out it was gone he picked Bakura's pocket and stole Obelisk. So the strange duelist has the Winged Dragon, Marik has Obelisk, and you have Slyther."
"Do you know who the duelist was?" the Pharaoh asked anxiously.
"Bakura never did get her name."
\\Thanks.\\
{Anytime.}
"Any way, I say, you really ought to tell them everything, old chap."
"I've told two, and I know they've told only two more. And they are the only ones who needed to know at the time."
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"No!" Ginny cried breaking the silence and beginning to tremble. Harry placed an arm around Ginny to try and comfort her. The entire class focused on her as they struggled to get a grip on the situation.
"Harry, Ron, come to the front of the class. I also have Hedwig's soul here." He held up her soul card. "The only way to save someone from the Shadow Realm is to duel. Harry, if you win Malfoy will go free, but if Ron wins Hedwig will be freed. However, you cannot free both. You must choose and you must depend on your cards."
"Bu...but...but Professor..." Ron squeaked looking from Yami, to Harry, to Hermione who was wide eyed but tried to put on a brave smile.
"But Professor, you want us to duel and decide Malfoy and Hedwig's fates." Harry said looking at Ron, Hermione, and Ginny in turn. "What if the duel goes the wrong way?"
"I have faith in you both so have faith in your cards. Now, begin." He said and with that Harry and Ron sat and shuffled their decks and began.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"Stupid Hikari." the thief grumbled.
"My, someone's in a pissy mood." Marik sneered from behind his pint of fire whiskey.
"Shut it, stupid Marik."
"Your pathetic. You can't even throw a decent insult with out you hikari around."
"How would you feel if you lost your hikari?" Bakura growled in defense.
"As I recall I did. I found the silence quite enjoyable."
"Well, you could still beat up little people. Lord Stupid-head Voldemort won't let us ruin his 'valuable resources'.
"Well, You might not ruin her, but that barmaid spy of his has a naught look, and who knows she might even improve your disposition."
"I don't want to have to listen to that stupid, dumb, stupid guy gripe anymore."
"Lord Voldemort isn't here." ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Harry drew and got Witch of the Black Forest, Aqua Mador, Hysteric Fairy, Toon World, and Monster Reborn. 'These are good but I don't even know that I want to win. Hedwig may be an owl but she is my friend and she depends on me. However, Malfoy is a human being and that must count for something, shouldn't it? On the other hand, if I leave him in the Shadow Realm he won't become like Voldemort.'
Ron looked at his cards he had drawn Island Turtle, Dian Keto, Time Wizard, De-Spell, and Sangen. 'Alright Harry, Its up to you. Even if I have the strategy to beat you, you have the deck and can think on your feet. If you want Hedwig I'll fight for her, but if you want Malfoy you will have to fight me for him. So make your decision, Harry, because here we go.' With that thought he placed Sangen face down in defense starting the duel.
Hermione and Ginny sat in silence unsure of who they wanted to win. Normally Ron was no good under pressure but he seemed very calm and confident. Rather it was Harry who looked sick. He drew and seemed to decide something and the game got underway in earnest.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
//What do you think?//
\\You know what I think dear. If you don't trust my judgement, ask Ryou or your Hikari.\\
//Well,// the Pharaoh asked the two.
{I think he'll surprise you.}
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Harry drew the Change of Heart card. Harry stared at it a moment, 'Malfoy still has time to change. Who am I to take that opportunity from him. I am not God and I am not Voldemort.' He laid the Witch of the Black Forest face down in defense and played Change of Heart. Using Change of Heart he attacked Ron's life points with his own monster. "I'm sorry Hedwig." He whispered.
The students watched in morbid fascination wondering who's soul would be lost. The class would hold their breath when one of the duelists would think about their move. There were occasional gasps and whimpers from the students as the duel continued.
Ron sacrificed two cards to play his Twin-Headed Fire Dragon face down in attack mode. Harry countered by sacrificing the Masked Sorcerer to summon Invitation to a Dark Sleep and laid Magic Jammer face down. By using Invitation's special ability Ron's Fire Dragon could no longer attack. Ron drew and played Rain of Mercy increasing both their life points by 1000. Harry played Dream Clown face down in attack and on his next turn he turned it to defense allowing him to destroy Ron's Fire Dragon. Ron played Monster Reborn to bring back his Dragon but Harry countered with Magic Jammer.
The heart pounding tension in the room built. The Slytherins watched disgusted and nervous that their friends fate rested in the hands of his worst enemy, Harry Potter. The room was still as death as the two duelists played their cards.
Ron drew The Blue Eyes White Dragon and played Time Wizard using his special ability. Everyone held their breath as he flipped the Sickle and won the toss destroying harry's Invitation and Giant Soldier of Stone. Harry us Scull Lair and took Dream Clown and Giant Soldier out of play and destroyed Ron's Time Wizard. Then Harry played Tripwire Beast and Equipped him with Electro-Whip and attacked bringing Ron's life points to 700 while Harry had 4800. Ron played Fissure to destroy Tripwire. Harry played Armored Starfish and wiped out the last of Ron's life points.
"Darn, and I had the Blue Eyes in my hand. Good job mate, I knew you could do it." Ron said conceding his defeat.
"It wasn't easy you put up quite a fight." Harry replied visibly relaxing.
Ginny and Hermione flew to the front of the class and hugged Harry and Ron so tightly the boy's could hardly breath. They were proud of their friends.
"I'm so proud of you Harry. I knew you would do the right thing." Ginny whispered in his ear as she squeezed him even harder.
"I'm so proud of you both. You were great Ron, you have come along way since your first duel with Neville." Hermione said releasing Ron from her vice-like grasp.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"Told ya so." The tiny hikari was back in charge.
"How did yo know?" Yami asked her, a small smile in his lips.
/Why do you think I was so adamant that you give him that one booster pack./ Yu Gi said within their minds.
//Yu Gi, did you know that that pack had Change of Heart?//
/Of, course./
//How?// The spirit demanded sternly.
/You honestly think I spent all my time with a pick pocket, thief, and all around hooligan, and didn't know how to tell which packs have what? Why do you think we haven't gotten very many bad card since I met her?/
"That's awfully close to cheating." The Pharaoh said out loud, so that she could hear him.
"Yeah," she said, sounding as though she was thinking over what he said, "but it sure was fun!"
/Would I do it, if I thought it would give me an unfair advantage? I make sure we get a few bad cards./ Yu Gi said defensively.
//Yu Gi, you are very strange.// His yami told him.
/Yeah, but at least 'I' don't have amnesia./
"Ouch." E.T. said looking playfully at Yami. Then she looked behind him and nodded her head meaningfully at Harry. "But then, I think you have bigger fish to fry."
Yami Yu Gi walked over to Harry and tapped him on the shoulder. "I think you won this." He watched as confusion and then shock registered on the young man's face. Then Malfoy's soul faded from the card.
ME: Yay! One more chapter down!
YB: Stupid-head. Be quiet!
ET: Be nice!
JR: I think Marik was right you can't even throw a good insult with out Ryou.
YB: Shove it you stupid, dumb, stupid-head!
YGO: Bakura, I think you should take an anger managment course.
ET: You think it will help?
HP: Maybe it will at least teach him some better insults.
ME: I hope so. Right now they're pretty lame.
ET: You guys should start on the next chapter.
JR: But we're having fun with this still.
YGO: So have fun in the NEXT chapter.
ME: :( Fine! We'll start the next chapter. But before we do! REVIEW!
HG: You guys are REALLY weird.
ME: Fate = wyrd = "what happens"
HG: Wh-where am I?
HP & RW: Runaway! Runaway!
HG: Wh-what?
YB: Hehehehehehehehehehehehehehehehehe! Another victim!
HG: AAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!
ET: QUIET!
SS: Much as I hate to admit it I agree. Silence!
ET:-_- Some one shoot me.
JR: Okay. BANG
ET: Thanks, that feels much better.
ME: You guys are ssssoooooo weird.
JR: Oh, look who's talking you have me shoot you all the time.
ME: You're clouding the issue with facts.
HG: You shoot each other?!?!?!?!
JR: Not exactly, usually I just shoot her. It's rare that she shoots me.
ME: No, I was told not to anymore.
HP: We warned you that you should have runaway.
YGO: Shouldn't you do the disclaimer now? ME: Good idea! You must be a genius!
RW: ( rolls his eyes)They don't own Harry Potter, Yu Gi Oh, or anything else in this fic. Fortunately.
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Into The Mists
By:Faith_Kitty and Jollie_Rancher
Chapter Eleven: Friend or Foe
Yami stared out the window trying to rationalize what he was about to do. It was so wrong and yet he could see no other way. He turned his head ever so slightly as he heard Estel come through the door with the owl on her shoulder. "Is this right?" he asked her. "Is this what we need to do?"
She studied him for a moment before answering. "Yes, we're doing the right thing. It doesn't always seem like it, but it is the right thing. As long as you keep asking if you're doing the right thing, you know you're doing what's best for everyone."
"How can it be what's best? He whispered in a strained voice. "As soon as that young man walks through the door I'm going to send his soul to the Shadow Realms. How can that be best? How can I do something like that?" He turned to look at her.
Estel stood stroking the snowy white owl's breast feathers. It was several moments before she could answer him. "Yami," she finally replied, "I can't answer that. I don't know if this is the best way. But it is the only way I know of. It is horrible, but think on this, my lord. What will happen if you don't do this? How many more will be hurt if this isn't done. I don't like it anymore than you, and Professor Dumbledor would like it even less. The boy will be here in a moment, and if worse comes to worse I will duel you for his soul. I assure you I will make sure he is freed." She paused to smother a small, tense laugh. "I don't think you could keep anyone trapped in the Shadow Realms against their will. It's your greatest weakness love. You care to much." She stood perfectly still as Yami sized her up to determine whether or not she was telling the truth. He almost believed her. Then he noticed a mischievously gleam in her eyes.
"What are you up to?" He asked her, his deep voice layered with suspicion.
"Nothing," she said. Her lovely alto voice seemed to flow over every syllable making the single word speak volumes.
"Oh, you're up to something. I know you are, I've heard that tone of voice from you before. You are up to something now what are you up to."
"I love it when you get mad. In all seriousness though I." She never got to finish because at that moment the door opened and a sixth year wizard slunk into the room.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
He entered the room wondering why he had been summoned. He hadn't done any thing.
Bakura watched through the student's eyes as they walked into the room. He sneered inwardly as he saw the happy couple standing together.
"You wanted me?" the student asked, keeping his voice carefully neutral.
"Yes," Yami answered. "I need you to do something for me."
"What." Before the student could react, Yami sent him to the Shadow Realms, forcing Bakura out of the mind. Then the Pharaoh turned to Estel.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
He felt himself being ripped from his body. He was plunged into darkness, it was cold and he was more alone than he had ever been in his life. He didn't have his wand and he realized he was completely helpless. 'If this is even half of what Harry Potter feels when he faces You-Know-Who I'm going to have to look at him differently the next time I see him, if I ever see him again.' Terror suddenly griped him as he realized there was no escape noone had ever faced magic like this before. He tried to scream but the sound was swallowed by the darkness surrounding him.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"Did it work?"
"Yes," she replied in a strange voice. "I'm here."
"Good." Then he took the white owl from her arm and set it quietly in a cage. "Estel, I., I need to talk to you., alone." His betrothed nodded once, then left her hikari to deal with their visitor.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
The two yamis stood facing each other in Yami Yu Gi's soul room. Estel's hair and dress were quivering as if blown by a gentle breeze. Yami Yu Gi's hair and jacket were doing the same, but in the opposite direction. "Estel," he started.
"Yami, no." She interrupted "The boy will be fine. I will not listen as you blame yourself for matters beyond your control." He hung his head for a moment, and then smiled to himself. How did she always know exactly what he was about to say?
"That's not the only thing that's bothering me."
"I know." She whispered regretfully. "But you can't help it. Shadow Magic is terrifying. Soon the student's will have seen the ultimate use for it. They will be scared, but far better to learn such a cruel lesson from you than from say, Marik."
"But it is still a lesson I wish they would never have to learn."
"A lot of good wishing is doing you, Seti!" She snapped with unusual forcefulness. "I refuse to sit and listen to you pitying yourself!" Yami looked up startled at the use of the strange name.
"Why are you being so savage?" He demanded defensively.
"Do you know how long it's been? How long I've waited? I lived for you, ya know!
"Well so did I!"
"I don't have to up with this! I'm outta here!" With that she disappeared. The ancient Pharaoh's head dropped in defeat. How was it he always managed to upset her so easily? It wasn't fair. Why did women have to be so difficult!
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Estel sat in her soul weeping. Why did he have to be so wonderful? Why was it she couldn't keep her head when he was around? It wasn't fair! Why did she have to be in love with the one man in all the world who couldn't remember that he was in love with her?
Just as she was starting to give in to a good, long, well deserved cry, she heard a slight tap at her door. Not thinking she dashed the back of her hand against her eyes and called for the guest to come in. Instead of her hikari, Ryou stood on the other side of her door.
"Have I interrupted anything?" The British man asked timidly.
"No," she said wiping her eyes. "Just a pity party."
"Is there anything I can do?"
"Not really. Not unless you can turn back time or give Yami his memory back."
"Is that what's got you so worked up? Well, I do say, it's not entirely his fault. Though I do see where your coming from. Perhaps if you and some girl friends had a sort of girl's night out...or..in...or...something. You and maybe your hikari and some girl students could sit and talk about all the guys and how dumb they are." Yami Estel couldn't help but giggle at the funny look on his face.
"Maybe your right. I'll talk to Dumbledor and get permission to take Hermione and Ginny to Hogsmeade for a weekend. You know, maybe we could have a sleep over, or something. Maybe I should get out of here for a day or two." She heaved a sigh and stood up. "Thanks Ryou." The dancer said, with a sad smile gracing her lips. She started to leave her soul room, but stopped at the door. "Hey, Ryou?"
"Yes?" "How long were you with that student?"
"Quite some time actually. Why?"
"Could you do me a favor?"
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"Perhaps... Professor Mouto...will know...what's...going on!" Hermione gasped, as she, Harry, and Ginny pounded down the hall to their Defense Against The Dark Arts class. Neither of them answered. As the three turned the final corner Harry barreled over someone.
"Sorry." he said without thinking. Then he looked up at who he had run into. "Malfoy." He sneered. The blonde didn't grace him with a response. Harry watched as Malfoy's lip curled into a sneer. Then the Slytherin turned and walked into the classroom, leaving Harry standing in the hall wondering at the mild encounter.
Just as Harry was about to follow Draco into the classroom Professor Mouto stepped out. "Have you seen Estel?" he asked in a slightly worried voice.
"Have you seen Ron?" Harry asked at the same time. The small teacher just looked at him for a moment before repeating his question.
"Yes, she's planning a trip for the three of us." Hermione said indicating Ginny as the third party. "Now, have you seen Ron?"
"No, I haven't." He answered taken aback by her abrupt manner. "I'm sure he's just late." He added rather distractedly and hustled them into the room.
"I'm sorry I'm late Professor." Ron panted as he came running up. Hermione sighed in relief then hit Ron up side the head.
"What do you mean disappearing on us like that! We were worried!" She whirled and entered the class leaving the others to follow. As they entered the class Harry spotted Hedwig.
"Hedwig? Professor why do you have Hedwig?" Harry asked in confusion. Then he noticed that Hedwig did not so much as flutter one feather. "What's wrong with her?" he demanded rushing forward only to be stopped. Suddenly before him rose a warrior of impossible measure. The green and brown clad Guardian swung his sword from the sheath at his side and into his right hand. His brown gaze pierced through Harry Making him freeze. Then the elfin warrior held up his free hand in warning.
"My Celtic Guardian will not let you pass Harry." Professor Mouto said regretfully. "It is best you not attempt it. Now please take your seat without anymore rash behavior."
Harry took his seat and noone so much as dared to breath hard. Something was up and they knew it. Estel entered the room and appeared beside the Professor. Malfoy suddenly got up and walked to the front of the class with a sad expression on his face.
"I guess it's time old chap." He said in a most un-Malfoy like manner, while patting the professor on the shoulder.
"Yes, it is my friend." Professor Mouto said returning the affectionate gesture. "As you can all undoubtedly tell this is not truly Malfoy who stands before you. Malfoy has, regretfully, been banished to the Shadow Realm, much to my displeasure." He held up a card with a black swirling vortex in the background and Malfoy's face frozen in fear in the foreground.
The class stopped breathing at this point as they did not know how to react. Most did not like Malfoy but this sounded worse than any thing even he deserved.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"Well, I suppose you will need an explanation." Yami Yu Gi said, with tears gathering in his eyes. The class just looked on in horrified confusion.
"Yu Gi, how much did you tell them? Don't they now about the Shadows?" Yu Gi looked down for a moment then looked back at his old friend, and shook his head.
"No, Ryou. I could not tell them. How do you explain to innocents the horrors of a magic that thrives upon souls? I did not have the heart to tell them. Now, the army of Sahkmut is at my gate, and by Ra, I've no one to guard the door."
"I'm sorry old chap. I knew it was bad. Well, you've E.T. standing at your side. And I know you've Slyther and the Winged Dragon of Ra on your side."
"I thought Marik had the Winged Dragon!"
"No, he lost it shortly after he helped my yami to kill that girl using my body. I've no idea who she was, he never let me know."
"How could you not know about something like that!?!"
"Unlike you, my Yami is very secretive. Anyway, after he killed her some strange duelist challenged him and during the duel picked it from his pocket.I remember because Bakura was picking their pocket for Obelisk. When Marik found out it was gone he picked Bakura's pocket and stole Obelisk. So the strange duelist has the Winged Dragon, Marik has Obelisk, and you have Slyther."
"Do you know who the duelist was?" the Pharaoh asked anxiously.
"Bakura never did get her name."
\\Thanks.\\
{Anytime.}
"Any way, I say, you really ought to tell them everything, old chap."
"I've told two, and I know they've told only two more. And they are the only ones who needed to know at the time."
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"No!" Ginny cried breaking the silence and beginning to tremble. Harry placed an arm around Ginny to try and comfort her. The entire class focused on her as they struggled to get a grip on the situation.
"Harry, Ron, come to the front of the class. I also have Hedwig's soul here." He held up her soul card. "The only way to save someone from the Shadow Realm is to duel. Harry, if you win Malfoy will go free, but if Ron wins Hedwig will be freed. However, you cannot free both. You must choose and you must depend on your cards."
"Bu...but...but Professor..." Ron squeaked looking from Yami, to Harry, to Hermione who was wide eyed but tried to put on a brave smile.
"But Professor, you want us to duel and decide Malfoy and Hedwig's fates." Harry said looking at Ron, Hermione, and Ginny in turn. "What if the duel goes the wrong way?"
"I have faith in you both so have faith in your cards. Now, begin." He said and with that Harry and Ron sat and shuffled their decks and began.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"Stupid Hikari." the thief grumbled.
"My, someone's in a pissy mood." Marik sneered from behind his pint of fire whiskey.
"Shut it, stupid Marik."
"Your pathetic. You can't even throw a decent insult with out you hikari around."
"How would you feel if you lost your hikari?" Bakura growled in defense.
"As I recall I did. I found the silence quite enjoyable."
"Well, you could still beat up little people. Lord Stupid-head Voldemort won't let us ruin his 'valuable resources'.
"Well, You might not ruin her, but that barmaid spy of his has a naught look, and who knows she might even improve your disposition."
"I don't want to have to listen to that stupid, dumb, stupid guy gripe anymore."
"Lord Voldemort isn't here." ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Harry drew and got Witch of the Black Forest, Aqua Mador, Hysteric Fairy, Toon World, and Monster Reborn. 'These are good but I don't even know that I want to win. Hedwig may be an owl but she is my friend and she depends on me. However, Malfoy is a human being and that must count for something, shouldn't it? On the other hand, if I leave him in the Shadow Realm he won't become like Voldemort.'
Ron looked at his cards he had drawn Island Turtle, Dian Keto, Time Wizard, De-Spell, and Sangen. 'Alright Harry, Its up to you. Even if I have the strategy to beat you, you have the deck and can think on your feet. If you want Hedwig I'll fight for her, but if you want Malfoy you will have to fight me for him. So make your decision, Harry, because here we go.' With that thought he placed Sangen face down in defense starting the duel.
Hermione and Ginny sat in silence unsure of who they wanted to win. Normally Ron was no good under pressure but he seemed very calm and confident. Rather it was Harry who looked sick. He drew and seemed to decide something and the game got underway in earnest.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
//What do you think?//
\\You know what I think dear. If you don't trust my judgement, ask Ryou or your Hikari.\\
//Well,// the Pharaoh asked the two.
{I think he'll surprise you.}
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Harry drew the Change of Heart card. Harry stared at it a moment, 'Malfoy still has time to change. Who am I to take that opportunity from him. I am not God and I am not Voldemort.' He laid the Witch of the Black Forest face down in defense and played Change of Heart. Using Change of Heart he attacked Ron's life points with his own monster. "I'm sorry Hedwig." He whispered.
The students watched in morbid fascination wondering who's soul would be lost. The class would hold their breath when one of the duelists would think about their move. There were occasional gasps and whimpers from the students as the duel continued.
Ron sacrificed two cards to play his Twin-Headed Fire Dragon face down in attack mode. Harry countered by sacrificing the Masked Sorcerer to summon Invitation to a Dark Sleep and laid Magic Jammer face down. By using Invitation's special ability Ron's Fire Dragon could no longer attack. Ron drew and played Rain of Mercy increasing both their life points by 1000. Harry played Dream Clown face down in attack and on his next turn he turned it to defense allowing him to destroy Ron's Fire Dragon. Ron played Monster Reborn to bring back his Dragon but Harry countered with Magic Jammer.
The heart pounding tension in the room built. The Slytherins watched disgusted and nervous that their friends fate rested in the hands of his worst enemy, Harry Potter. The room was still as death as the two duelists played their cards.
Ron drew The Blue Eyes White Dragon and played Time Wizard using his special ability. Everyone held their breath as he flipped the Sickle and won the toss destroying harry's Invitation and Giant Soldier of Stone. Harry us Scull Lair and took Dream Clown and Giant Soldier out of play and destroyed Ron's Time Wizard. Then Harry played Tripwire Beast and Equipped him with Electro-Whip and attacked bringing Ron's life points to 700 while Harry had 4800. Ron played Fissure to destroy Tripwire. Harry played Armored Starfish and wiped out the last of Ron's life points.
"Darn, and I had the Blue Eyes in my hand. Good job mate, I knew you could do it." Ron said conceding his defeat.
"It wasn't easy you put up quite a fight." Harry replied visibly relaxing.
Ginny and Hermione flew to the front of the class and hugged Harry and Ron so tightly the boy's could hardly breath. They were proud of their friends.
"I'm so proud of you Harry. I knew you would do the right thing." Ginny whispered in his ear as she squeezed him even harder.
"I'm so proud of you both. You were great Ron, you have come along way since your first duel with Neville." Hermione said releasing Ron from her vice-like grasp.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"Told ya so." The tiny hikari was back in charge.
"How did yo know?" Yami asked her, a small smile in his lips.
/Why do you think I was so adamant that you give him that one booster pack./ Yu Gi said within their minds.
//Yu Gi, did you know that that pack had Change of Heart?//
/Of, course./
//How?// The spirit demanded sternly.
/You honestly think I spent all my time with a pick pocket, thief, and all around hooligan, and didn't know how to tell which packs have what? Why do you think we haven't gotten very many bad card since I met her?/
"That's awfully close to cheating." The Pharaoh said out loud, so that she could hear him.
"Yeah," she said, sounding as though she was thinking over what he said, "but it sure was fun!"
/Would I do it, if I thought it would give me an unfair advantage? I make sure we get a few bad cards./ Yu Gi said defensively.
//Yu Gi, you are very strange.// His yami told him.
/Yeah, but at least 'I' don't have amnesia./
"Ouch." E.T. said looking playfully at Yami. Then she looked behind him and nodded her head meaningfully at Harry. "But then, I think you have bigger fish to fry."
Yami Yu Gi walked over to Harry and tapped him on the shoulder. "I think you won this." He watched as confusion and then shock registered on the young man's face. Then Malfoy's soul faded from the card.
ME: Yay! One more chapter down!
YB: Stupid-head. Be quiet!
ET: Be nice!
JR: I think Marik was right you can't even throw a good insult with out Ryou.
YB: Shove it you stupid, dumb, stupid-head!
YGO: Bakura, I think you should take an anger managment course.
ET: You think it will help?
HP: Maybe it will at least teach him some better insults.
ME: I hope so. Right now they're pretty lame.
ET: You guys should start on the next chapter.
JR: But we're having fun with this still.
YGO: So have fun in the NEXT chapter.
ME: :( Fine! We'll start the next chapter. But before we do! REVIEW!
HG: You guys are REALLY weird.
ME: Fate = wyrd = "what happens"