Disclaimer: Plain and simple. I do not own Yu-Gi-Oh.
A/N: Howdy everyone! Second to last chapter here, and it's a long one. Eighteen pages. Longer than even I thought it would be. ^_^ Wanted to give the story a bit of a bang for an ending since it has been so good to me. I have one piece of advice, though. Trust me. That's all I'm going to say for now. Oh, and don't be dismayed by the length of my response to reviewers, it did not impede on the length of the chapter. Now, I hope you enjoy this!
LeDiz: I think the last line things are worth it just for your reactions. ^_^ I applaud you remembering your word! I was in the middle of a conversation tonight, and right when I went to say something, the darn thing fled from my mind and I was left with nothing other than blank air. It was very embarrassing. I'm was glad to hear you liked the chapter so much. Personally, it wasn't my favorite, I thought it was a little forced, but I'm happy most didn't see it that way. I suppose I couldn't help having ATEMU 'rescue' Yuugi in a sense. At least it wasn't rescue from a bully. As for the rest of your review, I'm just going to sit back and smile and wait to see what you have to say. So you better hop to it!
Wolfspeaker1: You keep proving to me that repetition is not necessarily a bad thing. It is quite good for swelling the ego, and for putting a smile on my face. I hope this chapter garners the same repetitiveness! Enjoy!
jkateel: I want to apologize right now for having not reviewed that awesome story of your called Trance. I was told about it, read it, loved it, and decided that it required thorough reviews. And I just... haven't done it yet... So sorry! I just wanted to let you know here, since I'm writing this, how much I love that story. I'll review it as soon as I can, chapter by chapter, just like your continued support for me! See you around, and thank you for reviewing as always!
Sorceress MooNBlaDeR: *chuckles* Spirited one, aren't you? Speak in clips and phrases. Glad I could make you happy with the make-out scene and the further development of their relationship. I hope this chapter is able to make your day as well!
DragonsDesire: I bow in humble thanks of your opinion of me! I think I have taken it on as my mission to make everyone call Yami Atemu. At least, that seems to be the effect I am having. Works for me! Glad you like my version of Yuugi, and I hope you like this chapter too!
Seventh Sage: Yeah, I agree. I wasn't as descriptive as before. Wasn't in the mood, I suppose. So long as it was good enough to satisfy until this chapter came out. And as for the ending? Just trust me. There is one more chapter to come. Sit back and enjoy. ^_^
Silver Draggon: Personally, I don't care when it is you review. Just so long as I get that nice little message in my inbox and my review count goes up by one. ^_^ I think this is one of the first time someone has referred to my chapter as that 'blasted' one – other than me, of course – and meant it with affection. Quite funny. For your question, there is one more chapter. I have another story all lined up to take over, so no worries! I hope you enjoy this one!
Promise: I wrote something cute? Oh, the horror! ^_~ Glad you liked it, and here's another SHOUT!
Danski: *bows to appaluse * No one will ever fault me for being too humble, I think. I'm flattered you like my story so much! It's always good to hear from you. Enjoy this chapter and I'll see you next time!
Malik the Psycho: I shall smile happily as well that you reviewed. Thank you! I hope this chapter was worth the wait.
metallicbubbles: Finally a way for them to communicate... and yet, it wasn't as fulfilling as their other way, was it? But then again, one must move a story along. Another whole set-up chapter my poor readers had to suffer through. I certainly hope this chapter was worth the wait. Enjoy! Oh, and no more short cuts! Bad habit, bad!
Cherry Romancer: Yay! I made someone cheer! I hope I can make you cheer again! Oh, and you can release that breath now. I think you are going to be needing to take another one.
Mel Gods: ... I uh... meant that description was good at being cheesy... I don't think I made myself clear on that one. Please forgive me! I meant no insult! *falls to knees, apologizes, then gets over self and bounces back* Look at me! It only took me a month to review this time! Pathetic, I know, but I must start somewhere. My ba-BAM method is to write nothing for days, then have it all spill out in three hours of constant writing, after which I am so tired I can't write for days again. Binge and purge method, I suppose. No, you weren't wrong, and I'm actually very flattered that you remembered Minus the Crown! I didn't mean to imply that 'Yami' and 'Atemu' were different to the extent that they were in MtC. More like before and after the confrontation with the magics. I don't know... perhaps it was just a bad line that slipped in. Let us put it out of its misery and move on. I do not own themes, so if you have a story you want to write, write it! All I ask is that you don't copy word for word my scenes like a certain author did that I found and have still not recovered from. But I do not have that fear for you, so go for it! ^_^ You are welcome about Anzu. I despise her character (for reasons other than her interference between Yami and Yuugi), but I get tired of the treatment of her as well. That's why I treated her kindly... as kindly as I could manage. By the time people get to the end of the responses, you think they will be annoyed? I hope so! You have given me a new goal! Keep up the long reviews, and I shall keep up the excessive responses! See you next time!
shadow-demon18b: Thank you! And I'm sure many others, including myself, share your sentiment. I get frustrated with myself when it takes me so long to update. Thanks for taking the time to review!
Fuzzy Coconut: Me? Burn out from writing? Naw. From thinking, surely. But not writing. Glad you liked that line of mine. It's funny how many things we think will give us more freedom actually wind up restricting us in ways we never even imagined. Whoever knew choice could be a potentially bad thing? Thanks for the continuing support, as always!
Sansi: I love it when Yuugi seduces Yami too. It is such a rare occurrence in fanfiction writing, and I take great pleasure in writing what others do not. It was a fun little scene, though, wasn't it? ^_^ I think you are going to enjoy much of this chapter if you liked their interaction before. So enjoy!
Yaky: A Criminal Psychologist? Whoa... cool! Someone out there who has a brain and intelligence – (I tried psychology and found it fascinating) – likes my story! Someone my age too. Yes, there is a comfort in knowing that you are not alone. Such a nice and warm feeling. This update took too long, but hopefully the length will make up for it. I truly hope you enjoy it!
Hime no Ichigo: You knock science?! I may be able to forgive you for that... treading on thin ice there, buddy. Hee. I guess everyone has their subject they don't enjoy. For me? Speech communication. Don't get me started, you'll never get to the story if you do. I'm surprised you found Jou to be pushy. I thought he was more concerned and motivated than pushy. As for Atemu's magic... wait until you see it in this chapter. I think you will be happy. I'll be looking for that fulfillment of your promise!
Moonlitspire: It means so much that what I wrote reminds you of something real! I strive to mirror real relationships as closely as possible. If I have achieved that, then I am thrilled. It was to odd to have them actually talk to each other... I had to try a couple of times before I got it right. I like inferences better myself. They are more fun to write. See you next time around!
Abi2: The dawning continues, eh? I find it quite amusing, and I'm sure your brain will adjust. ^_^ I'm glad you liked the last chapter. I thought the kissing scene could have been longer, perhaps more... something. Can't win them all, though. A scene gets an idea of how it wants to be and refuses to change. Consider my butt officially kicked, and go and enjoy the chapter.
Nightengale13: Dang. You write such long and detailed reviews, I almost have to take notes so I can respond properly! I didn't realize that I was putting that much emotion into my writing, though I will say how happy I am to know that it's there. I think that is what makes a story good, different. One where the author is able to feel what the characters are feeling, and is able to transfer that emotion so completely that the reader can swear that it is their own emotion. I continually work on this, and to know that I have succeeded, even if it is marginally, is such a joy. Let me see if I can help you in regards to your question about Yuugi's and Yami's little tiff. Yuugi's reaction to the battle wasn't so much Yami's use of his magic, though that did play a part in his emotions. The use of the magic forced Yuugi to understand how dangerous the Shadows were, and how real. And Yami's change of personality was a bit disturbing, as it is whenever we see someone we love angry. But what I was striving for was to show Yuugi's fear and displeasure in himself. As you recall, he enjoyed watching Yami's anger, enjoyed the cruelty and the power, and even had thoughts of revenge and malice himself. This is what scared him, and that translated over onto Yami because he was the one who initiated these feelings. The battle was merely a stage used to bring out this conflict, one that I thought needed to be addressed because the magics are such an essential part of Yami, and Yuugi was going to have to face and accept this for their relationship to progress any further. Yami loves using his magic... has never not used it, and would never be able to abandon it because it is all he knows. I hope that helps to clarify things. If not, let me know and I shall try again! Oh, and before I forget: Double curse you for all your wonderful ideas and flattery that cause traffic jams in my head. I don't know how I get any writing done after reading your reviews. It's a miracle unto itself. Like hot tea. It is the most wondrous drink on the planet! I drink several cups a day, and have for years. It's addictive, like Yami and Yuugi. Hmm... I better not start down that road. You know... I actually do have a story idea that features Seto prominently. I hesitate in writing it though, because I have a very particular opinion of him, and it isn't exactly a positive one. He does have far more depth and complexity than he is usually given, and is an interesting character. Yuugi and Yami would be prominent too, can't write a story without them, and Seto's character would be brought to light through them. I could add Mokuba in as well. I'm thinking about it. It may happen in the near future. We shall see. Like the length of this response, good things come, and sometimes in large packages. Take care, and I'll see you the next time around!
WigglyJello: I agree with you. Yuugi and Yami definitely communicated better... or at least more intimately when they couldn't speak to each other. I wasn't as happy with the moment as I thought I would be. I prefer it when they speak as little as necessary. And Yuugi is dominant. I think most people just choose not to see him that way. Glad you liked it all, and thanks for letting me know what you think. ^_^
RyuArashi: *blushes* My goodness. You deserve a degree in flattery! I'm just blown away by your kind words and thoughts. And to know I have a life-long fan! And one with a brain. I'm so happy you understood what I was trying to say about the anger. You got it perfectly. I am looking forward to continued flattery from you, and will do my best to flatter you by writing the best stories that I can! Here's to us!
rox: Thanks for bearing the wrath of a teacher to review. Every one counts! See you on your next escapade.
Catbeast Aisha: Talk about a dedicated fan! I'm sorry you had to go through that. Mediaminner did... something to my account. It doesn't even register I'm there, and I can't get in to update or do anything, not even tell people that I am here. I'm glad you found me though! And I hope to hear from you again. ^_^
Shenya: .... *awed silence * .... yes, nice review. Very very nice review. Nice review that has made me appreciate spiders and their webs for emulating me so beautifully. Uh... that didn't sound as funny as I thought it might. A sad attempt at telling you that you have inflated my already too-large ego with such an utterly beautiful review. Thank you so much! I will try to live up to that again!
Ente: Reasons Why Your Review Rocks: It is entered in a personal book of Guinness world records. It was left for my story. It was flattering and full of praise, which I ate up greedily. I was told the story kicks major ass. I don't paint, but I apparently can BS my way through it enough to convince people I do. You appreciate my responses, which makes them longer and more involved and worth while. You offered to do sketches! Yes! Please! You offered me presents, including chocolate. You reviewed. Period. You are willing to wait for my updates. So yes, I like hearing from you very much. I look forward to the next round!
Banjodog: *sits for a moment trying to figure out how I misspelled your name the first time around -.- * Let's see, what can I say? I could sit here and write a long mini story in its own right. Or I could mention socks with holes. Or paint a scene of Yami with hiccups. Or perhaps Bakura with a mini-bake oven and a cooler. Maybe I could come up with a way to make Yami president of all popsicle companies in the world. Maybe I could finally stretch my leg, regardless of the fact that it will wake my kitty. I can ignore the look I just got from said kitty. I could try to think up a scene of mild fluff that included hot tea... or chocolate milk... or maybe both. I could sit and snicker at Bakura's Japanese voice. I could count how many times Yami 'tsks' in one episode. I could make a recording of Yami saying 'I don't think so' and loop it for both of our delight. I could try to think up a title that would rival one of yours, but I'll save us both the pain and move on. I could reread your review - *goes and reads * - I could applaud Marik's restraint in his little outbursts. And your restraint when he burnt a hole in your wall. I could curse you for finding every weakness in my writing *ahem, the Yuugi's parents reference*, and I could also hug you for it because it makes me think and be a better writer. I could agree there needed to be more background there, but my defense is that it was all in my head and I understood it. So... there. You probably figured it out anyway. I could thank you, I could GLOMP! you, I could do both. I hope that I have at least made you chuckle, even once. I must now go post. At some point, I shall do all of these things... but don't hold your breath. You know how fast I tend to work... Oh, and I can also grumble how much longer this response looked before I put it into HTML format. I suppose that could be remedied by leaving a nice long review for Boto. Darn, I may just have to read it again.
Fly Away Home
By Ocean
Chapter Seventeen: I Know
It was early morning now. The sky just beyond the reach of the bedroom window was tinted by the threat of daybreak. The deep blue-black of night now bore a slightly lighter shade of blue, and the stars were slowly abandoning their dominance of the sky to the forth-coming sun.
Such subtly could only be achieved at this early hour, when eyes were closed and minds were resting in their beds as people prepared for another day. It was for these reasons that such subtly was often missed, and why the deliberately less subtle actions prancing across the sky were noticed by only a scarce few pairs of eyes.
Atemu remained still as his keen eyes took in the blatant activity in the sky, blinking slowly as the Shadows sent another angry whip of energy at the barrier he had erected around the modest home. The shield rippled in lethargic circles of green magic, seemingly bored with its task of deflecting yet another blow from the Shadows.
A shifting of weight against his side caused Atemu's eyes to drift close and his head to lull forward so his chin rested on his chest, seeing as how he was half-sitting, half-laying against the headboard of Yuugi's bed. His senses dulled as Yuugi snuggled even further into him, his delicious and sensuous bare skin gliding over him as Yuugi pulled himself across Atemu so he could rest his head on his chest, his arm over his stomach, and his leg firmly across his hips. With a final toss of his head and an escaped sigh, Yuugi fell back into the comfort of sleep.
Atemu's nerves fluttered excitedly at this closeness, memories of their activity a mere half-hour before humming in blissful fulfillment in his ears. His skin shivered on occasion as the cool night breeze from the open window wafted gently over the sweat that still lingered on his limbs and brow, making the warmth that permeated from Yuugi that much more prominent. Atemu raised his arm and held it close against Yuugi's shoulders, hugging him near as his other hand skimmed itself along the smooth arm draped over his stomach.
Atemu's brows creased as another attack was made against the barrier that protected the store. The vibrations of the competing magics ricochet endlessly in his mind, as would an echo in a cave. He begrudgingly opened his eyes, but only enough so he could glare out the window at the Shadows.
The turbulent Shadows had increased their actions tenfold in the short time Atemu had looked away. Angry blue lightening seared across the sky, splitting the dark clouds and making way for the multicolored smoke to bleed over the heavens. The Shadows had only recently broken free of their realm, during which time they had solidified their plans of ending the world and rescuing their son from the grasp of the mortal hand clenched so tightly around him.
They were trying to flood Atemu with their potent magics, to excite and ensnare his senses. From the small crack they had made in his mental shield through pure relentless persistence, they were able to raise Atemu's body temperature and both heighten and blur his sensitivity to touch, in hopes of being able to distract him from the mortal plane. They whispered his name behind his eyes with the colors of black and green and gold, a specific pattern meant only for his designation. They told him how special he was, how different, how unique and precious and completely theirs he was.
An angry vibration imploded in the sky as Atemu continued to ignore them, the resulting shock-wave jarring the city as the wind grew stiller than death and the clouds thickened with the burden of the infused magics. The Kame Game Shop was shielded from the blow, but the surrounding buildings were rocked with the sudden burst of energy, leaving large cracks and clouds of dust in its wake.
Domino City no longer resembled its former glory, bearing more a resemblance to a broken and beaten victim of a tyrant's rage rather than the sweet and jubilant girl-next-door.
Atemu's hold tightened around Yuugi's shoulders as he lowered his face into Yuugi's soft hair, leaving his head aloft just enough for his spirited eyes to shine above the strands. He turned his eyes from the Shadows display, across the darkened room and over to Yuugi's closet. The door was ajar, as usual, and the various contents spilled over onto the floor. Amongst these contents were the six golden Sennen items, the puzzle having been kept on the bedside table, as close to Yuugi as possible.
His eyes scanned over the scattered contents of Yuugi's closet, over the clothes and puzzles and paint supplies that tried to hide the harshness of the Sennen artifacts. Atemu's hold on Yuugi tightened again when he noticed the golden hue around the magical items; a definite brightening of their color as the objects within their immediate vicinity were illuminated by the independent source of light. They were fluttering also, as does a butterfly that is stretching its wings shortly after emerging from its cocoon.
This silent movement and mythical glow of the items was an ominous sign, one that Atemu had prayed he would never have to see again. The items were loyal to the Shadows, infusing upon them their strength and magic in return for a semblance of the self-awareness the Shadows possessed. The Shadows had been only too eager to agree to the arrangement, bestowing just enough awareness to allow the items to know to whom they owed their loyalty. The Shadows had also hoped that with this new allegiance they would learn how to break free of their prison, but the items did not possess such knowledge.
The 'awakening' of the Sennen items meant only one thing to Atemu. The Shadows and the items were once again joining forces. They were once again pooling their magics, combining their strengths and knowledge for the common purpose of destroying the world. The items held nothing for life. They knew no compassion, had no awareness that their impending actions were unspeakable horror. They knew only loyalty to the Shadows, and their desires ran parallel for this reason alone.
A brush of fingertips across his cheek broke Atemu's glare at the items, both turning and softening his eyes as he looked at Yuugi's concerned features. Though sleep was very much present within those violet eyes, there was also a blatant awareness and heightened since of alarm that told Atemu that his distress had not gone unnoticed.
Yuugi searched Atemu's face, playing his fingers idly along the strong jaw-line of his lover. His brows creased and his mouth pulled into a slight frown when Atemu made no move to comfort him, choosing to merely watch him in return with somber features.
Yuugi propped himself onto one arm so he could be eye level with Atemu, leaning over his chest and ignoring the fact that both of them were naked. He didn't like it when Atemu averted his eyes. He didn't like the sinking feeling in his stomach that was similar to the one that one gets when an elevator descends too quickly.
With unease nipping at his thoughts, after following Atemu's gaze out the window to see nothing more than darkened clouds, Yuugi leaned his forehead against Atemu's to signal his desire for the magics to be used so they could speak again. Atemu closed his eyes at the contact, for a moment loosing himself in the man lying on top of him. On the man who held such warmth and love in every movement, every spoken and unspoken word. And it was all meant solely for him.
What could he possibly explain to Yuugi that would do any good? Or that he did not already understand? That the Shadows were angry? Of this Yuugi already knew first hand. That they wanted him dead and declared Atemu as their own he already knew as well. He had also been made to understand the extent of Atemu's love and devotion to him. Atemu had seen to that most fervently.
Atemu was distracted from his thoughts when he felt Yuugi pull away slightly. He opened his eyes, quirking an eyebrow as his head turned to follow Yuugi's averted gaze. He sighed deeply when his tired eyes came to rest on the puzzle on the nightstand, the action returning Yuugi's attention to him.
The puzzle, like its brethren, was also glowing, but with a different intensity than the other items. There was purity to its light, a loyal intent hidden beneath its surface. The puzzle, being the most powerful of the items, had been able to acquire for itself a greater consciousness than the Shadows had intended for it to possess. Because of this, the puzzle was not as easily persuaded by the Shadows, and over time had come to prefer Atemu's influence to that of the purely dark magics.
It was an odd relationship between the two, one that the Shadows had never expected to develop. The puzzle was to be the pharaoh's prison only, and yet had grown to become his companion, and later ally against the Shadows. Atemu had shown the puzzle respect for its growing intelligence and awareness, and it was for this reason the puzzle chose to serve Atemu and not the Shadows.
The Shadows two most formidable foes had joined forces. It was an allegiance the Shadows had not been pleased with, even before their son turned completely against them. His occasional bouts of disrespect had been tolerable, but creating a force that could rival their power was almost inexcusable. Almost.
The Shadows did hold an odd sense of pride in their son's strength and cunning. Such traits they had always encouraged, had always seen as favorable.
Though it was glowing, the puzzle remained still on the bedside table, not feeling the need to alert its presence to someone who was already aware of its existence. The soft light it emitted was intended only to remind the pharaoh of its allegiance, and that it was ready for the trials ahead.
Atemu inclined his head to the side, missing the curious glance Yuugi sent his way. Yuugi looked between the puzzle and Atemu a few times, understanding making its way into his mind as he realized that there was a connection between the two of them. He didn't understand what the connection was, but from the sincere expression on Atemu's face, he knew it was one that leaned more towards friendship than enemy.
Yuugi bowed his head and began placing small butterfly kisses against the smooth skin of Atemu's chest. The action was meant to allow Atemu time to wallow in his thoughts as much as it was meant to entertain Yuugi. Her wasn't thrilled with the fact that Atemu did not wish to talk about his anxieties, but he was willing to allow for the prospect that perhaps what was bothering Atemu was personal and could do without his prodding.
Whatever it was that was going on, Yuugi allowed himself to become distracted with the fun he was having as he randomly kissed Atemu's chest. The light kisses had done nothing more than excite his lips by leaving them slightly warm and moist from the sweat still present on Atemu's chest. Yuugi felt he had to remedy the situation promptly by using a little more force in his kisses, by letting his lips linger just that much longer so he could feel the full effect of Atemu's sumptuous skin.
Of course, these acts left Yuugi's tongue jealous, and it wasn't long before the moist and cushiony muscle joined in the activities. Only the tip of his tongue was used, however, as Yuugi found this gave him a much better tool to outline the curves of the muscles that lay just below the salted skin.
Yuugi became wrapped up in his uninterrupted actions, forgetting the glowing puzzle as he asked Atemu's body to soothe his fears and anxieties. It was a noticeable amount of time later that the sensations being applied to Atemu's chest made their way to his brain, causing him to blink out of his thoughts in confusion and direct his attention to its proper place. His features lightened as his confusion peaked while he watched Yuugi thoroughly enjoy himself... using his body... yet not having him participate in the fun.
Hmm.
Atemu clucked his tongue playfully as an amused smile pulled at his lips, the darkness of his previous thoughts being eagerly pushed aside for the more prudent task at hand. Slowly, Atemu scooted himself downward beneath Yuugi, seemingly unnoticed as Yuugi continued to kiss whatever skin was beneath his lips. After pausing for a moment so Yuugi could focus his kisses and tongue on the front of his neck, Atemu brought both of his hands forward to hold Yuugi's head still as he partially inched his way further down and guided Yuugi upwards.
Once his head was resting on the pillow Atemu freed Yuugi's face, sprawling his arms out to the side as Yuugi immediately leaned in for a more proper kiss. Yuugi's kiss was full of confidence, his lips pressing firmly against Atemu's own, finding great pleasure in Atemu's partially submissive response.
Yuugi wasted no time in using his tongue, taking advantage of its slick quality as he wriggled it between Atemu's soft lips with ease and used its tip to guide the upper lip into his own mouth. A muffled sound of amusement trickled from Atemu as Yuugi worried his lip gently between his teeth. The abrasive action was coupled with the smoothness of the intent, and sent a pleasant wave of duality around Atemu's senses. The tasting was abandoned, however, much too soon for Atemu's tastes as Yuugi used his tongue to push the lip out of his mouth before guiding the fuller bottom lip in.
A different tactic was used here as Yuugi chose to massage his current prisoner, his hands busying themselves by palming over the shivering muscles of Atemu's chest and stomach. His lips provided a rhythmic rocking action as his tongue applied its wet and heated texture in pointed lapping motions, creating a small suction effect that was quite independent of the suction he was already employing as he pulled Atemu's buttery flavor into his core. Yuugi was certain this action was especially appreciated as Atemu sigh deeply and slowly, spreading his legs apart and wrapping them along the outside of Yuugi's own, cradling his body closely and intimately.
Heat spread through Yuugi like a firecracker as the warmth and gentleness of the embrace enveloped him. He released Atemu's now slightly swollen lip and guided his mouth close with his tongue. He opened his eyes and waited for Atemu to do the same, a soft smile playing on both of their features.
Yuugi paused a moment, absorbing the beauty that was Atemu's eyes and smile. He spread his arms outward over Atemu's, laying their palms flat and still against each other. Then, in a move reminiscent of a most fond memory, Yuugi pressed his lips against Atemu's, keeping his eyes glued to those breathtakingly rose embedded eyes. He passed the tip of his tongue along the outer curves of Atemu's mouth, then guided it straight past the pliant lips and along the eagerly awaiting tongue.
The caress was as slow and deep as their first kiss, both sets of eyes closing in pleasure as their fingers curled together in a heated embrace as the kiss lingered. Yuugi guided his tongue to run along the outer edge of Atemu's three times, back and forth, never halting, never rushing. He then circled his tongue around Atemu's, ensuring that their tongues remained in constant contact before slipping his beneath his lover's and pressing upward, trapping Atemu's tongue against the roof of his mouth. Yuugi lingered here a moment, finally pulling away, bringing Atemu's lips with him as far as they were able to reach. He passed his tongue over his upper lip and grinned fully at the tasty flavor he encountered.
Atemu squeezed Yuugi's hands a final time before wrapping his flowing arms tightly around Yuugi's shoulders and lower back, hiding his grin against Yuugi's neck as Yuugi buried his face against his shoulder. They remained in this position for the rest of the night, Atemu embracing Yuugi with both his arms and legs, Yuugi melting into the embrace and turning into a nice and warm and molding puddle-blanket.
The smiles slowly faded, however, as the momentary respite passed and the worries and anxieties slowly returned. Neither spoke of their troubles. They simply held a little closer their lover and immersed themselves in the comfort that they brought each other.
Besides, at this point, what else could they do?
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The ocean's roar was soothing in a sense, its continuous litany of crashing waves and roaring winds and the hum of the Earth's boundless energy washing over the two men who stood at its shore. Yuugi stood quietly, curling his toes in the warm sands as he loosened his grip on the strap of his old, ragged blue backpack that was slung half-hazardly over his shoulder.
His hair whipped wildly about his head as Yuugi blessed the sea with his grin. The wind worked tirelessly to remove his unbuttoned shirt from his frame, tickling his stomach and chest despite the seeming harshness of its fingers. Yuugi lazily breathed in the invigorating fragrance of sea-salt, just able to taste the brisk flavor as the wind blew into his mouth and over his tongue.
It had been far too long since Yuugi had gone to the beach and visited the ocean. Though he lived a scant two miles from the coast, he had been spoiled by this closeness and had become blind to its beauty. Standing here now, beneath a cloudless sky and blazing sun, Yuugi had to wonder how he ever could have forgotten the magnificence of this natural wonder.
Yuugi turned his gaze to follow the edge of the ocean until he could see Atemu in his view, standing a little ways up the shoreline. The waves of clear water fringed by the white foam bubbles flirted with Atemu's feet, sneaking their way on shore and grazing his toes before shyly retreating, only to repeat the game again. Atemu had a far away look in his eyes, their red vibrancy reflecting the flitter of the sun's rays on the ocean's surface. The wind seemed to ruffle his hair and clothes with affection as he stood remarkably still against the elements.
A soft sigh symbolized how taken Yuugi was with the image. Atemu's tanned skinned absolutely beamed in the sun, his hair made more sensual by its tousled waves, his eyes beyond description. A smirk drew itself onto Yuugi's face as he watched a grin pull at, and finally seduce a soft smile to form on Atemu's lips. There simply appeared to be no end to Atemu's beauty, even when he was doing something as mundane as watching the ocean.
It was needless to say that Yuugi had been surprised when Atemu had handed him the box that contained pieces depicting a beach scene that morning. The puzzle was one of the first he had ever completed, and he was certain it had been buried way back in the depths of his closet, under years of who-knew-whats? and how-did-that-get-theres? Yuugi arched his eyebrow at Atemu, who merely shrugged in response, completely unconcerned that the search of Yuugi's closet could appear like the ultimate form of snooping.
Jou and Sugoroku had been hesitant about the excursion, their reasonable fear of the Shadows heightened by the ruined state of their city and the weakening of the shield Atemu had placed around the shop. Yuugi had shared these concerns, but was confident Atemu would not ask him to leave the house if he could not guarantee his safety. Besides, who could argue with the offer of an orange popsicle and the fact that Atemu had laid out the clothes he wanted him to wear on his bed?
So here Yuugi stood, in his lose beige pants, a tan colored long-sleeved shirt, and an unbuttoned pale green shirt to complete the outfit. He shifted the backpack on his shoulder, its weight beginning to cut into his shoulder as his mind tried to remind him of the very real danger he was in. But, for just this moment, as he bent down to run his hand through the abundant sand, Yuugi wanted to forget about his troubles and pretend that everything was okay.
For a moment they were. It was just him and Atemu and the deserted beach. Then his mind broke free of the peaceful moment and began to wonder about the journey to the coast. About the old and crumbled buildings that now littered the streets like the large ruins of an ancient civilization. About the abandoned cars and opened shops that were left in the midst of their purpose, abruptly and carelessly. About the Shadows, and how they had ignored both him and Atemu, focusing their energy on pooling themselves above the city's center.
That was the only reason the sky was so clear and the quiet so pure. The Shadows had decided that their time and energy would be best spent gathering their resources in preparation for the ultimate destruction. It would not be a single event. That would be far too simple and fleeting for the powerful Shadows. Instead the Shadows planned to go city by city, destroying each one with their own brand of elaborate action and reveling in the pain and despair their actions wrought.
The task would not be as tedious as it sounded. Despite the hundred of thousands of cities in the world, the Shadows adeptness with their magics would allow them to spread their influence far and wide without ever diminishing their power. It was a simple task. It would be an enjoyable experience. And the Shadows took great pride in themselves for having the capability to purge the world of all negative and unacceptable influence that could effect their son in any way.
But the Shadows had a priority that preceded all others. They needed to free their son from the addictive pull of the mortal realm. That child he clung to needed to die, and the city that first birthed, then housed him, needed to be eliminated. There could be no mistakes, and so the Shadows were going to use the whole of their power to ensure their victory over the one called 'Yuugi.'
Yuugi tilted his head to the side as his fingers drew the outline of a cat in the sand. He let the heavy backpack on his shoulder slip from its perch and rest easily on the shore. His eyes drifted from the bag and across the sands to Atemu, who had still not turned his attention from the ocean waves.
There was an unease that quivered low in Yuugi's stomach as he thought of the seven artifacts within the confines of his bag. To be truthful, the items made him nervous. Once Atemu had allowed him to hear their music, their personalities, Yuugi was forced to acknowledge that they were not simply large and beautiful objects crafted in gold. They were, in a sense, the physical representation of the Shadows in the real world.
They were a constant reminder of the force that wanted to tear him and Atemu apart.
Yuugi shook his head, trying to clear his thoughts and push his fears aside. Sitting in the sand worrying over something over which he had absolutely no control was a waste of his time. Time that would be much better spent with the object of his affections. The object who was still ignoring him.
A wicked snickering mingled with the ocean's voice as Yuugi found great delight in Atemu's confused expression after hitting him with a handful of sand. He felt no guilt as his laughter continued and Atemu theatrically rolled his eyes before eyeing him over his shoulder, a drop-dead gorgeous smile exposing the gleam of his white teeth.
Yuugi snorted lightly. "I had to do something to remind you your attention should be on me."
Atemu's eyes narrowed in contemplation, though his smile never faded from his lips. A pleasant shiver scuttled its way over Yuugi's skin, encouraging his smirk to deepen and his insides to jump with anticipation. That was, until a devilish gleam shrouded Atemu's eyes as he turned back to face the ocean. That was, until Atemu stretched out his sculptured arm, his palm facing the ocean and his fingers curled lightly forward.
That was, until tiny droplets of water floated from the surface and towards Atemu's outstretched arm, only to hover a mere inch from his palm as they coalesced into a large sphere. A large, wet, moving sphere of water that rippled in the wind and glittered in the midday sun.
Yuugi's eyes widened as Atemu turned to face him, a sensual and yet very mischievous smile on his face. He noticed with an eager foreboding that that sphere of water that glittered like so many diamonds and bounced weightlessly as Atemu tossed it in his hand was aimed directly at him.
"Don't you da-"
The warning was made moot as Yuugi found his face and hair abruptly drenched in cold, salty water. He raised a hand to his eyes to clear the water from his vision and smooth his hair out of his face. He glared at Atemu through his fingers, only slightly irked at the pure expression of glee on his lover's face.
"What is it with you and water? It's like an aphrodisiac for you." Yuugi paused a minute to consider this enticing piece of information when he was again hit with a decent sized sample of the ocean.
"Sxs," was all that Atemu had to say through his lopsided smile.
Yuugi needed no further incentive as he turned on his heel and ran along the shoreline, peaking over his shoulder to make sure Atemu had taken up the chase. He needn't have worried, and so turned his attention to running in a zigzag motion along the beach. His grin brightened as he heard Atemu's amused voice chastise him as Yuugi began dodging the water grenades exploding at his feet.
It was a game reminiscent of their first, when Yuugi had chased Atemu through his small home. This time around Yuugi enjoyed being the one chased as he ran only half-hazardly, not really wanting to get away, but unwilling to be caught too quickly. He lopped lazily along as he avoided Atemu's meager attacks, fully aware that he was being herded, completely uncaring of the fact.
After the chase had endured for a pleasing length of time Yuugi stopped suddenly and turned around, attempting to surprise Atemu and tackle him to the ground. Only there was no Atemu in sight, and Yuugi was left to blink as the pristine beach scene. The hairs on the back of his neck prickled as he felt a warm presence behind him, and it was all he could do not o close his eyes and fall backwards into the luscious body behind him.
Instead, Yuugi turned around, a rather smug look on his features as he casually looked at Atemu. Atemu held a superior air about him as he smirked down at Yuugi, his one arm raised in the air. Yuugi noticed this too late, his eyes widening and his mouth falling open as he quickly tilted his head towards the sky, only to be met by the largest ball of water he had ever seen.
Yuugi closed his eyes and mouth just as Atemu turned his hand and thoroughly drenched Yuugi. The sand darkened and clumped around his feet as the water cascaded down his long and slender body, leaving long tendrils of cold shivers to flitter their way down his skin. He resisted the urge to shudder as the wind blew against his damp clothes, unwilling to give Atemu the satisfaction of complete victory.
"Gee, thanks, Atemu," Yuugi grumbled as he lowered his head and scowled at his lover from beneath his bangs. "I've always wanted to smell like a giant, walking pillar of sea-salt."
Atemu's full-lipped smile and soft, hazy rose eyes melted Yuugi's irritation and made him quite susceptible to the all encompassing embrace that fell around him. A hum of pleasure shortly followed as Atemu curled himself around Yuugi, his arms circling around and caressing Yuugi's shoulders and lower back as he nuzzled his face into Yuugi's neck and guided his leg between Yuugi's own. He sighed deeply, placed a few butterfly kisses against Yuugi's neck, a more lingering kiss against his wet shoulder, and pulled them flush against each other.
Yuugi oozed into the embrace, hooking his arms under Atemu's shoulders and wrapping his leg around the one resting very comfortably between his own. He pressed his cheek into the firm shoulder in front of him, smiling softly in both happiness and in petty satisfaction that with this closeness, Atemu was receiving a good dose of his own water assault.
It was here that Yuugi noticed how his wet clothes worked to enhance the body heat that was building between him and Atemu, that moist heat that seemed to filtrate its way to his brain and lovingly shut down all conscious thought. He wasn't entirely sure if his oh-so-clever pharaoh had planned this reaction or not, though Yuugi certainly wasn't about to put it past him.
Atemu distracted these unnecessary thoughts by loosening his hold on Yuugi – though keeping their bodies suctioned together – and trailing his naughty and nimble fingers along the lengths of his sides. He let them flow over the curve of Yuugi's hips and down the sides of his legs, letting them curl so they could reach the sensitive skin of the back of Yuugi's thighs, eliciting quiet curses from Yuugi about the ease with which Atemu was able to arouse him.
Atemu recognized Yuugi's tone and answered it with a low, rumbling chuckle that resulted in an irritated, yet partially humored groan against his shoulder. The grin stayed on his face as he slicked his fingers back up Yuugi's sides and not so innocently let them skim under the clingy shirt and excite the cool skin.
Those wandering fingers finally made their way to cup Yuugi's cheeks, guiding the face far enough from its comfortable shoulder so those hands could have better access. Atemu kept his palms flush and still against Yuugi's cheeks as his long fingers reached for the blonde hair that was plastered to Yuugi's face, brushing the strands away softly so he could have an unobstructed view of Yuugi's smile.
His happiness radiated from his eyes as Yuugi held Atemu's affectionate gaze, his smile softening as Atemu's fingers continued to lazily caress his cheeks and lips, and occasionally brush over his eyelids. Yuugi cooed playfully while he rocked his body forward and into Atemu's, causing both of them to sway with the shifting of balance and adding a sense of whimsy to the moment.
Atemu chuckled merrily before bending his knees and lowering both himself and Yuugi to the sand, keeping their bodies in constant heated contact. He curled Yuugi into his lap, turned him around so his back was pressed tightly against his chest, and spread his legs long and tender along the length of Yuugi's own. By leaning back slightly Atemu created a make-shift bed for Yuugi, one that he did not intend to relinquish as he pressed his nose against Yuugi's temple, closed his eyes, and shut out the world.
Yuugi tilted his head back against Atemu's neck and gazed onto his peaceful features. Their hair continued to be ruffled by the ocean's breeze, providing a great contrast of movement against Atemu's quiet aura. Yuugi's eyelids drooped as he felt himself succumb to the rhythmic rise and fall of Atemu's chest and the feel of his complete embrace. Yuugi raised his hand, his fingers curling as their backs were guided to brush against Atemu's high cheekbone.
The path of his hand was diverted when Atemu loosened his hand from Yuugi's waist and cupped itself around Yuugi's fingers. He allowed his finger to slip beneath Yuugi's, to play along their length and over his palm; to retrace its path and hook beneath Yuugi's fingers and support the weight of his hand. That finger of his never stayed still, vibrating itself lightly along and between Yuugi fingers as its owner placed the ghost of a kiss against the back of the smooth hand.
"Pey-i bnr nhy... bek..."
Yuugi's eyes narrowed at Atemu's superior tone, arching his eyebrow and readjusting his head against Atemu's shoulder so he could better examine him. His suspicion rose when Atemu's smug smirk did not fade from his lips.
"Now why do you suppose I get the feeling you just insulted me?"
Atemu merely continued to play with his fingers.
Yuugi scrunched up his face while his free hand drummed against Atemu's outer thigh. "... You're a brat, love."
The finger that was playing with his hand suddenly abandoned its play and laid solidly against Yuugi's jaw, its fellow fingers falling into alignment while Atemu's thumb hooked around Yuugi's chin. The firm hold guided Yuugi's face, tilting it just so, bringing their eyes and lips into perfect alignment.
"Heard that, did ya?" Yuugi asked, his voice near a breathy whisper, having had all the air stolen from his lungs at the intense gaze he was receiving.
Atemu's lips twitched for a moment before he lowered his head and brushed them against Yuugi's mouth, closing his eyes in the process. It was the briefest of kisses; soft, light, meant to entice and arouse interest in progressing the depth of the kiss.
Before Yuugi had a chance to respond he felt Atemu fall over him, as though he had been suddenly and violently shoved. Yuugi fell back hard onto the sand, grimacing as Atemu's body was dragged roughly over him. Turning his head to the side, clenching his eyes against the grains of sand that were caught in the increasing onslaught of wind, Yuugi could see Atemu sprawled on the sand with his left arm raised and stretched before him.
Amidst Atemu's struggles and loud curses Yuugi could see a long, thin tendril of smoke wrapped tightly around Atemu's left wrist. It was held taught, and Yuugi found to his great horror that, as his wide eyes traveled the length of the smoke, that the binding was protruding directly from the center of the city. Directly from the heart of the Shadows.
Yuugi stumbled to his feet, the sand giving way under his abrupt movements and causing pockets of suction that pulled him down repeatedly. Atemu attempted the same, being less successful as the Shadows continued to pull him across the sand and to them. If it wasn't for his flat-out resistance, Atemu would have been pulled to the edge of the city already.
Atemu grit his teeth at the growing pain in his wrist, his eyes watering as he refused to close them against the invasion of wind and pain. He kicked his mind into gear and wrenched himself around back towards the ocean. The Eye of Horus burst to life on his forehead as he instinctively pulled on his magic and thrust his hand toward the blue backpack that lay quietly on the shore.
The bag remained still for a moment, then began to shake and ripple violently, as if it was trying desperately to keep something inside. One of the seams finally gave under the extreme pressure from within, bursting open and allowing the golden, glowing form of the puzzle to flee its confines.
The puzzle made a dash for Atemu's reaching fingers, skimming just inches over the sand, spraying granules out of its way. It slammed into Atemu's hand, which instantly closed around it and swung the puzzle up and into the path of the Shadows tendril. The sharp edge of the puzzle sliced through the smoke which instantly recoiled, leaving a part of itself wrapped around Atemu's wrist as he fell harshly to the ground.
Yuugi rushed over to Atemu's side, casting a fleeting glance in the direction of the Shadows as he wrapped his arms around Atemu's shoulders and helped him to his feet. He winced at the harsh tone of his lover's voice as he muttered heatedly to himself. Yuugi reached out his hands to cup Atemu's wrist and try to soothe its soreness, but Atemu wrenched his arm away, agitation rolling off his body.
"Are you insane?" Atemu snapped over his shoulder. "Have you forgotten so quickly that the Shadows will kill you if you so much as approach them?!"
Yuugi tensed at the reproaching words, hit physically by their seeming cruelty. He closed his eyes and forced himself to take a deep, calming breath, holding and releasing it slowly through his teeth. He clenched his eyes tighter when he felt the sting of tears, telling himself not to be so foolish as to think that Atemu's emotions were directed at him when they so obviously were not. Still, it hurt to hear such pain and anger in his love's voice. A touch of fear and disbelief tinted that voice as well.
Atemu turned to Yuugi when he heard the hissing breath he released, his scowl softening at Yuugi's distress and his own carelessness with his words. He pulled Yuugi into his embrace, careful to keep his left wrist away from Yuugi as he buried his face into those soft and comforting strands of hair, taking in fully the ocean's scent.
"I am so sorry, my love," Atemu breathed into Yuugi's ear. "I just..." his voice cracked with thick emotion, and he had to swallow before he could speak again. "I just... was not ready for them to act so soon. I wanted more time." He held Yuugi closer, the urgency of his words permeating into his embrace.
Yuugi remained still in Atemu's arms, his muscles stiffening as the weight of Atemu's words threatened to crush him. He raised his arms and placed his palms flat against Atemu's chest so he could push back and look him in the eye. His eyes hardened and deepened in color at the set expression that was returned.
"More time?" Yuugi asked.
Atemu resisted the urge to flinch at the flatness of Yuugi's voice. His words had betrayed him, alerting Yuugi that their time together was coming to an end. He hadn't wanted Yuugi to find out this way. Not in such an abrupt and unfeeling manner. He had hoped that it would take the Shadows longer to collect themselves before deciding to act.
He blinked hard against the accusing stare Yuugi was giving him, unable to stand against the flicker of betrayal in Yuugi's beautiful eyes. How he wished that he could just shut his eyes and hold onto Yuugi and forfeit who he was and for what he stood. But to keep that wish alive, to keep his lover alive, he was going to have to initiate an act he had once so fervently fought against.
The clenching of Yuugi's fists against his chest signaled to Atemu to open his eyes. He was still apprehensive, knowing how loudly and violently he would react if he had just discovered Yuugi's plans to leave him behind. His brows furrowed as Yuugi continued to stare at him, his lack of outward reaction causing a nervous tension to wriggle itself under Atemu's skin.
Atemu shifted his weight on his feet, adverting Yuugi's gaze for but a moment as he checked the progression of the Shadows impending act. The tendril of smoke still around his wrist had spread itself to encompass half of his forearm, and its movement had decreased as it slowly began to solidify into the cuff that painfully bound Atemu to the Shadows.
"You... are not... going to...?" Atemu questioned, wanting to hear Yuugi's voice rather than the almost deafening roar of the wind as it seared and whipped about them.
"No," Yuugi responded curtly. "It's not like yelling and pleading is going to change your mind anyway, is it?" he asked, receiving a slow shake of Atemu's head in reply. Yuugi released his breath harshly, finally adverting his eyes as he glared at the sand. "You will understand me being thoroughly pissed at you and the world at the moment."
"I-" Atemu began.
"Don't." There was a quiet pause before Yuugi leaned forward and rested his head on Atemu's chest. The anger in his posture had dissipated slightly, replaced by a disparaging defeat. He knew why Atemu was going to do this. He didn't need it explained. Didn't want it explained. He just... "They win, don't they?"
Atemu raised his wrist around Yuugi's head and watched his binding form with tired eyes. "Not completely," he said softly, to which Yuugi inclined his head to look at him. "You will live. That will be my greatest victory."
"What about you?" Yuugi asked as he trailed his fingers along the pulse of Atemu's neck, eliciting a soft sigh from the one he so admired.
"I will endure, as I always have. The only difference being" – Atemu used his finger to trace the curve of Yuugi's eyebrow and the shape of his cheek – "this time I will have a reason to."
Yuugi's eyes widened at these words, catching an almost imperceptible glimmer of hope in Atemu's features. "Are you trying to tell me that-?!"
A sudden and resounding succession of pulses vibrated both the ground and air, knocking Atemu and Yuugi off balance and nearly sending them to the ground. Atemu reached out and grabbed Yuugi's shoulder to stabilize them against the vibrations, his red eyes sharp and clear and focused on the Shadows now moving towards the beach. He released Yuugi and held his hand to the side, palm facing skyward, beckoning the puzzle to come to his aid.
Yuugi wasn't sure exactly what was happening or where to look for his answers. His eyes snapped from the rapidly approaching Shadows to the golden streak that shot past his arm to the sandy cyclone that was forming due to the excessively high wind. The virtual walls of sand and wind were intimidating, their nearly solid nature causing Yuugi to take a step forward to try to combat the claustrophobia creeping in on him.
An angry screech resonated throughout the confined space, drowning out Atemu's ancient chanting and drawing Yuugi's attention to the wall of sand surrounding them. His mouth fell open as he saw the six remaining artifacts hovering in the circle of the cyclone, bobbing up and down on the air currents, glowing darkly and shaking violently as they continued to howl in anger.
Yuugi looked quickly to Atemu, whose eyes and teeth were clenched while he continued to chant and hold his left wrist tightly. The puzzle hovered calmly in front of him, level with the multitude of colors that was Horus' Eye. A single, coin-thin horizontal circle of bronze light protruded from the symbol of Horus' Eye on the puzzle and sliced through the center of each Sennen item, repressing their magics and restraining their efforts to aid the Shadows.
The puzzle didn't look as though it was fairing well with the strain of keeping the other items secured, its light dimming and flickering before rebounding in a blinding flash. The smoke binding Atemu's wrist had solidified into a black and purple arm band, its sharp edges trying to cut into the flesh of Atemu's arm. Atemu opened his eyes and looked pointedly at Yuugi from beneath his bangs, warning him to brace himself for the upcoming action. When Yuugi nodded his understanding, Atemu straightened his back, glared toward the Shadows, and extended his bound arm.
"Return with me."
The quietness of the words was a sharp contrast to the ear-splitting howl that followed its wake. The wind increased in force again, the suction of the cyclone pulling at hair and clothing and forcing Yuugi to fight to maintain his balance. The Sennen items trapped by the puzzle's hold began to spin in the cyclone, faster and faster until they were nothing more than a golden cord of blurred light.
Atemu jerked his arm back towards his body, using the binding against the Shadows to pull them toward the cyclone of sand and the items hidden within. The Shadows screeched and fought with all their might, unwilling to allow themselves to be ensnared in those infernal mortal items once again. Their struggles became even more pronounced and frantic when their call to the items for assistance went unanswered.
Yuugi had to clamp his hands over his ears as the Shadows reached the edge of the cyclone. No sooner had they touched the cyclone when the massive form of the Shadows began to be suctioned into the thin bond of gold. The assimilation was painfully slow and not without a great deal of resistance. The Shadows lashed out with their blue lightening, trying to strike Atemu to break his concentration and Yuugi to kill him.
The puzzle shielded them both as it continued to suppress the other items. Its strength and presence dominated the moment, and with the aid it gave Atemu, the Shadows had no hope of avoiding their fate. And now, before the Shadows were completely drawn into their realm, their final attachment to the real world had to be removed so there would be no chance of the Shadows return.
Yuugi lowered his hands from his ears, instinctively knowing by the sudden drop in the pit of his stomach that the end was quickly approaching. He walked slowly forward, watching Atemu's glowing eyes as he wielded the complicated magics to protect both Yuugi and the planet. Yuugi watched his unresponsive lover for a moment longer before stepping forward and wrapping his arms around his neck and hiding his face in his hair.
With his back now turned to the puzzle, Yuugi was unable to witness the puzzle break itself apart into its individual pieces. He didn't notice as he held Atemu as tightly as he could and squeezed his eyes against the horrible truth how the puzzle pieces positioned themselves around him and Atemu, encasing them and pulsating sadly at the task they had yet to perform.
Yuugi felt a warmth around his waist as Atemu lightly embraced him, closing his eyes and bowing his head to tell the puzzle that he was ready. The puzzle did not hesitate, its pieces approaching Atemu's skin and melting into him on contact.
Atemu flinched as the magical pieces fused with his body, causing Yuugi to press himself even closer to him, an act Atemu was grateful for. The Shadows went about the process of collecting his soul as gently as possible, but the extraction was still quite painful for the pharaoh. The puzzle, in an attempt to ease his pain, heightened Atemu's sensitivity to touch and smell, allowing him to experience Yuugi's warmth and scent as fully as he was able for the few moments he had remaining.
As the moments passed, Yuugi found himself having to support more and more of Atemu's weight until he eventually had to lower them both to their knees on the sand. Atemu's head continued to droop forward as more and more of his soul was collected and his strength and consciousness faltered. The tanned sheen of his skin continuously lightened. His hair dulled and shortened. His limbs and body shortened to its original height. It wasn't long before his body slumped forward, no longer able to support itself.
Yuugi placed his hand on Atemu's neck to support his head as he turned him over and cradled his body close. Atemu's features were strained, his brows creased and his lips parted in his increasing effort to breathe. Yuugi rubbed his hand slowly along Atemu's arm, his other hand curling into the hair at the nape of his neck. He then traced his hand over Atemu's chest until it came up to rest on his cheek, from where he held his head firmly against his shoulder. He nodded his head in recognition to the small, breathy moan of appreciation Atemu made in response to the soft touches.
Yuugi refused to acknowledge the sting behind his eyes as he continued to cradle Atemu, rocking him gently every so often in an effort to soothe both of them. When Atemu shuddered lightly in his arms he opened his eyes to see a golden polish collect on Atemu's skin, followed shortly by a spectacularly glowing piece of the puzzle.
A sob nearly choked Yuugi as the gravity of his impending loss was made all too clear to him when Atemu opened his eyes and turned his head enough so he could see the numerous pieces that hovered next to him. His eyes were so unfocused and hazy, looking, yet barely seeing. But the worst of it was that their gloriously beautiful red color was all but faded from those exotic eyes, nothing more than a resilient shimmer highlighting the now predominately brown color.
Atemu blinked languidly before turning his head, his eyes clearing as Yuugi came into his view. His lips twitched into the ghost of a smile, and he tried to raise his hand to touch Yuugi's face. Yuugi meet him halfway, interlacing their fingers tightly together and leaning down until his lips were pressed against Atemu's ear.
"I will find you again," Yuugi promised with all the love and determination that was burning in his soul. He squeezed Atemu's hand to prove the sincerity and truth of his words, his heartache finally slipping through his barrier as tears began to leak from his eyes.
A shaky sigh was his response, and as he pulled back, he saw the final remnants of his lover watching him with a smirk on his lips and a smile in his eyes.
"Ink rx."
And it was over as quickly as that.
The last of the Shadows was absorbed into the Sennen items. The cyclone of wind and sand stopped as suddenly as though someone had flipped a switch, raining sand granules over the beach. The Sennen items fell dull and lifeless to the sand.
Atemu's body fell limp against Yuugi's chest, all traces of the proud pharaoh gone, though the body still breathed and the heart still beat.
Yuugi remained unaware of all these things, knowing only that his friend, his love, his lover, was now far beyond his reach. The pain he had expected to feel was absent, numbed by the all consuming grief his heart was not ready to experience.
The tears flowed continuously, though quietly, over Yuugi's cheeks. Aside from the hard and distant look in his eyes, these were the only outward signs that anything was wrong. He gathered the now vacant body securely and leaned over it until he was draped over its chest. Unmoving. Unfeeling. Unaware of anything.
There would be plenty of time to cry latter.
There would be plenty of pain to experience.
There would be plenty of events to regret.
There would be plenty of time to suffer.
Now was the time to accept.
... Then would come the time to hope.
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to be concluded...
Translations:
Sxs - Run
Pey-i bnr nhy... bek... - My pleasant little... servant...
Ink rx – I know