The Past Is Present
Yugi: Yay! ^^ We're back!
Duke: *stretches out on bean bag* It's been awhile!
Yami: It sure has.
Kerra: *grins slyly* Hello everyone.
Yugi: *blink*blink* Hey wait a minute. *looks around* Where's Tenshi?
Yami: *shrugs* Who knows? That girl ALWAYS seems to be gone.
Duke: *points to pile of pillows, bean bags, and blankets* Hey wait a minute. I think that's her!
Everyone except Kerra: *looks over at small pile* It IS her!
Tenshi: -_- Zzzzzz
Duke: ^^" She's asleep!
Yami: Hold it! *thinks* Let me get this straight... *takes a breath* the authoress of this story is currently asleep-
Tenshi: -_-Zzzzzzzz
Yami: --" WAY asleep. Right? *watches as everyone nods* Then- WHAT IN THE WORLD ARE WE DOING HERE?!
Duke: Good question.
Yugi: *is very puzzled* Who's going to write the story?
Kerra: *starts laughing evilly* You don't get it, do you?
Everyone: 0_0? Get what?
Kerra: *pulls out the Master Keyboard* I'M writing this story now!
Everyone: 0_0
Yami: NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!! (poor guy, it's like his worst nightmare come true, no?) THIS CAN'T BE HAPPENING!!!
Kerra: Oh yes it is! ^__________^ I'm running the show now! This going to be fun. *looks at keyboard* Now how do you work this thing?
Duke: *looks at readers desperately* Please. Somebody. Help us!
Kerra: Oh, hush up. I can do this. *finally turns keyboard right-side-up* Oh. *blink* Okay, well let's get started!
Yami, Yugi, Duke: 0_0 ... TENSHI WAKE UP!!!!
Tenshi: *wakes up, still a bit groggy* Huh? What?
Kerra: *snaps fingers* Oh rats.
Tenshi: *sits up and yawns* What's going on?
Yami: *snatches keyboard from Kerra and pushes it into Tenshi* Never mind that. Just start typing the stupid chapter!
Tenshi: *blink* Oh. ^^ Okay! *settles into a comfortable position* Enjoy the chapter, folks!
Yugi, Yami, & Duke: *sigh* Phew!
Disclaimer: Please refer to other chapters for reference. Only if something new comes up, will a new disclaimer be added. AND IF ANYONE HASN'T GOTTEN IT BY NOW, I HAVE NOT, NOR WILL I EVER, OWN YUGIOH! Some of the scenes (you'll know which ones) have come straight out of the series. Except for Rafael and Yami. I kind of had to make that part up, but it was based off of what I know of the episode. So please do not sue. Thank you.
YAY!!! OVER ONE HUNDRED REVIEWS AND STILL GOING!!! THANKS EVERYONE!!!! THIS CHAPTER IS FOR ALL OF YOU FAITHFUL REVIEWERS!!! YOU ROCK!!
Chapter Eleven: The Bittersweet Memories Not of Own
//First there was Darkness. Then there was Light. Both forge a bond which withstands all others. Memories of a past, unseen and unlived, are remembered and seen, bit by bit. Oh, Light, when will you see? The Darkness which strives to protect you, may soon bring upon your doom.//
It all happened faster than Yugi's mind was able to comprehend. It was fear that made him cry out in a scream and clamp his eyes shut. Luckily, man is still born with instinct, however less he chooses to use it. For it was instinct that made his knees buckle and his arms quickly cover his head. Which was really lucky, for in the next instant pieces of the ceiling started to crash down. The whole place seemed to thrash about and a roar filled Yugi's ears.
"Yugi!" a faint voice cried.
Yugi felt strong, protective arms wrap around him and pulling him close to a warm chest. As though by habit, Yugi grasped the person's shirt tightly in one hand as he burrowed his face into the chest, wanting desperately to drone out the sounds of the shaking cavern. It was being protected by an older brother and, strangely, it felt so right.
Then the roaring stopped and the everything became still.
After a few moments, Yugi lifted his face and gazed around him, still not losing his grip on the cloth in his hand. It was no longer as dark for faint sunlight shone in at the end. Dust and debris lay everywhere and it was miracle the ceiling still shone up.
"What was that?" Unemi whispered.
"I'm not sure," Yami growled. "But I think it was a duel monster."
Yugi jumped. So it was Yami that had protected him! He felt the tip of his nose go red, but he fought the rest of the blush. Hoping for a distraction, he asked, "A duel monster?" That hadn't been like any duel monster he had ever heard!
"Yes," Mahou confirmed, a bit breathless. "But it can't be..."
Yugi looked at Mahou, a bit curious. As Yami stood up, Yugi took the offered hand up and dusted himself off, before asking, "What is it Mahou? Who do you think it is?"
Unemi glanced at her fellow duel monster. Though they weren't exactly far apart in age, Mahou had proven to be the more mature and wiser of the two. It had always been smart to listen to him.
Mahou, however, didn't seem to hear them. He shook his head and muttered, "It can't be. Such powerful monsters were sealed away a long time ago. How can he be back?"
"Who, Mahou?" Yami asked in a firm voice. "Whatever are you talking about?"
Mahou turned to his master solemnly, "I believe it's Masharou. Somehow he has been awaken!"
Yugi had some vague idea that this should be important and a dramatic moment. Maybe because Yami and Unemi suddenly stiffened and sucked in their breath. Yet, he was only drawing blanks. "Who's Masharou?" he asked timidly.
The Dark Magician turned his gaze to the young one. He answered slowly, "I believe you would know him better as the Red Eyes Black Dragon."
Yugi felt his face pale and his heart rate speed up. A dragon! That certainly wasn't good! It had been bad enough that he and his friends had been stuck down in this dark and creepy place, but now there was a dragon on the loose! Intense worry filled the young boy's mind as he thought about his two friends.
Sensing that the young boy beside him was upset, Yami turned to look at his little look-a-like. 'He's worried about these friends of his,' Yami thought. 'Yet, there is no fear in this young one. None for himself anyway. All is for his friends and,' Here Yami stopped. Could it be? 'He's worried for me as well?'
It was true that Yami had known Yugi for years, if only through dreams, but it never ceased to amaze him with how much purity and selflessness the young one possessed. And to have someone actually care for him, even if in all actuality they had only known each other for barely an hour, only made Yami want to help him more. The loneliness that the young pharaoh had always felt was somehow always eased whenever his thoughts or self were with Yugi. In that moment, Yami felt incredibly, amazingly grateful to the hikari that stood beside him.
And that's when it happened.
Yami felt his mind reel and spin. Everything in his body went numb as reality seemed to slip away. He heard someone scream, someone call out in alarm, and someone cry out his name in terror.
Then all went dark.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ *
"No, Yugi!" Yami cried. "Wait!"
But it was too late.
"Dark Magic Attack!" Yugi cried. From his palm flew the powers of the Dark Magician, which destroyed the miniature electric rubber toy of a duel monster. The young one's friends cried out in joy and compliments.
Yami felt like sighing in relief. So nothing had happened to his aibou! He was about to relax when he heard Bakura chuckle. Yami glanced at the white-haired yami. What was he up to?
That's when he heard Yugi cry out in pain. Scared, he looked down to see Yugi collapse onto his knees. He heard the boy's friends cry out in worry for their little friend and heard the hikari mutter that he was going numb.
"Yugi!" he cried out.
Bakura chuckled, "One can't attack the Electric Lizard without getting some interesting feed back. A lesson your little Yugi won't soon forget."
Yami growled but drew his next card all the same.
And so the duel continued.
Yami knew that had Bakura been playing fairly and his friend and aibou's lives weren't on the stake, he would have beaten the yami easily. But such as it was, Yami found himself using every bit of cunning he could to keep them all safe. The only setback was when they almost lost Joey for good, but, thank the heavens, they managed to get him back. Bakura had scoffed that these "worthless mortals" were proving to be Yami's weakness, but the pharaoh retorted that his friends would never be such a thing.
That was when Bakura drew the Change of Heart- his hikari's favorite card. He smirked as he gazed down at Yugi, explaining the evil he was about to accomplish.
"Leave the young one out of this!" Yami demanded.
Bakura simply sneered, "Why should I? By simply destroying him, I defeat you as well." He raised the card up. "You're here to die and protect him? Then protect him from this!"
Yami watched in horror as the card was activated.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ *
"Yugi," Yami shielded his eyes. "Quickly, let me take over!" But there was no answer from the boy. Startled, Yami looked down to see Yugi collapse. "Yugi!"
"Spirit," Yugi whispered, so softly that Yami had to strain to hear him. "You've got to defeat Pegasus."
That was when every trace of the boy left Yami's mind.
Practically scared of his mind, Yami quickly retreated back into the boy's mind. To see it all covered in darkness, with Yugi bathed in blue light, still as dead, only made him panic. He quickly rushed over and shook the child that had grown to mean so much to Yami. But there was no response.
"No," Yami sobbed. "He can't be gone!"
Outside, Pegasus continued to laugh, glorifying in his certain victory, while, inside the boy's mind, a heartbroken spirit continued to call the name of one so very, very close to his heart.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ *
"This duel is over, Yugi," Rafael sneered. "You lose."
Shocked, Yami just growled. How could he have lost?! Such was not conceivable. He was so distracted that he didn't even notice Yugi standing next to him, having a heartbroken look in his eyes.
But not because of the duel. No. Because his yami had ended up betraying their friends. Their duel monsters. Yami betrayed him.
Smirking, Rafael cried, "And now you face the consequences Yugi. Prepare to lose your soul!"
Yami raised his arms in a meaningless gesture of protecting himself. But it was useless. He was doomed and he knew him. He closed his eyes and awaited his fate.
Then he felt a sudden rush as he was suddenly jerked out of control of Yugi's body. Stunned, Yami didn't notice who it was that had taken his place in the punishment. At least, not until it was too late.
"No," he shook his head, shocked. "No! Yugi! No!"
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ *
"Yami!" Yugi felt himself growing desperate. By now he was practically shaking the older boy in sheer panic. He didn't know why Yami had suddenly collapsed, but it was scaring near to tears. What was worse was that Yami had started to twitch and mutter, but nothing that was understandable. Then he had began to thrash about and scream. Crying, Yugi shook Yami as hard as he could, practically screaming, "Yami! Yami, WAKE UP!!"
Yami's eyes suddenly flashed open, but it was clear that he was still seeing things that were not of this world. "Yugi!" he screamed, the first perceivable thing he had uttered in a while. "Yugi!"
Not knowing what to do and hating himself for it, Yugi quickly enveloped the thrashing ex-pharaoh in a warm hug. "Yami," he sobbed. "I'm right here. I'm right here!"
The spirit's body began to still as Yami closed his eyes. Yugi noted with relief that his breathing was beginning to calm down and his heartbeat become more regular. Then, strong arms also wrapped around Yugi. He didn't protest and felt something wet on his face. It was tears- foreign tears. Yami was crying!
Holding the boy close, Yami whispered, "I won't let it happen, Yugi. I won't let it happen. I promise."
Unemi and Mahou watched in a sort of silent fascination.
Then, as though Yugi knew exactly of what Yami was speaking of, he whispered, "I know, Yami. I know."
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ *
Mana watched the scene before her, with tears in her eyes. "I'm sorry, Pharaoh," she whispered. "I'm so very, very sorry."
From behind her, two worried purple eyes watched. "You do realize," a male voice whispered from the shadows, the same voice Yugi had heard in his dream after he had collapsed from solving the puzzle. "That you probably broke about a dozen rules by sending those images. You already pushed your luck with the Fire Soldier."
Not even bothering to look behind her, Mana wiped a tear from her face and whispered back, "It doesn't matter. They will understand in time. We can't let them win. You don't want them to, I don't want them to. The whole world will have to participate if peace ever stands a chance."
If possible, the purple eyes grew even sadder. "I know," he said. "I know." He turned his gaze back into Mana's crystal ball, which still showed the Light and the Darkness together. "I hope, Pharaoh, that you mean those promises that you whisper. I hope for the world's sake, your Light's sake, but especially, for your sake, that you will really live up to those promises."
End*
Tenshi: ^^ Well there ya go.
*crickets*
Tenshi: *sigh* I guess I'm kinda pushing my luck, huh?
*still no answer*
Tenshi: Oh, geez! *turns to readers* Well, I guess I'll just have to leave it to you guys to tell me what you think. So, PLEASE REVIEW!!!! I can't say when I can update again, but you always know that it will be as soon as I can! So, until next time, C'ya! ^_^
Replies:
Finnigangirl: Okay, I won't wait for you to update. *gives a playful pout* But I STILL think you should update your story still. I LOVE IT!!! I put it on my favorites, did ya know? *wink* Anyway, I'll keep up the good work if YOU keep up the good work. Oh, and, don't worry! I promise, there'll be PLENTY of Mai/Joey action coming. (Well, maybe not soon. but...) ^^" *hands Finni-chan a Joey-tenshi plushie* Always remember- YOU ABSOLUTELY RULE, GIRL!!
Hikari no Mayonaka: *bows apologetically* I know, I'm sorry about the cliff-hangers. But I'm starting to think that those are the only reasons people bother to review and continue reading. *sigh* But I do apologize. I am glad you liked it though! I hope this chapter made you feel a little more relieved about Yugi and Yami. (probably not, but it was worth a shot ^^") Also, I have to say that I think you have good taste. *gives H.M a Yugi and Yami plushie* I hope you continue to read and enjoy!
Mittens no Hikari: Tenshi: - -zzzzz K: *pops in* Hey, Mittens! I just wanted to let you know that Tenshi really liked your giant cookie, but um... she sort of has a problem with sugar. Tenshi: --zzzzzz K: ^^" It makes her fall asleep. Yeah, yeah, I know. Weird. *shrugs* Anyway, she wanted to let you know that she was really happy that you liked it and that she hopes you continue to review. Oh and these are for you. *hands over two Yugi plushies* Enjoy!
Smarty1: Thanks! I will! I hope you will continue to read!!
Lady Death Strike: Umm... ^^" I'm really glad that you liked the story, but I don't think I can give you a full-fledged role. *ducks* I'm sorry! I'd be more than happy to mention you though. It's just, not only do I not know that much about you, but I don't want to hurt other people's feelings because they don't get to be in the story. *bows apologetically* I am very sorry. If you still want to mentioned, just say so, I'd be more than happy to think of a part for you. *hands L.D.S a Yugi plushie* I hope that you're not too mad.
bast4: ^^" Woah! Slow down! I promise, everything will be answered in due time. (I think.) I'm VERY glad that you're STILL reviewing the story. I hope you don't mind that it's getting rather long. ^^" I am also sorry that I'm not to good with updates. Also, about the Harpy Ladies and their speeches. Well... ^^" have you ever read the Firebringer Triology by Meridith Ann Pierce? (REALLY cools series) I have all three of her books and in them they use that kind of speaking. I had just finished reading one of the books and the language kind of got stuck in my mind. ^^" I'm glad you don't mind though! *hands bast4 all kinds of plushies* I hope you continue to read!
Shadow Fire2: Wow. Thanks for the compliment. I'm glad to have you aboard! ^^ *hands Shadow Fire a Yugi plushie* I hope you enjoy the rest of the story!
magna_nut: YES, there will be Mai/Joey. I hope you don't mind, but they're one of my favorite couples. ^^ Totally cool! Anyway, I REALLY sorry about the long wait and I hope you can forgive me. *blushes* I don't think I'm too good at this updating thing. *laughs* Anyway, I hope you continue to read and enjoy. *gives magna-chan a Ryou-tenshi plushie* YOU TOTALLY RULE!!
the Chaotic Ones: *hugs each and every one of you* Thanks for not being mad!! Also, I'm afraid it will be about two more chapters until Ryou and Bakura show up again BUT I promise, I'll make it worth it.! ^^ Ha ha! Not going to give you more than that. Also, I'm afraid that I won't get rid of Tea. She happens to be one of my favorite characters. Again, don't hate me. *gives all three TONS of plushies* Please continue to read and enjoy!
Lily-chan: *gives Lily-chan a BIG hug* THANK THE STARS THAT THERE ARE PEOPLE LIKE YOU!!! ^^ It's so nice to know that I have such a wonderful friend. *is very, very grateful* And I'm sorry Iris-sama about making you panic. *blushes* As it turned out Finni-chan ended up updating before I did, so I guess that all worked out. But the poor gal's got this AWESOME story up and, like, NO ONE is reading it. *shakes head* Sometimes I just don't get people. Anyway, we cleared things up and I will continue to update whenever I can. ^^ Also, I hope this chapter satisfies some of your Yugi/Yami need. *laughs* Like I've said before, I hope I don't screw up on all this. *gives Lily-chan and Iris-sama TONS of Yugi and Yami plushies* I can't wait to talk to you guys again! ^^ And please update your other stories soon!
P.S: In answer to your question- YOU ROCK!!
Wingleader Sora Jade: *gives BIG hug* Hey, nice to hear from you again!! ^^ I hope you can refrain from killing Malik's dad a bit longer. Don't worry. It'll turn out alright. *wink* Anyway, I'm so glad that you have continued to review. *gives another hug* You are so sweet. *gives Jade- chan a Ryou and Duke plushie* Please continue to review. I STILL think that you're AWESOME!!! ^^
Yugi: Yay! ^^ We're back!
Duke: *stretches out on bean bag* It's been awhile!
Yami: It sure has.
Kerra: *grins slyly* Hello everyone.
Yugi: *blink*blink* Hey wait a minute. *looks around* Where's Tenshi?
Yami: *shrugs* Who knows? That girl ALWAYS seems to be gone.
Duke: *points to pile of pillows, bean bags, and blankets* Hey wait a minute. I think that's her!
Everyone except Kerra: *looks over at small pile* It IS her!
Tenshi: -_- Zzzzzz
Duke: ^^" She's asleep!
Yami: Hold it! *thinks* Let me get this straight... *takes a breath* the authoress of this story is currently asleep-
Tenshi: -_-Zzzzzzzz
Yami: --" WAY asleep. Right? *watches as everyone nods* Then- WHAT IN THE WORLD ARE WE DOING HERE?!
Duke: Good question.
Yugi: *is very puzzled* Who's going to write the story?
Kerra: *starts laughing evilly* You don't get it, do you?
Everyone: 0_0? Get what?
Kerra: *pulls out the Master Keyboard* I'M writing this story now!
Everyone: 0_0
Yami: NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!! (poor guy, it's like his worst nightmare come true, no?) THIS CAN'T BE HAPPENING!!!
Kerra: Oh yes it is! ^__________^ I'm running the show now! This going to be fun. *looks at keyboard* Now how do you work this thing?
Duke: *looks at readers desperately* Please. Somebody. Help us!
Kerra: Oh, hush up. I can do this. *finally turns keyboard right-side-up* Oh. *blink* Okay, well let's get started!
Yami, Yugi, Duke: 0_0 ... TENSHI WAKE UP!!!!
Tenshi: *wakes up, still a bit groggy* Huh? What?
Kerra: *snaps fingers* Oh rats.
Tenshi: *sits up and yawns* What's going on?
Yami: *snatches keyboard from Kerra and pushes it into Tenshi* Never mind that. Just start typing the stupid chapter!
Tenshi: *blink* Oh. ^^ Okay! *settles into a comfortable position* Enjoy the chapter, folks!
Yugi, Yami, & Duke: *sigh* Phew!
Disclaimer: Please refer to other chapters for reference. Only if something new comes up, will a new disclaimer be added. AND IF ANYONE HASN'T GOTTEN IT BY NOW, I HAVE NOT, NOR WILL I EVER, OWN YUGIOH! Some of the scenes (you'll know which ones) have come straight out of the series. Except for Rafael and Yami. I kind of had to make that part up, but it was based off of what I know of the episode. So please do not sue. Thank you.
YAY!!! OVER ONE HUNDRED REVIEWS AND STILL GOING!!! THANKS EVERYONE!!!! THIS CHAPTER IS FOR ALL OF YOU FAITHFUL REVIEWERS!!! YOU ROCK!!
Chapter Eleven: The Bittersweet Memories Not of Own
//First there was Darkness. Then there was Light. Both forge a bond which withstands all others. Memories of a past, unseen and unlived, are remembered and seen, bit by bit. Oh, Light, when will you see? The Darkness which strives to protect you, may soon bring upon your doom.//
It all happened faster than Yugi's mind was able to comprehend. It was fear that made him cry out in a scream and clamp his eyes shut. Luckily, man is still born with instinct, however less he chooses to use it. For it was instinct that made his knees buckle and his arms quickly cover his head. Which was really lucky, for in the next instant pieces of the ceiling started to crash down. The whole place seemed to thrash about and a roar filled Yugi's ears.
"Yugi!" a faint voice cried.
Yugi felt strong, protective arms wrap around him and pulling him close to a warm chest. As though by habit, Yugi grasped the person's shirt tightly in one hand as he burrowed his face into the chest, wanting desperately to drone out the sounds of the shaking cavern. It was being protected by an older brother and, strangely, it felt so right.
Then the roaring stopped and the everything became still.
After a few moments, Yugi lifted his face and gazed around him, still not losing his grip on the cloth in his hand. It was no longer as dark for faint sunlight shone in at the end. Dust and debris lay everywhere and it was miracle the ceiling still shone up.
"What was that?" Unemi whispered.
"I'm not sure," Yami growled. "But I think it was a duel monster."
Yugi jumped. So it was Yami that had protected him! He felt the tip of his nose go red, but he fought the rest of the blush. Hoping for a distraction, he asked, "A duel monster?" That hadn't been like any duel monster he had ever heard!
"Yes," Mahou confirmed, a bit breathless. "But it can't be..."
Yugi looked at Mahou, a bit curious. As Yami stood up, Yugi took the offered hand up and dusted himself off, before asking, "What is it Mahou? Who do you think it is?"
Unemi glanced at her fellow duel monster. Though they weren't exactly far apart in age, Mahou had proven to be the more mature and wiser of the two. It had always been smart to listen to him.
Mahou, however, didn't seem to hear them. He shook his head and muttered, "It can't be. Such powerful monsters were sealed away a long time ago. How can he be back?"
"Who, Mahou?" Yami asked in a firm voice. "Whatever are you talking about?"
Mahou turned to his master solemnly, "I believe it's Masharou. Somehow he has been awaken!"
Yugi had some vague idea that this should be important and a dramatic moment. Maybe because Yami and Unemi suddenly stiffened and sucked in their breath. Yet, he was only drawing blanks. "Who's Masharou?" he asked timidly.
The Dark Magician turned his gaze to the young one. He answered slowly, "I believe you would know him better as the Red Eyes Black Dragon."
Yugi felt his face pale and his heart rate speed up. A dragon! That certainly wasn't good! It had been bad enough that he and his friends had been stuck down in this dark and creepy place, but now there was a dragon on the loose! Intense worry filled the young boy's mind as he thought about his two friends.
Sensing that the young boy beside him was upset, Yami turned to look at his little look-a-like. 'He's worried about these friends of his,' Yami thought. 'Yet, there is no fear in this young one. None for himself anyway. All is for his friends and,' Here Yami stopped. Could it be? 'He's worried for me as well?'
It was true that Yami had known Yugi for years, if only through dreams, but it never ceased to amaze him with how much purity and selflessness the young one possessed. And to have someone actually care for him, even if in all actuality they had only known each other for barely an hour, only made Yami want to help him more. The loneliness that the young pharaoh had always felt was somehow always eased whenever his thoughts or self were with Yugi. In that moment, Yami felt incredibly, amazingly grateful to the hikari that stood beside him.
And that's when it happened.
Yami felt his mind reel and spin. Everything in his body went numb as reality seemed to slip away. He heard someone scream, someone call out in alarm, and someone cry out his name in terror.
Then all went dark.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ *
"No, Yugi!" Yami cried. "Wait!"
But it was too late.
"Dark Magic Attack!" Yugi cried. From his palm flew the powers of the Dark Magician, which destroyed the miniature electric rubber toy of a duel monster. The young one's friends cried out in joy and compliments.
Yami felt like sighing in relief. So nothing had happened to his aibou! He was about to relax when he heard Bakura chuckle. Yami glanced at the white-haired yami. What was he up to?
That's when he heard Yugi cry out in pain. Scared, he looked down to see Yugi collapse onto his knees. He heard the boy's friends cry out in worry for their little friend and heard the hikari mutter that he was going numb.
"Yugi!" he cried out.
Bakura chuckled, "One can't attack the Electric Lizard without getting some interesting feed back. A lesson your little Yugi won't soon forget."
Yami growled but drew his next card all the same.
And so the duel continued.
Yami knew that had Bakura been playing fairly and his friend and aibou's lives weren't on the stake, he would have beaten the yami easily. But such as it was, Yami found himself using every bit of cunning he could to keep them all safe. The only setback was when they almost lost Joey for good, but, thank the heavens, they managed to get him back. Bakura had scoffed that these "worthless mortals" were proving to be Yami's weakness, but the pharaoh retorted that his friends would never be such a thing.
That was when Bakura drew the Change of Heart- his hikari's favorite card. He smirked as he gazed down at Yugi, explaining the evil he was about to accomplish.
"Leave the young one out of this!" Yami demanded.
Bakura simply sneered, "Why should I? By simply destroying him, I defeat you as well." He raised the card up. "You're here to die and protect him? Then protect him from this!"
Yami watched in horror as the card was activated.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ *
"Yugi," Yami shielded his eyes. "Quickly, let me take over!" But there was no answer from the boy. Startled, Yami looked down to see Yugi collapse. "Yugi!"
"Spirit," Yugi whispered, so softly that Yami had to strain to hear him. "You've got to defeat Pegasus."
That was when every trace of the boy left Yami's mind.
Practically scared of his mind, Yami quickly retreated back into the boy's mind. To see it all covered in darkness, with Yugi bathed in blue light, still as dead, only made him panic. He quickly rushed over and shook the child that had grown to mean so much to Yami. But there was no response.
"No," Yami sobbed. "He can't be gone!"
Outside, Pegasus continued to laugh, glorifying in his certain victory, while, inside the boy's mind, a heartbroken spirit continued to call the name of one so very, very close to his heart.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ *
"This duel is over, Yugi," Rafael sneered. "You lose."
Shocked, Yami just growled. How could he have lost?! Such was not conceivable. He was so distracted that he didn't even notice Yugi standing next to him, having a heartbroken look in his eyes.
But not because of the duel. No. Because his yami had ended up betraying their friends. Their duel monsters. Yami betrayed him.
Smirking, Rafael cried, "And now you face the consequences Yugi. Prepare to lose your soul!"
Yami raised his arms in a meaningless gesture of protecting himself. But it was useless. He was doomed and he knew him. He closed his eyes and awaited his fate.
Then he felt a sudden rush as he was suddenly jerked out of control of Yugi's body. Stunned, Yami didn't notice who it was that had taken his place in the punishment. At least, not until it was too late.
"No," he shook his head, shocked. "No! Yugi! No!"
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ *
"Yami!" Yugi felt himself growing desperate. By now he was practically shaking the older boy in sheer panic. He didn't know why Yami had suddenly collapsed, but it was scaring near to tears. What was worse was that Yami had started to twitch and mutter, but nothing that was understandable. Then he had began to thrash about and scream. Crying, Yugi shook Yami as hard as he could, practically screaming, "Yami! Yami, WAKE UP!!"
Yami's eyes suddenly flashed open, but it was clear that he was still seeing things that were not of this world. "Yugi!" he screamed, the first perceivable thing he had uttered in a while. "Yugi!"
Not knowing what to do and hating himself for it, Yugi quickly enveloped the thrashing ex-pharaoh in a warm hug. "Yami," he sobbed. "I'm right here. I'm right here!"
The spirit's body began to still as Yami closed his eyes. Yugi noted with relief that his breathing was beginning to calm down and his heartbeat become more regular. Then, strong arms also wrapped around Yugi. He didn't protest and felt something wet on his face. It was tears- foreign tears. Yami was crying!
Holding the boy close, Yami whispered, "I won't let it happen, Yugi. I won't let it happen. I promise."
Unemi and Mahou watched in a sort of silent fascination.
Then, as though Yugi knew exactly of what Yami was speaking of, he whispered, "I know, Yami. I know."
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ *
Mana watched the scene before her, with tears in her eyes. "I'm sorry, Pharaoh," she whispered. "I'm so very, very sorry."
From behind her, two worried purple eyes watched. "You do realize," a male voice whispered from the shadows, the same voice Yugi had heard in his dream after he had collapsed from solving the puzzle. "That you probably broke about a dozen rules by sending those images. You already pushed your luck with the Fire Soldier."
Not even bothering to look behind her, Mana wiped a tear from her face and whispered back, "It doesn't matter. They will understand in time. We can't let them win. You don't want them to, I don't want them to. The whole world will have to participate if peace ever stands a chance."
If possible, the purple eyes grew even sadder. "I know," he said. "I know." He turned his gaze back into Mana's crystal ball, which still showed the Light and the Darkness together. "I hope, Pharaoh, that you mean those promises that you whisper. I hope for the world's sake, your Light's sake, but especially, for your sake, that you will really live up to those promises."
End*
Tenshi: ^^ Well there ya go.
*crickets*
Tenshi: *sigh* I guess I'm kinda pushing my luck, huh?
*still no answer*
Tenshi: Oh, geez! *turns to readers* Well, I guess I'll just have to leave it to you guys to tell me what you think. So, PLEASE REVIEW!!!! I can't say when I can update again, but you always know that it will be as soon as I can! So, until next time, C'ya! ^_^
Replies:
Finnigangirl: Okay, I won't wait for you to update. *gives a playful pout* But I STILL think you should update your story still. I LOVE IT!!! I put it on my favorites, did ya know? *wink* Anyway, I'll keep up the good work if YOU keep up the good work. Oh, and, don't worry! I promise, there'll be PLENTY of Mai/Joey action coming. (Well, maybe not soon. but...) ^^" *hands Finni-chan a Joey-tenshi plushie* Always remember- YOU ABSOLUTELY RULE, GIRL!!
Hikari no Mayonaka: *bows apologetically* I know, I'm sorry about the cliff-hangers. But I'm starting to think that those are the only reasons people bother to review and continue reading. *sigh* But I do apologize. I am glad you liked it though! I hope this chapter made you feel a little more relieved about Yugi and Yami. (probably not, but it was worth a shot ^^") Also, I have to say that I think you have good taste. *gives H.M a Yugi and Yami plushie* I hope you continue to read and enjoy!
Mittens no Hikari: Tenshi: - -zzzzz K: *pops in* Hey, Mittens! I just wanted to let you know that Tenshi really liked your giant cookie, but um... she sort of has a problem with sugar. Tenshi: --zzzzzz K: ^^" It makes her fall asleep. Yeah, yeah, I know. Weird. *shrugs* Anyway, she wanted to let you know that she was really happy that you liked it and that she hopes you continue to review. Oh and these are for you. *hands over two Yugi plushies* Enjoy!
Smarty1: Thanks! I will! I hope you will continue to read!!
Lady Death Strike: Umm... ^^" I'm really glad that you liked the story, but I don't think I can give you a full-fledged role. *ducks* I'm sorry! I'd be more than happy to mention you though. It's just, not only do I not know that much about you, but I don't want to hurt other people's feelings because they don't get to be in the story. *bows apologetically* I am very sorry. If you still want to mentioned, just say so, I'd be more than happy to think of a part for you. *hands L.D.S a Yugi plushie* I hope that you're not too mad.
bast4: ^^" Woah! Slow down! I promise, everything will be answered in due time. (I think.) I'm VERY glad that you're STILL reviewing the story. I hope you don't mind that it's getting rather long. ^^" I am also sorry that I'm not to good with updates. Also, about the Harpy Ladies and their speeches. Well... ^^" have you ever read the Firebringer Triology by Meridith Ann Pierce? (REALLY cools series) I have all three of her books and in them they use that kind of speaking. I had just finished reading one of the books and the language kind of got stuck in my mind. ^^" I'm glad you don't mind though! *hands bast4 all kinds of plushies* I hope you continue to read!
Shadow Fire2: Wow. Thanks for the compliment. I'm glad to have you aboard! ^^ *hands Shadow Fire a Yugi plushie* I hope you enjoy the rest of the story!
magna_nut: YES, there will be Mai/Joey. I hope you don't mind, but they're one of my favorite couples. ^^ Totally cool! Anyway, I REALLY sorry about the long wait and I hope you can forgive me. *blushes* I don't think I'm too good at this updating thing. *laughs* Anyway, I hope you continue to read and enjoy. *gives magna-chan a Ryou-tenshi plushie* YOU TOTALLY RULE!!
the Chaotic Ones: *hugs each and every one of you* Thanks for not being mad!! Also, I'm afraid it will be about two more chapters until Ryou and Bakura show up again BUT I promise, I'll make it worth it.! ^^ Ha ha! Not going to give you more than that. Also, I'm afraid that I won't get rid of Tea. She happens to be one of my favorite characters. Again, don't hate me. *gives all three TONS of plushies* Please continue to read and enjoy!
Lily-chan: *gives Lily-chan a BIG hug* THANK THE STARS THAT THERE ARE PEOPLE LIKE YOU!!! ^^ It's so nice to know that I have such a wonderful friend. *is very, very grateful* And I'm sorry Iris-sama about making you panic. *blushes* As it turned out Finni-chan ended up updating before I did, so I guess that all worked out. But the poor gal's got this AWESOME story up and, like, NO ONE is reading it. *shakes head* Sometimes I just don't get people. Anyway, we cleared things up and I will continue to update whenever I can. ^^ Also, I hope this chapter satisfies some of your Yugi/Yami need. *laughs* Like I've said before, I hope I don't screw up on all this. *gives Lily-chan and Iris-sama TONS of Yugi and Yami plushies* I can't wait to talk to you guys again! ^^ And please update your other stories soon!
P.S: In answer to your question- YOU ROCK!!
Wingleader Sora Jade: *gives BIG hug* Hey, nice to hear from you again!! ^^ I hope you can refrain from killing Malik's dad a bit longer. Don't worry. It'll turn out alright. *wink* Anyway, I'm so glad that you have continued to review. *gives another hug* You are so sweet. *gives Jade- chan a Ryou and Duke plushie* Please continue to review. I STILL think that you're AWESOME!!! ^^