The Past Is Present
Disclaimer: Still don't own Yugioh! Bummer.
Tenshi: Hey everyone. Just to let you all know I'm not dead and boy am I glad to be back on the 'net! In case anyone's wondering, I do have a very good reason as to why I have not updated! Seriously. Just combine school exams, computer viruses, mysterious disappearing files, virus protection that won't work, writer's block, going all over the country, combine it all together, and you've got my excuse! Whew! Anyway, I hope you guys can forgive me! ;; I really am sorry. Anyway, read on and enjoy!
Chapter Fourteen: A Dragon Tamer's Battle
When destiny calls, who can look in the darkness and say which is the right path? The fate that has long been written is not yet etched in stone. For until the Light is lost and Darkness fallen to its own heart, nothing is certain. Destiny's first step has been taken, but who can say where the road leads?
Yugi was all too familiar with grief. When he had been taken away from everything he knew, he had known sorrow and had felt it with all his heart. As his heart knew the meaning of pain, he had grown to hate having to watch anyone else suffer. So every tear from this woman caused his heart to bleed. He didn't even know her name, but he could tell that had he been able to save the one called 'Malik', well...
There was a hand on his shoulder. He didn't even had to glance back to know whom it belonged to. The hand gave a reassuring squeeze.
There was nothing that you could've done.
/I know./
It was truth for he did know it. He just didn't feel that that was the case. In his mind there was always something more he could've done. Perhaps if he had been in there for perhaps even a second longer, he would've found Malik. Yet Yami had come and had taken him away- not that he blamed Yami! If it hadn't been for him, Yugi's foolishness would have gotten him in a "six-feet-under" predicament. So, that was a reason to be grateful indeed.
Suddenly, there was a cheerful "Coo!" and a brown fuzz ball threw itself into Yugi's embrace. Surprised, Yugi laughed and looked down at the Kuribo in his arms.
"Well, it's good to see you too," he grinned.
"Coo!" was the only reply as Gohan just snuggled, contentedly, into Yugi's embrace.
"Oh great!" Duke's green eyes widened with irritation as he saw the duel monsters. "More of them!"
"Hey, don't worry about it," Joey said. "These are the friendly ones."
"I guess they were sort of worried about us," Ryou (Yugi almost jumped. It was amazing how one could forget who they were standing next to) smiled gently and leaned down to stroke Yukina, who had come to the eagerly, relief evident on her face.
There was a snort. "Who could blame them?" came Joey's gruff reply. His eyes were almost wild with grief, but even he showed some affection to Kugerou, who even let some of his pride slip to return it.
Yugi smiled. Even though sadness still tinged a piece of his heart, he felt glad knowing that the duel monsters were okay. In fact, he felt sort of grateful that they were still waiting for him and his friends all this time.
It seemed like years since they had first ventured into the cave.
Then, the cry seemed to come out of nowhere, "Yugi!"
The next thing Yugi was aware of was that someone had thrown their arms around his neck and that his short brown hair soon covered his face. Yugi soon realized, as soon as his brain had caught up, that it was a girl and his face became flushed with the awkwardness of the situation.
Both Joey and Yami blinked rather stupidly at the situation. Even the usually dignified Yami had trouble regaining his bearing. To them, everything was moving at a rapid pace and now with this new development pertaining to Yugi, they felt as though they had to reel in their consciousness like a line of thread. Of course, when one pulls in a line of thread they usually find themselves with a tangled mess. So it was with the two. However, neither of them could have possibly imagined the embarrassing and uncomfortable predicament Yugi was now in.
Uncertainly, he too tried to reel in his thoughts. Did he know this young woman? He thought so, but he couldn't quite place it. It was a scent from a dream: as familiar as one's thumbprint but as vague as a breeze. Oh, how he did wish he would recognize it soon!
At last, the girl gently pulled herself back. Bewildered amethyst eyes found themselves meeting searching sea-colored eyes. Short brown hair. Blue eyes. The answer was upon him- an almost completed puzzle- but still missing the last piece.
"Oh, Yugi," the girl smiled. She searched his eyes once more before letting out a small, soft, sad laugh. "I suppose it's silly of me isn't it? I mean, silly of me to believe that you would remember me after all these years. How long has it been? Oh, who really knows?" Her voice was growing sadder but still she refused to let her smile fall. "Oh, Yugi, if only you could know how much I missed you! You and your grandfather and your mother..." She stopped the subject there because Yugi had suddenly moved backwards as though jolted. "No, I suppose you wouldn't remember me. I'm Tea."
One could almost see the Yugi's eyes light up. Ah, so that was it. Yes, now everything fit.
Ecstatic, he quickly hugged her, "What are you doing here?"
Tea just giggled, "What am I doing here? What are you doing here?"
Then they departed and stepped back to take a good look at each other. Yugi felt as though his mind was a swirl of colors. This young woman was his childhood playmate? He felt like laughing with the giddiness of it all. How much the two of them had grown during these years! Then, he let out a soft snort. Actually, it would be just her that grew, wouldn't it? It had been Yugi's firm opinion that he hadn't grown in years, save for his hair.
"Um, Yugi?" Ryou's shy question brought Yugi back.
"Oh, sorry, guys," a small part of Yugi's brain was saying that too much fantastical stuff was going on at once but he figured he may as well go with it. "This is Tea. She was, er, is my childhood friend."
Yami raised a polite eyebrow, "Friend?" This was new.
Once more there was a rather thick silence. Or there would have been had Joey not said, "So." His eyes darted back between his small friend and the brunette. "You know her." He pointed first at Yugi and then at Tea. "She knows you." He pointed back at Yugi. "But apparently she's with that guy over there." Joey pointed at the tall, brown-haired young man that had pretty much stayed to the side. "And, I don't know if any you know this and don't ask how I know, but that just happens to be the pharaoh. And now we're all okay with this?" His brown eyes darted back and forth at his companions. "Did I miss something?"
"Pharaoh!" everyone (save Tea, of course) gasped, completely ignoring Joey's small rant, but fixed their gaze upon the tall male teen.
Tea noticed with a practiced eye that Seto had once more put on his impassive facade. She sighed. Hopefully this would not lead to trouble. Yeah. And perhaps hell would freeze over while they were at it.
"Um, guys," Duke interrupted sort of involuntarily. "Is it safe to be standing under two dragons while they are in combat?"
Ishizu composed herself and stood. Her face looked it had aged years, so much sorrow had been etched into it. Still, she knew she had to continue on. It would have been.... what Malik would have wanted. She brushed herself off. There would be time for grieving later. "No, Duke," she said quietly. "It isn't."
"Oh," Duke nodded. "I thought so."
Joey turned and glared at him, "What makes you ask such a stupid question?"
Duke just threw him a frustrated look and then pointed up in the sky. "It isn't stupid," he said. "And I have a very strong hunch that this is somehow your fault."
Everyone looked up and gasped. For indeed there was a battle going between two dragons- a Blue Eyes and a Red Eyes to be exact. The two were locked in a desperate battle and were now making their way downward. It was difficult to make out what was happening, but every once in a while there would be a howl of pain choked off by a combat cry.
The dragons found that they were getting exhausted but their pride would not let them stop. However, Kipach, the Blue Eyes, had no choice but to try to glide up in order to gain a respite and breath. Unfortunately, this left an opportunity for an attack, one which Masharou, the Red Eyes, was not going to pass up. Shooting upwards, Masharou bolted for the other dragon's side and sunk in his dagger-like teeth. Kipach howled and infuriated, swung his head around and clamped onto the other's muzzle. Nearly blinded with pain, the two beat their wings furiously as they were near plummeting downwards, but neither could get enough room to even glide. They were falling down, down. Neither wanted to let go but something had to give or they would both crash into the ground with severe consequences. Finally, Kipach managed to swing one of his clawed paws at a point between Masharou's head and neck. Despite the new sting of pain, Masharou still hung on though his grip lessened slightly. It was all Kipach needed. He swung his tail like a mighty whip and bombarded Masharou upon his chest. The force was as tremendous as running into a concrete wall. Stunned, the Red Eyes released his hold on the other dragon and with a roar, fell back as Kipach unimpeded his own. Still in a mindless rage, Kipach swooped down and took hold of the dragon's neck. Madly, he shook the Red Eyes back and forth like a puppy with a limp rag. Masharou screamed, no longer hearing that small, instinctive voice that was telling him that he had forgotten something.
Meanwhile, down on the ground, everyone looked on horrified. Joey felt as though he couldn't breathe. "Oh, no!" he hollered. "Red Eyes!"
Yugi turned to his friend. "Joey," he asked, wide-eyed, "What did he mean when he said that this was your fault?"
Not even taking his eyes off the battle, Joey gritted his teeth. "I don't exactly know, Yugi. All I can tell you is that, by some means, that Red Eyes Black Dragon is here because of me. I know it sounds crazy but... it somehow makes sense to me. I just can't explain it."
"Because of you?" Yugi echoed.
Seto, who couldn't help but overhear, looked at the blonde sharply. "What do you mean it's here because of you? You're a nobody! How could you summon a monster?" He had always respected and loved his Blue Eyes White Dragons and through the years had somehow managed to create a sort of bond between them. Just as Kipach was furious at his opponent during this heated battle, he couldn't help but feel anger toward the teen that was possibly the master of that Red Eyes.
Joey glared back at the pharaoh. Ruler of the world or no ruler of the world, nobody could call him worthless and still be on his good side. "Look," he explained, stonily, "I don't understand this at all, mister fancy pants, but the fact is that there is a sort of bond between me and that Red Eyes Black Dragon up there!" For some reason, he was disliking this guy more and more by the second.
"That just sounds crazy!" Seto snapped. "It would figure that a fool, such as you, would come up with such a dim-witted idea! Why, you're no better than a dog!"
"SAY WHAT?" Joey's fists curled and a mental picture of what the pharaoh would look like without all his teeth kept running through his mind and he was finding it more and more pleasing.
"Guys!" Yugi, who sensed that a fight would soon be under way, strove quell it. "Never mind that! We just gotta make them stop!"
Seto turned and looked at the small teen. "That wouldn't be a problem," he said confidently. "However, I refuse to instruct my monster to calm when there is an enemy that insists on fighting." He glanced back at Joey. "Can you or can you not control your monster?"
Joey just glared at him. It was times like these that he was witty. Then he could sure give back a retort that would wipe that jerk's smirk right off his face! But he didn't know how to answer, because there was no answer to give. Irked, he turned his gaze back toward the sky. He wasn't even sure if the Red Eyes really was his monster. Would that dragon even listen to him? Back in the cave it sure seemed so. But perhaps that was a one-time thing.
"Master," Yami heard Mahou whisper into his ear. "I could be wrong, but I do believe that that Red Eyes is the legendary Masharou!" Yami glanced back at his faithful friend. The infamous Masharou- the most powerful Red Eyes of all time- awoken?
There is a type of person that does no take risks. They prefer to play it safe and will not act until they are sure. Joey was not that type of person.
"Hey, Red Eyes!" Joey shouted upward. He waved his arms around and ran so that he was directly underneath his dragon. Despite his friends' calls for him to come back, he continued on. "Listen, buddy, ya gotta stop!"
Seto looked on with surprise. He hadn't seriously thought for a moment that the blonde would actually take action to subdue his dragon. Stubbornly, he admitted that he felt a twinge of respect for the "mutt" but mostly he couldn't help by express annoyance at the young man's stupidity.
However, despite all odds, Masharou did indeed hear Joey's voice. Peering down at the seemingly puny human, he felt a sort of enlightenment and shame. That was what he had forgotten. Of all things, he had forgotten his very own master! With a deafening roar, the black dragon swung himself out of the white dragon's grip. It could not be too late to make amends. Full of renewed strength, Masharou looked at the Blue Eyes fiercely in the eyes. He heard his master calling out to him, telling him to cease fighting and for a moment, Masharou wondered if his master had vaguely lost his mind. Yet as the boy continued to call up to him, he knew he had no choice in the matter. He had chosen this young man for a reason and as such had decided to follow his every command. With one last vociferous snarl at his adversary, he flew down and landed by his master's side.
Needless to say, this pretty much astounded everyone, even Joey himself. Even Kipach seemed not aware of what to do in this new situation. Yet there the dragon was, calmly and placidly, blood pooling here and there, by the tall, blonde teen.
Uncertainly, Joey raised a shaky hand and laid it on the dragon's muzzle. This had to be a dream. There was no way a creature like this- with unbelievable powers at its very disposal!- would heed to his cries. Personally, the Red Eyes seemed to be giving him a look that said, "Okay, I submitted to your obtuse idea, now what?"
It had not been for nothing had Seto been trained to rule the world. Quietly and quickly, he recovered his wits. Apparently the "dog" had quite a bit of luck on his side as well. He looked back up at Kipach, who surreptitiously, so as to not look foolish, began to circle above head. Seto made a quick slicing movement with his hand and the dragon hovered down to land by his side. Kipach had the same countenance as that of a cat that had cornered a mouse, but having lost it, looked as though it had planned to do that from the start.
For a moment, the two dragons just stood there, seemingly sizing each other up. Both were equally self-important and seemed to care not if the rest of the world existed save for their own self and their respective master. However, they both had received and understood their order that their unofficial battle was to cease and as such stood down. A bright light flashed and when it had cleared instead of two mighty beasts, there were instead two miniature versions, both the size of large cats.
"Well, that's a bummer," a sarcastic voice announced. It was Bakura and Ryou glanced over at him curiously. "I really was looking forward to a death match."
When Unemi heard this, she became furious. Eyes aflame she strode over to the still smirking tomb robber. Ryou suddenly wondered if he had good reason to worry about Bakura's safety.
"You... you... you..." Unemi was nearly shaking with fury.
"I, I, I," Bakura didn't seem to be the least bit alarmed. In fact, he seemed to be amused and almost waiting to see what the female duel monster would do. Unemi had never wanted to slap a smirk off of someone as badly as she did now.
"How could you dare? You may come from a millennium item, but apparently all that time in there has not served as punishment enough if it makes you act like this!" the Dark Magician Girl was nearly screaming by the end of this.
"Oh no," Bakura shook his head. "I've always been like this."
Luckily, one sharp glance from Mahou made Unemi stop whatever attempt she had been about to do to the former tomb robber. Still angry, she sulked. "You are the biggest smart-ass in the world," she muttered.
"Now that's just ridiculous," Bakura was clearly enjoying himself. "Have you met every person in the world?"
Ryou chose this moment to conveniently intervene by dragging Bakura away before Unemi could belt him.
Meanwhile, it seemed as though the two dragon masters and their monsters had come to an odd sort of standstill. It was like an two cowboys in a one on one gun fight and after the dust had cleared, the crowd had seen the amazing sight that both were still standing. The entire aura of the place seemed to say "Well now what?"
However, Seto was not one to spend more time in a situation than he wanted to. Besides, there was no time for all this. Mokuba needed him and that blasted Pegasus had eluded him. Him. The great pharaoh of the world. Wonderful. Sneering, he turned and headed back to the forest.
"Hey!" Joey didn't like the thought of this guy leaving- especially if his face was bereft of a good-sized fist imprint. Perhaps even one of a foot if he could.
"I've got no time for this mutt," the pharaoh kept moving. "Besides, even I know not to keep kicking a mutt once its down. Even if it does keep insisting on barking like a Chihuahua."
"Ha! The Sapphire One certainly knows his taunting skill," a feminine, yet inhuman, voice broke in.
Even Kaiba stopped and everyone looked around. Where was the voice coming from?
"Aye," another, again in-human, feminine voice agreed. "His tongue be a flit of flame. What wit!"
Joey glanced at the pharaoh. Oh, come on. There was no way they were talking about this guy. Joey had more wit in his little finger that guy could ever hope to have in his whole body, including his stupid, hollow head.
"Mark my words," yet another voice of the same kind broke in. This one spoke confidently. Obviously one that was used to being listened to. "You both appraise the wrong competitor. 'Tis the other that, I dare think, is the superior."
Oh, yeah! Score one for the Joe-man! Finally, someone was taking his side.
The second voice huffed, apparently unconvinced. "Why, dear sister, wouldst thou think thus?"
There was a pause.
"The same reasons you both believe the other to be," she snapped back. Then, she added quietly, "Besides, if not else, he is fairly easy on the eyes."
They all shared a chuckle at that and Joey could swear that he heard a few snorts and chuckles from his own companions. Blood flushed warmth into his cheeks. He didn't see what was so funny.
"Oh, please," someone else said.
This time, this was both feminine and human. Out of the forest strode a fairly attractive young woman. 'Scratch that,' Joey thought. This was a very attractive woman. Lovely, blond hair fell in waves around her shoulders... violet eyes that sparkled like jewels... skin of porcelain... one I-could-whip-your-butt-anytime-I-want attire... Joey could swear he could hear his own heartbeat throbbing in his ears. 'Oh, boy. I think I've got a crush.'
Too bad the lady didn't seem to feel the same way.
"I agree with this guy over here," she gestured toward Seto. "This one's nothing more than a mangy mutt."
And thus yet another sting was stabbed into Joey's self-confidence by the female race.
Fin
Tenshi: immensely happy that she is able to once again update Yay! Once more good triumphs over the nasty, evil computer virus!
Kerra: --" Someone please send her "help".
Tenshi: Hey! I'm not that bad! . Anyway, once more I just want to apologize about the lateness of this whole thing (even though it was practically all of my computer's fault!) and I hope that you all are still willing to read this.
Kerra: May the heavens bless you if your are.
Tenshi: Amen to that! Also, right now I'm working on another chapter for another story and some one shots. Chances are that I might get the next chapter for this up sooner than I can get the others, but please don't get mad if once more it takes awhile. And hopefully prays feverently my computer or anything else won't crash. Until next time, C'ya!
PLEASE READ: Sorry to bother you further folks, but there are two questions that have been sort of bugging me recently and I hope that maybe someone out there can answer them, no matter how stupid they sound.
1) Please do not laugh, but can someone tell me what LOL stands for? I'd really like to know.
2) Does anyone know one can hold a fanfiction contest? I've seen them here and there and I'd kinda like to throw one myself. " Also tell me if you would be interested if I held a contest! That would be great too!
REVIEWER REPLIES:
koriaena: Hey, don't worry, Malik's going to be okay! And everyone else will be too! I think. Well, maybe not the bad guys. But then again I don't know. sigh Anyway, I'm thrilled that you love it. Please keep reading!
DDragon Whisper: I'M SORRY! I REALLY am. ;; I hope you enjoyed this chapter and will continue to read. Please forgive me! Btw, I LOVE your penname.
twinklefaerie: Thank you so much for reading! I'm glad that you like it so much. And don't worry. So long as I keep getting reviews, I fully plan to keep updating!
Shadow Fire 2: Everyone keeps feeling sorry for my characters. Is that a good thing or a bad thing? 00 Anyway, just wondering, are you by any chance a person that does not hate Pegasus? So far I've only met two people as such, including myself. Anyway, I love that you love this story! Does that make any sense? Anyway, please keep reading!
Smarty 1: Yay! I'm SO HAPPY that you love my work! Please keep reading!
Millennium Dreamer: 'Sokay. I haven't exactly done a good job of updating, have I? But I really am glad to have you back! Also, (I think) Malik won't be in for about a chapter or two (I'm still trying to get his character down) but don't worry! When he comes back, you'll be seeing alot of him! Please keep reading!
trueyamigirlfriend: looks at penname Um, you might not want to have Kerra see that! " She's a little yami-crazy. laughs Anyway, do you really think that I got Malik/Marik in character? I really hope so! I didn't know that much about him when I first started so it's good to know that I did a good job! Thanks ever so much for your imput! Please keep reading!
Chronicles Bailey: blushes Aw, do you really think this is a good story? I know lots of people keep telling me, but sometimes I can't help but doubt myself. It helps to know my work is appreaciated. I hope that you will continue to read and I can't wait to hear from you again.
Lily-chan: LILY-CHAAAAAN!!!! I'VE MISSED YOOOOOUUU!!! glomps Don't worry about being late, I'm probably much worse. cries I can't wait to read what you've written since I've been good. Lord, don't it seem like forever! hugs Also, don't worry about getting confused about the characters. I get confused myself. -- And, no offense, but I really hope that I'm not turning into an evil authoress. Although, I don't really think you're evil. You're much to nice. hugs again As for, Chibi Yami, well turns to see C.Y turning blue in Kerra's "loving" grasp he's got medical insurance. " I hope that Iris-sama continues to write. I can't wait to read more of her writing. hugs Iris-sama As for your questions, well, I can't really tell you. Wouldn't want to spoil anything! Anyway, I WILL update "Angel of Heaven, Guardian Dear". I WILL, I WILL, I WILL!!! I'm just really mad that I've been "out of commission" for so long. It's my second priority (this one's my first) so the next chapter should be up soon. I hope. --" Also, I'm glad that the T.a.T.u CD was able to give you some ideas. Perhaps some of those ideas will become great writings! hinthint Also, just wondering, have you heard the song 'Meant to Live', by Switchfoot? If not you should totally check out the lyrics. I haven't heard most of them, but from what I heard, it sounds like a cool song to do a songfic to. wink As for forums and ecetera, I don't think I'll be able to do so any time soon. Why? I don't know. I think it's because my mom watches the news every night and I think its starting to give her ideas. Darn. Also, WHO SAID YOU WERE ANNOYING?!?! is honestly shocked I LOVE your so-called "ramblings". Girl, sometimes you make me laugh SO hard! Personally, I just think everything about you is great! Your creativity, your sense of humor, your wit, just your whole personality... oh boy. I'm sorry, I hope I'm not being to weird. " But you are just SO COOL Lily-chan. I really can't see how anyone can see any differently. You are just absolutely awesome more hugs I really hope I'm not freaking you out, but you're kinda like my role model. I read your stuff and ( after recovering from the sheer brillancy of it all) I think to myself, 'Okay. This is how good I want my own work to be.' Seriously. blushes I just find it hard to believe that I inspire you. almost faints It's almost to much to believe. blushes like crazy I remind you of Yugi-chan? really does faint Oh, boy. P.S You mean we haven't already written an essay on how much we think the other rules? I thought we were already onto the second edition! laughs
P.P.S: Girl, I don't care what you say. There is no way I compare to you. bows and bows
To: Iris From: Kerra I'll be sure to read your work and don't worry. I'll keep Tenshi out of "Goodnight". Also, I'll try to get better at my reviews. " Not quite use to it. Also, I've been thinking of getting my own account. What ya think?
Mittens no Hikari: Yahoo! You're here! Been having updating problems too, eh? hugs I feel your pain! And there is no way on earth that I would EVER say that you are an idiot! Far be it, my friend! You're a sheer genius! And I'm on your Favorite Authors list? blushes like mad and cheers Thanks! Also, please continue with Yugi/Serenity. You've got me totally hooked on the couple! Hmmm... maybe I should I add that couple in here? Tell me what you think, tell me what you think, tell me what you think! Also, next time, I'll be sure to leave a review for you too! I can't wait to hear from you again!
Anime-Blade: Yeah. Bakura hasn't made to kill anyone yet. But... just wait until you read the next chapter!
Finnigangirl: Hey, welcome back! Do you really think I'm improving? I really hope so! blushes And yes, I really am just a kid writing fanfiction. Currently, I've just started high school, so, no I'm not a professional writer. But I hope to be! For the past couple of years, I've been working on a book, my own original work! So far, the end doesn't seem any where in the near future, but who knows? Maybe someday I'll be a published authoress! What about you? Have you considered writing your own book? I bet you could totally do it! Anyway, wouldn't that be so cool to work for KidsWB? Then you wouldn't have to wait so long to find out what happens next in Yugioh!
Yana 5: I LOVE Yami and Yugi scenes! They're just so cute! laughs Please keep reading!
LadyDeathStrike: I'm so glad you love the story! And thanks for the profile! blushes You have no idea how much that helps. laughs Anway, I hope you don't mind but I might have to tweak a few things here and there. Also, you won't exactly be a major character. NO OFFENSE! It's just that I'm getting myself confused as it is. Actually, I have no idea, as of right now, how big a part you're going to have (I just write all this out by the top of my head, which means practically no preplanning) but you'll be in it! I promise! Just please don't get made with how you turn out. This my first time trying something like this and I don't know how this is going to turn out. Wish me luck! But keep your eyes peeled. You should be coming in pretty soon!
Disclaimer: Still don't own Yugioh! Bummer.
Tenshi: Hey everyone. Just to let you all know I'm not dead and boy am I glad to be back on the 'net! In case anyone's wondering, I do have a very good reason as to why I have not updated! Seriously. Just combine school exams, computer viruses, mysterious disappearing files, virus protection that won't work, writer's block, going all over the country, combine it all together, and you've got my excuse! Whew! Anyway, I hope you guys can forgive me! ;; I really am sorry. Anyway, read on and enjoy!
Chapter Fourteen: A Dragon Tamer's Battle
When destiny calls, who can look in the darkness and say which is the right path? The fate that has long been written is not yet etched in stone. For until the Light is lost and Darkness fallen to its own heart, nothing is certain. Destiny's first step has been taken, but who can say where the road leads?
Yugi was all too familiar with grief. When he had been taken away from everything he knew, he had known sorrow and had felt it with all his heart. As his heart knew the meaning of pain, he had grown to hate having to watch anyone else suffer. So every tear from this woman caused his heart to bleed. He didn't even know her name, but he could tell that had he been able to save the one called 'Malik', well...
There was a hand on his shoulder. He didn't even had to glance back to know whom it belonged to. The hand gave a reassuring squeeze.
There was nothing that you could've done.
/I know./
It was truth for he did know it. He just didn't feel that that was the case. In his mind there was always something more he could've done. Perhaps if he had been in there for perhaps even a second longer, he would've found Malik. Yet Yami had come and had taken him away- not that he blamed Yami! If it hadn't been for him, Yugi's foolishness would have gotten him in a "six-feet-under" predicament. So, that was a reason to be grateful indeed.
Suddenly, there was a cheerful "Coo!" and a brown fuzz ball threw itself into Yugi's embrace. Surprised, Yugi laughed and looked down at the Kuribo in his arms.
"Well, it's good to see you too," he grinned.
"Coo!" was the only reply as Gohan just snuggled, contentedly, into Yugi's embrace.
"Oh great!" Duke's green eyes widened with irritation as he saw the duel monsters. "More of them!"
"Hey, don't worry about it," Joey said. "These are the friendly ones."
"I guess they were sort of worried about us," Ryou (Yugi almost jumped. It was amazing how one could forget who they were standing next to) smiled gently and leaned down to stroke Yukina, who had come to the eagerly, relief evident on her face.
There was a snort. "Who could blame them?" came Joey's gruff reply. His eyes were almost wild with grief, but even he showed some affection to Kugerou, who even let some of his pride slip to return it.
Yugi smiled. Even though sadness still tinged a piece of his heart, he felt glad knowing that the duel monsters were okay. In fact, he felt sort of grateful that they were still waiting for him and his friends all this time.
It seemed like years since they had first ventured into the cave.
Then, the cry seemed to come out of nowhere, "Yugi!"
The next thing Yugi was aware of was that someone had thrown their arms around his neck and that his short brown hair soon covered his face. Yugi soon realized, as soon as his brain had caught up, that it was a girl and his face became flushed with the awkwardness of the situation.
Both Joey and Yami blinked rather stupidly at the situation. Even the usually dignified Yami had trouble regaining his bearing. To them, everything was moving at a rapid pace and now with this new development pertaining to Yugi, they felt as though they had to reel in their consciousness like a line of thread. Of course, when one pulls in a line of thread they usually find themselves with a tangled mess. So it was with the two. However, neither of them could have possibly imagined the embarrassing and uncomfortable predicament Yugi was now in.
Uncertainly, he too tried to reel in his thoughts. Did he know this young woman? He thought so, but he couldn't quite place it. It was a scent from a dream: as familiar as one's thumbprint but as vague as a breeze. Oh, how he did wish he would recognize it soon!
At last, the girl gently pulled herself back. Bewildered amethyst eyes found themselves meeting searching sea-colored eyes. Short brown hair. Blue eyes. The answer was upon him- an almost completed puzzle- but still missing the last piece.
"Oh, Yugi," the girl smiled. She searched his eyes once more before letting out a small, soft, sad laugh. "I suppose it's silly of me isn't it? I mean, silly of me to believe that you would remember me after all these years. How long has it been? Oh, who really knows?" Her voice was growing sadder but still she refused to let her smile fall. "Oh, Yugi, if only you could know how much I missed you! You and your grandfather and your mother..." She stopped the subject there because Yugi had suddenly moved backwards as though jolted. "No, I suppose you wouldn't remember me. I'm Tea."
One could almost see the Yugi's eyes light up. Ah, so that was it. Yes, now everything fit.
Ecstatic, he quickly hugged her, "What are you doing here?"
Tea just giggled, "What am I doing here? What are you doing here?"
Then they departed and stepped back to take a good look at each other. Yugi felt as though his mind was a swirl of colors. This young woman was his childhood playmate? He felt like laughing with the giddiness of it all. How much the two of them had grown during these years! Then, he let out a soft snort. Actually, it would be just her that grew, wouldn't it? It had been Yugi's firm opinion that he hadn't grown in years, save for his hair.
"Um, Yugi?" Ryou's shy question brought Yugi back.
"Oh, sorry, guys," a small part of Yugi's brain was saying that too much fantastical stuff was going on at once but he figured he may as well go with it. "This is Tea. She was, er, is my childhood friend."
Yami raised a polite eyebrow, "Friend?" This was new.
Once more there was a rather thick silence. Or there would have been had Joey not said, "So." His eyes darted back between his small friend and the brunette. "You know her." He pointed first at Yugi and then at Tea. "She knows you." He pointed back at Yugi. "But apparently she's with that guy over there." Joey pointed at the tall, brown-haired young man that had pretty much stayed to the side. "And, I don't know if any you know this and don't ask how I know, but that just happens to be the pharaoh. And now we're all okay with this?" His brown eyes darted back and forth at his companions. "Did I miss something?"
"Pharaoh!" everyone (save Tea, of course) gasped, completely ignoring Joey's small rant, but fixed their gaze upon the tall male teen.
Tea noticed with a practiced eye that Seto had once more put on his impassive facade. She sighed. Hopefully this would not lead to trouble. Yeah. And perhaps hell would freeze over while they were at it.
"Um, guys," Duke interrupted sort of involuntarily. "Is it safe to be standing under two dragons while they are in combat?"
Ishizu composed herself and stood. Her face looked it had aged years, so much sorrow had been etched into it. Still, she knew she had to continue on. It would have been.... what Malik would have wanted. She brushed herself off. There would be time for grieving later. "No, Duke," she said quietly. "It isn't."
"Oh," Duke nodded. "I thought so."
Joey turned and glared at him, "What makes you ask such a stupid question?"
Duke just threw him a frustrated look and then pointed up in the sky. "It isn't stupid," he said. "And I have a very strong hunch that this is somehow your fault."
Everyone looked up and gasped. For indeed there was a battle going between two dragons- a Blue Eyes and a Red Eyes to be exact. The two were locked in a desperate battle and were now making their way downward. It was difficult to make out what was happening, but every once in a while there would be a howl of pain choked off by a combat cry.
The dragons found that they were getting exhausted but their pride would not let them stop. However, Kipach, the Blue Eyes, had no choice but to try to glide up in order to gain a respite and breath. Unfortunately, this left an opportunity for an attack, one which Masharou, the Red Eyes, was not going to pass up. Shooting upwards, Masharou bolted for the other dragon's side and sunk in his dagger-like teeth. Kipach howled and infuriated, swung his head around and clamped onto the other's muzzle. Nearly blinded with pain, the two beat their wings furiously as they were near plummeting downwards, but neither could get enough room to even glide. They were falling down, down. Neither wanted to let go but something had to give or they would both crash into the ground with severe consequences. Finally, Kipach managed to swing one of his clawed paws at a point between Masharou's head and neck. Despite the new sting of pain, Masharou still hung on though his grip lessened slightly. It was all Kipach needed. He swung his tail like a mighty whip and bombarded Masharou upon his chest. The force was as tremendous as running into a concrete wall. Stunned, the Red Eyes released his hold on the other dragon and with a roar, fell back as Kipach unimpeded his own. Still in a mindless rage, Kipach swooped down and took hold of the dragon's neck. Madly, he shook the Red Eyes back and forth like a puppy with a limp rag. Masharou screamed, no longer hearing that small, instinctive voice that was telling him that he had forgotten something.
Meanwhile, down on the ground, everyone looked on horrified. Joey felt as though he couldn't breathe. "Oh, no!" he hollered. "Red Eyes!"
Yugi turned to his friend. "Joey," he asked, wide-eyed, "What did he mean when he said that this was your fault?"
Not even taking his eyes off the battle, Joey gritted his teeth. "I don't exactly know, Yugi. All I can tell you is that, by some means, that Red Eyes Black Dragon is here because of me. I know it sounds crazy but... it somehow makes sense to me. I just can't explain it."
"Because of you?" Yugi echoed.
Seto, who couldn't help but overhear, looked at the blonde sharply. "What do you mean it's here because of you? You're a nobody! How could you summon a monster?" He had always respected and loved his Blue Eyes White Dragons and through the years had somehow managed to create a sort of bond between them. Just as Kipach was furious at his opponent during this heated battle, he couldn't help but feel anger toward the teen that was possibly the master of that Red Eyes.
Joey glared back at the pharaoh. Ruler of the world or no ruler of the world, nobody could call him worthless and still be on his good side. "Look," he explained, stonily, "I don't understand this at all, mister fancy pants, but the fact is that there is a sort of bond between me and that Red Eyes Black Dragon up there!" For some reason, he was disliking this guy more and more by the second.
"That just sounds crazy!" Seto snapped. "It would figure that a fool, such as you, would come up with such a dim-witted idea! Why, you're no better than a dog!"
"SAY WHAT?" Joey's fists curled and a mental picture of what the pharaoh would look like without all his teeth kept running through his mind and he was finding it more and more pleasing.
"Guys!" Yugi, who sensed that a fight would soon be under way, strove quell it. "Never mind that! We just gotta make them stop!"
Seto turned and looked at the small teen. "That wouldn't be a problem," he said confidently. "However, I refuse to instruct my monster to calm when there is an enemy that insists on fighting." He glanced back at Joey. "Can you or can you not control your monster?"
Joey just glared at him. It was times like these that he was witty. Then he could sure give back a retort that would wipe that jerk's smirk right off his face! But he didn't know how to answer, because there was no answer to give. Irked, he turned his gaze back toward the sky. He wasn't even sure if the Red Eyes really was his monster. Would that dragon even listen to him? Back in the cave it sure seemed so. But perhaps that was a one-time thing.
"Master," Yami heard Mahou whisper into his ear. "I could be wrong, but I do believe that that Red Eyes is the legendary Masharou!" Yami glanced back at his faithful friend. The infamous Masharou- the most powerful Red Eyes of all time- awoken?
There is a type of person that does no take risks. They prefer to play it safe and will not act until they are sure. Joey was not that type of person.
"Hey, Red Eyes!" Joey shouted upward. He waved his arms around and ran so that he was directly underneath his dragon. Despite his friends' calls for him to come back, he continued on. "Listen, buddy, ya gotta stop!"
Seto looked on with surprise. He hadn't seriously thought for a moment that the blonde would actually take action to subdue his dragon. Stubbornly, he admitted that he felt a twinge of respect for the "mutt" but mostly he couldn't help by express annoyance at the young man's stupidity.
However, despite all odds, Masharou did indeed hear Joey's voice. Peering down at the seemingly puny human, he felt a sort of enlightenment and shame. That was what he had forgotten. Of all things, he had forgotten his very own master! With a deafening roar, the black dragon swung himself out of the white dragon's grip. It could not be too late to make amends. Full of renewed strength, Masharou looked at the Blue Eyes fiercely in the eyes. He heard his master calling out to him, telling him to cease fighting and for a moment, Masharou wondered if his master had vaguely lost his mind. Yet as the boy continued to call up to him, he knew he had no choice in the matter. He had chosen this young man for a reason and as such had decided to follow his every command. With one last vociferous snarl at his adversary, he flew down and landed by his master's side.
Needless to say, this pretty much astounded everyone, even Joey himself. Even Kipach seemed not aware of what to do in this new situation. Yet there the dragon was, calmly and placidly, blood pooling here and there, by the tall, blonde teen.
Uncertainly, Joey raised a shaky hand and laid it on the dragon's muzzle. This had to be a dream. There was no way a creature like this- with unbelievable powers at its very disposal!- would heed to his cries. Personally, the Red Eyes seemed to be giving him a look that said, "Okay, I submitted to your obtuse idea, now what?"
It had not been for nothing had Seto been trained to rule the world. Quietly and quickly, he recovered his wits. Apparently the "dog" had quite a bit of luck on his side as well. He looked back up at Kipach, who surreptitiously, so as to not look foolish, began to circle above head. Seto made a quick slicing movement with his hand and the dragon hovered down to land by his side. Kipach had the same countenance as that of a cat that had cornered a mouse, but having lost it, looked as though it had planned to do that from the start.
For a moment, the two dragons just stood there, seemingly sizing each other up. Both were equally self-important and seemed to care not if the rest of the world existed save for their own self and their respective master. However, they both had received and understood their order that their unofficial battle was to cease and as such stood down. A bright light flashed and when it had cleared instead of two mighty beasts, there were instead two miniature versions, both the size of large cats.
"Well, that's a bummer," a sarcastic voice announced. It was Bakura and Ryou glanced over at him curiously. "I really was looking forward to a death match."
When Unemi heard this, she became furious. Eyes aflame she strode over to the still smirking tomb robber. Ryou suddenly wondered if he had good reason to worry about Bakura's safety.
"You... you... you..." Unemi was nearly shaking with fury.
"I, I, I," Bakura didn't seem to be the least bit alarmed. In fact, he seemed to be amused and almost waiting to see what the female duel monster would do. Unemi had never wanted to slap a smirk off of someone as badly as she did now.
"How could you dare? You may come from a millennium item, but apparently all that time in there has not served as punishment enough if it makes you act like this!" the Dark Magician Girl was nearly screaming by the end of this.
"Oh no," Bakura shook his head. "I've always been like this."
Luckily, one sharp glance from Mahou made Unemi stop whatever attempt she had been about to do to the former tomb robber. Still angry, she sulked. "You are the biggest smart-ass in the world," she muttered.
"Now that's just ridiculous," Bakura was clearly enjoying himself. "Have you met every person in the world?"
Ryou chose this moment to conveniently intervene by dragging Bakura away before Unemi could belt him.
Meanwhile, it seemed as though the two dragon masters and their monsters had come to an odd sort of standstill. It was like an two cowboys in a one on one gun fight and after the dust had cleared, the crowd had seen the amazing sight that both were still standing. The entire aura of the place seemed to say "Well now what?"
However, Seto was not one to spend more time in a situation than he wanted to. Besides, there was no time for all this. Mokuba needed him and that blasted Pegasus had eluded him. Him. The great pharaoh of the world. Wonderful. Sneering, he turned and headed back to the forest.
"Hey!" Joey didn't like the thought of this guy leaving- especially if his face was bereft of a good-sized fist imprint. Perhaps even one of a foot if he could.
"I've got no time for this mutt," the pharaoh kept moving. "Besides, even I know not to keep kicking a mutt once its down. Even if it does keep insisting on barking like a Chihuahua."
"Ha! The Sapphire One certainly knows his taunting skill," a feminine, yet inhuman, voice broke in.
Even Kaiba stopped and everyone looked around. Where was the voice coming from?
"Aye," another, again in-human, feminine voice agreed. "His tongue be a flit of flame. What wit!"
Joey glanced at the pharaoh. Oh, come on. There was no way they were talking about this guy. Joey had more wit in his little finger that guy could ever hope to have in his whole body, including his stupid, hollow head.
"Mark my words," yet another voice of the same kind broke in. This one spoke confidently. Obviously one that was used to being listened to. "You both appraise the wrong competitor. 'Tis the other that, I dare think, is the superior."
Oh, yeah! Score one for the Joe-man! Finally, someone was taking his side.
The second voice huffed, apparently unconvinced. "Why, dear sister, wouldst thou think thus?"
There was a pause.
"The same reasons you both believe the other to be," she snapped back. Then, she added quietly, "Besides, if not else, he is fairly easy on the eyes."
They all shared a chuckle at that and Joey could swear that he heard a few snorts and chuckles from his own companions. Blood flushed warmth into his cheeks. He didn't see what was so funny.
"Oh, please," someone else said.
This time, this was both feminine and human. Out of the forest strode a fairly attractive young woman. 'Scratch that,' Joey thought. This was a very attractive woman. Lovely, blond hair fell in waves around her shoulders... violet eyes that sparkled like jewels... skin of porcelain... one I-could-whip-your-butt-anytime-I-want attire... Joey could swear he could hear his own heartbeat throbbing in his ears. 'Oh, boy. I think I've got a crush.'
Too bad the lady didn't seem to feel the same way.
"I agree with this guy over here," she gestured toward Seto. "This one's nothing more than a mangy mutt."
And thus yet another sting was stabbed into Joey's self-confidence by the female race.
Fin
Tenshi: immensely happy that she is able to once again update Yay! Once more good triumphs over the nasty, evil computer virus!
Kerra: --" Someone please send her "help".
Tenshi: Hey! I'm not that bad! . Anyway, once more I just want to apologize about the lateness of this whole thing (even though it was practically all of my computer's fault!) and I hope that you all are still willing to read this.
Kerra: May the heavens bless you if your are.
Tenshi: Amen to that! Also, right now I'm working on another chapter for another story and some one shots. Chances are that I might get the next chapter for this up sooner than I can get the others, but please don't get mad if once more it takes awhile. And hopefully prays feverently my computer or anything else won't crash. Until next time, C'ya!
PLEASE READ: Sorry to bother you further folks, but there are two questions that have been sort of bugging me recently and I hope that maybe someone out there can answer them, no matter how stupid they sound.
1) Please do not laugh, but can someone tell me what LOL stands for? I'd really like to know.
2) Does anyone know one can hold a fanfiction contest? I've seen them here and there and I'd kinda like to throw one myself. " Also tell me if you would be interested if I held a contest! That would be great too!
REVIEWER REPLIES:
koriaena: Hey, don't worry, Malik's going to be okay! And everyone else will be too! I think. Well, maybe not the bad guys. But then again I don't know. sigh Anyway, I'm thrilled that you love it. Please keep reading!
DDragon Whisper: I'M SORRY! I REALLY am. ;; I hope you enjoyed this chapter and will continue to read. Please forgive me! Btw, I LOVE your penname.
twinklefaerie: Thank you so much for reading! I'm glad that you like it so much. And don't worry. So long as I keep getting reviews, I fully plan to keep updating!
Shadow Fire 2: Everyone keeps feeling sorry for my characters. Is that a good thing or a bad thing? 00 Anyway, just wondering, are you by any chance a person that does not hate Pegasus? So far I've only met two people as such, including myself. Anyway, I love that you love this story! Does that make any sense? Anyway, please keep reading!
Smarty 1: Yay! I'm SO HAPPY that you love my work! Please keep reading!
Millennium Dreamer: 'Sokay. I haven't exactly done a good job of updating, have I? But I really am glad to have you back! Also, (I think) Malik won't be in for about a chapter or two (I'm still trying to get his character down) but don't worry! When he comes back, you'll be seeing alot of him! Please keep reading!
trueyamigirlfriend: looks at penname Um, you might not want to have Kerra see that! " She's a little yami-crazy. laughs Anyway, do you really think that I got Malik/Marik in character? I really hope so! I didn't know that much about him when I first started so it's good to know that I did a good job! Thanks ever so much for your imput! Please keep reading!
Chronicles Bailey: blushes Aw, do you really think this is a good story? I know lots of people keep telling me, but sometimes I can't help but doubt myself. It helps to know my work is appreaciated. I hope that you will continue to read and I can't wait to hear from you again.
Lily-chan: LILY-CHAAAAAN!!!! I'VE MISSED YOOOOOUUU!!! glomps Don't worry about being late, I'm probably much worse. cries I can't wait to read what you've written since I've been good. Lord, don't it seem like forever! hugs Also, don't worry about getting confused about the characters. I get confused myself. -- And, no offense, but I really hope that I'm not turning into an evil authoress. Although, I don't really think you're evil. You're much to nice. hugs again As for, Chibi Yami, well turns to see C.Y turning blue in Kerra's "loving" grasp he's got medical insurance. " I hope that Iris-sama continues to write. I can't wait to read more of her writing. hugs Iris-sama As for your questions, well, I can't really tell you. Wouldn't want to spoil anything! Anyway, I WILL update "Angel of Heaven, Guardian Dear". I WILL, I WILL, I WILL!!! I'm just really mad that I've been "out of commission" for so long. It's my second priority (this one's my first) so the next chapter should be up soon. I hope. --" Also, I'm glad that the T.a.T.u CD was able to give you some ideas. Perhaps some of those ideas will become great writings! hinthint Also, just wondering, have you heard the song 'Meant to Live', by Switchfoot? If not you should totally check out the lyrics. I haven't heard most of them, but from what I heard, it sounds like a cool song to do a songfic to. wink As for forums and ecetera, I don't think I'll be able to do so any time soon. Why? I don't know. I think it's because my mom watches the news every night and I think its starting to give her ideas. Darn. Also, WHO SAID YOU WERE ANNOYING?!?! is honestly shocked I LOVE your so-called "ramblings". Girl, sometimes you make me laugh SO hard! Personally, I just think everything about you is great! Your creativity, your sense of humor, your wit, just your whole personality... oh boy. I'm sorry, I hope I'm not being to weird. " But you are just SO COOL Lily-chan. I really can't see how anyone can see any differently. You are just absolutely awesome more hugs I really hope I'm not freaking you out, but you're kinda like my role model. I read your stuff and ( after recovering from the sheer brillancy of it all) I think to myself, 'Okay. This is how good I want my own work to be.' Seriously. blushes I just find it hard to believe that I inspire you. almost faints It's almost to much to believe. blushes like crazy I remind you of Yugi-chan? really does faint Oh, boy. P.S You mean we haven't already written an essay on how much we think the other rules? I thought we were already onto the second edition! laughs
P.P.S: Girl, I don't care what you say. There is no way I compare to you. bows and bows
To: Iris From: Kerra I'll be sure to read your work and don't worry. I'll keep Tenshi out of "Goodnight". Also, I'll try to get better at my reviews. " Not quite use to it. Also, I've been thinking of getting my own account. What ya think?
Mittens no Hikari: Yahoo! You're here! Been having updating problems too, eh? hugs I feel your pain! And there is no way on earth that I would EVER say that you are an idiot! Far be it, my friend! You're a sheer genius! And I'm on your Favorite Authors list? blushes like mad and cheers Thanks! Also, please continue with Yugi/Serenity. You've got me totally hooked on the couple! Hmmm... maybe I should I add that couple in here? Tell me what you think, tell me what you think, tell me what you think! Also, next time, I'll be sure to leave a review for you too! I can't wait to hear from you again!
Anime-Blade: Yeah. Bakura hasn't made to kill anyone yet. But... just wait until you read the next chapter!
Finnigangirl: Hey, welcome back! Do you really think I'm improving? I really hope so! blushes And yes, I really am just a kid writing fanfiction. Currently, I've just started high school, so, no I'm not a professional writer. But I hope to be! For the past couple of years, I've been working on a book, my own original work! So far, the end doesn't seem any where in the near future, but who knows? Maybe someday I'll be a published authoress! What about you? Have you considered writing your own book? I bet you could totally do it! Anyway, wouldn't that be so cool to work for KidsWB? Then you wouldn't have to wait so long to find out what happens next in Yugioh!
Yana 5: I LOVE Yami and Yugi scenes! They're just so cute! laughs Please keep reading!
LadyDeathStrike: I'm so glad you love the story! And thanks for the profile! blushes You have no idea how much that helps. laughs Anway, I hope you don't mind but I might have to tweak a few things here and there. Also, you won't exactly be a major character. NO OFFENSE! It's just that I'm getting myself confused as it is. Actually, I have no idea, as of right now, how big a part you're going to have (I just write all this out by the top of my head, which means practically no preplanning) but you'll be in it! I promise! Just please don't get made with how you turn out. This my first time trying something like this and I don't know how this is going to turn out. Wish me luck! But keep your eyes peeled. You should be coming in pretty soon!