Disclaimer: Uh I don't own Yu-Gi-Oh!? Yeah I guess that works. Simple but true.

Okay to all my faithful readers, due to the subtle reminders (and threats) as well as Tsuki standing behind me with a board with nails in it, here it is! Yes the long awaited and much delayed……CH 13!!! And now please for your reading pleasure continue to read….Full Circle ch 13! Enjoy and stop threatening!

Seraph laid in her bed, the scene from earlier replaying in her mind. Had Dakar done something to merit the harsh punishment that would be meted out at dawn? She wasn't sure. She got up and began to pace the floor in her room.

Rasui opened her eyes, yawned and stretched. Then she stood up and swishing her tail walked over to Seraph. Sitting down, she regarded Seraph with questioning yellow eyes. Seraph smiled down at the cat. Picking her up, she cuddled the kitten to her chest. Rasui responded by purring.

"Oh Rasui, I don't know. I just don't know."

The sleepy kitten regarded her and then as if she had not a care in the world, began to clean her paws.

Seraph laughed and put Rasui back on the bed. Sobering she crossed the room, opened the door, and walked out in the hall. She was determined to find out what had happened.

Aura left her room, quickly walking through the halls on her way to see Pharaoh. She had to know if her 'necklace' would fool him. Aura rehearsed what she would say to the Pharaoh and then remembered what he had said to her a few weeks before. "Aura, what has happened? We used to talk all the time. Now we hardly ever see each other and when we do, you don't tell me anything." That is what I will say. I'll simply tell him that we don't talk enough and I was wondering how he was doing. Nodding to herself she stopped in front of Yami's room. She raised her hand and knocked on the door, three quick raps. The three in quick succession was always a signal that it was her when they were younger and she was getting him to go on some adventure that usually led to more trouble and often someone getting hurt.

Yami was sitting at his desk poring over the journals when he heard the knocks. Yami waited a minute to see if he had really heard the knocks. He waited and sure enough they came again. Rap! Rap! Rap! Those were Aura's knocks. Only Aura used those knocks, well with the exception of a few stupid slaves or overeager children. Yami jumped up and knocked his chair over in his haste. Cursing he yelled, "I'm coming!" Yami tried to right the upended chair and quickly fell over the chair landing on his behind near the desk. Yami stood up and kicked the chair then realized his folly when immediately his foot began to hurt. He gave the desk and chair his 'Pharaoh look' and smoothing his tunic walked to the door.

Aura stood outside listening to all the banging going on in the room. Aura wondered at what was going on inside the room. She tried to remember when she had last seen Relah and when she couldn't recall a recent time she wondered if maybe she had come at a bad time. Turning around she began to leave when the door opened and Yami poked his head out. "Aura? Aura where are you going?"

Aura turned around and her eyes widened. Yami was standing there with his crown hanging off. She quickly bit back her laughter and walked into the room. Surveying it to see if perhaps it really was a bad time, she found no trace of anyone else in the room and deemed it safe. Turning around she looked at Yami and just burst out laughing.

Yami cocked an eyebrow and stared at Aura who was consumed in laughter and holding her stomach.

"Might I be let in on to what is so funny or do you simply want to stand there and laugh at me?"

"You….your….cr-cr…." she tried to tell him but was laughing too hard. Finally she gave up and just walked up to him and righted the haphazard crown.

Yami looked at her and then shook his head and fixed his crown. Smoothing his hair he moved his chair back into its rightful place and sat on the edge of his desk. Crossing his arms he looked at her and said "So Aura I see you have come to rescue me from my 'punishment.' What adventure or should I say torture designed to get me killed and in even more trouble have you designed now?"

Aura glared at him. "Grow up Yami. Oh and half of those 'tortures' were your idea."

Yami shook his head. "I was a sheltered prince. There is no way I would have thought up half of that stuff. I didn't have as much free time as you did."

Aura crossed her arms and said "First of all this conversation is pointless and second of all…wait a minute. You had no free time? You sat around sending your servants to do everything all day. I however was training to be your advisor. Talk about not having free time. I had to learn every single thing about this kingdom. You would be surprised how much time it takes to learn which lines you are supposed to sign on to keep your kingdom out of war."

Yami grumbled. "And yet it seems that sometimes you do sign on those lines. I think it is only to irritate me and bend me to your will."

"Aren't you the enlightened one. Did Relah help you figure that out or did you discover that when you were sitting there pondering the mysteries of the universe with all of your free time?"

"I run a kingdom and that takes up all my time. I don't see you doing any of that. All you do is sit in a desk and sign papers. I have to make serious decisions that will affect my entire kingdom."

"You are referring to the decisions that you consult me on, are you not my Pharaoh? Because as I recall I often help you make all those 'important' decisions."

Yami crossed his arms and glared at her. Then he broke into a grin. "It's good to fight with you again, Aura. You have no idea how much I have missed this."

Aura smiled, all her anger fading. "Yes, it has been a while. I haven't insulted you since we were kids either."

"I draw the line at insults. I am Pharaoh and I will NOT be insulted." He sniffed then said "A couple of harmless and totally pointless arguments is fine but no insults Aura. I mean it."

Aura swept into a mock curtsey and said sweetly, "Of course your Most Indecisive One."

Yami started to say something then stopped and shook his head. "You know I could have your head for that one."

Aura laughed. "You wouldn't last two hours without me. Who would make all your 'important' decisions?"

Yami smiled. "Yes, and who would take the blame for those decisions when they go terribly wrong?"

Aura rolled her eyes and then began to laugh. Yami crossed the room and hugged her.

"I've missed you Aura. So, why have you come if not to get me out on some dangerous escapade?"

"I'm not even going there. I just wanted to talk to you. I mean we haven't talked in a while and I feel like I don't even know you. We used to be best friends and now I hardly ever see you."

Yami reclaimed his chair and crossed his arms. "Stirring speech Aura and somehow vaguely familiar. Now where have I heard that before?" Yami pretended to ponder the question. "Hmm I do believe that was almost the exact thing I said to you a few weeks ago."

Aura grinned. "Guilty as charged. But can you blame me. I mean I am only a simple advisor and I don't have such flowery words as you yourself do."

Yami spiked an eyebrow. "Flattery Aura? What do you want?"

Aura grinned. "Honestly? I wanted to know if you had any thoughts about that slave."

"Which slave Aura? You know how many slaves are in this palace?"

"No I don't. How many?"

Yami closed his eyes. "Too many to count. Now which slave are you referring to?"

"Dakar." She waited a beat but when no recognition dawned she said " Lady Seraphic's slave."

"Oh. Yes the one I sent to the dungeon this afternoon. Any new thoughts?"

"Yes, why did you send him to the dungeon. I mean what did he do that was so terrible?"

"I'm surprised you don't know more than that by now. You know as well as I do how fast news travels among the slaves, especially when it concerns one of their own."

"Yes, will I want to know firsthand. Plus my slave has not been included in these 'circles' yet. He is a mere child."

"Ah yes. Now I sentenced Dakar to death because he dared to lay his hands on Lady Seraphic and before you say anything, there is proof to back it up and I as well as other witnesses heard from his very own mouth his confession."

Aura raised her eyebrows. "That is a serious offense. What exactly did he say?"

Yami sighed. "Actually Aura, I don't really want to think about it right now. I have an execution to attend in the morning and a wedding to plan. Plus my paperwork has piled up again and I believe yours has too. Why don't we call it a night and I will talk to you about this later."

Aura nodded and turned to leave. She opened the door but stopped when Yami said something.

"Aura, thanks for coming by. I had a great time fighting with you and we should most definitely do it again."

Aura smiled. "Yes we will do it again. Something tells me sooner than you might think."

Yami raised an eyebrow but let it pass. He bent his head over his paperwork, then said. "Oh and Aura I see you found your Ring."

Aura nodded. "Yes I finally found it. And it was in the last place I looked, if you can believe that my Pharaoh."

Yami shook his head. "Somehow that makes perfect sense."

Seraph quickly moved down the hall. She peered around the corner but only saw the empty hallway. She turned the corner and looked behind her to see if Rasui was following. The cat was only a few steps behind her, so Seraph stopped and Rasui jumped up on her shoulder. Seraph continued down the corridor frantically trying to remember where the dungeons were. On the way she saw Aura but didn't register the fact that she was coming towards her.

Aura had just closed Pharaoh's door when Seraph came down the hall. She had no time to move and Seraph slammed into her, almost knocking her to the ground. Aura grabbed the wall for support and helped Seraph keep her balance.

"Um hi Seraph. Where are you going in such a hurry?"

Seraph shook her head. "I'm sorry Aura I was just…just…going to my room to …go to…bed. Yes bed. I really am tired." Seraph quickly covered her mouth and made the sound of a yawn. Praying she had finally learned how to lie at least a little bit she looked at Aura.

"Seraph you were going to bed?"

"Yes?"

"Well isn't your room this way? Did you get lost again or were you perhaps not going to bed as you claim to be?"

"Well…I really am tired but no I'm not going to bed. I um…well I was going to the kitchens because I lost my slave and I am very hungry."

"Ah yes. Now the kitchens are this way but so are the dungeons. So please Seraph walk with me because I seem to be hungry myself."

Seraph mentally cursed then smiled at Aura. "Uh yes that would be…wonderful."

Aura shook her head then grabbed her arm. "Come with me Seraph. We can't talk here."

Seraph walked down the hall towards Aura's room. Aura pulled her in and closed the door. "Now I know and you know that you were not going to the kitchens. You were going to the dungeons to see Dakar. Now I would be totally willing to let you go and never have seen you but I am expressing my authority for my older age and rank in the palace. Plus I really want to know what happened."

Seraph sighed. "Well here's what I know. Seto went to Yami and accused Dakar of touching me in a way that would break the law. Yami went insane and punched Dakar then asked him if he could deny it."

Aura crossed her arms. "And did he?"

"Deny it? Of course he didn't. But with Seto accusing and Yami so upset Dakar's word means nothing."

"And did he touch you?"

"Well he did kiss me, but I'm sure he had no idea what he was actually doing. I mean he just got caught up in the moment and he has a little crush on me. That's all. It's harmless really."

"Well Seto brought up the accusations?"

"Yes."

"Just like he did with Bakura…"

"What about Bakura?"

"See Seraph, Bakura never tried to rape me. In fact Bakura loved me as you know. Seto however was eager to get rid of Bakura. He wanted me out too but his plan went wrong."

Aura told Seraph what had really happened that day. When she was finished Seraph sat there in silence.

"Seraph? Seto is dangerous. Bakura mentioned it in the letter, remember?"

Seraph nodded but didn't say anything.

"Seraph Seto doesn't like women in power. He will do everything in his power to get rid of you. Everything. Even if it means making up stories to put doubts in Yami's mind."

"I only have one question. Why didn't you tell Yami who is your best friend the truth?"

Aura sighed. "Bakura would die. I couldn't bear to have Bakura dead. At least this way I know that he is out there…somewhere and maybe someday I'll see him again."

Seraph nodded. "I understand. Yami and that law. It seems like that is what he really cares about."

"He gets it from his father. Don't be too hard on him. He just doesn't know any better."

"But isn't he breaking his own law with Relah?"

"Ah yes but he believes himself to be above the law. Now Seraph I'm going to let you go. Be it to the dungeons or not I will leave that up to you. Just don't do anything foolish."

Seraph nodded and left the room. She hurried down the hall pondering over everything Aura had said. He's dangerous. He will do everything in his power…Everything…WANTS TO GET RID OF YOU. HE'S DANGEROUS. HE LIES…HE DOESN'T LIKE WOMEN IN POWER…WANTS YOU GONE…GONE…GONE.

Rasui meowed and rubbed against Seraphs' leg bringing her back to the present. No Seraph thought fiercely. Aura just hates Seto as much as he hates her. Plus there has to be an explanation. And the only way to get it is to talk to Dakar. Seraph continued to the dungeons but the doubts continued to spin in her mind.

Dakar felt something nibble at his leg and shook it cursing. He hated this place. Pharaoh's guards had put him in the absolute worst cell in the dungeon. There was no light so he couldn't even see what was trying at this very moment to take a piece of his flesh with it. Dakar sighed and shifted his wrists. They were beginning to chafe after being in the shackles so long. He was chained with his arms above his head which was beginning to feel very uncomfortable. But they hadn't left his ankles free either. As it was he was easy prey to whatever vermin shared the cell with him.

Suddenly he heard footsteps coming down the row. He listened closely but they stopped. Then they started again. He realized that whoever it was was looking for something…or someone. Could it be? Seraph. It had to be. He called out to her. "Seraph?"

Seraph tilted her head and listened. "Dakar?" she called. "Is that you?"

"Yes. I'm over here."

"Where?" Seraph tried to see but the darkness swallowed the entire place and she could barely see her own hand in the darkness.

"Seraph. I have an idea. Follow the sound of my voice."

Seraph followed him until she came to the very end of the row and stopped at the cell. Peering in she saw a faint form standing against the wall. She quickly grabbed the keys she had managed to take from the guard and began to frantically try to fit one into the hole. It was hard to see and it took her a few tries but she finally shoved it in. Praying, she turned and let out a sigh of relief when a click sounded and the door swung open. Rushing into the cell she stepped into a deep puddle and immediately felt furry things against her legs. She hurried over to Dakar and asked "Dakar are you all right?"

"I will be as soon as I get out of these shackles."

"Oh right…umm..hold on."

When she had finally found the keys and managed to get them in the right places, Dakar stepped away from the wall, rubbing his wrists. Seraph threw her arms around his neck and hugged him.

Dakar raised his arms and winced but hugged her back. "Thanks for coming Seraph."

"Come on Dakar. We have to get you out of here."

Dakar grabbed her hand and steered her around the puddle and out of the cell. Seraph took over and led him to a small window at the end of the dungeons.

"Now the window isn't very big but it's going to have to do. I brought you some provisions. There is enough in here to last you a few days. Follow the Nile to Karnack and ask for Micah. Tell him Seraph sent you and he will take care of you. Now go!"

Dakar grabbed the bag from Seraph's hand and hugged her. "Thank you Seraph. I'll never forget this. Ever."

Seraph hugged him back and then pushed him away. "Go!"

Dakar quickly squeezed through the window and Seraph watched him as he disappeared. Turning she ran back through the dungeons and past the sleeping guard. She slipped out of the dungeon and raced through the halls until she came to her room. Quickly she slipped out of her wet dress into a night dress and jumped into bed. Closing her eyes she tried to sleep. She jumped when something landed on her stomach but relaxed when a furry face was shoved into her own. Rasui began to purr and laid on Seraph's chest. Curling up she immediately fell asleep. Seraph joined her a moment later.

Bakura scaled the wall quickly and hoisted himself into the window that led directly into Aura's room. He stood there catching his breath and looked around the room. He saw a lump in the bed which had to be Aura, probably sound asleep. He walked over to her and leaned over the bed. Smiling he leaned down and placed a light kiss to her temple. He smoothed the blankets and pulled the ones that she had kicked off over her. She responded by snuggling down into them and sighing. He mentally cursed over the state that he was in now and wished to Ra he was in the bed with her. Then he heard a noise behind him. Bakura swung around his fists raised ready to fight.

Kebi blinked and looked at him.

Bakura looked behind the small boy but saw no one. "Who are you?"

"I'm Lady Aurahkah's slave. Who are you?"

"No one in particular. Go back to bed. Your mistress is fine."

"Uh-huh, not until I know who you are. I don't want my mistress to get hurt and I know she wouldn't like a strange man in her room at night."

Bakura mentally cursed all children. "I'm….an old friend of your mistress'. I have no intentions of hurting her I just came by to check on her. Now go to bed."

Kebi looked at him. "Well you checked on her now you can leave."

Bakura glared at the boy and began to walk towards him. Kebi, unsure of himself backed up. He raised his fists defiantly at Bakura but began to shake as Bakura advanced.

Bakura sighed. He got down on one knee and looked at the shaking little boy. "Hey, I'm not going to hurt you or Lady Aurahkah. I promise. Now I just want to make sure she is okay but I need you to go back to your bed. I will be gone as soon as you do. Just don't scream okay?" Bakura held his breath and waited for the boy to make up his mind.

Kebi nodded and turned around. He walked into his room but left the door open.

Bakura sighed. "Finally." he sighed and walked back towards Aura.

"Hey…mister."

Bakura clenched his fists and turned around hiding them behind his back. "Yes?"

"What's your name?"

"What's yours?"

"I'm Karabai…but everyone calls me Kebi."

"Kebi huh? Well Kebi. Let's just call me a friend. Now go to bed. You wouldn't want your mistress' breakfast to be late because you slept in now would you?"

Kebi frantically shook his head and ran back into his room.

Bakura placed one last kiss on Aura's temple and then slipped out the window. "I will return Aura, my love. Sweet dreams, sweetheart." Running through the darkness he whispered curses. "Ra shoot me if I ever have kids. I will NEVER have kids!" Shaking his head he disappeared into the darkness.

Yami opened his eyes and rolled over almost crushing Relah who lay sleeping beside him. He kissed Relah and she sleepily smiled. Opening her eyes she smiled up at him.

"Good morning sunshine."

Relah yawned and Yami smiled. She was so cute in the morning.

"It's morning already?"

"Yes. But we don't have to get up yet."

Relah sat up and tossed her hair over her shoulder. She looked at Yami and leaned her elbows on her knees. "And what do you propose we do instead?"

"Well we could roll back over and go back to sleep but I would much rather…"

Relah's eyes widened and she smacked Yami lightly with the pillow. "Yeah about that Yami."

Yami began to kiss her neck. "Yes?"

"Well I think that even though it won't be my first time..I still want a wedding night."

Yami continued to kiss her neck. "Mmmm hmmm and I for one think it will be a very good one."

"No Yami. That's not what I mean."

Yami was not listening and he began to go lower.

"Yami!" Relah pushed him away and he fell back against the pillow. "Do we have to talk about this now? Can't we wait until after I'm satisfied?"

Relah glared at him.

"I mean after we 'wake up'?"

"No. I want to wait."

Yami tilted his head and looked at her. "Why wait? I'm Pharaoh and I'm free now."

Relah sighed. "No Yami. I mean wait until our wedding night."

"But that's like…we don't even know when our wedding night is. And you want me to wait…and unknown amount of time?"

Relah took on her wounded puppy look. "Please Yami Yami it would mean so much to me."

Yami sighed and Relah hugged him. "Oh all right fine. If you think it's important then we will wait."

Relah kissed him back and then slipped out of bed. She slipped on a dressing gown as a knock sounded at the door.

Yami grabbed some clothes and stalked to the door. Looking at Relah he made sure she was dressed before he yanked open the door. A frightened slave greeted him at the door. He looked and saw Aura and Seto standing back against the wall watching him. Pharaoh returned his attention to the slave. "Yes?" he growled.

"M-m-my P-P-Pharaoh…" the frightened slave stuttered.

"Yes?" he growled again.

"My P-Pharaoh…" the slave tried again.

"Yes that is who I am. Now what do you want?" He watched Aura and Seto with narrowed eyes as they argued amongst themselves but would not meet his eyes.

"There was a m-m-mish-hap….."

Yami's eye twitched "A mishap where?"

"I-in the d-d-dungeons…my Lord."

Yami's eyes narrowed and tension crackled in the air. "Where is Dakar?" he slowly enunciated the three words in a cruel voice.

The slaves eyes widened and Yami growled. Clenching his fists he grabbed the slave and slammed his head into the door. "Incompetent slaves. Incompetent guards. Incompetent staff!" With each exclamation he slammed the poor slave's head into the door. Finally he dropped the slave who was by now unconscious. Yami stepped over the limp slave and slapped his hands together. Motioning another quivering slave he growled "Get rid of him. He's bleeding all over my floor." He began to take purposeful strides towards Aura and Seto who looked at each other and ran in opposite directions.

Yami stalked to the hall and glared at the two disappearing around the corners. Clenching his fists he stalked towards the dungeons and threw open the door.

Relah watched the whole scene unfold with wide eyes and an open mouth. "Oh no…they ran. That's bad. And he is pissed. Ra, I better go make sure he doesn't kill anyone else." She checked to make sure the slave was still alive and took off after Yami.

Yami entered into the dungeons and yelled "Where is he?"

The guards snapped to attention.

Yami grabbed the first one by the collar. "Where the hell is my prisoner?"

"Well you see…my…Pharaoh…"

Yami sighed with disgust and tossed the guard against the wall. He stalked past the other guards and down the row of cells looking in at the empty cells. When he had reached the final cell in the row he glared at the open door and knew immediately that this had been Dakar's cell. Yami stared at the open shackles and bellowed.

Relah heard Yami's bellow of rage while she was standing in front of the closed dungeon door. Quickly she threw it open in time to see a very pissed Yami stalk past her and grab her forcibly by the arm. He dragged her behind him all the way down the hall.

Relah protested and tried to get him to stop but he just continued to tighten his hold until he was holding her so tightly she was certain he was going to bruise her.

Yami pulled Relah into the throne room and slammed the door. He whirled her around and began to shake her. "Why did you leave the room? Did I tell you to leave the room? I don't want you anywhere near the dungeons. That is not a place for you to be. Do you understand me?!" Yami finally realized that he was shaking Relah so hard her neck was continually snapping back and forth. He stopped and crushed her to his chest. "I'm sorry sweetheart but I don't want you anywhere near there. Baby, are you alright? I didn't…I mean. Ra!"

Relah looked at him tears welling up in her eyes. "I…I'm sorry?"

Yami groaned and hugged her again. Wiping away her tears he kissed her forehead. "I'm the one who's sorry sweetheart. I just…Ra…please don't cry."

Relah tried to dry her tears "I…just…you …someone has to stop you from killing everyone in sight."

Yami sighed. "I know sweetheart and I am so sorry. Now I want you to sit here with me and wait a moment. I need to find out what happened. I'm going to question Aura and Seto and …Seraph."

Relah sat down and rubbed her arms. She rubbed her neck and adjusted her headpiece. "Damn gold." she muttered. Her neck was killing her and her arm bands had cut into her skin where Yami had grabbed her. In short she was pissed and in pain.

Yami left her on the throne and walked to the door. Throwing it open he bellowed "Aurahkah! Seto! Seraphic! Get in the throne room now!"

Seraph quickly got dressed. "Oh no…he found the empty cell." She suddenly had second thoughts about letting Dakar go. Then she shook her head. "He only had to admit what Pharaoh asked him. He did nothing wrong and didn't deserve to die." Seraph heard Yami yell again and grabbed her slippers. Sitting on the side of the bed she pulled on her slipper and hopped to the door trying to put her other slipper on and get out of the room. She ran through the halls finally making it to the throne room. Running a hand through her tangled, sleep-mussed hair she opened the door and slipped into the throne room.

Yami waited approximately three seconds before yelling again. "Aura! Seto! Seraph! Get in here! Now!" He began to pace until Aura and Seto came into the room slowly. Yami glared at them "Come in here! Stop slinking around corners! Where the hell is Seraphic? Seraph! Get your ass in here! Right now!" Yami glared at Seto and Aura who stood a very long way away from the enraged royal. "Stand there!"

He watched as Aura and Seto stepped gingerly to the place he had pointed to.

"Now…where the hell is Seraph! Seraphic!"

Seraph ran around the corner and almost hit the floor. She grabbed the wall for support and skidded around the corner. Running into the hall with the throne room she heard Yami yell her name. She cringed and continued running. She skidded into the throne room and slammed into Seto's chest. He grabbed her and steadied her then hissed "Don't move!"

"Ah Seraphic! So nice of you to finally join us!"

Seraph looked at the other two standing there. The scene she saw scared the hell out of her. Relah looked like a wounded puppy, crying silently on the throne. Aura was shaking and Seto was biting his lip so hard she was afraid it was going to bleed. Seraph heard Yami begin to yell and she cringed.

Seto bit down on his lip and tasted his blood. He felt a trickle run down his chin but didn't dare move his hand to wipe it away.

Yami stalked in front of the three. "Now it seems one of my prisoners has gone missing in the night! And I was just wondering if any of you happened to have any idea where he might have gone? No? Well there is supposed to be an execution this morning and I have no one to execute. Would one of you like to take his place?" Yami continued to stalk in front of them his fists clenched. "Aura? Seto? Seraphic?" He stopped in front of her and glared. "Yes Seraphic. Would you be so kind as to volunteer yourself in his place? Well?"

Seraph's eyes darted around and looked at Aura and Seto but they were not going to help her. "Umm….no…"

"No! No! Well then perhaps you could give me an explanation as to where this slave has so magically disappeared to?"

"No…I-I- I don't know."

Yami glared at her. "Yes you do. Don't you Seraph? You know something."

Seraph couldn't help it she burst into tears. Yami shook his head in disgust. He moved on. "What about you Seto? You have a history of having problems with people in my palace. Could you possibly have staged it so I wouldn't suspect you and then let him out later?"

Seto said nothing and Yami shoved him back. "You are despicable! All of you! You incompetent fools! I should have every one of you executed for your stupidity! Now one of you knows something and none of you are leaving until I find out what it is! So, who wants to start."

Silence greeted the enraged Yami and he became even madder. Seraph continued to sob and began to hiccup while crying uncontrollably. Yami stalked back towards her. "Stop it Seraphic now!"

Seraph had no idea how he expected her to stop crying but she honestly tried. Yami was so pissed off he raised his hand and backhanded her.

Seraph felt the crushing blow hit the side of her face and snapped her head around. She collapsed into a heap on the ground, the right side of her face on fire. Seto dropped down beside her and looked at her face. The red welt that appeared was enough to enrage Seto. He looked up and saw Yami advance on Aura.

Yami moved on to Aura. "So Aura, you seem to have many problems with slaves. And they all seem to be about the same kind. Was it you? Did you let Dakar free? Answer me!"

Aura stood there emotionless. Finally she managed. "I-I didn-"

Yami raised his hand and Aura cringed waiting for the blow. But it never came. She opened her eyes and saw Yami's hand stopped in midair by Seto's arm. Yami's other arm came up and Seto grabbed that one as well.

Yami glared at Seto. "You dare to manhandle me?"

Seto glared right back. "Look Yami as your friend I'm telling you that you need to calm down." He backed Yami up away from the two women. "You have now hurt two women in this room and this has to stop! If you want to take your rage out on someone, do it on me. But don't you dare touch any of the women in this room or you will answer to me!"

"Are you sure you want to do this Seto?"

"I'm positive. Now calm down or I will be forced to use magic."

Yami glared at him and moved his hand. Seto sighed and blue fire appeared. Before Yami had time to move he was crumpled to the floor in an unconscious heap. Seto stood there in front of the unconscious Pharaoh, his chest heaving. He turned around and saw Aura shaking but with the exception of being scared, seemed to be fine. Then he saw Seraph who was still on the ground crying uncontrollably. Seto hurried to Seraph's side and kneeled down beside her. He pulled the weeping woman into his arms and rocked her.

"It's alright sweetheart. He smoothed her hair back away from her face and gingerly touched her cheek. When he saw the angry fire of her cheek he hissed and felt uncontrollable rage begin. Swallowing the bitter taste of rage he stood up and lifted her into his arms. She stared up at him through watery violet eyes and buried her face in his chest. Seto glared at the still form on the floor and stalked over to the door. Kicking it open he carried Seraph through the halls past the cowering slaves. Seto carried Seraph into her room and laid her gently on her bed. He wiped the tears that were still running down her cheeks. "It's alright baby. He can't hurt you anymore. I promise, he will never hurt you again."

Seraph looked up at Seto and saw the blood on his chin. She reached up and touched his chin. "You're hurt." she said her eyes welling up again. She sat up and wiped them away. Her hands filled with lavender fire and she touched his lip. Seto felt the cut on his lip heal and his blue eyes widened. He sat down on the edge of the bed speechless. Seraph used the sleeve of her dress to wipe away the last traces of blood on his chin. She studied his face, searching for anymore injuries and was satisfied when she found none.

Seto pulled her into his arms and she buried her tear-stained face in his neck. He stroked her hair and held her tightly. Finally he laid her back down and stood up to leave to go check on Aura. Seraph grabbed his cape and said "Please Seto, don't leave me. Just stay with me until I fall asleep."

Seto sighed and sat down and prepared to wait until she fell asleep.

Aura blinked and just saw Seto disappearing through the door with Seraph in his arms. She looked over at Yami's form on the floor and immediately got scared. "He's not going to be happy when he moves again." She slowly walked towards him and nudged him with her foot, jumping back. She waited a few minutes but Yami made no movement. Looking towards the throne, she stepped around Yami and walked over to Relah. Aura walked up to Relah and took her face in her hands. "What did he do Relah?"

Relah closed her eyes and began to shake her head but then stopped because of the pain.

"Dammit! He shook you again didn't he?"

Relah stared up at her. "Yes…he did. I think he bruised my arms…it hurts Aura…but I know he didn't mean to do it."

Aura helped Relah stand and she leaned against Aura for support. "He can't help it Aura. Really. He just…can't control it. And he doesn't know his own strength. He doesn't mean to hurt…he just doesn't…"

Aura nodded. "I know. Come on Relah. Let's get you back to bed. I think we all just need to go to sleep and deal with this when we wake up. I'll tuck you into your bed."

"What about Yami?"

"Uh do we have to move him? Well..if we must..I'll get one of the guards to help me get him into his bed. Then we'll lock him in his room and let him sleep this rage off. When he wakes up there will be hell to pay but we will deal with that later. Come on now Relah don't worry. I won't let Pharaoh wake up in that position although it would serve him right." Aura led Relah to her room and tucked her in then went to her room. Kebi was huddled on his bed and Aura went to him and picked him up and held him in her arms as he began to cry.

"Shh Kebi. It's over now. Shh." Kebi put his small arms around her and she buried her face in his hair. He hugged her and she held him for a while. After some time had passed Kebi looked up at her and said "Is it really over?"

"Yes, Kebi." Aura smoothed his hair. "The Pharaoh is finished yelling and I don't think we'll hear or see him for a while. Aura thought back to the scared slaves that had been huddling in separate rooms and even the guards who were shaken. She had found two guards who lifted the limp Yami and carried him to his room where Aura had tucked him into bed. Quickly they closed the door and locked it from the outside. Kebi jumped up and said "I'm okay now. Can I get you anything Lady Aurahkah?"

"No. Kebi I just…want to be left alone."

Kebi slipped off the bed and went out into the hall looking for his mother.

She grabbed her pillow and hugged it holding back tears. The morning had been so exhausting but she still had things to do. She left her room to go check on everything else.

Yami was sleeping peacefully after being knocked unconscious by Seto's blow. His door was locked from the outside and only Aura had the key. Relah was in a separate room with her door locked. Seraph finally fell asleep but so did Seto. The two are curled up on her bed with Rasui at the foot. Kebi found his mother and comforted her and Aura walked around the palace doing stuff.

Aura collapsed onto her bed, exhausted. It had been a long day and now she was in for a long night. Kebi returned from his mother and was in his room. She looked in on him and was pleased to see he too was sleeping like everyone else in the palace. She covered him with a blanket and placed a kiss on his forehead. She pulled his door closed and walked over to her bed. Climbing in she laid down but sleep wouldn't come. Torturous images of Seraph falling and Seto preparing to fight Yami flashed through her mind. She saw the cowering slaves and shaken guards. And then she saw poor dazed Relah and the limp Yami. Finally she couldn't help it, she sat up and burst into tears.

Kebi heard her sobs and slipped out from his room and walked into the bedchamber. Slipping onto the bed he came up behind Aura and hugged her.

"It's all right to cry Lady Aurahkah. Even I cried."

Bakura slipped up by the window and scaled the wall. He stopped dead in his tracks when he heard devastated weeping. Cold dread swept through him. Aura was awake. Should he reveal himself now? Aura's crying tore at his heart. He didn't care about being discovered he just wanted her to stop crying. He tore into the room and saw Aura hunched over on the bed with Kebi's small arms encircling her slim waist. Bakura's heart clenched and he walked over to Kebi. Reaching down he picked the boy up and moved him. Then he slipped into his place. Reaching his arms around Aura's waist he held her. Aura leaned back into him and continued to cry. Bakura held her until she had cried herself to sleep in his arms, then he laid her down in her bed. Covering her, he saw Kebi standing at the door.

"Is she okay?"

"Shh, she's sleeping." Bakura whispered.

"Oh." Kebi whispered. "Is she okay?"

Bakura smiled down at the sleeping Aura, exhausted from her stressful day and crying. He walked over to Kebi and leaned down beside him. "Hey Kebi," he whispered. "She's going to be fine. She just needs a good night's sleep. Now here's what I want you to do. Sleep with her tonight. Don't leave her side. Do you understand?"

Kebi nodded his head solemnly.

"Oh and don't under any circumstances tell her I was here. She doesn't need to deal with that yet, okay? Look at me Karabai. This is extremely important. Do not tell her. Okay?"

Kebi again nodded his head. Then he crawled into the bed with Aura who never stirred.

Bakura slipped over to the window and looked one last time at the bed where Kebi and Aura were now sound asleep. He smiled at them and then slipped out the window.

Yami stirred restlessly turning over in his sleep.

He was standing there in his bedroom. He saw himself kiss Relah and then get up and go to the door. The door opened and he saw himself grab a hold of the slave and slam his head repeatedly into the wall. He heard himself scream and winced. The room spun and the next thing he knew he was watching himself drag Relah down the hall. Yami winced at the pain he saw on Relah's face and the futile attempts to fight him off. Then Yami felt like he had been punched in the stomach. He watched in horror as the other him grabbed a hold of the woman he loved and shook her. He saw her head snap back and forth in slow motion. He watched as the gold headdress he insisted she wear popped her in the head every time her head came back forward. He saw her bands cutting into her arms and the bruises that seemed to appear before his very eyes. He watched the naked pain in Relah's eyes and the way she cringed when he tried to comfort her. Finally he saw her huddled on the throne, tears streaming down her cheeks, and watched her rub her arms. She pulled the bands off and he watched as the blood began to pour from her open wounds. Relah huddled on her chair, a puddle of tears and blood and Yami thought he would be sick. But it wasn't over yet. He saw Aura and Seto running away from him down the hall. He saw Seraph jump out of bed and try and get out of the room. Aura and Seto arguing about who was going inside first and Seraph almost slamming into the corner and knocking herself out in her haste to get to him. The room spun again and he watched himself raise his hand and smack a sobbing Seraph. Her head snapped and she was thrown to the ground with the force of the blow. He saw himself move on to Aura and lift his hand…but then he saw Seto fight him off. Finally a blue blast filled the room and Yami saw himself fall to the ground. He looked around and saw everyone on the ground. Seto was comforting Seraph and Aura was trying to comfort Relah. He heard Relah her voice getting louder and louder…"He can't help it Aura. Really. He just…can't control it. And he doesn't know his own strength. He doesn't mean to hurt…he just doesn't…"

Yami threw back his head and let out an anguished yell…

He sat up in bed with a start still screaming. He looked around him and saw that he was in his own bedchamber. "Ra, it was just a dream. Just a really bad dream. Thank Ra" …he couldn't take it. All the tears and blood and Relah's words echoing in his head. He got up and met the sun streaming in through the window. "Just a really bad dream." He walked over to the door, stretched, and tried to open the door. But it wouldn't budge. He yanked but it stayed shut. Suddenly he felt cold dread fill him. Why was he locked in his own room? Was it…no it couldn't be…he didn't….he couldn't…could the dream be real? Why else would he have been locked in his room? No one would dare to lock the Pharaoh in his own room unless he had really done all those things. Ra…he was a bastard. Again he saw the cold fear in Relah's eyes…Seraph fall to the ground…and his hand raise against Aura. He raised his hand to the door and knocked.

Everyone in the hallways froze at the sound of Pharaoh's tortured screams. They weren't sure what to do. Lady Aurahkah had the key but no one wanted to wake her up. She had had a stressful day and they felt like she deserved to sleep. None of the others were awake yet. They heard Pharaoh knocking on the door but were powerless to do anything. Finally they figured that it wouldn't hurt him to be locked in awake for a few hours.

Relah rolled over and immediately regretted it. Her head was killing her and her arms hurt too. She tried to stand up but her head hurt too bad. She let out a low moan and finally managed to get up and unlock the door. She collapsed into the hallway with a groan and was caught by a passing slave who jumped when the door opened. He picked her up and carried her back into the room. Laying her down he asked "Can I get you anything?"

"My head…hurts..bad…" she groaned again.

"I'll get Lady Seraphic. She can help."

Seto opened his eyes and saw black. He was confused for a moment until he reached up and felt his face. He encountered a soft mass and had no idea what it was. Then the scent of lavender filled his nostrils. "Seraph?" He shook his head and strands of satin caressed his cheek. He pulled the rest of Seraph's heavy hair off his face and sat up. Rasui opened her eyes from her spot on Seraph's chest and looked at him. She blinked and laid her head back down a sleepy sigh audible. Seto looked down and saw Seraph cuddled up against him her head where his chest had just been. He brushed her hair aside and looked at her cheek. Where it had been a fiery red, was now purplish-blue and green. It was an ugly looking bruise and covered her entire cheek. He tenderly touched her cheek and winced when she cringed in her sleep. He moved his hand to push away the rest of her hair and accidentally touched the dark bluish area at the top of her cheek inches from her eye. Seraph hissed and awoke with a start.

Seto's eyes widened. "Sorry sweetheart. I didn't mean to."

Seraph blinked and rubbed her eyes. She hissed again when her hand rubbed against that tender spot. She felt her own cheek and knew that it was bruised. Turning she presented her battered cheek to Seto.

"How bad is it?"

Seto didn't want to lie to her but he didn't want her to freak out either. He decided to go with a half-truth. "Well it is bruised. Some areas look worse than others."

Seraph grabbed a mirror from her bedside table and before Seto could snatch it from her. She looked at her bruised cheek and winced at all the angry colors. She stood up and walked over to her dressing table and grabbed a small jar. Coming back to the bed she gave the jar to Seto and said "This will help the swelling to go down and allow it to heal while minimizing the pain. Take a small amount and rub it in. Don't stop no matter what. Make sure you coat the entire bruise or it won't do any good. Oh and try and be gentle."

Seto took the jar and opened the lid. He reached in and scooped out a cool gel. He coated his fingers and carefully touch her cheek. Holding her head still he began to coat her bruise with the cool, pale green, gel.

Seraph tried not to cry or hiss but it hurt so badly. Her cheek felt like it was on fire and she had a slight headache, no doubt caused by the force of the blow.

Seto sucked in his breath every time she winced and it killed him when he saw her eyes fill up with tears. He cursed under his breath and vowed he would murder Yami with his bare hands next time he saw him. When he got to the really ugly part of the bruise and the worst she hissed and screamed.

"I'm sorry."

"It's not your-" Seraph stopped as three slaves came into the room. They glared at Seto and looked at Seraph to see if she was alright. What they saw scared them even more. The slaves stared in wonder at the ugly bruise on Seraph's cheek. A bruise that was the result of one slap. Finally one of the slaves stepped forward.

"My Lady, Relah is in need of your healing abilities. She is very battered and has a terrible ache in her head."

Seraph jumped up and grabbed the jar from Seto. Rushing to her dressing table she grabbed the bag and ran off to see Relah.

Seraph saw to Relah's wounds, who despite Yami's terrible dream was not beaten as badly as he thought. Seraph's cheek still caused her immense pain but the balm helped her cheek as well as make her decision about how Seto felt. Aura slept for two days straight and Bakura returned every night to check on her. Kebi kept his secret from Aurahkah and she never had any idea that every night he visited. Pharaoh was let out of his cage as soon as Aura was awake and functioning correctly. He was a deeply apologetic man and a very humble one.

Aura walked down the hall and entered Yami's room. He hadn't moved since she had unlocked it a few hours ago. The plate of food that she had brought him was untouched.

"Yami you have to eat something. It's been two days."

Yami turned anguished eyes to Aura. "I'm so sorry Aura." He reached up and Aura flinched involuntarily. Yami sighed and dropped his hand. Then he picked up his plate but he had no desire to eat.

"You didn't hit me Yami."

"No but you still flinch. Just imagine how Seraphic and Relah are doing. I want to see her. How is Relah?"

"She's fine. Seraph took care of her headache and put the balm on her bruises. She's up and moving around if you want to see her."

Yami sighed. "Send her in here."

Aura nodded and motioned to a slave. He came in the room but stood back away from the bed with Yami in it. Aura sighed and walked over. She whispered something to the slave and he nodded. Darting furtive glances at Yami he finally left.

Relah came into the room a few minutes later. Yami looked at her and she went to the bed and hugged him.

"Relah…honey are you okay?"

"Yami I'm fine. Just a little shook up."

He grabbed her arms and saw the bruises on her arms. Bruises he had put there. He pulled Relah into his arms and rocked her. Much to his chagrin she began to cry.

"I'm sorry…Yami..I just…"

"No. It's okay Relah."

Relah sniffed. "I didn't want Seraphic to be right about you. But you hurt me Yami. And it isn't the first time either. I don't want to but if you do it again I will have to leave you."

Yami held her and stroked her hair as she continued to cry. Finally he gently grabbed her chin and forced her to look at him. "Relah, love, " he said his voice choked with emotion. "I promise you right now that I will never again lay a hand on you out of force. I will never hurt you like this again."

Relah looked at him, love shining in her eyes. "You swear?"

"I swear on Egypt and may it be taken from me if I lie. May Ra strike me down if I ever lay a hand on another woman out of anger."

Relah was satisfied. "You have more apologizing to do. I'll get Seraph for you."

Seraph poked her head in the door and looked at Yami. "Relah said you wanted to see me."

"Yes." He caught sight of Seraph's cheek and once again felt the cold dread sweep through him. He stood up and walked over to her. Raising his hand he laid it on her cheek. He watched Seraph's face as it showed first fear, then pain. Yami grabbed her and hugged her. Seraph hugged him back. "I'm so sorry Seraphic. I never meant to cause you so much pain. Can you ever forgive me?"

"Of course, my Pharaoh. I forgave you after you did it."

"How long will that be there?"

"It will probably last for another week. But this is the worst it will ever be. Without the balm it could be like this for months."

Yami nodded and then sighed.

That night he stood up and apologized to all the slaves, guards, and inner circle. He also promised to never let his rage overwhelm him again. He personally apologized to the slave whose head he had bashed into the wall and any other slaves that were injured. After a few weeks had passed, everyone became comfortable around him again. Seraph and Relah's bruises healed and they both looked as good as new. And Seto did not murder Yami, although he did yell at him for an exceedingly long time. Pharaoh, surprisingly, sat there through the whole tirade and said not a word when it was finished. Aura swallowed her pride and thanked Seto for protecting her and Pharaoh thanked Aura for having a level head and taking over during the period of hell freezing over. Soon the palace returned to normal with Yami returning to his usual self.

A few months later:

Aura rolled over and sighed.

Bakura was laying there in the bed laughing. Aura was standing on the other side of the room shaking her head. Suddenly she blushed and Bakura laughed even harder. He got up and walked over to her taking slow, purposeful strides. Aura stood there waiting for him to come to her. He stopped halfway across the room, leaned against the bed and crossed his arms. She glared at him and motioned him over. Biting back a smile he shook his head. She crossed her arms and leaned against the door. He motioned her over but she shook her head. Finally she saw Kura shake his head again and turn around to go to his room. Aura left her spot by the door and raced into his arms. He leaned down and kissed her. The room began to spin and Aura was cuddled in his arms. They were laying in bed together cuddling and she was tracing the scars on his chest. She looked up into his chocolate eyes…those eyes of such warmth. She reached up and suddenly she was alone. Kura was gone. She looked around her and caught a glimpse of white. She looked up and he was standing over her. She reached up again and touched his face…

Bakura froze his eyes wide. He never stayed this late. He glanced back towards the window and saw that it was almost dawn. Aura was feeling his face. She moved her hands up his cheek towards his eyes. Then she felt the scars under his right eye. Her fingers hesitated in the unexplored region. She traced the scars and Bakura shivered. He loved the feel of Aura's hands against his face but he really should leave before she woke up. He knew that his nighttime visits would end once she found out he had been there. There was no way she could bear to lose him again. Not to mention the tirade she would no doubt deliver once she realized he was back and taking risks. He smiled. He knew his Aura. His Aura. Yes. His. Bakura's plans were almost completely set. He only needed a little more time to pull of the biggest heist of all. Then he would be prepared to take Aura away and live with her forever.

Aura slowly came awake and looked up. She saw Bakura standing above her and her eyes went wide. She couldn't believe it. At first she wasn't sure if it was really him or she was still dreaming. So many times she had dreamed that dream and woken up cold and alone.

"Kura? Is it really you?"

Bakura snapped back to reality at the sound of his nickname. He looked at Aura, her eyes wide and cursed.

"We haven't seen each other in months and those are the first words you say to me? What happened to hi Aura. Or how are you? Or even I love you Aura." Aura glared at him.

Bakura stared down at her not comprehending what had just happened. "I'm sorry?"

"Bakura…am I dreaming."

Bakura saw his chance and went to take it but he couldn't. "No darling it's really me."

Aura sprang out of bed and threw her arms around his neck. After she had hugged him and pulled him down into the bed with her. She looked at his face and saw the menacing triple scar under his right eye. "What happened?"

"Tomb robber. She thought she had a claim to MY tomb. I proved her wrong."

"Doesn't look like it. Looks like she showed you."

"I'm alive aren't I?"

"Kura…you didn't….please tell me you didn't…"

"No. You broke me of that habit. Now I show mercy…"

Aura laughed and pulled him to her. She kissed him long and slow putting all of the nights of tears and sorrow into it. She kissed him and showed him how much she had missed him. He responded by showing her how much he missed her. Bakura knew he had to leave and soon. He hated to leave Aura like this but he didn't have much of a choice.

"Aura…Aura..stop. I know. I know. Love, look at me."

"Why did you say stop?"

"Because, someone had to."

Aura felt disappointment race through her. "Oh…well then. It was nice seeing you Bakura."

Bakura sighed. "No, it's not like that, Aura. It's just I have to go. I've already been here too long. But it's almost dawn and I-" he stopped as Aura flew out of bed.

"Dawn! What are you still doing here? Get out! Now! Go! Before someone sees you. I can't bear to lose you again. You shouldn't have come back in the first place! What were you thinking? You will be killed if you are -"

Bakura shook his head and grabbed her. Kissing her he stopped her angry tirade but immediately realized that he was getting in over his head. Placing a chaste kiss on her cheek he walked to the window. "I'll see you tonight."

"No you won't, Bakura. Don't come back! I mean it. I don't want to see you get caught."

He leaned on the windowsill and said "I love you Aurahkah. I'll see you tonight."

"I'll love you too Kura but…okay." He slipped down the wall and disappeared into the breaking day.

Aura leaned against the windowsill watching as Bakura disappeared into the final shadows of the night. She leaned her chin on her hand and sighed. Finally the Gods had smiled down on her. Her Kura was back.

Yoru: Awww, isn't it cute. Yay the chapter is done. Over! Complete! Finis! And now you all have your long awaited ch 13. Wait till you see what happens in 14...ah yes the angst continues. And I must say that for all of you who were ready to kill me when Bakura left…this was planned from the beginning. Your pleading had no effect whatsoever. HA HA! Yes I mean you reviewers who yelled and screamed cuz Kura was gone. Well now he's back and Aura is happy and Yami was a bastard. Yes I know. But it all has a point. And next chapter Seraph and Seto's relationship goes to a whole new level….and now I'm going to be bombarded with reviews which I love and as I wait for a really long time to get 14 up …threats. But I love those too cuz then I know how much you love my story. Which makes me happy and I want to write! So keep begging and threatening cuz it does eventually work!