Hello, everyone! Long time no see, I know! I will be visiting some of my later works in hopes of getting myself out of the emotional rut that I've found myself in. Not going to bore you with details (since we are all having our fair share) so I'll just jump right in!
Big thank you for everyone who takes the time to read and keep up with me! I see you and I love you all!
. . . .
Forewarning: This work will be rated M to be safe!
There are adult situations and themes inside so if you are under 18 or are easily queasy, please proceed with caution.
This will not be the cutesy musical that some of have grown up with (the animated movie) and I honestly have never seen the play/broadway/original so I can't say that it will or won't have any similarities.
. .
I don't own rights to Yu-Gi-Oh! or Anastasia!
Anastasia (Original Yu-Gi-Oh! Style)
Part 3
The train had just begun to move by the time they reached the platform, the traveling group quickly providing their tickets to the staff and were ushered aboard, the three men careful to ensure that she was handled with care being as Tea was still recovering. They were settled into a booth towards the center of the car and earned blissful sighs from all as they were greeted by cushiony seats, heated air, and private curtains that would ensure none would disturb them. A pair of seats, one on each side, were covered in rich wine hued fabric that was soft to the touch compared to the coarse clothing they wore while the carpet beneath their feet was polished cherry wood that shone brightly as if it was just polished. The metallic accents that were the frame of the space and the window sill glittered as if made of gold as the lantern-like light above their heads gently swayed in time with the train's movements. Joseph and Tristan took the seats closest to the door assuring that they would keep watch.
Tea, though, could not bring herself to relax despite the seemingly calm environment that they had found themselves in. Her cobalt eyes regarded the staff member that had stopped by to offer food or beverages with weariness, declining their protests of no currency while assuring them that it had already been paid for in full, and nearly jumped out of her skin as fingers lightly brushed against the hand she'd been using to brace herself against the wall and seat to cushion the train's jostling.
"Are you alright?" he whispered lowly, leaning forward in time to steady her as a bounce nearly sent her to the floor. "You seem on edge."
A hand rose to comb through her chocolate locks as she sighed but shemanaged to force her lips to lift into what she hoped was an assuring smile. "I'm probably just paranoid."
Amethyst shone with worry as she readjusted within her seat only for her to nearly be sent back towards the floor. "Is this the first time you have ridden a train, Tea?"
Her answer, an embarrassed flush of cheeks, was all the answer he needed.
His hands took her own as another jostle threatened to cause her to fall forward and maneuvered her so that instead of falling back onto the seat behind her she ended up on the one beside him. A smirk raised his lips as she sputtered for a few seconds then settled against him as he tilted his being so that she was more comfortable. She sheepishly thanked him, the blush in her cheeks remaining even as he assured her that it was no problem and that she shouldn't worry herself over it. "Now tell me about this lead of yours."
"Nope." She shook her head, smirking when he lightly pouted. "You just want me to tell you so that you can leave me behind while you go off on your own. Not on my watch!"
Time passed, as did the snowy scenery outside, the passengers within the little booth carrying various small talk until the blonde and chestnut haired man drifted off to sleep, filling the air with their incredibly loud snoring. The food gone, bellies full, a pleasant silence lingered between the remaining individuals as they watched the bustling city outside disappear into rugged countryside. Frost crept up the double planed glass, creating intricate and delicate designs as it did until nearly the whole window was covered in glittering patterns save for the two places where their warm breath met the translucent surface.
Curiosity and hesitation shone within his reflection's gaze when she glance his way. The eldest prince has said that his memory had returned but what if he was second guessing himself? Though he had recalled his name it was only one piece to the puzzle that was the young man before her. He must be deep within the through of his memory searching for answers to questions she herself may not know the answers to. Though the clothing was unfortunately mundane, their tears and patches would make anyone look like a street bum but even their dulled earthy tones couldn't damper his noble features and gemstone eyes. Even with the makeshift hood that Lady Ishizu had lent him that covered the tricolored hair atop of his head if anyone looked too close into his face they would be able to recognize him. "I've been meaning to ask about the orphanage."
"Hm?" It was a soft hum, one that said he was listening though his gaze remained upon the intricate frost on the window.
"How did they not know who you were?"
Shoulders rose in a shrug. "Without a name, most would simply disregard a person and the fact that I had no memory at the time helped little." Pulling down the sleeve of his right arm slightly, he exposed a metallic accent band that looked as though the top layer of nickel was wearing away to reveal the copper underneath. "I used to use this to tie back my wild hair when the teasing got to be too much even for me but now I'm afraid it has grown much too thick for this to contain. So now I simply wear it as an accessory though it was cheaply made."
"So no one ever put it together that you might be the missing prince that the family was looking for?" Her brows furrowed as he returned the sleeve to its normal position. "Did they at least treat you well?"
Darkened amethyst locked on her from the corner of his eye. "We had shelter, beds, and enough food to satisfy our hungers."
She heard his hidden question but chose not to answer it as her gaze fell to burn a hole in the floor. It was relieving to hear that he had at least been taken care of to the best of the orphanage's ability, unlike the one she herself had landed within. "The second I turned fourteen was when they kicked me to the curb and told me that I was my own problem now." Her hand waved as his lips parted. "As you can see, I'm not doing too bad. It's been a few years since then, that's how I met those two; they were hustling poker when I happened by and turned out I was a natural at calling bluffs. The lounge manager hired me on the spot to oversee the games and tournaments. It wasn't horrible by any means but it's not what I want to do with my life."
"And that would be?"
"It's stupid, honestly," she sighed, closing her eyes. "As if I could ever make it out there on my own with the measly skills that I have."
If her eyes had been open, Tea would have seen the doubtful expression cross his face, as well as the spark of curiosity within his gaze as she leaned against the wall. Silence fell once more between them, with the occasional snore from one or both of the men by the door. Amethyst slowly moved back to the window where it absentmindedly traced the patterns within the frost as cobalt rose to trace the ones on the ceiling.
Long lashes brushed her skin as she blinked, an idea occurring to her as the glaze within his eyes cleared, and offered him a smile. "Let's play a game."
His chin slowly rose off the palm of his hand, eyes shifting to rest on the young woman sitting across from him. Tea's eyes were partially lidded as she watched him, as if waiting to gauge his response, and settled back against the seat while crossing his right leg over the other. "What do you suggest? We have no tabletop or pieces."
"Are you chicken?" She bit back a smile as his brow quirked as he crossed his arms; yeah, that was him alright. Both princes, the eldest especially, was not one who turned away a challenge and absolutely loathed being taunted. He was a calm person but he was one who was quickly riled by a challenge. "A riddle." A bob of his head was her cue to continue. "If I win, then I get to have the pendant hanging from around your neck." Her tone dripped with seriousness as he blinked in shock and hurried to continue when his lips parted. "If you win, then you can have mine and…and…" The lump of emotion that rose in her throat threatened to choke her. "I'll tell you where we are going and will let you go off on your own if that's what you really want."
The pair beside the door shared a glance. They had woken the second she'd initially spoken but had continued the façade so as not to interrupt them if something serious were to occur. Joseph and Tristan have known Tea for nearly five years so to hear her speak with such heavy withdrawn emotion was causing their chests to tighten. If she was right, that their mysterious companion they'd found within the abandoned palace was the missing prince, then what would that leave them when it was time to say goodbye? Why would she want the golden pendant he possessed?
"Do we have a deal?"
He curiously tugged on the simple cord around his neck so that the golden misshapen pendant was between them. It glittered subtly, obviously worth its weight or more from the purity of its makeup, but she did not seem the type to simply gamble her own when it clearly meant so much to her. Amethyst met cobalt. "Tea-"
"Do we?"
"These terms are acceptable." His head bobbed in a nod.
She struggled to swallow the emotion within her throat but managed with a nod of her own as she too settled back within her seat. "I can be gentle and sweet, but I can also be bitter and sour; Many search for me, but I am not so easily seen; Far and wide though you may search, where I lay is naught in any church; No treasure or gold are what I need, for when it's true I will require only you; Though a sword and a shield will do you well in battle, I am the true reason that you step upon the battlefield; Whether a king or a peasant, I do not discriminate for each restless soul screams for me." Heat bloomed like a flower within her cheeks, the frost on the window beside her melting and trickling down its surface when she rested against the cool glass in hopes of relieving her inflamed skin. "Y-you don't have to answer right now. Think about it and then give me your answer then." Rising to her feet, she slipped past the awestruck pair who still feinted slumber until the booth door slid closed behind her.
He was too stunned to move for several seconds until the initial shock faded away. "I know you two are awake." Amethyst rose to lock once more on the window as they straightened, the coats they had been using as blankets falling to the floor. The riddle seemed complicated with multiple segments. He would have to take care in compiling his answer. "How much did you hear?"
"All of it." They chorused.
The leg that was crossed fell back to the floor as he stood as possible answers flooded his mind in a storm. There were so many that it was difficult for him to even hear himself think and having the two men stare at him in suspense was not helping in the slightest. "I will return." And without another glance at the pair, he followed the same path that the young woman had taken out of the booth.
She came to a stop at one of the car junctions, a hand rising to clutch the place where her heart hammered as she wiped the sweat from her brow. Why was she breathing so hard and walking as if she were trying to run away? Maybe she could laugh this whole thing off, call it a joke even, yet the thought of doing that only made her chest tighten and hurt. A passenger took a moment to offer their assistance to call a doctor but she waved them away with a smile saying that she was just a tad motion sick from the train's motions and would be fine once she found something to drink. The call of her name from somewhere behind her caused the young woman's breath to catch as she straightened then continued with hurried strides. Her footsteps carried her past the dining car though and it wasn't until she reached the caboose that she fell in a heap amongst the luggage, nearly collapsing to the floor as exhaustion threatened to plunge her into darkness. "Guess that's what I get for overexerting myself," she gasped, using both hands to fan her warm face. "Wonder if he followed me."
"When did this become a game of hide and seek?"
A slight shriek rose up her throat as warm hands took gentle hold of her own and lifted her from the nook of space she had fallen into to find herself face-to-face with the one she thought at first was impossible. How could he have found her when she'd been aimlessly wandering throughout the train?
The once lost now found prince settled upon one of the large trunks once seating her on another so that they were facing. He took note of how her breathing was erratic, not to mention the way her visible skin shone with a light layer of sweat, but his gaze remained fixed upon her own as she sheepishly hung her head. She'd heard him call out to her yet she had not answered and had attempted to lose him within the crowd of passengers. "Tea, why were you running away from me?"
Silence hung heavily in the air for several minutes but he would not be the one to break it. As fate would have it, just as her lips parted was when the door to the small compartment opened with a slam to reveal two individuals who wore concerned expressions. "There you two are. We've been looking all over for you!"
Her brows furrowed as she stood. "Why?"
"The train's deserted! There's no one else aboard besides us!"
It was as they made to enter the car that was where their designated seats were that a telltale moan of metal sounded followed by a gear shifting and the trio turned in time to see the racing tracks beneath speed past as distance appeared between the walking platforms. His name slipped from between her lips as she teetered upon the small walkway, making her choice with a giant leap she all but threw herself towards him as his hand extended. His arms quickly wrapped around her to prevent her from falling backwards to meet her end and they watched as the other train car that held the other half of their companions faded from sight as they rounded a bend. Forcing down her worry, she slipped from his grasp and used the railings to pull herself along the aisle as the floor tilted due to the hill the train had begun to climb.
"Where are you going, Tea?!"
"To the engine!" She called back over the ear piercing whistle that filled the air. "We can't jump off at this speed or else we'll break our necks!" A jostle nearly caused her grip to slip and send her backwards if not for his hands that found her shoulders.
One step at a time, they made their way towards the front end of the car where the entrance to the conductor would be but felt ice fill their veins when they found no one tending to the screaming pressure gauges whose needles were in the red as a ravine appeared in the distance that had a broken bridge.
"If you have any ideas on how to stop a runaway train, now would be the time to voice it!" Her voice raised the fine hairs across his body; she was afraid.
His arm wrapped around her shoulder from behind while the other hand rose to cover her eyes as a tear slipped down her cheek while making their way back towards the end of the car. A bend of his neck caused his lips to level with the shell of her ear, dropping his voice to a whisper. "Do you trust me?" Her being trembled within his hold but he would not act until her answer was given.
"Of course I do," she exhaled, every muscle within her being relaxing as the warmth he gave off seeped into her clothing. "I trust you with my life."
"Then do not let go of me until I say." He was thankful that she kept her eyes closed while pivoting so that her face met his chest, his arm remaining around her shoulder so as to keep her close while the other opened its palm then took aim at one of the nearby trees that was fast approaching. Amethyst blazed brilliantly with vermillion infernos as a chant came from between his lips, the tree falling to impact the train car they were in with such force that it nearly split in half but it slowed down the car just enough for the speed of the tracks to become distinguishable. Her hold on him tightened in response to his as he began to lean backwards, another spell falling from his lips that manifested as a translucent barrier around them, and they disappeared into the nearby snow bank as the train didn't make it more than a tenth of a mile onto the bridge when it collapsed then disappeared down the ravine in an explosion that caused dark black clouds to rise towards the pale gray sky.
Onyx eyes narrowed as he sneered at the brilliant scene of utter destruction before him. The sorcerer had felt the weak flare of magical power rise from the train's innards but no matter what spell had been cast there was no doubt that his target had met their end. "Excellent." Bakura's arms crossed as he turned away from the fire show when the engine farther exploded. "One down, one more to go, and then I shall be at my full strength once more!" With a cackle, he disappeared in a wave of his hand.
Buried deep beneath a drift came a muffled sound of discomfort before a pair of individuals appeared in a shower of white, both shivering and hurrying to free themselves from the cushiony yet clingy snow. "And people ask me why I hate snow!" Tea vigorously shook herself once stepping out onto the tracks, a sneeze nearly sending her back into the drift if not for his hands that quickly drew her back against his being.
Much to his alarm, her fingers and lips were already beginning to turn blue as he rubbed her hands between his own. "Apologies, Tea, it was the only thing that came to mind." Cupping her smaller hands, he brought them to his mouth and exhaled slowly in hopes that the warmth of his breath would be enough to at least return her movement of the stiff fingers. So focused was he that the blush that entered her cheeks was missed as he cast a spell that caused his breath to spread like wildfire across her being until every inch was tingling. He blinked as she slowly removed herself from him, amethyst widened as he found her gaze fearful. "Tea?"
Her head shook as she took a step backwards when he made to approach. "I can't believe you'd use what that man, that monster, taught you after how he used it to destroy your family!" Tears spilled down her cheeks. "What good can possibly come from something so dark that has claimed the lives of nearly everyone you've ever cared for? Why would you even think of using that kind of power?"
"I am not him. I would never use it to harm another."
"That's what you say now!" The brunette shook her head again, this time in anger as her eyes glazed.
He instantly knew she was no longer with him but trapped within an onslaught of memories that flashed within her gaze of a time long ago. Being familiar with traumatic aftermath was about to pay off as he watched her carefully.
"He allowed that sorcerer into the palace because the man swore he'd heal her but when she was pronounced dead he lashed out and killed-" Her hands rose to press against her lips. If he had regained his memory she did not have to tell him what happened next. She was caught in a typhoon of emotion though and felt as though she was about to be swept away as the scene rose to replay like a broken record in front of her.
He took a deep inhale through his nose, attempting to calm his own anger as she evaded his advance again. "Do not run. You have no reason to fear me." Her words suddenly struck him like a slap to the face, his eyes widening as understanding of which point in time she was caught up in crashed down over him when the ghost of her mother, the servant of the late queen, swam within her cobalt eyes. Panic took root when she stumbled backwards, the edge of the ravine coming into view.
"Him killing my mother, the queen's loyal servant, was nothing short of murder! She'd only gone to select the funeral wear and he thought she was stealing from the family she'd served all of her life!" Her scream pierced the air as large flakes began to fall from the gray sky above them, unaware of how he was inching his way closer to her. "I know what I saw on your face back during the rebellion when the palace had been invaded and back in my place! You were fully prepared to hurt those people, probably would have if something or someone hadn't stopped you! It's the same expression that the sorcerer used to wear! What's to prevent you from wrapping your fingers around my own throat or throwing a spell at me?!" A broken hearted wail slipped up her throat as she fell to her knees, arms wrapping around herself as she stared up at him with agony filled eyes, writhing as he suddenly swept her up within his arms once more. "Let go!"
"It didn't happen as you fear, Tea, listen to me and I can reveal to you the truth." He growled lowly in her ear as he struggled to contain her while shifting away from the dangerous cliff. "He was there, the sorcerer, and your mother was bravely attempting to prevent him from approaching the place where the queen's remains were placed. She was performing her duty even though her charge was deceased." His hold tightened as she buried her teeth within his arm, suppressing a grunt as pain flared. "Our father came upon the scene of the sorcerer removing his hands from around her throat and banished him from ever stepping foot in the palace again. What happened cannot be changed, Tea, but what you don't know is that he lamented the moment he'd returned to his chambers. We were there, we saw the regret and remorse written across his features as he wept for both our mother and yours."
Her breath caught, jaw relaxing just enough that his arm could slide free. "But that's…"
"He took the blame so that he could personally see to the funeral arraignments without raising suspicion," he said softly, adjusting his hold so that she was cradled against his chest as she choked and the haze began to lift from her eyes as the ghosts swimming within their azure depths dissipated like smoke. "If he had confessed that the sorcerer was being her death then it would possibly result in others meeting the same fate if they decided to take matters into their own hands and attacked him. For the safety of the servants, for their protection, he placed himself responsible because he felt responsible for allowing such a heinous being to enter the palace."
The snow had soaked through their clothing again but neither cared as he gently began to rock her. Each of her sobs was answered by a whisper of comfort, their breaths forming faint clouds in the air as the sky above them began to lighten. Through the thick wall of clouds came rays of sunshine that fell upon the pair, illuminating them within its pale golden glow as she soon quieted down to sniffles as her body trembled from the cold and exhaustion.
His amethyst eyes that had closed opened when she shifted upwards so that their noses were brushing, revealing moisture filled gems that spoke of his hidden grief for her. "What happened cannot be undone," their foreheads met with a tilt of his head. "but your fear is more than justified. Father, though he too tampered within the magical arts, saw just how destructive it could be and swore to never use it again-"
"No." Her quivering lips struggled to move from the cold but she forced them to form words. "I always wondered why the king was so kind to me after, I thought it was his guilt that was behind it, but now I feel so foolish. You were right; you're not like him, the sorcerer. Don't swear off your use of magic, it might come in handy as it just did, and maybe I can grow to adore it again like we did way back then."
A shift of her weight allowed him to stand while keeping her close to his chest so that she at least was out of the snow as her head rested against his chest. "I swear to only use it for the protection of others…" he whispered, ghosting his lips against her temple as she slipped into unconsciousness. "…for protecting you…" She didn't waken as he tilted her upwards so that his lips brushed against the small space between her eyes but a sigh slipped between his lips as she snuggled closer against him. His eyes rose to lock on two approaching figures who were running as best they could through the snow, arms waving wildly.
. . . .
"I hate snow!"
"For the tenth time, we know!"
"Like I really hate it!" A sneeze wracked her being as she scowled at the pair who taunted her with handfuls of snow as they entered a town.
It had taken them several miles, mostly in the wrong direction thanks to a certain pair of mischief makers, but they had somehow managed to traverse through the snow covered tracks until a sign appeared of a town not too far off the path. She had woken when they stopped to take a breather, quickly slipping from her carrier's arms with a rushed apology for the trouble, and took the lead of the group when it was time to continue. They passed the time with light conversation or the occasional fantasy of finding a place to stay for the night. The near peaceful traveling group however took a turn when a certain blonde and pointy haired brunette decided it was time to stir things up by poking fun at their lone female friend.
"I can't wait to get out of the cold and into clothes that aren't sticking to me like a soaked trash bag." Another sneeze threatened to rise as the pair approached from her peripheral vision. Her cheeks were a bright red not from a blush but from frustration as the two approached with snowballs. "No! You keep those things away from me!" Horror filled her as they grinned maliciously. "I know that look, Joseph Wheeler and Tristan Taylor! Don't you dare!"
"Ah, c'mon," the blonde smirked, coming up behind her and earned a squeal as his finger poked her side. "Make that little noise that you do when we really get you going!"
Heat erupted in a fierce red blush that crept up her ears. "I am a full grown woman! You shouldn't even be-" A yelp rose as she failed to protect her other side from meeting the extended fingers of Tristan. "Stop that!" The brunette bristled when they wiggled their fingers threateningly. She snuck around to press herself against their tricolor haired companion as they dipped to gather snow within their hands. "This is not the time!"
Pitying the young woman, he lightly patted her hands that had taken hold of his jacket and fixed hardened amethyst upon them as they began to bicker. "Tea is right, you two-" the rest of his sentence was lost in the impact of a snowball in the face.
"He started it!" They chorused, pointing to the other.
A tilt of her being brought the young woman to stand before the silent man in time to see the snow melt slowly from the heat of his face. "Pfft…" Her cheeks puffed with suppressed laughter as a twitching brow could be seen that dislodged a bit of the white substance, quickly moving to put several steps between herself and the three men as a vengeful smirk appeared as he inhaled slowly. There was no malicious intent within his gaze as the lids opened but there was that glint of warning that payback would be had. The young brunette turned to face the pair with a sugary sweet smile. "It was nice knowing you two."
"Save us!"
She scrambled slightly as they suddenly rushed her, their hands latching themselves onto her shoulders as they hid within her shadow when amethyst narrowed as if honing and preparing to lock on his targets. "W-wait a minute! I want no part in this!" A soft eep came from between her lips as loomed over her slightly in his attempt to reach the ones behind her, nearly causing her face to impact with his chest as he reached around her, and gave a hearty shove in each direction as the combination of their breaths met the sensitive skin of her neck. The three instantly fell to the snow from her pivoting but her loss of balance caused her to fall forward to lay sprawled out across a warm torso as a hand knocked out her left leg and earned a grunt from below as she shifted to sit upright. "You see? This is what happens when you mess around with people who don't appreciate your sense of humor!" She blinked as Joseph and Tristan snickered, both their eyes gaining a strange glint as she crossed her arms over her chest. "What are you snickering about now?"
"Hurt yourself in the fall?" They chorused.
Cobalt blinked in confusion. Now that she thought about it, she was actually quite comfortable. Her behind felt pretty toasty and it was growing warmer with each passing second. That didn't make any sense though. If she was sitting on the ground, she should be getting colder. "What are you talking about?" Blinking, she glanced downward and wanted to die as she hurried to stand up when she found out the reason: she had somehow fallen onto his face! "Oh my gosh, are you okay?!" Mortification filled her as she spotted the shadow over his eyes as well as the slight intentions within his face that corresponded to the bunching of the skirt and intimate area that was now feeling as if someone had lit a fire beneath.
"We're so jealous of you!" The pair pulled him up off the ground, their grins still in place as they put him on his feet to reveal a burning red faced prince. "Look at that blush on your face!"
"Speak another word and both of you will die where you stand!" Her scream earned several concerned glances from those who were within earshot but they quickly returned to their daily rerouting when furious cobalt met each in turn. Embarrassment flooded her as she began walking, wishing she had a chance to double check herself, but made kept her head downwards as their footsteps hurried to catch up with her. Their conversation was lost on the young woman as she stomped through the snow, not even realizing that the two responsible for the whole thing disappeared, once again leaving just herself and the one who followed. An idea had occurred to her though. It had been a while and she would have to pull a few strings but it might just be what they need. "Instead of following me like a lost puppy," she sighed, pausing to spin on her heel so they were facing. "Why don't you go around town to see if you can pick up a quick job or two so we can stay at an inn tonight?"
He picked up on the hint, though he did not like the idea of her venturing alone, but relented when she assured him that she was going to visit someone who may possibly aid them. Just as he was about to turn down one of the side streets, two pairs of hands latched onto his clothing. A bored expression crossed his features when he realized it was only Joseph and Tristan but it morphed into wide eyed disbelief as they whispered into his ear. "Tea is not that kind of person," his arms crossed as he fixed them with glares that would burn anyone lesser. "And the fact that you suspect-"
"You're just mad because we've seen her and you haven't"
His jaw tendon suddenly grew taunt, amethyst widening to the point where they looked as though they could pop out of his skull. The pair wiggled their eye brows as he curiously glanced over his shoulder in search of their female companion only to find her missing. Tristan was the first to gather rumor mill pieces of where it would be best to get a drink while Joseph had busied himself with the local men to grab some information on where to catch the latest shows. Before he had even realized it himself, Atem found himself seated within a dark lit lounge attempting to keep his composure as a certain brunette danced across the small stage as the musician and singers filled the air with music. It was slow paces, sensual even, as she gracefully moved within the background. For most their attention would be on the busty woman who was making eyes out at the crowd as the spotlight illuminated each cake encrusted pore of her face but not him. His eyes were honed upon Tea as the number finished and she ended with a shy smile when their gazes met.
She had taken whatever the lounge manager had, even if it was just a background dancer position, the young brunette knew no matter what city or town she found herself in there would always be a job for a female in the entertainment industry. Luck had been on her side since she'd visited here before but she had not been prepared for the singer to be such a hissy woman. The woman with enough makeup on to make cake look like clouds had personally picked the worst possible outfit yet even on her figure the lacking cocktail dress the color of pearls that had decorative lace covering her arms and bust with the minimalist eyeliner with blush combination had somehow still made the aspiring dancer shine when she moved. Music was as powerful a medium for someone like her as paints or brushes were to an artist; it helped them grow and express themselves. What she hadn't expected was to see her three traveling companions looking up at her with their jaws on the floor.
"Ah, we have a new face in the crowd," the singer, a busty woman named Chono, cooed softly as they stepped off the stage, the feathered fan appearing in front of her face with a flick of her wrist. "Though I believe I see one who piques my hunger."
"Wonderful job, ladies, here is your cut from the performance!" The lounge manager, a man with purple hair and frilly clothing, made show of handing each a wad of currency before turning his full attention to the young brunette. "Tea, my darling peach, it is good to see you."
She smiled warmly as he placed a quick peck upon both her cheeks. "Pegasus, thank you for squeezing me in."
"Think nothing of it! The whole world would be graced with your dances if you would only let me!"
"I appreciate the offer, as always, but I'm afraid I have some other matters to attend to." Not a second after she stepped out of the dressing room, dressed within replacement clothing that her old friend had practically shoved off onto her, she found herself rooted to the floor as she came upon a scene that was straight out of her nightmares.
Chono, still clad in the scandalous dress that her chest threatened to spill from, was splayed out over the table where the trio were awaiting the final member of their traveling party. Each looked incredibly uncomfortable as the clearly older woman by several years attempted to tease them by fluttering her eyelashes and using her fan to tickle their faces. "Which one of you boys would like to visit the backstage with me?"
"Not my boys you don't." Her hand lashed out, taking firm hold of the woman's corset and hauling her single handedly towards where Pegasus was conversing with another customer. "Keep your cougar in its cage," she muttered, depositing the singer unceremoniously on the floor with a huff as he apologized for the treatment of her friends, "hopefully we'll see each other again under better terms, Pegasus, but I have to go."
"It's him, isn't it?" He took gentle hold of her hands when she made to turn away. "Ah, sweet little peachy, you have found your prince but you always were one to put others before yourself. When will you come forward with your innermost feelings?"
She sighed heavily, casting the trio a glance in time to see their expression fill with relief as the woman drifted to the other end of the lounge. "Possibly never. He deserves to be reunited with his family and that's what I plan on doing." With one last goodbye, she hurried over the table as they stood. "Sorry about that. Should we go find an inn before all the rooms are taken?" Her eyebrows rose as they obediently followed her from the building without protest. Tea was farther surprised when the boys insisted on her getting the better of the available rooms, which was honestly a bit extravagant for her taste with the adjoined entertainment area, but had relented when they pointed out that she had earned far more than what they had in half the amount of time they'd taken to earn just enough for them to share a meal.
It was as she was relishing in the after glow of a hot steaming bath that a knock sounded, a baritone voice requesting entrance that caused her cheeks to warm. Hurrying to make herself presentable, she called for him to enter just as she finished slipping one of the dresses that Pegasus had slipped her much to her chagrin; she didn't like charity and hated accepting anything without properly offering compensation but had accepted the box when he insisted that it was a gift. What a gift indeed! The floor length blush pink dress had a petite waistband that accentuated her figure, a sweetheart bodice that was decorated with simple lace, sleeves that reached her elbows, and was made of a fabric that wasn't heavy or overbearing that allowed her full range of movement. Her hand quickly unlocked the door and opened it with a smile that grew into a hesitant line when she spotted that it was not one companion who was waiting for her but all three who were looking at her as if she were a ghost. "What?"
"You look like a girl!"
Her brow twitched at the friends she'd known for years. "I am a girl, dimwits."
"But you look-"
"Stunning." Three pairs of eyes widened, locking on the hooded young man who averted his gaze as if he had just heard the words himself, his cheeks dusting with a rosy hue.
"I-Um, thank you." Heat that wasn't caused by the bath she'd just taken flooded her face as she moved so that the door was opened wider. "Now stop standing in the hallway like weirdos and come in already before someone sees." The trio quickly entered the space, the sound of the lock clicking behind them echoing for a moment in the small suite as she rested her back against its wooden surface. Within her ribcage beat her heart that was more like a butterfly trapped within a net, as if attempting to burst forth from her chest as their gazes met when he took a seat in one of the armchairs. She shook herself, mentally so as not to draw unwanted attention, and set her shoulders. "Okay, we have a lot of ground to cover before we get to my contact."
Amethyst blinked as the three sat across from him. "I am unsure of what you mean."
"Time for some trivia!"
. . . .
"About time those two fell asleep," she sighed, using one of the spare blankets to cover the pair with as they snored away. "Gah, you'd think the end of the world could happen right outside and they wouldn't wake up." A smile raised her lips when she turned and found the remaining member who had lost his hood hours ago looking about ready to slip into dreamland himself. She wasn't sure how it happened but he rose from the seat so that he was standing before her and they were gently swaying as a tune rose up her throat. "I guess it wouldn't hurt to brush up on your dancing."
"I was never really that good to begin with, Tea."
"Then I guess practice makes perfect." One of her hands drifted downward to rest within his while the other on his bicep, his fingers wrapping around her own while his other fell to rest upon her waist. It was as they were on their fourth rotation that she spotted the heavy shadows beneath his eyes, illuminated by the electrical lights built into the ceiling, that she forced them to halt. "That's enough for tonight then."
He shook his head, tightening his hold on her. "Not yet," his head falling forward to rest upon her shoulder earned him a gasp from the young woman. "Can we stay like this…just a little longer?"
She gave a hum. "If you're nervous, you have no reason to be." Hesitantly, carefully, her hand rose up to the back of his head as they eased back down to sit upon the chaise, the gentle pressure of her hand keeping him where he was as she settled comfortably. Through his tricolored hair her fingers combed, taking care not to allow her fingernails to scrape against his scalp as they worked in slow strokes. The air that had been full of the snoring from the slumbering men softened until her faint humming could be faintly heard that gave way to soft singing. "On the wind…cross the sea…hear this song and remember…" The young woman began to rock gently back and forth as the worry lines that was visible upon his face and anxious aura surrounding him began to dissipate. "…soon you'll be…home with with them…once upon a December…" Slender fingers gently caressed his face as he raised his head from her shoulder, their gazes meeting. "All you need now is time. Your memory will be your greatest key when we get there since there are things that only you would know." Gravity seemed to intensify then, amethyst and cobalt becoming hooded as their faces came closer. "I know without a doubt that you're him," she whispered, his hand rising until the bend of his knuckles met the underside of her chin when her breath stalled. "my long lost prince."
Just as their lips brushed, like feathers dancing on the breeze, that her eyes which had been about to drift closed clenched shut as she turned her head away slightly so that it was her cheek that received the blessing of his lips.
He'd felt her withdraw before he could see it as she leaned away slightly. A faint twinge of rejection filled his chest when she refused to meet his gaze as he shifted so that space returned between them. "Tea?"
"It's really late and we need to get you back to where you belong as soon as possible." Painfully removing herself from his hold, she insisted that he rested here instead of having to carry the other two back to their room, sighing when he confessed that they hadn't reserved one in the first place, and forced herself to smile while drawing the curtains around the bed that was where she was to sleep. "I hope you have sweet dreams," she called softly while slipping out of the dress, into a nightgown, then beneath the covers. "And don't worry. They will be so happy to see you they might just faint."
The flesh of his lower lip caught between his teeth as he suppressed the urge to question her actions. Had he misread the young brunette that was his childhood friend? The conflicting emotions that had risen within his throat were forced down as he swallowed and settled within her vacated seat, the warmth of her being that lingered enveloping him as if she herself were still there as his eyes drifted closed. "Goodnight, Tea."
Behind the curtain, with her face buried within the plush pillows, she choked at his soft response. It wasn't right for her to grow as attached as she'd become, not with the fate that awaited him, but it had still happened. Large tears slipped out from her clenched eyes that trailed down her cheeks to moisten the cotton fabric that she clung to in desperation as if her intense hold could prevent more cracks from appearing within her wounded heart.
. . . .
A restless night gave way to a drowsy morning as they approached an extravagant building, the young woman taking a pause to turn on her heel to check on her companions. The rest of the money she'd earned had gone to finding them more suitable attire such as semi-casual that a middle to upper class would wear; Joseph within a forest green and beige relaxed suit without the fancy buttons, Tristan had a mahogany hued set that was nearly matching save for the open jacket he sported, then there was the prince himself looking as pristine and polished as any member of the highest class with black slacks, long sleeve, gray pin striped vest, a blazer that had white lining along the inside that showcased violet sticking, and a fedora that she was surprised that he had picked out himself to replace the hood. Their combined image helped them get this far without raising too much suspicion, though she would have liked for those who had taken notice of her more feminine attire would go jump off a cliff with their wolf whistles and catcalls, Tea had still managed to get them to this point. "Okay, now I want you to be on your best behavior." She pointedly looked at the pair who innocently smiled.. "That means no flirting, you two."
"You're no fun." They chorused, crossing their arms.
With a sigh, she turned her gaze to meet amethyst. "Are you ready?"
Butterflies were dancing within his stomach, the blood in his veins rushing and pounding loudly within his ears, but was both from anxiety and nervousness or was he excited? His head bobbed with a nod. "I am."
She resisted the urge to reach out to him as they climbed the stairs and instead pressed her finger against the doorbell that was followed by the sounds of chimes. "Here we go."
Not two seconds later, she was pulled through with a shriek and enveloped within a pair of arms as golden hair filled her vision. A soft groan was the cue that her spine was about to snap from the tight embrace and reeled slightly as she was held at arm's length. "Oh my gosh, Tea, is that really you in a dress?" The woman with a bust to make any woman jealous, not solely because of the sheer size of them but the softness that they boasted, threatened to suffocate the brunette when she embraced her once more. "I'm just kidding, doll, you're looking as fabulous as ever!"
"G-good to see you too!" Tea smiled, returning the now bearable embrace with one of her own. It faltered as she was drawn inside, tilting her head in the silent trio's direction that had yet to be noticed. "I brought some friends, is that okay?"
Light mauve eyes widened as Mai took in their appearances, quickly ushering them inside. She barely spared the two a glance, save for telling them to make themselves useful somewhere else, and practically shoved them out the parlor door until it was just herself, Tea, and the man who kept the fedora so low that his face was hidden. The golden haired beauty was quick to remove it though once every window had been covered before swiping the hat.
Amethyst that had widened when he taken in her appearance filled with familiarity and relief. "Hello, Mai."
Her hand ghosted over his jawline the second their gazes had met, as if she was checking to see if he was real, then earned a grunt as her made to flick his nose. "Don't you 'hello, Mai' me, you little brat! How dare you run off and disappear like that!"
He quickly leaned backwards so that her finger only got air, earning a gasp as his lips lifted into a confident smirk. "You have yet to land one on me, Mai, but even so I am not about to let you succeed so easily."
Bright red lips lifted into a smile. "I know that attitude and recognize smirk anywhere even if you were dressed in a clown costume and had five day old makeup on your face." Mai crossed her arms but there was moisture gathering within her gaze the longer it rested upon him. The normally stoic and poker faced woman took a deep inhale as she looked from Tea to the man who she and the family had long since thought deceased. "Damn, Atem, I can't even…"
Tea nibbled her lip as she looked between the two. There was a connection here, one that she shouldn't tread upon, and silently excused herself. Tears burned the backs of her eyes as she closed the door behind her softly with a subtle click but they fell despite her best attempts to hold them back as she entered the back garden where she heard the other two. Their arguing quieted the moment they caught sight of her, their arms wordlessly wrapping around her shoulders as her head hung were no words that they could offer as crystalline tears slipped down her cheeks, all they could do was be her support as she nearly fell to her knees. It wasn't for several minutes that she managed to stop the tears and apologize to them for her rare display in time for the parlor door to open and reveal a beaming Mai who rushed to a brace her.
"We're leaving tonight."
Cobalt blinked. "What?"
"You, me, these two, and Atem," Mai pointed to each in turn as he came up behind her with the fedora in place. "We're going to Paris."
The sandy blonde man and brunette shared a glance, made to object when Tea gave a shake of her head; she wasn't ready to say farewell to him yet. They broke out into wide grins. "What are we waiting for?"
. . . .
Mai quickly ushered them through the open doorway, casting a cautious glance in the darkness before practically slamming it closed behind them. It had taken several hours and multiple pit stops but they had finally made it: the group was now in Paris. "Okay, you two, take the luggage from the car and take them to the bedrooms upstairs. I want you," her finger appeared inches from Atem's nose and earning a weary tilt of a brow, "to go straight to bed. You've gotta look your best for tomorrow before I present you to the family." The same hand fell to clasp onto Tea's just before the young brunette could sneak away. "Not so fast."
"I'm exhausted though, can't whatever you have planned wait until morning?"
"You're going to want to see who is waiting for you."
Tea blinked as the woman led her back outside, casting a questioning glance back over her shoulder to the trio of men who watched with mild concern as the door closed behind her, and gave a soft groan when she found herself being shoved into another vehicle. This trip wasn't near at long though thankfully and was soon stepping out in front of a large multistory building that radiated with splendor and glory fit for kings. "Wow…" The young brunette was left in awe as she was led through the bustling people dressed in radiant clothing that threatened to blind due to the rhinestones or flashy jewelry that they wore until she was placed in front of a door that looked big enough for a giant. "Mai-" Her jaw dropped when she found the woman who had drug her here seemed to vanish into thin air with a wave. "So, what, you drag me all the way here then abandon me in the middle of nowhere?! I swear she sometimes just does this kind of thing just to toy with me!" She flinched as a sound came from inside. "Shoot, probably shouldn't be shouting like I am."
"Gramps, I'm telling you, there's no one-" The door opened, the young man on the other end of the door's expression filling with bewilderment as his gaze fell upon her. "-out there."
First it was the while hair atop of his head, not near as wild as someone else she knew, but it stood upright with similar hues and had blonde bangs that framed his face that had lingering youthful fullness but even with the passage of time she recognized him immediately. "Y…" Her hands rose to cover her mouth, cobalt eyes once more swimming with tears as pale lilac widened.. "Yugi." It was too much for her. A broken sob rose up her throat as she launched forward, arms wrapping around him tightly as he in turn pulled her inside, his eyes clenching shut to stem off his own.
His build was similar to that of his older twin's but it was a bit more cushiony as he embraced her harder. "Tea, my gosh, look at you!" He sniffled as they drew apart, his gazes taking in every inch of her face as she used the sleeve of her borrowed coat to wipe away the tears. "Let me get a good look at you!"
She shook her head, unable to help herself from laughing as he attempting to draw her hands away. "No way, I've been a mess all day from traveling!"
"So what?! I wanna see my friend's face!" He managed to pin her arms to her sides, allowing him to fully take in her appearance. Gone was the little girl who shyly would hide behind her mother's skirt, large blue eyes that would be locked upon the floor that would only meet another's gaze when prompted, the one who would dance only when in the confines of a private space…In her place stood a young woman who had a confident air, cobalt eyes that shone with emotion when they met another's, a smile that could brighten any room, a figure that was shapely but not overly so. "Tea, you're gorgeous."
Fair cheeks flushed. "Stop that! I'm nothing compared to how Mai turned out!"
"That obvious beauty though. Yours is a special kind."
"Y-Yugi?"
He drew her against his being once more. "You've been through a lot yet you came out as such a strong person. I'm so sorry that we didn't try to find you."
Her arms rose to wrap around his shoulders. "You had your family to worry about, Yugi, I didn't blame you then and I certainly don't now. I'm just glad to see you're doing so well."
A soft sound came from the other room, one that caused her eyes to grow wide as they parted and was encouraged forward by a pair of hands that steered her towards the doorway. Nervousness filled her as the possibilities of who was waiting on the other side of the wall separator caused adrenaline to fill her veins but it was calmed as a weathered voice called out that was unmistakable. With a nod, she took a deep breath and stepped out so that her appearance was exposed to the one who was calling for an answer.
The elderly man didn't look up from the chessboard in front of him, a look of concentration etched within his features as he tilted one way then the other as he examined the pieces. "Don't rush me, my boy, the perfect move is about to be made!" He protested as her shadow fell over the tabletop. "Who was at the door?" His eyes widened as slender fingers plucked the rook, moving him across four squares and out of harms way while prepping the piece to strike the opposing queen in the next turn.
"Long time no see, your highness," she croaked as their gazes met and offered a shaky smile as he shifted in his seat so that she could lower herself to her knees before him while revealing the golden puzzle piece from around her neck. "I'm glad to see you in good health."
Wrinkled hands raised her back to her feet as he stood from the chair, his fingers squeezing hers. "You don't belong on your knees, Tea, not since you are a dear family friend." His arms enclosed around her as she rested her head against his shoulder. "You sure have grown into a fine young woman! I'm guessing your measurements are 38, 42, 32?" Laughter filled the air as she pulled away with a grin, lightly reprimanding him for his flirtatious habit.
Silence fell as she raised her hands when she moved towards the door. "You have no idea how much I want to stay but I have to be getting back." Cobalt met pale lavender of the once monarch then the young prince's. "I'll come back tomorrow when it's not so late. I want nothing more than to stay and catch up with you but…I have to go take care of something."
Their brows furrowed as sadness entered her smile and gaze just before she turned away to disappear through the door. "Do you know what she meant by that?"
Yugi's head slowly shook, features filling with worry. "Not a clue."
. . . .
Thankfully the others were nowhere in sight when they returned but even when they entered the room that would be Tea's for the duration of their short stay her heart would not stop weeping. The blonde regretfully removed herself when the brunette choked out that she wanted to be alone, mauve eyes briefly meeting the trio of gazes who watched from the end of the hallway before retiring to her own room for the night. Not a second after the door closed that the bleeding heart in her chest erupted with a muffled wail as she buried her face in the pillows. She should be happy for them, that their missing member would soon be where he belonged, so why was this crushing pressure trying to strangle her?! Her fists repeatedly lashed out to sink into the plush mattress in time with her choked sobs. Faced a mess, clothing wrinkled, hair gathering in clusters from her fingers reaching up and grabbing hold of it in handfuls.
Little did she know of a figure who entered through the window that approached where she lay nursing her broken heart, their lips lifted into a malicious sneer. "There, there," a masculine voice soothed, the palm of his hand resting over her eyes while the other covered her mouth as he pinned her to the bed. "I'll be sure to make all of your pain disappear, my dear, it's the least I can do to repay you for supplying me enough of your soul energy for my resurrection."