Shadows That Bleed

by YamiYugiPuzzleshipper

Pure-Bloods are said to be myths, not even well-known within stories. "A specialized genetic coding of the moon and the dire," their spoken lore proclaims. They are creatures beyond the power of mortality, gifted by the gods themselves. Known as the Eternal Ones, their existence once extinguished, resurrection foretells a powerful omen.

77. Allegiances

Disclaimer: I do not own Yugioh

Update schedule: Hopefully biweekly

Chapter Warnings: Slight Self-Deprecation, Mentions of Experiments/Torture, Mentions of Sacrifices, Mild Blood, Mild Violence, Fighting, Character Death

Sorry for the wait, guys. Things got kind of hectic again but they should be calming down (thankfully). I was also editing this chapter nonstop for like a week? It's not completely to my satisfaction but I feel like I could work on it for another year and it still wouldn't fix it. So I just decided to go ahead and call it a day here and get it posted.

Chapter LXXVII: Allegiances

Work Log Entry LXVIII: October, 2008

October 10

We have performed another birthday celebration for Atem.

He is officially twelve years old, even if his birthday was months prior to this.

He does not care in the slightest.

When he was given cake and shown his name in two different languages written in icing he simply stared at it.

He proceeded to vomit violently when the boss forced him to eat the slice.

October 26

Atem is still recovering from his recent bout of illness. We cannot identify what has caused him such issues. But his blood sugar levels had dropped drastically and his resting heart rate has begun to sky rocket as of the last few days.

We are hopeful that it will not become another week of recovery or anything as terrible as the last few illnesses he caught.

So, how did you like the hot chocolate? Was it good enough to compare to the café's? Yugi asked, trotting faithfully at his side. Yami glanced at him sideways, and Yugi nearly trembled with excitement. The black wolf had paid him little to no attention before that moment. He'd simply glanced at him a few times, spoken once or twice, and ignored him the rest of the time. And Yugi had felt smaller than ever, suspicious that perhaps his holding him the night before had done nothing but alienate him. The thought had only grown more and more, gaining momentum with each second they'd been around each other. The red-eyed teen had eaten the bento Yugi had made, however, and he'd drank a smoothie—after requesting it for himself—and the cocoa in relative silence.

It was good, Yami said softly, almost lazily. He did not face him, pricking his ears forward and narrowing his gaze. Yugi thought he almost looked flustered for whatever reason. I do not know which I believe to be better, but it is definitely good.

Realization crashed through him. Yugi slowed his steps, flattening his ears against his head. I'm doing it again, aren't I? I keep upsetting you when I don't mean to, he whispered in a dejected tone.

That will always happen regardless of whom it is or what the subject may be, Yami dismissed him, his voice cold for a moment. He did not look up from where he was staring at the snow, ears flicking back and forth as if he were zeroing in on something beneath the ice. I am not capable of being around others for long amounts of time, it would seem. And exposure has not done me well. You said so yourself, I am highly dysfunctional. I suppose that will never come to change.

The phrase I am damaged beyond repair was not added, but Yugi sensed it.

He shivered, looking away quickly. That's not true, he said slowly, quietly. But he knew Yami was not wrong. He was too heavily scarred and fearful of things. He would always be dysfunctional. What had happened in his past had scarred him, destroying him. And the war only highlighted these problems. I mean… If everything wasn't happening, I don't think you would be so…

How would you know? Yami said mildly, wrinkling his nose. I would not even exist if these things had not come to transpire, Yugi. So your thoughts on this are minimal at best, entirely untrue as well. You cannot say you could know for sure.

He pricked his ears forward, focusing on him more pointedly. He wanted to say a million things, ranging from the fact that he knew he would be dead or that he knew if they'd met at a different point in life he thought he'd still fall for him in some way or form, whether it was romantic or not. But he shrugged it away, shaking his head and forcing himself to respond to this rather than the other things in his head.

I think you'd exist…even if it wasn't for this, he said slowly, trying the words out and finding them so believable that his heart ached for a moment. I just don't know that you'd be a werewolf or anything like that. Hell, you could have just been born a normal guy in my school or something.

With demonic red eyes, yes.

The words stunned him and he flinched, halting and shaking his head in pure shock at the statement. Demonic? You don't honestly think of them like that, do you? You're not…you're not superstitious like that. And, besides that, they're gorgeous! Why would you ever even think…?

You're biased, Yami stated calmly, dismissive but with clear bewilderment in his eyes as he glanced at him again over his shoulder briefly. And you know that they are demonic as well as I do. Have you ever known a human to possess such a color before? Albino humans do not even have such a shade. I might as well lack irises and simply possess nothing but split blood vessels.

I think they're amazing.

He was quiet for a long moment. Then he looked over his shoulder, facing him for a heartbeat or two. Finally he looked away and pricked his ears, his gait slower than it had been before. You are biased, he repeated.

Why would you ever think that they're…demonic? Why would you ever think they're anything but…perfect?

Had he been human he would have blushed, horrified by the way his voice cracked unceremoniously at the statement. He flattened his ears against his head briefly and drew in a deep breath. But Yami thankfully did not turn around, and the nerves in his belly settled relatively easily at the lack of teasing or mockery.

Lycanthropes do not have eyes this color. And the hellhounds do not even have this shade. It is unnatural, Yugi. And I must wonder if it comes from the experiments they ran on me. They often changed the colors of other wolves' eyes. The body would become incredibly stressed and the appearance would slowly but surely alter. Pigmentation could be sacrificed for healing. Yami fell silent for a long time. Then he looked over his shoulder at him, pausing in his steps and tilting his head. My cage made had the most beautiful green eyes. They were like fresh sea water and tree moss and emeralds all at once. But by the time he died…

They were different, Yugi supplied when he trailed off entirely.

By far. There was not a trace of green to be found but for around his pupils. And it was not the vibrant color they were meant to be. It was hideous… Against his features, they were disgusting. I… Yami abruptly stopped entirely. His head snapped up, ears pricked and lips curled back into a snarl. His entire body tensed and his fur rose into a hideous bristle as his eyes narrowed and grew furious. But it was gone again rather abruptly. He dropped his aggressive stance, relaxing again and turning to Yugi with a somewhat sheepish gleam to his eyes. I did not recognize the sound of Obelisk's footsteps.

Obelisk? Yugi repeated with wide eyes. Why would Obelisk want to visit them? He'd left them with the pack and never truly bothered to cross paths with them again. Did he mean to do something to Yami? Or was he simply moving about the forest on his own? Was Slifer with him? Was Morrigan? His stomach knotted and he pricked his ears forward again, tilting his head. Does he sound like he's headed for us?

Yami flicked an ear to redirect Yugi's focus and when the white wolf angled his own in the same direction, he could hear the snow crunching as well. But he could not recognize the pattern or distribution of weight. And for a moment he wondered how Yami might have been able to, seeing as he'd spent less time with the god of war than Yugi himself had. But then it also occurred to him that perhaps he had memorized it in his feral state. He must have been able to recognize noises and things of that nature or he would have thought more to be a threat to him than he had…

And then he wondered if perhaps somehow killing him had done well to imprint the noise in his mind.

He shook it off.

He's only a few yards away. He is headed straight for us, yes. Yami sounded relaxed and calm now, hardly disturbed in any manner. He turned away to face the snow again, though he did not look in the direction the deity approached them. I do not like dwelling on the past. But it's constantly haunting me.

Yugi looked at him, stunned by the quiet admission. He wondered if he felt guilty for his actions, for the fact that he'd snapped Obelisk's neck that day. But he would have argued and fought tooth and nail had he truly blamed himself for that. He'd been feral and scared. He couldn't have understood what he was doing in that state. He would never have done so otherwise.

But then he locked eyes with him.

And his heart ached, his lungs constricting and his ears flattening against his head.

He meant his eyes. He meant the fact that they were a constant reminder of all the things he did not want to remember. His heart lurched further and he wanted to tell him that he was sorry, that it would be okay, but the words died in his throat.

I'm sorry, he finally whispered, unable to force anything else out. But he couldn't truly relate to him. He couldn't tell Yami that he understood that pain or the hatred he felt so keenly for himself. Yugi watched him, heart twisting and grinding itself into a fine powder of bright red dye, and then he looked away. I don't remember it all.

It is amazing what the human mind will do in order to secure its host's survival, Yami stated in a dismissive voice. And yet he raised and turned his head, focusing intently on the trees ahead of them. Yugi looked as well now, pain and anger swelling through him as he thought of the various ways the gods had seemingly failed them. Between the torture and the death and Yami's memories and his own inability to recall, Yugi found an abundance of pure hatred for them. It did not matter that they'd saved them both at times. It only mattered that they'd put them on such uneven footing, that they'd forced them to exist with such a massive gap between.

And then he saw him. Obelisk was an immense form of blue-gray against the snow, a shadow that glided across the ice. He came steadily, slowly, without any urgency to be shown. He had the eyes of a hunter that knew it was capable of outpacing its prey and so thought to. He looked as if he knew what he came for would wait for him no matter how soon or late he thought to seek it out. He was so assured that Yugi found himself stunned, the anger and loathing wiped away completely.

Uh, hey, Obelisk.

The god seemed to ignore him. His eyes were locked on Yami, his gaze hard and keen and measuring. He seemed to be sizing him up as if he wished to settle the score of fighting and overpowering him. And for a moment Yugi truly feared that this might be what he had come for. He felt the surge of terror rush through him so quickly that his legs shook for a single second and his breath came in a strained pant.

But then it was over.

Yami locked eyes with him, questioning and seeking an answer Yugi was not sure how to give him. But it was just calming enough, having his eyes on his own, that it made his trembling quell and his heart resume at a steady pace.

Now the gray wolf raised and turned his head to face him as well. They were burning with something that Yugi himself could not read. But a part of him, something dark and cold and distant from himself, knew that Yami did. Yami understood it.

And that was terrifying to him.

Hello, Atem, the deity greeted. He did not wait for Yugi to try to say anything else. Instead his head turned to regard Yami and his voice was brisk and cold. I have need of you.

Why? Yugi demanded before he could stop himself. He bristled, narrowing his gaze, and curled his lip back. He didn't truly expect that he could just call Yami aside from him and potentially hurt him in any way, did he? He wasn't truly so stupid that he thought Yugi would just let that happen, was he? He couldn't be. No, even the self-entitled deity could not be so foolish. He'd had to retrieve him from the labs that day when he'd gone down in search of Yami. He'd watched him kill and maim and try to get through to search that damn torture chamber. He had saved him. He knew that Yugi would do anything to protect him, especially now…

I have a task and I need his assistance.

A sense of panic rose in him, swelling and arching and sweeping. Yugi shook his head. Wouldn't it be better that I went with you instead? he tried, feeling breathless as those dark orange eyes fell upon his face slowly. The way the god spoke put him on edge and Yami's eyes on his could not calm him now. I am Atem. So why ask for his assistance over mine?

You worry for nothing, Yami said in a distant tone, as if he was speaking from the far end of a tunnel and Yugi were straining his ears to listen to him. He felt shaky but thankfully his muscles were so tense he could not release them in such a fashion. Obelisk and I made amends for the fact that I attacked him in my feral state. He has forgiven and forgotten for the sake of allegiance.

Something in the way the god glanced at Yami said otherwise. Yugi squared his shoulders and pressed closer, snarling, That's nice and all, but—

Do not worry, Atem. I will return him in one piece, Obelisk snorted in amusement. When he turned to Yugi, his expression was not unkind but he did see little patience in them. I need him for his cunning. It is not so much a matter of brute strength or a fight. I require his help in gathering something of great importance.

Gathering something…?

Yami looked immensely curious now. His head turned, his ears pricked forward, eyes somewhat widened and expression keen with interest. Yugi ignored this, but he could not ignore the curiosity in Yami's voice as he asked, Are we hunting something?

I suppose you might call it that.

The question is a simple yes or no. There is no supposing an answer suffices, Yugi snapped, shaking his head. You can not just say that and then expect no one to question that. And if he won't, then I sure as fuck will. You're hunting something but you call it gathering first. So which is it, Obelisk?

Yami and I will have no need to kill, Obelisk answered. The impatience was all too noticeable now and he peered at Yugi as if he were nothing but an insolent child that might be knocked about in order to learn its place. He almost shivered, but his anger made him more courageous and so he raised his tail, snarling at him in turn. It is much more akin gathering than it is hunting. But it will require more attention than I alone am capable of giving it. Which is why I request your alpha help me.

I'm perfectly capable of helping with whatever it is that you need him for, Yugi returned scornfully. He shot Yami an anxious glance but the black wolf was peering at Obelisk with clear bewilderment. Look, I don't think Yami is healthy enough—

It will not lead to injury, Obelisk dismissed. His eyes were cold and his impatience made them burn. I would not lead him to his death anymore than I would you. And it is not as if I would allow him to become hurt if it were not by my own teeth. And, as for that, you can be assured I have no desire to face him in combat again. He is dear to me, regardless of what you might suspect.

Dear to you? Yugi snarled, scoffing. And yet all three of you let him get captured and tortured by Fuwa. All of you told me that I was a fool for trying to help him. Tell me, where was your favor for him then, Obelisk?

It was necessary, the war deity snorted. He turned to Yami now, dismissing Yugi entirely now. You are, of course, free to say no. But you will need to remember that what comes should you come to disagree with me will be on your shoulders.

Yami laughed, voice harsh and powerful as he sneered, I find it no burden to carry more weight there, god. But he lost his anger when he glanced towards Yugi with a somewhat hesitant expression. I will be back within the hour. I know what he means to ask of me. So I know what I am going to have to do. Go back to the camp, rest for a while. You will need it when we return.

Excuse me? Yugi snarled, spinning on him. You cannot be serious right now, Yami. I have no idea what the hell is going on and you're just going to follow him blindly to do whatever it is that he's asking of you?

Yami shook his head slowly. I have no fear of him, Yugi.

But you expect me to just stand aside and—

I will ask you one more time to go, Yami returned in a calm voice. And then I will tell you to leave me.

He stepped back, stunned by the threat. He searched Yami's face rapidly, but the black wolf was expressionless. With the indeterminable arrangement of his face, Yugi felt sick and lost for a brief moment. Then he bristled, something like hatred crashing through him as he considered. He would threaten him? He would truly force him to leave for the sake of keeping some pathetic secret as to what it was Obelisk was asking of him? Then if he was hurt, he would have no one to complain but for himself. And Yugi would laugh at him when it happened.

Spitefully he turned to Obelisk. Do what you want with him, he snapped. But a small part of him thought of Yami hurt, bleeding and tired and defenseless and a cold wave of ice crashed over him. He stepped closer, raising his tail and glaring at the deity. You will not let him get harmed. If he does, I will kill you myself, damn you. I do not care how many times you might be able to beat me down, I'll get up and I'll rip your fucking head off.

Obelisk burst out laughing. You are a brave little beast to suspect you could lay a tooth on me, he chuckled, voice cool and full of amusement. But your temper is turned on the wrong person, Atem. Now hold your tongue before you truly permit a fight between us. I give you my word that he will be returned unharmed.

The word of a god, huh? I wonder how much that's actually worth.

It is worth much, Yami said softly. But he had moved a step closer and Yugi was surprised by how near to him he was now. His muzzle was almost brushing his and his head was tilted slightly. If it will make you feel better, I will give you my word. I will return unharmed and perfectly safe.

Yugi looked at him, flustered for a moment. He went to snap his teeth at him, but the way he peered so steadily into his eyes was enough to wind him. His heart hammered for a moment and he could almost feel his legs giving out beneath him.

Do you trust me to do so?

No, I don't, almost burst forth from him before he could think straight. Immediate denial crashed through him and he bore his teeth, breathing heavily. How could Yami even ask that of him? How could he ever ask him that question when he'd told him such a thing more than once? Why would he ever think that Yugi trusted him not to put himself in danger? Had he lost his mind?

And then he stopped short.

Yami was testing him.

He was asking him to place that trust in him, to prove that he had the faith in him that he'd claimed he had formerly.

His heart hurt again. Yugi considered him, wanting more than ever to snap at him. And then he relented, turning away and flattening his ears against his head. Be back within the hour, he snarled. He looked to Obelisk again, voice furious. I will not forgive you if he gets hurts. Watch him, damn you.

The war god laughed softly but nodded all the same. He is my charge for the duration of this trip. As such, I guarantee you his safety.

And Yugi truly hated Yami in that moment, for the mere fact that he was able to invoke such emotions from him, for the ability to make him almost quake. He turned on his heel and trotted to the crest of the nearby hill, ignoring the urge to look back with each step. The anger made his movements much brisker than usual. And he only halted at the top when he felt anxiety rush through his veins once more, begging him to look back and reassure himself.

Yami had not moved from the spot Yugi had left him. He was watching him, his expression almost sorrowful. But Obelisk must have spoken, for his ears flicked and his hair rose in a momentary bristle. He didn't move a moment longer, then wagged his tail at him slowly, as if he were afraid it might upset him, and finally turned away. Yugi watched him as the two made it to the edge of the trees, before Yami glanced back at him, wagged his tail again, and dashed off after the deity.

Yugi kept his eyes on the trees they'd disappeared into a moment or so longer. Then he reluctantly turned and made his way further into the woods, approaching the camp and feeling each step as if his paws were made of lead.

When he entered, Jonouchi and Mai were the first he spotted. The two golden wolves were playing with a stick, tugging on opposing ends. They were steadily dragging each other in the snow. And Yugi found himself laughing when he realized Mai was pulling Jonouchi rather than the other way around. He wagged his tail, more pleased than he truly knew how to put into words.

The she-wolf paused pulling to look over. She wagged her tail in turn and Jonouchi turned his head with an irritable look, no doubt annoyed that someone had interrupted their game. But he lost this expression the moment he saw him, wagging his tail and pricking his ears forward as he looked at him curiously.

What's up, Yug? he asked, tilting his head slightly. And, just as Yugi had suspected, Mai took full advantage of this. She tugged so aggressively that Jonouchi yelped as he was thrown into the snow face-first, sputtering in shock. He sprang to his paws with a glare. You cheated!

Oh, honey, don't you know a female wins no matter the methods used? she teased, and Yugi found himself thinking that it was no wonder women always won fights. He shook his head and the she-wolf rushed over to him, bathing his face with warm licks that made him smile in amusement. Where's Yami? I smell him on you and it's extremely fresh. Did he leave to hunt or something?

Yugi had to ignore the snarl bubbling up in his throat. He also ignored the way his heart clenched when he saw the way Jonouchi looked at him with mild suspicion when Yami's name was mentioned. He wondered briefly if he had ever truly suspected Yami of being the one to murder Shizuka, but the thought was fleeting and he forced it away with as much power as he could muster.

I guess so, he finally mumbled. Obelisk asked him to do something with him. He didn't tell me what it was that he needed him for but I guess I'll find out later what it is that he wanted from him.

Jonouchi took a seat, stretching himself out lazily. He had snow stuck to his nose and Yugi nearly laughed when he saw it. Whatever. If he's with Obelisk, I'm sure he'll be fine, he grunted. Then he turned to Yugi, tilting his head. That suspicious look had grown tenfold and Yugi wondered at the sight, almost bristling with bewilderment. What about you, though? What were you guys coming here for? Anything important?

No, Yugi mumbled, fighting the urge to apologize for what Yami had done. Bitter resentment made his tongue feel almost swollen. He couldn't betray Yami by telling Jonouchi, but the fact that he did not tell him was disgusting to him. He'd known Jonouchi for so much longer, had always told him something when it happened. And yet… I just figured that Yami would be better off if he came outside. He was starting to get restless.

And you had to take him for a walk? Jonouchi snorted. He glanced away when Mai gave him a sharp look, but offered no apology when he turned back to Yugi. And it's not like that's actually your responsibility. I mean, he knows how to take care of himself, right? So why go with him everywhere like that?

He is my responsibility, Yugi snapped resentfully, unsure of whether it was aimed at Jonouchi for making it sound like anything less or if it was Yami for unconsciously making it so. But the more he thought about it, the more he wondered. If Yami was his responsibility, then didn't that mean Shizuka was on his shoulders? Didn't that mean her murder was as much his fault as it was Yami's? He had been unable to stop him. He had been too foolish to realize and— He's my beta. That makes him my responsibility.

He's your beta when you're here at the camp, yeah, but he's not your beta when you're on your own.

Yugi froze for a moment. It sounded almost suspiciously as if Jonouchi were calling him out on his former lie. He pricked his ears forward, testing the waters as he tilted his head and locked eyes with him.

I bit him. He's my responsibility.

And, just as he'd suspected, Jonouchi stiffened and stared at him. His eyes narrowed, his lip curled faintly, and he sat up straighter than he had before. The breath to leave him now was an irritable sigh and his expression was one of annoyance more than anything else. Yugi almost bristled, a part of him aching once more.

Let's talk.

Jonouchi nodded at him as he'd expected, brown eyes cold with disbelief, and Yugi turned to trot towards the alpha's den. His friend must have said something to Mai, because she watched them go but never moved to object or say a word to stop them. Or maybe it had simply been rank which kept her quiet now. Yugi didn't know. He didn't care, in truth. What mattered to him was that he straightened this out as soon as possible. He couldn't deal with misconceptions or anything of that matter.

They slipped into the alpha's den almost silently. And Yugi was struck with the realization of why he did not bother to go there often. His stomach lurched for a single moment. He remembered Annie's body, throat torn out and blood across the floor. And he swore he saw it there in the darkness for a single second before he shoved it away again. She's dead. She's been dead for a while now, he reminded himself spitefully. Slifer has her body. She laid it to rest. She…

It didn't matter what she had done with her daughter's body.

That was her business.

Yugi turned around to face him. And Jonouchi was inches from his face, snarling.

You lied to me, he spat. Yugi blinked, startled by the outburst. He pricked his ears, then flattened them against his skull and tilted his head. The movement helped to make him look a little more submissive but the angle protected his neck as well. Jonouchi had a volatile temper. He could not be sure that this would not blow out of proportion. You said that Ushio bit you. You said that you'd never bitten anyone besides me. You said you hadn't infected anyone else.

Yugi fell silent for a moment. Had he? Had he said that? He didn't care enough to truly search his memory for that conversation. Jonouchi's brown eyes were glowing like lanterns in the dim light and his teeth were white like ice as he stared back at him. I thought it was Ushio at first, he finally relented. And he wondered briefly why he was letting Jonouchi sling these accusations at him. He should have taken control of the conversation, should have simply asserted himself as the alpha between them to keep it from escalating any further.

But, in truth, it felt better to have him snarl and snap at him now.

It made his guilt feel somewhat lighter.

If he twisted the words, he could pretend that he was screaming at him for Shizuka.

And some pathetic part of him reveled in that terrible thought.

But it wasn't. Yami bit me. But the pack doesn't know that. The pack thinks I bit him.

Jonouchi stared at him as if he were one of the stupidest creatures to exist. His ears pricked forward and his head tilted, his teeth bared more pointedly now. You told us Tomoya had bitten you, idiot, he snapped in a brisk tone. He huffed and shook his head, voice becoming resentful and cold as he continued. And now you're telling me that it was Yami this entire time.

Yugi huffed. You said Ushio so I went with it. He shook his head after a moment. Then he took a seat and forced himself not to snarl at him in turn. The hatred he felt at that moment was equal parts Yami, Jonouchi and himself. He flattened his ears against his head. Yami is my alpha. He bit me to save my life that night Ushio attacked me. But the pack has a history with him, as I'm sure you've already figured out. Apparently they thought he was me and they chose to hold him in the camp. But he wouldn't talk and he wouldn't lead them and he basically shunned them. The alpha got mad and went to kill him. Yami attacked her and wounded her pretty badly and fled. He ran away from the territory and hid in Domino and I guess that's why we crossed paths.

Jesus Christ, Yugi.

He found me when Ushio attacked me after school. But he'd only scratched me and Yami decided to save me so he bit me and dragged me home before running off. Yugi shook his head again, staring down at his paws. He narrowed his gaze. His explanation was not making the tension any better between them, but he could tell that Jonouchi believed him, at the very least. And that was amazing enough that he almost sobbed with relief. The pack would have killed him if I hadn't lied and said I bit him instead. I couldn't just let them hurt him just because they were stupid and thought he was me. It's not okay for them to turn on him over something as stupid as that. So I made a cover story. And they believe it. And they know I bit you.

You lied to us, Yugi. You lied to your friends. Why the hell would you do that?!

Yugi raised his head, eyeing him coldly as he snapped, Would you have told Anzu and Honda if you'd known Shizuka was infected? He watched the words rearrange his best friend's face, the way the disbelief grew tenfold and hatred made his eyes darker than he'd ever seen them before. If you had known that, would you have told us?

Shizuka wasn't infected! He was shaking with anger, snarling and salivating so heavily that slobber dribbled from his teeth like foam. How dare you even pretend—

She was. He hated himself for how calm he was in delivering the news, in how easily he shattered his best friend's world at the moment. He drew in a deep breath, struggling to keep himself from adding even more disgustingly just who had mutilated his little sister. Why do you think she wanted to talk to me when you left the room? What do you think we had to talk about when you were getting food? She was telling me about how she got infected. She was—

No! Jonouchi sprang at him. The white wolf hit the wall when he slammed into his shoulder. But he spun on him quickly. His teeth snapped shut hard. And his fangs sank into his scruff, holding him in place. He shook him rapidly, knocking him against the wall. His claws scrabbling against the cold stone made his ears ring. Yugi released him a moment later, when Jonouchi yelped. He sprang away from him instantly, turning around with a startled expression. Yugi shook his head sharply at him.

She wasn't… She wasn't a wolf. Please…

She didn't have the chance to tell you, he mumbled, voice small and tired. He wanted to sob for his friend for a brief moment but shrugged it away. Pity would do nothing for either of them and so he looked away, unable to face him any longer. She would have when she'd gotten the chance but she… She didn't want to hurt you. And she was scared, Jonouchi. She was talking to me because she knew I was already infected. She told me that she had been tortured and experimented on and she…

Jonouchi was shaking his head stubbornly when Yugi glanced up again.

She was probably killed for being infected, Katsuya. That's the only explanation for it. No one would have done that without knowing about it. I… And how disgusting was it that even now he was protecting Yami by stopping there instead of continuing? He drew in another deep breath, prepared himself for the sharp hatred in his blood, and pricked his ears forward as he faced his friend again. If you had known back then, you wouldn't have told us. You would have tried to save her and fix it. You would have tried to be the big brother your mother didn't give you the chance to be. And that would include lying to protect her. You'd want to protect her from anything and everything, anyone and everyone. Isn't that right?

That's not the same.

Maybe not, but you would do anything for someone you love, isn't that right? He asked the question slowly, voice low and cold and so icy that his own skin prickled beneath the weight of his words. If Mai were to ask you to do something like what I've done for Yami, you would do it.

I would have… Jonouchi fell quiet for a long handful of seconds. Then he shook his head, glaring at him once more. That's not fair, Yugi.

Yugi had to fight away the burst of laughter that threatened to come over him. None of what's happened has been fair.

No, what you're saying! It's not fair. It's not fair at all, Yugi. You're saying you were protecting Yami but from who? Who the hell were you protecting him from? Us? Your friends? You're telling me you didn't trust us not to say anything about it?

No, I'm saying that I care enough about him that I was willing to protect him by any means possible, Katsuya. If that meant lying to the three of you, then so be it. If it meant killing someone to protect him, then so be it. You didn't need to know he bit me. You didn't need to be informed about any of it, honestly. It changes nothing.

It changes everything!

Yugi went to demand how. He wanted to know how or why he might say such a thing. His fur rose into a bristle and his lips peeled back into a snarl. And Jonouchi's eyes turned cold and hateful for a moment. He looked as if he might lunge forward at him. But their argument was cut short.

Yelps sounded from beyond the den. Yugi pricked his ears, eyes widening. Jonouchi spun around, bristling and listening. They were not cries of pain by any means. They seemed alarmed, but not panicked nor truly upset. In fact, Yugi realized, they seemed almost amazed and curious and excited, as if with some kind of bloodlust he did not understand. He blinked and tilted his head, considering the noises, and then picked his way out of the den. Jonouchi was behind him in an instant, he realized, though it did not surprise him in the slightest. He nearly bore his teeth in annoyance, then shook it off again.

The center of the camp was crowded. Every wolf in the pack seemed to be confined to the one place. And Yugi shook himself out, almost hateful for a moment as he considered it. He hurried forward a few steps.

He cast the other wolves sideways glances, confused and bewildered by the various expressions they wore. Chazz was gaping, ears pricked and tail raised in alarm. Zane stood rigid, staring with huge, stunned eyes, his breathing heavy. Syrus was gaping and shivering, cowering behind his brother. Yuya had his ears against his skull, whimpering as he shook his head rapidly. Shark was staring with sparkling eyes, a sneer on his face. Beside him his sister stared impassively. Mana looked stunned. Shay was showing his teeth in a hideous grin, Ute looked horrified, and Jim seemed as if he were caught between laughter and the instinct to flee.

Yugi picked his way past them. Aki was standing closer to the front of the wolves. Her tail was raised, her fur in a sharp bristle, her ears pricked. What is the meaning of this? she spat as Yugi got closer.

Jonouchi was at his side when he turned his head to glance around again. The golden wolf was beside him, at first with a confused and bewildered expression. And then he froze, eyes widening to thrice their usual size, fur rising into a bristle and mouth falling open. He was shivering when Yugi blinked and the white wolf hurried to turn away and find the source of the commotion.

All he saw in front of him was Obelisk. And the war god was hardly a wolf to strike such fear in the pack like this. The gray wolf was staring at Aki, eyes full of something like laughter. And, behind him, Yami had turned away. Yugi was not entirely sure of what he was doing, but his head was angled downward. And he had the feeling that he might have been sniffing at the snow.

His heart was hammering in his chest now and he took a hesitant step forward. Yami? The word was a mere whisper, almost swallowed away into nothingness for a second. But, somehow, Yami still heard him. The wolf turned to him, peering up at him from beneath his eyelids where his short lashes barely obscured the sight of his dark eyes. Usually Yugi would have drawn some kind of strength from them. But now he only felt hollow, something cold and terrible burrowing into him. What the hell is going on?

Yami turned away. Obelisk was laughing now.

You need to come forward and look lower to the ground, the deity chuckled. You obviously haven't seen yet what we brought back.

Yugi bristled, turning on him with bared teeth for a split second. But he wanted Yami to answer him, to say something that wouldn't make him want to sink his teeth into his face. Because somehow his stance set off too many alarms and every part of him was geared towards lashing out at the other wolf. But Yami refused to look at him and Obelisk was all too happy to laugh as he made eye contact with him.

Yugi needed only take a step forward, lowering his eyes towards the snow.

His entire body locked in place. His fur rose into a jagged bristle. His eyes stretched wide. His mouth opened and closed. His tail rose, then fell. He shivered. His ears twitched back and forth. His heart raced in his chest.

What the fuck have you done?

The outburst was thunderous and hideous. Some of the wolves flinched where he could see them in his peripheral. Others began to pace, their movements loud in the snow. They snarled, growling at one another. A couple snapped their teeth at each other. And Yugi could only stare at Yami, wondering at the defiance that overtook his features as he turned to him.

I did as was asked of me. His voice came out soft, furious, and his eyes glittered with ferocity. He asked me to come with him so that we might capture her. I did so and now here she is.

Why? Yugi roared, chomping his teeth at him. And, for a single split second he wondered if he'd justified killing Shizuka in this same manner. She upset him; he'd lashed out. Had he convinced himself that was all he should have done? Had he convinced himself not to bother to feel guilt about it? If he could do that kind of thing, what was to truly keep him from turning on any of them? What would keep him from turning on Yugi? He forced it away, bristling. Why the fuck would you do this?

Yami began to answer. His head rose, lips peeling back, but it was another voice entirely to answer. Yugi turned on the she-wolf, stunned, as she mumbled, Is it a sacrifice?

Her eyes had fixated on the hellhound. Yugi felt the smallest wave of panic cresting in him before he bit at the air, startling her. She is not a sacrifice, he spat.

We have other plans for her, Yami answered quietly.

You have other plans for her or Obelisk has other plans for her? Yugi snarled, turning on him with his lips drawn back to show each tooth. The black wolf shot him a furious look, as if he might lunge forward at any moment, but abruptly looked away. When he breathed, a rumbling snarl echoed his exhales.

Both, Obelisk murmured, amused. And you'll see soon enough.

Yami… Yugi shook his head violently, glaring at him. The stressed tone of voice made the black wolf turn his head, blinking at him in surprise. And Yugi was struck with the realization that he could not tell if it was anger or guilt in his dark eyes. He'd thought before he could read him if he just tried, but now… What did you do to her?

Yami sniffed loudly, huffing out a breath. I did not harm her, if you mean to ask me that, he bit out in a quiet voice. She is unconscious and unharmed. I merely went with Obelisk to tell him how to grab her.

Yugi shook his head, bristling. How…?

How did he think this was okay? How did he think that this wasn't a problem? How did he think that this justified dragging her here to the camp? How did he imagine that this would end? How could he not have considered the ramifications before he did something so terribly stupid?

Yugi didn't know which of those questions he wanted to snarl at him. But he had one that burned his flesh harder than them, that seared through his skull like acid.

How could Yami so constantly betray his trust in him like this?

It was not hard to find a window of opportunity. Valon is not with her constantly. It took but a few minutes to get her alone and see to it that Obelisk could grab her before he returned. I left him to retrieve her and by the time he came to me in the woods, she was already unconscious.

Did you harm her?

Hardly, Obelisk snorted. But Yugi couldn't take his eyes off Yami, watching the deity in his peripheral. The hurt still stung too brilliantly for him to look away from the red-eyed bastard in front of him. She fainted in fear. She did not know who I was and she just came face to face with a massive wolf. She'd already changed by the time I even made contact with her, likely due to exposure to my aura. But she's a pup, so she'd panicked and fainted by the time I even got close to her.

And you're doing this why? Yugi snapped, turning on him now. He shook his head, peeling his lips back further. She's six years old! She's too small to be a threat! Why would you bring her here?

Too small to be a threat? Aki sneered behind him, scoffing. She's a hellhound, you idiot. She's a threat by merely existing!

Yugi shook his head frantically once more, flushed and sickened by her quick rebuttal. And it stunned him to think that the bitch could truly believe such a thing like that. He went to answer, but the words fell flat as he tried to find his voice.

Existence is not a crime, Yami answered in a low, cold tone. He had stepped closer to the she-wolf, inches away from her now. Yugi could see his teeth when he spoke, though he could tell he was trying not to bare them for the moment. You cannot blame her for her genetics.

Oh? And why not? We were all persecuted and hunted by humans because of our infection. If we all suffered it from them, why not do it to each other now? The hellhounds have declared war on us already regardless. Why not return the favor?

No. The hellhounds from the labs hunt us for the sake of living another day and avoiding being harmed by the humans there. War was declared by the wolves in the labs, not by some random little girl who changed prematurely.

Yugi blinked, turning back to the hellhound that lay sprawled on her side. The pup was barely a quarter his own size. She was breathing hard in her unconscious state, her body seeming briefly to shudder against the cold. He shivered, bristling, and the smell as he leaned forward and drew in her scent made his head reel. He shook himself out, forcing himself to focus again, heart racing faster in his chest once more.

He could feel Yami's body heat so close to him now. The black wolf was mere inches from him, eyes locked on Aki, the she-wolf staring back at him hatefully. They were squaring off, shoulders braced, hackles raised, teeth showing and ears pricked forward.

Yugi watched them a moment longer, then inched closer to the pup. Kris, he whispered, lowered his head and leaning forward to nudge her gently. Her fur was soft and downy but for a few small straggly guard hairs. She was too small, perhaps the size of his head, and his heart ached for her. She'd gotten drawn into this for no other reason than a whim on Obelisk's behalf. Kris, wake up.

The pup barely seemed to breathe for a long handful of moments, then shuddered. Her eyes cracked open, two beautiful glowing orbs of bright green like seawater beneath sunlight. But the pupils were encircled with ringlets of intense burning gold much akin Valon's. Yugi saw the resemblance and his heart stuttered in his chest.

Would she be as powerful as him? She had the same parents. Did that mean she had the same abilities that he did? What would happen then? What if she did not decide to remain neutral in the future? Would she be a destructive monster that—if they survived the ordeal—he and Yami might be forced to hunt down?

Are you okay? Can you move? Are you hurt? Can you stand? He asked it all quietly, hoping his voice was soothing but terrified that he might draw attention. He did not know if Aki might truly try to kill her or not. And he did not know if Yami would truly stop her. He hovered a few inches away from her, making sure he was what she focused on for the moment. And, when he moved to step closer and shifted his body to stand diagonal of her vision, he knew that h had blocked Aki from her vision as well. If she came for Kris, she'd have to get through him. It was the most he could do… I need to know if you're hurt anywhere, okay, Kris?

She blinked once, long and slow. At first she looked past him to Obelisk and then slowly to Yami. Whatever she saw of the black wolf seemed to help her regain her senses, for she slowly nodded. Her eyes were still glazed over, but he could not tell if it was fear or adrenaline or possibly bewilderment. Her ears, small and soft, pricked forward and her eyes seemed huge and curious as they looked back at him. Yugi shivered, nearly bristling. She had that same uncanny and powerful gleam of intelligence in her eyes that Valon did…

She peered up at him for a long handful of moments. Then she moved to struggle to sit up, eyes glassy and locked on his face. When she nearly fell a second time, Yugi almost trembled. But then she was upright, blinking wide eyes and peering at him in clear exhaustion. I'm okay, she finally answered. Her voice was soft, squeaky in terms of volume, but her tone was oddly calm and almost friendly. Yugi wondered why it was that she was not afraid of him in even the slightest. She was in the midst of his pack, Aki was threatening to kill her, Yami was arguing with her, and he was Atem. She was staring straight into the face of the wolf that was supposed to be legendary and terrible and she did not even blink. I don't think I'm hurt.

He shivered. She sounded almost as if he she were adult, not some small child. It made his skin crawl as he considered her. Good, he mumbled, struggling to push the thoughts swarming his mind away. But they were persistent and his stomach lurched as he continued looking at her. She was either a sociopath like her older brother or she was one of the most dauntless children he had ever met in his life. Either could apply equally at the moment.

Yami and Aki were snarling now. Yugi glanced at them, startled by the rising noise.

Their eyes were locked. Their tails were raised fully. Yami had his head raised, teeth bared. His ears were pricked. His shoulders were squared. He had shifted his weight. Yugi could see his muscles rippling. He was going to lunge—

Back down, Aki, Obelisk scoffed in a disgusted tone. He snapped his teeth at her, narrowly missing Yugi's own shoulder. The movement made her flinch, spinning on him with wide eyes. Yami, however, simply looked away and exhaled sharply. His tail dropped, his fur lost its bristle, and he glanced sideways towards Yugi and away again just as quickly. Yugi still could not be sure whether it was shame or frustration that colored his eyes. Obelisk raised his voice now, addressing the rest of the pack. The hellhound is not here for a sacrifice. She is not here to be harmed at all. We brought her here for training. I am going to show you all something that I should have long ago.

Yugi blinked when the wolf shot him a hard glare. Something about the way his eyes shone made him bristle briefly. Did he blame this situation on him somehow? But he wasn't the one who had captured Kris and he was advocating against it. How could he blame him for—?

But I had put it off for a while in hopes that someone else might do so for me.

He almost flinched. The words were cutting, cold and methodical. And Yugi slowly turned his head to look at Yami again. Realization crashed through him then. The black wolf had done this with Obelisk because he'd judged Yugi as just as lacking in capabilities as the deity himself did.

He felt his heart sink.

There were too many problems, too little time to fix them, and that gaping chasm between them was just getting larger and deeper with every second.

He breathed hard, wanting for a moment to sob, and then glanced at Kris. Breaking down would do nothing for her but make her a target. If he was not strong enough to protect her if one of the other wolves got it in their head to try to harm her, then he would be responsible for the bloodshed that came after.

And he did not know that he could handle it.

What kind of teaching warrants stealing her and bringing her to the camp like this? He was whispering, turning to Obelisk with what he knew could only be a hopeless, bleak expression. The deity sniffed. And you said she won't be harmed? Bringing her here is not harmless, Obelisk. What the hell kind of training could you possibly want to do that would justify this?

It's not her that I intend to use, the deity answered. A small glint of amusement lit his eyes as his head turned away, gaze falling on Kris. Relax, pup. But stay where you are. Yugi will lay with you, seeing as he is so intent on protecting you.

The white wolf blinked, confused. But the pup looked to him, eyes wide and curious, and Yugi knew instinctively that he could not turn his back on those words. He came forward, glancing at Yami again to see the black wolf staring at him with an unreadable expression, and moved around to curl up next to her. He almost bore his teeth at him, but Yami had turned away just as quickly. Kris burrowed into his side a moment later and Yugi was struck with the odd thought that she must have known his scent from the café; nothing else justified her actions.

I want you all to pay attention to what I have to say today.

Yugi risked a glance at Yami again. The black wolf had turned his head to stare at Obelisk, something almost uncertain in his eyes. But he looked to him a moment later, eyes sharp and boring into his. And, for once, Yugi was shaken by that gleam in his gaze. It was not dangerous by any means, by all accounts more tired and frustrated than anything, but it was powerful. And he was struck by the oddest sense that this was the Yami he had met that day in the woods, the one that had struck down those two wolves when they'd nearly killed him when he'd fled the festival to endure his first Change.

This is training you might never have gotten otherwise, do you understand? Obelisk turned to Yami and the black wolf focused on him again immediately. I want you to come to my side over here. Stand a few inches away. Jonouchi, you will do the same, and Otogi you will take up the end. Keep a steady distance between all of you.

Yugi tilted his head, bemused. But the wolves picked their way around, then formed an uneasy line. Yami stood next to Obelisk, smaller in frame due to his unhealthy stature, and beside the god he looked every bit mortal. He was so much smaller, but by far fluffier, his fur adding the illusion of weight and solidity that his muscle mass lacked. The black wolf shook himself out, straightening enough that he stood taller but lacked the intimidation his stance usually possessed.

And then came Jonouchi, the golden wolf curling his lips back at Yami as he brushed too close and the other gave him a sharp look. They glared at each other for only a second, Jonouchi dropping his stance immediately and moving away, and then Otogi crept over to mirror them both.

Yugi was almost shaking, heart hammering in his chest for a long moment.

Yami was several inches taller than Jonouchi, who stood two or three inches above Otogi. But Yami was barrel-chested, his body larger and his frame far more intimidating. Jonouchi had a somewhat slender design to his chest, his ribcage sloping and large, his limbs longer and his belly tucked slightly. His hind legs were not as developed, his jaws were easily a fourth smaller than the black wolf's, and his shoulders were far slimmer. In turn Otogi was leaner, legs slimmer, chest tight and stomach tucked, his shoulders somehow tighter. His tail was only half the length of Yami's, his muzzle similar in measurement, and Yugi could see the difference between the muscles in their faces clearly.

Yami's head had a narrow sloping skull, his jaws wide and immense. His fur was longer and thicker, his tail hanging a little past his hocks. His large paws were almost twice the size of Otogi's, but only a fourth larger than Jonouchi's. His ears were larger, but softer in definition, his neck by far thicker, his shoulders much broader and well-defined. He was all power and muscle, the strength contained but somehow still rippling from his statuesque form in front of them.

Yugi was stuck by the immense differences. He'd never truly taken note of them before. He'd never actively cared enough to consider how much of an advantage Yami truly held over their pack-mates. It was enough to wind him to see it now, even if he knew instinctively that the black wolf was a force to be reckoned with. He was a goddamn force of nature, after all, regardless of what he was doing or how he executed his actions.

This is the physical difference between the Pure-Blood, the Full-Blood and the Half-Blood, the deity said loudly, turning to look at Yugi with cold eyes. As Atem is watching Kris, it would be unwise to have him stand in as the Pure-Blood. But Yami is large enough to pass for one regardless, so it is favorable that he stand in his place.

Yami abruptly shot Yugi a look, one that spoke of mild panic. His red eyes were huge, pupils blown, and his stance had gone rigid with something like horror. A hundred pairs of curious eyes had shot from Yugi to Yami in that single second, and now Yugi could see the suspicion and clear shock and bewilderment crossing each of them. He could see them all swapping looks, from Yusei giving Yami a sympathetic and pitying one to Aki's hateful rage as she bore her teeth. Ishizu was studying them with a look that he couldn't read and Shay was staring at Yami as if he had just been given the answer to a question he'd been asking for years.

Obelisk had just undermined every piece of protection Yugi had put in place. And he'd done it in mere seconds, whereas the trust Yugi had tried to build to protect him had taken months…

So, then…is Yami being used as reference in size or am I the only one who thinks Atem might have been lying about what exactly his little beta turned out to be? Jim was sneering, turning to Yugi with a mouth full of white teeth and a single glowing eye. The resentment was so clear in his gaze that Yugi snarled in turn, bristling and rising to his paws. He ignored it when Kris was forced away from him, blinking up at him in surprise. Because I think I was told before that Yami was just a Full-Blood.

The main differences, Obelisk continued in a loud voice that drowned the Texas wolf's statement, are length of body, height, and the build of the wolf in question. Yami is twice as large as Otogi but for his height. His jaw power is about four times that of Otogi and twice of Jonouchi.

Yami had turned away from him sometime during the questioning. But Yugi could see how rigid he was still. And, though he could not catch a fear-scent from him, he knew the black wolf was struggling now. Obelisk had thrown their efforts in their faces, just as Jonouchi had done to Yugi personally mere minutes before. And, if the pack chose to act out against it, what was he meant to do to fix that?

His senses are better than both of theirs, though not by much. Jonouchi or Otogi could easily learn to utilize their senses to the fullest degree that Yami himself can.

The black wolf wrinkled his lips back for a brief second, then sniffed loudly. The display made several of the other canines turn to him, eyes sharp and boring into his frame as if to seek answers. Jim had turned on Yami as if he were a toy to be chewed on, Shay was staring as if this prospect made him only want to fight him more than ever, and Yusei refused to look at him now. His head was lowered, ears flat against his head, and his eyes were on the snow in front of Yami's paws.

A scream made Yami's head snap around. Obelisk had trotted over to Kris, snatching her up in his large jaws. She hung limply from his teeth, eyes wide and confused. And he could tell now that the noise was not from pain, but from alarm. Yugi had turned on the deity, all teeth and bristling fur and a mouth that was opened as if he might lunge for his face at any moment. The crunching of the snow made Yami bristle. It sounded too much like fragile limbs, bones too frail and underdeveloped and small to be properly realigned during the Change.

Yugi was shaking, as if the thought had occurred to him as well. And Yami could not help but feel something akin rage course through him. He turned to Obelisk with a furious snarl, and the deity placed Kris down unceremoniously. The pup was upright again, sitting in the high pile of snow, eyes wide and confused. But it was hardly comforting to him in any manner.

Stand up, kid, the deity snorted. You are part of this demonstration as well.

Of what? Yugi snarled, bristling and glaring. You can't honestly think she's of any use if you're going to do something to show the rest of the pack!

The god ignored him, snarling at the hellhound. I said, get up.

You honestly think she's going to get up? She's scared out of her fucking mind right now! Yugi objected. He stepped forward, about to lunge at Obelisk, but Aki snapped her teeth at him. And he spun on her, jaws gaping and tail raised. When he lunged, he barely restrained himself an inch from her throat. The fuck do you think you're doing?

Yami looked between them. She hadn't even flinched at his display. She was glaring into his eyes, snarling. If you wish to run around saving hellhounds, you are no leader I'll follow. Her eyes fell back on Kris again, jaws opening wide as if she were about to lunge for her as well. How stupid are you, little pup? He told you to get up. Don't you know you're in the presence of a god? Defiance could be the very reason we eat you alive.

I would be very careful as to what I say to her, Yami said quietly. You don't know enough about her to be so cruel.

I know that she is a hellhound who has been left do die in a pack of lycanthropes! Aki roared with laughter. The other wolves were looking at each other, some unnerved and others clearly excited by the idea. Even Chazz was paying more attention, by far more interested than Yami was comfortable with. Jack was standing straighter, eyes sparkling as they locked on the pup's form. Besides, what more could Obelisk have possibly brought her here for? For the fun of it? Why tease us like this when he knows we're clearly going to desire to kill her? You know as well as I that if she is in this camp, she is considered nothing more than fair gain.

Is that so? Yami continued in that same quiet tone, turning his head to look at her now. He stepped forward, cutting off her view of the hellhound and Yugi as well. When he lowered his face to her level and bore his teeth, she bristled and staggered back a step in surprise. Then I suppose you would care to fight me to see if you can sink your teeth into her, yes?

Fight you? Gladly! She stepped forward, baring her teeth inches from his. After all, I owe you for all the lies and the pain you've caused around here. Don't you think, you stupid bastard?

Obelisk burst out laughing. Yami jolted. Aki spun on him, eyes wide and startled. Yugi flinched back in his peripheral. All three of them spun on the deity, confused and alarmed. I simply planned to show the weak points on a hellhound. But I suppose if you are all so willing to have fun with the prisoner, it could be a good thing to simply let you find out on your own.

Excuse me? Yugi spat. Yami's eyes stretched wide, the words resonating in his skull forcefully enough to wind him. Aki burst out laughing behind him. You can't be serious! She's a pup! She's barely six months old in this form! She's only six years old as a human! How the hell could you condone them turning on her like this?

Survival is gifted only the most cunning and powerful. Perhaps you will come to understand how war shows no mercy and death claims everything it sets its eyes upon, Obelisk sneered, facing the white wolf with a hideous gleam to his eyes. We at one time bent over backwards in order to aid you. We ensured that your alpha was returned to you. We ensured that you were saved when Marik almost killed you. I saved you when you went searching in that damn lab. You nearly ruined every single thread of effort we put into this damn war and you repay us now by ignoring your responsibilities and doing nothing. You have failed in every regard to deserve the reward we gifted you.

Yami glanced quickly at Aki. But the she-wolf did not seem to be able to hear what was being said. Obelisk must have meant for only himself and Yugi to hear. None of the pack was responding. And he was sure there would have been a rather violent reaction had they heard such words.

That has nothing to do with her! Yugi protested, horrified. Kris has nothing to do with that at all!

Hmm, you may be right about that, Obelisk said in a mocking tone. But why is it that I should fail to teach them what you are too mindless to? If you wished to meet the hellhound that you are meant to fight, such a thing shall come sooner rather than later. And, in the meantime, what shall you do? Allow opportunity to waste away and your pack to be picked off like lambs?

No! I—

Aki had sprung. Yami rushed forward. The collision was enough to make his shoulder snap. The pressure of weight and his weakened stance stunned him. He backpedaled rapidly. The she-wolf glared at him, jaws gaping. She'd been aiming for Yugi. And she wasn't pleased that he'd interfered. But she did not lunge again. For the moment she seemed satisfied to listen to their conversation again.

Why did you do this? Yugi snarled, a pleading note in his voice. Why would you even consider doing this? You know who her family is!

Oh yes, I am well aware, the deity returned scornfully.

Yami missed his next words, if he spoke at all. Aki lunged again. And Yami ducked. He aimed his muzzle, then snapped his teeth. Blood spurted into his mouth. And the she-wolf yelped. She pulled out of his grip. Fur clung to his teeth, choking his tongue. And he thought again of starving. He thought of eating his own fur in desperation. He thought of the stones in his belly. His fur rose into a bristle. He stepped forward, straightening. His tail rose.

She glared at him. But the wound was mild. The fur had been stripped in an oblong shape. He breathed heavily. His stomach gurgled and lurched. He shook himself out, expelling the memories. And then he bore his teeth more forcefully. The snarl he let loose was almost akin thunder. And the she-wolf startled for a brief second before returning his stance with a growl.

But she did not move closer.

And Yami almost thanked the gods for it.

Then why would you do this?

It is necessary. The pack needs to learn. You've overlooked training them properly. They've never been exposed to hellhounds but for a few patrols and they've all almost been killed for it. You had no plans to educate them on their weaknesses. So why should I have left them unprepared and readied to be slaughtered?

That's not what this is about! And you know that! So what the hell is really going on right now?!

Yami looked beyond Aki for a moment. Jack was creeping closer. Chazz was pacing in front of the other wolves. His mouth was open, drool dripping from his teeth. He ran his tongue over his nose twice, then bristled and paced faster. Jack had lowered himself slightly into the snow. His eyes were locked on Kris with deadly precision.

Yugi sprang at the pale blond wolf. Yami blinked. Jack spun on him. His teeth snapped shut a millimeter from Yugi's eye. Aki used the distraction. She tried to rush past him. Yami spun on her. His teeth sank into her shoulder. The sickening crunch was enough to make his head spin. He dragged her off her feet. He tossed his head. She was flung painfully, yelping. Yugi sprang backwards. The she-wolf crashed into Jack. Both of them rolled, snarling. They bit at each other, then hurriedly separated. Aki bore her teeth hatefully. Jack glared at her furiously.

The smell of fresh blood was enough to make Yami's stomach churn.

You don't lay a paw on her, the black wolf growled, facing them both now. The yearling spun on him with a sneer but Aki eyed him more cautiously. Or I shall rip your throat out for the fun of it.

She wouldn't be here if it wasn't for you helping her, Yugi snarled, spinning on him. Yami turned his head, some sense of hatred and self-preservation surging through his veins. He locked eyes with him. The white wolf was glaring, teeth bared and expression furious. And what right did he have to be upset with him? Obelisk was not wrong. Yugi had had no plans to help to teach them. He had not cared enough to try in any manner. And what of the fact that Yugi had failed to so much as help to fix the various problems circulating within the pack as it was? He had done nothing to help them in any manner whatsoever. Acting out against Yami for the fact that he had helped Obelisk retrieve her meant nothing to him. He had not known the deity might wish to use her as a chew toy. Had he known, he would not have gone along with it. But Yami supposed he understood; for all the times Yugi had told him he trusted him, he sure as hell didn't now, did he? He almost burst out laughing. You helped him bring her here!

I did it to minimize the bloodshed and potential body count to come, Yami said softly, ignoring the way Yugi peered at him in such obvious desperation. He wanted to believe him, he was sure, but no part of him trusted him enough. Yami wished he had it in himself to sneer at him about all those broken promises that he did trust him, would believe in him and whatever he said fully. Obelisk is not wrong. You have done nothing to help teach them. And it is not as if there is any way to ensure their survival in this upcoming battle if we do not prepare them now. The hellhounds are ruthless, as you already know, and they will not show them mercy simply because the pack is stupid and ill-prepared.

Y-you're justifying bringing her here?

Yami snorted. No. I brought her here for another reason as well. It is not her I cared to bring here, he answered. The horror in Yugi's eyes grew tenfold as he struggled to piece together the words, but he was shaking his head long before he could form the words to properly question him, Yami noted.

And then it came over him. His features shifted. His horror became a thousand times worse. His body froze. His eyes grew wide. His mouth opened. He began to shake. And he stared at him in absolute shock.

The noise lasted only a second.

It was high-pitched and momentary.

Yugi spun around. Yami turned his head, raising it. The rest of the pack looked over. The snow was red, a hideous stain against the endless white. A large pool of the ice crystals was soaked, steaming. A head lay several feet away from a body. The eyes were wide, staring. The body dropped from gaping jaws.

The hybrid was enormous in build. Their eyes glinted like gems. The fur rippled like water. The teeth were slathered in red, drool dripping. Its tail was curled downward, permanently kinked to the right.

It wagged slowly back and forth.

I believe you have something that belongs to me, it said slowly, head tilting slightly to the side and teeth glittering. And I think you should give it back before I bathe the earth in every single one of your wolves' blood, Yugi Motou.

The white wolf was shaking. I didn't…!

Kris tried to spring forward. Aki snarled and lunged. Yami hit her hard enough in the side to knock her off balance. She missed the pup by several inches. But she hardly looked to Yami. She was shaking with excitement. And she'd spun around to face Valon with glittering eyes.

How beautiful! Someone cared enough to get themselves killed for you.

Valon did not spare a glance in her direction. Obelisk, you fool, what is the meaning behind this? His voice was sharp, cold and hideous. I should rip your head from your body like I did that bitch's.

Yami let out a small breath, a single split second of excitement racing through him. Yugi was quivering beside him, eyes wide and horrified. Yami could not tear his eyes away. Valon stood tall and powerful, golden eyes furious. His ears were aimed at Obelisk and his lips were drawn back the smallest degree to show his front incisors.

This? It's nothing but a quick study lesson, the deity answered with a laugh. And Yugi hated him for it. He was frozen, staring at the wolf-dog as Valon faced the god of war with nothing more than cold eyes and bared teeth. Yugi was almost shaking again; the world was spinning around him. And he was struck with a thought that stunned him.

If Valon went up against Yami, was he supposed to stop him? Was it right to do so? Or was it better for him to try to get Kris away and to him? If the two of them began to battle, what was he meant to do? He was torn. Instinct said to minimize the bloodshed as best he could. And that meant to try to get Kris to him. But that also meant that he left Yami to deal with the hellhound if he chose to fight. If he chose Yami as his next target—

But he had only come to retrieve Kris. If he came for that, then giving her back surely meant Valon would leave as quickly and quietly as he had come, right?

I was just going to show them the weak points on a hellhound.

They are the same on all of us, Valon snarled softly. He stalked closer. Jack crept towards him. His teeth snapped at the yearling's face. But his eyes never left Obelisk. The blond turned tail, running a few feet. Then he circled back around. And Yugi recognized Jack's approach now. He would try to find Valon's blind spot and attack from there. The throat, the gut. Why would any of you need more of a lesson than my taking one of these worthless yearlings' heads off?

That's not entirely true. You know that as well as I.

No, dear uncle, what I know is that if this damn yearling doesn't stop trying to get closer, I will slaughter him and leave his corpse hollowed out like a goddamn rug. Valon still did not remove his eyes from Obelisk. And I know that if you harm my sister, I will destroy you.

Yugi pricked his ears forward. His eyes shot to Kris. The pup was cowering on her belly in the snow. Her tail was tucked, her body rigid as she considered the situation. He could see how wide her pupils had grown, how terrified she truly was. Next to her was Yami's paw. And beside him was Aki who was still watching Valon with extreme interest. He shivered, looking between them. And then he quickly turned back to Kris again, bristling faintly.

You make a lot of threats and don't seem able to back them up with anything more. You're all bark and no bite, just like the common dog, Aki growled, tail wagging. Yugi blinked, stunned. She began to move towards the hellhound, laughing. Jack was creeping up on Valon's side now. Valon had just barely turned and lowered his head, eyes locked on the she-wolf. He did nothing more than breathe in and exhale slowly, studying her so pointedly that Yugi could see the calculations running behind his eyes. Somehow you've managed to make Atem quiver like a wounded animal. I wonder if you're even half as strong as you're pretending.

You can try to find out if you'd like. Valon dodged Jack expertly. He backed up, then lunged forward. His teeth snapped shut in the yearling's shoulder. Jack screamed when the bone crunched deafeningly. Then he spun on the hellhound. His mouth opened wide. He tried to snap his jaws shut on his face. And Valon simply released, grabbed his skull in his teeth, and threw him violently aside. The action was as fluid as breathing for the hybrid. The golden-eyed wolf-dog stared at Aki. But I can't promise I won't kill you for it.

I'm quivering.

How about we test your teeth against mine? Valon suggested. His voice had grown soft, whispering, and his tone was mesmerizing in the way it rose and fell with each word. Yugi shivered, stunned, but Valon simply stared back at the she-wolf. I promise I'll gut you like a fish before I tear your head off.

Enough, Yami snarled.

His voice was enough to make Valon's attention become lost. His head snapped around, eyes wide. And he stared back at the wolf with a glowing gaze. His entire stance grew more rigid, but he did not growl. He raised his chin the smallest degree instead, tail up as it slowly wagged back and forth. But Yami did not so much as blink at the slight challenge.

He will kill you.

And your concern in that would be what? Aki snarled. Her eyes were glittering, still locked on Valon. I do not recall ever asking you your permission or anything of the sort.

Valon blinked slowly. And abruptly his stance changed. His tail dropped and his ears pricked forward. He eyed Yami more speculatively than before. Right, you are Yami, he said quietly. He watched him for a moment longer, then wrinkled his nose. The Pure-Blood. Yes, I remember you now. I did not recognize you with so little muscle mass. But I know those damn eyes.

Yami watched him expressionlessly. Yugi glanced between them, terrified that the black wolf might choose to be the aggressor in this situation. His heart hammered in his chest. But his alpha merely curled his lips back. Yes, they are rather unforgettable, are they not? His voice was cold and distant. Then he shook himself out, as if to dispel whatever thought had been in his head. His lips peeled back to show his teeth but it was a sloppy, almost friendly smile. Now, would you like to have your little sister returned to you?

If she is not within the next five minutes, I plan to kill you and Yugi both and torture you each time you come back, the shepherd snarled. Now, should you desire to have that happen, however, I will gladly oblige—

Aki shot forward, a blur of red fur. Yugi rushed forward. But Valon came as well. However, both of them ended up empty-handed. In a single split second, Aki was hit in the side. She was thrown off balance. She rolled in the air, snarling. And then she landed on her back. And, looming over her, was Yami. His teeth were in her throat, his eyes on Valon as he considered the hybrid.

The shepherd was a mere inch or so from him. He was frozen, eyes full of surprise. His entire body was stiff. His fur was up in a startled bristle. Yugi hurried forward, stepping between them to block Valon access to Yami. But the hybrid did not even glance at him.

Kris is okay, he rushed to say, even as Yami calmly stated, Stand down, Aki.

Yugi got to Yami's shoulder. And the movement made Valon turn to him. His golden eyes glowed, fierce and devastating as they bore into his. He could see the raw power and hatred, the birthright of the hellhound. And it made his heart skip a beat, his blood boiling in his veins. He shivered and almost backed up, but forced himself forward. You know I wouldn't let anything happen to her. You know me.

Valon turned to him entirely now. You are lucky I do, he snarled, or else I would have killed them all and Yami wouldn't be able to stop me.

Yami was silent for a long handful of minutes. And Yugi nearly quivered with relief. Then the hellhound backed up several steps, teeth bared. His eyes were locked on Yugi and his patience was too thin to press upon, like shattered ice beneath his paws.

Yugi moved only when Yami himself relaxed. He hurried off to grab Kris. And he was inches from her, about to grip her scruff. And then Obelisk stepped forward. He snarled, snapping his teeth. They shut inches from his eye. Yugi jerked back, stunned. But the deity simply turned to Valon, a sneer crossing his features.

You seem so close to the wolf that stole your little sister from your home, he drawled, voice full of mocking laughter. Is Yami so easily forgiven then?

You do not smell the same as him. He smells of moonlight and pine and mint. You reek of blood and rot, Valon dismissed. I would have recognized his scent had it been him to snatch her up like that.

You sound so incredibly sure. He tilted his head. But you are wrong.

Yugi turned to Yami slowly, a blinding white-hot anger coursing through him. Did you grab her? he demanded coldly, nearly shaking. Was he protecting the one who had brought this down on them? Was he protecting someone who deserved to be punished for their indiscretions? And what was he meant to do if he was? Did you grab her or did Obelisk?

And, for the first time in what felt like a lifetime, Yugi feared he would lie to him. He feared Yami would simply dismiss him and his anger and laugh in his face. But the red-eyed wolf leveled him with a cold stare in turn, as if he could sense his disbelief, as if he could smell his wavering trust and growing anger.

I told him when, Yami sneered. I never once laid a paw on her. She was perfectly fine when we left, even if she had fallen unconscious. And I never once touched her even when he tried to tell me to carry her.

Yugi's heart hurt. How much did he trust him to tell the truth? How much did he trust him not to falsify the story and simply mock him with misleading information? He looked between Yami and Valon slowly, fear gripping him. He wondered if they might go to blows, if the Pure-Blood would simply attack regardless. Would Valon kill him? Would he truly try?

You are truly a weak god, aren't you? A god of war and yet you cannot control your own pawns properly and now you wish for a premature fight between us, Valon said, shaking his head and staring at the deity. It is nothing short of pathetic, Obelisk.

Don't antagonize him, another voice cut in sharply. Yugi turned his head to spot the she-wolf approaching them. She was a red-furred shadow against the snow. She stopped a couple of inches away and shook her head slowly. Her golden eyes were glued on Yami, however, for a single second, and then her head turned towards Obelisk. He's not thinking properly. He might just turn on you without thought.

I'm so terribly afraid, Valon sneered. You are not going to help him, Slifer. You know that. You're not so damn foolish as to step so far into this war as Obelisk seems to be oh so willing.

I am not the god of war, Slifer stated softly. I reside over death. As such, I am not here to encourage the unnecessary bloodshed which might come of this event. I have come to prevent it. And it is not you I will deal with.

You plan to turn on me, sister? How loyal of you.

My loyalty is to Atem, as should be yours. This war and the survival of these wolves is what we were meant to ensure. I will eliminate all those who oppose it. That includes forcing you into a slumber again, Obelisk.

Is that so? The war god snorted and glanced her with a sneer. I am amazed it is not something more mundane. Perhaps you are in love with one of the mortals?

You disgust me.

Yugi looked between them and then slowly to Valon. Did he mean the hellhound? Or was he alluring to himself or Yami? What the hell was Obelisk saying right now? He shivered and turned back. Slifer did not strike him as one to fall into the burdensome task of forbidden love of any kind. And he doubted she would ever do so regardless. She seemed a loner by nature, rather than nurture. And he could not see the gods falling for any of them so foolishly…

Valon was a hellhound, and a sociopath who likely could not mimic the emotional attachment Slifer might desire. Yami was a compulsive liar who made the worst of decisions at any given time. And Yugi himself was too pathetic to get the attention of any of them for more than their scorn.

But then, Obelisk did not look as if he cared or even truly understood what it was that he had said. He seemed lost in his own mind, a feral quality in his dark eyes. He looked almost as if he anticipated the bloodshed and wished for it more than anything.

Did you know he would do this? Valon snarled. He turned first on Yami and then on Slifer with burning eyes. Her gaze was not unlike his when they locked, Yugi noticed, and he was frozen as they glanced between each other. She looked resigned and ancient and Valon seemed a million years older, hateful but sour with an age he did not truly possess. Did you predict that this would happen, Slifer?

I was not aware he planned to go so far, no. It was by chance that I realized this was what he had chosen to do, she growled softly, shaking her head and eyeing Valon coldly. I would not have let this happen had I realized sooner.

And you, Morrigan? Valon snarled, looking past her. Did you know this might happen?

Yugi turned his head immediately, eyes wide and horrified. The she-wolf stood feet away. Her eyes were sharp, narrowed, and her stance was aggressive in every aspect. Her tail was held high, her eyes locked on her brother, her hackles raised and her ears pricked forward.

What a foolish question.

Valon snorted, then turned to Obelisk again. Are you so upset that your little weapon has proven himself superior to you? Is that it? Or is it something else? Are you so incredibly weak that you've turned your sights on attack without meaning?

Yami tilted his head and narrowed his eyes in Yugi's peripheral. When he glanced at him, the black wolf was staring at them with pricked ears and darkened eyes. Is that what this has become about? The fact that the gods can no longer control Atem? His voice was cold and harsh, vicious, as if he might lunge forward and attack at any second. So simple a prospect as adaptation was overlooked when you created him and now he has grown past what you imagined you could control and so now you lash out?

Slifer was quiet for a long minute, then stepped forward with hardened golden eyes, more annoyed than anything else. Is that what you believe this to have boiled down to? No, it is beyond that. Though I suppose one might fear such a thing in other regards. But you are foolish to think that evolution has surpassed us in such a manner. She flicked her ears and drew her lips back slowly in distaste. Evolution is a by-product of free will. One survives and adapts and it changes everything. But that does not mea that we've lost control of something or other. It means that we have to work around it.

Oh? Is that so? Yami drawled after a moment, tilting his head and narrowing his eyes. A by-product of free will? The drive to survive is a by-product of free will?

Yugi flicked his ears, turning to Yami with a curious look. He sounded irate, as if he might lunge forward and sink his teeth into her flesh at any moment. He did not look as if he might move at any point, however. He seemed firmly planted before her, staring and studying.

You know as well as I that one does not survive at all times but for their desire to do so. It is not ingrained in instinct that one try to do the impossible.

Yugi flicked his ears, uncertain as the two of them looked at each other. Slifer was growing irritable, he could see. Her shoulders had squared and she was bristling faintly. Yami, however, was simply staring at her now. He looked almost amused, perhaps even mocking her.

Who cares? Morrigan spat. She had come to Obelisk's side and was glaring at him fiercely. Yugi glanced sideways at Yami again, then looked towards Valon where the wolf-dog was staring at the oncoming quarrel. He couldn't read his expression, however, and his heart pounded as they stared at one another. I want to know why it is that you were so foolish as to do this, Obelisk. This is not something that any of us have ever agreed upon.

I don't want to know why, Valon interrupted, sounding disinterested and bored. I want Kris and I want to leave.

And you shall have her, Yami muttered, though he sounded more annoyed than anything else. He glanced at Yugi sideways and the white wolf peered at him curiously in turn. They considered each other for a moment and then the black wolf looked to Valon. She's not hurt. Give me a moment to get her.

Valon's golden eyes narrowed, growing cold as he turned his head to consider him slowly. I do not want anyone touching her. I will grab her myself.

Obelisk snorted. Are you going to try to force your way past me to do it? he sneered. But his eyes had shot to Yami now, Yugi realized. And he felt the smallest tremor of alarm cross through him. Was he challenging him? Or did he mean to harm him violently for the sake of it?

Yami pricked his ears forward, leveling him with a stare. But he did not tense in any manner that said he might lash out and attack him in turn. Rather the wolf simply stared at the deity, something of amusement making his dark eyes brighter than ever. When Yami abruptly snorted, Yugi was reminded of the way Obelisk's neck had sounded when it had snapped in the snow that day. He remembered the pressure Yami had put into the blow, the way he'd so immediately turned on him after.

Maybe death had a long-lasting effect on the gods, a kind of dementia that did not entirely go away nor show until after the height of the event and its recovery. Yugi wondered at this for only a moment. Then he forced himself to focus once more as Yami wagged his tail.

I can force my way past you. He said it so softly that Yugi had to strain his ears. And he shivered, bristling for a brief second, as Yugi realized with shock that Yami was serious. He would do it. He would force his way past Obelisk without a care in the world, to get to Kris to ensure Valon did not turn on the rest of the pack.

The hellhound was eyeing them both intently now. He looked as if he might be more curious than irritable after listening to their exchange. Yami and Obelisk were staring at one another and Yugi felt winded for a brief moment. Valon was staring at them with an expression that said he did not know what they were talking about exactly, but that he was incredibly excited to see the possibilities of the fight that might erupt between them. Yugi shivered, bristling for a split second before he turned to Morrigan.

For what purpose might you turn on me, Yami? To prove to the pack that you are far more hellhound than lycanthrope? You plan to confirm their suspicions so easily like this? the god sneered. His ears were pricked, his eyes hard and glittering like a knife's edge. Yugi found himself snarling before he could stop the impulse, tail raised and eyes locked on the deity. He wanted to leap between the two of them, perhaps to attack Obelisk for saying such a thing but also to turn on Yami for the fact that he'd unconsciously helped to orchestrate this situation. You know as well as I that they suspect you of being a hellhound. And defending one now would surely be more convincing to them of that fact than anything else.

Yes, because my eye and fur color do not make me seem a hellhound regardless.

That doesn't matter, Yugi snapped, bristling with irritation and turning to Yami with a frustrated look. You're not a hellhound, eye and fur color or not! You're a lycanthrope! I'm the one who bit you.

The statement made Morrigan stare at him as if he had grown three heads. And then she looked away, laughing softly. Valon was staring at Yugi with something of a mirroring expression before he snorted softly. And then Morrigan turned away again, looking to Yami slowly. You do know that looks alone do not define one subspecies from the other, do you not? As it stands, you yourself could be considered one as well, Atem. White Dogs are not so uncommon.

The statement was enough to make a few of the wolves stiffen. Some of them sat up. Others bristled and glared at him. And others looked nervously towards Valon and then away again.

Chazz was mumbling, Yugi realized, about the fur under his skin when Yami had cut his wrists in front of them. Yusei had begun to talk about the ambush of hellhounds in the woods. Syrus piped up to say he remembered the way Yami and the leader of the patrol had gotten into it in order to save Yugi.

His eye color does not match that of a hellhound, Yami cut in loudly enough that it stopped the chatter in its track. And Yugi truly wished he had not said such a thing. Why couldn't he have just gone along with it? The wolves wouldn't turn on him like they would Yami. If I remember right, Skoll has ice blue eyes that turn aquamarine in sunlight. Is that right? Yugi has dual-colored eyes, blue and purple. That is a lycanthrope trait. So it does not matter if White Dogs exist. He is not one of them.

Yugi turned to him, bristling. And for a single moment he wanted to snarl and spit at him in rage. He wanted to snap at him about how his defense had done nothing for himself and he needed to protect himself more than he did Yugi. Obelisk had blown their cover with much of it before then. And he had no idea how it was that they would truly fix the problem now.

Point being, I will force you aside to get to Kris if you will not move voluntarily.

The statement was met with startled looks and confused expressions amongst the pack. Morrigan seemed surprised by the softly-spoken promise. Obelisk was bristling. Valon was staring at them with that same intensity, clearly hoping he might be witness to the fight that might come between the two of them.

Is that so? You truly imagine that you can fight me and win in this state? You're still recovering from what happened to you recently.

I am sure even in this state I will be able to take you down should it come to that.

Valon was bristling now, tail up and shoulders squared. He glared at Yami for a single second, but Yugi could not be sure if it was with malice or laughter at this point. I do not need your help. I'll take him on myself. He is not too great for me to knock around.

Knock around? Yami scoffed. Who said anything about something so small?

And what do you propose you shall do then? Kill him? Valon sneered. He was laughing at first, but the silence and blank stare he gained from Yami made him stop short. He bristled, head snapping up, ears pricked, and backed up a step in pure surprise.

Yugi flattened his ears, looking between them. He could feel Valon staring at him more than he saw it as he forced himself to focus entirely on Yami. He risked a sideways glance to the hellhound, almost trembling when he saw the pure amazement and horror in his eyes.

The pack was frozen now, the implications crossing their minds as well. Each of them began to rapidly swap looks, bristling and horrified. A few of them said it was impossible, blurting the words out, and others snarled that he was a Pure-Blood. One of them questioned feebly if he really was a Pure-Blood and not some creature that the labs had created that wasn't quite wolf at all. That was met with pure snarls of disdain and a very violent attack from Zane who snarled he would not have such superstition in his pack.

I want to go home.

The words were quiet but high-pitched. Yami turned his head immediately. Yugi himself did as well. Slifer and Morrigan glanced at her. And Valon looked over with a slightly dismissive expression that quickly became warmer and more caring. Kris was staring at him with a pleading expression, clearly still too scared to move where someone might grab her, but desperate to have his eyes on her.

Yami stepped closer.

Obelisk snarled, raising his tail.

Valon backed up, snarling.

Yugi bristled, flattening his ears.

Morrigan growled softly.

Slifer looked down, ears pricked and eyes furious.

And for a moment all of them were frozen. Yugi swore they were all breathing in sync, from the surrounding pack to Yami and Obelisk. The staring continued for a single moment longer. Then, as quickly as it had begun, it was over.

Yami slammed into the god's side. It sent him skidding. Teeth snapped at his shoulder and missed. Valon darted forward, snatching his sister up. He got past Obelisk, dashing away when the god spun on him. The hellhound stopped behind Yami, turning back to stare. The black wolf and Obelisk stared at each other. But there was no aggression now. Obelisk was simply frustrated. And Yami was plainly pleased.

Valon remained tense, however, studying Obelisk. Then, slowly, he put Kris down and murmured, You okay? His voice was soft and gentle. His sister shivered, looking around uncomfortably. Yugi's heart ached when she pleaded to go home again. And her older brother turned away, scoffing, We will go home in a minute, Kris.

Yugi pricked his ears forward. He glanced around slowly. The pack was still staring, studying. Some of them looked fearful. Others were amused. Jack was glaring where he was seated. Chazz was no longer salivating, stunned. Jonouchi looked pissed. Otogi seemed startled. Yugi turned away, shivering, and his eyes fell to focus simply on Yami's paw where it had sunken into the snow.

Why exactly are you still here?

Yugi bristled, head snapping around. His eyes stretched wide, stomach lurching as he saw the newest speaker. Jonouchi was a few feet away, head tilted and teeth showing in a snarl.

You have your sister. Now get out.

Who the fuck are—Jonouchi? Valon spat the words in surprise, turning to him with wide eyes. The shepherd mix tilted his head a fraction, eyes narrowing as he chuckled dryly. Yugi bit you?

Yugi cringed. He would have died otherwise.

Valon looked over at him for a moment. Then he turned to Jonouchi, dismissing the white wolf entirely and showing his teeth at him in a brilliant sneer. I usually have never had any problem with you before. Are you going to tell me that now that you can turn into a wolf, you have a set of balls you didn't before? Do we suddenly have a problem? I can rectify that if you want.

We're not friends, Jonouchi spat. He raised his tail, snarling louder than ever. We have never been friends. Don't you dare talk to me like we are.

My apologies, but I don't give a fuck, Valon laughed. He bore his teeth further and wagged his tail as if he were jovial with the fact that the golden wolf was paying him such keen attention. Why don't you say something that I might care about?

Enough, Yami spat, turning to Valon with burning eyes. You will not spill blood here, understand? You have done enough of that already. I will not allow it a second time. Now take your sister and leave.

Valon snorted, appearing almost as if he might sneer at him for a split second. But when he locked eyes with the lycanthrope, his lips fell back over his teeth and his tail dropped. He stared at him a single moment more, eyes growing full of caution and perhaps the smallest sense of fear as well. Very well. Tell your mutt over there to stand down.

Yugi looked over to his friend. Stand down, Jonouchi. If he turns on you, it's not going to be a fair fight. He's a lot stronger and faster than he looks.

Jonouchi turned to him with something between surprise and frustration. But it was gone in a matter of seconds when he turned back to Valon with something unsure and icy. The hellhound ignored him, grabbing his sister by the scruff once more and padding forward at a swift pace. The action was met with unsettled snarling and Jonouchi continued to glare at him for a moment. Valon eyed him in turn, though he angled his face away to shield his sister almost as if he expected Jonouchi to leap at her. For a moment the pack simply watched and Valon was almost completely out of the way of the wolves.

And then Jonouchi stepped forward, sniffing lightly at the air. He was bristling, confused, and his brown eyes were wide with growing bewilderment. What's that smell? Why do you smell like that?

It's called poison, Valon answered snidely. He had his face turned away, his head lowered to put Kris down again. But his teeth were bared, his eyes burning where they had focused on the golden-furred male in his peripheral. And I will happily use it on you.

Knock it off, Slifer snapped. There is no reason to declare war on each other. Obelisk is the one who brought her here.

And Yami helped me to do it, the other god sneered, turning on the black wolf with a lazy wag of his tail. His eyes were bright, full of laughter now, and he seemed almost to be baiting him. As far as I am concerned, any blood shed is as much a burden of his as it is mine.

Yami pricked his ears, turning to him with glittering eyes. So be it, he said softly, turning to look at Valon once more. But it is not worth attacking him. He is not going to hurt you. And if he does, I am sure Atem will set him straight.

Yugi cringed. Jonouchi, I'm serious. Stand down, okay? He's not playing. He's got poison. It's seriously painful and it'll kill you pretty quickly. So just step back and let him go.

Jonouchi huffed and sent him an irritable look even as he stepped back. I just wanted to know what that smell was, he grumbled in obvious annoyance. I don't plan to attack him, okay? I'm just curious.

Curiosity can kill a dog, Valon snarled. He was bristling now. But he had relaxed his jaws again. Kris was mute, dangling from his mouth, eyes wide and scanning the area rapidly. No doubt Obelisk and Yami had both helped to terrify her to the point of suspecting an attack at any moment. Yugi shivered as they looked at each other, Valon's golden eyes nearly flat with hatred, almost like a pair of simple dull yellow discs. But then he turned away again, head slightly angled downward and away from the other wolves, and continued trotting along as quickly as he could.

So, let me get this straight. A hellhound marches into our camp, kills one of our own, injures another, threatens to kill all of us, and yet we are to let him go?

Yes, Yami snarled in response, turning on the wolf with a furious look. Yes, we are all to let him go, Shay, regardless of what opinions you might have on the subject.

Besides the fact that you both stink of weakness? Shay snarled, turning on him and Yugi with a disdainful expression. I don't recall legend saying you be so worthless and pathetic as you are. How disgusting. I wasted my time coming here to help two cowards. Thank fuck I didn't bring the rest of the pack to see this.

I was raised to think that Atem was going to be powerful and great and make wise decisions, Aki snarled, looking at them with curled lips. I did not think that meant that I would be serving you both when one of you is a traitor and the other too weak and mindless to make his own decisions.

And you think unnecessary bloodshed is the wise choice? Slifer questioned in turn. She had come to Yami's side and her golden eyes were sharp and powerful, burning into hers with obvious ease. A leader considers all aspects of a fight and the potential of a war. You are mistaken in your assumptions that physical strength is what makes a leader. Yugi and Yami are both powerful, yet they do not pick fights without reason. To do so would be incredibly foolish. This is a war, not a game.

And yet the rest of us are nameless pawns in a game that we are not even a part of, Aki snarled, raising her tail. She shook her head, baring her teeth, and Shay stared at her with a tilt of his head. You all sit around and watch while we are slaughtered like lambs! And all because of beasts like him!

Valon had stopped and was watching them now. Much of the pack had remained silent, studying the situation as well. Yugi looked towards them again after a moment. Then he saw Chazz staring at the snow, shuffling his weight anxiously. Zane was staring at the hellhound with an unreadable expression. And Yugi could not stop himself from glancing away, towards Yusei who was staring at him. The yearling looked horrified and confused, not with childish innocence of any kind, but the realization that the two wolves were speaking the truth. Yugi knew that look far too well after months of being a wolf like this. And he could not find it in himself to do much more than despair.

Valon himself has not done a single thing to us before now, Yami murmured, voice growing distant the longer he spoke. His eyes were locked on the hellhound, but he did not seem to truly be paying attention. He has done nothing to harm any of us before this moment. And the only reason he came here was to retrieve someone stolen from him. In his place I would have done the same, as any of the rest of us would.

He's a fucking hellhound! Shay snarled. And he's going to tell the rest of them where we are.

They already know where we are, Chazz objected in a quiet voice, wearing a similar expression to Yusei now. His head was turned to look at Valon, however, gray eyes cold and hard like chips of ice. They've known for a while now. Even with this one leaving our camp, it doesn't mean anything! The fact of it is that they're well aware of where we are and our days are numbered by now. So who cares who actually kills us? We're all going to die anyways!

Yami blinked wide eyes next to him, visibly startled. Valon stared at the yearling with a slightly surprised look. Mana looked horrified. Mai had closed her eyes, shaking her head. Otogi was staring at Valon with a considerate expression. Zane had turned to Chazz with a shocked look. Syrus was shaking.

I don't want to die. I don't want to die, Zane.

Life always ends in death, kid, Jim scoffed in rebuttal, voice cold and sharp. You either die young or you die old. That's the only difference between you and me when it happens.

No one is going to die! Yugi objected hotly, a surge of panic crashing through him. If he didn't put a fight now, how could he ever convince them that survival was an option? His eyes flickered quickly towards Yami but the wolf refused to look at him. Not now, okay?! Valon isn't going to hurt anyone and Morrigan won't either! Obelisk and Slifer were my beta in place of Yami for months. They wouldn't hurt any of us, either. Now stop with that bullshit, okay?

So it doesn't happen today, Chazz retorted, scoffing, but it happens tomorrow. It happens in a couple of days. It happens a week from now. It happens months from now. It's going to happen. That is what this war means!

Then shouldn't we be proud? Yusei snarled, turning on the beta with burning dark blue eyes and bared teeth. His tail was in the air, his body rigid with anger. Shouldn't each of us be proud to know that we'll die with a purpose? We're going to be laying our lives down for a cause worthy of it!

Is that what you call this? Jim scoffed. He was licking at his shoulder, but his eyes were harsh and glittering when he looked at Yusei again. A worthy cause? I call it being misled.

In what way, pray tell? Zane asked, ears pricked forward. He had turned around to face him, eyes savage and wild. No one misled you in terms of what this war meant. Everyone told their children for generations that when the time came their lives were meant to be forfeit. Who the hell misled you into coming here? Surely it was not Atem himself, nor Yami or Yusei or me.

I was told that the wolf I would die for would be worth it. And, for as much as I have been told I should listen and treat him with respect, I have found no reason to do so, Jim snarled. He rose to his feet unsteadily, seemingly stiff. Yugi wondered if it was from the shoulder wound Yami had inflicted when they'd first met or if it was merely from sitting for so long. So what was it that I should care to be proud or honored in any way, shape or form? Are you truly so stupid, Zane? That makes no sense whatsoever.

Everyone is worth something to someone. If Atem is not worth anything to you, then why are you still here? Yusei snapped back. The fact that you are still here says something, so I don't think you can truly say that.

It's pathetic that anyone sees him as a leader of any kind. And what rank are you to begin with, you little rat? Jack said haughtily. You claim that everyone has a purpose and that no one is useless. Yet, haven't you looked at your alpha for more than a few seconds, Yusei? He's not a warrior of any kind, regardless of what you all might pretend to believe of him.

You're constantly calling everyone else out on their weaknesses, but what about you, Jack? the gray yearling returned slowly, colder than ever. He shook his head in a deliberate fashion, pricking his ears forward and staring at him pointedly. What about the fact that you can't keep your mouth shut for more than a few seconds? Or how you think that everyone is lazy and stupid compared to you? What about the strength that you constantly boast about? Do you even know what strength is? Have you forgotten that the strength of the wolf is in unity rather than solidarity? A wolf is only as strong as the next when alone but combined we're a goddamn force of nature! Every single one of us has a purpose, whether you like to think so or not! No one is useless!

The blond wolf drew his lips back. You're pathetic. Wolves are not as strong as the next. I am far stronger than someone the likes of you. And I'm so sure that even that lame wolf Jonouchi could hand you your ass on a platter, that I'd stake my life on it.

Lame? Jonouchi objected with a snarl. He shot a dirty look in Jack's direction but the wolf did not seem to notice in the slightest. The yearlings were still glaring at one another, Yusei and Jack both raising their tails and glaring at one another hatefully. Yugi wondered if they might truly go to blows. And the thought startled him to consider as he glanced at Yami in a sidelong fashion. But the red-eyed wolf was staring blankly at the confrontation between them.

Regardless of their growing tension, neither made a move to lash out. And so Yugi relaxed as he shook his head the smallest fraction, bristling faintly. A new idea crossed his mind, startling him enough that his ears pricked forward and he felt abruptly exhausted.

Of all the wolves to butt heads, these two would be the ones that might just decide to fight to the death. Whatever it was that Yusei despised so much in Jack and what the latter loathed in him in turn, it would cause the most damage between them. And he could see the two of them fighting beyond a normal scuffle, attacking and killing one another.

Yugi pricked his ears forward once more, then flattened them against his skull. His eyes shot to Yami and his tongue was almost swollen against the roof of his mouth. He stared back at Yami silently. But he could not stop the tremors that began to cross through him slowly but surely.

Would they ever come to blows in a manner like that? Would they ever come to hate each other so much as to fight to the death? Was it possible that they might betray each other to such a point? Would they destroy each other slowly, allowing the wounds to fester and grow until they rotted to the point that they could no longer hide them? And then would they tear each other to pieces in order to ease their own pain and hatred?

He shivered harder than before, their eyes locking. Yami stared at him as if he did not know for sure what it was that Yugi was looking for and so did not know how to provide it. Yugi turned away quickly, facing the two yearlings again. They were still glaring, but neither was speaking any longer. And they did not seem to wish to come to physical blows at the moment. And Yugi wondered briefly if it was the first time that the two of them had ever come to an argument in front of an audience.

But then the tension seemed to lessen. He noticed abruptly that Aki had moved away from Yami entirely. And she, unlike the black wolf, seemed to be heading another direction entirely. Yugi blinked, then hurried forward to cut her off.

Valon spun around, tail up and teeth bared. He lunged for her. But the momentum needed was inaccessible from his position. He landed an inch or two from her. His teeth snapped shut so loudly the others all jumped and turned. Aki sprang for his face.

Yugi slammed into her side. Raw, powerful muscle stunned him for a single second. He nearly halted in the force of his attack. He hit her flank, sending her staggering. She spun on him with sharp teeth and missed. Yugi sidestepped the second lunge. He bristled, bore his teeth, and snapped his teeth in turn.

Aki glared at him. Her tail was up, teeth glistening. But she remembered herself after a moment. Hesitantly her ears flattened against her head. And she backed up several steps. Her fur rose and fell once. And then she backed up further.

And, finally, reluctantly, she lowered her head with a huff. She looked back at him sideways once. Then she snarled at him in annoyance. And finally she wandered a few yards away and turned around again to consider him. Yugi stood motionless for a moment.

She turned away entirely to move further into the throng of wolves gathered about. Yugi watched her, then turned quickly to Valon again.

Is she okay? he demanded, eyes widening when the hellhound eyed him coldly. Is Kris all right? She's not hurt, is she?

The pup looked up when Valon spun around. Her eyes were huge, locked on Yugi now, and she murmured a soft, I'm okay as her brother snatched her up. The hellhound glanced back at him once, raised his tail like a war flag, and raced quickly forward and away from the camp without another look.

Yugi startled, eyes widening, and turned quickly towards the shape coming towards him. He blinked, bristling furiously. But Morrigan passed him without a glance. She was gone after her son and daughter without a second look. He watched until they were gone from sight altogether. And then he glanced towards Yami, wishing for a moment that he could find some kind of strength and relief in him. But all that came was another feeling of betrayal that crashed through his insides like ice water. He had helped Obelisk to do this. He had helped him just so that he might see Valon come to save Kris. And he didn't know why.

When he seemed to notice Yugi's stare, Yami turned to him after a moment. His ears flicked once or twice and he tilted his head towards him curiously. It took him only a moment to consider him, and then he turned away again rather lazily.

Why did you do this? Yugi asked quietly, still facing Yami but with his attention most noticeably on the two gods. Slifer was looking at the snow but Obelisk was facing Yami for the moment. The war god slowly turned to look at Yugi after a heartbeat, considering him as if he did not recognize him at first.

Why? Why would I do this? Do you honestly not know why I chose to do this?

Call me stupid.

He wanted Valon to come, Yami answered in a quiet tone. He had turned to the war god now as well. His ears were pricked, his nose slightly wrinkled. He wished for the opportunity to see what a threat a true hellhound can be. He wanted them to be aware of the fact that they are far more dangerous than we have allowed them to believe.

Okay and…? Yugi snarled, turning on him now as well. So you bring Valon here using his sister and you don't expect retribution for it, Yami? He could have killed everyone here!

He is not some kind of all powerful creature, Obelisk scoffed. He turned to him with his lips curled, showing his teeth in disdain. He is a mortal hellhound with abilities that the pack should know of. I am not so foolish as to not expect you to have sidestepped the opportunity to explain to each of them what those abilities entailed.

The white wolf bristled faintly. I…

He hasn't truly had the time, between helping me to recover and the various things that have happened since. I do not know why you would have expected him to find the time to do so. Yami's defense was quiet and Yugi thought it lackluster if nothing else. He shivered and pricked his ears forward, glancing at the black wolf and studying him a long moment. But Yami was focused on some point in the woods and seemed reluctant to do so much as glance at them in the slightest. But then, that hardly matters as it is. I do not think it wise that we have done this of all things.

You knew what it was that would happen. I told you when I approached. I was as transparent with you as I could be, Yami. Now, as for whether you agree now does not matter in the slightest. The problem now is that he has still failed to teach them as it is. Is it not fair to teach them the necessities of war? Are you truly going to turn your back on the thought of preparing them properly? They are all meant to lay their lives on the line for you. And you do not desire to teach them in a manner that might potentially save them?

Yami pricked his ears and looked away after a moment. Yugi studied the movement, wondering briefly if perhaps Yami felt guilt for the oversight they'd both had. Or if he simply did not want to answer the deity's accusation or acknowledge Yugi's stare as he considered him in turn.

I don't object to them learning more about the hellhounds. But bringing Valon here as we did could have easily caused a personal war between the two of us. He is the son of two of the gods, so it is not likely that he would be easy to take down. And it would be all but impossible for us to face him without radical consequences. He could have killed each of them. Yugi is right about that. And, even if he did not kill them all, he could have poisoned them and left them to rot.

And do any of them know of these strengths he possesses?

They know the Lunar Ascension, Yugi muttered, cutting into the argument with wide eyes. He shot Yami a desperate look, hoping for a moment that he could somehow offer comfort at the same time as he wanted to scold him for all of these stupid decisions he'd made recently. So, if they know that, then they know what the Harbingers are capable of, right?

And do any of them truly recognize the fact that Valon is one such wolf? Obelisk asked coldly. He eyed the white wolf with a dismissive, annoyed look in his dark gaze. Is there nothing else you might come to wish to explain to them about the Harbingers? Or are you simply going to turn a blind eye to saving them in some manner?

Yugi tilted his head, bristling slightly. Why would you think I don't want to warn them? Of course I do! I don't want to harm any of them! I don't want any of them to get hurt! I don't want any of them to die! Are you stupid?

It doesn't matter what you teach them right now, Slifer interrupted in a colder tone. She shook her head, pricking her ears forward, and faced Yugi solely. What matters now is that we do not know that whatever potential allegiance you might have possessed with Valon is ruined. Should it be irreparable, I do not know what might be done to fix it, should you so desire. But he is a powerful wolf regardless, whether he plays your friend or your enemy now. It would be wise of you to avoid him if you cannot come to terms with him and secure a friendship once more.

Yugi shook his head slowly, heart sinking for a single moment. I'm going to believe in the fact that we were friends even when he realized I was a Pure-Blood and thought I was an omen of death. If that doesn't hold true now, I'll be amazed. But I don't think he'll turn his back on me because of this. It's more likely he'll lay low for a while in order to avoid crossing paths with me. But I don't think he's going to just up and abandon me like that. He had the chance to do so before and he didn't.

You run with hellhounds now too? Jack said spitefully, boring his teeth. He glared at them both, flicking his tongue over his nose and bristling. I guess it shouldn't be so surprising to see that when your beta is a fucking hellhound on top of it, though, huh?

Yugi turned on him with a snarl. Yami, however, simply shook his head. His eyes were locked on Yugi's, his actions a clear warning to keep Yugi from trying to defend him. He was trying to tell him not to bother jumping for the bait. And Yugi almost hated him for that. The sheer thought made him bristle. He wanted nothing more than to snap at him in some manner, to bite out that perhaps he should stand up for himself for once.

But why should Yami care? At this rate it was clear that he did not truly care for much of anything. He had helped Obelisk to get to Kris and then to lure Valon to the camp. And for what reason? Because he had wanted to see what a threat Valon actually was? Or had Obelisk phrased his request prettily enough that Yami thought it was a good idea?

He's not a hellhound. He already proved that before. He glared at the yearling for a moment. He cut his wrist and there was fur under his skin. Isn't that what legends say for lycanthropes? I remember reading it a million times before. What more would you have him do? Die and come back? Fuck that. I will not allow that to happen.

Yami shook his head. It does not matter, he interrupted. He was staring in the direction that Valon and Morrigan had disappeared. He did not care in the slightest that the other wolves around them had begun to get closer in order to listen in on their argument. What does matter is that you attempt to mend this betrayal with him, Yugi. If he were to turn on us, I do not know how long any of us will survive it.

Yugi spun on him, snarling. I don't think he's going to be so easily placated, Yami. He's got to be furious. You and Obelisk kidnapped his little sister. She's the only person he actually gives a crap about. I don't know if he could ever truly forgive me for that.

Yami bristled, locking glittering red eyes with his. He looked as if he had several retorts, some scathing and others slightly less so, but he did not bother to answer. Instead he huffed and turned away as Obelisk spoke.

He will be fine. He will come around to understand today's actions. He will understand the necessity of it at some point. He looked at him and snorted. His hatred for the girl will ensure it for you if nothing else.

Girl?

Yami grunted, staring at the deity skeptically. How sure of this are you?

He's more Hati in the sense of vengeance and temperament. But he has Morrigan's level-minded nature. That makes him hard to predict, but not impossible. And I know when things come to pass, he will despise the girl far more than he ever could Yugi or yourself. The good shook himself out, then turned to Slifer and tilted his head. It's long since time we left them to themselves, yes?

The she-wolf eyed the other canine for a moment, golden gaze sharp and distant. Then she sighed softly, turning to Yami and Yugi with a grimace. Obelisk is correct, she said quietly. Our time to remain here with you has since passed. We need to get a move on.

Yugi nodded slightly. Okay. He wasn't sure what he was supposed to say at the moment. The very thought of answering her was counterproductive to begin with. And Obelisk was clearly impatient to leave before he had to speak any longer. So Yugi turned to Yami after a moment, bristling faintly as he considered the black wolf.

He had not noticed the smell in the midst of all the excitement from minutes before. But now it burned his nose and made his head spin. He bristled, eyes wide. You're bleeding! He searched him over frantically for a moment, then stopped short. His nose was covered in a fine crust of blood from the bottom to the tip of his upper lip. He blinked, confused, struggling to recall when that might have happened.

Yami stared at him as if he did not understand what it was he might have said to him. He blinked, then ran his tongue over his nose and turned away. It was an accident. I smacked my nose against Aki's head when I pinned her. She didn't even notice.

Yugi flicked his ears towards the she-wolf in question. He spun on her, watching her flinch in surprise and sit back on her haunches with a snarl. Her ears pricked forward, her hackles rising, and watched him cautiously.

How about I make this very clear to you personally, Aki? He came forward a few steps, snarling. She leaned back, curling her lip and turning her face away to eye him in a sidelong manner. I am having none of this. I'm tired of this game you keep trying to play. If you one more fucking tooth on him again—ever again, I'm going to rip your head off myself, do you understand?

The statement was met with absolute silence from the other wolves. Aki sent him a disdainful glance but did not answer. Then she glanced at Yami, eyes sharp and cold, but merely nodded to him after a moment. She got up and wandered away, sitting down several yards away and glancing over her shoulder.

That goes for all of you, Yugi snarled, turning on the onlookers. He glared at them, teeth bared and eyes sparkling. Challenge him. Try to harm him. I swear none of you will live to see the next day.

Yami simply shook his head. Slifer, he requested quietly. Yugi turned around to see the two of them as Slifer tilted her head and turned to Yami with a confused expression. What of the wolf he killed?

What of her? she returned dismissively. She had paused where she and Obelisk had nearly made it out of their sight entirely. She'd turned around, watching Yami with a puzzled expression. What is it you wish to ask of me, Yami?

The black wolf was quiet for a long minute. And then he took a step forward, glancing at the body, and turned immediately back to her. Do you wish to receive the body?

The way he said it sounded as if he were testing her in some manner. It sounded almost as if he were challenging her to accept the responsibility. And for a moment she stared at him in pure bewilderment in turn to his quiet comment. The other wolves glanced at each other in confusion, then with something almost akin excitement. Some of them flicked their ears, others flattened them, and some looked at Slifer with a new sense of respect.

Receive her body? She echoed the words softly for a moment. But she had begun to move forward, considering. And then she looked between him and Yugi with darkened golden eyes, seemingly remembering her own domain and responsibilities soon after. Obelisk, aid me?

The war deity huffed, letting out a grunt of discontentment. Very well. Let us do this quickly then.

Yami tilted his head as the two of them picked their way past them. The beta pricked his ears forward and pulled his lips back into something of a grimace. Then he moved after them, a few paces behind as they carried the small body. He blinked and glanced over his shoulder, watching Yugi for a single moment. And then he turned away and hurried to pick up the pace to meet up with the deities where they had begun to trot along.

Yugi wondered for a long moment if he should have followed or not. And for a moment he thought himself stupid for even considering it. But his heart began to race in his chest. And he thought of the way he and Valon had stared at each other. He thought of how Obelisk had called Yami out on being a Pure-Blood. And he thought of the anger he had seen in Jonouchi's face. He thought of the way Jim had sneered and snarled. And he imagined the one-eyed wolf's rage.

He took off after him. He did not want to be left alone amongst the wolves. And he was not keen on letting Yami stray too far away from him at the moment. He hurried after them, though a part of him was not sure he cared to find out who had died. Slifer had listed twelve names and he was sure one of them would be the one Valon had taken his anger out on.

He shivered, shaking himself out, and he wanted nothing more than to lie down. He wondered if he could convince Yami to do so with him. Maybe he could trick him into snuggling with him or something. After all, Yami was far more receptive as a wolf than he ever had been a human when it came to such things.

As a human Yami could barely stand to be drawn into a hug. Close proximity set him off. And his embraces were so stiff and unsure that Yugi sometimes wondered if they could even be considered such a thing to begin with…

Yami… He slowed down, feeling breathless as he got within a yard of him. He slowed drastically further when he noticed that the corpse's head was in front of him. The black wolf was staring down at it rather than acknowledging him. Yugi almost trembled, ears pricking forward as he peeled his lips back in disgust. Then he looked to Yami pointedly. Aibou…

The black wolf turned his head now. You followed me?

Yugi hesitated, going to answer him, but his eyes fell on the head again. And his stomach lurched as he flinched away a few steps. He had not even realized she'd been there so close to the entrance. How had Valon even found her? How had he justified killing a yearling like that so easily? She was only a few years older than Kris herself. The age gap wasn't big enough to justify it for Yugi. But Valon had been so angry and hellhounds were supposed to be extremely unstable from what Yami had told him. If that was true, her being nearby was enough to make her a target for his rage, right?

Yugi shivered and shook his head.

Zuzu…