The Eternal Gem
Chapter 1: Midnight Rendezvous
The downstairs was pretty much empty except for Fidil and Ryou, who were standing quietly talking. Ryou noticed Yuugi and smiled, waving to him. Fidil turned around and gave him a warm smile.
"Good morning prince Yuugi, and how was your sleep?"
"Great," Yuugi responded contently.
Fidil nodded, pleased. "Well, I will be in the kitchen if either of you two need me."
Ryou and Yuugi both nodded politely and watched as Fidil left. Then Ryou turned to Yuugi and his eyes lit up with mirth.
"Things have been pretty busy. I'm sorry we haven't gotten the chance to hang out much."
Yuugi waved it away, smiling. "Don't worry about it Ryou. Um, just out of curiosity, are you and Bakura a couple?"
Ryou blinked, his eyes widening in response as a faint blush appeared. He shook his head quickly, glancing down.
"No, I…I don't really know what we are. I mean, it's just…," he sighed heavily.
Yuugi's expression turned to worry and he gestured for Ryou to sit down.
"You like him, don't you?" Yuugi asked, as he sat next to his friend on the marble bench in the entrance hall.
Ryou looked up at him and nodded. "A lot, actually. It's just…I don't really know where we stand. I'm not sure of Bakura's intentions at this point."
"Have you asked him?" Yuugi questioned.
Shaking his head, Ryou's shoulders slumped. "I haven't got the courage yet. And…I'm worried about what he'll say. Bakura is so hard to read. He can be nice sometimes, but most of the time he's teasing and hints at…well…never mind," Ryou blushed, not having the courage to say Bakura hinted a lot at sexual things. "I just don't know if he likes me like that."
Yuugi glanced at him confused. "I guess I understand. I mean, Bakura doesn't really act like you are together, at least not around anyone. But to you, I mean…does he act the same when he's alone with you?"
"Kind of," Ryou said, looking down at his hands as another blush threatened to come. "I mean…we've, you know, kissed, but I really don't know if that means anything."
Yuugi's eyes widened considerably. "What do you mean you don't know? Of course that means something! Geez, I hadn't even thought you two kissed yet! And you still don't know if you're a couple?"
The question made Ryou's eyes dim and he shook his head sadly. "I really don't know Yuugi. We've kissed a few times, yes, but other than that we don't spend time together and whenever we are alone he just…teases me, or kisses me, but it's never enough to show me if he cares about me. Sometimes I feel like he's just using me."
Yuugi's eyebrows furrowed sadly. "Ryou, don't think that way. If you really like him then don't give up on him. Honestly, I think Bakura likes you too, in his own way. He's not very good with showing intimate emotions, but I feel like he cares about you. Whether or not he loves you, however, I can't say. That's something you're going to have to ask him."
"I know," Ryou responded quietly.
Yuugi put an arm around his friend, scooting closer. "Hey, cheer up. Just remember that Bakura's not an easy person to read. So even though he comes off as rude and sarcastic it doesn't mean that he doesn't care about you deep inside, alright?"
Ryou gave him a small smile and nodded, leaning into the one-armed hug. The two of them turned as they heard voices and saw Bakura and Yami descending down the stairs talking. Bakura seemed rather annoyed about something, but then again he was always annoyed. Taking Ryou's hand, Yuugi helped him up and they began walking toward the stairs.
"…telling you I deserve it!" Bakura hissed bitterly, crossing his arms.
Yami tilted his head at that moment and spotted Yuugi and Ryou coming toward them. Smiling brightly, his eyes softened and his attention was soon on them.
"Yuugi, Ryou, I'm glad you too finally had a chance to catch up," Yami said sincerely.
Bakura gave them both a suspicious glance, but didn't say anything. Just then, Fidil entered the room bowing toward Yami.
"Pharaoh, breakfast is ready in the dining room."
"Thank you, Fidil," Yami nodded back with a smile. "Shall we?"
Yuugi smiled up at him and they all began walking toward the kitchen. Ryou was still close to Yuugi's side, unable to look up at Bakura. He was so confused about how Bakura acted around him. The things that he did were often sexual innuendos and hints and he was almost always sarcastic. Did he actually like Ryou or…?
"Would you like to sit next to me?" Yuugi asked, breaking him away from his thoughts.
Ryou blinked then smiled and nodded. "Sure."
Yuugi and Ryou sat next to one another, while Yami sat at the head. Yuugi was next to Yami on his right and Bakura was on his other side. The table was full of delectable dishes, some made with eggs, cheese, spices, bacon and other things. There were omelets, some sort of sweet dip that went over buttered cakes and of course orange juice; lots and lots of orange juice. Yami had a pitcher of it that was passed around for those that wanted to pour it on anything. Yuugi watched barely able to contain his laugher as Yami not only poured himself a glass, but soaked his cakes, omelet and fruit-filled pavlova with it. He offered some to Yuugi and he accepted, but only poured a little on his cakes. Bakura even poured some on his plate.
Ryou didn't want any and he seemed to take the least amount of food compared to everyone else (whereas Bakura took the most). Occasionally, Ryou found himself lifting his gaze toward Bakura and watching him eat. Yami filled most of the silence by telling them about what he and his viziers were planning to do. They were going to host a celebration at some point, but the plans were still being discussed so no one in the city knew about it.
"When aren't you celebrating something?" Bakura asked, licking his fingers.
Yami smiled at him. "I suppose that's true. It's fun to have large gatherings and be able to talk, eat and hang out with others though."
"I'm not fond of large crowds," Bakura said, taking another large bite. "Besides, Yami, all your events are too goody-goody for me."
Yami just chuckled and went back to eating. Yuugi however gave a slight glare toward Bakura, although he didn't see it. Scrunching his face up in annoyance, Yuugi suddenly got an idea. Hiding his smile, he took a piece of his omelet and put it on his fork. With a quick snap it flung out toward Bakura and hit him straight in the forehead. Bakura snapped his head up and stared across the table at Yuugi, who quickly glanced down at his plate and pretended he was occupied with eating.
Bakura's eyes narrowed irritably and he scooped up a piece of his soggy cake with his fingers and hurled it toward Yuugi. As if timing couldn't have been worse, Yuugi lifted his head up right before the chunk of cake splattered against his cheek and mouth.
"BAKURA!" Yuugi exclaimed, his mouth dropping open.
Yami and Ryou saw the splattered gunk on his face and Ryou tried his very best not to laugh. Yami blinked, wondering what he missed.
"Bakura, Yuugi, I believe food is for eating not throwing," Yami said, trying to intervene.
Yuugi and Bakura however were too lost in their silent fuming and food fight to hear him.
Bakura sniggered and leaned forward. "I'm terribly sorry, Yuugi. I just thought you'd want some food back since some of it has appeared to crawl onto my plate!"
Wiping the gunk off his face, Yuugi glared. A small smirk crossed his normally innocent features and without hesitation he picked up his glass of orange juice and jerked it toward Bakura, spilling it all over his chest.
"WHY YOU LITTLE…!" Bakura shouted, his chair skidding backward as he stood up abruptly.
The silent war turned into a very loud one as Bakura scooped up some of everything off his place and hurled it toward Yuugi. Thinking fast, Yuugi slid down into his chair and ducked under the table. The food splattered against his chair and onto the floor, luckily missing him.
"Missed me!" Yuugi exclaimed, peeking his head up.
Bakura clenched his fists, his expression turning into one of frustration. "THAT'S IT!"
Bakura suddenly leaped over the table and Yuugi squealed, crawling under the table to get away from him. Bakura followed him quickly chasing him around the table. Fidil suddenly walked in hearing the commotion and stared at the mess.
"What is going on!" he raised his voice.
Yuugi stopped running abruptly and Bakura, who was close behind, crashed into him unable to stop that soon. The two of them tumbled to the floor with Bakura on top of Yuugi.
"Bakura! Get off me! You're heavy!" Yuugi exclaimed, trying to push him off.
"Like I wanted to fall on you!" Bakura shot back, picking himself up.
Yuugi stood up sending him a glare.
"What happened?" Fidil asked, coming closer as he stared at the floor and the table, then at all of them.
Yami and Ryou still were seated quietly in their seats. Yami stood up slowly.
"It's nothing serious, Fidil. It seems Bakura and Yuugi wanted some of each other's food and I guess they forgot how to pass it gently across the table."
Yuugi inwardly chuckled, knowing that Yami probably didn't know what food fights were. Ryou stared down at his plate hiding his smile and Bakura continued to send glares at Yuugi.
Fidil blinked. "Oh, I see. Well, if you're all finished here perhaps we should get it cleaned up."
"We'll help since we caused it," Yuugi added. "Won't we Bakura?"
"It wasn't my fault! You started it!" Bakura seethed, bending down toward him with narrowed eyes.
Yuugi glanced up at him innocently. "I have no idea what you're talking about."
Bakura began shaking with frustration and annoyance and Yuugi just gave him a smile.
"It's alright prince Yuugi. We will get it cleaned up," Fidil said kindly, smiling slightly.
It seemed that Fidil understood what happened. He nodded toward them all to let them know if they were done they could leave. Ryou and Yami stood up and Yuugi immediately grasped Yami's hand as they all walked out. Bakura was grumbling under his breath, but Yuugi ignored him.
"That was an interesting breakfast," Yami chuckled, glancing down at Yuugi who smiled up at him.
"And delicious," Ryou added as he was unable to contain his grin.
"That's the last time I eat with you, Yuugi!" Bakura snapped.
Yuugi turned as they continued walking and stuck his tongue out at Bakura. Yami didn't notice since he was facing ahead, but Ryou saw it. He chuckled lightly, glancing at Bakura to see his face turn red with anger. Bakura's eyes locked onto his and Ryou felt his heart skip a beat. He quickly turned back to the front unable to hold the gaze for long.
"Yuugi, the meeting has been moved a little bit earlier. I have to run a couple errands first, if you'd like to come with me."
Yuugi's eyes brightened immediately. "I'd love to!"
Bakura snorted. "Don't make me sick."
Yuugi glanced over his shoulder and sent him a glare.
Yami, oblivious to the exchange, turned to Ryou and Bakura.
"If you two want you can ask Fidil to arrange horses for you if you'd like to get for a while. Or you can remain here, whatever you like. I'm sorry that we haven't had long to stay together."
"It's alright," Ryou smiled sincerely. "I'll be fine here."
Yami nodded. "And you Bakura?"
"Apparently, first I have to get cleaned up," he quipped sarcastically, sending another glare toward Yuugi. "And then I'll probably take a nap, pharaoh, so don't worry about me. I won't do anything to your precious palace while you're gone."
Yami chuckled lightly. "I wasn't concerned, Bakura. Very well, I guess I will see you two tomorrow."
"Bye Ryou!" Yuugi exclaimed, giving his friend a hug. "Oh, you're coming to the duel right?"
Ryou blinked. "What duel?"
"Jou sent me a letter, I forgot to tell you! Kaiba wants to duel me in two days and if I don't show up, well…you know how Kaiba is."
Ryou's eyes widened. "He wants to have another duel with you? Wow…Of course I'll come!"
Yuugi grinned brightly. "Great! I'll see you tomorrow then!"
Ryou nodded and waved, watching them leave. At first he was worried about being left alone with Bakura, but when he turned he saw that Bakura was already half way up the stairs probably heading to the showers. Sighing heavily, Ryou decided to go to the gardens and help some of the viziers plant flowers. It was always relaxing to be outside in the sunshine with flowers blooming everywhere. He'd just have to wait to deal with Bakura.
XXXXX
The Secret Temple—5:30 p.m.
Yuugi clutched Yami's hand tightly as they made their way inside the beautiful archway of the temple. It was a huge temple—with a very tall ceiling and beautifully carved pillars around the room. There were candles and lights too all around. There was a purple velvet carpet in the center of the isle leading up to a platform with statues. And there, several figures stood conversing. Yuugi recognized Hadi and the other two men, which he had met the first time he had come to Egypt. Isis strangely wasn't there, but the familiar man Shadi was. And then there was one more man, one Yuugi had never seen before. He had dark tan skin like Yami's and he had a couple symbols etched into his face. His eyes were oval but the color was a light hazel making his appearance seem very exotic. His hair was dark and a bit long down to at most the middle of his neck. He was wearing a long cloak like the rest of them.
All eyes lifted as Yami approached and all of them bowed to him. Hadi's eyes fell onto Yuugi and he smiled slightly and nodded. Yuugi nodded back thankful that Hadi trusted him now. The men continued to talk all except one: the one Yuugi hadn't met yet.
"Pharaoh," the exotic young man greeted.
"Mahado," Yami smiled back. "This is Yuugi," Yami introduced.
Mahado's eyes locked onto Yuugi's and for a moment he couldn't breathe. The man appeared to be sending off great waves of power, although Yuugi couldn't see a Millennium Item on him.
"H-how do you do?" Yuugi bowed politely.
Mahado bowed slightly then turned his gaze to Yami. "May I speak with him alone, pharaoh?"
Yami nodded, taking Yuugi's hand and leading him forward.
"Yuugi, I must go speak with Shadi and the others. I'll leave you with my trusted friend Mahado."
Yuugi nodded wordlessly and gave Yami a small smile. He watched him walk toward the other group before trailing his eyes back to the mysterious man before him.
Mahado's eyes stayed locked onto his face. "I know we have never met before this, Yuugi, but I have heard everything about you from Yami, Shadi and Isis. You possess great bravery."
Yuugi blushed awkwardly. "Thank you."
"Are you aware of the duel with a man named Seto Kaiba?" he asked.
Yuugi stared up at him with wide eyes. "Yes."
Mahado nodded. "You must know that it is because of me that you are having this duel."
Yuugi's eyebrows furrowed in confusion. "What do you mean?"
"I have not been in Egypt for very long," he began, staring at him evenly. "Ever since the pharaoh was reawakened I have been traveling far and wide trying to understand this prophecy. I was in search of the Orb and tracked down a powerful man named Kaiba. He didn't know who I really was. I told him I was a business man, but I made a deal with him. He was going to give me access to his technology, in which I could search for the Orb using that. And in return he told me the only thing he wanted was a rematch in a duel with a boy named Yuugi Mutoh. I agreed immediately, because finding the Orb was my top priority. I lied to him saying that I knew this boy, since it seemed that Kaiba assumed everyone did anyway, and told him I'd give the message to the boy. However, I didn't realize that the same person he wanted to duel was the boy who had awakened the pharaoh. I am sorry, but I cannot go back on my promise."
Yuugi shook his head smiling. "It's alright, I understand. I've dueled Kaiba twice before so I can do it again. It's no big deal. I mean, I still love dueling, but obviously now my main joy and concern is with Yami and Egypt. However, knowing how to duel is even important here. After all, Kontar even used Shadow Games to duel," Yuugi shivered. "I'm glad I didn't have to duel him."
Mahado's eyes shone in the dark and he nodded. "I understand. Shadow Games are very dangerous indeed. However, even though nowadays dueling isn't dangerous, I would like it if you allowed me to watch your duel."
"Of course! I'd like that," Yuugi smiled.
Mahado gave him a subtle smile though his eyes remained unblinking. Yuugi felt somewhat intimidated by him but tried his best not to show it. Luckily, Yami walked over to them a minute later.
"It appears that the Dagger has still been unsuccessful," Yami sighed.
Mahado nodded toward him gravely. "Unfortunately, it is proving to be much more powerful than we imagined."
Yami stared back grimly. "Yes, we'll have to find another way. For now though let's end this meeting. There's nothing we can do."
Mahado nodded in agreement and turned to walk away. Before he turned completely he glanced back at Yuugi.
"Until the duel then, prince."
Yuugi blushed at the name as Mahado walked away and Yami glanced down at him smiling.
"I see you've agreed to let him come."
Yuugi blinked. "Of course. I didn't think he needed my permission."
Yami chuckled. "It's just courtesy, Yuugi."
Yuugi smiled up at him and leaned against him. "So the meeting's over then?"
"For now," Yami answered. "Are you ready?"
Yuugi nodded and remained by Yami's side all the way back to the palace. They climbed the stairs together to their bedroom and once there Yuugi collapsed on the bed. Yami began undressing and changing into his sleep robe.
"I guess I'll have to start looking at my deck and forming a new strategy. I really don't know what Kaiba will have in store for me," Yuugi thought aloud.
Yami turned, clipping his robe together and approached the bed.
"Are you worried?"
Yuugi sat up and shrugged. "A little, I guess. Mostly because Kaiba wants to humiliate him in front of the world. He's a little bitter about his past defeats."
Yami's eyebrows rose a bit but he smiled knowingly. "You'll need to get some sleep then."
Yuugi sighed. "I still have tomorrow to prepare. Besides, I won't be able to get to sleep right away. I'm always edgy before a duel, especially since I haven't dueled in a while."
Yami stood up and smiled down at him. "I have an idea that might help you relax."
Curiously, Yuugi watched as Yami headed into the bathroom and a few minutes later came out with several bottles of unknown concoctions.
"What are those?"
"Body oils to help massage and cleanse the skin," Yami replied, setting the bottles down on the bureau. "Whenever I was stressed out my viziers would massage my muscles and it would relax me."
Yuugi's eyes lit up in excitement. "I'm going to get a massage?"
Yami chuckled deeply and nodded, his eyes glowing with mirth. "Yes, if that's what you'd like."
"Definitely!" Yuugi exclaimed. "Should I just lie on the bed?"
"Yes, that will do," Yami smiled. "Here," he said, handing him a towel. "You'll need to take off your robes."
Blushing faintly, Yuugi nodded and began undressing. Yami had seen him naked several times and they had even made love so he didn't know why he was still shy at times. Once all his clothes were off, Yuugi wrapped the small towel around his waist and lay face down on the bed.
"Is this alright, Yami?" Yuugi asked softly.
"Yes," Yami replied gently. "It might be a little cold at first."
There was amusement in his tone, but Yuugi hardly noticed it. He could only feel his heart pounding in his chest. Why was he so nervous? It was just a massage. He felt the bed move as Yami positioned himself beside him. A cold feeling tickled his skin as natural oil was poured on his skin. The coldness subsided almost immediately and Yuugi sighed, relaxing his muscles. Yami's warm hands came down on his back and began kneading his muscles gently. His fingers stroked along every inch of skin, including down his spine. Yuugi shut his eyes as Yami's fingers worked up his back slowly but firmly reaching up to his shoulders and beginning to massage his neck. His fingers then worked back down and didn't stop at the bottom of his spine. Yuugi's eyes fluttered open, even as his head was down, turned to the left, sensing as Yami's warm and strong fingers cascaded to his buttocks region, massaging him thoroughly, and continuing to his thighs.
Yuugi took in a shaky breath as the feel of Yami's hands began to make him feel a lot warmer than he should have. Yami's hands were so warm…and so gentle, but his touch felt so good. Yuugi stifled a gasp as Yami's fingers strayed from his calves back up to his thighs and began massaging while lifting up the towel a tiny bit to get higher. Yuugi held his breath hoping Yami's hands wouldn't go any higher otherwise he definitely wouldn't be in the mood for a massage. He was a bit surprised when Yami's fingers pulled away, and even a tad bit disappointed.
"You can turn over now," Yami said softly.
Yuugi blinked and then complied, turning over to lie on his back. Yami smiled down at him and poured some fragrance cream into his hands. He rubbed them together and Yuugi couldn't help but arch a bit as Yami's hands glided over his chest. The fingers worked on his shoulders and chest area for some time before gliding down to his stomach. Yuugi let out a soft giggle since it tickled and Yami just chuckled richly, his eyes alight with amusement. Then his fingers moved down to his hips briefly and then began massaging the front of his thighs. Yami's fingers again lifted up the towel and began kneading the muscles on his inner thigh. Yuugi suppressed the groan that almost escaped his lips. He shut his eyes trying not to be aroused by the movements but it was nearly impossible.
Yuugi unconsciously spread his legs farther as Yami's fingers trailed over to his other leg, massaging the thigh region. Yami's fingers found a tight area in his inner thigh and began pressing firmly. His fingers roved around his upper thigh and slid to the back where his fingers kneaded the very top of his thigh, nearly touching his butt.
"Yami," Yuugi breathed, arching a bit.
Yami stopped his movements and locked eyes with him, blinking. "Yes, Yuugi?"
Yuugi sighed heavily, taking deep breaths as he swallowed. "Yami, this is not relaxing. It's arousing."
Yami let out a deep laugh. "I'm sorry, Yuugi. Perhaps then I should stop."
"No, continue," Yuugi breathed, smiling at him coyly.
Yami raised an eyebrow then smiled gently. "Very well. Where would you like me to begin?"
Still smiling, Yuugi bent his knees up which caused the towel to hike up a bit further. Chuckling, Yami poured some more cream onto his hands and started from the bottom on his calves before slowly moving upward. Yuugi's eyes fluttered closed as Yami massaged his bent knees and then continued upward toward his thighs. Yuugi arched as Yami very skillfully slipped his fingers beneath the towel and began massaging higher and higher. He stopped at Yuugi's pubic bone and then slipped to the side to massage his inner thigh, just barely brushing up between his legs. Yuugi could feel his arousal growing and gripped the bed cover as Yami's fingers moved deftly around his thigh. Both of Yami's hands lay on Yuugi's thigh now and he began pushing the towel up slowly. Yuugi's eyes fluttered back open, though he was in a daze now, and he let out a soft groan as the towel began coming up higher and higher. In just a few seconds it would reach the top and allow Yami to see his desire. Yuugi spread his thighs apart as the towel began reaching the top and Yuugi arched up getting even more aroused as the towel was so close to revealing his desire…
A sudden loud knocking broke Yuugi's euphoric trance and his eyes snapped open. Yami's hands remained on his thighs but his head had turned toward the door in surprise. The towel was up so high it was just, just barely there. Yuugi let out a disappointed sound in the back of his throat, feeling painfully aroused.
Yami turned back to Yuugi and pulled his towel down then helped him into a sitting position. Before Yami got up from the bed to answer the door, as another knock sounded, Yuugi wrapped his arms around his chest and brought him closer.
"Yami," Yuugi breathed. "Do you have to answer it?"
Yami's eyes softened and he brushed his smooth fingers, still smelling of the sweet lotion, across his neck and up to his cheek.
"I'm afraid I do. It could be Fidil with some news from Isis."
For the first time, Yuugi gave him a small pout. "But Yami, I really, really want to make love with you right now."
Pulling him in close, Yami smiled down at him. "I know and I'm sorry. I didn't expect any visitors after the meeting, Yuugi. It's my fault. I should've warned you that sometimes after meetings new information will come up and they'll alert me. I've been lucky so far though; they haven't needed to wake us up in the middle of the night. But I must answer this," Yami whispered, bending down and capturing his lips in a sweet, soft kiss. "Will you forgive me?" he added, when they had broken apart.
Yuugi gave him a sweet smile and brought a hand up to Yami's cheek. "I always can forgive you, Yami. Just promise to make it up to me," Yuugi gave him another coy smile.
Yami chuckled and bent down to kiss Yuugi's forehead. "I will. For now, though, if you'd like to you can ask Fidil for some ice cream while I'm gone. I don't know how long I'll be."
The knocking became pounding and Yami turned, glancing down once more at Yuugi and kissing his cheek. Yuugi was disappointed when Yami released him and watched as he walked over to the door. He opened it and Bakura appeared looking very disgruntled. He walked right in without asking, crossing his arms over his chest. He caught sight of Yuugi on the bed clad in only a towel and smirked.
"Have I interrupted something?" he asked in an amused tone.
Yuugi sent him an annoyed glare. "Yes, you have. I was getting a massage."
Bakura's eyebrows rose. "Well, aren't you a spoiled little prince."
"Bakura," Yami said gently, "what is it?"
Bakura turned to him. "Mahado wants to see you. He says it's urgent."
Yami nodded. "Alright, thank you."
"Wait, Yami," Bakura said, grasping his arm before he could walk by. "Has anything changed yet?"
Yami glanced at him and shook his head. "No, I'm sorry Bakura. The answer still remains the same."
Bakura gave him an angry glare. "You mean to tell me even after discussing everything with them it's still a no?"
Yami gave him a sympathetic look, putting a hand on his shoulder. "I tried, Bakura. I told you it wouldn't be easy."
Bakura looked away, glaring but didn't push Yami's hand off his shoulder. For a minute, Yami just stared at him then tilted his head back toward Yuugi and gave him a small smile.
"I'll be back as soon as I can, Yuugi."
"Okay," Yuugi gave him a smile back, watching as he turned around and left the room.
Bakura remained standing nearby the door with his arms crossed and thoroughly irritated expression on his face. His eyes locked back onto Yuugi and he uncrossed his arms.
"So, a massage huh? Let me guess, it's because of that duel that's coming up, right?"
Yuugi got up from the bed and retrieved a velvet bath robe to tie around himself so he didn't feel so naked in front of him.
"Yes, it was," Yuugi said casually, thankful that Bakura didn't start teasing about him and Yami possibly doing things other than that. "So, just out of curiosity, are you coming to watch me duel?"
Bakura shrugged. "Probably. I have nothing better to do. Besides, I'd like to see how dueling is nowadays, without the shadow realm."
Yuugi nodded giving him a small smile of understanding. Bakura's eyes trailed over to the bureau where the creams and body oils were.
"Are you still using those?" he asked, gesturing over to them.
Yuugi glanced over at them then back at Bakura, blinking curiously, and shook his head.
"No, you can go ahead and take them."
Bakura nodded and approached the bureau taking one of the creams and a body oil tube. He then headed back toward the door.
"Bakura?" Yuugi called out and Bakura hesitated turning back toward him. "Just wondering, how come you need those?"
An amused smile crossed his features. "Because you're not the only one who needs pampering prince."
Yuugi blinked as Bakura exited, shutting the door behind him. Sighing, Yuugi reached over to the small antique phone by the bedside, which had been put in there recently a couple months ago by Yami's viziers so he could contact them easier, and called down to the kitchen asking for some chocolate, strawberry and coconut ice cream to be brought up to him. Yuugi waited patiently and was surprised when a knock came at the door two minutes later. He jumped up and opened it seeing Fidil standing there.
"Here you are prince Yuugi," he smiled down at him, handing him several pints.
"Thanks Fidil!" Yuugi smiled. "Are you by any chance coming to see me duel?"
Fidil smiled sadly. "Unfortunately I can't since there are some things that need to be taken care of around here. While the pharaoh is gone the palace will need to be looked after as well. So I can't leave, but you can tell me all about it when you get back."
Smiling, Yuugi nodded and bid him goodnight as he shut the door. Yuugi leaned against the pillows, opening the strawberry ice cream first and taking a bite. He relaxed, resting and enjoying the ice cream. It made him melt, almost like Yami had when he touched him. Yuugi blushed even though no one else was in the room. He had never been that aroused by Yami's touch before. Perhaps it was because it was no longer his first time being touched by him or making love. The first time had been slow and awkward but still just as passionate. However, now that he was past the awkward first stage, his love appeared to be growing even more for Yami, if that were possible. He didn't think it was humanly possible to love somebody so much as he did Yami, but apparently it was. Not only was his love growing in desire, so that a simple touch from Yami sent his nerves on fire, but also his love was growing even deeper; that was why he wanted so much to marry Yami. Yuugi sighed heavily and leaned back into the pillows. They probably wouldn't get to make love that night, but he was happy just knowing he and Yami shared such intimate and powerful love. His mind drifted to Bakura as he continued to eat the ice cream. He wondered why Bakura wanted the massaging oils.
XXXXX
It was a little past midnight now, but still he couldn't get to sleep. Ryou sighed heavily, leaning back against his pillows. His conversation with Yuugi earlier had made him feel a little better, but he was still wary. Yuugi's love with Yami was no doubt true love. So what was this thing he had with Bakura? If only he had the courage to ask him.
A soft knock at his door made him jump slightly. Hesitating, Ryou slid from his bed and approached the door, opening it a crack. His eyes widened as he saw Bakura standing outside.
"Bakura?" Ryou whispered.
"Yes. Are you going to let me in?" he asked with a raised eyebrow.
Ryou blushed slightly and opened the door. Bakura stepped in and Ryou noticed he was carrying some bottles in his hands.
"What are those?" Ryou asked, closing the door.
"They're for you," Bakura smirked. "I thought you might need a massage to help relax you."
Ryou felt his heart jump. "A massage? Um…this late?"
Bakura rolled his eyes in annoyance. "Yes this late. Do you want one or not?"
Ryou glanced down as another blush formed. "Uh, sure."
"Alright. Lie down on the bed face down. And take off your shirt."
Ryou opened his mouth to protest but Bakura was already setting the bottles down and opening them. Swallowing thickly, Ryou unbuttoned his shirt and slowly walked over to the bed, lying face down. He heard Bakura moving around and then felt the bed jerk as he sat down beside Ryou's legs. Warm hands were suddenly caressing his back and Ryou blushed against the pillow. Bakura's hands moved all around his back cascading down to his lower back then back up. Ryou knew he was a bit tense since he hadn't been getting to sleep very well so Bakura's firm massaging was a great relief for his muscles. However…Ryou was a little confused about why Bakura was suddenly there with him giving him a massage.
"Have you been avoiding me?" Bakura asked, breaking the silence.
Ryou blinked, feeling his heat racing. "What?"
"It just seems like whenever I'm around you, you tend to ignore me."
"No, I'm not ignoring you," Ryou said quickly.
Bakura's hands stopped moving and Ryou suddenly felt more weight as Bakura leaned down toward his ear.
"Then why haven't we had any time alone?" he whispered seductively.
Ryou gulped, afraid that Bakura would do something like this. He had been avoiding him since he wasn't sure of his intentions. He wanted to make sure Bakura wasn't just using him to try and sleep with him. He needed to know if this was real, but…
"Well?"
Ryou felt Bakura's hands begin to massage his lower back. "I've just been really busy helping Fidil out, that's all. I didn't know you wanted time with me."
"Of course I do. Don't you remember I told you we should finish what we started?" Bakura said as his hands moved to Ryou's hips.
Ryou felt his heart pounding in his chest. Is that why Bakura had come to see him? To try and get him to have sex with him? Ryou's nose began to sting as tears threatened to come, but he didn't let them. Ryou let out a sound of surprise as he was suddenly grabbed and turned over. He blinked wide-eyed and Bakura leaned over him, a smirk on his face. Ryou had no time to respond as Bakura pressed his lips against his and continued to massage him in the front. His fingers roved over Ryou's chest, touching and caressing him all over. Bakura's lips opened on his and his tongue slipped into Ryou's mouth. Ryou made a sound in the back of his throat and was caught off guard as Bakura's tongue started to caress his. Ryou's eyes fluttered closed as their lips roved over each other's passionately. He was beginning to relax until Bakura's fingers trailed over the hem of his pants. Ryou's eyes snapped open and he broke the kiss.
"Bakura, stop!" he exclaimed, suddenly bending his knee up and kicking Bakura in the stomach.
Bakura made a grunt and slid off the bed, landing with a thud. Ryou sat up abruptly surprised that he had actually kicked him. Bakura stood up quickly sending an irritated glance at him.
"I'm really getting sick of being kicked off the bed! What is it, kick Bakura day!"
Ryou was confused by that comment, but decided to ignore it for the time being.
"No, Bakura, it's not that…it's…it's…," Ryou glanced down, his eyebrows furrowing sadly. "I'm not ready for that."
Bakura stared at him evenly then crossed his arms. "Well you could've said no to the massage," he said, heading toward the door.
He walked out of the room without a glance back toward him and Ryou pulled his knees up to his chest and began to sob quietly. That had to be the proof. Bakura only wanted him for sex…it wasn't love at all.
Outside the room, Bakura stomped away from the door all the way to his room. He shut his door, stripping his clothes off and throwing them aside. He then slipped on a pair of tight, silk underwear, which he normally wore to bed and lay down. For a few minutes, he stared up at the ceiling.
"What is wrong with that boy!" Bakura hissed out in the darkness. "I'm never nice to anyone and I volunteer to give him a massage and end getting kicked off the bed again! How in the world does Yami do it!"
He sat up angrily, glaring in the darkness. His mind pictured Yuugi sitting on the bed clad in only a towel giving Yami a loving look. Growling in annoyance, Bakura slumped back down onto the bed. Yuugi's friend was too confusing. One minute he seemed like he enjoyed it and then next he didn't. It was irritating and frustrating, especially when Bakura often had erotic dreams about him.
Clenching his jaw, Bakura glared up at the ceiling. "Why can't I get that boy out of my head!"
Bakura had no choice. He'd have to talk to Yami the next day and confront him about how he easily persuaded Yuugi to comply with intimate things. He really hated having to resort to Yami; it was almost like asking him for…advice! It pained him to do it, but right now he was too frustrated to care. Sighing irritably, Bakura closed his eyes and rolled over not looking forward to the morning.
TO BE CONTINUED…
Author's Note: I know it seems like so far it's mostly about emotions and the plot hasn't really started yet, but fear not! Next chapter will be Yuugi's duel with Kaiba among other things that will begin the plot development. It will start out slow but it will pick up pretty quick.
To Reviewers:
Kari-Sama: Hehehe, thanks! I'm glad you like it so far! I think it will be just as good as the first two, especially since it's going to finalize everything and bring this mini-series to a closure. Yes, Yami is very understanding, ne? And don't worry there will be much romance to come! It's actually going to be more romantic than the other two since Kontar's not involved, but there will still be some suspense and action! I hope to update this very shortly!
Celeste-the-Hikari: I'm glad you're liking this so far! I hope it'll be just as good as the other two and bring this mini-series to a perfect closure. Yes, poor Isis has a bumpy road ahead of her and the others too once they find out the problem. Yes, continue to guess at what might happen:-)
SilverWing147: Hehehe! I'm glad you liked the scene with Yuugi and Bakura. This story is a bit different because it's mainly romance and humor. So I hope there will be many more amusing scenes. :-)
Sansi: Yeppers! I can just see Yuugi and Yami getting married. It's just so kawaii! Tehehehe! And yes, Bakura is Bakura…he seems to be having trouble with the whole relationship thing. But I like making him suffer. It's fun:-) Oh and yes, Merry Christmas to you too!
Yamiyugifanadic: I'm glad you like it so far! Oh yes, I know exactly what you mean. Don't worry, there is NOT going to be a fourth installment to this mini-series. This story probably won't turn out to be as long as the others either, we'll see. It's mainly to show the progression of the relationships and solve the immortality problem. It'll just finalize everything for a perfect closure. :-)
Atemu Yugi Lover34: Yes, poor Isis. She'll have a bumpy road ahead of her, but don't worry. This isn't an angsty story whatsoever! And Merry Christmas to you too!
SpufFan: I'm really glad you like it so far! Yes, hopefully this story will be the perfect way to close up this mini-series:-)
