The Eternal Gem

Chapter 2: A Treacherous Duel

The sky was completely cloudless and the sun was so bright the entire city appeared to be glowing. Though the entire city was glowing, all its citizens were packed outside the palace walls standing in amazement at the view before them. Bundles and pillars and baskets of flowers covered the area. Petals were scattered down the velvet purple rug that traveled from the palace entrance doors all the way down the steps to the ground. Two glass stands sparkled in the sunlight, standing on either side of the palace doors with roses bunching up out of the top. There were ribbons and trinkets of gold decorating the doors, pillars, and the stands.

Cheering and clapping began as Yami strode up the carpet toward the top of the stairs. He had on a magnificent robe that glimmered in the sunlight and flowed out around him. His crown was beaming in the light and his Millennium Pyramid shone as well. He stood by the stands as several of his most trusted friends and viziers stood before the glass stands as well. Everyone waited until the palace doors opened and gasps and awes sounded. Stepping out of the entryway was Yuugi, dressed in the finest of robes. It was a glorious dove-white robe made completely out of velvet with a silk ribbon around his waist and a Blue Topaz jewel holding his robe together. His crown was glimmering as well and he had a wreath of pink, white and yellow Lotus flowers pinned in his hair with pearls attached to it. Blushing, Yuugi stepped out farther and cheering and clapping began again loudly as cameras flashed all around him.

Yuugi's eyes caught Yami's soft gaze and he blushed darker. Yami smiled so lovingly and held out a hand, gesturing for him to come forward. Yuugi tentatively walked toward him and grasped his hand. Yami helped him to his spot, which was next to him. They were facing the front as Fidil and Isis smiled at them and began a ritual in Egyptian. Then they turned to face one another and Yuugi could feel his heart pounding in his chest. Yami's gentle crimson eyes gazed down at him. Yuugi could see his eyes so brilliantly against his bronze complexion and he nearly melted on the spot. He couldn't hear any words being spoken, if Fidil or Isis were even still reading anything. All he could do was to stare into Yami's face and feel his heart swell with such powerful emotion. Yami's gaze softened and he reached a hand to touch Yuugi's face. He stroked his cheek and then moved down to his chin. Grasping his chin softly, Yami began to lean down. Yuugi glanced at the hand on his chin to see a gorgeous ring glimmering in the sunlight, though he couldn't make out any details. He hadn't even remembered saying vows or exchanging rings. He was just entranced by Yami's every move and every curve of his body. Yuugi closed his eyes leaning up toward Yami's face, feeling excitement explode throughout him as he realized that their love was known to all of Egypt and it was to be everlasting.

Yuugi's eyes fluttered open as the dream ended before he was even able to touch his lips to Yami's. It took him a minute to realize that he had just had a dream—a dream that had become much more frequent. He was marrying Yami in his dream and there were a lot more details in this dream. It had looked and felt real; he had actually seen what he was wearing and some of the decorations around. Sighing blissfully, Yuugi turned over to stare at Yami who was still sleeping soundly. He smiled gently hoping that someday soon he'd have the courage to propose to him, but for now he needed to concentrate on getting ready for the duel. It was to be the next morning and Yuugi knew if he wasn't prepared Kaiba would most likely win. After all, he had gone through great trouble to plan this and was going to have it broadcasted live so there was no doubt he had gotten together a much stronger deck from before.

Yuugi slipped out of the warm bed and walked over to the desk where he had put his cards. Sitting down in the comfortable chair he began flipping through them to make sure the plan he was thinking of would work even if Kaiba tried to prevent it. He had gone through it a number of times in his head and he was certain it would prove successful, but…at the same time he didn't know if Kaiba had gotten new cards in his deck or what he had in store for him.

But I've always just trusted my cards. I can't give up on them now. After all, even though I'm going to live in Egypt from now on, that doesn't mean I'd like to give up the title as the King of Games. I rather like that title. Besides, dueling is still just as important to me, even though I'm not entering into many tournaments. I can still enter into some to keep the title I earned and I know Yami will support me all the way. Whenever we have time we can always take a break from duties here and go so I can duel or even watch a Duel Championship.

Yuugi didn't realize how long he had been lost in thought and staring down at his cards until he felt a warm hand on his shoulder. Glancing up he saw Yami smiling down at him. Yami's eyes locked onto the cards in his hands and he brushed some of Yuugi's bangs away from his face.

"I see you're studying your cards again. Do you feel ready?"

"Ready as I'll ever be," Yuugi sighed, putting his cards back together and setting them on the desk. "I don't know why Kaiba is so obsessed with defeating me and trying to make me look like a fool. Even if I did lose a match it wouldn't be like everyone would hate me or ridicule me the rest of my life like he seems to think."

Yami's eyes narrowed and Yuugi could tell Yami wasn't very happy with how Kaiba was. Yuugi just gave him a reassuring smile and leaned into his soft touch as he continued to stroke his face. Yuugi let out a yawn and closed his eyes, enjoying Yami's touch.

"So, are there any meetings tonight or anything?"

He heard Yami chuckle softly. "No, there's not. I made sure that anything that was today was moved for later since I know you needed a day to relax and get prepared for your duel. I want your mind and body to be well rested and ready for tomorrow."

Yuugi's eyes opened and he stared up into Yami's face lovingly. Yuugi grasped his hand and pulled him down nuzzling against his neck.

"Thank you Yami. Does this mean you'll relax with me?"

"Yes," Yami laughed lightly.

Yuugi grinned up at him. "So, can we do anything?"

Yami's smile broadened and he nodded. "Anything you desire, Yuugi."

A coy smile flickered across his face and Yuugi turned to face Yami properly, bringing a hand up to brush his hair away from his face. Yuugi stared into his eyes deeply before glancing at the crown upon his forehead. Leaning down, Yuugi kissed the crown then moved down over his nose to his mouth. He felt Yami's lips curl into a smile as he pressed his lips upon his. Yami moved his arm around Yuugi's waist, holding him close as they continued to kiss passionately. Yuugi tilted his head sideways and opened his mouth wide. As Yami's lips opened a bit, Yuugi quickly allowed his tongue to slip inside. Yami groaned in the back of his throat and leaned forward, pushing a hand behind Yuugi's head as their tongues caressed together.

Their intense kiss broke and Yuugi smiled at him, keeping his arms wrapped tightly around his neck.

"Can we stay up here together and order ice cream while we talk and kiss?" Yuugi asked, blushing faintly.

Yami chuckled and brought Yuugi's face closer to him, his eyes twinkling with happiness and amusement.

"Yes, we can," he said, planting a kiss on Yuugi's nose.

Yuugi leaned his head against Yami's chest and sighed contently. "You can also look at my cards and let me know if my strategy seems good."

Yami stroked his fingers through Yuugi's hair, smiling. "I would gladly do that for you."

"Great!" Yuugi exclaimed brightly as he stared up into Yami's face. "Can I call down to the kitchen to ask for some ice cream to be brought up now?"

Yami nodded with a grin and Yuugi kissed his cheek and then rushed over to the phone. He was so excited to be spending the day with Yami just being able to rest with him, kiss him and talk to him about how he's feeling about the duel. That would definitely relax him. Yuugi blushed, knowing that he really had wanted to make love to Yami that day, but truthfully they hadn't made love that long ago and Yuugi didn't want their relationship to turn into lust. It would only be able to turn into lust in the beginning when their relationship was still new and Yuugi was still getting used to experiencing sex and other intimate emotions. That's why he wanted to wait…he wanted to wait until the time when he asked Yami to marry him. Then, if he said yes, they could make love after the wedding. It would be so romantic that way! Yuugi grinned and picked up the phone, pressing the button for the kitchen. He was so happy that he was certain no matter what Kaiba had in store for him he'd be able to get through it and win a victory; he would win for himself and for Yami.

XXXXXX

The alley was dark and deserted; Isis was almost sure she was in the wrong place. A note had come to her a little while earlier, telling her to meet in this alley. She knew it was her brother, since she recognized the handwriting, but she had gotten there and seen no one. Soft footsteps sounded behind her and Isis wheeled around as her eyes searched for the source. A slim figure came out in the open, though Isis wasn't sure where the person came from. The hood was pulled down and Isis blinked, recognizing the figure as Mai—the young woman who was friends with her brother.

"Thank you for coming Isis," Mai smiled brilliantly, her red lipstick shining even in the dark. "Please follow me. Marik is waiting."

Isis wordlessly followed her into the back of the alley. They reached a dead end and Isis wondered where Mai was leading her. She was about to ask when Mai pressed a hand against the wall. The tiles began to flicker and then it vanished altogether and in its place a door appeared. Isis' surprise didn't last long; she knew Marik was still using his Millennium Rod to hide his whereabouts. Isis just wasn't sure whether to trust Mai or not. She had been wary about the girl ever since Marik introduced her years ago. Mai gestured to the door and Isis walked forward. She glanced at Mai as she turned the knob and then stepped inside. She felt Mai step behind her and the door vanished. A cold wind swept around them and Isis shut her eyes, realizing they were being transported to Marik's hideout.

When she opened her eyes she was in a tall spacious room; it wasn't just any room though. It was a library—one she had never seen before. There were shelves upon shelves of books and even tables littered with papers. Stepping forward Isis saw a cloaked figure standing in the center of the room.

"Marik I have brought her," Mai said.

The figure turned and Marik laid eyes on her, smiling. "Good. Thank you Mai."

"You're welcome darling," she winked, blowing him a kiss.

Marik nearly rolled his eyes, but just gestured for Isis to come forward. Isis glanced up at the tall ceiling as Mai took her leave and approached her brother.

"Marik what is this place?"

"It's my hideout," he said simply.

"Yes, but why are you using a library as one?"

Marik's lips curled in amusement. "Dear sister, this isn't a library. Well, perhaps I have turned it into one, but it didn't start out as one. It was an abandoned church room that I found completely boarded up on the other side of town. I took the church and transported it with my Millennium Rod to this hidden location. I believe there is a small gas station that is being built in its place now. No one seems to care that it's suddenly gone missing. And even if the pharaoh finds out about it and gets suspicious he won't be able to track it."

"I see," Isis said quietly.

Marik closed the book he was holding and turned to face her. "So, have you found out anything?"

"Well, I…I went to the Forbidden Library," she whispered, pulling out some papers. "I found some interesting things about this Eternal Gem and a woman named Queen Elmina. And also…I found this scrap of paper that's very worn out and torn, but I wasn't sure what it was. It was just in the book that had mentioned Queen Elmina," she finished, handing it all over to him.

Marik took several minutes to look through the items she brought and suddenly his lips curled into a smile and a loud laugh escaped his lips. Isis blinked, puzzled and Marik held up the small torn piece of paper.

"This is it, Isis! You've found something! With some of the records I've found from all over the world, which Mai has been helping me, I discovered some things too. Queen Elmina was a queen who ruled a small island. The reason why she wasn't documented as a queen was because she wasn't technically royalty, at least not from Europe or Ireland or any place. The people on the small island just called her Queen Elmina because she was the prettiest woman there and incredibly bright. Anyway, Mai and I found this out by sneaking into old libraries from around the world and we came to Greece and found this information out. The island was never named anything because no one believed it was an island. The people who lived on the island didn't want any strangers coming so they made it appear to be an abandoned, dirty, wasteland. But really, the island itself is underground with flowing rivers and plans and everything. The only person who knew about this was Queen Elmina's lover, who had eventually left the island because he was to be killed by the queen's husband. He made it look like a suicide, jumping into the water to be eaten by sharks, but truthfully he was picked up by a ship which had spotted him later on.

"He wrote in a very peculiar language, I'm not sure exactly what combination of language they spoke, but I used my Millennium Rod to translate this tattered journal that I found. It wasn't the one I gave you though. The journal I gave you to look at was, I believe, Queen Elmina's, but as you can see hers seems to be protected by magic because I couldn't use my Millennium Rod. It makes me curious that these people had magic. They lived back in ancient times, even before us, so I don't know how they had magic, but they could've been our ancestors," Marik said, opening another book and taking a larger, worn piece of paper out. "And see here, the piece that you gave me fits with the one I found in the journal that I had," he said, putting the pieces side by side.

Isis, still stunned, came beside him and stared down at it. Her eyes widened considerably.

"It's a map!"

"Yes and not just any map. A map of the location of this unknown island and see how everything, all the buildings, rivers and things are below these rocky symbols?" he asked, pointing. "It's because it's all underground. I figured that out recently. The rocks represent what's left on the surface of the island, covering it up as a dirty, abandoned land."

"But wait, even if it is abandoned you would think that people would still want to own it or use it for something," Isis said, glancing up at Marik.

Marik continued to smile. "Very clever, sister, but they thought of that too while they lived there. Every day they would kill several animals that lived on the surface and feed them to the sharks out in somewhat shallow waters to keep the sharks close to the island. Even later on when ships were created and explorers came to the island, they did something…I know they couldn't have still been alive. These people lived a long time and there were many villagers underground. Everyone knew everyone and they were able to keep lines going by having their kids marry each other's kids, all the neighbors and villagers and the way the plants and trees underground got sunlight was by this cave. They watched and made sure when the sun would hit at different angles so there are caves and holes hidden around by bushes and rocks. At different times of the day the sun would reach one of these caverns or holes and shoot straight underground through the tunnel that was built into the inner island. However…something happened; something that's not documented in any of these journals. They lived for generations and they had plenty of food and water that they grew themselves, but for some reason the entries just stop, like something had happened to them. They could've died or been killed or I don't know, but the inner island was left like that. And it was never documented because no one knew of these people. That is why we must get to the island and find a way underground into the inner area. There might be more information about these people and even the Eternal Gem. It seems that they are the only ones who know about this Eternal Gem."

"Do you think maybe they created it?" Isis asked.

"I don't think so, otherwise why would they mention trying to search for it. They didn't even know its exact location. We won't know more, however, until we search this island. And now that the two pieces of the map have been found we can go there!" Marik grinned, carefully placing the pieces of the map into a book.

Isis looked down at her hands, unsure of what to do. If the Eternal Gem was real then the answers would be on this island. And if it was real it would solve the terrible problem that would soon occur with Yuugi and Ryou. If they wanted to stay in Egypt they would need to come along and help search for it, which would mean she'd have to tell Yami about it and what would happen to Yuugi and Ryou. If she did that though…her brother…her brother would never forgive her. She had to choose a side; whether to help her brother find it and voyage with him, or tell Yami what she did and what she knows and help him. She wished there were a way to help both of them, like if there were two Eternal Gems, but from the records shown so far it only mentioned one.

"We can leave tomorrow at sunrise," Marik said, grinning. "I have a crew already and it won't be hard to find a boat we can use. I can just go to a dock, find the best and biggest ship and hypnotize the owner of the ship with my Millennium Rod so he, or she, will allow us to take it. And then of course I'd have to make the person forget what happened to their ship, but that won't be difficult at all. Pack your things, sister for tomorrow," Marik said, his voice alight with hope and confidence.

Isis glanced down again and took a deep breath. "Marik, I…"

Marik turned around to face her, holding the book with the map in it. "What?"

"I…I c-can't…," she trailed off, finding it difficult to breathe.

Marik's eyes narrowed suspiciously. "You can't what?"

She saw the look in his eyes and knew it would betray him to tell him she would have to tell Yami about it.

"You haven't told the pharaoh have you?" he asked, his tone dripping with coldness.

Isis shook her head. "No."

"Good. Then what's the problem? As long as the pharaoh has no clue we can pull it off. I'm sure you can make up a good excuse."

"It's just…," Isis said, closing her eyes briefly. "Marik, I…," she started again, unable to say it. "I can't tomorrow. Um…the pharaoh will get suspicious because I'm supposed to come with him to see Yuugi duel this man named Kaiba."

Marik's expression softened and he nodded. "Very well, we'll leave the day after tomorrow."

Isis hesitated then nodded. Marik packed up a few things and began walking passed her. He put a hand on her shoulder and gave her a smile before walking off.

"See you then sister," he said as he left the room.

Isis' shoulders slumped as she realized she had bought herself only a day before she had to choose one of the two important men in her life: her pharaoh and trusted friend or her brother. It was killing herself on the inside so bad. At nights she couldn't even get to sleep until well into the night. She was exhausted, upset and torn; she wished she didn't have to make a decision, but she knew she had to by the day after tomorrow. That gave her barely any time to think about it. She would be up all night from then on torn between the two choices. With a heavy sigh, she headed back out of the room and was transported back to the alley. She was thankful the night air was cool so it would relax her a bit as she walked back to the palace.

The pharaoh and Yuugi had been together all day in the pharaoh's chambers. They were most likely asleep now since Yuugi had his duel in the morning. Luckily they were so that she could sneak back inside quietly. So far, the pharaoh wasn't suspicious of anything; of course it helped to have Yuugi around because his main concern was Yuugi, besides his duties. He never questioned her excuses for not showing up at meetings or leaving suddenly at times; she knew he trusted her with his life so he didn't even suspect she was hiding something. And when he finally found out, it would break both their hearts.

XXXXXX

The next morning: 8 a.m.

The nervous feeling in the pit of his stomach increased as they entered the area, heading toward a specific destination. It was unnerving to think that he might be humiliated in front of a lot of people. That was what Kaiba planned on. The duel didn't start until 9 a.m. so they had some time. He was with Yami, Isis, Ryou and Bakura and except for Ryou the rest of them had on their Egyptian robes. They didn't really look out of place, just foreign. The plan was that they would meet up with Jou, Honda and Anzu at his grandpa's game shop so that Yuugi wouldn't be bombarded by people. He had thought that perhaps his name wouldn't be so big since he hadn't participated in any duels since he had last beat Kaiba in his own Dueling Challenge Competition, in which he dueled many skilled duelists to earn five map cards and get to the top to take on Kaiba, among others that challenged him. Still, now Kaiba wanted a re-match so he knew if he was seen people wouldn't leave him alone. His name was back to the big screen and even Jou told him even if he didn't continue with dueling in the future he'd always be known as the King of Games.

They arrived at the game shop by 8:15 and already Jou, Honda and Anzu were waiting outside of it. Yuugi's grandpa was away on business with Arthur, but no doubt he would hear about the duel.

"Hey Yug! Long time no see!" Jou exclaimed waving as Yuugi approached them.

"I know! I missed you, Jou!" Yuugi smiled, giving his friend a hug.

"What about me?" Anzu huffed, putting her hands on her hips.

Yuugi just smiled and went over to hug her as well. Honda wasn't really into the whole hugging, but he clapped Yuugi on the back.

"Ryou, I'm so glad you came! We've missed you too!" Anzu exclaimed, hugging him tightly.

Bakura's eyes narrowed but he kept silent just watching the exchanges between the friends. All of them greeted Yami and were introduced again to Isis and Bakura.

"So, you ready for this Yug?" Honda asked, raising his eyebrows.

"Yeah, it's gonna be huge! Kaiba's really lookin' to cream you, but we won't let him try and humiliate you!" Jou exclaimed angrily, clenching his fists. "Even if you do lose, which I'm sure you won't, it won't change da fact dat you've beat him twice in the past."

Yuugi smiled. "I know, but Kaiba seems to think that even one victory against me will allow him to take the title of the King of Games. I'm not sure if that's true, but I don't plan on handing it over to it, at least not without a fight."

"A good one at that!" Honda grinned. "I mean, this guy's going all out this time. Not only is it live again on TV but he's also got stands in which people are sitting to watch it live. You'll be in front of an entire audience with cameras included in the center of an outside arena, just like in International Dueling Championships. That and Kaiba doesn't only want your title but he says that this duel will prove everything. He says he's put all of his skill, heart, work, money, everything into it; everything that's him!"

"Which means, Yuugi," Anzu added, looking concerned, "is that if he does win he wants your title and your word that you're going to give up dueling."

"WHAT!" Yuugi and Ryou exclaimed, wide-eyed.

Yami's eyes narrowed dangerously and Yuugi could feel the rage building, although the Eye of Horus didn't appear on his forehead. It seemed as though he was controlling his powers…for the time being. Bakura snorted in amusement.

"Seems like this guy's a sore loser."

"He sure is!" Jou agreed, glancing at Bakura. "Not only dat but he's a sly, greedy, cold-hearted, cheatin', dirty, underhanded, selfish, untalented, spoiled, son-of-a—"

"We get it Jou," Anzu interrupted, giving him a warning look. "We need to get Yuugi there on time so that Kaiba doesn't try and say he wins by default."

"Yeah, now that would be underhanded to the max," Honda agreed.

"Let's go!" Jou announced, punching his fist in the air.

Isis kept quiet the entire time, too lost in thought. Yuugi glanced at her for a minute, sensing that she seemed a bit down, but upon locking eyes with him she gave him a reassuring smile. The eight of them then headed toward the arena, keeping Yuugi in the center of the group so he wasn't noticeable to those walking by.

The entire dueling arena, the size of the international Dueling Championship arena, was filled up with those special well-known duelists and rich folk who paid extra to get inside to watch the duel live. The rest of the folks would have to watch it from the malls or places where big screens showed the duel. Either way, Yuugi knew the whole city was watching it. Yuugi gulped as they approached the entrance.

"Names?" the guard said.

"Yuugi Mutou, the King of Games!" Jou announced enthusiastically. "With his friends."

"Yuugi Mutou, please go through that tunnel. You will be coming out on the left side. Wait till your name is called," the guard said, and Yuugi nodded. "You'll need this too," he said, handing him a headphone that would act like a speaker so the crowd and Kaiba could hear him clearly.

"What about us? We deserve front row seats!" Jou exclaimed.

"Hold on," he said, putting a hand up to his headphone. "Boss, Yuugi Mutou has arrived and his friends want front-row seats."

They waited patiently as the guard stood still, listening from his headphone. He nodded and then put his hand down.

"He says that's fine. He wants you to get a close view."

Jou clenched his jaw, but Honda nudged him so he wouldn't say anything that could get him kicked out. Yuugi then turned to his friends and gave them all a soft smile.

"I guess you'll see me in a few minutes," Yuugi said. His eyes glanced over at Yami, who gave him a loving and reassuring smile that told him he believed in him. Ryou and his friends also wore the same smile and Isis seemed lost in thought again. Bakura looked indifferent but that didn't bother him. Yuugi took a deep breath, gave one last smile, and headed off toward the tunnel. He slipped inside and walked down a long ways before he came to the entryway into the dueling arena. He stood by and peered out, able to see much of the crowd and the center of the arena.

Several minutes later, Yuugi saw Kaiba walking out into the center. The crowd erupted in clapping and cheering, excited that the duel was about to begin. Kaiba had his microphone headset on as well since he began to talk without holding anything and his voice boomed throughout the arena.

"Welcome ladies and gentlemen to the duel of a lifetime! I was surprised that our guest Yuugi Mutou has shown up when I've tried to track him down for so long!" Kaiba announced and Yuugi rolled his eyes. "Now it will begin; the duel you all have been waiting for. As you all know I've been defeated in the past, but the past was the old me. I have used every ounce of skill in my deck, which I have revamped and now Yuugi Mutou will see Seto Kaiba in his best dueling!"

The crowd erupted again and Yuugi felt his heart jump. He knew it was coming.

"And now the duel begins! Yuugi Mutou, come out here to meet your match!"

Taking one last deep breath and stepped out into the open, holding his deck tight in his hand. The crowd was cheering loudly and he could feel the cameras on him. He made sure not to look at them and just stared straight ahead. Yuugi approached all the way to where Kaiba was standing holding two duel disks. Kaiba reached out and handed one to Yuugi who grasped it carefully.

"Are you ready to face every ounce of skill I possess?" Kaiba asked.

"Yes," Yuugi answered without hesitation.

Kaiba's eyes narrowed subtly but he put on his duel disk. "Let's duel, Yuugi! One final time! And if I win, I claim the title King of Games and you are never to duel again!"

The crowd roared at that to show how excited they were that so much was at stake.

Yuugi's eyebrows furrowed angrily as he slipped on the duel disk. "It's one thing to try and steal a title that I earned for myself, but to try and force me to quit dueling just because you're a sore loser is going too far, Kaiba!" Yuugi shouted, his voice booming across the arena.

He was certain he heard Jou screaming in agreement very loudly above the other cheering that erupted. Yuugi could hear some of the crowd laughing, those that were cheering for him anyway and Kaiba's expression turned into one of rage. Instead of insulting him further he placed his deck in the duel disk. Their life points automatically registered at 4000 to begin.

"Just to show you how confident I am that your skills are no match for my true abilities, I'm going to let you go first."

"Fine," Yuugi said, knowing exactly which card he wanted to summon. "Dark Magician, come out!"

The Dark Magician appeared in front of him in a blaze of light, staring coldly over at Kaiba. He had 2500 attack points and 2100 defense.

"I put one card face down and end my turn," Yuugi finished.

Kaiba smirked at him, choosing a card from his hand. "I summon Kaiser Sea Horse in attack mode!"

Yuugi was confused; his Kaiser Sea Horse had 1700 attack points and 1650 defense. It wasn't strong enough compared to his Dark Magician unless he had something up his sleeve, which was highly possible.

"I end my turn," Kaiba said.

What? Not even a face down card that I have to worry about? Why is he leaving his monster open for attack?

Yuugi didn't know what he was planning, but there was a clear attack open for him that he couldn't ignore.

"Dark Magician, destroy Kaiser Sea Horse!" Yuugi shouted.

The Dark Magician twirled in the air then shot at Kaiba's monster, twirling his staff before letting out a dark stream of light. The monster was destroyed instantly and Kaiba's life points decreased to 3100.

"I put another face down card and end my turn," Yuugi said.

He watched Kaiba's face and saw that Kaiba hadn't cared that his monster had been destroyed. There was definitely something up with that. Kaiba grinned as the crowd cheered at Yuugi's attack, obviously planning to show everyone that although he seemed great that Kaiba could crush him. Kaiba pulled another card from his deck.

"I use Jar of Greed to pick up one more card," he said, doing just that. He laughed loudly as he saw the card he had gotten. "Now I play Hyozanryu, the dragon, in attack mode!"

That dragon was very powerful, but still not powerful enough. It had 2100 attack points and 2800 defense.

"I place two face down and end my turn," Kaiba said.

Yuugi picked up a card since it was his turn, wondering if he should attack or not. There was a possibility that Kaiba had something facedown, but what else could he do except attack?

"Dark Magician, attack his Hyozanryu!" Yuugi shouted, as Dark Magician flew up to attack.

"Not so fast, Yuugi. I play one of my face downs, Shadow Spell, which decreases the attack of your Dark Magician by 700 points, leaving him weaker!"

Oh no! I should've expected this!

The crowd cheered loudly as the excitement continued to build.

"Hyozanryu, destroy his Dark Magician!" Kaiba shouted.

The dragon roared loudly and charged at his Dark Magician, breathing hot fire out of its mouth, incinerating his most faithful card. Yuugi winced as his life points decreased to 2500.

"Now I summon Luster Dragon 2 and end my turn!"

"I reveal my face down card, Last Will," Yuugi responded, "which allows me to summon a monster with 1500 attack points or less since my monster was sent to the graveyard. And I summon Celtic Guardian in defense mode!"

His Celtic Guardian only had 1400 attack and 1200 defense, which wasn't enough to fight either of Kaiba's dragons, but it was enough to protect his life points. Kaiba's Luster Dragon was very powerful with 2400 attack and 1400 defense. And his Hyozanryu had 2100 attack points. He needed a good monster. Yuugi closed his eyes then picked up a card. His eyes lit up with joy as he found the perfect beast. Kaiba saw his expression and immediately his face hardened.

"I play Summoned Skull in attack mode!" Yuugi announced, summoning the beast. It had 2500 attack points and only 1200 defense, but the attack was just what he needed to destroy his Luster Dragon, which was more of a threat than the Hyozanryu.

"Summoned Skull, attack his Luster Dragon!" Yuugi shouted.

Summoned Skull roared loudly and shot lightning straight toward the dragon. It was destroyed and Kaiba's life points decreased to 2100, but he didn't seem concerned.

"I place one card face down and end my turn," Yuugi said. He already had one face down, which he had put there in the beginning and now he had two. Not to mention he had Summoned Skull out on the field and Celtic Guardian protecting his life points. However, Kaiba didn't seem at all discouraged, in fact, he looked pleased.

"By sacrificing all the cards in my hand to the graveyard, except this one, I can summon Infernal Incinerator!" Kaiba announced and the crowd went wild.

Yuugi clenched his jaw. Infernal Incinerator was very powerful; more powerful than his Summoned Skull. It had 2800 attack points and 1800 defense.

"I place one card face down and end my turn," Kaiba said.

Yuugi's face blanched in surprise. He could've destroyed his Summoned Skull and cost him quite a bit of life points, but he just placed one card down. What was he up to? He wasn't even planning to protect his other dragon. Frowning, Yuugi wondered if he should attack. Kaiba did have a face down card, but it was possible that it wouldn't deflect the attack. Those cards were very rare. Should he take the chance? It would help him get more ahead. Sighing, Yuugi nodded to himself as he picked up another very good card.

"Summoned Skull, attack Hyozanryu!"

His Summoned Skull used lightning attack on the dragon, which roared in agony as it was destroyed. Kaiba's life points decreased to 1500, but still he didn't seem concerned, nor did he use his face down card.

"I place another card face down," Yuugi said, totaling his face downs up to three as he ended his turn.

Kaiba smirked and picked up seven cards since he had to discard all his cards to summon Infernal Incinerator the last turn.

"I use Monster Reborn to summon Luster Dragon 2 again!" he announced, as the crowd made sounds of excitement. "And I place two cards face down," he said, which totaled his face downs to three as well.

Yuugi picked up another card, but it wasn't useful. The only thing he could do besides pass was to attack and find out just what Kaiba had in store for him. It was risky, but sometimes risks were necessary to win.

"Summoned Skull, attack his Luster Dragon 2 again!"

"Not so fast! I reveal my face down, Trap Hole. Since you summoned a monster recently, your Summoned Skull, and it has attack points over 1000, I can destroy the monster that is attacking."

Yuugi's face hardened as Summoned Skull roared as it burst into flames. Yuugi's life points dropped to 1700, which was still 200 more than Kaiba's.

"Now I reveal my other face down, White Dragon Ritual to summon Paladin of White Dragon!"

Yuugi's eyes widened. Paladin had only 1900 attack and 1200 defense, but there was a special effect that it had. Yuugi had a guess at what Kaiba might summon soon.

"I place one face down and end my turn," he said, as it totaled him up to two face downs.

Yuugi wondered why Kaiba didn't seem to be trying very hard to decrease his life points. There was something he was planning, but so far he couldn't figure it out.

"Alright," Yuugi said, picking a card, "I use Monster Reborn to bring back Dark Magician! Then I reveal one of my face downs, Mystic Plasma Zone, which allows me to increase his attack points by 500 and decrease his defense by 400. That brings my Dark Magician up to 3000 attack points!" Yuugi announced as the crowd erupted again. "Dark Magician, attack Infernal Incinerator!"

Dark Magician prepared to attack but Kaiba only smirked at him.

"I reveal my face down, Swords of Revealing Light to hold your Dark Magician captive for three turns! And I use Paladin to summon Blue Eyes White Dragon, but that's not all Yuugi!" he grinned. "I use my face down, Megamorph to double the attack points of Blue Eyes since my life points right now are lower than yours!"

So that's why he didn't attack! He needed his life points lower than mine to use this spell card!

"After this spell card is used it goes to the graveyard, but my Blue Eyes will remain at 6000 attack points!" Kaiba laughed, as Yuugi's eyebrows furrowed. "Now Blue Eyes attack his Dark Magician!"

Yuugi's eyes widened as Blue Eyes shot a lightning-blue blast toward his Dark Magician, destroying the Swords of Revealing Light card and his Dark Magician, which brought his life points all the way down to 500.

"And my Blue Eyes has a special ability. I can automatically use a second attack and my eyes are set on you, Yuugi!"

NO! If he achieves that my life points will decrease to zero! I've got to use a card quick!

"Blue Eyes attack him!" Kaiba shouted victoriously, pointing at Yuugi.

"I use the spell card Second Chance, which allows me to change the position of any monster being attacked and I change your Blue Eyes to defense mode!" Yuugi intervened, his heart racing.

It would only last for that turn, but it was well worth it. Luckily his life points weren't damaged but that only left one monster on the field protecting him. Kaiba looked disappointed for a second but then laughed loudly.

"I knew it wouldn't be that easy to destroy you. Just wait until you see what I'm planning! I place two cards face down and end my turn!"

Yuugi took a deep breath, letting his eyes roam the crowd for his friends. He spotted them a distance away watching and laid eyes on Yami. His muscles relaxed a bit and he drew another card. His eyes widened subtly. It was the card he needed! Unfortunately, he couldn't use it yet. He didn't want to ruin his chance by rushing; he needed to see what Kaiba had in store for him first.

"I use the spell card Dian Keto the Cure Master to restore 1000 life points to me! Then I summon Gaia the Fierce Knight in defense mode!"

Kaiba laughed loudly, looking amused. "So now you're hiding behind your defense monsters! Gaia only has 2300 attack points so it's useless against my Blue Eyes and my Infernal Incinerator."

Yuugi's eyes narrowed. "I place one card face down and end my turn."

He was now back to having three cards face down. Two of which would win him the duel.

Grinning, Kaiba picked up a card and smirked widely. "Now you're done for, Yuugi! I reveal my face down, Mountain to increase the attack and defense of my Blue Eyes by 200 bringing him up to 6200 attack points! Now I use my Blue Eyes to destroy your Gaia!"

Yuugi winced as Blue Eyes shot another blast out at Gaia, destroying it.

"And with my Blue Eyes ability I also destroy your Celtic Guardian!"

The Celtic Guardian was blown to bits, leaving Yuugi wide open. Although Kaiba couldn't attack again, it certainly wasn't looking good. The crowd was still going wild as the duel began to build up to its climax. Yuugi only had 1500 life points.

"I place a card face down and end my turn," he said.

Yuugi glared at his two face downs, wondering what else he could possibly do. It was finally time to put his card into action.

"I reveal my face down, Black Luster Ritual! This spell card allows me to summon one of my most powerful monsters, but also it has a second ability. In order to summon this monster I have to sacrifice a monster, but this special ability allows me to use my monsters or my opponent's! And since I don't have any monsters on the field, I can use yours! Your Blue Eyes may be protected from this spell card, but your Infernal Incinerator isn't! I use him to summon Black Luster Soldier!"

Kaiba grimaced as Infernal Incinerator was destroyed making way for Black Luster Soldier which appeared in a blaze of light.

"That's not all!" Yuugi announced. "I equip him with the spell card Axe of Despair, which increases his attack by 1000 points, bringing him up to 4000 attack points!"

"That's still not enough against my Blue Eyes!" Kaiba countered angrily.

"Maybe not, but my other face down might change your mind! I use Change of Heart, which allows me to take control of your monster!"

Kaiba laughed loudly. "I reveal my face down Card Destruction to destroy that card! Now, Blue Eyes, attack Black Luster Soldier!"

"I deflect that with Magical Shield spell card!" Yuugi intervened quickly.

Kaiba's smirk only widened. "That won't help you! I use my face down spell card Flute of Summoning Dragon to summon Lord of D. And you know what this card does! It protects all my dragon cards from being attacked as long as it's on the field, which protects my Blue Eyes. Not only that but I use my other face down Gift of Mystical Elf, which gives me 1500 life points, bring me up to 3000. And now, you're finished, Yuugi Mutou! Blue Eyes, attack his Black Luster Soldier!"

"TIME FREEZE!" Yuugi shouted, activating the spell card in his hand. "This traps your Blue Eyes for one turn so it can't attack! I now use Magic Jammer and you know what this card does!" Yuugi exclaimed as Kaiba's eyes narrow. "It can destroy any spell or trap card and I choose Flute of Summoning Dragon! Without this spell card, Lord of D. can't be activated so it's automatically destroyed. And since it's a monster, being destroyed brings your life points down to 2500!"

"That's no matter! You're only at 1500 while I'm at 2500 life points and soon you'll be at zero!" Kaiba countered angrily.

"You've forgotten my Black Luster Soldier's special ability that I now use. He can attack you directly! Black Luster Soldier, attack him!"

Kaiba's eyes widened as the soldier came at him with a huge blade, cutting his life points down to 2100. He glared toward Yuugi angrily.

"Now it's my turn!" Kaiba said, picking up a card. Smirking, he revealed it. "I use Ookazi, which is a trap card that allows me to attack your life points with 800 points of damage!"

Yuugi winced as his life points decreased to a mere 700. Kaiba's smirk widened considerably and he laughed loudly, throwing his arms in the air.

"And now when I attack your Black Luster Soldier with my Blue Eyes, your life points will be at zero!"

The crowd erupted with loud cries, some cheering others booing and Yuugi glared toward Kaiba. He prepared to attack him, but Yuugi wasn't going to let him.

"I reveal a card in my hand, Kaiba! Only three of these cards have been made in all of Duel Monsters! It's called Egyptian Ritual!" Yuugi announced and the audience erupted with awe while Kaiba's expression looked concerned. "This is a powerful spell card that binds to my Black Luster Soldier. When he is destroyed with this card in effect his soul comes back automatically so that no life points are taken from me!"

Blue Eyes attacked his Black Luster Soldier and it was destroyed, bursting into pieces. A second later, Black Luster Soldier appeared transparent and Yuugi's life points remained at 700. Kaiba's laugh echoed throughout the arena as his eyes showed amusement.

"But now your Black Luster Soldier is at 3000 attack points again and my Blue Eyes is set free from your card! I can now attack your soldier and destroy the rest of your life points when my turn comes!"

"Actually, not," Yuugi smiled, earning a surprised glance from Kaiba. "I know Black Luster Soldier isn't powerful enough, but I'm not going to use him. I reveal my face down card, Chthonian Polymer! By sacrificing my Black Luster Soldier I can use this card to take control of your Blue Eyes!"

Kaiba's eyes widened and his expression turned to one of rage. "No! I use the trap card Dust Tornado to destroy your trap card Chthonian Polymer!"

"Sorry, Kaiba," Yuugi grinned, "but that doesn't work. Chthonian Polymer is a rare and powerful trap card and because it requires the sacrifice of at least a five star monster, it has a special ability. While it's in play no trap or spell cards can be used."

"NO! THIS CAN'T BE!" Kaiba yelled.

"Now Blue Eyes is in my control! Blue Eyes, attack Kaiba directly!"

Blue Eyes roared so loudly, capturing the attention of the entire audience and cameras as it summoned a huge blast. The blast of power headed straight for Kaiba and he shouted again as it surrounded him in a blazing light. His life points decreased to zero and he fell to his knees as the crowd shouted in excitement, cheering for Yuugi. The crowd stood up and continued to clap and cheer for him, calling him by the King of Games. He finally looked straight at the cameras and gave a relieved smile, thankful he didn't have to be forced into giving up dueling. Now he could go meet Yami and his friends and go out celebrating his victory.

"This can't be…," Kaiba whispered, staring at the ground.

Yuugi glanced over at him, feeling a bit sorry for him but he did bring it upon himself. Kaiba's eyes lifted to Yuugi's face and his expression morphed into absolute rage and humiliation.

"I WILL NOT BE DEFEATED AGAIN!" he roared.

He jumped up off the ground and charged toward Yuugi in a blind rage. Yuugi was so stunned he couldn't even react to it. Kaiba's arms lashed out toward him to grab his throat but suddenly he was flung backward and his back skidded against the ground. Yuugi turned to see Yami glaring at Kaiba so intensely while the Eye of Horus was glowing on his forehead. He was thankful that the cameras were off and that it wasn't that noticeable, but he was certain people would wonder how Kaiba flew so far. The Eye upon Yami's forehead glowed strongly as he came closer. Yuugi screamed in agony as a pain shot through his entire body. His knees collapsed from the shock of the pain and he fell to the ground. Yami's anger immediately dissipated as the Eye vanished and he rushed over to Yuugi's side.

"Yuugi, what's wrong? What is it?" Yami asked concerned as he held him close.

Yuugi took several deep breaths, trying to remember what had happened. He wasn't sure. The pain had come so suddenly and intensely that he couldn't remember anything except that horrible sensation. Soon Ryou, Isis, Jou, Honda, Anzu and Bakura were approaching behind Yami, wondering what was going on.

"I'm fine. It was just a sudden pain, probably a cramp," Yuugi said, shakily standing up.

No one noticed Isis' downward glance or how her shoulders tensed. Yami put an arm around Yuugi's shoulders to help him.

"That was an excellent duel, Yug!" Jou exclaimed. "Come on, let's go celebrate at the café!"

"Are you sure you're alright?" Anzu asked, her blue eyes searching Yuugi's face.

He smiled, feeling that the pain had vanished. "Yeah, I'm fine, promise. Let's go."

Bakura snorted and everyone glanced over at him to see that he was staring at Kaiba, who was struggling to stand up.

"Pathetic," Bakura smirked.

"I agree!" Jou said. "I outta let him know just how badly he lost!"

"No, Jou, don't!" Anzu whispered harshly. "He was already humiliated in front of everyone, just leave him alone. Hopefully from now on he won't be such a cruel, selfish, egotistical pig and bother Yuugi all the time."

Yuugi nodded and followed his friends out, glancing back once at Kaiba to see him watching them leave with a forlorn expression on his face. Yuugi felt bad for him, but hoped that this duel would finally rid Kaiba of his obsession and allow him to spend more quality time with his little brother Mokuba and actually learn to duel for fun, not obsession or greed.

They all went to the large café that Yuugi and his friends used to go to in order to study together. They got a large table and all started chatting about different things. Jou kept bringing up how awesome the duel was, but Yuugi just blushed and waved it aside. Yami smiled down at him warmly and Yuugi wanted to kiss him right there. Although his friends wouldn't mind that he and Yami were a couple, he didn't exactly want to break it to them that way. Suddenly, Yuugi's eyes widened as an idea came to him. The food wasn't going to come for another ten minutes so he had some time.

"Ryou," Yuugi said quietly, leaning forward.

Ryou glanced at him, as well as Bakura just because he was sitting next to Ryou and had heard him.

"Can you come with me for a second?"

Everyone else was too absorbed in conversations. Yami was listening very intently, interested in modern life while Isis sat sipping her drink quietly. Ryou and Yuugi slipped away from the table with Bakura watching them and headed out of the café.

"Where are we going, Yuugi?" Ryou asked as they walked down the block.

"I just need to get something. I know there's a store somewhere…oh, there it is!"

Yuugi stepped inside the jewelry store with Ryou, marveling at all the expensive accessories. Ryou eyed them and turned to Yuugi with a curious expression.

"Yuugi…these are very expensive. Why are we in here?"

"It's okay. Since I'm helping Yami rule, he gave me my own stash of cold coins with an Egyptian symbol on them. They look like gold dollars, only they're worth much, much more. And I already asked Yami if I would be able to use them other places than Egypt and he said yes."

"Alright, but what do you need in here?"

Yuugi blushed and glanced down, slipping past a couple and walking to one of the glass cases. He pointed into one and Ryou stepped up, looking down.

"Rings? You want a ring?"

"Not for me…f-for Yami," Yuugi whispered, blushing again.

Ryou stared at him, not understanding what the pharaoh would want with a ring. Suddenly his eyes widened considerably.

"Wait, do you mean a wedding ring?"

Yuugi's face darkened but he nodded, staring down into the case as well. "I want to ask him to marry me. I mean…I don't want to live with him for all eternity and not be married to him. And I thought about getting him a ring from here because it would mean more. A modern ring designed with diamonds and things can't be duplicated the same in Egypt; it's unique and from where I live, which is why I think it would mean more."

Ryou's face softened, envying Yuugi for having such love with Yami. He smiled and nodded happily.

"So, when are you planning to ask him?"

"I'm not sure. It just needs to feel like the right moment. If I get it now I can keep it with me all the time and when it feels right I'll ask him," Yuugi answered.

Ryou smiled and glanced down into the case again. "There are so many cases. Which one are you going to choose?"

Yuugi studied the several cases full of rings and his eyes locked onto one in the corner of the glass case. Smiling at Ryou, he pointed to it.

"May I help you gentlemen?" A woman asked from behind the counter.

Ryou nodded in agreement that he liked the ring and Yuugi glanced up at her.

"May I please have this ring except in one size bigger?"

The woman smiled. "Absolutely. We are having a sale on some of the emeralds over there."

Yuugi shook his head politely. "No thank you. This one's perfect."

"Very well, I shall it wrapped for you at the counter," she smiled, taking the ring carefully in her hands.

"And can you put it in a red box?" he asked shyly.

The woman nodded. "Yes, I believe we have that color. Right this way."

Yuugi followed her to the payment counter and watched her put it in a box. Yuugi told her he didn't need it in anything else, so she just rang it up. It wasn't one of the ones on sale so it was a bit expensive, but luckily Yuugi had a small stash of coins in his pocket. The woman had to check with the manager to see if they could take them and when Yuugi explained it was money from Egypt the manager let it pass, saying that one Egyptian coin was worth a hundred U.S. dollars which would be equivalent to 11786 yen. So Yuugi paid for it by handing her seven gold coins (and Ryou helped with the change in yen) and then they were off. Yuugi slipped the small box into his robe feeling his heart pounding with excitement and anxiety. They returned to the café and saw that their food had arrived, but everyone was waiting for them to return.

"Where'd you guys go?" Anzu asked.

Yuugi just smiled and waved it away. "I just went to see if the Duel Monsters card place had any new cards."

"You don't need any new cards; your deck is invincible!" Jou exclaimed dramatically.

Yuugi laughed loudly, thankful that everyone seemed to believe it. Bakura, however, was staring at him with a suspicious look, glancing at Ryou as well, but Yami just smiled at him like always, his eyes shining with love and happiness. Yuugi had to look away before he blushed since the engagement ring was tucked close to him and Yami was sitting next to him. It was just so…thrilling, but it definitely wasn't the right time yet. As they ate, Yuugi realized he really couldn't be happier. He had two homes: one in Japan and one in Egypt. Both of those homes had people he loved and cared about deeply and he was able to see both places whenever he wanted to—for the most part. His grandpa wouldn't be back from his business trip for another few days, but he had said he would visit Yuugi sometime soon in Egypt. Everything was absolutely perfect.

Yuugi was so happy, eating his meal and talking with his friends while glancing at Yami occasionally and blushing, that he didn't notice Isis staring at him with concern and sadness. She could see his love for his friends and Yami and knew he thought everything was alright. She knew, however, that the sudden pain he had experienced earlier was because his body was beginning to be effected by Yami's powers. And the next day was when she'd have to decide whether to go with her brother, or admit everything to Yami. Sighing heavily, Isis concentrated on her meal, dreading the next day in which she would have to choose between them.

TO BE CONTINUED…

Author's Note: I will update this again asap! It was extra long! Sorry I didn't write individual reviews, I'm running short on time. Going to the movies. So, I will write comments next time! Thank you all!