Holy Cow, we are at the end of Season 3? FINALLY!

I don't own Yugioh or Charlotte. I did change some aspects of the original cannon story so i hope it's not confusing. if it is please message me.

Thank you to batousaisgirl16 for proof reading and all of you who have messaged me and left reviews. I do have some things i need help with, but I'll get to that at the end of the chapter.

Enjoy

Chapter 36

Airi was amazed she was able to remember all the events after the duel, especially with the headache starting. Marik came over, supported by Odion, and announced to them as Yami had requested all those who had been banished or mind-trapped by his dark side were now freed. Joey jumped to his feet at this news and was first to run for the elevator. There wasn't any doubt who he was going to see.

The others followed soon after. Between the support of her brother and Yami, Airi was able to make it down the tower and back onto the blimp. Kaiba made a point of standing close by, just in case "the shrimp" couldn't handle the load. Airi was too relieved the duel was over for telling him to shut it. At the blimp they were greeted by the doctors, who were very intimidating when they ordered both she and Marik to go to bed immediately. Airi agreed, hoping the ride back would give her enough of a rest so she didn't have to go to the hospital when they got back to Domino.

Walking along the hall they heard a great amount of talking and noise. Ignoring Kaiba and Yami's disapproving looks, Airi broke away from the group and entered the room, keeping on hand on the door frame for support. Mai was sitting up in bed, holding Joey in a friendly head lock and teasing him about how worried he was about her. Serenity and Charlotte were laughing at his red face, apparently sharing in a privet joke. Airi smiled. It was good to hear some laughter in this room.

"Airi!" Mai pushed Joey away and jumped out of bed. "You're alright, Serenity was saying you were almost dead."

"I'm fine, Ma-" Airi didn't get to finish before she was pulled into a tight hug by the other girl. Mai gripped harder and Airi realized she was crying. "Mai, It's alright."

"It's not." Mai pulled away gripping Airi's shoulders. "I said some unforgettable things to you, and then everything that has happened. I had no right to say you're weak; I was just mad and had to take it out on someone. That doesn't excuse anything, but I'm sorry."

"It's alright, really." Airi pulled her back into a hug. "I know Joey can be infuriating sometimes.

"Hey." Joey said.

"I suggest you celebrate after we've taken off." Kaiba said from the hall. "It will be in your best interests good distance way when the island blows."

"What are you talking about?" Charlotte demanded.

"This island is no longer of importance or interest to me and I'm planning on blowing it up in fifty five minutes." he looked back over his shoulder. "I suggest making sure it is a good distance from here before that time." he and Mokuba disappeared back towards to entrance of the blimp.

Airi glared after him. "Why does everything with have to be a ticking clock?"

"The engines are still working, right?" Duke said.

"One way to find out." Charlotte grabbed his wrist. "Come on Game-Boy let's get this junk flying." the two of them disappeared in the direction of the control room.

"Airi, please you need to sit down." Yami said.

"I will when we are sure we'll make it out of here alive." Airi said.

He gave her a look. "No, you're sitting down now."

She tried to argue, but she was gripping the doorway with more force than was needed. It was easy for Yami to guide her to one of the armchairs, sitting detached on the left armrest with his arm protectively around her shoulder while Yugi sat on the other side.

Tristan stuck his head in the doorway. "The doctors say they can transport those critically injured in the helicopter, it will be faster and it's guaranteed to fly."

"Are we not?" Joey said, Mai leaning on his arm.

"It's a possibility. Noa made a mess of the system when he took over. Also they say it will be a faster trip to the hospital."

"I'm staying right here." Airi said. "No hospital."

"Airi, you might be seriously hurt." Serenity said.

"I'll be fine. A hospital won't help my stress level, trust me."

"Even so, we might have to take it." Tristan looked at his watch. "This island is going to blow soon whether or not we can get this thing off the ground."

Tea appeared in the doorway, looking annoyed and a bit panicked. "You can forget about the helicopter, it already took off. It's taking Bakura back to the hospital."

"Why, is he alright?" Yugi said.

"Yeah, but the evil spirit possessing him didn't check out of the hospital so they've kinda had man hunt after him. They want him back as soon as possible."

"Great, he gets to fly in stile while we're going to blow up." Joey fumed.

The blimp shuttered violently under them. Their screeches of alarm were followed by a victorious whoop from the control room. Apparently Charlotte and Duke had managed to get the engine working. Roland's voice came over the intercom, but his request for all of them to hold on came slightly too late as the blimp took off with a second violent shuttered.

Despite being several hundred yards from the island the blast still shook the blimp. It was only then Airi remembered the Kaiba brothers getting off the blimp. She rushed to the window despite Yami's shout of protest and looked back at the island. Flashes of explosions and smoke billowed from the island and the tower it's self toppled before he eyes. This was impossible. Seto wasn't stupid enough to stay on an exploding island.

"Guys, how come there is a blue-eyes coming right for us?" Joey said.

Airi looked where he indicated and saw a white dragon hurtling out of the smoke right for them. After the initial shock she realized the wings weren't flapping.

"It's a jet?" Yugi said, face close to the glace in amazement.

"How come he gets all the cool toys?" Joey grumbled.

The blue-eyes jet whooshed past and they caught a glimpse of both Kaibas in the cockpit. Mokuba was cheering and waving his arms in the air, while Seto manned the controls with a smug smile. Seeing both of them alright, Airi sighed with relief. At least they all made it out alive.

"What are you doing up?" Airi turned to see the doctor from before in the doorway. "You look ready to collapse. I thought I told you to get to bed. You need rest."

Before she could answer the millennium puzzle flashed and Yami stood at her side. "Of course, sir. You know best." Next thing she knew Yami swept her into his arm in a princess carry. Too surprised to speak she could only hang on while he carried her in this fashion down the hall to Yugi's room. The doctor said something about getting something and disappeared in the other direction. Airi was beet red by the time Yami finally deposited her gently on the bed.

She covered her embarrassment, and secret enjoyment, with one of her best death glare. "What was that all about?"

Yugi appeared detached next to her, grinning. "You were taking forever to follow doctor's orders, so Yami offered to help you and I agreed."

"I'm going to get you both for this." Airi said. "You could have just helped me down the hall; I am able to walk in case you haven't noticed."

"Heroes deserve to be carried, and you're just as much of a hero as Yami and me." Yugi said.

Airi managed a smile, but she wasn't about to let them get away with this. Before she could protest Yugi had wrapped her in a hug. "I'm just happy you're alright, sis. When you collapsed, I thought, I thought."

"Shh." she soothed. "It's over, it's all over. You're a real hero, King of Games."

He leaned back, shaking his head. "Yami's the real hero. He was the one who actually dueled."

"No Yugi, We're a team." Yami's tone was serious. "I couldn't exist without you, and if it wasn't for both of your determination I would have given up at the very beginning. We would have lost anyway if Marik hadn't overcome his dark side."

"What do you mean?" Airi said. "Ragonrock blasted Ra to oblivion."

Yami avoided her gaze. "It's wasn't a full attack."

She stared at him. "You mean you didn't allow all your monsters to attack? Yami you could have lost." she glared at the sheets. "I caused you to back down, just like Ishizu feared I would."

"No" Yami sat beside her, hands on her shoulders he turned her to face him. "You didn't fail at all. Because of this there was one life point left, and Marik was able to banish his demon to the shadows." his grip tightened. "Most of all, you're alright, you and Yugi are here and the danger is passed."

Yugi nodded. "I call this far from failure."

Airi gently removed Yami's hand from her shoulders, holding one tightly while reaching over to take one of Yugi's. "You're both right. It was a victory."

Yugi's face suddenly became thoughtful. "Do you think Gramps knows it's over?"

"Depends on if the news was broadcasting, but those cameras got blasted during Kaiba's duel." Airi's eyes widened. "If he was watching he saw the cameras explode. He's probably panicking about our safety." she started to rise.

"You're not getting up." The doctor appeared in the doorway. "You're going to rest. Master Kaiba said you're not to go to hospital, but you're going to put yourself there if you continue to defy my orders.

Yami rose. "I'll find a phone and tell Grandpa." he squeezed her hand again and then he and Yugi left.


A phone was located and Yugi and Yami switched so Yugi could make the call. Grandpa was at home and answered on the first ring. Judging by the way Yugi held the phone away from his ear was enough to tell Yami he was getting the lecture of a lifetime. Yugi finally got a word in and explained how everyone was alright and Airi was being patched up by the doctors. Another minuet of shouting followed this slip. It took a long time to assure the older man everyone was alive and they would be home the next day.

"Jeez" Yugi said, hanging up. "You would have thought we had been to war or something."

"We were, in a sense." Yami reminded.

"Yeah, but we're all alright. Even Bakura's Evil Spirit hasn't shown up."

Yami didn't like being reminded of Evil Bakura. He was more of a threat than Marik, mainly because Yami suspected he knew about the past from direct experience while Evil Marik seemed to have gotten most of his knowledge from documentation. Still he was glad his enemy was no where to be seen.

"Yugioh." they turned to see Odion standing behind them. "Master Marik has requested to you and the Pharaoh."

Yugi and Yami shared a glance, but followed the Egyptian to Marik's room. They paused outside the room so the two of them could switch, then Yami followed Odion inside, Yugi walking detached behind.

Ishizu sat close to the bed where Marik lay, propped up with pillows. He looked better than he had when he came off the duel tower, but it was clear fighting and banishing part of his soul to the shadows had taken its toll.

"Thank you for coming Pharaoh." Marik said.

"Will he be alright?" Yami voiced Yugi's question.

Marik managed to smile. "According to ancient records, a soul can be split once without any damaged to the original or split soul. But it doesn't help when the other half goes on a mindless rampage with the original's body. I will be alright in a few days."

Yami nodded. "You should be resting."

Ishizu gave her brother a glance, clearing meaning "I told you so" but he ignored her.

"I will rest when I have finished my duty as a tomb-keeper and give you what information I was entrusted with." he pushed himself up, steadied by Odion. He stood and started to pull off his shirt. He swayed slightly, but refused their offered assistance. "I've wasted enough time rebelling." he muttered to himself. "I can't rest until it is finished." Finally he managed to get the shirt off. Letting it fall to the floor, he turned slowly so his back was facing Yami.

Yugi's gasp of horror echoed Yami's shock. Every inch of Marik's back was covered with scars. Words and symbols were carved into the skin, dark scar-tissue standing in stark contrast to the bronze skin. After the initial shock Yami began to note the images represented. The three god cards were represented, along with an ankh and several lines of text. Realizing they were waiting on him Yami began to read the symbols, and as he continued his heart started to pound.

Three monsters, one master.

Chosen by Pharaoh to wield the power.

Three monsters as the key to locks of stone.

Memories forgotten restored,

Name remembered,

Light will banish Dark.

Three united to unlock the power.

Two spirits returned to the Black Land,

One to triumph, One to be destroyed.

Two halves united.

Final destiny completed,

Pharaoh released.

The words spun through Yami's head. "What does it mean?"

Marik sat heavily back on the bed but it was Ishizu who answered.

"The first part is the simplest to decipher. Three God Monsters and only someone worthy enough to be the Nameless Pharaoh's Heir can wield all three of the God Cards. The same thing applies with you. Only someone you chose will be able to hold the cards when you have to return."

"I'm one of those spirits?"

"Yes. It is written the Spirit of Puzzle was created by the Nameless Pharaoh to be a help and guide to the one chosen to confront the darkness."

Yugi smiled up at Yami to agree with this statement, but the rest of the information weighing too much on his mind for him to notice.

"The Spirit of the Ring is the second?" Yami guessed. "so according to your, a, markings, I have to face him in Egypt."

Ishizu nodded. "True, you must destroy the great evil he plans to release."

Yami frowned. "We just defeated a great evil."

"I'm afraid my dark side is only a fraction to what the darkness that is prophesied to come." Marik said.

Ishizu nodded. "The Spirit of the Ring is the servant of the greater evil which the Nameless Pharaoh defeated."

Yami's fist clenched. There was going to be more fighting. "Why don't I just take out this spirit before this even happens."

"That would be a wise move. Unfortunately we can't find the millennium ring. Now you know he is a threat he will lie low until he decides to return to Egypt to revive the darkness." Ishizu's necklace flashed. "This darkness will not rise for a long while. To defeat him completely you'll have to return to Egypt to be rejoined with the rest of your soul." her tone became more serious. "Under no circumstances should you attempt to return to Egypt until the time when you are needed."

"And when will that be." Yami said.

"It is unclear, but it seems to be in connection with the rising of the dark spirit of the ring."

"How will I know what to do?"

Ishizu smiled. "There is more than one family of tomb keepers and they have that portion of the information. When the time is right they will instruct you." Her necklace flashed again. "One thing you may have guessed is the tablet in the museum is a vital part of the process."

"When will we know when to return to Egypt?" Yami said.

"When it is time, you will know. Before then you must still take care. There are more dark forces which will want to take advantage of you."

Yami nodded, fighting to let his breath out in a frustrated hiss. What more was he going have to endure? And how much more was this going to hurt Airi and Yugi?

"One more thing must be decided." Marik said. "As we have fulfilled our task in revealing this knowledge to you, we are no longer obligated to be holders of our millennium items." he indicated the rod resting on the bedside table. "They are yours."

Yami contemplated carefully. "Has the malice gone from the rod?"

Marik shook his head. "Any that will be a threat to you, Pharaoh, is gone."

"Is there any danger with them not in my possession?"

Ishizu closed her eyes, but the necklace remained dull. "I have no vision to indicate such an occurrence."

"Then I do not see any reason why the item should not remain in your capable hands." Yami said. "Unless there is another reason they shouldn't be."

Marik gave a humorless smile. "Believe me Pharaoh, after all the damage I have caused with it I wouldn't blame you for taking it, and I would agree with you. I an honored you put such trust in me. I will continue to be holder if you so desire."

Yami nodded. "You need some rest." he paused at the doorway. "I am sorry about your jaw."

Marik laugh, massaging the bruise tenderly with his fingertips. "He deserved it."

Yami smiled and left.

Spirit and host were silent as they made their way down the hall, both processing what they learned. Yami's mind was spinning. He was only half of this Nameless Pharaoh, and he was responsible for showing back up in Egypt at the right time to take care of something more evil that Evil Marik? It was hard to imagine something worse than that banished demon. It diminished their triumph to know there was more to come, bringing with it even more pain and suffering for Airi, Yugi and his friends. On top of that it felt like there was a ticking clock. At some point he would have to leave. The idea of leaving this life, the only one he had ever known weighed on his mind more that the idea of the danger.

"I better start saving." Yugi said.

Yami blinked, looking down at his host. "Sorry?"

"If we're going to Egypt that's a lot of money." Yugi paused, giving him a look. "You didn't think you'd get to go without me did you?"

"I wasn't really thinking about it." Yami admitted.

"Well even if there was a way you could, I don't think you could convince me to stay behind. And don't even try to tell Airi she's not going. She's been wanting to go as far back as I can remember."

Yami shook his head. "How can you be so calm about this? My existence gets more confusing the more I discover. I've disrupted your lives and I'm going to continue to until I finally get sent back or whatever happens. None of this makes any sense."

"Life's never how we want it." Yugi studied the blank wall intently. "I mean, sometimes it takes a little world shaking to know how much life matters."

"Yugi, I'm sorry. I wasn't thinking." Yami ran a hand through his hair. "This is just overwhelming."

"That's an understatement." Yugi laughed. His face grew thoughtful. "Honestly Yami, I think you're one of the best things which has ever happened to us. I mean, I would have had to guts to do most of the stuff we've done on my own. Also I don't think I've seen Airi smile so much in years."

Yami stared as his shoes, pushing down the warmth which rose in his chest at these words. "The circumstance could have been different."

"True." Yugi agreed. "But your friendship has helped her more than you imagine. I'm really glad she has you for a friend."

The warmth in Yami chest deflated, but he nodded. "It's been an honor to know you both."

There was a long moment of silence. Yami was about to suggest they head back to the room when his host said. "Do you think Kaiba still likes Airi?"

"That was my impression during the duel." there was a slight edge to Yami's voice, despite his efforts to hide it.

"I thought so." Yugi frowned, "He has an odd way of showing it."

"Some things are hard to express."

"I guess so."

Yami bit his lip, trying to figure out how to word his question. "Do you think Airi still has feeling for him?"

There was an uncomfortable silence as Yugi thought this over. Finally he shrugged "I wouldn't know."

There wasn't a way for Yami to push for more information without alerting his host's suspicion so he let the subject drop.

The doctor was leaving the room when they approached. He told Yami, Airi was in bad shape and would require complete rest until they reached Domino, adding that he had given her a sedative for the trip, and then more rest in the weeks that followed would be vital. He commented it was amazing her body was still able to work despite the trauma she had gone through. Yami thanked him and the doctor headed for Marik's room, muttering something about unhealthy obsessions for card games.

Not wanting to disturb Airi the two of them decided to spend time with their friends, or more accurately Yami suggested Yugi relax with his friends. Switching places they made their way to Mai's room. The noise was loud but the atmosphere was lighter than it had been the last few days. Yami stood by the door while the others talked and joked. Tea did ask about Yami, but Yami refused to switch so Yugi said he was resting. It was good to see the group laughing after all they had been through. Joey never left Mai's side for more than a few moments at a time, which she and the others poked fun at. He took it with humor; laughing about the prank Mai and Serenity had played on him when he had gotten back to the blimp. Watching him sitting next to Mai, laughing with his arm naturally around the back of her chair made Yami feel envious. He didn't realize he was glaring at the blond until Yugi asked him if he was alright.

Embarrassed at his action Yami claimed he needed some time alone he disappeared into the center of his puzzle. Inside the center room he leaned against his wall, sliding down to a sitting position. Stress from the last few day made him feel fuzzy in the head. It must be an advantage to sleep. His mind was racing with what he had found out from the Ishtars. He rested his forehead in his hands in an attempt to calm the torrent of mixed emotions coursing through him

More evil was coming, though thankfully it wasn't for a long time according to Ishizu. Even with this it wasn't that which weighed on his mind but his having to leave. The only life he remember, the people who had come to meet so much to him, all this he would have to leave.

Inwardly he was glad Airi was resting and hadn't heard the news of his leaving. He didn't want to tell her, but there wasn't a reason not to. It wasn't like she felt the same way about him. Without thinking he touched the spot on his cheek where she had kissed him before the final duel. Had that meant something more? He pushed it away. It had been a good luck kiss for him and Yugi, nothing more. Even if there was a chance she might feel the same way there could be no future for them. He was a fragment of an ancient king's spirit. There was nothing he could offer her.

There was also Yugi to consider. From their resent conversation Yugi made it clear he saw Yami's relationship with Airi as purely friendship. Yami's fists clenched. If that is what Yugi believed, then he would make sure it stayed that way. He treasured Yugi's friendship too much to attempt to be more with his sister.

Airi. Her violet eyes with their flecks of silver. Her smile. Her laugh. He closed his eyes, wishing he could cry. Maybe then his heart ache would lessen. He could never tell her how he felt. Not now. She didn't need someone who couldn't give her anything but a promise of a painful goodbye. Even with his flaws Kaiba could give her more than that.

Thinking about Kaiba made Yami's inside heat uncomfortably. There had been no doubt during the last duel Kaiba still had feelings for her. Yami's fist slammed against the stone floor. If he did have feeling then why did he treat her like an unworthy opponent? She was so much more. If Yami could pick anyone he would willing let pursue her affection, Kaiba was the last choice on his list.

Yami thought of ways Kaiba was wrong for Airi; all the way from treating her badly down to his ridiculous coats. It helped, but they sounded childish and stupid. He looked up and realized he was facing the carving of his name he had done when he had first been aware of himself. The words Yami, the Spirit of the Puzzle seemed to mock him. He could insult Kaiba all he wanted, but that couldn't get rid of the obvious advantage he had. Kaiba wasn't a disembodied spirit linked to a puzzle for existence. Kaiba was alive. Yami was dead. And there was nothing he could do about it.


Nearly a week after arriving home found Airi stretched out on her bed, staring at the dark ceiling and completely awake. She was sure everyone else was asleep, but she couldn't make herself relax. That is what it felt like she had been doing ever since they got back. On order from the doctor to let her rest Gramps and Yugi hadn't let her do much. They had only allowed her to walk around the house and managed the registrar when she had threatened she was going to get cabin fever in her room. With Yugi at school most of the day and Gramps managing the shop all she could do was homework to save her from boredom.

It would have been more bearable if Yami was speaking to her. Ever since he and Yugi told her about the conversation he had with the Ishtar siblings, or more accurately the moment they got off the blimp, Yami had become distant. He hardly came out of his puzzle when Yugi's friends stopped by, and he didn't appear randomly to startle her either. These days the only time she saw him was flickers out of the corner of her eye and or when he came to make sure she was alright when she woke up in a panic from one of her nightmares, and even then he only stayed a few moments.

She shuttered. The nightmares weren't as bad as others in the past, but they were still unnerving. Mainly they consisted in her watching as Yugi or Yami trying to save her from a fiery snake like dragon with Evil Marik's face. It would end with her reaching for them but only getting swallowed by a fire blast, which caused her to wake up gasping for air. It was ridiculous, but she was getting little sleep because of them. Still it was the only time Yami seemed to care about her existence.

She rolled over angrily. What did she care if Yami was ignoring her? She had gotten along fine with Seto avoiding her, she could live through another round of being invisible. Something moved at the half open door, making her sit up. Nothing was there, still she could have sworn there had been a silhouette. It had to have been Yami, playing the invisible body guard. She fell back on her pillow with a frustrated snort. She wanted her friend, not a phantom. Unfortunately, that is what he was. She squeezed her eyes shut in an attempt to shut out the pain. Confused and angry thoughts spun through her head and she didn't realize when she finally fell asleep.

The corridor was dim and long. She walked along, not looking right or left but focused solely ahead of her. She had to get to the end or something was going to happen. Something she had to stop. Braking into a run she hurtled along the passage, which only seemed to get longer the more she tried to reach the dim light at the end of it. The farther along she realize the plain stone on either side was becoming more decorated, ranging from small images of animal to full murals of battles. The stone eyes stared after her, but she avoided them. Braking into a run she hurtled along the passage. The door seemed to be mocking her, being just out of reach. Still she pressed on. She had to make it.

At long last she reached the lighted door way. She practically fell into the room before her. It was made of stone with carved panels on them. Across from her was the panel on display at the Domino Museum, the one of the Nameless Pharaoh and the turban man dueling. The only difference was it was to life scale, so it was like she was actually watching the duel frozen in time. A familiar confident figure stood in front of his own likeness.

"Yami!" she called.

He turned at his name, eyes widening at the sight of her. "Airi you have to go back."

"Not without you."

He shook his head. "This is the only way."

"But you'll die."

"The world will be safe." his tone was accepting.

"Don't leave me." she was crying now.

"I have to, it is the only way to save you."

Behind him the life size stone carving of a blue-eye white dragon began to move. Before her eyes two more heads sprouted from it's body becoming Blue-eye Ultimate Dragon emerged in all it's powerful glory. Three sets of teeth flashed as each mouth opened to let lose a deadly ball of fire. Airi stood frozen in horror as all the attacks engulfed Yami in a inferno. He didn't cry out in pain. He just stood there silently as he evaporated in the heat, his eyes never leaving hers.

"NO" she ran forward but he was already gone. One of the heads turned to her, shooting its fire right at her

"Airi, wake up" someone was shaking her. Her eyes snapped open to find Yami standing over her hands on his shoulders. "Airi, please wake up."

Slowly she began to regain her senses. She was in bed, blankets twisted around her from her thrashing. She wasn't in a stone passage. She looked up to find a pair of red eyes searching her face to see if she was awake.

"Ya-Yami?"

"I'm right here."

He was here. He wasn't destroyed. Tears slid down her face and she threw her arms around him. She held on tightly, reassuring herself he was really there. She felt him stiffen, and then the security of his arms surrounded her.

"Shh. It was only a dream."

She only cried harder. "You were dead."

He didn't laugh. "It's alright. I'm right here."

It was a long time before her breathing slowed and she became aware that Yami had come to her rescue, again. Her face reddened at his concern for her. He did still care.

"You're alright now." he began to pull away.

Fear of being left alone made her tighten her hold. "Don't leave."

Again she felt him stiffen. "Airi everything is alright."

"No it isn't." she said into his shoulder. "Not if you're not here."

They sat in silence. Airi was afraid he would tell her to let go, saying she was being annoying or over reacting. At last he spoke. "Can you get to sleep by yourself?"

She considered. The idea of facing her dreams again made her shutter. It was all the answer he needed. "I'll stay until you fall asleep."

She relaxed against him. "Thank you."

"You're safe." he said into her hair. "Just relax."

Soothed by his voice she began to slip away. All the nights of fearing the night caught up and she let the sleep take over her mind. Having him there gave her a peace she hadn't felt in days. When she was on the brink of sleep she felt him lower her down until she felt her pillow against her head and the covers over her. Even through the sleepy haze her mind clicked that he was leaving. Her hand reached out seizing his in a desperate grip. "Don't leave." she whispered.

"Airi." there was a note of pain in his voice. His fingers closed around hers. "I'm right here. Now rest."

Reassured Airi slipped away into a dreamless sleep.

The next morning it was like nothing had happened. Yami wasn't there when she woke up and he didn't come with Yugi to breakfast. Airi would have thought she imaged the whole thing if Yugi hadn't asked how she was feeling, saying something about Yami appearing early that morning saying she had a bad night. She assured her brother she was fine, but spent the rest of the morning in an annoyed stupor. Yami was acting very inconsistent. She was going to have to do something about that.

Yugi left soon after, saying he was meeting Joey, something about a duel. Shaking her head she cleared the table and then joined Gramps in the game-shop. Again he got agitated that she was out of her room but she refused to go back upstairs. He grudgingly put her in charge of the counter while he moved stuff around in the back. It wasn't much of a difference, but Airi didn't complain. She sat flipping through a catalog, one hear cocked towards the back. Gramps might act all macho, but if his back went out he wouldn't be any tougher than a stuffed animal.

The bell over the door chimed and she looked up to see a man in a black suit enter. She instantly recognized him as a KaibaCorp employee. Instantly she felt on her guard. Now what was her ex trying to pull?

"Miss Muto?" he said. "Master Mokuba instructed me this was for you." he placed a small rectangular package on the counter. "and Mr. Kaiba said this was to be delivered to you directly." he produced a envelope from his breast pocked and handed it to her. She only managed a surprised thank you before he was gone, the door bell saluting him again.

Airi glanced down at the envelope. It was addressed to Airi Muto and even after all this time there was no mistaking Seto's handwriting. She put it to the side, deciding to save it for last. Unwrapping the package she found two verities of pocky sticks, strawberry and chocolate. She had almost forgotten about her and Mokuba's wager with everything that hand happened. Inside was a note.

Airi,

Sorry this got to you late, but Seto and I have had our hands full with our new project. I can't tell you any of the details but I can tell you it has to do with Kaibaland. I did tell you about that right? Will if I didn't you'll have to come see when it's done. I hope you feel better soon.

Mokuba

Airi grinned. It was good to know Mokuba was happy. She had been a little worried, especially with Seto's resent increase in moodiness. Putting the treats aside she turned to the other card. Pulling out a very official looking business card she braise herself for whatever he was going to say to her.

Miss Muto,

I apologize for the fact you grew ill during my tournament and do hope you will not hold our company responsible. In exchange for your not perusing legal action against us we will over look that several valuable media cameras were destroyed during your brother's duel against me. And as an added gesture for you cooperation no medical costs will be billed to you.

Sincerely,

Seto Kaiba

Under the very official note was added a postscript.

You still owe me a duel.

"And a good day to you, Seto." Airi said. The fact he had written at all was surprising. She giggled at the thought of Seto finding out what the pocky sticks were about. He wouldn't be pleased. Still it was nice of him to send a note, even if it wasn't the most sympathetic. It was nice to know he wasn't all calculating, untrusting CEO.

Out of the corner of her eye she saw a movement by the door. She turned, but nothing was there. She had a good idea who it was. She should have known Yugi to have him stay, or he volunteered.

Standing she walked over to the back door and checked. Gramps was near the back, testing out the hand gameboys with the enthusiasm of a five year old. He wouldn't be paying attention to much. Returning to the counter she walked around to the front. Making sure no one was going to walk in and find her doing this, she kicked the desk as hard as she could.

Instantly Yami appeared, his face panicked. Seeing her standing by the counter with her arms folded and unhurt his worried expression turned to an annoyed glare.

"Is this your idea of a joke?" his voice was cold.

She stared coolly back. "If it gets your attention, then yes."

"I thought you fell or-"

"Or my life was in danger?" Airi snapped. "Is that the only time I matter?"

He turned away. "I don't appreciate false alarms."

"And I don't appreciate being treated like a glass figuring forgotten on a shelf." she shock back. "If you don't like being with me so much, then just say so. What is wrong with you?"

"I'm not alive Airi!" Yami faced her and she was shocked to see the anger in his eyes. "I'm only here to help with a darkness which apparently isn't going to stay away. I'm going to have to face it again and on top of that I have to drag you and Yugi into more battles. Apparently next I'll have to face some that crazy Spirit of the Ring who can move at his own pleasure while I have to sit and wait for him to attack. Besides that, you almost died twice while I was supposed to protect you."

He went on, frustration at himself evident in every word. "Even if we all make it through whatever will happen the only thing I have to look forward is "uniting with my spirit" whatever that is supposed to mean. Since I have no body of my own all I can possibly look forward is going to the spirit world. I save this world and all I have to look forward to is leaving the only life I can remember, leaving you." he froze. They stared at each other. He was first to look away, eyes fixed on the floor. "You've lost too many people in your life. I don't want to put you through any more unnecessary pain."

Airi's entire body felt frozen in shock. So that was it. He was scared of making it harder for them when it was over, like they actual had something between them. She didn't know if she should laugh or cry. She thought all this time he didn't want to be with her, but apparently it was the opposite. Taking a slow breath she tried to collect her jumbled emotions. He did have a point. He was only a spirit. Telling him how she felt wouldn't make it easier. What he needed now was someone who was understanding.

"Is it helping?" she asked softly.

"What?"

"You're staying away? Is it making things easier for you?"

He stayed silent, glaring at his shoes.

She swallowed, her throat becoming suddenly tight. "If it is, then I'll stay out of your way."

He shook his head and she was sure he would have let out a sigh if he could. "Do you know what's the matter with you, Airi?"

She wasn't expecting this. "What?"

"Nothing." a hint of his old smile appeared. "Absolutely nothing."

"Then you don't know me very well." she stepped closer, taking his hands in hers. "I understand you motives, and I wish more than anything it could be different. But I also know wasting the time we have only brings regrets, which hurt more." he was watching her intently and she tried not to fill self conscious as she continued. "Besides, you can't stay out of Yugi's life without his noticing. I'm sure he'll want to include you."

"What about you?"

Their eyes met.

"I miss spending time with you." she looked at the ground. "Most of all I don't want to see you unhappy. Whatever makes it easier for you is fine with me."

He let go of her hands and her heart sank. But if this was his decision then she needed to respect it. Her eyes widened as he pulled her into a tight hug.

"I'm sorry to cause you so much pain on my behalf." he said. "You didn't have to be understanding."

She blushed. "Hey, what are friends for?"

He laughed. "True." he pulled away and she was glad to see his expression was more relaxed. "Let me make it up to you."

She raised an eyebrow. "What did you have in mind?"

He glanced towards the door. "I haven't really had a proper look at Autumn before and I don't expect there will much chance in Egypt."

"You're on." Airi said. Any reason to get out of the house.

Scribing a note to Gramps that she was going for a walk she followed him out into the street. The trees were starting to change. Green was speckled with golds and oranges. Already several leaves littered the ground causing a dry rustling as they walked though them. On impulse Airi slipped her hand into his. He glanced at her, but didn't stiffen or pull away. If anything he seemed relaxed and himself.

Smiling Airi looked up at the sky. Life was far from perfect, but she was content with what she had.


Later that evening in his puzzle Yami considered the day. After the walk they had meet up with Yugi, Joey, and the others at an American burger place near Joey's house. The blond proudly showed off his newly won back Red-eye Black Dragon he insisted on winning back from Yugi. Airi and Yami shared a look, but wisely didn't ask how many times Joey had to face Yugi before he finally earned his card back. Even if he wasn't really part of the group it felt better to watch then retreat to his puzzle. Yugi was thrilled to have him there, even convincing him to change places so he could try the extra large bacon sundae Tristan and Joey had insisted on trying.

As for Airi, he had hated keeping his distance even if he knew he had a reason. He hadn't meant to hurt her with his actions. It was good to see her laugh along with the others at Charlotte's and Tristan's jabs at Joey, and agreeing to come along with Tea and Serenity on a day trip of Domino before the later went home. Walking home after with him and Yugi she's seemed so alive, and when she pointed up at the few stars visible through the city lights he couldn't help staring the way the silver flex in her eyes shone in the street lights.

He closed his eyes. He didn't regret spending time with her. He was setting himself up for heart ache but she was also right;Time was too short. He smiled. Memories were the only things he could possess, and he was going to make sure he collected as many good ones as he could. No matter the cost.


A/N A lot of people have asked me if this was the last chapter. Honestly, after that I would be evil to end it there. I hope you liked it. And to all those who want to know, this story is going all the way to the end of the english anime, plus an epilogue. We haven't even gotten to the really painful parts yet.

Two orders of business. As any of you in school will understand i'm going into finals so i must pretend nothing by school exists for the next few weeks. You readers can help by please leaving reviews so i have reason to pick up writing after i live through research papers and chemestry exams.

Second is i need help with the next chapter, and especially from my Kaiba/Airi fans. I want a holiday themed chapter and the holidays require cuteness. As many have guessed, cute and Kaiba don't go in the same sentince. If anyone wants to see Kaiba/Airi moments i need suggestions. Please tell me. I want to have a chance for both ships to have a fun chapter to read when i get back to writing.

Anyway, those are my requests if you have time to help me. Thank you for reading and please review. Any other student, good luck and keep calm. take care and god bless you all.