Yami no Game: Dark Saga

Chapter 54

0

- Battle City: 5:50 PM -

Things were back to normal, they were able to reconcile things and Jounouchi was able to feel like himself to have the demons' trust again even when told he never lost it to begin with. Being forced against his will was no fault of his own but the one that had orchestrated every hardship Yami has faced so far. Yugi knew this and now the finals were before them and if all is to go as he expects it too, Malik will be awaiting them there and so will Yami. He will continue being the guidance they need to find their memories and bring them closure. This was his right as the bearer of the puzzle and loving partner. Now, he could watch as the siblings were getting reacquainted after years of separation. The blonde was smiling, a smile that held so much love for the auburn headed girl that stood before him. He told her that he was grateful to her being the courage he needed to get this far. Every duel he fought, every win he obtained, the strong cards that now resided in his possession was achieved knowing he was fighting for her. "Watch me fight from here on, ok?" Jounouchi asked and Shizuka nodded with a happy smile on her face. This was the dream she hoped for since learning her brother had been dueling. Duelist Kingdom obviously missed because of her condition before but here, in Battle City, she would see him duel in person!

Mai, of course, had to get her word in edgewise with a reminder that reality was a cruel, cruel world and for the young girl to not look away should the blonde get his ass handed to him hard depending on the opponent he faced, getting a growl from him. Kaiser rolled his eyes as he shoved his palm in the blonde's face before he could snap, making the woman chuckle before looking toward Yami with eyes relaying the same. She knew the demon was a powerful player and proved that well enough the last time they fought. But she had worked hard to make it here and if she were to go against Yami again, she was prepared to go all out and not surrender. Camaraderie all around, Jounouchi remembered he still had one more important thing to announce. Glancing over to Yami who was still rather passive despite all the stress he went through, he made his way towards the demon, catching his attention. His eyes read if Jounouchi was concerned about something and the blonde shook his head. "Nah, it ain't nothin' like that...I just wanna remind ya...I haven't forgotten the promise I made to ya. I still wanna fight ya on equal ground! As a true duelist fair and square! What happened back there was a shitty insult of that promise and I wanna make that up to ya." The demon smiled before nodding, holding a hand out to the blonde who took it in return.

This was the seal of that promise, the promise that the finals of Battle City won't be the last time they fought. This was for glory and the secret to the memories long lost for the demons. Knowing that Seto would not be waiting forever, most made to pile into Mai's car as the only legal source of transport. Yugi however decided the safer route would be to stick with what he was comfortable with after a quick and secret change of clothes with some shadow magic when their backs were turned. Mai snapped that it was too many of them in one place and Myrrh begged that Kaiser had been through enough and Jade she wasn't absolutely keen with carrying someone. The verdant male huffed, crossing his arms as Mai grumbled that one of them will be charging for her ticket if she gets one before peeling off from the pier as the demons took to the air to follow behind them. As she drove, Honda questioned just how many strong duelists would be at the finals. It was obviously confirmed now that Seto was in the running easily as it was his tournament and he wouldn't miss his own finals. Then there was Yami, Jounouchi and Mai which made four. "Seto mentioned there would be eight of us...!" Jounouchi mumbled as Mai took a sharp turn, nearly squashing him into Myrrh. Whatever god gave Mai her license needs to be kicked. "It's getting late now, night's almost here. I really hope your boyfriend isn't going to make all of you fight through the night." Otogi muttered and Kaiser snickered. "That would be peak Kaiba fashion but Ruby is there also. He'll be sure everyone has a nice bedtime to follow." The whirring of helicopter blades was heard and they glanced up, seeing the Kaiba chopper gliding above, the door open with Mokuba waving to the demons as they flew.

"And here I thought you three would be there already." Aqua teased. "Losing your touch, Seto...or were you worried about a certain blonde?" Seto huffed as he crossed his arms while Mokuba answered for them that he secretly was but would never admit it. Typical Kaiba, Yugi thought but had a smile on his face as the chopper took on speed to bypass them. Down below however, a cheerful tone from Myrrh's phone had her reach between the body she was pressed against to grab it, answering to the frantic voice of the elder Motou. She listened to him before covering her mouth in horror as she looked to the others. "Ryou's missing!" she whispered which caused alarm for the others. They remembered clearly that he was taken to the hospital with Diamond and Sugoroku in tow. No way either of them would let the boy slip away that easily, not with a wound like that. She went to ask about Diamond, knowing she was always at his side and wouldn't let this slide but that was just more bad news piled on top of the first as she had disappeared as well. "Shit..." Kaiser hissed, looking up to the demons. They weren't there but knowing of certain spirits and their ability to appear when they weren't wanted. If they had anything to do with it would leave them pissed that they're putting the two at risk again for their terrible goals. 'Let's just hope that isn't the case...' Soon, they were close to the location, seeing the half structured stadium ahead.

-Battle City: Block G Area 422 - Domino Stadium Construction Site-

Before any of the others were to arrive, two figures already laid in wait in the stadium seats. Malik looked down to the center, lights illuminating the center but no one there. Malik hummed softly as he was put at ease for the first time since the tournament began. So many failures to bring down the demon king, now they would finally meet here. It was what he wanted as all the pieces in play will be in one spot. Beside him stood the imposing figure of Rishid who calmly stated that the time was finally at hand. His half-brother, always at his side with his undying loyalty to him as payment for being taken in long ago. Bound by a promise to his father is why he stood beside him now and Malik went to ask if the other still remembered that promise. A confident nod made Malik smile. "Good. I will finally end this cursed inheritance that our family has suffered for 3,000 years. The fall of the demon king will happen here and I will take the place he left behind." Malik whispered, closing his eyes. Too long had he waited for this moment, too long had they sat in darkness waiting for a prophecy that seemed impossible to fulfill. The ancient past and its monuments, the great pyramids, were always pointed towards the sun, the symbol of the pharaoh's power and child of the great sun deity Ra. But that rule fell thanks to one who came to power, one who decided to wear an inverted pyramid, a symbol of the dark and an item along with others that were to combat that very war. The result for the peace led to the entrapment of the evil that started it and the young king with his closest guide but...that peace was only temporary. Thousands of years are to pass in slumber before the evil rises again and when it does, those spirits will wake to find their memories and stop that evil once more. Malik knew the stories, knew the prophecy and knew his purpose as the one to bear the secret into returning those memories. But for all he suffered, all his family suffered through each generation awaiting a fallen king and his guide...they weren't deserving of them. Instead, they were deserving of death. Their death will break the chains that bound the Ishtars and make him the new king.

And the last god, The Winged Dragon of Ra, will be the one to bury them.

Rishid listened to the other's musings, knowing this was important to him since the moment he conceived this plan. Yami knew he had to fight the one named Malik but he knew nothing of his appearance thus giving them an edge. Malik looked to the other, whispering that if he were to fail against Yami in their duel, to heed the promise of his father and kill him. Rishid nodded, resolute to that promise. Topaz, who landed a bit further from them, frowned. He knew this was all written in stone, the failsafe of failing, but even knowing and agreeing to it...he didn't want to lose his sibling. But to ensure Yami or Aqua never regained their lost past if they weren't given death, the only key holder had to be extinguished. It was such an extreme...but he had promised not to argue against it since the last time. That talk had never settled right since then and it was only when the mention of Battle City beginning and the god cards coming together in such a place where they put aside those differences to work together towards the goal Malik sought. The air shuddered to the sound of a coming helicopter, causing lavender eyes to look up. Ah, the last one to hold a god card has finally arrived. The aircraft landed in the center of the stadium, blades coming to a stop as the brunet climbed out with Mokuba and Ruby after. Isono stepped towards them and bowed before the eldest Kaiba, speaking that he expected the other to arrive a little sooner. "There was a matter important to me that had to be resolved first." he answered before questioning if any of the other finalists had appeared. Isono had replied that two had arrived so far; a mysterious man with tattoos lining one side of his face and a younger male named Namu. The one mentioned with tattoos had the brunet thinking. Perhaps that was the sought after Malik they were looking for. After all, in a place where two of the three god cards will come into play, it would be in terrible taste for him to not appear when he was so adamant for the cards.

With a nod, Isono continued the usual protocol of the setup, handing Seto an ID card with five remaining for the last of the finalists to come. Those in question had til seven pm to get to the stadium and the other nodded, taking the card before heading off to check over his deck one last time. It had to be perfect if he wanted to do away with the two holding the god cards. Anyone else was free game so their priority was none too concerning. But somewhere else, a wicked presence was taking root into the tournament with promise to fulfill what was needed with the deal made earlier that day...

-Battle City: Block H - Area 04 6:35 PM-

Kozuka looked in despair as the last of his zombies were wiped from the field. The army of spirits held a power he didn't expect and that lack of expectation had done him in. Him! The master of all things undead and frightening. The figure that stood before him grinned a sharp grin as he told the zombie duelist that none would stand to his new occult deck. It was near and dear to him as a minor little insight of his dear prince and his love of such things. To know he had such a promising vessel that loved something so wickedly dark when appearances showed such a soft and meek teenager just made his body thrum with pleasure.

A reminder that Ryou was certainly a delight to have as his host indeed~

"Go Estoplasmer! Finish off this little weakling!" The demon called and the malevolent spirit attacked, taking the last of Kozuka's life points and knocking the boy clear off his feet. A laugh came from behind the demon, a head of onyx appearing there as he told the boy that they would be taking the puzzle card from him. "...and a little extra. A shame we have to make this last through these boring finals but we'll make do." Crimson uttered as Bakura raised a hand and Kozuka gave a final wail before his eyes blanked out. The body fell to the ground with no chance of getting up again, the luminescent orb twirled around a slender finger before it was set somewhere for safekeeping. Task done, Bakura pulled out the puzzle cards after snagging the last from Kozuka, humming with pride. To gather these cards was mere child's play but he had the means to enter the finals, do away with that pesky king and get the items to get the goal he aimed to complete since learning of the puzzle's reemergence. As long as his business partner didn't fail to hold his end of the bargain, all would go as planned. "Come along, Crimson. We can't be late. This roster will hold a surprising little twist but it will all be a blood-soaked tournament by the very end!" Bakura cackled, stretching limbs before taking off with Crimson loping after the other. They only had 30 minutes to arrive, best not to waste any more time to make their presence known.

0

The roar of the engine was the indication of their arrival, Mai pulling the indigo sports car to a stop in front of the entrance. The rest that had taken the ride were grateful they had arrived still in one piece, Myrrh glancing up to see the demons overhead, gliding down into the stadium. Yugi slid from Aqua's back, looking around before seeing Isono heading their way, clearly unphased to the demons' arrival which he can only assume he was wisely filled in on the "special" needs of one of the finalists. From the stands, Malik smirked upon seeing the two arrive. Finally, the beginning of the end for the demon king will start. The others came walking in and both blondes moved to stand beside Yami as Isono nodded to the three. He welcomed them to the location of the finals, congratulating them for surviving the first half of the tournament before handing them ID cards. Jounouchi took his before looking around, not seeing Seto among them before questioning about the other finalists. It was a given that they would arrive soon before the time allotted but the blonde was curious of just who else made it. Perhaps someone else they knew or someone new. He wouldn't put it past the star of the show to come and still had the need to punch his lights out but that will be done with cards, not fists as much as he'd liked to. A gust of wind stirred the dust of the stadium before a dark presence began coming in, an awfully familiar one that had Yami turning to the entrance with a snarl as the silhouette started coming towards them. The low cackle to come from the figure made Yugi step back, the figure revealing himself to the others just as Seto stepped back in, deck checked over and ready to go. Yami growled slightly, knowing full well the white-haired teen was an unwanted addition to the tournament but Yugi had a suspicion of why he was there. Not of his deal with Malik but of the items. Two were in close vicinity of each other so of course the demon would be there in hopes to gather both. At least that was the suspected fact at first but cloaked in shadows made it hard to determine if it was really the demon at the helm or not.

A hand came around the chain holding the puzzle, eyes narrowed to the other. If it was them, they escaped the hospital in their hosts' body...shouldn't expect less of such conniving creatures on the opposite spectrum from Yami and Aqua. Mokuba chuckled as he looked towards those gathered so far. Aside from Jounouchi but still didn't count him out, the smaller raven knew his brother would be the unparalleled champion here. Those gods will belong to him soon enough and leave him as the most powerful duelist on the planet. With only fifteen minutes left and the last finalist unseen, Isono went to mention that any not present by the time listed by Kaiba himself would be disqualified. Unknown to them, the two that awaited their time to move kept their presence hidden in the seats while Mai made the comment that only the five of them were present thus far. Would the others even arrive. Yugi shifted uneasily on his feet as he glanced around. She posed a good question but it still haunted his mind on whether Malik himself would show. With no face to go by, it would be hard to discern him from any of the other three finalists to come in through the stadium entrance. Then there was the matter of Bakura and Crimson. Their supposed presence alone was enough to make Aqua's tail twitch irritably, but if it was truly the demons, why go through the effort of sneaking into the tournament? As the others gathered inside to the sight of the two, Myrrh was alight with worry as she ran to Ryou, asking why he was there. His arm still had the bandage around it and it was slowly being stained with blood. But the teen reassured them he was completely fine, even supported by Diamond which alone was a surprising thought. She would never let Ryou join in his condition but her smile was honest, as if she were fine by all that was occurring.

'If they are being possessed again, what would convince them to join by the rules? If it were the puzzle they were after, they wouldn't be so kind as to follow Seto's rules to get in legitimately.' Yugi thought as he went to rest a hand over Aqua's, soothing the dragon. Yami was thinking along the same thoughts and if it was truly Bakura and Crimson posing as the two to fool everyone, they were doing a fine job of it. It goes without saying to know Ryou advanced through the preliminaries so quickly and arrived just in time to make it before the proposed time of the finals was a matter of alarm. A click of the tongue was his response as he turned his head. Two demons that were destined to battle can't keep themselves hidden from each other for too long. Bakura may be hiding his presence for now but he will allow it to slip soon. And when he does, Yami will admit there will be bloodshed to follow. He had just about enough of the demon's trickery. His head raised, breaking him from his thoughts and turned to face the entrance, sapphire eyes following his gaze as the next finalist walked in silently. Jounouchi was still prodding Ryou about being in the tournament, about getting a Duel Disk considering his boyfriend's strict specifications. The blonde was sure the petite male never dueled enough to put him on the radar worth his stars by the brunet's standards. As the wheat blonde walked in, followed by another, the two god card wielders wondered if this was the famed Malik they were awaiting. But once his presence caught on by the others, amber eyes widened in familiarity as he remembered the other as the one to help them when they found Ryou the first time. Namu, the blonde called, waving to him which had Yugi turning his head towards Jounouchi, curious of how he knew the other. Namu smiled as he walked over to Jounouchi and Myrrh, his expression brightening at the familiar faces while commenting that he was glad Jounouchi had made it to the finals himself. The other was lucky to have survived the prelims himself but was proud of his success. Jounouchi nodded though deep in his mind, he felt he should tread carefully.

It was after meeting Namu and Annut that things went south but to know exactly how Malik got into his mind after that meeting was still up in the air. Perhaps..., the blonde began and would've questioned Namu if Ryou didn't barge into the conversation to thank the other for his help, Diamond taking his hand to do the same. "Ryou means the world to me so I'm glad someone had come along to help. I really didn't want to leave him behind but he needed help and I couldn't think of flying with him when he was in such bad health." Until addressed, Yugi was sending his concerns to his partners, wondering if they felt anything off about the two. When Myrrh called for Yugi, he jumped, broken from the mental conversation before looking to Myrrh. A sheepish smile crossed his face as he apologized. "Still absentminded as always! But I wanted you to meet our friend, Namu!" she spoke and Yugi nodded as he held a hand out towards him to shake in greeting. He still had speculations of the other but if the others were fine with Namu and Annut, then who was he to judge. The ties of friendship was particularly important to him and it would be unfair to judge carelessly, especially if what he was told when Yami and Aqua had been looking for the blonde during the fiasco hours before was correct. Namu held a warm smile before turning his gaze faintly to the demons that watched all critically, surely thinking that the cast of finalists were a mixed bag while left in the dark of their true target. Let then continue to think such, Malik thought, as all was going just as he wished it. Myrrh was still under his control so her words would provide incentive to keep his identity safe. For Bakura and Crimson, they were adamant they would play nicely as long as he did the same before allowing him to puppet their dear hosts. After all, to keep these despicable creatures from knowing their game, they had to keep their presence low if they wanted to commit towards their goal. Kill the king to take Osiris and the Sennen Puzzle from him.

"Yugi..." A light voice whispered and the other turned, seeing Ryou standing beside him. The white-haired one shifted a little before reaching into his pocket and doing so had him produce the Sennen Ring. Seeing the item again had Yugi shivering slightly. Too many things come to pass when the item was brought out but as long as Ryou wasn't wearing it, it gives them safety from the violent demon spirit inside. But that wasn't all as Yugi noted one of the spindles were active, pointing towards the entry way that led into the unfinished stadium. His eyes turned towards said entrance, seeing a tall and imposing figure stepping inside. Could that be...it would make sense as the ring always dowsed towards another item.

And if it was pointed to that man...then he must be the one they were in search of. Malik...

He wasn't the only one to notice his presence as Seto turned to the man as well. There had to be no mistake. Dark, mysterious, eyes that held malice had to be the final owner of the god cards, the one who possesses Ra. The man started towards the two, Yami moving to stand beside Yugi and he in response stepped behind the demon as the other faced Malik. "You must be Malik." Seto proclaimed and the other nodded as he glanced at the duo. Addressing both by name and the god card they wielded, he spoke that he will obtain both from the two. The demon's lips curl at the challenge, bristling to the fighting spirit that was contained. The leader was not joking but Yami will meet his challenge head on. Malik was the last obstacle to be in his way now for the memories he sought. /Take care during the finals, little one. I can sense the danger that will follow. I don't want you to be caught and used to deter me./ Yugi nodded as Isono came to step up to them to announce and congratulate the seven present for making it through the prelims once more but noted that the finals were not to be played at the stadium. "Your true stage will be arriving momentarily." This made the blonde curious as he looked to his boyfriend but Seto gave no hints in his expression. Of course, leave it to him to be rife with surprises for his own tournament. Not long after Isono had mentioned their next stage, the loud drone of engines filled the air, causing their gazes to turn skyward. Spotlights flickered on, highlighting the giant blimp that was slowly making its descent into the stadium. "Ya gotta be kiddin' me! Seto, what is this?!" Jounouchi exclaimed as he looked towards the brunet who gave a laugh. "Why, the place of the semifinals. Gaze upon the Battle Ship!" Yugi was floored to the sight but the knowledge that this was going to be the next stage only meant one thing.

Their stage wasn't going to be on solid ground.

One thousand meters in the air is what Isono went to mention to them would be their dueling field, of harsh condition that would test their metal to the elements of chilling air and gale force winds. As the stairs dropped down to allow them passage, Isono motioned for them to head on. Yami kept Yugi close to him as they went aboard following Jounouchi and Mai but as the others tried to join in after, Isono came to reprimand them that without ID cards, they wouldn't be allowed to board. "Let them on. After all, I don't have one and neither does Mokuba but we aren't being left behind." Ruby stated as he moved to Kaiser, smiling towards him as he walked on with him in tow. The man stuttered but knew that Ruby's word held just as much power as Seto's. To argue would make him regret the notion hard. With a resolute sigh, he waved for them to get on, Mokuba giggling as he hopped up two steps at a time, followed by Seto at his normal gait. He didn't turn back to see the remaining finalists board, knowing they wouldn't dare to linger behind. The only thing at the forefront of his mind was the challenge ahead. Of the god cards that will soon become his. The blonde thought of his pride and to become a true duelist by the end of the finals, the hidden demon could only laugh at the promise of chaos to rue the dueling field, Mai the fun that was to be held with the finals and the challenge she would get and Rishid determined that Malik wouldn't have to dirty his hands with taking on the demon king. That he will be the one to dethrone and kill the other to give Malik the power he was deserving of for the service he was forced to bear. And for Malik, he could only smirk out of sight of the others. The time was finally at hand, the battle to end all battles. The fall of the demon king and to end the torment suffered by the Ishtar clan in waiting for him. He would finally be free and take on Yami's mantle as the new king. Once on board, Yugi let out a breath as he tightened his grip on Yami's hand. They were there finally, the final stage that would bear the result of finding the memories lost to the two. They had to make it through together, a final challenge not just for the demons but for him as well. The teen didn't know what would result of the finals but whatever it is to be, he had to be supportive to the duels Yami will face and a pillar to deal with not only Seto but Malik as well.

'Keara...I'm sure you're watching the progress from here...I will continue to do my duty as their partner and host of the Sennen Puzzle. Please, continue to watch over us.' Yugi thought, the ancient priestess in question smiling as she stood above on the dueling deck. She didn't doubt for a second Yugi would falter from his position at the demons' side but when she was needed most, she would be there. "I have faith in you, Yugi. Your journey is slowly coming to its end and a decision that will test the weight of your heart will stand before you. Before that time is to come, I will share with you three something important." she murmured before leaving the deck to head inside. Outside, Isono hummed as he took a glance at his watch. It was just about time for the ship to disembark and the final duelist has yet to show up. Guess they will be leaving with only seven. Turning to make his way aboard, the presence of another had his head turn and saw a figure coming towards him. Pivoting on his heel to face them, the figure looked towards him with vibrant eyes before holding up the six puzzle cards to show validity into the finals. With an affirmative nod, he passed the last ID card to them before motioning for them to board. "It's time to depart." The figure nodded once more and went to step into the ship followed by Isono. As the doors came to close and everyone situated, the engines gained power before lifting off the ground. Higher and higher it went as it pulled away from the stadium in which they gathered in, leaving the group to go to the windows and view the city from above with buildings illuminated by lights and streets bright with cars. The blonde was in awe at the sight but not as much as he was towards showing such sights to his sister. "Can you see them, Shizuka? See all the lights?" he asked and she smiled as she looked upon the city of Domino. Seeing the beautiful scenery of the nighttime, relishing the opportunity of a lifetime to be airborne and see such a view.

Jounouchi grinned and boasted that strong duelists really could fly which was met by a mild scoff by his brunet lover. Even though he was still displeased of the events that got Jounouchi admitted into the tournament, Seto knew that even for all the challenges he went through, to see real challenge would have him freeze up on the field when he had to deal with the other finalists. "You know I commend you for getting this far but you haven't reached the skill to make it through these semifinals, pup." This had the blonde growl, stomping towards his lover to rave at him about his luck that hadn't failed him yet. Seto chuckled before pressing a finger to his lips to silence him. "You want to bark, do so privately." he whispered and the clear double entendre wasn't missed, making the other turn red before huffing petulantly as the brunet walked off. He slowed to a stop before Yami, making the demon glance to him briefly and the chill of sapphire to look at him held the demand the brunet was ready to ask. Since gaining Osiris, the other had never used the god within his deck. Not when they fought the weaklings trying to stop them from locating Jounouchi nor in the tag team duel fighting the Mask of Light and Mask of Darkness. To know that in both instances the god was left behind had ruffled his scales and finally told him that leaving the god from his deck during the semifinals would be unacceptable. "This will be the domain of the gods, Yami! To see who is fit to handle these powerful creatures and own them. It is fair enough to say that the gods will choose who the rightful winner will be. So don't think for a second you are to slip off in leaving Osiris behind as I will defeat you and Malik for them! The myth of dueling gods will begin now."

With that said, Seto continued on his way towards the rooms, Isono arriving in due time to announce that rooms were arranged for the finalists and that they are to rest and prepare for the match-ups that will be decided in one hour. A nod came from the demon before nudging Yugi along so they could head off to their rooms. Jounouchi went to follow their example, waving to them as he unlocked the door to Room 4 and stepped inside. "Well, home sweet home." The blonde hummed as Shizuka followed in after him but she wasn't the only one. The noise to follow made him jump as the others minus Kaiser had stampeded their way in. With no room of their own, they were without a place to stay and decided that Jounouchi's room would be the best place to crash. "Aw hell naw! You're ain't crashing my room!" he seethed though his rage was deflated when Shizuka welcomed their company. It would be fun, she told him, and he grumbled but knew that despite her reasoning, his room was the best crash space. The blonde couldn't think to impose anyone over to Yami's room as he was sure the three would need their peace. He was sure the demon wouldn't get angry with them if they did but the very same, quality time was going to be sorely limited and if they planned to use that in between matches, he wasn't going to be the one to get his head bitten off for it. Wouldn't put it past Seto to do the same in fact, Jounouchi thought in amusement as he plopped into a chair while the others raided his fridge. Honda came to settle beside him, apologizing that their barging in took time away from Shizuka but he waved it off. "If ya knew that, I woulda told ya to buzz off to another room but Seto would kill me before killing ya and I wouldn't doubt Yami ta jokingly think the same if we get in the way while he's preparing or just wanna relax with Yugi." Honda scratched his cheek with a weak chuckle. Yeah, it was probably for the best they didn't impose on the demons unless they came over themselves.

"But Honda, I wanted ta thank ya..." Jounouchi began as Honda turned to look down to him. For what, he asked which was met with Jounouchi thanking him for going out of his way to pick up Shizuka. The brunet smiled as he said it was nothing, taking a sip from the water bottle before coughing as some went down the wrong pipe to Ryuji deciding to sling an arm around his shoulders and pull him from the blonde to talk. Of what, Jounouchi didn't bother to focus but as long as it kept the raven from him and his sister, let Honda entertain him for a bit. In the room harboring the demons, Yugi watched as Yami had his gaze on Osiris. It looked like it was taking much of his will to make the decision to place the card in but it was without a doubt that the god would be needed to face the other two. Without its power, they would stand no chance to Obelisk or Ra. /Do not falter, demon. Without this power, you will never see what you seek./ The god whispered and Yami let out a breath before setting the card into the deck and shuffled. "It is done." Yami murmured, Yugi moving from Aqua's side and went to settle a hand over his which rested over the deck. The demon turned to Yugi before lowering his head down, pressing his forehead to Yugi's. Finally, the fated battle for him was close at hand. There were still many concerns that came with the territory, the biggest being if Yami will gain his memories after Battle City is said and done. On top of it, it was without question that they would be fighting against another possessor of an item. From that alone there was worry if the item in question housed another demon spirit such as himself or Bakura. "Yami..." Yugi whispered, feeling the demon shift before the deck was set upon the table and he was brought to settle upon the demon's lap, gazing into warm scarlet. A smile crossed the other's lips for a small reassurance and brought him close for a gentle kiss.

This tournament would have a lot of work involved in it from here on but as long as Yugi was there at his side, Yami felt he would be able to power through any obstacle aimed to slow him down from the end goal. The sweet mesh of lips finally broke away and Yugi rested against the demon's chest, arms around his chest to his back and head nestled on his shoulder. Yami held him, comforted by his partner's presence and sorely wished he could use this time to its fullest but knew well that they would hardly get far before he was called for the match-ups. They both knew well enough going in at any stage of keyed up won't be a pleasant experience or talk among the rest so for now, they would have to bear without it until the duels were done for the night. So there they rested, Aqua coming over to press a kiss to Yugi's head before settling beside the chair as they awaited for the announcement to come when they are to leave. But as they rested, Yugi gripped at Yami's shirt carefully as to not rouse the demon's concern. There was still one other thing that bothered him that he didn't voice to the two. The eighth duelist. They were sure to be on board as there was no announcement saying otherwise. So it begs the question who it could be. Was it just another random duelist about to find themselves in the middle of an ancient power struggle or someone tied to the demons' fate as part of their missing history? So many questions with so little answers and this bothered the smaller teen from a decent moment's rest.

0

Malik was in his own room, lounged upon the nicely downed pillows provided by Kaiba himself. Even if he cared not for anything but the god cards, he at least made sure their guests were taken care of with his generous and rare hospitality. But such was hardly worth noting for the male as he went to sit up. Nothing mattered except having the demon king's head on a silver platter. He knew what was carved onto his back and it was something necessary for the demon to read in order to reclaim the memories lost to time. 'But I won't allow him the pleasure of reading the carvings that made me suffer for years for his gratification. This is where I shall condemn you to eternal damnation with a shadow game.' The male thought. Within his own room, Seto looked to the god that was his, the might of Obelisk faintly humming with power which made the other smirk. He still wasn't deep into the magical aspects of all that was dropped onto him but he still knew for a fact that power was well within his grasp and all he had to do was win his own tournament to claim it all. The brunet will reclaim the title he lost to the demon and have three of the most powerful cards to reside in his deck. In her room, Mai sat with a glass of wine, looking out to the darkened skies with sparse cloud coverage floating lazily past her window. There was definitely a good amount of competition on board and she was sure to have quite a fight on her hands but she trusted in her new deck build. The warriors she chose will defend her to the bitter end to get her to the top. But this was just one stage of the tournament, this ship had a destination and it made her curious of where Kaiba is taking them off once the semifinals are over. In another, the room was devoid of light, the sound of something slicing through meat heard. A growl came from the body at the table, a piece of steak speared through with a fork before it was lifted to a waiting mouth.

The meat was dripping with blood, a request for it to be extremely rare at the concern of the chef in charge but didn't argue. The steak was torn into by jagged rows, a smirk appearing on bloodied lips before the blood was lapped away by the demon that wisely hidden himself on board. Oh, he awaited how these duels were going to go but really, he awaited the duel that was to surely come along between him and Yami. He will relish the expression on the other's face when his appearance was really made known as demon spirits like them could never stand to be in the same place together without the resulting fight to end in bloodshed. Rishid, who still posed as Malik, was in his own room in deep meditation. If he were needed, they would call him but until then, he won't make a move of his own until it was necessary to do so under his master's command. Each duelist was apprehensive with different thoughts as the hour ticked away and when time had reached, the announcement floated across the ship. The first round of the semifinals were to begin and all participating duelists were to come to the central assembly hall. At the call, Jounouchi was on his feet with the others, leaving his room. "Let's go guys!" Stepping out, he saw that others were long ahead of him and he snorted a little, not wanting to look unprofessional if he wanted to prove to his lover he was a real duelist. A call of his name from behind had him turn to see Namu there, the male smiling as he hoped as friends, the blonde would take it easy on him. Jounouchi chuckled as he replied even for friends, he can't give them the easy treatment. He had to fight his best and Namu understood, hoping for the best of them both. In their room, Yugi raised his head at the summons before turning his gaze to determined scarlet eyes.

It was finally time.

Sliding from his lap, the demon moved to pick up the deck and stood himself. Taking Yugi's hand in his own, the three stepped out from the room and headed for the center assembly hall. As the last arrival to the meeting spot, the group of duelists to be there looked upon the giant machine that Yugi noted with silent amusement, was in the shape of a Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon. Classic Kaiba motif that clearly never plans to change. As Isono began to explain the process, Yugi looked around at the competition. Seto, Jounouchi and Mai were eyeing the machine awaiting to see what the first lots will be while Namu looked rather detached from it, as if to expect to not be one of the first to duel. The eighth duelist wasn't there nor was Malik and in the very back laid Ryou. Yugi was still unnerved to his entry but there was little he could say to change his mind it seemed. Gripping Yami's fingers, he turned his gaze back to the lottery machine as Isono finished up with the explanation and the machine started up to decide the first round. A ball came to land in the mouth of the dragon, depositing it into the tray below, revealing the number to be 7. "The first duelist will be number 7, Bakura Ryou!" The teen in the back squeaked in surprise to be the first to duel, chuckling a bit as he rubbed the back of his head. "Whoever I'm up against, you have me nervous." he murmured though the tone surely didn't reach his eyes as Diamond patted his shoulder in comfort. Jounouchi stood off to the side, just mildly worried of who would be challenging the white-haired teen. After hearing talk of the deck he runs, the blonde truly hoped that it wasn't him.

As the machine started up again, from the control room to observe on the grounds of any rowdy behavior from the other participants or their uninvited guests, one of the suits had questioned the location of the eighth duelist. "Check the room! Kaiba-sama said for all duelists to be present!" One snapped and another nodded, rushing from the room to stop at the door where the absentee waited. A knock was met with a response and the suit stepped in, looking to the shrouded figure sitting by the window. They didn't look up but did answer the question hanging in the air with a light tone, distinctly female. She would be the fourth match, she spoke quietly in a calm lilt, hardly believed by the suit in the doorway but she had persisted. "It may be unbelievable to any that listen to me but I have the ability to see into the near future. I cannot divulge who is to win or lose these matches but I know what the order shall be." As the male in the doorway was left to contemplate her words as within the assembly hall, the next number was picked, landing into the second tray, revealing the number 5. "The second duelist is Yami!" Yugi gasped before looking up to the demon, scarlet eyes pointedly watching Ryou who was rubbing the back of his head, muttering that such a strong battle awaited him. Though there was speculation among the others on just how well Ryou would be able to handle himself against the other, Yugi was still worried of the outcome.

If Ryou was really the demon trying to disguise himself then there would be problems. Bakura was always notorious for his shadow games and clashing items could put others in danger. This was likely the first test on the path to their memories and Yugi hoped that Yami will be able to succeed without any consequences as the unknown of Ryou's actual health is now up in the air thanks to the demon commanding the body. From where he stood, the gentle face darkened as doe-brown changed into a menacing russet, the faint air of power that was familiar to the ring echoing through the air, enough that both demons sensed it, causing a bellowing hiss to come from Yami. It was brief and no one but him and Aqua would catch it but that proved it. Bakura was indeed hiding away like the slimy jackal he was and with the first duel being between the two of them, it would only end when one was truly removed from the same space. 'I will not allow you to bring harm to anyone here, Bakura. Especially not my mate with your obsessive need to claim the puzzle from my hands.' Yami thought, teeth bared in a snarl. The first trial towards his memories were upon the demon king where a loss could mean the very end of existence. He, of course, knew truly little of the weight that the next few battles would mean but the air was charged with challenge and promise and the demon knew well that he cannot fail at any point here.

0

Zypher: somewhat back on track to completing this monster of a story. sure i lost track of my multiple end notes so imma make this short and sweet. due to the headstrong presence of rewriting the entirety of Yami no Game to be an exclusive alternate piece over on ao3, including sequel, this will be a slow work in progress as i try my darnedest to not write what i have in mind for the alternative sequel into here where the elements dont match up. also going over various notes, reading interesting episode reviews and the like, i'm crossing out the second virtual adventure, Waking the Dragon and the KC Grand Prix. a valid point was made with the continuity of Kaiba's history when you compare the virtual adventure with Gozaburo and what was already done in regards to Kaiba's past way back when manga-wise. maybe in the future, there will be what if works but as i have other stories with better fleshed out ideas in the works, that will be done when inspiration strikes. but any who, if you're still here and ready to see how this goes, be prepared cause we're in for some turbulent airs soon! just gotta make sure i dont blur the lines of the rewrite to bleed into this but if you're curious about it, i will give a plug to the rewritten piece over at ao3 under the name Yami no Game: Arise from Darkness. give it a looksee and i'll see ya with another update later!