Sorry, I was banned from posting for a while, but no worries, I'm back. I apologise for the delay! Thanks so much for the support last chapter, since I was rotten and left it at such a huge cliffhanger with a lot of questions. More answers in the chapter. Sorry for inconvenience, but because I work around 4 stories plus have school, things take time. Glad I got a good amount done at the long weekend. Next time I get off is on October 15th, so that gives me a whole week and weekend to write! Now for the replies!
Pamster: Pleased that you found it funny, as you did want Yami to get a good laugh at it. Also, he is protective and would be swift, just a reliable person. Glad you like the side stories too, more on them this chapter. I do think it makes it more dynamic. I thought the nickname was a sweet touch. Thanks a lot for all support, and hope you're okay, I heard of the hurricanes hitting Florida.
Secluded Sapphire: You have to wait and see, but I promise a lot more is revealed in this chapter. Also, more on Kaiba's love life, first thing, read if you don't believe me! More is shown you'll be happy to know. Thanks a lot for the encouragement!
Dark mage of sea 13: You will discover more about the last quote, among other things. True things are getting sinister, and will continue to do so, but with some sweetness too. Thanks a million of the enthusiasm!
The Six of Hearts: Try not to fall off the seat, I don't need anyone suing me for injuries because of my story. The suspense will calm a bit in this chapter. Thanks for the review!
michelaski: Confusing I know, but there will be more in this chapter. Hope you like it!
Also, to the1koolkitty, could you please say if I have your character right? It's been bugging me that I've been making you out of sorts. Even if there is a tiny thing you want altered; let me know, please!
Hope you all like it, now on with the story. Also, need an opinion I might do a little shot to fit in the story. Since Halloween is coming soon, also timed well in the story, so anyone want a special chapter on a Halloween event? Let me know! Love SGCred xxx P.S. R&R!
Chapter 9: Truth HurtsRushing through the streets, his feet carrying him with great speed, Kaiba swept past all onlookers no longer caring. Thankfully few people were around since the attack of the wild motorcycle gang, all having headed for safety. The trail of destruction was still evident as he raced through the town, still seeing broken windows, cracked pavements and crumbling walls. He followed the path of terror, picking up his pace more, fretting inwardly.
Skidding to a halt, he found himself in front of the park entrance. The police were leaving the scene, obvious that the bikers had gone another route further to the outskirts. However damage was clearly shown, seeing the tyre tracks of bikes through the peaceful natural setting. Trees had been decimated with the bark and branches trailing on the ground while flowers had been ripped from the earth. Benches were broken, and ornamental fountains cracked from gunshots and lashings of swinging biker chains.
The CEO made sure the coast was clear of police before going inside the dead end setting. Glancing around, he held no emotion to the waste laid bare in the area. Shuddering still at the chilly breeze, he kept going, walking off the path. Soon he made his way through the small glade, hidden to others. Fighting off branches in his face, Seto kept going until he came to a small clearing. Light caught in the grove, as he looked around, blue ocean eyes anxious. No one would ever say it was even possible of the icy hearted businessman to get upset over anything. However, just now small beads of sweat and fear trickled down his brow, still stalking in the secret haven, looking for something unknown by all.
Finally he came to a breaking grassy hillside near a small pond full of lily pads and some wild blossoms. At least this part hadn't been caught up in the outer chaos of the rebels that had swept into Domino like a hurricane. Snarling to himself, he was ready to just turn away, when he heard something. A small whimpering was coming from the other side of the pool, muffled by the breeze whipping through the tall grass stems. Pacing over, he traced his gaze toward the far end of the spot, until he spotted...movement!
A shaking form was lying in the grass, croaking in their throat from pain of some sort. Trying in vain to cradle their chest, the trickle of blood was still noticeable from the wound. The lean figure was spread over in the dirt, wheezing in an attempt to regain lost breath in their lungs. A soft complexion reflected in the edge of the water, An almost foreign appeal was there, soft dark hair and shining eyes, this girl was struggling to hold in the agony.
Now close to panic, Seto hurried over to crouch beside her limp body, still crying out quietly with light tears dripping down her face. No one would believe it if they were told so, but Kaiba put his arms under her form, cradling her into his chest, soothing her. The female didn't struggle, merely embraced the warmth. Not usually an emotional person, it was strange to the man how this felt, but he allowed it none the less, despite the damp stains of salty tears and stifling blood sticking to his shirt. On seeing the red marks he took action. Firstly he called on his cell phone for a car to pick him up privately, no questions to be asked or there would be Hell to pay. He then swept an arm under her, standing up with her still in his hold.
She still snuggled close, eyes half-lidded looking at him through blurry vision. Nevertheless the girl relaxed on seeing him. She was still croaking a little, trying to speak desperately. Kaiba wouldn't allow her to drain her strength and managed to hush to fall asleep while he went to the far end of the park where the car was waiting. Climbing in, he held her closer, ignoring the drivers stare. He would fire him later; right now he had bigger concerns.
'Just hold on, you'll be okay. I promised nothing would happen to you. You have people who care and need you, who love you...like I do my crystal.'
"Is she going to be okay Yug?"
"I don't know Joey, she just collapsed, I can think what could have possibly happened."
"Well, that attack was pretty freaky, maybe the stress of the situation just got to her, I know I was ready to scream at the thought of that wild bullet shooting through the door."
Yugi nodded to his friend as he continued pressing a damp cloth onto Kitty's face. The whole scare of the gang's rampage had ended a few hours ago, but the poor girl was still out cold. No doubt it was a frightful experience for anyone, but it seemed to have affected her more so. Something didn't feel right to the young man, as hearing the small muttering of words as his girlfriend passed out deeply confused him. What had caused her to act so strangely? Still, there were some answers in the bullet she had been clutching, now sitting on the table beside her bed.
"Well, not much we can do. Just let her rest up and keep an eye on her pal." Joey reassured, putting a hand on his friend's shoulder, seeing worry fill his amethyst orbs. Nodding in agreement, Yugi followed his friend out the room. Still looking back at the girl before closing her bedroom door.
"Listen, I'm going to call Mai, I promised I'd let her know how I was doing, you know what she's like. I'll be in the living room if you need me."
"Sure Joey, go ahead. I'll just finish in the store then come back to check on her." Yugi insisted, seeing the blonde go downstairs. Before heading for the shop on the lower floor, the young man concentrated hard, letting the puzzle glow and see that ancient pharaoh appear beside him.
"I heard everything Young one. Is she okay?" Yami asked in a concerned voice.
"For now, I just wish I knew what was going on..."the younger boy exasperated as his world seemed to spin.
"You're concerned for her, it's normal for you to feel so protective of her Yugi. It's been clear this isn't just a flimsy relationship, there is a bond between you and Kitty."
"I know. Listen Yami, I have other things to do, and Joey won't want me freaking out over this, but I would feel better if I knew someone was..."
"No need to say it Yugi," the spirit stopped his sentence, already knowing what he was going to ask. "I'll watch over the girl when you can't. While you're working or busy with Joey, I'll check up on her, and keep you posted if anything happens."
"Thanks, that means a lot, I appreciate this." the young man smiled at his darker side, who returned the grin, before disappearing to look in on the invalid. Sighing in some relief and feeling more at ease, Yugi went downstairs to manage inventory before closing the shop. It had been a long day.
Tapping his fingers impatiently on the armrest of the chair, Joey was beginning to snarl. It was important he talked to Mai about a lot of things. She was the one who insisted he call her if anything went on while he was back in Domino, yet she wasn't answering the damn phone! Hearing a click, he was ready to scream; it must have been the operator overseas saying there was no response again.
"Now listen here you worthless excuse of a customer service jockey! If you tell me to try patching this call again later once more I'll flatten you, cause it took twenty minutes to actually get through static! So you better have a better have something better to say to me you..."
"I certainly hope you're not planning to swear at me Joseph, because if I hear some edited words come out of your mouth I'll see to it that your lips are stitched together so you can become a mime!" Mai's voice firmly stated on the other end of the line, which made her boyfriend think twice about opening his mouth to continue.
Rubbing the back of his head, he proceeded to chat properly. Despite his slight scare when he heard her shout a threat from a good few hundred miles away, he was still grinning. True, Mai had a big mouth at times, just like him, never taking anyone sassing her lightly, as she preferred to flatten them first. However that was one of the qualities he loved most about her. They could have a good argument ever now and then if they had disagreements, like most couples, but with both of them being stubborn, they usually wore each other out. In this case they ended up forgetting what they were fighting over in the first place, and made up by cuddling up on the sofa to watch a movie or such. Well, no matter how long they would be together, Joey hoped all their arguments would end like that, cause it made them so much closer.
"Oops, guess you were right Mai, I do need to watch my language, especially around you."
"See to it that you straighten up before you come home from vacation from staying with Yugi." she scolded playfully, laughing to herself. Though he could be a pain, Mai had to admit, Joey was a sweet guy, and felt lucky to have him. "Anyway, speaking of which, how is Yugi? Still the same honest class a kid I remember?"
"Actually Yugi's changed quite a bit. For one he isn't a kid, he's about at tall as me now, and built out too. Still cheerful and friendly of course, but he seems more confidant and upbeat than ever. Then again, Kitty's probably to thank for that..."
"Kitty? Whose that...Oh my! Does Yugi have a girlfriend? This is unexpected." Mai exclaimed, astounded.
"Yeah, it's great isn't it. It must have been rough for him being alone when we all left, and with needing to run the store never got to make new friends. She's a real blessing on Yug."
"That's great dear, so come on. Details! Tell me what's she like!"
"Okay, calm down Mai. You'd like her; she's really nice, though apparently some bit of a loner, so Yugi really brought her out too. Overall a really good person, strong and willing. She helps Yug in the game's shop, and is using the spare room till she can afford a place. They make a great couple...only..." he trailed off, thinking on the recent events sadly.
"Only what? What's wrong, did they have a fight?"
"No, nothing like that Mai, it's...well a long story."
"I've got proper credit so the call rates on the phone won't cost too much Joey. Spill it, I have time." she encouraged.
So the blonde man went through all the details of what had penetrated the usually quiet Domino City. How this weird biker gang had rode and created havoc, nearly blowing them all to bits. Then on how for now reason Kitty fainted on sight of a stray bullet that came through the window. Mai gasped at the thought once he finished.
"Poor thing, she must be really shaken up, but it does seem suspicious. You guys better talk to her when she comes to. I can only imagine the state Yugi must be in." she flustered.
"Yeah I know, it's awful the way he's worrying. He cares for her a lot." Joey stated, hearing Mai murmur in agreement on the other end.
"Well, keep me posted on what's going on over there Hun. I better go, time difference shows I have to go before I'm late for work, can't keep beauty clients waiting." she ushered, about to hang up when she heard Joey call to her through the line. Halting her action, she asked what was wrong.
"Look, just let me say a proper goodbye okay. Love you." he whispered, making the violet-eyed woman smile.
"Love you too Joseph, say hi to the others for me. I better go, call me soon, missing you loads." she said blowing a kiss through the receiver before hanging up.
Grinning, Joey put the phone down. Nice to know his girlfriend still was looking forward to him coming back once his trip was over. He was really happy in that relationship, now all he had to do was try and help Yugi in his, seeing how upsetting the ordeal at the moment had him. Going up to bed, he thought on this, as well as his other romantic ploy for now; exposing Kaiba's secret love life. Oh, that would be sweet!
The next evening, everything was hushed inside the apartment, trying to settle after the disaster yesterday. People were cleaning up the mess left from before, but mainly people feared another attack. It was well known that the gang had disappeared after the rampage, and the police had no clue to their whereabouts. Many were stressed with concern, but for Yugi it was mainly concern for the girl lying upstairs, still asleep.
He had taken all opportunity to be by Kitty's side. When he wasn't busy in the store, or Joey offered to stand at the counter for a while to give him a break, he sat at her bedside. He ate his meals in her room, always making sure she wasn't running a fever, as well as holding her hand, some reassurance he was there, and hoping it would help her wake. Other times, Yami would watch her, taking care to slip into her mind sometimes, so as to be sure there was nothing corrupting her thoughts to cause this. Even Joey took some time to check up on her. He did it as a favour to Yugi, knowing how freaked he was over her safety.
Still late in the evening, the dark spirit was on watch while the other two were having supper, when he noticed some slight movement. Leaning closer, he could feel the girl's mind beginning to awaken and react. Since no one was around he spoke to coax her to open her eyes.
"Kitty? It's Yami, please, if you can hear me, open your eyes. Please, try dear girl, we're all concerned for you." he urged, hoping inside. His other half wouldn't be at ease till she was okay, which hurt the spirit to know the youth was upset.
Slowly, a glint of hazel could be seen behind her eyelashes, she whimpered straining to come back to consciousness. Slowly, they cracked open, and the older teen could make out a blurred vision of the Egyptian with crimson eyes looking over her kindly. Managing a weak smile, she attempted to prop herself up, leaning her back on the board, tracing her hand over the table to find her glasses, which she put on promptly.
"Hey Yami, anything interesting happen while I was napping?" she joked; though her voice was still hoarse a bit.
"You had everyone terribly worried my dear, we had not idea why you suddenly collapsed." he said, noticing how, she turned serious, looking away. "There was something about that attack that got to you, and it wasn't merely fear. Please, you can tell us what's wrong Kitty."
She was silent, not willing to open hr mouth over the matter. How could she, there was too much at risk in saying so. All those horrible memories flooded back, returning her to pain and misery. If the others found out, they would want nothing to do with her. Toss her out into the streets, even contact the cops to come and bring her in! She would be losing a life she had grown to love over the past few weeks, and even more so the people she had grown attached to.
"I don't want to talk about it just now." she muttered, trying her best not to cry. The ghost decided there was no point in spoiling the fact she was awake with this trauma. There was celebration to be done. Besides, there was someone she might feel more comfortable in talking to.
"Well, I'm pleased you're okay, I better go and tell Yugi you're all right. He's been worried sick since yesterday."
"What?" Kitty asked, "I made him worried?"
"Yes, he barely left your side when you were unconscious. He'll feel better knowing you're okay." he smiled, which she returned gratefully, looking forward to seeing Yugi again. If she had to tell the truth, it would be to him first.
In no time flat both boys hurried upstairs, the younger one managing to fool Joey into thinking there was noise upstairs, in belief Kitty was up, with a little magic from Yami to help with sound effects. The walked in to see her sitting up, forcing a grin. Joey, being such a softie at times, nearly burst out in tears, though tried to hide it as he hugged her.
"Don't do that again, you had us...I mean Yug really upset, though of course I wasn't concerned at all." he acted, making her feel better.
"Thanks for caring Joey." she replied hugging back. Grinning, the blonde made his way to the door, saying it was only fair for Kitty and Yugi to get some 'alone time' making them both blush a bit. As soon as he was downstairs, the youth sat down next to her on the bed, looking very relieved.
"You have no idea how happy I am to see you up." he stuttered, no longer able to control tears of happiness. Soon she started crying too, as he squeezed her hand in more reassurance.
"Yami said you were kind of upset..."
"Kind of? I nearly went out of my mind with fear thinking you were really sick! Thank goodness you're okay." Yugi cried out, gripping her tight. She enjoyed the feeling of the warmth again, another thing she didn't wan to lose. Still, she had to come out with it.
"I take it...you know that something effected me to make me pass out." Kitty stated, not wanting to meet his gaze. However, Yugi cupped her face gently, needing to see what was tormenting her. It was intuition, if something was wrong he instinctively needed to help her, soothe her and care for her.
"You can tell me. I did think something was off when I heard you mumbling before you completely blacked out..."
"Huh? What did I say?"
"Something like... 'I won't go back'...what does that mean?" he questioned, seeing the hurt and pained expression she wore.
"It means, those guys in the gang, I know them somewhat. And I think...they're here for me, I'm the reason why they're here." she whispered, nearly breaking down into tears again.
This astounded the boy to no end. Why would anyone so vicious as those creeps want with his Kitten? She couldn't harm anyone; those brutes had no right. It was close to infuriating him, making his blood boil. For once in his life, Yugi felt truly angry, and he never got mad over anything. One thing was for certain; no one was going to harm his Kitten, he would make sure of it.
Crawling up beside her, he curled up next to her on the bed, putting his arm around her in a tight embrace. She leaned into his shoulder as he stroked her hair affectionately. No one had ever been this kind to her, which was why she couldn't lie to him about this. The truth wouldn't be easy, but she hoped she wouldn't lose Yugi because of it.
Her tears slid down her face, but then she felt the young man tilt her head up, as he gently kissed away the tears on her cheeks, before going to her lips. There was no resistance, it was comforting to know he was there, caring and loving. Lightly, he slid his tongue over her lips, carefully slipping inside her mouth. It was sweet foreplay as they kissed with more kindness and passion, as Yugi pulled her closer by hugging her waist, and Kitty attaching her arms around his neck.
Soon they broke apart for some air, just keeping close to each other in comfort. It was after a moment of pleasant silence that Yugi spoke.
"You may not want to talk about it now, but I'm here for you Kitten." he soothed, making her turning pink again at the pet name.
"It may be dangerous, and I have a got bit of explaining to do..."
"I don't care." he stated, catching her by surprise. "You are too precious to me Kitty, I swear...I'll never let anything happen to you." he promised, caressing her face.
They sat like that all evening, just basking in the glow of each other. The even t had been frightful, but had strengthened things between them even more. They needed all the power and will they could get. For now, they had a much more dramatic problem to face and danger lurking close by.