Wow...So it's been waaaaay too long since I last updated this. I've noted how much slower this story has been going than the others and I do sincerely apologize for that. I've already begun the next chapter so hopefully updating for this fic will happen more frequently. I've got an IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT that I shall post at the beginning of this chapter, k? So please read that.
Fallen-Alone-Scared-Lost: New reviewer for this story! -tackles- Hi sweetie! Fancy meeting you here! XD "I loves yas and you work even with the evil cliffies" -grins- Thank you! And the evil cliffies are essential to my stories! They're something I take great pride in. (readers: dammit!) lol
Kitsu-cha: "glomps" Eep! I've been glomped! XD -tackles- Passha!! (Minkah: -.-) Ah the cliffies! I know, aren't they GLORIOUS? (kitsu: -glare-) Eheheehe! -backs away nervously-
Nayades18: "you know I love drama and lots of it" -wistful sigh- Don't we all? (Minkah: It just has to revolve around ME, doesn't it?) -smirks- Possibly. Ah, good. You got teh piccies. I'm glad you enjoyed Malik's internal battles--which he ended up losing to--that involved his feelings for Minkah. Poor spikey-headed blonde. (Malik: Grrrr...)
Satra: "don'tenditheredon'tenditheredon't- gah! It DOES end here!" LOL Yeah, it did, didn't it? (Satra: -sulks-) Sorry it's taken so long for an update! Sheesh, this story is going slow! (readers: We noticed!) -winces- I said sorry!
Memnoch's Heart: "I wish they had fanfiction for fanfiction. -stares into space thoughtfully-" LOL That would be...something...wouldn't it? (Kana: -nod nod nod-) I can see that getting extremely complicated. Yes, Ryou went through a lot of emotional changes in a short amount of time. Poor kid. (Minkah: Hey! What about ME?) Yes, you suffer too. "if you wanted, I'd give you a kideny and half my liver" Hmm...well, the doctors haven't pinpointed my health probs yet, so I might possibly take you up on that offer later. (Kana: -pales- I wasn't SERIOUS!) -smirks-
dragonlady222: "Afika is really trouble and in trouble." Indeed he is. And he knows it too. Manages to keep a cool composure despite it all though. (Afika: -brushing hair- I feel pretty! Oh so pretty! I feel pretty, and witty, and gay!) -snort- Well, we already knew that. (Afika: -GLARE-) ehehe! "Ryou sure picked a bad time to say all those things" Ah, but was there ever really a 'good' time to say them? (Ryou: When he's so drunk he won't remember any of it?) Hmm...I suppose that might've worked...
yeyavailability: "so much win" Whoot! We've got win here, peoples! XD (Minkah: -sigh-) "While I was typing in variables and procedures I imagined people getting stabbed by the sharp edges of the bolded alphabets, which had to spawn from your fic, which is clearly made of pure awesome." -cackles- That is AWESOME! The visualization just makes me giggle. -giggles- See? XD (Yami: ra, just strike me down now...)
MarshmellowPeepGod: So I was typing out these responses and my brother walked by and saw your name and was like: That is so BRILLIANT! Twas funny. :P "I SENT TEH PICTURES!" I know! -huggles- And now you get the chapter dedication that I promised. (Peepz: Squeee!) Zork and Pals? Little Kuriboh's? Isn't he hilarious? I've watched all his Yugioh stuffs. Tis pure awesomeness. XD
Sagira98: "more rollercoasters. and an evil cliffie of course" -beaming- Of course! Ah, Malik is annoying you? Well, he's still a bit emo in this chapter. Fear not! He will get better soon! (Malik: I'd better! -shakes fist at ferris-) Think Mr. B might be in the back of the truck? Hmmm...interesting. -dives at the five dollar bill- Gimme! "You know it's a shame you only come out with the chapters once every two months" -winces- It's been more than that this time. (Sagira: Ja. I've noticed.) This story has just been a lot harder for me to focus on than the others. I'm getting a better feel for it now and have already begun the next chappie. Keep your fingers crossed!
Camomilla: While you haven't reviewed the latest chappie, you still reviewed, so: -tackleglomp- Hi! XD Thanks for the sympathy an' all. I'm actually doing worse from whatever shit I was having already. -grins humorlessly- It's FUN. But enough about that. The story! I'm glad you likes it and I hope to see you around again!
This chapter is dedicated to Camomilla, Fallen-Alone-Scared-Lost, Peepz, and Kana! (I promised you two, did I not?)
IMPORTANT NOTE: All right, so there is a grave issue with which I want to make doubly sure everyone is aware of about this story. As I stated at the end of the first half: the rape and torturing of Minkah is over. It was essential for this half of the story but was not written for anyone's sick pleasure. There was a serious decline in the amount of reviews last chapter and I began wondering if the reason was because people thought all that stuff was going to start happening again. Well it's not. It looks as if something might have in this chapter but you'll find it hasn't...and it won't. near this beginning part Minkah is narrating and is having "flashbacks" while also focusing partly on the present situation. All you psychos that enjoy reading that type of shit can go find some other fic. Just wanted to make that clear.
"Get Out Alive" 3 days grace
No time for goodbye he said
As he faded away
Don't put your life in someone's hands
They're bound to steal it away
Don't hide your mistakes
'Cause they'll find you, burn you
Then he said
If you want to get out alive
Hold on for your life
If you want to get out alive
Hold on for your life
This is my last time she said
As she faded away
It's hard to imagine
But one day you'll end up like me
Then she said
If you want to get out alive
Hold on for your life
If you want to get out alive
Hold on for your life
If you want to get out alive
Hold on for your life
If you want to get out alive
Hold on for your life
If I stay it won't be long
Till I'm burning on the inside
If I go I can only hope
That I make it to the other side
If you want to get out alive
Hold on for your life
If you want to get out alive
Hold on for:
If I stay, it won't be long
Till I'm burning on the inside
If I go I can only hope
That I make it to the other side
If I stay, it won't be long
Till I'm burning on the inside
If I go, if I go
Burning on the inside
Burning on the inside
Burning on the inside
Chapter 10: Predators or Prey?
(Minkah's POV)
There are twenty of them surrounding me. All are wearing thick grey coats and pants; boots up to their knees. I don't know where they came from but they're here. Each has his own gun, which are pointed directly at me in the center of their little circle. My jaw clenches, gloved fingers tightening around the hilt of my knife as I sit atop the snowmobile.
Shit.
"Get off the vehicle now!" one man bellows above the howling wind, moving forwards slightly.
It does me no good to stay on this thing. If I try to flee on it they'll just shoot me in the back. Using all of my willpower, I slip over the side, standing before the supposed leader whose gun is aimed directly at my head from seven feet away.
"Drop the weapon!" another yells, all of them moving in.
"What do you want?" I ask evenly, not letting my apprehension show.
I've killed the likes of them back in Domino...Kaiba's own guards, to be precise. But what level skill to these men possess? That will be the factor that will decide how this will turn out. My wounds from two months ago aren't completely healed either. One thing's for sure: I want their motive at least, to know if they're after Ryou and the others. If they are, then I must eliminate them.
There is no other option.
"I said drop the weapon!"
"Not until you tell me what you want," I reply loud enough for all of them to hear even as the wind tries to carry my voice away.
"Oh I'm positive you're aware of why we're here, assassin."
My eyes widen before I can stop this reaction. They…they're not after the others! They're after…!
I swerve to the right, slicing off the arm of a man that was coming at me from behind. He screams, staggering backwards while staring in stupefied horror at the stump where his hand and forearm used to be. The others have long since rushed in, lunging at me from all sides. A fist meets my face while another makes contact with my gut. Large hands have my arms, heavy bodies tackling me to the snowy ground. I struggle wildly, panic setting in at the empty feeling of the knife absent from my hand. My air supply is all but cut off as a man standing near my
head takes hold of the end of my scarf and jerks it repeatedly, tightening it around my throat. One of them is sitting on my legs, two more pinning me by the shoulder blades.
"Get Radshire back to the camp and see if they can do anything about his arm!" the man holding my scarf barks, heavy footsteps quickly retreating. "Well…that went better than I thought it would."
I watch out of the corner of my eye as two men search over the snowmobile for any weapons, flipping it on its side when they're satisfied. My heart sinks to my stomach when the rest of them stand next to their leader, gazing down at me with such hatred. I don't have anything to say—don't know how they found me out here. I know what my fate is now though. They'll torture me for information about Afik and the others…which I won't give to them.
"Check him for hidden weapons!"
I gasp when there are hands all over me…rough hands…groping…searching…
"Stop!"
"What's this? The little whore doesn't want to do his job?"
Hands tear, punch, bruise…
"No!"
"What the hell is going on?"
"I don't know! He just suddenly started screaming in some weird language. All I did was take his boots and gloves!"
"Please stop!"
"Let's get him back to camp. With luck, if any of his companions are out here, they'll be along shortly. Tell the men over the radios to keep rapt attention. We may be getting more company from Apophis."
Gloved hands grab under my arms, dragging me. I dig my bootless heels into the deep snow, knowing full-well what's in store for me if I go with them.
"Let go! Let go of me!"
"And why would we do that? You have a price to pay, whore."
"Come on, you little brat!"
"NO!" I shriek, thrashing back and forth violently but to no avail. Tears pour from my blurred eyes. "Not again," I sob, desperate. "Gods, please not again!"
(Yami's POV)
"There's so much blood," Grandpa murmurs, aghast as we stand next to the fallen snowmobile. "I wonder if Afika and the others are behind this."
"Would Afika do this to Minkah?" I ask doubtfully.
Grandpa sighs, shoulders sagging. "I'm not sure."
I narrow my eyes, turning from the machine, the blood, and the boots and glove. The wind's moaning vociferously, intent on everything knowing of its suffering. I step away from the scene, moving forward and noting how much easier my feet have fallen through the snow.
"Grandpa! There are foot tracks here! Lots of them!" I call to which he stumbles over, eyes widening.
"There are so many!...more than five ex-Apophis members."
I nod mutely, taking off at a brisk stride up the hill. Grandpa calls after me but I don't stop—can't. I should have told someone about the people following us that Minkah had seen. Shit, I should have believed him.
"Halt!"
I do so, partially because there's a semi-automatic weapon pointed directly at my face. Grandpa lets out a shout, heavy footsteps in the snow alerting us to more of these people. They're all in grey outfits, thick for the elements. The five standing around us are all holding identical guns to the man's directly in front of me.
"What the hell is this?" one of them to our left asks incredulously.
"Who are you people? What business do you have out here?" the leader asks calmly, ignoring his companion's outburst.
Grandpa steps up beside me, staring straight into the man's eyes that are nearly hidden beneath the woolen cap and hood.
"We're staying at our cabin nearby. Who are you? You're on our property."
The man smiles solemnly. "Ah you must be the Mutous! It's good to see you alive. We were worried we'd arrive too late."
"What are you talking about?"
"Apophis has returned."
"We know."
They balk at us. "How could you…?"
"Where is he?" Grandpa cuts in impatiently.
The leader is taken aback. "Who?"
"The young man who was riding that snowmobile. He's unstable due to past treatment and needs medical attention."
Brown eyes narrow. "You know that little sneak?"
"He's not a sneak!" I exclaim in anger.
"What's going on here?"
"Sir!" all of the men shout at once, saluting an approaching figure with two more subordinates on either side.
"Lieutenant Hiroki! These people claim to know the assassin Corporal Ryota and his men captured."
The tall man has a goatee, slender sharp eyes, and thin eyebrows. He seems more the kind of man to be in politics or other high-class post. Yet here he is, out in the wilderness.
"I assure the both of you," he states in a deep baritone voice, turning to Grandpa and I, "that the individual in our custody is an Apophis assassin."
"You can't…!" I stop, doing a double-take when I recognize one of the men beside Hiroki. "Hey! You were the police officer who interviewed right after the attacks back at the Game Shop!"
The man jolts slightly at this, discomfited when all attention turns to him.
"Is this true, Private Ichiro? Speak."
Those familiar blue eyes that had been so reassuring two months ago suddenly widen, realization dawning upon him.
"Ichiro!"
"I…I did confer with this young man here and a few others about Apophis. They mentioned one of the boy's brothers had been taken by…" His voice trails off, mortified.
The man called Hiroki frowns, jaw clenched. We all wait. I look over at Grandpa and he shakes his head, telling me not to speak yet.
"They took him back to the camp, did they?"
"Yes Lieutenant!"
He nods. "Well then, let's head over there. Private Ichiro!"
"Sir?"
"Do you have the notes you took from that day?—of the conversation you held concerning the young man in custody?"
"I do, sir."
"Excellent." The Lieutenant turns to Grandpa and me. "If you will come with us, we will see just who this person is and if he is indeed one of the Apophis survivors. If such proves false, I will release him to you. Either way, there are some explanations that will need to be provided. We have a vehicle up ahead that will fit all of us. Our encampment is a ways away from here."
"Thank you," Grandpa says quietly as we follow them through the snowdrifts.
(Ryou's POV)
How could I have gone and said such horrible things to Minkah and treated him like I did? It hurt him horribly. And whatever Malik added made my brother's emotions crack. Now he's out there somewhere in this god-forsaken storm—alone.
"Malik, you said you wouldn't talk to Minkah about before…" Marik begins to chastise his brother who's lying on the couch, torso bandaged.
"I wasn't going to! He brought it up!" Malik protests, still tensing as if he's going to try to make a break for the door at any given moment.
"That doesn't excuse it."
"What do you want me to say, Mare?" his older sibling asks, getting perturbed.
"Malik, you made the guy go completely wacko! I mean, look at you! He could have cut you in half!" Honda puts in, motioning towards the bandaging. "I seriously doubt talking with him would have…"
"You know what?—It's none of your business!" Malik snaps, eyes flashing. "None of you!"
"None of us?"
Five pairs of eyes turn to me. I stand rigidly, staring directly at Malik. His younger brother's lips tighten but he doesn't speak.
"I think it is my business, Malik," I whisper scathingly, fingers clenched. "Minkah is my brother after all. I know you'd wish to know the same if something concerning Marik happened."
Violet eyes break contact with mine, staring down at the white bandaging on his chest area. The others don't say anything, don't want to interfere with this. Instead, at a motion from Marik, Jou, Yugi, and Honda silently leave the room with him. I kneel beside the sofa, waiting for Malik to speak. The Egyptian doesn't try to give any explanations. I exhale, crossing my arms on the edge of the couch.
"Malik, what is it?"
He looks at me again with such helplessness, wordlessly begging me not to make him answer. Marik hasn't said anything to me concerning his brother and mine. I know back in Domino when Minkah was still working for Kaiba and Apophis that there was at least one "incident" of a romantic nature involving Malik and my brother; if not romantic, then rather sexual, perhaps.
"Before Minkah ran out, he said 'I'm what's wrong'. Do you understand what he meant by that, Malik?" I press, ardent on knowing the situation for what it truly is and not what I might presume.
"I…" The blonde's trembling, brow drawn. "I didn't mean for it to happen—for any of this to happen! It just did."
My worry is intensifying. "You didn't mean for what to happen?"
(Mr. Mutou's POV)
These army people are certainly well equipped, I'll give them that. After a seemingly unending ride in their large vehicle, we found ourselves at the edge of their makeshift base. During the ride we could not tell which way we were going, as the back area the soldiers ride in, which we also were sitting, was utterly dark without a single window. Not a place for the claustrophobic. Luckily, due to years and years of excavating, I'm used to finding myself in rather tight places.
Yami walks beside me as we're led between the buildings that resemble large tool sheds. There are around thirty of them, by my guess. Surrounding them are monstrous vehicles that can conquer the snow, but I think this storm will cause even them some trouble.
Lieutenant Hiroki takes us between a cluster of the buildings, stopping a soldier who's passing by.
"You there!"
"Sir!"
"Do you know where Corporal Ryota has detained the Apophis prisoner?"
I note Yami opening his mouth to protest and clear my throat loudly while sending my grandson a look that tells him not to do or say anything to irritate or anger these people. If we want any chance of getting Minkah out of here it will involve manners.
…and carefully set lies.
"Yes Lieutenant, he had the prisoner placed in building 107."
"Thank you, Private. That will be all."
"Yes sir!"
Hiroki turns to our group of five. Ichiro is among us, having retrieved a large binder bulging with manuscripts. No doubt it contains all the notes he took when interviewing the boys after the Apophis incident at the store. If only I could have been there and know what had been said. No, Marik's condition was much more important at the time. I'll just have to trust whatever Yami and the others told him and try to work it to our advantage here.
"Well, let us go and find the truth of this matter, shall we?" the Lieutenant says over the howling winds.
We just nod our assent, following him through the snow that barely reaches our ankles. There are several soldiers continuously running about the compound with shovels in a desperate attempt to keep all buildings accessible.
My resolve steels as we stop in front of a structure with over a foot of snow leaning against its sides. The two soldiers that are guarding the door, automatic weapons in hands, hastily kick and stamp down the snow so the door can be opened.
It's just one room about 12' by 12'. I realize now the buildings are made of some thick plastic, edges somehow driven into the icy ground so as not to be blown away.
My heart stops at the sight before us. Minkah's lying on his side on hard floor near the back wall. He's curled up in a fetal position, bare arms restrained behind his back. The remnants of his shirt and sweater lay in a tattered pile in the middle of the room. He's clad in a pair of jeans and socks. Those grey eyes are even wilder than they were back at the cabin. There's dried blood under his nose and on the cloth tied over his mouth. While there are several bruises on his skin, it's now obvious the vast amount of blood back by the snowmobile was not his.
"Why is he gagged?" Hiroki demands sharply to a guard standing off to the side. "You're supposed to be interrogating him!"
The man winces, removing his grey cap and bowing speedily. "When they brought him to me, he was in a state of hysteria. He was shrieking in Arabic at the top of his lungs. I recognized it but don't speak the language. It got to the point where he wouldn't shut up. I finally gagged him, figuring I'd wait until he'd settled down…"
"How's he supposed to calm down like this?" Yami cuts in contemptuously.
"Yami please, let me handle this," I state firmly. He turns to me, eyes aflame, but the fires of vengeance smolder slightly and he manages to nod stiffly.
I turn to the lieutenant. "The boy's name is Minkah. He has suffered severe abuse for most of his life. When he breaks down like this there is no reasoning with him. Such happened earlier this evening when he fled on that snowmobile after having an argument with his brother."
The interrogator seems determined to prove their actions are justified. "It's not like we need a confession. If you'll look at his right arm you'll see the Apophis symbol. That's proof enough if you ask me!"
"Erm…actually, it doesn't prove much."
We all turn in surprise to Ichiro who has his book open, page upon page of handwritten notes visible.
"What do you mean by this, Private?"
Blue eyes scan over the documents. "Back at the Mutous one of the young men—this one, I believe," he adds nodding towards Yami, "said, and I quote: 'He has darker skin...same hair...a double-crossed scar on the right side of his face. They captured him a week or so ago...they put a tattoo of a cobra—the Apophis symbol—on his arm.' As a reference to the first part, he was comparing him to his younger brother who was also present at the time. And 'they' as in Apophis."
Bless Yami and his quick thinking.
The interrogator frowns skeptically. "Well, he still speaks Arabic."
"The boy lived in Egypt for most of his life with his mother. I'd be suspicious if he didn't speak Arabic," I say in a steady voice, all the while watching as the terrified youth on the floor curls tighter into a ball at the sound of more people, a sob of misery muffled by the gag. "Besides, I speak Arabic as does Yami here. Does that make us Apophis assassins as well?"
The man sends me a glare. "Neither of you, sir, have a tattoo of the Apophis symbol nor have we received tips about you tying you to the Apophis organization."
"Tips? What tips?" I demand promptly.
The man hesitates, comprehending all too late that he's said too much. Ichiro shuffles his feet, not meeting anyone's eyes. The other two guards look at one another uncomfortably. Hiroki finally speaks.
"Around the time you left Domino we had a citizen inform us of Minkah's movement into your group and that he had the intention of killing you all; said the teen is mad and has been an Apophis member for years now."
Yami narrows his eyes. "This informant wouldn't happen to be one Charles Bakura, would it?"
(Yami's POV)
Everyone in the room, save Minkah, is gawking at me. I stare straight at Hiroki, noting the calm appearance has left him, now troubled. He clears his throat after a deathly silence.
"And where did you come up with that assumption…?"
"He came to our place the night before we left. Tried to kill Minkah with a handgun. The boy had just recently escaped Apophis from what I could gather and luckily wearing a bulletproof vest. There's no doubt bruising on his chest where the places of impact occurred," Grandpa explains.
We don't look at one another, as that would give too much away. So far so good. But one wrong sentence could keep Minkah with these people and there'd be no way of rescuing him then.
"And why would a father do that to his own son?"
Grandpa's expression darkens. "Minkah is his illegitimate son. Apparently, Charles kept it a secret from his family back in England and has been intent on keeping the teen out of his life. But his other son, Ryou, found out and it seems Charles' aim is getting Minkah out of the picture for good." Ichiro's eyes widen, obviously not liking what he's hearing. "He doesn't want Ryou 'corrupted' by his half-brother, given the harsh life Minkah has lived. Minkah also has an understandable amount of animosity towards his father, given that he and his mother were abandoned and shunned by him. I think—no, I know Charles is worried that Minkah merely being present will turn Ryou against him…which, after he tried to kill the boy, Ryou has."
"Then how is it that Mr. Bakura himself had been shot in the shoulder?" Hiroki questions, casting his piercing eyes at Minkah.
"A few of the boys managed to wrestle the gun away from him. In the process, it went off."
"And where is it now?"
"We brought it with us. You can send someone to our cabin to collect it if you wish."
Everyone is quiet for a long moment, looking over at Minkah with his glazed grey eyes that hold nothing but terror. I note the way he's shivering, even from across the room.
"He's got to be cold in just a pair of jeans. And his socks look soaked," I state, to which the rest of them quickly take notice.
"Seiichi, get a thermal blanket," Hiroki orders. "Kanaye, go to the medical team and get some tranquilizers. There's no way we're going to get him to stay still…"
"I brought medication to calm him…to aid in stopping the hallucinations," Grandpa cuts in, pulling a capped syringe of one of Marik's meds from his coat pocket. "While it will make him a bit disoriented and fatigued, it won't knock him out. It's actually prescribed to one of my grandsons, but we've had to give Minkah a dose once or twice before."
Hiroki studies Grandpa for a second before nodding his assent. Both of us walk over, kneeling down next to the delirious Egyptian. Minkah whimpers, struggling to get away and I note that he's bound around the ankles as well. Biting back a scathing remark, I reach over and hold one of his arms firmly, clenching my muscles to keep him immobile so Grandpa can inject the drug. Letting out a stifled scream, Minkah thrashes, trying to pull free from my grasp.
"Ichiro, help them."
The young soldier comes over quickly, holding Minkah's legs down, which brings further panic to the ex-assassin's features. Tears streaming down his cheeks, he shakes his head in a pleading way.
"It's okay," I whisper but am not heard.
"That's right. Just a second longer," Grandpa mutters, voice strained as he inserts the needle into a vein. "There."
After a few minutes, Minkah's movements become sluggish and Ichiro and I loosen our hold cautiously. Grandpa moves to the Egyptian's head and undoes the gag. Minkah gasps at the ability to breathe through his mouth again, panting heavily in deep gulps of air. Grey eyes dart about in fear.
"Minkah?" Grandpa asks, gently touching the Egyptian's tearstained face who flinches in response.
"Don't…" he sobs in Arabic beseechingly. "P-please don't!"
"Don't what?" Grandpa presses but Minkah recoils, shaking uncontrollably.
"Not again! Please not again!"
"What is he saying?" Ichiro asks uneasily.
"His mind's still clouded a bit," Grandpa states eyes never leaving the Egyptian. "Give it a few more minutes."
"Don't! Please not again!"
"Minkah?" I ask, shifting closer and gingerly placing my hand against his wet cheek.
His eyes meet mine, but it's like there's a fog looming in front of his vision. The drug hasn't completely taken effect yet. The white-haired teen tries vainly to scoot away from me, hindered by his bindings. There's such a fear in his eyes that I've never seen the likes of before. Sure, when Marik breaks down there's a similar terror. But something's different here. I can't put my finger on it though. Is he reliving past treatment from Apophis?
"Don't," the Egyptian whimpers hoarsely, looking into my eyes pleadingly. "Please don't…"
"Don't what?" I ask, grasping his shoulder only to jump back as he screams, writhing in another desperate attempt to free himself.
"I thought you said it would calm him!" Hiroki snaps.
"It is. This isn't a miracle drug. It's not automatic," Grandpa replies resignedly.
"What's he talking about?" I ask my grandfather whose eyes have become grave.
His facial muscles tighten, lips pursed. Violet eyes stare at the Egyptian who's watching all of us charily; shivering in both cold and fear. The delirium also has no doubt taken an immense amount of energy from him.
"The abuse," Grandpa finally murmurs, our eyes meeting. "The rape."
Kaiba.
My mouth goes dry. Oh gods. The day Minkah was ordered to kill my brother and Marik…That evening when Ryou and Afika brought Minkah to the Gameshop…he'd been covered in blood and was in complete hysterics. He'd been severely beaten, having internal bleeding. Moreover, he'd been raped.
"What's all this about?" Hiroki demands in irritation.
"I mentioned earlier that Minkah has been severely mistreated the majority of his life," Grandpa explains, casting a pitying look at the Egyptian. "Among the other unforgivable things he endured was rape." He focuses his attention on the soldiers. "Just what happened when you took him into custody?"
"He cut an officer's arm off," one mutters irately. Well that would explain the blood.
Grandpa grimaces. "Yes, but before that. Did you talk with him at all or ambush him? Did you identify yourselves?"
"None of the men here were present when his arrest took place," Hiroki replies coolly. "Are you accusing my soldiers of assaulting him, Mr. Mutou?"
"Not at all. I'm just trying to figure out what triggered these hallucinations—or, more correctly, these memories. Right now he's terrified we're going to rape him." The soldiers start. "Did your men make their intentions clear?"
"They surrounded him and informed him that they knew he belonged to the former organization known as Apophis. He resisted, using a long knife on them."
"What about when they took his coat and boots? And what on earth did you do to his shirt?" Grandpa asks disapprovingly.
"We'd already bound him and were trying to find the tattoo…" the interrogator begins.
"What about it?" Hiroki cuts in.
Grandpa scowls, thoroughly disgusted. "Try picturing it in the mind of a rape victim. You were forcefully removing his clothing…"
"Plus the weapon check," Ichiro murmurs thoughtfully. Everyone gives him inquiring looks. "After putting someone under arrest they search the person…" His face turns a light shade of pink as everyone waits for further validation. "Well…you know…You pat up and down their body searching for concealed weapons…"
"Which his mind could easily have mistaken for something else," Grandpa nods conscientiously.
The small hut goes quiet. Minkah's breathing is evening, though his eyes don't leave us for a second. Ichiro stares down at the binder in his hands. The other soldiers shift uncomfortably. Hiroki sighs.
"This has become quite a turn of events. Still, I want further confirmation. You know this boy better than we do. What do you propose?"
"Let's try having one person talk with him…have everyone else stand back," Grandpa suggests.
"Logical enough," the lieutenant nods, scratching his chin. "Who do you suggest?"
"Well, seeing as how he's only speaking in Arabic at the moment…"
"I thought as much," Hiroki says disdainfully, obviously not keen of situation. "Still, I suppose until he's been calmed we won't be getting any answers from him. Go ahead then."
"Actually, I'd rather Yami here do it, if that's all right." I turn to Grandpa in surprise. "Minkah might respond better to a peer."
"Fine."
They all move towards the door but don't leave. I glance at Grandpa who gives me an encouraging nod. The trepidation in his expression cannot be masked. So it all comes down to me does it? I exhale shakily, scooting closer to the Egyptian that I'm still kneeling by. I can feel their eyes on my back. And even though Grandpa will be the only one of them able to understand what I'm saying, I'm still nervous.
"Minkah?" I ask softly, reaching over and gently resting my hand on his bare shoulder.
He shudders at the touch, lip trembling. "P-please."
Despite this entreaty, I see that he's more attentive than before. This bodes in my favor, provided that he's not harboring as much resentment against me as he might be for Malik and Ryou.
"No one is going to rape you," I say in the most reassuring voice I can muster given how anxious I myself feel.
The Egyptian's eyes tear up. "They…they t-took my clothes and wouldn't stop t-touching me…" This ends in a choked sob as he tries to pull away from me.
I don't relent, squeezing with my fingers but not enough to make if feel like I'm holding him down. It does look like they gave him at least a few strikes. While it's highly unlikely the soldiers abused him sexually, that doesn't mean Minkah didn't misread their actions. After the hell he's been through it's only to be expected that he react badly to any aggressive behavior—particularly from a large group of armed strangers.
"Minkah look at me," I insist. This is important in getting through to him. We've dealt with similar situations with Marik.
Tremulous, he lifts his head, grey eyes meeting mine. I manage a weak smile. Looking at his face, I can see the internal battle he's having; trying to decide whether to trust me or not. Grandpa and the others haven't come near or spoken. It's best to talk with Minkah one on one. The more people there are the greater threat he'll feel.
"Don't look at anyone else," I instruct as he moves to do just that. "Just focus on me. Keep using Arabic. The soldiers don't speak it."
"But they…"
"Are you hurt badly?" I interrupt, intent on luring his mind from the memories involving Kaiba.
Minkah winces, blood dried under his nose. "Not b-badly. They kicked and punched me a bit…"
I nod even as I have the urge to stand and beat the men behind me to a bloody pulp. Besides, showing any anger even in my facial expressions or voice will only frighten him.
"I…where's my knife?"
I blink in confusion. That wasn't something I'd expect him to say given his mindset only minutes ago. Why obsess over a weapon? Perhaps he wants it so he'll feel less vulnerable?
"They most likely confiscated it," I reply slowly, unsure of what his reaction will be. Panic sets in his features. "Grandpa and I are here. Don't worry about protecting yourself. We'll do that for you."
He shakes his head, alarm apparent. "They can't have it! I need it!"
This desperation in his voice is making me apprehensive. "Why? Minkah, what's so important about that knife?" I tighten my fingers on his shoulder, urging him to speak.
He looks down before whispering, "It…that's the knife…I used in the assassinations."
I've stopped breathing, utter dread taking hold. The soldiers will indubitably take the knife to their headquarters or a lab to compare it with the marks on the victims of Apophis. Then they'll trace it straight back to Minkah.
"Look at me," I repeat, not continuing until the Egyptian complies. "Out here they probably won't be able to confirm it was used in the killings. That will give us time to regroup and think up a plausible response when they question about it."
Minkah gazes at me in mystification. "What? You…why are you here?"
"Grandpa and I came after you and ran into the army people…"
"Why?"
"Why what?"
Grey eyes close, pain clear in his voice. "Why did you come after me?"
My hand leaves his shoulder, gently grasping his chin and encouraging him to turn his head. I don't force it though. He hesitantly obeys, still refusing to open his eyes. My fingers glide tenderly over the side of his face, over the scar.
"Everyone is worried about you."
"No they're not."
These words are spoken so emptily. I know he's referring to Ryou and Malik. Unfortunately, I'm not completely sure what went on between him and my former boyfriend. And whatever it was set Minkah off, causing him to flee. I'm treading on thin ice here.
Any attempt to convince Minkah that Ryou doesn't hate him will be in vain. The Egyptian's heart was shattered when his brother said such spiteful things to him. We've all seen how long it takes to gain Minkah's trust. This will take an immense amount of time to heal.
As for Malik, I don't know what to think, much less say. He had upset Minkah greatly by what he had said or did. It's best to avoid talking about him at all. I don't really feel like it anyway.
"Listen, Minkah. What you believe each of us feel or don't feel cannot be helped at the moment. But we don't have many options, considering the soldiers are already suspicious of you being from Apophis. Now, you can come back to the house…"
"No!" he exclaims, pulling away from my hand. "I'm not going back there!"
"…or you can stay here with these people," I finish seriously.
He pales at this. I don't say any more. Too much 'positive' talk could turn him against me as well. I bite my lip. The soldiers behind us are getting impatient, shifting and muttering to one another. Grey eyes focus on me again.
"If…if I go back…do I have to see them?" he asks softly.
"Not if you don't want to," I reply, knowing how difficult it will be to keep that promise.
Ryou will understandably want to apologize to his brother. And Malik is one of the most stubborn individuals I've ever met. He'll want to talk with the Egyptian as well. Right now, though, the top priority is getting Minkah out of here. I'll worry about the consequences later.
(Malik's POV)
The room is quiet for a long while. The only sounds are the crackling of the fire and hushed voices of my brother and friends in the kitchen. I look down at the bandaging on my torso, thanking the gods for my quick reflexes. Minkah really could have cut through me, given the manic state he was in when he lashed out at me.
I told Ryou…everything. For the first time I didn't hold any of it back, though I didn't get too detailed when physical happenings were concerned. The bathroom, Discotheques, the dressing room, the bus, Yami and I's argument, Minkah and I's argument…Gods, how could I let it come to this? How could I have let things get so out of control?
"He's in love with Afika, you know," Ryou suddenly murmurs from where he's seated on the floor next to the couch.
I nod, throat muscles tightening. "I know."
"I hated Minkah for it…I hurt him because of it." Brown eyes gaze into mine. "Don't do that to him too, Malik. He and Afika…well, it's obvious we don't know as much as we thought about my brother. If Afika is the person that can make him happy then…" Ryou takes a shuddering breath. "…then that's who he should be with."
Nodding again, I try to keep my emotions at bay. Ryou's hurting over this too. He was in love with Afika—still is to some degree. Sure, it's a bit different of a scenario than mine, but he's still being forced to face it.
"I just wish…Hell, I don't know what I wish," I groan in frustration, rubbing my eyes with my fingers. "Everything's such a mess."
"They'll find him. Mr. Mutou and Yami will find him," the white-haired teen says earnestly, resting a pale hand on mine. "They'll bring him back here and we'll get this all sorted out."
I sigh. "You have no idea how much I want to believe that…"
We both jilt at the rumbling sound of an engine. It's not a snowmobile engine though. This is louder, powerful. The others come hurrying into the room in confusion and apprehension.
"What the hell is that?" Jounouchi asks, eyeing the front door reproachfully.
"It can't be Niu already…can it?" Yugi asks nervously, clutching Honda's arm.
"If it is, he's sure not making any effort to give an element of surprise," the brunette mutters.
No one moves for the door. The curtains are drawn. What was it that Minkah said?—That Niu isn't enthusiastic on killing people? If so, he'd probably do it as quickly and 'humanely' as possible. Maybe just set up a couple of bombs around the house? He's supposed to be the technological genius after all. But no: not unless he was sure Minkah wasn't in here.
Everyone tenses up at the sound of a key in the lock. Honda and Jounouchi stand in front of the rest of us, trembling nonetheless. Marik and Ryou have come over and are kneeling next to Ryou whose fingers are constricting tightly around mine.
"Boys?" a voice calls as the door opens quickly with a gust of frigid air.
"Grandpa!" Yugi cheers in relief, rushing over to the man and hugging him.
I become rigid when I see the four tall figures looming behind the pair. They're lofty men dressed in all-grey uniforms, large guns slung over their wide shoulders. Guns are not allowed in
Japan, save for a few particular exceptions. How Mr. Bakura got his slimy hands on one, I haven't a clue. But who are these people? They're not any of the Apophis members…unless Afika and his crew didn't manage to kill everyone else off.
"What's going on?" Honda asks, edgy.
Grandpa, instead of answering, turns to the men. "Thank you for driving us back here. Please tell Lieutenant Hiroki not to hesitate to send someone if he has any further questions."
One of the men nods, face nearly covered by a woolen scarf. "I will inform him. Remember to keep the boy within the perimeter we've set. In the meantime, we'll be keeping watch to ensure the safety of all of you."
Grandpa nods. "Thank you."
The men all bow stiffly, turning in flawless synchronization and walking towards a monstrous black vehicle rumbling in front of the cottage. It looks like a mixture of a tank, Hummer, and army transportation truck. Grandpa sighs heavily as he closes the door, violet eyes drained.
"Where's Yami?" Yugi asks fearfully.
"Yeah, what gives?" Jounouchi puts in as Grandpa and Yugi come over to us. "Who were those guys?"
"There are an elite secret army put together by the government to track down and capture the Apophis survivors. They arrested Minkah and the poor boy had a complete breakdown..."
"Did they hurt him?" Ryou asks, voice strained.
Grandpa shakes his head. "Not badly. Yami and I came upon them by pure luck and were able to convince them to release him to us."
(Malik's POV)
"But where is Minkah? Is he all right?" Ryou presses persistently.
"And Yami! Where's Yami?" Yugi asks simultaneously.
Grandpa holds up a gloved hand. "They're both safe. Now, I must get downstairs to unlock the garage door so they can get in."
We all blink in confusion.
"What do you mean, gramps?" Jou quirks an eyebrow. "Why didn't they just come in wit' you?"
"Because Minkah can't handle seeing everyone at the present moment. He's very shaken." He walks past us towards the stairs.
"Can I come?" Ryou blurts before he can stop himself.
"Yeah, I mean, you said Mink can't handle all of us, but if it's just Ryou…"
"I'm afraid that's out of the question," Grandpa states quietly, back to us. "Please try to understand." He turns at this, looking straight into Ryou's wide brown eyes.
The white-haired teen is trembling, face even paler than I ever imagined it could be. I struggle to sit up, reaching over and grasping his thin hand.
"I…I don't get it," Yugi stutters uneasily.
"Neither do I," Jou concurs. "Ry is his brother…"
"It's all right," Ryou cuts in somberly. "I understand, Mr. Mutou."
My grandfather smiles sadly. "This is just temporary. Give him a little time. Now, I'd better get down there. They're waiting in the garage and it's blisteringly cold."
Ryou nods, eyes downcast. I squeeze his hand gently. Damn it. We both know what this means. Of all the people in this house, the two that Minkah is going to want to avoid the most are Ryou and I.
(Mr. Mutou's POV)
"Sorry about the wait. Just had to give a quick explanation to the others," I apologize, leading the small party into the downstairs hallway.
Yami is supporting Minkah by the arm. The Egyptian obviously isn't comfortable at all by the physical contact but the amount of stress that his body has gone through plus the medication have taken their toll on his body. Four soldiers bring up the rear. They don't look especially pleased. After all, no one at the base had been contented with the final agreement made concerning Minkah. Ichiro, perhaps, but definitely not the others; a great deal due to the fact that the Egyptian sliced an arm off of one of their comrades.
"Yami, why don't you help Minkah find something warmer to…well, something to wear," I finish, casting an eye over the Egyptian who's clutching a coat around his bare shoulders. As the boys disappear into Yami and Malik's room, I turn back to the soldiers. "Well then…"
Our attention is drawn to the sound of footsteps on the spiral staircase in the open room behind us. I turn slightly to find all of the boys, including Malik. They stop short at the sight before them.
"Gramps…Oh. There's more of them?"
"Yes," I say between my teeth. "And I could have sworn I told all of you to stay upstairs."
"That's quite all right," one of the soldiers states curtly. "We'll be on our way."
"Of course," I nod as they head for the door that connects to the garage. They pause.
"After we leave make sure to lock all doors and windows."
"Certainly," I agree.
"Gramps, what's…?"
"We'll be keeping in touch. You have the radio the lieutenant gave you?" the man continues as if the blonde weren't even here.
"Yes," I answer holding up the device, just wishing they would leave so I can tend to Minkah and calm the others.
Hard brown eyes gaze at me from under the snow-covered cap. "You will contact us if anything seems even remotely…"
"We will call right away should anything seem off," I interrupt, allowing irritation to become apparent my voice to stress the point that I want them out.
The soldier's upper lip curls slightly into a sneer. "Excellent. Then we have an understanding."
Cold cuts into our skin as the door opens, the other three men exiting. As the last moves to leave, he cranes his neck, eyes narrowed. "Oh, and as a reminder: if that little bitch takes so much as one step out of the agreed perimeter, he's ours."
The door slams behind him, the walls vibrating. I wait until there's the creaking of the double doors of the garage going down and the thundering of their vehicle driving away. Hurrying forward, I relock the door, glaring at it. The nerve of that man. The bedroom door next to the bathroom opens, Yami emerging and closing it behind him.
"He's getting changed," my grandson says simply.
I nod, exhaling in relief at being back here where it's warm and relatively safe. Yami and I join the rest of them in the large television room. Malik is lying across the couch, Yugi perched on the arm. Everyone else is sitting on the floor. I sink down onto a leather chair, my body and mind worn.
"What's going on? Do they suspect…?" Yugi whispers.
"I think that's already pretty obvious," Honda snorts. "But why let him go if they believe Minkah's part of Apophis?"
"Because they didn't have the evidence to prove it, thank god," I breathe. "But that doesn't mean we're out of the woods yet. They have the weapon Minkah used in the assassinations. And, as you heard, they've given us a radio so they can contact us at any time. They've also proclaimed boundaries which Minkah shall not be permitted to pass."
(Ryou's POV)
Ra, I just want to see my brother. I can't imagine what he's going through right now, especially after the arguments with me and Malik. Now he's been…well, I don't really know what happened to him or how badly he broke down when in the soldiers' custody. Yami and Mr. Mutou haven't elaborated on that yet.
"So what happens now?" Marik's soft voice asks.
"They wanted some of their men to stay here with us," Yami explains darkly, showing through this attempted hidden anger that more happened than is being shared. "Luckily, Grandpa talked them out of it. They will, however, be all over the forest."
"What—are they waiting for Minkah to like kill us or something?" Honda asks skeptically.
Yami shakes his head head. "Not so much. To put it bluntly: we're pretty much their bait now. They're hoping Apophis is aware of our presence here and will come."
Jou scratches the back of his neck. "Well…then it's not…all that bad. I mean, sure we'll be under surveillance, but we'll also be protected from those Apoppy loons."
"That's true. Whether or not these soldiers will be able to hold their own against Apophis is one thing, but at least we'll have some warning at any rate. It should be fine as long as we can keep Minkah from doing anything rash such as trying to flee again," Malik concurs, face solemn.
I look at the carpet, trying to concentrate on each little fiber instead of thinking about Minkah refusing to see me. I wouldn't blame him if he never wanted to speak with me again. It's just…I don't think I could live with that. Without him. Mr. Mutou grunts slightly as he gets back to his feet.
"I'm going to go check on him. And please, for goodness sake, stay here this time."
I watch the elderly man tread slowly down the hallway, yearning to go with him. It would only upset Minkah though. My vision falls upon Malik to see a longing expression on his face, certain that's exactly what mine looks like too.
(Minkah's POV)
I can't believe I'm back here. Why did they bring me back here? Why did they follow me in the first place? I've only been a nuisance, a pest ruining everything in its wake. Yami and Malik lost their relationship because of me. If I hadn't led Malik on two months ago…
And Ryou. I've done so much more damage to him than he'll ever know. He blames me for his hurts, and he's right to do so. Why didn't I listen to Afik? To her? If I hadn't failed her all those years ago I wouldn't be going through this pain now.
I cast aside my soaked socks and torn jeans, now donned in dark blue flannel pajamas. Well, at least they're warm. I glance around the room, unsure of what I'm supposed to do now. They're all in the lounge down the hallway. I can hear their voices. Therefore, I'm not going out there. Malik's out there. He's out there. Why didn't I listen to her? She'd been right all along and here I was getting close to the bastard's son…and not with the intention to harm him either. My muscles tighten at a soft tapping on the door, backing away from it.
"Minkah?" the old man calls. "May I come in?"
How I wish I had my knife or at least something to defend myself. While the possibility of him overpowering me is zero to none, I can't help but fight the feeling that he wants something from me. Adults always want something. But this man…I don't understand him. And that scares me.
"Minkah?" His voice is a bit louder this time, worry evident.
"What?" I manage, struggling to keep my own voice from shaking.
"May I come in?"
Taking one last look around the room, I realize there's nothing I can do for now. Until I know what he's after my unease will only intensify. Clenching my fists, I finally reply.
"Fine."
He enters quietly, closing the door behind him. I'm trembling. I can't help it. Why am I acting this way? Oh right. Kaiba. All those memories I've been unable to suppress.
"You look ready to fall over. Sit down," the man says kindly, gesturing to the bed.
I reluctantly do as he says. To my relief, he doesn't join me. That's something I would not tolerate. I don't want any of them close to me…especially on a bed. The short man stands before me, violet eyes laced with concern. Averting my eyes, I look at the floor instead, trying to get the tremors to stop.
"How are you feeling?" he asks to which I offer a shrug. He sighs. "Listen Minkah, I know you didn't want to come back here and I'm sorry for that. There wasn't much of a choice, considering those people are convinced you're from Apophis. We need to talk about them more
tomorrow so we're clear on several things, but for now I think it's best that you get some sleep." To this I only nod.
He doesn't leave though. What does he want now? Did he use the drugs to weaken me so he could…?! My eyes shoot to him and I battle the urge to get as far away from him as possible. The elderly man notes the panic in my eyes, features softening with pity. This makes me hate him all the more. Pity? How dare he pity me! I don't want it nor any of his other 'feelings'. Pity is for the weak.
You are weak.
I bite my lip as she hisses this at me. I'll get it done, Um. I promise I will. I was blinded before but not now. He's made it clear to me. I won't fail you this time.
"Minkah, I know you're uncomfortable around us, but I'm going to have to insist that someone stay with you through the night." He must notice the horror mounting in my features, because he continues. "Don't worry. There are two beds here. Whoever it is won't have to be anywhere near you. However, due to your most recent breakdown, I want someone else in here just in case. You shouldn't be alone right now."
"I can take care of myself," I retort scathingly but know he's not going to relent.
"You and I both know what these hallucinations can do. I've seen it with you and Marik. I will say it again: I must insist someone stay here with you," he replies calmly but firm.
"Whatever," I mutter, though my heart is racing. I'm going to be alone with someone in here? I don't trust them—any of them. They'll just take advantage me! Gods, I can't go through that again! I just can't!
"Minkah?"
I blink, coming out of my internal turmoil to realize he's asked me a question.
"W-what?"
"I asked you who you'd like to come in here."
Wait he…he's letting me choose?
He smiles faintly. "I want to you pick the person you feel the most comfortable with, though it cannot be Marik, as you know. He's not stable enough. Any of the others, myself included."
I rack my brain, unable to come up with anyone. Not this man here. Not Malik. He'd just try to have his way with me. Definitely not the bastard's son. While there's unfinished business concerning him, I'm not ready to face him yet. Hell, I don't trust any of them. How am I supposed to decide?
(Niu's POV)
It's quiet out here save for the wailing wind. I take in my surroundings, the device in my hand aiding me in navigating through this desolate forest of ice. I had to abandon the car a long ways back. Cringing as the blistering wind cuts into my raw face, I pull my scarf over it, concealing all but my eyes which are stinging. Gods, nobody should be out here. This is insane. What do people find so appealing about snow anyway? Yet another thing I'll never understand.
My fingers constrict around the device I myself created as it gives me a thermal reading. There are other people close by. It must be the new 'army' that Afika informed me about. I wonder if they've made their move yet. Hopefully not. It'll be much more difficult to save Minkah if he's already fallen into their clutches. And if he has, he's most likely being subjected to cruel treatment right now.
I glare at the whiteness around me, the trunks of the trees coated in snow. Needles of ice whiz through the air, cutting into my exposed skin. The snow is past my knees, nearly reaching my thighs like quicksand trying to pull me under. Then somewhere ahead of me comes the barely audible sound of voices speaking in Japanese.
"…still can keep an eye on him….the mansion…lure the others…Apophis…"
"Right…little brat…We should have killed him when we had the chance…of good it does to let him go…"
"I don't trust those people…they'll probably…and flee…"
"…doubtful. Then they'd be just as damned…"
The hood over my head, the wind, and my limited Japanese keep me from understanding much else. Still, it's enough. If my theory I've developed from these tidbits of a conversation is correct: they captured Minkah but he's back with the Mutous now. Whether they're being held prisoner or not is yet to be seen. I'll have to go to the mansion and confirm that. Remaining on guard, I trudge slowly through the snowstorm, knowing there's still a long walk ahead of me.
(Marik's POV)
"So…how is he, Yami man?" Jou asks after a drawn out silence as we sit around the blank television.
Yami's seated in the chair where Grandpa had been. He looks completely drained. Now our grandfather is speaking privately with Minkah. While we've been reassured the Egyptian is safe and sound here in the house, Yami and Grandpa have yet to tell us anything about his current condition.
"Did they hurt him?" Ryou whispers from beside me on the floor next to the couch.
Yami takes a shuddering breath. "Not badly. He took a few good kicks and punches, but other than that…"
"What would have happened if you and Grandpa hadn't…?" Yugi can't finish that thought.
"They would have tortured him for information regarding Apophis, no doubt," Jou states morosely. "That's the kind of shit these secret forces pull. Who would stop them? Hell, they probably have permission from the government to do it."
"I think this goes far beyond the Japanese government," my brother states, wrapping an arm around me, keeping an eye on how this discussion is effecting me.
Honda folds his arms across his chest. "Right. Minkah did say Afika and the others are destroying all of the Apophis bases. The entire world should be aware that they're alive and will be resolute on capturing them by whatever means necessary."
I look at the large black TV screen, just able to make out our slightly distorted reflections on its smooth surface. It is now becoming clearer how dangerous a situation we're in. Do the others even realize?
'By whatever means necessary.'
"So…we're going up against the whole world then," I murmur.
All of their eyes are upon me. Malik's arm tightens around my shoulders, pulling me closer to him from where he's lying on his back on the couch. He doesn't want me to be here—to be involved in this mess. None of us do, but that's out of our hands now.
"No no, Mare. Afika and his crew are the ones facing the superpowers," Jou snickers, leaning back. "Ah, poor bastards."
"Apophis or the governments?" my brother smirks slightly.
"Eh, same difference."
Honda rolls his eyes. "You and politics…"
"Hey, just 'cause it's all corrupted…"
"Perhaps that's partially due to the fact that you don't know squat about any of it," the brunette cuts in to which everyone laughs, save two of us. "You really should read the paper once in a while."
"Nah. S'boring crap," the blonde waves his hand dismissively. "Hey Ry, Mare, what's the matter?"
I glance over at Ryou, wondering if he's thinking the same thing I am. One look into those wide brown eyes and I know it's true. He's comprehended. He stares back at me, begging me to be the one to explain. I turn to our friends.
"What I said earlier…about us facing off against the world…it's true. We're harboring an Apophis assassin. Do you know what will happen if we get caught?—to Minkah? To us? They wouldn't hesitate to give us the same treatment as they would to him."
This casts the room into another uneasy silence. Reality's cold hand has finally taken a hold of us. What will they say to this? Does everyone feel it's worth the risk to protect Minkah? Have the costs become too great?
"Mink's never had a normal life," Jounouchi mutters, perhaps to himself. "It's not fair what he's had to go through." Russet eyes are determined, lit with a fire of resolve. "If we back down now, he'll lose his one chance of ever having one."
"I'm with Jou on this," Yami agrees.
The rest of us murmur our consensus, much to my relief. It's at this that the bedroom door down the hallway opens. Grandpa enters the room a few moments later. Something's off. It's his eyes. They're troubled.
I help Malik sit up while everyone else stands.
"How is he?" my brother asks.
"Better than I expected. He's still shaken but is definitely more lucid than before." He hesitates at this. "I want someone to stay in the room with him overnight in case he has another breakdown…also just for the sake of having someone nearby." We all nod.
Ryou gulps. "Could I…?"
"I decided it was best that Minkah choose the person, seeing as how we're trying to assure and relax him," Grandpa states, face saying it all.
Minkah didn't choose Ryou.
"He…it's not me, is it? I mean, I'm all for supporting him but I'm not really all that comfortable around him…" Jou mumbles warily, wringing his hands.
Grandpa smiles somberly. "Don't fret, Jounouchi. It's not you." The blonde lets out a thankful sigh. Grandpa's eyes move over our group again, lingering particularly on Malik and Ryou, obviously worried about what their reactions will be to this.
"So who…?"
"He wants Yami."
(Malik's POV)
I swear my heart's stopped.
Minkah…chose Yami over the rest of us? Why my former koi? He and Minkah barely know one another! What makes him so special?
Yami's gone pale, eyes wide in mystification. "M-me? Why me?"
Grandpa sighs. "Most likely due to what happened at the base. While it's true we've all seen him break down, this time has been the most extreme to him…of which he can remember, that is. You were the one that got him through it."
"But…but…!"
"If Yami doesn't want to do it…" I pipe up.
Grandpa sends me a look that tells me to stop talking. "Yami, please, this isn't easy for any of us. I'll stay down here in case you need any help. I know this is a lot to ask of you. If it's too much, just tell me now and we'll think of something else…"
"No," my former boyfriend says, steadying his voice. "I can do it."
He and Grandpa gaze at one another for a while before our grandfather nods his assent.
"Very well. Come along then."
Yami mutely follows, neither of them looking back at our hushed group. Ryou's eyes are glassy as he tries to hide the emotional injury of being shunned by his brother. Jou and Honda are both shifting awkwardly, not looking at anyone. Yugi's staring at the now empty hallway. Marik's beside me, squeezing my hand. Me? I'm at a complete loss.
Gods, why is this bothering me so much? I was partially responsible for setting Minkah off in the first place. Should it really come as a surprise that he doesn't want to be anywhere near me? No, it's not that. Then what the hells is it?
"He wants Yami."
The wording. It's the choice of words the Grandpa used. While it may have seemed insignificant to everyone else, to me there's the dread of possibly a deeper meaning behind that sentence—an implication of what I fear the most. Yami told me nothing happened between him and the Egyptian at the bus station and yet…
"He wants Yami."
(Kasiya's POV)
"Niu is completely unreliable. I say we butcher the bastard as soon as we meet up with him," Kek suggest, a hunger for blood dripping in his voice. "He'll only hold us back with his whole 'I don't like killing people' shit."
I glance over at Afika as we move about the vacant gas station. The clerks' bodies are strewn in the front. We're in the back room, a storage area, ridding our vehicles of all things that are no longer necessary. Severa was less than enthused when we began the task, but when Afika told her she could burn the place to the ground once we'd vacated she began working quite vigilantly. With the oil underneath the ground it should create quite an explosion; something that excites her greatly. Kek is throwing pieces of scrap metal into a pile, opting for crushing the pipes as he removes them from the back of the car rather than simply taking them out. I sigh heavily, casting an eye at the van sitting there silently, knowing full well what's inside.
"Let's not be too hasty," Afika grins from where he's perched atop a large wooden crate, fingers dancing like mad on the keys of a laptop. "Niu may still be of use to us. And now that we know a militia has been created with the sole purpose of destroying us, I'd say it's in our best interests to keep him on hand."
"I see," I nod, carefully packing ammunition from the semi into the car's trunk. "We'll be able to get around those people a lot easier with Niu's gadgets."
"Exactly. So clam it with this pointless drabble, Kek."
Kek scowls, muscles flexing as his beady eyes snap to Afika who pays him no attention. "And what about Minkah? What if the soldiers already have him? They'll torture him until he sings like a canary."
Brown eyes narrow as they glow slightly from the computer screen, yet Afika doesn't reply. The large man is teetering on that borderline that should not be crossed and he knows it. The black-haired teen's lack of response only seems to please Kek who looks ready to make some toxic comment that could start a brawl.
"Has Niu made any further contact with us?" I ask a little too loudly, keen on keeping this from turning into a bloodbath.
"Not as of late. The storm will hinder him quite a bit," Afika answers simply, never once looking at us.
He's so hard to read, yet despite that fact, we all know he's nervous about Minkah. While Apophis existed, the two of them kept their relationship a secret from everyone. I don't even know when they had time to spend alone together or where, but apparently they had. When Afika contacted us from Japan, saying the take-over date was being drastically moved, we refused to
budge without a reason. To my surprise, he didn't bother trying to beat around the bush, flat-out telling us of the predicament with Minkah and Seto Kaiba as well as his own romantic involvement with Minkah. The ebony-haired teen had informed us that if we didn't agree to act immediately then he would go in alone. That was all it took. We needed him in order to get out. He was woven so much deeper into Apophis than the rest of us and can come up with the most unimaginable yet brilliant plans. So we came.
When he first selected the five of us, telling us we were going to obliterate Apophis, I didn't believe we could pull it off. When he told us to come to Japan and assist him in slaughtering Seto Kaiba and his cronies, I didn't believe it would work. By the time we were flying back to Egypt I had become an unquestioning follower. We defeated Apophis just like he said we would. We wiped the scum off the face of the earth. Then we'd faked our own suicides and the world believed it.
But now…do we still need him?
I no longer understand what his objectives are. We destroyed the bases, therefore all but announcing to the world that we are still alive. Now we're chasing after a petty bunch of civilians who aren't worth the time of day. Besides retrieving Minkah, what are we doing exactly? What's the point?
When we destroyed Apophis I didn't really know what to expect. Would we all go our separate ways? Would we go undercover and move far away from Egypt? No. We remained assassins, only more petty than before. It's gotten pathetic. We're not even killing anyone worthwhile. Afika knows this though. There's something else at work going on here. I cast a doubtful glance at him.
'What are you keeping from us?'
"Niu."
Everyone stops what they're doing, glancing at the computer of which only Afika can see the screen from where he's sitting above us.
"What's your report?" he asks monotonously. How can he keep such a calm composure?
"They're at the mansion. From what I could gather when spying on a bunch of soldiers…"
"You might have been able to catch more if you took the time to learn the language better," Kek sneers scornfully.
The sarcasm in Niu's voice is plain. "Well if you'll find me some free time for that, Kek, then I'll gladly…"
"Enough!" Afika snaps impatiently. "Quite bickering. Niu, what's your position?"
"I'm within sight of the mansion that Ryuui left to the Mutous. Minkah is with them." Afika's expression doesn't change. "As I was saying before: from what I can gather, Minkah was captured by the military but has been released into the Mutous' custody. So he's safe for the moment."
Afika rubs his chin in thought. "What about information concerning the secret militia?"
"They have set up a base several miles from the mansion. I counted thirty-seven buildings in all. They also have quite a few large vehicles created not only for war but also natural elements like this. They're no doubt bullet-proof," Niu's voice crackles. "I haven't confirmed yet, but I believe they might be taking over several other estates in the mountains, allowing them to cover a wider range."
"He can figure all of this out and yet he can't carry a simple conversation in Japanese," Kek mutters condescendingly.
"I do know the basics!" Niu retorts in the language, despite having a small accent.
I chuckle at the irritation visible on Kek's face by the fact the black teen was able to retaliate. "So how many of these people are there, Niu?"
"That, I do not know. Well over a hundred."
"They have their bait," Severa state nonchalantly, eyes dull. "Now they're waiting for the predator…which is also the prey."
"What?" Kek grunts, looking over at her in perplexity.
"They know we're coming," I murmur, gazing up at Afika, gauging his reaction.
The corners of his mouth twitch. "Niu, you said there are other mansions and cottages up there. Can you find one that the army hasn't occupied?"
"I…yeah. But I thought we were going to go straight to the Mutous'. Why…?"
"Just do it." Our leader, without further ado, closes the laptop.
The three of us wait for him to elaborate on what he's thinking. Instead, he leans forward, hunched over the closed device. Afika suddenly bursts out laughing, shoulders shaking, a feral animalistic sound rupturing from his throat; eyes open and crazed, fingers curled around the laptop's edges. A shiver runs up my spine as I wait for him to compose himself. Kek is watching our leader with narrowed eyes while Severa just stands next to me, seemingly unaffected by this display. Heaving a few deep breaths, the laughter halts abruptly as if it'd never occurred.
"Well? What are we going to do?" Kek asks gruffly.
Only then do those eyes fall upon us, wide with wicked delight. "Our former prey is now being protected by our new prey, which themselves consider us prey. These new adversaries will not let us live under any circumstances, yet they're obligated to protect Minkah and the freaks, therefore doing us a great favor." He snickers at some joke only he understands. "Oh this is wonderfully ironic. And we can definitely take advantage of it." Afika grins at this, running his fingernails along the sleek surface of the laptop.
"What are you proposing?" I ask, perturbed by this change in the black-haired teen's demeanor.
"…You said you've been craving blood, Kek?" The large man only nods. "Well then, we'd better hope Niu can find a suitable vacant cabin."
"Why?" Kek persists with annoyance.
"Because," our leader smiles lazily, eyes narrowing. "We're going on vacation."
-rubs hands together- Yessss...so that was chapter ten.
O.O Ye gads, that's only chapter 10! After all this time we're only on frikin' chapter 10!
minkah: yes, I think we've established that fact by now.
Arrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrgh!!
Yami: Yikes. -backs away-
-breathes deeply- Oookay then. I feel better.
Three notes:
1: Malik shouldn't be so emo-like for much longer
2. Once again: no more rape or torturing of Minkah
3: I've already begun the next chapter
Reviewsies! XD