#god i love priest seto so much i want him for myself…

[heavenly-hand]

Jounouchi crushing on the bigger, cooler, tan version of Kaiba?!

AU in which Priest Seto can take over Kaiba‘s body via the Millennium Rod just like Atem with Yugi. Priest Seto wants to play matchmaker for Kaiba and Jounouchi, but to do that, he first needs to get to know Jounouchi better… Jounouchi is caught off guard by this new version Kaiba, while the actual Kaiba is burning with jealousy lmao

[sugirandom]

I didn't watch all of the series but I'd like to, I think I left off at like episode 11 or something? In terms of vampire Anime I watched Vampire Princess Miyu but that Anime's kinda unique as the main focus is her going after supernatural creatures that are actively harming people, I believe this is because she's half-human or at the very least still has a compassion towards humans as she spent most of her childhood not knowing she was a vampire. So, it doesn't feel as much like a traditional vampire Anime to me and perhaps that's why I liked it more.

I heard about Hellsing and Blood+ but never watched either of them. I do know you had a dislike for CLAMP works so I understand your hesitance to try the spin-off. I also never really saw Cowboy Bepop tbh. Ahh yes, Trigun did have a priest character didn't it? Another show I didn't watch but I at least know a bit about it.

Battle City just really had a great aesthetic, the idea of a city set up for dueling was so cool and I do feel like since the Ancient Egypt connection was really picking up in that season the story was gaining a lot of momentum. I was so sad that Malik got taken over by his dark self who is just a bit too sadist and not in an interesting way. I felt the resentment Malik developed towards Atem felt believable in his situation and even though of course I didn't want him to succeed in killing Atem I still felt for him and Rishid. I do love Isis as well, she's a really awesome character.

Yeah I know what you mean about the love triangle Mai, Varon, and Jou actually being interesting and not annoying like most shoujous tend to make them. It was very nice to give Mai more development and bring her back to the story. This is one of the times where I appreciate Anime-exclusive filler arcs, when they bring a loved character back into the plot in a way that the manga neglected to do. I'll be honest, I wasn't invested in Raph either, another reason I made clear that my Raphael was not based on him and I made my YGO Ocs probably later battle city or during Noah's arc at the latest (at least when they were airing here in the U.S.) I though Raph was a tad boring and they didn't really give us any of his motivations until near the end of the arc. Yeah, Amelda's episodes with Seto were good and I could understand him wanting revenge of Kaiba Corp. but as a character alone I agree he's kinda meh.

It's sad tat even 5Ds burned you in the end, I know you were invested in some of the charas for a time. Yeah, Ash having a rival that's better than him is certainly easier to stay invested in than rivals that he's practically best friends with lol. I never watched those seasons of the Anime but I will admit I like Dawn in the games so I can see how she'd be likable in the Anime even if they use her to focus on the contests which, while contests are interesting, they aren't really something i'm that into either. Nice that you have some ships for her too.

Yeah, I def avoided Percy Jackson for the same reason and honestly I don't read much fiction anyway. I remember being gifted a mythology by my mom that only covers Greek, Roman, and Norse mythology and doesn't even bother labeling the first two as Greek and Roman mythology so it gives off this vibe of treating Greek mythology as the default somehow. I still haven't read all of it for that reason and I prefer a book I picked out myself that covers mythologies from around the world. It doesn't help that later I found out that there are plenty of inaccuracies in the recounting of Greek mythology in media and I remember thinking "you guys love it so much so why can't you even tell it properly?" I think a lot of it is placing Christian values into it, for example seeing Hades as evil because he's god of the underworld where that's really not the case in Greek mythology. JoJo's Bizarre adventure mentions Egypt? I feel like when most shows or Anime use it they seem to just like the aesthetic so I'm kinda curious how Jojo would use it.

Hmm yeah sometimes it does take RPing with people who portray those characters to get a deeper understanding of them, especially if they just weren't relatable to you beforehand. I know what you mean, I used to ship Puppyshipping more too, I think it was a very popular fandom ship so I kinda got into it that way. I can understand kinda longing for a ship you used to have. As I multiship I do have some more casual ships that I dipped into that I enjoyed at the time but don't do much with now. Aw man, sad that your friend thought liking Seto was a phase but I am glad you were able to talk to an old friend again regardless. Unless I really stop liking a show or they really go downhill with writing them I don't tend to stop liking a character so I can't imagine I'd respond well if someone thought my liking a fave was a phase. XD Green having seniority as your blorbo over Seto is giving me a hilarious mental image, i feel like he'd be all smug about it too lol.

Yes, I loved that we could learn so much about the characters based on their decks and the strategies they used. I don't blame you for getting bored in the competitve TCG scene with everyone using the same strong cards and strategies just to win. You want to see creative strategies that highlight that person's personality ne? We were spoiled by Takahashi's writing.

Yeah, i mean I didn't write Saphi to be like this dueling champion, he mostly duels for fun and doesn't necessarily have to be the best though he loves competing at the same time if that makes sense. Sophie is super casual though, not even really competing and she just learned to duel because Saphi liked it so much. I can understand Aisu's deck mostly being made as a support deck for Seto and as a career-centered person I don't blame Aisu for not being super into dueling. Haga is a pretty interesting villain, irritating, but interesting at least, I kinda wanted to know more of his backstory but maybe it's for the best we didn't get that.

As the title says this is a mixed dub. Atem is in English and Seto Japanese. So hope you don’t mind. But I do just love the duels in the movie…!

Sugirandom: Ahh, yes I thought when this started that he was using a simulation, dueling in a church does seem dramatic lol. I guess having it be dubbed subbed mix actually made it easier for me to pick up on it being the simulation too because of the disconnect. I don't mind too much, the duel is always epic and it's nice to hear the dub alongside the OG soundtrack instead of 4Kids' music. I really like

Atem's japanese voice though so I'd like to see the whole movie in Japanese one day. I feel like in Japanese Yuugi and Atem sounded more like the same person, he had the deeper voice and different vibe but the voices weren't so different that it felt like the voice was from two seperate bodies.. IDK if that makes sense, I guess it felt like it was easier to imagine that Yuugi was 'possessed' by Atem's spirit in the Japanese version to me.

IDK why I went on that tangent sorry, the CGI in the movie is nice too, it's blended it in nicely and not distracting like some Anime CGI can be! Thanks again for sharing!

[x-atem-x]

@numberoneduelist

He watches the man carefully, though he doesn’t necessarily need to. The Pharaoh is someone who’s emotions are immediately visible in his expression. It’s rare for him to be a closed book.

“That really is a lovely thought.”

Seto is quiet for a moment. His brain is working, gears are turning. He knows that he should probably leave it - this isn’t exactly a problem, per say. He just… He’ll never admit it, but he has… missed Atem. He knows he isn’t the only one who feels like there’s been a hole punched through his chest. He thinks of Yugi, of the dweebs that hang out with him. Surely, they’ve all got reason to want him back.

And if he comes back, the CEO will be able to challenge him again without going to such extreme lengths.

“I don’t see the issue. This is the afterlife, isn’t it? It’s not like these people are going to die again without you.”

He gestures with his cup to the city down below. Perhaps he’s being a little cold, but at this point what’s done is done. If he had the capability of taking them all back without it bringing about a butterfly effect that might end the world or something, he would. He doesn’t. Instead, he has one opportunity. He can make this offer to one man alone.

He’s not sure if this is a solid argument. He’s not really sure how this whole thing works, really. He’s tried to reason it out before and hasn’t been able. He might be starting to grasp this mystical nonsense, but that doesn’t mean he’s anywhere close to understanding everything.

“Right and wrong are subjective, in any case.”

Atem chuckled softly at the man's insistence.

It was sweet of him and he could understand. By all rights, they had no business even knowing one another. Ripples in space and time, the interference of man and Gods alike had put them in each other's paths and then ripped them apart. He missed Seto just as much as the man had missed him. He mourned every day for the boy who had not even been technically born yet.

They had their dimensional counterparts. Yugi and Priest Seto, of course. But it wasn't the same and did not diminish the grief and loss of this, of them.

He looked out in the direction that Seto gestured and said, "Things are not so simple as that, Kaiba. I'm not dead as you might understand it. They are not dead."

The Pharaoh turned to the young man and took one of Seto's hands, pressing it against his chest to feel the beat of his heart, the tangible warmth of life, and solidity of him as he said, "Existence is so much more strange and stupendous than even someone as brilliant as you could ever come to truly comprehend in its entirety. But here, in this place, we are living, breathing, thinking, feeling beings. I do not know if this is death or a continuation of life. If this is an afterlife or a shift in dimension. I do not have those answers."

Atem sighed heavily and added, "I do know that my heart's desire would be to throw myself into oblivion at your side for a chance that you do not destroy us completely with your absolutely insane experimental technology and instead I could instead live a contented and simple life in your world, which I came to love so dearly. But I also know that I am Pharaoh. And that is a heavy burden and a responsibility that I cannot shirk so lightly because of my own whim and want."

The smaller man shifted his hand to touch the pendant around his neck, the familiar pyramid shape of the puzzle, which he had taken from Yugi. A little smile tugged at his lips and he slipped it off, offering it out to Seto as he said, "But perhaps fate may have other plans."

[ayma-nidiot]

In the White Light - Prideshipping fanfic Chapter 18

Also on AO3.

Author’s Note: This chapter is named in honour of an old Boueibu chat @queenofthefaces and I used to be a part of.

This chapter also features hints of Scandalshipping.

Chapter 18 – Big Ass Spider

Mahad returned from the infirmary, back to the court meeting currently taking place in the throne room. “Pharaoh, you’ll be glad to know that your companions have made it out of the Shadow Game alive and well. After they’ve recuperated, I’ll ask them about the foes they’ve faced.”

“Excellent work, Mahad,” Yami Yugi acknowledged as the High Priest sat back down.

Those fools actually survived a Shadow Game? Kaiba, who had reluctantly agreed to sit in on this meeting, tittered. I guess every dog has his day.

“So now that we’ve discussed everything we know so far about our enemy, what is our best course of action, pharaoh?” Isis asked.

“I want you and Mahad to stay and guard the palace while the rest of us move out.”

“A sound decision, Your Majesty,” Karim remarked. “Monster attacks on the palace have been rather scarce lately and have mostly been concentrated in the villages.”

 “Then I will send you and Shada with some of my forces to help protect the villagers. If you find the time, ask them for any information that may be useful to us. You have my permission to leave.”

“At once, Your Majesty.” With that Karim and Shada bowed before equipping themselves with their Millennium Items and DiaDhanks, and heading out the palace.

“But what of you, Priest Seto-”

“That’s Kaiba to you,” Kaiba corrected Mahad with a curt voice.

“My apologies… Er, what will you, Kaiba, and your companions do?”

“We will head out to Anubis’ chamber. Seeing as how he was one of our greatest enemies in the past, perhaps our new enemy is affiliated with him in some way. In fact, I’m almost certain that the zombies you’ve been seeing are getting revenge for their master.”

Kaiba knitted his brow at this announcement. “That… is a very dangerous idea, Yugi. Did the desert dry up your brains? Or are you that eager to repeat history?”

“I’ll have to agree with Kaiba,” spoke Isis. “It is possible that Anubis’ spirit may return and attack you again.”

“Not if they take two of our strongest soldiers.” Mahad called out into the hall, “Mana! Kisara! Your presence is requested in the throne room.”

“Your Eminence.” A young woman with long blue hair and plain beige robes presented herself.

“You called, Master?” A sprightly girl who looked just like Dark Magician Girl joined her. “Oh! Hello again, Pharaoh!”

“Dark Magician Girl! I’m so glad you’re all right after what happened on Atlantis.”

“Likewise, Your Majesty. I’m honoured to fight alongside you again, and on such an important mission, too. Oh, yeah, one more thing. In this world, call me Mana.”

Kaiba had nothing to say to Mana, and instead was more interested in the other young woman. She looks a lot like Maiden with Eyes of Blue!

It was then that this young woman noticed Kaiba staring at her. “Oh! Pardon me for not introducing myself properly. My name is Kisara and… well, we’ve technically met before.”

“I should say the same.” Kaiba took Maiden with Eyes of Blue out of his deck and showed it to her.

Mahad elaborated, “Kisara is the original owner of a powerful ka – or, as you call it in your world, monster – the Blue-Eyes White Dragon.”

“Then consider myself charmed.” Kaiba bowed before arising from the table. “Well, Yugi, if we’re going to go on this death mission, then let’s make it quick.”

“Hey, if rich boy is comin’, then so am I!” declared Joey.

“Figures… But you’re not riding on my back this time, Wheeler. Use your own damned dragon for once.” Kaiba turned to Mokuba.

“Ooh! Can I come?” Mokuba asked.

“Kaiba, I’m not sure taking people without Duel Disks is a good idea,” Yami Yugi warned. “I don’t want my friends to get hurt, and I’m sure you don’t want Mokuba to get hurt either.”

“Don’t you think we know that?” Tristan growled.

“I… I’m not afraid of zombies!” Téa spoke confidently. “We’ve faced them before! And don’t forget all the other trials we’ve been through… We’re tougher than you think, pharaoh.”

“Don’t worry, babe, I’m strong enough to protect us all.” Kaiba held Yami Yugi by the waist. “Don’t you know who I am?”

“My love, overconfidence is a deadly enemy. At least let me do my share of the protecting.”

“Oh my gods, guys, you can flirt after we’ve defeated Anubis’ zombies!” Joey already started running towards the palace exit and started flying on Red-Eyes Black Dragon with Tristan and Yugi. “Last one there’s a rotten egg!”

“You moron. You don’t even know where to find the damned place!” Kaiba shouted after him.

While the remaining people decided who would be riding with whom, Weevil overheard the conversation. Having just emerged from the infirmary, he made sure to stay out of sight. “Looks like Yugi and company are going to some creepy guy’s tomb to face some creepy zombies and get some awesome treasures! We better follow them!”

“Ohohoho, no. Not on your Perfectly Ultimate Great Moth, we’re not. Remember last time? We’re taking the Slash Dragon this time.” Rex summoned this monster.

“Fine, whatever. Just transform into that rabbit form of yours so we don’t blow our cover.”

“I… Um… Okay, I’ll try…” Rex concentrated all of his energy in his torso, but all that came out of it was a loud fart. “Sorry that I’m not cool like Kaiba. I can’t just transform into an animal the way he can.”

“I’ve noticed!” Weevil covered his nose for a few seconds. “Well, hun, you’re going to have to try again!”

“Since you’ve called me that, I’ll try once more for you, baby.” Rex winked before focusing again, and luckily for him, this transformation was successful. “Haha! See? Second time’s the charm. Now make sure you take care of my Duel Disk.”

“Yeah, yeah… Now hurry up before those lamebrains leave without us.” Weevil got onto the Red-Eyes Slash Dragon, and Rex hopped into his arms.

“Hmm…” Kisara closed her eyes, summoning the Blue-Eyes White Dragon - which she, Téa, and Mana promptly mounted.

“Impressive that you can summon one of my favourite monsters out of thin air!” Kaiba transformed into the Blue-Eyes Shining Dragon. “But so can I.”

“Oh boy, oh boy!” Though Mokuba normally was mature for his age, he acted excited, despite the danger of the mission. “Finally, I get to go for a ride!”

“Come, I’ll help you up.” With that, Yami Yugi helped Mokuba and himself mount Kaiba’s back.

“Okay, Mokuba, it’s going to be quite a long ride. So you better hold on tight,” Kaiba advised when everyone had left the palace. “Both onto me and onto my Duel Disk.”

“You got it, bro!” Mokuba liked the breeze that greeted him as Kaiba took to the air. “Wow, what a view! The skyline is so pretty!”

“Yeah, it’s pretty, but don’t forget what we’re supposed to be looking for,” spoke Kaiba.

“Right, uh… Some stone building with a huge jackal statue in front of it.”

“How did you know?”

“Because I see it right there!” Mokuba pointed at the middle-of-nowhere building. “Wh-Whoa!”

When Kaiba had dived to the sand, and Mokuba had faceplanted, Kaiba sighed. “I told you to hang on tight… Now please don’t do anything unnecessary from here on out.”

“Got it,” Mokuba sheepishly replied after Kaiba turned into a human, and he gave him back his Duel Disk.

Kaiba noticed that Mokuba had stiffened up as the party walked deeper into the chamber. “You can talk, you know. Just don’t touch anything.”

“It’s much more elaborate than the last time we’ve visited,” Téa noted.

“And best part is, there aren’t any zombies!” exclaimed Tristan.

“Don’t jinx it, man…” Joey picked up a dagger. “Hey lookit, it’s the Dagger of Fate!”

“‘Last time?’” Téa’s remark intrigued Mana. “You mean you’ve been here before?”

“I’d rather not remember it…”

“You sure looked cool doing that double roundhouse kick, though!” Joey did a few air punches. “And so did the rest of us!”

“Yeah, you sure looked cool running away from the zombies.”

“Oh, stuff it, Tristan.”

Kaiba interrupted the silly talk. “That was around the time I summoned the Blue-Eyes Shining Dragon and nearly kicked Yu- I mean, the pharaoh’s ass. How I still have the card after all that happened with Anubis – and how I can transform into said card – I wish I knew.”

“It’s like I told you during our first time travel, my love. Anubis cursed you after he died.”

“Huh…” Kisara’s voice sounded from even deeper in the chamber. “I wouldn’t be too sure about that, pharaoh.”

“Did you find something?” Yami Yugi lead the other companions to this deeper part, which began to jog his memories. “This…”

“Babe?”

“This place… It’s where I heard… Priest Seto’s last words.” Yami Yugi trembled. He would have fallen to his knees, too, if Kaiba hadn’t held him tall.

Kaiba changed the subject. “So, Kisara, what did you find? …Great. Another giant rock. You can never get enough of them in ancient Egypt, can you? Let me guess, it displays some kind of ‘epic’ battle? Or some other occult nonsense?”

“I don’t know how you can utter that overused phrase of yours after all that’s happened.” Yami Yugi stepped forward to get a better look at the giant stone tablet. The dragon in the middle, which took up nearly half of the tablet’s space, was the first thing to catch his attention. “This tablet looks just like the one I keep at the palace.”

“Guess again, pharaoh.” Kaiba pointed at the only two other pictures on the tablet – a small rabbit and a large spider. “I remember that giant rock well, and it certainly didn’t have a big ass spider on it. Now then…”

“Kaiba?” Kisara looked concerned as Kaiba reached for the sapphire on the Shining Dragon’s head.

“Will you tell me what I want to know?” Kaiba let the powers of this tablet take him and his companions into a vision quest.

“And to think, you didn’t believe in ‘occult nonsense.’”

“Wheeler, if there was a perfect time to shut up, it’s now. Or really any time you think of opening your mouth.”

“Why you…”

“No, Kaiba’s right. Look at who’s here! It’s Anubis!” Mana pointed at a man with messy long blond hair, a cape, and a teal jewel in the middle of his forehead.

Yami Yugi looked at the elderly man standing next to Anubis. He bore the Millennium Eye and wore nothing but flowing white robes. “So… So, it’s true. Aknadin really was Anubis’ accomplice.”

“Tch!” Anubis, clearly displeased at his latest creation, crushed it and sent it into a ball of shadows. “Yet another weak monster! Perhaps using just servants of the Thief King aren’t enough… I have to find the scumbag himself. Maybe then I can stop conjuring things like mere rabbits.”

“If I may?” Aknadin spoke up. In his right hand, he held up a young man – bound and gagged – by the collar. “If we can’t transform the left hand of the Thief King into something powerful, then maybe the right hand will work.”

“I suppose he will have to suffice for the time being…” Anubis sighed as Aknadin threw the young man in front of him.

“Mmmph!” The young man whimpered loudly as eight spider’s legs sprouted from his body, and his form changed.

“Yes…” Anubis admired the black and red spider that towered over him, and the four Red-Eyes Black Dragons it killed. “Finally, a monster that can defeat Aknamkanon!”

“Are you really sure?” Aknadin pointed at this monster that faded as soon as it attacked.

“No… No! What could have been wrong this time?!”

“I’ve heard that certain monsters require certain spells in order to survive. Such may have been the case with this one.”

“Then that’s the last time I’ve tried an experiment using foreign techniques… I’ll have to use Egyptian magic that can rival the Pharaoh’s Incantation. In fact… Speaking of the Pharaoh’s Incantation… Hahahaha!”

“That’s… so disgusting!” Téa started crying. “So Anubis used to perform experiments transforming humans into monsters?”

“Guys, it looks like it’s time for a scene change,” Tristan noted as the vision quest abruptly changed scenes – this time, to the throne room.

“That dickweed looks a lot like Kaiba! Let me at ‘im!” Joey tried to “swim” over to where Priest Seto stood, but only flailed about midair.

“Wheeler, just shut up and watch.” Kaiba looked to the elderly man who knelt in pain.

“What’s… happening to me?!” The elderly man could feel his time at an end, and it scared him to not know why.

“Pharaoh Aknamkanon!” Priest Seto knelt down, trying in vain to invoke the power of the Millennium Rod. “No! Don’t go!”

“S-Seto…” Aknamkanon’s soul began to fade into the shadows. “Can I see you… smile for me… one last time? One more smile… before I go?”

“Pharaoh… I… I’m a sorry excuse of a High Priest… Aaaaargh!” Seto threw the Millennium Rod at the wall, nearly breaking it in a fit of rage. “Father… Just you wait, I’m coming for you!”

Tristan asked, “What… the hell was that about?”

The scene changed yet again to Anubis’ chamber, and Kaiba responded, “Do you guys always talk during the movie?”

“Hahahaha!” Anubis held up an object that resembled the Millennium Puzzle. “With this, the Pyramid of Light, there will be no failures in my experiments any longer!”

“Then what will your next experiment look like?”

No sooner had Aknadin asked this question when an intruder made his presence known in the middle of the chamber. “Father! I should have known that you have allied yourself with Anubis!”

“Hmm… I think we’re about to find out what my next experiment will be. Aknadin, as you know, those in the royal family carry the blood of the Creator. As such, I believe they’ll serve as perfect vessels for an all-powerful monster!”

“As amazing as that sounds, I do not wish to risk my own life for your experiment.” Aknadin gave his son a sly smile. “But I willingly offer my son. Do with him what you will.”

“What the hell are you talking about? Hey!” Seto couldn’t resist the zombie army that swarmed and bound him. “Father! You fucking traitor!”

“Hehehehe…” Anubis held the Pyramid of Light in the air. “O most blessed goddess, our Creator of Light! I present to you the Pyramid of Light, crafted from the very ba of Pharaoh Aknamkanon himself! I ask you to infuse your ka with the ba of His Highness Priest Seto! Make him into a monster that can rival even the gods themselves!”

“Oh my gods…” Seto watched as his skin became aglow, and the zombies’ grip on him became even more painful. “Aaaaaargh!”

“Irot ow et on ekaoy… Edam ih ukatabah ukakat!” This dark incantation gave Seto the fuel to complete his transformation. “Arise, Blue-Eyes Shining Dragon!”

“Graaaaar!” Seto easily killed the zombies that bound him, but before he could motion to kill Anubis and Aknadin, the former uttered more words of the Dark Incantation.

“With these words from my lips, you have no choice but to obey my every command! Now go! Show the common people just who rules this land!”

“I’ll have to thank you.” Aknadin started to pack his things, with the intention of returning to the palace. “You have made me the father of a god!”

“…Wait. Stay silent.” Anubis heard light footsteps coming from the chamber entrance. Soon after, a singing voice followed. “No! It cannot be! How is the pharaoh still alive?”

“Look again, Anubis! It’s not Aknamkanon that stands before you…” The Millennium Pendant was now in Aknadin’s sights. “It’s his son! He’s using the Pharaoh’s Incantation!”

“Impossible!” Anubis watched as Seto turned back into a human. “Not even Priest Mahad had been able to separate his ba from the ka of his monster! …Wait, Aknadin, where are you going?”

“Anywhere is better than here! If the new pharaoh is to execute you, then I’m not letting him take me down with you!”

With that, Aknadin fled the scene right before Mahad and Isis stormed in. The vision quest now panned to the desert just outside the chamber, with Seto staring down an unfamiliar enemy.

“So… That’s how it happened…” Yami Yugi felt a tear run down his cheek. “Father… Anubis killed him!”

“I’m shocked too, babe.” Kaiba wrapped a quivering arm around Yami Yugi’s shoulders. “But there’s still more to see.”

“Yuck! That guy’s got a dragon head for a dick.” Tristan’s remark elicited a light slap to the face from Téa.

“Huh.” The enemy unfurled his purple wings as he towered over Seto. “I was under the impression that I would be facing the pharaoh. But all that I see is a priest who was too dimwitted to bring his Millennium Item to battle.”

“I don’t need the Millennium Rod this day,” Seto declared. “For you see, I am a weapon unto myself. Zorc! Your reign of terror will end today!”

“Hahaha! You really think so, boy?”

“Hah!” Seto jumped onto the base of the building and climbed it. When he reached the top, he jumped off, transforming into the Blue-Eyes Shining Dragon without freefalling. “Yeah. Yeah, I really do. You cannot defeat the power of the gods!”

“You? Power of the gods?” Zorc shot a Zorc Inferno in Seto’s direction to counter the Shining Neutron Blast coming at him. “Don’t make me laugh!”

After many more exchanges of attacks, Seto spoke, “I’ll give you credit for one thing. Of any foe we of the royal court have faced, you are the strongest.”

“Flattery isn’t going to save you – or your precious pharaoh for that matter! Why don’t I remind you?” Zorc suddenly vanished.

“Damn…” Seto tried in vain to look for Zorc. Instead, the Dark One found him, making his presence known with a sharp Zorc Inferno to the back. “Urgh…”

Zorc was pleased to see Seto barely managing to remain airborne. “You must realize that you cannot defeat me! Though in my final act of mercy, I’ll spare your life if you give me the pharaoh.”

“No! I refuse to give you the man I love more than anything!” Seto closed his eyes as his body glowed a light blue.

“Then you’ll- Huh?”

“I’m sorry, my love… But I really will be taking my love for you before Osiris.” Seto shed one last tear before launching himself at Zorc full force. “Shining Nova!”

“Argh! Damn you… Horakhty…” So were Zorc’s last words as Seto’s lifeless body fell to the sand.

Joey felt as if he were being sucked into a vacuum. “Whoa, man! I think the movie is ending, you guys!”

“I… I…” Before Yami Yugi could truly process what he had just seen, the surroundings became fuzzy. Soon, he and his companions were brought back to reality.

[mutemwija]

With Or Without You

The is the written version of a weird dream I had a while ago. I have absolutely no idea why I had it or what my subconscious intended to tell me with it but I thought it was worth turning it into a little story. And Kaiba’s birthday seemed like the prerogative day to post it lol

Happy Birthday, Seto! I hope you find it in yourself to forgive me 🙇‍♀️

Kaiba couldn’t exactly recall how many times he’d traveled, or rather shot himself, here already - which was a rarity in itself since he usually remembered everything and he hadn’t lost the ability to count either – but there was something about his encounters with Atem that made them blend into each other.

Every time he tried to get this… whatever it was into his head, or out of it, more likely. To say it was complicated was the understatement of the millennia.

This was unlike anything he’d ever experienced before. It went deeper. These were emotions he’d never felt before. At least, not that heavy and in that particular combination. He knew each and every one of them differently, separately for what they were, but together? Together they made him cross dimensions to meet with a guy who was supposed to be dead.

Except he wasn’t dead at all. He was moving as gracious as ever, looked even more splendid than he had in his dimension. Even his speaking habit hadn’t changed. The words were slightly different by now though.

Even when those he used now were still not the words both of them needed, longed to hear from the other.

And it was exactly where their problem lay: talking. Talking with words.

They had never been good at it.

Sure, Atem gave his lecturing speeches and Kaiba screamed at people all the time about the things bothering him but this wasn’t a bother. This was a far more intimate matter that had to do with mutual feelings. Talking about these wasn’t their métier. What they had to say, they said through cards and duels, or words accompanying a card or a duel. They’d never used words in their pure form and yet they had so much to tell the other.

Each time they met, they tried anew but they never managed to break down the barriers that separated them and kept them from seeing the other bare.

It was a shame.

One that Kaiba didn’t want to carry with him any longer.

He knew what he wanted to do, how he wanted to get close, he just needed the right stage.

Not just a stage, a stadium.

One that was even grander and more impressive than the one he’d surrounded them with during their duel at Alcatraz. Minus the cheering crowd since this one had another purpose altogether.

He wanted his words to be heard, after all.

The words he was going to perform on the stadium’s stage in a song.

Because if words were lost on them and they hadn’t discovered the cards they needed for express themselves yet, singing them would finally, hopefully tear the barriers between them down.

It hadn’t taken long to construct the stadium in the palace garden. He’d come up with the designs on his way to the Netherworld subconsciously but knowing this world and its functioning by now, he knew the stadium would be there the moment he arrived in the palace.

He strode through the palace and into the garden, not bothering to look left or right at the stunned, probably scared palace guards. With long, lofty strides he stepped onto the stage and the second he took his place in front of the microphone, the Super Trouper turned on full.

The lights illuminated the area more blazingly than Ra’s rays had ever managed to and reduced the sun God to a pitiful, shadowy version of himself. One could probably see him sulking in the sky if they looked close enough and Kaiba laughed obnoxiously at the thought.

He stood, as tall and proud as ever, as glorious and boasting as never before, in the middle of the stage. His long coat flared behind him, reflecting and breaking the lights around him like a glitter ball. Even the silvery threads in his shirt sparkled prismatically and the leather of his pants gleamed and outlined his legs.

But none of these effects could match the sparkle in his eyes as he grabbed the dragon shaped microphone with the same exaggerated gesture he drew his cards with. He raised his other hand and pointed a finger at Atem’s chamber.

“Pharaoh! I know you’re there, I know you can hear me!”

That was kinda an empty statement because there was no soul in upper and lower Egypt that couldn’t hear him in this moment. Although none of them mattered; Atem was the only one who did. “Listen to me and listen well! This is my message to you!”

He gave another wave of his hand and the song started to play, blaring over every other sound.

With Or Without You

Why this particular song was chosen from his subconscious and why he knew every word, was beyond him but he didn’t ignored the details in a world where buildings erected themselves through sheer power of will, a world where dragons soared through the air and dead men were alive.

He kept his eyes on Atem’s room, waiting for him to step outside while sang with all his heart, with all the passion he reserved for his duels with him, pouring his heart into the lyrics and the sentiment behind them.

Was this what he had wanted to say all along?

Perhaps, but in a way this was a duel as well, just not with cards. And the fact that he came up with it first, gave him an advantage over Atem. And if nothing else, that was worth it.  

He didn’t know what he was actually doing, but the way his body moved in synch to the rhythm was definitely liberating.

Maybe he should do this more often.

At home.

When he was alone.

It could prove to be relaxing.

If he wasn’t a CEO and a duelist already, he could become a singer, an entertainer. The best one this and every other world had ever seen.

The song or at least the part with lyrics was over faster than he thought and he felt a weird urge to start over and sing it again.

He only barely managed to restrain his thoughts enough for the mechanics of this world not to fulfill his subliminal wishes.

The music was still playing when Atem finally appeared but he was too far away for Kaiba to see his expression. That didn’t stop him from keeping his eyes fixed on his figure and pointing his finger at him again.

He was quite hoarse when he called over the music. “Will you meet my challenge this time, pharaoh, or do you choose to run away, again? Because I tell you this – I am not backing down!”

Slowly, with composed steps Atem started to walk, past confused guards and stunned priests, closer to Kaiba until he was able to see his face, until he was finally standing right in front of him.

Kaiba had seen that expression and stance often enough to know that Atem had was planning something, that he had a card up his sleeve. The prospect made Kaiba’s blood rush through his veins and his heart beat faster.

“Alright, Kaiba.” Atem said and took the microphone from Kaiba. It morphed into Dark Magician’s staff immediately and Kaiba grunted. “I am not backing down either. Challenge accepted!”  

And right on cue, music started playing again…

*******

Yeah, so that was that...

If you have any idea on what this dream could mean, please feel free to enlighten me.

The part after Kaiba’s performance is made up, since I laughed so hard when he started singing in my dream that I woke myself up... But I have no doubt, Atem will meet his challenge. What song he sings is up to you. I’d love to hear your ideas!

Also, thanks to @moophinz for reminding me that I wanted to write it out!

[tyrantdk]

Would I Lie to You ch 7

Guess what's getting updated!

Atem looked up as Seto entered his ante chamber. He bowed his head before sitting in a cushioned chair. He removed his headdress, eyes flicking to see into the bedroom. Usire was curled around something, glints of gold, silver, and gems could be seen. He lifted an eyebrow as he turned back to the Pharaoh.

“Yugi has laid our egg. Our bed has become a nest, and he has hidden our jewelry in the cloth. It is rather amusing. We’ve turned it into a game of sorts. I remove anything I find and he puts it back. Although, he’s hidden away my crown in there. I haven’t found it or seen it since before my morning bath.”

“And the rumors of you, Cousin? Is it true Usire impregnated you?”

“It is. Seto, I am happy, and he makes me happy. I am scared. I know what to expect, but I worry if either of my children will be healthy. I am scared to loose either of them.” He rubbed his belly absently.

“Uncle would never let that happen. He would send Lady Isis and Lady Hathor themselves to deliver the babes. We both know it is so. How are you? Is your sickness getting better?”

“Yes. The afternoon sickness is passing, but I find myself craving for such strange things. Just this morning I wanted nothing but grapes, honey, and pomegranate juice. I had the honey brought to me in a bowl and I dipped the grapes into it. Olabisi has gone to fetch me pomegranate seeds and fresh milk. Isis has said I cannot drink wine or anything alcoholic.

“Yugi is still sore from laying our egg. He has slept so much today. Mahado gave me some salve to rub into his hips and thighs earlier. It should be helping with the soreness. Is Uncle still angry?”

“No. I have been making Father rest. He will be happy to know about your children. Urbi is growing like papyrus! I have my hands full with her.” Atem chuckled along with Seto. “But she is so smart! She misses her big cousins. I shall bring her and Father next time. Urbi loves babes. I bring her a new one every time you send me away on a trip.”

“Perhaps that is why I send you away? We must keep our little princess happy. …Seto, cousin, what have you found in relation to Olufemi?”

“It was a dragon of some kind. We think. Shada thinks it may have been someone using a dragon’s claw as a weapon. We are not the only nation to worship dragons, however, we are one of a handful where it is illegal to harm them.”

“What do you think of Shada’s theory?”

“I think it is a valid theory, but cannot be proven without more evidence.” Seto rose slowly. “You look tired, Cousin. Take the next few days to rest before Olufemi’s burial. Go curl up with our great god-dragon, I know you want to.” Atem smacked him playfully as he stood.

“If I am to rest, then let the palace rest too. Bring Uncle and Urbi by for dinner. We shall all dine together like when we were younger.” He nodded as he left the chamber. Atem walked into his bedroom. He flung his robe over a nearby daybed. He climbed into bed, careful of the jewelry buried in the bedding. He settled, only to have something poke into his thigh. He grabbed the item. His eyes gave Yugi and unamused glare as he pulled out his crown.

Usire laughed. “Remember you love me, Koibito! Seto’s visit has put you into better spirits. I am glad for that.” His scarlet tail flicked over his thigh. Atem huffed. He curled closer, propping his head just behind Yugi’s head crest, and between two of his spikes. He nuzzled his mate’s belly, feeling the pulse of their egg under his own stomache. “The children are talking to each other. Can you feel it?”

“Yes. Is that what it means when our egg and my womb glows?” Yugi hummed. The pair dozed, content with the other’s presence. “Yugi,” Atem spoke some time later. “I love you so much. Thank you for loving me.”

“I should be thanking you, Atem. I have lost my family, and here you are, loving me and starting a new family with me. Sometimes I think Hathor has played me for fool; that this is too good, but I remember you look at me with the same loving look in both forms. I love you more every day.”

“Do you think you would be up to having dinner with Seto, his daughter, and Uncle?”

“As long as we can eat here. Mahado’s salve has worked wonders, but my soreness is still rather great. I can try returning to my human form, but I will not be able to move much. Akanadin will need to behave himself. …Seto has a daughter?”

“Yes. My cousin married a foreign woman, Kisara. She unfortunately passed a year ago from illness. She was very quiet, but not from nerves. Kisara was someone you listened to when she spoke. She was a listener, and an unofficial advisor. Urbi, her and Seto’s daughter, has no color in her hair and the Nile in her eyes. She is two harvests.”

“Will Little Joy join us?”

“I can ask her, see if she would like to, when she brings my food.”

“Later, after a delightful nap with you.” Atem chuckled as Yugi settled more. He purred like a great cat at the sound. “But you may have your food, and Little Joy can snuggle with us.”

Yugi grimaced as he shifted in the padded chair Atem had brought in for him. Even in human form he was sore. He was thankful it wasn’t as painful as his true form. He was rather disappointed Olabisi wasn’t joining them. He was looking forward to telling her about her future status as an aunt. His mate leaned over to press a kiss to his cheek.

“What is on your mind, Meri-I? You seem distant.”

“I was thinking about Little Joy. Her light is missed here.”

“My cousin has Urbi with him. You will love her as much as our Joyful One. She is a delight, even if we have all spoiled her terribly. We will see Olabisi soon. She is in our rooms everyday.” Atem said. He rubbed the thick blanket wrapped around their egg. His other hand was set on the growing curve of his belly. “The children are content. They are not talking, but I can just feel contentment. I do not know exactly how I know this.”

“Our children are divine, Koibito, and you are their mother. It is normal for divine children to talk or send emotions to their mother. I did the same with Momma.”

“I wish they were here, in my arms already.” He smiled. “They wish the same.”

“Can they tell you if they are males, females, or one of each?”

“They do not want to, and I do not want to know until they come out into the world. You shall just have to wait, Yugi.”

“Do my old ears deceive me?! Do I hear talk of children?!” Akanadin said as he hobbled into the room. Yugi winced as Atem sent him an unhappy glance. Seto followed after, a tiny fair haired child in his arms.

“Yes, Uncle. Usire and I are expecting children. I am pregnant and Usire has created an egg. Come, come and see! Bring our princess over as well!” He pressed his uncle’s weathered hand to his belly. He chuckled as he felt a pulse of energy. Next he unwrapped their egg, letting the other three rub the bright scarlet shell.

“My brother would be very proud, if he was here.” Akanadin said softly. Atem smiled at him, knowing there was a tear in his uncle’s eye.

“He is, I assure you. I could not marry my mate without his blessing. It is very rude in my mother’s culture.” Yugi said. “Ra is an old coot who knows everything that goes on in this palace.”

“Meri-I, please do not talk about my father’s divine form like that. Are we all hungry?” Servants filtered in. They placed trays of various fruits, bread, and wine on the table.

“Hung’y! Ah-Ah!” Urbi waved her hands toward Atem. He gladly took her. Seto shook his arms.

“She’s almost too heavy to carry around anymore. Do you mind?”

“Not at all, Cousin! It will be practice for my own children. Are you feeling any better Uncle?”

“A fair bit. How long until I am a great uncle?”

“Five more cycles, hopefully. I pray every night our children are born the same day. I long for twins.” He sighed. Diner went smoothly, with Urbi getting more food into her mouth than on her dress. Yugi stayed civil with Akanadin. He saw a side to the old priest he hadn’t expected. He doted on his nephew, son, and granddaughter. His voice was softer, more caring. He felt he understood him better. He cared for the people, and only wanted Atem to do his best for them. He smiled as they settled for the night.

He still needed to talk to Ra about something.

Yugi kissed Atem’s cheek gently, so he would not wake. He tucked their scarlet egg close to him. He wrapped his mate’s arms around it. He smiled as he watched him sleep. He curled around it, covering the egg with his body. Their young was safe in Atem’s care. His mate was safe in the palace. He kissed him softly again.

“I’ll be back close to dawn. I promise, Koibito. I need to ask your father something important. I love you, Atem.” With a soft groan, he turned into his dragon form. He flew off into the pitch black sky. Hidden in the private royal garden was a figure. It moved across the ground like a snake in the sand. Gold glinted dully in the moonlight as it disappeared into the bedroom.

Atem groaned softly as Yugi’s hot dragon breath flowed over the skin of his back. He tightened his arms around their egg. He nuzzled the warm shell. The low growl startled him into wakefulness. His eyes widened as he pushed his egg behind him. Where had Yugi gone?! Why was this strange dragon here?!

“Tell me, Human, why do you smell like a dragon?” Said the dragon. It had a commanding feminine voice.

“I am Usire’s mate.” He noticed the dragon’s scales were gold in Khonsu’s soft light. Her three paws each held five talons. Her right front limb was missing from the elbow down. His heart ached for her. He shifted closer, arms opened. “Lady Dragon, who has dared hurt you?!”

“I do not know. I cannot remember very clearly. I do know my limb was forged into a weapon of sorts. The dragon I saw is far too small to be Usire, my Usire.” She growled.

“You are Lady Akemi? Mate of the sleeping Usire? Mother of Usire-Yugi?” The dragon’s pale violet eyes lit up as she nodded. He shifted to show her the bundled egg. He unwrapped it, touching the shell to his skin. Her head tilted, like she could feel the pulse. “I am Yugi’s mate, Atem. This is our egg, and I am pregnant with our other child.”

Akemi nuzzled the egg and his belly. She climbed onto the bed. She pushed him back toward the headboard. He shifted. Atem pulled his egg after him. He laid back down. She curled around him protectively. He settled his egg between them, closer to Akemi’s scales.

“Why does my mate sleep? Where did my precious boy go? Usire and I taught that boy better than to leave his mate alone!”

“I do not know where Yugi went. I think he said he would return before dawn. Lord Usire was injured badly in the fighting. He swore not to wake until you returned to his side. Lady Akemi-“

“Mama Akemi or Mama.” She said.

“Mama Akemi, you look exhausted. Why do you not rest and wait for Meri-I here with me?” She shifted her head to see Atem better. He placed his hand on her head scales to rub gently. “Mama?” Akemi hummed. “Yugi will be so happy to see you. He has missed you so much.”

“I shall be happy to see him too. There is much to talk about, but now is time to rest.”

[ayma-nidiot]

In the White Light - Prideshipping fic Chapter 10

Also on AO3.

Chapter 10 – Memories That Made Those Days Sublime

~Four years later~

“Ireruruy, iraruy… I… I…” The crown prince strained to read the long, decorated papyrus scroll in front of him.

Seto sighed. “It says ‘Ireruruy, iraruy, irakah urugem iomo atakatu.’”

“Wow, you’re great at reading super-tedious text!” Atem rolled up the scroll and shoved it at Seto. “Here, why don’t you do the studying for me, since I can hardly read a single word?”

“Atem, you know that’s not how the Pharaoh’s Incantation works.” Seto gave the scroll back much more gently and whined again. “Why don’t you take a break?”

“But you know how Father is!” Atem put his fists on his hips. “‘Son, I’m not getting any younger and you have to be prepared to take the throne any day now!’ Humph. I wish my old man would have more confidence in himself. Plus, I’ve got you to help!”

“I’m bored now.” Seto got up and adjusted his headdress. “I know it’s been a while, but how about we duel for old-time’s sake?”

“And also annoy Father for old-time’s sake?” Atem eagerly stowed his study materials. “I’m game! To the throne room!”

“Hahaha, I miss the good old days when we can duel whenever we wanted!” Seto took his place behind the stone tablets and raised the Millennium Rod in the air. “Now that we’re in an alternate dimension, nobody will stop us – namely, me from defeating you!”

“Before we start, Seto, I have a small request.”

Seto got off his power rush to say, “Yeah, what?”

“How about we make a bet? The loser has to reveal his deepest secret to the winner.”

“I-Is that all? Very well, I accept your bet! And I’ll do the honours of starting this game! I use Horn of the Unicorn to power up my Assault Wyvern!”

“Starting off with a powerful combo right off the bat, huh? Very well. I counter with Dark Magician!”

“Our monsters now have the same attack power. What are you trying to pull?”

“I play a Yami field spell! Since my Dark Magician is a spellcaster, he gets a power-up that’s more than a match for your Assault Wyvern! Now, Dark Magic Attack!”

“Well, well, well.” Seto didn’t seem to care about this small setback. “You must have a really good secret if you’re playing even tougher than usual!”

“Sh-Shut up and make your move!”

“Did you forget already that my ultimate beast is way stronger than yours?” Seto sneered as his Blue-Eyes White Dragon made an appearance. “Not only that, but I can use my Horn of the Unicorn as often as I want! Use your White Lightning, my dragon!”

“Oh… oh no…” Atem trembled slightly as he tried to think of his next move. Am I going to have to tell Seto about my impure thoughts? Not fully confident his next move would work, he declared, “I play the spell Monster Reborn to-”

“Ateeeeeem!” an angry voice suddenly interrupted. “Where in the name of Ra are you?”

“If there’s someone here in the middle of our Shadow Game, then it has to be someone with a Millennium Item!” Atem turned around, faced now with the stern stare of his father. “Oh, uh… Hello, Father.”

“Don’t ‘hello, Father’ me!” Aknamkanon admonished as the throne room turned back to normal. “How dare you take the Shadow Games lightly? Or did you neglect the fact that we of the royal family use them to decide the fates of prisoners and the like? Or the fact that it isn’t hard to die in the middle of one?”

“Um…” The crown prince fidgeted.

“If you couldn’t remember something so simple, then you need to study more. Now back to your room!” Aknamkanon snapped his fingers.

“Yes, sir…” Atem sauntered back to his room, where he found his things neatly stacked and his best friend sitting on his bed. “Mahad! What are you doing here?”

“Hey, how have you been faring?” Mahad got up to greet his prince. Unlike most of his retainers, Mahad had the courage to address him informally. “Hmm… Judging from your face, I imagine not well.”

“It’s Father. He’s making me study the ways of our government, mathematics, languages, history… and whatever else almost nonstop.” Atem exhaled. “He forgets that I am still a teenager and even I have a need for fun.”

“And a good meal!” Mahad turned around to present the crown prince with a golden platter full of food.

“Oh gods, Mahad, you made all this for me?” Atem started digging in excitedly. “It’s amazing! Thank you so much!”

“Anything for my hardworking best friend!”

Between mouthfuls of food, Atem managed, “Nothing like a good meal after what I’ve been through during that duel!”

“Atem, were you playing a Shadow Game again?”

Atem paused from eating. “Don’t tell me that you’re upset too?”

“Oh no, I love partaking in the Shadow Games almost as much as you and Seto do. In fact, I’ve started to experiment with my spells. I’m particularly interested in fusing the ka of some of my monsters with the ka of others.”

“I’ve never thought about that! Hehe, maybe I can use it against Seto the next time we duel.” Atem finished the rest of the meal and placed the empty dishes on the nearest table.

Mahad gave his prince a sneaky smile. “You know, Atem, it seems that you use Seto’s name in every other sentence.”

“I-I do?” Atem tried in vain to hide his blush from his best friend. “Oh yeah, that reminds me of our duel just now. So I placed this bet that whoever lost had to tell the winner a secret. I was really afraid I’d have to tell Seto mine.”

“Oh? Is it a secret you feel comfortable sharing with me?”

“Okay, but please don’t tell anyone!” Atem received a nod from Mahad and then continued. “Ever since our first meeting, I’ve been thinking about what an interesting person Seto is. He’s showed me the ways of our common people, from their jokes to how they suffer. He’s giving me such a drive to improve like I’ve never had…” Atem looked back to Mahad with hopeful eyes. “Mahad, I’m scared of these thoughts. What do they mean?”

“They mean that as the crown prince to the greatest kingdom in our history, you would do well not to fall in love with Seto.”

“Wh-What? Love?!” The crown prince shot up, spilling the small remainder of water he had in his goblet. “You mean… like how my father fell in love with my mother?”

“Yes. I’ve heard stories of what previous pharaohs have done to their sons who slept with other men. Let me tell you, it’s not something you want happening to you.”

“But… But…” Atem stuttered. “I can’t help it! I’ve never felt this way about anyone before… Not even when Father has introduced me to several noblewomen and princesses from other realms. I’m… confused, lost even.”

“If that’s how you really feel, then personally I support you.” Mahad placed a supportive hand on the crown prince’s shoulder. “Just don’t tell your father, and most of all don’t tell Seto unless you’re absolutely sure you’re ready. Now, if you’ll excuse me.”

When Mahad had left him alone with his thoughts, Atem spoke aloud. “Don’t… tell Seto? I think… that maybe that’s for the best. There’s no way that he’d take it well.”

A few hours later, just as Atem had the notion to sleep, another one his friends entered the room in a panic – his retainer Isis. “Your Highness! Your Highness, flee from this place at once!”

“Eh? Why, did something happen?”

“There are monsters in the palace! Zombies, dragons – anything you can think of!”

“If that’s the case, then my father will take care of those miscreants abusing the Shadow Games.” The crown prince settled back into his bed.

“But His Majesty has gone missing!”

“What?” Atem sprung awake again, with the Pharaoh’s Incantation scroll in his hand. “Then we’ve got to look for him!”

“The pharaoh and his priests can fend for themselves! It’s us retainers that need your help!”

“My retainers… Oh, no, Seto!” Atem took off running as Isis struggled to keep up. I don’t care what happens to me… Seto… Oh gods, please be okay!

Atem ran right past the throne room, from where Isis yelled, “Your Highness! Over here!”

“Everyone!” Atem freaked out when he saw that at least a couple of his retainers were dead and a few were taking the injured to safety. Those who stayed behind attempted to fight off a giant, armour-clad lion. “But… what can I do?”

“Your Highness, you have to use the Shadow Games monsters!” Mahad dodged the lion’s attacks and launched a dark ball of energy at it. “It’s the only way!”

“And I know just the monster!”

“Ever the clever one, Your Highness! Best of luck!” One of the Atem’s retainers, Shada, took a severely injured retainer named Karim to one of the palace’s medical wards.

“Okay, let’s see if I can find the stone tablet that houses my Dark Magician…” Atem ran to the stone tablets. “Ah! I’ve found you! Now, I’ll use the Yami spell again to-”

“Your Highness!” a raspy voice called out. “Behind you!”

“Is that…” Atem had just summoned his Dark Magician, but not enough to save Seto, who took a large claw scratch for the crown prince. “Seto! Seto, you damned idiot! You should have just saved yourself!”

“I am your retainer, am I not?”

“I know, but… But… Someone, anyone!” In a final act of desperation, Atem shouted for help and thankfully got it when he heard an old man’s singing voice in the distance. “Father!”

“Aw usa ukari ag et onos!” Aknamkanon didn’t even need to sing the full incantation before the lion and all the surrounding enemies were no more. “Ugh…”

“Father!” Atem caught the pharaoh before he could pass out. “What’s wrong? Did that lion hurt you?”

“No, it’s the Incantation. Son, I forgot to tell you one thing – the Pharaoh’s Incantation uses some of your ba. But it’s a risk that you must be willing to take if you want to protect your people.”

“Are you going to be okay?” Atem led his father back to his bed while Seto followed.

“Yeah, with a little rest.” Aknamkanon peered up. “In the meantime, take Seto to a medical ward. That attack killed several palace guards and I don’t want to risk another one.”

“Your Majesty, with all due respect, I didn’t suffer much of a wound. As such, I can go myself.”

“But can you treat your own back?”

“Good point.” Seto left the throne room and beckoned for Atem to follow.

“That was an incredibly reckless thing to do, Seto. You could have used your Blue-Eyes White Dragon, but noooo! You just had to literally break your back for me!” Atem snarled while he fetched some alcohol and linens. When he turned around, he halted at the sight of a virtually nude Seto. Only his priest robes, balled up at his groin, covered his copper skin while he sat on the bed.

“Well? I’m waiting.” Seto’s voice was nonchalant. “I feel like I’m dying over here.”

“That’s not something you should be joking about!” Atem rushed over to Seto’s side to take a look. The claw wound on the priest’s back turned out to be hardly more than a scratch. “You ass! How could you be dying from such a small wound?”

“I figured it was the only way to get you over here, since you looked spaced out.” Seto didn’t even flinch when the alcohol entered his wound. “You got something on your mind?”

At this point, Atem didn’t really care if Seto found out about his feelings. “You… You could have died! Do you know how damned lucky you are to have survived that attack?”

“Your Highness…” Seto tried to touch Atem’s cheek, but the crown prince slapped his hand away.

“Why did you have to do that?” Atem didn’t bother to stop the tears from coming out. “If I had lost you, I…”

“You want to know that badly? Fine, then I’ll tell you.” Seto took a few breaths. “I’ve tried to deny it… I know you’ll hate me for this because of our royal positions. But Your Highness… Atem… I love you.”

Atem stopped crying. “What… did you say?”

“I’m not just talking about the familial, friendly kind of love, either.” Seto caressed Atem’s cheeks and lips. “I’m talking about this kind of love.”

“I’m so glad…” Atem’s expression softened as he returned this gesture. “I thought my feelings were unclean, but… But…”

“But…?”

Atem hid his face in Seto’s chest. “I’m in love with you too, Seto! I’m so happy that I don’t have to refuse these feelings anymore.”

“Atem…” Seto turned his caress into a deep kiss. “Oh, gods, Atem.”

“Seto…” The closer Seto held him, the more Atem could feel the other man’s erection. “Do you… want me?”

“If you’ll have me,” Seto answered as Atem stretched out on the bed, wiping away a bead of sweat.

Seto tossed his robes aside and kissed Atem’s neck – and for a few seconds, he disregarded all noise, including the sudden shout of, “Seto! Your Highness! Are you two… all… right…?”

“Ah!” Seto stopped his advances when the intruder appeared at the door. He frenetically tried to get dressed, knowing that it was futile to hide was he was doing just now. “Father! What are you doing here?”

“Hmph. So you decide to take advantage of a young war breaking out to seduce the crown prince?” Aknadin’s eyes hardened on his son. “You are a disgrace to the royal family and to the High Priests!”

“Father, please!” Seto tried to stop his father from leaving. “Don’t leave!”

“I’ve always hated that… that crown prince and that accursed Aknamkanon… Now I have all the more reason to leave the palace and find a newer dark power, so that I may become pharaoh!”

“Please!” Seto cried as his father disappeared. “Don’t join the enemy! Father!”

“Seto…” Atem crouched down at his boyfriend’s side. “I’m sorry, it’s all my fault.”

“No, it isn’t.” Seto held Atem’s hand firmly. “Nothing – nothing – will make me regret falling in love with you. This new enemy, though… If we have to fight them with my father on their side, then…”

“Then we’ll fight them together.”

While the two young lovers consoled each other, they were interrupted yet again – this time by Aknamkanon. “Atem! My son, what happened?”

“Father…” Atem arose, fully prepared to explain himself. “I’m afraid it’s something horrid. Aknadin, he’s… he’s deserted us and left to join the enemy, cursing your name while he did so.”

“What? But why?”

“It’s because he wanted the throne for himself all along. And… What finally drove him over the edge was when he discovered Seto and I getting intimate with one another.”

“Atem, why did you tell him that?” Seto clenched his teeth.

“That’s despicable,” Aknamkanon answered. “So he cursed his son just because said son can’t fulfill his ambitions now? That’s not a true father, but a snake.”

“But what about your future heirs?” Atem asked. “I’m sure you’ve noticed a long time ago that there’s a reason why I’ve refused every woman you’ve tried to marry me to.”

“Eh, I’ve got plenty of siblings, nieces, and nephews that can produce heirs. And even if they couldn’t, it’s not going to stop me from caring about you, my son.”

“Father…” Atem began to cry tears of joy. “Do you mean that?”

“Yes. The reason why I’m so strict with you is because I want the people to respect you for your leadership abilities, and not whom you choose as a partner.” Aknamkanon helped his son get back up on his feet. “Whatever happens… No matter what this mysterious enemy throws at us, I will support you and guide my people through this war.”

[ayma-nidiot]

In the White Light - Prideshipping fanfic Chapter 21

Also on AO3.

This will most likely be the darkest chapter in the entire fic, complete with lots of crying and cussing. Fair warning, Rex and Bandit King Bakura are going to suffer a ton in this chapter. This is the last chapter with significant Shrimpshipping. I promise the Prideshipping will get more significant from here on out!

For me, the characters' suffering is exacerbated by the horrible PMS cramps and bloating I had while writing this chapter. I also often get the flu when I forget to brush my teeth for a while and I think I feel one coming on (I just brushed my teeth this afternoon). Not helped, of course, by my intense work schedule. T_T Yet strangely, I feel more on a roll than ever!

Also, the title of this chapter is homage to one of my favourite yaoi manga, Ikoku Irokoi Romantan, by Ayano Yamane. I forgot to mention, too, why Kaiba refers to Rex as "rabbit stew." That is homage to one of my other favourite yaoi manga, Crimson Spell. Also by Ayano Yamane.

Chapter 21 – To Heaven or Hell

“So now that we know your real name, we need to head back to the palace,” Téa proposed. “Kaiba could be in trouble…”

“I… I don’t think I want to go.” Yami Yugi moped while hugging his knees. “Besides, Kaiba is more than capable of fending for himself.”

“Come on, man, you’re the king for cryin’ out loud!” Joey pulled Yami Yugi off the ground. “You’re gonna let one little lover’s quarrel make you shirk your duties?”

“But-”

“Ya’ know what, screw what Anubis said! He’s dead! And anyway, did rich- I mean, Kaiba actually say that he’d rather be president of KaibaCorp than be your wife?”

“…You know, you’re right, Joey. It may be hard, but… This isn’t the first time that we’ve quarreled, and it certainly won’t be the last. As any good partner should, I need to learn to communicate.”

“Pharaoh!” Téa smiled.

“What are you guys doing just standing there?” Yami Yugi summoned his Curse of Dragon and got on it.

“Yeah, that’s what I’m talking about!” Joey mounted his Red-Eyes Black Dragon while Tristan joined him.

Tristan waited until they were nearly at the palace to speak his mind. “Say, guys? I noticed that those shrimpy brats weren’t with us the whole time.”

“Rex and Weevil, you mean?” asked Yugi.

“I just hope they’re not causing trouble at the palace…” Téa remarked. “Knowing those two, they’re probably- Oh my! The duel’s still going on?”

“Looks like a tag duel!” Tristan exclaimed, and his expression changed when he saw the half-shifted Weevil. “Whoa, it’s Spiderman!”

“Pretty sure that’s not what Spiderman is supposed to look like, Tristan.” Joey squinted. “Is that… It can’t be! Bug boy can transform like rich boy can?”

Red shadows and flames engulfed Weevil. He expressed no pain as he grew taller, becoming a gigantic spider that Yami Yugi remembered. “It’s that spider from the vision quest!”

“Raaaaa!”

As Weevil trampled onto the battlefield, charging towards Yami Marik, Rex looked to his Duel Disk. The Dark Effigy had disappeared, replaced by an even stronger monster card. “Weevil…” His gaze turned up to the beautiful creature his boyfriend had become. “This form… is amazing…”

“Aaaaaargh!” Four spider legs pierced Yami Marik’s body, and he died almost instantly.

“How do you like them apples?” Rex smirked at his only remaining opponent, who had uncharacteristically taken on a somber expression. “What’s the matter, cat got your tongue? Or should I say, spider got your tongue?”

“I thought I recognized you two!”

“Yeah, we’re the ‘brats’ who gave you back your Millennium Ring!”

“I’m talking about the past, you fool! You do remember the pharaoh’s vision quest, do you not? Doesn’t the spider look familiar?”

“Wh-What?” The truth finally clicked for Rex. “Now that you mention it, my rabbit form looked a lot like that rabbit, too. But what are you getting at?”

“I’m saying that just like Kaiba here, the two of you also had past selves. …Back when all of the High Priests were still alive, I used to be one of the royal family’s most hated enemies. They… They killed them all… They killed everyone in my home village of Kul Elna, just to make some fancy schmancy artifacts called the Millennium Items!”

“Bakura…” In a moment of weakness, Yami Yugi couldn’t help but feel sorry for the man.

“This is what started my war against the royal family. I wanted to steal the Millennium Items so that I may become pharaoh and overthrow the old one. And by my side the whole time were my most trusted thieves, Sia and Hu. As a bandit, I couldn’t bring myself to have compassion for another, not until those two orphans came into my life. Hu was an outspoken young man who had the ability to persuade anyone. Sia… He had a gift for writing and strategizing. He was my only equal in wits – so much that I had even named him as successor.”

“What happened to them?” Even a complete dimwit like Rex could feel empathy towards the Bandit King.

“In my desperation to destroy the royal family, I found another individual who hated the royal family as much as I did. His name was Anubis. I pleaded for his aid to kill the pharaoh, and in exchange, he asked for two strong individuals…” Bandit King Bakura’s breath hitched a few times. “So I offered to him Sia and Hu. But his experiments failed, and my only two friends had died… They died for nothing!”

“…” Kaiba couldn’t stand to look at Bandit King Bakura; even he felt tears coming on.

“And now… Now, I finally get to see them again!”

“What do you mean, ‘again?’” Weevil stood down.

“You…” The Bandit King continued to cry as he looked at Weevil and drew his next card. “Forgive me for what I’m about to do, Sia… No, Earthbound God Uru!”

“I… I’m a god?”

“That will be ‘was’ in a few seconds!” Bandit King Bakura played the card he just drew. “I play my spell De-Spell to destroy Archfiend Palabyrinth! Now history repeats itself!”

“What do you-” Weevil could say no more as his body and soul quickly began to fade. “Aaaaah!”

“You…” Rex fell to his knees and cried when Weevil had died. “YOU FUCKING BASTARD! What did you do to my boyfriend?”

“I got rid of the Field Spell he needed to survive… Hu, I’m sorry.”

“My name is Rex Raptor, you motherfucker! I’ll fucking make you pay!”

“Hey, calm down, rabbit stew!” Kaiba intervened, then turned to the Bandit King. “Bakura, in case you forgot, there are three duelists present right now! And right now, you’re looking at the one who’s going to kick your ass!”

“Priest Seto… No, I will be the one to kick your ass. You and your ilk… You took everything from me… You and the pharaoh will suffer in hell!”

“Please, like I haven’t been told to go to hell before,” replied Kaiba as he drew Polymerization. “I activate the special ability of my White Stone of the Ancients in my Graveyard to add a Blue-Eyes from there to my hand! Then my Assault Wyvern destroys your Battle Fader!”

“Rr...” Bandit King Bakura didn’t have any monsters on his side of the field or his hand.

“Then I tribute my Assault Wyvern to Special Summon the other Blue-Eyes in my Graveyard… Now, Blue-Eyes! Attack the Bandit King directly!”

“This physical pain… It’s nothing compared to what my people and I have suffered because of people like you!” After Rex didn’t draw anything that he could summon, the Bandit King slammed a monster onto his Duel Disk. “I summon Ally of Justice Quarantine in attack position! Good luck trying to Special Summon your light monsters now, Priest Seto. And…”

“Ah!” Rex had few words as the Bandit King’s gaze fixed on him.

“Good luck to you, Hu, in the afterlife… Ally of Justice Quarantine, attack Hu directly!”

“N-Nooooooo!” Pain seared throughout Rex’s body. “Weevil… Baby, wait for me… I’m coming… to join you…”

Rex’s death was the final straw for Kaiba, and he didn’t hold his tears back any longer. “Do you like torturing others, you monster?”

“Me? A ‘monster?’ Speak for yourself! Aren’t you the one who ‘destroys innocent souls’ every day? Even more so now that you are only one of three people who have retained their shapeshifting abilities to the modern world? And you plan to do it some more after you officially break up with the pharaoh and return to KaibaCorp? Also, you have no right to be sad about Hu’s death when I’ve known him for so long! Or… Don’t tell me that you’ve grown attached to someone other than the pharaoh or your younger brother?”

“Shut… up…”

“Make your next move! It will be your la-”

“SHUT THE FUCK UP!” Kaiba drew the Blue-Eyes Shining Dragon. “I can’t summon my ultimate beast yet, but I can get rid of your Ally of Justice Quarantine with my Blue-Eyes White Dragon!”

“I won’t be defeated… Not by someone like you! I play the spell Jam Breeding Machine, and a Slime Token is summoned to my side of the field!”

“That’s it? A tactic that Marik tried on the pharaoh, and failed? Then I’ll set a monster and destroy that Slime Token with Blue-Eyes!”

“You’ll… never…. Aaaah! I play Pot of Greed! Then I’ll use De-Spell to get rid of Jam Breeding Machine so I can summon Brain Golem using the new Slime Token as a tribute!” Brain Golem, attack that set monster!”

“…What a dumbass you are, Bakura.” Kaiba didn’t bother to look at the card he just drew. “You just destroyed my last White Stone of the Ancients, which I banish to add the last Blue-Eyes White Dragon I need to my hand! Then I’ll activate the spell Polymerization to Fusion Summon my Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon!”

“That’s your ultimate beast?”

“No, my ultimate beast is…” Kaiba laid the Blue-Eyes Shining Dragon onto his Duel Disk. “Myself! Behold the Blue-Eyes Shining Dragon for the few seconds you have before it blasts you away! Shining Neutron Blast!”

Yami Yugi watched the final move of the duel, still floating from afar on his Curse of Dragon. “Kaiba… My love, well done.”

“So this… is how it ends…” The Bandit King looked to his arm; already, his hand had been consumed by the shadows. “I’m… finally dying.”

“Bakura…”

“What, you still have words for me, even now?” Bandit King Bakura gave a half-hearted chuckle. “What is it?”

“It’s about Anubis… I thought I’d let you know that the pharaoh defeated him himself.”

“He… He did, huh? Thank…. you…” So were Bandit King Bakura’s last words as his body and soul were no more.

Yami Yugi could hide no more, and ordered the Curse of Dragon down to Kaiba while his companions followed. “Kaiba!”

“Ph-Pharaoh…” Kaiba wasn’t prepared to face the man he loved. “And the rest of the Dweeb Patrol, too. You were watching the whole thing, weren’t you?”

“Er, most of it,” Joey answered. “We saw everything from when Weevil turned into a spider onwards.”

“Weevil… Rex…” Yugi, being the softhearted young man he was, cried. “They’re… dead, aren’t they? I know they were thorns in our sides the whole time, but… they really gave it their all in that duel! They didn’t deserve to die! Marik didn’t either!”

“Yugi…” Téa had begun to cry too, and before she could really break out in tears, she noticed Marik’s body glowing. “Hey! What’s happening to Marik?”

As soon as Téa took a single step forward, Marik not only moved, but he groaned. “Ugh…”

“Shit! That creep is still alive!”

Joey prepared to summon his Red-Eyes Black Dragon, and stopped when Marik managed to get on his feet. “What do you mean ‘creep?’ Where am I?”

“Hey, easy there!” Tristan ran over to Marik, and helped him walk to where everyone else was. “So… You’re the real Marik, right?”

“Yeah. Yeah, I am. My ‘other self’ is gone for good this time.”

“Wait, Marik. Before you continue…” Yami Yugi pointed to two beams of light descending from the sky and hitting the ground in front of them.

“Aaaaaah! More enemies!” Téa scrambled about, nearly slipping on a sand dune.

“Guess again, Téa.” Yami Yugi waited for the light to dissipate, and was certainly surprised to see Rex and Weevil again, both in half-shifted form.

“Ugh…” Rex’s vision was still blurry, but not enough to obscure his view of Weevil and his eight spider legs.

Though he was just as weak, Weevil had strength enough to give his boyfriend a hug. “Rex! Oh, my beloved… You’re alive…”

Rex returned the hug, pressing his rabbit paws into Weevil’s back. “Weeves, baby… I’m even happier that you’re alive, despite the hell we’ve been through.”

“I will go anywhere, my love, as long as it is with you. I’ll accompany you to heaven or hell.” Weevil stroked Rex’s rabbit ears. His upper spider legs trailed from there to Rex’s back, pulling him in for a kiss.

“Um… Do we really need to see this?” Tristan’s eyebrow twitched.

“Well, I kinda knew those two were together,” Joey remarked, rubbing the space underneath his nose. “After Duelist Kingdom, they were inseparable.”

“I’m more interested in how they’re still alive,” spoke Yami Yugi. “Perhaps in a Shadow Tag Duel, if a duelist dies, they will come back to life if their partner wins.”

“Speaking of Duelist Kingdom…” Weevil spoke when he had broken the kiss. “I’m sorry that I was such an embarrassment back then.”

“Don’t worry about it, man.” Yugi shook his head. “That’s in the past.”

“Was I… Did I do good today?”

“Weevil Underwood, you were damned awesome out there!” Joey bent down to ruffle Weevil’s hair. “I wish I could turn into an awesome spider… god… thingy too!”

“You see?” Yami Yugi squatted to Weevil’s eye level. “If you just believe in the heart of the cards and see the errors of your ways, you have the potential to be a great duelist.”

“And if it wasn’t for you, my evil persona would still be plaguing me,” Marik added with a bow. “I am forever in your debt.”

“…Yeah, I’ll have to agree,” Kaiba hesitated. “You’re quite the worthy rival to the pharaoh. After me, of course.”

“K-Kaiba…” Weevil could feel light tears in the corners of his eyes. “Thank you… so much… for saving Rex… Not even all the cards in the world are… worth as much as him…”

Joey waited a while for Weevil to say something else and grew concerned when he didn’t receive a response. “Weevil! No… No! Not after you just came back to us!”

Kisara and Mana knelt down to check for vital signs. After confirming that Weevil – along with Rex – was indeed alive, Kisara spoke, “Relax, Joseph. They’re alive. They’re just out cold and in need of rest.”

“Hahaha…” Joey wiped away his few tears. “I-I knew that!”

“Mana, you and Kisara will take these two to the palace’s infirmary.” Yami Yugi ordered. “The two of you will be responsible for caring for them. We’ll follow in a little bit, after I’ve told Kaiba what I’ve learned today.”

[tyrantdk]

Would I Lie to You ch 4

In which shit hits the fan. Still NSFW & maybe triggering for blood.

“Per’a’ah!” Came a frantic scream from a woman rushing into his room. Atem bolted up in his bed, chest heaving in fright as Isis barged into his room. She was a mess. Her Kohl ran down her face in inky black trails as she cried. The healer threw herself on his bed, body shaking from sobs. “Per’a’ah! Thank all the gods you are safe!” She managed to get out.

“Isis, my friend, what is wrong? Why do you cry so?”

“I think it is best for you to dress and see for yourself. I have no words to describe such an atrocity to you.” She replied through her sobbing as she lifted herself. Isis covered her mouth as she backed out of the room. The doors closed behind her. Atem redressed quickly. His heart beat wildly in his chest as he moved. Had one of the servants been grievously wounded, or one of his advisors? Gods! What if one of his dearest sisters was hurt?!

Isis took his hand, guiding him to his sisters’ chambers. His heart stopped. Atem pushed the door open, walking into the front room. His eyes scanned the room. Blood stained the walls and décor a sickly bright red. He dropped to his knees before the cloth covered form on the floor. His hands shakily lifted the soiled cloth. Dead red eyes looked up at him. Flecks of blood covered Olufemi’s death paled face. Atem lifted her corpse into his arms, rocking his body back and forth. Tears fell freely from his eyes.

A scream of agony left his mouth. His beloved one was gone! She was gone! How?! How could she be stolen away from him so quickly?! He screamed his immediate grief. A piece of Atem’s heart died that moment. He fell silent when his throat was sore, and his voice could no longer be used. He stood. The corpse was cradled lovingly in his arms. He walked away from the room.

“Per’a’ah?” Isis murmured in a worried tone. She followed her shell shocked ruler as he wondered the palace. The denizens of the complex stopped as they saw him walking. The female servants and courtiers gasped and wailed as they laid eyes on Olufemi. Atem only stopped walking as he entered his private temple to Ra. Isis stopped in the entryway. She observed him laying the corpse on the altar.

“Isis.” Came his horse voice. “I will watch over my sister here. Please have bedding and clothing brought to me. If Usire returns, tell him I need him.”

“As you wish.” She left to do as he had bid. The other priests had already collected the clues left in the princesses’ common chamber. Kareem had left to gather the priests to prepare the princess’ body. Seto and Shada had taken it upon themselves to carry out the investigation. Olabisi had been located as well, and was under Mahado and Mana’s protective gazes. Isis stopped to have the trio sent to Atem’s side. He would need his other sister. She walked back to his chambers. Usire turned to face her. “Great Dragon, our Per’a’ah needs you. Princess Olufemi has been murdered.”

Isis screamed as Usire’s dragon form flew past her. The force of the wind pushed her to the ground. Thunder crackled with a vengeance outside as the rains came once more, pouring over the land.

Atem blinked his eyes as he woke from an unintended nap. Olabisi was curled in his arms. She slept on, trails of black kohl staining her cheeks. They were surrounded by warmth from the coils of scarlet red and black. He sighed deeply, moving to lounge against his husband’s scales. Usire shifted, his head coming to butt against Atem’s shoulder. He smiled weakly at him.

“Welcome home, my dragon. I wish it was with gladder tidings I could greet you.”

“How are you feeling, my treasure? How is our Little Joy?”

“Quiet. Joyful One has not spoken a word at all. I should send for Mahado and Mana so they can take her to safer rooms to stay in this night. I am watching over Olufemi’s body until the priests of Anubis come for her tomorrow. Please, Yugi, I need you here with me. I cannot do this alone.”

“I know, Atem. I am yours. Ra can wait until we are finished mourning one of our young ones. He will understand. I need to ensure you grieve Little Love as healthily as possible and you do not do so alone. I cannot cry in this form, my love, but our kingdom sees rain once more. I will fetch the priest and the other you mentioned. Please, rest more. I shall keep watch.”

“Thank you, Meri-I. My grief seems to have completely drained my energy. You will like Mana; she is my sister in all but blood.” Atem settled back down as Usire morphed effortlessly into his human form. Yugi’s eyes were rimmed in red, as tears fell from them. He kissed his husband chastely, needing the comfort the other’s kisses could provide. Yugi pulled a linen blanket from a folded pile, before wrapping it around him. He took another and tucked it around Olabisi.

“I shall be back shortly, my treasure. When I return, I shall make a little nest of blankets for us.” Atem’s smile was a little stronger, but still melancholy as Yugi left a lingering kiss on his cheek. He turned back to watch as his husband settled into a curled ball. He knew Atem would not go back to sleep until he was back at his side. His husband loved both his sisters far too much to allow them to be unguarded, even if it put his own health at risk.

Yugi felt the same. He had come to love the pair. His Little Love’s passing left a wound in his heart. She had been the sneaky one, often spiriting her twin and Atem away from unwanted company. Set’s thunder and lightning were her only fear. Olufemi had run to them for comfort. She refused to go to anyone else. Yugi had been charmed by her wit when she had faced down another, older princess. Her smirk of victory had been reminiscent of her older brother’s.

The palace felt dimmer without Olufemi’s light in it. It was mourning her too. Yugi could feel the emotions of the inhabitants in the air. The princesses weren’t just beloved by he and their brother. Everyone within the palace loved them. They grieved alongside their pharaoh and princess. It brought fresh tears to Yugi’s eyes, which in turn made the rain fall harder outside.

“Lord Usire, what brings you to my humble apartments?” Mahado asked as he turned in his doorway. The sight of the god-dragon had startled him.

“How safe are your apartments?”

“I have the same protective enchantments as Per’a’ah’s rooms. I thought he might want Olabisi moved somewhere safe. Come inside, my apprentice Mana and I were preparing a room for her to stay in.”

“Thank you.” Yugi walked into the rooms, taking them in. The smell of heka, herbs, and faint smoke filled the air. A brunette bounded into the main room, pausing at the sight of him. “I take it you are Mana?”

“And you’re At-I mean Per’a’ah’s husband.” She replied as she placed her fists on her hips. He grinned. There was fire in her eyes, and he could tell she was no rival for Atem. She loved him fiercely, of that there was no doubt. Her fierce love was platonic, as a friend.

“Mana!” Mahado hissed. “Show Usire the proper respect due to our dragon god!”

“It is fine, Mahado. Peace, Little Apprentice. I love my husband, and wish to return to his side quickly. If you would be so kind as to come with your master and I?” Her eyes narrowed, making the dark green turn almost black. She made an ‘after you’ motion. Yugi couldn’t help the chuckle that escaped him. Mahado breathed easier when he realized Mana’s bluster amused Usire.

Yugi wrapped himself around Atem when they entered the temple. Mana’s eyebrow shot up. It went even higher as her old friend returned the hold. The elder magician smiled as he lifted the sleeping princess into his arms. He had to drag his apprentice out by her ear, but that was par for the course.

“I will watch over Olufemi now.” Atem nodded as he crawled onto the nest Yugi had made. The blankets smelled like Yugi, as he had wallowed around on them. He laid in the middle, eyes slipping closed.

Yugi wrapped his arms around Atem’s sleeping form. He had fallen asleep as soon as he had laid him on their bed. Kareem, the short black haired priest, had taken the princess’ body away. The mourning period had officially begun. A small army of servants had already paused respectfully at the entrance of their bedroom, refusing to enter until Usire gave them permission. They quietly gathered all of their clothing.

It was placed before a young man, who separated the clothing. Nothing that was already dyed had been sent away. Those items were refolded and replaced in their respective chests. Yugi could only guess the servants were taking their white clothing to be dyed blue for mourning. When they were done, the group bowed lowly before their bed. As one, they backed out of the room.

He sighed softly as he untangled himself from his husband. He closed the doors and turned back to the bed. Ra sat where he had lain, running his fingers through his mate’s hair. Yugi bowed, his forehead touching the floor.

“Rise, Usire. My son shall not wake and we will not be interrupted. Did you recognize the scent on my daughter’s corpse?”

“There were two scents, one I do not recognize and the other is practically impossible to be there. A dragon was involved in some way. One with five talons like myself, if the wounds on Little Love’s chest are anything to go by. Why would they do this to Little Love? What would they have to gain by taking her life? If they wanted Atem, it would be me they would need to target. He would not marry another as long as I live.” Ra nodded, his aged red eyes heavy with grief.

“I raised my boy well in my human life. Usire, I know how deeply you love him, and I am grateful he has you at his side. However, you must tell him. You know of what I speak. Do this and I shall talk Isis into sending your progeny early.”

“I understand. He will hate me.”

“Then you do not know your husband as well as I, his father.” With those words, Ra vanished. Yugi stepped out of the room, letting the rain fall on his face. It slowly soaked his clothing and skin. His mind raced. Ra spoke true. He could not keep Atem in the dark about what he had done. His confession could turn his treasured mate against him, but he had faith in the sun god’s words. For now, he would enjoy the feel of rain against his skin and the sound of his husband’s breathing in his ears.

Atem woke later to the sight of Yugi in the rain as it poured. It was a beautiful sight to him. The other turned to him when it was clear he was awake. He went to the entry way of his balcony. Wet hands clasped his as they pulled him out into the storm. Yugi was stunning when he smiled. Atem kissed him, arms wrapping around his neck. His husband’s palms slid to his sides and held steady there.

“I have something I need to tell you, Treasure. It will not be easy for you to hear, and I fear how you will treat me after.”

“What is it you must tell me? Does it have anything to do with my Beloved One’s death?”

“No. Set did not withhold the rains. I did. I withheld the rains and caused the drought that brought you to my temple.” The words spilled from his lips quickly. Yugi squeezed his eyes shut. He was prepared for his mate’s anger. Instead, a hand cupped his face gently while Atem brought them back into the dry bedroom.

“It is alright. I understand why you do so. You were alone for so long, and I do not think I could ever understand such loneliness you felt.”

“I did not do it because I was lonely! I did it because I knew you would agree to be mine in return for the rains! I did it because I have loved you from the moment your soul; your beautiful, wonderful soul was created! I did it because I need you as any human needs air, water, and food to live!”

“Sh.” Atem stroked his face gently. “I am upset that you would deny your faithful the rains needed to live, but I am also honored. I am honored to be loved by one who would go so far for me. Why did you not come when I came of age to wed? Why did you not present yourself as a suitor?”

“You have seen this human form of mine, have you not? It is not impressive nor eye catching.”

“Yugi, my dragon, you are beautiful in either form. My eyes are always on you when you enter the room. In what ways are you not impressive? Your human eyes are like the amethyst gems we are given in tribute. Your skin is like fresh cow’s milk and as soft as a newborn babe. You are as warm as a bed warmed by hot coals. You take such wonderful care of me, and stand beside me.” Atem paused as Yugi shook his head. He pulled away from his mate.

“I am small in either form. I cannot even hold my own against my brethren guardians! I have withheld the rains to obtain my mate. I lied by omission to bind you to me. Answer me true, Atem. Would you have agreed to wed me, had you known I withheld the rains for that very reason?”

“I love you, Yugi. I would still marry you, maybe not so quickly, but I would still choose you. You are my Usire, my Yugi, my dragon. I can see how much you love me. You watch me with such ardent adoration. My heart is yours. I do not care that you are small compared to your father. You are perfectly sized for me! Yugi, you have me at your side! You do not need to hold your own against Ra’s bird and Obelisk! I am your sword and you are my shield.”

Atem lifted his arms, tears prickling at his eyes. They had already begun to trail down Yugi’s face, dripping slowly from his chin. He threw himself into his mate’s arms. They sank to the floor near the bed. He shushed his husband softly, pressing reassuring kisses to his face. The pair sat on the floor for some time.

“I am sorry, Treasure.”

“All is forgiven, my dragon. Share your burdens with me?” Yugi smiled softly as he laid his head on Atem’s shoulder.

“Do you know your father is Ra?”

“Yes. Father explained this to me before he departed this world. What does Father have to do with us?”

“I have been charged with trying to find Little Love’s killer. My ability to smell is one of the best among the gods. I caught two scents on her body. I do not know one, but the other I do. I do not know how the dragon it belongs to is involved. Ra told me to confess my sin to you as well. It comes with a brighter note, Treasure. We may be able to have our first child earlier than the end of our first year.” He smiled at the thought. “After Little Love has been laid to rest, we can try.”

“Yugi, will you explain how we will get our child again? I love Olufemi, but she would understand that I want something happy to look forward to. I do not want to cry anymore this day.”

“Alright.” Yugi pulled a blanket from their bed, having noticed subtle shivers from Atem. He wrapped them in it tightly. His inner fire soon had them curled cozily warm around each other. “Before I can perform the magic needed, we will make love. Unlike consummating our marriage, you will take me. I must have your essence inside my body. After, I will turn our bed into a nest, so do not be surprised to find pieces of our jewelry, small gold or silver objects in the blankets. I will lay the egg in my true form, which should be the size of a cat.

“Once the egg is laid, the incubation time for our child will vary. A daughter will hatch within three moon cycles and a son in five. Twin children will hatch in a random number of moon cycles. I hope we have twins.”

“If we do, how shall we decide who names them? I shall be happy even if we have one child. I hope our twins are a son and daughter. I have always wanted a daughter to name Khepri.” Yugi grinned at him.

“Then as long as we have a daughter, she will be Khepri. Our son I shall name Khonsu, so that our children are our sun and moon. Atem, would you want more than two children with me?”

“If we could, I would fill our palace with our children. I sense something in your eyes, my love.”

“I do not think we could fill the palace, as the magic takes much from me. We can try our best.” Atem kissed him passionately. Hands made to wonder over his body, but he caught them. “Treasure, I do not think it proper to make love now. I know you wish for a distraction from our grief, but I will not allow this. I will not allow our love making to become a coping mechanism for your problems or grief.”

“And if I merely wanted to feel your skin against mine?”

“I shall allow that.” Atem snuggled close, content with Yugi near him. He kissed his head. The next seventy days would be hard, but Yugi knew his mate would grieve so they could move on. His eyes flashed bright yellow as he silently vowed to find the one who killed their young.