Yu-Gi-Oh! Fan Fiction ❯ Frozen Tears ❯ Secrets Revealed ( Chapter 5 )

**NOTICE: I am competing with my sister for reviews - please help me out and review! You know you want to! ^.^

Randomasdf (Grace): Okay - I need some help - should Mai and Anzu be in this fic? Or should I just leave them out? I'm not quite sure - because I don't know exactly where they will fit in the story. Oh well - help me decide!

Okay - I also apologize if this is turning out to be the "typical" Ancient Egypt fic where Yami is cold-hearted and blah, blah. It'll be more original soon, however, there's only so much I can do in the Ancient Egyptian setting - it's actually pretty limited if I want to keep it accurate and for it to not turn into a crazy humor fic. Please bear with me - and please keep reading! Oh - and I apologize for the slow updates.

Anyway, WOW I HAVE 100+ REVIEWS!!! Hooray for all of the reviews! <bows to readers and reviewers> Thank you! Merci beaucoup! ¡Gracias! Arigatou! Xie xie! (Translation: "Thank you!" in English, French, Spanish, Japanese, and Chinese - I would put more languages if I knew more! ^.^)

Yugi: <bouncing around> Yay! Chapter 5! I can't wait!

Yami: <desperately trying to catch his aibou> Yugi! Calm down! I know you're excited - we all are - but please settle down! <Yugi pouts, but sits down>

Randomasdf (Grace): Wouldn't it be funny if I killed everyone off?

Yugi, Yami, Jou, Seto, Ryou, Bakura, Malik, and Marik: NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!

Randomasdf (Grace): Ha ha - can't you guys take a joke?

Yugi, Yami, Jou, Seto, Ryou, Bakura, Malik, and Marik: No.

Randomasdf (Grace): Oh - okay.

Bakura: <growls impatiently> Just get on with it!

Seto: My - SOMEONE'S impatient.

Ryou: Well, you would be too if you were in `Kura's position.

Bakura: RYOU! WHAT HAVE I TOLD YOU ABOUT THAT NAME???

Jou: Well, he's not - so BLAH!

Yami: Well, I think that if we cut back on all of this quarrelling, Grace would be able to work faster.

Malik: <cynically> No shit Sherlock. <Yami covers Yugi's ears>

Marik: Hikari! I am appalled at your language! <pauses to think> Actually, I'm not.

Yugi: <looks confused> Huh?

Yami: <mutters> Nothing, nothing.

Bakura: Malik said - <Yami sends death glare> - never mind.

Randomasdf (Grace): OH MY GOD - just be quiet already!

Bakura: You mean Ra.

Randomasdf (Grace): No, actually I don't.

Bakura: Yes you do!

Ryou: No she doesn't! <Bakura is shocked that Ryou would oppose him>

Jou: Hey - is that a doughnut?

Seto: Pig. Or should I say Puppy? I wasn't aware that puppies ate doughnuts.

Randomasdf (Grace): <sweatdrop> That was really random.

Yugi, Yami, Ryou, Bakura, Malik, and Marik: Oh well.

Randomasdf (Grace): Before these psychopaths get TOO out of hand, I'd like to present the disclaimer and then chapter 5, since everyone seems to be off in La-La Land. First, the disclaimer: I do not own Yu-Gi-Oh!, nor will I ever. I am too young to be in jail, so please don't sue me! Now, I present to you - chapter 5!

Yugi, Yami, Jou, Seto, Ryou, Bakura, Malik, and Marik: Yay!

A/N: Okay everyone - this is the chapter you've been waiting for - SLIGHTLY heavier fluff. Remember, everything has to go with the plot, meaning that the relationship between Yami and Yugi as well as with Bakura and Ryou is still unstable. CLARIFICATIONS: To know what happened to Yugi's mother, please refer to chapter 1. Oh - and I don't really know what they ate back then, so bear with me. I try not to use cuss words, but it fits some of the characters (like Bakura). And I will be using Serenity for Jou's sister's name, not the Japanese name - because I like the name Serenity. ^.^ I hope this chapter turns out alright - it's really hard to write fluff! (Even though there are a lot of fluff masters out there in this world.) So please read and review!

Here we go everyone - chapter 5!

~*~*~*~*~*~ = Scene Change

|-|Frozen Tears|-|

By Randomasdf

~CHAPTER FIVE - SECRETS REVEALED~

The Egyptian sun rose slowly, its golden rays filtering upon four different scenes in four different rooms.

Two similar blond teens lay bare-chested next to each other on a large bed. The light lavender sheets that matched their eyes were twisted and tucked around their sprawled tan bodies. They shivered simultaneously, being exposed to the cool early morning air, and huddled closer, both unaware of how close they were. A smile played upon both of their lips, eyelids still drooped in slumber.

~*~*~*~*~*~

A spiky white-haired figure was stretched out on a soft mattress, glaring hard at the ceiling, as if expecting it to talk to him. Long arms were crossed in front of his clothed chest. He took a glimpse over to a boy on the rough floor that could easily pass for his twin. Soft silver tresses fell limply around his angelic face, bathed in the aureate dawn and eyes heavily-lidded with sleep. The figure grunted and turned away from the rapturous sight, scowling slightly at himself.

~*~*~*~*~*~

Two forms were settled on the floor, backs leaning upon the frame of the bed. The taller brunette held the shorter ochroid-haired boy in his arms, hand still tangled in his silky locks. Expressions of contentment graced both of the teens' features, as they clung to each other almost desperately. Dried tear trails marked the slightly smaller form's cheeks, but he still retained the satisfied look upon his lips. They both shifted, pulling even closer, as if afraid to lose each other. Unknowingly, the one dressed in blue (the brown-haired one) buried his face into the other's mane, breathing in the sweet scent of honey and milk. He drew a pleased sigh from the blond, though both still lost within a world of dreams.

~*~*~*~*~*~

A petite boy with wild hair was wide awake his intense pools of amethyst glowering at the room with scorn seeping through every part of his body. What had HE done to end up in this wonderful mess? His gaze fell upon the slumbering Pharaoh who was currently twitching under the mass of blankets, obviously engaged in a livid nightmare. The smaller boy was unsure of what to do - the internal decision tearing at him. Should he wake him up and spare him of the torture? His brain seemed to be battling with instinct.

Meanwhile, the taller of the two look-alikes tossed repeatedly, his sense of reality clashing with a fictitious impression. A whimper escaped his lips, as his mind plunged into a world between truth and delusion.

**DREAM/FLASHBACK SEQUENCE**

An eight-year-old Prince Yami sprung happily down the palace hallways, a bouquet of violets in his tightly clenched fist - a present for his mother. Glancing around to search for the correct door, he was suddenly pulled roughly into a semi-dark room and slapped harshly across his tanned cheek.

"Wha -" another blow connected with his jaw, silencing the crimson-eyed child.

His orbs brimmed with tears, threatening to fall.

"No crying - Pharaohs and Princes do not cry," a voice shouted from the shadows.

Yami turned, pulling at the locked door, screaming desperately for aide. The deep voice boomed with mocking laughter.

"They will not come. You are useless - a feeble, whimpering nobody," it said full of scorn.

Yet another shot landed in his stomach, and the Prince doubled over in obvious pain.

"Who are you?" Yami managed to choke out between gasps.

The figure stepped out from behind the gloom to reveal -

his father, the Almighty Pharaoh of Upper and Lower Egypt.

Yami sucked in hard, his lungs on the edge of exploding.

"Let this be a lesson, boy. The first of many. You are never to show emotion. Feelings are signs of the fragile, the frail. In order to be Pharaoh, you are to be just. Like. Me," the glowering ruler hissed through clenched teeth.

"Mother," the Prince whispered.

"Your mother?" Another scornful laugh resounded throughout the chamber. "You are just like her - a worthless, pathetic creature not fit even to be called human," the Pharaoh spat roughly.

By this time, the silver tears were painted down his face, streaming down in endless rivers. His father grabbed him violently.

"Your life is in your own hands - I suggest you keep this to yourself," the bitter Pharaoh sneered.

With that, he turned and swept out of the murky room, golden robes billowing behind each graceful stride, and retaining his stolid façade, as Prince Yami crumpled to the floor in a teary broken mess.

**END DREAM/FLASHBACK SEQUENCE**

Angular crimson orbs snapped open, cold sweat dripping down the sides of Yami's face. Seeing the Pharaoh awake, Yugi fell back upon the makeshift mattress, feigning sleep, not wanting his MASTER to see him. The teenaged Pharaoh glanced at the figure in the corner on the floor. The sight his eyes were met with almost made his icy heart melt. Almost.

His slave's flaxen bangs were draped delicately across his saintly features, reflecting the early morning rays. His shiny black and scarlet locks were slightly mussed, but remained in the distinct hairstyle that the Pharaoh also sported. His round amethyst eyes were shut in a peaceful manner, adding the finishing touches to the perfect image of innocence.

Yugi opened one of his eyes tentatively, letting out a squeak when he saw the Yami's ruby gaze upon him. The Pharaoh almost smiled. Almost.

Yami felt his lips twitch, but managed to force it into a scowl before it got out of hand. `WHAT IS GOING ON??? I DO NOT SMILE!!!' he shouted in his head.

Yugi caught the odd look upon the Pharaoh's face and quickly rushed over to the grand bed. "Do you need anything?" he asked timidly, seeing the fire in Yami's irises flicker for a moment.

"Did I ask for assistance?" the Pharaoh said with a rough tone.

His slave shook his head softly, while Yami took the time to compose himself. He mentally kicked himself. `Snap out of it, Yami. You are Pharaoh! I have no time for such fools.'

But the cynical inner voice interjected. `Ah - but you have time for this innocent angel, don't you?'

A faint pink hue spread across the Pharaoh's face, surprising him greatly.

"You aren't ill, your highness?" Yugi asked hesitantly.

Yami shook his head. "Just get me some water," he ordered.

Nodding, the small-built servant hurried off - if he had one weakness, it would be that he hated to see people sick ever since his mother's death. It also marked the beginning of hell for him - the pain, the suffering were all linked to that tragic moment.

A silent tear trickled down his chin as he made his way to the kitchen.

~*~*~*~*~*~

The Egyptians in each of the rooms woke to the blinding sun, save for the Pharaoh and his slave, who were both wide-awake.

The two almost identical individuals stirred slightly, shifting the rumpled sheets back as they yawned simultaneously. Two sets of lavender glanced at each other before their owners flushed furiously at the close proximity of their half-dressed bodies. Quickly sitting up, the two tanned companions stretched silently and hurried over to the polished wardrobe - pulling out light azure-colored robes for the new counsel member, and plain gray pants with a simple white shirt for the slave.

"How are you feeling?" Marik asked sympathetically, while Malik massaged his arms, trying to loosen the muscles for a long day's worth of labor.

Sensing his tension through his motions, Marik walked over to the palace's new slave and gently took one of his bronzed arms between his palms. The ex-merchant rubbed in slow, circular motions, easing away the knots. His breathing became labored, coming out in short gasps. All Marik wanted to do was to crush his lips to Malik's, tasting the sweet flavor that radiated off of the beautiful slave, but he resisted the cravings. And it hurt. A lot.

Meanwhile, Malik held his breath, trying not to react to the caresses, yet failing miserably. He emitted a soft sigh in contentment followed by a stifled moan that escaped his throat. The sounds almost drove Marik crazy - his hungering body engaged in a battle with his brain. Finally, he gave up, giving in slightly to the temptations and pulling Malik into an embrace while lightly kissing the slave's soft flaxen hair.

They parted after a moment, both flushing deeply at their intimate contact.

"Remember, Malik, don't let a title define who you are," Marik whispered smoothly, as a knock was heard at the door.

A servant stood with her head bowed, carrying breakfast for Marik. The counsel member took the tray, thanking the girl, and turned toward Malik, gesturing for him to share it with him. The lilac-orbed slave hesitated, an expression of uncertainty written clearly upon his sun-kissed face. He timidly reached out a delicate hand and brought the small piece of fruit to his mouth, savoring the syrupiness of the melon.

Marik nearly slipped a groan at the sight of the younger teen licking his fingers carefully. Malik, on the other hand, was quite pleased with Marik's reaction. Blushing like mad, he approached his roommate, slightly swaying his hips in what he hoped to be in a somewhat seductive manner.

Before both of them knew it, Malik was inches apart from Marik, their lips almost touching. Their hot breaths entwined in the small space between them as they gazed into each other's lavender eyes, mesmerized. Slowly, Marik closed the tiny gap, brushing his lips shyly across Malik's. Sparks and tingles flew up their spines, causing them to shiver pleasantly simultaneously. Marik then gently deepened the timid kiss, easing apart his partner's lips, prodding them tenderly with his velvety tongue. Out of surprise, the slave fully opened his mouth, allowing the ex-vendor to explore his saccharine cavern, the taste of fruit lingering throughout.

They pulled away, breathlessly. By this time, both of their faces were stained scarlet. Marik placed one last kiss upon Malik's forehead before the two companions parted went on their own way.

~*~*~*~*~*~

**MEANWHILE**

A silvery-white haired figure blinked sleep out of his warm chocolate eyes, sitting up upon the hard floor. He looked around, not remembering where he was until his vision cleared, revealing a large bed with a lump residing upon it. Giggling, Ryou stood up, pulling his thin robe around his slender body, and walked over to the bed, watching the "lump" intensely, considering poking him, until he remembered about Bakura's hostility.

The grin immediately dropped from his face, as did the idea of jabbing the sleeping ex-tomb robber. Sighing, the slave sat down in a chair in the corner, and noticed the "lump" as it began to stir. Grunting, Bakura shifted to the side, unable to block out the sunlight as it trickled through the balcony upon him. He threw back the covers, going to kick Ryou awake before he became aware that his almost-twin was staring at him. A tint of pink graced his pale skin when Ryou saw that his roommate had caught him gaping. The angelic boy averted his orbs quickly, not wanting to provoke Bakura's anger or test his patience.

"Get dressed," Bakura growled, shoving a new set of clothes at Ryou while heaving himself out of bed and searching for an outfit for the day.

The teen with harsh angular eyes walked over to the dressing table, picking up random pieces of gold and silver jewelry, but dropping a silver bracelet adorned with emeralds. Hastily, Ryou rushed over to pick it up just as Bakura leaned over. Their hands met and their heads clashed in an aching collision. The younger of the two yelped in surprise and in pain he rubbed his head gingerly (with his free hand).

They both looked down, now noticing their entangled hands, and quickly wrenched them apart, not knowing what to say as Ryou's blush grew and Bakura glared hard, trying to keep the heat in his face under control. The knock at their door snapped them out of their trance - and Ryou hurried to open it, to find -

No one. But a tray was at his feet - filled with delicious fruits and breads. Picking it up, the younger held it out to the older. Bakura scoffed, and took it, while tossing an apple at the slave. Ryou caught it gratefully and rubbed it lightly on his shirt before taking a bite that lit up his angelic features. He licked his lips happily and took another bite, leaving Bakura to stare at the boy with a mix of emotions. Surprise - for Ryou seemed to be happy with the smallest things. Pity - since the slave had suffered so much that the smallest things WOULD affect him greatly. Disgust - at the boy's purity and cleanliness. And - Admiration? The ex-thief's cold coffee orbs widened considerably. Since when had HE - the mighty Bakura - admired slaves?

`BEAUTIFUL INNOCENT slaves,' a sly voice in the back of his corrected.

`SHUT UP!' he yelled back mentally. "SHUT UP!" he yelled again, aloud this time.

Ryou's head snapped up suddenly. "Er - are you okay?" he asked bashfully.

Bakura glanced at the white-haired slave. Big mistake. The mere sight of those round brown eyes was enough to make his knees quiver and his heart jerk. He backed away to the bed, seating himself. Ryou shut his orbs, shivering at the intense gaze.

Slowly, the taller of the two stood up from his current position and broke out of his daze. "Stupid slave - mind your own business," he snapped, emitting a low growl.

With that, he strode silently out the door and into the hallway, leaving a very confused and very lost Ryou.

~*~*~*~*~*~

**MEANWHILE**

Seto carefully opened one of his icy cerulean eyes, his back sore from staying on the floor all night. Memories of the night before flooded in his mind, and he smiled down upon a slightly snoring, golden-haired Jou in his arms.

`Ra, he looks absolutely stunning - like an seraph that can only be compared to the gods.' The High Priest shook his head sadly. `He probably doesn't see me that way. Oh well,' he sighed, `at least he'll be happy - and I'm happy if he's happy.'

Smiling gently at the teen in his arms, Seto placed him on the oak and sapphire bed, and moved to his wardrobe to find his regal robes. Jou stirred slightly, moving onto his side, a few drops of perspiration sliding down his soft cheeks.

"No father, please. I'll do ANYTHING! Please don't - don't hurt them, hit me instead. Just don't touch them. Please! PLEASE!" he whispered exasperatedly.

The blue-eyed teen spun around, shocked at the slave's memories. Quickly gliding over to the large bed, Seto tenderly shook Jou awake, squeezing him in a soothing manner. Sobbing hysterically, the slave opened his honey-amber orbs, his vision clearing just enough to see a brunette figure looming over him, an expression of concern written clearly upon his eighteen-year-old face.

"Gah! I'm sorry!" Jou apologized, jumping out of the warm blankets that covered him.

Seto looked puzzled for a moment before responding. "There's nothing to be sorry for, Jou." He paused before continuing. "Is there something about you father you wish to tell me?" he asked gently.

Jou looked shocked. "My father?"

"You were mumbling in your sleep, about him hurting you or something," the High Priest explained.

Jou looked away, face flushed with embarrassment.

"No need to be embarrassed," Seto told his slave, "You can tell me anything."

The blond-haired one nodded. "My father, was almost always drunk. And if he wasn't intoxicated, he would be in a foul mood. I tried to protect my sister, Serenity, and my mother - a very difficult task - but I tried! I really did try!"

By this time, tears were once again trailing down his delicate face.

"Yugi was my only friend back then. We met Ryou and Malik when we became slaves," Jou explained. "Anyways, Yugi's father and my father were `drinking buddies' and I swear they were in some sort of cult that promoted abusing their sons."

"You don't mean - Yugi went through all of this too?" Seto gasped.

"Yeah, but he went through worse. MUCH worse," Jou choked out.

The older teen took the hint, surprised at the tragic childhood these slaves had experienced. "Oh Ra - I didn't know - I'm so sorry, Jou."

The slave continued. "Yugi and I would meet behind our houses, if you can call them that, and we would clean each other up, praying for a better life. He was always a bloodier mess than me - I can remember all of those gashes and bruises with dried blood crusting around his wounds. One day, my mother decided she had enough. She took my sister, who was about five at that time, and left. My poor mother wanted to take me too, but my father discovered her plan and she was forced to leave me behind. Gods I miss her - my sister too."

Jou paused for a moment, closing his eyes, remembering his mother's tired face - tired yet determined.

Seto felt his heart jerk at his slave's painful memories. "Well, maybe we should get changed and go meet up with Yami."

The younger of the two agreed with a quick nod of his head. Seto pulled him into another relaxed hug, whispering into his ear, "Remember - you can talk to me anytime."

Planting a gentle kiss upon Jou's golden tresses, the two turned to their own business - both wearing a new shade of scarlet upon their faces.

~*~*~*~*~*~

**MEANWHILE**

Yami sat on his ruby-encrusted bed, sipping his water delicately as he watched Yugi twirl the blanket around his fingers, head down as if in deep thought.

"Stop fidgeting! I'm getting a headache!" the Pharaoh boomed.

The small slave ceased immediately, his amethyst orbs wide in fear.

`Am I really that scary?' the crimson-eyed one asked himself.

Yugi shifted uncomfortably under Yami's intense gaze.

"Here," he commanded smoothly, throwing an outfit at his slave. "Put these on, then you are to help me finish dressing."

The violet-eyed slave nodded quickly, before throwing on the clothes. Yami couldn't help but keep his eyes on Yugi's pale skin - so soft-looking with an aura of innocence and purity radiating off of him. Little did he know about the poor boy's past…

The Pharaoh shook himself out of his trance - willing himself to retain his usual attitude. Once his slave was finished, he ordered him to follow him to the royal dressing chambers, picking out a navy blue robe. Yugi heaved the heavy material onto the ruler's shoulders and clasping it together at the front. His fingers were trembling horribly as he picked up the different pieces of jewelry to put on for his master. The Millennium Puzzle came first, the leather cord slipping over the king's head. Next came gold bracelets - three on each wrist. Then, the ruby collar came around the Pharaoh's neck, clasping in the back.

"You will not eat unless I give the food directly to you," Yami stated calmly, and it almost pained him to see Yugi's downcast look. Almost. But not quite - the icy fortress was still there - barricading his heart.

"Come - you will follow me to the meeting hall," the older of the two teens said, gesturing to the door. Yugi trailed behind the Pharaoh silently, praying for help in his head.

`Please, Ra, anybody - please save me!' he whimpered mentally.

The two of them stepped out into the hallway just as two smiling figures emerged from the chamber a couple feet down.

`At least Jou looks happy - I wonder what has gotten into him,' Yugi thought bitterly once again.

Seto and his slave looked over just in time to see the Pharaoh and a very frightened-looking Yugi following him.

"Yugi!" Jou cried out happily, waving hysterically.

The small one was about to answer when Yami sent a cold glare in his direction. Yugi shuddered, but remained silent. The blond slave looked confused, but Seto shot him a reminding look, and realization dawned upon him.

"Yami, I need to talk to you - privately," the High Priest beckoned the Pharaoh over.

Yami walked over, leaving Yugi with Jou. "What is it Seto? Is something wrong?" he asked.

"There's something you should know about Yugi."

~*~*~*~*~*~

Randomasdf (Grace): I know, I know - that was a slightly shorter chapter - but I really wanted to get it out ASAP!!!

Malik and Marik: I loved our "moment".

Randomasdf (Grace): Well, at least SOMEONE's happy. <sigh> That wasn't as fluffy as it was supposed to come out as, but hey - it was worth a shot. More fluff is coming soon, though, so keep reading please!

Yugi: <sniffs> Why is Yami so mean? Can't you see I'm SUFFERING here?

Yami: Oh aibou! I'm here for you! <crushes Yugi to his chest>

Yugi: ^.^

Bakura: Oh get a room, you two! No one wants to see that!

Ryou: <warningly> `Kura - be nice.

Bakura: >.< THE NAME! RYOU! YOU PROMISED!

Seto: My, my. Never thought I'd see the tomb robber whine.

Jou: Kinda scary if you ask me.

Randomasdf (Grace): Kinda disturbing, too.

Bakura: YOU MADE ME SAY IT! THIS IS YOUR OWN FAULT!!!

Yugi, Yami, Jou, Seto, Ryou, Malik, Mark, and Grace: <covers ears>

Randomasdf (Grace): Okay, okay - just chill, Bakura. You're not going to die, you know.

Bakura: I never said that.

Randomasdf (Grace): <sweatdrop> Oh God.

Yugi: <angrily> Just let Grace write in peace - must we always have this argument?

Malik: Wow. Yugi is scowling. Wow. Scary.

Yami: <glares at retreating Malik>

Marik: Stop glaring at my hikari!

Yami: Then tell him not to insult mine!

Randomasdf (Grace): <to readers> They are SO juvenile. Oh well - that can't be helped. I'm going to leave them up to their own business - I have a few notices:

The ages of the characters are as follows:

Yugi: 15 years old

Jou, Ryou, Malik: 16 years old

Yami, Seto, Bakura, Marik: 18 years old

Whoa - they are pretty young, but I guess it's okay for these purposes. ^.^ I hope all of you review and help me beat my sister! Oh - and tell me what you think about Anzu and Mai - and if you have any other suggestions, don't hesitate to tell me!

Once again, I apologize for the slightly shorter chapter - please review!

Until next chapter! (Which I am writing right now.)