Yu-Gi-Oh! Fan Fiction ❯ Transcending Memories: A Bond Unsealed ❯ Chapter 10 ( Chapter 10 )

Author's note: Hello again everyone! Phew, I'm finally back! I apologize for the rather long break between updates…. Though I must say, it appears that a number of new developments have occurred in the world of Yu-gi-oh since my last post! Not only has the Egypt Arc ended within the manga, (shortly after my last update if I recall) but it is very possible that the entire Yu-gi-oh comic series has been finished, with the exception of the monthly manga, "Yu-gi-oh R," whatever that may prove to be…. Another bit of news is that a Yu-gi-oh movie has been announced for this coming August, while as of this writing, the American dub is in the final stages of Battle City. In addition, the anime, currently airing on Japanese television, has also made headway, having concluded the Doom saga, this past winter (which I personally found interesting being that it confirmed many of my beliefs concerning Yami's character; traits and actions that I predicted long before its commencement even!) And finally we also witnessed the closing stage of the KC Grand Prix mini-arc these past several weeks ago. But perhaps it is most important to note, that after nearly 60 episodes of filler within the anime, the animated "Egypt Arc" is at last underway! I must admit that I have anticipated this series since its premiere in the manga nearly a year and a half ago....!....a very long time to wait if I do say so myself…. But with any luck, it will be well worth it for fans of all ages, everywhere! Yes, let us all hope that it will be everything that we wish it to be and more! ^_^

Speaking of elapsed time, that also brings me back to my fan fiction. Another reason for this update is that this month marks this story's one year anniversary. It was, in fact, at this time last year that I first envisioned this work, which, if not for its evolution in the last 12 months, would have been nothing more than a short story, spanning to only a few pages at best. Though I confess that I would have liked to have written much more in that time frame, being that I have yet to even scratch the surface of what I would like to ultimately bring about in this fanfic, (it is unfortunate that commitments and responsibilities in real life can prove to be rather time consuming or draining even). But despite this, I am proud of the 71+ pages, the now 10 chapters, as well as the assortment of new ideas that have come to me since the day I literally dreamed up the initial concept that sparked this story; ideas just waiting to be written! I need only to find the time and the inspiration to do it!

In addition, as yet another means of celebration, I have also completed a new painting depicting elements of my writing; a collage of sorts focusing on key moments and scenes that transpire between Yami and Teana. Though I must admit that many of them have yet to be written….^^;. I must also confess that I have yet to post this image or images rather, on my own website. However, they can be viewed on mediaminer.org by searching fan art by author. As many of you know, I am known as "yamigirl21." Or, if you would like to see the images directly, please visit the following links:

http://www.mediaminer.org/fanart/view.php/162660

D ue to the complexity of the painting, I have also created larger details of the piece, which you can also be viewed by clicking on these urls:

http://www.mediaminer.org/fanart/view.php/162663
http:// www.mediaminer.org/fanart/view.php/162662
http://www.mediaminer.org/fan art/view.php/162664

Anyhow, to conclude these remarks, let me reiterate that it has indeed been a long and winding road regarding the creation of these works, both literary and artistic…. But I still believe in my heart, that the best is yet to come! So please, continue to read this story of mine; continue to comment, to ask questions or even give constructive criticism if you find it necessary. Your interest and support of this fan fiction, truly means the world to me! It means more to me than I can possibly say….being that it is for this reason that I have carried through with this writing; not only myself, but for all of you as well. Your words have come to remind me of the reason that I fell in love with the tale of Yu-gi-oh, both the real anime and manga, as well as the world that I have come to create with the aid of my own imagination. Thank you all for everything and please be sure to come again! Now, with that said, let the story resume! ^__^

Chapter 10

*We're almost there…. I just know it…somehow….* A young Teana thought as she, her father, and mother continued their approach towards the royal palace. And yet…despite her assumptions, these strange….instinctive feelings that she sensed, (feelings that seemed to intensify as they neared their imminent destination…) it was, in reality, difficult for her to verify these beliefs being that her vision was now blocked….

To make the journey in a swifter pace, at Teana's insistence of course, Djal had slid her down off his shoulders and was now giving her a piggy back ride instead; though only after he had promised to return her to her previous positioning upon their arrival!

Aside from her eagerness and excitement, in which she did her best to contain, Teana actually found herself to be rather happy with this change. After all…she was quite…fond of the times that her father would hold her…. She would find that being carried by him was rather….soothing as well….. It was perhaps one of the few instances, one of the few precious moments in her life in which she experienced such warmth….true…solace… And not only that…. Though she was unable to comprehend it fully, it was almost as if in this simple form of contact she could somehow…sense the goodness and sincerity deep within him…. His desire to protect her seemed to radiate from him….a tenderness that enveloped her….that calmed her…. Even now she had to resist her desire to simply nod off, as she placed her tiny head, her left cheek, gently against his back.

But….as comforting as it was, occasions such as these were also quite….dismaying to Teana, bitter-sweet; a painful reminder that perhaps her father truly was the only one who cared for her in this world; that he was all she had… Yes, with the exception of his love and devotion, as genuine and as pure as it was, it appeared that loneliness was the only other constant in her life; a solitude that even her own mother refused to ease…a deep unfathomable emotion that she was unable to rationalize in any sense at as such a young age; while the cruelty and indifference of those around her only proved to reinforce it further still…. Although, despite her years, she was all too familiar with the impact that it had made upon her, for she would be struck with the full force of its harshness, the stark realism of her situation nonetheless….

And, the truth of the matter was….that her only real companion was Djal. No, she was not mistaken or overly wary in assuming so…. For as far back as she could remember he had played the roles of parent and dearest friend….always….. At times, she would find some consolation in the fact that he shared her sentiments; for if anyone could understand her discontentment he did….because he too had long since experienced it. In turn, she would often attempt to concentrate on him instead, dismissing her own feelings to try to make her father forget his sorrow, as she had tried to do following the mishap with the drunken men, shortly before….. But, though she was aware of her ability to bring some happiness to his life, there seemed to be little else that she could do for him overall, which only added to her individual heartache…..

Ultimately, Teana knew that all she could do was to love him in return…. And yes…. Teana did indeed love her father….so very much…. In various ways he had become her entire world….the one ray of illumination in an existence engulfed in darkness…. Yet….as much as Teana did adore and depend upon him, she would still continue to hope…..to wish that others would accept and welcome her as well; that someday someone else would show her the light of kindness, friendship, love…. But…as time continued to pass her by, Teana would question if that was even possible, if it was only a foolish dream….if her father would be the only one to willingly open his heart to her….

*The prince….* Teana thought drowsily…. With that sudden contemplation, she immediately felt her eyes snap open, her head jerking upward in surprise! *What….? What would make me think of that?* She asked herself curiously.
"Teana? Are you all right?" Djal asked her with concern, sensing the abruptness of those movements.
"Yeah….. It…. It's nothing daddy… I'm ok." Teana replied softly, lying her head down again to reassure him, as well as her herself…... Although….it was then that she realized that her father's earlier remark had been echoing in her mind since he had first voiced it.

"And now my little princess, it's time to meet your prince…"

These words…. This statement…. What was it about them…..? She didn't understand…. What did it mean? Why was she even thinking about this, about him…? And why now?! The prince….. Looking back, she became conscious of the fact that she had never really considered him before… Not until this very moment….. She had heard of his existence, surely…. That he was the pharaoh's only son, the sole heir to the throne…. Additionally, there were the countless rumors of his growing intelligence and wit; that he possessed impeccable mannerisms, a patterning of speech that was both philosophical, yet charmingly persuasive…. All of this and more….though he was said to be no older than Teana herself even… However, much of this hearsay was also a bit too convoluted for one of the age of seven….and a half…. The one thing she knew that she hadn't heard about was what the prince looked like…. Perhaps it was due to the absence of this subject matter, that she had chosen not to reflect upon him further. Yes… Before today, the only other time that she would think of the young prince at all, in passing anyhow, was when she would retreat to the rooftop of her home…. There she would find herself daydreaming as a means of escaping her grief, gazing at the magnificence and beauty of the king's palace for hours on end….

To her, it would appear as a gateway to another world, a world in which she could be free to be no one but herself, a place that perhaps she could find all that was missing in her life, or where all the negativity of what she already knew would cease to exist.…. It had to be true…. And surely it was like that for those who actually resided there….like the young prince….. Vaguely, she thought of how incredible it would soon be to see such a sight first hand, being that from such a distance her previous view was only limited to the two points of obelisks positioned next to seated statues; statues that seemingly guarded each side of its enormous gates, bordered with a rectangular frame, intricately carved with various designs and hieroglyphics. Everything else, however, with the exception of the tops of additional obelisks, as well as those of the numerous other wings and chambers of the palace, were concealed by a brick wall, surrounding and protecting it from possible threats and invasions, or so she heard… Yes…. The full sight of it would be something to see indeed…. But right now…her mind mused over and encircled only one notion; seeing the prince….even if she was uncertain of the reasoning behind it….

"Eager to meet him, are we?" Djal said, interrupting her train of thought.
"Huh?!" Teana asked, finding herself stunned once more. *What did- How did he know?!* She thought inwardly, her cheeks reddening.
"Oh come now….. You've never been able to hide your feelings from me, Teana…." Djal continued, moving his head back a bit in order to address her. Sensing her awkwardness as well as her small frame shrinking timidly upon mentioning that topic, he then decided to shift it to one a little more bearable… "I'm guessing that you're also thinking about what it'll be like to see the palace at such a close range, am I right?"
"But… How-"

Djal smiled, even though Teana was unable to see it due to the method in which he carried her. In actuality, this was a rather common occurrence…. As a result of the closeness of their relationship, it was as if Djal had developed a sixth sense about such things; a mental link with his daughter that allowed him to grasp even her deepest of thoughts and feelings….. Though….if he were entirely honest, he would have admitted to the fact that he had heard her faint whispers; words that she herself seemed oblivious to; uttered just before she had jolted herself awake soon afterwards…..!

"As I was saying, do you really think that I haven't noticed you fleeing to the rooftop, whenever you find the chance?" He said at last. "I know you Teana, I'm aware of the things that matter most to you. I wouldn't be your father or even a good friend to you if I didn't, now would I?"
"Best friend…." Teana corrected.
"All right then, best friend it is….."
"That's better….." Teana murmured. "So….. Do you think it's silly…?" She asked him, referring to his first deduction more so than any other….
"No, I don't….. Not in the least…. After all, you've always thought that way, haven't you….? You've always been the dreamer….so curious…..so full of….hope….. That sort of thinking….it's a part of who you are….and I suspect who you always will be…. I can only hope-" Pausing, Djal's gazed wandered towards his wife, Ruia, who was still walking just ahead of both he and Teana, yet far enough away for her to be unassociated with them as well…. "My only wish is that you won't ever lose that quality….that you'll continue to look towards the future until the day comes when you do realize yours dreams….when you find true happiness at last…." Djal said wistfully.
"Daddy, what-"
"Can you promise me, Teana? That you'll remain as you are? Never forgetting all that you hope for, no matter what may happen?"

Though Teana was perplexed by her father's tone, she was able to sense a form of desperation in his voice, despite his attempts to mask it….. Even so, this request appeared to be crucial to him so she decided to agree…..

"I promise daddy…. I won't forget…. I'll never give up, not ever…." Teana responded softly, hugging his waist even more tightly.
"That's my girl…." Djal responded patting one of the arms that held him.
"Hey daddy….?"
"Yes?"
"What if I told you…that I had a new dream….?"
"Is that so? And what could it be?" Djal inquired with sparked interest.
"Did you see them…..? The dancers….?"
"Ah yes, of course…. Their performance was nothing short of spectacular, if I do say so myself."
"Yeah…. I thought so too…. And I've… I've made up my mind daddy….. I…. I want to be a dancer….and…I want to perform at the palace…someday….."

As she finished her broken statement, Teana had closed her eyes, almost afraid of what her father's reaction would be regarding such a decision. Suddenly, Djal had stopped walking, and unbeknownst to both he and Teana, Ruia had as well…. When he didn't say a word, she slowly opened them again, puzzled by her father's response yet again, or lack thereof in this case….! "You're not laughing…. I guess that's good…. Right? So….what do you think, daddy? Do you…. Do you think that I can?" Teana asked nervously.

Slowly, Djal knelt down, signaling for Teana to release her hold upon him. With her feet on the ground again, he then took her by the hand and guided her towards him until they once more faced each other at eye level. For several moments, he looked at his daughter gravely, which initially heightened Teana's uneasiness. Even so…she held fast to her convictions, remembering the immense joy that she had felt less than an hour before…. Even if it was her father she simply refused to be taken lightly! Though…she also found that she couldn't help herself…. She couldn't deny the fact that his opinion did matter to her…. She silently hoped that he would choose to encourage this aspiration, as far-fetched as it seemed; especially for one so young….. "I'm serious, daddy…. I want to do this…. When I was watching them today…. I never felt like that before…. Never…. But I've gotta know…. Do you think that I can? Someday, maybe?" Teana asked him again.

"This is important to you too, isn't it….?" Djal said.
"Yeah…. It is…." Teana nodded.
"Then yes…. I do believe that you can. If you truly want this, and you're willing to work towards making it happen…then I know that'll be able to accomplish it…. And I'll be there….to witness your first performance." He smiled tenderly.
"Daddy….. Thank you!" Teana exclaimed both excitedly and gratefully, as she leapt into his arms.
"Whoa, easy now!" Djal chuckled, taken aback by this burst of new-found enthusiasm. Nevertheless, he then returned the embrace until Teana chose to free herself from his hold…..
"Opps…. Sorry about that." Teana giggled sheepishly. "But yeah…. Thanks again daddy….. And just watch me! I'm going to do it!" She continued, balling her fists in determination.
"No…. You won't…." Ruia remarked suddenly, looming from overhead.
"Ruia!" Djal replied, shocked by his wife's statement. Lifting himself off the ground again, he glared at her sternly.
"What?! You know that what I say is true! How foolish it is of you to entertain this, Djal! That she even try to pursue these fanciful delusions…. Ridiculous! You saw what happened today! Do you really think that they'll ever allow her entrance into the palace? Much less permit her to even approach the royal family, above all the young prince? Do you?! Come now, both of you, be realistic!" She snapped.
"Ruia, please!" Djal protested.

Though her words had been hurtful….Teana did her best to take hold of her emotions….hoping to once again avoid angering her mother even more so….. Though she was unaware of what her parents were really quarreling about, yet another standard incident in their daily lives, she knew that it extended beyond her involvement in the matter…. Though more often than not, that was of little comfort to her, as she always questioned, always wondered if somehow she was to blame…. Looking upward at them now, she found her view to be rather frightening; two silent towering adults on either side of her with such serious expressions upon their faces…. Teana could actually feel the tension between them, as she simply stood there, quite literally in the middle of things, unable to do anything else but worry…..for both their sakes….

"Well….." Teana began, breaking the quiet hostility between them. "I won't say the palace then….. But I'd like to dance for a small group of people at least…. Out here maybe? Maybe that'll be easier for me to do…. At first…anyway…. Oh! And maybe if I do, everyone will start liking us some more… Yeah….! Do you think that'll help….? Mommy?"

As if she hadn't heard her daughter's plea, Ruia remained unresponsive; she maintained her fierce stare into Djal's eyes before finally turning away again, releasing a deep exasperated sigh. "Mommy…. I-" Teana said, taking a step forward in her mother's direction.

Before she could continue with her advance, or even with her initial remark, she was halted by Djal, who gently placed a hand upon her shoulder. With an expression that spoke volumes, Teana understood its underlying meaning; that she should not persist in pressing the issue…..

"Don't listen to her." Djal said at last. "Just remember the promise you made to me…and to yourself….."
"Yeah…. I know, daddy. I know…. I just hoped that mommy- That she would-"
"Shh….. It's all right now…. It's all right….." Djal replied reassuringly, stroking the top of her head. And yet, despite these words, Djal too found himself dismayed…. With a sigh of his own, as he sadly, yet wordlessly reflected upon what had just transpired, Djal allowed his gaze to shift outward, beyond the hustling and bustling of the large group before him. It was then that he recalled the main objective of this excursion, their purpose which had nearly escaped him during the unsettling dispute that had occurred moments ago. Assuming that it had slipped Teana's mind for that same reason, that or the anxiousness that he had sensed from her when he had placed Teana down to begin with, he thought it appropriate to remind her, for it would surely be the perfect means to take his daughter's mind off her troubles! "Well…. Would you look at that…. I think that you should turn around now, Teana. Do you see where we are?"

Facing the direction in which he spoke, her vision traveling upward, above the long legs, the torsos, and finally over the heads of those who encircled her, Teana's eyes widened, she gasped; for she was positively astonished by the sight before her! They had arrived, at long last! She now beheld the royal palace in all its splendor, all its glory! Even amongst the crowd of surrounding onlookers, those who had undoubtedly come to witness the pharaoh's emergence as well, the view that she could see from the ground, as constricted as it was due to her height, was certainly remarkable in itself! How the sun appeared to amplify its beauty, its rays shining upon the walls; walls that sparkled brilliantly like a sea of diamonds, whiter than even the finest of linens….. The minute detail of the engravings on those elevated walls, as well as on the obelisks and gates….. The various colors in the carvings; vivid reds, blues and greens…. And shimmering brightest of all were the silver and golden tints, which had seemingly been embedded deep within those etched scriptures and designs! It was more beautiful than she had ever imagined….truly…. And how richly it deserved the title of per ah, for it was, without question, the greatest of houses in all of Egypt!

"Oh….. Daddy….." Teana said breathlessly. "It's just so-"
"Incredible…." Djal remarked, concluding her statement. "And before I forget my promise…"

With those words, Djal proceeded to lift her off the ground once again, as she did indeed reclaim her seating upon his shoulders, just as he had said she would….. This only increased her already growing excitement as she found herself rapidly moving her upper body from left to right, not only trying to take in her surroundings, but to be the first to catch a glimpse of the pharaoh…..and the prince…...

"Careful now." Djal cautioned, fearful of her falling due to her animated motions. "I believe that what you're seeking….is right….there." He then pointed.

High above the main entranceway of the palace was a royal balcony; positioned directly in front of a darkened doorway lined with thick yellow golden bricks, as well as slender crimson-ended matching pillars. Presently it was vacant of any spectators…..

"Up there….? Ah, I see it! Is that where he'll come out daddy? The prince- I mean, the pharaoh?!" Teana retorted, correcting herself hastily.
"Yes…." Djal laughed. "They both should appear any minute now….."
"Daddy…? What's he like….?" Teana asked in a hushed tone.
"The pharaoh?" Djal responded, knowing full well who she really meant….
"No… The prince…."
"Honestly…. I'm uncertain…. I've actually never had the opportunity to see him either, Teana."
"But is he….nice?"
"Well…. I've at least heard that he is."
"Hmm…." Teana reflected. "Do…. Do you know if he's…cute too?" She then asked, feeling the heat returning to her cheeks yet again!

Djal chuckled once more.

"Well, unfortunately I don't believe that I would be the best judge of that, even if I had seen him previously…. But….it seems that you're about to receive the answer to that question….."

In that instant, Teana watched as everyone around her grew very quiet….very still….. She felt her heart racing in anticipation, thumping loudly deep within her, as her eyes fixed sharply upon that doorway up above. And there she continued to stare, also without moving, without blinking even….. After what seemed like an eternity, she at last saw movement within those shadows, approaching gradually, unhurriedly…. It was then that the powerful figure of King Akunamukanon came into view, dressed proudly in a flowing violet robe, with singular golden stripes near his torso and sleeves. Though he wore a white tunic underneath, it was overpowered by a large collar or breast plate; one as red as rubies, with only the slightest bits of gold. Upon his head he wore a white head piece or handkerchief, its material falling to his shoulders, concealing all of his hair except that of his dark brown, well kept moustache; which eventually lead into the whiskers of his beard. And over his forehead he wore his crown; a thin circlet in the shape of a defiant golden snake, ready and poised for attack!

Before Teana or any of the other villagers could even respond to his majestic presence, out stepped a young boy…the crown prince himself, taking his rightful place at his father, the pharaoh's, side! At that moment the entire kingdom cheered; an applause that seemingly resonated in each and every direction for hundreds miles! In addition, some chose to raise their fists high into the air to salute him, while others continuously chanted his name before that too spread amongst the entirety of the crowd. In response, the king waved with his left hand as his right was placed firmly upon the prince's left shoulder. With that gesture, the citizens hollered even more loudly as they proceeded to sing his praises, congratulating him for his glorious reign of 30 years!

For a brief instant, Teana found herself completely overcome by the commotion, having to cover her ears even, before she could fully become accustomed to the booming reverberation. She had barely even gotten a glance before it had begun! But then….as she slowly…..very steadily raised her head again, as she prepared herself to look upward, she felt a strange sense of….fear….? No….nervousness….or so she thought….. She wasn't certain what or even why she felt this way, but this slight apprehension only lasted for a passing second….. It was then that she allowed herself, at last, to take in the full view of the young prince, standing directly above her…..

Suddenly….she felt a short intake of air…. Next….as if she no longer had any control of her actions, she found that her left hand, originally positioned at her side, had begun ascending….inch by inch…. It briefly settled upon her chest, just long enough for her to feel her heart beat in a way that she had surely never experienced, before it rested on her face, where she sensed the abundance of heat there; so much so that she found it difficult to even take another breath! No….she had yet to release even that first gulp of oxygen! Finally exhaling, she then brought both of her hands together, her fingers intertwining as she continued to gaze at him….. Surprising herself yet again, she then released…..a laugh….? Yes, she found herself giggling even! But why? What was it that was making her behave so strangely?

Her eyes still unmoving, she then proceeded to study him…. Well… He certainly looked….unusual with his rather distinctive multi-colored hairstyle; hair in the shape of various pointed spikes, spikes that were the color of black and blond, as well as a pinkish shade of purple! But she soon realized that focusing on that made her want to snicker even more so….. And yet…. She hadn't laughed because she thought that he had looked funny. Well…..perhaps just a bit (despite herself, she felt a strange desire to want to touch that hair, if nothing more than to satisfy her curiosity regarding the way it spread outward like that…..!). But no…. It was something….else…. But what? Despite her uncertainty she knew one thing…..the answer to the question that she had asked her father….. She did think that he was cute….. With that thought, it dawned on her…..(or at least as much as it could for one of the age of seven….and a half)! Was that what this was?! Had she actually taken a liking to the young prince? Was this a….first crush….? No, it couldn't be?! Out of the blue like this!? How? Why??! What did she even know about him to possibly cause her to feel this way?

Stopping herself, she had placed her face in both of her tiny hands, as she feebly attempted to control these flaring new emotions! But regardless of her embarrassment, she was compelled to look on, and she did so….hesitantly….. Crush or no…..he was certainly unlike anyone she had ever seen before…so completely different from the young boys in her village….. Yet, she was unable to describe exactly how….for that did indeed stretch beyond her understanding….. But then, it was challenging in itself for her to simply absorb all of this! Whether she knew it or not, however, she had noticed it in the maturity that somehow….emanated from him….. Yes…. It was evident in the way he stood even…. That posture….so confident….. And his eyes…. Even from such a distance away she could see that there was something deep within those red-violet eyes….. Something mesmerizing….and….frightening as well….. Whatever it was, it somehow had the power to dissolve, to melt away her thoughts of loneliness; her sadness…. She felt a new warmth then too….one that made her want to reach out to him, to learn everything there was to know about him…..! Though admittedly, she also found herself overwhelmed by this….. It was as if she were feeling things, experiencing emotions that truly had transcended her young years, though that concept too was one that she found difficult to comprehend….. But then…. What she did know was that everything had changed the moment she had laid eyes on him…… Yes, that was it….. And…. She now felt some sort of pull as well….. An invisible force that urged her forward…. To run to him….. To see him…..

"Teana?" Djal asked breaking her trance.
"Huh? What? Did you say something, daddy?"
"Well! Since it appears that you didn't hear me the first time, I'll ask you again." Djal said playfully. "Did you receive the answer to your earlier question?" He continued in a more serious tone.
"Yeah…." Teana murmured her eyes still locked on the young prince.

Though Teana and Djal were caught unaware once more, Ruia had long since kept a watchful eye on her daughter, having witnessed every second of her rather telling reaction…... She stared at her just as fiercely as Teana gazed at the prince, the only difference being the slight narrowing of Ruia's eyes…..

"Hey, daddy…..? Didn't you say that the prince and his daddy- I mean the pharaoh will be coming down here too? You know, to see the village?" Teana asked eagerly.
"Yes, I believe so…..." Djal responded. "It should be happening sometime soon….."
"He's coming here…." Teana whispered, more to herself than to him, a smile forming upon her face.
"Hmm… Am I imagining it or are you awfully interested in this matter?" Djal teased.
"What?!" Teana exclaimed, blushing again. "No! It's not- I mean- Hey, he's a boy! I don't like boys, remember?!"
"Ah, but who said anything about liking boys? Hmm? It seems to me that you're trying to convince yourself of that more so than you are me." Djal mocked onward.
"Dad-dy!" Teana pouted, her discomfort escalating! Teana's father laughed again. "Really daddy…. I guess…..it's just that….. He's not like the other boys…... I just know that he's not….."
"Well, he is the prince, Teana."
"No, that's not what I mean…..." Teana said trying to find the right words in her relatively limited vocabulary….. "You know….don't you daddy? The other kids…. They can be so…mean…. They won't even talk to me and when they do…. They-" Teana paused, shaking her head a bit, thus preventing the formation of tears…. Afterwards, she looked up towards the balcony once more, regaining the smile that she wore moments ago…. "But….he wouldn't….. Would he daddy? Maybe…. Maybe he would want to be my….friend…. Do you think so, daddy? That maybe he'd want to play with me?"
"I don't know Teana…. Perhaps….. But I must be honest with you….. It's rather….unlikely that the two of you will ever cross paths….."
"Oh…." Teana sighed sadly, resting her chin upon her father's head.
"But…. I can tell you that I don't believe that he would treat you like the other children have. Yes….. I haven't the slightest doubt that he would be a perfect gentleman towards you…." Djal said tenderly, attempting to lift Teana's spirits.
"Really?" Teana murmured.
"Really."
"Put me down daddy…..." Teana said, as her mother closely continued to watch her….
"Down? But why?" Djal asked, bewildered. "You won't have much of a view with all these people towering over you."
*It couldn't be….. No….. If she's even thinking about it…!* Ruia thought to herself.
"Please daddy? Will you do it for me?" Teana pleaded.
"Well…. All right then….. If you insist….." Djal shrugged, still rather uncertain of his daughter's reasoning.

At this point, Ruia's stare was so intense that her eyes resembled those of a angered feline; eyes that were just as slit, just as…..knowing…..

When Teana had stepped upon the ground yet again, she soon found herself…..torn, conflicted…. Her mind was now racing just as quickly as the beating within her chest….for rational thought was surely telling her one thing…..while at the same time, her heart was conveying a very different message….. She found herself afraid to move, to take even a single step forward….. It was as if…..she was preparing, readying herself….for a leap of faith….

*I could do it….. It would be easy…… If I ran past everybody….. If I was there to meet him, maybe he- But can I? Should I….? What if-*

However, before she could even finish her contemplations, without warning she felt a hand grabbing her from behind; violently swinging her arm around thus forcing her to look towards the opposite direction!

"Whatever you're planning, or even thinking about doing, I want you to stop, this instant! Do you understand me!?"

At that moment, Teana found herself face to face, only inches away from her mother's fuming expression, as her hands tightly latched on to both of Teana's shoulders!

"Mommy? What-" Teana stuttered, stunned by this verbal explosion!
"Ruia! What are you doing?!" Djal retorted, equally surprised by his wife's actions.
"Don't play innocent! Do you think that I don't know what you were about to do? Do you!?" Ruia shrieked. Those gathered around them had begun to whisper once more, yet amazingly Ruia appeared unconcerned on this occasion….. "This ends right now! I mean it Teana! Now!"

With those words Ruia had begun to shake Teana even more fiercely!

"Mommy…… You're hurting me!" Teana pleaded.
"I'm warning you Teana! You are going to listen to me!" Ruia exclaimed.
"Mommy please, let go!" Teana cried, attempting to break free of her grasp.
"That's enough Ruia! Leave her alone!"
"No! I won't let her do something stupid, something that'll only make our lives even more miserable!" Ruia continued her nails now beginning to dig into Teana's skin…..
"Ow! Mommy! Please stop!" Teana moaned, fighting even harder to release herself.
"I said leave her alone, Ruia!" Djal yelled, grabbing one of her wrists away.

This allowed Teana just enough time and room to retreat, to distance herself from her frenzied mother; while simultaneously Djal had reached for Ruia's other hand, firmly restraining both, despite her struggles, thus preventing Ruia from continuing her pursuit of their daughter. Though it pained Djal to watch his wife resist him so viciously, he simply would not allow her to attack Teana again!

"You fool! You haven't a clue, do you!?" Ruia snapped, as she proceeded to thrash about.
"What's gotten into you?! Tell me what this is all about, right now!" Djal demanded.
"Why not ask her?!" Ruia replied.

At that point in time, they had both turned to regard Teana, only to discover that she was no where in sight….. "Too late…..!" Ruia whispered venomously…..

"Teana? Teana, no! Come back!" Djal shouted.

Now distraught, Teana had taken off running…..rushing by all the men and women that stood in her way as she progressed swiftly towards the palace gates! Dimly, she could hear the cries, the disgusted mumblings of the villagers as she traveled onward; those who adamantly voiced their disapproval concerning her seemingly rude advancement past them….if not the many other things that they had taunted her about today or any day….! But no, for once she didn't care about that! None of it! She just couldn't take it anymore! She was tired of it! Everything! Her mother's unexplainable wrath, these distant judgments that she had tried so hard to block out, the yelling and screaming that would so frequently occur between both of her parents even! She wanted to escape it all! She wanted refuge from it! She wanted….him to ease it for her….. The prince…..

*I want to see him….. I have to get to him….!* Teana thought to herself, tears beginning to stream down her cheeks as she continued moving forward, despite the growing uproar….. *He will be different…. I know he will…. He won't care what people say about me…. He'll help me…. He'll like me…..for me…..!*

With these musings spinning endlessly in her mind, Teana ran faster still, making enormous head way by literally squeezing between people, ducking and maneuvering through their legs even; drawing ever closer to her destination, regardless of the increasing protests of those she passed!

Seeing the palace doors in sight, Teana felt her sorrowful expression beginning to soften….. She felt a sense of hope amongst her distress, a hope that grew, that thrived with each passing step….. However….moments later, that hope was destroyed, shattered by the sound of hollering, accompanied by vigorous stomping all about…..! She had found herself driven to an abrupt halt upon her arrival as she was then approached, no, completely surrounded by several armed and seemingly infuriated guards!! Yes… She knew that look, those familiar expressions of distaste upon their faces…. And evident by the intensity in which these men pointed their spears, they made no distinction of who they held in their midst, whether it be a murderous assassin….or even a young child….. All they knew was that a stranger, a frantic commoner was nearing the palace gates and they would not allow her to come any closer! Before Teana could even wipe the tears from her eyes she became aware of the fact that there was no where for her to run; no way past them as she was kept at bay from all sides by the sharp tips of the weapons they held!

"Insolent child!" One shouted. "How dare you come here!"
"Step back, this instant!" Cried another.

Startled, Teana had tried to do as they asked, yet she had barely budged an inch when the men instinctively drew even more closely upon seeing these slight movements! This only increased Teana's terror as she felt herself beginning to shake uncontrollably…... Like a cornered animal, she then attempted to remain perfectly still, as she struggled to contain her trembling, allowing her eyes alone to move about. But then….doing so only confirmed what she already knew to be true, that these men had her trapped!

*Help….. Someone help me! Please! Daddy?! Anybody! I'm so scared!* Teana thought inwardly.
"Teana!! No! Leave her alone!" Djal cried, emerging from the now riotous crowd!
*Daddy….? Where are you? I can hear you, but I can't see you!* Teana thought again as her view was still blocked by the men that encircled her!
"Stand aside peasant! This is none of your concern!" A third guard had voiced, using his own discharged spear to stop Djal from reaching the area in which Teana was held captive.
"She's my daughter! I beg you! Please, just let her go!"

The guard remained firm, however, unmoved by these emotional pleas, as he simply continued to act as a barricade, pointing his spear directly at Djal's chest! At that moment, Djal found himself brought to a stand still indeed, as the guard before him also followed his every motion with the sharp tip of his spear! This, however, quickly began to frustrate Djal…. Looking outward, only a short distance away from where he stood, Djal could see portions of Teana's small figure, in between the array of soldiers that imprisoned her. Though he was uncertain if she had heard him when he had called for her, he could certainly hear her now….. She was frightened….. That was apparent by the whimpering that escaped her lips; audible even from there, where he was forced to remain! Those faint cries….. Listening to them was agonizing…absolutely torturous for him! And the longer he was prevented from helping her, the more impatient, the more infuriated he became! Finally he could take it no more of it! With lightning speed, he maneuvered his hand downward, tightly grabbing the end, the near tip of the spear! The guard, having been caught by surprise, thus loosened his grip, allowing Djal to promptly rip the weapon away from him! Unconcerned about anything but being let through, in that same instantaneous motion, he flung the spear, just as hurriedly, to the side.

Without even a single glance at the man before him, Djal raced onward, utterly determined to reach Teana, to be there at her side! However, despite his success at passing this one guard, the instant that Djal had showed resistance, out from within the palace gates marched an entirely new fleet, charging towards him, equally resolved to restrain and capture Djal much like they had Teana! Though some of these men had chosen to prevent him from approaching with their own spears, thrusting them forward in one final warning, others decided to take a more physical approach to the situation! One after another, guards had leapt forward, fiercely toiling to overpower him, to tackle him even, until finally they had a firm grip on both of his arms, forcing them back, behind him, until he was no longer able to move, to retaliate any further! Regardless of the fact that he was now outnumbered, Djal continued to struggle, repeatedly calling his daughter's name, as he once again felt his blood boiling…..a sudden surge of energy flowing…..a force to be reckoned with, hidden deep within him, stirring…..!

High above, on a neighboring balcony, one smaller and less extravagant than the one in which the pharaoh and the young prince had used, yet another man watched; along with a boy, nearing his early teens….. This man wore a thick, white linen cloak, one that contained a hood, serving to mask the top of his head, while his clothing's loose material hid the rest of his body as well. The man possessed a quiet air….a mystery about him…..as demonstrated by the decision to conceal his form in this manner; a choice that seemingly acted as a word of caution, a warning against those who approached him, those who sought to learn…..his many secrets….. In fact, all that was even remotely visible from this figure were his hands, aged, seemingly weary hands, clenched tightly at his side; in addition to his partially covered face, a face of a man having lived beyond middle age, as seen by the white hairs of his moustache and that of his rather lengthy goatee….. And yet, for those who studied him closely, at that very moment, what was most telling about this man was his expression….an expression that illustrated the sudden shock that had come over him, as well as a guarded sense…..of fear….. These traits were only rivaled….by the now noticeable golden-like ornament…..currently in the place where his left eye had once been……

"What is it, Akunadin?" The boy finally asked, having witnessed his mentor's somewhat disturbing reaction…..

In that instant, the priest Akunadin appeared to awaken from his state of alarm, as he then attempted to gather, to compose himself before his seemingly concerned, yet stoic….pupil…. For a moment more he said nothing, as he simply regarded this mature, self-assured youth who was dressed simply in a white tunic, with a singular golden band around his waist. His thoughts wandering, Akunadin then found himself gazing deep into his student's emotionless yet slightly hardened face; his striking blue eyes, which were lightly veiled by his thick, brown, extended bangs…

Truth be told, when comparing the two males, especially on such an occasion in which they stood so closely, one could argue that there were various….similarities between them, in terms of appearance….and mind set….. Though…..in reality, only one was conscious of this knowledge….as well as the deeper, more significant connection that they shared….. Before Akunadin could allow himself to ponder this further, he soon found himself looking away from the boy, once again focusing on the incident below.

"No, it's nothing Seto. Nothing at all…."
"I see." Seto replied shortly, appearing satisfied by the response he was given. "Anyhow, do you see what's occurring beneath us?" He then said, as both he, Akunadin, as well as the entire kingdom continued to watch the imperial guard's laboring efforts to detain a rather defiant Djal!
"Y-yes….." Akunadin replied nervously.
"That man….. I can sense it….! Within him resides a power…..the strength of a great ka!" Seto exclaimed. "Yes… Even now he appears to be resisting it, his desire to unleash it, to summon it forth…..! I'm unable to determine the exact type, however…. If only Shada, or his mentor Simon Muran were here….. Surely one of them would be able to use the Millennium Key to verify my suspicions….. And yet, I know it to be true! I'm certain of it! You feel it too, don't you Akunadin?" Seto asked, turning to face the elderly priest once more. "Akunadin?" He inquired again when he received no reply.

The priest Akunadin, however, could only look down in sheer horror, as vivid, potent memories of eight years past rushed back to him in that very instant; memories of anguished, screaming faces….the sound of maniacal, murderous laughter…..the sight of swinging blades, thrown spears…..and finally the enormous quantities of spilled blood…….

*Yes….. I can feel it….. The might of his ka….. Such power…. Much like those who lived- His appearance…. It's unmistakable…. But how? How could he have survived?! Not one being was left standing! Not one! And yet….he exists here….. But then…..why has he emerged now? Could it be possible that he's aware of what I've done? Is it revenge that he seeks!?* Akunadin thought inwardly as he proceeded to observe Djal. *I'm uncertain if my Mind Scan can work from such a distance…..with so many other minds…..with such a wide range of thoughts and actions intermixed with his own….. But I must be certain! I must…..*

Attempting to concentrate, to focus on the figure below, Akunadin had quietly begun to chant, to voice an incantation, one barely above a whisper for he desperately hoped that by doing so, he would not draw Seto's now diverted attention….. As a result, Akunadin's Millennium Eye shone brightly, and as he had concluded previously, it was indeed difficult for him to successfully determine the contents of Djal's mind amongst the uproar, the chaos that ensued, as well as the dividing gap between them. With an unwavering will and persistence, however, one that was able to override even the great toll on his body, Akunadin was at last able to view short fragments, brief flashes of his target's buried past….. He saw….a young Djal on horseback…..bidding farewell to an elderly couple…..a man and woman…… He then witnessed Djal riding away……leaving an eerily familiar settlement…..his former home, behind him…… And finally….Akunadin observed the moment of his return……years later……to a ghost of a village…..a mere shadow of what it had once been……for now, it was nothing more than a barren, smoldering landscape…..completely devoid of life…..covered only with the remains of nearly demolished, decaying structures….

His Millennium Item seemingly refusing to show him any more, Akunadin inhaled deeply, he staggered…..tightly gripping, clasping the nearby banister for added support! These motions once again brought the young Seto to the priest's side, yet for the seconds that followed, Akunadin remained deaf to the boy's cries……

*Yes…. This is the undeniable proof….. I know now….that he is indeed a survivor…..a descendant of those who perished in the village of Kuru Eruna…… But I must know more……! I must learn the extent of his knowledge…..his involvement…..the true capacity of his ka even……! If he is a threat…..to the kingdom…to Seto….to me….. I may have no choice…. I may be forced to repeat the past…..to sacrifice…..for the greater good…..*