Yu-Gi-Oh! Fan Fiction ❯ You Are Not Alone ❯ Ptah ( Chapter 7 )

    A/N:  What I like best about this fic is that… I don’t know what’ll happen next! Weird huh?—but it’s a fact.  I just type what I think of—and try to link it to the next chappies.  Anyhow, thank you sooooo much for still keeping up with a writer like mwah! Hugs and toddles to all the sweet reviewers out there! ^^ DCOH: And this fic is Yugi-centric—much to my dismay… DS: I’m not all cold…since you’ve been a good Guardian…there’ll be a great surprise for you soon. DCOH: I LOVE YOU MY GOOD MASTER! (falls to knees and praises DS) DS: -__-  Uhm—anyway, stay tuned! And I love you so much guys!       Oh and take note:    Some of the scenes here might be fluffy or dramatic…it may seem romantic…but NOTHING is going on between any of the characters…just plain brotherly/friendship thing.  In this chapter, Yugi considers Dark Magician and the rest of his monsters as his older siblings, and vice-versa (though Yugi is considered as the younger brother, obviously ^_^).  So don’t even think about Yaoi in this fic coz I HATE YAOI! GET ME! Thank you…         Chapter 7— What A Wonderful World!         Crafty Ptah         Day 9— A Day with My Monsters         “MASTER YUGI!” In one swift moment, Dark Magician took the boy from the Elf and gently laid him down the couch. “Is Master all right?” Gaea asked anxiously. Dark Magician tapped his forehead and whispered.  “He’s just out…but he needs rest.  Let’s take him to the guest room…” “I’ll get some water and cloth!” Gaea at once left for the kitchen. “And I’ll set the room ready!” Celtic added, rushing upstairs. After the other two had left, the Magician placed a worried look on his Master.  Master Yugi, please be all right…     Yugi’s head was swimming.  He wasn’t sure of where he was.  All he knew was that his whole body was screaming “Everything hurts” at him… He shook his head and groaned…then forced himself up.  He was in a cheery bedroom with simple oak furniture, light blue drapes and he was lying down on a soft bed with sky blue and green sheets. “Wh—where am I?” Yugi mused, standing up. But as soon as he did so, his head ached again.  It felt as if someone pierced his skull with a knife.  Pain was all over him, and his vision was becoming fuzzy. “Oh—damn—…” The boy was swaying.  “S—someone please help me!”   Then he felt strong arms catch him before he hit his head flat on the wooden floor. Slowly regaining control, he looked up then gasped.  “D—Dark Magician?” “Has anyone ever told you, Master Yugi, that getting out of bed on your first day of being sick means having 99.9% percent risk of fainting before you can say ‘Let’s Duel’?” The Magician smiled lightly before helping Yugi back in bed. “Sorry.” Yugi smiled foolishly. “It’s nothing…compared to the Celtic Guardian, he’s worse.” “Celtic—he saved me from those things—didn’t he?” “Things?” “Those black tigers that tried to kill me when I was on my way out of that murky forest!” “Wait a—do you mean THE FOREST OF SHADOWS?”
”What’s wrong with that?” Yugi wondered. “I mean—it’s dangerous out there!” Dark Magician heaved a sigh.  “Thank Ra that you didn’t hang out there for long.” “I see what you mean.” Yugi winced. “Oh and by the way—you never mentioned you have a great sense of humor!”   “Dark Magician + humor = the worst kind of Algebra I’ve ever seen!” “CELTIC!” Dark Magician glared at the newcomer. “I mean—come on!—since when have you changed your identity from being a kill joy to the joy maker?” The Elf sat down beside the mage.  “How are you anyway Master Yugi?” “Fine.” Yugi lied. “You look paler…I’ll go get some medicine.” Dark Magician stood up then walked away from the room. “He can read me, can’t he? He’s so much like Yami!” Yugi frowned. “You look cute like that!” Celtic laughed.  “Anyway, he has a younger sister, doesn’t he? Of course he can read you clearly! You remind him of Dark Magician Girl.” Yeah, but does he care about me as much as Dark Magician Girl? Yugi thought. “Anyway, you should get breakfast…I’ll bring it up here. You get some rest Master Yugi.” Celtic smiled before leaving. “Uh, thanks!” Yugi responded before lying down.  I hope I’m no trouble.     Celtic came back for Yugi with a tray of egg sandwiches and some juice. “Thanks, Celtic.” “It’s nothing Master.” The Celtic Guardian smiled, sitting beside him again. “Uhm I think I can get up now.” “What for?” “I want to see Dark Magician.” Celtic nodded then smiled.  “Of course you would—he IS your favorite monster.” “Can I?” “Well, I know he’ll kill me for this but—come on!” Celtic pulled his master up then led him to the room at the end of the dark blue hallway.     Dark Magician looked up at the opening door of his bedroom. “HEY DARKY!” “Celtic, how many times do I have to tell you to stop calling me that?!” “Niichan just stop thinking about it!” Dark Magician Girl suggested. “We have different view on humor, imouto-chan.” “Sure, niichan.” Dark Magician Girl said flatly.  “As if you have some sense of it…” “Anyway, what do you want Celtic?” Dark Magician asked.
”No, it’s not me.” Celtic pushed Yugi inside the room. “Uh…hi?” “Master Yugi!” Dark Magician Girl jumped from the bed with excitement and ran to Yugi.  “I’m really meeting you at last!” “Hi Dark Magician Girl!” Yugi smiled. “Master Yugi, what are you doing out of bed?!” Dark Magician jumped up from his seat as well.  “CELTIC!” “What did I tell you, Master Yugi?” Celtic groaned. “Please, Dark Magician.  I pushed Celtic into this, please don’t blame him…” Yugi’s pleas got the Magician. “Oh…if you say so.” “Awww…niichan does have a heart—didn’t I say so Celtic?!” Dark Magician Girl suddenly piped up. “Whatever.” “Anyway, since you’re here, Master Yugi, I think it is the right time to find a way to send you home.” Dark Magician said. “WHAT?!” Dark Magician Girl and Celtic Guardian exclaimed. “And I thought you said he had a heart?” Celtic added to Dark Magician Girl. Yugi forced a tearful look off his face.  Wh—what?  Does my Dark Magician want me to go away? “A—are you sure Darky?” Celtic perked an eyebrow up.  “O—of course I am.” Dark Magician paled and nodded awkwardly.  “But—do you really wanna go Master Yugi?” Dark Magician Girl said, looking sad. Yugi forced a smile.  “Hmm… maybe I really need to go now, Dark Magician Girl.  Sorry.” Dark Magician Girl sniffled, and Celtic Guardian slapped his forehead then stared at the Dark Magician.  Seeing the brown eyed elf’s look, the Dark Magician stiffly swept away whatever emotion his face held earlier then turned away to the shelf nearby.  Celtic smirked.  He could’ve sworn his friend’s blank look change a while ago. He sure is no Man of his words… Celtic thought.  Looks like it’s not only us that want Master Yugi to stay after all!     The group had continued searching for answers inside Dark Magician’s bedroom with no success. “That’s it— there is really nothing about a way out of this realm in this scroll!” Celtic dumped the 1500th scroll he had read. Dark Magician Girl scowled at him as she placed the scroll back to where it really belonged while muttering what Yugi had made of as “stupid disorganized elf!” But somehow, Celtic’s answer seemed to make Yugi happy.  That way, maybe he can stay more with his Monsters and talk to them.  But the only little joy he mustered soon plummeted when his Dark Magician didn’t look like giving up.   “There’s got to be a way to send you back.” The Dark Magician said as he shuffled a scroll back up on the rack. “Does he want me out of here?” Yugi asked Celtic as the Elf came up to his side. “Of course he does.” A flash of pain reflected on Yugi’s face. “No, Master. He just wants you safe up in your own realm, but if we have a choice…well, I’m pretty sure he wants you down here just like everyone else.” Celtic said quickly. “So…he’s just—…” “You might not notice it on first impression but—he cares for you deeply, more than I can remember— and I mean it when I say ’he does’.” Celtic said.   “Really?” “I mean…he’s always been there for you haven’t he?” Celtic pointed out while the Mage sat down on his desk again, flipping through a book. “Plus, he’s been worried about you and Master Yami lately—that’s what’s keeping him awake all night—I mean all week.” Yugi looked hopeful. “Hey, I bet he’s just forcing himself to do this.  You should’ve seen the look on his face when you ACTUALLY agreed with him earlier!” Celtic gave him a wink.  “Just tell him that you wanna stay here and he’ll immediately get out of his crap and start a party.” He gave Yugi a light shove.  “Come on, Master Yugi.  Whenever Dark Magician throws a party, it’s only one of the few times I get to see my fellow warriors,  not to mention plead with Mystic to get me some new robes—man she’s the weaver for perfectionists! And he only does when it’s his imouto’s birthday—which is like twelve months away!  Boy I can’t wait that long!” Yugi patted the Dark Magician on the back.  “Don’t worry…we’ll find a way back for me together.  Anyway, I don’t mind staying with you guys…I think it’s rather fun.” Dark Magician turned at Yugi.  “Are you sure you want to stay longer?” “With all of my monsters here—why shouldn’t I?” Yugi grinned. The Mage sighed and closed the book.  “Oh all right you can stay.”   “ALL RIGHT!” Dark Magician Girl and Yugi said at the same time. “JINX!” Yugi pointed at Dark Magician Girl. “Hey—why you—…” Dark Magician Girl jumped up after Yugi who ran off down the hallway, their laughter bubbled around the room. Celtic gave his best friend a light punch on the shoulder.  “Feel like shouting with joy?” Dark Magician laughed. “Cut it, Celtic!” “Right—I’ll go tell the neighbors we’re having a party!” “SAYS YOU—” Dark Magician couldn’t even continue what he wanted to say for his friend darted away from the hall to the street. “Do I even bother?” He rolled his eyes, and then smiled.  “Hmm…a party ISN’T a bad idea…after all…     Master Yugi’s going to stay…”           ---     &nbs p; “So tell me something about yourself, Dark Magician Girl?” “Well, Master Yugi,” Dark Magician Girl thought for a while; she and Yugi were strolling around the garden. She never thought that her master was so much fun, and not only that, he seems to understand her best.  An hour before, they chased each other around the house; sneaked out a tray of cookies Gaea had baked (“GET BACK HERE!” Gaea shouted, but soon let the pair run off) and Yugi even cracked up some of the funniest jokes she had ever heard.   “Hmm…I don’t really know where to start but…I can tell you a lot about my niichan.” Dark Magician Girl smiled.  “I bet ever since he was born the first word he said was “book”.  I mean, wow, the only thing niichan wanted in the world was a new book every year.  He must have every literature collections in his bedroom…and some in the library where he stays half a day.  But he’s really nice—he can be sometimes annoying though.  I mean, he treats me like a little child!” she stuck out her tongue.  “Hey, just because he has higher ATK points and I’m weaker doesn’t mean I can’t defend myself! Man, he’s so overprotective at times.” “Much like Yami!” Yugi laughed.  “I understand how you feel.  Having someone who rants at your head all the time whenever Seth comes out to get me certainly isn’t something I can call ‘enjoyment’!” “Seth?” Dark Magician Girl’s face turned serious.   “Oh…” Yugi mentally kicked himself.  How could he have forgotten that his Monsters don’t know that Seth was back?  Hey, they were with Yami since Ancient Times, they ought to know what kind of a maniac Seth is. “I meant that—it’s a game in PS where in I get to be some character and I have to fight this annoying Master God named Seth.” Yugi said quickly.  “And whenever I say ‘Ouch!’ or some other related words, Yami gets like…uh…you get the idea.” True enough, Yugi had a game in PS where in he plays a character named Osámi or something and he gets to fight all sorts of angels and finally comes up to the Mega God—though he’s not named Seth! “Well, sorry about that…you see, since Ancient Times, me and my niichan had been with Master Yami.  We fought most of his duels…and we know what Seth did to Master Yami…and I resent that God for that—so does niichan! But he was like so powerful…niichan and I are nothing against him.  At least he’s gone now.” Dark Magician Girl sighed with relief. Yugi felt guilty about lying to his Monster, so he decided to make it up to her. “Hey, how about another joke?” “Oh please, Master, my stomach and lungs are gonna crack!” “No, no! Hear this out, anyway—…” “NO MASTER PLEASE!” “Come on it won’t hurt!” “MASTER YUGI DON’T!”   “They’re having fun!” Celtic pointed at the laughing Dark Magician Girl and Yugi. “I see that…” Gaea muttered while mixing some dough in a dish, still sore about the cookie stealing. “Anyway, I do hope Master Yugi stays for a while…it can’t be that bad…can it?” “’Course not, Celtic.  If something happens to him, we’re all here to protect him, aren’t we?” “Yeah…and I’m positive Dark Magician won’t let anything happen to him.” Celtic sighed.  “And so would we.”                         *-----------*     & nbsp;       Day 9.2— Wavering Decisions     Night time…     “Hey, check it out!” “Is that really?”
”Can it be possible?” Rumors and whispers spread around Yugi when his other Monsters had seen him in the flesh at their Realm.  As what Celtic had predicted, there was a huge party—not to mention commotion—in the house.  All of them were excited to meet Yugi, and some of them even wouldn’t give chance to others.  Yugi sure provided them good company.  He cracked his usual jokes, and the whole crowd roared with laugher—even Dark Magician smiled a little. “Aww…the wet blanket’s actually laughing?” “CELTIC!” “Right…” Celtic helped himself with some food.  Monsters, much like humans, eat food… and Dark Magician and Gaea are sure good chefs. Dark Magician Girl and her other friends (not to mention Kuriboh) had Yugi to themselves while their Master chatted about what was happening at the world above…and some interesting things there too. “An alarm clock?” Dark Magician Girl piped up.  “What the heck is that?” “It’s the most annoying thing in the word!” Yugi said. “It gives this annoying sound, and you have to punch it to make it stop.” “Why don’t you just get rid of it?” “Grandpa wouldn’t want that…and secondly I’m a late waker.” Laughter and music rang until nine o’clock in the evening (or as it states in Yugi’s watch) and soon everyone went home. Dark Magician, with a *little* helping of magic, was able to clean the house in no time.  Yugi had never been happier.  But soon the thought of Seth crossed his mind. “Uh guys, I’ve got something to tell you…” Dark Magician, Celtic, and Dark Magician Girl turned at him (Gaea doesn’t live with them, he just visits frequently). “Uhm…” Yugi was panicking.  He didn’t know where to start.  They had been with Yami since God knows when and if they know Seth, they MUST know about the Talisman…which leads Yugi back to step one…and his experience with his confession to Yami didn’t help encourage him one bit. “About how I got here…” Oh you idiot, just tell them! “YouseeSethattackedmeafewmonthsagoandit’sbecauseIhave thistalismanthingysothere,that’showIgothereandI’msurethatI̵ 7;llbedeadanytimesoon!” Yugi said VERY quickly. The three other monsters blinked.  “Uh…can you do it a bit slower please?” OK…that didn’t work…which makes things worse. Yugi thought glumly. “I meant that I—really—enjoyed—the—party—and—I’ ve—got—something—to—say—to—you—la ter.” “Uhm…Master Yugi, I might have not caught all of what you’ve said…” Dark Magician Girl noted, turning serious once more. “But I think I caught the word ‘Seth’ earlier.” At once, Dark Magician and Celtic gave each other a serious look. “Uhm…can we please deal with that inside?” Yugi softly suggested.       So inside, the same scenario with Yami happened.  Yugi explained slowly and clearly (Like I have a choice… Yugi thought bitterly), like what happened before—a.k.a Seth’s evil plot (except the part that he is the reincarnation of Akari and that he has the Talisman, for he thought They don’t have to worry about that part!). And like Yami, you couldn’t expect that the Monsters will take it lightly. “WHAT?!” Celtic Guardian exploded. “How—how can this be happening?” Dark Magician Girl fell to the couch.  “He CAN’T be back!”
”But he is!” Yugi bitterly reasoned. “And now he wants me dead.  Countless of times, he tried to kill me…but we always got away…” He added on the lighter note. “…and I’m trying my best to fight him!” “Master Yugi…” Dark Magician couldn’t deny the worried look on his face now. “I…I just can’t believe that you would be involved with Seth.  He is one of the master tricksters amongst the gods…” “I already know that because he’s sure damn proud of it (he always tricks us).  Anyway, I’m sorry I got you all in this…” Yugi said sincerely.  “I really wanna stay with you guys…but…” tears began to well up his cheeks as he fell to his knees.  “I can’t risk that Seth will even take you from me.  I don’t know where my friends are…everyone is gone from side…and if I’ll lose you guys…I’d…I’d…” Celtic and Dark Magician Girl stared at each other sympathetically.   “Master Yugi…” Celtic was unable to think of anything to say right now, but Dark Magician knelt beside his Master and gave a comforting hand on his shoulder. “Dark Magician…” Yugi looked up at him. The Magician smiled softly.  “It’s not your fault Master…we’ve been involved with Seth ever since we’ve committed ourselves to Master Yami.  We swore to ourselves that no sort of harm will reach Master Yami, even if it’s Seth…and we’ve made the same commitment with you as well…” “Yeah, Master Yugi!” Celtic Guardian agreed.  “Whatever Seth’s planning to do with you, we’re not going to let him even touch you without a fight!” “Yap!” Dark Magician Girl added.  “We’ll kick his ass before he can even do anything to you Master Yugi—or we’d rather die!” “IMOUTO!” “!” Dark Magician Girl smiled sheepishly.  “Gomen, niisan.” “Mi’na…” A smile amidst the shining tears glowed on Yugi’s face.  “Arigatou!” He hugged his Dark Magician tightly. “I owe you so much, guys! You just don’t know how much you mean to me.” Dark Magician ruffled his young Master’s hair affectionately, a bright, proud smile playing on his lips. Celtic Guardian gave Dark Magician Girl a wink.  She laughed.     And you just don’t know what you mean to us as well, Master Yugi…     You just don’t know how much…           & nbsp; Next Day…       Yugi’s second day with his monsters was better than ever—he got to meet most of his monsters by now.  Dark Magician even showed him the Magic Maker’s Tent…where his Magic and Trap Cards dwell. Oddly, Yugi had taken interest in poking the Magic Cylinder, which nearly caught him.  Luckily, Dark Magician was there to bail him out. Next, he went to the house where Gaea lived with Silver Fang, Summoned Skull, Curse of Dragon and strangely, the Flame Swordsman was there for a visit. When the Flame Swordsman heard what happened to his master, he didn’t take it too lightly.  Yugi assured him however that he will help him.  After having tea and chats with his other monsters, Yugi followed Dark Magician and Dark Magician Girl, who met them after she had done with her shopping, to meet Kuriboh.  And Kuriboh nearly squashed Yugi when it dashed to give him a friendly hug.  Dark Magician and his sister made Kuriboh finally get off, but Yugi just laughed and thanked Kuriboh for his friendly gesture.   It was already nightfall when Yugi and his companions left Kuriboh’s home and headed home…but they were met with a problem…       “Uh…Dark Magician…Dark Magician Girl…where are you guys?” Yugi called, but it was useless…             …he was lost…           ~*~     /Hmm…so Yugi Mouto is trapped there, isn’t he?/ Seth stroked Hayen while musing.  /No matter, I’ll get him for sure!  DAIKU!/ A shadowy figure appeared out of nowhere. /Go to Yugi Mouto…and make sure you’ll give him a good surprise for me…/ The figure nodded then vanished. /And he must make sure he’ll bring with him his head…/     ~*~        220;Someone help me, I’m lost down here…” Yugi scratched his head.  How could have he been so stupid not to keep an eye on his companions?  Ok—may be his height is something he can blame on but… “Argh!” he groaned impatiently.  “Try to remember!  This is an absolutely perfect time to be mugged!” Yugi trembled.  He was used to bullies coming out of nowhere but… Damn, he really wished that he can communicate with Yami now. But he tried yesterday…and nothing happened. He swallowed hard.  It was his fault he got lost anyway. “Oh well…better get to…UHHHHHNNNN!!!!!” Yugi felt something hard whack him on the head and he was knocked out.       Dark Magician waited impatiently for his sister to return.  The three of them suddenly had split up.  He prayed that Yugi was with Dark Magician Girl.  Celtic was pacing outside the gate. “GUYS SO SORRY I’M LATE!” Dark Magician jumped out at once and ran to his sister, staring at her from head to toe.  “Are you all right?” “As if I can’t protect myself.” Dark Magician Girl grinned.  “Oh, where’s Master Yugi?” “Wait—he’s not with you?” Celtic Guardian dreaded the answer. “Uh…no…why?” Dark Magician Girl trembled. Celtic gave Dark Magician a look.  “Oh Ra no…” Dark Magician muttered.         The next day…       Yugi opened his eyes.  “Wh—where am I?” Yugi tried to sit up, but soon he realized he was chained to the wall. “Oh no…” Yugi gasped.  He’s been captured…and only one person will do this… “SETH I KNOW YOU’RE OUT THERE!” Yugi shouted. /How smart of you, Yugi! You really remind me of Akari!/ “SETH GET ME OUT OF HERE—NOW!”
/Out of those chains—YES! But out of this dome—I’M AFRAID NOT./ Yugi felt the chains loosen and he plopped down the ground.  “Ouch…” With him released, he had a better look around at his surroundings. He was trapped in some glass dome…and about five meters from his prison is an unlocked metal door.  If he could only reach it!   Yugi got up quickly.  Sure, Seth released him, but that didn’t comfort Yugi one bit.  If it did anything, it made the boy even more nervous than ever. “What are you planning, Seth?!” /A priceless entertainment planned…and you are one of the participants!/ “What the hell do you mean?!” Yugi shouted, trying to push the fear in his voice down. /Oh…I just want you to meet one of my servants…/ Yugi turned around when he heard a strange noise and gasped.  “Oh God!” /DAIKU!/ And it just got worse! Yugi thought.         “Master Yugi!” Gaea shouted, his voice echoing across the fields. “Where could he be? He’s been missing for a day now!”  Dark Magician rubbed his temples, obviously trying to calm himself—an effort in which he failed miserably... and he knew it  “Why didn’t I keep a better eye on him?! I should’ve kept him on my sight back then—how could have I been stupid?!” “Calm down, Darky! He’s gotta be around here somewhere!” Celtic tried to fight his against the strong urge of panicking. “Calm down?! He’s been gone for a day! And Ra knows what happened to him!  If something happens to him…I’d…I’d…” “Look, think positive!” Celtic waved his hands near his face, as if Dark Magician was going to attack him and he was doing an effort to defend himself.  “He’s got to be all right!  Master Yami will never forgive us something will happen to Master Yugi!” “He’s not the only one…” Dark Magician said softly, holding his head with one hand as he leaned against a nearby tree. Celtic gave his friend a sympathetic look.  “Look, we’re going to have Master Yugi back safe and sound... so stop blaming yourself already!  I’m sure Master Yugi won’t like you doing this to yourself as well.” Dark Magician forced a smile. “Thanks, Celtic.” Before turning to Gaea and saying “Any luck?” “None so far but…” Gaea gave a hopeful look.  “I think I can feel him over there, by that dome northeastward.” “That’s better! Let’s go!” Celtic shouted as the trio went off.  Master Yugi, we’re coming…please hang on.  Dark Magician prayed silently.  If something happens to you, I don’t know if I can still forgive myself…         We can’t lose you…           Yugi backed off from the enslaved Anubite.  “S—Seth, let him go!” /Oh but I can’t miss the entertainment it’ll give me if I don’t!/ “AH!” Yugi rolled off as the insane Anubite tried to attack Yugi. “I’ve gotta go tell the others!” Yugi dashed off but halted. Damn, what if they get in trouble too?! “AAAAAHHHHH!!!!!!” Yugi felt a wound burst up on his shoulder. He got me! Then the Monster came up at Yugi and was about to give a killer blow. “AH NO!” Yugi screamed.     Then Yugi felt himself being pulled up.  “GAEA!” “Are you all right Master Yugi?” Gaea asked, concerned. “Uhn…I’m ok…” Yugi glanced behind him to see Dark Magician and Celtic Guardian corner the monster. “Oh no…DARK MAGICIAN!” Yugi screamed but it was too late… The Magician was struck by the Anubite by his side.
”DARK MAGICIAN!” Celtic shouted. Dark Magician stumbled then coughed. “Don’t let him get away!”
The Elf nodded and struck after the Anubite.   “DARK MAGICIAN NO!” Yugi jumped off Gaea and knelt beside his Duel Monster.  “Are you Ok? Please say something!” “Master Yugi…” The Dark Magician’s voice seemed weakened against Yugi’s side. “I’m glad you’re—all right—…” he muttered before collapsing. “Dark Magician—Dark Magician say something—DARK MAGICIAN!” Yugi screamed.  One of his Duel Monsters, one of his friends got hurt…all because of him. /They will all die because of you…/ And for once, Yugi sighed tearfully in agreement.  “It is my entire fault…” If he hadn’t insisted on staying, if he had insisted on going back at once to the other realm…none of this would’ve happened…     “Damn, he got away—if only his legs weren’t so long! Anyway…Dark Magician, you OK? HEY DARK MAGICIAN!” Celtic shook his friend. “I’ll get Dark Magician back, you take care of Master Yugi, ok?” Gaea got the Magician’s limp body up his horse and rode off. “Are you all right, Master Yugi?” Celtic turned to Yugi. Yugi tried to hide his wound.  “I’m fine.” “Now, Master Yugi, no matter how hard you try to hide that deep wound of yours it won’t work on me.” Celtic crossed his arms to his chest. “And just to inform you—I do that sometimes.  I might get away with that—but you won’t get away with someone who does the same thing you do right now all the time—i.e. me.” “Sorry…” Yugi held out his shoulder for Celtic to examine it. “Hmm…once we get home, we’ll get that cleaned up and then get some of Darky’s potions to heal that up, you’ll  be better than ever! All you need now is some soup and rest.”
”But I wanna see Dark Magician…” Yugi looked away.  “It’s all my fault he got hurt…” “Master Yugi…” Celtic placed his hands on Yugi’s shoulder.  “Darky would’ve been proud when he gets up.  At least we got here just in time before that wolf guy killed you! We were worried so much about you, Master Yugi… and Darky was the one who was panicking the most.  So stop thinking that Darky will send you to Court for getting hurt just like that! I’m sure he would think of nothing more than being glad to have helped save you.” Yugi gave Celtic Guardian a hug.  “I don’t know what I’ll be without you guys.  Thanks.”
Celtic smiled and gave Yugi a comforting pat.  “Come on, young Master, let’s go home.”     “Niichan’s pretty weakened, but with the potion I gave him, he’ll be better in a few hours.” Dark Magician Girl stated, mixing a potion and giving a spoonful to her brother.  He was dressed in a simple blue robe (the armor he’s wearing is of course pretty heavy!), his purple hair flowing against his pillow. “Dark Magician…” Yugi looked away.  A painful shout of guilt overpowered him…and sent a bitter feeling down his stomach. “Oh, Master Yugi…” Dark Magician Girl gave Yugi an “It’s not your fault, don’t worry!” look. “I…I can’t…stop thinking…about it…” Yugi forced tears back as he sat beside the Dark Magician, holding his hand. “I’ll go get dinner set…” Dark Magician Girl gave her brother one last worried look then flew down the hall.   Yugi nodded then stared at the Dark Magician. He never seen his Monster look so pale or weak.  That Anubite sure packed a mean punch. The patched up wound on his side didn’t prove that he’ll be all right any sooner. “Dark Magician I’m so sorry…” Yugi sobbed, squeezing the pale hand tighter. To his surprise, there was a reaction. Yugi looked up from his tears and saw the Dark Magician looking back at him.  He’s awake. “Dark Magician?” Yugi called. The Mage smiled softly. “I’m so sorry—I should’ve tried to fight him off! Then maybe…maybe…” He felt his Monster grasp his hand tightly. “Thanks for everything…” Yugi forced a smile on his face.  Dark Magician tried to speak but Yugi stopped him, since he guessed what he was going to ask.  “I’m fine now, really.  Worry about yourself for the moment… I’ll just be downstairs, helping Dark Magician Girl…”     “Hey!” Celtic entered the room with Gaea. “Hi…” Dark Magician finally spoke up. “Hey, get some sleep for a while!” Gaea pat his friend’s head.  “You’ve been through a rough day!” “Th…thanks…” Dark Magician groaned.  “I’m better…don’t worry about me…” He mainly addressed this to Yugi. Yugi noticed that and forced himself to cheer up. “Gotcha! Bye!” “Call us when dinner is ready!” Celtic added.  “Hey…where’s Dark Magician Girl anyway—is—…?”
”Oh…she’s not downstairs…she might be getting some radishes again.  She mentioned it earlier when Gaea and I came in.” Celtic noted. “Thanks!” Yugi went down. “Master Yugi is not our servant Celtic!” Dark Magician growled. Celtic gave him an “I’m innocent!” look.  Gaea rolled his eyes.     “Dark Magician Girl! Hey!” Yugi called as he entered the storeroom.  According to Dark Magician, that was the area where they stored their supplies. “Dark Magician Girl! Dark—HOLY GOD!” Yugi gasped.  The area where the radishes are stored was a mess!  Barrels and jars were broken and overturned.  And nearby the mess was… “…the Dark Magician Girl’s staff!” Yugi gasped.  It means only one thing: Dark Magician Girl was kidnapped! “No…Dark Magician Girl…” Yugi trembled. There could be only one person behind this:
”SETH!” Yugi growled, holding up his Talisman up.  With that  he shouted: “TALISMAN TAKE ME TO THAT BASTARD!”         ~*~     “Back again, Yugi Mouto?” “Seth you bastard, what have you done to Dark Magician Girl?!” “Oh…she’s just chained up in the NorthernTowerof this Realm.  If you want your beloved friend back, you’ve got to get your legs moving. Don’t worry,” Seth noticed the worried look on Yugi’s face.  “By now, I’d say your Dark Magician should be back to normal…and Dark Magician Girl will come back home intact…but you are a so special case!  So…I’m afraid you’ll be soulless when you come back!” “SHUT UP!” Yugi shouted. “I’d better go now…and the clock is STILL ticking!” Seth laughed, pointing the hourglass which was nearly half empty, then he vanished. “Hmm…if he took him to the NorthernTower…Dark Magician showed me that once… I’ve got to get there! I have to save Dark Magician Girl…” Yugi held the Talisman. “Take me back, Horus…I have to move now…”     ~*~                           & nbsp;   *----------*           Day 9.3—   Let the Chase Begin!           Yugi re-appeared at the barn, now decided on what to do. But first… “A piece of paper and a pen!” Yugi muttered, dashing up to the house, to his guestroom.   There he took out a piece of paper and wrote a long letter to his friends.  After that, he folded the paper then slowly crept to his friend’s room. The Dark Magician lay asleep on his bed, and Gaea and Celtic were snoozing at either side of him. Gently…he placed the note on the coffee table beside Dark Magician. “I’m sorry…” Yugi muttered, and gently kissed his Dark Magician on the forehead and held Celtic’s and Gaea’s hands for a minute then left.         I’ll never forget you…               ~*In the Divine Tower…*~     He glanced at Yugi who was fighting his way up the Northern Tower with admiration.  “How brave is this Master of ours, don’t you agree?” His companion’s eyes nodded in agreement. “You are absolutely right.” “What do you say?” “I say we give him the rightful reward for our brave Master Yugi.”
”He might not be the Pharaoh Master Yugioh…but he’s different…in a sense, he might not be able to draw courage at first.  But his potential is high…and this proves how right I am.” “I say it’s time for us to move…       and save our Master before it’s too late…”           Yugi dashed up the staircase.  “I have to find her—and rescue the Dark Magician Girl!” He knew his Monster friends would fret at what he had done, but he knew he was doing the right thing. “Oh please don’t go after me any sooner!” Yugi prayed.  “I hope you guys can find my note before going up after me…at least by then I’m either with Dark Magician Girl or dead…” Cut it! A voice shouted in Yugi’s head. You know they’re worried about you! And you’re just stressing them even more. I’ve got to do this! Yugi shouted back. I know they will be worried, but I’m doing this for them…I can’t stand them getting hurt because of me—not anymore!

    “Ok, I’m awake now—hey Celtic!” Dark Magician called, sitting up from the bed.  “Where’s my staff?” “Here, take it,” The Elf threw him his wand. “You can hug it even!” The Mage gave him a stern look. “Where’s Master Yugi?”
”Uh… where IS Master Yugi?” Celtic piped at Gaea. “I dunno…” The Knight said.  “I think I…oh damn I must’ve fallen asleep earlier that I haven’t follow up on him!” “Oh great—none of you thought about watching over Master Yugi?!” Dark Magician frowned at his other friends. “Come on, he’s not a baby who needs to go to the Daycare Center.” Celtic reasoned.  Gaea noticed a folded paper on the coffee table. “Hey guys…it’s from Master Yugi…” At the sound of their Master’s name, Celtic and Dark Magician looked up and approached the Knight who read the note:     ---     Everybody—         &nbs p;     I’m sorry I have to do this, I just want to do something right—what I feel is right.  Seth had taken Dark Magician Girl earlier…and he told me to fight to get her… and that I shouldn’t alert you guys about it.    I don’t want to risk anyone of you guys getting hurt—worse, lose you.  I’ve already lost my father and mother…Yami’s gone far away…and I don’t even know where my friends are.  When I was in the forest…I felt so alone.  And back then I thought to myself ‘what if they don’t want me for company? What if they just bear with me just because I’m their Master…’ But no matter what you answer to that, I’ve got something to say for that question:   You’ve been great company…I don’t how to repay you for your kindness, and I was so happy with each and every second I’ve spent with all of you. You made me happy not because I’m your Master…because I am your friend…and I’m happy with that…at least I hope it’s true—and I hope you agree with me.     And Dark Magician, if you’re reading this, I’m sorry you got hurt because of me.  I assure you it won’t happen again.          I love you all very much…       Please forgive me…       And thank you for everything…         —Yugi         PS:  Take care! I’ll miss you…always…^^       ---     “Celtic, can I worry now?!” Dark Magician paled noticeably. Celtic gave a frightened nod. Master Yugi…         Yugi panted as he reached the top of the tower.  He finally made it! “Man, Seth sure gets some exercise!” Yugi groaned.  The top of the tower was roofless, and he was surrounded by stony walls.  The floor was nearly scraped, and the marble was faded. “Dark Magician Girl? Dark Magician Girl, where are you?!” Yugi called. /So you have arrived, Yugi Mouto./ “SETH!” Yugi turned around to find the God in his mortal form again, but beside him was a sphere holding… “DARK MAGICIAN GIRL!” Yugi exclaimed.  “If you have hurt her I swear I’ll—” /You are in no position to threaten me, Yugi Mouto!/ Seth cut him short.  /But don’t worry—your friend here is safe and sound…she’s just asleep for now.  And soon, she’ll be back with her brother and friends—too bad you WON’T!/ “We’ll see about that Seth!” Yugi gathered up all his energy.  “Until the bitter end, Seth!”
/Until the bitter end, Horus!/  
”Where could they be?!” Dark Magician was obviously out of his head worrying about his sister and his Master, no matter how hard Gaea tried to calm him down, nothing seems to work. “SIT DOWN ALREADY!” Celtic groaned at his worried friend who was pacing. “We’ll think of something—Gaea, just tie Darky to the chair!—and I hope they’re not—” “DON’T—SAY—IT—!” R 20;Uh—of course I wasn’t gonna say that!” Celtic said quickly.  Note to self: never mention the word ‘dead’ to a hysterical Darky. “What’re we going to do? Master Yugi and my sister can be anywhere—and before we can even find out where in the city they are, they’re probably—” “DON’T—SAY—THAT—!!!” Gaea and Celtic shouted. Dark Magician shook his head furiously then buried it against his hands.  Don’t say that, stupid—they can’t be dead—they MUST NOT BE dead damn it! “Anyway, we’d better get moving—where do you think will that bastard Seth take Dark Magician Girl hostage?” Celtic finally muttered. “Well, I think…” “…in the Northern Tower…” “Gaea, what happened to your voice?—It’s as if you rubbed your throat against a boulder!” “But that wasn’t me!” “Dar—?”
”DON’T—EVEN̵ 2;THINK—ABOUT—IT—!” “If it wasn’t you, then…” The trio turned around at the enormous figure outside then gasped. “Hello, there.  Don’t you recognize your old friend?”     /You made things difficult for the both of us, Yugi Mouto! If you only handed the Talisman earlier, your Monster friends wouldn’t have been involved into this!/ “Oh but I’ve opened my eyes now, Seth!  All the harm you’ve caused to my friends, all the chaos that had happened—I’ve realized it’s all YOUR fault!” Yugi shouted as he blocked Seth’s attack with his own.  “MY DESTINY WAS TO SAVE THE WORLD FROM YOU—AND YOU’RE THE ONE WHO MADE MATTER WORSE!”
/How touching child!/ Seth rasped.  /And my destiny is to get rid of you weak minded fools and create a new world—greater than ever!/ Yugi’s shoulder, chest and limbs were now injured and scarred deeply, and Seth did manage to escape with a few deep cuts during their battle. Yugi growled.  “The world’s already perfect enough without you re-designing it, thanks!” Seth grinned evilly as he sent murky vines up to Yugi’s feet.  /I know I can’t make your simple mind understand that, Yugi Mouto!  It would be better for you to simply fade away in obscurity!/ “Sorry to break your heart, Seth!” Yugi said as he blasted an attack at the oncoming vines, melting them.  “However, I have some changes to add to your plans!” Then Yugi blasted an attack on Seth.  “SILVER ARROW!!!” Seth shielded himself from the attack. /Oh really?/ “Yeah—it’s tactic ‘Kick your ass out of this world and send you screaming to hell’!” Yugi shouted.  “NOW LET MY FRIEND GO!”   Yugi blasted an attack on the orb encaging Dark Magician Girl. The orb melted and Dark Magician Girl plopped down to the ground, but Yugi caught her. “DARK MAGICIAN GIRL!” Yugi shouted, patting her cheek.  “Oh please wake up! Dark Magician Girl!” The girl groaned.  “M—Master Yugi?” “DARK MAGICIAN GIRL!” Yugi hugged her tightly.  “I’m glad you’re OK!” “Master Yugi…” Dark Magician Girl smiled, hugging her master back. “Anyway, did Seth hurt you in any way?” Yugi pulled away from the Dark Magician Girl and looked worried. “Well, I remember getting hit on the head then…” Dark Magician Girl snapped to reality.  “SETH?!”     /Awake at last, aren’t we, my little friend?/ Seth smiled evilly. /I know you—you’re the sister of that persistent servant who tried to protect Yugioh.  Much like all of you Monsters, you have failed not only to protect Yugioh—but also, what was his name, oh yes—AKARI./ “Master Akari died with honors!” Dark Magician Girl growled in defense. /But he shouldn’t have…if you only were quicker in figuring out my REAL target!/ Seth grinned when he noticed Dark Magician Girl’s hat loop-sided as she lowered her head in guilt. Th—they must have killed Akari—much like Yami did—and to think I’m his reincarnation! “Oh but Seth you’re forgetting one thing—I WON’T LET YOU SUCEED WITH YOUR NEW PLAN!  Much like Akari did!” Yugi shouted as he attacked.  “SILVER ARROW!” /Oh and you’ll die the same way your stupid ancestor did—CURVE OF DESTRUCTION!/ Seth shouted back, hurling the red-silver crescent at Yugi.         BANG!       “AAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHH! !!!!!”  Yugi screamed as the attack unexpectedly him on the back, damaging it pretty badly. “MASTER YUGI NO!” Dark Magician Girl screamed. /How touching… if you want to finish our battle, catch me—if you can!/ With that Seth summoned a black cloud and soared away from the tower.       “Master Yugi!” The Dark Magician, Celtic and Gaea appeared from the stairs. “NIICHAN!” Dark Magician Girl sobbed, running to her brother and pinning him down the ground with a hug. “You’re all right…” Dark Magician said soothingly, hugging the frightened girl back. “I am…but Master Yugi is not.” Dark Magician Girl said tearfully.  “He saved me—but he’s weakened.” “Master Yugi…” Celtic whispered. “Celtic…I’m all right…” Yugi smiled as the Elf helped him up. Then he heard a voice in his head.   /Let me escape…and your friends won’t live!/ “NO!” Yugi groaned, falling to his knees. “Master Yugi!” Celtic shouted.  “Please keep still, you’re hurt badly.” “Got—to—go—after—Seth— 230;” Yugi groaned. Then a growling can be heard. “Oh no!” Dark Magician Girl gasped. “What in the name of…” Dark Magician paled as well.     “HAYEN IS THAT YOU?!” Yugi exclaimed. The hyena appeared from the shadows, but he looked larger than usual—not to mention more ruthless. “Hayen?” Dark Magician echoed. “The worst pet in the whole world…” Yugi said simply. “Well, he’s going to meet its tamers! Let’s go Celtic!” Gaea shouted as he and the Elf dashed to fight with Hayen. /Don’t mind Hayen…you and I have a score to settle…not unless you want all of your friends dead before Hayen can even fight them!/ Seth sent Yugi another telepathic message. DAMN IT! Yugi cursed.  And just when I want to be with my friends—oh well, no can do.  When the God says fight, you gotta fight him.  “VERY WELL,SETH—TILL THE BETTER END!”
”Master—” “Dark Magician, take care of that overweight *puppy* for me!” Yugi said as he dashed for the stairs. “Master, where are you going?” Dark Magician asked again. “After Seth, that’s where!” “NO! You won’t be doing it alone!”
”I’m strong enough, Dark Magician!” Yugi turned to his friends. Really, you don’t listen to anything I say to you! Yugi’s conscience groaned again.  It’s obvious—their faces are screaming “Can’t you see how much we’re worried about you?” Can’t you just think about yourself for the moment? “I’m doing this for you, guys… please…” Yugi pleaded.  It wasn’t an order—it was a plea. “But Master, I…” “You heard the Master, Dark Magician and company.”  A deep voice boomed from the stairs and heading upwards.  “Let the Master go.” Yugi gasped.  “EXODIA?!”     “Yes, it is I, young Master Yugi.”
”Exodia, I thought…” “You might have lost me by your cards—but you’ll never lose me.  I have dedicated myself to Master Yami…and so to you.” Yugi nodded.  “I thank you…” He turned to the Dark Magician and held his hands.  “I’ll come back for you guys…I promise…”

  Don’t do it! If you’ll let Master go, who knows what might happen to him? A voice piped in the Magician’s head. But…if I must…why are decisions so hard to make anyway?! I should let him go but I don’t want to let him go! What should I do?! Dark Magician’s mind screamed.     But finally he was able to set his emotions aside and said.  “I understand, Master Yugi.”
”NIICHAN!” Dark Magician Girl gasped. “The Hyena’s getting worse guys!” Celtic groaned as he and Gaea tried to hold the beast off. “Just promise me you’re going back.” Dark Magician said softly. Yugi grasped his Dark Magician’s hands tightly, meeting his worried gaze.  “I promise you, I’ll be all right.” With that, Yugi gave one last smile and dashed downstairs. “Niichan, why did you let him go? Seth could do anything to him!” Dark Magician Girl argued. “Master can do this!” Dark Magician said.  “But we have our own battle to face…and you’re going to need this.  Master Yugi left it at home a while ago with his note. Are you ready?” Dark Magician Girl grinned as her brother tossed Dark Magician Girl her staff.  “Am I?!”
”If you’ll help us win this, I’ll extend your curfew by an hour.”
”YOU BETCHA! REMEMBER YOUR WORDS, NIICHAN!”
”I’m a man of my words, dear imouto.”
”YAHOO!!!!”     Yugi sped downstairs.  “Where the hell is he?!” “Seth is way ahead of you, Master Yugi.” Yugi turned around.  “OSIRIS?!” “Yes, the one and only.” The huge red Dragon loomed before Yugi.  “And I say, you do need a lift.”
”ALL RIGHT!” Yugi cheered as he boarded the Dragon who lowered his head for Yugi. “I—ABSOLUTELY—LOVE—YOU—OSIRIS!” Yugi gave Osiris a hug—or what he wanted to give to Osiris anyway. Osiris smiled.  “Hang on, Master Yugi.”
”SETH HERE WE COME!”           A/N:     DS: WAH!  It’s time to say goodbye folks! DCOH: So where’s my surprise? DS: THE NEXT CHAPPIE IS YUGI CENTRIC! DCOH: Oh…-___- DS: But watch out guys—I’ll be posting two chappies at the same time! One with only one day on it, and the next with three days on it (or four depending on my mood!) this will be—A RYOU-CENTERED CHAPTER! DCOH: I could hug you Master DS! (Hugs DS tightly) DS: X_X Uh—bye—now—huggles—and reviews—please!       Chapter 8—The Power of One Yugi and Osiris travel to the Tower of Curses at the Shadow Forest to finish Yugi’s duel with Seth.  Back at the Northern Tower, Dark Magician and co. were finally able to beat Hayen.  But Yugi isn’t so lucky… And when Osiris returns to the Northern Tower to inform the Monsters about Yugi’s location and life-threatening condition, can they save their Master before it’s too late?  Can true friendship win against it all?  And can Yugi face the truth—as well as his REAL destiny.       Day 9.4— The Crown of Light…     ^___^     Chapter 9— One True Friendship (RYOU-CENTERED!)  Ryou falls down straight at the village where his monsters are staying! But while getting in a riot at the Market Square, who came to rescue him but the Change of Heart, his favorite Card! After Ryou explains his case, the lone Magic Card makes sure Ryou will feel welcome at her house.  But when Ryou realizes that his own monsters except the Change of Heart don’t take Ryou’s visit too nicely, can he protect his only friend from their plots—not to mention from Sehkmeth’s wrath?   Day 10— Welcome, Unwelcome One!   “So I’m in your house right now, Change—uh which Change are you?” “I’m Change.” The harsher one said. “And that blonde over there is my younger twin sister, Heart.” “Great, where's ‘Of’?” Ryou joked. “Dunno.” Change shrugged.  “Anyway, welcome to our home.  It might be small but it’s perfect!  You’ll find everything you need here.”
”Yap, and we’ll make sure your stay here will be a blast!” Heart added. “Right you are, sister!” “Uh thanks!” Ryou smiled. Unfortunately, the other monsters around here don’t seem to like me…judging by their looks earlier.     Day 10.2— In the Eyes of the Cat     ^^