Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction / Yu-Gi-Oh! Fan Fiction ❯ Alternate Universe Twist ❯ Home Sweet Universe ( Chapter 20 )
[ T - Teen: Not suitable for readers under 13 ]
By: Trunks' Girl 787 
It's the end!
Anime/Manga: Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction / Yu-Gi-Oh! Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Suspense / Drama / Action | Type: Alternate Universe | Uploaded On: 12.04.2005 | Pages: 7 | Words: 6.7K | Visits: 186 | Status: Completed
It's the end!
Anime/Manga: Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction / Yu-Gi-Oh! Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Suspense / Drama / Action | Type: Alternate Universe | Uploaded On: 12.04.2005 | Pages: 7 | Words: 6.7K | Visits: 186 | Status: Completed
Saiyan Moon Goddess: I can't believe it! The last chapter! It's hard for me to finish a story. It's a curse, I swear!
Yami: Excuses, excuses...
Saiyan Moon Goddess: *stuffs a chocolate muffin on Yami's mouth* Here, chew on that and be quiet like a good boy. On with the story!
**ALTERNATE DOUBLES**
*From Saiyan Moon Goddess (OC/s)*
1. Koneko - Marlene/Saiyan Moon Goddess (18 years old)
*From Yu-Gi-Oh!*
1. Nessuro - Yugi (18 years old)
2. Neil - Yami (16 years old)
3. Prince Umi - Ryou (19 years old)
4. Prince Cerulean - Bakura (9 years old)
5. Prince Zukoi/Hiroshi - Marik (20 years old)
6. Prince Ryu - Malik (the yami) (10 years old)
7. Max - Pegasus
8. Korosu - Bandit Keith
9. Jono - Jou
10. Amaya - Anzu
11. Queen Emi - Mai
12. King Isamu - Ryou's Father
*From Yu Yu Hakusho*
1. Kage - Hiei (18 years old)
2. Zorro - Kurama
3. Akira - Botan
4. Maki - Koenma
5. Iwa - Kuwabara
6. Jin - Jin
7. Yuke - Yuseke
8. Yasu - Yukina
"talk"
'thoughts'
/mind talk/
~Alternate Universe Twist~ by Saiyan Moon Goddess
~Chapter 20: Home Sweet Universe~
The threat was gone, the danger was over, and their universe was safe. For all that, a great sacrifice had to be made. The earthbound angel from the alternate universe gave up his soul to the depths of hell, and he did it all for them. All that was left do now was mourn for their saviour, then pick up the broken pieces of their world and rebuild it.
Koneko insisted in carrying Yugi's cold body on her back. Kage put away Yugi's sword back in the sheath, and he and Neil helped the drained Nessuro as they made their way out of the room. The castle only brought back painful memories they wanted to forget. But they wouldn't leave Yugi's body there to rot; they would give the earthbound angel who saved them all a proper burial, they would make sure he would be remembered. The atmosphere around the four was grim and gloomy. As the group walked down the dark hall, Nessuro glanced around utterly lost in his surroundings.
"I've been out for so long, I don't recognize my own home..." He looked down, tears forming in his eyes again. "I caused so much grief and cost the life of our saviour. I understand if you can't forgive me."
Neil smiled. "I already did."
"How can you?" said Yugi's alternate double. "Out of everyone else, you should hate me the most, Neil. I betrayed you and the others."
"Well, I don' care what you or anyone else says." Neil said. "I feel as though my oniisan came back from the dead." He looked down at the elder sibling and tightened his hold slightly as a sign of comfort. "I had lost you, but the earthbound angel gave us a second chance. I'm eternally grateful and I will not let his sacrifice be in vain, oniisan."
Koneko and Kage watched the two. They didn't know Nessuro anymore. In fact, they didn't know each other anymore either. They had been separated for eight years, meeting again after so much destruction to their nations and only creating more confusion. But Neil's smile revived memories of long ago; Koneko and Kage saw the grinning little boy that brought them all together with his childish mischiefs, he who was considered the little brother of the whole group for being the youngest. The images of those happy times in childhood made the couple feel at ease. The blonde girl glanced at Yugi's face resting on her shoulder. Tears threatened to fall again but she held them back, he looked so peaceful...
That's when the whole place began shaking.
"Now what?!" Kage yelled alarmed.
"Now that the demon is gone, what remains of his evil darkness is being cleansed from the castle." Nessuro said. So the evil was going away...Why did he look so worried then?
"Look!" Koneko shouted.
All over the walls, the floor, and the ceiling, monsters appeared in every corner. Their forms were transparent, surrounded by black smoke and they moaned or shrieked.. The figures kept appearing and disappearing, some coming closer to the group as if unconsciously.
"Let's get out of here!" Koneko said.
The blonde ran ahead down the hall with the boys following her. Fortunately, the monsters went through them harmlessly if they came in contact, but it was hard to keep pace when the floor shook so violently. They were nearly knocked off their feet. The four looked for a way out. It wasn't long before they reached a door.
"Into that room!" Nessuro called. "Hurry!"
Koneko, Kage, Nessuro, and Neil went inside. It was small and with few furniture, and it had a big barred window. Kage took out his katana.
"Stand back!"
Kage swiftly cut through the bars. As they fell apart, he glanced out the window.
"We're over ten stories high!" he said.
"We can't jump!" Neil said. "It'll kill us!"
"We don't have a choice, Neil." Kage said. "I'll break our falls as much as I can. Now go!"
**********
Yugi's soul was still floating in empty space, all his strength drained. He didn't have enough energy to escape the darkness. The saviour of light could only await his fate.
"I guess...this is it." he whispered weakly to himself. "I'll stay trapped in here forever...? Marlene, please forgive me."
Cold wind blew, making him shiver. A chill ran up his spine. The wind blew harder, pushing him back. He looked behind him but saw nothing. Still he heard the vacuum-like sound; he felt the dark energy. A black hole was forming, and it was sucking him inside. Yugi didn't move as the vortex drew him to itself, he couldn't fight it. This was it, the gateway to hell. He dreaded whatever was on the other side. He would never see his friends and family again.
'This is path I chose.' he thought, then said out loud sadly. "Goodbye, everyone..." He let the black hole take him.
"Yugi!!"
"Huh?"
Yugi looked up, his feet nearly touching the hole, and gasped. A small glowing light appeared out of nowhere and floated toward him rapidly. The light then took form. It was Marlene's soul who smiled at him. He looked at her in shock.
"Marlene?! What are you doing?! Get out of here!"
Marlene ignored his warning and floated nearer to him. The earthbound angel panicked. If she got too close, the black hole would trap her soul as well and sent her to hell. But the blonde didn't mind the vortex and stretched out a hand to him. By instinct he did the same and grabbed hers. She chuckled.
"Did you really think I would let my little desert prince go that easily?" Marlene said. "I thought you knew me better than that."
"Marlene...you..." Yugi didn't even know what to say.
"I'll lent you some of my soul energy. You'll be able to leave."
"You can't!" Yugi protested. "You'll stay trapped here!"
"No, I won't. Trust me."
"Marlene, you must understand that I spent too much time here. My body may be dead by the time I return."
The blonde's smile didn't falter, instead she winked at him. "I believe in you."
Both souls glowed white as Marlene transfered to Yugi some of her soul energy. When she was done, she let go of his hand and began to fade away.
"I believe in you, my desert prince."
Once she's gone, Yugi felt powerful with renewed strength. The grip of the black hole weakened on him, allowing him to break free. He quickly flew away from the vortex and faded away into the black space. He hoped he wasn't too late.
**********
Koneko went first. She shifted Yugi's body from her back, into her arms, and leaped out the window. Nessuro and Neil jumped together, and Kage followed last. They all yelled in surprised as they fell from high while the castle still shook. The castle was surrounded by a dark barrier, which was disintegrating. Black ghouls, shadows, and monsters came out through wall and the roof, making it look like a haunted mansion.
Kage used his telekinesis to make their fall slower and softer. As they floated down, pieces of debris fell from the walls and roof. One of the smaller pieces hit Koneko on her back. She yelped in pain and accidentally let go Yugi.
"Nooo!!!" she yelled, trying to grab hold of him again, but failed.
Kage tried to catch him, but his mind was locked on the others. To get Yugi he would have to release his hold on the others, so he watched helplessly as the body fell and disappeared into the forest bellow.
As the four landed, they had no time to look where Yugi's body was. They ran away from the castle as quickly and far as possible. Neil grabbed Nessuro's hand and led him to catch up with Koneko and Kage. They ran into the forest; fortunately the earthquake didn't reach that far. Koneko search through the trees frankly for Yugi. But she couldn't find the body anywhere.
"No! He must've fell around here...somewhere!"
"Koneko, calm down." Kage said. "We'll help you find him."
Koneko, Kage, Nessuro, and Neil tried ignoring the seemingly collapsing castle as there was no more apparent danger to them. A light shone far ahead of them, and they followed it out of curiosity. It guided them to a small clearing. They all gasped in amazement at the sight that welcomed them. Black Magician Girl was glowing in mid air. In her arms was Yugi, who she held lovingly.
"The Oracle!" Neil yelled.
They approached Black Magician Girl and she smiled at them.
"Do not worry." she said. "Our hero merely sleeps."
The Oracle's apprentice smiled at Yugi as she floated down and stood on the ground. The glow died away and Yugi's body stirred. The others were shocked and awaited in anxious silence as Yugi's eyes opened slowly. He smiled.
"Hi guys." he said. "Sorry to make you wait."
Kage, Koneko, and Neil smiled back at him. Koneko held back tears of happiness. "Yugi..." As soon as Black Magician Girl put him down, the trio tackled little Yugi into a crushing hug. They were so glad he was alive they didn't ask him how it was possible for him to return to life. The blonde oracle smiled at the scene, then glanced at the castle over the trees.
"Look, everyone!" she called.
The others looked up and saw the castle had changed. Instead of a charcoal black building, there stood a cream and gold little palace. Though it was around half the size of the Umi's palace, it stood magnificent.
"Wow!" Yugi exclaimed. "How do you live in such a place?"
"Our mother and father owned half the gold mines in our country." Neil said. "They always told me they would hand control over to me when I grew older." He turned to his older brother. "But I believe that inheritance is oniisan's by birth."
"No, Neil." Nessuro showed a small smile. "It's ours."
The brothers hugged. When they broke apart Neil turned to Yugi.
"Yugi-sama, words can't express my immense gratitude for you returning my oniisan safely to me."
"It's alright." Yugi said.
Nessuro stood before Yugi. Yugi's alternate double stood a good three inches over the small warrior, with black and blue spikes, blonde bangs, his aqua green eyes the same shape, and his hair a bit longer and tied in a low pony tail that reached half his back. Yugi was back to his normal self as well, only he had grown slightly.
"I am also eternally grateful to you, saviour of light." Nessuro said. "And I feel terrible for everything I've done. I'll do whatever it takes to pay for my deeds."
"You said you two were owners of the gold mines, Nessuro?" Yugi said. "Here's a thought. You can help rebuild every house destroyed in the war. Give home to the homeless."
"Thank you, Yugi-sama! I'll see to it immediately."
Yugi turned to Black Magician Girl. "Now that the demon is gone, what about your friends?"
The Oracle's apprentice looked down sadly. "It was too late. The demon made sure they were dead for good and enslaved their souls." She stared at Yugi straight in the eyes. "But their spirits are free now. I thank you for it. I am now the one and only magical being in this world." She smiled despite her tears forming. "It may be better this way. After I'm gone, no more prophecies will plague this dimension."
"I'm sorry."
"It's alright, Yugi-sama." the blonde Oracle said. "My master would be proud of me."
"The demon is gone, the universe is safe..." Koneko said. "We better head back to Taokao."
"But, what about me?" said Yugi "I need to find a way to get back to my dimension."
Nessuro spoke up. "I'm sorry, Yugi-sama. Now that the demon's gone I no longer have his power or his knowledge to travel to other dimensions."
"Then...I'm stuck here?"
"I'm sorry." Nessuro said.
Yugi looked down, feeling very dejected. "My friends, my family...I'll never see them again."
The alternate doubles felt bad seeing their saviour so down and tried to cheer him up the best they could.
"We know your loved ones can never be replaced, but you're welcomed to live here with us." Neil said.
"You can make this dimension your new home, until we find a way to return you to yours." Kage said.
"We owe you so much, we'll do whatever it takes." Koneko said.
Yugi smiled slightly at their attempts. "Thank you everyone, but... I can't call this place home without Marlene-chan."
"Who?" asked Koneko.
"Oh, that's right. I didn't tell you about her. Well, she's my girlfriend back home." Yugi glanced at Koneko quickly before looking away again. "Last time I saw her was in black space. Her soul was there, but she disappeared. I hope she's alright."
"Don't worry, Yugi-sama, we'll find a way to get you home." Black Magician Girl said. "But for now, we must re-group."
"Agreed."
Black Magician Girl waved her magic staff and it glowed. "I'll teleport us." With her magic, they all disappeared.
They reappeared back in Taokao's palace, inside the throne room. The place was empty until Prince Umi and Zorro rushed in from one door at the back of the room. Prince Cerulean, Yuke, Jin, and Jono came in from the entrance. It was an awkward silence that only lasted a second as people stared at one another. Koneko was the one to break it.
"By the looks of it, it seems everything's back to normal."
In an instant everyone unfroze.
"Cerulean!"
"Oniisan!" Prince Umi and Cerulean ran to each other. The elder brother picked up the smaller boy and held him close.
"Kage!" Zorro said. "What happened?"
"Otousan!" Kage went to his adoptive father and hugged him as well. "The nightmare is over."
Everyone was happy, giving each other kisses and hugs. Neil hugged Nessuro, who smiled in return. Kage turned to Koneko and hugged her, then shocked her by kissing her in the lips. Yugi watched them all from his position. The happy faces made him smile.
"A happy reunion." he said to himself. But then he sighed sadly, thinking. 'They all have someone to hold and love, except for me. The one I want to hold right now is still back home.'
Koneko noticed how sad Yugi looked and wrapped him in a warm embrace too. Kage, Neil, Nessuro, even Cerulean and Umi joined in. Yugi enjoyed the gesture, he let out a small laugh.
"Thank you, all of you. I feel a little better now."
"It is not over yet." said a distant voice.
Everyone turned to the large entrance of the throne room as it opened again. This time, Prince Hiroshi, Prince Ryu, Yasu, and Amaya came in. Umi approached them keeping a safe distance, and Cerulean was quickly by his side. Zorro stood by Umi and Kage took his place beside Cerulean. Hiroshi smiled.
"Hello, old friend." he said, referring to Umi.
"Prince Hiroshi." Umi acknowledged him with a slight bow.
At the title, Hiroshi frowned sadly. "Not anymore. I am afraid, my mother, the queen, has passed away. As the heir to the throne of the kingdom, I claim my rights to the crown. I am the new king of Kotao."
Zorro looked surprised at that statement. Hiroshi's words suddenly reminded him of something and haired man turned the blue-haired prince, frowning.
"Oh, Umi-sama, King Isamu..." he said. But Umi raised his hand slightly, not looking at him, and he said no more.
"It is alright, Zorro." Umi said. And he addressed Hiroshi. "My father is gone too, Hiroshi-sama. I also claim my rights to the
crown as they are my heritage. I am the new king of Taokao."
"Our kingdoms have been in war for 8 years." Hiroshi continued. "As the new king of Taokao, the country that originally declared war, I ask for us to join and once again bring peace to our people."
Yugi looked between the two, and glanced at the blonde king. "You mean it? True peace?"
Hiroshi nodded. "I refuse to continue this meaningless dispute. I do not even remember why it started in the first place."
Nessuro looked down, feeling bad at remembering what happened because of him. This went by unnoticed except for Yugi and Koneko.
"Perhaps it is best we don't think about that." Umi said. "Let us forget this fight ever happened and start over."
"He's right." Yugi spoke up. "Now, let's just make a fresh start."
Nessuro was surprised by his words and spoke quietly to his alternate double. "Yugi-sama...you won't tell them about..."
Yugi smiled at him secretly. "No."
Koneko placed a hand on his shoulder. "The past is the past, we can't change it." she whispered to him.
The new kings didn't hear them and continued about with their terms to bring peace to their kingdoms. Each one discussed what they would do to repair their kingdoms and the lives destroyed by the war.
"We will make a peace treaty and reconstruct every home destroyed." the king of Kotao said. "The hungry we will feed, the hurt we will comfort. Everyone shall be compensated for all the pain this fight caused them."
"Hiroshi-sama, I accept your terms." the king of Taokao said the two shook hands. "We will make this official as soon as possible."
"Please, call me Hiroshi."
"Friends?"
"Always." The kings hugged.
"Two divided kingdoms come together." Yugi said. "It's good it is so."
Umi and Hiroshi separated and turned to Yugi. All attention was on the little warrior and it made him uncomfortable.
"And we have you to thank, Yugi Mutou." said Umi.
"Because to you, our kingdoms have joined again, as it should be." said Hiroshi.
"You brought my brother back to me." Neil said.
"You brought us back together." Kage said, holding Koneko's hand.
"You repaired our broken friendship." Nessuro said.
"You saved everyone's souls from hell, even though you weren't inclined to intervene." Koneko said.
Yugi blushed at all the praise given to him, but smiled nonetheless. They all gathered around him.
"How about we throw a huge feast for our hero here?" Jou's alternate double suggested.
"That is an excellent idea." said Umi.
"And to add more to an excellent idea, let us do it where it all took place." said Hiroshi.
The warriors spent the night over at the palace, resting both body and nerves after all the harsh battles they had gone through. Black Magician Girl disappeared during the dark hours without so much as a word.
The next day, with Hiroshi and Umi planning together, a large feast took place outside Umi's palace at noon. It was all in Yugi's honor. All the people from Taokao and Kotao were invited, everyone who lost everything to the war. They all learned the story of the earthbound angel and how he had saved their kingdoms from the war. The demon was never mentioned, as all of those whose souls had been taken by the demon before had no memory of what had happened.
Yugi was looked upon as a hero by the people and barely got any rest as everyone wanted to meet him. Umi and Hiroshi appointed Zorro, Kage, Amaya, and Yasu to protect him from the "large crowds". Koneko, Neil, and Nessuro helped them with that while enjoying the party with him. This time, the warriors were wearing silk robes specially made in the palace. Now that the war was over, the armors were off.
"Well, at least now things seem to be a little brighter now." Yugi commented.
Yugi got a seat between King Umi and King Hiroshi, a recognition for being the guest of honor. Cerulean and Ryu took their places next to their brothers. Kage, Koneko, Nessuro, Neil, and the bodyguards took seats next to the two little princes. The kings waited for everyone to sit, with their plates full. Wine was served for the adults, and juice for the children. The people felt like royalty themselves that day. Umi and Hiroshi asked for silence and their people quieted down.
"Ladies and gentleman, thank you for coming." Umi said. "Today is a day to remember for all time! For too long, we have been pitted against one another not knowing why."
"Well, the war is over!" Hiroshi proclaimed. "The one who brought back the light, and made us all come to our senses, is here with us. This feast is in his honor."
The people of Taokao and Kotao clapped and cheered loudly. Umi and Hiroshi raised their cups of wine, their brothers and friends following their moves.
"A toast for Yugi Mutou!" Hiroshi said.
"To recognize him for his efforts." said Umi. "His bravery, his kindness, for bringing peace, and bringing our kingdoms...our families back together." With that he brought his cup to his lips and drank, everyone else doing the same.
After the toast, the people cheered again. They were so hungry all the food was gone in less than an hour. Bellies were full and the entertainment served well for the children. Yugi and his new friends also enjoyed themselves, but no matter how happy the atmosphere was, the earthbound angel's mind kept drifting with thoughts of his real home.
Koneko, Kage, Nessuro, Neil, Umi, and Hiroshi caught up to each other in the party, each telling their story of what they had gone through during the war years. Kage was furious when he heard about what Max had done to Koneko after Nessuro sold her to him. Said man was in the party and Hiei's alternate double almost killed him and his right hand, Korosu. But the young warrior was held back as King Hiroshi and King Umi made a royal decree and confiscated Max's title and his gold mines. Max and Korosu were sentenced to the dungeons and the gold mines were given to Nessuro and Neil, who shared them amongst themselves. They were now owners of all the gold mines in Taokao.
Once the festivities were approaching their end, King Umi and King Hiroshi had their people gathered one more time for one last official announcement. Nessuro, Neil, Koneko, Kage, Cerulean, and Ryu stood close to Yugi as Zorro and Amaya stood in front of him holding a medium-sized chest made of gold and silver. They opened it and inside was a large gold medal with a seal carved on it. Umi and Hiroshi took the medal and place it over his head, around his neck.
"This seal was just made yesterday, made from the two seals that represented Taokao and Kotao." Hiroshi said.
"Now this one symbol represents both our kingdoms." Umi said. "It is our gift to you, to thank you for saving us."
"It is not easy to make peace, but it's harder to maintain it." said Hiroshi. "That is why we want to give you this honor."
"You are Yugi Mutou, the Guardian of Justice!"
Yugi blushed at the given title and the crowds cheered one more time. The alternate doubles clapped as well, soon joined by the kings themselves. In the mist of the noise, Yugi noticed a little white sparkle of light floating just above their heads. No one else seemed to have seen it. The little warrior followed it with his amethyst eyes as the sparkle flew away, towards Umi's palace.
"Yugi-sama, is something wrong?"
Neil's voice snapped him out his trance and he turned to his friends who were looking at him with concern.
"I'm sorry, guys, please excuse me."
Yugi then ran off to follow white sparkle. His friends called out for him. When he didn't stop, they went after him. Zorro, Amaya, and Yasu were left to handle the crowds.
The small teen dashed past the palace gates and went straight for the gardens. The little light floated above the flower beds and he stopped in front of it. The light grew bigger and took form. Yugi gasped as he saw the blonde and white figure floating in mid air.
"Black Magician Girl!"
The blonde smiled at him. Her mage armor and staff were missing. She wore an elegant silky silver robe with cherry blossoms on the sleeves and on the bottom of the skirt.
"Please, Yugi-sama, call me Mana." she said cheerfully. "That is my name."
"Alright, Mana. I'm glad to see you again. You left last night without saying goodbye. I was worried."
"I'm sorry, Yugi-sama. I needed some time to think."
"Think about what?"
"Since all my friends are gone, I've decided to come live among other people. I don't want to live alone, for I have no home." The last part she said sadly.
"Now, that's not true."
Yugi turned and Mana looked past Yugi's shoulder. The alternate doubles stood right behind them. Umi stepped forward.
"Mana-san, you may come live in the palace if you wish." he said. "You helped us as well, giving us hope with the Prophecy of Light and bringing the earthbound angel down the right path through your guidance."
"He's right." Yugi said. "Without you I would still be lost, not knowing what to do."
"Thank you all." Mana said.
Yugi sighed and looked down at Hiei's katana, which was attached to his robe. The weapon was a constant reminder of the one who gave it to him.
"I want to thank you as well." Yugi said, turning to the alternate doubles. "You comforted me, cheered me up, and offered me a place to stay."
"Yugi-sama..." said Koneko, smiling at him.
That's when the skies darkened slowly. The winds blew softly, stronger by the seconds. Yugi and the alternate doubles looked up confused by the sudden change of weather. It was barely after noon yet. When lightning stroke out of the gathering clouds, they began to panic thinking they were under attack.
"What's going on?!" Kage yelled.
"Look!" shouted Nessuro and everyone looked up.
A huge swirling hole appeared on the clouds above Yugi's form. A column of light shot out from it, engulfing Yugi completely.
"What the-?! Whoa!" The light sucked Yugi up and he disappeared into the dark hole.
"YUGI!!" the alternate doubles shouted after him, but he was gone.
**********
Yugi's Universe...
"It's working!" Ryou said.
"Pull, Marlene, pull!" Yami yelled.
Marlene knelt in front of the TV set. The screen glowed white and her entire right arm was buried inside of it. She was pulling with all her strength; she buried her left arm into screen to help. Yami knelt behind her pulling her by the waist. They were both pulling and the others encouraged them excitedly.
"Pull, pull, pull!"
With one last grunt, Marlene and Yami succeeded. The blonde's arms came out of the TV, her hands holding none other than Yugi's arm! Yugi practically flew out of the TV and crashed right into Marlene and Yami, sending them to the floor. The screen went black as if the TV turned off by itself.
Yugi groaned. He felt lightheaded and dizzy. What had happened? He was lying on something soft...
"Desert bunny..."
Yugi's eyes opened wide. No one called him that except...He raised his head and amethyst eyes stared into amused hazel ones. He then realized he was lying on top of his girlfriend. The softness he felt was her chest.
"My desert prince." she said. "You know I love you. But when our relationship takes this turn," She smirked. "I will be on top."
That turned Yugi's cheeks a bright cherry red and he stammered for words.
"M-Marlene-chan? B-but, h-h-how? I just..."
The blonde grinned. "I figured out more to this dimension traveling thanks to that demon."
The small teen glanced up at the others. "Everyone...you guys..."
"Hey..." Yami groaned from under Marlene and Yugi. "I know this is a joyful moment, but would you mind getting off? You're heavy!"
"Sorry." Yami was relieved of the weight and helped up. It was a moment of silence, and all hell broke lose.
"YUGI!!"
All his friends went to Yugi almost at the same time. Seto and Bakura stayed back and watched as Yugi was crushed with hugs and laughs, and kisses from his girlfriend who came close to cracking his ribs with her embrace. Yugi was back home, safe and sound, as he should be.
"Yugi, we thought we've never see you again!"
"Yami almost blew the house up when we thought you were dead!"
"Are you ok?!"
"I knew you weren't dead, desert bunny, but they didn't believe me!"
"We saw you fighting that demon! You're awesome!"
Yugi was very happy to be home, even with the overlapping questions and comments from his friends talking at the same time. Home sweet dimension...And he gasped. The alternate doubles!
"Oh no!" Everyone stopped their overlapped talking at once.
"What's wrong, Aibou?" Yami asked.
"I left all of the sudden! What happened to the alternate doubles?"
Marlene smiled. "They are fine...Look."
Yugi and the rest turned back to the TV set. The screen was back on and it showed the garden at Umi's palace. The alternate doubles all stared at where Yugi had once stood.
**********
Alternate Universe...
"What just happened?!" Hiroshi said.
"Where's Yugi-sama?" Neil asked.
"Is this the work of another demon?" Kage said.
"Please, everyone calm down." Their attention was turned to Mana, who was smiling at the sky. The sky had brightened up again after Yugi disappeared and everything was clear and peaceful again. "The earthbound angel is back where he belongs."
"He left?" Umi said. "Without saying goodbye?"
Nessuro smiled. "The way he left, I don't think he was given a choice about it."
"He lives in another dimension." Koneko said sadly. "We may never see him again. Will he forget about us?"
"If he wants to, though I doubt it." Mana said.
"Yeah." Neil agreed. "Who would forget what he did here?" He chuckled.
"We had lots of fun!" Cerulean said. Ryu agreed with him.
"But one thing is for sure." Nessuro said. "We will never forget him....Never..."
Koneko extended her fist in front of herself. "For Yugi Mutou, the Guardian of Justice."
One by one, each of the alternate doubles placed one hand over her fist.
"For Yugi Mutou." They said together.
"May your journey be a safe one." Koneko said. "We will always stay together. It's our promise."
**********
Yugi's Universe...
The TV went black. The image of the alternate universe was gone.
Yugi took Hiei's katana from his robes and offered it to Marlene.
"I think this belongs to you."
The blonde smiled almost sadly as she took it. "Thanks, for taking care of it. I can always count on you." She giggled. "This was definitely the most bizarre adventure that has ever drag you to it, Yugi-kun."
"And we watched everything." said Ryou.
The concept of being watched rang in Yugi's head. His cheeks turned red at the thought.
"Wait a second!" he said loudly. "You didn't watch me during every pit stop or when I changed clothes, did you?!"
Marlene spoke up. "Nah, I turned the TV off whenever that happened." Another smirk. "Your cute ass is for me to see only."
If possible, Yugi turned redder, finding his feet interesting.
Jou laughed. "We recorded everything! We should sell that movie. We could make a fortune. I can see it now: On Theaters! Yugi Mutou's Epic Adventure! Director's Cut!"
"Absolutely not!" Yugi shouted, his feet no longer interesting.
"Oh, why not?" said Marlene. "It's a great idea. You'll be famous, Yugi-kun!"
"Aren't I famous enough?" Yugi looked grim.
"This will be a hit!" said Jou. "Who's with me?"
The entrance to Marlene's house slammed open and a small party dashed out. Yami, Marlene, Jou, and Honda ran away with the tape, laughing as Yugi chased them.
"Guys, wait! Come back here with that tape!"
Bakura, Ryou, Seto, Mokuba, and Shizuka didn't follow but watched the others from the front door in amusement. Yugi was easily left in the dust since he wasn't a fast runner. His voice echoed in the distance.
"THAT'S SO UNFAIR! WHEN I GET MY HANDS ON YOU, YOU WILL ALL PAY!"
People stared at the teens as they ran by with the fuming screaming midget behind them.
Home Sweet Universe...indeed...
Owari
Saiyan Moon Goddess: I can't believe it's finally over! I even made a pic of Black Magician Girl carrying Yugi, but I couldn't draw his warrior armor so I dressed him in one of his normal attires. If interested you may find the pic in The Yugi Palace at Yahoo! Just look for My Album in the Photos link.
Yugi: What about that Epilogue you wrote?
Saiyan Moon Goddess: I'm not sure whether to post it or not. What do you readers think? Still, it's not easy for me to finish what I start. It's hard for me to believe I finished this. I hope you all liked it and tell me if you want the epilogue. Maybe find out what happened to the tape? REVIEW!
Yami: Excuses, excuses...
Saiyan Moon Goddess: *stuffs a chocolate muffin on Yami's mouth* Here, chew on that and be quiet like a good boy. On with the story!
**ALTERNATE DOUBLES**
*From Saiyan Moon Goddess (OC/s)*
1. Koneko - Marlene/Saiyan Moon Goddess (18 years old)
*From Yu-Gi-Oh!*
1. Nessuro - Yugi (18 years old)
2. Neil - Yami (16 years old)
3. Prince Umi - Ryou (19 years old)
4. Prince Cerulean - Bakura (9 years old)
5. Prince Zukoi/Hiroshi - Marik (20 years old)
6. Prince Ryu - Malik (the yami) (10 years old)
7. Max - Pegasus
8. Korosu - Bandit Keith
9. Jono - Jou
10. Amaya - Anzu
11. Queen Emi - Mai
12. King Isamu - Ryou's Father
*From Yu Yu Hakusho*
1. Kage - Hiei (18 years old)
2. Zorro - Kurama
3. Akira - Botan
4. Maki - Koenma
5. Iwa - Kuwabara
6. Jin - Jin
7. Yuke - Yuseke
8. Yasu - Yukina
"talk"
'thoughts'
/mind talk/
~Alternate Universe Twist~ by Saiyan Moon Goddess
~Chapter 20: Home Sweet Universe~
The threat was gone, the danger was over, and their universe was safe. For all that, a great sacrifice had to be made. The earthbound angel from the alternate universe gave up his soul to the depths of hell, and he did it all for them. All that was left do now was mourn for their saviour, then pick up the broken pieces of their world and rebuild it.
Koneko insisted in carrying Yugi's cold body on her back. Kage put away Yugi's sword back in the sheath, and he and Neil helped the drained Nessuro as they made their way out of the room. The castle only brought back painful memories they wanted to forget. But they wouldn't leave Yugi's body there to rot; they would give the earthbound angel who saved them all a proper burial, they would make sure he would be remembered. The atmosphere around the four was grim and gloomy. As the group walked down the dark hall, Nessuro glanced around utterly lost in his surroundings.
"I've been out for so long, I don't recognize my own home..." He looked down, tears forming in his eyes again. "I caused so much grief and cost the life of our saviour. I understand if you can't forgive me."
Neil smiled. "I already did."
"How can you?" said Yugi's alternate double. "Out of everyone else, you should hate me the most, Neil. I betrayed you and the others."
"Well, I don' care what you or anyone else says." Neil said. "I feel as though my oniisan came back from the dead." He looked down at the elder sibling and tightened his hold slightly as a sign of comfort. "I had lost you, but the earthbound angel gave us a second chance. I'm eternally grateful and I will not let his sacrifice be in vain, oniisan."
Koneko and Kage watched the two. They didn't know Nessuro anymore. In fact, they didn't know each other anymore either. They had been separated for eight years, meeting again after so much destruction to their nations and only creating more confusion. But Neil's smile revived memories of long ago; Koneko and Kage saw the grinning little boy that brought them all together with his childish mischiefs, he who was considered the little brother of the whole group for being the youngest. The images of those happy times in childhood made the couple feel at ease. The blonde girl glanced at Yugi's face resting on her shoulder. Tears threatened to fall again but she held them back, he looked so peaceful...
That's when the whole place began shaking.
"Now what?!" Kage yelled alarmed.
"Now that the demon is gone, what remains of his evil darkness is being cleansed from the castle." Nessuro said. So the evil was going away...Why did he look so worried then?
"Look!" Koneko shouted.
All over the walls, the floor, and the ceiling, monsters appeared in every corner. Their forms were transparent, surrounded by black smoke and they moaned or shrieked.. The figures kept appearing and disappearing, some coming closer to the group as if unconsciously.
"Let's get out of here!" Koneko said.
The blonde ran ahead down the hall with the boys following her. Fortunately, the monsters went through them harmlessly if they came in contact, but it was hard to keep pace when the floor shook so violently. They were nearly knocked off their feet. The four looked for a way out. It wasn't long before they reached a door.
"Into that room!" Nessuro called. "Hurry!"
Koneko, Kage, Nessuro, and Neil went inside. It was small and with few furniture, and it had a big barred window. Kage took out his katana.
"Stand back!"
Kage swiftly cut through the bars. As they fell apart, he glanced out the window.
"We're over ten stories high!" he said.
"We can't jump!" Neil said. "It'll kill us!"
"We don't have a choice, Neil." Kage said. "I'll break our falls as much as I can. Now go!"
**********
Yugi's soul was still floating in empty space, all his strength drained. He didn't have enough energy to escape the darkness. The saviour of light could only await his fate.
"I guess...this is it." he whispered weakly to himself. "I'll stay trapped in here forever...? Marlene, please forgive me."
Cold wind blew, making him shiver. A chill ran up his spine. The wind blew harder, pushing him back. He looked behind him but saw nothing. Still he heard the vacuum-like sound; he felt the dark energy. A black hole was forming, and it was sucking him inside. Yugi didn't move as the vortex drew him to itself, he couldn't fight it. This was it, the gateway to hell. He dreaded whatever was on the other side. He would never see his friends and family again.
'This is path I chose.' he thought, then said out loud sadly. "Goodbye, everyone..." He let the black hole take him.
"Yugi!!"
"Huh?"
Yugi looked up, his feet nearly touching the hole, and gasped. A small glowing light appeared out of nowhere and floated toward him rapidly. The light then took form. It was Marlene's soul who smiled at him. He looked at her in shock.
"Marlene?! What are you doing?! Get out of here!"
Marlene ignored his warning and floated nearer to him. The earthbound angel panicked. If she got too close, the black hole would trap her soul as well and sent her to hell. But the blonde didn't mind the vortex and stretched out a hand to him. By instinct he did the same and grabbed hers. She chuckled.
"Did you really think I would let my little desert prince go that easily?" Marlene said. "I thought you knew me better than that."
"Marlene...you..." Yugi didn't even know what to say.
"I'll lent you some of my soul energy. You'll be able to leave."
"You can't!" Yugi protested. "You'll stay trapped here!"
"No, I won't. Trust me."
"Marlene, you must understand that I spent too much time here. My body may be dead by the time I return."
The blonde's smile didn't falter, instead she winked at him. "I believe in you."
Both souls glowed white as Marlene transfered to Yugi some of her soul energy. When she was done, she let go of his hand and began to fade away.
"I believe in you, my desert prince."
Once she's gone, Yugi felt powerful with renewed strength. The grip of the black hole weakened on him, allowing him to break free. He quickly flew away from the vortex and faded away into the black space. He hoped he wasn't too late.
**********
Koneko went first. She shifted Yugi's body from her back, into her arms, and leaped out the window. Nessuro and Neil jumped together, and Kage followed last. They all yelled in surprised as they fell from high while the castle still shook. The castle was surrounded by a dark barrier, which was disintegrating. Black ghouls, shadows, and monsters came out through wall and the roof, making it look like a haunted mansion.
Kage used his telekinesis to make their fall slower and softer. As they floated down, pieces of debris fell from the walls and roof. One of the smaller pieces hit Koneko on her back. She yelped in pain and accidentally let go Yugi.
"Nooo!!!" she yelled, trying to grab hold of him again, but failed.
Kage tried to catch him, but his mind was locked on the others. To get Yugi he would have to release his hold on the others, so he watched helplessly as the body fell and disappeared into the forest bellow.
As the four landed, they had no time to look where Yugi's body was. They ran away from the castle as quickly and far as possible. Neil grabbed Nessuro's hand and led him to catch up with Koneko and Kage. They ran into the forest; fortunately the earthquake didn't reach that far. Koneko search through the trees frankly for Yugi. But she couldn't find the body anywhere.
"No! He must've fell around here...somewhere!"
"Koneko, calm down." Kage said. "We'll help you find him."
Koneko, Kage, Nessuro, and Neil tried ignoring the seemingly collapsing castle as there was no more apparent danger to them. A light shone far ahead of them, and they followed it out of curiosity. It guided them to a small clearing. They all gasped in amazement at the sight that welcomed them. Black Magician Girl was glowing in mid air. In her arms was Yugi, who she held lovingly.
"The Oracle!" Neil yelled.
They approached Black Magician Girl and she smiled at them.
"Do not worry." she said. "Our hero merely sleeps."
The Oracle's apprentice smiled at Yugi as she floated down and stood on the ground. The glow died away and Yugi's body stirred. The others were shocked and awaited in anxious silence as Yugi's eyes opened slowly. He smiled.
"Hi guys." he said. "Sorry to make you wait."
Kage, Koneko, and Neil smiled back at him. Koneko held back tears of happiness. "Yugi..." As soon as Black Magician Girl put him down, the trio tackled little Yugi into a crushing hug. They were so glad he was alive they didn't ask him how it was possible for him to return to life. The blonde oracle smiled at the scene, then glanced at the castle over the trees.
"Look, everyone!" she called.
The others looked up and saw the castle had changed. Instead of a charcoal black building, there stood a cream and gold little palace. Though it was around half the size of the Umi's palace, it stood magnificent.
"Wow!" Yugi exclaimed. "How do you live in such a place?"
"Our mother and father owned half the gold mines in our country." Neil said. "They always told me they would hand control over to me when I grew older." He turned to his older brother. "But I believe that inheritance is oniisan's by birth."
"No, Neil." Nessuro showed a small smile. "It's ours."
The brothers hugged. When they broke apart Neil turned to Yugi.
"Yugi-sama, words can't express my immense gratitude for you returning my oniisan safely to me."
"It's alright." Yugi said.
Nessuro stood before Yugi. Yugi's alternate double stood a good three inches over the small warrior, with black and blue spikes, blonde bangs, his aqua green eyes the same shape, and his hair a bit longer and tied in a low pony tail that reached half his back. Yugi was back to his normal self as well, only he had grown slightly.
"I am also eternally grateful to you, saviour of light." Nessuro said. "And I feel terrible for everything I've done. I'll do whatever it takes to pay for my deeds."
"You said you two were owners of the gold mines, Nessuro?" Yugi said. "Here's a thought. You can help rebuild every house destroyed in the war. Give home to the homeless."
"Thank you, Yugi-sama! I'll see to it immediately."
Yugi turned to Black Magician Girl. "Now that the demon is gone, what about your friends?"
The Oracle's apprentice looked down sadly. "It was too late. The demon made sure they were dead for good and enslaved their souls." She stared at Yugi straight in the eyes. "But their spirits are free now. I thank you for it. I am now the one and only magical being in this world." She smiled despite her tears forming. "It may be better this way. After I'm gone, no more prophecies will plague this dimension."
"I'm sorry."
"It's alright, Yugi-sama." the blonde Oracle said. "My master would be proud of me."
"The demon is gone, the universe is safe..." Koneko said. "We better head back to Taokao."
"But, what about me?" said Yugi "I need to find a way to get back to my dimension."
Nessuro spoke up. "I'm sorry, Yugi-sama. Now that the demon's gone I no longer have his power or his knowledge to travel to other dimensions."
"Then...I'm stuck here?"
"I'm sorry." Nessuro said.
Yugi looked down, feeling very dejected. "My friends, my family...I'll never see them again."
The alternate doubles felt bad seeing their saviour so down and tried to cheer him up the best they could.
"We know your loved ones can never be replaced, but you're welcomed to live here with us." Neil said.
"You can make this dimension your new home, until we find a way to return you to yours." Kage said.
"We owe you so much, we'll do whatever it takes." Koneko said.
Yugi smiled slightly at their attempts. "Thank you everyone, but... I can't call this place home without Marlene-chan."
"Who?" asked Koneko.
"Oh, that's right. I didn't tell you about her. Well, she's my girlfriend back home." Yugi glanced at Koneko quickly before looking away again. "Last time I saw her was in black space. Her soul was there, but she disappeared. I hope she's alright."
"Don't worry, Yugi-sama, we'll find a way to get you home." Black Magician Girl said. "But for now, we must re-group."
"Agreed."
Black Magician Girl waved her magic staff and it glowed. "I'll teleport us." With her magic, they all disappeared.
They reappeared back in Taokao's palace, inside the throne room. The place was empty until Prince Umi and Zorro rushed in from one door at the back of the room. Prince Cerulean, Yuke, Jin, and Jono came in from the entrance. It was an awkward silence that only lasted a second as people stared at one another. Koneko was the one to break it.
"By the looks of it, it seems everything's back to normal."
In an instant everyone unfroze.
"Cerulean!"
"Oniisan!" Prince Umi and Cerulean ran to each other. The elder brother picked up the smaller boy and held him close.
"Kage!" Zorro said. "What happened?"
"Otousan!" Kage went to his adoptive father and hugged him as well. "The nightmare is over."
Everyone was happy, giving each other kisses and hugs. Neil hugged Nessuro, who smiled in return. Kage turned to Koneko and hugged her, then shocked her by kissing her in the lips. Yugi watched them all from his position. The happy faces made him smile.
"A happy reunion." he said to himself. But then he sighed sadly, thinking. 'They all have someone to hold and love, except for me. The one I want to hold right now is still back home.'
Koneko noticed how sad Yugi looked and wrapped him in a warm embrace too. Kage, Neil, Nessuro, even Cerulean and Umi joined in. Yugi enjoyed the gesture, he let out a small laugh.
"Thank you, all of you. I feel a little better now."
"It is not over yet." said a distant voice.
Everyone turned to the large entrance of the throne room as it opened again. This time, Prince Hiroshi, Prince Ryu, Yasu, and Amaya came in. Umi approached them keeping a safe distance, and Cerulean was quickly by his side. Zorro stood by Umi and Kage took his place beside Cerulean. Hiroshi smiled.
"Hello, old friend." he said, referring to Umi.
"Prince Hiroshi." Umi acknowledged him with a slight bow.
At the title, Hiroshi frowned sadly. "Not anymore. I am afraid, my mother, the queen, has passed away. As the heir to the throne of the kingdom, I claim my rights to the crown. I am the new king of Kotao."
Zorro looked surprised at that statement. Hiroshi's words suddenly reminded him of something and haired man turned the blue-haired prince, frowning.
"Oh, Umi-sama, King Isamu..." he said. But Umi raised his hand slightly, not looking at him, and he said no more.
"It is alright, Zorro." Umi said. And he addressed Hiroshi. "My father is gone too, Hiroshi-sama. I also claim my rights to the
crown as they are my heritage. I am the new king of Taokao."
"Our kingdoms have been in war for 8 years." Hiroshi continued. "As the new king of Taokao, the country that originally declared war, I ask for us to join and once again bring peace to our people."
Yugi looked between the two, and glanced at the blonde king. "You mean it? True peace?"
Hiroshi nodded. "I refuse to continue this meaningless dispute. I do not even remember why it started in the first place."
Nessuro looked down, feeling bad at remembering what happened because of him. This went by unnoticed except for Yugi and Koneko.
"Perhaps it is best we don't think about that." Umi said. "Let us forget this fight ever happened and start over."
"He's right." Yugi spoke up. "Now, let's just make a fresh start."
Nessuro was surprised by his words and spoke quietly to his alternate double. "Yugi-sama...you won't tell them about..."
Yugi smiled at him secretly. "No."
Koneko placed a hand on his shoulder. "The past is the past, we can't change it." she whispered to him.
The new kings didn't hear them and continued about with their terms to bring peace to their kingdoms. Each one discussed what they would do to repair their kingdoms and the lives destroyed by the war.
"We will make a peace treaty and reconstruct every home destroyed." the king of Kotao said. "The hungry we will feed, the hurt we will comfort. Everyone shall be compensated for all the pain this fight caused them."
"Hiroshi-sama, I accept your terms." the king of Taokao said the two shook hands. "We will make this official as soon as possible."
"Please, call me Hiroshi."
"Friends?"
"Always." The kings hugged.
"Two divided kingdoms come together." Yugi said. "It's good it is so."
Umi and Hiroshi separated and turned to Yugi. All attention was on the little warrior and it made him uncomfortable.
"And we have you to thank, Yugi Mutou." said Umi.
"Because to you, our kingdoms have joined again, as it should be." said Hiroshi.
"You brought my brother back to me." Neil said.
"You brought us back together." Kage said, holding Koneko's hand.
"You repaired our broken friendship." Nessuro said.
"You saved everyone's souls from hell, even though you weren't inclined to intervene." Koneko said.
Yugi blushed at all the praise given to him, but smiled nonetheless. They all gathered around him.
"How about we throw a huge feast for our hero here?" Jou's alternate double suggested.
"That is an excellent idea." said Umi.
"And to add more to an excellent idea, let us do it where it all took place." said Hiroshi.
The warriors spent the night over at the palace, resting both body and nerves after all the harsh battles they had gone through. Black Magician Girl disappeared during the dark hours without so much as a word.
The next day, with Hiroshi and Umi planning together, a large feast took place outside Umi's palace at noon. It was all in Yugi's honor. All the people from Taokao and Kotao were invited, everyone who lost everything to the war. They all learned the story of the earthbound angel and how he had saved their kingdoms from the war. The demon was never mentioned, as all of those whose souls had been taken by the demon before had no memory of what had happened.
Yugi was looked upon as a hero by the people and barely got any rest as everyone wanted to meet him. Umi and Hiroshi appointed Zorro, Kage, Amaya, and Yasu to protect him from the "large crowds". Koneko, Neil, and Nessuro helped them with that while enjoying the party with him. This time, the warriors were wearing silk robes specially made in the palace. Now that the war was over, the armors were off.
"Well, at least now things seem to be a little brighter now." Yugi commented.
Yugi got a seat between King Umi and King Hiroshi, a recognition for being the guest of honor. Cerulean and Ryu took their places next to their brothers. Kage, Koneko, Nessuro, Neil, and the bodyguards took seats next to the two little princes. The kings waited for everyone to sit, with their plates full. Wine was served for the adults, and juice for the children. The people felt like royalty themselves that day. Umi and Hiroshi asked for silence and their people quieted down.
"Ladies and gentleman, thank you for coming." Umi said. "Today is a day to remember for all time! For too long, we have been pitted against one another not knowing why."
"Well, the war is over!" Hiroshi proclaimed. "The one who brought back the light, and made us all come to our senses, is here with us. This feast is in his honor."
The people of Taokao and Kotao clapped and cheered loudly. Umi and Hiroshi raised their cups of wine, their brothers and friends following their moves.
"A toast for Yugi Mutou!" Hiroshi said.
"To recognize him for his efforts." said Umi. "His bravery, his kindness, for bringing peace, and bringing our kingdoms...our families back together." With that he brought his cup to his lips and drank, everyone else doing the same.
After the toast, the people cheered again. They were so hungry all the food was gone in less than an hour. Bellies were full and the entertainment served well for the children. Yugi and his new friends also enjoyed themselves, but no matter how happy the atmosphere was, the earthbound angel's mind kept drifting with thoughts of his real home.
Koneko, Kage, Nessuro, Neil, Umi, and Hiroshi caught up to each other in the party, each telling their story of what they had gone through during the war years. Kage was furious when he heard about what Max had done to Koneko after Nessuro sold her to him. Said man was in the party and Hiei's alternate double almost killed him and his right hand, Korosu. But the young warrior was held back as King Hiroshi and King Umi made a royal decree and confiscated Max's title and his gold mines. Max and Korosu were sentenced to the dungeons and the gold mines were given to Nessuro and Neil, who shared them amongst themselves. They were now owners of all the gold mines in Taokao.
Once the festivities were approaching their end, King Umi and King Hiroshi had their people gathered one more time for one last official announcement. Nessuro, Neil, Koneko, Kage, Cerulean, and Ryu stood close to Yugi as Zorro and Amaya stood in front of him holding a medium-sized chest made of gold and silver. They opened it and inside was a large gold medal with a seal carved on it. Umi and Hiroshi took the medal and place it over his head, around his neck.
"This seal was just made yesterday, made from the two seals that represented Taokao and Kotao." Hiroshi said.
"Now this one symbol represents both our kingdoms." Umi said. "It is our gift to you, to thank you for saving us."
"It is not easy to make peace, but it's harder to maintain it." said Hiroshi. "That is why we want to give you this honor."
"You are Yugi Mutou, the Guardian of Justice!"
Yugi blushed at the given title and the crowds cheered one more time. The alternate doubles clapped as well, soon joined by the kings themselves. In the mist of the noise, Yugi noticed a little white sparkle of light floating just above their heads. No one else seemed to have seen it. The little warrior followed it with his amethyst eyes as the sparkle flew away, towards Umi's palace.
"Yugi-sama, is something wrong?"
Neil's voice snapped him out his trance and he turned to his friends who were looking at him with concern.
"I'm sorry, guys, please excuse me."
Yugi then ran off to follow white sparkle. His friends called out for him. When he didn't stop, they went after him. Zorro, Amaya, and Yasu were left to handle the crowds.
The small teen dashed past the palace gates and went straight for the gardens. The little light floated above the flower beds and he stopped in front of it. The light grew bigger and took form. Yugi gasped as he saw the blonde and white figure floating in mid air.
"Black Magician Girl!"
The blonde smiled at him. Her mage armor and staff were missing. She wore an elegant silky silver robe with cherry blossoms on the sleeves and on the bottom of the skirt.
"Please, Yugi-sama, call me Mana." she said cheerfully. "That is my name."
"Alright, Mana. I'm glad to see you again. You left last night without saying goodbye. I was worried."
"I'm sorry, Yugi-sama. I needed some time to think."
"Think about what?"
"Since all my friends are gone, I've decided to come live among other people. I don't want to live alone, for I have no home." The last part she said sadly.
"Now, that's not true."
Yugi turned and Mana looked past Yugi's shoulder. The alternate doubles stood right behind them. Umi stepped forward.
"Mana-san, you may come live in the palace if you wish." he said. "You helped us as well, giving us hope with the Prophecy of Light and bringing the earthbound angel down the right path through your guidance."
"He's right." Yugi said. "Without you I would still be lost, not knowing what to do."
"Thank you all." Mana said.
Yugi sighed and looked down at Hiei's katana, which was attached to his robe. The weapon was a constant reminder of the one who gave it to him.
"I want to thank you as well." Yugi said, turning to the alternate doubles. "You comforted me, cheered me up, and offered me a place to stay."
"Yugi-sama..." said Koneko, smiling at him.
That's when the skies darkened slowly. The winds blew softly, stronger by the seconds. Yugi and the alternate doubles looked up confused by the sudden change of weather. It was barely after noon yet. When lightning stroke out of the gathering clouds, they began to panic thinking they were under attack.
"What's going on?!" Kage yelled.
"Look!" shouted Nessuro and everyone looked up.
A huge swirling hole appeared on the clouds above Yugi's form. A column of light shot out from it, engulfing Yugi completely.
"What the-?! Whoa!" The light sucked Yugi up and he disappeared into the dark hole.
"YUGI!!" the alternate doubles shouted after him, but he was gone.
**********
Yugi's Universe...
"It's working!" Ryou said.
"Pull, Marlene, pull!" Yami yelled.
Marlene knelt in front of the TV set. The screen glowed white and her entire right arm was buried inside of it. She was pulling with all her strength; she buried her left arm into screen to help. Yami knelt behind her pulling her by the waist. They were both pulling and the others encouraged them excitedly.
"Pull, pull, pull!"
With one last grunt, Marlene and Yami succeeded. The blonde's arms came out of the TV, her hands holding none other than Yugi's arm! Yugi practically flew out of the TV and crashed right into Marlene and Yami, sending them to the floor. The screen went black as if the TV turned off by itself.
Yugi groaned. He felt lightheaded and dizzy. What had happened? He was lying on something soft...
"Desert bunny..."
Yugi's eyes opened wide. No one called him that except...He raised his head and amethyst eyes stared into amused hazel ones. He then realized he was lying on top of his girlfriend. The softness he felt was her chest.
"My desert prince." she said. "You know I love you. But when our relationship takes this turn," She smirked. "I will be on top."
That turned Yugi's cheeks a bright cherry red and he stammered for words.
"M-Marlene-chan? B-but, h-h-how? I just..."
The blonde grinned. "I figured out more to this dimension traveling thanks to that demon."
The small teen glanced up at the others. "Everyone...you guys..."
"Hey..." Yami groaned from under Marlene and Yugi. "I know this is a joyful moment, but would you mind getting off? You're heavy!"
"Sorry." Yami was relieved of the weight and helped up. It was a moment of silence, and all hell broke lose.
"YUGI!!"
All his friends went to Yugi almost at the same time. Seto and Bakura stayed back and watched as Yugi was crushed with hugs and laughs, and kisses from his girlfriend who came close to cracking his ribs with her embrace. Yugi was back home, safe and sound, as he should be.
"Yugi, we thought we've never see you again!"
"Yami almost blew the house up when we thought you were dead!"
"Are you ok?!"
"I knew you weren't dead, desert bunny, but they didn't believe me!"
"We saw you fighting that demon! You're awesome!"
Yugi was very happy to be home, even with the overlapping questions and comments from his friends talking at the same time. Home sweet dimension...And he gasped. The alternate doubles!
"Oh no!" Everyone stopped their overlapped talking at once.
"What's wrong, Aibou?" Yami asked.
"I left all of the sudden! What happened to the alternate doubles?"
Marlene smiled. "They are fine...Look."
Yugi and the rest turned back to the TV set. The screen was back on and it showed the garden at Umi's palace. The alternate doubles all stared at where Yugi had once stood.
**********
Alternate Universe...
"What just happened?!" Hiroshi said.
"Where's Yugi-sama?" Neil asked.
"Is this the work of another demon?" Kage said.
"Please, everyone calm down." Their attention was turned to Mana, who was smiling at the sky. The sky had brightened up again after Yugi disappeared and everything was clear and peaceful again. "The earthbound angel is back where he belongs."
"He left?" Umi said. "Without saying goodbye?"
Nessuro smiled. "The way he left, I don't think he was given a choice about it."
"He lives in another dimension." Koneko said sadly. "We may never see him again. Will he forget about us?"
"If he wants to, though I doubt it." Mana said.
"Yeah." Neil agreed. "Who would forget what he did here?" He chuckled.
"We had lots of fun!" Cerulean said. Ryu agreed with him.
"But one thing is for sure." Nessuro said. "We will never forget him....Never..."
Koneko extended her fist in front of herself. "For Yugi Mutou, the Guardian of Justice."
One by one, each of the alternate doubles placed one hand over her fist.
"For Yugi Mutou." They said together.
"May your journey be a safe one." Koneko said. "We will always stay together. It's our promise."
**********
Yugi's Universe...
The TV went black. The image of the alternate universe was gone.
Yugi took Hiei's katana from his robes and offered it to Marlene.
"I think this belongs to you."
The blonde smiled almost sadly as she took it. "Thanks, for taking care of it. I can always count on you." She giggled. "This was definitely the most bizarre adventure that has ever drag you to it, Yugi-kun."
"And we watched everything." said Ryou.
The concept of being watched rang in Yugi's head. His cheeks turned red at the thought.
"Wait a second!" he said loudly. "You didn't watch me during every pit stop or when I changed clothes, did you?!"
Marlene spoke up. "Nah, I turned the TV off whenever that happened." Another smirk. "Your cute ass is for me to see only."
If possible, Yugi turned redder, finding his feet interesting.
Jou laughed. "We recorded everything! We should sell that movie. We could make a fortune. I can see it now: On Theaters! Yugi Mutou's Epic Adventure! Director's Cut!"
"Absolutely not!" Yugi shouted, his feet no longer interesting.
"Oh, why not?" said Marlene. "It's a great idea. You'll be famous, Yugi-kun!"
"Aren't I famous enough?" Yugi looked grim.
"This will be a hit!" said Jou. "Who's with me?"
The entrance to Marlene's house slammed open and a small party dashed out. Yami, Marlene, Jou, and Honda ran away with the tape, laughing as Yugi chased them.
"Guys, wait! Come back here with that tape!"
Bakura, Ryou, Seto, Mokuba, and Shizuka didn't follow but watched the others from the front door in amusement. Yugi was easily left in the dust since he wasn't a fast runner. His voice echoed in the distance.
"THAT'S SO UNFAIR! WHEN I GET MY HANDS ON YOU, YOU WILL ALL PAY!"
People stared at the teens as they ran by with the fuming screaming midget behind them.
Home Sweet Universe...indeed...
Owari
Saiyan Moon Goddess: I can't believe it's finally over! I even made a pic of Black Magician Girl carrying Yugi, but I couldn't draw his warrior armor so I dressed him in one of his normal attires. If interested you may find the pic in The Yugi Palace at Yahoo! Just look for My Album in the Photos link.
Yugi: What about that Epilogue you wrote?
Saiyan Moon Goddess: I'm not sure whether to post it or not. What do you readers think? Still, it's not easy for me to finish what I start. It's hard for me to believe I finished this. I hope you all liked it and tell me if you want the epilogue. Maybe find out what happened to the tape? REVIEW!