Disclaimer: I do not, nor will I ever, own any Yu-gi-oh related material. Kazaki Takahashi is the

proud owner of the favorite Anime show.

Author's note: In case you haven't noticed, this is from Pharaoh Atem's perspective, in the Afterlife or Spirit world, just after he's lost his duel to Yugi. And no I do not like to see or use the 'Atemu' spelling. I think it's ridiculous-no offense intended. In case anyone is wondering, it has been proven that Atem is the correct spelling. If necesesary, I will post the link to the article on my page. Thanks you and thanks for reading!

After life

Atem walked through the doorway, into the light, and moments after, heard the stone doors slam shut behind him.

It was odd that he didn't want to go back, he thought. Sure, he missed his friends there, but they would be fine without him—and goodbye was never a forever thing. Yugi would be fine. He was ready to live on his own.

Instead of feeling remorseful, Atem found he felt at peace for the first time in years. More years than he could count.

The first thing he saw was his Guardians and his family, and, perhaps best of all, his best friend.

His first sensation was that of something rather small and warm slamming into him, and being wrapped in a full-body embrace. Somehow, he managed to maintain his balance. Opening his eyes, he beamed with joy at the sight of the tan, aquamarine-eyed face right before his.

"Mana!" he exclaimed in delight.

"Mana!" objected Mahad sternly, "That is no way to treat the Pharaoh!"

"Oh, come off it, Mahad," Mana said, her eyes locked on Atem's, an elated smile plastered on her lips. Nonetheless, she jumped off him, but never let him go. As soon as her feet touched the ground, she bounded back, wrapping her arms around him and embracing him tightly. "Atem," she breathed. "You're here."

Atem's arms wound around her automatically, his face buried in her hair, holding her close and finding himself unable to find words. There was an odd, unnamable sensation in the pit of his stomach—butterflies?

Finally drawing back, they both kept their arms around each other and smiled. "I've missed you, Mana," Atem said, "You're as beautiful as ever."

Mana sighed, embracing him again with her head against his neck. She smirked at Mahad, "Better?"

Mahad shook his head, throwing his hands in the air. "Better."

"Mahad, my friend," Atem greeted, beaming.

Mahad stepped forward and knelt, bowing his head. "My Pharaoh, you have returned."

"Please, Mahad, you need not bow to me," Atem said quickly. Mahad smiled, almost chuckling, and stood.

"If that is what you wish, Pharaoh," he said, as loyal and formal as ever. Some things never changed.

A hand clamped on Atem's shoulder, and looking around, he saw his father. "My son," he greeted with tears in his eyes. "It's been many years."

Atem gently disengaged himself from Mana's warm embrace. "Too long," he agreed, "Father." His father's big arms held him tightly before turning him to his mother, who very nearly soaked his cape.

He turned to his Guardians, who each knelt before him.

"Isis," he greeted, gripping her hand. "It's wonderful to see you."

"My Pharaoh," Isis beamed, "It has been too long."

"Pharaoh," Seto said reverently. "We have long awaited your return." To Atem's surprise, he smiled, only ever so slightly.

"Seto, I have waited for the day to return longer than I can remember," he confessed. "It's good to see you, cousin." He greeted Shada and Karim, and finally Shimon, who had a few stern words about showing affections in public.

"No one's around, Shimon," he grinned. "Let it go for one day."

At that, Shimon had to submit. And before Atem knew it, Mana was wrapping her arms around him again. He smiled and held her, very content with the idea. A hand gripped his arm, "My King," Shimon smiled, "We must go to your palace. We have much to discuss."

So! How's it so far? This story is just getting started... R&R and ConCrit, please :)

-Anevay