Yu-Gi-Oh!: Return of the Pharaoh

Chapter 26: Making Amends

An overcast sky loomed over Domino City, a remnant of the early morning rain shower.

A happy teenager walked out of the Kame Game Shop after acquiring new cards for her amateur deck. She was the last customer before the shop shut down for the lunch hour.

"Thank you, hope to see you again soon!" Solomon Motou calls out from behind the counter. Most of the visitors to his shop were often older men in search of rare collectibles, so it was a nice change of pace when he had customers who came with a genuine interest in games and puzzles.

"Good afternoon, Domino City." The little television haphazardly placed on a stool stacked with years' old newspapers in the back corner of the shop was turned to the midday news station. Their most senior and seasoned correspondent greeted their viewers. "This is Mia Miyazaki with DCBC News. Here are your top stories."

Grandpa Motou loved hearing her familiar voice because it signaled his favorite part of the work day: lunch time. He grabbed a broom as Mia discussed the most recent events of interest, rocking back and forth across the shop's floor as her voice faded into the background.

"Parents of Domino City High School students should prepare for a long weekend due to the sudden 5.7 earthquake that rippled across the city late yesterday evening. While the school's main buildings suffered minor structural damage, city officials elected to close the school until repairs and closer inspections can occur.

"The high school was hosting a track meet when the earthquake struck. While there were no major injuries, it led to mass confusion and the cancellation of the meet until further notice. The school is expected to open and resume normal activities next Wednesday.

"DCBC News will continue to bring you the latest top stories. Will Foster will bring you the weather forecast right after the break."

'So that's the story they're giving.' Grandpa Motou sighed as he placed the broom back into the storage closet. Grabbing a rag, he began wiping down countertops and display cases as he reconciled the news report with what his grandson had told him the night before.

"That kid keeps the most peculiar company," he thought aloud, barely registering the ring of the bell as someone entered the shop.

"I don't think I'm that peculiar," the familiar stranger opined.

Surprised, Grandpa Motou turned to see one of Yugi's long time acquaintances awkwardly standing in the shop's entrance.

"Téa." His voice reflected the softness in his eyes as he smiled at the slender brunette. "It's been a while."

She replied with a small smile tinged with guilt. "I know, sir. But I'm here for my friends. I owe them all an apology, starting with Yugi."

Crossing his arms across his chest, he nodded. "That's good. That's really good."

His welcoming smile wilted into a stern, contemplative look. "My Yugi has a strong spirit and puts on a brave face, but I've seen the cloud that has followed him these past few weeks.

"I'm not privy to what happened, but it looks like that same cloud has been following you, too." Grandpa Motou observed. "Dear child, you were one of Yugi's very first friends. I do truly hope, from the bottom of my heart, that you both can make amends."

Téa, stunned into silence at his words, fought back tears as she fidgeted with her fingers. "Me too," she replied in almost a whisper.

Grandpa Motou's sudden chuckle caught Téa off guard. "You're starting to make an old man feel guilty with that face. You look like I just reprimanded you."

Téa offered a smile in response. "You haven't said anything I haven't already said to myself." Her eyes darted to the stairway that led to Yugi's room, hoping to hear footsteps announce his presence.

Grandpa Motou sighed. "Thank you for the visit, but Yugi isn't here right now. He's with -"

"Yeah, I figured." Téa stopped him before he could finish his thought. "It's no surprise considering what happened last night at school."

"So you know what happened?"

"No, but what they're reporting on the news doesn't really add up. I must admit, I did have an ulterior motive for wanting to speak with Yugi."

Grandpa Motou sighed. "I see. In that case, it's best you speak with him directly."

Téa nodded. "I'll give him a call." Waving goodbye, she made her exit.

Standing outside, Téa closed her eyes and looked up towards the sky. She didn't realize the breath she had been holding up until that moment. After a shaky exhale, she opened her eyes and steeled her resolve.

Checking her pockets for her cell phone, she didn't notice the sudden appearance of an interloper now standing next to her.

"What a wonderful sight you are after all this time."

Gasping, Téa backed up in shock as she met the gaze of tall, handsome Jeremih Miller.

"Oh my goodness, you scared me!" Téa chastised him as her shaky breathing came back with a racing heartbeat to match.

Jeremih's vivid blue eyes did little to hide his mischievous spirit. "My apologies. I didn't mean to scare you. But you should be more aware of your surroundings."

"Your concern is noted." Téa frowned. "Why are you here?"

"I'm here because my sister wishes me to be here. I'm monitoring the Motou residence. I was doing my rounds when I happened to see you."

"Thanks, but you can drop the act. If you don't recall, I'm well aware of what's going on."

Jeremih stared at the reserved young lady with inquisitive eyes. "Blood or not, Desani is as much my family as Yugi is yours. And family takes care of one another."

Embarrassed, Téa lowered her head. "O-of course. I'm sorry, I don't mean to speak to you so rashly." She dipped her head even further. "In fact, you may be the only person who can help me right now."

A dark golden eyebrow rose in response. "What do you need?"

She raised her head to meet his eyes. "Take me to them. Take me to my friends."

His lips began to curl into the toothiest smile anyone had given her in a long time. "That's a big ask."

The mischievous sparkle re-entered his eyes as he outstretched his arms towards her.

"W-what are you doing?" Téa asked as she processed his unusual behavior.

"You want a favor. I want an apology. I think a hug should suffice." His smile softened as his hands beckoned her into his embrace.

"Okay…"

She hesitantly stepped towards him until she was awkwardly pressed against his chest and his arms were settled around her waist. Without realizing, her eyes drifted closed as she listened to his heartbeat. Beneath the magic, the curses, and the unexplainable, was a human heart.

"I'm sorry," she whispered. 'For everything.'

"Apology accepted."

He stepped back, holding on to her arms so that she wouldn't fall into him. "We're glad to have you back."

Téa opened her eyes. Her message of thanks stalled in her throat as she realized she was no longer standing outside the Kame Game Shop. Looking away from Jeremih, Téa gazed up at the entrance of the Miller's home.

Jeremih smirked as he observed the astonishment on her face.

"Come on. Your friends are waiting."

The atmosphere at the Miller residence was heavy with tension. Everyone who had been present for the events of the track meet had been brought to the manor as an extra layer of protection now that the enemy was in their custody.

Yugi had called his grandpa the night before to fill him in and explain why it was advised he, Atem and Mana should stay with the Millers for the time being. While reluctant, his grandpa eventually relented and agreed, so long as Yugi sent him regular updates.

An uncomfortable awkwardness hung over the spacious sunroom as everyone listened to the muffled voices coming from the hidden basement that was converted into an interrogation room. The sorcerers took turns guarding the entryway, but Desani was the only one allowed to enter.

An uneasy silence hung about the sun room, which had become their unofficial headquarters. It had been difficult for Yugi, Atem and Mana to put into words their encounter with the dark sorceress after the others were knocked unconscious.

"I'm surprised we survived the showdown," Tristan admonished after hearing what happened. "Joey and I could barely handle Miya. I don't know what we could've done if we had to face those demons head on."

Joey's hands had found their way into his jean's pockets. He scoffed and turned his head away after hearing what Tristan said. But it's not like he could deny the truth. They were really outmatched.

"I don't know, Yug." He finally found his voice. "This is getting more dangerous by the day. You know I'm all about helping Desani and saving the world, but we gotta think about ourselves too, and what we're risking. I could never forgive myself if I got hurt and wasn't there to look after Serenity."

Yugi, hunched over on the couch, looked up at Joey with an unreadable expression.

"I hear you, Joey. We're risking a lot. That became very clear tonight." He ran a nervous hand across his face as his eyes surveyed the room. His eyes briefly paused on Mana and Ryou as they cuddled close on the loveseat. His heart hummed with a sorrowful melody. "Not just our lives, but the lives of those we care about. I wouldn't blame any of you if you wanted to walk out that door right now.

"I'd be the first to admit I'm scared. But I can't walk away, not now. Not when there's so much more at stake. No matter what you decide, you will always have my friendship. Always."

Silence enveloped them at Yugi's declaration. Atem, who had been gazing out at the cloudy sky, simply nodded his head in agreement.

"Thanks, man." Joey unpocketed one of his hands to give Yugi the 'thumbs up' sign. "I don't plan on quitting. We got your back. Always."

The rest of the group murmured "yes" in agreement.

Yugi sighed. His "thank you" barely passed his lips before voices erupted from the basement.

"This has been a COMPLETE waste of my time!"

"Desani, you must calm do-"

"I am calm, Isabel! Just give me a moment."

Everyone watched in surprise as she ascended to the sun room. Face flushed, clearly from an argument, Desani wordlessly walked past everyone to sit outside on the sun room's balcony.

Isabel threw them a sheepish smile as they aimed their quizzical glances at her.

"The enemy is being a bit difficult," she offered. "Desani just needs some time to cool off." Bowing slightly, she descended back downstairs to resume guard.

Uneasy glances were shared between the group.

"I don't think we should leave her alone. Can someone check on her?" Mana asked. Her pleading gaze drifted towards her best friend. Closest to the balcony doors, his eyes were already locked on the woman in question. "Atem?"

Hearing his name, the Pharaoh turned his attention to Mana. Arms crossed over his chest, his expression was dark, guarded. "I don't know if I'm best suited for this. Yugi has always been able to relate to her more so than anyone else.

"If anyone can get through to her, it's you," he finished as he nodded towards the man in question.

Yugi's cheeks flushed pink at the suggestion. 'My friend, I know you're closer to her than you let on - and you know it, too.'

"He's right, Yug," Joey piped up, looking up from the back-to-basics Duel Monsters game he and Tristan had been half-heartedly playing on the coffee table for the past couple of hours. "If anyone can get people to rally behind them, it's you."

Yugi fell silent. Even in that moment, he questioned why anyone would look towards the awkward little boy with zero social skills but an immeasurable love of games and puzzles.

Shoulders still hunched, almost as if weighed down by this incredible burden that came into his life the moment Desani walked through the doors of the Kame Game Shop, Yugi tried to keep his feelings at bay. This was not the time for self-pity and reminiscing over a lost love.

With a deep breath, Yugi stood up from the couch and began formulating his words for the clearly miffed sorceress.

"I don't mean to interrupt -" Yugi froze, his eyes widening at the voice originating at the entrance of the sun room. The group mirrored his expression as heads turned to greet the visitor. "- But could I borrow just a bit of your time?"

Heat flushed Yugi's face as he began to process what was happening, excited but also frightened to turn around. Yet he couldn't stop his legs from doing an about face so that he confirm that the melodious sound really did belong to -

"...Téa."

Her pink-tinted lips curled up into a small smile. "Hey, Yugi."

Her throat was dry as her eyes roamed the room. All eyes were on her, some expressions more readable than others. Who could blame them, though? She ghosted her friends and was too much of a coward to tell them why.

"W-what are you doing here?" Yugi's lips finally remembered how to form words.

"The literal answer to that is that I brought her here," Jeremih piped up as he emerged from the foyer. "I found the poor girl standing all alone outside of your grandfather's shop. That pitiful scene just cut at my heart." Hand over his heart, talking as he walked, he set his sights on the kitchen. "While you all kiss and make up, I'm going to make tea. Any requests?"

His long legs had him out of the sun room before anyone could answer. His presence was instantly missed as the tension soon filled the space taken up by his colorful outburst.

"Wow, um… so this is awkward," Téa admitted. Her fingers pulled at the ends of her white fleece jacket. She wanted the fidgeting to stop because it was so unlike her, but she didn't know how.

"What are you doing here, Téa?"

Joey's steeled gaze was now locked on her, his frown the opposite of welcoming. "You still haven't answered the question.

"And just so you know, we were perfectly fine until you came in. You're the only one who's awkward here. The friend who chose to become a stranger."

His words stung. Not because they hurt, but because they were true. She abandoned her friends and left it up to Yugi to break the news.

"You're absolutely right. I have no excuses to give for my behavior. What I did was selfish. I at least owed you all an explanation, but I was too afraid to even give you that."

"That's what I don't understand." Tristan placed down the cards in his hand and looked at her with a quizzical expression. "Why were you afraid to share with your friends that your dream was coming true?"

"That is bullshit and you know it," Joey intercepted. "For the longest, it was you, me, Tristan, and Yugi. We had each other's backs through thick and thin. Even in our darkest hours, we came out stronger. We're not just friends at this point - we're family. We know everything seems to be going to hell right now, but that doesn't mean we wouldn't celebrate you, that we wouldn't show up for you. How could you do that to us?"

Téa's lips trembled. "I-I was scared that you wouldn't understand why I needed to leave, that you would think me weak for not being able to participate in… all of this." She moved her arm in a circle to try to demonstrate her exasperation. "I am months away from my dream and I thought risking my life was the absolute last thing I should be doing.

"But after what I saw last night, I knew that I couldn't just sit by and do nothing."

Her revelation caught everyone's attention.

"Are you telling us you were at the track meet last night?" Ryou usually tried to stay out of his friends' squabbles, but even he couldn't quell his curiosity.

She nodded. "My dance lessons let out early, so I thought I would try to catch one of Desani's events." As if on cue, the brunette aimlessly shifted her weight from one foot to the other. "It was already so crowded by the time I got there, and you all were kinda scrunched up together.

"And then Desani was up for her race. You all looked so happy…" Tears stung at the corners of her eyes, but she pressed onward. "Everything seemed fine until her teammate started charging at her. One minute, Joey and Tristan were racing onto the field, and then the next...the track field was all banged up, you were all knocked out, and nobody knew what the hell happened. We couldn't explain what we were seeing."

Téa's voice caught in her throat as she recalled the mass hysteria of the previous night. Red and blue lights flashed as the authorities arrived on the scene to tend to the wounded. Teams were being shuffled into buses while school officials announced that the meet was over and that all uninjured visitors were to evacuate immediately.

Nothing made sense; everything was a blur around her. As people raced past her toward the exits, she gazed down at the field where her friends were being treated. Something happened, but she didn't know what. She had so many questions but nobody to ask. And that's when realization struck.

She was completely and utterly alone.

Bowing her head in shame, Téa silently begged for forgiveness. "I know it's not my place, I know it's not my right - but if something were to happen to any of you, I wouldn't be able to live with the fact that I caused all of you so much unnecessary pain. My dream is important to me, but there's something even more important: my family."

She was helpless to stop the onslaught of tears. "I love and miss you guys so much. I am so, so sorry. I don't know what I can do to make it up to you, but I promise you I will."

No sooner had the words left her mouth, Téa found herself encased in the warmest, tightest embrace. Tears blurred her vision, but she didn't need sight to know whose chest her face was now buried in.

"I'm so glad you're here, Téa," Yugi spoke into her ear. "That's apology enough."

Tears spilled over as her cries became more prominent. Yugi's lips danced across the fine strands of her hair, pushing back the urge to pepper kisses across her forehead.

"N-no, Yugi. I have so much left to s-say to you," Téa struggled to find the words while fighting the cries that threatened to erupt from her chest. "Please… l-let me finish."

Reluctant to let go, he indulged in having her against him for a moment longer before stepping back. He watched empathetically as she wiped away her tears and collected herself.

She licked her lips, tasting the salt that her wayward tears left behind. She didn't notice how Joey's eyes softened or how Tristan tensed up, both finding it so hard not to console their long-time friend.

Finally, Téa composed herself long enough for her eyes - now reddened by the watery onslaught - to meet Yugi's searching gaze.

"I didn't come here to beg for forgiveness, because I know some of you may not be able to do that right now. I know that my actions cannot be undone, but I have learned from them. Shutting you out wasn't the answer. It's one of the worst mistakes I've ever made.

"But the worst mistake… was what I said to you." Everything fell to the background as Téa let herself float in the lavender pools that belonged to one of her earliest friends.

The shy, awkward, and relentlessly sweet young boy who introduced her to some of her favorite games. The socially isolated middle schooler who tinkered with the Millennium Puzzle and was routinely bullied by the brutes who had long since become his most loyal protectors. The wonderful young man who was equal parts proud of the journey he took to attain his world-renowned title and embarrassed by the incessant fame and celebrity that accompanied it.

This earnest, incredible person stood before her right now, and as she took in the warmth in his eyes, the chest that provided her comfort and security, and the hands that handled her with the utmost care, she couldn't fathom how she could have ever imagined loving anyone else.

"The last time we spoke, I said some very hurtful things," she started, her fingers becoming restless as her heart pounded underneath her layers. "I allowed my heart to doubt your character and use it as an excuse to step back from everyone. I even unfairly gave you the responsibility of explaining my absence to our friends.

"So much of that is irredeemable because in those moments, I chose not to be a friend. I chose to be selfish and to- to cause pain." The words felt heavy on her tongue, her lips. But the emotional anvil that had been crushing into her chest began feeling lighter. Emotions that were once unbearable became tolerable, and the trembling gave way to a burgeoning confidence as Yugi patiently stood there and listened to her. He hadn't even breathed a word as promised, but his encouraging glances, how his lips whispered the kindest smiles, and the gentleness that exuded from his - admittedly gorgeous - frame was everything she needed to breathe.

"As the next chapter of my life begins, I know the one I'm in cannot end with those mistakes. I want my friends in my life for as long as possible." Téa's hands clasped in front of her, fingers interlocked so they were no longer fidgeting. "I don't know what will happen after I go to Juilliard, but I do know that I want us to call, video chat, and see each other when we're not busy with school or work.

"And Yugi, when you've entered the next Duel Monsters competition, I want to be right there cheering you on like I've always had."

As the weight finally gave way, she dared to utter a thought that held her captive for the past several days.

"...I want to be with you for as long as there's space in your heart for me."

'I just want you.'

The words were there, but she couldn't bring herself to voice them. Not just yet. Not when all of their friends had just witnessed one of her most vulnerable moments. She could feel the heat radiating from her flushed face.

Unclasping her hands, she ran her fingers through her hair and tucked a few stray strands behind her ear. She was perfectly content staring at the ground in an effort to remain calm. She was nervous, but now everything didn't appear as ominous or scary. No matter the outcome, she promised that she'd respect whatever decision her friends made. All she could do was hope that her sincere apology was enough to sway all of their hearts.

Téa's continued silence signaled to Yugi that she had finished. He wished for a few seconds more to take everything in, like how her cheeks flushed pink as she told him that she wanted to be by his side forever.

Obviously, he was paraphrasing. But that's the truth, the answer to her request.

He meant what he said earlier. He accepted her apology because he had forgiven her long before today. He took a step towards her with the intent to tell her this, but a flash of blonde swept between them as Joey wrapped his arm around Téa's shoulders and pulled her into a hug.

"Like I told you, we've always been here. We ain't going nowhere." Pulling back, Joey looked down so that she could look him squarely in the eyes. "Are you done being a stranger?"

Her blue-gray eyes had a hint of a sparkle as a smile tugged at the edges of her mouth.

"Yes," she replied, her word absolute.

The intent expression on his face morphed into his signature grin as he pulled her in again for another embrace.

"Good, because you're way overdue for a Joey Wheeler bear hug!" Tightening his arms around her small frame, a growl began low in his throat and quickly erupted into his impression of a rampaging bear.

Téa gasped, knowing it would be wasted effort to try to fight it. "Quit it out, Joey! I can barely breathe!"

"Oh no! You're staying right there, Gardner." Before she could even process what was happening, she felt another body pressed up to the side of her as another pair of arms wrapped around her and Joey.

"Tristan…"

Yet again, another warm body was encasing her. The same body that had held her moments earlier.

"You're here to stay, Téa. And we're never letting you go." His whispered declaration into her right ear brought forth a warmth that cascaded over her entirely.

She was positioned in a way that she could already see Mana and Ryou rushing over to join the group hug, but it was too much at once.

The emotions she had just gotten under control were now spiraling out. Tears spilled out as the cries swelled up in her chest. Overcome with a sense of exhaustion, her knees buckled under her and she fell to her knees. Soon, the six of them were huddled together in the middle of the sun room, letting Téa be as raw and vulnerable as she needed to be. It was alright.

She was home.

Breathe.

Inhale. Hold. Exhale.

Again.

Desani's nostrils flared as she took in the late afternoon's air. Holding for several seconds, she could just make out the hint of sea salt that danced across her tongue. Letting go, she focused on the sensation of her lungs deflating and how her heartbeat felt stronger and less erratic than when she had first stormed out onto the balcony.

Her eyes fluttered open, which marked the end of her meditation. Sitting cross-legged on one of the lounge chairs, she took a few extra moments to fully take in every physical sensation. In order to be in tune with her thoughts and emotions, she also had to be one with her body.

Her thoughts and actions have been in total disarray since the last memory she gained. She was having a difficult time coming to terms with what she had unearthed and it chilled her blood every time she went back to it.

She and Mahad had been at odds with each other. Apparently, she was planning to… what? Punish the pharaoh and his court for the creation of the Millennium items? She had even erased Mahad's memory so that he couldn't report back to Atem. But what information was so damning that it scared her past self into taking such precautions?

But the biggest question, the one that had begun the upheaval of reality as she understood it… Why was her mentor, Nubaru, in one of her lost memories?

She pondered it to an excessive degree. The sheer replications of this fact hung over her as her allies in this time took care of the events of the track meet. Her friends, still traumatized by the attack, expressed worry about her withdrawn state.

Their faces begged the question: "What did you remember?"

But she couldn't answer them. Not yet.

Not until they were safe. She asked Narlin to make sure everyone was taken to the manor for their safety.

"What is the meaning of all this? Why the emergency meeting, beloved?" Adria asked, her face etched in concern.

The sorcerers were gathered together in the basement. Their enemy, now prisoner, had been knocked unconscious by one of Narlin's spells after the quartet arrived to provide backup. A space had been prepared for her in the training area. She now rested on her back on a twin bed with her wrists and ankles restrained by magic-enhanced cufflinks. A spell cast by Isabel had the Dark Sorceress' hands encased in an orb that restrained her ability to wield her powerful sorcery.

Desani's face was darkened with confusion and guilt. She couldn't tell her friends yet, but she had to address the situation as soon as possible.

"Any and all reports to Nubaru and company will cease, effective immediately," she decreed.

The Millers looked at her, surprised by the sudden declaration against her mentor. Desani's expression was hardened by what appeared to be a mix of disgust and distrust.

"Very well," Isabel responded. "I have no qualms with this decision." In deference to Desani's admiration of Nubaru, she had kept her feelings of suspicion about him to herself. His delayed reaction to ending her suffering several weeks ago was still fresh in her mind. His hesitation seemed to stem from a certain fascination and satisfaction watching Desani as her pained wails echoed across the manor. His reaction was burned into her memory, but she knew it wasn't her place to speak out any more than she had the night it occurred.

"We shall do as you command. But would you care to offer any insight into what led you to this decision?" Narlin requested.

It took her a moment, but Desani nodded and began recounting her latest unlocked memory. It felt cathartic, almost, as the words flowed from her lips. She didn't have to carry this burden alone anymore. All of her fears and the questions prompted by this new memory could now be weighed evenly between her allies.

The Millers listened with intent as their minds melded together and revealed that they were all concerned about Nubaru's true intent. As Desani had not existed in their lifetimes, they were honored - ecstatic, even - when they were approached to be her guardians. However, they never expected this turn of events. How could a mortal sorcerer from 500 years in the future have existed 5000 years in the past?

"Right now, I need to keep this information between us," Desani warned. "I need… I need more information to make sense of all this before I can tell the others."

"Of course, beloved," Jeremih replied. "As you wish."

"Please… stop calling me that." Desani ran a hand across her face in exasperation. "I'm just - I don't really know what I am right now. I'm not really a sorceress, not really human. There's nothing to treasure or exalt about me right now. I'm just me, I suppose."

"Oh, honey." Adria planted herself in front of Desani and placed a hand on each of her shoulders. She smiled softly while she patiently waited for her adopted daughter to look at her. "Powers or no powers, we are so proud of how far you've come. It has been a delight having you here. We'll stop calling you that until you're ready to hear it again. But Desani, don't you ever question your worth."

Adria's words came back to her as they reverberated in her mind. Her warmth and compassion brought her much needed peace of mind.

Until their captured enemy awoke. Until the infuriating interrogation that followed shortly after.

A vibration against her right thigh pulled Desani out of her dark reverie. Startled, she unfolded her legs from underneath her and stretched them out to rest atop of the chair. The black summer dress she had changed into from her sullied track uniform fanned out around her. Shuffling around for the small pocket tucked away in its skirt, she pulled out the cell phone she rarely used but had for school purposes.

Unlocking the screen, she saw a text notification from an unsaved number.

Odd. The only people who would've had this number were all currently in walking distance of her. Who could possibly be texting her?

Hi, Desani. It's Shou! I hope you don't mind me texting you. I asked the coaches for your number. Last night was pretty crazy. How are you holding up?

Eyes widened, Desani swung her legs off the chair until they found solid ground. Standing up, she nervously began pacing back and forth over the balcony.

What is she supposed to reply? Nobody texts her as she prefers calls. It's just easier to instantly respond instead of agonizing over how to write the perfect text.

And yet here she was, being forced to do just that.

Hello. I am doing well. How are you?

She watched in trepidation as the ellipses immediately popped up, signalling that he was already working on his response.

Yeah, I'm doing pretty good. Just a bit freaked out about that random ass earthquake haha

Her lips pursed. That's not exactly what happened, but there was no point in correcting him.

Yes, that was quite the fright. I'm thankful nobody was badly injured.

Me too! Have you seen the pics of the school? We won't be able to host any meets for at least a month

I hope they are able to repair the damage soon.

Yeah…

Seriously though, you're ok? You left with your family so fast last night that nobody on the team was really able to check in with you

Desani blinked, surprised at the concern. She took a moment longer to consider her response.

I really am fine. I had a few bruises that needed to be patched up, but I'm healing. I'm still in a state of shock, I suppose.

Ok, I'm just glad you're alright…

Miya's been in the ICU at Domino Memorial since last night. The doctors say she's stabilized, but they can't determine when she'll wake up. They're not releasing a lot of information to anyone except her family.

A wave of guilt crashed over her. She had been so focused on securing her friends' safety that they had neglected to take care of Miya. Possession can cause a lot of damage, particularly in memory retention and motor function. Desani made a mental note to have Adria check on Miya's status and determine if they could correct any lasting damage.

I am so sorry to hear that. I hope she makes a full recovery.

Me too. All of us do. I just wanted to let you know about her. I wasn't sure if Jin had reached out yet

The party's cancelled, too. I don't think anyone's in the mood to celebrate

Desani watched as ellipses appeared, disappeared, then reappeared. She felt like there was something else he wanted to say, so she patiently waited.

You don't have to give me that answer now haha. You're off the hook :P

Desani fought back the blush that threatened to tint her cheeks. No longer pacing, she leaned over the baluster that had the most unobstructed view of the ocean. She hadn't told the coaches yet, but she was not planning to return to the track field. Even though her enemy was in custody, it was still too dangerous. She wouldn't dare risk another attack. Not another Miya.

It had to end. All of it.

Shou… I'm sorry, but I can't give you the answer you seek. Thank you for your kindness. I'm sorry if my actions have caused a rift between you and Jin. I would never want to sow animosity between the team captains. Please rest up and take care.

She hoped he would take the hint and not respond. After several minutes rolled past with no ellipses or new notifications, she sighed with relief and placed the phone back into her pocket.

"You seem troubled."

She didn't need to turn around to know who had come for her. Instead, she continued to peer out towards the ocean, her elbows resting on the baluster with clasped hands leaning slightly over the edge. A stray breeze played with a few curly tendrils that had escaped her ponytail.

A moment later, he was to the right of her, mirroring her posture and staring off into the vast expanse of ocean.

That nagging memory flickered across her mind. Shou had granted her only a short reprieve from the discomfort of what that memory implicated. She wanted to pull away, afraid that if he uncovered the truth, he would once again look at her with that cold, unforgiving expression.

She couldn't bear to go back to that.

"Téa is here."

He changed the subject. She was thankful.

"You should come say hi."

'Go away, please.'

Pulling back from the baluster, he turned around and leaned against it, readjusting so his forearms were rested atop the railing. He had a better view of her face in this position.

"You were meditating just now, weren't you?"

Silence.

"I'm not going anywhere. We can do this all day, if you'd like, but I think we'd be a bit more productive if you were to contribute to the conversation."

Atem smirked as he caught the quick roll of her eyes.

"You haven't even asked me if I'm doing okay. It damn near breaks my heart." To prove his point, he raised his hand to grab at his chest, scrunching his face up into a feigned expression of pain.

"You're out here bothering me, so you're clearly doing fine."

His face lit up as a chuckle erupted from his belly. His teasing gave way to a huge grin as he angled in a little closer to catch her gaze.

"Ah! You wound me, Desani."

Sighing, she turned her head in his direction. Faces now only inches apart, Atem nervously cleared his throat before moving back into an upright position.

"Atem, I know you heard what I said to Isabel. I know this because I walked right past you. I just need a moment to myself. I have been interrogating the woman who attacked you and our friends for hours. I'm mentally exhausted and just want to recharge. And I can't do that with you and your incessant attempts at getting me to talk."

"Desani… we're all worried about you. Maybe I'm not the right person to be here. In fact, Yugi was supposed to come talk to you. But Téa showed up to reconcile with everyone. He and Mana are in there right now getting her up to speed with everything. His hands are tied, Desani, so it looks like you're stuck with me."

"Don't do that."

"Do what?"

"Don't act like I wouldn't do the same thing to Yugi if he was here instead of you."

"I don't have to act like it because it's the truth. You have always been more open with him."

"And whose fault is that?!" Her hands slamming against the baluster caught him completely by surprise. "Yugi is kind and understanding. Even when he's angry, he still listens to people and is willing to compromise. I can't do that with you, Atem. You're hot, then you're cold. We are always at odds with each other. So forgive me if I don't feel like baring my heart out to you right now."

The silence hung heavily around the duo. Desani's eyes were locked on the ocean; Atem stood next to her, taking in her words.

This wasn't how he envisioned the conversation going.

Inside, they listened as the murmur of conversation was interrupted by Jeremih's loud, cheerful voice inviting the guests to join him for tea in the kitchen. As they all filed past, Atem caught the eye of his reincarnation. Curious, Yugi gestured to let him know he could talk to her instead.

Atem shook his head; he didn't want help. He needed to do this on his own. He raised his arm into the "stop sign" signal to let him know that he had the situation handled. Nodding, Yugi followed the others to the kitchen.

With a deep sigh, he turned his attention back to Desani. Expecting to find her purposefully ignoring him with an annoyed look, he instead found her features riddled with sorrow and confusion. Eyes downcast, she bit at her bottom lip as she anxiously tapped the tip of her shoe against the ground.

"Desani…" He noticed how her body instantly tensed at the sound of his voice. "I didn't come out here to argue. You said it yourself, it needs to stop. I'm only here to listen. We're in this together, remember?"

The silence stretched on for what seemed like an eternity. He was willing to wait as long as she needed, but he also didn't want to force her to talk if she wasn't ready. Contemplating if he should make his exit, he almost missed the soft sigh that escaped her lips.

"The interrogation isn't going well."

A warmth erupted in his chest - she was actually talking to him.

"That was my impression," he responded, his voice soft. "Is she refusing to talk to you?"

She scoffed. "Oh, she has plenty to say. Just nothing useful." Unclasping her hands, she grabbed at the nape of her neck, slightly massaging the muscles that had grown tense. "She wants me dead, she wants you dead, she definitely wants my mentor dead. Just a lot of hostility.

"She says she hates me because of how I betrayed her. She keeps calling me a willing pawn in some grand scheme. I mean, it's like she just speaks in riddles.

"She even refers to me as her 'sister,' which is just absurd," her voice trailed off in a whisper.

"'Sister'? What does she mean by that?"

Desani shrugged her shoulders, dismissively waving her hand. "It's nonsense. I don't have siblings. She probably says it to piss me off… or because she's delusional."

"Did you ask?"

Frowning, she raised an eyebrow. "Weren't you supposed to be listening? I was created in the image of a goddess, my mother, Azani. I'm a physical extension of the protection she provides to this realm. I couldn't possibly have a sister."

"I understand, Desani," Atem replied. "But it seems like you aren't asking the right questions. Maybe instead of interrogating her, you should try having a conversation."

"I don't want to waste time chit-chatting."

"Weren't you in there for hours? It seems like time has already been wasted."

"But-... ugh!" Desani clicked her tongue in frustration. He had a point.

"See? My advice isn't so bad."

"Hmm... I guess I can admit this was helpful." Her features softened for the first time since he had joined her on the balcony. "Thank you."

He smiled. "You're welcome."

Looking up at him through her lashes, she granted him a small smile.

Words fell away as they stood together, finding solace in each other's company. The sun had begun to set, its golden rays peeking through the clouds and providing some much needed warmth to the destined pair.

Atem was doing his best to just be a good friend, but as light illuminated the shadows from Desani's face, he became ensnared in her ethereal beauty. Her burgundy hair was a beautiful complement to her Earth-toned skin. His cheeks had flushed red when his violet eyes met her red amber pools. Though fleeting, the look she had given him was almost sensual.

Never in his life had he wanted to kiss someone so badly.

"How are you doing?" Desani's innocent question had him blushing a deep red. His thoughts had been so naughty in comparison. Even so, he couldn't control the pooling of heat that grew stronger with every glance she sent his way.

"Um…" He cleared his throat. "I'm fine. Why do you ask?"

"You were right earlier… I should've paid more attention to you and the others. You all went through a traumatizing ordeal. Just because you are physically okay doesn't mean there wasn't any damage. So… I'm really glad you're alright."

Atem had to look away. It was so hard not to wear his heart on his sleeve when she was around. She had no idea the effect she had on him, and he couldn't decide if that was a good or bad thing.

"Thank you, Desani." His eyes watched the sun's descent below the horizon. Stars twinkling in between the clouds marked the twilight hour. "Believe it or not, we've been in more dangerous situations. And we've always walked out mostly unscathed because we had each other."

"You're a resilient bunch," she deduced.

"Yes, I think so." He stared at her profile, watching as her eyes swam with unspoken emotion. "What about you?"

"Oh, I was just thinking about how you were right when you said I shouldn't have joined the track team." Her eyes clouded with sadness. "I put innocent lives at risk yesterday. One of my teammates is even fighting for her life right now. So, I'm quitting the team."

Atem's expression mirrored hers. "I'm so sorry, Desani."

Sighing, she turned away from the ocean to lean her back against the baluster. Arms crossed under her bosom, she shrugged. "It's the right thing to do. Another loose end that needs to be tied up."

Her words chilled him in a way that would put cold showers to shame. "Oh. I see."

Desani glimpsed at him. There was a complete shift in his energy. He avoided her gaze, choosing to stare at the ground in front of him.

She sighed. 'He still hasn't accepted it.'

She ran her fingers up his arm until she could grasp it and give it a soft squeeze. "Atem… we've talked about this."

"Yeah, I know." Pulling away from her touch, he went to sit on the lounge chair that she had been resting on earlier that evening. Elbows on his knees, a hand snaked to the nape of his neck as he ran his fingers through his hair.

Sighing, Desani glanced into the sun room. It appeared everyone was still in the kitchen, so no hope for a distraction. She was on her own.

Pushing herself off the baluster, she walked over to Atem. He was refusing to look at her. With a light scoff, she sat herself down next to the clearly miserable man.

"We never finished our conversation the other day."

"Which conversation?" His statement piqued her interest.

"The one about me wanting you to be my queen." He was still hiding his face, but she could tell he was blushing. "I know how I felt about you, Desani. How exactly did you feel about me?"

"Atem, I rejected your proposal."

"At the request of my father."

"We don't know that for sure."

"I think you're avoiding the question. I asked you about your feelings. I wouldn't have refused my father's wishes if I wasn't absolutely sure that you were the love of my life."

"Atem, it hardly matters at this point."

"Yes, it does!" His deep voice rippled out around them, his eyes revealing his defiance. "I think you're ignoring these feelings because you don't feel it relevant to why you're here. You think it's nonsense. But I think it's an important question that you're leaving unanswered."

She shouldn't have sought his gaze. His dark violets commanded her attention and seemingly dared her to look away. He was a dominant force that was hard to ignore.

"I-I don't know," she answered, honestly. "It seemed I was heartbroken about having to refuse your proposal. I seemed to be in denial about how I felt."

He waited on bated breath for her to continue.

Her fingers began fidgeting in her lap. "I may have had feelings for you," she confessed.

His expression softened, but he kept his eyes trained on her. Finally, she wasn't running away.

"What about now?"

It was her turn to blush as her fingers began pulling at her skirt. "It's complicated."

"How is it complicated?"

Her blush deepened. "I have not figured out if what I am feeling for you is real, or just a remnant of my past life." She let out an exasperated sigh. "I think if you knew more about me, you would understand."

"I'm listening now. Help me understand."

"I can't believe we're discussing this." She paused. "I am an immortal sorceress who has lived many lives. The knowledge and skills I've developed during those lifetimes are retained with each passing life, but I generally do not keep the memories from my past lives. This is to prevent me from holding grudges, seeking revenge on past enemies, and suffering from past traumas.

"However, there is a large knowledge gap in between our encounter in Egypt and my reappearance in Neo Domino City. Histories that I should've known had to be taught to me. That is why I was sent to resurrect you with the hope of potentially regaining those lost memories.

"But you have to understand that this is the first time I've ever had two sets of memories to sort through. What I'm learning about my Egyptian life is something that - in the natural Order - would have been removed.

"Just think about how you felt when you regained your memories of your life as a Pharaoh. Your name, your friends, your childhood. You may have felt whole, but you also had to grapple with the fact that prior to that, your life revolved around Yugi and the Millennium Puzzle.

"What you and I have experienced is what I would call recollection whiplash. We have a memory bank of two separate lives that are so juxtaposed that it's sometimes difficult to get all of the pieces to fit. Sometimes, our memories may get jumbled up, and we can misinterpret something as more than what it really is.

"I honestly believe this could just be residual emotions that have influenced my present-day feelings. But it's not just that. My form is built to mimic the human body, but it doesn't function in the same way. For example, I have a uterus sans eggs. In technical terms, I'm infertile. I cannot bear children.

"As for my libido, it has been nonexistent for as long as I can remember. I have never pursued a relationship with a human. Physical touch doesn't stimulate me the way it does human females."

Her face was burning. She had to look away from his intensity, especially with what she was about to say next.

"That is, it didn't until I met you."

Atem remained silent through her explanation, trying to absorb all the information to better understand her thought process. With the way she described herself, it sounded like she was asexual. That wouldn't be a problem, of course, but it would explain why she may not have desired him in the way he did her.

That's why his heart raced after what she timidly added at the end. She was turned away from him, her hands still pulling at the ends of the dress she was wearing. Even as the setting sun gave way to a full moon partly shrouded by clouds, he could still see the smooth skin of her legs that disappeared under the black cloth.

There it was again, that raging heat. He wanted - no, needed - to hear more. He settled a hand on top of hers and gave it a light squeeze.

"Could you please elaborate?"

With a slight hesitation, she nodded. "Well, I guess the earliest example was after I had teleported us to my room after the attack in the caverns. While I was… caught off guard by what happened on my bed, it um… excited me." She was actively avoiding his gaze.

"...You slapped me," he recalled.

"And you deserved it. But the way you rubbed at my back coupled with how you may have gotten a glimpse of me…" She trailed off.

A glint of mischief twinkled in his eyes as he leaned in towards her until their thighs touched. "Looks like I'm not the only who thinks about our little rump in the sheets."

Her "shut up" wasn't as forceful as she intended it to be.

Emboldened, he brought his lips to her ear. "What about our kiss?" To illustrate his point, he lowered his head to plant a soft kiss on the exposed skin of her shoulder. He smiled as he heard the breath hitch in her throat.

"It was nice," she admitted. Logic was yelling at her to pull away, but with his hand just centimeters away from her thigh and his lips working their way up her neck, another emotion demanded she stay put.

"Hmm? What was that?" The hand he had rested on top of hers slid down until it gripped the inside of her thigh. He was dropping feathery kisses along her jawbone.

"I said it was ni-"

His lips swept across hers, stealing away any intention she had of completing that sentence. Desani's eyes widened from the sensory overload. There was a craving that wasn't there before, a desire to completely surrender to the passion that had her head spinning. Eyelids fluttering shut, she cupped his face with her hands and pulled him in closer.

His lips were wet, inviting. So soft that she couldn't help nipping at his bottom lip. She giggled as his tongue ventured out to soothe the swollen heat that she had caused.

"So you're a biter?" He teased while reveling in the sensation.

"I'm asserting my dominance." She leaned in for another kiss, but he turned his head, an eyebrow raised.

"Is that so?" The way she taunted him was exhilarating, but he wouldn't let her win. Grinning, his arms wrapped around her torso, and in one fluid motion he lifted her over his lap until she was pressed flush against his chest. Her surprised gasp was music to his ears. Eyes meeting, the duo laughed at their new predicament.

He tried not to think about how good it felt as she awkwardly repositioned herself atop him. Her thighs now straddled his sides and her arms encircled his neck, fingers interlocking as the curve of her breasts pressed into his chest. He could barely suppress a moan after spotting how her dress rode up her leg, exposing more skin. She stared down at him with a soft smile, and his voice caught in his throat as he became ensnared by the look in her eyes. Tenderly, her lips claimed his once more.

This kiss wasn't needy. It was patient, nurturing, and curious. Fleeting, but forever etched in his memory. He felt himself pressed against her, and he knew she could feel it, too. The way her hips arched above him was torturous. Again, she left him. The chill of the world around them quickly chased away the warmth of her touch, her breath. He couldn't stand it, so he sought it elsewhere. Arms tightening around her waist, he buried his face in her awaiting bosom.

'I'm completely and utterly in love with you.'

The blush returned to Desani's cheeks at the intimacy of the moment. Not even an hour ago would she ever imagined such a passionate scene playing out between them. But as she cradled the head that pressed into the soft contours of her chest, she realized that she didn't want to let him go.

"Desani, if Neo Domino City wasn't in peril and the Dark Sorceress was no longer a threat… would you stay?"

She weaved her fingers in and out of his hair, massaging his scalp when she made contact. She didn't reply right away. They both knew the answer, but she didn't want to ruin the moment. It wouldn't hurt to indulge him.

"Hypothetically, if I were to stay, I would probably go to university and learn more about this 21st century world. Maybe I would earn my PhD and become a historian. In my spare time, I imagine I would teach history to students.

"And presumably," her voice soft and wistful, "I would spend my evenings demoing new games with Yugi and the boys, going out with the girls, then coming home to you."

There was a short pause as Atem considered her words. "You see us living together?"

She gently pressed a cheek into the right side of his forehead. "Mmhm. Maybe we would have date night once a week, and when we'd come home a dog or a cat would greet us at the door."

She grimaced as she felt a pang of guilt roll through her. "I wouldn't be able to bear you a child."

"I know." Atem's curt chortle was not the response she was expecting. He peaked out from the snug groove he had nuzzled into her bodice. "Maybe you have a hard time believing it, but I really am listening to you." His teasing expression gave way to a thoughtful one. "Maybe this would have been an issue if I was still a Pharaoh who needed an heir, but we both know that's not the case anymore. If it was just you and me, it would be more than enough."

He cleared his throat. "I mean, you know, hypothetically."

Desani silently pondered his words. She didn't realize how indulging him would have left such a visceral wanting in her. Before tonight, she had never even considered the possibility of a family. Just moments ago, the thought of having a sister was dismissed as "absurd."

So why now? Why today was she experiencing such desires and wants? It was as if she had been split in two and was being pulled in different directions.

She froze. After an endless search, she had entered the eye of the hurricane that was her mind. Inside that eye, a light turned on. An epiphany. She knew what she needed to do.

Snapping back to reality, she left a gentle kiss on his forehead as she softly pressed at his shoulders, asking for release.

Atem pulled back, looking up with perplexed disappointment as she removed herself from his lap and stood in front of him. After readjusting the skirt of her dress, Desani outstretched a hand to him.

"Atem, I need to speak with her again. And I'll need your help this time."

Now he was really confused. "You want my help?"

She smiled. "I have a plan. Just trust me on this."

He wanted nothing more than to have her in his arms again, but he could tell something inside of her had changed. The shroud of anguish that encompassed her when he first joined her on the balcony was gone, replaced by the look of determination that now graced her features.

Inside him, joyful pride began to erupt. She'd had a breakthrough thanks to their conversation. And here she was, reaching out for his help once more. They were finally working in tandem.

Nodding, he took her hand and rose to his feet. "Lead the way."

Hand-in-hand, the pair slipped back inside and began their descent to destiny.

A/N: Wow. YGORoTP is 10 years old this year. 2020 has been a wild ride, that's for sure. Very poignant yet important events are happening across the world. How are you holding up? For me, personally, I have experienced a lot of loss and pain and needed to do some self-reflection and a lot of self-care. I know each and every one of us have our own battles to fight, and I just want you to know that I'm cheering for your success. We need your energy, your spirit, and your ideas as we work towards a better, brighter tomorrow.

I was quite inspired when writing this chapter. I really wanted to focus on the psyches and perspectives of the women in this story. Did anyone miss Téa? I sure did. There was a lot of healing that needed to happen, and I think we accomplished it here. This is arguably the best I've written Desani. I reread my old chapters often for continuity's sake, and I find some of the stuff gag-worthy (hindsight being 20/20... pun intended lol). It's been 10 years though, so it'd be pretty terrible if there wasn't any growth to my story telling, you know?

Quick updates:

Mana's got a new surname! It doesn't really matter for the rest of this story, but I felt it important to note. For new readers, don't try to guess the old surname... it was pretty disappointing. I don't know what my thought process looked like when choosing her name all those years ago lol.

I raised this story's rating. As hinted at towards the end of this chapter, I'm interested in exploring more mature themes. I feel like I should indulge my readers juuust a bit before this story ends, so don't be surprised if it gets raised again.

Speaking of the end, 30 seems to be the magic number. Y'all ready?

As always, thanks for reading.