*raises hand* It's 50,000 words.

...minus all your sanity.

...Right. ^^; I couldn't remember the exact number of words...and for some reason, 10,000 stood out. That's what I get for not paying attention. XD

Oooh.../glances around shiftily/ Damn, if my mom heard of that I'd be eaten alive! xD

Neah, this is something I wrote a few days ago....a little one-shot that I might develop into something more later, if I can get a plot out of it. Enjoy...^^

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Running. Yuugi was always running. He never knew why, nor did he stop to see what he was running from. He just kept running.

The landscape was always dark, never changing, nor receding. It just was. Sometimes, he would trip over something that was non-existent, or a gust of wind would blow him over. All he could do was stand back up, and keep running.

His breathing became labored, as it always did, and a sharp pain grew in his side. He never had been very athletic and his physical attributes seemed to follow him here, to this place.

Youthful, purple eyes were wide in terror and laced with strain. During the day, out in the bright sunlight they would reflect stubborn hopefulness, and the joyfulness of being alive. No matter what the daily struggles of life demanded, he had always done what he could and often more than he should.

Keep running, his thoughts yelled at him. Whatever was chasing him was gaining, and he was tiring fast. It was times like these that he wished he had wings, wings to fly away from the unknown terror that pursued him. However, nothing seemed to come true in this frightening realm.

What would happen if he stopped? He wondered as the pain spread towards his lungs. Would the chase finally end? Would he be captured? Would he be free? No, he wouldn’t be free. He still didn’t know what would happen, but he knew for a fact that he wouldn’t be free if he stopped.

So, he continued to run. He ran as much as his heart could (would) take and even then he pushed the limit. Could he die here? Would he die here?

A string of air swirled around him, catching at his feet, his arms, his hair. It did nothing to actively push him to the ground, but it was obvious that it could if it so chose. A siren’s song tugged at his straining heart, compelling him to stop, to rest for just a little while. A little whisper along the wind: calling to him, speaking his name.

Who are you?! His heart yelled. He refused to stop running. He just couldn’t, he wouldn’t. It wasn’t safe here; he didn’t know where he was! What was going to happen to him if he stopped?

Safe. The wind whispered soothingly. You are my own; I will keep you safe in and out of this realm. You are my carrier, my vessel; my strength shall course through your veins and you shall my under my wing.

Hands that shouldn’t exist brushed along the back of his shoulders and along his arms. The words echoed in his head. Safe. Safe from what? Nothing had come to harm him. No one wanted his dead, right? He kept his head down when the nobles came to collect tax or buy a slave. He did not speak out when a new decree was sent out. He did not slander the gods in any way. Who did he need to be safe from?

Not yet, the wind whispered. The voice was beginning to take on a different quality. As if it had been speaking through a thick clothe and the cloth was slowly being pulled away. But soon, people will take notice of who you are, whose you are, and they will want you for their own.

Keep running. He just had to. He couldn’t be different, didn’t want to be different. Different people got hurt, got stolen, got sold. He just wanted to live normally, without ambition, and be happy with what was given him.

A laugh (dark and light, malicious and benevolent, sane and insane) flowed around him. The wind picked him up off of the ground, even as he continued to try and run, and held him suspend in the air. Confident hands trailed from around his shoulders to meet at his chest, binding his arms to his sides. He continued to run. He must!

A face, perfectly designed in every way, nestled in between his shoulder and his neck, lips pressing gently against his skin. Something foreign passed against his heart, and it thudded irregularly, adapting to the new course it was set upon. It filled him with a strange (exhilarating, strenuous, terrifying) feeling and inhuman energy crackled in his veins.

Someday, the voice (dark and mellow, filled with knowledge and promises of something not human) whispered in his ear. Someday you will not run from me. Eventually, you will understand what this means, and that you are meant for so much more than the simple life you now lead.

He was pulled up against a softly clad chest, gold adorned legs entwining with his to keep them still. A soft breath against his face breathed into him something that was not human. It filled every inch of him (burning and freezing, up and down, flying and swimming, pain and healing, Alive, and Dead).

I look forward to that day…Yuugi.

That is amazing Shamise! I love the contradiction in the sensations towards the end. Just beautiful!

Aww thankies^^. In this story, Yuugi is an avatar for the diety named 'Atem,' only problem: He doesnt want to be different. So he tries to run, however, bad things keep happening. I'm stillt rying to decide the reason for why Atem wants an avatar at the moment...maybe he's bored?

Hmm...you could have something bad happening that the gods need to help the humans stop...only problem is they cannot directly interact with anything on the mortal plain, except through their chosen avatar, which would lead to them needing the avatar in the first place. Or, Atem needs to interfere with the world below, but he cannot do anything directly because he's been banned by the other gods or forgotten due to time passing and the people that once worshipped him forgetting about him, so he needs Yugi until he grows strong enough to interact directly.

Just a few suggestions.

those are good ideas, but I still need a -reason- for him to have to interfere...like what kind of war?

Hm...you could always bring Zorc and Bakura in. Atem could be the only god who knows how to defeat them and the other gods don't trust him/don't listen. Or you could bring Dartz and Atlantis in, the war that tore Atlantis apart spreading to where Yugi is. Or simply history repeating itself bringing about the downfall of an empire that will cause other civilizations to fall and bring about mass bloodshed and chaos.

I had this idea forming in my mind for some time until I finally found a song that seems to fit the song. I plan on calling it Whiskey Angels' Lullaby and it happen to be puzzle/blindshipping how ever you want to look at it to be. Its sort of base on the song by Brad Paisley, Whiskey Lullaby. This is only the beginning of the fic.

Glaze amethyst eyes stare into the crimson orbs of the taller man as tears form in Yugi’s eyes. He gave a grimace like smile as the dueling field disappears from sight. The taller man move closer to the teen as a proud look on his strong features. He gently places his hand on the cherubic cheek of his hikari. The tan flesh of his hand made Atemu realize the subtle differences between him and his Hikari.

Both have tri-color hair form in shape of stars with some differences between the two. The older one’s blond locks form into lighting bolts while his crimson eyes remain sharp but kind on the teen. The other had blond bangs framing his face with his wide eyes made him look a bit younger then he really is.

Leaning against the warm flesh, Yugi couldn’t help but wish this isn’t the end. Tears pricks at his eyes before a few roll down his cheek. He didn’t care if the rest of the people in the Temple could see his tears. The lump in his throat tightens at the sight of the gates of the afterlife to take his Yami away from him.

“Yami, I…” Yugi speak softly, not caring about the tears falling down his cheeks.

Atemu smiles understandingly what his light is trying to say. Crimson orbs took in the cute pout forming on Yugi’s lips as desire strike through him to take the lips with his own. Out of the corner of his eyes, Atemu could see the others turn away from them to give some privacy. ‘Thank you,’ his voice penetrates through the peoples minds while their own tears fell. He tilts up his light’s head before brushes their lips together.

Yugi closes his eyes in bliss as shivers of delight zip down his back. Atemu nearly sigh at the angelic voice saying his name through the mind link. His abiou is an angel in a human body. He pulls away from the kissable lips while one of his arms wrap around the slim waist to hold him close.

One of his hand rub a couple of stray tears away, Atemu’s heart broke at the raw pain in the amethyst jewels. He love his light dearly but never told him though send his feelings though their link. He watches the hint of blush form in the cute cheeks.

“Yugi please don’t cry,” Atemu orders lovingly, as tears prick at his eyes. He gently licks the tears away feeling the shudders through Yugi’s body.

Yugi hiccups not wanting the warmth of his other half to leave his side. He knew he won the duel though a part of him wishes Atemu won instead of him. Atemu tighten his grip on the small hikari as the light of the afterlife brighten. He glances at the door knowing his time is almost up. He wants Yugi to know his feeling before he left. “I love you, Abiou.” Atemu whispers not wanting to let go of his light.

Sniffling Yugi’s throat constricted as his own confession slips out. “I love you too, Yami…I mean Atemu.” Atemu smiles sexily kissing the feather soft lips once more before he leaves. He replies huskily, “I’ll always be Yami to you Yugi. Good bye my sweet Abiou and I hope we meet again.

As Atemu walks into the light no one realize how broken Yugi will be come or the depression he’ll fall into. No one think of the extent of the depression or misery of the thoughts Yugi will have once Atemu left. Or did any one suspect what he’ll turn to for comfort in place of Atemu.

-She put him out like the burnin' end of a midnight cigarette She broke his heart he spent his whole life tryin' to forget We watched him drink his pain away a little at a time But he never could get drunk enough to get her off his mind Until the night-

very beautiful Arashi. When is this little fic coming out?

Shamise that is gorgeous!

Well, thank you tavi. I'm having trouble with the plot though...my bunnies always come half-baked.

Arashi, that sounds so amazing. I can't wait for that...and that's one of my favorite songs too. I'm eagerly awaiting to see how you handle this one.

By popular demand, more Yami and Yugi torture from my NaNo. A few things Fuwa is a character from season 0 who I am borrowing and Mayati is the mother that I made up for Yami. Enjoy the torment. ;)

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Yugi frowned as he began to walk along the outer edges of the temple, skirting the deeper shadows that were thrown by the columns that lines the sides. Yami had said that he had sensed something in here. But then, why couldn’t they see it. He stopped in the middle of the temple, shrugging at Yami before he began to walk back towards the front. Something in his darkness’ eyes made him break into a jog, nearly sprinting when something caught him around the waist, pulling him back abruptly.

He gasped as the arm tightened around him for a moment before letting go, the person who had caught him spinning Yugi around so the teen got a glimpse of red hair before he was punched in the gut. Yugi coughed and stumbled backwards, one hand grabbing onto the puzzle as it swung from its place around his neck. He heard Yami’s bellow of outrage before he received a kick in the side, his balance suddenly off.

He hit the floor on his side, flinching and trying to roll onto his stomach to get up when a foot came down and pressed him back to the floor. Yugi groaned, turning his head to look at his attacker and freeing when he saw who it was. “Fuwa!”

“Hello, little Yugi. Surprised?” Yugi was hauled up from the ground, an arm wrapping around his neck to keep the smaller teen from escaping. Yugi flailed to get free, Fuwa holding him away from his body and squeezing his arm tighter around Yugi’s neck until the smaller teen ran out of air. Slumping in the hold, Yugi felt himself being pulled back until he was held against Fuwa, blinking the dots of out his vision.

Halfway to them, Yami had halted, shadows visibly rising around him. “I remember you.” The words came out as a low growl, a smirk crossing his face. “Your luck deserted you after you lost. Are you really stupid enough to try again?”

“Yes,” Yugi shivered as he felt one of Fuwa’s hand slide down his body, an increase of the shadows that surrounded Yami a reaction to the motion, “but I want to even the field a little. You see, I did my research this time.”

Yugi tried to squirm away, attempting to wrap one leg around Fuwa’s so he could throw the older boy off him, but failing as the arm around his neck tightened again, leaving him coughing. He tensed as he felt Fuwa touched the puzzle, running his fingers over the gold and shoving one of the corners into Yugi’s stomach. Fuwa laughed. “You see, Yugi was never like this until this little trinket came into his possession. He didn’t even enter any of the larger tournaments until it did. So, if I get rid of this…”

The shadows flickered around Yami as Fuwa quickly yanked the puzzle from around Yugi’s neck. The two of them cried out at the red head dangled the puzzle out by its chain, making the golden item turn in the light. He chuckled and looked at Yugi. “It’s a beautiful little trinket…if a bit tacky. I’m sure it would be worth a lot if it was sold.”

“Give it back to me!” Yugi tried to reach for the puzzle, a short sound of annoyance escaping him as Fuwa continued to hold it out of his reach. Yami tensed himself, the shadows growing again as he began to walk slowly across the floor.

Fuwa laughed at his efforts, drawing back a bit to look at Yami. “I propose a game, since that’s what you are good at, little Yugi. But there has to be a good reason for playing, or else it just isn’t fun anymore. Don’t you think so?”

Yugi shook his head, trying to duck out of the hold. Fuwa frowned at him before tightening his arm again, leaving Yugi wheezing. He stopped struggling for a moment, trying to catch his breath before he tried for the puzzle again, clearly hearing Yami as the former pharaoh crossed the distance between them. He heard Fuwa clear his throat, the sound drawing his attention back to the person who still held his puzzle. “And this place has magic, little Yugi, which means my games can be anything I want. Such fun this will be.”

“Fuwa…please…” Yugi coughed as the hold on his throat increased. He stretched out his arm to try and reach the puzzle, his fingers brushing over the warm gold, pausing when he heard Fuwa give a short chuckle.

“No such luck, Little Yugi. Now, how would your other self phrase this?” Yugi turned to look at Yami, the former pharaoh almost close enough to touch now. He felt the puzzle move away from his fingertips, turning his head so he could see the puzzle out of the corner of his eye, mouth falling open as Fuwa raised it above his head, gathering up the chain until he was holding the puzzle in his hand. “Oh yes. It’s game time.”

Fuwa threw the puzzle across the room, releasing Yugi at the same time. The smaller teenager gave a cry of distress and reached out for Yami, hearing the soft tinkle from the other side of the room as the puzzle shattered to pieces against one of the pillars. He saw Yami’s step falter, the former pharaoh’s eyes going blank before he suddenly disappeared, the desperate lunge that Yugi made at the last second just carrying him through empty air. He grunted as he hit the ground, rolling before he scrambled to his feet, eyes going immediately to the shattered puzzle on the other side of the temple.

“No!” He was working his way to his feet when he heard someone scream, turning his head to see Mayati being held back by her husband, both of them looking equally distressed by Yami’s disappearance. Yugi hissed at the pain from the bruises he had acquired, standing on his feet slowly and glaring at Fuwa. He hardly noticed that he suddenly felt more off balance and weaker than he had been a day ago. All he could feel was the pressing silence in his head that threatened to drive him insane. At least while Yami was visible, he had been able to assure himself that the former pharaoh hadn’t left him.

He took a deep breath and turned his gaze to Fuwa. “What are the rules?”

The former star’s eyes lit up, Fuwa taking a casual step backwards as he seemed to consider Yugi. He snapped his fingers before rocking forward, bending over in a show of talking on Yugi’s level, something that made him grit his teeth. His usual benevolent personality was quickly being stripped away as he tried to control the hopelessness that was spreading through him and the pain, both brought about by the emptiness in his head.

“Simply assemble the puzzle and you will get your precious other self back.” Fuwa took a few more steps back, pausing when Yugi began edging towards the puzzle. “But, for every four minutes that you don’t complete the puzzle, one year of his life with you will be erased. What will happen when you run out of time that he’s spent with you, little Yugi? What will he do to you?”

Yugi ignored the taunt, more angered at the fact that Fuwa had messed with Yami’s memories. Even the few that the former pharaoh had gained in the modern age were precious to him, something to fill the large gap where there was nothing. He took a step forward, standing up as straight as his protesting body would allow. “Can you give him those memories back?”

“If you beat the game…yes.” Fuwa looked at his arm, staring at the watch that was on his wrists. “You have sixteen minutes starting…now.”

Yugi darted forward at the signal, racing for where the golden puzzle pieces glittered in the dim light. A smile crossed his face as he hit the halfway point between him and the puzzle. He had put it back together once in more stressful situations, so he was sure he could do it this time. Yugi took another step, hearing something click. He glanced over at Fuwa, staring in confusion at the depressed stone under his foot. Then he wasn’t standing on anything anymore as the floor fell out from underneath him.

He gave a yelp as he fell, twisting in the air to try and grab onto something. His hand scrapped over stone before he finally fell to the bottom, giving a scream of pain that was cut off as he slammed his back into a wall. His vision jumped to the right, leaving him unable to move as the world righted itself around him. Yugi moaned and reached up to hold onto the wall as he hauled himself to his feet.

“No!” Yugi looked up as he saw his grandfather rush to the edge of the drop off, still too dazed to really say anything. He glanced over at Fuwa, noticing that the boy had his arms crossed over his chest. “This is a challenge for Yugi only. Let’s see if he can do something without his precious other self.”

Yugi scowled and rubbed the back of his neck, turning to glare at the walls that surrounded him. He had been dumped right into the center of a maze. There had to be a way out of here and back up to the temple. He was sure that there was one, but he wasn’t sure about making it there in the little time he had left before Yami lost all recollection of him. Yugi took a deep breath and took off at a limping run, his stride evening out as he got used to the pain in his back.

O.O Oh wow, taht's intense! I love it!

Thanks.

Eek! Poor Yugi! Loved it Spirit! =D

*pats Yugi on the head*

Thank you very much.

Oh no! D: Yami's memories! He's losing them, again! That's intense man. I really want to see this! **anxious**

Wow! This is awesome, I love it! Can't wait to read more! =D

Okay, so this is what I have typed up so far of a new one-shot (possibly a two-shot) that's been mulling around my head for about It is centered around that Fae idea that I talked about in the chat of randomness. Tell me what you think so far, plz? Enjoy.

The Summer King

Yuugi Mouto, age twenty-one, sighed heavily as he sat down on a park bench. He raised a shaky hand to rest on his forehead, supporting his elbow on his knee. He tiredly let the park’s neutrality ease his exhausted mind.

It was the third time (the third!) that his job application and resume had been turned down. He had been trying for weeks to get another job after his previous one (a computer technician at [insert workplace here]) had to lay people off. His two-week notice had come and gone a few days ago and he knew that was a living on borrowed time.

Stupid Economy, Yuugi thought pensively, swatting at a ladybug when it got too close. The little insect faltered for a few feet before it regained stability and flew off in the opposite direction. Yuugi let his tired eyes wonder around the park, absently tracing the path the ladybug took. It was almost completely empty but Yuugi could hear children playing at a playground just beyond the border of the trees.

Man, I’ve got to get a job. He didn’t know just how long he could last on the budget he was using now. He had already cut back on the air conditioning and electricity use. It was way too hot in his apartment during the day now, which was most of the reason he was in the park right now. His stomach ached a little from the ‘economic diet’ he was putting it through. Lunch was just a simple sandwich and he hadn’t had breakfast for the past few days.

However, despite the problems he was going through, it was a nice summer day. It had been raining for the past few days, so the sight of the sun and bright blue sky was welcome to his tired eyes. Yuugi never had been one to dwell on the bad things in life. Perhaps he could mow some lawns for a while. He had enough gas to mow enough lawns to afford more once he ran out.

Suddenly, a strange sound itched in his ear, like a gnat that was wearing bells. A warm breeze accompanied the sound; maybe it was a wind chime? He straightened in his seat and looked for the source of this sounds. I was just so pretty and, regardless of how much this made him sound like a girl, he wanted to see what was causing it. He looked left, then right, but there was no one or nothing in sight.

Hmm, Yuugi hummed as he closed his eyes again. I could have sworn I heard something. He relaxed into the wooden bench as best he could. The stress must have been getting to him. Gnats wearing bells? Ludicrous.

“Beautiful day, is it not?”

The suddenness of the voice caused Yuugi to jump in surprise. He flailed a bit as his balance was offset when he whipped his head around to view the speaker. Yuugi’s first impression, was that no one was there, just a shaft of sunlight glittering against the backdrop of the trees, but the instant he blinked, a tan-skinned stranger stood next to him. Yuugi’s eyebrows furrowed in confusion; there hadn’t been anyone even remotely near him a few seconds ago, and he would have heard something if someone had ran up to him. He wasn’t deaf.

“Is something wrong?” Yuugi jumped (again!) at the stranger’s voice. The rich, just barely missing baritone, voice was such a higher quality than he was used to hearing. The subtle mischievousness and the warm tone weren’t often present when people need help with their computers. That, and computers don’t talk back to you either.

“A-ha, sorry.” Yuugi apologized when he realized what his expression must have looked like. “I hadn’t thought that anyone else was nearby.”

Ooo I like this, makes me wanna read more! *is curious about the bell ciming* ^^

Thankies! I'm positive I'm gonna have trouble with this one though, simply because there's no initial kidnapping in the first few paragraphs. -laughs nervously- Conversations are a little out of my element, so is revealing too much about the ending in the beginning by switching p.o.v's.

Here's a clip from a story I've been planning on writing for a while, but have never gotten around to actually doing. It's called Out of Bounds

“Yeah, I have to admit it’s a bit strange to stick my hands in Ushio’s crotch on a daily basis,” Atemu grumbled around the lip of his cup. He was the designated driver this time around. He eyed his two teammates that seemed as though they were ready to drown themselves in a keg of alcohol. He grimaced but said nothing. They had practice tomorrow, but Atemu knew it wouldn’t affect their performance. Those two were so damn good it didn’t matter if they walked onto the field sober or puking into their Powerade bottles. There would just be bitching. Lots of it.

Atemu gave a sympathetic wince.

Bakura smirked into his mug of beer while Mariku roared with laughter and spewed the contents of his alcoholic drink across the table. Atemu cringed. What a perfectly good waste. . . Bakura seemed to be having a similar thought and the corner back slapped the side of Mariku’s face with his own half empty glass. The beer sloshed around angrily for a second before settling down into the mug. “Oy! Don’t spray it! We don’t waste shit!”

Mariku choked back his guffaws before blinking drunkenly at Atemu. “You’re not shacking up with our teams Center in your spare time are you?” A lopsided smirk.

“Ra, I knew you had bad taste in men but that’s disgusting!” Bakura leered at Atemu over the table. Atemu shuddered and shot the Cornerback and Tight End twin looks of horror.

“You cannot possibly imagine how much I hate you right now.” Yami snarled. The very thought seemed to make the Quarterback pale. “He’s not the teammate I’d wish to bend over a bench.” He muttered into his water. Atemu shot a hesitant look at his friends and hoped they hadn’t heard his response in their drunken haze. No such luck.

Two pairs of narrowed eyes were pinned on the sober Quarterback. They were obviously not so far gone they couldn’t make out the Pharaoh’s discomfort on the subject. Bakura decided to take advantage of the situation and propelled himself across the table at Atemu.

“It better not be Ryou.” The Corner back snarled threateningly.

Mariku joined his fellow drunk in a second and glared at Atemu. “Or that free agent with the tight ass!”

Atemu raised a surprised eyebrow at his fellow teammates. A slow smirk drew itself across his face upon realizing his observations from before had been quite accurate. He chuckled darkly and leaned away from his friends. “Ryou and Malik are all yours” Atemu smirked. “But Yugi is the one I’m after.”

Looking slightly happier, the two players returned to their seats and once again attacked their drinks. Once they knew they wouldn’t have to murder their starting Quarterback, they were once again happy with the world.

“The pipsqueak?” Bakura drawled, “Well good luck with that. He’s been a Crowns fan since he could walk.”

Atemu raised an eyebrow. It was hard to believe the sensible Quarterback was about to take advice from his drunken teammates without being completely wasted. Perhaps he should get a shot of everlast to save face. . . He shook his head and just raised an eyebrow at Bakura, thinking to humor the Cornerback a bit at the very least. “Oh?”

“Yeah, he was one of the people who opposed so openly against you being traded to the Crowns in the first place.” Bakura slurred. He tried to look seriously at the Quarterback, but he could only manage a sort of cross-eyed grimace. Atemu ignored the fist that clenched around his heart at this news. Of course Yugi wouldn’t like him. Atemu had been the up and coming QB on Yugi’s most hated team. The very thought of receiving a pass off the Quarterback probably seemed more revolting to the diminutive Running back than the action of sticking his hands in Ushio’s crotch was for Atemu.

Gag.

That was pretty bad.

“Ah, well I’ll deal with it when it comes around.” Atemu murmured in his cup and ignored his two teammates. The idea that Yugi hated him put a bit of a damper on his spirit and he cast his eyes around the room for a distraction.

The Quarterback slid his ruby gaze over towards the door where a group of large men were gathered. Speaking of gag-worthy men . . . What was Ushio doing over there? Atemu silently turned back to his loud, drunken friends and slapped his palm on the sticky table. “I’ll be right back.” He growled.

Ah, Shamise, your snippet is awesome! ^^ So can't wait to read more!

ZB, your snippet is amazing! *squeals* I so want to read more! Hee hee, Yami as a football player just sounds so cool! =D

*giggles* That is awesome ZB! Can't wait to read more! =D

Alright, my turn to share a little NaNo. ^^ Yami and Yuugi meets eye to eye for the first time. Enjoy. *hides in bombshelter*

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A tingling prickling feeling at the back of his neck was all the warning Yuugi got. He instinctively dropped to the ground, dragging Haga with him as he shouted to the rest; “Get down!” He heard the whistling of a bullet, only centimeters above him, where his head had been not a second ago. And then all hell broke loose. Yami felt the recoil in his hand but did not as much as flinch. He watched his target, waiting for the power to flow through him as his last obstacle dropped to the ground. It did not come and it was then that he realized what he had just heard, ‘get down’ .

He watched in amazement as his target hurriedly scurried towards the van closest to him, dragging the felon with him, apparently seeking it’s shelter. Without a second thought he fired his gun again, rapidly firing at the small man below him. He hit the green haired man and saw him slump to the ground just as his prey ducked behind the now open front door of the van.

How the hell did that happen? He thought as he rolled out of the way of the swarm of bullets that was now coming his way. Damn, that was a little close. It seemed like every cop on the ground had located the source of the shots fired and he scurried further along the ventilation-tunnel, barely avoiding the bullets. The echo of the gunfire were loud in the confinement of the garage and it was all he could do to not get hit.

He should be dead, what the hell went wrong? How the hell did he manage to duck? The rapid gunfire died down as there was no longer any counter fire. Yami moved quickly and soundless along the tunnel, stopping just as it made a turn and tilted slightly upwards. There was another hatch here and he slowly lifted his head to have a look.

He could see three cops and the felon lying on the ground, it seemed he had managed to hit something. The rest of the cops were all crouching behind the vans, peering cautiously around their shelter. He could not see the other anywhere and just as he was about to question this fact, the roar of an engine could be heard and the tunnel started vibrating.

The sound of breaking metal filled the air and the next thing Yami knew, he was sliding down the now open tunnel, landing on his back on a hard vibrating surface. Quickly rolling around, he got to his hands and feet and raised the gun still clutched in his hand. What he saw made him stop dead in is tracks, he was staring into the very eyes of the man he had just tried to locate.

This was by no means the first time he had been face to face with his prey, and never before had he hesitated, however none of the many others had had even the slightest resemblance to this eyes. They were of a perfect amethyst colour, and held such emotions. He could see the shock, confusion, fear even, no doubt caused by being face to face with a living reflection, quickly replaced with determination and strong will. But no matter how intriguing those amethyst pools were, he must die. Yami shot back into action, fully rising his gun and firing it through the wind shield.

Eep! Oh my gosh, that's intense Reena! Awesome snippet! So can't wait to read it! =D

Shamise: This is sounding more and more interesting. *stares at post in hope that more appears*

ZB: While I am not a football fan, this intrigues me very much. I've never seen anyone do anything remotely like this.

Reena: That was an awesome snippet...although *whacks Yami over the head* :D

Shamise: I already think yours has kicked the teeth in to that other story! I think you've done great for the beginning considering what you have!

Rowe: I liked yours a lot too! Wow, Yami's a bit on the blood thirsty side, isn't he? There can only be One! Quick, someone get this Highlander a sword!

:D Thanks for the comments guys. I love football so I've been dying for a chance to write about it. It only gets worse during football season (which we're in now)

Tavi's Impossible Standards kind of sparked the possibility though ^^;;;

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Binding Circles

Chapter 9 Preview

Someone was screaming. The long-winded wail piercing the sound barrier with heart wrenching emotions. Pain. Loss. Fear. Yuugi’s chest ached at the sound, stealing his breath away and stabbing needles through his heart. His body felt super-electrified and every muscle hurt.

“Yuugi! Yuugi, please calm down!” Atem yelled above the screaming. It faltered for a second before resuming its high-pitched ken. Make it stop! Yuugi pleaded. His lungs hurt so much that they felt like they were going to explode! He was so confused! What was going on!

Abruptly, there was a mouth covering his. The screaming was suddenly muffled and air was being pushed into his lings. His mind scrambled for some kind of footing and (for some weird reason) focused on the kiss. The pressure was soft and insistent, inviting Yuugi to relax and succumb.

In light of the turbulent and violent images lurking in his head, he gladly gave in to the pleasant feelings. His muscles instantly lost their control and he fell limp. Familiar arms prevented him from falling away and they held him up close to another’s body.

His mind grew foggy as the contact continued. He felt like was a floating, to be honest; which was weird because kissing had never caused this sort of feeling before.

A pitiful whimper escaped his throat when the kiss was broken. He was hugged tightly to Atem’s chest, one arm snuggly wrapped around his waist and the other supporting his neck. His lungs shuddered and the screaming finally faded away from his head. His muscles felt like he had just ran too many miles with no breaks uphill; they were twitchy and refused to obey his commands.

“It’s alright now, Yuugi. You’re safe now.” Atem whispered into his ear. His body trembled as his mind fought to catch up.

“W-wh-?” What had happened? He remembered seeing Atem’s city, and then there was soo much violence. He shivered in Atem’s arms as those images resurfaced in his mind. There was so much fear, so much anger.

“Shh,” Atem whispered soothingly. “It’s alright now.” Water pushed gently against his skin and the slight pressure against his lungs told him he was under water. It was strangely comforting to be here instead of on land and Yuugi wondered if the bond was beginning to affect his mentality.

“In all my years, I never would have guessed that I would bond to a Seer.” Atem murmured absently, gently trailing his fingers through Yuugi’s hair. Yuugi sighed, letting his body relax into Atem. Under Atem's gently administrations the terror of his vision lessened. “Tell me, what did you see?”

“It was horrible,” Yuugi murmured detachedly as his bracelet began to glimmer. “Everybody was fighting and there was blood everywhere.” His hands held tightly onto Atem’s arm. “I-…there were people who I knew, but had never even seen before dying. Something had me, and was dragging me away.” Yuugi’s voice chocked under the attack of his resurfacing emotions. “You were there too! You were fighting and trying to get to me…”

Atem held Yuugi close as he voice trailed off. His eyebrows angled downwards as he thought about what Yuugi had said. A battle? He and Yuugi would be separated?

Here be a snippet from Only Mine. ^^ Any suggestions would be much appreciated. =D

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"Pharaoh... About the spell..." Siamun piped up, and instantly Atemu's hopes were squashed simply by the tone of the old man's voice.

"Yes?" Atemu's voice trembled.

"We have studied this spell from every angle, and it is impossible to break with any of our spells." Siamun's eyes shone with regret. Atemu closed his eyes and leaned back against the throne. Mana stroked his knee gently, not caring who saw her do so. She knew how crushed Atemu must be feeling right now.

"Then what do we do?" Atemu asked, keeping his eyes closed.

"My Pharaoh, we have thought of the possibility that Anzu used magic to escape, the same as she did to curse you." Shada began. "And we fear she can use this magic to reclaim your box." Fear crept through Atemu's body. That's exactly what he was afraid of.

"And?" Atemu nearly snapped, but he kept his anger in check.

"And we have come up with a way to keep you safe while we figure out what to do. Anzu can not steal your box if you are not here." Siamun answered. Atemu blinked. If he was not here? What in Ra's name did that mean? Siamun stepped forward and outstretched his hand. "Mana, I need you to give me that box." Atemu's gaze snapped down to Mana. The girl moved her hand from Atemu's knee and used both hands to clutch his box tightly.

"W-What are you going to do with it?" Mana asked. Atemu jumped up from the chair and hopped down in front of Mana.

"Tell me your plan!" Atemu snarled. "You can't just switch the box's owner without telling me what you're doing!" Siamun's plum colored eyes bored into Atemu's blood red. He kept his hand outstretched and heaved a sigh.

"Pharaoh, please trust me. What we are going to do is for your safety and own good. We would not be doing it if it was going to harm you." Siamun tried to assure the young monarch. Atemu crossed his arms over his chest and glared at them.

"And yet you avoid my command. You refuse to tell me what it is you are doing." Atemu's tone was cold.

"Pharaoh, if we told you, you would protest." Isis told him. She pleaded with her blue eyes for him to trust them. "We do this for you Sire, not against you." Siamun walked past Atemu and laid his outstretched hand on Mana's shoulder.

"Mana, please. Give me the box. Do you honestly think we mean the Pharaoh harm?" Siamun asked her. Mana's eyes shone with confusion. Atemu had turned and was staring at her, begging her with his eyes not to hand over the box, and the poor girl was torn. She knew Siamun would not hurt Atemu, but it felt like a betrayal to hand over the box. She bowed her head for a moment.

"Mana?" Mana nearly broke down at the clear fear she heard in Atemu's voice. She raised her head, and Atemu saw the tears that shimmered in her eyes.

"I'm sorry Pharaoh. They only want to help. Here Master Siamun." Mana held out the box to the elder man. "Take the box." Atemu let out a gasp of dismay as Siamun took the box. The spell surged through Atemu, and it instantly registered that Siamun was his new master. Atemu was brought to his knees, and the same words he had spoken to Mana last night exited his mouth once more.

"Rise to your feet Pharaoh. I apologize for this." Siamun spoke gently. Atemu did as he was asked, and he looked down at Siamun with tears in his ruby depths. He could care less at the moment that he was king of Egypt, and that he was supposed to be strong. He didn't feel strong at the moment. He felt like the eighteen year old he was, and he wanted nothing more then to run and hide somewhere and pretend the last couple of days had never happened. Siamun reached up and laid a hand on his shoulder. He knew how Atemu was feeling, and it made him feel even worse about what he was going to do now.

"Pharaoh, please enter your box." Siamun commanded as he cast his eyes to the floor. He watched as what he could see of his ruler turned transparent and blew into the golden box in his hands. "I hope you can forgive me one day, Pharaoh." Siamun murmured. He walked out of the throne room, and the rest of the priests followed him, forming a solemn procession as they exited.

-Squeals- This looks EPIC!

Shamise, your snippet be amazing! =D Intense!

Thanks Shamise! ^^

Toya: I'm glad you liked it! *nods* Intense is the word. ^^

Spirit: Thanks! And you're right, he needs a whacking right about now. XD

ZB: Thanks! *giggles* You have no idea how many times that highlander reference have been going through my head. ^^

Shamise: Wow, your snippet is awesome! *squeals* I'm gonna love reading that story! =D

Toya: Oh my! This is great! And I just got my theory a little strenghtened... So can't wait to see if it'll turn out to be right. (AKA Can't wait to read your story!) ^^

ZB, your preview is wicked! I'm on the edge of my seat waiting!!

Shamise: So epic but *runs around in circles* Ah, I really want to read more now.

Toya: Yes! Epic as well. *huggles poor Atemu* You're really putting him through the works there, huh?

Reena: Thanks! *giggles*

Spirit: Thank you! =D Haha, I am aren't I? XD You have to go through some crappy stuff before you get to the happy ending. =D

Here is a snippet from Only Mine when Yugi and Atemu meet. I'm having trouble as these two don't want to cooperate with me at the moment, so any suggestion would be much appreciated. Thanks! =D

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As Yugi passed through the living room again, his eyes fell on the golden box sitting on his coffee table. Curious, Yugi sat down on the couch and picked the box up. It was really lovely. He tapped it a couple of times. It sure looked and felt like solid gold. Yugi studied the carvings on the side, tracing a pale finger over the glyphs. He thought about using it as a decoraton, after all, what else could he do with it? Yugi gripped the lid; maybe there was something inside? Had his grandpa even looked inside it at all? Perhaps he could also keep something inside of it. Yugi took the lid off.

Instantly smoke began billowing out of the box. Yugi let out a gasp of fright and dropped the box to the floor, curling up on the couch as he stared wide eyed at the smoke. He whimpered as he clearly saw a figure forming through the smoke. Oh Gods! Yugi thought. What the hell is this!? The smoke began to clear, and Yugi's heart beat frantically in his chest. Finally the strange figure was revealed to him, and Yugi's jaw hit the floor. He instinctively pressed himself into the couch, amazed and at the same time wondering who this person was and how the hell he appeared in his house.

The figure blinked, his stunning crimson eyes glancing around his surroundings before coming to rest on the trembling youth before him. He knelt to one knee, his expression less then pleasant, and spoke. "What can I do for you, Master?" Yugi's eyes widened further and he began gasping for air. Master!? Yugi scanned the person before him, noting he looked like royalty. He was wearing a white shenti and his shirt was the same color. Gold bangles adorned his arms, wrists, and legs, and the man stood, raising his head. A purple cape fell behind him to his knees and wrapped around his slender neck. The man was petite in size, but he had a slight build to his frame. His skin was bronzed, and his mouth, his delicious looking mouth, was set in a hard line. His blood red eyes narrowed at Yugi, and the smaller gulped. Gods the man was gorgeous, but he radiated anger.

"W-Who are you?" Yugi choked out. The man arched a black eyebrow.

"I'm your pleasure slave, Master." The word master dripped venom and sarcasm. Yugi's jaw dropped again. Pleasure slave!? Just what had his grandfather given to him!? Yugi rethought that. His grandpa had found the box in the ruins. He probably had no idea what was inside it. Yugi jumped as the man walked forward, leaning down over him. His breath wafted over Yugi's face, and the young man's face began to heat up as he frantically tried to meld with the couch. The scent of the desert and wild spices accompained this person.

"I'll ask you again: what do you wish of me, Master?" The baritone voice held little patience despite the sultry tone he added. Yugi gulped and forced himself to look the man in the eyes.

"I don't wish anything of you!" Yugi replied. "I don't even know who the hell you are or how you got into my living room!" The man pulled back, surprise causing his ruby orbs to widen.

"Did I not just explain my presence?" Tanned arms crossed over his broad chest. He clearly wasn't happy about being here, but Yugi wasn't happy about him being there either. The smaller male took a deep breath and squared himself for this.

"Yes, you mentioned something about a... a pleasure slave, but that doesn't tell me who you are or how you even got here." Yugi stood, crossing his arms over his chest, his own eyes narrowing.

*bursts into laughter* It's really good, but this one line just killed me.

Pleasure slave!? Just what had his grandfather given to him!?

A subtle hint by Yugi's grandfather that he thinks Yugi should get laid. *rolls around on floor for a bit more before sobering up*

Okay, sorry about that, but I found that really funny. Other than that, I like what's going on so far; the way Yugi is confused but not willing to back down and Atemu is ready to rip someone's head off. Bravo, Toya, bravo.

That was great stuff Toya! :D I loved it a lot! You've done a spectacular job.

I lol'd at the same part Spira. It made me laugh for real. I think I woke up the dog.

Thanks ZB! ^^ I'm glad you think so. X3 *laughs* Hee hee, yay for humor!

Oh I love it! *giggles* And I have to agree with the above, that is very funny. ^^ Haha, I can't help but wonder what his grandpa would say if confronted with that question. ^^

I think you do a very good job with their feelings and reactions, and I especially like that Yuugi really stands up to Atemu even though he is pretty freaked out. I would imagine that Atemu is a bit surprised to be asked about who he is and where he came from/how he got there. It doesn't seem like many others have asked, atleast that's the impression I get.

Lovely snippet, I am so going enjoy this one once you have it out. =D

Thanks Reena! I'm glad you liked it! =D

Yugi doesn't seem to want to cooperate with me on this part. -_- Any helpful suggestions would be much appreciated.

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"Yes, you mentioned something about a... a pleasure slave, but that doesn't tell me who you are or how you even got here." Yugi stood, crossing his arms over his chest, his own eyes narrowing. He didn't want to believe this was really happening to him, but he'd be damned if he was going to be pushed around whether this was an illusion or not.

Atemu was taken aback by this person's sudden boldness as he snapped back at him. What did this person care who he was or how he got here? He was clearly here just to serve him. At that thought, Atemu's rage boiled more. Siamun had sworn he was doing something to help him, something that would not cause him any harm. When then what the hell was this? This dwelling was unlike any Atemu had ever seen before, and the pharaoh had no idea where he now was. Siamun had sent him to Ra knows where, and he was now the servant of this fragile looking boy. How was any of this supposed to help him!? Atemu ground his teeth together, his eyes boring into this boy's.

The boy was undoubtedly cute, with skin as pale as moonlight, and huge violet eyes framed with dark lashes. The boy's hairstyle resembled his own, only with much less blond in his hair. His outfit consisted of strange clothes that Atemu had never seen before. He briefly wondered what kind of place he was now in. The look on this boy's face was more humorous then frightening, even though the boy was clearly trying to be intimidating. As Pharaoh, Atemu had made men stronger then himself quake in fear under the power of his glare. This was nothing.

"Yes, that is what I am cursed to be." Atemu replied through clenched teeth. "As for how I got here, I am as stumped about that as you are, I can assure you." The boy's eyes widened, and he cast a brief glanced to the box on the floor before meeting his gaze once more.

"Where were you before? Where do you come from? From the looks of your garments, I would guess Egypt." Yugi was caught inbetween curiousity and his unwillingness to believe all of this was actually real, and the questions came out before he could stop them. Atemu's jaw dropped, and he quickly caught himself.

"Egypt? I am from Kehmet." Atemu replied. Egypt? What was that place?

"Oh... Uh... Kehmet later became Egypt." Yugi was stumped. He had a strange man in his living room dressed as a Pharaoh who claimed to be his pleasure slave and he was clearly from a time before "Egypt" existed. Yugi's head began to hurt from sorting all this out. He wanted to run to his room and lock himself inside and pretend he was standing here discussing history with this man. "How old are you?" Yugi found himself asking.

"Nineteen. Why do you care?" Came the irritated response. Yugi placed a hand on his head as it began to throb. He was fed up with this person's attitude, and he wasn't exactly sure how to handle all of this.

"This is not happening. This is all just some freaky dream. Why am I even asking you all these things? For all I know, you're just some illusion that my mind has made up on a whim or due to something I might have accidently ingested, although what I could have eaten to garner this I have no idea." Yugi stepped around the other male and began to walk back to his room. He seriously needed to lie down.

"Where are you going?" The man asked, his tone rich with disbelief.

"I'm going to bed. I'm going to convince myself that this is all an illusion and sleep it off. Goodnight good sir. Hope you're gone when I wake up." With that, Yugi turned and went back to his room. Atemu was left standing there, a stunned look on his face. Had... Had he just been brushed off? Atemu huffed and sat down on the strange looking thing the boy had been on moments ago, crossing his arms over his chest. He began to contimplate his situation a little more. Where exactly was he? Atemu took another glance around the room. There were so many objects here that he didn't recognize. Just what in the world were they? Atemu felt like he had been dropped off on some alien plane of existence.

Aw *huggles Atemu*

Anyway, I thought that Yugi seemed right. His logic seemed to run along the right course and his action seemed to be the correct one after that path of logic. Hope that helps.

Thank you Spirit! ^^ I'm glad he seemed right to you.

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