Transcending Memories: A Bond Unsealed- Chapter 3

A Yu-Gi-Oh Fan-fiction

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Author’s Note (April 2010): Ah, what fun I had revising this chapter! I suppose that I can say that Chapter 3 is where the story truly begins, and because of that, it was reworked considerably in comparison to the original. Firstly, I attempted to add some insight, and a bit of foreshadowing, to both Yami and Teana’s characters. And aside from detail and description, I found several grammatical errors in the previous version which I hope have been corrected in this one. Furthermore, given that this chapter was generally lighter, as opposed to the story’s overall darker tone, I simply decided to follow through with the prior events; while trying to amplify them in any way possible. Though what happened in the older version remains intact, I like to believe that there is a bit more life to this one, or perhaps a certain kind of energy that was not felt when reading it then.  But anyhow, I hope that you enjoy it!

Author’s Note (May 2003): In order to write the following scenes, I will admit that I have done research on Ancient Egypt and the way of life during this time. I truly hope that what I’ve written is correct but even if it isn’t, I ask that you please try to enjoy the story for what it is. I only wanted to make it more believable, that what I was writing was not completely inaccurate; though I still plan to stick with my original ideas regardless.

Another point that I wanted to address is the Teana and Yami relationship that I have been describing as a whole. Though I plan to explain the history of that relationship in future chapters, beginning with this one actually, a friend of mine had asked me why Yami was unaware of Teana and who she was when it seemed obvious that she knew him. In other words, she wanted to know why they hadn’t met and interacted sooner, considering that I am attempting to tie the real events of the Ancient Egypt aka the Millennium World arc into my own.

To explain this, one must consider that Yami has hardly any recollection of his past, including her. I also recall that in the real manga, it had only been a few days since Yami first arrived in his “World of Memory.” From day one things began to occur at a very fast pace.  And given that Bakura was viewed as a potential threat, it is unlikely that Yami ever left the palace during that time; until he left to pursue Bakura on horseback, that is. So in short, Yami and Teana, if she *had* been a real character within the anime and manga, would never have had a chance to meet, or rather meet again, under those circumstances. I hope that this is at least a satisfactory explanation for the time being; and that you’re enjoying the story so far! Thank you!

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Chapter 3


    Yami felt as if the contents of his mind were shattering; breaking apart like porcelain tumbling to the ground! Squinting, he made a strenuous effort to swallow; attempting to endure, for just a little while longer! But it was no easy task! These aches, these pains! It was nothing short of excruciating! And yet, it paled in comparison to what was self-inflicted, as he concentrated; pushing himself to his very limits! If he had the strength, he would have lifted a hand to contain the sensation; the horrible throbbing in his head! Yet despite this, he knew he was close; so very close to the truth! There had been a vision of the girl’s face, this Teana, as she called herself, who was without a doubt, the previous incarnation of the future Tea.

     Though confusion and a multitude of questions were ever present, Yami continued to struggle, ignoring his anguish, the strain of each breath; the seconds in which he clung to life! His only goal was to persist onward, hoping to breach the impenetrable wall at last; the one keeping him from his past and his true self!

    Rousing him again, Teana squeezed his hand, silently urging him to reciprocate; her eyes begging him to hold on! Suddenly, Yami was compelled to do just that; taking her hand with desperation and a strange sense of familiarity...  And finally, it happened...  Comparable to the eruption of an overflowing dam, Yami was flooded with a wave of vivid memories, and powerful emotions! He could see it all so clearly; significant moments, flashing before his eyes...

     With a playful bounce in his step, a younger Prince Yami, now dressed in concealing robes of a peasant; looked behind him as he fled! There was just no stopping him! He was running away from the palace grounds yet again!

     Allowing himself a slight chuckle, he wondered if Simon had even noticed his escape! Or, was it possible that he was still carrying on about-! Whatever he had been trying to teach him that afternoon! In truth, Yami couldn't even remember the subject of the day’s lesson, knowing that he would be devoured by sheer boredom if he had stayed! Struggling to stay awake, he reasoned that there was no other alternative; he simply had to liberate himself! And when Simon's back was turned, he managed to do just that! But surely, it was harmless enough...  With his intelligence, those lectures truly were a waste of time! And Simon himself knew that the young prince was capable of absorbing information, when it best suited him!

     In sudden contrast to his impetuousness, Yami become a jungle predator in his wanderings... Hoping to leave the palace grounds without detection, he moved deftly, cautiously; fading into his surroundings at the precise moment!

     Finally, he reached the massive gates; all that stood in the way of his freedom!  But for a brief moment, Yami paused; taking in the familiar, somewhat looming rows of statues. And as his eyes scanned the area, he acknowledged the rest of the decor: the sphinxes, hieroglyphics, and intricately chiseled obelisks positioned on each side.  Studying them gravely, he wondered how long it would be before his own likeness and history would be recorded in stone; as customary for his royal tomb and his inevitable descent into afterlife...

     Though he had yet to assume the throne, Yami knew that the time was approaching; growing closer with each passing day.  And even now, these matters had been scheduled, planned, and were already underway; in some form or another. For as long as he could remember, he had been told that this was a great and prestigious honor; his “godly” right as the forthcoming pharaoh! Yet, he saw only the morbidity of these customs; often questioning  how they came to be... Why did the others harbor such an intense fascination with death? Particularly when there was still so much to be experienced in life!  But Simon warned him about this peculiar belief, how it could be viewed as blasphemous; inducing fear and mistrust... And though Yami knew that the elderly man had his best interests at heart; he couldn't help but think-

     With a slight shake of his head, Yami concentrated on the task at hand...  Having long since memorized the palace aide's timely regimes, as well as those of the usual contracted workers, Yami thought back to that very morning; when Simon had consulted with laborers from the village of Deir El-Medina...  To his dismay, these builders were likely summoned to discuss that very task... But nevertheless, he knew that estimating when they would take their leave may be of use to him at a later time; regardless of his impulses!  Whatever his mind set, Yami was always one step ahead; in any given situation! In the game of life, as he often thought!

     Seeing the laborers granted access outside, Yami hurried towards them; following suit in their orderly stride. Bowing his head, to avoid being seen through the hood, he watched, with fervent anticipation, as the doors opened!  Keeping every one of his senses alert, the young prince continued onward!  No, absolutely nothing would distract him from maintaining his pretense!  Not even his eagerness to leave! He was so close now!  Soon he would be far beyond the scrutiny of the palace guards; men who would haul him back, at a moment’s notice, if he did inadvertently reveal himself!  He was almost through the threshold... Just a few steps more! Ah! Another self proclaimed victory; added to his long list of achievements!

     Now past the point of detection, Yami journeyed towards the nearest village, stretching his arms high into the air; feeling completely at ease!  Yes, he had made the right choice to set out on this excursion; for it was one he needed, this time... He had been rather restless after all; which seemed to be happening more and more often... And there was something else too, a strange, suffocating air; something affecting his daily life that he couldn't quite put his finger on... But in any case, the prince felt confident that he could afford this trip, at least when Simon was appointed to look after him! Admittedly, he found that it wasn’t as easy to leave when under the tutelage of the strict, depressingly solemn priests his father appointed; the ones chosen by the mystical Millennium Items themselves rather... On second thought, Yami found that he was somewhat fond of the priest Akunadin, due to some peculiar quality of his; an air similar to his father's somehow...

     Yet, to Yami's regret, his studies with the priests were becoming a regular occurrence; as opposed to those with the well-meaning Simon. And as such, his spiritual training was beginning to take precedence as well; perhaps more than any other...  But in truth, a part of him welcomed this aspect: the honing of his magic, the commanding of the spirit beasts, and of course, the besting of his rival, Priest Seto!  Strangely enough, the young prince could never quite satisfy his desire to immerse himself in this world, always wishing to push boundaries, to further expand his capabilities; in spite of its affects...  But for the moment, Yami opted to put even these thoughts out of his mind... He simply wanted to enjoy his outing, like he had many times previously! 

     Really, what could it hurt? He was never gone for very long. And despite what Simon thought, claiming that he demonstrated “improper and unorthodox” behavior for the crown prince of Egypt, Yami certainly understood the importance of his role! Knowledge was power after all, and the way it was deciphered and utilized was crucial; for any ruler!  Over the past 40 years, no one had demonstrated this more effectively than his father, the great Pharaoh Akunamukanon! And without a doubt, Yami wanted nothing more than to follow in his footsteps; if such a feat were even possible! But even so, he never thought it would happen so soon...

     As he arrived at the village market, the young prince felt relief wash over him; the change of scenery interrupting his train of thought.  Now wandering in the midst of the crowd, Yami made certain to keep himself hooded and inconspicuous. Though he was dressed like any other citizen, he knew that his unusual hair style would give even the youngest residents a means to identify him. The frequency of this strange indulgence had become rather legendary after all, especially for the dwellers of this particular village... In fact, so often had he roamed the area, that he would even hear talk that he was among them! Talk that would often reach his own ears; so it seemed safe to assume that no one suspected him at least!

     Stepping aside from the sea of on goers, Yami stopped to simply delight in the scene; the many town’s folk who were actively engaged in their daily routines. It never failed! He always found himself completely amazed by what he witnessed! The sheer number of the populace alone was enough to make anyone marvel! And contrary to what he was accustomed to, the villagers were dressed casually: mostly in loose, white, linen gowns; or perhaps skirts. The attire was practical of course; to endure the daytime's rather sweltering temperatures! And though not as common, Yami managed to spot at least a few residents wearing wool instead. He found that he was not the only one hooded either! Yet, some of the men donned turbans, or handkerchiefs on their heads; which was also true of some of the women! But then again, there was just as many men and women who chose to wear nothing on their heads at all; allowing their straight, plaited, or colorfully ornamented hair to flow freely in the wind.

     Observing those ornaments in particular, Yami noticed the distinct variety of these accessories! Though he himself would wear gold or precious gemstones, he saw that these adornments were either made of beads, or perhaps baked then painted clay. Yet they were still attractive in their minimalism; as well as their vibrancy and creativity of design! Nearly every villager was sporting them, as the rich hues of these necklaces, bracelets, and anklets were sharply juxtaposed against the bright whites of their clothing.

     Among the hundreds of mud brick houses, canopied shops, and crowded booths, Yami continued his observations: the hustling and bustling, the exchanging and trading of merchandise, and of course, the simple act of conversation. How he envied these interactions; shared between friends and family! They were so joyous, so carefree! Not unlike the time, he, Mahado and Mana were-!  With a touch of wistfulness and regret, Yami turned; resuming his travels as he quickly banished that notion... And yet, it roused something in him...  Even then, he had wished to live a life free of royal etiquette; without the crushing weight of responsibility! And though he had had a taste of it, that was many years ago...  Now, he wished he could at least speak to someone regarding these inclinations; as unrealistic as they were! But with the exception of a few fleeting words between a market place vendor, or perhaps those of a gossiping villager, Yami had never allowed himself to mingle with the town’s folk at all; despite his burning desire to do so!

     But if only he could...  A part of him yearned for the chance to befriend someone again, anyone who wouldn’t immediately bow down to him as if he were a god on earth, a most unsettling concept; similar to his distaste for otherworldly proceedings. And yet, this was still preferably to the alternative, wondering how the others viewed him; if they really thought-!  But all things considered, he supposed a minimal sense of satisfaction was all that he could ever hope for. Given the magnitude of his position, Yami had no intention of revealing his identity; not for frivolous reasons, anyhow... Surely, he would never hear the end of it from Simon! And, with his father’s failing health, it truly could be problematic to draw such attention to the royal family; beyond that of an unsubstantiated rumor at least... No, he just couldn’t take that chance, not now...

                     *I suppose I should return to the palace.* Yami sighed, inwardly.

     Though he hoped this trip would serve to distract him from his troubles, Yami found that it had the opposite affect... Both stubbornly and distressingly, he then flashed to restless nights, or how he would wake questioning his whereabouts; wondering why he-!  With his mind in a fog, the young prince continued on his way; walking right into a very large, bare-chested, muscular guard!

     With a touch of sheepishness, Yami’s vision slowly panned upward; his eyes locking with those of the handkerchief topped man towering over him! Retreating back, he then heard the sound of even more men marching, each equipped with heavy weaponry! And within moments, he came to a realization: that he had actually allowed himself to be surrounded!

                     *This is, quite the predicament!*  Yami mused, aggravated by his fleeting carelessness.

     Even so, he couldn’t help but wonder about the excessive quantity of the men... Perhaps this escape had been the final straw; the one that broke the camels back, as the saying went! Simon must have been terribly angry to order the royal guards to go and fetch him; as if he were a common criminal! But nevertheless, the young prince shifted his focused; as the nearest guard addressed him.

                     “We...”  The man hesitated, contemplating what he wished to say next.

     Though ill-timed, Yami deduced that despite his orders, the guard still wished to be respectful; surely one of many reasons for his reluctance. And yet, they were all amply aware that the commotion had become a village spectacle!  As such, the soldiers accessed the situation with extreme caution; opting to conceal Yami's identity from their growing audience!

                     “We have orders to take you in. Come with us now.” The guard finally said; speaking simply, yet sternly.

     However, despite the odds, Yami refused to allow himself to be carted off so easily!

                     *If Simon wishes for me to return to the palace this badly,* Yami mused, *he will have to retrieve me himself!*

     Though it too seemed inappropriate, Yami couldn’t help but imagine the elderly man: walking through the streets, hands on hips; with steam coming out of his ears! But he quickly dismissed it, turning his attention to finding the quickest route past the men!

     Thinking on his feet, Yami ducked swiftly, evading the guard as he approached!  He then maneuvered around him, breaking free of the circle! With limited options, Yami chose to run directly into the crowd; as the guards followed in hot pursuit! Though sloppy and inelegant, Yami had bought some time; hoping to at least hinder his trackers in the busy streets!

     And so, as if a flag had been waved in commencement, a competition of both speed and ingenuity began; one that neither the hunters nor the hunted would allow themselves to lose! The unlikely chase soon ventured through the market's pathways, zig-zaging between huts and taverns, or coming to a brief impasse when the guards would lose sight of the young prince!

                     *Their persistence is commendable! I will concede in this admission! *Yami thought to himself.

     Though initially alarmed, Yami found that he was actually enjoying the rush from this unexpected game of cat and mouse! How exciting it was! He hadn’t felt so alive in ages! And though he was beginning to tire, he was determined to push both his mind and body to the brink! He would succeed in outfoxing his would-be captors; claiming an indisputable triumph!

      As the guards spotted him at last, Yami resumed his sprint; fleeing from them in the opposite direction! But as the young prince glanced back again, in order to gauge their distance, he lost sight of where he was going; heading directly into someone else!  Unable to stop himself, the two collided immediately! And as they stumbled, clumsily, the pair came crashing to the ground!

                     “Hey! Excuse me! Watch where you’re going, will you?!”  Yami heard a voice say.

     Disoriented, the young prince shook his head; attempting to regain his focus. But before he could, he gasped slightly; realizing that he had fallen astride a young woman!

                     “Do you mind?!”  She muttered, as she glared accusingly.

                     “Oh! Yes, of course!”  Yami hastily replied.

     Though he had managed to regain his overall composure, the young prince could still feel the flush on his cheeks...  He then struggled to remove himself from the girl; noticing that she was not only attractive, but rather shapely as well...

                     “I- I beg your pardon!"  Yami said, not only for her benefit, but to orient himself.  "I didn’t mean to-”  He continued, as he stood over her.

     Turning sharply, he could now see the guards approaching; charging in his direction! But as he looked down upon the slighted woman, Yami soon found himself at a loss... His gallant upbringing insisted that he apologize; but the reality of the situation urged him to continue running and fast! Unable to rationalize it, or even ponder the strange feeling coming over him, Yami spontaneously pulled the girl towards him, swept her into his arms, and hurried on his way with her in tow!

                     “What are you doing!? Are you crazy!? Let me go! Now!” She cried, lashing out, defiantly!

     Despite her rather violent thrashings, Yami was completely unwilling to admit defeat; quite possibly due to his own stubbornness... Nevertheless, he vowed that he would avoid being apprehended; no matter what the cost!

     At long last, he happened upon a dark and secluded alleyway, where a group of impressively large vases were gathered. With a sudden burst of inspiration, he found himself beaming like an expectant child; his eyes locking with those of his unruly captive!

     At first, the young woman seemed puzzled, though noticeably wary of his strange, impish expression. But soon, revelation dawned; evident by her own incredulous look!

                     “Oh no you don’t!" She protested again. "If you think I’m just going to let you shove me into that-!”

   Rashly, the prince followed through with his “tactical maneuver;” which merely required the pair to jump into one of large vases and hide! It was a bit of squeeze for the two escapees, but fortunately the container had just enough room; despite their somewhat uncomfortable positioning...

                     “Is that your hand on my leg!?”

                    “It was simply an accident! I assure you!”

                    “And now you’re-!? Oh! I’m warning you!”

                    “Please! You must lower your voice!”

                    “Ow! What’s in this thing anyway? I can’t see!”

                    “Hmm, it smells like-”

                    “Look! I don’t know what kind of trouble you’re in! But leave me out of-!”

     Covering her mouth with his hand, Yami quickly silenced the girl; at the sound of footsteps closing in on them!  Stiffening nervously, the two held their breaths; as the steps grew louder and louder!  But in the end, Yami had been wise, or perhaps lucky with his judgement call!  For soon after, their pursuers left to search elsewhere...

     Ever cautious, Yami waited for what seemed like an eternity; until he finally believed it was safe enough to emerge. Now confident that the men were gone, Yami sighed with relief, feeling at ease; feeling victorious rather! Exiting first, he laughed heartily, basking in not only his success, but his feeling of sheer contentment!

                    “By the gods, I have not done that in years!” He exclaimed, blissfully. 

     And if that wasn’t enough, he had even relived a childhood antic: using the vase as a hiding place; as he did so long ago!  But this time, he wasn't alone in his venture! He had crossed paths with this fiery, and alluring young woman... Still high on his intense rush, Yami turned to regard her, as she began to surface as well. And though he offered his hand in assistance, she responded with rejection; choosing to help herself out of the cramped container!

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                     *What a day!* Teana groaned, finally managing to climb out. *I just had to convince myself to come out today, didn't I?! I had that awful dream again, I tossed and turned all night, but somehow, I still decide to-! What am I thinking?! Not even the pharaoh's high priestess could have predicted this mess! Whoever this strange man is, he'd better start talking!* She thought to herself.

     Eyeing the stranger with visible annoyance, Teana found herself even more irritated; by the enormous grin on his face! It was unbelievable! After everything they'd gone through, he had the gall to be pleased with himself right now?!

     Brushing herself off, Teana sighed with exasperation.  She was now completely covered in grass, leaves, and who knew what else; which was likely in the vase beforehand. Feeling the intensity of the man’s stare, she looked up at him again.

                    “What?  Why are you looking at me like that?”  She asked, as his grin grew even wider.

     To her surprise, and displeasure, the stranger burst out laughing! Again! Though he made several weak attempts to speak, he was only able to point at her with an unsteady hand; as he doubled over uncontrollably! 

                    *Why that-! Of all the-! Just who is this guy?!* Teana thought again. *He mows me down, then kidnaps me, and now this?!*

     Seething, Teana's mind began to wander, wondering how the incident might affect her; especially in the eyes of the other villagers...

                     *It’s not like things aren’t hard enough.* She thought darkly, as the man slowly settled down; dabbing the moisture from his eyes. *If the others saw me being chased by the guards, they’ll think that I-! And after trying so hard to be-!  No... It’s not fair! This is all his fault!* She screamed inwardly; as her body shuddered.  *Or maybe someone put him up to this....  I bet it was those three! Who else could it be?! They're here somewhere, just watching me make a fool of myself! Telling everyone that I'm nothing but a-!

     Though a part of her knew better, Teana felt both her anger and her frustrations beginning to escalate; flashing bitterly to events from years prior.  Though she tried to suppress it, telling herself it was all in the past, the memories had never left her... And the thought of it happening again, that her life could become even more miserable, only added to her despair; a despair that had been building for a long long time... 

                    *Maybe things will never get better for me... Maybe I've been fooling myself all along, thinking I could-!  But still, he didn't have to go along with it... Even if it was just some stupid prank, he's going to be sorry he messed with-!*

       Her fists clenching, Teana breathed deeply, laboriously; until finally something inside of her snapped!

                     “THAT'S IT! I don’t know who you are, or what you want, but I've had it! Do you hear me!? How dare you drag me into this!? It’s bad enough that you have the royal guards after you! But thanks to you, they might be after me now too! Are you happy now? Are you?!”

     Exhaling again, Teana tried to pull herself together; to take hold of these frightening emotions! She could feel the intensity of her tremors; the foreign, fluctuating effects of her blood-curdling temper! But it was her volume that surprised her most of all! The harrowing venom in her own words! She feared where it might lead her, that these feelings would be all consuming; just like her father-!

     With a slight shake of her head, and profound guilt, Teana looked up at the stranger again, bracing herself for hostility or revulsion. Instead, she was shocked to see him fully composed; returning her glance with his own look of curiosity. But then, he could be trying to mock her in some way too; with a silence that was nothing short of aggravating! To her dismay, this only fueled her wrathful disposition, as she felt herself erupting again!

                     “Hello! Are you listening to me?!  I demand that you explain yourself, right now! Before I-!”

     And then, it happened...   As if some ghostly bandit had robbed Teana of her thoughts, words, and even her rage, she felt everything inside her coming to a screeching halt! It all vanished, from the moment the man unhooded himself...

     Like being struck by a bolt of lightening, shock and disbelief came crashing down; completely desensitizing her body!  Teana could only gawk, wordlessly, as he casually massaged his neck and shoulders. And at long last, he regarded her, with a now self-confident grin!

     It was then that she truly felt ashamed, unworthy even; given the scorn and bitterness that she allowed herself to feel... And yet, she basked in the sight of him, the handsome prince; always far beyond her reach...  She began to study every feature; etching them in the deepest recesses of her mind... Yet in doing so, Teana couldn’t help but wonder how she didn’t know who he was, regardless of the hood; that the thought hadn’t entered her mind at all! Why? Why didn’t she know? How could she ever forget those violet eyes of his; or the time that he-  Dismissing that thought, Teana realized she'd been silent for too long; which could only worsen the situation! She felt tense and awkward; vaguely aware that by now, her face was completely devoid of color!

                     “Um...” She said aloud, her voice cracking. “Will you...excuse me for a moment, please?”

     Barely able to speak, the only distance she could muster, was to turn herself around.

                 *I just yelled at the prince...* Teana thought, with fleeting detachment. *I just yelled at the prince!? What’s wrong with me?! Am I crazy!? Oh gods! What should I do!? What can I possibly say to him!? This is a nightmare, right?! It has to be! This just isn’t happening! Not like this! Not like this...*

     Continuing to berate herself, Teana could only place her face in her hands; wishing, praying, that she could just disappear! She then wondered if she should return to vase, burrowing to its very bottom; never to return again!  As she considered it, she felt a burning desire to either laugh at this fateful meeting, or to cry miserably! And as she thought of what the prince must thinking, she found herself genuinely leaning towards the latter...

                    *Ok! Ok! Just stop it!* She thought, trying to hide her mortification. *I just have to calm down and get a grip! I can fix this! I have to...*

     With a deep, stabilizing breath, Teana cleared her throat; gathering the courage to face to him once more.

                     “Your highness, I-”

     Turning around again, Teana found herself stunned and even flustered by how close he now stood! He was only inches away, breathing warmly on her cheek!  Holding her breath, she watched as his hand drew even closer, reaching for her!  Only to pick a blossom from her hair....  Bringing the flower towards him, the prince closed his eyes; savoring its sweet scent.

                    “Lilies.” He remarked.

                     “What?” Teana inquired.

                    “The answer to your earlier question. The vase contained remnants from a shipment of lilies. I also detected small amounts of irises, myrrh, cinnamon... I believe these are the ingredients required to make Susinum; a favored and rather popular perfume among women.”

                    *Wow... He actually thought about what I- And he was able to get that from just those few minutes in there?!* Teana thought in awe.

                     “Hmm, I must say this would look quite lovely on you under normal circumstances.” He continued; remorsefully.

     It was amazing! In such a short time, the young man had been completely transformed! Meeting him in such a way, Teana truly believed that he was nothing but trouble; involving her in some cruel plot!  But now, he spoke so eloquently, so confidently!  Even his posture demonstrated his eminence and nobility!

     Running her fingers through her hair, Teana realized it was also peppered with greenery and that her messy, matted locks were even wilder than his! Hoping to stop her downward spiral, she refused to dwell on it any longer... But in contrast, the prince’s appearance was nearly impeccable; even in spite of his peasant’s robes! Though unique, not a single hair appeared out of place!  And unlike her own, his clothing was mostly free of foliage. Was such a thing possible? Did even plants obey the future king of Egypt?

                     “And yet, I am well aware that this is my doing...” He sighed, unhappily.  “Now, as I had wanted to do to from the start, please allow me to apologize to you, my lady.”

    With those words, the young man bowed amicably, as Teana could feel her cheeks reddening!

                     “Also, you must know that I meant no harm in laughing! It was unacceptable! Admittedly!  But you were quite the sight after our whirlwind adventure; and with this...adorning you in such a way...” He said, raising the flower; to gently caress her face.

     Though affected, Teana interrupted the moment to brush away any remaining leaves.  She then attempted to straighten her hair, as her fingers flattened and combed through it; in the hopes of appearing somewhat presentable! Finally, the prince deftly slipped the flower into it; positioning it just above her left ear.

                     “There...  As I anticipated, it does indeed look lovely on you now.”

                     “Y- Your highness, I-” Teana stammered.

                     “Please, tell me your name.”

                    “And I am-”

                    “The prince! Of course I know who you are!” Teana cried, with a bit too much excitement.

                     “True." He smiled, brightly. "But please, call me Yami. I would like that... Very much.”

                     “A-all right then.  Yami it is.” Teana agreed, shyly reciprocating the smile.

                     “Well Teana,” Yami remarked; crossing his arms, fluidly. “It seems that our situation has become a complicated one! I suppose I must abandon my original intent; limiting my interactions here, as of today. After all, now that you’ve become my accomplice, there’s no turning back from this point.”

     Though still feeling meek in Yami's presence, Teana felt encouraged by his playful tone... And if she didn't imagine it, she saw something else too; a touch of hopefulness in his eyes...

                     “No turning back...”  Teana echoed, with matching optimism.

                     “Please forgive me for my behavior in the village, and within that vase as well.  Though I assure you that they too were unintentional, I assume that your husband would be rather cross with me if he knew, royalty or not.”

                     “Huh?  Oh!  No!  No husband.”  She replied, hastily.

     As she gathered her thoughts, Teana couldn’t help but notice Yami's eyebrow; raising just slightly...

                     “I mean I know that most women my age are-! It’s just that-! Here's the thing... I'm on my own, and I have been; for a while now, actually."  Teana disclosed.  "And if you can guess, it isn't so easy trying to find a husband... When you're something like me at least-! Um, you know, without some kind of dowry and all.” She shrugged, nervously. *That’s true enough, I guess...  But he can't know that I’m-!*

     Though he made an effort to mask it, Teana could still see a trace of pity; passing briefly through Yami's eyes.

                     “Hey, it's ok! I don’t mind!” She assured him. “It’s not too bad, just having to worry about myself. And I get by... I do some weaving, some pottery work...  I trade at the market, and every now and then I even take care of some of the kids around here.  At least when they let me be around-"  Stopping abruptly, Teana berated herself again; worrying if she said too much...  "But anyways, th- that's not all I do! I have my interests, after all!  Things I hope to-"

    Wondering if the topic was any better than the last, Teana hesitated.

                     “You hope to-  What exactly?” Yami asked, urging her to continue.

                     “Well your high- I mean Yami...   I’m actually a dancer too. And though I've only performed in the streets so far, during a festival or a celebration, I did hope- Well, it’s always been my dream to-"  Swallowing, Teana slowly braced herself; anticipating his reaction, "-to be hired to perform before the royal family; to perform for you..."

                     “Hmm...” Yami responded, wistfully.

     Unsure of what to make of that, Teana held her ground, as the two simply stood there; regarding each other. Suddenly, a soft breeze ventured towards them, diverting Teana's attention. And as she felt her hair being blown about, she raised a hand upward, to brush it from her face... But as she did, Teana caught Yami looking at her from the corner of her eye. There was something in the expression that he wore, something different than any she'd seen so far; making it difficult to interpret...

     Before she could even think to ask, the two were startled by a sudden uproar in the distance! It was then that they realized that the case of the missing royal had yet to be solved, and that the guards could still apprehend them at any moment!

                     “I must go.” Yami sighed again. “I truly believe that these men will stop at nothing to capture me, though I don't intend to give them the satisfaction. Rather, they will learn, eventually, that I successfully evaded them; and returned home on my own. Though I have no doubt that apprehending me was their sole objective, I refuse to take any risks that may warrant trouble for you in the future. Well Teana, I suppose this is good bye...”

    This time, there was no mistaking it...  The prince looked at her with a trace of sorrow; and a longing that passed as quickly as it appeared...  Though he lingered for a moment longer, Yami finally turned away; taking his first reluctant steps...  

                     “Wait!"  Teana called, unexpectedly.


     Surprising them both, Yami glanced back at her, staring at the young woman inquisitively.  With a hand hovering over her mouth, and initially stunned by the outburst, Teana soon calmed herself, flashing him her own revealing look; one that was hopeful and affectionate...

                      "Will I see you again?” She asked, placing that same hand over her heart.

                     “Yes.” He assured her, with a warm, appreciative smile. “Yes you will...”

     With those words, and playful wink, Yami replaced his hood; as he disappeared into the crowd.... Teana, however, remained in the alleyway; feeling utterly star-struck! Her eyes traveling from the vase, to the very spot in which he stood, she began to question the encounter; wondering if it was only a dream! She then remembered the flower he had given her, removing it carefully; inhaling the aroma as proof! Satisfied, she then rested the lily near her chest, allowing herself a brief, girlish giggle; stifled soon afterwards, of course! It was all so new to her! And in truth, she found this enthusiasm embarrassing; even uncomfortable in its way...  But more than anything, she felt lighter, safer; and happier than she'd been in a long long time...

                     *It really happened... After so long...* Teana thought, in awe. *And he told me his name this time too...*

                     “Yami...” She said aloud.

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Chapter 4a:  

Transcending Memories: A Bond Unsealed-Chapter 4a
A Yu-Gi-Oh Fan-fiction
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Author’s Note (October 2010): As of this writing, I have only managed to update chapters 1 though 4 of this story, and even in comparison to Chapter 3, I found that Chapter 4 was changed rather drastically; so much so that certain events did not occur at all! This was done for several reasons. Firstly, I simply wanted to have more interaction between Teana and Yami during the early stages of their relationship; before things became complex, and potentially problematic. Having re-read my own work, I noticed that this had begun to occur as early as the original version of chapter 5; and without solid reasoning...  So instead, I wanted to see more of the playfulness and innocence in their beginning, which hopefully served to give it a bit more depth and meaning as well. Additionally, I also hoped that the new scenes would level the pacing