Transcending Memories: A Bond Unsealed-Chapter 8a

A Yu-Gi-Oh Fan-fiction
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Greetings once more everyone! I'm so happy to see you here again, and relatively soon after my last few installments of this work! Even now, I'm sure it's still pretty shocking for me to be working so consistently on this treasured work of mine, isn't it? At least, that's how I feel myself! But what can I say? Even if it has been several years, when I set out to do something, I really do try to complete it, no matter how long it may take... And this story means

Well now! I certainly revealed quite a few of my plot elements in my last chapter, didn't I? If you can believe it, many of those concepts have been with me ever since I had read the original manga when it was still being released in Japan; which was also around the time that I first began this story! I don't quite know HOW it started, but I suppose it boils down to my fascination with the character of Yami Yugi, who was quite the enigma when I was first introduced to the story of Yu-Gi-Oh!

As stated, the series was still in development at the time, and there was a great deal of speculation about his identity and even whether or not he was good or evil; since such details had yet to be released within the story! I certainly did not want to *believe* he was a villian, as I adored his character even then! But there was the fact that even he did not know his true nature, and I'm proud to say that I had considered that LONG before the story of the Orichalcos in season 4 of the anime had attempted to touch upon it! Furthermore, I had always wondered WHY there was such a distinct difference in his behavior from the early manga and Season 0 of the anime, in comparison to the courageous pharaoh who cared so deeply, that he would ultimately give his life and even soul for the sake of his kingdom; both in the past and the present!

As I continued to work on this story in 2003-2004, and the existence of Zorc Necrophades was first introduced, I had found his concept particularly intriquing, and I had considered the very distinct possibility that if he could so strongly affect the actions of both Bakura AND Akunadin, why not the other holders of the Millennium items, who could be tempted by his promises of power? To me, Zorc seemed more like the devil, who would softly whisper to the suspectable; appealing to one's dark side and what such a person wished to have most in this world. I felt that to be the case in the manga, at least, in contrast to the anime, which seemed considerably different in comparison.

I also began to wonder why Zorc didn't appeal to the darkness in Yami, if he could tempt anyone who came in contact with a Millennium item; or at least that was my impression... Perhaps if Zorc had, as I am discussing in my own work, it certainly would have made things MUCH easier for him, to do all that he declared, given that it would be eventually be Yami aka Pharaoh Atem who would ultimately stand against him. I also think such a struggle would have been interesting to see within Yami himself!

In terms of the early chapters of Yu-Gi-Oh, given that the creator explicitly stated that both Zorc AND the soul of the pharaoh were trapped within the Millennium Puzzle, after Yami had sacrificed himself to seal the two of them away after his death, I wondered if maybe Zorc's influence could have affected Yami's behavior in modern times; at least to some degree... It seemed like a shocking revelation to know that Zorc had been present the entire time, and I thought such a struggle between them would explain A LOT in regards to Yami's dark and at times even murderous streaks! Was it because Yami was without a memory and his personal experiences; ones that had shaped his moral compass perhaps? Could that explain why he behaved this way? Is it possible that the two souls, within the puzzle, struggled for supremecy? Was there a blur between them both, maybe??

Though it is true that Yami has always had a darker side to him, and that he was trained to “punish sinners,” which you could argue was his intent in the earlier part of the true story, I found it odd that he would take such delight in it, when he appeared quite different in his own lifetime, from what we gathered, anyhow.... More than likely, the author of the manga himself hadn't considered much of this, in those early days, and Yami simply evolved as the story progressed. But I found it MUCH more interesting and again, even fascinating to try to make some sense of it all, in the way that I am attempting to do!

Finally, there were the many implications in regards to what Mahado did and did not know in relation to the items and Zorc himself that I felt were never fully explored! In particular, it seemed that he did INDEED know a great deal of this history, that he had, in fact, told Yami's father, the previous pharaoh, and that he ALSO felt responsible for his death.... WHY that was never addressed much much sooner, as he mentioned within the manga that he had known for YEARS, I'll never know myself! But I felt it was important to address these issues, in this fan fiction, if such elaboration does not exist within the real story.

As mentioned previously, I hope to keep true to both the anime and manga, when appropriate, using both quotes, and heavy research in order to substantiate what I wish to accomplish! But of course, I will be taking my own artistic liberties as well. Already I have needed to divert from true facts, given that I had begun this work before the events of the manga had concluded, but even so, I hope that I can still utilize those events, albeit in a different way. I suppose only time will tell.... Thank you again for your interest and please keep reading and sending comments, as I find it *extremely* encouraging! It certainly means the world to me too! Thank you again!


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Chapter 8

                    “Are you leaving us again, my prince?” Simon inquired, with a dejected sigh.

    With a slight turn of his head, to briefly acknowledge the elderly man who appeared in the doorway of his private quarters, Yami proceeded to secure his peasant’s robes.

                    “Yes, Simon. I am.” Yami said simply.

                    “You are expected to be present for a lecture that I am giving in Religious Training; as well as-

                    “Science, Astrology, and Medicine.” Yami concluded. “I am well aware. And I have already completed those lessons, including what is required of me after that curriculum, the next one, as well as the following. I have finished everything that will essentially be needed of me for the remainder of the day, and even part of what will be discussed in tomorrow's scriptures. I can assure you.”

                     “Impressive. To think that you could do so much, in such a short time...”

                    “I know, with utmost certainty, that such a feat does not surprise you, Simon. I ask that you please refrain yourself from professing to the contrary.”

                    “I have never once doubted your prestigious and ever expanding level of intelligence, my prince; only the manner in which you would, at times, utilize such extraordinary gifts. You managed to think so far in advance this time. And you are not attempting to simply sneak away on a childish whim either. Something has changed in you, my prince. I can see it in your eyes....” Simon trailed.

                    “And what is it exactly that you see?” Yami asked, with a bit more force that he had intended.

                     “I- I am uncertain how I should respond to your query, your highness.” Simon replied, slightly taken aback.

     Seeing the genuine remorse for his outburst, Simon instead opted to divert the course of their conversation. “I can, however, say that I am most pleased to see you taking your studies more seriously; albeit in an improper and-

                     “-unorthodox manner.” Yami finished, as the elderly man blinked in surprise.

    Managing a slight, yet appreciative smile, Yami knew that even despite the mask that he wore, the well-meaning old man reciprocated the gesture, along with a visibly raised eyebrow, of course!

                    “Simon, I think that we are both aware of the fact, that in terms of my formal education, at the very least, there has never once been a need for concern. And I say this, not with the intent of displaying arrogance or indifference to my assigned tasks, but rather-” Yami paused, as he attempted to choose his words carefully.

                    “Even despite my often frivolous conduct, you know as well as I do that it is, and has always been my wish to explore every means necessary to be deemed worthy of succeeding my father; to be a good and honorable king, who's wisdom...and actions...reflect the sincerity of this aspiration. However, I have also come to realize that the answers that I must find in making this a reality, the answers to many questions that I now have, can not be found in my lessons alone...”

    With the need to have the seasoned visor understand him, and perhaps to clarify these new motivations to himself, Yami took a seat, directly facing the elder man, as he continued his explanations.

                     “I have made it very clear how suffocating and utterly infuriating it is for me to be surrounded by those who treat me as if I am not a human being, regardless of the magnitude of my position. I can say, without question, that this is something that I will never be able to accept, or tolerate... And yes, as you know, that is indeed one of the various reasons that I would often choose to leave this place. As you also know, it has been extremely difficult for me to accept...that my father is dying...” Yami breathed, finally voicing this truth, outwardly.

                    “Your highness....” Simon began.

                     “It's all right Simon.... I know that you, and every one who surrounds me, have been quite cautious in saying what I already know.... It is... something that I must come to terms with, as painful as it may be.... And yet, in recent days, I have been driven by...something else entirely... I find it difficult to put into words, but, in this past week, in particular, I have made every effort to find whatever it is that I am seeking, whether it be during the course of my daily regime, or the late night hours when I have read countless scrolls, and other literary works. I have attended every lesson, every lecture; with the hope of gaining such knowledge; a deeper understanding of...what I wish to fully comprehend... I have engaged in a number of spiritual practices in the Arena of Magic Users, and-” Yami stopped abruptly, as he briefly looked away. “I have even judged each and every sinner that has been brought before me; in a manner that I can only pray to the gods was both fair and just.”

                     *And I am most grateful to the gods that there have been no incidents that have occurred, since that day....* Yami thought to himself.

                     “You have been very dutiful indeed, my prince...” Simon remarked, unable to contest his claims. “So, now that you have exhausted your resources here, do you believe that you will find your answers outside of these palace walls?”

                     “I don't know.” Yami replied. “Even despite the vast amount of knowledge that I have all but consumed, I have also come to realize that there is still so much that I am unaware of....so many things that I am simply incapable of understanding at this point in time. The question remains, will I ever come to such an understanding? And worse yet, what will happen if such a thing is not possible....?”

                     “I have noticed that you have not spoken to Mahado, your highness.” Simon said suddenly. “Rather, you have done all that you can to avoid him, entirely...ever since that day....”

     Once again, Yami found himself uncomfortably diverting his gaze.

                     “He has been very concerned for your well-being. And I made a promise to him to inquire about what has been ailing you.”

                     “I have told you all that I can.” Yami sighed. “In regards to Mahado.... That is another matter; one that has become, regrettably, quite complicated.”

                     “But perhaps he can assist you in finding the answers that you-”

                     “Even if he could!” Yami interrupted, his tone escalating, once more. “Somehow, I doubt very much that he would make that choice...or that I would even allow him to. Not until I-”

     Closing his eyes momentarily, Yami rose to his feet once again.

                     “I apologize for raising my voice. And also, I want to thank you, Simon...” Yami said with sincerity.

                     “Hmm? And what is that you are thanking me for, your highness?”

                     “I am grateful to you, for this discussion.... I have always been fond of you, as both a mentor, and, in these very rare instances, a most trusted confidant. In truth, I have always wished that the two of us could have been much closer... Rather, I had wanted to see you as more of a grandfather figure... I know that you are bound by strict protocol, but I believe that you have always cared for me, and as I told someone else recently as well, it means a great deal to me to be acknowledged as a person, rather than simply a prince or the representation of a god. And I believe that you made every effort to do so, to the extent that was allowed of you... Even if we never again have an exchange as forthright as this, please know that I have always appreciated those efforts, and you.” Yami disclosed.

                     “But with that said, it would appear that there are a great many things that I must come to terms with, and that I may very well need to do so alone.”

                     “And why is that, your highness...?” Simon inquired, solemnly.

                     “Because I believe that is my only option. Perhaps even, the safest option, for all....”

                     “I can not say that I understand your motivations, or your reasoning, my prince. But I will respect your wishes. If you think that it will benefit you, in some way, then I will grant you special leave for the remainder of the day's lessons. But I suspect that you had already anticipated this?”

                     “Perhaps. But regardless of this fact, I am indeed most grateful.” Yami concluded, as he walked towards the doorway.

                 “I see a great deal of pain and inner struggle.” Simon said from behind.

                 “What?” Yami asked as he turned to face the elderly man again.

                 “In response to what you had asked previously, that is what I see in your eyes, my prince. I can only hope...that you are able to find what you are looking for.”

                 “That is my wish as well, old friend. And once more, I thank you...”

**********************************

    As the young prince exited his private chambers, Mahado who had remained unseen at the end of the corridor, could only watch him depart; feeling both powerless and extremely conflicted!

                 *What can I do...?* He thought to himself. *There must be something that I can-*

     Cursing inwardly, Mahado tightly clasped a portion of the Millennium Ring, which still rested against his chest. Just as quickly, he released it again, as he felt his own emotions darkening! Even despite the seal that he had placed upon the item, Mahado feared that even a shred of frustration, despair or any other form of negativity could be used against him; that it could be served to strengthen the hateful demon, Zorc Necrophades who he felt was taunting him at that very moment...

                     *I must tell his highness, everything! I can not allow him to-*


                    “...you know quite well that it was this admission, this horrible truth, that is now leading your king to his death. You fear that the prince will despise you for what you have done.... Or you risk history repeating itself; that this youth will follow that same crippling path!”

    
                    *I can't....* Mahado reconsidered. *If...if such a thing were to happen to the prince as well, how could I- And yet, is it an even greater risk not to disclose all that I have discovered? What that vile creature hopes to do to his highness, if given the chance?*

                     “Sur-prise!” Sung a high pitched voice, as Mahado felt the sudden covering of two hands over his eyes, from behind.

     Startled, the young priest struggled to release himself from his hold, knowing full well,who was now making her presence known!

                     “Mana! Of all the-! What are you doing here?!” Mahado demanded, attempting to compose himself.

     Mahado now stared at the spirited, and highly energetic Mana, a younger girl that he had known since childhood, who had immediately taken to both him and the young prince. Having been chosen to succeed him, the priest had been charged to teach her all that he knew in regards to spell-casting and the art of sorcery...although this was proving to be much more difficult, and even hazardous, than he originally intended....!

                     “Oh Master!” Mana giggled. “I was actually able to sneak up on you this time, right? Right?!”

     Mahado simply shook his head, as he regarded the petite brunette. As always, the bouncy girl was dressed in a short linen dress, with large pleats and an ornate golden belt. The dress she wore was sleeveless, however its golden trimming near her chest, extended around her shoulders, where fittingly cute ruffles encircled both arms.

     What was most prominent was her rather unique, custom hat, or what Mahado had always thought was only part of a hat; given that it did not cover the top of her head at all! Instead, this head piece protruded outward to one side, while the other portion was also accented in gold; having been neatly bound in a tight knot, to secure it in place. In her glee, his young pupil also twirled a blue handled wand, with pink ringlets and a large golden tipped sphere. He motioned for her to point this troublesome wand downward, for quite a few mishaps had occurred when she broke her concentration...which, in truth was rather common where she was concerned!

                     “You merely caught me in moment where I was lost in thought.” Mahado replied sternly, as he crossed his arms.

                     “Ok... If you say so...” Mana shrugged, with a mischievous grin. “Hey! Is Princey around? I mean it's been sooooo long since I've seen him, and I just have to-”

                     “No, Mana! The prince is not in his quarters, and I have told you time and time again that this neither the time nor place in which to disturb him!”

                     “Aw... Why not?!” Mana pouted. “That's no fun! I mean, come on! We hardly ever get to see Princey these days! You at least get to see him during your duels or your boring trials and all, but not me! And hey! Even when I do see him, you guys have been especially moody or something, cause-”

                     “That is enough, Mana!” Mahado exclaimed, stunning the young girl into silence.

     With a wave of sheepishness, the young girl diverted her gaze, feeling as if she could do nothing, but stand awkwardly where she stood. She appeared to be waiting for some sort of sign on what to do next, as she nervously fiddled with her wand...

                     “I'm sorry Mana....” Mahado said at length. “None of this is your fault. If anything, this is all because of-”

                     “Something's not right, huh, Master....?” Mana remarked, in a more serious tone. “It's been a couple years now, but it kind of reminds me of when you first put on your shiny new ring and became a real priest, you know? You told me that your magic was really really strong or something and that you had to lock a part of it away. But I always wondered if there was....I don't know....more to it all, somehow... That there were things you weren't telling me, or that you thought I wouldn't get.”

                     “Mana...” Mahado whispered, unsure of what to say.

                     “To tell you the truth, I really don't get it, but I can tell Princey is acting just like you did back then. It's just a feeling, you know...?”

                     “His highness has a difficult road ahead of him, Mana. I know that you are as concerned for his well-being as I am, but... I just...don't know what I should-”

                     “Cheer up, Master.” Mana reassured him. “Princey is really strong! You know that! And he's soooo smart too! I mean, you got through whatever it was that was bothering you a while back? Right? Doesn't that mean that he can too?”

                     “It may not be that simple, Mana... But I hope...I pray that you're right....”

**************************************************

     As the morning passed, and the position of the sun indicated that it was the very height of the afternoon in the village market place, Teana found herself seated at her usual location, making an honest and what she believed was a very mature attempt to remain both calm and patient... However the erratic fidgeting that her body was now exhibiting, sadly told an entirely different tale!

                     *It's been a week..... A whole week!* Teana cried inwardly.

     In her boredom and frustration, she soon found herself absent-mindedly spinning a small plate that she had made; balancing it vertically on its side. She continued to handle the ceramic ware, moving it around and around with the tips of her fingers, until the plate finally rolled off the edge of the table, snapping Teana out of her haze, as it broke!

                     *Great... Now I'm even destroying the merchandise!*

     Nervously, and with a touch of embarrassment, her eyes shifted from left to right, feeling as if, like in the past, this was exactly the kind of instance that the young prince would most certainly have teased her for; if he had been present in the vicinity to see it, that is! But even after waiting for several moments, Teana found that she was still left alone with her wandering, pining thoughts. And as always, not a single neighboring villager that passed, was even stopping to acknowledge her booth, much less her existence!

     With a heavy, forlornly sigh, she could only lay her head down upon her crossed arms, as she rested on the surface of the table.

                 *What am I even doing here... After that amazing job that Yami did for me, trading for all of those goods, it's not like I even need to do this! But how else will he know how to find me?* Teana thought, as she sighed again. *I know. I know it hasn't been that long...no matter how long it might feel to me... And I know that he probably can't get away so easily, but- I want to see you again, Yami... I need to see you again... If you'd just come for me...like you did before...like you always have...*

        
    Feeling herself tiring, she soon found herself releasing a number of yawns; ones that she was now much too weary to stifle. With her head feeling quite comfortable in its position upon her arms, her eyelids began to feel heavier and heavier, until-


*******************************************


     Awakening again in mid-step, Teana soon realized that she was now traveling on a long and narrow road; one that appeared to stretch endlessly into the distance...

                     *Where am I? How did I get there?* Teana wondered as she continued onward. *Was I...supposed to go somewhere? And if so, for what reason? I don't understand.... But somehow, I feel that I need to see this through... I need to keep moving...*

     Though it appeared that Teana's only option was simply to keep journeying forward in the vast, open space that she had found herself in, she could also discern that she had been completely engulfed by a deep and penetrating darkness...

                     *This place... I've been here before, haven't I? Yes...I have. I've been here recently, with-*

     Choosing to abandon that notion, instead, Teana stopped momentarily to study the otherworldly and expansive environment. Upon further observation, it consisted, specifically, of a black and purple haze, a haze that crackled with bursts of energy; sparking in every conceivable direction. And in doing so, Teana was able to come to another definitive conclusion...

                     *I didn't just come here with- No, I've been here many times... I don't know why, or how, but...as far back as I can remember, somehow...I would always come back to this place....*

     Advancing further still, Teana took note of the unusually cooler temperature, as well as the quality of the air, which she reasoned would be rather suffocating to most... Likewise, there was also the extremity of such blanketing, disorienting darkness! And yet, much like in both the past and the present, not one of these limiting factors had any affect on Teana; at least in the physical sense....

                      *It's ok...  I'm safe this time...*  Teana thought, exhaling deeply.  *By now, he normally would've tried to-  But not this time...   Thankfully, I don't sense him anywhere near-*

     Suddenly, Teana stopped momentarily to glance behind, when she saw a bright piercing light in the distance; one that was so blindingly illuminating, that she was quite literally forced to cover her eyes, in order to shield them... She watched, with much difficulty, as the form of a figure soon emerged from within that light, a figure that was slowly approaching; coming closer, and closer! And as the light dimmed, Teana could finally distinguish the figure's identity... She now sensed the noble presence of none other than her very regal, and of course, breathtakingly handsome young prince!

                     “Yami, it's you....” Teana declared, with both relief and awe. “You really came... Again... You came for me, again!”

                     “I will always come for you, Teana...” Yami said tenderly. “If that is what you wish...”

     Flustered, Teana cupped her face with both hands, now trying to conceal what she knew were increasingly reddening cheeks! And as she attempted to calm herself, as he drew ever nearer to where she stood waiting, Yami's features became even more clearly defined! Wait.... Had he already been crowned Pharaoh...?

     She could now determine that he was dressed in a manner in which she had never seen before, with the exception of his standard white tunic and matching skirt... But unlike any other royal garb that she had very briefly caught a glimpse of, this time he wore a long, flowing blue cloak, that wrapped majestically around his neck and shoulders; one that was draped over top a large, sectioned, golden neck piece that rested just above his chest. Additionally, he was sporting a lighter blue loin cloth that overlapped his skirt, golden bands of varying size upon his upper arms and legs, and intricately crafted bracelets of both gold and black garnet.

     And finally, this was topped with long, slender Ankh inspired earrings, and a illustrious golden crown; one that prominently showcased the great Eye of Wdjat, while also extending upward into what resembled two wings of a bird. Those wings protruded above Yami's distinct hair style, and were gilded with gleaming blue gemstones on either side of them.

     Yami was now only a few feet away, just barely at arm's length, as he slowly and gracefully beckoned her towards him, with his extended and noticeably beautiful hands... As she shyly and hesitantly looked up at him again, she could see all the warmth and reassurance that he had shown her previously... However, unlike what she could have sworn was their last encounter, this time, Teana could also see so much more.... Yami's smile was both inviting and as bright as the piercing light had been... And those fiercely intense violet eyes of his gazed at her with such permeating depth; eyes that she could quite easily become lost in, as they radiated with such inherently profound affection...or...was it love, perhaps...?

                     “Oh wow.... You're...magnificent....” Teana murmured, having just finished taking in the overall sight of him!

     Feeling her heartbeat quicken, as well as a tight, almost uncomfortable squeeze within her chest, Teana at last placed her hand within his; as a charged, coursing shiver traveled quickly down her spine! And as Yami guided her even closer to his side, as his long and slender fingers intertwined gently with her own, she soon found that both reason and logic were now the furthest they'd ever been from her mind; as she simply immersed herself in that very moment! As such, she abandoned her shyness or even the slightest bit of what remained of her prior hesitation! Rather, she opted to throw all caution to the wind, becoming equally as confident and bold! And without another word, as she allowed her own marveling and adoring expression to speak for her, she chose to completely bridge the gap between them, with a sense of fearlessness and eager anticipation!

     With those final enclosing steps, Teana could actually see the longing within his gaze escalating; an expression that simply overflowed with both magnetism and allure! She felt not only her body, but her every emotion, even ones that she thought were lost to her forever, beginning to reawaken, as she leaned forward to accept….whatever it was that his look had promised her.

     But Yami was in no hurry…. Perhaps it was uncertainty on his part, though if that were the case, there was not even the slightest bit of evidence to suggest it, either in his face or his body language! Maybe he just wanted to remain a true gentleman in his behavior towards her, or it could be that he was simply drawing her in, tempting her, purposefully or even playfully delaying the fulfillment of her every expectation!

     Yami continued by merely brushing his thumb on her lips, which prompted them to begin to tremble involuntarily! Unable to stand having to wait any longer, Teana’s own hand clasped his, kissing the tips of his fingers, as if to persuade him, reassure him, if necessary, that she would readily, willingly proceed; that it was all right for both of them to give in to such inclinations….

     Following her release, his hand moved down, just slightly, enabling him to lift her chin, so that it was level to his. Closing her eyes, Teana held her breath as she prepared herself; as she counted down the seconds when she would at last feel Yami's lips upon hers!

                     *This is like a dream....* Teana thought, as she waited for that fateful event! *It's a perfect, beautiful dream; one that I never really believed could actually- Please, please gods... If this is a dream, with all my heart, I hope that I never wake- Oh no... Not now....!*

     To Teana's utter mortification, she had been so overcome by emotion, that tears had actually begun to form, even as she stood waiting!

                     *Maybe if I just quickly-*

     As a result, she backed away just slightly, in order to wipe away the trailing moisture. Slowly opening her eyes, Teana smiled shyly, attempting to play off her fleeting lapse, as she again readied herself for-

     Just then, Teana felt as if her very blood had run cold, as she abruptly backed away, breaking free from Yami's embrace! She gasped in disbelief, as she alternated from shock...to an awful, paralyzing dread! Looking into Yami's eyes again, their soft violet shade had changed drastically, as they now burned brightly with a deep crimson colored glow!

                     “Teana....” Yami said at length. “What is it...?”

     Though bewildering, yet no less nightmarish, even despite Yami's bloodied, unnatural glint, he still spoke very much like himself... That warm, affectionate, deep voice sounded quite sorrowful as a result of her actions. Moreover, sincere and audible confusion could be heard in those quick, short phrases of his...even hurt...

    And yet, something more was lurking underneath; far beyond the alarming hue of Yami's red eyes alone! Though eerily familiar, it was something that Teana could not bear to face, or take in completely.... something inhuman, sinister, and most of all, not of this world! And somehow she knew that it had the power to stare straight through her, to the very depths of her core!

     Teana could feel her body beginning to quiver, as she took one precarious step back after another... And with her retreat, accompanied by the frightful stare that she knew was blatantly apparent, Yami's own expression looked more and more devastated, as his visible devotion and yearning for her never faltered; even with that unearthly gaze....

                     “Teana, please...” Yami implored, in a voice just barely above a whisper.

     Following after her every movement, as he desperately reached out to Teana again, Yami's body had also begun shaking; but in debilitating anguish at her rejection of him, rather than fear...

                     “Teana, I need you... Please, please... Only you can help me...”

     As low as his voice sounded, when uttering those words, Yami's pleas were now filled with such a grief-stricken insistence, that Teana couldn't help but be affected by them....

                     *Oh gods, what should I- I want to go to him... He says he needs me... that I can help him somehow! But... I'm scared.. I don't want to be, but I'm just so scared!*

    Placing both hands over her heart, as its resounding ache afflicted her, tortured her, Teana could only make a feeble attempt to contain her spiraling, contradictory emotions. She felt genuinely torn, as the pressure continued to build deep inside of her, legitimately suffocating her, until she could scarcely even breathe!

                     *Yami... I don't know what to- It hurts.... It hurts so much....!*

     Feeling an expanding lump at the base of her throat, Teana swallowed with extreme difficulty! Tears were now flowing freely and openly, developing into an audible, uncontrollable sobbing; sobbing that even Teana herself was incapable of comprehending! Momentarily halting her retreat, she shut her eyes tightly, allowing Yami to approach her again.

                     “Shh.... It's all right... Please don't be afraid.” Yami pleaded again. “You mustn't fear me, Teana... You must try to understand; understand what can be seen yet can not be seen....  And you must remember these words when you awaken... Please, remember.... ”

     Wavering, Teana did try... With every ounce of courage that she possessed and with all her might, she managed to stand her ground; at least, for the moment.... And though she was uncertain of their meaning, Teana attempted to do as Yami had asked of her, to remember what he had said....

     She could now sense Yami's renewed closeness, as well as the fragile hope that she had heard, when he had called to her...warned her....

                     “Teana, I-” Yami began again.

     But as the tips of his now hesitant fingers gently caressed her cheeks, Teana could feel the intensity of her apprehension returning, despite her best efforts, as her instincts had immediately compelled her to flee!

                     “NO!! Get away!! Get away from me!!” Teana screamed.

     Moving backwards again, Teana was unable to maintain her balance any longer, as her trembling legs had completely given out... Yet, she found herself proceeding frantically, as she scrambled further and further away from Yami along the ground.

     Now standing over Teana, with one last mournful expression, Yami slowly lowered his outstretched arms, as his eyes, which remained as ghastly as ever, finally closed in surrendering, broken-hearted despair.

                     “I'm sorry, Teana...” Yami said softly, as he turned his back to her. “Please, forgive me...”

     Suddenly, Teana watched as the very shape of Yami's shadow had seemingly and impossibly taken on a life of its own; as it began to move both quickly and erratically beneath him! It first extended outward upon the ground, growing larger and larger, until it finally took the form of an enormous winged demon, more abominable and horrendous than even the deadliest of night terrors! A true, two headed monstrosity, it flashed its array of razor sharp fangs, its vicious talon like claws, and its massive arched horns; which appeared on each side of the more prominent of its grotesque faces! What was, perhaps, the most striking, and equally horrifying of all, was the fact that the beast now shared the same glowing red eyes that Yami had possessed; a truth that was made even more apparent, as this terrible, gigantic thing, towered high above them both!

                      “You...” Teana said with a vague sense of recognition. “You're the one I saw in- Oh gods... No... Yami! Yami, I'm so sorry! It wasn't you that I-”

     She then gasped as Yami slowly and willingly walked towards this threatening creature, which released a horrible, deafening laugh, as it accepted him, triumphantly!

                     “Yami, what are you doing?!” Teana exclaimed, as she rose to her feet. “Yami! No! Don't go!”

     Much like she herself had done, Yami stopped for the briefest of moments to glance behind... The violet shade of his eyes had finally returned, but as if the demon, or perhaps the darkness itself had stripped him of all sentiment, or even humanity, Yami could now only gaze at Teana with a grim, empty, emotionless expression.... And as he faced in the direction of the beast again, Yami continued his forward advance, until he slowly vanished, deep into the abyss; within the darkened core of the monster itself!

                     “Yami! Wait!” Teana cried, as she reached out for him again. “Yami! No! You can't go! Yami! YAMI!”

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Chapter 8b: Transcending Memories: A Bond Unsealed-Chapter 8b
A Yu-Gi-Oh Fan-fiction
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Author's Note (April 2015): Hello again everyone!  This will be a short commentary, given that this chapter was originally just one.  However, much like Chapter 4, Deviantart seems to have size limitations on text files, so I was forced to divide up the chapter into two segments instead.  Please check out the first half here:
And of course, if you haven't already, please read the previous installments of this work and let me know what you think! I'm always very very happy to receive comments and critiques! I really am trying to give this story my absolute best, especially after so many years, so any support and encouragement, is truly *truly* appreciated! Thank you again!
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Chapter 8b
                    “Ana... Ana! Hey! Wake up! Are you there?