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Chapter Text

Yugi stilled as he stared down at the piece of paper, then back up to his school principal. The word, valedictorian, teasing at him from the page and threatening to laugh him out the room. 

He had been called to the office at the end of class. Making him wonder if he broke an obscure school rule or had to cover for something Joey did. This was the last thing he expected. A piece of paper holding an immense weight of privilege he almost felt ashamed to possess. Not that he did anything wrong to obtain it, just that he never associated it with himself.

"Congratulations," said Mr. Katsuda, beaming down at him. "You've shown great improvement this year. It's well deserved."

"Thank you, sir..." said Yugi, breathless. "I never aimed for it..."

He knew his grades had gone up considerably. Throwing himself into his studies was how he coped with the new silence of his bedroom, but for the result to be this. 

A feeling of warmth engulfed his chest. If Atem were here, he would be proud. That fact alone made all the work worth it, whether or not the outcome was intentional. 

"You'll have to do the speech at the graduation ceremony, but I don't believe that will be an issue for you. Just take some time to think about what you want to say. Our librarian would be glad to read over it. Make sure you're prepared to have your photo taken at the podium. It's traditional to always include a picture of the valedictorian's speech in the yearbook." 

"Yes, sir..."

After a bit more discussion regarding the ceremony, and how Yugi can adjust his recent college applications, he left the principal's office in a daze. Stepping through the school hallways driven by muscle memory. Still trying to convince himself that what just happened was real and wondering how he was going tell his friends, or Grandpa, or anyone. 

"Yug's!" said a rough voice, breaking him back to reality. "What were you called up for man! I swear I didn't do anything to get you in trouble. At least, I think I didn't..."

"He means that if you've been blamed for something fishy, man. We have your back!" said Tristan, shaking his head.

Joey paced up to Yugi from the school entrance, Tea and Tristan close behind him and both equally as concerned. Causing Yugi's heart to warm at their concern.

"I'm... valedictorian," said Yugi, with a nervous smile. "Still processing it..."

Instead of shock, he was greeted with an uproar. Joey and Tristan lifted him off the ground while Tea laughed.  "About time! You're top of the class."

"We're getting burgers!" said Joey. Pointing towards the direction of burger world.

"I can walk guys!" said Yugi, struggling to balance on their shoulders. "Please!"

"Newly appointed valedictorians don't walk! Sorry man!" said Tristan. 

"I think I'm going to fall!"

Yugi's cries were ignored all the way to Burger World, nearly hitting his head on several shop signs while his friends focused on getting there as quick as their feet could carry them. Tea didn't help either, following along with the usual 'boys will be boys' smile that appeared whenever Joey and Tristan got up to their antics. 

Though the embarrassment and anguish vanished once they were seated at a booth, each gorging on large versions of their favourite burger combos. Joey then started a conversation about his latest duel monster's strategies as the rest of them laughed at some concepts. It was this happy mundane routine that Yugi thrived in. Though he couldn't deny the gap in his soul that his dearest friend had left behind. 

.........

When Yugi finally made his way home, belly filled and his brain entering a food coma after two hours at a burger joint, he thought he was going to bathe then head straight to bed. Too tired to desire much else.

Then he looked up at the store front. 

Odd... The game shop is usually open until 7pm on Tuesdays for social games night. Grandpa would never close early - unless something serious happened. 

A moment of worry stopped Yugi's heart, causing him to ignore his aching stomach and race to the door. Hoping his grandfather had only thrown his back out again. "Grandpa? Why are we closed? You okay?"

Not seeing anyone in the shop, he ran to the door leading to their upstairs apartment, leaping up the stairs and listening out for tell-tale groans of agony. Only to pause at the top step. 

He could hear his grandfather's voice chatting from the kitchen. "And there you see, Hayate. Business has been booming because of the rise of interest in these games - and you thought it would be a waste of time."

"I'm glad it's working out for you, Dad. Your insistence did you well. Now, what time did you say Yugi was coming home?"

Yugi's heart skipped a beat once more. The voice belonged to someone he hadn't seen in a very long time. He could feel sweat building up on the back of his neck as he took a deep breath, centering himself, before forcing his feet to step into the kitchen, but decided to stay close to the wall near the photo display rather than join the commotion in the center. 

The two men stood next to the kitchen bench, one twice the height of his grandfather. Yugi gulped as they both turned to face him, both lighting up as he made eye contact.

"Well, speak of the devil!" said his grandfather. Gesturing for him to come in. "Guess who decided to finally come home."

"I hope you have been well in yourself, Yugi," said the man. His sharp eyes taking in every inch of Yugi's features. "You've gotten a-lot bigger since I've seen you last."

"Uh..." said Yugi. His stomach falling to the depths of his feet. He put on his best smile. "Yeah, I've been fine, Dad! It's good to see you. Where's Mum?"

Yugi hadn't seen the man since the start of middle school. It had been so long he had nearly forgotten what he looked like. His dark hair was angled like his grandfather's, though with a tinge of gray creeping through, and eyes were sharp and inquisitive. He was so much taller than the rest of the Motou family - a gene from Yugi's grandmother. He also inherited her eyesight, as thick glasses rested on the rim of his nose.  

There was a faint memory of him being around when Yugi was younger, but never really in a hands-on manner. That was all done by his grandfather. His father too busy with work or too awkward around others to be at the frontline of parenting. Not that he didn't care... Just that he had other ways of showing it.

At least, that's what Grandpa said. Yugi felt a small lump building in his throat as he wondered what Atem would have thought of the man. 

His father smiled, then gestured out the door. "At the supermarket. She wanted to cook something more substantial for you and your grandfather... Oh, don't give me that look Yugi, we both know neither of you can cook a vegetable for the life of you."

"I've learned a thing or two over the past couple of years. I promise," grumbled Yugi, feeling blood rush to his cheeks. "We had a stir-fry last night."

"Then let your mother do what she likes for a while and take the night off. We need to catch up."

Yugi felt nausea at the thought. "I've already had dinner, sorry. I went out with friends. If I had known you were coming, I would have held off until I got home."

His father's face fell. " Oh... You were with friends?"

Yugi smiled. "Yeah. They're great. We hung out at burger world."

"Would I know them?"

"You've met Tea. There's also Joey and Tristan from my class. They're a bit rough, but you'll like them, I promise."

His face fell further. "If you say so, Yugi."

There was something in the way his father slumped forward that caused Yugi to frown. "Is everything okay? I'm gonna take a guess and say you just got off your flight, right? We still have some melatonin tablets from our last trip if you want to beat the jet lag."

The rustling of plastic bags sounded from downstairs followed by the click of heels on the steps and a tuneless hum signaled the return of another person he hadn't seen in a long time.

Yugi braced himself as a skinny woman of medium height strolled in, her mid-length hair neatly held together with hairspray as she turned her head. The humming stopped and her gaze settled on Yugi for the first time in six years. Time slowed as she placed the groceries on the kitchen counter then turned to face him. Her eyes taking in his entire form.

"Uh..." said Yugi. "Hi, Mum."

"Sweetheart," she said. He forgot she use to call him that. A small smile formed on her face. "You've grown so much."

"I guess," he shrugged.

His mother's gaze then turned to the hallway table behind him, staring longingly at the photos of Yugi's first year's of high school. Her eyes stopping on the photo of him on the podium of the Kaiba Corp Grand Championship. "I see someone's into dueling. It's become quite the phenomenon. Even in America it's all the kids talk about."

“Wished we had a chance to see a few matches,” said his father.

“Or turn on the television,” said his grandfather with an off tone. “Yugi is the World Duel Monster’s Champion. He had just defended his title before that photo was taken and that duel currently holds the record for most viewed televised duel in history. In fact…”

His grandfather crossed over his arms. “Our boy features in seven out of the top ten duels ever televised. I’m genuinely surprised neither of you have heard about his success considering how mainstream the game is becoming. Even in America."

Yugi felt his cheeks flush. Hearing his grandfather's tone - one where it sounded as if his parents were living under a rock - was not one he heard often. 

"Champion?" said his father, staring over at Yugi. "Really?"

"Well," said Yugi, rubbing the back of his head. "Always had my nose in a game. I just found I have a knack for duel monsters. It's a-lot of fun."

"I see..." said her mother. Her smile fading. 

It was starting to hit Yugi just how much his parents had missed. Over six years' worth of memories lay in those photograph's and not a single one contained an image of their faces. 

They weren't there during middle school - when he was bullied relentlessly and found himself gaming almost daily to distract himself.

They weren't there when he first solved the puzzle and met Atem.

They weren't there for duelist kingdom.

They were gone for every tournament and challenge he had faced after that.

And how was he going to tell them the truth? Should he even mention it?

His father cleared his throat and stared at another photograph, this one of his win at Battle City, his eyes wavering in concern over Yug and the large golden item hanging around his neck. He cleared his throat again, a little nervous this time. Leaning closer to get a better view of what he was looking at. 

"Yugi... Is that what I think it is? Did you solve the millennium puzzle? I knew you liked to play with that thing, but I wasn't aware it had been completed."

His voice shook, as if he was in the middle of an earthquake. Though Yugi brushed it off. Hoping it was a quality of his father he had forgotten about. 

"Uh... Yeah. I was working on it before you left, remember? I solved it at the start of high school. It got me a free trip to Egypt a few months back and is now with its rightful owners. Who knew something so valuable had been sitting in Grandpa's basement all this time, huh?"

"You went to Egypt?!" his father gawked. Fists clenching.

Yugi beamed, not noticing his father's reaction. "Yep! Got to have a tour of a tomb and everything. There was also this big ceremony done by these grave keepers! They believed it would put the spirit of a pharaoh to rest. It was pretty cool! I got to invite my friends and Grandpa!" It was a simplified version of the truth, but easier to explain than the 'an ancient pharaoh lived within me and occasionally possessed my body' reality.

His father glanced over at his grandfather. "I wasn't aware either of you went overseas..."

His grandfather smiled at Yugi, before turning back to his father with his old back straightening with pride "Yugi also got invited to America by Maximillion Pegasus because of his duelling skills. He got to stay with Professor Hawkins for a while. I think it did wonders for his confidence."

"If I had known you were in America, Yugi, your mother and I would have paid a visit." The tone of his voice dropping further.

"We stayed mostly in rural Texas," said Yugi with a shrug. "I was only in the city for a few days with Pegasus. Besides, you guys are tough to contact on a good day. We would have been flying home by the time you arrived."

"That's not what I..."

"Why don't I make some udon," said his mother, giving his father a look Yugi couldn't read. "You can help me peel the mushrooms, Sweetheart, while your dad catches up with your grandfather."

She dragged him by wrist to the kitchen. Leaving Yugi to wonder if he had done something wrong as his mother prattled on about the state of American food and how good it was to be home.

.................

Yugi wouldn't deny it. It had been a while since he ate a decent home cooked meal. The udon tasted good, salty with lots of mushroom. Just how his mother always made it back when he was a kid. He didn't think he had tasted it since elementary school. Slurping it up despite the protest from his already full stomach. Had it really been so long since he last saw his parents?

"So..." said his mother, leaning across the table closer to Yugi, the pitch of her voice changing slightly. "What's this about you going overseas? For solving the old puzzle in your grandfather's basement? Sounds like quite the story!”

Yugi shrugged as he finished slurping his udon. Her tone causing his stomach to churn at the question, as if he had somehow insulted his mother and was about to be sent to his room. Surely his dueling was a better topic to start with. He didn't really feel like explaining the last several years to his parents.

Thankfully, Grandpa was there to come up with a cover story.

"Our boy was invited to tour a tomb as thanks for returning a priceless artifact," he said with a proud nod. "He was also invited to visit Industrial Illusion's headquarters in Texas after winning Duelist Kingdom. Our Yugi has become quite the celebrity. It's partly why my business has been doing so well! All the customers come in hoping to get a glimpse of him."

"'Celebrity' is pushing it," said Yugi with a chuckle. "I've just won a couple hi-profile tournaments, and dueling has become so popular now that lots of people have been coming in asking for deck advice. I'm just happy to support new players where I can."

"I see..." his mother's smile became strained. "A tomb... and tournament winner."

"The tomb belonging to a pharaoh," muttered his father. His own voice still in its low tone from earlier.

Yugi gulped and glanced away. Again, unsure what he had done wrong. He placed his bowl down and did his best cheerful smile, words unable to come out of his mouth. Though Grandpa saved him once again. 

"Why don't you tell us what you have been up too? We were lucky if we heard from you once a month," said his Grandpa with earnest, trying to change the topic.

His parents paled slightly with his father answering. "Oh, you know. Business as usual at the bank. I could tell you a couple of repossession stories if you like, but they're not very exciting. Got to see the Statue of Liberty though."

"In six years, that's all you got to see?" said Yugi with a frown before turning to his mother. "What about you, Mum? I hear Americans love big weddings. They must have been fun to organise! I've seen TV shows with how over the top the weddings could get."

"It was more frustrating actually," said his mother, glancing away from him. "They are a very picky bunch. Much happier to be back in Japan."

Yugi and his Grandpa stared at them. Knowing they must have done anything else besides work. His parents glanced away under the scrutiny.

"Well, we occasionally also went out on the town. The night life is lovely in New York," said his father with a nervous chuckle and his mother sending him a pointed look.

"Tea wants to go to New York to study dance! She's obsessed with the place! Apparently, they have great bagels and donuts, did you try any?" said Yugi. Happy to find some common ground.

His parents paled further. 

"Uh... The food is large in size, but not very tasty. American food isn't great unfortunately. Though I'm sure Tea will do well if she wants to study there," said his mother.

Yugi then felt his ankle kick his school bag, suddenly remembering why he was so full in the first place. "Ah... almost forget. I'm still coming to terms with it... but I have some news." He reached down to his backpack, pulling out the paper the principal gave him earlier that day. He took another breath, then handed to his grandfather who was sitting nearest to him.

His grandfather paused as he read the form, squinting without his reading glasses, then an enormous smile erupted onto his features. 

He leapt from the table, crushing Yugi in an overbearing hug. "Valedictorian! That's my boy!" 

Yugi smiled and hugged him back. "I never saw it coming! The principle told me after class... I'm going to give a speech during the graduation ceremony as well."

"And you'll do wonderfully!" said his grandfather, patting him on the back. "You've always had a good head on your shoulders, and you have studied so hard this year. You've earned it! Well done!"

On the otherside of the table, his parents had gone quiet. Yugi looked up at their shocked expressions, only to notice how they seemed more uncomfortable than happy. His father staring at them with a frown, while his mother shifted in her seat.

Yugi felt the corners of his own smile falling, though his grandfather continued to prattle praise while affectionately rubbing Yugi's back.

"No wonder you overindulged at burger world. It must have been quite the party!"

"I wouldn't call it a party, but it was nice spending the afternoon with my friends," said Yugi. The chill in his chest warming at the memory of his friends. "We haven't had the chance to hang out like that since exam period started."

"And now you have the rest of the summer! I doubt I'll be seeing you all that much now the four of you have been let loose," said his grandfather with a shake of his head. "Any tournaments I can get free tickets too, at least?"

"Just the Japanese Nationals. I'll be handing prizes to the winners. Don't think I'll be allowed to compete until the Tokyo Championships in December," said Yugi. His gaze fell a little. One con of being the World champion was that he couldn't compete in the lower levels, and unfortunately there weren't that many tournaments in the 'professional' tier in his age bracket. 

He sighed. He was going to drown in tournament invitations once he turned eighteen. 

"So... no more travelling for a while then," said his father, not meeting Yugi's eye but sounding hopeful. 

"Well, next year is the Industrial Illusion Asian-Pacific Championship - which will be held in Seoul. Kaiba Corp is hosting a tournament in America. Then there is the International Duelist Pro-league which I will be expected to compete in, and I think that will be hosted by China next year. There is also the Japanese League which I thankfully won't need to travel for..." said Yugi, counting down on his fingers. 

"I see..." said his mother, sweat forming on her brow. "Lots of travelling then."

"Until I lose my title," said Yugi with a shrug. "I won't ask you guys to go if it worries you."

His mother's frown deepened, causing the chill to return. He glanced between the faces of his parents and contrasting smiles of his Grandpa and felt the sickening feeling of nausea return to his stomach as a thought crept into his head.

He didn't want to stay with his parents.

Yugi faked a yawn. "All that food is starting to get to me... I think I'll have an early night."

"I'm not surprised!" laughed his Grandfather. "You've had a big day."

"Uh... well, good night then," he turned to his parents. "Mum... Dad... We'll have to catch up tomorrow."

"Of course, we will. Your mother was hoping to go hiking outside the city. You're more than welcome to join us."

Yugi offered a small smile. "Sounds good. Well... night then."

He turned towards his bedroom, trying to slow his movements so not to appear too eager until he was at the end of the hallway and safely behind his bedroom door. Crumbling to the floor as soon as it closed behind him.

The sound of his own movements was all that reached his ears. He curled his chest forward and took a breath, focusing on being present and not the multitude of thoughts and emotions running through his head. Seeing his parents was not how he imagined this day to end. Though he couldn't recall the last time he expected to see them. 

And now he struggled to maintain eye contact with them. His own parents. 

The silence echoed back memories of not so silent afternoons, where Atem would always be available for discussion and advice. He used to lean on Yugi's desk as they talked or sat on his bed. There had been many jokes and heart-to-hearts held within this small four-walled space which Yugi craved when his own skill didn't seem like enough.

His back straightened at the sound of a loud sigh coming from his father in the kitchen. Still able to hear whatever was happening out there.

"What's on your mind, Hayate. You've barely talked after Yugi told us the good news. And what news at that! Our Yugi is valedictorian," said his Grandfather.

Yugi's chest warmed again at his praise. Though it was tampered moments later when his father spoke.

"He seems... Much more outgoing than I remember him."

"Well, yes. Yugi broke out of his shell once he made a few friends and got recognition for his gaming talent. The joys of growing up. I was similar at his age."

"It just seems alarming how different he is in such a short time..." said his mother.

"Five years isn't short for a child and fighting through challenges changes people. Especially the young. I'm just happy Yugi came out the other side smiling." said his Grandfather, Yugi could hear the smile in his voice.

"I guess..." muttered his father. 

"Don't worry so much! The two of you will be talking in no time. Just need to settle in first."

“I’m sure you’re right,” said his father.

Yugi's frown deepened as he curled his chest forward again, feeling a sense a nausea at what remained unsaid, and looking around the emptiness of his bedroom. It felt smaller in here when he was on his own. 

Chapter Text

Yugi got home wishing he had spent his Saturday with his friends rather than his parents.

He slugged through the door to the kitchen, happy his Mum and Dad decided to get ice-cream on the way back, giving him a chance to feign a lack of hunger and run ahead of them. A breath exhaled from his lungs as he made himself a drink of lemonade from the fridge. Planning to try and get in touch with Joey or Tristan and spend the night at Tea's house. They needed to get together for their post exam celebrations anyway...

"You're back early," said his Grandfather from the hallway, nearly causing Yugi to splash lemonade in his face. "How was the hike?"

Yugi tried to speak but nothing came out. He looked down at his lemonade, struggling to meet his grandpa's eye.

"So, it went as well as expected then," said his grandfather with a nod. "I know that look on your face, Yugi. What happened?"

Yugi frowned, almost ashamed how obvious his attitude towards parents must be. He tried to focus on the cool feel of his drinking glass as he spoke, carefully choosing his words so as not to speak ill of his parents. "We don't have much in common, and whenever I bring up something that I've done or my plans with my friends their attitude changes. Like I've insulted them. And the way they talk about America... it's like they haven't done anything besides work these past five years. We hiked in silence for almost the whole trip! It was awkward. And it shouldn't be like that since they're my parents!"

"And..." said his Grandfather, giving a pointed look.

"And" sighed Yugi, his shoulders slumping further. "I can't mention Atem. I'm not sure if I should even tell them... And it would answer the few questions they asked."

"His passing is still fresh, Yugi. It's only been six months," said his Grandfather. He placed a gentle hand on his shoulder. "It's normal to still be grieving. Your parents know something is off with you, but they think it's related to all your achievements which is why they are acting funny when they're brought up. Give them time."

"But all those achievements are related to him," muttered Yugi. "Bringing them up feels like tearing off a band aid. It also feels like lying."

"Not mentioning a fact isn't lying about it," said his Grandfather. "Again. Give it time. Mention the Pharoah once you're all settled together and it won't be such a shock."

Before Yugi could reply, the shop door rang open and the echo of his parent's banter filled the room. He pursed his lips, not wanting to spend more time with them.

"I'm calling Joey," said Yugi. "Might spend the night at Tea's if her parents are still away."

His Grandfather nodded. "Okay. Just let me where you will be tomorrow afternoon. There's somewhere I wanted to take you before your graduation. It's a bit of a tradition in our family."

As feet pounded up the steps, Yugi nodded. "Okay Grandpa. I'll keep my afternoon free."

He gripped his lemonade tight as he turned to his room. Shutting the door the moment his parents made it into the kitchen.

..............

Tea's parents were constantly away overseas for work, similar to Yugi's, and on the rare occasion they were in Japan they would stay at one of their holiday homes in the country. Making her spacious apartment in the more upmarket area of Domino, ideal for the occasional all-gang sleepover when Yugi's place was out of commission.

And Yugi doubted his parents would appreciate rowdy teenagers while they recover from Jetlag.

"This..." said Tristan, gesturing to their stockpile of snacks, drinks and hot pot ingredients. "Is the best way to end our exams. Hallelujah!"

"Smartest thing you've said all day," said Joey, who was helping Yugi set up the Nintendo system for MarioKart and Karaoke.

Tea walked in with a couple boardgames - a few classics that Yugi could see and one of the latest releases from the game shop. "This was a great idea, Yugi. We needed the chance to wind down after all those tests."

"All right," said Joey. He put on his best Elvis impression. "I say Karaoke first. Thank you... Thank you very much!"

"It's the current pop hits, not 50's," laughed Yugi.

"Then hit me baby! Let's go," Joey reached for one of the mic's and threw one to Yugi.

"Guess we're starting with Britney Spears," laughed Tea, as she and Tristan picked up their own mic's.

At that moment, Yugi felt his phone vibrate in his pocket. He sighed, "One moment guys. Don't start without me!"

He stepped into the hallway. "Hello?"

'Yugi! Where are you? It's almost eight o'clock," It was his mother.

"I'm at Tea's place, with the gang," said Yugi curtly. "Going to spend the night here after a games night. I told Grandpa before I left."

"Really, Yugi? It's our second night back and you're spending it with your friends."

"It's our end of exam celebrations! I can't not join in. And I spent the whole day with you already."

"Fine... Just, promise you'll be home tomorrow."

"You'll have to check with Grandpa. He said he wants to show me something. A family tradition?"

He heard his father groaning in the background, Yugi must have been on loudspeaker. "You're going to take him there! I can't believe you were planning to do that."

His Grandfather piqued up. "Unlike you two, Yugi shares my love for games. He'll have a blast!"

"You could have consulted us first... and letting him spend the night at a friend's place on our second night here?"

"He's about to graduate high school, Hayate. Yugi is old enough to make his own choices. I'm not holding him on a leash just because you finally decided to come back home."

His mother sighed. "Fine. We'll discuss this later. Just call us tomorrow morning so we know you're okay."

"Alright, see you tomorrow," said Yugi.

He put the phone back in his pocket and turned back to his friends, only this time they stared at him with concern. Mic's down.

"You okay, Yug's," said Joey. His mic dangling off the edge of the coffee table.

"Ah... yeah. My parents are home and..." started Yugi, raising a hand to his head with a sheepish smile.

His friends leapt from the couch, yelling in unison and nearly knocking over the snack bowls. "Your parents!"

Yugi sighed, looking away. "Yes, my parents. They are back from the States. It's complicated."

"Say no more!" said Tristan, throwing Yugi a mic. "Let's get back to it. You look like you need some Britney."

"Hit me baby!" yelled Joey, pumped up again and raising his mic into the air. "WE got no more exams! Finishing school in less than two weeks! And...." he pointed his mic at Yugi. "We have a Valedictorian in the gang! We need to party."

"What he said," laughed Tea. Shrugging her shoulders and winking at Yugi, causing him to flush.

He smiled back and took the seat next to her. Deciding to forget about his parents and focus on the night. Good food, games, karaoke... It was the best way to finish this crazy Saturday.

...................

Yugi staggered a little when he stepped into the game shop, barely making it in by the afternoon like he promised his grandfather. They had been up until four in the morning...

He stretched his back. Tea's couch wasn't the best to sit on a good day, let alone to sleep on. But he was the only one short enough to fit on it.

An old voice sounded from the counter. "I take it someone had a good night."

Yugi looked up and gave his grandfather a sheepish grin. "Yeah. Lots of boardgames and karaoke."

His grandfather laughed. "Don't worry, I trust you. I'm just glad you made it back on time. You forgot to message your mother, by the way. She was in a tizz and me reminding her you're almost an adult did nothing."

"So, I've been warned before I see her," sighed Yugi.

"Something like that," laughed his grandfather as he wiped down the counter sides with a spray bottle.

It was only then Yugi actually looked around the store. The tables were empty with no players, and the till was set up as if it had already been counted for the day. "You're closing this early?"

"Well, how else am I supposed to go out with you?" said his grandfather, putting the spray bottle away. "I hope you don't mind going for a walk again. You'll probably need your backpack because it's quite the hike."

Yugi groaned. "Don't mention hiking! I'm pretending yesterday morning didn't happen!"

"Hohoho!" laughed his grandfather causing Yugi to hang his head even further.

The trip was a bit of a walk - hike was stretching it. Though maybe for his grandfather, who was a huffing by the time they got there, it may have been appropriate.

Yugi looked around and shrugged his backpack into a more comfortable position. It was one of Dominos many storage facilities - 'Stock'em High Storage'. Located near the docks and close enough to the water to hear the sea. The air smelt dusty and humid, typical for this time of year, with a tinge of dampness that would only make sense in a place filled with forgotten items.

"This is it!" said his grandfather, looking excited. He moved ahead of Yugi. "Come on. It's storage room 034."

Yugi squinted at the mention of 034. His grandfather must have had this storage for a while to have a number so low. At least since his father was in high-school if the 'family tradition' was to be believed.

He caught up to his grandfather, who seemed to regain a few years of his life and was moving at twice his usual pace.

"Here it is," he said with a smile, standing proud with hands on his hips. 'Room 034' staring back at him in bright yellow writing on a black door. Different from the brown on the rest of the compound. "I had to get the anti-humidifier room to protect them all."

"What kind of antiques need anti-humidity?" said Yugi with a tilt of his head.

"Ancient ones, my boy. You don't think all the games I collected on my travels just poofed out of existence, do you?"

Yugi felt his draw drop, his shoulders slumping. "You mean, the games you played in all your stories? The ones against monks and princes and whatnot?"

His grandfather pouted as he pulled out a key from his overall pocket. "They weren't just stories. I did find your puzzle, didn't I."

Yugi chuckled. "Yes, Grandpa. Sorry."

"You better be..." the lock clicked opened. "Now hurry in. We can't keep it open for long."

They hurried in, his grandfather shutting the door open and flicking on the light.

Yugi gasped at the sight. Piled high all around them were leather boxes, most just larger than the average game board and several smaller rectangle packs, and each labelled with names he only heard in his grandfather's stories.

Viking Chess - Hnefatafl, Go - Pieces dated 200BC, Mancala -Israel, Chaturanga -India, Patole - Mesoamerica...

"Wow!" said Yugi, almost as out of breath as his grandfather. Reaching for the viking chess box and inspecting the stone pieces in his hands. "All of these... You kept them!"

"Absolutely!" said his grandfather, opening a box of old chess pieces that looked like they were made of bone and inspecting a few pieces himself. "These are pieces of history and need to be kept safe."

"I don't believe it!" said Yugi. Opening yet another box, revealing what looked like an old Chinese game his grandfather use to tell him about - featuring stunning images of old dragons on tile pieces. "These are from all your travels... I remember the stories, but I didn't think you kept everything you found."

His grandfather laughed. Gesturing to a black box behind Yugi labelled 'Tomb - 1960'. "Oh, yes. I kept everything. Professor Hawkins wants to put them on display now that gaming is mainstream. I'm thinking it is a great idea! A special exhibit featuring an expansive collection of games from around the world."

"That sounds perfect!" said Yugi with an ear-to-ear smile. Turning around to open the black box pointed out by his grandfather, noting that it seemed a bit smaller than the others, and delicately taking off the leather lid. He stared at the contents, and as he registered what it he was looking at, his smile faded.

"What is..." he turned back to his grandpa. "It can't be."

"It's yours," said Grandpa. He gestured for Yugi to take it out. "You need a memento of the pharaoh besides that empty puzzle box, and I found that near the millennium puzzle in his tomb. I forgot about it until recently, but I think it was meant for you now."

Yugi tentatively reached in to pull out a golden crown, featuring an eye as the centerpiece in the forehead and a brilliant pair of wings spreading out from the sides. It felt cold and heavy in his hands, and time had taken away its original brilliant sheen, but it also felt real. Evidence of Atem's existence he could touch. An item he wore in his life. On instinct, Yugi pulled it close to him.

"I also believe it doesn't fit the gaming theme, don't you?" said his grandfather with a nod. "Would look a bit odd in the exhibit, and gold is fine out of the humidity room. It was made in Egypt, after all."

Tears started to prick at his eyes. "Thank you, Grandpa..."

"Come here," said his grandfather, pulling Yugi into a tight hug. "Better off with you than on display. But I suggest putting it back in the box and hiding it from your parents. They're a bit superstitious about these things."

Yugi hugged back, trying not to cry. "Is that why Dad is weird about the puzzle?"

"Unfortunately. Not sure why," his grandfather took a step back, cupping Yugi's cheek. "Anyway, you have done both me and the Pharoah proud. Don't let the strange antics of your parents get the better of you."

"I'll do my best," said Yugi with a chuckle.

"And I'll keep reminding them you're not in middle school," grumbled his grandfather. "They think they need to know your whereabouts at all times, as if you don't know the city better than they do. They'll come around but it will take time."

"You say that a-lot," said Yugi, wiping away a tear. "It'll take time. I know."

"Just be patient. That's all I ask," his grandfather gestured to the exit. "It's getting late. Put that crown in your bag and we will get going. Don't want to give your parents another heart attack."

Yugi laughed, giving the crown one final squeeze before placing it back in the box, and in turn, in his bag. He had just the spot in mind for it. Near the puzzle's old case next to a picture of Atem - a small shrine dedicated to the Pharoah. An idea from his grandfather to help him grieve. Yugi wasn't sure if it helped, but it was nice keeping the mementos together.

He gulped. Wondering if his parents would understand if they found it.

They talked all things gaming on the way back. With his grandfather going into great detail about potentially using Yugi's reputation to market the exhibition. An idea which Yugi fully supported. Anything to garner interest in the old game collection.

"I'm getting excited just thinking about it," said Yugi as they finally walked through the doors of the shop. "We have to ask Joey to name the exhibit. He's good at that type of stuff and would love to help out."

"We'll need his creative genius," laughed his grandfather, falling into step behind Yugi. "And a bit of muscle never hurt either."

They treaded up the stairs. "I'll get the whole gang involved. It will be our summer project before the tournaments start."

A loud cough sounded from the kitchen the moment they turned the corner causing them both to jump. "I hope that summer project was worth the late-night trip."

His parents stood, arms folded, piercing eyes tearing through the both of them behind their glasses. Hayate raised an eyebrow in Yugi's direction and leaned on the kitchen bench with a sigh.

"It's a school day tomorrow, Yugi," he said, frowning.

"I'm going to bed," grumbled Yugi. A hand unconsciously tightening on his backpack handle. "And I've already finished my exams. We're just preparing for graduation with some university prep and career guidance. Nothing to stress over."

"It's nine o'clock."

"My normal bed-time. Goodnight," said Yugi, feeling the weight of Atem's crown on his back and eyeing the door to his bedroom. "See you in the morning."

"Yugi..." said his mother. Her demeanor loosened at his tone.

"It's a school day tomorrow," said Yugi. Parroting his father. "I need to go to sleep."

He walked past her, trying to get to his room, when his mother's hand reached out to his shoulder. Dangerously close to his backpack. Causing Yugi to stiffen and clench his fists.

"We know you have been busy. But you should still remember to call us when you are out late, okay?" she said. Her expression softening.

Yugi smiled back. "Sorry, I forgot earlier. I overslept and didn't get home until midday. I'll try and get into the habit."

"You better," said his father. "Our hearts will give out before our time if you don't."

Yugi gave a mock salute before finally making it to his bedroom. Taking his backpack off once he was safely inside. Even going to far as to lock the door. He took another breath, grateful for the solitude.

He glanced over at the small shrine space on his desk, the sheen from the puzzle's old box and the picture of Atem - him casually leaning on a wall and smiling at the camera with the puzzle in full view - taken by Tea near the arena entrance while they were waiting to duel against Leon at the KC Grand Championship. Neither of them knew it, but that would be the last time they would duel together as a team before they finally took that trip to Egypt.

He got to work. Deciding he needed to change the location of his memorial just in case his parents ever walked in. Maybe behind curtain in contact with the sun? The Pharoah was supposed to be the sun god on earth, right?

Yugi shook his head. No, there was a good chance it would then be seen from the street. 

He let go of the bag and reached for his alarm clock, moving it to his desk - he never used it anyway.

As he made space for Atem's memorial, moving his things from the side table to his desk and dragging the sidetable over to the free space next to his wardrobe, which would mean his parents would have to sitting on his bed for them to see it, a shiver ran up his spine.

He stopped. Taking a breath and looking around.

But his room was still mostly the same. Textbooks still lined up in order of his exams. Wardrobe still sporting the same Astroboy stickers his grandma gave him when he was little. Maybe she would have known what to do with his parents if she were still alive?

He chuckled as an odd image entered his thoughts. Perhaps Atem had met his headstrong Grandmother in the afterlife? She used to love Egypt - it's where she met Grandpa - and would have been right at home wondering around his palace or the city. Possibly even talking his ear off about all the history he missed out on.

Then it happened again. A shiver up his spin. That feeling of eyes on his back.

He looked around again. His room and the astroboy stickers the same as before.

A sigh escaped his lips, and he got back to moving the side table. Finally putting it in place next to the wardrobe. He thought for a minute before taking the box out of the bag and placing it on top as a base, then the puzzle box with their old cards safe inside, and the picture, in all its glory, sitting proud on top.

He smiled, then quickly looked around again. His curtains were closed. There was no camera looking at him... The only 'eyes' that seemed to be staring in his direction were Atem's and Astro's.

With a shake of his head, he changed into his pajamas and made his way to bed, falling into an uneasy sleep despite his exhaustion.

Chapter Text

School brought some normality to the household. Probably because Yugi wasn't around his parents long enough to stir up any tension. That, and he would use any excuse to avoid getting home straight after school.

Monday was easy. He had Duel Monsters Club at school - and as the president, he had to go.

Tuesday was Basketball with his friends. They already sensed he was avoiding his parents and were supportive.

Wednesday was tricky - as his friends weren't available, but he was able to hang out at the library to write his graduation speech.

Thursday- he had a call with Pegasus about the Japanese National Tournaments. He took the call at the local library and just let Pegasus talk, as that was what the man liked to do. Didn't get home until it was well past dinner time.

He had managed the week with minimal contact so far. Now it was Friday. He got up extra early to have breakfast before his parents woke up, excuse at the ready. Just meeting up with Tea before school starts. It wasn't a lie.

His backpack felt heavy despite the lack of textbooks, almost as if it knew what he was doing. Inanimate objects were starting to judge his avoidance behavior.

Even his toast seemed dry with disappointment. He sighed, not wanting to bother with a time-consuming breakfast. The longer he stayed, the higher chance he had of bumping into...

The thump of steps came from the hallway. "You're up early again. Is... that all you're having for breakfast? Not even a cup of coffee?"

Yugi suppressed a groan. Plan ruined.

He turned to his father, fake smile at the ready. "Yeah, Tea and I like taking our time before school."

His father leaned on the kitchen bench, then said, calm and blunt. "Are you two a couple?"

Yugi staggered, nearly dropping his toast and knowing damn well his face was flushing red. "Wha... No! We've been walking to school together since we started high school."

"Sure," said his father, his tone suggesting he didn't believe him. "In that case, I can make you some coffee and Tea can wait ten minutes."

He opened the cabinet next to Yugi, pulling out a plain blue travel mug and a coffee strainer with some coffee ground. Flicking on the kettle at lightning speed.

"That's not necessary," said Yugi. Wondering where all the coffee equipment came from. He and his grandfather almost never drank any at home.

"I know what you're doing," said his father as he prepared the coffee strainer. "I get it. Your mother and I haven't been home and your about to experience one of the biggest challenges of your life. Graduating is a big deal! And it's difficult dealing with family during this time."

"Uh..." said Yugi, taking a step back.

"But we do support you in your studies, and your dueling, and whatever else it is you want to do. We might not fully understand yet, but you avoiding us isn't going to provide further clarity."

Once again, Yugi faltered at the direct call-out. "I'm not avoiding you!"

His father only had to raise an eyebrow in silence to address his point. The kettle tab clicked up, indicating it finished boiling. He poured the water into the strainer.

"Okay, fine," admitted Yugi. "Maybe a little..."

With a sigh, his father poured the coffee into the travel mug, put on the lid and handed it to Yugi. Not so much as bothering with cream or sugar. "Why don't you get home on time today so we can get all this out in the open. We're worried about you, Yugi. You seem stressed despite your exams being over. It's not healthy."

I'm stressed because of what I can't talk to you about. Thought Yugi. And I barely understand it myself.

Though his father stood next to him, leaning on the kitchen bench, arms crossed, with a defiant look that meant 'no' wasn't going to be an answer. Yugi stared down at the travel mug, then back up at him.

"Okay. I'll postpone things with my friends until the weekend," sighed Yugi, defeated. 

His father nodded. "Wonderful. It will be nice to have you home... and outside your room. Your mother was threatening to tear it apart yesterday to drag you out."

"Yes... I can do that too," chuckled Yugi. The image of Atem's memorial being ransacked running through his mind.

"See, wasn't so hard was it?" said father, patting his shoulder and winking. "Now go and have a good time with Tea."

"It's not like that!"

"I was sixteen once, too, Yugi, and Tea's a good girl. Keep at it," said his father, ruffling Yugi's hair and walking back down the hallway towards the spare bedroom. Leaving Yugi to stare at where he was standing.

He shook his head, tightening his grip on the travel mug and glancing over at his toast - probably cold by now, but also unappealing. He needed to get out of here. He turned around and bounded downstairs to get outside.

Stepping out onto the street and breathing in the humid morning air felt like an escape from prison. Tea wouldn't be ready for a while, so Yugi was going to take his time to her place. The walk was pleasant, and he knew a few routes off the main road with trees and a park where he could drink his coffee. After meeting up with Tea, they would meet Joey at a breakfast stand then meet Tristan at the gate entrance.

He took a sip of the drink his Dad made as he started to walk, the mellow bittersweet flavor surprising him. Guess his father had a hobby after all. 

The street was quiet, another benefit to waking up so early. The only noise being his steps echoing of the storied buildings and early morning office workers rushing to reach the train. He saw a few shop put out 'open' signs - mostly coffee shops at this hour - with the long apron workers looking as tired as Yugi felt. 

After walking for a while, he made it to the park, about halfway to Tea's place. The cherry trees bloomed last season, so they stood tall with dark branches and only a sprinkle of pink among their green leaves. A few dog walkers hung around the greenspace, but the bench was empty under one of the larger trees so Yugi decided to sit down. Taking another sip of coffee as he did so and enjoying a small moment with nature in the city. He placed his school bag at his feet and tried to relax into the seat. 

A shiver ran up his spine. The same as the night Grandpa gave him Atem's crown. And that feeling that a pair of eyes were glued to his back.

He stilled, tightening his grip on the travel mug and looking around. Staring at every dogwalker and far off city window within view, hoping it was just another stranger starting their day.

The park was the same. A Shibu Inu was tugging it's owner out of view and the people on the nearby street all had their eyes forward or on their cellphones. Not even the birds were looking in his direction. 

Yugi shook his head. It had to be his imagination. The anxiety from dealing with his parents getting to him. There was nothing to worry about.

He took a deep breath, trying to calm himself down. Now that Bakura had been dealt with, there was no one who could possibly be interested in...

That's when a rag covered his mouth and he tasted chloroform, forcing him to drop the coffee his dad made for him and making the world go black.

.............

A faint ticking sound rang out in Yugi's ear when he slowly came too. His body felt heavy, cold and damp, as if he had gone swimming in his school uniform. He tried to stretch his shoulders, feeling hard wood underneath him. The air was musky and humid, almost sticky to breathe in, causing him to cough.

"Well... Looks like our guest is awake. Sorry for the lack of hospitality, Mr. Motou, but there are few appropriate places in the city to conduct our business. Hope it's not too uncomfortable," the voice belonged to an unfamiliar man with an accent.

Yugi blinked his eyes open, noticing the dark wooden surroundings and lack of furniture. Imprints of large frames were on the peeling wallpaper, as if some long-term paintings had been removed. He could make out a thick layer of dust across the floor and hidden in the nooks and crannies. It seemed to Yugi that wherever he was, it had been abandoned some time ago.  There was no sign of his school bag, or his travel mug. He doubted whoever took him bothered to pick them up at the park.

He tried to move but thick rope kept his hands and feet bound, causing him to grit his teeth.

"Hey! No need for that. We want to keep this easy, don't we, Mr. Mutou."

A masked man walked over into Yugi's view, dressed in dark foreign clothes. There was an unfamiliar mark on his mask - certainly not of Japanese design. Yugi glared at his direction. Only now realizing the man was speaking with an American accent. He didn't sound like Joey, or any Texan he met when visiting professor Hawkins and Rebecca. 

"Who are you?" coughed out Yugi. "What do you want?"

"Give us a second," this time it was a woman - no, a girl - wearing a more form fitting version of the man's attire and sporting the same accent walking into his view.

She brought out white chalk and started drawing a circle around him, along with various foreign occult-like symbols. "Sorry about this, but we need you awake for the ritual and the less you move around the easier it will be."

She didn't sound very sorry.

"Why are you doing this?" coughed Yugi. "I don't even know who you are!"

The girl answered, though she didn't so much as glance in his direction, her focus remaining on the circle being drawn around him. "After what those fools did to our grandfather... well, we now need a pure soul to get him back. And you, Mr. Motou, will be ideal for it. A pure soul and revenge in one swoop. You understand?"

"Not really."

"You will soon. I recommend taking it easy. Grandfather doesn't like bruises, so he may give you his blessing if you cooperate."

The man came back into view with a large bag, his large hands pulling out a few items. A horse sculptor, a bronze pendant, a skull, and placed them on certain symbols as her accomplice drew them.

Yugi felt his limbs go numb as each object was placed down. Each item adding extra weight on his chest in an environment that was already difficult to breathe in. He tried to struggle but could barely find the strength to roll over.

"That should do it!" said the man. He dusted the chalk from his hands. "I think gramps is going to like his new body. Young, fit, male, pure soul..." He counted an invisible criteria on his fingers.

Yugi almost went into a coughing. New body?! His body?!

"Is this really necessary?" huffed Yugi, finding it harder to breathe.

"Oh, yes!" said the girl in a high-pitched tone. Yugi could hear her smile underneath the mask. "Grandfather is going to love you! An ideal body and pissing off the hunters in one ritual. It is more than we could have hoped for! The hunters will be coming after us with full force, but it will be worth it, I think."

They circled around him and started to stretch. "Ready to begin?" said the girl to the man. Placing her hands into position in the air.

"You know I am!" said the man with a chuckle, matching her stance.

"Wait!" called out Yugi.

They continued to circle, muttering in an unfamiliar language which made Yugi's hair stand on end, but after a few moments of them stepping, circling and waving their hands in strange patterns... he found it easier to breathe. As if whatever was causing the pressure was being removed.

Yugi shifted an inch to a more comfortable position and stared as they moved around him, unsure what to expect.

They continued this for a few more minutes, their actions growing sharper and breaths harsher as time passed. This kept going...

...and going.

After a while, Yugi found himself counting the number of lines in the wood next to him. He glanced back up at his captors, noticing trickles of sweat underneath their masks. The strong pitch of their voices dropping with each lap around the circle and arms falling lower.

Yugi couldn't see their faces, but if he could... well, they weren't as excited as before.

"It's not working..." the girl muttered and arms dropping. She stopped her walk and fell to her knees with a gasp. "There is a powerful barrier on his soul, but it doesn't match the signature of his parents or any spirit I've worked with. I doubt it belongs to one of the three types. It must be a lone guardian."

"Shit! And whoever did it is much stronger. What ritual did those hunters perform? Or did they sign a contract with a more powerful spirit to protect their son?" said the man, leaning close to Yugi as if to inspect him.

"Have you ever known those stick-in-the-muds to make spiritual deals? This is something else," said the girl. She reached out to poke Yugi in the chest. "Something even the Hunters don't know about."

Spiritual deals? Hunters?

Yugi blinked. Trying to process what they were saying and feeling the slow rise of panic building in chest.

"This is awful! We finally found the son of those spirit-hunters and his pure soul will make him the perfect vessel, and he has a barrier on his soul? Never thought one of their own would break hunter laws."

It was at this point Yugi's heart fell to his stomach. Nausea slowly creeping around his insides as he processed the information he had just heard, finally connecting all the dots.

A spirit was destroyed by hunters. That spirit was their grandfather.

And Yugi was the son of those hunters.

His Mum and Dad... hunted evil spirits and destroyed them? That's what they have been doing this entire time. His dad didn't work with a bank and his mother didn't plan weddings?

The reality of his life shifted in his head at the thought.

That's why they were so nervous about the puzzle and his trip to the tomb in Egypt. Why they were more focused on that than his achievements in the dueling arena or the newfound valedictorian status he was still trying to get use too. It's what they have been working with for the past five years, and in turn, what they looked out for.

"My parents are exorcists. Is that what you are saying?" he muttered, dazed.

They raised their heads, pausing their conversation to stare at him in silence.

"You really know nothing," said the woman with eyebrows raised. "No wonder our counters to your barriers aren't working. They weren't placed by your parents or their friends... Strange. And of course, that would mean spirits would be free to make contracts with you. Your pure soul would make you ripe for any free-floating spirit in need of a purifying vessel. "

She circled him, again. Making him wonder about these 'barriers'. He hated this. Being unable to do much besides wait out until help 'hopefully' arrived. Whenever that happened.

Made him wish Atem was here to do the talking...

She stopped moving. "Who's that?

Now Yugi stared at her, confused as much as they were earlier.

"I see a man in your mind who looks like yourself, but isn't you. Who is it?" she tipped her head to the side.

Yugi winced, and lied, mind reading just being added to his list of weird things that happened today. "Uh... yeah. He was... my brother. Well, cousin, but he was more of a big brother. He passed almost six months ago now..."

He focused his mind, trying to control his thoughts. Trying to keep the picture of Atem as he was in the modern day and not the past.

It seemed to work.

"Sorry for your loss..." she nodded, the sentimental tone causing Yugi's nerves to stand on end. "That would explain it. The dead always leave a mark on those closest to them. No wonder the barriers are strong," she paused. "Your parents were not aware of his death. Correct?"

Yugi turned away, trying to act both ashamed and sad, to catch their sympathy. "I haven't brought it up yet. They were away so long. I don't think they even know he stayed with us... Doubt we would have received their approval, if you catch my meaning. My brother was a bit rebellious on a good day," Yugi let it roll off the tongue. Seeing the lady nod, accepting his answer.

"I understand..." she muttered, her eyes glazing over. "They did not approve of us either."

The girl turned to the masked man. "We won't be successful here."

The man sighed. "I agree... Shame, it was a good idea. Despite this particular hiccup. We'll have to look elsewhere..."

A loud noise, the sound of a door being blown open, vibrated beneath them followed by a barrage of steps heading up the stairwell. Screams of orders and commands made in unison. They had been discovered.

The man swore under his breath then signaled to the woman, who sighed in disappointment before scrambling for the few occult items they scattered about previously. Done with such calm Yugi wondered how often she had done it before.

"See ya later, kid. You have some luck... I never knew your brother, but he sure is one powerful soul."

Yugi gave a nervous smile, attempting to ignore the 'is' in the man's statement. "He was always a bit overprotective."

He then nodded at Yugi, before following the women out the room and - presumably - out whatever way they came in that didn't involve the front door downstairs.

Yugi sighed, relishing this moment alone. Thoughts of Atem and his parents flooding his brain as his instinct for survival faded. He hung his head back. Focusing on his breathing and not his exhaustion.

The mark from Atem he could accept. A small gesture to ensure Yugi's safety before his partner moved onto the afterlife. The decision to move on was difficult on them both, and he couldn't judge a man trying to make peace before his death.

But his parents... what was he supposed to believe?

"I found the boy. Over and out," said an authoritative voice followed by the crackling of a walkie talkie.

Yugi glanced up to see a police officer with his gun drawn and scanning the room. The sight relieving a weight from his chest.

"I'm okay," he called out, wiggling his tied together hands. "Untie me, please! I want to go home!"

...............

Stepping out into the open air, he tasted the cool taste of freedom in his lungs and the lights of Domino City in the distance. Much better than the musty tinge of what Yugi now knew was an abandoned apartment building. It was late, the sky was dark, and the streetlights had been turned on. Surrounding him was a small force of officers - one of them holding his school bag and another gently pushing him out the house. Most in collective chatter about whatever job they had next.

"Yugi!" his mother rushed over, squeezing him into thunderous hug. "Are you alright?"

"Yeah. Will be sore tomorrow though," Yugi choked back, unable to look at her. Still struggling to believe what he just found out.

"Yug's!"

Yugi looked over his mother's shoulder to see Joey and Tristan muscling their way past the police towards him. Their eyes lined purple with lack of sleep.

"Guy's!" Called out Yugi, pulling away from his mother and staggering towards them. "Are you okay? You look exhausted."

"Says the dude who can barely stand up," muttered Tristan, eyeing the red lines on Yugi's wrists. "Anyhow. Tea will be here soon. She was the one who notified everyone you were missing and has been looking for you with a bunch of classmates on the other side of town. They'll be happy to hear we found you."

"Yeah..." said Joey with a knowing smirk. "Something about you never failing to walk with her to school. It's paying off."

Yugi cheeks tinged pink. "I'm just glad none of you got hurt. The people who took me don't seem like a friendly bunch."

Joey shrugged. "Can't be less friendly than Kaiba, right? And as if we would leave you alone with weirdos. We both know how that turns out."

"That's true," said Yugi, finding it in him to laugh.

He moved away from his mother towards them wanting to discuss everything he saw. There were no secrets from his friends regarding the strange and supernatural happening in his life. But a side eyed glance at his parents made him think otherwise.

Maybe he should have the full story first - but he could mention everything non-family related. He turned back, making sure his mother wasn't listening in, before telling what he could to his friends. He also needed to make a phone call to his grandfather, given what he knew had to happen next.

From inside the building, his father came running outside, bags under his eyes and slightly unruly. He was huffing by the time he made it to the gate, as if he had been running much further than just the inside of the abandoned apartment building. 

"Atsuko... We have a problem!" said Hayate, pushing himself past the police towards his wife. "There was a sacrificial circle up where Yugi was held. It was unsuccessful, but I don't know why. Is he okay?"

His mum glanced over at Yugi, who was now out of earshot and had made his way over to his friends outside the gate. They were talking in low tones, the tall blonde one listening with a hand on Yugi's shoulder. 

Atsuko nodded, accepting their son couldn't hear them, she whispered to her husband. "Any sign of who did it?"

"It's consistent with the Pellorsi family from Wisconsin. The white chalk and bilateral symmetry is the traditional style they follow. Very out of fashion with most other supernatural families. I wonder if they tracked us here after what happened to Lawrence?"

"But why target Yugi? Unless..." His mother's expression darkened.

"Exactly. That's my concern as well," Yugi's father pushed up his glasses, expression unreadable.

Yugi's blonde friend waved at them from the gate. Pulling them out of the conversation.

“You two alright?” he called out. “We can get Yug’s to the police station, no problem. He’s light enough to carry. I found his phone at the park earlier, so now we're just waiting for him to finish making a call to Gramps.”

Outside the fence, Yugi was on his cell phone with a serious expression. Which meant his grandfather currently knew more about what had happened to him than Atstuko and Hayate - a sad state of their current reality.  Their expressions hardened. 

“Ah… I would rather we take him,” said Atsuko, pushing her hands together, nervous.

“Sounds good! I'll call a maxi cab for all of us,” said Tristan with a nod. "Yugi still needs to make a police report. We can meet Tea there."

Joey leaned close to him. “Of course, Yugi would want Tea to tend to his wounds.”

"No, sorry," said Hayate, waving his hands in the air. "We mean that we want to take Yugi home. It's almost midnight."

The two friends pursed their lips. The blonde one speaking first. "If you say so, but just so you know, Yug's is short but tough. He is capable of a-lot more than he looks."

"Hey everyone, Grandpa is just glad we're okay," said Yugi, staggering back over. 

He glanced between his parents and friends, then a jolt went up his spine at the realization that this is the first time they have met each other. He turned them, " Uh... Sorry. Mum, Dad, this is Joey and Tristan. I've talked about them..."

"Yugi," said his mother, walking over to him and dragging him by the arm. "We need to go home."

Joey and Tristan shared a look, one of realization. With Yugi suspecting they finally caught on as to why Yugi was avoiding his parents.

"Wait... but..." started Yugi.

Joey offered a non-chalant wave. "Don't worry bout it, Yug's. We'll catch up when you're better. Just glad you're okay."

"You know how to get a hold of us," winked Tristan. "We'll update Tea. She'll probably come round on the weekend to check up on you. We might join in. Play some Duel monsters and whatnot."

Yugi frowned. "Okay... and thanks for today. For getting everyone together..."

"I just said, don't worry about it," said Joey, gesturing to his mum. "Might wanna head home before your folks get too angsty."

Yugi glanced up at his parents, who hadn't taken their eyes off him throughout the exchange. Noting the tired eyes and the way his mother was rubbing her hands together. His father's seemed to be inching towards the street despite his cool stance. 

"I'll see you when you come round then," said Yugi with sigh. "Message me when you get home safe, and thanks for taking care of my phone."

"Gotcha. Rest up, bud."

"See you, later!"

His friends than left, walking down the street with their arms around each other shoulders. Yugi sighed, wishing he could go with them. 

A firm hand gripped his shoulder. "Let's go home, Yugi. You need to rest." 

He glanced up at the tired eyes of his father, then back down. Not in the mood to talk to him. The police were starting to disperse, and Yugi was beginning to notice some peculiarities. Like how not a single police officer had asked for his account of events, or when he saw his backpack handed to a stern looking woman with glasses rather then get taken in as evidence. If Joey hadn't found his phone in the dog park, he doubt he would have seen it again.

His father sighed himself. "Alright. If that's how you're going to be."

Yugi felt his teeth clench. Betting his parents organized this raid and they had a hand with the police, most likely through whatever group 'spirit hunters' work for.

Either way, he was going to be getting answers when they got home. He might be able to mention family matters to his friends, but that didn't include Grandpa. Now both of them wanted answers. 

Chapter Text

Getting home didn't ease the tension. Yugi spent the short walk shuffling his feet in silence while having difficulty looking his parents in the eyes. They gently nudged him through the entrance of the game shop after multiple failed attempts to get him to talk. Not that Yugi was really listening to anything they said.

But now they were off the street and out of public view, his mother closing the door to the shop and whispering in hushed tones to his father as they walked ahead of him, leaving Yugi to think for a few seconds while looking out the glass doors of the shop's entrance. 

"What a day," said his father, trying to lighten the mood. "I could use a late-night coffee. Doubt I'm going to sleep after everything that happened."

"I'll pass on the coffee, but a biscuit sounds nice. What about you, Sweetheart? Would you like me to cook you some dinner? You must be hungry after everything that happened today." said his mother, placing a hand on Yugi's shoulder. 

Yugi didn't respond, causing his father to let out an exasperated sigh, no doubt related to their conversation that morning. 

Glancing from the street and back to his parents, Yugi took in their tired forms. His fathers old gray trench coat and his mother's standard tortoiseshell hair clip appeared slightly out of place, and their overall general demeanor which - despite what they said to his friends earlier - seemed more cautious rather than fearful. 

Knowing what he was about to do, he took a deep breath and begun to channel Atem's confidence. Once again wishing he were here to do the talking.

"Yeah... So now we are home..." Yugi raised his head to gaze at them directly, eyes flashing with seriousness. "Those guys ... the ones who kidnapped me. They mentioned something about you two being 'hunters'. What was that about? I've already mentioned it to Grandpa on the phone so don't try and get out of it."

His parents stopped, right in the middle of the shop.

"Are you sure you're okay?" said his father, tilting his head to face him with a blank expression.

Yugi clenched his fist, seeing right through the act. "I'm not stupid! Spirithunters... Exorcists... Supernatural stuff! The people who kidnapped me said that is what you did. That I knew nothing about who you are. I mean, they're not wrong but I didn't think it was related to your work. On top of that - what was that with my friends? I've gone through hell with them, and you just brushed them off. Not cool!"

"Hayate! Atsuko!" called his Grandfather's booming voice from upstairs. "The kitchen table... Now!"

Yugi could see his parents sweating beneath their shirts as they turned to head upstairs. Perhaps there was some truth to what his kidnappers had said after all, and he could finally have an answer to six years of absence.

............................

They sat round the table. Yugi and his grandfather on one side, and his parents sweating through their clothes and holding smiles in weird angles on the other. It was almost as awkward as the night his parents returned home, just without the food to sweeten the situation.

Yugi tapped his fingers on the table, not exactly impressed at the prospect of a secret profession that almost got him killed, or possessed, or whatever. His Grandfather had his arms crossed and was staring at his father with a legendary glare.

"I take it you are not a banker, Hayate," said his grandfather, starting the conversation. "Care to explain? I nearly lost my grandson due to whatever it is you actually do. I also believe Yugi deserves an explanation for his ordeal."

Watching, for the first time, his grandfather exerting his power as a parent caused Yugi to inwardly chuckle. The glare was a true sight to behold. Across the table, his father seemed to shrink, with Yugi noticing a light drop of sweat on his forehead.

"How do we begin?' said his father with nervous chuckle.

"From the beginning," demanded Grandpa, not amused. "I never approved of you leaving Yugi behind for America. Now I want the true reason you left."

"Well... yes," said his father, tapping the table. "I am not a banker. That is a cover. Atsuko and I actually work as spirit hunters."

"And what does that mean?" grumbled his grandfather.

"We... track down dangerous spirits who try and use the living for their own personal gain," he turned to Yugi, gaze apologetic. "The family who kidnapped you, Yugi, they are from an old clan of medians in the USA. They were one of the families we were working against for the past six years. There were several we had dealt with, but the Pelorsi family is one of the most aggressive."

His mother spoke up with a nervous tone, her hands rubbing together. "They had the spirit of one their elders leading them. He had an interesting practice of... well... taking over the bodies of the living. Innocents who had nothing to do with the clan's business. We were assigned to force him to move on to the other side or destroy him."

"We succeeded in the former," muttered his father with a grumble. "Which means there is always a chance he can come back. Your mother and I suspect they were trying to use your body to host the spirit of their great grandfather to get back at us. They aren't exactly known for playing nice. It's why our organization was working so hard to remove their source of power in the first place."

Yugi couldn't mutter out a single word, it all sounded absurd. But who was he to speak after everything he had gone through over the past six years. The very experiences his parents didn't know about and in turn, saved him tonight, were equally as crazy. He looked down at the red marks on wrists. Trying to figure out what to say next.

"So," said his grandfather, arms crossed. Not waiting for Yugi to respond. "Those hooligans are enemies of yours. Looking to restore a dead relative you sealed away, and they targeted Yugi for some mumbo magic reason, which clearly failed. What happens now?"

"They shouldn't go after you again," said his father. "There is no need for them to come back. If the circle failed once, then it will be a waste of time to try again. Your mother and I will deal with the rest. We have contacts who can help us investigate... You'll be fine."

"Yugi... Did they say why it failed? Anything at all?" said his mother, staring at him in earnest. "These things can be important! The kind of enchantments used by their family can only be blocked by another, more powerful entity. You could be in a-lot of trouble, Sweetheart!"

"Not sure..." lied Yugi. Keeping his eyes on his wrists and the blistering red marks from the rope. "Didn't sound bad at the time. I wouldn't worry about it."

"We will worry about it," said his father frowning. "I know you wanted to be with your friends, but this takes precedence. We'll bring you to the institute on the weekend. I'm sure one of our colleagues wouldn't mind checking you over. Who knows what you picked up on your trip to Egypt...”

"I'm sure it's nothing! As if the spirit of a mummy would latch onto me," said Yugi. But that nausea returned to his stomach.

His grandfather winked at him from across the table.

"Could just be your grandmother, my boy. She was scary enough on a good day and would be happy to fight on your behalf."

His father winced at the comment. "That would be the most terrifying result of all."

"Why? I'm sure there must be at least one spiritual ancestor willing to protect my grandson."

"Because the last thing we want is to hurt our own family in the afterlife, " said his mother with an awkward chuckle. "And considering the level of spiritual power to make such a barrier... It must be someone who was familiar with magic in their waking life. It would not be pleasant to find out Mariko was involved in such things."

"Says you two..." huffed Grandpa, leaning back in his seat with an amused smile at Yugi. "She would have been thrilled to have been that interesting."

The comment made Yugi chuckle, easing the tension in the air. "Well, grandma's potential actions aside, I suppose we should just be happy you both came back home safely. Though I'm not going to pretend I understand it, or am happy about it."

His father's expression softened, hands reaching out to Yugi's own. The warm contact shocking Yugi to look up at him. "That's all we can ask. I'm sorry it affected you at all... it's not what we wanted. You deserve a normal life. Not this... In our line of work we stop spirits interfering with the lives of innocent people. It's a never-ending job that puts all hunters and their family in the firing range of spiritual attack. We... wanted to avoid that for you as much as possible but I guess it had its limits."

"We'll get in touch with the institute, Sweetheart," said his mother, almost in tears. "We'll make sure not a single spirit ever uses you and we'll get you checked over to make sure they didn't do anything to you. Okay?"

Yugi's breath hitched at the irony. Looking back down to his hands that his father was still holding. They left to protect him from being controlled by spirits... and in doing so he formed a bond with one and occasionally let him control his body. He paled as a realization hit him. Atem was lucky to have passed over when he did. His parents wouldn't tolerate the truth.

"Whatever we need to do, I suppose," said Yugi, almost squeaking the words out and hoping it came across as shock.

"Thank you," said his father. "We'll be able to get you assessed as early as tomorrow. I think Miyuki herself will want to take a look at you."

Miyuki?

"You'll be fine, Sweetheart," said his mother. Though Yugi decided he would be the judge of that.

...................

It turned out Yugi's Saturday was about to go as well as last Saturday, when he and his parents went out on that hike. In other words, not good. 

He only figured this out when he was sitting down for breakfast. But not because of the obvious reasons.

Waking up at the crack of dawn on a Saturday should have been the first red flag. His mother's awkward high pitch when waking him a second, and his father, an avid coffee drinker from what little Yugi knew of him, preparing a strange mix of tea as soon as his mother dragged him to the kitchen should have been the third.

His parents frantically spoke about their different options while sipping on tea - none of which Yugi understood.

"Perhaps the Warren's method?" suggested his mother.

"Too invasive. Especially when we know a spirit isn't present currently. Miyuki's sight should be our starting point and we will figure it out from there," said his father, putting a cup of the strange brew in front of Yugi and signaling with his hand for him to drink.

"But will it be enough? I've never heard of a barrier existing post spirit," said his mother, a hand resting on her cheek in concern.

"Like I said, it will just be a start..." continued his father.

And on and on they discussed. Yugi only half paying attention but his nerves rising in the pit of his stomach. The real reason he knew today wasn't going to go well.

On a hunch, Yugi quickly pulled out his phone from his pocket and texted Joey - 'Call me in 2hrs. I might need to get out of something.' While munching on his toast. Sliding it back into his jacket and drinking the tea as soon as his parents turned back to face him.

Yugi gagged - the tea tasted like a strange mix of liquorice and musk. Similar to that overpowering smell in a perfume store.

"What does it taste like?" said his father. Though the look on his face suggested he knew the answer.

"Old lady perfume..." coughed Yugi. He lifted up the cup. "What is this?"

"A special blend that would not have tasted like that if you were free of spiritual influence," he said vaguely.

Yugi screwed up his face at the secretive response. "Seriously?"

"Seriously."

Yugi sighed. "I don't know what to say to that. I'm not being haunted, am I?"

"That's what we are going to find out," said his mother sipping the tea herself but without the gag reflex Yugi had.

He tried to smile, but the serious expression on his parent's faces made him consider otherwise.

His shoulders slumped. "If it means anything, I don't feel haunted. Or possessed. Or whatever it is you guys are looking for. It would be obvious if it was happening, right?"

"In most cases, yes," said his father. "Like we said earlier. It is an anomaly for a Spirit to place a barrier on a living soul they don't have current contact with. Think of it like..." he waved his hand in the air while thinking of a comparison. "Burying a million dollars on an island that's impossible to access. It's a costly practice for spirits - takes a-lot of power and makes them vulnerable."

"Why a spirit would do such a thing and what was exchanged to create it... that's what is concerning," said his mother, her frown deepening.

Because he's overprotective and tends to worry, thought Yugi. Daring not to say it out loud. It didn't seem like his parents had many positive experiences with the otherside - and he sensed they had many.

"How are we getting there?" said Yugi. His face contorting into disgust as his father gestured for him to drink the tea again.

"We'll walk a designated route," said his mother. She smiled as Yugi gagged - this time after finishing the tea in one gulp so he didn't have to drink it a third time. "This one we're certain the Pelorsi family won't be able to follow."

"You can't tell me why, can you?" said Yugi. He wiped his tongue on a napkin.

"Maybe one day," chuckled his father. "Once all this is cleared up."

It took a good hour of walking before they got there. Yugi thought he had a good grasp of Domino city, but his parent led him through nooks and alleyways he had never seen before - and neither the rest of Domino's residents considering how quiet this trip was. No businessmen or rogue teenagers in sight.

But he did recognize the central business district once they got there. Yugi knew where he was the moment he saw the old beat-up apartment buildings which now served as offices. The fancier buildings for the large corporations - like Kaiba Corp - was the next street over.

He followed his parents to one of the old buildings. They gestured for him to come inside.

Yugi did his best not to look disappointed as he walked the cracked doorway into an unmanned reception area. With a 'currently away on business, please call back later' sign on the top desk. An old water fountain stood in the corner next to what Yugi was certain had to be a fake plant.

The 'Institute' was a rather boring looking place, especially when considering the occupation of the people who made up its members. 

It's like a 1950's office building, thought Yugi. As he dragged his feet up the worn-out steps while being towed by his parents to the main area.

The lack of air con was comparable to suffocating. On top of the strange lack of decorations and minimal windows capable of sliding open, causing Yugi to wonder when the office last tasted fresh air. There were no skulls or strange artifacts, nor candles or symbols or anything that would make a person think this place was an official spirit hunter headquarters.

This was nothing like his experience in Egypt or the events concerning the Oricalchos. What on earth did his parents do to make those kidnappers upset when their only source of technology was an 1980's fax machine that somehow still worked? A fact that made Yugi's eyes pop when he saw a piece of paper print out of the machine.

It was the most action happening in the cramped, musty space.

"Where is everyone?" said Yugi as he looked around the empty desks.

"On their way," said his mother with a smile. "Miyuki has offered to have a look at you after I explained everything over the phone. We're not the only ones worried about you."

"And I still think you are wasting your time..." said Yugi, walking up to one desk to tap an old Astroboy bobble head. Deciding the little figure gave the place most of its character.

"This is extremely important!" said his father, he had gone to a small pile paperwork and was rummaging through it. "A spirit placing a barrier on your soul means they have chosen to maintain a connection with you beyond the grave!"

Yugi frowned. This 'barrier' was a safety measure. It was the kind of forward planning Atem would do. And a bit of magical protection, perhaps, to keep Atem's mind at peace during the ceremonial duel. Knowing Yugi was going to be safe if he were to be targeted by a magical force post passing over.

He was right - like had almost always been. The magical force just had nothing to do with him this time. A completely different group and entity who had targeted him for some revenge plot with no connection to Egypt or the millennium items... or even Kaiba. Which was odd.

But he couldn't talk about these theories to his spirit hunter parents. Who looked more and more concerned as Yugi wandered about the place. So, he said the only thing he could say in response.

"If you say so," he shrugged. "It's not like I had plans today."

His parents frowned, for what must be the tenth time that morning. His father's searching turning more frantic.

"You do realize how serious this is... right son?" said his father, pausing his searching to look at him. Sweat forming on his brow.

"No one has explained much to me, so no," said Yugi shrugging again. "But I'm happy to do whatever keeps your minds at ease. I know I'm okay."

His father continued to stare at him as Yugi proceeded to look at the objects in the room, unimpressed with the answer. His eyes focusing on an old Egyptian scarab on the wall. The beetle encrusted with jade and outlined in gold.

A tinge of sadness welled up in Yugi at the sight. Before his regaining memories, Atem would have found such an artifact fascinating and would have made Yugi look it up at the library in his spare time. Why was it that the small memories always crop up at the most inconvenient times?

"You're taking this well..." said his mother. She walked over and stared at the beetle with him. "What on earth happened in the past six years to make you so calm?"

"If you really want to know," said Yugi, spinning on his heels to look at anything else. "I had to save Joey from a nasty gang a few years back. Then Tea was stalked a few times, so we needed to deal with that... I also have friends at school who I had to help through way worse than this," images flashed in his mind of Bakura and Kaiba. "The living just seems so much scarier than a spirit ever could be. But I guess I don't have enough experience to with spirits to gauge that."

Which was an outright lie. He was well aware spirits could be downright malicious. But that would freak out his parents, so ignorance it was.

"Fair enough," sighed his father, pulling out whatever files he had been looking for and putting the pile away. "Just take it easy when you meet everyone. They... are an interesting group."

Couldn't be more 'interesting' than Kaiba, as Joey would say. So, Yugi smiled. "I'm sure they'll be great. If I can handle Joey's dad on a bad day, I can handle anything!"

"Another thing we should be concerned about?" grumbled his father.

Yugi shook his head. "No. We now have an agreement he can break in through the laundry window and help himself to the couch if it gets that bad again. But he's moving out in a few weeks, so I doubt he'll make use of it... Then again, this is Joey, so he might anyway. But you get my meaning."

"Not really," said his father. He tapped the papers evenly on the desk. "We need to meet these new friends of yours properly."

With his father's attention back to the paperwork, Yugi turned his own attention back to exploring the office. Noticing an old Devilman poster on the back wall and another Astroboy figurine. An employee must be - or had been - a fan of the old anime. They didn't have bad taste.

"Oh... and Yugi?" said his mother, breaking him out of his thoughts. "Just so you are aware, Miyuki has a unique gift. We call it 'All sight'. It allows her to sense all sorts of things when she talks to someone. Like whether or not it is the host or spirt talking, if they are lying and even the depth of their intentions. It is quite the power. She will let us know if the spirit who marked you is still using you."

Yugi had to stop himself from tripping over as he stepped around a desk. Doing his best to maintain his previous expression as his parents continued to stare at him.

He would need to be careful how he worded his answers, for Atem's sake if not his own. His otherself had gone through enough to earn his place in the afterlife and certainly didn't need to be dragged back for any reason.

The sound of heels clipped up the stairs, causing his parents to relax. "Ah, good. They're here."

'They' were three people. A middle-aged man, wearing a loose suit and cocky grin, who nodded his head in Yugi's direction as he walked into the room. A young woman, just older than Yugi himself, who seemed nervous and fresh into training. Finally, the one Yugi was most concerned about, a sharply dressed middle-aged woman who scanned him with expert precision the moment she saw him.

"Yugi, this is Suzuki," said his mother gesturing to the man in a suit. "He is our commander in chief of the Japanese division. He prefers to be informal when interacting with staff. This is Anya, the newest recruit to the team... and we already told you about Miyuki, who will be looking after your examination."

His mother sounded so professional in the introductions, as if she has done it a million times before.

"Thank you for coming out to see me, " said Yugi with a small nod of respect to the three, trying to be polite and very aware these were his parent's colleagues. "I hope it wasn't too much of hassle for you."

"Nonsense! This job is mostly on-call anyway," said Suzuki. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Yugi. Not every day we have a dueling champion grace our humble institute." He stepped forward and gave Yugi's arm a rough shake. "Hope you don't mind the new recruit watching the examination. Not many opportunities come up that are relatively safe, you see."

"It's fine," said Yugi with a light nod towards Anya. "Have to start somewhere, right."

"That's the spirit - pardon the pun. I'll leave you in Miyuki's capable hands."

The older women eyed Yugi up and down, her pointed nose curling in disdain. "Well, he certainly has something attached to him. He'll have to be examined if we want more details," she leaned forward, closer towards Yugi's face. "How are you feeling?"

"I'm fine," said Yugi, screwing up his face and leaning back. Now able to smell the women's overbearing musk scented perfume, reminding him somewhat of the tea from this morning. "Mum and Dad are more concerned than I am. I don't even understand why I'm here."

"Really?" she said. Leaning closer still. "No sudden headaches? Nausea? A dark sense of foreboding or dread that follows you? A sense of being watched? Or paranoia? Perhaps recurrent nightmares?"

"I get bit nauseas when I eat too much, but other that not really," said Yugi with a shrug, assuming the sensations he had earlier were from his kidnappers and not because Atem was haunting him. "Didn't know about this barrier until those weird guys mentioned it. Something about them 'not being successful here'. I don't know what they were trying to do in the first place. Mum and Dad said they were trying to summon their grandfather and it didn't work."

"And they didn't mention why? Even the smallest detail could be useful."

"Vaguely? It made them frustrated though. They couldn't do anything to break it, brought out all this equipment and everything. I can point at pictures of what they had if you like, but I don't know what they were called and have never seen them before. Except a skull - that I recognized."

She frowned, her eyes darting over him, then focusing on him again before nodding. "Get him in the inquiry room. This will be interesting."

Yugi was dragged to a small room by the strong arm of his father. It was held at the back of the office, but didn't match the old aesthetic from the 50's. The walls were painted in a modern gray and the plastic office seats looked like they came from a nearby furniture store. There were no posters or vintage machinery - but there was a small table on the side Yugi assumed where Miyuki was going to sit.

"Take a seat," said Miyuki, gesturing to the seat away from the table.

"Go on," said his father, pushing him into the room. "She doesn't bite. I promise."

Yugi held back his nerves as he sat down, giving one last look at his parents behind him before facing Miyuki, who took a seat herself.

Miyuki pulled out a notepad and pen from her blazer pocket and sat down her. Her sharp eyes scanning Yugi over, making him squirm in his seat. He briefly checked the clock. Joey would be calling him in twenty minutes. He just needed to last through this until then...

Miyuki tapped her pen on the notepad making a clicking sound as her eyes finished her scan. Finally blinking and tilting her head once she was done.

"Well," said Miyuki. "It's definitely a barrier from a powerful spirit. Doesn't seem to be feeding off your life force, which is good," she pursed her lips. "What happened in Egypt, exactly? Please be as detailed as you can. Include what happened that made you decide to travel there to begin with."

So, his parent's had already mentioned his trips to Egypt? Guess he shouldn't be surprised.

"Uh..." said Yugi. He needed to keep Atem's involvement to a minimum, but still remain honest. He took a breath; this was going to be tricky. "It was after the battle city tournament. Two of the contestants were the leaders of these Gravekeepers in Egypt. Apparently, the millennium puzzle - uh, this old pendent I put together. It was in my grandpa's shop since I was little. Anyway, they think it used to be worn by a pharaoh a long time ago... but his soul was never put to rest. They asked for my help. It had something to do with the millennium puzzle and certain requirements being met, which I still don't fully understand. There was a big ceremony... Then it was over." Yugi waved his hands around as he said this, trying to appear normal.

"Did you have any involvement in the ceremony?" said Miyuki, her eyes narrowing. "Even so much as setting an item on an altar. Spirits can be influenced by the smallest of actions."

Yugi kept his poker face but nodded. He couldn't 'lie'.

"Sure did. Since I solved the puzzle, I had to act as the pharaoh's 'champion' or something similar to that. Pretty much had to win a duel in front of this big tablet in this old temple... or was it a tomb? Anyway, duel monsters was actually based on an ancient game played by the ancient Egyptians. Have to say, dueling in that environment is really something else."

"Were you treated any differently once the ceremony was completed?" said Miyuki, frowning at his opinion on the duel.

"No... They were less formal, actually. Their duty ended after the ceremony was completed and they were now able to interact with modern society. It's pretty cool. I'm still in contact with them."

Miyuki pursed her lips. "Whether it is 'cool' or not is beside the point. I think what happened is clear. You acted as a temporary vessel for this pharoah during the ceremony. I'm sure of it. He clearly is no longer within you, but it seems he left his mark."

"Maybe he wasn't a bad guy," shrugged Yugi. "The Gravekeepers regarded him as a hero."

"A spirit being 'good' is unbelievably rare. You were, at one point, connected to a powerful spirit who placed a protection spell on your soul. That doesn't happen for free. This only occurs when you either do something beneficial to the spirit or they take something from you and offer protection in return. Usually the latter. Am I making myself clear? We don't know what exchange occurred, and that is the cause for our concern."

"Okay then..." said Yugi, frowning. "So, I was a temporary vessel for the spirit of a king who couldn't pass over. He was so grateful for the help he placed this protection thing on me as thanks, then moved on the afterlife. Doesn't sound so bad to me.'"

A silence followed from the women in front of him. She clicked her pen on the side of the clipboard in puzzlement, before tilting her head in contemplation. Her large eyes making Yugi squirm underneath her stare. Only now did Yugi realize that she hadn't written down a single word.

"The fact you may have been a vessel... doesn't bother you?"

Yugi tilted his head back, attempting to mimic her puzzlement. "I'm just more inclined to believe the gravekeepers. The ancient Egyptians greatly valued the afterlife, especially if they were a pharaoh. Apparently, they continue to rule on the otherside. Poor guy must have felt as if he failed his people... even the Gods... because he couldn't join them. He was probably just grateful to move on..." he then offered a small smile. "And I was happy to play a part in helping that happen. It wasn't as if it hurt me. I didn't notice a spirit inside of me during the duel. It may have even saved my life this week."

"Another spirit used your body for its own purposes. I'm concerned about your reaction to such news."

"You haven't told me anything to be concerned about," said Yugi, his voice getting on edge. "My soul is fine. The exchange has already occurred and no longer affects me in a negative way. Your panic, honestly, feels like it is wasting my time. Give me a reason to be worried now and I might share your concern."

He felt a buzz in his pocket and a wave of relief washed over him. "Uh... sorry. One moment."

The phone felt almost holy in his fingers as he brought it to his ears, giving Mizuki and his parents an apologetic nod. "Hi, Joey? That you?"

"You know it's me man. What did ya need?"

"You need help with make-up homework and it's due tomorrow! Of course, I'll be at your place in..." He made a show of checking the clock behind him. "Half an hour. Does that work for you?"

"You need an out? I gotcha back, Yug's. Meet at me Burger World in 30."

"Alright, Joey. Don't stress. I'll see you soon."

He hung up, then put a hand on the back of his head what he hoped appeared to be a bashful smile to the concerned faces staring at him. "Friend of mine needs some help. He needs a pass in English if we both want to graduate on time," he shrugged. "I should get going. He's my best friend."

"I see..." said Miyuki with a disapproving scowl. "Do you normally help people with homework?"

"Only when they ask," said Yugi, trying to act nonchalant as he stood up. "Joey's a special case though. Graduating is a big deal for him."

None of that was a lie.

He offered a polite nod to his parent's colleague and stood up. "Thanks for doing this assessment. Let me know if something I should be concerned about comes up or if you need me to come back."

With a quick wave to his parent's, he made a direct line for the steps and the door. Planning to take the route to burger world which passed the library - just in case his parents look out the window.

Nerves held up in his stomach until he passed the reception door and the fake plants with his feet firmly planted on the otherside of the street. His parents were going to pick a fight when he got home for leaving so early, but he had leave before they started to tear apart his story. One factor in particular was all that stood between Atem being left alone and the truth.

He just prayed no one in that room knew enough about duel monsters to figure it out.

Chapter Text

Yugi's sudden departure left a pitfall in Hayate's chest. He had sensed his son didn't understand the magnitude of the situation, due to his relaxed attitude despite just being kidnapped, but to just up and leave because of one phone call... 

He offered an apologetic nod to Miyuki and his colleagues. "I'm sorry. I knew he wasn't onboard, but we didn't expect him to leave like that."

"It's fine," said Miyuki with pursed lips. "I have spoken with him enough to have a sense of what is going on. My scan was also quite revealing."

Suzuki clapped his hands together, bringing attention to himself. "And I want to hear it. This sounds like an interesting case. It's obvious by the way he looked at Astro he has spiritual influence, but no spirit? You weren't joking when you mentioned being at a dead end on the phone, Atsuko."

He wasn't wrong. This entire office space was charmed to appear normal from the perspective of those impacted by spiritual energy. The telltale sign being their reaction to the spirit knives on everyone's desk and the old Astroboy bobble head.

If they could see the knives, the mid-sized decorated gothic blades lying flat in the open, or any of the hundreds of talismans that hung on the wall or protective ornaments surrounding the outskirts of the office - such as the taxidermied falcon at the front desk, they were in the clear. If they only reacted to the bobble-head like Yugi did and walked around bored...

Hayate shook his head to focus. "We've poured over all our old cases last night, and that of every barrier case we could bring up in the online archives. All of them had the spirit present."

"Or the barrier wielder ended up dead," said Miyuki, straightening her glasses. "Spirits often like to take their barrier wielders with them when they pass on. I wonder why Yugi was left behind?"

She said the truth, a brutal fact hanging over their heads since they first found out about the barrier, yet despite knowing this, the comment brought a brief moment of silence.

It was stupid reaction. They were supposed to be experts in the field. This shouldn't come as a shock. But Yugi was Hayate and Atsuko's son ... and losing him was the last thing they wanted. The last thing any self-respecting parent would want.

"Hayate... Atsuko..." said Miyuki, bringing them back to topic. "How smart would you say your son is? I know he is a professional duelist and a high schooler, but not much else regarding his personal life."

"Oh..." said Atsuko with a shy glance towards her husband. "Very intelligent. From what time we spent with him. He is also class valedictorian this year and very close to his small group of friends."

Miyuki pursed her lips at the information while twisting her pen between her fingers, eyes still staring in the direction Yugi left. She leaned back into seat. Seeming to contemplate all she had just heard and witnessed. She hummed, signaling her conclusion.

"Be careful with him. If what I suspect is true, then you may have a much larger fight on your hands," said Miyuki, her lips thinning. "You need to find out what he was up to while we were away. I doubt it was simply winning tournaments and helping out old families."

"How bad is it?" muttered Hayate. "Don't sugar-coat anything Miyuki, I want Yugi to be safe and he has been acting strange. He... he's no longer the boy we once knew."

"I know," she then paused, contemplating her next words. "I sensed he was protecting someone throughout our exchange. Controlling his thoughts and being careful with how he spoke. Everything he said was true, however it wasn't the whole truth. And he was intentional with his words. He's not possessed, but at the same time... "

Even Suzuki raised an eyebrow at her statement with Anya furiously taking notes. The pit in Hayate's chest deepening at the reaction of their commanding officer.

"What do you mean?" said Hayate. 

"I agree that your boy is very intelligent. Constructing his story in a way so he can leave out a piece of crucial information, then doing everything he can to remove himself entirely from the premises. He's hiding something, Hayate, and I sense he would rather die than reveal this information, and I suspect that what he is hiding is the identity of the spirit who gave him that protection. There was also something else..."

She glanced down at her empty notebook, eyes firm. Her small stature hiding a fierceness that burned within as she said her final conclusion.

 "I think Yugi was a vessel for much longer than a few days. In fact, I suspect he had contact with the spirit for at least several months prior to its departure. I also believe Yugi was aware of it's presence. Since he was being relatively honest in the consultation, we should focus on this 'pharaoh' these so-called 'gravekeepers' served."

After she spoke, all that could be heard was the nervous tapping of Atsuko's fingers on her desk and Hayate's deep breathing as he felt a deep pressure enter into his chest cavity. Bringing forth memories of the shy child they left behind.

When they left for America, Yugi struggled to let go of his grandfather's overalls and socialize with the local kids. His eyes would light up whenever 'icecream' was mentioned and he use to prattle on about the latest game aimed at his age group from the shop. He struggled at school - with both bullying and poor grades - and didn't have much in the way of friends. Yet he still had a streak of kindness and warmth which they both loved so dearly about him.

But when they got back, Yugi was standing tall. With a list of achievements that didn't match the ambitions of his middle-school self. He stayed up late with friends and had online meetings with powerful people. Such as the life of a valedictorian... and a world champion. 

What happened?

Hayate frowned, realizing the others were waiting for him to speak. "It must have started when he solved the millennium puzzle. That thing always carried strong spiritual energy and Yugi managed to solve it with his mind intact. Everyone else who had attempted before him were driven mad! Not even my own father dared to attempt it and he is obsessed with old games. That artifact must have had a spirit who changed Yugi for its own purposes."

Miyuki nodded.  "Perhaps, but Yugi believes otherwise. He doesn't fear this Spirit - whoever it was. Though the spiritual culprit is obvious from our brief interaction. I could sense a great deal of respect, love and admiration when he spoke of this Pharoah. In fact, I would go so far as to say he idolizes them. Hence why I believe we should start there."

Suzuki whistled. "Haven't had a case like this since my predecessor. At least the boy's life isn't in any immediate danger and the spirit's no longer around," he placed a hand on Hayate's shoulder. "We'll look into it but relax. Yugi is fine for now. We start with the gravekeepers and you guys look into this pharaoh. Gotta figure which King of Egypt we are looking at. I know there were a-lot of them."

There was a sound of affirmation from the group, followed by everyone going to their respective desks to start on the research portion of the process. One which Hayate knew involved a deep analysis of his son's private life.

Hayate took a deep breath and turned to face the horrified face of his wife, who had gone silent during the conversation with their colleagues. Pale skinned and chest heaving, she appeared almost ill. Hands no longer tapping on the desk and held cupped together in front of her.

"Atsuko..." 

She took a step back and shook her head, her eyes beginning to water. He knew she had been holding back her emotions since they got back. Guess that wall was starting to break down now.

"We left for him..." she whispered, rubbing her eyes while trying to prevent tears from falling. "We did it for him and yet..."

"He's still safe," said Hayate, reaching out and trying to calm her. "Yugi's not stupid. He would tell us if he was in real trouble."

"Would he, Hayate? We haven't been home, and a Spirit took advantage of that. Who knows what he offered for that protection and why."

Hayate stilled, unable to provide an answer to his wife. His own muscles stiffened in response to her anxiety.

Miyuki, watching the exchange from her desk, walked over to place a supportive hand on Atsuko's shoulder. "The spirit could have left only a minor influence. Let's not panic until we have all the facts."

"There is also the other question," said Anya inquisitively from her desk and lifting her head from behind a pile of books. "There was one we forgot to ask him when he was here."

"What did we forgot to ask, Anya?" said Miyuki, lips tightening back to their usual position of disdain.

"Well, he was dueling in front of that Egyptian tablet, right?" said Anya, lifting a pen to her lips in contemplation. "I'm curious about his opponent. He never mentioned them, and I'm surprised he didn't since opponents are a big deal in duel monsters."

Heads snapped in her direction, each looking at her as if she grew an extra head.

"Did I say the wrong thing?" said Anya, hiding back behind her pile of books, but her voice went higher pitched in hidden enthusiasm. "Duel Monsters is huge and Yugi is the world champion! Anyone capable of dueling him of all people must be an incredible duelist. It would have made the news if it was a big-league player as his title would be up for grabs! I know I need to keep hobbies separate from work, but this unknown duel of his is a really big deal! I've been following him since his duel against Weevil Underwood at Duelist Kingdom and haven't even heard a rumor of this duel."

As everyone continued to stare at her, she faltered. "I'm sorry. I'm really passionate about the game. Couldn't believe it when Mr. Suzuki said Yugi was set to be our next client..."

"No," said Miyuki, shaking her head frantically. "That must be what he omitted when I was speaking to him. Well done, Anya!"

"Does that mean..." muttered Hayate. "Yugi was dueling the spirit? His title wouldn't have been on the line if that was the case."

"Interesting. I wonder how that worked? Maybe the spirit was in control of Yugi and, as a result, he doesn't remember the other opponent," said Suzuki. "Not exactly an easy experience to discuss with strangers. Especially in a room full of spirit hunters."

"How it worked and who it was is not important. We need to know why he hid the information from us," said Miyuki, sitting back down at her desk. "We're going to have to dig deep into the database to find a blue print in the case files. I propose we change our tactic. We must figure out the type of spirit in order to move forward, then focus on its identity. We need to know the level of danger we are in."

There was another nod of affirmation - this time more eager. 

"Anya," said Suzuki sternly. Standing up and leaning forward on his desk. "I have some important questions to ask you."

"Yes, sir!" said Anya, standing up tall and nearly knocking down the book pile and a coffee mug.

"Do you still have access to those duels you mentioned? The ones with Yugi in them?"

"Of course!" said Anya, puffing her chest out proudly. "I have all of them on DVD! Also plan on getting the HD release as soon as they are available."

"What about this 'Battle City' Yugi mentioned in the consult? The one that took him to Egypt?"

Anya's eyes lit up. "Absolutely! That tournament was some of his best work - in my opinion," She then paused, and frowned. "But the final duel with Marik Ishtar went haywire due to the weather on the blimp... the duel for the video was a recreation. It plays out like the start of the real duel, and Yugi's deck list was superior by miles so the outcome wasn't a surprise, but there are still so many conspiracy theories online."

Suzuki leaned forward, putting a hand on his desk to balance himself. "Theories like what?"

Hayate had to force himself to continue looking in Anya's direction, finding the pressure in his chest deepening in shame. He hadn't seen Yugi duel. Let alone had the foggiest idea what Anya was talking about. Dueling on a blimp seemed more at home in a movie than reality - and so did the thought of his son existing as the main feature of a DVD collection, and Anya made it sound like it was common knowledge. 

He rubbed his forehead, feeling the start of a headache. He should have listened to his father earlier. Yugi most certainly seemed to fit the dictionary description of 'celebrity'.

Anya had a finger on her lip, trying to think. "The biggest theory involved Marik having a mental breakdown mid-match. Because they used a stand-in actor for Marik in the recreations and while all the other duelists played themselves... That and Marik was way less unhinged in the recreation. It goes on to suggest everyone played along out of respect for Marik's reputation," She then shrugged. "Almost all of Marik's duels in the finals were recreations - and his duel with Yugi was the only one he lost. Anyway, most of Yugi's fans agree that he won Battle City when he versed Seto Kaiba in the Semi's. No recreation on that one."

Suzuki nodded. "Does 'gravekeeper' mean anything to you?"

"No, sir. But there were several Egyptian players in the finals. Marik was one. Then there was Ishizu who lost against Kaiba. There was also this weird guy who faked himself as Marik but they somehow still allowed the real Marik to duel. That duel also needed a recreation. We all thought it was organised by Kaiba Corp for drama, but considering Yugi's barrier..."

Hayate found the description akin more to reality TV than a game tournament.

"Perhaps not," said Suzuki with a firm nod. "Last two. In your opinion, did Yugi seem different in person than on TV?"

Anya paused for another minute then shook her head. "No, pretty much the same as his interviews. Though he comes off as a bit more confident when he is dueling, but that is normal among professional Duelists. When they duel they put on a more..." she moved her arms around, trying to explain. "Dramatic flare to their personalities. Trash talk and the like. It makes the duels more entertaining for viewers, otherwise your just watching people put down cardboard."

"Final question," He leaned even further forward. "Can you run home and bring us those videos and your DVD player?"

Anya saluted with a massive smile on her face. "Absolutely! I'll run as fast as I can!"

"That's the spirit, Anya! We'll wait for you!"

She scrambled for her bag and sprinted out the door. Pulling her long hair up into a ponytail and nearly tripping down the steps on the way out. =

Suzuki gave a short salute - his signal for the team to take a break.  He sat back down at his desk. Hands cupped together in contemplation and eyes staring into the distance, focused in thought. 

Hayate took a seat at his own desk, his headache getting stronger. Guess he had to join the rest of his colleagues in waiting for Anya. He placed a hand on his spirit blade, the cool of the black handle providing a small sense of comfort.

Atsuko looked at him from her desk. A strained smile on her face. "At least we'll finally see all those duels your father won't stop talking about."

Hayate chuckled, trying to ease the pressure in his chest. "That's true. We might be able to keep up with his commentary when we get back home. Maybe Anya can talk us through the rules a beforehand so we can contribute a thing or two for once"

"We... could talk about dueling with Yugi then. If today hasn't scared him from the institute."

"I doubt he'll be wanting to talk to us," grumbled Hayate. Remembering Yugi's antics throughout the week. If there was one thing that hasn't changed about his son, it's his incredible capacity to avoid people. It would be a miracle if they see him for more than a few minutes a day. 

He used to do that when he was little. Hayate and Atusko would search the whole apartment looking for him, nearly calling the police multiple times in panic, until his father walked in and somehow knew Yugi's preferred hiding spot. Once it was in the crawl space of the attic, another inside his mattress after cutting out an opening. His little body curled up in sleep and somehow fitting into the space.

Never underestimate a child looking for privacy. That's what his father said at the time.

Though all it did was make Hayate question Yugi's recent development even more. 

"I know," said Atsuko. "But maybe we could do the 'honey and bee' method? You know, use the dueling as the honey? Maybe ask him about one of those starter decks?"

"Why don't we see how he plays first?" said Hayate with a nervous chuckle. "I'm interested to see how a champion duels before I duel him."

Atsuko chuckled back. "I suppose you're right. Guess we can only wait then."

Indeed, and Hayate was going to reach for the paracetamol in his desk before Anya arrived. Willing to bet that his headache was going to get worse after seeing whatever was on those DVD's.

..........................

Raspberry soft drink was a favourite of Yugi's, or any sweet red drink for that matter. Same went for lollies, but as he was currently at Burgerworld, a large raspberry lemonade it was. The cool drink flushing down his throat in bursts as he tried to string words together for Joey sitting in front of him.

"So... let me get this straight," said Joey, screwing up his face and placing his own coke down. "Your folks have been hunting spirits this entire time and you have yet to tell 'em about the Pharoah? And since those weirdos failed their ceremony because of your barrier thing, your folks are now worried the Pharoah 'exchanged' something with you for it?"

Yugi nodded, "That about sums it up."

Joey nodded back, lips pouting and hand on his chin. "So I guess we are back to the weird and wacky again? Cool. Least life ain't gonna get boring after graduation."

Yugi chuckled, finishing off his drink with a final slurp. Count on Joey to not be bothered by his spiritual hunter parents. "Yeah... I'm still not sure if we should tell Tea and Tristan. I think they've been enjoying our return to normal."

"True... but they would be more insulted if you didn't let them in on it."

"Also true," grumbled Yugi. "But my parents absolutely cannot know that I told you. They're whole organization is secretive! I don't know what that lady saw when she spoke with me, but there is no way they're going to be completely honest about what they found. Especially if they plan of going after Atem."

"In the afterlife?" said Joey, putting his hand on the table and tapping it. "Guess they might have the means for it. Not sure how though. But yeah, man, going after the Pharoah after he finally moved on... not cool. Guy doesn't deserve that."

"Exactly!" said Yugi. "And they seem to be panicking over nothing. Atem never took anything from me. He wasn't like that!"

Joey leaned back into his seat contemplative, resting his arms along the back of the booth. "No idea what you could have given the Pharoah, bud. He wasn't missing much, being a king and all - besides his memories, that is. And if we know the Pharoah like we do, then the guy would never even imagine hurting you."

"Or you guys," chuckled Yugi. "You all meant so much to him."

Joey poked his tongue out at the cheesy correction. "Especially you then, pal. I remember what he was like when you first solved that thing. The Pharoah used to go batshit insane whenever you were in trouble - still a good guy and all,  but was terrifying until you guys started talking and he mellowed out. So yeah, I could never imagine him 'exchanging' something without your consent."

"It wouldn't be honorable," said Yugi with a nod.

"Exactly! Guy would've cut off his foot instead,' said Joey assertive and firm, he lifted his coke cup and toasted towards Yugi. "You can count on me if those spirit hunters cause you grief."

Another feeling of warmth engulfed Yugi. "Thanks, Joey,"

"Hey, you already know this, but I'm moving out the day after graduation. I believe I owe you the couch if you need a place to sleep. I'll give you a key, bud."

"I won't take up too much space," said Yugi. "And I'm grateful."

Joey waved his hand, again. "Don't mention it! Bout time you joined the rest of us in the crazy-folks club, Anyway, it's thanks to the leftover money from Duelist Kingdom that I can buy the place and get away from my Dad," said Joey, casually shrugging. "What's your plans for tonight anyway?"

"Honestly? I was going to lock myself in my room as soon as I got home."

"And tomorrow?"

"Nothing so far."

Joey made a face.  "Just use the same excuse as today and I'll bail you out. It's Sunday. Assignment due monday morning. Works out right? Then we can keep you busy for the week until we graduate."

Yugi frowned, taking another sip of his drink. "It's going to be tough after graduation."

"Nah man. You move in with me and it will be cool. Looking for a room mate anyway, and since I don't need to pay rent, you don't have too either. You can start all the work Kaiba and Pegasus offered you while studying your degree, and I will accept your Grandpa's offer to work at his shop and focus on qualifying for the pro-league. It will be a dream! We can sort out your Grandpa's exhibition while we're at it."

Yugi stopped slurping, his mouth hanging open. "You... are inviting me to move out?"

"Heck, yeah!"

He felt the start of tears and nodded. "Sounds amazing! I'm in!"

"Knew you would say yes," said Joey, puffing out his chest. "We need our independence. Now let's get another meal to celebrate! I wanna try the super bacon deluxe!"

"Alright. I guess it's been a while since I've had nuggets," said Yugi. A flicker of hope in his chest.

Joey waved down the waitress to order, Yugi found himself gazing down at the red marks on his wrists from the kidnapping. His fists clenching as an unfamiliar string of emotion began to well up within him. 

Gratitude for his amazing set of friends who searched the city for him after he was kidnapped, and for Joey, offering to move out with him. They're support over the past six months have kept him sane. 

The other emotion was one Yugi didn't feel often. It felt like a fire in his chest, burning fierce against his ribcage as he thought of their loss of normalcy, again.  Completely out of his control and unwarranted. There was no millennium puzzle, no Pharoah, no mystical search for memories, and yet the supernatural had returned full force.

"You alright, Yug's," said Joey, lifting an eyebrow.

"Yeah. Just a bit overwhelmed."

"If you say so, pal."

Yugi glanced down at his wrists again, contemplating his thoughts.

He couldn't remember the last time he was this angry.

Chapter Text

Hayate had never seen a duel in person, nor watched one on a television screen that wasn't a billboard. Despite his childhood home being an apartment attached to a game shop, he had never picked up an interest in any of the hobbies his father sold. 

He knew Duel Monsters was a massive sensation. The advertising was hard to miss, and TV channels now held 'Duel Saturday' blocks for reruns. But it still mostly fell under his radar when considering the importance of his work. He needed to be investigating cases, not watching television.

Yet to think this game had become so big they had celebrity players... it made him scratch his head. Still not seeing the shine nor the appeal.

That is, until Anya put in the first DVD after spending a good portion of time trying to connect the DVD player to an old television set in the office. The team pooling together so they all had a good view. She even brought 'Kuri-chan', a fluffy brown monster plush she insisted she always watched the duels with.

On screen, Yugi stood tall, the millennium puzzle displayed in full view around his neck. He spoke with a voice of confidence throughout the whole match despite the field disadvantage - seemingly obtained through scrupulous means. His green opponent - Weevil Underwood - appeared pathetic in comparison. Especially in regard to his strategy, not that Hayate knew much about Duel Monsters strategies, but Weevil's pride indicated a lack of insight into his opponent.

A large moth - a great one - was on Weevil's side of the field while Yugi had nothing.

"This is the best part!" said Anya. Clenching her hands together and moving closer to the screen and hugging the fluffy monster tighter.

Weevil. I know it will be very difficult for you to accept losing a duel. Especially after spending so much time finding inventive ways to cheat. But if you thought bending the rules will help you win this match - your wrong!

No! This is a trick!

You duel dishonestly so expect the same of your opponents. But I duel with honor, Weevil, and that makes all the difference!

You got nothing!

Here's what I got! The mighty SUMMONED SKULL!

After pulling an impressive victory, it goes onto the next duel - one featuring a dinosaur duelist against a random player- and so Anya pressed pause while Suzuki whistled.

"Weevil's fanbase disappeared overnight after this aired!" said Anya, placing Kuri-chan on her desk and picking up a brand-new DVD case titled Duelist Kingdom - The Crowning of the King featuring a determined Yugi on the cover staring over a view of a medieval castle. "I'm glad we started with this one. It has all the duels that won Yugi his title and launched Duel Monsters into the mainstream. Though if we are looking for spiritual evidence, we might need to skip to the finalist duels."

"He's very talented," said Atsuko sitting on the edge of a desk next to Hayate. "I mean, we had heard he was good, but this..."

"That's one way of putting it!" said Suzuki, clapping in applause. "I can see why dueling has gotten so popular."

Anya's eyes lit up. "You all are missing out! If you thought that was impressive. You should see him during battle city... or even watch the Title Round of the KK World Championship! Yugi only gets better! I'm planning to get tickets to see him live once he becomes of age and goes for the pro-leagues! There's also rumors that he will be present to award the winner at the Japanese Nationals!"

Her excitement caused the pit of pressure to return to Hayate's chest. He leaned back into his seat in contemplation. Gazing at the image of Yugi on the DVD cover. Concern stemming from the unlikelihood of his previously shy son appearing on a DVD case and being viewed by who knows how many people on a regular basis. Complete with rumors and fan theories usually limited to pop culture.

Miyuki eyed him from her chair. "What's on your mind, Hayate? You only sit like that when you notice something we don't."

"Doesn't Yugi seem... different? He doesn't sound like himself. This filmed the year he started high school, but he sounds older... and... then..." He furrowed his brow.

"Spit it out, Hayate," said Suzuki.

He tried to find the words as he continued to stare at Yugi overlooking the castle. The way his son's soft eyes were angled, and his chin raised so high it made him seem arrogant. It was a feeling he couldn't shake. "It's just...That's not him. I'll bet my blade on it. There's spiritual influence going at least this far back in Yugi's history."

"I agree," whispered Atsuko. Her gaze also on the image of Yugi on the DVD cover. "I've never heard him talk like that. Even after we came back. There's something off."

"Which 'M' are you expecting then?" said Suzuki, leaning back onto his desk. "Is the type of this spirit malicious, manic or melancholic? Usually it's easy to tell just by their behavior, but Yugi doesn't seem to match any."

"Malicious actively aim to hurt others and the host, manic gives the impression of insanity, and melancholic creates depressive behaviors," said Anya, listing off all three while counting on her fingers. "Plus all their sub types, of course, but if they don't meet a main profile then they won't match the rest."

"You are forgetting one other typing," said Miyuki matter-of-factly. She leaned on her desk, finally joining the conversation. "There is a fourth, and this type wouldn't be as obvious on camera and would explain how Hayate and Atsuko are feeling. I, for one, don't doubt a parent's intuition on these matters. But if it's true... well, we will need to be ready for conflict."

Hayate could feel the pressure on his chest constrain his heart at Miyuki's implication. Hoping she was wrong, despite his own intuition agreeing with her.

"A guardian spirit..." whispered Atsuko, saying the words Hayate didn't want to hear while moving towards the center of the group. Raising her hands to her chest. "You can't be serious. Yugi wouldn't... No..."

Miyuki sighed, her shoulders dropping. "When am I not serious? Besides, your son matched the most important criteria when he was here. He protected the spirit. The host and spirit working together is the defining criteria of the guardian type, and it is also what makes them so terrifying. Out of all the types it is also the most likely to leave the host alive. There is also the protective nature of the barrier. Whether or not it is for Yugi's sake or the spirit's is yet to be determined, however guardians have a nasty habit of benefitting them both."

"But Guardians are so... lethal," muttered Atsuko. "Survival occurs in less than five percent of cases."

Miyuki shrugged. "I'm not saying it's good news. It's just what the information is pointing towards. It may also explain Yugi's behavior at home."

"But a guardian wouldn't just walk away from their host without reason," says Suzuki, causing Hayate and Atsuko to breathe a sigh of relief. "It says in the Modern Compendium not to underestimate their possessive nature. While I agree, they are less likely to harm their host, almost all cases end up with host dying with the spirit, or the host committing suicide post separation. Which again begs the question..."

"Why Yugi was left behind?" interrupted Hayate. He had grown solemn listening to all these theories about which type of spirit possessed his son. None he liked to hear, but all valid. "And how is he coping so well post separation? I think we need to gloss over Guardian cases. Not that we have many. Suzuki, you mentioned one from our predecessor earlier? Where is it?"

Suzuki hung his head back. "Yeah. In that dump of a casefile room at the back. There was an old guardian case from the 60's... Tatsuki of '65. Hell of a case. Literally. Almost destroyed a town. I found it while researching other cases back when apprenticeships were still a thing at this place and I was stuck with the grunt work."

"Why isn't it in the database?" asked Hayate with an annoyed growl."Sounds important."

"Our old boss didn't want any of her old Guardian cases online. She was scared it would be too easy for the spirits to access the old cases and change their mode of behaviors. Especially the ones who were still active."

Atsuko nodded, a vague look in her eye. "Guardians can be quite smart like that. Very good at hiding under the radar."

A fact Hayate didn't want to think about.

He crossed his arms and stared into the distance, his thoughts becoming clear as the evidence was laid out. His fingers tapped the table, each beat in tune with a sentence in his mind. Their next move becoming more obvious with each tap.

"You're thinking, Hayate. That's dangerous," said Suzuki as he walked over to lean on Hayate's desk. "Enlighten me."

"I'm thinking we need to find those guardian case files," said Hayate, tilting his head in further contemplation. " We need to comb through Yugi's old duels and his personal life before his rise to fame. I also think we may need to back him into a corner to get him to talk. It worked with him the other day when he was avoiding me and Atsuko..."

"And how do you plan on doing that? I won't tolerate you using your interrogation methods on our son," said Atsuko, eyes flashing and taking a few bold stomps towards him. "I know it's your specialty, but Yugi isn't an active spirit causing mayhem!"

Hayate shook his head, his fingers still tapping. "I would never consider that! We'll just work with the assumption that this was a guardian spirit."

"Elaborate Hayate, we can't read your mind," said Suzuki, a grin forming on his face. Anya's head went down as she started to take notes.

Hayate tilted his head, making brief eye contact with Atsuko before continuing. "Most guardian hosts are protective of the spirit's source. In this case, we suspect the millennium puzzle. We don't have that. However, if Yugi is anything like me, and if he cared for this spirit as much as Miyuki claims, then he will be holding a memento close to him. Something to replace the original source. The gold chest the mellenium puzzle was found in, perhaps? Or an object from Egypt?  If we try and get him to act on that instinct, revealing this object, then get him to admit this spirit existed..."

"Then we might be able to convince him to listen and remove the barrier," nodded Suzuki. "We can't change what the spirit has already done, but we can prevent it from using the barrier to mess with Yugi's life further."

Hayate nodded. "My thoughts exactly. If we can get him on board, the spirit shouldn't be alerted on the other side as Yugi won't feel threatened."

"And what will we do if he doesn't want it removed?" said Atsuko. A question Hayate knew she would ask.

Hayate winced "We'll discuss that if we need to."

Off to the side, actually taking notes for a change, Miyuki nodded. One hand scribbling on her notepad while the other stroked her spirit blade, an older floral style from the 70's embedded with rich red crystal in the hilt. "I agree with this approah. Finding a previous case will assist us with moving forward safely. And a cooperative host will make this easier. Hopefully we will be able to end this spirit's contact with Yugi without the need to engage combat."

There was a unanimous hum of agreement, with the exception of Atsuko, who hung back with a frown. Her shoulders curling forward.

"Hayate! When you're ready, I'll meet you in the file room," said Suzuki with a mock salute. "We have a knack for finding what we need back there. You ladies can start the research, since you have a talent for accessing the old newspapers and archives."

His words caused Atsuko, their lead researcher, to retreat into herself further. Her body coiling together as if she were trying to hide.

Suzuki eyed Hayate, then signalled for Miyuki and Anya to get to work. The three of them getting up to move to their respective stations, and giving Hayate a few moments of limited privacy with his wife. He stood up and walk over to her, leaning on her desk.

"Astuko..." he said, reaching out to rub her back, her shoulder relaxing at the touch. "Go home. Yugi will probably be back by now and it would be better if one of us is there. Just in case he wants to talk. I'll stay back long enough for the both of us."

She looked down for a moment, then back up at him."Okay... Just promise me you won't take it too far. The influence of a guardian spirit is serious. I don't want to truly believe it until we have definitive proof."

Hayate felt her shiver as she spoke. He didn't blame her.

"It won't be like the others..."

"We don't know that!" she said. "And we won't until well after the barrier is removed. If it's removed."

"But the spirit is no longer here to influence his behaviour. Only Yugi's mind is floating around in his head. Which means we have a good chance of convicing him to cooperate so long as we remain tactful. He responds well to reason."

"I hope you're right," her shoulders somehow slumping further. 

And despite the gnawing sensation in his chest telling him otherwise, Hayate hoped so too.

....................

With a final swipe, the counter was polished clean. The glass so clear Solomon Motou could read the text on his shop's display of Duel Monsters cards without his glasses. Each for sale, lined evenly and in order of card type, rarity and class. The most sought after (and therefore most expensive) in the front row, tempting all who looked at them. Even Solomon himself.

It had been another busy day. He had just sold out of duel disks again and had just finished setting up a new display for the latest middle school craze - a zombie battle game, of all things. He's even hosting a local tournament next weekend.

Yet, despite the kids coming in to spend their hard earned pocket money on the latest zombie mystery box, it was Duel monsters they spoke about. Leaning over the glass case and pointing out their favorite cards, and inevitably asking if Yugi was home - wanting a photo, an autograph, or just his opinion on whatever deck they had scrounged together with their limited resources.

Solomon never denied it. His business has been booming since Yugi's victory at Duelist Kingdom. 

He sighed, raising a hand to rub his aching back. The extra money was certainly going to allow him to retire in the next few years. 

The glass door pushed open. His grandson walking in while nervously glancing around. Like mouse trying to avoid a cat.

"They're not here," said Solomon. He gestured for Yugi to come over to him. "How was it at this institute place?"

"It was fine," grumbled Yugi. Which meant the exact opposite. He stared at the floor as he walked over, slumping his school bag on the counter. 

Solomon nodded. "As expected. They didn't perform an exorcism on you did they?"

"No... but I was interrogated. I think? I don't know."

He leaned on the counter, staring up at him. "They seem really worried. I don't think they like spirits at all. As if there is never a benefit to having one around. I could only tell them so much."

"Then leave it at that. You don't owe them the full story. No matter how much they demand otherwise and especially if they are going to bury their heads in the sand on the issue. They weren't here when all the chaos happened, therefore they shouldn't have much say in how you cope afterwards."

"You think they're not listening?"

"Your father has a bad habit of getting lost in his beliefs. Your mother in her nerves. You inherited the same thing, though you are stubborn with your values. So yes, all three of you aren't listening to each other for one reason or another," he leaned forward, chuckling. "Classic in this family."

Yugi sighed, leaning forward on the counter. "I just don't know what to do."

"Wait until they calm down, then they will listen. Trust me, this isn't my first rodeo. Your father inherited his people blindness from your grandmother, and she was worse! Neither of them can see anything human related beyond their glasses."

That did it. His grandson started to smile. "It makes way too much sense when you say it like that."

Solomon shrugged. "Just be glad you were too young to deal with their stalemates. It was like another cold war every time they shared space in the kitchen. Sound familiar? It's why I used to eat on the couch before your parents left for America, and to be honest, I might have to start again considering the way you three are going."

Yugi laughed. "A cold war? Are we that bad?"

Solomon laughed with him. "More than you know! At least I can keep the peace between you three. No one was able to hold your grandmother back."

The door pushed open again, causing the two to look up. Yugi's smile faded and his expression became neutral.

His mother shuffled in, eyes sunken and her usually neat hair ruffled out of place, looking as if she hadn't slept for weeks.

"Are you alright, Atsuko?" said Solomon, rushing out from behind the counter. "I have a medical box upstairs and some herbal remedies if you need."

"I'm fine," she said, her eyes settling on Yugi and walking over next to him. " It's been a big day." 

"If you say so," said Solomon, ready to reach out to steady her. "But let me make you some chamomile and ginseng tea. It's good for rest."

"Actually, I was hoping to spend the afternoon with Yugi. I want to know more about Duel Monsters."

That caused Yugi's head to snap up at her. Eyes scrunched in suspicion. "Since when were you interested in Duel Monsters?"

Atsuko flushed, "I want to understand your obsession with it. Even if I'm not good at games, I want to know what's going on when we eventually watch you play."

Solomon may not have known much about Spirit Hunters, but he did know Atsuko, and whatever Yugi's 'interrogation' revealed had set off her nerves. Not necessarily hard to do, but the fact she was home rather than working with Hayate spoke volumes. It was a monumental task to drag either of them from their jobs.

He sighed. This was an offer of peace, the so-called extension of an olive branch. A desperate one by the sounds of it.

He gave Yugi a look, causing his grandson to grimace. He knew Yugi would rather hide in a cellar than deal with conflict. Even if it meant resolving it.

"Okay," said Yugi with a nod. "I'll find some starter sets and we can discuss the basics. The shop tables would be best to work on."

Solomon nodded with him. "And I'll make some tea for us and watch. A casual game is always best with warm drink," said Solomon, keeping his eyes on Yugi. Knowing his grandson would bail out at the first opportunity if he wasn't present. "You pick a table and sit down."

For the first time since she came home, a small splash of color returned to Atsuko complexion and her twitching hands began to still.

She smiled. "Okay. I'll wait for you."

Solomon knew she would wait for eternity. Especially for the young man running upstairs towards the family Duel Monters closet. Not that Yugi had figured that out yet, despite his intelligence. A fact which caused Solomon to shake his head. 

He will learn. Once he was out of his head long enough to hear the tears his mother was holding back.

.........................

The 1950's-1980's archives were covered in dust and yellowed with age - each stuck with a different telltale astroboy sticker from Suzuki's predecessor. The bookcases lined several rows and filled out the walls - causing Hayate to gulp. These were the cases that had taught Suzuki and Hayate's now retired mentor. The ones that made them the great spirithunter they became.

But what they weren't known for was organisation... causing a sigh to escape the two men as they faced the monumental task before them.

"What did you say it was again?" muttered Hayate. "Takuya Fujimoto of '65?"

"Tatsuki not Takuya," said Suzuki. He stretched his shoulders. "You tackle the left, I'll cover the right?"

"Sounds like a plan. Just like our apprentice days..."

Suzuki wiped the sweat on from his forehead, though he remained smiling. "How did we end up in this job again?"

Hayate shrugged. "Both of us went for 'accounting' interviews."

"And why did we stay?" said Suzuki with a tilt of his head, eyes squinting as he tried to gaze the top of the bookshelf.

"Can't remember," grumbled Hayate. "Well, ready to start?"

"Be my guest. You were always the one better at paperwork."

And the quest for the 'Tatsuki Fujimoto of '65' case file began. With Suzuki starting down at the farther end of the right side and Hayate aiming for the middle of what looked like the '1960's' section on the left.

He pulled out the first case file - 'Ayumi Hachimo, 1983'. "They’re not even remotely organized."

"Why do you think I keep putting off organizing it? It will take a team of hunters off the field for a week just to make this place look pretty - and another to get them all in the online database. We need boots on the field."

"It would have helped us now," muttered Hayate.

"Fair point, but I bet we'll find it in a day or two. Much better than a week."

Hayate couldn't argue with that logic.

This continued for several hours. A job they hadn't had to do since their mentor retired. Case file, after case file, after case file...

Some of them were classic cases. Like the Oregon Lake Haunting of 1973 and the Riverside Spirit of 1968. Both cases used to teach new hunters coming into the company today.

Yet there was no time to sit down and read the original files. Only put them aside for later and stay focused.

Piles and piles of case files had started to build-up on their office desks, if only to try and visually thin out their workload. Time seemed to fly as they worked through each and every folder, doubling and triple checking to make certain they hadn't missed it.

It was only after Suzuki had gone home that Hayate looked up at the time. It was two in the morning, but he didn't remotely feel like sleeping. Yugi was at stake, and he couldn't fail him again. 

It was then he noticed it, in the center of a small pile at the back, a slightly less yellowed file stuck with a unique feature - it had a Devilman sticker rather than an Astroboy one.

He slid it out the pile, figuring it was just another standard case and that his mentor ran out of Astroboy stickers - but no- staring back at him was the name and date Tatsuki Fujimoto '65. He let out a breath of relief, opening the aged pages delicately with a silent prayer that all the effort was worth it.

As Hayate slowly went through it, a pressure tugged at his chest, nearly making him throw up. It was like the Pelorsi family all over again.

Case report: Tatsuki Fujimoto, 15 years old, Takayama.

Case type - Guardian, Possession, Spiritual Bonding

NOTE - Types of spirits - excerpt from pg. 21 of 'The Spirit Compendium'

-Most cases involve the three core spirit types known as the three M's - Malicious, Manic, Melancholic. However, there is the much rarer fourth type, most commonly known as the 'Guardian' which almost exclusively occurs in possession cases. Their intrinsic purpose for existing varies between each spirit. What makes them unique is the increased quality of life of the host once the possession begins - making them the one category notorious for being difficult to exorcise as the host is not only aware of their existence, but actively tries to maintain them and keep them alive, often at the expense of the people around them.

It should be noted, despite the lack of harm to the host, these spirits cause just as much damage to people's lives - in fact, they are known for creating the most destruction in their quest to maintain the obsessive relationship with their host out of all known spirit groups and types. Most cases end with either the host's suicide, disappearance or, in the case of a successful exorcism and therapy, life-long mental health complications.

End result of case - family and village saved, Tatsuki - suicide.

Report:

First contacted by Tatsuki's sister, who claimed her usually shy brother had a sudden string of successes unrelated to his previous interests and skills. Namely in his grades and baseball. What concerns her is his sudden change in demeanor, almost as if he were a different person when playing the game and his increased confidence in the classroom.

Several bullying situations had appeared resolved overnight - with one of Tatsuki's tormentors ending up in the local asylum and another found dead in the river last season.

There was also an incident regarding a potentially violent suitor for their youngest sister whom Tatsuki was particularly close too. The situation involved blackmailing the family and threatening the city. The suitor disappeared the night before he planned to retrieve his new bride. There has been no evidence of his where abouts thus far.

While our contact had no evidence of Tatsuki's involvement, she claimed all this started after he found an old trinket inside an empty well after his tormentors threw him in and left him. The item is a bracelet of non-Japanese origin, and she claims her brother is obsessed with it.

We made contact with Tastuki one week later. He couldn't stand the Pomegranate Spirit tea - claiming it tasted musky. A classic sign of previous possession. Our All Sight member, Ayumi, concluded he had been lying throughout the entirety of the interview and that the spirit was present throughout within Tatsuki himself - though not actively possessing him at the time.

Overnight we had a close call when Tatsuki - possessed by the Spirit - attempted to harm Ayumi by luring her from the family residence and attempting to seal her soul in the surrounding woodland. Thankfully, Ayumi passed the test of judgement and returned alive and in her right state of mind. She is currently taking leave post-case.

We concluded the Spirit was of middle-eastern origin - suspected to be Turkish. Though how the spirit ended up in a Japanese well is unknown.

With the help of his family, Tatsuki was confronted. He denied the Spirit's existence at first - then we asked to retrieve the bracelet, which elicited a violent response. After a confrontation, Tatsuki escaped into the forest. Claiming he would never give up on the Spirit - whom he called 'Haluk'.

Permission was granted to use the spirit knife on 'Haluk' to try and save Tatsuki and future potential victims.

Locating Tatsuki proved difficult, however we were able to find him with the help of his youngest sister who attempted to convince him he was capable of succeeding in his life without the spirit and that the stress he felt from people to succeed meant nothing if he did not achieve them through his own merit.

This failed considerably. Tatsuki refused to return to his own life. We managed to get him into our trap to separate him from the spirit, however the spirit was one step ahead. Having placed a rather powerful barrier on Tatsuki's soul to prevent their separation.

Later that night, Tatsuki -possessed by Haluk - was found attempting to cast a spell on the whole city. We believe it was a sacrificial circle. Though it is unclear what Haluk was trying to summon or open as there is no circle of its likeness in the literature nor if this was caused by the institute's presence or if Haluk had planned this from the beginning.

After a difficult confrontation, we managed to seal Tatsuki in a spirit cage and attempted to destroy Haluk. In an unfortunate turn of events, by the time we got close enough to use the blade, Tatsuki was found dead in the cage with self-inflicted stab wounds in his stomach. It is unknown whether this act was completed by Haluk or Tatsuki or both.

The barrier seemed to have evaporated on the death of the host. No spiritual energy remains. It is theorized that Tatsuki chose to pass on with the spirit to save it, rather than live with its destruction.

The body was returned to the family, who had been present with us the entire night and does not hold the institute accountable. The bracelet has been moved to a safe location - though no known spiritual presence remains.

Victim death: Tatsuki Fujimoto, aged 15. Caused by the Spirit 'Haluk'. Spirit class: Guardian

As Hayate read over the report - once, twice, three times... he couldn't help but see the similarities to Tatsuki and Yugi. The quiet boy becoming a success and overcoming obstacles.

But a concern lay beneath the surface. 'Haluk' clearly handled the disappearance and deaths of those causing Tatsuki and his family grief. Even sending people insane!

The more Hayate read the report, the less he wanted to see. He wanted to crush it between his fingers, terrified what this would mean to the investigation. They would need to look at what was happening around Domino during the past five years, especially around Yugi's social group and the local area. Not just his dueling. 

But this case also didn't answer their biggest questions - Why Yugi was left behind? What was the exchange for the barrier? 

Hayate put the report down then rubbed his forehead. The prospect of searching through this entire room giving him his second headache of the day. 

But he had to do it. For Yugi's sake. He needed to find a case of a barrier wielder with no spirit.

Chapter Text

Hayate had to resist groaning. It was now six in the morning, and he must have gone through all the case files at least three times over. Nothing new. 

He knew barriers weren't commonly used, as they were only capable of one or two functions at a time and were costly to create, so spirits themselves rarely made them- as they had to make them by themselves without supplement energy. Any barriers the hunters did find were created by median families with lots of members, usually to bind a spirit to an object or to provide protection from whatever they had decided to summon. 

So, finding a barrier created by a lone spirit was unusual. More so the fact the spirit left the wielder after paying the cost of making it. 

Hence the lack of relevant case files, and a reality making Hayate want to burn down the casefile room. To make matters worse, it seemed even his esteem mentor also never had a case like it.

He tapped his fingers on the table, trying to clear his muddled thoughts. The reason for the barrier must have been more important than what the spirit paid to create it or, the most likely explanation, Yugi offered something more valuable than the cost of making it. The question is what.

Hayate rubbed his forehead, having mulled over this very question ever since they found Yugi's barrier. What could the spirit gain from making it if it was planning to leave? What could Yugi, a high school student with no spiritual abilities, possibly offer a spirit who was so powerful not even a generational median family could break its barrier?

He sighed, deciding to go to the staff kitchen and make himself a coffee. The lack of sleep causing his focus to sway, yet he didn't feel tired. At least, not in the usual sense.

As he slogged over to the kitchen, his mind raced with what he knew about barriers and any spirits he knew of which had created one. The answer - not many. All of them linked to a median family. The Pelorsi were one, but their barriers were simple compared to the one placed on Yugi, and that one only functioned because the spirit was within the host at the time.

Of course, with limited known reasons for spirits to create a barrier, it was difficult to catalogue the purpose of each design. But there was a known fact - the one possibility that had been driving Hayate to do these all-night shifts and fish through all this paperwork.

He gritted his teeth in frustration as he stepped through to the kitchen. The reality of the situation building that pressure in his chest once again. 

Barriers created by a spirit were a link between the wielder and the spirit, and this link extended to the afterlife. Which not only meant Yugi was connected to the guardian spirit currently, but there was a possibility of it returning to the world of the living through him. No object, no ceremony, no ritual... just the spirit outright taking over the host. Switching their souls, so to speak.

Killing the host in the process. 

And there lay the fear. The reason they had to figure out this mystery. Regardless of what Yugi thought about the entire process, and whether this particular barrier was even capable of it. 

He flicked on the kettle without needing to look and reached for the new ground beans he ordered from Africa. Supposed to have extra caffeine while maintaining a smooth flavor. He placed it in the filter, then continued his musings while waiting for the water to boil.

He tapped his fingers on the table. Trying to change tack and think back to his previous guardian cases and towards anything that could help Yugi.

Hayate had only two encounters with guardian spirits. Once in his apprentice days and another in America.

The first was a successful case under the watchful eye of his mentor. A team of spirit catchers had cornered a university student and baited the spirit into revealing itself, allowing them to lock both it and the host down until he and his mentor arrived.

He remembered the exorcism. The way the spirit was forced out of the boy. The way he screamed, begging them to leave the spirit alone. That it was a good spirit. That it kept him safe. The spirit leaked out of him like liquid blue light, the form a spirit takes when captured in the land of the living.

His mentor's blade destroyed that spirit. Turning it into a translucent mist - gone from existence. Never to harm another living being again.

Though as they left, Hayate could hear every word the host cried. His screams ignored by the hunters and his parents, the latter who had notified the catchers in the first place. The cries echoing through his eardrums still, almost two decades later, as if the boy 's tear-stained face was hollering in front of him.

I hate you! You murderers! I'll never forgive you!

The kettle flicked up, bringing Hayate out of his thoughts. He poured the water into the filter and made up his coffee, noting the anime ghost mascot on the mug - Suzuki's idea of a joke. Though he couldn't see the humor in that moment. He took a sip, the taste grounding him back into the present and his mind clearing once again. 

And just like that, a solution came to him, like a fog light in a swamp. 

It was in the very possessive nature of a guardian and was answered by the Pelorsi's failed attempt to possess Yugi. He wondered why no one in the team thought of it sooner. It was obvious.

For a guardian planning on leaving for the afterlife, the cost of a barrier would be small compared to the ability of stopping other spirits from controlling their host after they had left.

Hayate could feel himself grinning. An answer to the never ending 'why'.

This 'pharaoh' was so possessive of Yugi that it made itself vulnerable to create the barrier. A means of binding the spirit to Yugi, marking him as its property, and protecting them both at the same time. After all, what would have happened to the spirit if another took over his host? Wouldn't end well when it was still on earth and it provided a connection to the world of the living once it moved on, securing his host should he need to return.

"Of course," whispered Hayate under his breath. Grateful for the power of coffee. "Miyuki was right. Guardians have a nasty habit of benefiting both themselves and the host. Yugi's not stupid, but he's young, and can still be manipulated into thinking this was a good idea with a good sales pitch. If the spirit bothered to tell him about it."

And what an idea it was. They now had to convince him to remove a barrier that may have just saved his life. 

"Well, this is a development," chuckled Hayate, swirling his coffee in his mug. "It's been a while since we had a spirit this smart. No wonder Yugi got along with it."

He chugged the rest of the coffee in one hit, resisting the urge to savor it. Now was not the time to decide whether or not the beans were worth his money. Now, with the most pressing question out the way, he could focus on solving the other problem.

They need to destroy that barrier without its spirit's signature. A difficult task when the spirit was no longer around.

He groaned out loud again, reluctantly placing down his empty coffee mug and turning back to the file room, deciding on one more round through the paperwork until he goes home.

It was on that thought his foot knocked something underneath the desk, causing Hayate to swear under his breath.

He glanced down to see an old, dusty chest. It was made out of the same wood as the desk, which is probably why he didn't notice it earlier.

With a raised eyebrow, and a desire to put off looking through the paperwork as long as possible, he leaned down to drag the chest out. It felt lighter than it appeared, and when he opened it up he could see why.

His heart plummeted to the floor. 

Inside were at least hundred more case files - each sporting a Devilman sticker in the top right corner. These must be the Guardian cases their predecessor wanted to hide from the database. Ironically, keeping it all together and using a different sticker in an attempt to make them easier to find. Their lack of organisational skills making the attempt a moot point.

Hayate gulped. Following his gut instinct and reaching in as fast as he was capable. This time only reading the outcomes. They needed a case more specific to Yugi.

A guardian... who left their host alive with a barrier... and wasn't discovered until after the possession period.

In all the years Hayate had known them, his mentor had never let him down. Not once. It looked like this was another one of those moments. A gift from beyond the grave, so to speak. As if his mentor had responded to the stress in the office. 

He read through them, throwing each unnecessary file to the side. Desperate to find something, anything, that can help them save Yugi. To keep his son safe. 

He was half-way through the pile in less than five minutes.

End case result: Elizabeth Cornish - Suicide

End case result: Ryuta Mojitomo - Suicide

End case result: Kumiko Najitaka - Alive: Refuses to speak with Spirit Hunters

End case result: Edgar Harutano - Alive and Coping, Spirit Barrier -Broken

Hayate paused, reading the sentence again. He glanced up at the file name 'Edgar Harutono, '60'.

With a gulp, he read through the first page, slowing down to take it in.

Case report: Edgar Harutano, 19 years old, Cairo.

Case type - Guardian  Possession, Barrier, Missing Spirit

This case came to our attention after the spirit's passing. The main focus of this investigation is to determine the cause for the barrier at the request of a local Rabi, who found it attached to his son during the exorcism of a member of the temple. No spirit was present; however, it is suspected to be an absent guardian. No known damage was caused by the spirit. Edgar doesn't seem to think he is in danger and our All-sight member declared he was being honest in the interview, though was holding back on the details due to nerves.

End case result: Edgar Harutano - Alive and Coping, Spirit Barrier -Broken

For the first time that night, Hayate felt a smile grace his lips. The pressure releasing from his shoulders as he continued to read through the report. Grateful for a case that seemed closer aligned to his son's situation rather than the Tatsuki case.

He finally found himself being filled with relief as he read each word, the answer lying in his hands. His lungs filling with air, as if he had been holding his breath. Perhaps they hadn't failed Yugi yet.

........................

"See, that's how you summon your ace monster. In this deck, you need to aim for the polymerization card to bring her out," said Yugi, pointing to the Mystical Sand monster card. 

His mother nodded, looking down at the array of cards. "Okay, so unlike the first deck we played with last night, this one's big monster is harder to summon."

Yugi did his best not to laugh at the 'big monster' comment, instead nodding along. "Exactly, but also notice that this monster is stronger than Queen of the Autumn Leaves and because she sits in your extra deck you don't have to wait around to draw her," he then pointed to the Giant Soldier of Stone and Ancient Elf. "You just use the search cards to get these guys out. I can play with the deck you played with last time so that it is a fair fight. Want to give it a go?"

He had the impression she was enjoying herself. Even if they had started with the most basic starter decks he could find. There more recent ones were way too complex for someone who hadn't even watched a game. Though it seemed his mum was picking up on the game quite well.

"Why don't you judge? After last night, I would rather play against your grandfather," she said, a drip of sweat on her forehead. "Your win came from no where. Besides, I want you to eat your breakfast. Your father says you've been skipping meals."

Yugi found himself trying not to laugh. Wondering how his trap card 'came from no where'. Trying to remember this was new to his very out of touch mother. 

His breakfast lay next to him, toast with coffee, the latter because he stole some of his dad's coffee beans otherwise he never would have brewed it, but both would be cold by the time they finished the next game. If Yugi played.

He sighed in defeat. His grandfather giving a thumbs up from behind the counter. "I'm happy to play a round. Which deck were you going to play again, Yugi?"

"The Queen of the Autumn Leaves starter. No card swaps. Mum is playing the Mystical Sands starter with a couple extra traps."

"Ah, so still on the basics?"

"The ace monster is bigger this time," huffed his mother. This time causing Yugi let out a chuckle. He was starting to see where his competitive streak came from.

His grandfather took Yugi's seat and the two of them shuffled up. Yugi took a sip of coffee as he watched them draw out their hands, feeling more awake as the caffeine started to hit him.

The store door opened up, despite the 'closed' sign on the door. They didn't open until midday due to the late-night Sunday tournaments.

Yugi nearly spat out his coffee at the sight of his father. Strolling in like a zombie. He looked worse than his mother did when she came home last night. Bags under his eyes, hair unruly, though he seemed lighter than his mother. Much less anxious. As if now all he needed was sleep.

"Dad! It's nine o'clock on a Sunday," said Yugi. "You look terrible. Why were you at the office so long?"

"No reason," said his father while holding back a yawn. "I'm glad you're finally out of your room."

"I have a reason to hang out today," muttered Yugi, gesturing back to the game. "Mum wanted to learn how to play. Had to fish out the simpler starter decks from the Duel Monster's closet upstairs."

"We have a Duel Monsters closet?" muttered his father, seemingly too tired to bother with an expression.

"Yep. Behind the TV with a lock. Separates what we own and what's on sale at the shop. Grandpa has quite a few cards worth a mint."

"Says the boy with the God cards," grumbled his grandfather. He placed down Celtic Guardian in attack mode. "But those are kept in a safe. Everyone wants to get their hands on them."

"God cards?" said Hayate, squinting his eyes. "As in biblical characters or something?"

"Not quite. They are the most powerful cards in the game..." said his grandfather. He placed a card face down and passed turn to his mother. Who was also squinting at the board. He made a brief gesture to Yugi. "There is only one copy of each in existence and we have them because of this talented young man."

"Unfortunately," sighed Yugi, leaning on the table. "I'm going to make it a point not to play them in the upcoming tournaments if I can help it. Though I'm sure Kaiba will want to face them in future rematches."

His grandfather nodded in agreement. "And I bet they'll contract you to play them during the major matches. They do look excellent on TV. The kids are always asking about them... What!"

Yugi's mother had just played Harpie's Feather Duster, taking away the card his grandfather had just put down. He sighed, flipping over Mirror Force and putting it in the graveyard.

"I knew it," said his mother with smile. She glanced over at his father. "This is fun! You want to join?"

"I think I might sleep first. I've been up all night," said his father. He gave Yugi another sad glance.

"You pulling an all-nighter and Atsuko coming home early? Yugi's barrier thing must really be that serious," said his grandfather.

"I feel fine though..." grumbled Yugi. "Surely I would have noticed if an Egyptian mummy used me in a ritual."

His father walked past him and ruffled his head. "You will be fine. Taking care of weird spiritual conundrums is what we do... and it's not the mummy's we are worried about."

"The undead can't use magic," said his mother. She placed down Ancient Elf followed by Polymerization as his grandfather made a face.

"Undead?" said Yugi with a laugh. "Next you'll be telling me necromancers are real and are trying to summon armies."

HIs father raised an eyebrow at him as he turned and walked up the stairs, causing Yugi to gawk. "Seriously!"

"We'll tell you some other time," said his mother, placing down Mystical Sands while his grandfather raised his hands in defeat. She smiled. "After the weird spiritual conundrum has been sorted."

Yugi huffed. "And you two used to be boring."

There was a tap at the door, causing Yugi to turn around. He grinned as Joey waved at him. A large bag of textbooks in hand.

"Joey's here. Got to get that paper done," said Yugi. He stood up. "Will you be home later, Mum? Joey loves Duel Monsters too if want a different opponent."

His mother packed the last of her deck, then frowned, gazing at Joey's unruly attire and awkward smile. "I've got to get back to institute, Sweetheart. But maybe some other time? He seems... Nice."

"Joey's a diamond in the rough," chuckled Yugi. "Anyway. Will be at the library if you need me. Later."

"Don't be out too late," said his mother with a tight expression. "We nearly lost you a few nights ago."

Yugi waved her and his grandfather off. "Don't worry. Joey's walking back with me."

"Okay..."

And with that, Yugi took off, meeting Joey outside with a fist bump. They weren't going to the library, with the plan to meet up with Tristan and hang out at Tea's place while she finished off her American college applications. It was a long process, and the three of them were planning to surprise her with a visit to break up her week.

Yugi felt his cheeks flush. He hadn't seen Tea since before the kidnapping. It had only been a couple of days, and his wrists were still red and sore from rope burn, but it felt longer somehow.

"Come on," said Joey with a huff and a side eye at Yugi. Weighed down by the bookbag. "I know ya didn't plan out this day just for little ol'me."

"Shut up!" but Yugi said it with a smile. 

A day with his friends. finally. 

And a small moment of hope. Like he was building something between him and his parents. Slowly filling a gap in his soul he thought would never be full again.

..............................

The taxidermied falcon taunted Atsuko as she made her way into the office, as if it knew what was going on with her family. She hated that thing. Its unnatural yellow eyes glared forward, almost like it blamed her for the fact it was now a stuffed office decoration. 

She sighed, having been dreading this step in the investigation. Her role was valuable, possibly the most important in the organization, and she was good at it. Information surrounding the victims was key to handling spirits and classifying them.

But today will be different. Atsuko will need to investigate her son - a boy she knew didn't have a wicked bone within him. It just seemed crazy. She was unable to imagine him willingly supporting the dark plans of a guardian spirit. Not the kind child who use to give away his lunches back in elementary school.

Though she supposed that was child she left behind. Yugi was a young man now. Almost an adult. 

He had grown so much since they left...

Atsuko shook her head. She had the help of Anya and Miyuki. Though she doubted the process will be any easier regardless of who assisted her. No matter how many articles or databases they found on her behalf, nor how much her work was necessary. It was never easy placing parenting instincts aside for work. 

She walked into the office, noting several file boxes on her desk kindly left for her by Anya. Who was now assisting Miyuki in an international project. If Atsuko knew the older woman, she bet she was tracking down those gravekeepers in an attempt to get to the bottom of Yugi's story.

"Well, looks like Anya's investigation skills have been improving at least," said Atsuko. Her finger trailing along each of the files before beginning to look into them.

She flicked through with lightning speed. Each an article related to Domino High, courtesy of the local newspapers. Atsuko had already done the easy research through her home network. Anything regarding 'Yugi Motou' were related only to his dueling and recent victories - with him mentioned in most issues of Duel Weekly by whichever dueling specialist who were interviewed for that issue. But specific information about an area in a certain timeframe required more sophisticated research tools.

Her fingers slowed as she pulled out a few from around the time her son started high school and put them on the table in front of her. Now they needed real guardian evidence. Not potential feelings after watching DVD's. 

Atsuko sighed, reaching for her mug and sipping her drink before she began. Her husband's taste for coffee was one of his more peculiar quirks, but one she appreciated. Especially now. He had brought over higher caffeinated beans for the team, and she had a hunch she was going to need them.

Bracing herself, she looked down. Preparing for any signs of guardian activity with the pages.

Domino High Student Convinced Leaves Are Money! Sent to Local Asylum!

She took another sip, feeling nausea in her gut at the obvious sign in the title, then placed her mug down. The drink sloshing side to side as her hand began to shake.

Guardian spirits had four typical behaviors which landed in the news. Each which could be mistaken for normal criminal or basic abnormal behavior on their own, but if multiple were happening in quick succession, then a guardian was likely in the area.

Under her beath she recited them to herself. A habit of hers before beginning to research. Formed to remind herself what she was specifically looking for with a given case and to stop her emotions getting in the way of what she was seeking.

'One. A sudden increase in deaths, arrests or suicides of criminals. As the guardian's host tends to be a vulnerable individual, they are often the target of crime, causing the guardian to act defensively.'

'Two. A decrease in criminal and bullying activity in the direct vicinity of the host due to the above. As they are dealt with, there are less people causing the host grief.'

'Three. An increase in strange coincidences within the vicinity of the host. This could include high staff turnover at workplaces, sudden cancellation of events without known cause, complete change in social dynamics and an improvement in the host's social standing.'

'Four. Sudden and unexplained cases of insanity or mental illness.'

The latter was the most disturbing of the four, and it was the feature in the title Atsuko had just read. While Malicious and Manic spirit types tended to only make their host insane or sick - and even then, only in possession cases as hauntings were different - Guardians were the only known type to consistently drive multiple people to insanity. Often with the host completely unaware of what the spirit had done.

She remembered Yugi's cheerful nature as he taught her Duel Monsters. Explaining the basics with gentle ease. "And that's why you need to play this card first, Mum. So, you can use it on my turn if I attack."

If this was the spirit's doing... there was no way Yugi was aware of it. At least, not this early in their connection. It all depended on what else Atsuko could find among the copious amounts of articles which now lay at her fingertips.

With a final deep breath, she picked up the article and started to read. Praying it was a coincidence and not a pattern.

"Yugi..." she whispered, as she read through the article. Her lips tightening at the details. "Where were you when this happened? What did you think of your classmate?"

With such a find so early in the investigation, years of experience told her there was more to come. A gut instinct. 

A quick glance at the pile proved her point. The headlines screaming up at her.

'Fake Psychic Using Powers to Assault Female Classmates! Found Unconscious in Classroom!"

'Years of Strict Rules Finally Subside! Domino High Finds Freedom!"

'Controversial TV Show Director Blind or Insane! 'Mosaics Everywhere'!"

'Student's Survive Ordeal! Escaped Prisoner Lights Self On Fire At New Burger Joint!'

And the one which worried her the most, as it already collaborated with what Yugi had told them. 'Wanted Teen Gang Members Found Inside Burned Down Warehouse! Traumatized by Ordeal!'

Atsuko gulped, then picked up the pile to take them to the copy machine. She was going to need to highlight the most important sections if she planned on proving a spirit classification. 

"Oh, Sweetheart," she whispered. "What happened while we were away? Why did this spirit attach to you?"

Though she wouldn't get the answer to the second question until much later, the first would be answered that night, after many hours of coming to terms with the mountains of articles surrounding her. Each with massive sections highlighted in yellow, proving the outcome she dreaded the most.

Chapter Text

Hayate yawned and rubbed the back of his head. He had slept for over seven hours after the all-nighter. He reached for the note Atsuko left for him by his bedside, as was her habit, letting him know she was going into the office. He frowned at the thought of her researching alone, having seen her abilities firsthand. If there was a microscopic spiritual event that had occurred around Yugi, Atsuko will find out about it - with the date and time neatly organized in a filing folder. 

Whether or not that was a good thing depends on what she finds.

He got up and headed into the kitchen, filling and flicking on the kettle with his eyes half closed as he started to make breakfast when he reached for his coffee beans. He paused, shaking it. The bag was lighter, though after a few seconds a smile started to form as he guessed the culprit. Remembering his son was drinking a warm cup when he came home that morning. 

The kettle stopped boiling and the toast popped up, so he continued. The thought of that heaven-sent case file rejuvenating his energy. Everything was going to be okay. 

It was as he finished making his coffee that he found himself looking down the hallway, conveniently in the direction of Yugi's bedroom.

He took a sip, wondering if he should call the team first about his discovery of the casefile, or - as he glanced back in the direction of Yugi's bedroom - he could try and find that connection to the guardian spirit. The symbolic piece of the spirit Yugi prized to cope with its passing. 

Perhaps this was a stupid idea. 

He chugged down the coffee, once again wishing he had the time to savor it. Another day. The cup being placed down on the counter and his feet walking over to Yugi's bedroom door.

He knocked. "Yugi? Are you home?"

Nothing. Only the sound of Hayate's own breath.

"Yugi?" Hayate turned the handle and peered inside. Feeling like he was his father back in his exploration days, encroaching on some ancient site he wasn't supposed to access. 

The room was empty. He gulped.

I wouldn't be doing this if Yugi's life wasn't in danger. Hayate reminded himself. Though it didn't make invading his son's privacy any easier. He took a breath. Vowing to never speak of what he finds today except spirit related items. Whatever there might be. Couldn't be any worse than what Hayate used to hide in his teenage days.

Feeling a bit better with a vow undertow, he stepped inside completely.

He looked around. His son's room seemed normal for a teenage boy. Simplistic but not without personality.

The desk still had an upright set of well-used textbooks - each subject lined up in alphabetical order. A small pencil holder next to them, displaying a couple of modern mechanical pencils with Duel Monster's logos. A photo of his friends stood as the main attraction. Appearing to be joking around after a tournament.

The bed was well maintained, unusual for a boy but not suspicious, and his wardrobe still displayed his grandmother's old Astroboy stickers from when he was younger.

Hayate stepped further into the room, almost feeling as if he were trespassing onto a sacred space. Making him grateful Yugi wasn't home, and wouldn't be back until late judging by his recent habits.

He traced his hand on the old wardrobe stickers. Like his father, Hayate's mother also failed to get him into her side hobbies. She had been a fan of Astroboy since the original show aired on black and white television, being the first TV series she watched as a girl. She had been fascinated by anime and comics ever since.

As his fingers lined the edges, a sticker popped off and glided to floor. Hayate sighed, picking it up and placing it in it's original position.

He almost missed it. Only noticing it from the corner of his eye as he leaned over to stick the Astroboy sticker back on the wardrobe.

It stood on Yugi's old bedside table at the foot of the bed and was not visible unless you were right in front of it. In three layers, a square black box as the base, the gold millennium puzzle chest in the center, and a distinctive photo of his son at the top. Unusual, as Hayate didn't pick Yugi as the type to take and display photos of himself.

Then he looked closer. The angled eyes... That feeling of arrogance...

He gulped. This was it. Yugi's memorabilia. What his son was using to cope with the passing of the spirit.

Picking up all three from the base, he turned and placed it on the desk. Putting the uncanny photo next to him and opening the puzzle's old chest.

"What on earth..." he muttered. It was filled with several decks' worth of duel monsters' cards. He picked one up, recognizing it from the DVD's as a variant of Yugi's dark magician. "Why are these here? Shouldn't they be in the cupboard or the safe? Guess they must not have much monetary value..."

He put it to the side. Deciding that his lack of knowledge regarding the card game disqualified him from going through them. Maybe Anya would love to go over them if Yugi was willing to hand them over? Give the new recruit a job beside bottom line research. 

Now the black box... titled 'Tomb - 1960'. In his father's handwriting. Labelled and dated like those other cursed games in that storage unit. Hayate furrowed his brow at the sight. He supposed Yugi would only have to ask, 'Grandpa, do you have any relics from your trips?' and the man would have bent over backwards to find whatever Yugi wanted, even if it he actually put his back out to do it.

With held breath, he opened it. His fists shaking along the edge of the box as he took in the contents, then his fingers clenched into his palms so hard nails nearly pierced his skin.

He reached in, pulling out a circlet style crown.

The design was of quality craftsmanship having a distinctive Egyptian design. Detailed wings swept out the sides with a large eye in the center. No doubt the piece would have been grand before it lost its sheen. An item fit for a king. Not belonging in the crowded streets of Domino City.

And yet, here it was. Underneath a photograph of Yugi which resembled the uncanny images on the DVD cases, and the old golden chest the millennium puzzle was stored in filled with cards belonging to a game his son loved so much.

All three together. As if set up like an altar.

It took most of Hayate's willpower to not throw the blasted thing out the window. Here in his hands lay evidence of a guardian spirit. One who used his own son for its purposes and got close enough to him to warrant this set up at the foot of his bed. Almost as if he was worshipping a god.

Hayate took a deep breath, gently placing the ancient crown back into the box.

At least he couldn't sense spiritual energy emitting from it, not like the millennium puzzle, and the goal was to convince Yugi to go along with the plan. Hayate doubted his son would be willing to listen if he trashed what could possibly be his most prized possession.

Shutting the lid, as he no longer wanted to look at it, he stared back up at the photograph. Noting the casual way Yugi - no, not Yugi - leaned on the railing. Comfortable wearing his son's skin. Unsurprising if this was a guardian spirit like they suspected, but it still caused the hairs on his arms to rise. Wondering what this spirit took advantage of when it was in control.

"Yugi... What did you get yourself into?" he muttered. Glancing away to observe the rest of the room. The part represented his son. Wondering how different it would be if he developed on his own. Normally.

Putting the objects back where he found them, he realized he will need to get in touch with the team. They now had physical evidence of a guardian spirit taking over his son's life. Not just speculation based on previous cases, newspaper articles and images from old DVD's.

His breathing eased as rubbed the metallic feeling of the crown from his hands. Once Atsuko was done, they would have everything they needed. Yugi was going to be safe. 

.......................

The team gathered round the office, each with paperwork and mounds of evidence in tow. No one was smiling. A sign they had all found what they were looking for in their missions. Suzuki leaned on his desk, his arms crossed and awaiting the reports. Miyuki and Anya stood near him, allowing the team to form a circle. 

Hayate moved his chair next to his wife's desk, figuring it would be the best place to be. The casefile hung like a weight in his hand. A constant reminder on what they had to do.

Beside him, Atsuko was flicking through her own files, though Hayate knew it was only to give her fingers something to do. Her anxiety was getting the better of her professionalism.  

"Well," started Miyuki. "Most of our research into the grave keepers comes from the Egyptian Spirit Hunter Division. They are well aware of the Ishtar family - it's a relatively unactive group that has existed since ancient times solely to assist an ancient pharaoh into the afterlife. There existence was tolerated as an offset religious cult since they never interfered with the regular public."

Anya nodded, passing around a file. "They had more issues with local necromancy than the Ishtars. The availability of well-preserved mummy's provides ample opportunity for dead raising. Though according to the Egyptian Division the Ishtars were active six months ago.  It was brief, and the family now seems to live openly, having abandoned their old traditions in Favour of a modern lifestyle. Just as Yugi described."

"There's only one problem," grumbled Miyuki. Her pen tapping furiously on a notepad. "We made contact with the head of family. He refused to talk the moment he figured out we were investigating Yugi. All we got was confirmation that Yugi met up with him six months ago for a matter related to the millennium puzzle and that they are still in contact. Nothing we don't already know."

"Sounded like the two of them are on good terms," said Anya with a shrug. "The head of the family was Marik, one of the loose screws during battle city. Seemed to be doing better since then and has a deep respect for Yugi despite Marik's loss in the tournament."

"Guess we should have expected this," said Suzuki with a sigh. He took the report from Miyuki. "Ironically, the oldest families are the ones we know least about since they don't act out. It's how they survived so long... But at least we can confirm Yugi's story. Your turn, Hayate. What was this find you mentioned on the phone?"

Hayate paused. Now wasn't the time for details, but he could give a small overview. 

"I found a useful case... but I want to discuss it when all the information is on the table. I also found an object connected to the spirit in Yugi's room," said Hayate, glancing away from Atsuko's disapproving gaze. "An ancient Egyptian circlet if you can believe it, and a photo of him controlled by the spirit. Neither with spiritual energy, but prominently displayed. Also, a bunch of dueling cards in the puzzle's old chest. Could be of improtance considering Yugi's love of the game.""

"How did he get a hold of an ancient circlet?" said Suzuki with a raised eyebrow.

"From my father. The crown was in one of his storage boxes from his gambling days. He adores Yugi... would give him anything if he asked for it."

Suzuki nodded. "Fair point. So Yugi's story is corroborated, and we have physical proof to use when we confront him later. That's useable."

Seated at her desk, Atsuko's head was down, staring at her fiddling fingers rather than making eye contact with the team. Hayate frowned, knowing full well she dug up the information they needed. The most likely cause behind her nerves. 

"Atsuko," said Miyuki, lips pursed. "What is your verdict from the research?"

Atsuko frowned further, pausing her fiddling. Her voice soft as she spoke, "As much as I hate to say it, there is substantial evidence of a guardian spirit. All the markers line up."

"Even the strange coincidences? In the newspaper?" said Suzuki with a raised eyebrow.

Tears seemed to prick the edges of her eyes. "All of them. Ranging from escaped criminals lighting themselves on fire, a sudden decrease in crime despite record high statistics the year before, an exodus of problematic staff at Domino High School and several cases of unexplained insanity. I even found evidence of other millennium items present at Duelist Kingdom which could act as a spiritual motive for the tournament. It's the full guardian work up. This continued for a year, stopping just before the Duelist kingdom tournament. That was most likely the point Yugi made contact with..."

She went silent, unable to continue. Hayate reached out a hand to rub her back. 

"Shame the Japanese division were caught up with that melancholic spirit outbreak," grumbled Hayate. "Guardian cases always go under the radar during busy periods."

"I doubt they would have been looking either way. We usually receive notice about guardians from direct relatives. Strangers won't notice the difference - as evident by Yugi's seemingly public possessions," said Miyuki, leaning back in her chair with a firm nod. "Even Anya thought it was normal."

At the mention of her name, their newest recruit hid her head in embarrassment. "I only wish I picked up on it before it got to this point. Would have been better for everyone."

Hayate couldn't meet her eye. Neither could Atsuko. He started to tap the table.  

"I also found something unexpected," said Atsuko, shivering under Hayate's touch. Her fingers resuming their fiddling. "I've never seen it before. I wanted to discuss it before coming to conclusions. Be warned though... it is a bit confronting."

She opened her folder, bringing out an Egyptian exhibit pamphlet for the Domino Museum. Hayate couldn't recall the last time he went. Probably dragged there as a teenager by his history obsessed father. It was the last place he was expecting to see guardian evidence, ironic given all the old artifacts, but almost no museums were haunted. An odd phenomenon in their profession.

"This exhibit opened just before the Battle City tournament began," said Atsuko. She propped her elbow on the table and leaned on her hand with a frown. "It seems like too much of coincidence, doesn't it?"

They all stared at the image. Titled 'Witness the Tablet of Lost Memories! First time on display to the public!'. The tablet in question was an old Egyptian carving, depicting some kind of battle between a dragon and wizard with a person standing on either side of them. But as Hayate squinted, looking at the details, he stilled. Finally noticing what Atsuko was concerned about.

"That... Looks like a duel! Under the millennium puzzle!" said Anya. She gestured to the monster. "That's the blue-eyes white dragon and the dark magician! The monsters around the puzzle are the god cards... And the figure on the right looks exactly like Yugi! But wasn't this tablet made in Ancient Egypt? Why are there modern-day cards on an old tablet?"

Hayate couldn't have said it better himself. Feeling his jaw dropping as he noted the detail on the Yugi-like figure, with a long cape and Egyptian styled clothing and - most importantly - a circlet style crown. The exact one hiding in Yugi's bedroom.

"Didn't Yugi mention that Duel Monsters was based on a game from ancient Egypt?" said Suzuki, scratching his chin and leaning over to get a better look at the tablet. "This must be what he meant. The pamphlet also says the Yugi-figure is an unknown pharaoh. This could be our guardian spirit. The resemblance is uncanny."

"Perhaps, but this is still bizarre...," said Anya, moving closer. "It would seem Yugi has a link to Egypt beyond the millennium puzzle. A five-thousand-year-old link if this pamphlet is to be believed. Could he be a reincarnation? But then we suspect the guardian spirit is this Pharoah and reincarnations are born with the old soul. You can't have two copies of the same soul existing at once."

Suzuki nodded in agreement. "It must be why he was approached by the grave keepers. They thought he was this Pharoah's reincarnation and needed him for some weird Egyptian ceremony. Would explain why they refused to talk if they think they're protecting their King, and why the ceremony went so well."

"Not quite," said Miyuki, squinting her eyes at the Yugi-look alike. "Yugi knew this Pharoah. He spoke of him like a separate person. This is not a reincarnation case. It's missing most of the markers, and I have a feeling there's something not quite right about our guardian theory despite the evidence."

"That's why I wanted to discuss it," said Atsuko, her frown deepening. "None of the evidence lines up with a reincarnation. Even if it did, it would be occurring alongside a guardian spirit, but it wouldn't explain why they seem so..." she paused, struggling to find words.

"Similar," said Hayate, finding them for her. "And what's more. This one in the tablet is wearing the crown in Yugi's bedroom. It's definitely the same one."

"You mean, with the eye?" said Suzuki, leaning closer again. "Kinda creepy, but very Egyptian. I'm getting similar vibes from this as the DVD's."

"He has a crown in his bedroom. A piece of his guardian... A guardian who is almost a carbon copy of himself..." said Miyuki, shaking her head. "I know spirits prefer hosts who are like themselves in some capacity. Usually picking the same ethnicity and gender... . But this is beyond that. They could pass as twins if this tablet is accurate."

"Pharoah's were worshipped as Gods on earth. It wouldn't surprise me if the ritual required a near perfect host to be effective. Like that Aztec case we took on last year," said Atsuko. "Remember how the spirit would only accept a girl who looked like the goddess?"

"Otherwise, their 'Gods' would be upset?" said Hayate with a sarcastic tone.

"Exactly. I wondered if the grave keepers were of a similar mind. Maybe they consider Yugi the perfect host, so keeping him out of trouble and available is in their best interest. It worried me when I did some research on Ancient Egypt and the modern state of its polytheistic religion," said Atsuko, looking down as her fingers fiddled with the edge of her paperwork. "It's still active, but is mostly practiced in underground sects. They still worship the old Pharaohs and practice sacrificial rituals."

Anya stared closer at the image. "If this pharaoh is the spirit, I wonder what they were to each other?  I mean, if he believes the spirit to be like himself then of course he won't be scared of him, right? It would make the possession less terrifying."

Miyuki shook her head. "No. He knows their separate. I sensed it when he spoke of the pharaoh."

Atsuko nodded in agreement. "Either way, it means our guardian case isn't as straight forward as we thought. I'm worried this mean Yugi will have more resistance than anticipated. What if he sees this spirit as family? An older brother? We never could give him a sibling..."

Her words made Hayate's heart plummet to the floor. It didn't cross his mind that could have caused a spiritual bond. 

Having Yugi had been a near medical miracle. They were told by every physician that the chances were too low, too risky. Success meant potential disabilities and lifelong health problems... well, Yugi proved them wrong. Existing with perfect health without scientific intervention. But it wasn't meant to happen twice. 

"We need clarification from Yugi himself," said Hayate with a firm nod. His finger continuing to tap. "Hosts always let off hints about their spirit when confronted, whether they realize it or not. Once he admits to its existence, we'll be able to discern their relationship and what this spirit is supposed to be. Until then, let's run with our guardian theory."

"I agree, though we still need to remove the barrier," said Miyuki. Straight forward as ever. "It will be painful for Yugi but it will be safer for everyone. You said you found a casefile?"

"I did," said Hayate. "A successful barrier removal post possession. Method provided and everything. The results were impressive... the kid is now an adult and didn't suffer any repercussions, which is a miracle in guardian cases."

"Yugi will hate us...," said Atsuko. Pausing her fiddling to rub her forehead. "He has a bunch of tournaments coming up that he was so excited for... And depending on his mindset after the removal he might not be able to attend graduation."

"He will thank you when he returns to his normal self," said Suzuki with a knowing nod. "Once the barrier is gone, whatever was taken from Yugi will return. It will take a while, but he will find himself again. Just be patient."

"But how long will that take..." muttered Hayate. His finger still tapping on the table. "And how many guardian vessels make a full recovery? Whatever was removed improved his confidence, which is why he is so successful now. If he loses his dueling title because of this or struggles at university... what will he do?"

"He will need to discover that afterwards, once he's safe," nodded Miyuki. "We're not saying it will be easy, but the both of you will be there for him. And his friends if they are genuine. His safety, and that of everyone else, comes first. "

Hayate frowned. "But Tatsuki..."

"Believed he lost everything. His sisters betrayed him, he lost his reputation at school and baseball, and the whole of Takayama knew about Haluk. Back in those days he would have been disowned for his actions. I doubt he thought he had anything left. But Yugi has you," said Suzuki.

"The other cases are all similar. Each vessel was chosen because they were vulnerable, and they chose death because they were still vulnerable. Yugi is standing on his now and there is no shocking separation from his spirit that will push him over the edge. He will recover."

Hayate glanced over to Atsuko as she reached for his hand, holding it tight. 

"We don't know the spirit's plan," said Miyuki, with a scowl. "The sooner we remove the barrier, the easier it will be. Yugi should be able to make graduation after a few days off if we start tomorrow."

"We'll see," sighed Hayate. Tightening his hand on Atsuko's. "After we confront him with the evidence in the morning. Our urgency will depend on his reaction."

He glanced over at Atsuko, her eyes wide and her hand shaking in his. She buried her face into his shoulder, hiding her tears and holding back sobs. He kissed her forehead.

"Yugi will be okay," he said. Though he wondered if those words were meant to calm his wife or himself.  

....................................

Yugi walked into his room. The warmth of euphoria filling his chest. While it had only been a few days since he had seen Tea, he had missed her more than he thought. Their visit was an excuse for her to pause her applications for a few hours and catch up, but it was more than that. The gang reunited for the first time since the kidnapping. 

He glanced around, his smile fading. Everything was as it should be. Yet he could feel it in his skin that something was off. Though he couldn't quite place it.

With a shake of his head, Yugi put his bag down and returned to think about the meet up with his friends. Especially Tea, and the way she hugged him, tears in her eyes. They hadn't seen each other since school on last Thursday. His cheeks flushed as he remembered the candy smell of her perfume. 

And with Joey's help, he explained the situation to the whole gang. With Tristan and Tea reacting the same as Joey at Burgerworld - with confusion and indignation at the suggestion that Atem wanted to hurt him...

Then Yugi shivered, breaking him from his thoughts. It had returned. That feeling of eyes on his back. 

Though Astro and Atem stared at him, same as before. No other eyes on him.

He frowned in contemplation. Maybe someone had been in his room. They never caught the Pelorsi members who kidnapped him.

Yugi shook his head. Trying to calm down with a brief glance over at the picture of Atem. He was talking out loud before he could stop himself.  "I wish you were here to handle those Pelorsi people... But I'm glad you missed meeting my parents... Some luck, right?"

He sat on his bed and turned to fully face the picture. Sitting with his legs crossed. Feeling stupid. "I wish you were here to tell me what to do. It's been six months and I feel the space you left behind more than ever."

"I hope the afterlife is as you hoped..." he muttered into the air. "And I hope you have finally found peace."

Yugi made a soft smile. "Maybe it's best you're not here. It's certainly not peaceful at the moment."

Atem's picture was silent, as always.  Though Yugi found the eerie feeling to ease the longer he looked at it. So, he continued.

"You would have liked my parents... I think. They seem alright when they're not freaking out about your barrier thing. Good idea, by the way. I like not being controlled by an old man, though I guess he couldn't be older than you, huh?"

He laughed to himself. "That's weird to think about. Us being together was so natural, yet the idea of another spirit doing the same thing just feels gross. I doubt I could do it again. Well, for you I would if you needed it, but no one else. I'm warming up to the idea of normalcy..."

And he continued to talk. Getting it all off his chest, until the eerie feeling went away completely. Just like he used to six months ago, before Atem left, and he would sit on the end of Yugi's bed, and they would talk. About everything. 

Granted, he was no longer around to give advice or comment on Yugi's worries, but better talking it out then bottling up his emotions. 

I can feel you are stressed, Yugi. Now either stop hiding your thoughts or say what is bothering you. I don't wish to be driven mad by your emotions.

Atem would be supportive of his picture talking strategy. Yugi was certain. There was something Joey had said earlier that day when describing his parents' irrational belief that Atem would harm him. 

Yeah. When your soul was taken by the Oricalchos, the Pharoah was a wreck. I swear he cared more about getting you back than saving the world. Damn good thing too, or I would have punched him more than once. The man went on a warpath for your sake, and they believe he would rope you into some evil contract? They're nuts!

Tea had agreed. It was funny how you had to force him to have fun! I never saw him take control unless it benefitted you both.

Or just you, Yugi! Laughed Tristan. He was miserable in the hospital after the fire. You probably don't remember, but he took over during your wound dressings when you were still out of it. Apparently stung like hell!

Yugi smiled to himself, before once again scanning the room. Looking for the source of the feeling from earlier. Another shiver ran up his back and the feeling retuned.

Unable to do much about it, he followed his routine in silence and went to bed, falling into an uneasy sleep. Praying that tomorrow will be a return to normal. Even if it's the last Monday he'll ever have as a high school student.

However, his heart flew into a panic almost the moment he opened his eyes at the crack of dawn. Knowing something was wrong before he understood the reality of the situation. 

His gaze fell to the bottom of his bed.

Atem's photo, and the chests it was on top of, were gone.

Chapter Text

Yugi couldn't get up. He was too busy staring at the empty spot at the end of his bed, trying to fight his shaking hands and rapid heart rate.

His mind raced on where his memorabilia could have gone. Did he give the crown and cards to grandpa and forgot? Did the Pelorsi break into his room? What would they want with cards, a picture and an old crown?

He shook his head and took a breath, fighting the urge to cry. Then got up on unsteady feet. He'll tell his friends once he got to school and they will help him look.

With as much speed as his shaking hands would allow him, Yugi got dressed and grabbed his bag. Intending to go straight to Tea's apartment to inform someone who understood the urgency.  

He rushed out of his room, eyes set on the door on the other side of the hallway. Straight at the stairs. His feet moving so fast he didn't notice his parents waiting for him in the kitchen.

"You have a bad habit of skipping breakfast, Yugi. There's no need to rush," said his father. His sudden input causing Yugi to nearly trip over the hallway rug.

Yugi looked over to him. His father was already dressed for the day and leaning on the kitchen counter. Arms crossed with a cool gaze in Yugi's direction. Next to him, his mother stared at the ground, hands grasped as if she were nervous. She was also dressed as if she was ready for work. Though Yugi couldn't recall ever seeing either of them up this early before. 

"I... I need to get going. Big day planned..." muttered Yugi. 

"We called the school. They know you're taking the day off to recover from your ordeal on Friday. So, no need to worry about being late," said his father. His eyes watching Yugi for a reaction. "We can take some time before heading into the office."

His parents weren't acting like themselves. As far as Yugi could tell at least. 

He tried to smile, until his eyes met the mass piled onto the table. Each item aligned strategically as if set up for a presentation.

"What is all this?" said Yugi. Fighting his instinct to run back to his room. 

Newspaper articles surrounded the edge of the display, taking up every inch of the table. Events he knew of but didn't remember. Back when Atem had just been put back together and was hellbent on Egyptian style vengeance. Before they had the chance to talk, and their minds connected. 

'Fake Psychic Using Powers to Assault Female Classmates! Found Unconscious in Classroom!"

'Years of Strict Rules Finally Subside! Domino High Finds Freedom!"

'Controversial TV Show Director Blind or Insane! 'Mosaics Everywhere'!"

'Student's Survive Ordeal! Escaped Prisoner Lights Self On Fire At New Burger Joint!'

Then there were film shots from Battle City - featuring Marik and Bakura with crazed eyes and wild hair mid-duel. Other spirits who were prominent during some of Yugi's most well-known tournament winnings. Evidence of his contact with them. 

And the biggest insult, the one which shook Yugi into a standstill, was Atem's photo on top of the puzzle box - neatly placed within the circlet of the aged crown - which had been taken out of its protective casing and placed right in the center of the table. Surrounding that were several film shots of Atem in every major tournament they entered together. Duelist Kingdom, Battle City, the KC Grand Championship... The confidence in the photos currently lacking within Yugi himself.

Even he had to admit, when faced with all this before him... 

"Actually, we were hoping you would tell us," said his father. "Quite the collection, isn't it?"

"I see that you went into my room," began Yugi, looking at the featured picture of Atem, staring at him from top of the pile. "Tea took that photo before the KC Grand Championship... she thought it looked cool. I store my favorite cards in the millennium puzzles chest, like I've done since I solved it. Why did you take it?" 

"And your excuse for the crown?" said his father, sadly looking away from him. Yugi making note of the word 'excuse' rather than 'reason'.

"Grandpa got it in the tomb he found the puzzle. He gave it to me," said Yugi with a pout, attempting to push down a feeling of dread and hold his ground. 

"Sure," said his mother. Looking up at him. "Gifting a priceless artifact on a whim to just sit in a box on your bedside table, which is at the foot of your bed rather than the bedside."

"He wanted me to have it. Ask him!" said Yugi, glancing around. "Where is Grandpa anyway?"

"You know," said his Dad, strolling towards Yugi, continuing to ignore his questions. "It just all seems odd, doesn't it?"

"Not any weirder than median families and necromancers" grumbled Yugi. He asked again. "Where's Grandpa?

"Glad you think so. Cause we have a little theory about what happened here after we went to America. Care to hear it?"

And his request was once again ignored. Yugi gritted his teeth. Seems like his questions won't be answered. 

"Not really," said Yugi. Though his dad didn't seem to hear him. 

"We think," began his dad as he gestured to the puzzle box. "That when you started high school... it wasn't great. So, you did what you always did. Played games and tried to smile your way through it. Then something happened. You were put in a position you couldn't handle... and that is when, after years of playing with that thing and being unsuccessful, you finally solved the puzzle."

Yugi squinted at him. His dad wasn't wrong, but he wasn't going to tell him that. He squared his shoulders, trying to prepare himself for whatever they had planned. 

"I doubt you remember what happened next. Few are conscious during the first possession," said his mother. She gestured towards the news article of Ushio. "But it resulted in one of your fellow students going insane. An investigation revealed he had been threatening students for money, and while the press think it was related to his mental illness... well, it's a pattern we have seen before."

"You see," said his dad. "Crime was running rampant in Domino City at the time. A short kid like you makes an easy target. It's not rocket science to figure out."

The dread in Yugi's stomach was rising into his chest as his Dad circled the table to get closer to him. Wondering how his parents had figured out so much over the course of a weekend. Yugi felt himself freezing in place. 

His father's gaze changed from the display to staring straight back at him. Taking a few steps closer. "You're smart, Yugi. You noticed the routine. A bad guy comes along who hurts you or your friends, then you find yourself blacking out and waking up..." he then tapped each separate article. "To the situation resolved. Like a damn miracle. It was scary, but Justice was served and everyone around you benefitted."

His father stepped even closer, placing his hands on Yugi's shoulders and forcing him to look him in the eye. His grip as hard as steel.

"We get it," he said, his voice softening. "Life got better. Everyday became more manageable with each person who was dealt with, whether you wanted to hurt them or not. You tolerated those blackouts, even though you knew it was wrong, because you couldn't deny the positives."

Yugi tried to glance away from him, back towards the photo of Atem, but his father's firm grip made him stay still. It was true. School became peaceful after that year. Once the bullies and manipulators were gone and the normal students could go about their day without hassle. Lunch was no longer a period of dread, and everyone could enjoy after school club and walk home without fear.

There was no denying the change Atem brought into his life, and those of the people around him. A fact which made his absence so hard to deal with now. 

"Or more accurately," said his mother, walking over to be near him. "You tolerated what your body was being used for to protect both yourself and the people around you. You saw Joey leave a gang and Tea being freed from her stalker. Who knows what would have happened if there was no intervention."

"The cops were useless," grumbled his father. "They wouldn't help until it was too late, or they didn't consider student issues worth looking into. Either way you didn't have support. Forcing you to lean into whatever was resolving the conflicts."

His mother took another step closer. "Then about a year after this all started, something else happened. An event that was never recorded. You figured out what was causing those blackouts. We know this because that's when these..." she gestured to the articles again. "Stopped happening, and we know you're the reason behind it, Yugi. You hate violence! You would never tolerate all this while conscious!"

"And that's what changed," said his father. "Instead of blacking out, you remained conscious. You were intervening when it went too far."

The grip on Yugi's shoulders tightened.

"Then Duelist Kingdom happened," he continued. "And you were brought there, not because of your dueling skill, but because of your puzzle. There were several other millennium items present on that island, and I bet whatever caused your blackouts also caused you to be targeted by other item holders. Winning the championship title was a byproduct of you surviving."

"And that was when the two of you got really close," said his mother, now making eye contact with Yugi. "It got to the point you would follow it anywhere."

"You sound crazy," muttered Yugi, struggling against his father's grip. "I dueled against Seto Kaiba before duelist kingdom and won, which is what got me the invite to Duelist Kingdom. I'll call him if you don't believe me."

Again, his plea fell on deaf ears. Making him wonder if this was a spirit hunter interrogation tactic. He felt his muscles go stiff at the thought. It was unsettling and seemed to have the desired effect. 

His father continued. "We think you two got so close, that whatever caused your blackouts became quite protective, or maybe it already was, either way it placed a barrier on you to stop others like it from interfering. Forcing the bond between you to grow stronger. It was a smart move - because at this point you blindly trusted that thing with your life. It got you home from that island, nice and safe. It even protected your friends, and you were able to go back to a normal life."

"For the most part," said his mother. "It still had a mission. Of course, you helped it. Flying overseas, entering tournaments... you were willing. Regardless of the danger," she pointed to the pictures of Marik and Bakura. "And there was plenty of danger."

"It did help you first after all, right Yugi?" said his father. "Putting itself in harm's way during those early days, so you paid it back. You had to keep it safe in return," he paused before adding. " And I bet putting the puzzle back together surrounded by flames wasn't easy,"

Yugi tried to shrug off his father's grip, wanting to get away. But he couldn't move. 

"You see, Yugi, the crutch of our theory hinges on one fact," his father tilted his head in the direction of Atem's photo, refusing to let Yugi go. "That isn't you. That's a spirit who used you for its plans, and you went right along with it because it kept you and your friends safe in the meantime. Give and take. It's how you two operated."

"And it left the barrier so it could come back," said his mother, the soft tone becoming serious. "That is what scares us. If it comes back, you will be sent to other side to takes it' place."

"Listen to us, Yugi. If that spirit comes back, it will kill you. A trip to the afterlife without precautions is a one-way street. We're trying to prevent that from happening. Do you understand what we're saying, Son? This is extremely serious."

It was too much. They stated Yugi's experience near perfectly. All he could do was stand there speechless. Frozen to the spot.

Did Atem really... manipulate him? Protect him and his friends only so his own purpose could be completed? Grooming Yugi to do whatever he said?

"So, let's change the ending to our tale," said his father, bringing Yugi from his thoughts. "We'll take you to the office and remove the barrier. We can keep you here and the spirit can stay on the other side. No confrontation. No hassle."

Then Joey's voice came back to him. Breaking through his shock and like a beacon of light. Yeah. When your soul was taken by the Oricalchos the Pharoah was a wreck. I swear he cared more about getting you back than saving the world. Damn good thing too, or I would have punched him more than once.

He could see it now. There was only one flaw with his parent's logic. They were comparing Atem to the spirits they hunted.

Spirits like the ones who inhabited Bakura and Marik.

Not Atem.

The emotions he had felt from his partner all those years... they weren't fake. The worry after Yugi went to hospital after putting the puzzle back together while surrounded by flames was soul crushing at the time. The fun teasing whenever Tea came up in conversation felt light and easy. The incredible pride whenever Yugi succeeded at school or accomplished a task on his own was euphoric, and of course, the pang of hurt appearing whenever Yugi cracked under the pressure.

And the embarrassment when Yugi ever forced him into the open... how would that help with manipulation?

He shook his head. "I need to go. You two are over complicating this... The barrier probably happened in Egypt because of the nameless Pharoah. l think it was a gift of thanks that saved my life."

"You're still denying what happened?" grumbled his father. "Or are you protecting it?"

"It?"

"The spirit, Yugi. It's on the other side. We are planning on leaving it there, so you don't owe it protection. Okay?"

A call out. One Yugi didn't like, especially with calling Atem an 'it', but the promise of Atem being left alone released a small weight from his chest.

"Look, I can tell by your expression that you know we figured it out. We're not upset. You were protecting yourself. We just want to make sure your safe."

"Let's get you back to normal, Sweetheart. We promise you'll feel much better," said his mother, teaching out to hold his arm.

There was a brief moment of silence as Yugi took in what she just said. The hairs on his arms raising with his tensing muscles. Releasing an emotion within him more potent than the shock he just experienced. A card dropping on the floor would have echoed throughout the kitchen due to the quiet. 

"You don't think I'm normal?" whispered Yugi. Blinking in their direction. Their statements about Atem almost pointless compared to that fact. 

"You're different..." said his father, the tone of his voice faltering. "You're not acting like yourself."

The words struck Yugi just like his mother's words did a moment ago. He gritted his teeth. No longer willing to hold back his thoughts. 

If communication was the problem, like his grandfather said, then damn it, they can hear what he had to say. He was sick of being ignored.

"You mean acting different since I was in middle school six years ago," said Yugi. His bewilderment transforming into the anger he couldn't shake since their arrival. His fists clenching in response. 

As his parents stared back, their own frustration etched in the creases of the faces. Surprised he was reacting now after their entire spiel about Atem.

"No shit!" he said. Their jaws dropping at his use of the phrase. Joey's antics must have been rubbing off on him. "Of course, I've changed! I've grown two feet. I've started and almost finished high school. I made new friends. I won tournaments. I worked through so many challenges and I'm about to graduate as valedictorian. My skill got me recognized and sent me overseas! All this while you two were away playing ghosthunter. That's what's changed me. Not some deal with a spirit!"

The words came out harsher than he intended. But the way they folded off his tongue felt right. "How did you expect me to be when you got back? Still acting like I did when I was eleven? That's not how life works! I grew up!"

Yugi hoped he appeared as vicious as he felt, and he must have done, because his mother let go and stepped away from him. 

"Now tell me, exactly, what it is you think this spirit did? Because whatever they 'took', they would can damn well keep!" 

His father's expression faltered, his grip loosening and allowing Yugi to pull away from him. Though instead of running downstairs, Yugi stood. feet shoulder length apart, back straight. His father took a step back, almost staggering. Yugi couldn't recall ever losing his temper in front of him before, but there was a first for everything, and damn it to hell, it was well deserved. 

"Now," said Yugi, raising his head. "Since you called school, I'm going to spend the day helping Grandpa with the shop. We can talk when you are both ready to listen. I'm sick of repeating myself."

"You used to have a sweeter side to you..." started his mother. 

Yugi cut her off, growing inpatient. "I grew up. Like most kids between 10 and 17. You would have noticed if you were here."

That seemed to do the trick. Those words cutting through the air, with Yugi hoping the true meaning comes through. You missed your son growing up, and now you don't know him. That's the problem.

"And," he pressed on. Wanting to ensure they heard the next words, while their eyes were glued to him. "I like how those experiences have changed me. Remember what Grandpa said? It's made me more confident. My life is going great! None of which you have acknowledged by the way! Do you know how hard I worked for my grades? For my tournament accomplishments? Though I don't suppose the land of the living mean anything to you!"

"Of course it does," said his mother, her hands reaching out to him in desperation. "And we have noticed. We are just concerned how you achieved them, sweetheart. That's all!"

"I 'achieved' through my own hard work and effort! What's wrong with you!' spat Yugi back at her, unable to believe what he was hearing from his own parents.

Neither of them believed he was capable of his achievements on his own. They were concerned because he didn't fail.

Though his father stared at him, his own anger starting to show. "Whatever it took made you cocky... self-righteous even!  What if you lost an aspect of your personality? A talent you weren't aware you had? Perhaps even ten years off your natural lifespan? This is serious, and you ignoring the situation will not help us get to the bottom of it. Do you understand? We need to find what was taken to get you back to normal!" 

"So what if it did?" spat Yugi again. "Is it a bad thing? Clearly, he did something right since if the barrier saved my life. I would have died before the end of my first year of high..."

Yugi caught himself. Realization dawning on what he had just said. 

"You would have what?" said Hayate, his voice dropping to whisper. "And who is 'he'?"

"It's nothing," said Yugi, taking a breath and trying to regain his composure. He gripped the strap of his backpack. "I'm going to set up the shop."

By the time he looked up, his father had moved standing between him and the exit to the stairs. Blocking his only means of escape. He had switched positions so fast Yugi didn't even notice him move.

"Answer my question," said his father. "What would you be if 'he' hadn't intervened?"

"Like I said," said Yugi, trying to stand taller. "It's nothing. You weren't here. I don't owe you an explanation."

"Perhaps not, but we still have a responsibility to ensure your safety, " muttered his father.   

"You haven't kept me safe for the past six years!"

"And I suppose 'he' did?"

"Yes!" yelled Yugi. His feelings coming out, like waves from a turbulent ocean. Tears of grief pricked Yugi's eyes. He tried to hold them back. "More than you ever did! You’re worried over nothing! What could a King want in Domino? There's nothing for him in this washed-up city! He didn't want to be here in the first place! He's not coming back! Not for me! Not for some evil purpose! Not EVER! He's gone!"

His parents stared at him, the tension falling off their shoulders. They stood in their positions, not moving or saying anything. Just watching him breathe in anger. Was this silence another interrogation strategy? Hiding their thoughts to stop him gaining some sort of leverage? 

"You know the spirit isn't 'good', right Yugi?" said his father, the anger in his voice subsiding. "He's not a benevolent hero. Spirits don't exist to help the living - ever. It wouldn't have placed that barrier unless it got something out of it. What it wanted... was to maintain it's connection with you. You're the only reason it has power here and it would happily see you dead to maintain that. 

"Like I said," said Yugi for a final time, his tone now bitter. "The barrier was a gift. Or would you rather I end up like the other victims of the Pelorsi? You know, it baffles me that you guys are so focused on what saved me over finding the culprits behind my kidnapping. Almost like you wish I was controlled by some old guy so you can parade me around as normal. It's sick..."

"That's not what we meant!" cried his mother. "Spirits are what give the Pellorsi their power. They are manipulators, Sweetheart. That thing -" she pointed at the picture of Atem. "- will say and do anything to keep you compliant. We are doing this because we don't what you ending up like the Pellorsi's victims."

"He!" spat Yugi. "He's not an 'it'! Or a 'thing'! He was human once, and an honorable one. It's why he wanted to pass over..." Yugi stopped, his tears starting to stream down his cheeks, a river unable to be held back. He shook his head and rubbed his eyes onto his sleeve. The markings of his usual eyeliner marking the cotton.

He glanced down at the dark marks, grief piling up further. Atem was the one who showed him how apply it to appear natural - since Yugi didn't like Atem's bold style. The thin lines had become such a mundane part of his routine he never even thought about it. Putting it on every morning as if it were part of his school uniform.

Another example of how Atem's influence changed him.

His father noticed his reaction to the eyeliner. His expression hardening. "You still don't understand, do you?"

"Neither do you!" said Yugi, shaking the tears away. "For the hundredth time, you weren't here!"

"I'm sorry to do this, Yugi, but we don't have a choice," said his father. He knocked on the kitchen counter twice, causing Yugi to squint at the action. Wondering what they had planned. 

Large arms grabbed Yugi from behind as soon as he turned to open the door, causing him to yelp. He struggled, but it was pointless, as his feet were dangling above the floor.

"I got him!" yelled Suzuki. The door to the stairs wide open behind him. He must have been hiding behind the door to the stairway. Blocking the way out even if Yugi had managed to run. He loosened his grip. "Easy, Yugi. We're just trying to help."

"Let - go - of - me...!" said Yugi as he continued to struggle.

Anya ran out from behind Suzuki, lifting an amulet like object to Yugi's forehead. "I have the protection charm!"

To protect them from WHAT?

"Good work, Anya! He should lose consciousness soon," said Miyuki coming out from the other side of Suzuki. She placed another object on Yugi's forehead - the hilt of a blade - causing Yugi's headache to get stronger. 

"Wha... No! Stop..."

"Don't resist! Or it will become painful!"

"I don't know what you're doing!"

They pressed the amulet into his forehead harder, with Miyuki doing some sort of chant. Yugi struggled but couldn't fight against a man almost three times his size. 

"Just relax, Sweetheart. We're going to take care of you," said his mother. She walked over to hold his hand tight.

He felt his body being forced into exhaustion. His limbs becoming numb and stiff, unable to continue fighting back, they fell to his side while Yugi's mind fought to stay conscious. 

Back in the kitchen, his father stood back, watching. His face expressionless. While his mother tightened her grip with a sad smile. Their reaction the biggest insult of all. 

Didn't they care? He poured out his heart to them less than a minute ago and their response is to knock him out. Using spiritual magic, no less.

As his vision blurred further, he turned away from them. Gazing down at the photo of Atem, wishing in the depths of his selfish heart that he were here to take over. To prove these people wrong. That the connection they shared started from the moment Yugi solved the puzzle and wasn't just part of an evil plan. It was much deeper than that. A relationship words couldn't describe. 

"Atem..." he whispered. Before closing his eyes. 

"What was that?" grumbled Miyuki. 

But Yugi was no longer able to answer.

.....................................

Hayate felt a shiver go up his spine at the word spoken under his son's breath. Unable to make it out, but knowing for a fact that it wasn't Japanese. His small body stopped fighting and fell loose in Suzuki's grip.

He could feel his inside's shaking as he stared at Yugi's unconscious body. His mind battling every parental instinct he had so not to launch himself at his colleagues, a leftover fire from the recent argument. Listening to that rage fueled honesty now ranked at one of the hardest experiences of his life. Causing him to stare at Yugi's sleeping face with guilt.

"Well..." began Suzuki, rubbing his wrists. "That could have gone better."

"We nearly had him on our side, too," said Miyuki, pushing her glasses up her nose. "He recognized the truth... but I sensed he knew a strong flaw in our argument. It was like a switch flipped and his anger was unleashed. Something triggered the Spirit's conditioning..."

"Or could it be related to his tablet look alike?" asked Anya. She finished up the markers of the seal. Lining the edge of the amulet with red chalk. "Maybe he knows something we don't? Seemed pretty adamant the spirit wasn't coming back. No matter what Mr. Hayate said."

"No idea..." grumbled Hayate, rubbing his forehead. "I saw it in his face though... we were so close. He even admitted to the spirit's existence. We just couldn't agree on it's intent."

Suzuki patted his back. "Hey! Don't go blaming yourself. Deconditioning after being a host for years takes more than one conversation. Take his initial receptiveness as a sign he'll bounce back once he's free of the barrier. It usually takes heaps of therapy for them to admit they were possessed at all."

"I hope you're right..."

"Course I am!"

He patted Hayate on the back, though Hayate himself couldn't meet his eye. Choosing to glance back down at his son, sleeping peacefully on the floor. Almost ready to begin the barrier's removal. 

Yugi's breaths were steady. A good sign. Restless sleep meant recent spiritual possession. Anya had moved the amulet from his forehead to his chest and tied it to his jacket with red ribbon. His arms lay limp beside him, with the sleeve raised slightly to reveal the ugly red rope burns on his wrists. A reminder of the kidnapping that started this whole mess.

The sight made him frown. He couldn't remember Yugi ever being mad. Especially not to the level of explosive rage he just witnessed. Then the tears. Followed by the accusations. Then angry again... It was a rollercoaster of emotions he wasn't used to seeing on his son. Yugi was often nervous, but not emotional like Atsuko. He coped.

Maybe this recent explosion meant exactly that. Yugi wasn't coping. Only needing a small nudge to push him over the edge. They just had to take away a source of comfort, namely his physical connection to his protective guardian spirit, and then the fuse was lit. Hayate glanced over at the photo and the creepy circlet on the table. The spirit's usual arrogant gaze almost appearing furious, as if it were here to enact vengeance on Yugi's behalf, causing yet another shiver to climb up Hayate's back.

"Let's hope he doesn't wake up on the way to the office. We need to get him into the Room of Seals if we have any hope of removing that barrier," said Miyuki, raising an eye at Suzuki.

Their commander sighed. "Alright, I get it. Me being the big guy means I carry him." 

"Don't you dare drop him..." whimpered Atsuko, still clinging to Yugi's hand.

"Wouldn't dream of it! Not that he's heavy enough to worry about."

Hayate's shoulders slumped as he continues to stare at Yugi. The anger now gone from his face, but still leaving that tension in the air which hadn't yet shifted. He crossed his arms started tapping his elbow, trying to get his mind off it. 

"Are you okay?" said Miyuki, pursing her lips. "It's a-lot. Seeing the spirit's effect on a child in full force. His denial is obvious... and would be painful to watch."

"The spirit wasn't even here..." grumbled Hayate. "And yet Yugi defended him. Caring more about his eyeliner than the potential for his own death. I didn't take much note of it before, it's so subtle, but I suppose he wears it in honor of this pharaoh. It's almost like we were talking to a wall the moment he noticed it on his sleeves."

"The Egyptians loved their make-up," said Anya, peering down at the smudge around Yugi's eyes. "It's strange isn't it? How a spirit can influence a host? No wonder breaking off from them is considered a traumatic experience."

Suzuki scooped Yugi up over his shoulder, his small body limping over their bosses' large frame and Atsuko shaking at the sight. "You're telling me! To think this kid had it in him to be so damn vicious... Oh, don't look at me like that, Atsuko! Yugi said some nasty stuff about you two. You must have pushed enough buttons for him to let it out like that. There's a-lot of pent up aggression in this little guy."

"Yugi has never lashed out like that before..." whimpered Atsuko. 

"In front of you two," muttered Miyuki. "Yugi is the type to pent up his emotions in order to maintain peace. You mentioned yourself that he is talented at avoiding conflict. Of course, leaving for years while you were targeted by the major medium families was a necessity, but it came with consequences."

"Like him resenting the fact we left him to fend for himself?" muttered Hayate, rubbing his forehead. "He's right. We weren't here to protect him when he needed us most. He turned to this spirit to stay safe. Makes me wish we brought him with us to America."

"Don't be ridiculous! After what we were involved with... At least it's only the Pellorsi who kidnapped him," whimpered Atsuko. She latched onto one of Yugi's hanging hands and rubbing the blistering red mark around the wrist. "What if the Drummonds or the Aberman's went after him instead? We would never have got him back!"

She had a point. There were worse families than the Pelorsi and Yugi was technically safer in Domino. If the spirit hadn't intervened. 

"Speaking of getting him back, we need to get him to the office. Don't want him waking up and causing a scene on the street. Let's get going," said Suzuki, signaling to the door with his free hand. 

They all followed suite. Walking out the shop and into the crisp morning air of the street. Yugi's early morning habits meant they didn't need to deal with a crowded street. How he managed to get up at this time and go to bed so late baffled Hayate, but he wasn't going to complain about the current benefits. 

Atsuko grabbed a hold of his arm, letting Suzuki walk ahead with Yugi. Her hands shook. Professionalism, gone. At least until they got this sorted. 

"He'll be fine," said Hayate. "By the end of the day, the barrier will be gone, and Yugi will be booked in with a spiritual therapist. Well on his way to full recovery."

"He hates us," she whimpered. 

"No he doesn't. He wouldn't have admitted to the spirit if he did, and we'll just get Dad involved while he's recovering. Give a few months and he'll be back to his old self."

"But will he trust us after this? We dangled his past in front of him as leverage and now he has to get that thing removed. It's a horrid process, Hayate... And I don't think Yugi has the headspace to understand what is happening right now."

"We can always earn his trust again, so long as he is alive. We can't do anything with him if the spirit gets to him first."

That seemed to do it. Her hands steadying against his arm as they continued to walk to the office. 

The rest of the group prattled on about the barrier removal ritual. Miyuki dictating to Anya some of the specifics while Suzuki offered input from his experience. Atsuko occasionally calling out to focus on carrying Yugi when he got too enthusiastic. 

Hayate found himself looking around every few steps, not invested in the conversation of his colleagues. Despite the protections placed on their route to the office, and the comforting presence of his colleagues, Hayate had this feeling... as if someone was watching them. Like eyes staring at his back 

Chapter Text

Hayate shivered in the office air-conditioning. He reached for the jacket hanging on his desk chair and tried to convince himself that he was fine. A little nervous, maybe, but fine.

The group had just arrived after an uneventful walk. Yugi still hanging limb over Suzuki's shoulder - the ribbon threaded amulet attached to his school uniform keeping him unconscious - while his wife had returned to their son's side, moving from Hayate's arm back to Yugi's hand.

Miyuki and Anya were in the Room of Seals. A larger, spiritually bound, space with a viewing glass - allowing those in the office to observe what was going on within and intervene when necessary. It was used in possession cases or when they had to exorcise haunted objects, though today it would house the space that will break Yugi's barrier, freeing him from spiritual influence.

Hayate could see them working from his desk. Watching Anya draw a purple chalk outline of the breaking seal on the ground. It's swirling likeness an exact replica of the one used in the Cairo case Hayate found. Behind her, Miyuki used her spirit knife to carve out several small statues in oak wood with a larger amulet already hanging from the wall with purple ribbon. It's smaller friends already in a pile, waiting to be used. Hayate gulped at the sight. The amulets were circular in design with lightning like groves cut straight through the center.

He glanced at his son with a frown. This was going to hurt, and there was nothing he could do about it. The only solace being that it only had to be done once. 

"We'll wake him once the seal is set," said Suzuki. He eyed Hayate. "Will you be alright when that happens? This isn't an easy ritual. We have to mimic the guardian's and Yugi's spiritual signature, and to do that we need to extract them both from Yugi directly. Quite literally giving his soul a biopsy."

"There won't be long term damage."

"I'm not saying that. I'm asking if you are in the right head space to be watching. Yugi is about to go through hell, and I can't let either of you step in. You need to let us do our job if you want that barrier gone."

Hayate frowned. "I'm fully aware of what needs to be done. I proposed this ritual in the first place."

"So, I have your word then? No interference unless absolutely necessary?"

"Of course."

Suzuki slapped his back. "Wonderful. Oh, and don't forget all the HR stuff. If you need to leave to preserve your mental health, please do so. We can't have you and Atsuko taking even more time off. This place doesn't run the same without you two here."

Hayate offered a small smile. "My mental health would have disintegrated by now if I needed any of that, Suzuki."

His boss nodded. "That's what I thought. I just need to tick the box that states, 'I've told you so' In the paperwork." He made a side eye at Atsuko, who stood right next to the looking glass. Gaze firmly planted on Yugi's sleeping face. 

With a sigh, Hayate nodded. "Don't worry. I'll hold her back."

Suzuki nodded again. "Good man!"

From within the room, Anya gave a signal to Suzuki. Letting them know she was done drawing the circle. Now they just had to wait for Miyuki to finish carving up the statues and double checking the amulets. Separation amulets, specifically. Mostly used to separate spirits from the real world. It's a means of containing the spirit without worrying about them interacting with people. 

These, however, were going to be used to separate Yugi from the barrier. The design was genius and very much the mark of their old mentor. 

The amulets were going to copy both the spirit's and Yugi's soul signature - forcing the barrier to latch onto them rather than Yugi. Changing target, so to speak, rather than destroying the barrier outright. Minimal arm to the wielder and, most importantly, didn't alert the spirit in the afterlife. The statues were designed to hold down a soul - preventing it from escaping. In this case - keeping Yugi's soul still as the amulets cut out a small part and copied it. 

The 'biopsy' Suzuki mentioned though... that was the hard part. Most living people weren't used to having their souls poked into. It will heal - not causing long term damage - but it wasn't a pleasant process. 

Anya stepped out the room. Miyuki carving up the last figure before placing it neatly on the bench next to the amulets. Set up in a manner that made it easy to pick up each one individually. A large porcelain statue standing out in the center of her configuration.  

With surgeon like precision, Miyuki proceeded to place the amulets around Yugi. Placing down seven in total - one for each corner of the chalk drawn seal. Their gemstones glinting with the promise of his son's survival. 

The slick of sweat started to appear between Hayate's fingers. They were nearly ready to start. Yugi was going to wake up as soon as Miyuki released the talisman from his chest. He only wished they could complete this without having to wake him. 

But no. His soul had to be at the 'active' to be accessed. A possession can't begin on a sleeping person, and likewise, a barrier can't be removed in the same state. 

Hayate watched as his wife placed a delicate hand on the glass, face almost pressed against it. He considered mentioning to her the 'mental health' spiel he just got from Suzuki but knew she would take offence if he so much as implied it. He stayed back, biting his tongue. Feeling more comfortable near his desk, and his blade, then telling his overly anxious wife that she might want to remove herself away from Yugi. 

Suzuki signaled to Miyuki, who nodded back. She pushed up her glasses with a sigh, then walked over to Yugi.

She leaned over him, careful not to disturb the chalk design, and lifted the amulet off his chest. The ribbon sliding off from his uniform with ease. She placed it on the small bench top, it's purpose now fulfilled, and waited.

Hayate held his breath, keeping an eye on Atsuko who was starting to shiver.

Within a minute, Yugi's eyes fluttered open. His chest rising and falling with stronger breaths. He scrunched up his face, as if noticing he was no longer at home, before his gaze went frantic and started glancing around the room.  He tried sitting up, but the amulets placed down by Miyuki will keep him down, a fact which caused Yugi to start struggling against them. Now to tie down his soul.

"Relax," said Miyuki. "You're back in the office. This is our Room of Seals."

"What are doing?" said Yugi. His eyes widening in alarm.

"What do you think? We need to remove your barrier."

"I never consented to this!"

"Hosts never do," grumbled Miyuki. "Don't worry. This is all in your best interests."

"And my parents?" said Yugi with a scowl. "I take it they're watching?"

"They are in the room next door. Do you want one of them in here with you?"

"No."

The sharp certainty may as well have stabbed Hayate in the gut. He stepped forward to put a hand around Atsuko's shivering waist, her tear-stained eyes blinking, trying to hold back the river beneath. 

"Before we start the process... I just wanted to tell you something myself." Miyuki pursed her lips and leaned over to Yugi. "Your parents care about you. They wouldn't be allowing this if they didn't. The next few months will be difficult, but please, don't be so hard on them."

"Few months."

Atsuko winced at his tone, her body leaning into towards Hayate. Another necessary conversation neither of them were looking towards. 

"You'll be grateful when it's all over," sighed Miyuki. "You'll feel like yourself again in less than a year. Trust me, it seems longer than it really is."

She went to picked up the figures on the counter then proceeded to circle Yugi, clicking her tongue in thought, before deciding to place the first one next to his right hand. 

The effect was immediate. Yugi's chest heaved at the added pressure. His fists clenching in resistance. 

"What did you do?" he said with a gasp.

She ignored him. With the ritual started, no more of the host's questions could be answered. It was part of the training for dealing with them. Never answer their questions on the chance the spirit would use whatever the host found out. Guardian hosts themselves had a habit of divulging everything they knew to their spirit. One couldn't be treated separately from the other in interrogations until the spiritual connection had been removed.

Miyuki pursed her lips, going around to Yugi's other hand. "You experienced first-hand the atrocities this spirit created. Yet you still refuse to admit the truth, and here I thought you were intelligent." She placed down another statue. "Your own parents provided ample enough evidence. I'm honestly surprised we had to resort to these extreme measures."

"He... wasn't like that..." huffed Yugi. Now straining to watch as she moved around him. 

"And how would you know? It did everything in its power to appear safe and trustworthy. Especially to you. There was no life for it if you weren't controlled," argued Miyuki. Placing down another statue near his ankle and increasing the pressure on Yugi's chest, as evident by another gasp.

"Because I could feel... his emotions.... hear... his thoughts... his intentions..." said Yugi, coughing between words. "He had... no plan... no memories..."

"That's impossible! Spiritual bonds are strong, but they don't work like that. You misinterpreted the connection."

"It's true... he was my... other half... partners..."

Alarm bells rang in Hayate's head. He started to tap his finger on his thigh. Other half? An emotional link? Hearing the spirits THOUGHTS?

From behind the glass, the rest of the team looked on in confusion. There had never been a spiritual case involving this kind of detail - neither in their direct work or in the archives. Spirits could be manipulative because they didn't possess emotional links. Guardian spirits wouldn't choose vulnerable hosts in that instance, since they would be bombarded with the emotional turmoil these hosts usually faced in their daily lives.

And sharing thoughts... it was unheard of. 

"First time I've heard a host describe a spirit like that," said Suzuki, scrunching up his nose. "No wonder he's resistant. That spirit must have used some insane magic to make Yugi think they had that kind of link. It's kind of creepy it would go that far to manipulate its host. Caught the poor kid in one hell of a trap."

"This case keeps getting weirder. First the look-alike and now this," said Anya, peeking out from behind her pile of books. 

Their eyes remained firm on Yugi. Watching as he struggled, and his breathing became heavier. The pull of the statues working to hold his soul into place. Miyuki continued unfazed, adjusting a few statues to ensure they were equally spaced apart. 

"Well," she said. Hayate assuming, she was trying to keep Yugi talking. "Your 'partner' didn't care enough to stick around. So that's a flaw in your argument."

"Pharoah's... Had a duty... In the afterlife... His people... His family..." Yugi wheezed out. "His purpose... Here... Was done...”

Miyuki continued circling, placing down and adjusting statues like the professional she was, while Hayate had difficulty watching. Almost wanting to take on Suzuki's advice and vacate the premises. But he couldn't do that. Not knowing what they were about to put Yugi through.

Miyuki continued talking. "He said that to lower your guard. He still placed this barrier on you. Proof he is invested in you despite being in the afterlife."

"No. I couldn't... fight back... He was protective... He worried..."

"You are very confident he won't take over your life. It's a big risk you're running."

"We found his memories.... He wanted... peace," Yugi wheezed. Tears speckled his eyes as Miyuki finished the seal with the statues. "Please stop!"

"This is for your own good!" said Miyuki as she placed down the final statue. 

"Or is it... to ease your own fear..." he huffed staring up at her with an accusing glare. "You don't... listen..."

"Neither do you," affirmed Miyuki. She took one last look around at the circle, then nodded. "Okay, it's all in place."

She looked down at Yugi's defiant gaze one last time. "This isn't going to be easy. For anyone. Keep that in mind for next hour."

"Hour..."

Yugi just stared back with a flare of anger in his gaze. Not saying anything further. He must have figured out that the path was set. Not a word he said would change the outcome of today. Hayate could only watch and hope his son would be going home without a grudge. 

With a final wave, Miyuki signaled to the group, indicating they were ready to start the ritual. She picked up the porcelain statue and turned around. Hayate gulping as she stepped over the threshold. Yugi watching her back as she shut the door behind her. Then placing one final amulet around the hook on the door. 

A light blue veil encased the room, giving their view of Yugi a bluer tinged hue. Any spiritual intervention could no longer enter the space. Hopefully stopping any shenanigans from the guardian spirit.  

Miyuki stood next to Hayate, the fragile statue hanging loosely in her hands. The moment she smashed that statue, the ritual will begin. The they only have to sit back until the barrier was removed from Yugi's soul and attached to the lead statue in the room. Easy for them, maybe. 

For Yugi...

"Are you ready?" she said. Eyes flicking between Hayate and Atsuko.

"We have to be," muttered Atsuko. Her hands folding to her chest, as if in prayer. 

Hayate could only offer a short nod in response. Unable to verbally give his consent while knowing what was to come. 

Miyuki gave a side-eye to Suzuki, who shrugged. "Sure, I guess. Not that could have done anything if these two wanted otherwise."

Miyuki sighed and nodded, before raising the statue and smashing it on the desk - shattering it into hundreds of tiny pieces. Each piece tinkling onto the office carpet, falling in a rhythm which sounded like soft thunder. 

In the room, Yugi's chest became elevated. As if a rope was pulling him upward. His face contorted, looking like he wanted to scream but was too stubborn to let it out. 

The amulets flashed blue and a crack sounded, a flash of lightning coming from within the room. A familiar tightness filled Hayate's gut. He knew this feeling and found himself moving away from his wife and closer to his spirit blade. 

He watched as Yugi's eyes widen. In a sudden change in demeanor, he started thrashing about like a fish on land and screaming out, no longer trying to act brave "Who are... Get... out..." He started punching the air at an invisible assailant. 

On instinct, and with the alarm bells ringing even louder in his ears, Hayate grabbed his blade from his desk. The leather comfortable and familiar in his hand. His thumb stroking along the line enchanted moonstone embedded in the hilt.

"Yugi!" he yelled out. "Who are you talking too?"

Miyuki narrowed her eyes and leaned closer towards the glass. "That's odd. He's starting to bear the markers of possession and there are signs of spiritual concealment, but the barrier hasn't signaled to its creator. The guardian isn't here. And with the veil... A spirit must have already been inside when we sealed it off."

"Yugi!" called out Atsuko, her own face contorting into alarm. Ignoring the protests of her colleagues, she tried to open the door. "We are stopping this now! We're not dealing with another possession!"

Off in the corner of the room, a small framed masked women flickered into the room before disappearing. Startling Suzuki and Hayate who stood near her. 

"I'm afraid we can't allow that," said the woman with a distinct American accent. Though Hayate couldn't see her, she sounded closer than where she use to be.

"Yeah. The old man wouldn't like it," said a male with the same tone. His masked face flickering next to where they last saw the girl.

Hayate's blade shimmered green. Activated and ready. He gritted his teeth. Finally understanding the feeling he had on their walk back to the office.

"Dammit, a concealment charm. They've been waiting for an opening, " grumbled Suzuki. "They must have been tracking Yugi!"

Hayate picked up his boss's spirit knife and threw it to him, the blade sliding into his grip with well-practiced precision. A small glimmer of excitement sparked within Suzuki's serious expression. Anya, who had yet to experience combat and was yet to be assigned a blade, squeaked and hid under her desk.

The boss's blade glowed the telltale green of the activated blessed silver - one of the few physical materials that can interact with spirits on the mortal plane. Hayate raised his own in the direction where he last saw the intruders, preparing for combat. 

Behind him, Atsuko raised her clutched hands to her chest, realization dawning on her. "If they're here that means..." she glanced in horror back into the Room of Seals. "Oh no... the spirit is Lawerence. Yugi!" 

She frantically tried to push herself against the door, but a knife cut through her path in the air, embedding itself into the wall, stopping her pursuit. 

"I told you. We can't allow you to interfere," said the masked girl flickering closer to Atsuko. "You especially. Considering what happened last time..."

"Monsters!" spat Miyuki, picking up her own floral blade. It began to glow green as she waved it in the direction of the girl. "Get behind me, Atsuko! I'll deal with this wrench."

To his left, Hayate heard the deep voice of the male intruder. "Guess I'm dealing with you two then..."

Hayate only saw a brief flash in the corner of his eye....

Suzuki ran in front of Hayate - taking the punch square in the chest. The full power throwing him back and crashing into his desk. The wooden frame crumbling to the floor and hiding Suzuki in a cloud of dust. His coughing the only sign he was still conscious.

The man disappeared again. Hayate gritted his teeth and scanned the area.

Another flash to his right, making him move left. Dodging the fist just before it smashed into a computer. The electrical circuits flickering in smoke. 

Behind him, Miyuki was torn between trying to land a hit at the girl and protecting Atsuko - not an easy feat when the intruder kept flickering in and out like broken VHS tape. 

Hayate gripped his blade tighter. Seeing another flash to his left and moved accordingly. This time causing a fist to collide with a pile of paperwork that he hoped wasn't important. They weren't going to land a hit at this rate. 

Almost the moment he had that thought, the brute appeared before him - slightly faded but no longer invisible to the eye.

With sweat on her brow, Anya peeked out from her hiding place with a revelation charm, waving it's two halves in victory. The script written in scrambled handwriting but still clear enough to work. Hayate huffed in relief. The intruders won't be able to hide any further. At least, not in the vicinity of the office.

Miyuki grinned, slashing at the now entirely visible Pelorsi girl. Who backed away at each slice through the air, no longer making advancements towards Atsuko. Her mask may have hidden her expressions, but her clumsy movements revealed her nerves. 

"Is that the last of your tricks?" hissed Miyuki, a viscous glimmer of excitement in her eyes. A terrifying sight if Hayate ever saw one.

Behind her, Atsuko had managed to open the door and continued to bang her fists on the shimmering blue veil. Her lungs screaming as she remained separated from her son. "YUGI!"

The brute barreled towards Hayate, raising his fists down towards his head. Seemed like he was trying to take him out in one move. 

Hayate raised his blade over his head, forcing his strength upward as the man crashed his fists down. Making his muscles clench in pain as he tried to remain upright. Close by, Suzuki was standing back up, his bulky frame unsteady in the ruins of his desk. 

It was taking all of Hayate's strength to keep the brute off him. His blade glowing a fearsome crimson in response to the Pelorsi magic creating that strength. His blade the only reason he hadn't been crushed. He strained to look away, struggling to keep one eye on the brute and one on his wife and son behind him. Watching Atsuko screaming at the veil. She won't get through without a blade to slice it open. 

"I - said- get- out!" screamed Yugi. "I - won't - let - you!" 

Yugi was fighting back. As long as they could get to him before he ran out of strength, then they could stop this before it got worse. Before Lawerence could restart the plan he had in America. But sweat started to glisten from his son's skin, and his cries were getting weaker. They didn't have long.

Hayate's blade shone blue for a fraction of a second. Giving him the sight to see a glowing orb close to Yugi's chest, trying to break into him. He gripped his blade even tighter - if that was even possible. Summoning a source of strength to get this brute off. The red glowed deeper, the shade of blood, and the weight of the brute lightened.

Hayate flung his blades upright, throwing the American brute off balance, then kicked him in the stomach and forcing him on his knees. Magic users were always weak once their magic was nullified. The blades just took a moment work through the charms. 

Miyuki had managed to force the girl away from the door. His wife continued to slam up against the veil, her hands banging against it - now purple from bruising- and her lungs screaming out. Tears down her face. 

The man started to rise again but another large form tackled him to the ground. Suzuki had returned to the fight, barely having the breath to yell out. "Get to the kid!" 

Hayate didn't need to be told. His feet already sprinting to the other side of the office. 

He needed to get close to that orb, and when he did, he wasn't going to just leave Lawerence on the otherside like last time. No, this time there was no American 'spiritual ethics' advisor to stop him from what he originally wanted to do. This time there would be no chance of that thing coming back. 

Hayate continued to grit his teeth in anger. His blade maintaining its crimson glow. Wanting nothing more than to ram his blade into that malicious soul and turn it into mist. 

..........................................

The pressure was suffocating. The air tasted like sweat and iron. Perhaps Yugi had bit his tongue and was tasting blood. It was hard to tell, given the situation. His body feeling icky in the presence of the spirit trying to break into him. Like a slug trying to slide its way into his veins while leaving a trail of slime in its path.

But Yugi wasn't going to hold back. He continued to struggle. Keeping himself awake through shear willpower. 

Stop resisting! You'll become unconscious soon. It won't hurt after I'm done. Said a cackly old voice. Sounding relaxed compared to Yugi's husky breathing.

"No!" screamed Yugi. Though it came out as more of squeak, given his struggle to breath. His ability to scream out starting to fade. "Get out- of me!- I won't - let you- control -me."

He tried to fling his arms above his head, as if fighting an invisible punching bag, but it didn't help much besides keeping him awake. He gasped, almost out of breath. Wishing Joey would show up and smash his way through the glass. 

You didn't have an issue with the last spirit who made use of you. Well, it is I who needs you now. 

"He- was- different- from- you!" 

But there are so many things I can do with your body. It is wasted without a spirit inside it. Do you really think a pure soul like you has a purpose beyond being a host?

"Says - the - spirit- who - is - useless - otherwise," said Yugi. "Get -out!"

I can't do that! My family needs my assistance, you see. Your body will help me do that. Might even help me make a couple of fresh heirs since you are so young. Now we only have to wait for the barrier to break. 

"Gross!"

You should be honored! Continuing my lineage is rare in my hosts.

That's when he felt it. The weight of fatigue causing his shoulders to slow down his struggle. Breathing was becoming harder, his lungs starting to give up the fight against all the strange magic holding them down.

That's it. You can't fight in this state forever.

"I said," yelled out Yugi with as much breath as his failing lungs would allow him. "You- are- NOT- taking- over - MY- body!"

His words must have been a trigger. Because that was the moment Yugi felt a force tug deep within him, as if he were pulling something- someone- here. His muscles tightening in preparation - an old reaction back when he was anticipating Atem to take control. 

Then the air crackled. Filled with invisible static. The various talisman glinted bright blue for a moment, the same as when the old spirit decided to show himself.

There was now another presence. One that had only just arrived.

they held an air of power, a kind that Yugi had only seen wielded by one person and seemed to push against Lawerence from within Yugi himself. Fighting outward. Tackling Lawerence's attempt at controlling him with a force of anger that rivalled a bull ramming against a brick wall, forcing the wall to crumble. 

Yugi gasped as a flood of power ran from his chest and through his limbs. A secure pressure enveloping him, as if to separate him from the whatever magic the spirit hunters were using and preventing the old spirit to push against him.

"Who's there?" he said, already knowing the answer.

A familiar voice, strong and authoritative, cut through the old man's disgusting murmurs. It gripped the vile spirit in an unseeable stranglehold. 

Above Yugi's head, the large amulet above him cracked straight through the middle, causing the pain to disappear like lightning from within Yugi's chest, leaving a dull but overwhelming ache in its place.

Evil fiend... How dare you try and take control of him! You shall be trialed for your actions! 

Lawerence's old voice croaked and the icky feeling subsided, releasing a constricting pressure off Yugi's mind. He gasped again, finally able to breathe. His thoughts clearing each time a full breath of air entered his lungs. He didn't realize the pressure had been coming from so many sources. 

"Atem..." whispered Yugi. He frantically glanced around the room, unable to see anything that resembled his old partner.

"What was that?" said Miyuki, who noted his change of tone. She made a fearful glance at Yugi, before returning to her fight against the intruder with another swipe of her blade, forcing the Pelorsi girl to maneuver.

Yugi... I see. Someone tried to remove your barrier and another took advantage of its weakness. Such inconvenient timing. 

Each talisman surrounding the seal cracked, releasing the remaining pressure off Yugi, though that powerful aching sensation still remained in his chest. 

I need to take you with me. Your soul was nearly torn in half. My magicians will see to it that you recover. 

"Okay..." Yugi wheezed, the pain in his chest subsiding. "You know I trust you..."

"Yugi! Who are you talking too!" screamed his mother. Ignoring the intruders, she was banging her arms against the spiritual seal wall. "Don't trust it! Fight back!"

Now rest. I'll take it from here.

Yugi obeyed. Letting his exhaustion take over. Feeling a deep part of himself being pulled away, as if his soul was being taken upward by a gentle hand.

"Yugi!" called his father, who was running towards the door. Using his black blade to slice open the veiled blue wall. His parents then raced into the room, falling to the ground near his head. 

Their hands reached his shoulders in a vice like grip. The two of them trying to shake him awake. Begging him to listen. 

"Don't listen to it, son! Stay with us!"

"Keep fighting!"

But Yugi was tired.

And Atem was here. He will protect him from the Pelorsi. From the slimy old man.

He ignored his parents. Closing his eyes. Feeding into the urge to rest within his soul. Like holding the hand of an old friend and letting them lead him down a long road. 

Chapter Text

Numbness clung to Hayate. His mind thoughtless and dull as he stared at his son's unconscious body. The blue light of his blade flashing, giving him soul sight. He should be able to see any active soul glowing around his son's chest. 

And Yugi's soul was gone. 

Atsuko still leaned down next to him. Crying and shaking Yugi's shoulders, trying to rouse him. But it was pointless.

It was all pointless.

His son's body was so still. Breathing slight. The barest hint that he was still alive. 

Outside the room of seals, the fight was still on-going. The echoes of Suzuki and Miyuki cutting through the mind fog. A reminder they still had unwelcome company. He had to drag his feet away from his family, needing to ensure the intruders were gone before they could assess the damage. 

"Shit! It took grandfather!" said the Pelorsi girl with a hiss. Dodging Miyuki's blade and running towards Anya. She screeched, dropping the revelation charms in the air to hide back under the table.

The Pelorsi girl grabbed one of the halves mid-air, tearing it into shreds. Her body flickering back to being unseeable while the sound of steps pelted towards the exit. 

Across the room, Suzuki huffed under the weight of the brute who also flickered. 

"Dammit," said Suzuki. No longer able to see his attacker. Falling to the floor at the sound of thumping stomps running towards the door.

At the last second, the brute's foot appeared on the edge of the door frame - running down the stairs, activating into one of the charms near the entrance. His partner in crime forgetting to deal with the enchantments on the way out.

"Ah, crap..." muttered Suzuki, rubbing his lower back. "I'll bet they're not coming back today. But we're gonna have to tighten security before we leave."

"We should have done that when we returned from America. Can't trust the Japanese division to maintain their own offices," grumbled Miyuki with huff. Wiping the sweat from her brow. She turned to Hayate. "How's the boy?""

Hayate glanced down. Unable to say it. Miyuki gave him a knowing look and trudged past him, getting a good look at Yugi from the doorway.

"He's breathing, and his body hasn't been taken over," said Miyuki, her words bringing Hayate back to reality. "Yugi is still alive. He's been taken to the other side somehow."

Taken. Again. Memories of panic from a week ago resurfaced and the pressure returned to Hayate's chest. Only this time they physically couldn't go looking for him. Yugi's body was right here. He found himself thinking over the complicated process of soul retrieval and it's dangers. But did they even have the time for the usual process?

"We haven't lost him yet," continued Miyuki. "It's only the guardian that can swap souls with him. When Lawerence comes back, he will have to bring Yugi's soul with him to take over his body. That's if he can get pass the barrier."

"It's still there?" said Hayate, his shoulders slumping. 

"Unfortunately," said Miyuki with a snarl. "The amulets were working so well before those idiots stepped in."

"Good to hear the ritual works," said Hayate. He looked over at his wife, sobbing over Yugi's body. "Shame Lawerence attacked at the same time. We would be heading home by now..."

He hung his head. Wishing, once again, that they had found a way to eliminate Lawerance while they were still in America. Wanting to damn their 'ethics' committee to the pits of hell and wondering how many people had to suffered because of dangerous spirits they were forced to let go. No matter how many lives destroyed, they 'had a right to pass over'.

 A right which, Hayate and his colleagues believed, they lost the moment they started manipulating the living for their own gain. 

Back over at the crumbled desks, Suzuki staggered himself up and dusted off his hands, looking around the mess of the office. “Sounds like Yugi's soul is being held hostage by a spirit? But it's a one way trip to the afterlife... the kid shouldn't be breathing. Unless the Pelorsi have been planning this for a while and have used magic unfamiliar to us. We were stupid to think they would back down so easily after what happened to Lawrence!"

Miyuki shook her head then looked around the room at the shattered amulets and cracked statues. Her brow furrowing in contemplation. She stepped in, walking around Yugi and Atsuko to examine the remains of the circle. "But which member of the Pelorsi would go so far to prevent the unsealing of the barrier? No... I don't think this was just Lawrence despite the actions of his family. I bet our guardian spirit decided to intervene. It did a reverse on what we expected."

Hayate gritted his teeth, feeling the urge to slam his fist into the wall. Remembering Yugi's change of tone after the amulets cracked. "You mean he pulled Yugi to the afterlife rather than coming here?"

"Precisely. If it came to us, it would have been trapped in the seal. It if stayed in the afterlife, the barrier would have been destroyed and Yugi's soul might have been affected by the Pelorsi. Taking him was the only option," said Miyuki. She pushed her glasses up her nose in thought. "The spirit was simply forced to act, so we shouldn't worry about a spiritual takeover at this point. It would be suicide to make an attempt while Yugi's body is at the institute. Lawerence acted out of desperation, and out guardian isn't desperate."

"You remember what Yugi said, before Suzuki trapped him," muttered Atsuko into Yugi's chest. "That he would have died in his first year of high school if the spirit didn't intervene... I heard Yugi talking. He said he trusted the spirit. He's following it blindly because it saved him."

"I know," said Hayate, leaning down to grip her shoulder. "It's no wonder he sided with that thing over us. The spirit was his protection, to the point he can no longer tell when it's still protecting him or using him for its own gain. It even stepped in before we could break into the Room of Seals."

"What a prick..." muttered Suzuki, nodding his head in agreement.

Only one person wasn't nodding along with what he was saying. She stood at the door, still shaken from her first combat encounter. Clutching one Miyuki's premade revelation charms that she leaves in the top drawer of her desk. Her knuckles white against the flimsy cloth.

"Maybe," said Anya, frowning as she stared over Yugi's body. "I still think that Yugi's look-alike on the tablet means something different. He agreed with us to a point but was aware of some other intention. Hearing the spirits thoughts and feeling their emotions... That's not a normal part of being a spiritual host. The souls are still separate entities. They aren't connected, yet he talks about this spirit as if they shared more than just a body. Then there's the fact he is coping post separation without counselling. I don't know what it is, but this isn't a regular guardian."

"There are abnormalities to every case," said Miyuki with a wave of her hand. "Nothing more. 

"We also have one more problem," grumbled Hayate, his face growing stern. "I only saw Lawerence and Yugi's soul signatures when the amulet's cracked. No third soul appeared. If this was our guardian, like Yugi's change in behavior suggested, then this spirit has a means of hiding his signature from soul sight. This is bad."

"That's not possible," said Miyuki, pursing her lips.

"It's just what I saw."

There was a clap from the front of the room - Suzuki grabbing their attention. "I know tensions are high, but you're all still on the clock. Rather than sitting here chatting, we need to get moving. Now then, what would we do if this was a regular case?"

Hayate watched as Atsuko's knuckles went white as she clutched the folds of Yugi's school jacket. Wondering if she would be able to handle whatever they had to do next. Knowing that whether or not the group's next actions happened rested on his decision. He trusted his colleagues, but there were few ways to deal with their current situation.

Miyuki was the first to answer, rolling her eyes and speaking with a monotone drawl, "Plan our next steps with what we know. Then try and minimize the damage."

"Correct! 5 points to Miyuki!"  he said. Though as far as Hayate was aware, there was no scoring system in the office. "So instead of panicking and blaming ourselves, we need to get out heads together and come up with a plan!"

"Please," sobbed Atsuko. She now clutched Yugi's hand. "Who knows how much time we have!"

Leaning back on the office wall, Hayate's mind worked, flicking thoughts as if he were reading labels in a filing cabinet. He stood firm, the numbness fading with each step of the plan getting falling into place. Clarity returning to his vision as he stared ahead. His finger tapping on his elbow. He raised his head, determined eyes on Suzuki.

"There are no limitations now. Unlike America, Japan has no ethical guidelines for spiritual hunting. No pretentious desk workers can stop us from following that damn spirit and ending this once and for all," said Hayate. His murderous desires returning as he thought of turning Lawerence's soul into a fine blue mist - however there was a spirit with a track record of removing problematic people in Yugi's life. 

"You thinking of diving into the spirit realm? You know we only have Lawerence's spirit signature to go off on, right? We didn't get a chance to copy over the guardian's signature to a charm," said Suzuki with a raised eyebrow. Though his arms folded in contemplation at the idea. 

"That girl shouted it earlier. The guardian took both Yugi and Lawerence. We find one, we find the other," said Hayate, hoping his reasoning made enough sense. He gulped, knowing what the statement implicated. "And we know from the research what this guardian will do to anyone who tries to harm Yugi. If we don't act now, he'll finish off Lawerence before we get the chance to dive. Our signature will be useless if Lawerence is destroyed." 

"I agree. The evidence points in that direction. However, are you up for the task, Hayate? You're the only one on the team who is qualified. We won't be able to find another diver on such short notice."

Hayate's thumb rubbed up against his blade. Diving and interrogation... an interesting set of specialties. Not only being skilled in extracting information from spirits but being the one to go fishing for them if they started misbehaving from the other side. He usually loved his skillset. It meant he knew the spirits he was hunting. A couple interrogations got him all the information he needed about Lawerence, complete with a behavior profile and a 'risk of reattempting' that was previously ignored. 

It wasn't an easy process... then again, what they put Yugi through wasn't easy either. Nor what they what they went through for the past six years in America.  

He gave a firm nod. "Of course! As if leaving Yugi in the afterlife is an option."

"In that case... Miyuki! Prepare the diving seal. Time is vital if we plan on trying to find Lawerence," said Suzuki.

Miyuki gave a hesitant nod before leaving to collect supplies. Suzuki hung back, still frowning as turned to rummage through the remains of his desk. He seemed to have found what he was looking for, then gestured for Hayate to walk over. Lifting a red ribbon into the air, speckled with a glowing dust that shimmered purple in the afternoon light. 

"Come here, you idiot," said Suzuki, despite his words only worry sounded in his voice. He wrapped the ribbon around Hayate's wrist and marveled at the handiwork. "Just one of the old concealment charms they used in the old days. It's not the same as the rope used in the diving kit, however this will conceal you and bring you back here. You know, just in case things dicey over there. Don't get all angry at the spirits either, Hayate. Just find Yugi and get out. Keep it simple. Even if you come across Lawerence or our missing guardian. Understand?"

Hayate nodded in agreement. His thumb running along the moonstone embedded his blade. 

Miyuki came back with several various pieces of equipment, dumping them in the only spare space on the floor. She pushed her glasses up her nose in contemplation, then nodded. "Give me twenty minutes. Prepare yourself Hayate - not that I need to tell you that. Have a coffee and do what you must to keep your nerves under control. You don't have a diving squad going with you this time."

She went to work while Hayate took her advice, heading to the kitchen and flicking on the kettle. The sizzling sound keeping him grounded as reached for his coffee beans and fell into his usual routine. Bringing back a mug of coffee for both himself and Atsuko, who hadn't moved from her position next to Yugi.

Taking the mug from him with a shaking hand, she looked up at him. Hair unraveled and clothes disjointed, she seemed so unlike her usual immaculate self. He hated seeing her like this. Knowing she wasn't coping. 

"Just promise me you'll get him back," she whimpered. Taking a sip.

"I haven't failed a diving mission yet," he said, resting a hand on her shoulder. Unwilling to make promises with so little information.

He looked at Yugi once more, a knot forming in his stomach as he noted the shallow breathing. He turned back towards the office. Trying to prepare himself mentally for what was to come. 

Miyuki was on her knees, straightening out the old realm map - a blank gridded sheet on silver infused paper. Which will only gave a general idea of Lawerence's whereabouts in the afterlife by tracking his soul. There were no ridges or landmarks like a regular map, as they were usually added after several rounds of diving and surveillance, but it was better than nothing. At least being able to track Hayate's proximity to Lawerence. Beside it she placed a map of Domino City - also on silver paper. Tracking the relevant souls in the land of the living.

She placed a charm on the corner of the realm map, one Hayate recognized from their last case in America, and a small glow appeared. Lawerence's soul signature. Hayate sculled his coffee - promising to treat himself to a new bag of beans once he got back. As he watched another charm get placed down and a glowing dot appearing on the Domino City map - his own soul signature.

"We'll do our best to keep an eye on you," said Miyuki, as she took out a few amulets from her desk. "And I recommend making a charm infused with your son's soul signature when he gets back."

"Definitely," grumbled Hayate. 

"Well then, get comfortable. You want the floor or the office chair?" she said, pulling out a small red stone from the pile. Behind them, Anya looked on with peaked interest. 

"The chair. It's better for my back," said Hayate. Sliding his plush office chair next to the maps for convenience. He swatted off dust from the seat, remnants from the fight, then sat down. His blade still tight in his hand. 

"Be careful. You know what you're doing but keep that temper in check while you're in their Hayate," said Suzuki while giving Hayate a knowing look. "This is only a makeshift dive point. We can't afford more than two of you coming back. It might close on you both if we get unexpected visitors."

"Don't worry. Yugi's my priority," said Hayate, still feeling the fire within him. He took a breath to tamper it. 

He stretched out his fingers as he listened to Miyuki mutter the familiar chant. Leaning his head far back into the chair while trying to relax his muscles. He hated this part. The anticipation still near crippling after all these years. 

Miyuki signaled for him to brace himself, not stopping her chant. He took a deep breath. 

She placed the stone to his forehead and Hayate closed his eyes, allowing himself to fall upwards. 

...............................

Hayate blinked his eyes open and glanced around. Stabilizing his feet on the stone floor. Travelling between worlds was always a disjointed experience, no matter how many times he did it. Like stepping on land after hours on a turbulent ocean. Feeling the hilt of his blade in hand helped ease the swaying sensation, allowing him focus. 

Tall limestone columns surrounded him alongside uniquely Egyptian designs on the walls. Colorful blocks of artwork featured in strategic locations on the walls in between statues of the Egyptian Gods. The nearest of which Hayate recognized as Horus - the god of kings and protection. Judging by the grandeur, he must have been in the hallway of a palace.

He pursed his lips. There was no question about it. This was the ancient Egyptian afterlife. 

The shuffling sound of footsteps echoed behind him, jolting him out of his stupor and making him run behind the nearest column. Peeking out, he could see a group of well-off individuals. From their gold and flowing robes, he was willing to bet they were noblemen. They walked past, too deep in conversation to notice him.

"To think, a trial at this time of day! And to be summoned at such short notice"

"The Pharoah must be invested in this criminal. It is rare he loses his composure."

"And rightfully so. I hear this criminal trespassed on his younger half."

"Truely? Well then, he needs to be punished accordingly. We cannot tolerate those who target the Pharoah's soul. It's a crime against the gods!"

Hayate raised an eyebrow at what he heard. He guessed the 'criminal' was Lawerence. But he didn't target the Pharoah's soul. He targeted Yugi. Unless his son was seen as the Pharoah's property and that was enough to 'trespass on his soul'. Whatever that meant in the world of Egyptian spirits.

He gritted his teeth. So much for breaking the bond. It appeared the Pharoah was more protective of Yugi then ever. Despite being in the afterlife.

He took a breath, deciding to follow the group. It sounded like they were heading to this trial on the Pharaoh's orders. Which meant the Pharoah himself should be there.

And if there was anything Hayate knew about Guardian spirits, it was that they always knew the location of their host. Finding the Pharoah meant eventually finding Yugi. Then they could get out of here and back to the office. Even if Hayate had to drag his son back to the land of the living. 

He rubbed the hilt of his blade. Wondering how he could still feel sweat when he wasn't in his physical body. The sensations of the afterlife always weirded him out. 

As soon as the group turned the corner, he stepped out and continued to follow. Keeping his distance so as not to be detected. He needed to save his concealment charm until the absolute last second. 

More people started to appear from the various hallways. All with the same long robes and gold jewelry of the upper class. Making Hayate suspect these trials were either the best entertainment they had available or a summoning by the pharaoh was impossible to get out of. He ducked in and out of the columns to avoid them. 

After several more steps and turning a couple corners, each time Hayate holding his breath as he moved from column to column. It seemed to go on for eternity within these winding hallways. The palace seemingly massive compared to its modern counterparts. He wondered how many generations of pharaohs it took to build and expand this place. Almost creating a maze out of its own walls. 

Perhaps the layout was a defensive strategy. Certainly, made Hayate's job more difficult infiltrating the place.

Finally, the group slowed down, but his heart sank at the small crowd of spirits trying to make their way into the court room. At least, what Hayate assumed was the ancient Egyptian equivalent of a court room. Large stone doors stood open with a number of guards verifying the attendees as they made their way inside. 

He let out a breath, hand tightening around his blade. Not being able to move made him feel claustrophobic. There had to be another way inside.

Looking around he spotted a set of unguarded steps and felt a tug in his gut to follow them up. Would a sudden trial for a random spirit have the same level of security as the planned hearing of a criminal? It was a hunch, and after another brief glance around, he took it. 

His feet moved silently, moving across the hallway and up the steps as fast as he was able. Only allowing himself to breathe out once he reached the top and was well out of sight. No one in the crowd pointed him out, each too distracted by conversation. He looked out across the courtroom.

The crowd must have been close to over two hundred people. The elite of the aristocracy. Their heads high and proud against the glittering gold and soft linen attire. Surrounding them were at least fifty armed soldiers, standing in formation around the crowd and watching for any unusual activity. Unusual given the severe lack of them in the hallways.  

His current location was now much higher up, but out of view from the main audience. Hidden once again behind one of the hundreds of columns that lined this palace and courtroom. 

Hayate focused on slowing his breathing. Grateful for the thickness of the stone and whatever was holding the attention of the court. He glanced down, heart stopping at the sight below him. Finally understanding where all the guards came from and, specifically, whose orders they were following.

At the front of the throne, the man stood, bronze skinned with perfect posture, wearing extravagant gold jewelry and a regal blue cape flowing behind him. A familiar crown rested on his head, with wings and an Egyptian eye featured in the center. A clear indication of who he was and his importance. He carried himself like a man who was used to being the decision maker and the center of attention, not even remotely fazed by the eyes locked on him. Very unlike the person he seemed so similar too.

The longer he stared the more Hayate froze into place. It was almost like staring at an older, more ancient, version of his son. This was the man from the ancient carving. The spirit who took over his son's body and became his guardian for almost three years. The Nameless Pharoah. 

Surrounding the man were three important looking men. One with a ring-like object around his neck and wearing some strange head wear. Another with a golden eye embedded into his left-eye socket. And a dark-haired man, the most normal of the three, carrying a set of scales. Hayate certain that their oddities possessed some form of ancient Egyptian symbolism that he didn't know about. 

The doors groaned open. Grabbing the attention of the audience. The Pharoah raised his head in anticipation. Two burly guards dragged a familiar pale haired spirit along the ground. His aging skin and telltale white chalk lines now smudged around his neck identifying him, even from this height. Hayate almost felt sorry at the sight. Having mixed feelings about seeing his old enemy in such a state. 

With a toss, Lawerence fell forward on his knees. He spat at the ground, then raised his head. Staring up at the Pharoah with a scowl.

"You... look just like the boy," said Lawrence, his nose crinkling in disgust. "And your power matches the signature of that blasted barrier. Impossible..."

"You shall refer to his Majesty as the Pharoah," said one of the priests. A bald one covered in tattoos. All three stepped forward, preparing for trial.

The priest with a ring like object around his neck stepped towards Lawrence. "Or rather, do not speak at all. Our very king caught you attempting to commit a near unspeakable crime. While we must offer a trial... we don't need to hear your plea. Our King has already made his judgement. Be grateful it will be quick."

The Pharoah walked over to his throne, sitting in silence, though once he sat down his gaze indicated a hidden rage directed at the man on his knees. He leaned on his elbow, resting a hand on his chin in fierce contemplation. As if he were trying to appear casual in this serious setting.

This is bizarre. Thought Hayate as he stared out over the scene. He knew of reincarnations - witnessed them even - but this was another level compared to the rituals median families would perform on the reincarnations of their family members. This spirit existed separately to his look alike.

Yet the evidence of his son being a reincarnation was just below Hayate sitting comfortably on his throne. Breaking every known law of souls Hayate knew about in the process. He shook his head and held back, deciding this trial might offer a few answers. Not like he could go anywhere until the hall cleared out.

Lawrence snickered, in the same insulting fashion he had used when Hayate and Suzuki cornered him in America. The grin of a classic Malice type etched on his face.

"Crime?" said Lawrence. "Since when is possessing a mortal a crime? There are no such laws in the spirit realm."

"You must be stupid if you haven't figured it out yet," grumbled the priest with the golden eye. He stood squarely in front of Lawrence. Unimpressed.

Lawrence glanced between the pharaoh on the throne and the priest, confused, before his eyes shone with realization. "A Pharoah as a guardian spirit... No wonder my family couldn't break the barrier," he muttered under his breath. "And we thought you were the boy's 'cousin', of all things. As if he needed to protect you with such a lie."

"Again, you shall refer to the Pharaoh as 'his Majesty," said the priest with the black hair and tattoos. Looking even more annoyed than before.

"You trespassed over the soul of the Pharoah," said the Priest with the gold eye. "He has earned a blessed life. One you tried steal from him. Such a crime comes with a hefty price."

Lawrence huffed again, still wearing the grin. "Price? His parents broke my family apart! Taking their son to rebuild it was the least we deserved. He should be honored to be my host after their actions."

Hayate's insides curled at his words, and from the change in the Pharoah's gaze, assumed he wasn't the only one in the room who felt that way.

The ring priest responded, circling Lawrence. "Your reasons are invalid. You didn't have the right to trespass on our king and your attempt to claim him nearly tore his soul in half! The barrier should have been enough of an indication for you to change your target, but no... you still went ahead with your plan."

"Pure souls are hard to find!" grumbled Lawerence. "Especially in these modern times. Your 'king' must be aware of that!"

As soon as the word 'king' left his mouth, an uproar of noise sounded from the observers, each offended that he mentioned the Pharoah in such a manner a third time.

The Pharoah raised his hand and, just as quickly as the noise started, the room filled with silence.

With the grace of royalty, he stood up from his throne and walked towards Lawrence with slow steps. Commanding the attention of the room with an air of apprehension. The court looking on in awe. Once stopped in front of Lawrence, he raised his chin, as if preparing to give a speech.

"I care not for the reasons of your actions, only that you have done them and that you a pose a risk to someone I have a duty to protect. Therefore, your presence provides me with a dilemma," he proclaimed. Looking down at Lawrence as if he were a cockroach. He crossed his arms in contemplation.

"You see," he said, "By our laws, you have targeted a person who has passed the trial of the Gods. It is an extremely serious crime, and I am duty bound to trial you as such. Usually this would mean destroying your soul. Ensuring you can never repeat your actions." the Pharoah left a well-timed pause, watching Lawrence's reaction to ensure the man understood his words, but the man only maintained his scowl. 

There was another uproar, this time in support of the penalty. Though the Pharoah raised his hand again, creating silence.

"However," continued the Pharoah, looking away from Lawrence and gesturing to the ring priest. "The one you targeted is, in your own words, a 'pure' soul. Specifically, a soul of mercy. I am also bound to respect the methods he operates, lest I put him in a position in which he cannot find peace in the afterlife. But I can't just let you go because, as stated earlier, you pose a large risk."

There was a hum of silence. It would seem the crowd would not be getting the entertainment they had hoped for today. Hayate shifted at the lack of noise, finding it eerie how one man could control a room in such a manner.

"Therefore, I command the following," said the Pharoah, eyes glinting with vengeful scorn. "Instead of destroying you as I desperately wish, you will receive a barrier of your own, one you can't work around."

"What are you talking about?" said Lawrence, his tone causing the priests to scowl in his direction.

"I mean that you will be marked, and unable to contact your family in the living lands or use them to possess another being again. I believe it is also in our best interests for this barrier to seal your magical capacity permanently, since you don't seem capable of using it in a responsible manner," the Pharoah was calm as he spoke those words, each articulate, as if perfectly rehearsed.

Now Hayate saw it, the way Lawrence's brows rose in alarm and the beginnings of sweat dripping from his skin. His grin fading into horror. He had never seen the spirit lose his composure before, not even when they separated him from his last host in America.

He started to struggle, almost begging. "N... No! My family need me! They need my magic! You can't just seal it...."

"Yes," said the Pharoah. "I can. But don't fret, you will see them again. Just be grateful you will continue to exist."

"Wait! Stop!"

The Pharoah raised his hands to his priests, "So let it be written, so let it be done. Now, Mahad, get him out of my sight. I shall leave this task in your capable hands. Return to the portal once you are done."

"As you wish my Pharoah," said the priest with the ring-like object around his neck. He waved his hand and cohort of men from the audience stood forward towards Lawrence. Several guards coming out from the sidelines to drag him away. Mahad following them.

"Wait! You can't! I need my magic..." screamed Lawerence. His cries echoing around until the doors slammed shut, providing the bliss of silence.

The court sounded with conversation, discussing what they had just witnessed. The priests ignored them and bowed to the Pharoah before stepping towards him. Each whispering something to him in turn. 

The Pharoah nodded with gratitude before he turned to the dark-haired priests. "Karim, have we received news on his condition?"

"My King," the dark-haired man bowed. "We must pray for patience. The ordeal has greatly damaged his soul. Mana is doing her best to ensure his comfort while her students continue to construct the portal to return him to the living lands safely. Thankfully, she believes he shall be waking soon."

"In that instance, I shall go to him. I suspect he'll need a familiar face upon waking," he raised a hand, signaling to his guard.

Hayate felt it in his stomach. He needed to follow the King and his guard. It didn't take a genius to figure out that the 'he' they were referring to was Yugi. 

He narrowed his eyes as he watched the pharaoh leave through the front entrance. The crowd parting for him like the red sea and a trail of guards following behind his every step. Eyes firm on their leader. Hayate gripped his blade tighter. Descending the stairs to follow him himself. Prepared to do whatever it took to complete this mission.

Hoping, praying even, that it wasn't too late.

Chapter Text

Yugi's body felt as if it were weighed down by iron, stiff and heavy. Anchored by a painful thrumming in his chest. Like someone hitting him in the chest with a hammer.

Above him, he could hear the cheerful humming of a woman. The song was a tune he did not know. Certainly not Japanese, but familiar. A large breath of air filled his lungs, easing his aching chest but doing nothing about his stiff limbs. 

The humming stopped. Yugi could hear the confident steps of someone entering the room followed by the chipper tone of a woman.

"My king! Welcome back! He is still stable and should be waking up soon," she said.

"Thank you, Mana. Please, go assist with the portal. I shall sit with him," said a man with the sound of authority. He spoke in a tone Yugi had yearned to hear to fill the void that same voice left behind.

"Of course, your Majesty!" said Mana, followed by the cheerful patter of feet leaving the room.

Yugi's eyes shot open as he felt a weight on the bed and looked down.

Sitting with perfect posture near his feet, looking regal in his ancient Egyptian attire - including a winged crown which shone with a recent polish - was a man Yugi never thought he would lay eyes on again.

"Atem?" he said, bewildered. He tried to sit up and rubbed his eyes. "I must be dreaming..."

A deep chuckle brought his attention back into focus. "Of a sort. It is good to see you."

It was then Yugi paused, glancing around the room and making note of the colorful Egyptian tapestry on the wall and the shining gold statues of horus in each corner of the room. Sandy limestone made up the construction of whatever building they sat in alongside the musty smell of perfume which lingered in the air. Rustling of footsteps could be heard outside the door, possibly some guards or servants. 

And Atem was sitting right in of him. 

"Am I... dead?" Yugi whispered. 

"Of course not! As if I would allow you to come here before your time. No... your soul was being torn in half and called to me. To ensure your safety I brought you here. That's the simplified version of the tale," said Atem with an indignant huff. 

"But where is... here?" muttered Yugi, glancing at one of the statues and the hawk face staring right at him.

"My home," said Atem with a smile. "In the afterlife. But I swear on my soul your body is still breathing. I understand if you find the concept unpleasant, but I figured you would want your soul to be examined by professionals before returning home."

There was a cheeky tone to the words, one that curved Yugi's gaping mouth into a grin. Understanding the meaning beneath. He could leave whenever he wanted. The Pharoah just wanted an reason to see him, and a damaged soul was a decent excuse.

As if Yugi would have complained. His thrumming heart feeling warm at the sight of his old partner, looking relaxed despite the nature of the situation and returning Yugi's smile, his skin glowing with a healthy bronze luster that his spiritual form had lacked and eyes glinting with a sense of power, and a spark of mischief. 

A well of tears threatened to rise up from within Yugi as he continued to look at him. Unable to say anything. 

But he supposed he didn't have to, as Atem tilted his head in understanding.

"Come," said Atem, gesturing for Yugi to stand and offering his hand. "It's been dull without you. I wish to hear how everyone is fairing."

Yugi complied. Gripping the hand tenderly and standing with a slight wobble. He managed to choke out "Any interesting places in the afterlife?"

"Plenty! However, I pray you are not here long enough to see them all. The living can only stay here for a short time and you have already rested for a few hours. My magicians are working to get you home safely in the event your soul isn't ready for the usual method. They should be done soon." 

"Usual method?"

"Letting your body drag your soul back through to the living world. It's fine for a healthy soul, but whatever happened to you has cause for concern."

"Ah... so better safe than sorry?"

Atem nodded "It's how we approach living souls - not that we have many, mind you. I don't want to see you here as a regular visitor until there are a few gray hairs on your head with matching wrinkles."

"I'll do my best!" laughed Yugi, slightly out of breath. He hooked his arm around the Pharoah for balance, an action that caused a few raised eyebrows amongst the guards, but his old friend didn't seem to mind.

"We'll walk slowly," said Atem with concern. "And I'll take you somewhere closer to the portal. I know a lovely short-cut."

He gently pulled Yugi out of the room and down a corridor, where light shone at the end. After a few more steps, and with the guards from before trailing behind them, the corridor opened up to beautiful central palace oasis.

The fountain area shone with the light of the sun. A pool of water covered the entire outdoor courtyard, with marble walkways lining in a criss-cross pattern atop the water against blooming pink and purple lilies and water ferns. The columns standing high with detailed carvings of hieroglyphs and artwork of the gods. Whose stories, Yugi was certain, Atem would be more than happy to tell later.

But for now, they talked with arms locked together, about Joey finally moving out, his grandfather's exhibition, and his new valedictorian status. He hadn't realised so much had happened in the past six months - as they felt more like a blur than a reality. And Atem walked next to him, hinging on every word. 

"Joey has earned his freedom," said Atem, smiling. "And it sounds like you are doing well at school. Valedictorian is a high honor."

Yugi flushed at the praise. "I've just had time! No crazy adventures makes studying much easier."

"You haven't changed, Yugi. Never lose your humble nature," said Atem with a light shake of his head.

At his words, the memory of the argument with his parent returned causing to Yugi to pause. They're desperate faces on the cusp of his vision.

Whatever was taken made you cocky... self-righteous even!

He felt a lump in his throat. Atem didn't think he changed, and he would know better than anyone. Wouldn't he?

"What's on your mind?" said Atem, his eyes flashing. 

"Well... Life's gotten complicated, and for once, it's only mildly related to you." began Yugi, glancing away. 

"Does this concern the damage to your soul?"

"Yeah... It's hard to explain. I was attacked out of revenge if you can believe it."

The statement caused Atem to stare at him with a calcuating gaze that - Yugi knew - would figure out the truth eventually. "Not really. You're not the type of person to be targeted for revenge. What could you have possibly done in six months that warranted an attack on your soul? Was it an opponent who lost a duel?"

Yugi frowned. "I didn't do anything. It was payback for what someone I knew did. I was just the target..." He went quiet after that, shaking his head. "What was that barrier used for anyway? I know you're the one who placed it."

"I placed it during our early days together after duelist kingdom. Your soul is vulnerable, making you quite susceptible to dark magic. You would have noticed faring better during shadow games after our match with Pegasus, I assume? It also prevents you from being used as a host by a spirit who is weaker than me, and there are very few who meet that criteria," said the Pharoah, frowning. "I reinforced it before I moved on."

Yugi pouted. "Why am I not surprised?"

"Of course," nodded Atem, "Keeping you safe is one of my top priorities. Now, stop diverting the topic. Who attacked you, and why?"

Yugi felt his cheeks tinge pink at the call out. "Not sure, honestly. They wanted revenge against my parents. The barrier stopped them the first time, but because of some other people trying to remove it from my soul... well, like you said, I think I became vulnerable."

Yugi had forgotten how easy talking about his problems used to be. The words tumbling out of his mouth without effort.

"I believe your parents are in America? What benefit would this enemy have from attacking your soul when their business is so far away?" Atem said, tilting his head. They were nearing the end of the oasis, the beautiful opening vibrant against the darkness of the corridor just a few steps away.

"Yeah... Well, the thing is... It wasn't the people who attacked me who were trying to remove your barrier-mark thing. I tried to fight back, but..." started Yugi.

A stab of pain ran up the side of chest, causing him to stagger and lean on the Pharoah for balance. He took a sharp breath. Though it didn't help. "And they got to me before I moved out with..."

The guards rushed forward, assisting with helping Yugi to get up. They whispered to each other in words he didn't understand, and gestured to a stone seat available on the edge of the water. The pharaoh looked back and nodded, the glint of amusement in his eyes gone.

"You should sit down. We have other means of taking you to the portal if needed," he said. The guards now practically lifting Yugi towards the seat, though Atem's hand still gripped Yugi's arm tight. It was easier to breathe once he was sitting down, but his chest still hurt.

The Pharoah kneeled in front of Yugi, his tone gentle, but firm. "Removing a barrier is a dangerous procedure. Even on this side of life. Why would someone be so desperate to remove a harmless mark? Your's in particular is very protective. It wouldn't have hurt you or anyone else."

"Well... my parents. They didn't know about you. So, they don't understand... I don't think they can understand..." Yugi said this between gasps. Unable to describe the situation.

"Your parents forced this on you?" said Atem, his face contorting in alarm.

"They're not exactly in normal jobs. At least, not the jobs I thought they had. I'm still wrapping my head around it... I only found out after they arrived back a few weeks ago..."

"You mean they did this to you after only a few weeks of returning?"

"Like I said..." Yugi coughed, feeling tears prick the side of his eyes. The emotion from the past couple of days rising to the surface. He spoke between gasps. "They didn't have the jobs... I thought they were... Accountant... Wedding planner... They were covers."

He found himself looking down, unable to speak the next part. It was crazy. Spirit hunters were crazy. And Yugi believed that while stumbling around in the ancient Egyptian afterlife wearing his school uniform.

"Yugi..." said Atem, reading him like he always did. He gripped his hands and leaned close to him, the action forcing Yugi to look up at him. "I need you to tell me exactly what it is they do for work. You can trust me. I promise whoever it is, they won't be harmed. I just need to know in order to keep you safe."

Glancing up Atem, he found the words began to tumble out of his mouth, same as before. With no shame or fear. Very different to how the truth came out earlier that day.

"They are..."

Then, out of the blue, the last voice he wanted to hear called out. "Quiet Yugi! I can't believe you would tell him so easily!"

First, Yugi felt himself freeze. Then slowly looked towards the pillar where the voice came from. Atem needed no such time, his gaze losing the gentle undertone and snapping straight into a protective glare. 

From behind the stone, the glowing green light of a blade shone in a hand which had clung to Yugi's shoulder that morning. Looking higher saw the familiar glasses and analytical stare which embodied his father. 

The effect was immediate. The guards launched from their posts and surrounded them in a protective, circular formation. A human barrier between Yugi and his father. 

Atem stood, one hand still tight around Yugi's wrist, the action causing the guards to aim their spears in his father's direction, each eyeing the glowing green blade warily. 

"Put your blade away, foreigner!" said a guard with a blue sash. Yugi guessed he was the captain. "We will not let you harm the Pharoah!"

His father raised the blade higher. Angling it with an experienced hand. His eyes staring directly at Atem with a burn of anger Yugi had never seen before. 

"DAD! Stop! Put that thing down!" screamed Yugi, another stab of pain ripped through his chest, preventing him from standing. He tugged at Atem's hand. A silent plea to not go too far. "How did you even get here?"

"This man is your father?" said Atem, gazing at his Dad with an unreadable expression. He stared down towards the blade in his hand, the uneasy glow glinting in his direction. "I see... Spirit hunters. No wonder they were trying to remove the barrier. Interesting."

His father called out, keeping the knife aimed at Atem. "Step aside, Yugi. He is trying to keep you here!" 

"That's not true!" gasped Yugi. "The Pharoah is helping my soul recover! The magicians are preparing a portal to return me back and everyth-"

One of the guards plunged a spear forward, his father blocking it with the thicker edge of the blade, pushing back and taking a swipe at the exposed chest of the guard, missing him by an inch.

"Careful, men! Spirit blades destroy souls!" called the captain. 

Yugi gulped, wanting to look away. His Dad was actually quite skilled with that thing. 

Next to him, Atem continued to analyze the scene. Watching the guards rapidly continue to take turns aiming their spears and his father deflecting. Slowly inching closer amongst the clashing of metal. 

He raised a hand, the guards stopping their attack. His father pausing in turn. Gaze still hellbent on the Pharoah, then back to Yugi. So fierce Yugi felt himself recoil at the sight. 

Atem reached out a hand. Gesturing for Yugi to move forward. 

"Yugi... It's alright. Go stand with your father," said Atem. His calculating gaze flicking between Yugi and his men. "He's worried about you."

Yugi stared back at his father's anxious face, then back at the guards. He gulped. Looking between his father and the Pharoah. Sweat making his fingers slip as he tried to ball his fists. Mind racing at what to do next.

He took a breath, making eye contact with Atem's calculating gaze. If the Pharoah came up with this plan... then it was going to be okay.

"Alright. If you say so..." said Yugi. Stepping out with uneven steps as he made his way to his father's side. The guards eyeing his every movement until he made his way to his father's side. He could sense Atem's gaze on his back as he moved. A realization that somehow made the situation easier. 

Yugi stood next to his father. Watching the torn expression of Atem flicking between him and his guards. Knowing that his partner now had to choose between their connection and the men who both guarded him and were under his care. Even in the afterlife, it would appear being a King came with immense responsibilities.

He eyed the blade in his father's hand, wondering how much of a danger it truly posed for Atem to attempt to cooperate.

"You're quick to give in..." muttered his father. He reached out to grip Yugi's arm with his free hand. "Either you are vulnerable, or you have a plan. Which is it?"

Atem's gaze turned sharp. Not answering the question. "Please be careful. Yugi's soul needs to recover."

"He's coming back with me!" said his father, gripping Yugi's arm tighter.

Yugi felt pain rip through his chest at the action, causing him to gasp. Across from them, Atem's fierce glare settled into concern.

"Of course he is returning with you," said Atem, his voice calm. He dropped his hand and the guards stood down completely. His eyes still locked on Yugi. "But his soul is currently piecing itself together. If Yugi leaves using your method, parts of him may be lost for eternity. So please, let my magicians finish their portal so we can return you both safely. I would not have brought him here if I did not care for him."

"Dad! It's okay! They're good people! I promise," gasped Yugi, struggling against his father's grip. "He's nothing like Miyuki said!"

"How would you know that?" hissed his father. Looking between Yugi and the Pharoah. "You're blinded by the bond!"

Atem's face relaxed into understanding. Watching the exchange while Yugi continued to plead, grasping and tugging at his father's arm as if it would help open up his ears.

"Yugi was my host when I was trapped inside the Millenium puzzle," said Atem, interrupting their bickering and raising his chin. "We grew close in that time. I owe it to him that I was able to return to where I belong. Here," he gestured around him. "Is my home. My responsibilities and those I care for lie within these walls. Yugi's home is with you. I would never shorten his lifespan to change that fact. You have my word."

His father went still at the sudden input. "You don't deny being his guardian spirit?"

"It's more complicated than that. As stated, my duty is here. I have nothing to gain in returning to the living lands, though I still worry about Yugi's wellbeing. Soul's like his are often targeted by malicious forces and don't have many defenses. That's why I left him with the barrier. To protect him from dark magic. Which was working fine until you attempted to remove it..." He raised his hand.

"Lower your blade against the Pharoah!" said one guard behind him. Causing all of them to raise their weapons again in preparation.

Yugi tried pleading again. "Dad, stop! He doesn't want to hurt us, but they'll tear us to shreds if we so much as scratch him!"

"I'm not listening to you until you're cleared by Miyuki!" said his father through clenched teeth.

"As if you were listening to begin with," muttered Yugi, trying to struggle against his father's grip.

His father brought out a strange amulet - like one from the spirit hunter office. Indicating he hadn't listened to a word stated in the past five minutes. "We are going home now."

Atem's eyes flashed, as if noticing something behind them. "I understand your sentiment... but I can't risk either Yugi nor my men. If we can't come to an agreement then I'll be forced to detain you."

His father screwed up his face. "How can you detain us -"

There was a great beam of light, appearing from behind them. Yugi could feel the grip loosen and watched as his father fall to the ground. Unable to watch and acting on instinct, Yugi stumbled back over to Atem's side, forcing past the guards and gripping the Pharoah's forearm to take a breath, then looking back in the direction the light came from.

A familiar magician stood at the end of the corridor, with a single arm outstretched holding his staff. Long white clothes and golden jewelery showcasing his priestly status. The soldiers moved out the way, making a path for the magician as he stepped forward to examine the unconscious body of Yugi's father.

Yugi gripped Atem's hand as he watched, knowing exactly who this person was by his resemblance to his favourite card. He had only seen Mahad a handful of times. The lines on his face seemed deeper than he remembered, but keeping tabs on a pharaoh would do that to a person. Must be why Atem thought so highly of him.

He glanced back down at his father. Eyes closed and chest rising and falling in blissful sleep. It would seem spirits also breathed in the afterlife. Not that he had the foggiest idea why.

Mahad gazed at Yugi. Offering a short bow, before turning to Atem and bowing to his knees. "My king! I hope I wasn't too late."

Yugi stood still, wondering why Mahad had bowed to him, but with a glance at Atem's concerned gaze decided it would be a question for another time.

"Not at all, Mahad. Please," Atem gestured to Yugi. "Take him to the portal. Make sure the other man goes with him... and do us all a favor and keep him unconscious. How much longer will you be? Yugi is getting weaker."

"A few hours, my king. We are aware time is of the upmost. Mana is making the final preparations as we speak."

"Good. Though it pains me to leave him so soon," he frowned, then looked to Yugi, raising a hand to his guards to assist him in the direction Mahad came from. "Come. The sooner we get you home, the safer you will be. Hopefully your father will be more pleasant in the living lands."

"I doubt it," grumbled Yugi. "They'll probably try to remove the barrier again."

"They shouldn't. Not after all that has happened because of their recent attempt," said Atem. "And if they have an understanding of souls than they would know to give yours a break after its ordeal. Barrier removals are dangerous, and should only be attempted in strict circumstances. None of which you are in currently."

As he finished speaking, another sharp pain tore through Yugi's chest, causing him to wince. He lifted a hand to his chest, silently pleading for the pain to stop. 

"We need to send you back home..." said Atem with a frown.

Mahad nodded, signaling in Yugi's direction. The guards offering Yugi short bows before stepping forward.

Within seconds they were at Yugi's side, and they might as well have carried him. His feet almost floating across the floor as he attempted to walk. Atem walked ahead, leading the group with Mahad following at Yugi's side, presumably because he was best equipped to assist with whatever was causing the pain in Yugi's chest. 

Atem turned back to smile at him as they they stepped down into a lower, underground, floor. Darkness of the tunnel engulfing them for a brief moment before stepping out into a large fire-lit room. 

Yugi found himself gawking at the large torches and the images of Osiris and Set masterfully decorated onto either side of the walls. Hieroglyphs and various associated artifacts surrounding them like moths to flame. He recognized the symbolism. These were the Gods of life and death. Each playing a significant role in the Egyptian afterlife. This room must have represented the same thing, 

In the center, dressed in the extravagant garb of master magician, Mana stood with arms outstretched in chant. Several lower ranked magicians around her, each surrounding a glowing orb. Yugi blinked, and the orb changed colour, to a slightly deeper shade of red. The sight made Yugi smile, she had really risen in the ranks of the palace since he last saw her. 

"It would appear we a nearing completion of the portal much sooner then anticipated," said Mahad. Leaning forward to examine what the magicians were surrounding. 

Atem nodded in approval. "Good. We might not have as much time as we thought."

Behind them, a couple of guards wheezed as they carried Yugi's father into the room. His body, thankfully, still limp in sleep. They place him on the side of the room featuring Osiris, and seemed to be making space for where Yugi would be standing. 

Mahad walked over to Mana, raising his staff and joining her in the spell circle. The orbs started become a darker shade of red as he did so - an act which must have indicated the portal was almost ready, as several guards started running about the room with various objects. 

Yugi felt his grip tightening onto Atem as he remembered where his body was currently located. 

He glanced over had Atem, who held a cautious gaze as he observed his father's unconscious body. Worry hidden behind those calculating eyes, causing Yugi to gulp.

"You didn't seem surprised that my parents are spirit hunters," said Yugi. Trying to come approach the subject casually. His eyes glued on the magicians as they raised their arms in unison, their chanting now a pitch higher. 

Atem huffed in annoyance. "Barriers aren't usually beneficial in the living lands and spirit hunters are one of the few groups who are not only aware of their existence, but would act to remove them. Judging by your father's antics, I would say they believed your life was in danger. A logical conclusion... most of the time."

"They kept saying that," said Yugi. "Calling you a 'guardian'. Though it doesn't seem right."

Atem turned to face him."That's because it isn't. Guardians are manipulative beings tied to the earth. They continue their existence by infiltrating the lives of their hosts and defending them through volatile means. That's not the connection we share." 

"Then... what are we?" sputtered Yugi. He moved his hands out in front of him, trying to display the magnitude of evidence in his memory. "My parents did so much research trying to convince me otherwise. The way they put it made sense."

"We are much more complicated than that. But I rather you find out the truth after you have passed on. You don't need to be burdened with that knowledge during your lifetime. The pressure to live up to it would be soul crushing," Atem said frowning. He crossed his arms and tilted his head. "But if it eases your conscious... Do you recall my desires after we retrieved my memories?"

Yugi blinked. Of course he did. The memory bringing up a small well of emotion deep within him. "You felt disjointed. Like you didn't belong. The afterlife was all you could think about."

"And that is the difference between me and a guardian," said the Atem, his tone now firm. "They'll do whatever they can to remain on earth. Most spirits will feel a natural instinct to pass on once they become whole and have lived their pre-destined life. The vast majority accept this and transition. Myself included. Guardians refuse the call.... and they can't exist without being attached. So, they are bound to an object or a host. Hence their methods. It's also why they are so rare and destructive."

"Like the millennium puzzle... Wait! Did you start as a guardian then?"

He chuckled. "No. The closest to a guardian you have seen is thief Bakura, and even he is more of a Malicious spirit than a guardian. Guardians are parasites, and your parents worry wasn't unfounded. Yugi..." Atem's voice became gentle, he gave a brief glance towards his still sleeping father before speaking. "It's tough to believe, but your parents are doing the right thing based on what they know. As spirit hunters, it is their duty to face off against evil spirits and remove them from the living lands. They are part of an ancient order that helps maintain balance in the universe. Spirits are not meant to exist in the living lands unless they have a purpose being there, and the hunters ensure peace is maintained."

He then leaned even closer to Yugi, his expression serious. "Now listen. If I were a guardian, removing that barrier would have been the safest course of action. What your parents did was harsh, but I swear to you - on my very being - if you were taken over by a guardian and I found out about it... Out of the love I have for you, I would be doing the same thing."

"Why are you telling me this?" Yugi muttered, scrunching up his face. 

"Because I don't want you to hate them for trying to do the right thing," he said this while gripping Yugi's hand tighter. "I'll intervene if they attempt to remove the barrier again, and I am happy to explain the situation once they are calm enough to listen, but they do care. Honestly, I would be more worried if they hadn't taken action after discovering our connection. The fact they acted so swiftly after returning means they are competent in their line of work. You can trust them... once they settle down."

Yugi felt his chest tug at the words. The strange middle-ground Atem explained made sense, but as he thought of Lawerence, and the institute, and everything he went through, it also sounded so...

...difficult. 

"Don't look like that, Yugi. I know of your talent for avoiding conflict. I'm not asking you to forgive them. Just don't let today's events be the wedge that makes you lose them," said Atem. 

The chants around them softened, and the orbs faded to purple. A logic Yugi didn't understand, but knew he didn't have too. 

"Okay... I'll try and convince them to leave the barrier alone," sighed Yugi. Though Atem stared him down for a few seconds, so he added. "And... I won't hide in my bedroom or with the gang to avoid talking to them. "

"And this time," said Atem, a smile creeping onto his face. "Ensure your Grandfather is with you. He'll be your biggest advocate... and will put them in their place."

"You know I can't lie in front of them right? What do I tell them in the meantime?"

"Tell them the truth! " said Atem, his chuckle vibrating across the room. "I won't be there for your coming of age, so we're throwing the egyptian version once you get here. The finest beers and wines will flow through these halls, and I intend to invite everyone we know who has passed on to this side of life. You won't be able to stand upright once it's over! Afterwards, you will be in your own realm, however there will be plenty of visitation opportunities. There are numerous games that never made it to your modern era - and I intent to play them all against you at some point."

"Like our own personal bucket list?" said Yugi, a smile returning to his own face.

Atem nodded, the spark of mischief returning. "Along with duelling, of course. Few are willing to challenge me, and I suspect you will also struggle in finding worthy opponents."

"Such is the price of skill."

"Precisely," said Atem with a knowing nod. "Now Let those spirit hunters come to terms with the truth and watch as they are unable to do anything about it. You also have nothing to fear - Lawerence has been dealt with."

Yugi didn't need any further clarification. His chest filling with one last breath of relief as he gazed at the portal. Mana waving at him to stand next to his father's sleeping form. 

"I've missed you..." he said, not knowing what to say and trying once again not to cry. "I hope everything is as you wished."

"As with you," said Atem, giving his arm one final squeeze. "Now go. You have a life to live... and I'm not going anywhere."