Adult-FanFiction.org : Yu-Gi-OH

The Pale Savior	By : SasatheShy Category: Yu-Gi-Oh > Yaoi - Male/Male Views: 6244 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 1
Disclaimer: I do not own YuGiOh, nor do I make a profit off of the writing of this story. It is for fan purposes only.

Chapter List
- 13
- 14
- 15
Chapter Fourteen: Educate



--

   One red mark. Two. Three.

   The many answers he checked as wrong pained Yami, and left him disappointed. His dear student did not take the time to study, and that bothersome truth did not infatuate him. Glancing from his desk over to the bed, he saw Yuugi sitting there, shifting worriedly and picking at a loose thread on the linen blanket. Yami scratched at the back of his head. Another miss. This wasn’t good. He’d been teaching Yuugi for an entire week now, and this zero ounce of success offended him.

   Setting down his quill, Yami tore loose some blank pieces of parchment. He caught his student’s adorable attention. Putting on a gentle smile, Yami readied his quill once more and glanced at Yuugi.

   “Here’s what we’re going to do --” he paused to furrow his brow, “-- I am going to write out a number, show it to you, and then you are going to tell me what it is. Okay?”

   Uh oh. This wasn’t good. Yuugi could feel the sweat preparing to pour. “O -- okay.”

   Yami knew he could sound very intimidating, but if Yuugi was determined to learn, then he was going to be tough. “Alright then.” He decided to start with one of the numbers Yuugi failed to get right. A tougher, alien sample. “What is this?”

   When it was held up for him to look at, Yuugi nervously leaned forward to make it out. Gods, his tongue was dry as a desert. “Um… Nine?” His very soul just about leaped out of him when Yami slammed the parchment on the desk.

   “Hmm…” Yami drew a second symbol and held it up. “And this?”

   “Two,” Yuugi said right away, recognizing the simplest of all the numbers from zero to ten.

   “Good.” Yami set it down, then wrote a final third. “And this?” He held it high, pushing it forward. “Think about it, if you need to.”

   Yuugi scratched at his ear next, his stress great. He did not recognize the number. He bit his bottom lip, grasped the bed. He felt about ready to faint. “Is it…” He gulped down a huge helping of saliva. “Is it three? No -- wait… Six?”

   Certain he could feel a headache coming on, Yami ran a hand behind his neck, questioning what he had gotten himself into. With the parchment placed in his lap, he shared with Yuugi his disappointment, pouting handsomely. “Yuugi, I gave you an entire week with these numbers. Have you not practiced at all?”

   It was a fight worth fighting to keep from crying in front of Yami, but Yuugi was starting to lose. Sniffing, he couldn’t think of anything to say besides sorry.

   “Is this not important to you?” Yami inquired. “Are you wasting my time?”

   “No!” Yuugi shouted, regretting raising his voice improperly. “I’m sorry. It is important to me.” He stammered, feeling it might be hopeless. He only knew a few of the numbers, and for the most part could not say them in the correct counting order.

   Yes, Yami believed Yuugi, but he would not surpass the poorly taken test he graded. He placed it on top of the pile of papers, then got to his feet. He went over to Yuugi, authorized to speak as a friend instead of a teacher during these dire circumstances. Sitting cross-legged, he spun Yuugi to face him, taking hold of those frail shoulders. He let his hands slide down them. He stared directly into those confused amethysts.

   Before deciding to question Yuugi, he first looked for answers. Any swirls of emotion that ran through those eyes could make him guess as to what was wrong. He saw a mix of anger, sadness, and uncertainty. Knowing the exact problem, he gave the young man his irresistible smile. The very one that made Yuugi blush, to his appeal.

   “So,” he said with earnest, “What is going on inside of Yuugi? Hmm?”

   “N -- nothing,” stuttered Yuugi, alarmed by how close Yami was.

   Yami quirked a brow. His fiendish grin was spooky, and Yuugi didn’t know what to think of it as his gorgeous professor scooted closer.

   “Oh, I think something is going on,” Yami purred. “Most definitely; and I believe the one to blame is his Lord, Atemu. Am I getting warmer?” Seeing how much redder Yuugi got, and with Yuugi avoiding the boldness in his eyes, Yami knew he was very, very hot. “Ah, I see. I suppose that lovely woman has something to do with it?” He heard sniffling, and saw that Yuugi was crying. “Yuugi…”

   Major bummed, Yuugi pushed back, turning away so that Yami couldn’t see his tears. “It isn’t fair. When he asked me to become part of his life, I -- I thought it would just be me and him, together. I didn’t think he would have anyone else. Now she’s in the picture, and -- and…” Yuugi squeezed his eyes shut. He hated the decision he made those few weeks ago, the agreement he made to become Atemu’s courtesan. “He’s spending all of his time with her. I’ve hardly seen him all week. He’s been so busy and -- working, and talking with her about things I don’t understand.”

   “Why did he have to meet her, Yami? Why? Atemu, he’s all I have. Now, I feel like I’m alone all over again. It’s not fair.” He pushed his face between his knees, hiding his shame and sorrow. It didn’t help that Atemu’s only asked for one night of sex from him all week. Just sex. Yuugi had returned to his own bedroom straight after, too. He never thought being a courtesan could hurt so badly.

   Not at all fond of those droplets gushing like rapids, Yami quietly wrapped one arm around Yuugi, then placed his other on the boy’s knee. So, it would seem that the poor slave finally understood the reality behind the charming Lord’s ambitions. And it would seem that the sad valet had to fend for himself during most hours of the day. How heartbreaking.

   Not caring that he scared Yuugi by touching him, Yami gently forced up the shorter Pale Face’s chin. He began to dry those tears with a few thumb strokes.

   “Don’t cry,” he murmured. “You’re ugly when you cry.”

   Yuugi’s face puffed with rage. “You’re mean, Yami!”

   “No, I’m honest. Your eyes turn red as hot coals; your cheeks ball up; your lips turn dark and moist; it makes your entire face look babyish.”

   “I’m not a baby!” Yuugi huffed, crossing his arms. When Yami flew his head back in fits of laughter, Yuugi pushed to his knees, set on leaving. “Stop it.” He rushed for the door, and made it far enough to grasp the handle, but just as he did, Yami’s strong arms crushed around him, dragging him far back into the room. He squealed loudly, wanting nothing more but to escape Yami’s strong hold. “Let go of me! Let go!”

   “Easy,” said Yami, invulnerable to the onslaught of scratches and shoves. “I said none of that to anger you. Never once did I say it was wrong for you to feel upset. In fact, I do not blame you. You feel betrayed by the man you love.”

   Weakly giving up the fight for his freedom, Yuugi collapsed in Yami’s grip. He arched his head back, tickling his hairs across Yami’s bare chest.

   “Love?” he whispered meekly.

   “Yes,” said Yami. “You love him, do you not?”

   Yuugi stared up at Yami, suddenly finding it difficult to answer. When he found his voice, his reply was unsteady. “Y -- yes. I do.”

   “Then you must practice what I’ve taught you, so that you may impress him when the time comes.” Yami held Yuugi’s hand, taking him to their spot to study. After helping Yuugi take his seat, Yami went to the desk to gather all of the materials and tomes. “There now, let me show you your test.” Holding the sheet, Yami joined Yuugi’s side on the floor. His free hand caressed up Yuugi’s bare arm, and to that delicate shoulder, squeezing it reassuringly. He found it odd that Yuugi did not push him away. A nefarious gleam in one crimson eye twinkled brightly. Something else was also there. His fingers tingled, savoring Yuugi’s milky skin. His own skin seemed to grow cold as he removed himself from the heavenly warmth.

   Realizing how close he had just been, having just about closed his lips to that shoulder, Yami pulled back. He shifted around Yuugi, and took a firm seat opposite the younger man. What he saw shocked him.

   Shivering slightly, Yuugi’s cheeks were poppy pink. His tears had ceased, and his breathing was heavy. He looked more pumped than he had seconds before, and the smile he possessed was shining through rose pink lips.

   “Thank you,” Yuugi said softly. “You’re right. I need to do this for Atemu.” He opened his tome to correct his mistakes. He cringed. Boy, were his mistakes major.

   Was what Yami saw not what it seemed? For a minute there, he was certain his sinister touches had aroused Yuugi. Maybe it was his keen wish to manipulate the young man, to learn what he could, and take it over. He wanted to get closer to Yuugi.

   “Yes,” Yami murmured, drawn in by that adorable face. He crawled his way back to take his seat next to Yuugi. “Let us continue so that you may present Atemu with what you’ve learned.” He could not resist placing his hand over Yuugi’s own, trying his best to read that peculiar mind. “Just remember, Yuugi. If ever you feel the need to talk, I will listen. I will be here for you.”

   “You will?” Yuugi asked nervously.

   “Yes,” Yami cooed. “Know this, Yuugi. If Atemu ever hurts you, you can be certain that I will be here for you. I promise.”

--

   When offered to be escorted at least halfway back to his bedroom after his lesson’s end, Yuugi couldn’t possibly decline. How could he? Yami’s been absolutely wonderful to him, even after failing miserably at his first test. The depressed Pale Face couldn’t of asked for a more perfect friend.

   He held his school bag close. Inside was his homework for the night. Yami warned him that a second test would follow in three days. Not a week. Three days. Yuugi would be ready this time, he was sure of it. He had to be, for Atemu.

   “I can’t wait,” he sighed. “When I read, I’m going to read every tome available to me, and then I’m going to read them all to Atemu.”

   “Mm hmm.” Irritation got the better of Yami. His brain clouded, becoming puzzled. “I’m sure he’ll be happy with what you’ll learn.” A hand slid into his. He stared gaping down at Yuugi, who was smiling widely up at him. “Yuugi?”

   “And I have you to thank, Yami,” Yuugi said. “If not for you, I would never have been able to learn, let alone try. Thank you.”

   Yami peered around, glad to see that they were alone. He took a sudden halt, startling Yuugi when he tugged the boy back. This abrupt stop connected with some business Yami acquired. Though dreary to ask, it was deliberate he get his query off his chest.

   Staring Yuugi down, he took a final look around before whispering, “Yuugi, there is something I’ve been meaning to ask you.”

   “What is it?” asked Yuugi, worried by how tightly Yami gripped his wrist. It was almost painful.

   “Lord Atemu,” he started. “Does he, by chance, have any unusual -- items he carries around?”

   “Items?” Yuugi blinked. “What do you mean?”

   “I mean…” he drifted, trying to decipher his words correctly. “Perhaps an item of great meaning, like a charm. Does he have anything like that?”

   “No, I don’t think so,” said Yuugi, disappointing Yami. He continued to walk, keeping his hand in Yami’s. “He doesn’t really collect or anything. He has jewels, gems, and a lot of coin though.”

   “Oh,” Yami nodded. “Okay.”

   “Why do you ask?”

   “Just curious about him, is all,” said Yami. “You seem so fond of him. I wondered why.”

   Yuugi nodded, not fully understanding. He did not care for Atemu because of his title or riches, if that was what Yami intended. No matter. All he cared to worry about was making sure to do his homework, memorize those damn numbers and letters; to spell, so he could write out his name; to read, so that he could read along with Atemu on peaceful evenings; and to count, in case of emergency.

   Surprisingly, Yuugi speculated Yami’s bewildering statement. Since asked if he loved Atemu, having said yes, he could not truly distinguish whether or not that was true. Indeed, spending time with Atemu thrilled him, and perked his happiness. But love? The word itself was enduring. He believed he did, but perhaps not in the way Yami conceived.

   Together the two came to a section of the palace most bustling, with frisky felines and servants, some in a hurry, others not, going this way and that. A few guards roamed the hallways, as well, keeping on alert. Yuugi and Yami no longer treaded the servants quarters, having to go through a hallway of few doorways Yuugi’s never stepped into. He credited it as Atemu and Seth’s important matters area. He recalled that very door he sat in front of during his first few days as Atemu’s servant, where he completed his first puzzle. The memory delighted him. He squeezed Yami’s hand tightly, grateful for his company.

   When they took a sharp left turn, neither expected to come face to face with the man they hoped to avoid, respectfully to keep Yuugi’s aspiration a secret. The short Pale Face just about choked on his own spit when he saw Atemu speaking desperately with a few servants, including Anzu, ordering for his search. He flushed red, then coughed lightly, grabbing their attention.

   “Yuugi!” Atemu sighed, appeased to see his beloved was safe. Excusing himself from the now relaxed ladies, he hectically pushed forward, stepping up to Yuugi. “Where have you been? I looked just about everywhere for you. I was so worried.”

   “You were?” said Yuugi meekly, not sure if he believed that.

   “Yes,” smiled Atemu, taking Yuugi’s hand in his. “I am so happy you are safe. Where were you?”

   Seeing his Lord did mean it, Yuugi smiled happily and looked up at Yami. “I was with my new friend.”

   “Friend?” Stunned, Atemu glimpsed at Yami, who immediately let go of Yuugi’s hand, and bowed lowly before him. Atemu examined the man up and down, having a precarious assumption about the unfamiliar face. He did not appreciate how easily this man held his servant’s hand. “I’ve not seen you around before.”

   “My Lord Atemu,” said Yami respectfully. “I serve Lord Seth.”

   “Seth helped him,” smiled Yuugi. “Like he helped me.”

   “I see,” Atemu said, unsure. “Well, I suppose even Lord Seth deserves his share of help.” He tried ignoring the man, whom he did not realize glared at him when he glanced down at the brown bag Yuugi carried under one arm. “And what is that?”

   Jittering for fear of being caught, Yuugi hugged the bag close. He took a deep breath, remembering his and Yami’s plan. “It’s a surprise.”

   “A surprise?” gleamed Atemu, eyeing the bag suspiciously. “What sort of surprise, Yuugi?”

   “Well,” Yuugi blushed. “A surprise that I am working on for you, but you can’t see it yet!”

   That the Lord did not expect hearing. Yuugi further brightened his day. It had been a not too great of one. “Really? Well, I can’t wait to learn what it is. I’ve had such a misfortunate day.”

   “How come?” Yuugi asked, worried.

   “A group of my men sent on an expedition wound up disappearing.” Atemu crossed his arms, hating thinking about the tragedy. He had sent them upon the land of the final Lord, and his suspicions told him that he had unknowingly sent those men to their graves. “I fear they may be dead.”

   “Oh no,” frowned Yuugi. “Are you sure?”

   “No.” Atemu shook his head. He sighed softly. “But it is not looking good.” He looked down at Yuugi and smiled. “Anyway, I was hoping to spend some quality time with you. I know I’ve been busy this week, and I am sorry. How would you like to visit the gardens?”

   “Just us two?” Yuugi hoped.

   “Yes,” Atemu nodded. “Just us two.”

   Forgetting Yami’s presence, Yuugi beamed happily, throwing himself into his Lord’s arms. “Yes!” He cheered excitedly, wanting nothing more but to be alone with Atemu. “Yes, I would love that very much. Let me just put this in my room, if I can?”

   “You mean, if you may,” corrected Atemu, leading Yuugi away from Yami’s frozen form. “Of course, Yuugi. May I take a little peek inside the bag?”

   Pouting, Yuugi tightened his hold on the bag. “Atemu! It’s a surprise!”

   “Okay, okay,” he laughed, putting his hands up in defense. “I’ll wait. I’m a patient man.”

   “Good.” Yuugi giggled softly. “You really should thank Yami, though. He’s helping me work on it.” Freezing, Yuugi spun around. “Oh, Yami!” But he was too late. Yami had left.

   Atemu placed a hand on Yuugi’s shoulder. “Come along.”

   Nodding, Yuugi leaned into his Lord, a little saddened, but happy to know he would see Yami again that next day for his lesson.

--

   To have this opportunity bestowed unto him elevated Yami’s resentment towards Atemu. He hated the man, hated how he treated Yuugi, hated his perfection. It was best not to show his anger when there was work to be done.

   He carried the washed and freshened blankets as requested to Atemu’s private chambers. The previous servant meant for the job fell ill, and so Yami, who happened to be in the right place at the right time, took it upon himself to take her place. Knowing Atemu would not be in the bedroom made this all the more better. The man still wandered the breathtaking gardens with Yuugi. It deemed difficult to hide a smirk eager to flash.

   Glancing this way and that, Yami’s smirk formed when he reached Atemu’s chambers. Balancing the blankets on one arm, he knocked. When he heard no reply, he opened the door and went on in, satisfied by the emptiness that greeted him. Closing the door with his foot, he shut himself in the room. Hurrying to make the Lord’s bed, he unfolded the blankets, but whilst he spread them out, he felt around under Atemu’s mattress, searching for a particular something. Grumbling, he pushed the blankets down, and smoothed them out. He fluffed the pillows, felt around underneath them.

   “Where is it?” he mumbled. Quickly, he charged over to the wardrobe, praying not to be caught as he opened the wooden doors wide. He searched Atemu’s clothes, and Salihah’s dresses, finding nothing. He slid his fingers in every corner, but came up empty-handed. “Damn it.”

   This wasn’t good. He began sweating bullets, and brushed the back of his hand over his forehead, beneath his golden bangs. He went over to the dining table, then hinted the doorway leading into the bathroom shielded behind a lustrous drape. About ready to enter, he heard movement outside. Cursing softly, he managed to get to the bed and pretend to be hard at work just as the door pushed open.

   “What do you think you’re doing?” asked Salihah, startled by his presence in her Lord’s personal quarters.

   Stepping back, Yami bowed his head. “Forgive me, I was told to make Lord Atemu’s bed.”

   “It is unheard of for a servant to enter his Lord’s chamber without his permission,” she said strictly. “Tell me your name.”

   “Yami,” he said softly. “I am sorry.”

   “Go on Yami,” Salihah ordered, dismissing him. “You’ve done enough.”

   He bowed once more, then took his leave. He knew exactly who she was, his anger towards her as gigantic as his anger was for Atemu. Damned Dark Faces. He hated them all. She closed the door behind him, and alone once more, he eyed the door and smiled viciously.

   “Bitch,” he muttered. “You’ll get what’s coming to you.” He went on his way, not caring if she rattled on him. Yuugi would see to it that nothing happened to him. He was, after all, Yuugi’s best friend.

--

   With three days up, Yuugi’s change in attitude supremely impressed his teacher. He entered Yami’s dusty bedroom that fine afternoon determined, focused, and set, his confidence to read and write exceptionally great. With Yami’s amazing encouragement, he sat at that desk, quill in hand, a fire in his eyes, ready to tackle those numbers once more.

   Arching a brow, Yami set before Yuugi the test he constructed, told Yuugi to not rush, and to take his time, then sat on the bed to read. The room fell silent as Yuugi got to work. In little over half an hour, after crossing out answers, and refilling them again, Yuugi finally set his quill back in the ink pot and sighed.

   “I’m done,” he said.

   “You sure?” Yami asked.

   Thinking about it for a second, Yuugi nodded. “Yes.”

   “Alright.” Yami closed the tome, set it on the bed, and stood. “Switch places with me. I shall grade it now.”

   Yuugi went over to the bed, and took a seat. He leaned down to pick up a copper box he brought with him that day. Placing it on his lap, he waited patiently and nervously as he watched Yami sit at the desk to examine his test. Keen on his decisions, Yuugi pouted when he saw Yami make a mark or two.

   “Well now, not too bad,” Yami said before long. “You only missed four. Last time you missed eight. I am very impressed.”

   He handed the paper back to Yuugi so that Yuugi could see his mistakes. Yuugi grumbled. He struggled still with the tougher symbols and letters. “Damn it.”

   “Do not fret, little one,” said Yami. “You’ve amazed me with your wonderful improvement. You should be proud of yourself for accomplishing that much.”

   Yuugi was proud. He held the paper close, thinking of how proud Atemu would be. He imagined what it’d be like when the time of surprise came. He imagined Atemu’s gay excitement, he imagined getting more than just a pat on the back, more than just a job well done. He could hardly wait.

   “You’re doing very well,” smiled Yami.

   Giggling, Yuugi looked up at Yami. “Yep. Plus, I’ve been spending a lot of my time with Atemu. I think that’s been helping me.”

   Hearing the Lord of Tranquility’s name leave Yuugi’s lips so effortlessly was never to Yami’s liking. His knuckles went white, his muscles tensed, and he filled with great anger, but he hid it well. “Is that so?”

   “I don’t know what it is,” shrugged Yuugi. “I think Atemu might be feeling a little guilty for leaving me in the dark last week. I love it because it feels like when we first met. Yesterday we spent almost the whole afternoon together in my room, and we even played a game.”

   “Game?”

   Yuugi grew excited. “I brought it with me.” He cradled the box, then held it out to Yami. “It’s really fun.”

   Yami took hold of it, and opened the box. He peered in at the finely crafted board and miniature golden pieces that looked like animals standing on hind legs. Closing the box shut, he shook his head. “Looks complicated.”

   “The rules are simple enough,” smiled Yuugi. “Want me to show you?”

   “Perhaps another time, Yuugi. Right now, we ought to return you before you are missed.”

   Pouting, Yuugi supposed Yami was right. “Okay.” He gathered his materials, and placed them in his bag. He would study harder than ever that afternoon before Atemu returned from work. Four. He reminded himself that he had only missed four.

   “Come the end of the week,” grinned Yami in order to make Yuugi feel better, “We will get into letters, and I will teach you how to spell out your name.”

   That very idea cheered Yuugi up immensely. With everything he needed, besides the board game left forgotten on the floor, Yuugi followed alongside Yami to return to where he belonged. He already memorized how to return to Yami’s bedroom. Once they were a little ways ahead of the kitchen, the two would depart. Yami told Yuugi to study hard before spinning back the other way to leave. Yuugi took to a run to get to his bedroom, wanting to continue with his studies straight away. He smiled as he hugged his work, his dedication building.

   When he reached the hallway, he froze, not about to take a step further. His heart dropped to his stomach, for just there, he captured sight of Atemu desperately making out with Salihah, tugging on her dress, and pulling her into the master bedroom. The two did not acknowledge little Yuugi standing just inches away, grasping his bag with shaky knees. He heard the door slam shut, and heard those noises he dearly despised. With all his grief set on exploding, he realized he could not take it anymore.

   Fighting back tears, he swiftly turned to go back the way he came, racing for the one place he knew he would be permitted to cry. He hoped to find the support he ached for in the hallways, but it would seem he would have to run all the way back, and that was fine with him. He wanted to be as far from Atemu as possible. Urging to hang on until he reached sanctity, to not cry in front of the passerby he ignored, Yuugi soon returned to the servant quarters. He stumbled down those steep steps, nearly losing his footing when he reached bottom. He pressed on, thankful when he finally arrived.

   He knocked loudly on the door a good three times, worried he would receive no answer. Hugging his bag, he tried again, thankful when it did open, and out peeked Yami.

   “Yuugi?” Yami gaped. “What is it? What’s wrong?”

   “Nothing,” cried Yuugi. “I just want to be with you a while longer. Please? Please let me be with you a while longer?”

   “Yes, yes, of course,” said Yami worriedly, placing his arm around Yuugi’s shoulders. Something must’ve happened, to his liking. This was perfect. “Come inside.”

   “Thank you,” sniffed Yuugi.

   Yami executed well as a comfort for Yuugi, taking the bag to place it on the floor, keeping one hand on that frail shoulder. Gently, he sat with Yuugi on the bed. The silence lasted briefly, taken control by Yuugi’s sobbing. Yami glanced down, feeling moisture on his chest. He could not see Yuugi’s face, though he knew Yuugi was crying. He quirked his top lip, not sure what to do since he’d never been in this sort of predicament before.

   Eventually, Yuugi settled down. He pushed back his face to wipe dry his soggy eyes and cheeks. He felt embarrassed for having soaked Yami’s chest, and so gently brushed his hand across the man’s well-built stomach.

   “I’m sorry,” he whimpered. “I don’t know why, I just felt like crying.”

   Yami managed to speak, even with his throat clamped from being touched by Yuugi’s small hand. “You were upset. There is no need to apologize. May I ask what made you so upset?”

   Yuugi drew into a huddle, a little sad that he removed himself from Yami. “I went back to my room, but saw Atemu kissing Salihah in the hallway. They -- went…” There was little need to explain.

   Slowly, Yami scooted closer to Yuugi, once more wrapping his arms around the young man as an act of comfort. He wanted to do something for the other. Through the corner of his eye, he saw the game Yuugi brought resting alone on the cold floor. Smirking, Yami moved to a stand, and went over to it. When he picked it up and brought it over to Yuugi, he opened it up after sitting back down and let the game pieces slide over the bed.

   Yuugi stared down at the pieces. “Yami?”

   “Let’s play,” Yami promoted. “You could teach me. How about it?”

   Feeling better, Yuugi smiled brightly. “Yes.” He wiped away his tears and set up the game.

   It was one of his favorites gifted to him after becoming Atemu’s courtesan. The finely carved playable pieces represented the great animals of the Gods. There was a jackal, a rat, a snake, a hawk, and Yuugi’s favorite, a cat. To be champion, one must safely guide their animal through a haphazard of trials, and the strongest left standing would be declared winner. Knowing the game could take a long hour or more did not bother Yuugi. By then, perhaps Atemu would notice his absence. Fine by him. Let the Lord worry. Yuugi knew it sounded bad, but he was desperate for the attention.

   He smiled up at Yami, thankful to have a new friend to lean on when troubled by life. Yami learned the rules of the game with ease, and the two played for the longest time. It was Cat versus Jackal in a fun, well-drawn out battle. The victor ended up being the vicious jackal, which surprised Yuugi. He thought for sure he’d take the first win considering Yami’s never before played the game. When he lost, he merely laughed and they started a second game, not realizing the time.

   After losing twice in a row and with it getting late, Yuugi knew he had to go back. But strangely enough, a part of him did not want to. He had enjoyed playing that game more with Yami than he ever had with Atemu. That worried him a little, but he had cheered up immensely.

   With the game cleaned up, Yuugi tucked it under one arm, prepared to carry it, as well as his homework, back to his room. He gaped when Yami took it away from him, and placed it on the desk.

   “We’ll keep it here,” Yami said. “At least, for now. Who knows when we might need to play it again?”

   Blushing without realizing it, Yuugi smiled. “Thank you for letting me stay here, and for letting me teach you how to play the game. I don’t know what came over me. I just felt really sad when I saw them. I know it’s ridiculous, I mean -- Atemu loves both of us equally. He even told me so. Maybe I’m being awful.”

   “No, Yuugi. Not at all. It is perfectly natural for you to feel a zest of jealousy towards that woman. Do not think of yourself as bad for wanting to feel loved. Be thankful you have his love.”

   Yuugi hated himself for babbling about his troubles when this kind man in front of him truly had no one. Slowly, Yuugi moved to hug Yami. “I am thankful.”

   “Good,” murmured Yami. “Now, let’s get you back.”

--

   Yuugi heard no sounds coming from Atemu’s bedroom. Quietly, he opened the door. Taking a quick look over at the bed, he saw Atemu and Salihah were both fast asleep. Feeling slightly relieved, he closed the door. He thought about slamming it shut, but he did not want to anger Atemu.

   Retreating to his own bedroom, Yuugi settled on the floor next to Puzzle. The adorable kitten had been laying peacefully on the floor, and she mewed softly, excited to see Yuugi. Atemu must’ve trapped her inside at some point. Yuugi recalled seeing her last out in the hallway, but he did not mind seeing her. He was happy to, in fact.

   Picking up his sweetheart, he lay comfortably with her on his side. Puzzle fell asleep once more, glad to be cozy against her master. This was fine. He would take a small nap, as the two across the hall were, and when next he opened his eyes, everything would be fine. He took his work and hid it underneath his bed. It would be safe there. Currently, he did not feel like studying like he had around two hours ago, but he would not give up on it. Atemu was counting on him, but the one especially counting on him was his teacher, Yami. Yuugi knew he wished to please them both.
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The Pale Savior