https://youtu.be/coDP_yI2vHw

well, brace yourselves this is gonna be a little longer than usual-

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"C'mon Joey you got this!" Tristan cheered, "Kick his butt!"

"Something's not right," Mai mumbled as she frowned at "Marik", "Shouldn't he be crushing Joey at this point with his Egyptian Card? Or at least be a little more ruthless with him? Yugi what do you think-" Mai turned and gasped, "Is (y/n) okay?"

"She's fine." Yami lied, "She's just as anxious as everyone else,"

"(y/n), Joey's gonna win, that's for sure." Mai gently rubbed your arm, "Don't worry too much, it'll affect both your health and your beauty~"

"Aha..." You nervously responded, "...thanks."

Honestly, that isn't even what got you to be so nervous. 2 things made you nervous,

First off, Yugi was right about how serious Yami can be.

Secondly, if what you feel is correct, if you lean against Yami or even touch him there would probably be a likely chance that there will be blood on him. There was no certainty, but there was the chance.

"Well, don't you think Marik is being...gentle towards Joey?" Mai asked,

"You noticed it too?" Yami asked as he narrowed his eyes,

"Yeah." Mai nodded,

Marik - Your eyes lit and you turned to Mai and Yami, "...cause that isn't Marik." You whispered,

"What?" Mai gasped,

"I noticed it too, way early in the duel." You bit your lip, "He's too gentle, too polite. I didn't even sense any sort of malice that I figured I would sense."

"Who do you think it is?" Yami whispered as everyone screamed, rooting for Joey.

"....It's Namu." You narrowed your eyes at the real Marik,

"Namu? The purple kid?" Mai asked,

"Yup." You nodded, "When the Marik up there took out his rod, Namu was smirking at him, not only that but he looked to be holding something behind his back." You explained, "Not only that, but Namu seems to be fake from the beginning."

Yami glanced at Namu with his eyes narrowed, "...now that you think of it..."

Mai glanced over as well, "Wow, with a boy like that you wouldn't imagine him being such an evil bastard."

"What's going on here?" Tea asked as Mai shot up and looked at Tea with a smile,

"Oh, just talking about the duel!" Mai lied as she clasped her hands together, "Ya know, predictions on what's gonna happen. Right Yugi and (y/n)?" She turned to you and Yami with gritted teeth - as if she's threatening the both of you.

"Oh, um, yes." Yami nodded.

"Yup." You nodded with him.

Tea frowned as she looked at Yami, "I'm sure Joey will win," She mumbled as you watched her glance over at your shoulders. Mai immediately walked in front of you and Yami with a smirk,

"Yeah, so let's watch the duel~" Mai chirped with glee as Tea slowly looked back at the duel. Mai soon turned around and looked at you and Yami,

"So if that's Marik behind us, who is fighting Joey?" Mai whispered,

"Probably some accomplice," Yami glared at "Marik", "If that's the case, I'm wondering if the Egyptian God Card the fake Marik has is the real Egyptian God Card."

"...probably not." Your head spun a little but thankfully Yami held you so you wouldn't bump into anyone, "it's probably some fake."

"How?" Mai asked, "can you even make a fake card from some high top-tier card?"

"Never underestimate thieves." Yami's eyes narrowed as he glanced at the real Marik, "And he's definitely the real Marik, his smirk shows evil malice, the very same that I've felt before." Yami managed to look back towards the duel when Marik looked over in Yami's direction.

"But that does mean Joey will not be destroyed in this duel, right?" Mai asked,

"Just because it's fake doesn't mean it doesn't give sufficient damage." Yami's eyes narrowed and soon looked at you,"(y/n), are you alright."

"Yeah," You nodded as your head slowly began to stop getting dizzy. The black mass you saw earlier slowly began to fade. Hopefully your back is going to be fine-

"Frustra tempus."

Your head went off again. You ended up leaning back towards Yami as your head began to pound once more, and your back isn't helping. Yami's attention completely averted from the duel over to you within seconds,

"(Y/n)." His voice was quiet yet stern, "Stay with me, at least until the duel is over and we're back in your room."

You could only groan as a response. You were so tired of it. Why you? You weren't sure what was going on throughout the duel, instead you merely relied on Yami and Mai with the situation with the duel. As far as you know, Joey was getting suspicious of the fake Marik and the fake Egyptian God Card was being played. You weren't too sure, your head practically refused you to open your eyes fully to see clearly. You covered your face with your hands as you heard loud bangs. Yami immediately wrapped his arms around you as though he's protecting you.

What the hell is happening? Whatever is happening, you wish you could properly understand it. However, it soon grew quiet for at least a minute, then everyone resumed screaming. When you were finally able to understand what was going on, you stared at both duelists who were on the floor unconscious.

"...what the hell." You mumbled as Yami stared at you,

"You okay?" He asked,

"...I am now." You nodded as your headache began to subside, "...what the hell-"

"It's as I said earlier," Yami narrowed his eyes, "The Winged Dragon of Ra that the fake Marik has was fake, he lost control of it and it struck lightning that caught both Joey and whoever that is. They have a minute to get up or they both lose. And your observation is basically valid cause the Millenium Rod the fake Marik had was fake." Yami explained,

"....he's too cruel." You muttered, "he's literally Marik's accomplice and he lets that happen?"

"...evil people like Marik don't seem to care much about their accomplices." Yami glanced over at Namu, who appeared to have a massive headache.

"Come on Joey, wake up." Yami muttered as everyone around you was practically screaming - heck, even Tristan was close to jumping in the arena and smacking him awake but the guards probably told him not to as the duel was still going. It was 30 long seconds as finally Joey managed to stand and stared at his opponent,

"...What happened? Where am I?" Joey asked,

"Joey! You won!" Tea shouted with glee,

"Huh?" Joey blinked,

"Ugh, with the finals!?" Mai hissed, "You scared the hell out of me you douche!"

"I did...?"

"And the winner of this duel is Joey Wheeler!" The guard announced,

"Wait, I won?" Joey blinked,

"Yes you did." Yami nodded with a grin,

"I knew you would!" Serenity clasped her hands together with glee. Tristan jumped on the arena with a smile on his face,

"That's my man!" Tristan wrapped an arm around Joey but was soon brushed off. Joey walked over to his opponent as the arena descended to the floor.

"Mai, hold (y/n) for me. She isn't too well right now." Yami lightly pressed you against Mai,

"Oh, alright..." Mai nodded as she held your shoulders.

"W-Wait I'm fi-" You blinked,

"Stay. With. Mai." Yami sneered before he ran up the stairs and to the opponent.

"Jeez, have you ever seen Yugi so stern?" Mai blinked and looked at you, "Honey, you're swaying a bit, are you sure you're fine?"

"I mean....I should be-" You mumbled but felt your back grow sticky. Your eye grew wide, Oh shit your back. It probably is bleeding a lot more than it did last time. What the hell are you gonna do about that?"

"Joey Wheeler...it was an honor fighting with you..I am so sorry...." The fake Marik spoke,

"Hey, same to you, but ya gotta come clean. Who are you?" Joey asked as Yami sat across from Joey and helped him with the fake Marik,

"I am a mere servant...to Master Marik." The servant pointed over to...not a surprise...Namu, who appeared to be having a migraine at this point as he held the actual Millenium Rod.

"That's Marik?!" Joey gasped,

"...(y/n) was right." Yami mumbled,

"It's that rod! The same one the other had!" Tea gasped as Mai lightly pulled you away from Marik with a stern look.

"Admit your true identity, Marik." Yami spoke loudly as Marik slowly turned and looked at Yami with a smirk,

"Yes, it is true. I am the real Marik, you fools." Marik smirked,

"So Namu lied to us all along?" Tea gasped,

"Namu? He was a disguise for me to get closer to Yugi....a disguise which was discovered sooner than I'd imagined." Marik averted his gaze to you with a glare. Mai immediately wrapped her arms around you protectively and Yami stood,

"Watch your moves, Marik." Yami hissed,

"Well, pharaoh. It's nice to finally meet you face to face." Marik's eyes went back to Yami,

"...Master-" The servant pleaded,

"Now I can finish the job my pathetic servants couldn't." Marik seethed with a frown, then soon smirked once more, "Soon, your Millenium puzzle and power will be right where it belongs." As Yami spoke, you felt pure malice oozing as a third eye briefly appeared. It seemed you weren't the only one who noticed, Yami froze in place and Marik started to groan in pain once more; his hands holding his head.

"Oh no..." The servant mumbled, "...I was afraid of this, you're all in danger!"

"What do you mean?" Joey asked,

"Master Marik has a darker side....one that I can no longer contain..." The servant looked to be slipping out of consciousness, "It's too late now.." Those were his last words as he fell limp in Joey's arms.

'For some reason...' you raised an eyebrow, '...this is very much like some soap opera.'

Marik's loud groans got your attention as his groans kept getting louder - soon turned to screaming. His head shot up as he screamed in agony, then soon stopped and simply stared up at the sky.

"...Marik, what's going on?" Yami asked as Marik laughed darkly and drooped his head down once more. There was definitely a lot more malice than 5 minutes ago, and the third eye on his forehead didn't make it any better looking.

"I'm finally free again~" Marik smirked, "Which means I can have things go my way. I have been locked away for so many years thanks to that filthy Odion."

"...Who are you." Yami asked,

"I am the true Marik, and I will be the one to strip your powers to become the true pharaoh I was destined to be~" Marik responded, "So be prepared, Pharaoh, cause when I am done with you, that puzzle will be around my neck where it belongs. Then you will suffer the rest of eternity in darkness, as so will your friends and Odion of course." Marik's eyes scanned Yami's friends but for some reason, skipped you.

"Get a life." Joey hissed,

"You fool, because of Odion's failure not only do I have a life, but I now know that only a selected few can handle the power of the Egyptian Gods...and Kaiba is one."

"I'm sick of hearing this Egyptian fairy tale, I wield Obelisk because I am the strongest duelist." Kaiba rolled his eyes,

"Don't deny your ancient past. You can never ignore your history, you'll learn someday Kaiba." Marik shook his head, "You are much more involved with our ancient history, whether you like it or not. So, let's begin the tournament to get ahold of the Pharaoh's power, shall we?" Marik smirked as the duel finally put its end and everyone was sent back inside. However, Yami immediately darted over to you and took you from Mai,

"Thank you Mai," Yami thanked and with a glare to Marik, took you inside the moment the opportunity arose.

"Yeah...no problem.." Mai narrowed her eyes as she watched Yami. She knew by holding you of how weak and ill you really were, although she didn't know why or how you got to be like that in less than a duel. Marik laughed and slowly walked back inside the blimp and everyone watched in horror and disgust.

"I don't like that guy, not at all." Duke growled, "He's creepy as hell."

"Tell me about it." Mai narrowed her eyes,

"We need another medical team here stat," Joey looked at the guard, "Odion needs it."

"We're sending it, don't worry." The guard assured as Tea bit her lip. She was worried about Yami and Yugi, after all, Marik's main target is Yami.

"Y-Yugi-" Tea turned to Yami's direction but found him to be gone, "Wh...Where did Yugi go?"

"You didn't see?" Mai smirked, "Yugi practically bounced with (y/n) the moment the coast was clear."

"He did?" Tristan gasped as he looked over, "You're right,"

"To be fair," Joey's eyes narrowed, "(y/n) didn't look too good. He probably took her to his room or the nurse."

"I knew it, she did look really pale." Duke nodded,

"She looked like she was gonna pass out when I was talking with her and Yami about Marik." Mai added, "He was holding her in place so she wouldn't fall."

"Aw man are you serious?" Joey gasped and watched Mai nod,

"Yeah, she got super dizzy throughout the duel." Mai explained and looked down on her arms to see a light shade of red. Her eyes widened when she saw, but she slowly hid them from view.

"I hope she's okay..." Serenity looked down and bit her lip, "This whole tournament is really intense."

"Ya got me there sis," Joey nodded as the medical team came in, "Let's head over to the medical center and see what's up with him." He referred to Odion.

Meanwhile, Yami took you to the medical center and sat you down on one of the beds. For some strange reason, there was no medical professional there, so it was just you and Yami.

"You're gonna stay here, okay?" He firmly pressed your shoulders in the bed,

"What're you gonna do?" You blinked,

"Don't think I'm blind, (y/n)." Yami sneered, "Your back is bleeding."

...Oh no.

No no no, no no no.

You turned pale and your arms went behind you. There's no way in hell you're gonna let Yami look at your back. You're not gonna have his eyes destroyed and possibly have the Seal overreact as it did with Pegasus.

"Take off your jacket, (y/n)." Yami frowned as he walked over to the drawer and pulled out bandages, "At least let me see the damage."

Oh hell no. You shook your head intensely with tears brimming your eyes - your heart now screaming as loudly as your back.

"(y/n)." Yami was stern, "Don't make me force you to. You're injured."

You continued to shake your head, please, please anyone, tell him no, tell him to stop.

"...I..I can take care of it." You whimpered,

"You don't look to be able to take care of it. At least take off your coat, (y/n)." Yami insisted as he approached you. For once since you met Yami, you flinched and leaned back a little only to stop because of your back. You were terrified to even look to see how it looked, cause if Yami could see it...

'Please, don't let him see it....don't let him see it please I beg of you' You pleaded to basically anyone who could hear you.

Yami looked annoyed as he gripped your shoulders, "I understand if you're uncomfortable with someone the opposite sex to be seeing your bareback, but you need to understand that you're bleeding badly, (y/n). If it goes untended, you will slip to unconsciousness and you won't be able to duel at all in the finals." Yami growled as his grip on your shoulders squeezed, "At least take off your coat so I could see how bad it is."

You were so paralyzed with fear you couldn't even speak. Your breath started to tighten and your lungs began to scream. Your back didn't seem to help as you began to feel your eye throb.

Anything but this...please anything but this...at least cover it from him so he doesn't see, You started to plead to the Seal for the first time.

You've never done this before.

Please, don't let him see. Please, please! I'll do anything for you, I'll give you anything!

Yami narrowed his eyes and knelt down to your eye level, "(y/n), please listen and stay with me here." He whispered, "I know it's uncomfortable, but please understand that I'm doing this to help as a.." He gulped and looked down, "....nevermind that last part, actually. I'm only trying to help you stay with us for the finals. I don't even want to think about seeing you lying in your bed unable to move or be awake." He looked back up at you and gripped your coat, "please, at least do it for me."

You stared at him with paralyzed fear, could you even have the heart to say no? Looking at how worried he is, but the risk of him finding out about the Seal is real. You looked down on your lap, you knew if you kept saying no, you'll progressively get worse, and who knows when you'll be seeing that mass again.

But what about the Seal on your back?

Yami seemed to be waiting patiently for your response, he isn't forcing it off your back as he warned he would, so maybe he won't do it?

That's a really dumb thing to think, he's adamant to do it.

This is too quick, you mentally groaned as you slowly nodded, already trying to figure out a way to tell Yami and Yugi about the Seal of Orichalcos. You didn't want this, you definitely didn't. You had to hold back tears as Yami removed your coat,

"Just a second." Yami rose and immediately took out a bowl and filled it with hot water while looking for any antibacterial cream, which was easy for him to find. Pulling out anti-bacterial soap, he walked back and placed it on the desk beside you. Glancing over at your back, you watched him flinch and narrow his eyes with more worry. He walked over to the side of the room and pushed the curtains over the bed, covering you and Yami from the outside of the room.

"For privacy," Yami said as he sat behind you and held the bottom of your shirt, "....May I?"

You slowly nodded, already preparing the first half of the upcoming story-telling you're gonna be forced to tell Yami. You were already picturing Yami's reaction to seeing your back. He'd probably be panicked and demand to know what happened or something, knowing him. You felt your shirt being lifted as Yami folded it and put it next to the hot bowl. He used a large towel and placed it beneath your back and onto the bed to prevent the bed from getting wet. You clenched your fists and closed your eyes shut, here we go.....only to hear nothing.

"I don't know how your back got this bad," Yami muttered, "Did anyone hurt you? Don't tell me Bakura did."

....what the? That wasn't the reaction you were expecting. Your eye shot open as your eyebrows furrowed, how can he not be so panicked right now?

"you're welcome."

You widened your eyes as you soon realized why Yami wasn't reacting.

...How did you do it.

"It's easy to blind the eye from the truth. Besides, it's not the time for him to see."

Tears went down your cheeks as you nodded,

....thank you...

"So I was right, it was Bakura." Yami mumbled as he pressed a towel against the warm water and gently put it on your back - the places that he saw were bleeding of course. Blinking, you had to think of something to continue the cover-up.

"U...Uh...n-not really though." You shook your head, "It's uh..." You tried thinking of something that you could quickly tie it to now, "...w-when Joey was possessed by Marik."

"Hm?" Yami perked up, "...oh yes, that's right. You did mention your back when I met up with you." Yami nodded as he put soap on the towel and lightly pressed it on your back. Feeling the sting, you flinched,

"Sorry (y/n), it's going to hurt. I should've warned you before I started." You could feel Yami's eyes soften, "(Y/n), if you're in pain, you should really open up and be honest about it. The more you hide yourself from others, the more pain you'll get."

"A..ah....yeah." You nodded and clenched your fists, your whole body shaking at this point. Moments later, the doors opened as you soon heard everyone else come in,

"How is Odion?" You heard Joey ask. You tense up, what if they walk in on you or something? Oh Lord you felt dizzy,

"Don't worry, they're not going to walk in. Remember I closed the curtain?" Yami whispered, "Just stay quiet, I want to hear what's going on."

"He's...in a coma due to the mental stress." The doctor sighed,

"...where was this doctor when we came in?" You whispered,

"No clue." Yami quietly sighed,

"Well dang, I wish I could take a nap," Joey mumbled,

"He's in a critical condition Joey, you're lucky you're still standing." Tea reminded him,

"Got a good point, we were literally in the same position, but I am just fine," Joey responded,

"except all the brain damage you got." Tristan shrugged,

"Zip it." Joey hissed which had you and Yami quietly laugh,

"But even so, we won't be able to figure out who this guy is till he wakes up," Duke spoke up,

"...well, there is one thing. He stayed to make sure to protect Marik till the very end."

"And for what?!" Joey growled, "Odion's lying around in a coma and Marik doesn't even come to visit?!"

"What did you expect Marik to do, bring some flowers?" Mai asked, "...Poor Odion, it's times like these when you're the lowest where you really need your friends."

"Exactly." Yami quietly nodded,

"Wait that's it! Friends!" Joey chirped, "Its cause of you guys I was able to wake up! Get this, I had a dream that you guys were rooting for me, and you guys encouraged me to stand and I did. It's 'cause of friendship I got up!"

"...that's so cringey." You mumbled Yami quietly chuckled, rinsing the towel again to rinse your back.

"Wow Joey that's very touching, almost like the one dream you had with vanilla pudding and that monkey~" Tristan sarcastically responded.

"Why you!" Joey growled as you heard a mini fight going on.

Yami finished up your back and got up, putting the wet towel in the bowl. "Let me get you another towel to dry you up, then we'll go to your room to get a new outfit." He whispered as he covered his side vision when he walked near the exit and slipped out of the curtains,

"Wh- YUGI?!" Tristan gasped, "What are you doing here?"

"Just taking care of someone." Yami calmly responded as he folded the bloody towel to prevent anyone from seeing.

"Wh- From in there?" Duke pointed to the curtain,

"Yes, and please don't go in." Yami asked as he turned on the sink and rinsed the towel, "I'm not exactly done yet."

"Wait, (y/n)'s in there right?" Tea asked and watched Yami nod.

"Oh, hey (y/n)!" Joey looked at the closed curtain, "How's it going?"

"Joey you're at a high level of cringe." You responded, "Friendship isn't gonna wake Odion up ya know."

Joey's cheeks went red as Serenity, Duke, and Tristan laughed.

Mai's eyes narrowed when she saw the color red on the floor of the sink, she knew what Yami was doing. Mai walked over and gave him another large dry towel.

"Oh, thank you-" Yami reached to take it but froze when he saw Mai's arms.

"Is she okay?" Mai asked,

"...Yes, she is." Yami nodded and took the dry towel, "Excuuuse me. I'll join you guys over at the main lobby momentarily." He walked back to the curtain and before he walked in, he covered his eyes with the towel. Duke saw that and widened his eyes,

"...Holy shit.." Duke whispered, "...(y/n)'s probably naked."

Tristan heard and immediately smacked his mouth with his hand. "...how?" Tristan asked,

"Why else would he cover his eyes?" Duke whispered with a wide smirk,

"Oh stop it you two, you're so immature. C'mon let's head to the main lobby." Mai rolled her eyes.

When Yami walked in, you couldn't help but hold back a laugh,

"Laugh all you want, (y/n)." Yami smiled a little as he walked behind you and gently dried your back. He later applied the cream to your back and wrapped the towel around your back. Once he was done, he pulled out your coat.

"For now, I am gonna put this around you. Let's head to your room, shall we?" Yami asked as he helped you get up.

"Hey Joey?" You and Yami heard Mai,

"yeah?" Joey asked

"About your dream..."

"Which one?" Joey asked nervously,

"Not the one with the monkey, the other one with your friends." Mai laughed, "Was I in there?"

"I...uhh....nope! Definitely not Mai! Nope, not at all...ahahaha....ya know maybe next time - ya know my dreams are very mixed with cars...and....and flamed soldiers and...and...uh....n-normal guy stuff soI'llseeyoulater." Joey nervously answered,

"...She was totally in his dreams." You laughed,

"Hush (y/n)," Yami said through laughter, "let's go, alright?"

"Alright, alright." You nodded as you buttoned your coat while Yami held your shoulders from behind. You took the folded bloody shirt and opened the curtain to see Tea and Maiwatching,

"oh, hi Tea." You blinked and waved,

"...you okay?" Tea asked,

"Yes, she is." Yami nodded, "I am taking her to her room so she can change. We'll meet with the rest of you guys in a little bit."

Tea frowned, "...what do you mean change?"

"Well her clothes aren't the in the best condition right now." Yami responded with a cocked eyebrow, "I am not gonna let her wear the same clothes. So, we'll see you-"

"wait-" Tea's eyes lightened up, "...Is it alright if I come with you guys?"

Both you and Yami blinked in response, "...uh," You blinked,

"Well, technically I haven't seen (y/n)'s room yet, and if she's injured-"

"Tea why don't you go along with Joey and everyone else?" Mai walked over next to you, "I'll go with (y/n) and Yugi."

"...but-"

"Besides, I bet Joey would want to see you more than me, so might as well." Mai shrugged.

It was obvious. You and Tea could tell. Mai's upset.

"...okay, be safe (y/n)." Tea said and stormed off, clearly pissed. You assumed it was because of Joey's stupid answer.

"I uh...sense an awkward mom-" Yami nervously said

"Let's go already." Mai sighed and thus you, Mai, and Yami walked over to your room.

"Hey, Mai?" You looked at her,

"Hm?"

"Joey totally dreamt of you." You smirked and watched Mai scoff,

"I don't care."

"You suuree?" You raised an eyebrow,

"For crying out loud (y/n)," Mai pouted, "I couldn't care less about if I was in some stupid dream. Besides, I don't need friends."

Yami raised an eyebrow, "...usually when Joey lies he tends to talk fast and lost focus in what he's saying."

"Figured." You sighed as you reached your door.

"I'll wait here, go back and change." Yami rested his back against the wall near your door, "You two go on."

"Don't wanna peak~?" Mai teased with a smirk and watched Yami's face go slightly red,

"...I have boundaries, Mai."

"Cap." Mai grinned and walked in to gasp loudly, "(y/n) are you some type of princess?!"

"I ask myself that every day." You sighed as you closed the door behind you.

"Well, might as well start with the whole changing thing - strip my darling~" Mai smirked as she practically ripped off your coat. You gave a yelp and covered your chest,

"My my~ Yugi is gonna be lucky!" Mai spoke as she went straight to your drawers to pull a new set of clothes, "Now now, let's see what clothes should I giveee? Ooo I like this blue shirt!" She pulled a long-sleeved navy blue shirt with golden laced pattern all over it. "Yup, totally this one- ooh, we need a bra too. Stupid Yugi made it wet and I'm sure the blood messed it up too....let me see what bras you have~" She dug through with a grin on her face then frowned, "...your bras are a little too basic, but they are good. Let me tell you (y/n) once we're done with this tournament we're going on a spree." She pulled out a simple black bra and practically ran over to you with a grin, "Alright darling, let's dress up!"

"W-W-Wait, sh-shouldn't we bandage my back before I change?" You asked, "J-Just in case?"

"Oh yeah, you're right." Mai frowned as she ran to the bathroom with a smirk, "(y/n) if at some point you find me in your room later just ignore me alright?"

"A-Alright," You giggled as Mai ran back with bandages,

"Alright darling, even I have boundaries so I'll be behind you here~ Ooh...your back is a mess but Yugi did a great job with taking care of it!" Mai clipped off your bra and began to bandage.

You were 100% uncomfortable. Totally. 100%. You wanted to crawl in the corner and die on the spot.

"Ya know you worried me when you were bleeding." Mai said as she wrapped your back,

"I didn't mean to.." You mumbled,

"If you're in pain man just go out and complain! Don't hide it or it's gonna get worse." Mai frowned as she tied the bandage up and tore it from the roll. She took the bra and helped you clip it all while behind you.

"...Mai," You bit your lip,

"Mhm?" Mai went to your bed to take out the blue shirt all while sitting on your bed.

"....y-you're my f-friend." Your cheeks went a little red, "a....and I-I never h-had friends s-s-so...e-even though when we first met i-it was a little off, I consider you as a friend."

Mai simply stared at you then gave a warm smile, "...thanks (y/n)."

Face red, you nodded and let her put on your shirt. Once that was done, Mai hummed as she walked to your drawers and pulled a green coat.

"It'll look good with the shirt and for the cold." Mai helped you put it on and with that you were finished. You and Mai walked out the door to find Yami staring at you,

"...Mai, you're rather loud." Yami glanced at Mai,

"I am loud when I find a purpose~" Mai winked and linked arms with you, "Now let's go to the next duel~!"

The walk to the main lobby was a lot more positive than how it was on the way to your room, and Yami could tell. Once the three of you made it to the main lobby where the next duelists were confirmed.

Mai and Marik.

You were pale when it was announced and held Mai's arm tightly. For some reason, other than Yugi, you felt more connected with Mai. She seemed to think the same for she tightened her arm around yours as well.

"I'll be fine." Mai assured as she rubbed your arm, "You'll be seeing me in your bed tonight that's for sure I deserve a luxurious night~"

"okay." You nodded as she gave you a quick gentle hug and walked with Marik over to the elevator. Yami walked over and wrapped his arms around your back,

"She'll be fine. She'll win." Yami whispered as he walked with you up the stairs and over to the arena to watch the duel.

If only she actually won. You were horrified when Yami Marik not only made the duel a shadow game, but forced Mai to lose her memories for each hit she received by Marik. For each memory she lost, you felt your heart drop and tears were threatening to fall once more. Possibly the only person you actually felt close with besides Yugi was disappearing right in front of you even though she was right there. She was going to lose, it was a fact, even if she was so close. Marik had the Egyptian God Card the Winged Dragon of Ra on his side, ready to strike. Joey had already ran up to her and pleaded her to get out of the chains she was forced in. You needed to go and help her just as much as Joey was, you couldn't stand just waiting around for the duel to end but it was against the rules.

But Joey broke the rules.... you bit your lip and clenched your fists, if Joey can break the rules why can't you?

"Don't go. You'll make it worse and the outcome won't change. Don't waste your time."

Your fists shook in rage, you knew that...but what's the harm in going anyway?

"Don't. Waste. Your. Time." Your head began to pound as the Winged Dragon of Ra was ready to strike at Mai, thus finishing the game.

Then the complete unexpected happened. It was so sudden you had to blink to make sure you were correct. Yami dove in and ran in front of Joey and Mai to take the damage the Winged Dragon of Ra was blowing. You froze in place, completely paralyzed as Marik roared in laughter as he found it amusing that Yami was being hurt rather than Mai.

"Don't even bother trying to withstand it, Pharaoh! You can't withstand the endless power from the most powerful monster to step foot in this world!" Marik laughed as the Winged Dragon of Ra overwhelmed Yami and sent him to the floor unconscious.

You stared at Yami in shock as Marik laughed, "I win this duel, don't I?"

"YUGI PLEASE GET UP!" Tea gasped as the guard next to Marik stumbled a bit,

"Y-Yes, the winner of this duel is Marik!" The guard announced as Marik slowly approached the 3.

Your heart pounded in an emotion you've never felt before, but whatever it was you could tell the Seal was thriving off of it once more. Hearing the distant growl again but closer, you bolted to the arena and pulled yourself up, not even caring about your back at this point. Before Marik could even reach Yami you dove towards him and wrapped your arms around him protectively. Your back seethed in pain and your eye was pounding but you didn't care. Marik stopped and stared at you with unreadable eyes.

"You aren't even gon' touch Yugi!" Joey hissed,

"...I'm not. I still need him. Besides, I don't want to mess with her." Marik responded as he referred to you. You growled in reply, feeling your back pound more, you could even feel the blood return but you didn't care. You tightened your grip on Yami as Marik slowly turned to Joey,

"But you? You need to learn to not intrude other people's business." He smirked as his third eye glowed, "This should keep you still." He mocked as he froze Joey in place. With that, he walked towards Mai with a smirk,

"J-Joey! What did you do to him?" Mai yelled,

"You and I need to have a little talk~. After all, you still have my Egyptian God Card and I have a promise to fulfill." Marik kneeled down to Mai's level.

"DON'T TOUCH HER." You roared as your back started to glow a light green color. Marik froze and stared at you,

"....you're lucky I am not going to touch you. Besides, Mai is basically asking for it." Marik narrowed his eyes, "So to prevent any sort of misfortune for the both of us," He glanced at everyone else who stared in both rage and horror, "it's best to just be with the Pharaoh, little Mrs. Orichalcos."

You stiffened and stared at Marik in absolute panic as Marik turned back to Mai. Your heart started to pound even more and now you began to feel your back.

What's wrong with you now a days? Why is your back like this?

After a few whispers, you watched Marik pull out the Millenium Rod and shine it on her. Moments later she was on the floor.

"MAI!" You screamed as Joey finally managed to move,

"WHAT DID YOU DO TO HER."

"I sent her over to the Shadow Realm. For every second she stays there she forgets more. The Shadow Realm will take everything away from her, from her brain to her heart." He laughed,

"THEN LET'S GO MAN. ONE ON ONE, NOW." Joey hissed,

"You fool, fight me now and you'll be the same as her." Marik smirked,

"LET IT GO JOEY." Serenity screamed,

"HE'S A PSYCHO JOEY." Tristan added as Marik walked away from the arena. Holding Yami tight, you watched Marik in absolute disgust and horror, then soon at Mai, who Joey was holding tight in his arms. Everyone ran to the stage, Tristan ran to Joey while Tea, Serenity, and Duke ran to you and Yami. You still held him tight, trembling as you stared at Mai.

If you hadn't been so useless...Mai would've still been here. Maybe if you took that effort like Joey, you would've done something. Why did you just stand and wait? Why? Why why why why-

"...(y/n)..?" Yami groaned. Startled, you looked down to see Yami slowly regaining consciousness.

"Yugi! H-He's waking up!" Serenity gasped,

"Yug, you alright?" Joey turned to Yami who slowly rose from your protective grip.

"I am fine. How are you and Mai?" Yami asked as you held his shoulders.

"I'm fine, but not Mai. Marik pulled her into something freaky, he trapped her brains in the shadows." Joey responded,

"Yeah! He said it's gonna remove her memories!" Tea nodded,

"Alright you geeks, clear the field. The next duel must begin." Kaiba came in,

"Kaiba." Yami hissed,

"Save it Yugi. It's my turn to duel and I need the torment to begin." Kaiba snapped, as Joey picked up Mai,

"I prefer Mai to be literally anywhere else as long as dirt isn't around." Joey seethed as he stared at Kaiba. "I'm takin' her to the medical room."

Yami soon realized your shaking hands and turned to you immediately, "(y/n)." He held your hands and stared at you.

"C'mon Yugi." Tea took his shoulder and helped him up. Yami looked at Tea, sneered at her for a bit, then knelt down to you. "(y/n), let's go."

You couldn't think of anything besides of how useless you have been. You mindlessly complied, taking Yami's hands as he pulled you up. He knew, it was so obvious to him of what you were thinking, even if no one noticed.

Once you and the others made it to the medical field where Mai was put, you sat on the chair next to her in silence. Yami stood behind you and gently held your shoulders.

"Joey, she's not waking up." Serenity pulled a stool next to you and held Mai's hand.

"Mai..." Joey mumbled,

"She can't hear you...Marik trapped her mind in the Shadow Realm." Tea spoke.

Don't remind me.

"This whole duel is going too far, ya wanna know why?" Joey growled,

"Cause we have a psychopath here with us?" Duke asked as Tea and Tristan stared at him. "..just saying..."

Serenity looked at you and bit her lip. She looked at Yami who silently looked at her. She scooted a little closer to you and rested her hand on yours, "(y/n)? How about you stay with me while everyone else watches the next duel?"

"What?" Tristan looked at Serenity, "Is that allowed?"

"She is number nine, she isn't dueling until after Kaiba duels." Joey recalled, "So I don't think it should be a problem...." He glanced over at you, "...besides, I think she should."

"I think so too." Tea nodded her head, "She should definitely stay."

Yami glanced at Tea with a cocked eyebrow.

"Alright, I trust ya, alright? Make sure you protect yourself. Let's go guys." Joey turned and soon left the medical room. Everyone else followed except Yami and Tea. Yami rubbed your shoulders, "Mai will be fine, I promise." He kneeled down and gave you a hug from behind, "So don't blame yourself for this, alright?" He whispered as he slowly rose.

You simply nodded, your mind was blank. Yami was even hesitant to leave, he didn't want to leave you like this. Serenity scooted closer and looked at Yami, giving him an assured look. He simply sighed, ruffled your hair and left with Tea following.

"...It's okay to cry." Serenity's voice was soft, almost as welcoming as Yami.

You have no idea how this girl touched you with no physical touch, cause moments later tears were streaming down your face. Serenity softly rested her head on your shoulder. It went like this for close to 10 minutes. After these 10 minutes, you slowly rose from your seat,

"(y/n)?" Serenity looked up,

"...I'll..." You mumbled, "...be in my room."

Your heart couldn't take it anymore. Staring at Mai with all the endless thoughts of how useless you were - you couldn't take it anymore. Serenity could, but you? No. Mai trusted you, she loved you, she even said she was gonna sleep with you in your room later on, yet here she is....in the wrong bed.

"Are you sure? Y-You can stay!" Serenity offered,

"No." You shook your head, "...thank you." With that, you exited the room and towards your room. Entering your room, you closed the door and stared at the floor. You took the coat and your shirt off to see if there was blood - thankfully there wasn't, but by looking at the mirror the bandages needed to be replaced. Once you did your bandages, you slipped to bed, took off your eye patch, and stared at the view on the side. The view became blurry as you realized you were crying once more and gripped the blanket so no one could hear you from outside. Not like anyone was gonna hear you anyways, but you soon found yourself crying to sleep; something you've accustomed to.

......

It was dark, everything around you was black. You looked and walked around the dark area to find literally nowhere to go. It was almost like you were walking in space or something.

"H...Hello?" You called out into the endless void to only hear your echo. Frowning, you stopped and looked around to only freeze when you heard a growl come from all directions. You froze, your breath lay short as you quickly tried to find out where the growl was coming from.

Then you made eye contact with it.

There was an outline of a scaled dragon, with the same yellow eyes the black mass had earlier when Joey fought one of Marik's servants. It growled at you, its black slit staring you down. Although it looked extremely frightening, it felt nostalgic for some reason - nostalgic enough for you to slowly approach it and reach your hand towards it. You felt like it was calling you for something, you could practically taste it. Its head slowly went forward towards your touch, yet the moment you touched it, the ground below you glowed a familiar lime green color. Startled, you took a few steps back and stared at the floor to see the Seal of Orichalcos forming from underneath you. The beast's growl grew and it let out a massive roar, as though it was calling for something. It was so loud as it glared at you, as though it were screaming;

"Come and get me."

=====================================

Season 2 Finale

https://youtu.be/7LH95oiiFF0